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Explore the buzzing streets of Tokyo, get lost in cherry blossoms in Kyoto, or relax at a rural ryokan. Find inspiration for your next Japan trip here.

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Best of Japan in 14 days

Day 1 and 2 - Tokyo

Day 3 - Side trip to Nikko

Day 4 - Tokyo to Hakone

Day 5 to 7 - Kyoto

Day 8 - Side trip to Nara

Day 9 - Kyoto to Miyajima via Himeji

Day 10 - Miyajima to Kanazawa via Hiroshima

Day 11 - Kanazawa

Day 12 - Kanazawa to Shirakawago

Day 13 - Shirakawago to Takayama

Day 14 - Takayama to Tokyo

The above itinerary is somewhat fast-paced. Tourists preferring a slow pace of travel should consider spending more time at some of the destinations along the way.

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20 Leisure And Recreational Activities To Experience In Japan

Japan is a country with no shortage of things to do and new experiences to immerse yourself in. The country is packed with centuries of history and traditional culture that has been preserved throughout the country in a plethora of ways. 

Whether you’re looking to experience something traditionally Japanese or are looking for a blend of relaxation and fun, there’s a leisure or recreation activity to experience in Japan suited for your interests. 

Yoyogi park is a great way to experience nature in the heart of Tokyo . Seeing a baseball game in the cities stadium and although many see it as only found in western culture, baseball has become massively popular in Japan. Its only second to the Japanese sport of sumo .

Traditional Experiences 

Tradition is a very important value in Japan, so keeping those traditions cataloged and sharing them with others is something Japanese people thrive on.

A lot of what’s practiced or celebrated in Japanese culture has some kind of symbolism behind it. 

Hot Spring Bath (Onsen)

Japan is rife with natural hot springs containing mineral-rich waters that have been touted as having healing and replenishing properties for centuries. It is by far one of the most cherished leisure activities in Japan and for very good reason. 

There are a couple of types of onsens you can experience in Japan. Some are outdoors and are naturally occurring due to volcanic activity that has carved out these spaces in the earth. 

Other onsens or sento are artificially made but contain water sourced from these natural hot springs. Depending on where you are in Japan, you can bathe in different colored water that has concentrations of different vitamins and minerals. 

Traditional Tea Ceremony

A traditional tea ceremony can be a little bit difficult to come by, and if you’re ever invited to one, you should never pass it up.

It can be an expensive thing to experience, but it will easily be one of your most treasured experiences in Japan. 

A traditional tea ceremony is so much more than simply sipping on some tea. You get to drink the highest quality tea prepared with very strict standards while enjoying lively conversation, performances, and so much more. 

Traditional Maiko Performance 

A maiko is a geisha who is still in training, and while geisha culture isn’t as prominent as it once was in Japan, there are still pockets of the country where you can still see geisha and maiko in action. 

Kyoto is a great place to see a traditional maiko performance, which includes traditional music , dance, and artistic expression.

One thing to keep in mind, however, is these performances can be expensive to attend. In some corners of Japan, such as the Gion area, you might see geisha and maiko dressed up in traditional kimono walking the streets or performing a dance for passersby. 

Stay At A Ryokan (Inn)

When booking your accommodations, consider seeking out at least one evening in a ryokan . A ryokan is a traditional Japanese inn where you’ll experience the best of Japanese hospitality while getting a glimpse at traditional Japanese interior design.

In terms of pricing, ryokans are usually about mid-range, but the price is worth it. 

A lot of ryokans will have onsen baths you can enjoy, which are highly recommended as they are one of the best places to learn about hidden gems to check out in the local area. Many ryokans also have restaurants where they make delicious multiple course meals crafted from local ingredients. 

Experience Hanami

Hanami is mainly a springtime tradition but it can still be enjoyed outside of spring in its own unique way.

When cherry blossom trees are in bloom during the spring, folks in Japan will gather under one of these Sakura trees and enjoy a picnic with friends or family. 

Hanami is a very long-held tradition in Japan and it’s a wonderful experience sitting under one of these breathtaking trees and admiring the surrounding nature. 

Rent a Kimono 

Many non-Japanese folks could easily recognize the kimono as a traditional Japanese outfit. Most people in Japan don’t mind if tourists want to wear a kimono , so long as they do so respectfully.

