Inside our itineraries: Why Japan deserves a spot in your 2027 holiday plans

Hear from our product manager, Katie, on what makes Japan such a special destination and why so many travellers return every year. 

Ask anyone who’s visited Japan: there aren’t many destinations around the world that’ll make you fall in love so soon after landing. It’s a nation of thrilling contrasts, UNESCO-listed landmarks, and fascinating regional traditions that are still alive today. While its spectacular sights are no secret, it’s still a destination which can seem quite unfamiliar to many travellers, and that’s why we’re taking a closer look with one of our travel experts.  

We recently sat down with Katie, our product manager for East Asia, who had the pleasure of exploring even further on a recent visit to Japan. Katie explained what makes this delightful Pacific country so memorable to her, the best times of year to visit, and what small things visitors can do to make the most of their trip. 

What do you think makes Japan such a popular destination year after year?   

What strikes me is just how different it feels from anywhere else you’ll travel. The culture is unlike anything else I’ve experienced. 

I think it’s also the way Japan combines old and new that impresses me. You could be standing under a 1,000-year-old torii gate one minute and heading towards a city of ultra-modern skyscrapers on a bullet train the next. 

Finally, the food. Each area has its own local delicacies, and some of my personal favourites include sushi, ramen and okonomiyaki (savoury pancakes). 

Is there a particular time of year that you enjoy visiting most?  

I visited last October, and it turned out to be a brilliant time to go. You avoid the peak crowds that come for cherry blossom season, but you can see the autumn colours instead, which for me was just as beautiful. The weather was mild and comfortable for a lot of walking too. I'd definitely like to go back for the cherry blossom in spring – there's a reason why it's so popular! 

Do you think Japan is particularly well suited to escorted touring, and if so, why? 

Very much so. Japan is generally safe, and the trains are famously efficient, but navigating the culture, language and transport systems can feel a bit daunting on your own. Having a local guide there to take charge in those situations and to explain why a tea ceremony matters, or the history of a shrine, turns a nice photo opportunity into something you actually understand and remember. 

Anyone interested in seeing and learning more about Japan. Both of our Japan tours have slightly busier itineraries, so it will suit people who like a bit of walking and don’t mind being on the move. Photographers do very well here. So do history buffs, foodies and anyone who likes the idea of a place that takes its traditions seriously without being stuck in the past. 

What are some of your personal highlights from your travels across this destination? 

The list is endless, but my three favourites must be: 

• Spending a day in Hakone, cruising across Lake Ashinoko, and taking the cable car to Owakudani to try their famous black eggs. 
• Taking a ferry trip to Miyajima and seeing the floating torii gate at Itsukushima Shrine.  
• Staying in an authentic ryokan (inn) and embracing the local culture with a dip in its onsen (communal bath) and a traditional kaiseki dinner. 

Japan’s four main islands are all worth a visit in their own right, but do you have a personal favourite? 

I think I have to say Honshu, Japan’s main island, because of the contrast. You have the big cities like Tokyo and Osaka standing side-by-side with quaint villages and ancient shrines. Essentially, there’s something for everyone.  

If you’re keen to get out of the bustle of the main island, Kyushu is a great choice. I recently visited, and it’s immediately clear why it’s often called the ‘Land of Fire’. The volcanic landscapes were just breathtaking! 

What advice would you give to someone visiting for the first time?  

Try as much as you can, and don't be afraid of the food just because you can't read the menu or aren't sure what's on the plate. Some of the best things I ate in Japan were completely new to me. I’d highly recommend keeping an open mind and saying yes to the things your guide suggests you try. You won’t regret it. 

What’s the biggest culture shock you felt when first travelling around Japan?  

Coming from the UK, the biggest culture shock was the social etiquette and efficiency when in the big cities. There are no bins, but the streets are spotless.  Public trains are always on time and quiet, and no one eats or talks loudly while on the underground. A larger city like Tokyo still somehow feels so calm and serene.  

If you had to sum Japan up in three words, which ones would you choose? 

Surprising, diverse, and incredible. 

Make the most of your dream Japan trip with Newmarket Holidays 

If the wonders of Japan have always held a spot on your travel wish-list, next year could be the perfect time to finally tick them off. With our two fascinating itineraries, you can explore three of the nation’s main islands, from volcanic Kyushu and Shikoku’s rural treasures to the neon-lit cities on Honshu. Give one of our friendly holiday planners a call today for more information or to secure your spot on one of our escorted tours. 

If your heart lies elsewhere, our full range of holidays spans six continents, and you can browse them all on our dedicated destinations page.