Japan
Samurai Spirit, Sakura Streets & Sushi Dreams
Where Tradition and Tech Coexist in Perfect Harmony
Japan is more than a destination, it’s a journey into contrasts. One moment you’re soaking in a steaming mountain onsen surrounded by snow, the next you’re speeding past Mt. Fuji on a shinkansen. From the peaceful temples of Kyoto to the neon-drenched streets of Tokyo, Japan seamlessly weaves together serenity and spectacle, history and hyper-modernity.
And the detail! The food, the etiquette, the craftsmanship - every aspect of Japanese culture is rooted in deep care and quiet beauty. Whether you're following the cherry blossom trail, getting lost in anime arcades, or enjoying a perfectly prepared bowl of ramen, Japan invites you to slow down, look closer, and savour every moment.
Visa Requirements
UK passport holders can visit Japan visa-free for up to 90 days. Just ensure your passport is valid for the duration of your stay, and you may be asked to show your return ticket and accommodation details on arrival. Japan is known for its smooth, welcoming immigration process, irasshaimase! (welcome!)
Key Airports
- Tokyo Haneda Airport (HND) – Closest to the city centre, great for domestic and international flights.
- Narita International Airport (NRT) – The major international gateway to Tokyo, with extensive global connections.
- Kansai International Airport (KIX) – Ideal for exploring Kyoto, Osaka and western Japan.
Spoken Languages
Japanese is the official language. English is commonly spoken in hotels and major cities, but not always elsewhere, especially in rural areas. Still, the Japanese are incredibly helpful and patient, and a few polite phrases go a long way.
Here’s your essential starter pack:
- Konnichiwa – Hello
- Arigatou gozaimasu – Thank you very much
- Sumimasen – Excuse me / Sorry
- Eigo o hanasemasu ka? – Do you speak English?
- Oishii! – Delicious!
Pro tip: Bowing is part of everyday etiquette. A small nod goes a long way.
Holidays to Japan
During the Summer
From June to August, Japan is warm and humid, especially in cities like Tokyo and Osaka. Expect 28–35°C and occasional showers, especially during the June rainy season. Great for festivals, fireworks, and seaside escapes in Okinawa.
During the Winter
Winter (December to February) is dry and crisp, with snow in the north and on the mountains. Tokyo stays cool and sunny (5–10°C), while Hokkaido transforms into a snowy wonderland, perfect for skiing, snowboarding, and hot spring getaways.
Top Japanese Hot Spots
In Japan, every day offers something new. Witness the grandeur of Mt. Fuji, stroll through Kyoto’s bamboo groves, or cross the iconic Shibuya Scramble in Tokyo. Sip matcha in a quiet teahouse or slurp noodles in a bustling ramen shop. From samurai castles to sumo tournaments, manga cafés to temple stays—Japan doesn’t just cater to your curiosity, it expands it.
Tokyo – The Future with a Soul
A mega-city with a million faces. Explore ancient shrines in Asakusa, shop in Shibuya, and get lost in Harajuku’s fashion-forward madness. Don’t miss the sushi, sumo or skyline.
Kyoto – Japan’s Cultural Heartbeat
Home to 1,600+ temples, geishas, gardens, and golden pavilions. It’s the Japan of your imagination - quiet, poetic, and utterly enchanting.
Osaka – Street Food and Big City Energy
Known for its friendly locals, buzzing nightlife, and takoyaki (octopus balls). It’s loud, proud, and full of personality.
Hakone – Nature, Hot Springs & Fuji Views
A peaceful escape just outside Tokyo. Ride the cable car, soak in an onsen, and take a boat across Lake Ashi with Mt. Fuji rising in the background.
Top Tips for Getting the Most Out of Your Holiday
- Get a Japan Rail Pass - If you're travelling between cities, the JR Pass is your best friend. It gives unlimited access to bullet trains (shinkansen) and saves you loads - just be sure to buy it before you enter Japan!
- Embrace the Convenience Store Culture - Don’t be fooled, Japanese convenience stores (konbini) like 7-Eleven and Lawson are amazing. Delicious meals, cute snacks, great coffee, even hot meals. Open 24/7 and surprisingly gourmet.
- Use the Slippers - Japan is big on cleanliness. In many hotels, restaurants and all traditional accommodations, you'll need to remove your shoes and use the provided slippers. Pro tip: there are separate slippers for the bathroom, don’t mix them up!
- Respect the Quiet - Japan is a peaceful country, especially in public transport and public spaces. Keep phone calls to a minimum on trains, speak softly, and enjoy the calm.
Why You Should Go (And Go with Marhaban Travel)
Japan is a destination that touches the heart and inspires the mind. It's perfect for everyone - first-time travellers, families, culture lovers, tech fans, and even those just searching for a moment of stillness. It’s safe, clean, incredibly organised, and endlessly rewarding.
With Marhaban Travel, we’ll help you unlock the real Japan. From the best cherry blossom spots to secret ryokan stays, cultural workshops to local foodie tours, we craft itineraries that go beyond the tourist trail. So you can travel deeper, smarter, and with complete peace of mind.
Discover the grace of tradition. Feel the thrill of the future.
