Hand-picked deals by our pirate team
Inspire me!
Hand-picked deals by our pirate team
Hand-picked deals by our pirate team
Inspire me!
Hand-picked deals by our pirate team
- Home
- Destinations Japan
Visit the Land of the Rising Sun with flights to Japan
Japan is one of the top travel destinations in the world, with a variety of fascinating things to see and do. From its scenic beauty to its centuries-old traditions, cuisine and historic sites, a holiday in Japan should be on everyone’s bucket list. That said, you’ll be pleased to hear that exploring the Land of the Rising Sun is easy with cheap flights to Japan.
With so many diverse attractions to be found all over Japan, it can be hard to know where to begin. Fortunately, we have you covered, with everything from hotels and accommodation to package deals that will get you into famous sites. Take a look at some of the deals below to make your visit to Japan truly memorable.
What are the top attractions to see in Tokyo?
When travelling to Japan, the first place you'll visit is most likely the capital city, Tokyo. This bustling metropolis is where the modern meets the traditional, and there's something to see around every corner. Choosing what to see when you visit Tokyo can feel daunting. To help you create your must-see list, here are our recommendations for five of the best Tokyo attractions to add to your itinerary.
1. Tokyo Skytree
Standing at 634 metres, the Tokyo Skytree is one of the tallest free-standing towers in the world. Take a lift up to one of the tower's observation decks for amazing panoramic views of the Tokyo skyline. On a clear day, you can see as far as Mount Fuji. Around sunset, the view becomes magical as the city lights up.
2. Shibuya Crossing
Perhaps one of the most well-known settings in Tokyo, Shibuya Crossing is one of the busiest pedestrian crossings in the world. Flanked on all sides by tall skyscrapers and giant flashing billboards, the crossing has been featured in many films and TV shows. Take some time to explore, including the many shops and arcades lining the area.
3. Sensō-ji Temple
One of the oldest and most treasured sacred temples in Japan, Sensō-ji is a popular site for both locals and tourists alike. The vibrant red temple is an architectural marvel, and entering the grounds feels like a step back into Japan's ancient history. Take time to visit the main temple and take a picture of the impressive five-story pagoda.
4. Shinjuku Gyoen
If you are looking for a place to relax among the bustle of activity in Tokyo, head to Shinjuku Gyoen. This massive urban park offers a respite from the crowds and features 144 acres of gardens and parklands. The gardens feature a mix of traditional Japanese, English and French styles, and there is also an indoor botanical garden with rare tropical plants.
5. Akihabara
If you are a fan of anime, video games or pop culture, then Akihabara is a must-visit. Also known as Electric Town, Akihabara is home to a wide range of tech- and pop culture-related businesses, from retro arcades to cosplay-themed cafes. Take some time to immerse yourself in the quirky culture in this neighbourhood and perhaps discover your new favourite pop culture franchise.
Where should I visit outside of Tokyo?
While there is much to explore in Tokyo, there is even more to see and do outside of the capital. Each city has its own unique sites and attractions, and many are easily reached via Japan's extensive train network. Take some time to explore these five cities during your holiday in Japan.
1. Kyoto
The ancient city of Kyoto was Japan's capital for over 1,000 years before this title moved to Tokyo in the 19th century. As such, it is one of Japan's most culturally and historically significant cities. From the magnificent Kinkaku-ji temple to the ancient streets of the Gion district, Kyoto is one of the most beautiful cities in Japan.
2. Osaka
Osaka is famous for its vibrant nightlife, as well as its abundance of delicious food options, earning it the nickname ‘The Kitchen of Japan’. The city is also home to several fascinating attractions, including Shitennoji Temple, the Osaka Mint Bureau and the trendy Shinsaibashi shopping district.
3. Hiroshima
Although known throughout the world as the site of the first atomic bomb attack in 1945, today Hiroshima is a beautiful and impressive city. Visitors can learn more about the attacks at the Peace Memorial Park and Museum and visit culturally significant landmarks like Hiroshima Castle. Take some time to visit the nearby island, Miyajima, and its famous Itsukushima Shrine.
4. Nara
Just south of Kyoto, Nara is perhaps just as famous for its deer as it is for its history and culture. Take a visit to Nara Park, home to over 1,000 deer. Here, you can hand-feed the animals in tranquil surroundings. Take some time to visit the Todai-ji temple and the Kasuga-Taisha shrine, both significant places of worship in Buddhist culture.
5. Takayama
Located high up in the Japanese Alps, Takayama is one of the best-preserved towns in Japan. Explore the Sanmachi Suji district, with its wooden houses and shops that date back hundreds of years. Take some time to enjoy local delicacies like Hida beef. Perhaps explore the trails up Hida Mountain for some breathtaking scenery, healing hot springs and ski slopes.
How do I get around Japan?
Getting around in Japan is easy if you know how the public transportation system works. Japan has an extensive rail network, and its bullet trains, known as Shinkansen, can transport you between cities efficiently and in record time. To get around Japan smoothly, apply for a JR Rail Pass, allowing you unlimited travel on JR trains within certain areas.
Within each major city, there is a well-established public transportation network. Cities like Tokyo and Osaka have extensive subway networks, and you can get around conveniently using prepaid IC cards. In addition, many areas in these cities are easily accessible by foot or bicycle.
Japan is a stunning destination with amazing scenery, wonderful food and fascinating history. Book your flights to Japan today for an incredible holiday experience.
FAQs about Japan holidays
Q: Where should I go for the first time in Japan?
A: While there are many places you can choose to start your travel in Japan, perhaps the best place to start is Tokyo. As the capital city of Japan, Tokyo will give you a good feel for the country before travelling further.
Q: Is Japan a good destination for a family holiday?
A: Yes! Japan is exceptionally clean, safe and hospitable. The country offers a rich cultural experience for travellers of all ages. Japan's efficient public transportation network makes it very convenient to explore the island country. In addition, there are many family-friendly attractions, such as Tokyo Disneyland and DisneySea.
Q: Is £100 a day enough for Japan?
A: While Japan can be quite expensive, you can get by on £100 a day if you budget correctly. Look for cheap deals on accommodation and avoid high-priced restaurants in favour of inexpensive food options. Additionally, many attractions in Japan are free or reasonably priced.
Q: Can I speak English in Japan?
A: You can often get by with English in major urban centres, such as Tokyo and Kyoto. However, people in rural areas in Japan may not be fluent in English, so some knowledge of Japanese is recommended. Consider learning some basic Japanese words or phrases if you plan to travel outside the major cities.
- Packing list for every type of breakPacking list for a city breakPacking list for a beach holidayPacking list for a winter holidayPacking list for a hiking trip
We value your privacy
We use cookies to enhance your browsing experience, serve personalised content, and analyse our traffic. By clicking "Accept All" you accept this and consent that we share this information with third parties and that your data may be processed in the USA. For more information, please read our .
You can adjust your preferences at any time. If you deny, we will use only the essential cookies and unfortunately, you will not receive any personalised content. To deny, .