7 Reasons to Travel to Japan with Llama Travel
At Llama Travel, our group size on average is 11 people, with a maximum of 18, whether you’re walking through busy city streets or travelling between destinations.
In Japan, where there’s so much to see, this helps you make the most of your trip. Travelling with a smaller group also gives you more chances to interact with your guide, ask questions, and get a better understanding of Japanese culture and history.
At Llama Travel we use a mix of private vehicles, local trains, bullet trains and city trams to make travel comfortable and seamless, while giving you the best feel for Japan along the way.
Travelling by road allows you to get to more remote areas, such as visiting the Japanese Alps, and also lets you stop at interesting spots on the way, such as Lake Kawaguchi, where you can see Mount Fuji reflected on clear days, or at a wasabi farm. In Tokyo, the metro system is excellent, but can be extremely crowded, so having a city tour by private vehicle allows you to get around the main sites in comfort.
Public transport in Japan is fantastic, and can be the best way to get around. For example, in Hiroshima, take the trams and local trains to have a Japanese feel of this historic city. A real highlight of visiting Japan is travelling aboard the bullet train. Our itinerary gives you a chance to experience this as you travel from Kyoto to Hiroshima.
Seeing Mount Fuji is one of the highlights of any trip to Japan, but it is weather dependent. For this reason, we offer multiple chances to view the mountain during your holiday.
On the journey from Tokyo to Hakone, you catch your first glimpse of the mountain. As you descend to Lake Ashi you will see Mount Fuji, provided the weather is clear. After lunch in Motohakone, take a 25-minute boat ride on Lake Ashi, aboard a brightly-coloured pirate ship, enjoying views of Mount Fuji and the surrounding forest, then disembark in Togendai on the north shore. From Togendai, you can take a cable car up to Owakudani, enjoying more views of Mount Fuji along the way.
The next day, on your drive to the historic town of Takayama in the Japanese Alps, if the weather is clear, you will have a brief stop at Oishi Park, where you are greeted with scenic views of Mount Fuji reflected in lake Kawaguchi.
At the end of your journey, board the shinkansen bullet train from Hiroshima on your way back to Tokyo. On clear days, you will get a final chance to see Mount Fuji from the left-hand side of the train.
Our tours include a mix of meals, including ramen and traditional specialties like okonomiyaki pancakes, so you can enjoy authentic Japanese food. You’ll also have plenty of time to explore local dishes on your own and be as adventurous as you like. Yakisoba is a tasty stir-fried noodle dish, while tempura offers lightly battered vegetables or seafood, and yakitori are grilled chicken skewers, best enjoyed with a cold beer. Trying these dishes is a great way to get a taste of Japan’s rich culinary culture.
At Llama Travel, we believe that, beyond the main highlights of a country, it’s the local experiences that often stay in the memory. In Japan, these moments give you the best feel of the culture.
Visit Kenrokuen Garden in Kanazawa, one of Japan’s most famous traditional gardens, dating back over 300 years. Kenrokuen means “six attributes of a perfect garden,” which are spaciousness, seclusion, antiquity, artificiality, abundant water, and panorama. The garden is particularly beautiful during cherry blossom season, which typically occurs in late March - early April, and in autumn.
Take part in a traditional Japanese tea ceremony in Kanazawa. The experience focuses on preparing and sharing matcha with mindfulness and simplicity. You will purify yourself at a stone basin before entering the tea room, watch the host prepare the tea with care, and then enjoy tasting it in a peaceful atmosphere, gaining insight into Japan’s cultural traditions.
Walk on the historic Tokaido Trail through a Japanese pine forest.
Visit the fascinating Float Museum in Takayama in the Japanese Alps to understand an important cultural celebration.
Stop at a wasabi farm for lunch. The farm’s fields use a constant flow of water from the Japanese Alps to cultivate wasabi, giving you a glimpse into a unique part of Japan’s agricultural culture.
