Japan

The traditional past of Japan has a calming effect with its Samurai warriors. The vibrant city of Tokyo is great to see there are theatres, museums and a multitude of flowers and trees.

Minato Mirai 21
Landmark Tower The Yokohama Landmark Tower is one of Japan’s tallest buildings and offers panoramic views from its observation deck. The complex also features a luxury hotel, shopping mall, and restaurants.

Yokohama Chinatown
China Town Streets One of the largest Chinatowns in Japan, Yokohama Chinatown features vibrant streets lined with shops, restaurants, and street food vendors offering a variety of Chinese cuisine and goods.

Chinese Temple (Kanteibyo)
This colourful temple, dedicated to the god of prosperity, is an architectural highlight and offers insight into Chinese cultural practices.

Sankeien Garden
Traditional Japanese Garden A historic Japanese garden featuring beautiful seasonal flowers, ponds, and traditional architecture. The garden includes a variety of historic buildings, including a pagoda and tea houses.

Yokohama Red Brick Warehouse
Historic Buildings These historic red brick buildings have been transformed into cultural and commercial spaces, featuring shops, cafes, and event spaces. The site often hosts markets, festivals, and exhibitions.

Yokohama Museum of Art
Art Exhibits This museum showcases a diverse collection of modern and contemporary art, including works by Japanese and international artists. The museum’s architecture and rotating exhibitions make it a cultural highlight.

Nissan Global Headquarters Gallery
Automobile Museum Located near Yokohama Station, this gallery offers displays of Nissan vehicles, including concept cars and historical models. It provides insights into the automotive industry and Nissan’s innovations.

Yokohama Anpanman Children’s Museum
A museum dedicated to Anpanman, a popular Japanese children’s character. It features interactive exhibits, shows, and activities designed for young children and families.

Rinko Park
Waterfront Park A spacious park located along the waterfront in the Minato Mirai area, offering walking paths, green spaces, and beautiful views of the bay. It’s a great spot for a leisurely stroll or picnic.

Yokohama Bay Bridge
Scenic Views This impressive bridge offers scenic views of Yokohama’s waterfront and the surrounding bay area. It’s a notable landmark and a good spot for photography.

Sogo Museum of Art
Art Exhibitions This museum hosts a variety of art exhibitions, including traditional and contemporary Japanese art. It’s located within the Sogo Yokohama department store.

Yokohama Marine Tower
Observation Tower Located in Yamashita Park, this tower offers panoramic views of Yokohama and the bay. It’s a great spot to see the city from above and enjoy the surrounding waterfront area.

Hakkeijima Sea Paradise
Marine Park and Aquarium Located on an island in Tokyo Bay, this park features an aquarium, amusement rides, and marine-themed attractions

Yokohama Tsurumi Ryokuchi Park
Large Urban Park A spacious park with diverse facilities, including walking trails, playgrounds, and gardens. It’s a great place for outdoor activities and relaxation.

Osaka Castle
A historic castle with a beautiful park surrounding it. The castle offers a museum and great views of the city from its top.

Dotonbori
A lively entertainment district known for its neon lights, street food, and the famous Glico Man sign.

Universal Studios Japan
A popular theme park featuring attractions based on movies and characters from Universal Pictures.

Shinsekai
An old neighbourhood with a nostalgic feel, known for its street food, including kushikatsu (deep-fried skewers) and the Tsutenkaku Tower.

Umeda Sky Building
Offers a stunning observation deck with panoramic views of Osaka.

South West of Osaka is the Island of Shikoku a host of major events such as Tokushima city’s annual Awa odori matsuri, Japans equivalent of the Rio carnival. Every three years Shikoku’s Kagawa prefecture co-hosts the Setouchi Triennale, a superb contemporary arts festival covering nearby islands such as Naoshima and Shodo-shima. Shikoku is famous for its religious pilgrimage around 88 temples connected with the Buddhist monk Kobo daishi. Deeper into Shikoku is a sustainability pioneer of Japan Tokushima city is kamikatsu a village which has been aiming to generate zero waste since 2003, you can see its efforts in action at the microbrewery restaurant and general store Rise and Win co, occupying a building made from totally recycled elements and hotel WHY, which is part of the villages innovative zero waste centre. You can also take the 2.7km cable car to mountain top tairyu-ji in Tokushima prefecture – the longest ropeway in western Japan.

Sapporo
The capital city known for its annual Snow Festival in February, and attractions like the Sapporo TV Tower and the historic Hokkaido Shrine.

