Destination
Japan Holidays
Land of the rising sun
Known as the Land of the Rising Sun, Japan is home to intoxicating landscapes, stunning history and vibrant city life; the ultimate country of contrasts.
Offering a unique melting pot of culture, Japan boasts a range of sights and activities for any intrepid traveller: from wandering around Kyoto’s Gion District to see Geisha and taking in the panoramic views from Tokyo Tower’s viewing platform, to arranging an excursion to Mount Fuji and Hakone. We recommend travelling around the country on the futuristic high speed bullet trains - they make your connections between cities much quicker, and allow you to pack far more into your trip.
Why not combine two fascinating countries in one adventure? Visit Japan and China together to spend two weeks exploring their amazing history and culture.
Destination Highlights
Essential Information
See Practical Information- Time Zone GMT+9
- Currency Japanese yen (JPY)
- Visa Information Irish citizens don’t need to obtain a visa if staying less than 90 days.
- Language Japanese
- Flight Time Indirect flights available from Ireland with Cathay Pacific via Hong Kong, Emirates via Dubai and KLM via Amsterdam.
- Health Information No special vaccines are required or recommended for travel to Japan.
Top Tips from our Experts
Caroline
Destination Executive
“Japan is best enjoyed late March to early April, when the cherry blossoms are in full bloom and the true beauty of the country is uncovered. But book early, or else you will miss out on this spectacular sight.”
Rachael
Destination Executive
“Make sure to include a visit to Sagano Bamboo Forest in Kyoto and take the short walk to the Tenryuji Temple. To get the best pictures plan your visit in the morning before the large crowds arrive.”
Barbara
Destination Specialist
“There’s nothing better than sitting in your own private onsen while soaking up the amazing views that Japan has to offer. So why not choose to live like a local and stay in one of Japan’s many ryokans and enjoy the local hot springs.”
Our Japan destinations
Types of Japan holidays
Frequently Asked Questions
Flights to Japan take 11 hours and 35 minutes. There are currently direct flights from London Heathrow to Tokyo with British Airways, Japan Airlines, and All Nippon Airways, along with various indirect flights from UK airports year-round.
Tipping is not part of the culture in Japan. In some circumstances, it may even be seen as insulting and it may be refused. So, it’s best to avoid tipping altogether and simply say thank you if you feel you have received particularly good service.
Japan has some of the safest and most efficient public transport in the world. But, plan ahead, it can get very busy during festivals and peak periods. Major cities may have some transport signs in English, but it is best to learn some phrases before you travel.