There are even shops where you can rent a kimono to wear for the day and learn how to properly put one on. 

Nature-Based Experiences 

Anyone who loves the outdoors, whether it’s simply to soak up the sun or to engage in as many outdoor activities as possible, will fall in love with Japan.

So many activities that get you out in nature don’t cost you anything either which is always a plus. 

Hiking and Climbing 

Even though Mount Fuji is a must-see spot in Japan, it’s not the only mountain or hiking trail in the country. There are a wealth of places to hike and climb no matter what season you’re spending in Japan. 

For the most part, Japan has pretty tolerable weather year round – even in the spots that get snow – so anyone who loves spending time outdoors will always be able to find an exciting spot for hiking. 

Japan Meteorological Agency Official Website

Tenryu Traditional River Rafting 

Tenryu is a riverland in Nagano , Japan, and you can enjoy a guided traditional river rafting experience in these lush waters.

You will slowly raft through the water while taking in the sights that surround you with the opportunity to learn as much as you can from your guide. 

Wildlife Exploration 

Japan has its fair share of wildlife to see, whether it’s the snow monkeys in Nagano , the birds throughout Hokkaido, or the aquatic life swimming around the beaches.

While it might take some research to locate the animals you’re hoping to see, there’s plenty of wildlife to explore in Japan. 

This may not come as a surprise to many given how Japan is made up of so many different types of landscapes. 

Forest Bathing (Shinrin-Yoku)

Japan is known for being a very spiritual place. Forests are aplenty in Japan, and so is the practice of shinrin-yoku or forest bathing.

The name may be a bit misleading, however; even though public baths are big in Japan, forest bathing doesn’t consist of bathing in a forest.  

Instead, forest bathing is about completely immersing yourself in the sounds, smells, and sights of nature and forgetting about the business of life outside of the forest. It can be a meditative and restorative experience for people who go into the environment with an open mind. 

Explore Trails

Anyone who loves to run, cycle, or go for long walks will be mesmerized by the sheer amount of trails there are in Japan. Trails may be designated paths for walkers and cyclists or they might be more organically a part of the particular area you’re in. 

Even if you’re staying in a big city , you’re bound to find a nearby park or garden that you can take a jog or a bike ride through. 

Water sports are common in larger parks and day hikes combined with water based fun are a great physical activity.

Learn Something New 

People in Japan are exceptionally gracious, especially towards people who want to learn from them about their culture and cultural practices.

There is a lot to learn, but below are some great practices or skills to start with. 

Gardens and flowers are an integral part of Japanese culture, and so is ikebana . Ikebana is the Japanese art form of arranging flowers, and you can learn the customs and traits associated with floral arrangements while in Japan.

Ikebana also looks at celebrating the simple beauty of each flower and the opportunity is used to meditate and reconnect with nature. 

Shodo is the practice of Japanese calligraphy and while it’s quite complex, you can get a beginner’s rundown of some common calligraphy methods when visiting Japan.

There are a lot of places that will teach you the basics of shodo from temples to studios and so much more. 

Sushi doesn’t get any fresher than when you make it with your own two hands. A plethora of restaurants will offer workshops to learn from some of the best sushi chefs in the world. 

Not only will you be shown the very curated art of crafting different kinds of sushi, but chefs will often share the origins of the dish you’re making and will discuss Japanese cuisine culture with you. 

Origami is still practiced in Japan, and thus it’s the perfect place to learn how to fold a piece of paper into something truly transformative.

Origami is so much more than just a pastime in Japan. In an effort to keep the art form alive, there are a host of places you can find an origami workshop to participate in. 

Days and Nights Out In Japan 

If you’re seeking out some excitement that can take you into the evening, the fun to be had in Japan doesn’t end when the sun goes down. 

Karaoke has been associated with Japan since its inception, and it’s very much true that people in Japan love karaoke.

If you’re looking for a fun night out on the town where you can socialize with Japanese people and experience a jovial cultural activity, a karaoke club or bar is the perfect place to go.

You’ll likely stumble upon a karaoke bar no matter which city you’re staying in. 

Yakatabune 

Whether you want an unforgettable, romantic experience or are just a fan of boat rides, you’ll love the opportunity to indulge in a yakatabune ride.