Bathing in an onsen is part of traditional Japanese culture. Experiencing an onsen is a peaceful way to unwind and take in the natural surroundings, whether in the mountains or by a scenic lake. At Llama Travel, we offer accommodation with onsens in both Hakone and Takayama, giving you the chance to enjoy authentic onsen experiences.
In Hakone, our hotel sits beside Lake Ashi, offering outdoor onsen baths set within landscaped gardens. In Takayama, our modern hotel in the Japanese Alps features rooftop onsen baths with both indoor and outdoor options. Here, you can unwind while admiring the scenic view of the surrounding mountains.
Our team has travelled across Japan, so you can speak to someone who knows the country first-hand. With their knowledge and our carefully designed itineraries, they make sure you experience the best of Japan and have a memorable trip.
About Japan
KEY FACTS
- When to Travel: Spring or autumn
Population: 120 millions - Area: 377,975 square kilometres
- Capital City: Tokyo
- Languages Spoken: Japanese
- Time Difference: GMT+9
- Flying time from the UK: 13-14 hours if flying direct, 15-18 hours if flying indirect
- Bordering Countries: None (island nation)
Japan has one of the world’s most unique and influential cultures, recognised internationally for its food, media and traditions. This island, around 50% larger than the UK and home to around twice the population (over 120 million), is home to some of the world’s most iconic images, from the bustling pedestrian scramble of Shibuya Crossing to the symmetrical stillness of Mount Fuji, and the red torii tunnels of Fushimi Inari.
Japan Gallery
FAQs
Before You Go
A: No. British citizens can enter Japan for up to 90 days without a visa for tourism. You’ll need a valid passport with at least six months’ validity from your date of return. You may be asked to show proof of onward travel and accommodation on arrival.
For the latest entry information, visit the Japan Ministry of Foreign Affairs website.
A: No specific vaccinations are required for Japan. However, it’s a good idea to make sure your routine UK vaccinations are up to date.
For the most up-to-date guidance, visit TravelHealthPro or consult your GP or a travel health clinic before travelling.
A: Temperatures in Japan vary considerably depending on when and where you visit, so it’s best to pack a range of clothing suitable for both warm and cooler weather. In spring and autumn, daytime temperatures are usually in the mid-teens to low 20s, while nights can be much cooler, sometimes dropping close to single figures. In the Japanese Alps, early spring and late autumn can bring sub-zero temperatures and even snow. Summer (June to August) is very hot and humid, so light, breathable clothing is essential, along with a sun hat and sunscreen. Rain is possible throughout the year and can be heavy, so a lightweight waterproof jacket or umbrella is recommended. Comfortable walking shoes are important as sightseeing often involves a lot of walking, and slip-on shoes are useful for places where you need to remove footwear, such as temples and traditional inns.
Electricity in Japan is 100V, compared with the UK’s 230V, so some appliances may not work correctly. Most phones, laptops, cameras and tablets will charge fine with a simple adapter plug, but always check your device’s voltage rating before travelling. High-powered appliances such as hairdryers and straighteners may require a transformer, although many hotels provide suitable alternatives. There are two plug types in Japan: Type A (two flat pins) and Type B (two flat pins with a round earth pin).
We recommend carrying a photocopy of your passport and bringing any prescription medication you may need from the UK, as foreign medicines can be difficult to obtain. A small umbrella, refillable water bottle and lightweight day bag can also be useful.
A: Japan uses Type A and Type B plugs, with a voltage of 100V. UK travellers will need a travel adapter, and some electrical appliances may also require a voltage converter. Most modern phones, laptops and cameras are compatible with Japan’s voltage, but check your device before travelling.
Practical Information
A: Japan’s weather varies from region to region. Spring (March–May) and autumn (September–November) are considered the best times to visit, with mild temperatures and clear skies. Summer is hot and humid, while winter is dry and cold, especially in the north. Rainfall peaks during June and early July.