Furano
Famous for its beautiful flower fields, especially lavender, which bloom in summer.

Otaru
A charming port city known for its well-preserved historical buildings, canal, and glassware shops.

Niseko
Renowned for its excellent skiing and snowboarding conditions, as well as its beautiful winter scenery.

Hakodate
Known for its historic buildings, the stunning night view from Mount Hakodate, and the vibrant morning market.

Fushimi Inari Shrine
Famous for its thousands of red torii gates that create a stunning path up the mountain.

Kinkaku-ji (Golden Pavilion)
A beautiful Zen temple covered in gold leaf, set amidst serene gardens and a reflective pond.

Kiyomizu-dera
A historic temple with a famous wooden stage that juts out over a hillside, offering beautiful views of the city and cherry blossoms in spring.

Arashiyama Bamboo Grove
A picturesque bamboo forest located in the Arashiyama district, perfect for a tranquil stroll.

Gion District
Known for its traditional wooden machiya houses and geisha culture, it’s a great place to experience Kyoto’s historical ambiance.

Shibuya Crossing
Iconic Intersection Known as the world’s busiest pedestrian crossing, Shibuya Crossing is a dynamic and vibrant area. It’s surrounded by large digital billboards, shopping centres, and eateries. It’s a must-see for its sheer energy and the quintessential Tokyo experience.

Senso-ji Temple
Historic Temple Located in Asakusa, Senso-ji is Tokyo’s oldest and most famous temple. The approach to the temple, known as Nakamise Street, is lined with traditional shops and food stalls. The temple itself is a beautiful example of Japanese architecture and offers a glimpse into the country’s spiritual traditions.

Tokyo Tower
Observation Tower Inspired by the Eiffel Tower, Tokyo Tower offers panoramic views of the city from its observation decks. It also houses restaurants, souvenir shops, and a variety of attractions, including a one-of-a-kind themed zoo.

Meiji Shrine
Shinto Shrine Nestled in a lush forest in Shibuya, Meiji Shrine is dedicated to Emperor Meiji and Empress Shoken. It’s a peaceful retreat from the city’s hustle and bustle and is known for its beautiful torii gates and serene atmosphere.

Tokyo Skytree
Tallest Structure Standing at 634 meters, Tokyo Skytree is the tallest structure in Japan and offers stunning views from its observation decks. It also features shopping, dining, and entertainment options at the base, including an aquarium and planetarium.

Akihabara
Electric Town Famous for its electronics stores, Akihabara is also a hub for otaku culture, including anime, manga, and gaming. The area is packed with shops, arcades, and themed cafes, making it a paradise for tech enthusiasts and pop culture fans.

Shinjuku Gyoen National Garden
Urban Oasis A large park and garden offering a tranquil escape from the city. Shinjuku Gyoen features a blend of traditional Japanese, English, and French garden styles, along with seasonal floral displays, including cherry blossoms in spring.

Tokyo National Museum
Cultural Museum Located in Ueno Park, this museum is Japan’s oldest and largest museum. It houses an extensive collection of traditional Japanese art, including samurai swords, ceramics, and ukiyo-e prints.

Roppongi Hills
Modern Complex A large urban development in Roppongi featuring a variety of attractions, including the Mori Art Museum, observation decks, and high-end shopping. The area is also known for its vibrant nightlife.

Tsukiji Outer Market
Food Market Although the inner wholesale market has moved to Toyosu, the Tsukiji Outer Market remains a bustling area with fresh seafood, produce, and street food. It’s a great place to sample sushi, sashimi, and other Japanese delicacies.

Ginza
Luxury Shopping District Known for its high-end shopping and dining, Ginza is home to luxury boutiques, department stores, and gourmet restaurants. The area is also known for its impressive architecture and lively atmosphere.

Odaiba
Entertainment Complex A futuristic district located on a man-made island in Tokyo Bay. Attractions in Odaiba include the teamLab Borderless digital art museum, DiverCity Tokyo Plaza with its life-sized Gundam statue, and various shopping and entertainment facilities.

Ueno Park
Cultural and Recreational Area Ueno Park is a large public park that houses several museums, a zoo, and beautiful cherry blossoms in spring. Notable attractions within the park include the Ueno Zoo, Tokyo Metropolitan Art Museum, and the National Museum of Western Art.

Yanaka District
Historic Neighbourhood A charming district that survived the bombings of World War II, Yanaka offers a glimpse into old Tokyo with its traditional streets, temples, and shops. It’s a great area for a leisurely walk and experiencing the city’s historical side.