These boats resemble small cruise ships, and they’ll take you onto the water for a couple of hours as you eat and drink and admire the city lights surrounding you. 

Izakaya (Bar) Hopping

Bar hopping is a popular pastime amongst younger folks in Japan, though things are done a little bit differently. While a Japanese bar, or izakaya , will serve some delicious beer and other drinks, the small dishes are the true highlight of the izakaya . 

Even if you don’t drink alcohol you can have a fantastic time going from izakaya to izakaya .

It’s not common for people in Japan to get outrageously drunk to the point of getting rowdy, so it’s a good idea to practice some restraint when bar hopping. 

You can do your fair share of name brand and designer shopping in Japan but that’s not the type of shopping worth investing too much in when you’re in Japan. Instead, seek out the markets, the Japanese department stores, 100 yen shops , and even convenience stores . 

These are the places where you’re likely to find the items you’ll treasure for years to come, especially since they’re much more affordable and attainable places to shop. 

Sumo Wrestling

Sumo wrestling is still a very popular sport to watch in Japan, with live shows happening pretty often.

There is a lot more to the sport of sumo wrestling than fighting, and you might be surprised just how much you can learn about Japanese culture by attending a sumo tournament or a view a practice of sumo wrestlers.

Visiting a sumo stable or training facility for wrestlers can be arranged via custom tours.

Final Thoughts On Recreation Activities In Japan

No matter your length of stay or what your interest Japan has so many interesting and fun things to do. Whether martial arts or ski resorts , the best ways to find your ideal activity is to explore.

Theme parks abound and popular leisure activities are a great way to spend free time. In spring you’ll want to make time to see cherry blossoms and even schedule a private tour to see Mt.

Fuji or the numerous national parks . Japanese work extremely hard and they value their leisure time even more than many in the United States or Europe.

Bonus Recreational Activities

Spending time at Universal studios Japan is considered a great place for family fun. In recent years the bullet train has become legendary and the ride itself is a relaxing Japanese pastimes to experience at least once.

A top tip is to visit one of the thousands of Buddhist temples or Shinto shrine scattered across the land. A boat ride near Mount Fuji is a once in a lifetime activity. Since world war II Japans main island has rebuilt and modernized unlike any other country in Asia.

A domestic trip on the main island can be reached in just a few hours via ANA or JAL. The most popular leisure activity itself is just seeing the country. If a quiet day at a Tokyo park is your particular interest then Ueno park is highly recommended.

Japanese cities are known for their hospitality to tourists and with no shortage of Japanese leisure activities to participate in you’ll want to plan your itinerary carefully as to not miss out on the nations best recreational activities.

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Introduction to Japan (6 Days) Tokyo, Kyoto

A Week in Japan (7 Days) Tokyo, Hakone, Kyoto

Family Tour of Japan (10 Days) Tokyo, Hakone & Mount Fuji, Kyoto & Hiroshima

Highlights of Japan (11 Days) Tokyo, Hakone, Kyoto, Kanazawa

Essence of Japan (12 Days) Tokyo, Hakone & Kamakura, Kyoto

Culinary Tour of Japan (15 Days) Tokyo, Kanazawa, Yamanaka Onsen, Kyoto & Osaka

Contemporary Art & Architecture of Japan (14 Days) Tokyo, Kanazawa, Kyoto & Miho Museum, Naoshima, Tokyo

Traditions of Japan (16 Days) Tokyo, Nikko, Kyoto, Kanazawa, Takayama

Best of Japan (17 Days) Tokyo, Hakone & Kamakura, Kyoto, Yamanaka Onsen, Kanazawa

Cherry Blossoms: Sakura Season in Japan (9 Days) Tokyo, Hakone, Kyoto

Japan: Culture, Cuisine & Hot Springs (14 Days) Tokyo, Hakone, Kyoto, Yamanaka Onsen, Kanazawa

Romantic Japan (14 Days) Tokyo, Hakone, Kyoto & Osaka, Okinawa, Tokyo

Hiking Tour of Japan: Nakasendo Road & the Japan Alps (12 Days) Kyoto, Nakasendo Road, Takayama & Kamikochi, Matsumoto, Tokyo

