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Luxury travel guide

Japan

Japan, a land of timeless traditions and modernity, captivates with its contrasts. From Tokyo to Kyoto, discover temples, gastronomy, and culture.

Article reviewed on 19 May 2026.

Introduction to Japan

Japan blends ancient traditions with cutting-edge modernity across its 6,852 islands, from bustling Tokyo to serene Kyoto.

History of Japan

The history of Japan spans millennia, blending ancient traditions with modern transformations.

When to Visit Japan

Japan's seasons unveil unique experiences, from cherry blossoms in spring to autumn's vibrant foliage and Hokkaido's winter ski slopes.

Must-See Sites

Explore Japan's cultural heritage, from Kyoto's temples to Miyajima's floating torii and Himeji's White Heron Castle.

Questions about this section

What are the must-see sites in Kyoto?

In Kyoto, visit Kinkaku-ji (Golden Pavilion), Fushimi Inari, and UNESCO-classified zen gardens.

Japanese Gastronomy

Japanese cuisine reflects seasons, harmony, and precision, from kaiseki's elegance to sushi's mastery and izakayas' conviviality.

Questions about this section

What are the typical dishes in a kaiseki meal?

Kaiseki features small, intricate dishes like sashimi, seasonal vegetables, and miso soup.

Japanese Way of Life

Japanese living art blends tradition, harmony, and refinement in every detail.

Questions about this section

What are the rituals of a tea ceremony?

The tea ceremony (chanoyu) involves precise gestures, emphasising harmony, respect, and serenity.

What are the iconic ryokans in Japan?

Kyoto ryokans, especially with onsen, blend tradition and comfort for an immersive experience.

Palaces in Japan

Explore Japan’s refined luxury in Tokyo and Kyoto palaces, merging modernity with tradition, from Aman Tokyo to HOSHINOYA Kyoto.

Questions about this section

Which palaces offer exceptional views of Tokyo?

Aman Tokyo and Park Hyatt Tokyo offer city and Mount Fuji views on clear days.

Shopping in Japan

Shopping in Japan blends luxury in Ginza with Kyoto's artisanal treasures, offering a unique cultural exploration.

Questions about this section

What are the best shopping districts in Tokyo?

Ginza is perfect for luxury, Harajuku for avant-garde fashion, and Akihabara for electronics and pop culture.

What typical souvenirs to bring back from Japan?

Kimonos, artisanal ceramics, high-quality green teas, and Japanese knives are prized souvenirs.

Transport in Japan

Japan's transport network is a seamless blend of efficiency, innovation, and tradition.

Questions about this section

What are the benefits of travelling by Shinkansen?

Shinkansen is fast, punctual, and comfortable, connecting Tokyo to Kyoto in about 2 hours 15.

Cultural Events

Japan's cultural events balance tradition and modernity, from Kyoto's Gion Matsuri to Sapporo's winter illuminations.

Questions about this section

What traditional festivals can be experienced in Japan?

Gion Matsuri in Kyoto and Nebuta Matsuri in Aomori are iconic traditional festivals.

Conclusion

Japan offers a timeless harmony between tradition and modernity, inviting travellers to discover its contrasts and subtleties.

Comparison tables

Seasons in Japan
SeasonMonthsClimateCrowd LevelsTip
PrintempsMars à maiDoux, floraison des cerisiersÉlevéeIdéal pour le hanami.
ÉtéJuin à aoûtChaud, humide, typhons possiblesModéréePrivilégier les Alpes japonaises pour la fraîcheur.
AutomneSeptembre à novembreTempéré, érables rougesÉlevéeExplorer Kyoto pour le kōyō.
HiverDécembre à févrierFroid, neige au nordFaibleSki à Hokkaido ou sources thermales onsen.

Tips consider weather conditions and tourist crowds.

Comparison of Palaces in Japan
NameStatusAmbianceHighlightsIndicative Budget
Aman TokyoPalaceMinimaliste, contemporaineVue panoramique, spa exceptionnelÀ partir de 1500€/nuit
Mandarin Oriental TokyoPalaceÉlégance urbaineGastronomie étoilée, emplacement Nihonbashi1000-2500€
Four Seasons KyotoPalaceTradition et modernitéJardin historique, spa raffinéÀ partir de 1200€/nuit
HOSHINOYA KyotoPalaceIntimiste, au bord de l'eauAccès en bateau, sérénité absolueÀ partir de 1300€/nuit

Selection of the most prestigious establishments in Tokyo and Kyoto.

Distances and Travel Times in Japan
OriginDistanceBy CarBy TrainPrivate Transfer
Tokyo à Kyoto450 kmEnviron 6h2h15 (Shinkansen)Disponible sur demande
Tokyo à Hokkaido850 kmNon recommandé4h (Shinkansen)Sur demande
Kyoto à Osaka55 kmEnviron 1h15 minFacilement organisé
Tokyo à Fuji100 kmEnviron 2h1h30Recommandé

Estimated times based on primary transport modes.

