Your Japan Travel Guide 2025 & 2026
Freedom Destinations have been creating creating personal holidays for over 25 years and our travel experts can help you book your perfect Japan holiday. Plan your ultimate Japan trip, travel with expert guides, visit top attractions, and discover hidden gems.
When is the best time to visit Japan?
Japan’s diverse climate offers unique rewards throughout the year, making it an ideal destination for holidays throughout the year. Our Freedom Destinations travel experts describe how each season brings distinct experiences, from cherry blossoms to snow festivals.
Spring (March to May) – Spring is the most popular season for Japan holidays. Cherry blossoms transform cities into pink wonderlands from March to April, whilst mild temperatures create perfect sightseeing conditions.
Summer (June to August) – Summer in Japan offers colourful festivals and long daylight hours, though expect hot, humid weather. The rainy season (late May-June) brings fewer crowds and lush green landscapes.
Autumn (September to November) – Autumn delivers spectacular foliage and comfortable temperatures, with October averaging 21°C and November 17°C in Tokyo. This season offers ideal conditions for exploring Japan’s cultural sites and natural beauty without the intense summer heat.
Winter (December to February) – Winter showcases a different side of Japan. The Pacific coast enjoys dry, sunny weather, whilst northern regions offer world-class skiing and the famous Sapporo Snow Festival in February.
How many days do I need to visit Japan?
The ideal length for Japan holidays typically ranges from one to three weeks, though Japan’s incredible diversity means longer stays offer even richer experiences for your Japan tour.
One week to ten days – A week-long Japan holiday allows you to explore one or two key regions. Perhaps focus on Tokyo and Kyoto to experience Japan’s perfect blend of modern innovation and ancient tradition.
Two to three weeks – This will allow travel to additional destinations like Osaka and Hiroshima. The efficient Shinkansen bullet train network makes covering greater distances effortless, giving you more time to uncover Japan’s hidden treasures and experience the country’s remarkable regional diversity.
Things to see and places to visit in Tokyo:
- Enter the historic Senso-ji Temple and explore Asakusa District, part of Tokyo’s Old Town
- Join the crowds at Shibuya Crossing, the world’s busiest with 500,000 daily pedestrians
- Take in panoramic city views from Tokyo Sky Tree or the classic Tokyo Tower
- Get a taste of fresh seafood and other street food delights at Tsukiji Outer Market
- Take a day trip to nearby attractions like Mount Fuji or the historic town of Nikko
Things to see and places to visit in Kyoto:
- Visit Fushimi Inari Taisha, the world-famous Shinto shrine with 10,000 torii gates leading to Mount Inari
- Stroll through Arashiyama Bamboo Forest and experience ‘komorebi’, the Japanese term for the beauty of sunlight filtering through trees
- Participate in a century’s old tea ceremony at a traditional tea house
- Be dazzled by the Golden Pavilion (Kinkaku-ji), a Zen temple with upper floors covered in gold leaf
Things to see and places to visit in Osaka:
- Snap a selfie with the Glico Running Man sign and try takoyaki (octopus balls) and other Osakan delicacies in Dotonbori District, best seen by neon light at nighttime
- Walk in the footsteps of Samurai at Osaka Castle, with a history stretching back to 1583
- Get retro at Shinsekai, a once modern, now old-school district with its own tower, street food and gaming arcades
How do I plan a holiday to Japan?
It is never to early to start planning your next Japan visit. Begin by browsing the tour itineraries above and then give one of Freedom Destinations’ knowledgeable Asia Travel Team a call to discuss your Japan holiday requirements.
Begin your Japan holiday
