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Japan

Expert travel guides and holiday advice

Japan takes the top spot on numerous travellers’ wish lists – and for very good reason. This island nation in the northwest Pacific is an endlessly intriguing blend of contrasts, from the futuristic, high-tech hubs of Tokyo and Osaka to the imperial palaces and Buddhist temples of Kyoto; from the powder-filled ski slopes of Niseko to the dramatic volcano-scape of Mount Fuji. Whether you’re looking to dip your toe into traditional hot springs by trying onsen culture, go cherry-blossom spotting, eat the world’s best sushi or check out a themed café in the capital, The Independent's travel experts have pinned down the best destinations and experiences, plus picked out the very coolest places to stay.

<p>Tourists walk through a promenade lined with souvenir shops leading to the Sensoji Buddhism temple in the famed Asakusa district of Tokyo</p>
News & Advice

Japan launches body to address over-tourism and unruly foreigners

<p>The Noto Peninsula in northern Ishikawa extends about 100 kilometres into the Sea of Japan </p>
Japan

The little-visited region that could solve Japan’s overtourism problem

<p>The exterior of the Palace Hotel Tokyo </p>
Japan

The Palace Hotel, Tokyo, Japan, review

<p>The sky garden at OMO5 Tokyo Gotanda</p>
Japan

OMO5 Tokyo Gotanda by Hoshino Resorts, Japan hotel review

<p>Fashion forward? Renting clothes means they’re not guaranteed to be your style</p>
Japan

Renting your entire holiday wardrobe from an airline

<p>Japan can be pricey, but there are ways for savvy travellers to cut costs</p>
Japan

Eight ways to save money when travelling around Japan

<p>Green metropolis: Sapporo incorporates eco design and a respect for nature </p>
Travel

Get your green on in Sapporo, Japan’s most sustainable city

<p>Trade Kyoto for beautiful Kanazawa </p>
Japan

The best Japanese destination swaps

Tokyo

Japan’s sprawling capital often evokes an image of hyper-modernity, with its neon-lit skyscrapers, capsule hotels, futuristic museums, bullet trains and robot-mania. But the city is also awash with history and traditional culture: think exquisite temples, shrines and imperial palaces amid immaculate Japanese gardens. Check out our Tokyo guides for the must-try experiences and attractions to add to any trip itinerary, plus the top hotels to book, whatever your budget.

From knickknacks to gadgets, manga to maid cafes, Akihabara is the city’s main shopping district... and maybe even the world’s
Japan

The ultimate guide to Tokyo

The must-do experiences on a trip to Tokyo

The Tokyo Skytree
Tokyo

10 of the best hotels in Tokyo

The bright lights of Tokyo are on offer from STA Travel
Asia

Japan in autumn: Tokyo city breaks, active holidays and cultural tours

Mount Fuji looms in the background of Yokohama
Tokyo

The ultimate guide to Yokohama

More

Kyoto

The former imperial capital of Japan, Kyoto epitomises many visitors’ impression of traditional Japanese culture. Classic Buddhist temples, imperial palaces, Shinto shrines, wooden houses and impeccably planned, tranquil gardens combine to make this one of Japan’s most enticing destinations. It’s also where you’ll find geisha, Japan’s female entertainers in traditional dress, plus kaiseki dining, a traditional multi-course Japanese dinner made up of beautifully presented dishes. Read our guide to make the most of a trip and discover the best places to stay.

The Kiyomizu-dera Buddhist Temple grounds and Kyoto skyline
Japan

The ultimate guide to Kyoto

How to make the most of a break to Honshu's cultural and historic hub

Matcha is more than just a food fad
Asia

Why Japanese matcha is totally different to the stuff we drink

A trip to Uji and Kyoto can open your eyes to the wonders of going green

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<p>Hong Kong travel agencies reported up to a 50 per cent drop in Japan bookings</p>
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How an apocalyptic comic book prediction hit Japan’s tourism industry

<p>Held on the dizzying Mount Aconcagua, Aconcagua Ultra Trail is an awe-inspiring experience</p>
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The coolest running events around the world

<p>Inside The Ace suite at Kyoto’s hip Ace Hotel </p>
Japan

Ace Hotel Kyoto, Japan review

<p>‘Lovers Bridge' near Ayia Napa in Cyprus</p>
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Eight of the best destinations to visit this Easter

<p>The ancient pilgrimage route weaves through forests and open spaces with mountain vistas</p>
Japan

What it’s like to hike Japan’s ancient Kumano Kodo trail

<p>Late autumn and early winter bring striking colours to Tokyo</p>
Japan

Why you should experience Tokyo by bike

<p>‘Lovers Bridge' near Ayia Napa in Cyprus</p>
Inspiration

Eight of the best destinations to visit this Easter

<p>The ancient pilgrimage route weaves through forests and open spaces with mountain vistas</p>
Japan

What it’s like to hike Japan’s ancient Kumano Kodo trail

<p>Late autumn and early winter bring striking colours to Tokyo</p>
Japan

Why you should experience Tokyo by bike

<p>Visit places such as Japan’s tallest waterfall at Nachi Falls in Wakayama with Japan Airline’s new domestic flight deals </p>
News & Advice

Japan Airlines is offering free domestic flights – how to secure them

<p>The “Neko Jinja,” or cat shrine, honours the animals’ presence </p>
Japan

The island where cats outnumber humans – and made it a tourist hotspot

<p>Kansai International Airport opened in September 1994 </p>
News & Advice

This Japanese airport hasn’t lost a piece of baggage in 30 years

<p>Onsen culture has deep roots in Japan</p>
Japan

Why Japanese toji water therapy is the hottest wellness trend for 2024

<p>For a traditional taste of Japan that is less-crowded than Kyoto, head to Kanazawa</p>
Japan

The best Japanese destination swaps 2025

<p>Representational: This picture taken on 1 February 2023 shows tourists boarding a bus at the Owakudani volcanic valley in Hakone, Kanagawa prefecture</p>
Japan

Japan’s first bunk-bed bus allows tourists to skip the hotel

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