Japan blends ancient traditions with modern technology like nowhere else - a country where centuries-old temples sit minutes from neon-lit skyscrapers, and a single bullet train journey can take you from the cosmopolitan energy of Tokyo to the quiet beauty of the Japanese Alps. Most first-time visitors explore Japan along the Golden Route, linking Tokyo, Kyoto and Osaka by rail - taking in Buddhist temples, traditional customs still honoured today, and, if you time it right, the Japan cherry blossoms in full bloom. Add a day at Tokyo Disneyland or Universal Studios Japan, and you've got a trip that mixes centuries of history with world-class theme parks in one itinerary.
Japan's diversity has inspired writers for centuries, from the iconic silhouette of Mount Fuji to the coastal beauty of Matsushima Bay. Read on to explore the highlights of a trip to Japan - or call us on 01635 551011 or get in touch via our website to start planning yours.
Charter Travel have specialised in tailor-made Japan holidays since 1988, with first-hand destination knowledge, long-standing relationships with the hotels and airlines. Every Japan holiday is planned by a dedicated specialist who adjusts the route, pace and accommodation to suit you, rather than selling a fixed, one-size-fits-all package. All holidays booked with Charter Travel are both ABTA and ATOL protected, so you can book with confidence that your trip is fully financially protected. A UK-based team remains on hand before, during and after your holiday, so support is always a phone call away.
Japan Cherry Blossom Tour Holiday. See the stunning Japan Cherry Blossoms in full bloom at Mount Fuji, Kyoto, Tokyo and Osaka. Visit from the End of March to Mid April for Cherry Blossom Blooms.
Incredible Tour of Japan seeing: Tokyo, Kyoto, and Osaka! Plus, see the Cherry Blossoms in full bloom. Travel with 14-day Japan Rail Pass.
10 night Japan Golden Route Itinerary - Tokyo, Hakone, Kyoto & Osaka with hand-picked hotels, rail transfers & flights included. ABTA & ATOL Protected.
14 night Japan Golden Route Itinerary - Tokyo, Kyoto, Osaka, Hakone, Hiroshima, Takayama with hotels, rail transfers & flights included. ABTA & ATOL Protected.
The Japan Golden Route is the classic first-time itinerary, linking Tokyo, Hakone, Kyoto and Osaka by bullet train - taking in neon-lit cityscapes, the mountain views of Hakone, the temples of Kyoto and the street food of Osaka in one seamless trip. It's the most popular way to see Japan's highlights in 10–14 days, and our Japan Golden Route holidays come with hand-picked hotels, rail transfers and flights included.
Our Golden Route holidays come with hand-picked hotels, rail transfers and flights included, and are fully ABTA and ATOL protected:
No trip to Japan is complete without a day (or two) at the theme parks. Tokyo Disney Resort - home to Tokyo Disneyland and Tokyo DisneySea - offers a uniquely Japanese take on the Disney experience, while Universal Studios Japan in Osaka is famous for Super Nintendo World and the Wizarding World of Harry Potter. Both make the perfect addition to a Golden Route itinerary, and our team can build theme park days, tickets and nearby hotels into your tailor-made Japan holiday. Speak to our team about adding Disneyland Japan or Universal Studios Japan to your trip.
Spring is one of the most popular times to visit Japan, with cherry blossom season typically running from late March to early April. Parks, riversides and castle grounds burst into shades of pink and white, creating spectacular scenery across the country. It's the perfect time for sightseeing, with mild temperatures making it comfortable to explore cities such as Tokyo, Kyoto and Osaka, while enjoying traditional hanami (flower viewing) picnics beneath the blossoms.
Cherry blossom (sakura) season is the single most popular time to visit Japan, typically running from late March to mid-April, though exact bloom dates shift year to year and travel south to north. Expect the pink-and-white blossoms to frame Mount Fuji, line the Philosopher's Path in Kyoto, and fill Tokyo's parks with hanami picnics. Because dates are weather-dependent and demand is high, we recommend booking early.
Because bloom dates are weather-dependent and demand is high, we always recommend booking your Japan Cherry Blossom holiday early:
Summer brings warm weather, vibrant festivals and spectacular fireworks displays to cities across Japan. From colourful matsuri celebrations and traditional parades to lively street food stalls and evening events, it's an exciting time to experience Japanese culture. Although temperatures can be hot and humid, mountain regions such as Hakone and the Japanese Alps offer cooler escapes, while Hokkaido provides pleasant conditions for hiking and outdoor adventures.
