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Japan

Ancient traditions meet modern marvels

Kon'nichiwa!

From ancient temples to neon-lit cityscapes, stepping into Japan is like stepping into another world. Imagine strolling through emerald-green bamboo forests, exploring vibrant streets alive with gleaming red shrines, and uncovering a treasure trove of kawaii curiosities that’ll have you smiling ear to ear.

Treat your tastebuds to soul-warming bowls of ramen, irresistible street eats, and indulge your inner child at magical spots like Disneyland. From tradition-rich temples to quirky pop culture and flavours you'll be dreaming about long after you've returned, Japan really does have something for every adventurer.

With insider tips from our Japan specialists, we'll help craft the magical moments and hidden gems that make a holiday truly unforgettable. Get ready to sushi-roll your way through the Land of the Rising Sun!

Flight time.

Traveling from Auckland to Japan typically takes around 11 hours on a direct flight. Though it’s a long journey, the allure of Japan’s rich culture, stunning landscapes, and unique blend of tradition and modernity make the time in the air well worth it.

Best time to go.

The best times to visit Japan are during the spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November). Spring is famous for the cherry blossoms (sakura), which bloom across the country, creating breathtaking landscapes. Autumn, on the other hand, offers beautiful fall foliage, cooler temperatures, and fewer tourists. These seasons are perfect for exploring Japan’s temples, gardens, and cultural sites.

Time difference.

Japan is 3 hours behind New Zealand. This small time difference makes it easy to adjust, allowing you to dive right into your Japanese adventure with minimal jet lag.

Our favourite things to do in Japan

Step into spring under the cherry blossom

The Japanese celebrate Sakura with Hanami, literally “flower viewing” celebrations which take place in March and April.

Stay in a Ryokan & relax in an Onsen

A must-do experience!

Eat like a local

Get your sake fix and karaage cravings satisfied at Hoppy Street!

Best. Sunrise. Ever!

Chase the sunrise on Mt Fuji

A Japan bucket list experience

Take a trip to Miyajima Island and see the iconic ‘floating’ torii gate of Itsukushima Shrine.

Experience the world’s most famous crossing

Brave the Shibuya Crossing in Tokyo!

Ever dreamed of becoming a Maiko or Geisha?

Now’s your chance!

Stay at a Buddhist temple

For a truly unique experience stay at a Buddhist Temple, or a "shukubo".

Tour the streets of Tokyo in Mario-karts!

Ready for a wild ride?

Woman looking at the streets in Harajuku

Tokyo's most iconic fashion street

Shop quirky t-shirts, hidden gems, and unique souvenirs on every corner!

How to enjoy your stopover

A decision that will have to be made if travelling to Europe, Africa, most of South America or most of North America.

Ring in the New Year in Tokyo

Japan, Asia

Alpine & apres ski ... in Japan!

Japan Ski

Smell the cherry blossoms in Japan

Japan

Awaken all five senses in Japan

If you want to experience Japan with all five of your senses, you need to go beyond Tokyo and explore the diversity of this fascinating country.

Top 10 dishes you can't leave Japan without tasting

Whether you're wandering the bustling streets of Tokyo or exploring local eateries in Kyoto, these 10 must-try dishes should be at the top of your list.

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Meet our Japan specialists

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Nicole Hogan

House of Travel The Square

I am a cruise specialist who lives and breathes travel, I have a wide range of skills and knowledge.

I love the excitement of sitting down with my clients to share my experiences from around the world and help plan their trip of a lifetime!

Nicole

Antony Boomer

House of Travel Dunedin

I have been in the travel industry since 1987 as a tour leader, travel advisor, traveler visiting the globe, and now Owner Operator of House of Travel Dunedin City.

My travels have encompassed 105 countries initially using all forms of transport from a double decker bus around Europe to rickshaws in Asia to horses in the Middle East and dugout canoes in Central Africa with camels, elephants, donkeys and bicycles in-between.

I am more than willing to travel in a lot more comfort these days visiting the Pacific, Myanmar, India, Vietnam, Ireland, China, Cambodia, Hong Kong, Thailand, Japan, USA, Cayman Islands, Zimbabwe, Turkiye and Malta in recent years.

I believe the transition is similar for people of my generation who still yearn to visit anywhere and everywhere but enjoy a bit, or a lot, more luxury. As such I have developed an in-depth knowledge of the whole spectrum of travel options and regularly come up with solutions to the most complex of travel plans.

Tony