Tokyo
Ultramodern capital, a mix of illuminated skyscrapers, traditional neighbourhoods (Asakusa), pop culture (Akihabara) and world-class cuisine.
Highlights : Shibuya Crossing, Senso-ji Temple, Shinjuku, Akihabara.
Check the weather city by city, starting with Tokyo.
Japan is an East Asian archipelago blending centuries-old traditions with modernity. With its Buddhist temples, cherry blossoms, refined cuisine and cutting-edge technology, it offers an unrivalled travel experience.
Ultramodern capital, a mix of illuminated skyscrapers, traditional neighbourhoods (Asakusa), pop culture (Akihabara) and world-class cuisine.
Highlights : Shibuya Crossing, Senso-ji Temple, Shinjuku, Akihabara.
Former imperial capital with over 1,600 Buddhist temples, geishas in Gion, and the bamboo groves of Arashiyama forest.
Highlights : Kiyomizu-dera, Fushimi Inari — 10,000 torii gates, Kinkaku-ji — Golden Pavilion, Arashiyama Bamboo Grove.
Japan's food capital, known for its takoyaki, okonomiyaki, historic castle and lively nightlife in Dotonbori.
Highlights : Dotonbori, Osaka Castle, Tsutenkaku Tower — Shinsekai.
A site steeped in history with the Peace Memorial, and the sacred island of Miyajima with its torii gate floating on the sea.
Highlights : Miyajima's floating torii gate, Hiroshima Peace Memorial, Mount Misen.
Northern island ideal for skiing in Niseko, hot springs and snowy landscapes in winter, and lavender fields in summer.
Highlights : Niseko — powder skiing, Furano lavender fields, Daisetsuzan National Park, Noboribetsu Onsen.
Japan's first permanent capital, famous for its free-roaming deer and the Great Buddha of Tōdai-ji, the world's largest wooden building.
Highlights : Tōdai-ji — Great Buddha, Free-roaming deer in the park, Kasuga Taisha.
A subtropical archipelago south of Japan, Okinawa charms with its white sand beaches, coral reefs and unique Ryūkyū culture. A former independent kingdom, the region has kept its own castles, dances and traditions. Snorkelling, unspoiled nature and island living are the main draws.
Highlights : Shuri Castle, Ishigaki Emerald Beach, Snorkelling in the Kerama reefs, Yanbaru National Park.
Japan is affordable if you know how to travel smart. Public transport is efficient and konbini let you eat well for very little.