Touring Japan for the Cherry Blossom
Most travellers are drawn to Japan for the abundance of delicious sushi, made from fish plucked fresh from the surrounding seas. Others want an insight
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Japan tours, trips & holidays
Fascinating, historical, beautiful, bizarre – some of the words to describe a trip to Japan. The ‘Land of the Rising sun’ is a country where the past meets the future. The culture of this country stretches back centuries yet it also leads the way in modern fashions and trends. Travelling on the Shinkansen aka the bullet train, our Japan adventure tours will take you on a high speed journey from Tokyo to get under the skin of this stunning country.
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Japan cannot be beaten for its beautiful lakes, bamboo-covered woodlands and spectacular cherry blossoms, but a view not to be missed is that of Mt Fuji on a clear day. Our Japan tours offer you classic Japanese experiences from visiting temples and shrines in Kyoto to sake tasting in Takayama. How about taking a dip in an onsen, a communal Japanese bath house? If a communal bath isn’t quite your style why not head out for a meal of sushi before belting out a few songs at the karaoke bar! From the modern glitzy cities to tiny rural villages our Japan trips and tours will show all sides of this incredible country.
Top 12 Places to Visit in Japan
1. Tokyo
One of the busiest cities in the world, Tokyo is huge and a few days should be pencilled in to explore the highlights. It is truly a destination where the past meets the future, ancient temples a stone’s throw away from modern shopping streets and futuristic tech.
Visit Golden Gai and uncover tiny bars where you can mingle with the locals, pass through the huge Torii Gate at Meiji Shrine and even try your hand at go-karting Mario Kart style on the roads of Tokyo.
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Travel Tip
A Rail Pass is the best way for travellers to explore Japan. It includes all Japan Rail trains, including the Shinkansen and local lines.Â
2. Kyoto
Did you know that Kyoto was formerly the capital of Japan? It has a long-standing history and was the home of the Emperor until 1868. It also boasts over 2000 temples and shrines including the spectacular Golden Pavilion, which should be on anyone’s itinerary when visiting Kyoto. Head to the geisha district in Gion and if you are lucky you may spot a geisha or maiko, but please do not disturb them as they are very private. When it’s time for lunch stroll through Nishiki Market and grab Japanese treats from seafood to sweets.
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3. Hiroshima
An important destination in Japan with a sobering past, Hiroshima was the site of the first nuclear weapon dropped in warfare during World War II. The atomic bomb devastated the city, causing thousands of deaths and radiation pollution that continued for years.
Today the city pays respects to those who suffered with a memorial, museum and peace park. Here you can see the Flame of Peace, a flame which has been burning since 1964 and will only be put out when nuclear weapons are rid from the entire world.
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4. Osaka
Osaka is so much more than a transfer link. Smaller and arguably cheaper than other cities, Osaka has fabulous food spots and great shopping opportunities. Make sure you visit Osaka Castle and its park for a spot of beauty in this urban city. For great photo opportunities, head to Shinsekai, originally designed to replicate Paris and New York, it is brightly coloured with fantastic shop fronts.
5. Nara
Arguably one of the prettiest cities in Japan, Nara can be visited from Kyoto or Osaka. It is famous for its beautiful temples and shrines as well as Nara Park, home to wandering and curious deer. You can also visit Todai-ji temple which boasts the biggest bronze Buddha statue in the world.
6. Mount Fuji
When people think of Japan it’s impossible to not think of the spectacular snow-capped Mount Fuji. You may be lucky enough to spot it peeking from the clouds on the Shinkansen bound for Tokyo, but to really maximise viewing opportunities why not head to Hakone which is easy to get to from the capital. From Lake Ashi you can enjoy fantastic photo opportunities.
7. Miyajima
The island of Miyajima is an incredibly picturesque part of Japan and famous for it’s ‘floating’ Torii Gate. The giant orange gate is iconic for looking like it’s floating off the water during high tide and is the entry to Itsukushima Shrine which can be visited whilst exploring Miyajima. The island is also home to wild deer, make sure you keep any tickets or maps close to you as they can get quite peckish! Miyajima is easily reached by ferry from Hiroshima and can be explored within a day.
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8. Yufuin
An ideal day trip from Fukuoka, Yufuin is primarily a hot spring resort, with a number of public and private onsens to enjoy. The train journey there is also part of the fun – jump on board the vintage Yufuin no Mori train and take in scenic views as well as souvenir photo opportunities. On arrival you will be immediately greeted with the beautiful view of Mount Yufu. As well as the onsens there are also lots of cafes, boutique shops and Lake Kinrinko to wander around.
9. Nagasaki
Nagasaki is a coastal city in southern Japan. It was the second location of the atomic bombings in World War II after the first one was dropped in Hiroshima days before. The city has a fascinating history, being the main port of European trade from 1641 to 1854. The Dutch traders lived on a constructed island in Nagasaki known as Dejima, which can be visited today. Nagasaki also boasts a lively Chinatown. Enjoy steamed bao buns on the go, or head to one of the many Chinese restaurants usually teeming with locals.
10. Fukuoka
Sushi and ramen lovers should pay Fukuoka a visit. The harbour city has fantastic seafood due to its coastal location and it also is home to Yatai – pop up tiny food spots where you can grab a seat and order the speciality, Hakata Ramen. Fukuoka has a bit of everything – beautiful temples, huge shopping centres and is a great base for exploring Nokonoshima – aka Flower Island.
11. Takayama
For a taste of traditional Japan head to Takayama in the mountainous Hilda region. Wander through the Sanmachi Suji district – a well-preserved old town with picturesque buildings and family-owned sake breweries. Takayama is also the base for the Takayama Matsuri Festival where stunning floats are paraded through the town during April and October.
12. Hokkaido
Hokkaido is perfect for anyone who likes the great outdoors. Situated on the northernmost island of Japan it is a haven for people wanting winter spots with great skiing and snowboarding opportunities. The summer months provide excellent hiking conditions – head to Akan-Mashu National Park for picturesque trails past shimmering lakes and epic forests.
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Why Tucan Travel
Travelling in Asia is at the top of many bucket lists – and with good reason! Tucan Travel have been operating in the region for many years and has expert knowledge of the country. Our tour leaders are trained to provide the best experience possible and introduce you to secret places you would never discover alone. As adventure travel specialists, we work hard to provide authentic experiences that don’t break the bank. We are proud to partner with local suppliers, accommodation owners, and transport companies to ensure we support local businesses and that your money goes back into the community as much as possible. We are proud of the tours we run and have even picked up numerous awards for our fantastic holidays worldwide.Â
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