Japan

Best Time to Visit

March–May (cherry blossom season) and October–November (autumn foliage) for the most beautiful weather and scenery.

Local Tips

• Purchase a Japan Rail Pass before arrival for unlimited bullet train travel.
• Use Suica or Pasmo cards for easy metro and bus rides in major cities.
• Many ATMs in Japan do not accept foreign cards—use 7-Eleven or Japan Post ATMs.
• Cash is still widely used, especially in rural areas and small shops.
• Tipping is not customary in Japan—show appreciation with a polite bow.

VIP Tips

• Book a private geisha dinner in Kyoto for an unforgettable cultural experience.Advance Reservation Required
• Charter a helicopter for a private tour over Tokyo or Mount Fuji.Advance Reservation Required
• Reserve a private onsen (hot spring bath) at a luxury ryokan.Advance Reservation Required
• Arrange a private sushi masterclass with a Michelin-starred chef in Tokyo.Advance Reservation Required
• Secure front-row seats for a sumo tournament or exclusive kabuki performance.Insider Tip

Safety & Accessibility

Japan is extremely safe and family-friendly. English signage is common in cities, but less so in rural areas. Most luxury hotels and attractions offer English-speaking staff and accessibility features.

Recommended Hotels

Aman Tokyo

(1798 reviews)

The Otemachi Tower, 1-chōme-5-6 Ōtemachi, Chiyoda City, Tokyo 100-0004, Japan

From $1200/night per room

Ultra-luxury urban sanctuary with panoramic city views, a serene spa, and world-class dining.

Tip: Request a room with views of Mount Fuji on clear days.

Book Now

Conrad Osaka

(3303 reviews)

3-chōme-2-4 Nakanoshima, Kita Ward, Osaka, 530-0005, Japan

From $700/night per room

Sleek, modern luxury hotel with sweeping river views, Michelin-starred dining, and a sky-high spa.

Tip: Enjoy sunset cocktails at the 40 Sky Bar & Lounge.

Book Now

Four Seasons Hotel Kyoto

(1615 reviews)

445-3 Myōhōin Maekawachō, Higashiyama Ward, Kyoto, 605-0932, Japan

From $1100/night per room

Elegant retreat blending modern luxury with traditional Japanese gardens and a tranquil pond.

Tip: Book a private tea ceremony in the 800-year-old pond garden.

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Park Hyatt Tokyo

(4377 reviews)

2, 3-chōme-7-1 Nishishinjuku, Shinjuku City, Tokyo 163-1055, Japan

From $950/night per room

Iconic luxury hotel with breathtaking views, acclaimed dining, and a renowned spa.

Tip: Have a drink at the New York Bar, made famous by "Lost in Translation."

Book Now

The Ritz-Carlton Kyoto

(2284 reviews)

KAMOGAWA NIJO-OHASHI HOTORI, 543 Hokodenchō, Nakagyo Ward, Kyoto, 604-0902, Japan

From $1300/night per room

Riverside luxury with refined Japanese design, Michelin-starred dining, and a tranquil spa.

Tip: Reserve a riverside suite for the best views of the Kamo River.

Book Now

Top Attractions

Arashiyama Bamboo Grove

(14819 reviews)

Sagaogurayama Tabuchiyamacho, Ukyo Ward, Kyoto, 616-8394, Japan

Free

An enchanting bamboo forest in Kyoto's Arashiyama district, featuring towering green stalks creating an otherworldly atmosphere.

Tip: Visit at sunrise for fewer crowds and magical light filtering through the bamboo.

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Fushimi Inari Taisha

(77113 reviews)

68 Fukakusa Yabunouchichō, Fushimi Ward, Kyoto, 612-0882, Japan

Free

World-famous shrine with thousands of vermilion torii gates.

Tip: Hike to the summit for panoramic Kyoto views.

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Himeji Castle

(52629 reviews)

68 Honmachi, Himeji, Hyogo 670-0012, Japan

From $15/visit per person

Japan's most spectacular original castle, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Tip: Visit during cherry blossom season for stunning photos.

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Kiyomizu-dera Temple

(59501 reviews)

1-chōme-294 Kiyomizu, Higashiyama Ward, Kyoto, 605-0862, Japan

From $8/visit per person

Historic temple with sweeping views of Kyoto and dramatic wooden stage.

Tip: Visit in autumn for vibrant foliage.

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Tsukiji Outer Market

(54715 reviews)

Japan, 〒104-0045 Tokyo, Chuo City, Tsukiji, 4-chōme−16 および６丁目一部

Free

Tokyo's legendary seafood market, famous for fresh sushi and street food.

Tip: Arrive early for the best selection and fewer crowds.

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Fine Dining

Ginza Kojyu

(255 reviews)

Japan, 〒104-0061 Tokyo, Chuo City, Ginza, 5-chōme−4−８ 銀座カリオカビル 4F

From $400/meal per person

Michelin 3-star kaiseki restaurant with seasonal, artful Japanese cuisine.

Tip: Reserve well in advance for a counter seat.

Reserve

Kikunoi Honten

(843 reviews)

459 Shimokawarachō, Higashiyama Ward, Kyoto, 605-0825, Japan

From $350/meal per person

Historic Michelin 3-star kaiseki restaurant in Kyoto, renowned for its artistry and hospitality.

Tip: Request a private tatami room for a traditional experience.

Reserve

Narisawa

(668 reviews)

Japan, 〒107-0062 Tokyo, Minato City, Minamiaoyama, 2-chōme−6−１５ 南青山ガーデンコート

From $450/meal per person

Michelin 2-star restaurant blending French technique with Japanese terroir.

Tip: Try the signature "Bread of the Forest."

Reserve

Sushi Saito

(457 reviews)

Japan, 〒106-0032 Tokyo, Minato City, Roppongi, 1-chōme−4−５ ARK Hills South Tower, 1F

From $600/meal per person

Legendary, ultra-exclusive sushi counter with 3 Michelin stars.

Tip: Reservations are extremely limited—use a top hotel concierge.

Reserve

Ukai-tei Omotesando

(879 reviews)

Japan, 〒150-0001 Tokyo, Shibuya, Jingūmae, 5-chōme−10−１ 表参道ジャイル 5F

From $300/meal per person

Refined teppanyaki restaurant with artful presentations and premium Wagyu beef.

Tip: Book a private room for a special celebration.

Reserve

Sample Itineraries