The northernmost of Japan's four main islands, Hokkaido is renowned for its dramatic volcanoes, tranquil geothermal pools and impressive ski slopes. The island is the least developed of the group and features vast expanses of untouched wilderness protected by the Daisetsuzan and Shikotsu-Tōya National Parks. Visitors can look forward to hiking the area's towering volcanic mountains, exploring the remarkable aquamarine caldera lakes and soaking in the relaxing hot springs. Over fifty percent of the island is comprised of dense forest, which is home to bears, owls, hawks, cranes, foxes, and other wildlife you are unlikely to find elsewhere in Japan. With an annual snowfall of almost fourteen metres and cold air blowing in from Siberia that keeps the powder remarkably dry, the island offers some incredible skiing opportunities on the numerous uncrowded slopes of the coastal mountains.
Tokyo is a massive, wealthy, and fascinating metropolis, including a mainland located northwest of Tokyo Bay and two beautiful and subtropical archipelagos, the Izu and Ogasawara Islands. It encompasses rugged natural scenery, high-tech visions of the future, and glimpses of traditional life. The various districts of this phenomenal city vary wildly in character, from the electronic blare of Akihabara to the magnificent Imperial gardens and shrines of Chiyoda; from the lively youth mecca of Shibuya to the splendid pottery shops and temple markets of Asakusa. If you don't like what you see, hop on the train and head to the next station, and you will find something entirely different. The city truly has a little bit of everything for everyone.
Surrounding the remarkably scenic Lake Kawaguchi, one of the Fuji Five Lakes, Fujikawaguchiko is a Japanese resort town in the northern foothills of Mount Fuji. This charming little village serves as a popular base for travellers eager to explore this iconic volcano along the Yoshida Trail. Visitors seeking more sedentary pursuits can look forward to relaxing in the area’s wonderful hot springs and riding the cable car up to Mount Tenjo’s lookout deck which offers breathtaking views of Mt Fuji and the surrounding countryside. The village of Fujikawaguchiko itself features a range of tourist facilities and attractions including art galleries, museums, theme parks, ski slopes, and a variety of exciting activity programs.
Located on Honshu Island in Japan’s Kansai region, Kyoto, the nation’s cultural heart, is renowned for its magnificent temples, tranquil Zen gardens, and historic shrines. Rich in tradition yet alive with modern energy, the city offers an extraordinary blend of ancient beauty and contemporary experiences. Not-to-be-missed highlights include the other-worldly Fushimi Inari-Taisha Shinto shrine; Kiyomizu-Dera, offering a ‘love providing’ ceremony as well as jaw-dropping views, and Buddhist Tōfuku-Ji, famous for its glorious garden. Kyoto is renowned for its food, with places like Nishiki Market offering a wide variety of culinary delights. Culture enthusiasts can attend a traditional tea ceremony; soak up the striking displays at the Kyoto International Manga Museum; or head to Gion, the vibrant downtown district, to visit artisan studios or watch a Kabuki show. Just beyond the city, scenic hikes and restorative hot springs provide the perfect way to connect with nature.
Osaka is a lively metropolis in western Japan, renowned for its energetic atmosphere, rich food culture and distinctive blend of traditional and modern city life. At its heart, Osaka Castle offers a glimpse into the city's past, while the neon-lit streets of Dotonbori and Namba are famed for dining, shopping and nightlife. Osaka's character is particularly evident in its bustling streets, where tiny izakayas and food stalls sit alongside vast shopping complexes and illuminated entertainment districts. Travellers can sample local specialities including takoyaki and okonomiyaki, explore Shinsaibashi's shopping arcades, admire panoramic views from the Umeda Sky Building, or discover the nostalgic streets of Shinsekai beneath Tsutenkaku Tower. With excellent transport links and easy access to Kyoto and Nara, Osaka is also a convenient base for exploring the wider Kansai region.
