Japan

If we were to meet a traveller who did not enjoy their time in Japan, we would be left gobsmacked and stupefied.

For us, The Land of the Rising Sun ticks all our traveller itches. Adrenaline rush thrills shredding the slopes in Hakuba or Nisekko, satisfying savoury feeds in bowls of hot ramen or soba and ancient traditions steeped in its long history.

With one of the lowest crime rates in the world, Japan is the place where you’ll feel safe wandering the city streets for late night specialties, basking in the glow of neon lights before a Shinkansen whisks you away the next day to the peaceful bamboo grove of Arashiyama. And where else do you have the chance to bathe in mountain onsens with snow monkeys, experience the beauty of cherry blossoms during sakura or watch an over-the-top robot light show?

Efficiency, cleanliness and politeness are core pillars of Japanese culture and hospitality. You’ll encounter these elements everywhere you go in Japan so ensure you return the goodwill and be on your best behaviour.

We’d recommend polishing those chopstick skills because you will literally eat your weight in Japanese cuisine. Make sure to bring your appetite because other than sushi and katsu curry, there are plenty must-try Japanese foods that will more than satisfy your umami cravings.

Immerse yourself in the country’s traditional ways by booking a night at a ryokan, bathing in an onsen or purchasing a ticket to watch a sumo wrestling tournament. And then throw yourself into the modern world where you can let your hair down with a Mario Kart race, throw back sake in a speakeasy bar or book a karaoke session with your mates.

Japan is a country that has stolen our hearts and when you visit, we have no doubt that it will steal yours too.