A: The Japanese are famously polite and welcoming, which is one of the most enjoyable parts of visiting the country. While no one expects visitors to know every custom, understanding a few basics goes a long way. When using chopsticks, avoid pointing or waving them, spearing food, or leaving them standing upright in rice. When paying, money is rarely handed directly to the cashier, instead, place your cash or card on the small tray provided, and your change will be returned the same way. It’s also common to remove your shoes before entering temples, ryokans and some restaurants, so slip-on shoes and neat socks are useful. Bowing is the typical form of greeting and a way to show thanks, though handshakes are also accepted when meeting non-Japanese visitors. You’ll often see staff in hotels, shops and restaurants bow as a gesture of respect.
Tattoos are becoming more accepted in Japan, particularly among younger people and in large cities, but they can still be sensitive in certain situations. In traditional settings such as onsens, swimming pools and gyms, tattoos are sometimes associated with organised crime and may not be permitted. It’s advisable to check ahead or cover tattoos with plasters or a sleeve if required.
A: Depending on the time of year, Japan is either 8 or 9 hours ahead of the UK.
During BST, from late March to late October, Japan is 8 hours ahead of the UK.
During GMT, from late October to late March, Japan is 9 hours ahead of the UK.
Most Llama Travel holidays to Japan operate during British Summer Time (BST), so you will likely be 8 hours ahead of the UK during your holiday.
A: Getting to Japan is expensive, especially during cherry blossom season and autumn, and accommodation can be expensive, particularly at these times. However, day-to-day costs are often comparable to, or cheaper than, those in Europe or North America, and many travellers return pleasantly surprised by how affordable Japan can be.
Food in particular can be surprisingly good value, and it is possible to enjoy a delicious meal for under £10, although fancier restaurants can be very expensive. Public transport is also extensive and good value for money, and crossing Tokyo by subway can cost less than £2. However, private vehicles and taxis are expensive, as are guide services.
A: English is not widely spoken in Japan, although many people in hotels, airports, train stations and tourist areas know some basic phrases. Signs, menus and transport information in major cities are often displayed in both Japanese and English, making it relatively easy to get around. In more rural areas,
English is less common, but Japanese people are generally very polite and will do their best to help. Translation apps such as Google Translate can also be useful for reading menus or communicating when needed.
A: Tipping is not customary in Japan, but if you are satisfied with the service given, you may wish to show some appreciation. This is completely at your discretion, and no specific tipping levels are suggested.
Health and Safety
A: Yes. Japan is one of the safest countries in the world for visitors. Crime rates are extremely low, and public transport and streets are safe, even at night.
As with anywhere, keep an eye on personal belongings and follow your guide’s advice. Llama Travel works only with trusted hotels and local partners to ensure your comfort and security.
A: Medical facilities in Japan are excellent, and English-speaking doctors are available in most major cities. If you feel unwell, contact your guide or hotel staff, who can help arrange assistance. You’ll need to pay for treatment upfront, so make sure you have comprehensive travel insurance covering medical care and repatriation.
Connectivity & Communication
A: Staying connected in Japan is easy. Wi-Fi is available in most hotels and public spaces, and portable Wi-Fi routers (Pocket Wi-Fi) are common and can be pre-booked.
eSIMs such as Airalo and Nomad tend to be the most convenient option if your phone plan does not include Japan. These do not require a physical SIM card and you can activate calls, texts and mobile data as soon as you land. Check that your phone is eSIM-compatible before purchasing one.
Local SIM cards can be purchased at airports or convenience stores, and you’ll need your passport for registration.
Onsens
A: Onsens are traditional Japanese hot-spring baths, enjoyed for centuries as places of relaxation, bathing and calm. They form an important part of Japanese culture and are often set in scenic locations like mountains or forested regions. They offer a chance to unwind after sightseeing and to experience a genuine local tradition.
A: To enjoy an onsen respectfully:
- Wash thoroughly in the shower area before entering the bath, this keeps the water clean for everyone.
- Bathing is typically without swimwear, in gender-segregated facilities. A small towel may accompany you for modesty but it should not go in the water.