Historic Hikes of Japan: Kumano Kodo & Nakasendo Road (12 Days) Kyoto, Kumano Kodo, Ise-Shima region, Nakasendo Road, Tokyo

Exclusive Japan: Amans, Art & Onsen (15 Days) Tokyo, Naoshima, Kyoto, Ise-Shima region

Highlights of Kyushu (8 Days) Fukuoka & Saga, Nagasaki, Kumamoto, Yufuin & Beppu

Luxuries of Kyushu: Seven Stars Train (7 Days) Fukuoka, Seven Stars in Kyushu train

Garden Tour of Japan (13 Days) Tokyo, Kurashiki & Okayama, Kyoto, Kanazawa

Traditional Crafts of Japan (15 Days) Tokyo, Kurashiki, Kyoto, Yamanaka Onsen, Kanazawa

Best of Hokkaido & Tohoku (12 Days) Tokyo, Sapporo & Otaru, Hakodate, Sendai with Matsushima & Yamadera, Nikko, Tokyo

Hokkaido in Winter (6 Days) Sapporo & Otaru, Niseko

Discover Hokkaido (6 Days) Sapporo & Otaru, Furano & Biei, Noboribetsu, Hakodate

Treasures of Japan: UNESCO World Heritage Sites (17 Days) Tokyo, Nikko, Osaka with Hiroshima, Miyajima and Himeji Castle, Koyasan (Mount Koya), Kyoto & Nara, Kanazawa & Shirakawago, Hakone & Kamakura

Classic Japan & the Guntu Cruise (11 Days) Tokyo, Seto Inland Sea (Guntu luxury cruise), Kyoto, Hakone

Ryokan (Traditional Inns) of Japan (12 Days) Tokyo, Hakone & Kamakura, Kyoto, Yamanaka Onsen & Kanazawa

Winter Tour of Japan: Snow Monkeys, Hot Springs & More (11 Days) Tokyo, Yamanouchi, Kanazawa & Shirakawago, Yamanaka Onsen, Kyoto

Japan Old & New (16 Days) Tokyo, Takayama & Shirakawago, Kanazawa, Kyoto, Naoshima, Hakone

Sacred Japan: Pilgrimage Sites, Ancient Forests & Cultural Treasures (15 Days) Tokyo, Koyasan (Mount Koya), Kyoto & Nara, Ise-Shima region, Osaka, Yakushima, Hakone & Kamakura

Kyoto in Depth (7 Days) Kyoto with Nara, Uji, Himeji Castle and/or Hiroshima & Miyajima

Autumn in Japan (9 Days - Departs Daily on a Private Basis) Tokyo, Kanazawa, Yamanaka Onsen, Kyoto & Nara

Multi-Country Tours

Luxuries of Japan & Thailand (12 Days) Tokyo, Hakone, Kyoto, Bangkok, Chiang Mai

Best of Japan & China (15 Days) Tokyo, Hakone, Kyoto, Beijing & Great Wall, Xian, Guilin & Yangshuo, Shanghai

Three Capitals: Tokyo, Seoul & Beijing (11 days) Tokyo, Seoul, Beijing & Great Wall

Artisans of Leisure knows Japan like no other travel company. We’ve lived in Japan for years and searched its cities and towns for the most impressive gardens and temples, evocative backstreets, interesting markets, and most knowledgeable English-speaking guides. Our luxury Japan tours feature carefully chosen rooms at the best hotels and ryokan (traditional inns), private guides and drivers for sightseeing based on your interests, and travel by shinkansen (bullet train) in first class seats. Let us show you Japan as it’s meant to be experienced—with utmost attention to detail.

Our private, customized Japan tours feature:

• Preferred rooms in Japan's best luxury hotels and ryokan
• Your own private guide and driver for touring
• Expert advice from our Japan specialists, all of whom have spent years living in Japan
• Highly personalized itinerary planning
• First class seats on bullet trains and separate luggage transfers
• Local contacts at our associate offices throughout Japan
• Private airport and train station transfers
• Restaurant reservations, shopping recommendations, tickets to cultural events and exclusive access to activities and experts

All tours are private, depart daily, and can be customized to suit individual interests and schedules. Please contact us at (800) 214-8144 for more information about our luxury tours of Japan.

