Amazing Japan

Japan had always been on my wish list, but spending a full month there hosting two small groups of customers has taken my love for the country to a whole new level.

Our journey took us from neon cityscapes and ancient temples to tranquil mountain towns and hot springs, and I came home feeling like a true Japan convert (and a bit of an expert!).

We started with a two–day pre‑tour in Tokyo, a city where ultramodern and traditional sit side by side. One of my absolute highlights was a Super Mario style go‑kart adventure through the streets of Tokyo: weaving past landmarks in costume was surreal, great fun and such a different way to see the city.

Our main tour began with a pre‑night in Tokyo before we slowed the pace at Hamarikyu Garden, a peaceful green oasis framed by the city skyline. Here we enjoyed a traditional Japanese matcha tea experience, then boarded a water bus up the Sumida River. Drifting along the river offers a completely different perspective on the city before arriving in Asakusa, a lively shopping district and home to Tokyo’s oldest temple, Asakusa Kannon, which dates back to the 7th century.

Leaving the capital behind, we travelled by Limited Express train to Matsumoto, where we visited the Ishii Miso brewery. It is said that using miso in cooking can statistically extend your life, and Japan’s long life expectancy and lower rates of certain cancers are often linked to this simple ingredient. It was fascinating to learn how something so humble sits at the heart of everyday Japanese cuisine.

From Matsumoto we continued into the Japanese Alps to Takayama. The scenery here is stunning and you really do feel as if you are experiencing the “real Japan” with its traditional streets, wooden houses and slower rhythm of life. Our itinerary here was full of inclusions and local experiences that helped everyone connect with the destination beyond the usual sights.

Next came Kyoto with a side trip to Nara. Nara is famous for its very tame deer that wander freely, and it is quite something to share the streets with them. Kyoto itself is a dream for shoppers, with everything from beautiful crafts to contemporary boutiques, and one of our standout moments was walking through the atmospheric Bamboo Forest, its towering stalks creating an almost otherworldly feel.

Our journey then took a more reflective turn in Hiroshima. Visiting the Peace Park and offering our paper peace cranes was deeply moving. Learning about the history of the atomic bomb and its impact on people’s lives is humbling, and you come away with a powerful sense of the importance of peace and international understanding.

From there we travelled to Hakone for views of Mount Fuji. Here we stayed in a wonderful traditional-style accommodation, sleeping on futon beds and experiencing the onsen hot spring baths. Relaxing in the warm waters, looking out over beautiful scenery with Mount Fuji nearby, was a real pinch‑me moment and a perfect way to slow down towards the end of the trip.

Our final stop was back in Tokyo for one last night before flying home, with memories full of bullet train journeys, scenic landscapes and cultural encounters.

Overall, we found Japan to be surprisingly good value in destination for us Brits. Everyday costs felt very reasonable, the people are unfailingly polite and kind, everyone follows the rules, and the streets are spotless with virtually no litter. It feels safe, organised and wonderfully different, yet incredibly welcoming.

Our itinerary took us in a loop: Tokyo, Matsumoto, Takayama, Kyoto, Hiroshima, Hakone and back to Tokyo. It was an amazing trip that blended iconic sights with authentic local experiences, and after a month on the ground hosting two groups, I would be delighted to share my first‑hand knowledge.

If you are thinking about Japan, please get in touch so I can help you shape your own unforgettable Japanese adventure.