- Keep hair out of the water (tie back long hair) and avoid letting the towel touch the bath.
- Avoid loud talk, running or splashing, onsens are very much about quiet relaxation.
- Be aware that tattoos may restrict access in some public baths due to traditional associations, check ahead or cover tattoos if needed.
A: Tattoos are becoming more accepted in Japan, but some traditional public onsens still restrict access to people with tattoos. This is because tattoos have historically been associated with organised crime in Japan. However, tattoos are generally fine at hotel onsens, including those at the hotels used by Llama Travel. If you are visiting a public onsen, it’s best to check the rules in advance, as some may allow small tattoos to be covered with a plaster or specialist cover.
A: No. Onsens are traditionally enjoyed without swimwear, and bathing areas are separated by gender. You’ll usually be provided with a small towel, which you can use for modesty when walking between the changing area and the bath, but it should not be placed in the water. If you’re visiting an onsen for the first time, don’t worry – the process is straightforward once you know what to expect.
A: If you’re not comfortable using a communal onsen, there are other options. Some hotels have private baths that can be reserved for individual use. Your guide or hotel can advise on the options available and help you find an arrangement you’re comfortable with.
Getting Around
A: Japan’s public transport system is among the best in the world. The high-speed Shinkansen (bullet trains) link major cities quickly, smoothly and with impressive punctuality, while local trains and metro networks are clean, reliable and easy to navigate. Buses are a convenient way to reach smaller towns and rural areas, and domestic flights connect the main islands efficiently for longer journeys.
Train stations, especially in big cities like Tokyo and Osaka, can be very large and busy, so expect a fair amount of walking and allow extra time for transfers. Fortunately, signs, announcements and ticket machines in major cities are usually in both Japanese and English, making it straightforward for visitors to find their way.
On Llama Travel holidays, all your transport is pre-arranged (including tickets, transfers and luggage forwarding between hotels), so getting around is effortless. In the cities, sightseeing is usually done on foot or by public transport, allowing you to experience Japan’s daily life up close.
A: Luggage space on Japan’s trains is quite limited, so it’s a good idea to travel with smaller cases or soft bags where possible. Overhead racks can hold medium-sized bags, but large suitcases can be difficult to store.
To make travel easier, Japan offers a very efficient luggage forwarding service, where your main bags are sent ahead to your next hotel for a small fee. This means you can move between destinations comfortably with just an overnight bag. Your guide or hotel staff can easily help arrange this service.
Food and Drink
A: Japanese cuisine is a real highlight of visiting the country: fresh, beautifully presented and full of delicate flavours. Meals are often centred around rice, noodles, vegetables and fish, with an emphasis on balance and seasonality.
Each region offers its own specialities: try fresh sushi and tempura in Tokyo, kaiseki (multi-course dining) and matcha sweets in Kyoto, and okonomiyaki (savoury pancakes) or oysters in Hiroshima. Even a simple bento box on the train is carefully prepared and delicious.
A: Vegetarian options are increasingly available, although fish stock (dashi) is common in many dishes, so it’s best to ask your guide or restaurant staff. Western food and bakeries are also easy to find in larger cities in Japan.
A: Japan has an enormous variety of regional dishes and specialities. Sushi, tempura, ramen, yakitori and okonomiyaki are popular choices, while regional dishes such as Hida beef, Hiroshima-style okonomiyaki and fresh seafood offer the chance to try something different. Your guide can recommend local specialities and help you choose dishes during the holiday.
A: Yes. Tap water in Japan is safe to drink everywhere. Bottled water is also widely available if you prefer.
A: Yes. Alcohol is legal and widely available, but the legal drinking age is 20 years old.
Popular drinks include sake (rice wine), beer, and shochu (a clear spirit).
What to See
A: Japan combines rich traditions with modern life in a way few places do.
In Tokyo, quiet temples and gardens sit alongside busy shopping streets and neon lights.