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Testimonials

Our Japan trip was amazing. Each of our guides were excellent and made the trip most enjoyable while also informative and generally good company to have with us. As always, Artisans of Leisure plans and creates a first-class trip that left us to do nothing but enjoy our time and not have to worry about anything. We can hardly wait to plan our next adventure. ~ N.R., Greenwich, CT

We’re back from Japan and had a wonderful time. We are absolutely spoiled by traveling with Artisans of Leisure! ~ M.M., Santa Barbara, CA

Our Japan trip was a wonderful, memorable, lifetime experience. Our guide was a jewel and the absolute highlight of our trip. We appreciated the first-class handling of everything from the hotels, meals, tours and travel. Artisans has been the best, hands down!            ~ W.M., Brownwood, TX

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GUIDE Japan in March

• Stories & Guides
• Japan in March

New beginnings in early spring

Although the weather in March is significantly warmer and more spring-like than February, temperatures can drop suddenly. Skiing and snowboarding are still possible at most resorts and languid hot spring excursions remain a popular way to spend some of the coldest days.

Know Before You Go

• Temperatures fluctuate heavily in March
• Winter sports are still possible but expect spring conditions
• Popular areas like Kyoto, Nara and Hiroshima can get quite busy in March
• The cherry blossom season starts in warmer regions, such as southern Japan and Tokyo, and lasts until around May in colder regions

Spring snow

Spring skiing benefits from warmer temperatures and relatively empty slopes compared with winter. Sudden snowfalls do sometimes occur at higher altitudes, though rain is a more likely occurrence. Check weather reports in your area to see if a ski excursion is a viable option on the day.

Getting out and about

Gero Onsen—a fun excursion from Nagoya

The rich pageant of Hinamatsuri

As with many Japanese holidays, most people experience Hinamatsuri in a domestic setting inaccessible to short-term visitors. On and around March 3, however, several shrines and temples around the country hold Hinamatsuri celebrations for the general public.

Nagashibina—an ancient custom

Fire, light, vitality

Scene from the Kyoto Higashiyama Hanatouro

The fiery climax of the Shunie event

Spring sumo

An early sign of spring.

Plum trees in bloom at Kairakuen Garden

Cherry blossom season closes in

Cherry blossoms in the capital

* The information on this page may be subject to change due to COVID-19.

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How Japan Became the Hottest Ski Destination in the World

The Winter Olympics have been held in two different regions of Japan, Hokkaido/Sapporo and Nagano, yet for decades the island nation has remained off the radar of most Americans as a ski destination. There’s no good reason it’s been overlooked, given the amazing snow quality, singular culture, unbeatable cuisine, impeccable service, and unique lodging options for every taste.

The biggest appeal is the prodigious powder, the Holy Grail of skiers. Japan routinely gets two to four times the annual totals for a very good season in Utah or Colorado, and even Alaska’s best winters wouldn’t raise an eyebrow here, where measurements far in excess of a thousand inches are possible. Japan holds the planetary record for the deepest snow cover ever recorded, and on Hokkaido, the northernmost island, locals expect full-blown powder days—the kind that shutter stores with "Gone Skiing" signs in the American West—four or five days a week. And that's all season long.

The powder really is unbelievable, but so is range of terrain—Japan has hundreds of ski resorts, from mom and pop local areas to party villages that look like Whistler to side-country meccas like Silverton. On top of that, most Japanese skiers greatly prefer groomers, so the deep powder is often left—in vast quantities—for foreign visitors. Thigh-deep unbroken lines linger in full view of busy chairlifts into mid-afternoon, something that simply never happens at home.

Enthusiasm for Japan's mountains among adventurous skiers and professional athletes is sure to bring the next wave of enthusiastic amateurs. "There’s a predictable cycle for ski destinations getting hot," explained Dan Sherman, vice president of Ski.com , the nation’s largest specialty ski travel agency. "Ski and adventure film makers look for perfect destinations, then they bring pro athletes and make movies. More athletes hear about it and start going. Hardcore ski audiences see the movies and start going. The ski media starts covering it, then ski clubs and groups start going, the mainstream travel media starts covering it, and finally regular skiers go. It’s about a five-year process and Japan is in the final stage of that cycle right now. This winter it’s all you will hear about.” In response, Ski.com added trips to Hokkaido for the first-time last winter.

