Japan

Written By Adam Ahmad

Rosemarie Robinson, Travel Consultant

KANAZAWA - JAPAN'S CULTURAL CAPITAL BY THE SEA

Often called "Little Kyoto", Kanazawa blends history, culture, and cutting-edge art. Stroll through perfectly preserved samurai and geisha districts, and experience one of Japan's most beautiful gardens.

Located on the western coast of Honshu, it's a cultural treasure untouched by war and rich in Edo-period charm.

  • Stroll through Kenrokuen Garden (one of Japan's top 3 gardens)

  • Explore the Samurai District (Nagamachi)

  • Visit the 21 Century Museum of Contemporary Art

  • Try fresh seafood at Omicho Market

  • Walk the Higashi Chaka Geisha District

SHIRAKAWA-GO - A FAIRYTALE VILLAGE IN THE MOUNTAINS

This UNESCO World Heritage site is famous for its traditional gassho-zukuri farmhouses, with steep thatched roofs designed for heavy snow. In winter it's like stepping into a snow globe!

Tucked into the Japanese Alps, it's a peaceful escape into rural life and timeless beauty.

  • Walk through Ogimachi Village and explore gassho-zukuri houses

  • Capture the perfect view from the Shiroyama Viewpoint

  • Visit the Wada House, the largest traditional farmhouse

  • Try local snacks like gohei-mochi

  • Visit in winter for illumination nights (magical!)

TAKAYAMA - THE HEART OF OLD JAPAN

Nestled in the Hida mountains, Takayama is known for its beautifully preserved old town, traditional crafts, sake breweries - and mouthwatering Hida beef, one of Japan's top wagyu varieties.

With its small-town charm and stunning alpine backdrop, Takayama offers a timeless experience of Japan's mountain culture.

  • Wander through Sanmachi Suji, the Edo-era merchant district

  • Sample handcrafted sake at local breweries

  • Shop local at the Morning Markets (Asaichi)

  • Explore the Hida Folk Village (Hida no Sato)

  • Feast on Hida beef - grilled, sushi-style, or in hot pot

  • Ride the Alps Route or visit the Takayama Festival Floats Museum

MATSUMOTO - A JOURNEY THROUGH HISTORY & BEAUTY

Nestled in Nagano Prefecture, Matsumoto is a charming city known for its stunning castle, rich cultural heritage, and vibrant arts scene. Whether you're exploring the castle or wandering through museums, there's something for every traveller.

  • Matsumoto Castle

  • Nawate Street

  • Matsumoto City Museum of Art

  • Daio Wasabi Farm

  • Alps Azumino National Park

  • Day trips into the Japanese Alps

 

NAKASENDO TRAIL - JAPAN'S ANCIENT HEARTBEAT

Step back in time and discover the historic Nakasendo Trail. This ancient route once connected Kyoto to Edo (Tokyo) and is now a peaceful journey through traditional post towns and green forests.

Access from Matsumoto: Direct bus or train to Magome (approx. 1-1.5 hours)

  • Walk the Magome-Tsumago trail

  • Stay in a traditional ryokan

  • Visit Tsumago-Juku History Museum

  • Explore Magome's old streets

  • Cross the Kiso River

  • Try local soba noodles

 

HAKONE - UNWIND IN THE SHADOW OF MT. FUJI

Just an hour from Tokyo, Hakone is where Japan slows down. Known for its steaming hot springs, crystal-clear lake views, and dramatic mountain landscapes, it's a destination that blends natural beauty and relaxation.

Here, you can soak in a hillside onsen with a view of Mt. Fuji, wander through open-air sculpture parks, cruise across the serene waters of Lake Ashi, and explore the volcanic terrain of Owakudani.

  • Hakone Open-Air Museum

  • Lake Ashi cruise

  • Owakudani volcanic valley

  • Hakone Shrine

  • Onsen experience

Adam Ahmad
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