The Luxury Travel Magazine
The Luxury Travel Magazine
Embarking on a journey to Japan? Whether it’s your maiden voyage or you’re making a joyful return, we’ve got you covered. Dive into these insider tips to ensure you’re equipped, prepared, and ready to make the most of every moment within this majestic and multifaceted landscape.
From buying Japanese yen to getting around like a local, we’ve got you covered with our expert guidance on all things Japan.
Japan brims with marvels in each season – be it the mesmerising cherry blossoms adorning the spring, ebullient festivals lighting up the summer, the breathtaking autumn foliage, or the thrilling ski escapades of winter. No matter when you choose to visit, Japan promises a cornucopia of delights.
The ‘perfect’ season for your adventure hinges on your weather and crowd preferences and the experiences you’re most drawn to. With seasons as distinct as night and day, your planning and packing need to be spot on! Remember, the thermometer’s going to dance to its own rhythm depending on where you are in the country, so don’t forget to peek at the forecast for your chosen locales.
Whether you’re itching to explore the bustling streets of Tokyo, traverse the historic temples in Kyoto, or delve into the natural beauty of Hokkaido, Japan’s wealth of destinations is sure to leave you spellbound. But here’s a tip from the pros – successes in exploring the Land of the Rising Sun are often born from meticulous planning..
So grab your planner and get mapping that itinerary. With sought-after accommodations and hot-ticket events filling up quickly, especially during peak seasons, a well-planned itinerary is your secret weapon against missing out. Trust us, a few minutes of planning today can save you from a world of ‘should have booked sooner’ getaways tomorrow.
Sure, Tokyo, Kyoto, and Osaka might spring to mind when you daydream about Japan. And no denying, they’re fantastic! But hey, there’s so much more to this island nation than just these crowd-pleasers.
Venture up to the unspoiled wilderness of Hokkaido, wander through the tranquil hamlets of Shikoku, or sail around Okinawa’s heart-stoppingly beautiful islands. Beyond just avoiding the bustling crowds, be prepared for a journey into the heart of Japan’s most authentic and unforgettable cultural experiences – a true feast for the soul.
Next on your Japan bucket list should be an authentic stay at a traditional Ryokan. Picture this – a charming Japanese inn, nestled amidst nature, radiating an aura of tranquillity. Ryokan are not your run-of-the-mill hotels, oh no! They’re an immersion into the quintessential Japanese ethos.
Think rural setting, tatami mats under your feet, yukata robes embracing you in comfort, kaiseki meals , soaking in an onsen bath, and snuggling into a cozy futon at the end of the day.
This is the Japanese way of life at its finest, a must-try experience that will enrich your journey beyond your wildest dreams.
Never underestimate the power of a Japanese onsen (hot springs) experience. It’s an indulgence of unrivalled luxury and serenity, right in the heart of nature’s spectacles or within historically rich interiors. This unforgettable journey is unique to Japan, offering you an authentic cultural immersion that’s simply unmatched. Not to brag, but we have a thorough guide on the onsen experience in the virtual ryokan tour we’ve mentioned earlier.
Here’s a quick rundown of some onsen rules – just a friendly nudge to ensure your experience is spot on! Start by giving yourself a good scrub before you dip into the onsen, keeping the water as pristine as possible. It’s best to keep all your belongings – towels, toiletries, clothes – everything but you, out of the water. We know it’s tempting to soak for hours, but if hot water isn’t your thing, it’s better to limit your time.
Be mindful while getting out, too – the heat can make you a bit dizzy. Feeling a bit shy about baring it all? No worries. You can always opt for a private onsen. Many classy ryokans come with private baths attached to rooms, and some even offer hourly rentals.
Looking for an escape that’s not just from the city, but from the humdrum of everyday life altogether? Allow us to point you towards a spiritual retreat at a Buddhist temple – it’s guaranteed to be a memorable pit-stop on your Japanese adventure. As a visitor, you’ll be welcomed into a shukubo (temple lodging), where you can sip on the serenity of Buddhist life.
Imagine starting your day with the sun, as you join the monks in early morning prayers. Then, dive deep into tranquillity with meditation classes, guided by experienced monks who’ve mastered the art of Zen. Add to this, a chance to savour shōjin ryōri, the traditional Buddhist vegetarian cuisine that’s as much a feast for the soul as for your taste buds. Fancy a hands-on experience? Opt to participate in daily temple duties, turning work into a form of active meditation. The best part? You can do all this and more at the ethereal Mount Koya.
Sprinkled with over 100 Buddhist temples and the spine-tingling Okunoin Cemetery, Mount Koya is revered as one of Japan’s most sacred destinations. If Zen was a place, this would be it. So, why wait? Immerse yourself in the peaceful rhythm of temple life and let the magic of Mount Koya whisk you away on a spiritual journey like no other.