.css-4rnr1w:before{margin:0 auto 1.875rem;width:60%;height:0.125rem;content:'';display:block;background-color:#9a0500;color:#fff;} .css-gcw71x{color:#030929;font-family:NewParis,NewParis-fallback,NewParis-roboto,NewParis-local,Georgia,Times,serif;font-size:1.625rem;line-height:1.2;margin:0rem;}@media(max-width: 64rem){.css-gcw71x{font-size:2.25rem;line-height:1.1;}}@media(min-width: 48rem){.css-gcw71x{font-size:2.625rem;line-height:1.1;}}@media(min-width: 64rem){.css-gcw71x{font-size:2.8125rem;line-height:1.1;}}.css-gcw71x b,.css-gcw71x strong{font-family:inherit;font-weight:bold;}.css-gcw71x em,.css-gcw71x i{font-style:italic;font-family:inherit;} This winter Japan is all you will hear about.

Scout Ski , a boutique custom ski tour planning company more focused on the luxury market and personalized needs, has been increasingly sending savvy skiers there for more than 10 years, and while it offers trips to Canada, the U.S., Europe, and the Southern Hemisphere too, Scout recently started to focus much more heavily on Japan, where it covers both Hokkaido and less heavily developed regions and hidden gems including Nagano.

"It’s got the world’s best snow and the world’s best food and it’s a ton of fun," said owner Sarah Plaskitt, who has skied all over the world and spent several weeks each of the past few winters in Japan. "Why wouldn’t you go there?"

Skiing in Japan offers two distinctly different experiences by region. The most developed resorts with the biggest infrastructure are in Hokkaido , which has a far more Westernized feel, with mostly English spoken, international cuisine, and name-brand chain hotels (Hilton, Westin, and, under construction, a Park Hyatt and Ritz-Carlton’s highest-tier Reserve). It also gets more snow, and is the choice for those who value turnkey convenience and powder above all else.

Nagano is much more traditionally Japanese, with few large hotels, lots of ryokans (classic inns), and very little Western influence—no Irish pubs or Mexican restaurants. This is the more adventurous choice for both excellent skiing and a deeper dive into local Japanese culture, with limited written and spoken English, no crowds, still great snow, and easy proximity for combining with a visit to Tokyo.

Trip planning is far more complex than most domestic or European ski vacations because of language differences, flight and airport options and recommendations, insider expertise, ground transfers by train and vehicle, convoluted ski pass and lodging options, booking difficulties, and myriad options for English-speaking guides and instructors. It is highly advisable to use a travel agent or ski travel specialist familiar with Japan such as Scout Ski or one of the regional experts below.

Where To Ski

Niseko : Japan’s answer to Whistler, Niseko is the nation’s most visited and most developed ski resort, with lots of hotels, bars, four interconnected ski mountains with 30 lifts, and a very international (i.e. non-Japanese) feel. Turnkey home base for weeklong stays, with access to nearby mountains as well.

Rusutsu : In the same area as Niseko¸ Rusutsu is the largest ski resort in Japan, with even more skiing and several large ski-in/ski-out hotels but less village/ski town infrastructure.

Kiroro : For experts, true powder junkies, and backcountry skiers, this is the one featured in all the ski movies, famed for its extensive network of gates accessing side-country. Transceivers and other avalanche gear are required to enjoy this aspect of the resort. No village per se, but a couple of good full-service hotels and several restaurants, though most visitors come for the day from Niseko or Rusutsu.

Where to Stay

Ki Niseko : A modern full-service mid-sized hotel with a perfect location for both town and skiing at the foot of the main gondola with a mix of hotel rooms and one- to three-bedroom apartments, Ki Niseko has true onsen baths with its own hot springs, spa, slopeside ski valet, shuttle service around town, and an English-speaking staff. Western and Eastern breakfasts are included. 183-43 Yamada, +81-136-21-2565

AYA Niseko : A new luxury condo hotel with very well-equipped residences with full luxury kitchens, plus onsen, spa, craft beer pub, AYA Niseko includes very extensive Western and Eastern buffet breakfasts. Ski-in/ski out. 195-1 Aza Yamada, +81-136-23-1280

Hilton Niseko/Green Leaf Niseko : The Hilton is the largest and most full-service resort here, tucked in a small on-mountain village, with excellent ski-in/out slope access but a shuttle ride from the main resort village. It featured indoor and outdoor onsens, a large activity center, fitness center, spa, bar, and six restaurants. Hilton also manages the smaller and more residential Green Leaf next door, with its own spa, onsen, bar and restaurant. There is a small connected pedestrian village with additional shopping and dining options. 048-1592 Abuta-Gun, +81-136-44-1111

It’s got the world’s best snow and the world’s best food and it’s a ton of fun. Why wouldn't you go there?