Kanazawa offers elegant gardens and well-preserved historic districts, while Kyoto is known for its temples, shrines and old wooden houses.
In Hiroshima, the Peace Memorial Park provides a moving insight into the city’s past, and nearby Miyajima Island is famous for its red torii gate standing in the water.
All of these destinations give a good sense of Japan’s culture and variety.
A: Around two weeks is ideal for a first visit to Japan. This allows enough time to explore the main highlights, such as Tokyo, Kanazawa, Kyoto, and Hiroshima, without feeling rushed.
A: Tokyo is a fascinating mix of old and new. Visit the Meiji Shrine, a peaceful spot surrounded by forest, and explore Asakusa, home to Senso-ji Temple and its lively market streets. Modern districts such as Shibuya, Shinjuku and Ginza show the city’s fast-paced energy, with bright lights, shops and restaurants open late into the night. For a quieter side of the capital, stroll through Ueno Park, the Imperial Palace Gardens, or neighbourhoods such as Daikanyama and Nakameguro, known for their cafés, small galleries and riverside walks. Tokyo’s excellent transport system makes it easy to experience the different moods of the city, from traditional culture to contemporary urban life
A: The mountain area of Hakone offers a peaceful escape from the city, with lakes, forests and hot springs. Take the cable car or ropeway for panoramic views of Lake Ashi, and on clear days you may even see Mount Fuji. Enjoy a boat cruise on the lake, visit the Hakone Open-Air Museum, or unwind in a traditional onsen (hot spring bath).
A: Takayama sits in the Japanese Alps and is known for its beautifully preserved old town. Stroll along Sanmachi Suji, where traditional wooden merchant houses now hold small shops, sake breweries and cafés. Visit the Takayama Jinya, a historic government building, and browse the lively morning markets for local crafts and produce.
The Festival Float Museum showcases the ornate floats used in the city’s famous festival, while the Hida Folk Village offers an open-air display of traditional thatched farmhouses. Nearby Shirakawa-go, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is home to picturesque gassho-style houses and makes a lovely excursion from Takayama.
With its slower pace and traditional atmosphere, Takayama provides a glimpse of rural Japan.
A: Kanazawa is famous for its blend of art, gardens and history. The highlight is Kenrokuen Garden, one of Japan’s most beautiful. Explore the Nagamachi samurai district with its preserved residences, and the Higashi Chaya area, where wooden teahouses recall the city’s geisha heritage. Omicho Market is the place to sample fresh seafood and regional dishes.
Kanazawa is elegant, compact and easy to explore on foot.
A: Kyoto is the cultural heart of Japan, filled with beautiful temples, shrines and gardens. Don’t miss the Golden Pavilion (Kinkaku-ji), the Fushimi Inari Shrine with its long tunnels of red torii gates, or the Arashiyama Bamboo Grove.
The old streets of Gion and Higashiyama are perfect for walking, with teahouses, craft shops and the chance to spot a geisha in traditional dress.
Kyoto is also home to many other remarkable temples, including Kiyomizu-dera and Ryoan-ji, known for its Zen rock garden.
A day trip to nearby Nara is well worth it to see the giant Buddha at Todai-ji Temple and the friendly deer roaming freely in Nara Park.
A: Hiroshima is a modern, welcoming city with a powerful history. The Peace Memorial Park and Museum tell the story of 1945 and Japan’s commitment to peace.
Nearby, the Atomic Bomb Dome stands as a symbol of resilience.
A short ferry ride away is Miyajima Island, known for the famous floating torii gate at Itsukushima Shrine.
A: Osaka is a lively city with a mix of modern neighbourhoods, historic sights and green spaces. Osaka Castle is one of the city’s main attractions, surrounded by a large park and gardens. In the centre, Dotonbori and Namba are busy areas with bright signs, shops and restaurants, while the nearby Hozenji Temple offers a quieter glimpse of the city. The Shinsekai district has a more traditional feel, with the distinctive Tsutenkaku Tower at its centre.