Autumn is widely regarded as one of the best seasons to visit Japan, with crisp temperatures and brilliant displays of red, orange and golden foliage. From late October through November, temples, gardens and national parks become even more picturesque as maple trees transform the landscape. The cooler weather is ideal for sightseeing, making this an excellent time to explore Kyoto's historic districts, Tokyo's parks and Japan's scenic countryside.
Winter offers a completely different side of Japan, from snow-covered mountain villages and world-class ski resorts to dazzling city illuminations and festive markets. Northern regions receive excellent snowfall, making them popular with skiers and snowboarders, while cities remain lively with seasonal light displays and fewer crowds at major attractions. It's also one of the best times to relax in a traditional onsen, soaking in natural hot springs surrounded by snowy scenery.
Tokyo, Japan's capital city, is a must-visit destination for any first-time visitor. The city is a bustling metropolis that is both modern and traditional. In Tokyo, you can visit the famous Tsukiji Fish Market, where you can taste some of the freshest sushi in the world. You can also explore the historic Asakusa neighbourhood, where you'll find the famous Senso-ji Temple, Tokyo's oldest temple. Another must-see attraction in Tokyo is the Tokyo Skytree, which offers breathtaking views of the city from its observation deck.
Another popular destination in Japan is Kyoto, which is known for its beautiful temples, gardens, and traditional culture. In Kyoto, you can visit the famous Fushimi Inari Shrine, which is known for its thousands of torii gates. You can also visit the stunning Kinkaku-ji Temple, which is covered in gold leaf and set in a beautiful garden. Kyoto is also a great place to experience traditional Japanese culture, such as tea ceremonies and kimono rentals.
If you're interested in nature, a visit to Mount Fuji is a must. Mount Fuji is Japan's highest mountain and is a UNESCO World Heritage site. You can hike to the summit of Mount Fuji, but it's a challenging climb, so be sure to prepare properly. You can also visit the Fuji Five Lakes region, which offers stunning views of the mountain and is a great place to relax and enjoy nature.
Osaka, Japan's vibrant second city, is a must-visit destination for travellers looking to experience the country's famous food culture, lively nightlife and welcoming atmosphere. Known as "Japan's Kitchen", Osaka is the perfect place to sample local favourites such as takoyaki, okonomiyaki and kushikatsu while exploring bustling districts like Dotonbori and Namba. History lovers can visit the impressive Osaka Castle, one of Japan's most recognisable landmarks, while shoppers will find everything from luxury brands to independent boutiques in Shinsaibashi. With its energetic streets, friendly locals and excellent transport links to Kyoto, Nara and Kobe, Osaka offers the perfect blend of culture, cuisine and modern city life.
One of the best things about Japan is its food. Japanese cuisine is known for its fresh ingredients and unique flavours. Some must-try dishes include sushi, ramen, tempura, and okonomiyaki. Japan also has a strong drinking culture, and you can try a variety of alcoholic beverages such as sake, shochu, and beer. In addition to these highlights, Japan has many other destinations worth exploring, such as Hiroshima, Nara, and Osaka.
The Golden Route is the classic Japan itinerary linking Tokyo, Hakone, Kyoto and Osaka — usually by bullet train (Shinkansen). It covers the country's most iconic sights in one trip and is the most popular route for first-time visitors, typically taking 10–14 nights.
Most travellers spend 10–14 nights on the Golden Route. 10 nights comfortably covers Tokyo, Hakone, Kyoto and Osaka, while 14 nights allows time to add Hiroshima and Takayama.
Cherry blossoms typically bloom from late March to mid-April, though exact dates vary by year and region, with blossoms appearing first in the south and later in northern Japan. Tokyo and Kyoto usually peak in early-to-mid April.
Yes. Tokyo Disney Resort is just outside Tokyo, while Universal Studios Japan is in Osaka — both cities on the Golden Route. We can build one or both into your itinerary alongside your Tokyo and Osaka stays.
UK passport holders can currently visit Japan for tourism for up to 90 days without a visa. Requirements can change, so we always recommend checking the latest FCDO travel advice before you travel.
The Japan Rail Pass (JR Pass) is the most popular way to travel between cities, covering bullet train journeys on the Golden Route. Our Golden Route itineraries include rail passes and transfers as standard.
Spring (cherry blossoms) and autumn (autumn colours) are the most popular times to visit for scenery, while summer suits festivals and winter suits snow sports and illuminations. Spring is the most in-demand and books up earliest.
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