Japan

Japan is a destination that rewards every type of traveller and defies every expectation. Tokyo is a city of staggering scale and energy — yet also one of extraordinary order and politeness. The neighbourhoods of Shinjuku, Shibuya, Harajuku, Akihabara and Asakusa each offer a completely different window into Japanese urban life, from the buzzing nightlife of Golden Gai to the incense-scented streets around Senso-ji Temple. The food scene alone — Tokyo has more Michelin stars than any other city on earth — could justify the journey.

Kyoto is Japan at its most classical — a city of over 1,600 temples and shrines, immaculate Japanese gardens, traditional wooden machiya townhouses and a geisha culture that still flourishes in the Gion district. The Fushimi Inari shrine, its thousands of vermilion torii gates winding up the forested mountainside, is one of Japan’s most iconic images. Arashiyama’s bamboo grove, the Golden Pavilion (Kinkaku-ji) and the Philosopher’s Path are further highlights of a city that could occupy a week of exploration alone.

Beyond Tokyo and Kyoto, Japan reveals itself in layers. Hiroshima and its Peace Memorial Museum offer one of the most moving and important cultural experiences in the world. Osaka is Japan’s food capital and a city of infectious energy. Nara is home to free-roaming sacred deer and the world’s largest bronze Buddha. The Japanese Alps offer spectacular hiking in Hakuba and winter skiing that rivals the best in Europe. Hokkaido in the north delivers powder snow, fresh seafood and dramatic volcanic landscapes.

Japan is best visited in spring (late March to early May) for cherry blossom season or autumn (October to November) for spectacular fall foliage. Both periods are special beyond description.