Michelin-Starred Restaurants in Japan
RestaurantStarsCuisine TypeIndicative Budget
Sukiyabashi Jiro3★SushiÀ partir de 300€
Kikunoi Honten3★Kaiseki500-1000€
Narisawa2★Innovative300-600€
Den2★Contemporaine200-400€

Source: Michelin Guide 2024.

Glossary

Chanoyu
Japanese tea ceremony, a codified ritual centred on matcha tea.
Geisha
Traditional Japanese performer trained in arts and elegance.
Kaiseki
Japanese haute cuisine, featuring seasonal and artistic multi-course meals.
Kōyō
Red maple leaves in autumn, a natural phenomenon cherished in Japan.
Onsen
Japanese hot spring bath, often outdoor, fed by natural sources.
Ryokan
Traditional Japanese inn with futon bedding, tatami floors, and hot springs.
Shinkansen
Japanese high-speed train reaching 320 km/h, connecting major cities.
Tatami
Traditional woven straw mat used for flooring.
Torii
Traditional gate marking the entrance to a Shinto shrine.
Washoku
Traditional Japanese cuisine, listed as UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage.

What to see and do

  • monument

    Kinkaku-ji

    Kyoto's Golden Pavilion, a temple covered in gold leaf, is a quintessential example of Japanese heritage.

    Read more →
  • monument

    Fushimi Inari-taisha

    This shrine, famed for its thousands of red torii gates, is dedicated to Inari, the Shinto deity of harvests.

    Read more →
  • landmark

    Itsukushima

    Miyajima Island is renowned for its floating torii gate, a UNESCO World Heritage symbol of Japan.

    Read more →
  • monument

    Himeji Castle

    A masterpiece of Japanese military architecture, this castle is nicknamed the White Heron for its elegance.

    Read more →
  • landmark

    Aman Tokyo

    A contemporary palace in the Otemachi Tower, offering spectacular views of Tokyo and Mount Fuji.

  • experience

    HOSHINOYA Kyoto

    Accessible by boat, this hotel blends modern luxury with tradition in an exceptional natural setting.

  • shopping

    Ginza District

    Tokyo's luxury shopping hub, featuring high-end boutiques and iconic department stores.

  • park

    Shakusui-en

    This 13th-century garden, located at the Four Seasons Kyoto, embodies Japanese serenity and elegance.

Practical information

Best time to visit
Spring (March-April) for cherry blossoms and autumn (October-November) for red maples are ideal. Winter attracts skiers, while summer offers lively festivals despite the heat.
Currency
Yen japonais (JPY)
Languages
Japanese (official language)
Airports
  • Aéroport Narita(NRT)Approximately 60 km from Tokyo
  • Aéroport Haneda(HND)Approximately 15 km from Tokyo
  • Aéroport Kansai International(KIX)Serves Kyoto and Osaka
Train stations
  • Tokyo StationStarting point for shinkansen to Kyoto and other major cities.
  • Kyoto StationMain railway hub for accessing Kyoto and its surroundings.

Frequently asked questions

What is the best time to visit Japan?

Spring (March-April) and autumn (October-November) are ideal for cherry blossoms or red maple leaves.

How to travel to Japan from abroad?

Major international airports are Narita, Haneda (Tokyo), and Kansai (Kyoto/Osaka).

What are the best luxury hotels in Japan?

In Tokyo, Aman Tokyo and Mandarin Oriental stand out. In Kyoto, try Aman Kyoto or Four Seasons.

What budget should I plan for a trip to Japan?

A premium budget includes 5-star hotels, fine dining, and Shinkansen travel.

Is Japan a safe destination?

Japan is one of the safest countries in the world with low crime rates.

What language is spoken in Japan?

Japanese is the official language; English is understood in tourist areas but less in rural regions.

What are the iconic dishes of Japanese cuisine?

Sushi, sashimi, kaiseki, and ramen are iconic. Japanese cuisine values seasonality and presentation.

Are there major cultural events in Japan?

Hanami in spring and summer matsuri are highlights, alongside winter illuminations.

Is Japan suitable for a family trip?

Japan offers child-friendly attractions like theme parks and interactive museums. Transport is family-friendly.

Is Japan accessible for people with reduced mobility?

Major cities like Tokyo and Kyoto have accessible public transport and tourist sites.

What is the climate like in Japan?

Climate varies: temperate central, subtropical south, continental north. Rainy season is in June.

Are credit cards accepted in Japan?

International credit cards are accepted in cities and hotels, but cash is advised in rural areas.

Is tipping common in Japan?

Tipping is uncommon in Japan and may be misinterpreted. Excellent service is part of the culture.

How to stay connected to the Internet in Japan?

Prepaid SIM cards and portable Wi-Fi hotspots are available. Cities also offer free Wi-Fi zones.

Do I need a visa to travel to Japan?

Many nationalities can enter visa-free for 90-day tourism stays. Check your specific requirements.

Palaces from our selection in Japan

18 five-star addresses curated by our concierge desk.

Sources & references

This editorial article is based on the following authoritative sources, listed here for transparency and reader verification.