The Kiroro, A Tribute Portfolio Hotel : Easily the top choice at Kiroro, this large self-contained luxury resort has a mix of Western and Japanese style rooms, stores, six varied restaurants, spa, fitness center, and Hokkaido’s most extensive onsen complex with a variety of indoor, outdoor, and specialty baths. 128-1 Aza-Tokiwa, +81-135-34-7111

Westin Rusutsu : Built in 2016, this ski-in/out 23-story high rise hotel at base of Japan’s largest ski resort has 210 oversized modern guest rooms featuring international outlets and lots of charging stations, a spa, hot springs baths, two restaurants, and branded Westin amenities including beds, workout gear, and showers. It's located in the small Rusutsu Village, with additional eateries and shops. 133 Izumikawa Rusutsu-mura, +81-136-46-2111

Where To Eat & Drink

Boyo-So : The highlight of Niseko’s on-mountain dining, this mom-and-pop spot serves heaping portions of Japanese comfort food including ramen and chicken katsu in a mountain hut. It’s elbow-to-elbow at lunch, and you order at counter, try to grab table space, and wait for your order to be called. It's located a third of the way up the mountain right under the Hirafu Gondola and just above the top of the Holiday Pair Lift.

Izakaya Bang Bang : Izakaya means Japanese style pub, and the specialty here is yakitori skewers grilled over hardwood charcoal, with nearly three dozen varieties. It's in the heart of Niseko’s main Hirafu Village. Hirafu-Zaka Street, +81-136-22-4292

Kamimura : Considered the resort’s finest restaurant, this Michelin-starred, Japanese-influenced French eatery specializes in lengthy tasting menus and requires reservations far in advance. Located in the Shiki Niseko hotel. Aza-Yamada 190-4, +81-136-221-2288

Snow Castle : This is oddly one of the few higher-end Japanese restaurants in Niseko, which has more Western eateries. Specialties include multi course omakase (chef’s choice) sushi and sashimi tasting dinners and modern Japanese cuisine. Reservations highly recommended, located in the Chalet Ivy Hotel.

188-19 Aza Yamada, +81-136-22-1124

Local Guide/Organizer

Japan Powder Connection : American expat Jen Veilleux and her bilingual crew of locals can do everything from organizing hotel reservations to extreme backcountry guiding. Services include full ski school instructional programs, daily guided excursions to nearby resorts such as Rusutsu with hotel pick-up and transfers, and even cultural and dining tours of Hokkaido. You can tour the famed Nikka Whisky Distillery in Sapporo, or just book an informed local insider to ski with. +81-505-806-5509 or local from the U.S. 970-642-3080, [email protected]

How To Get Here

Sapporo has a major international airport, New Chitose International (CTS), though flying from the States requires changing in, Tokyo, Hong Kong, Seoul, Taipei, or elsewhere. Last year Japan extended its famous Shinkansen bullet train system to Sapporo, now just over four hours by rail from Tokyo, comparable to going from the city center to the airport and flying. It is about a two-hour drive from Sapporo to Niseko and there are regularly scheduled bus transfers, the most popular options with the Hokkaido Access Network Resort Liner or Good Sports White Liner. Some guests rent cars for easier access to nearby resorts and attractions, though given the frequent whiteouts, winding mountain roads, foreign language signage and driving on the left side, this is not for the faint of heart. By far the easiest option is to arrange a private door to door transfer in a sedan, van, or SUV from Sky Express .

Nozawa : The birthplace of Japanese skiing, Nozawa is a mid-sized ski resort with 44 trails and nearly 20 lifts including two gondolas. It is known for getting the heaviest snows in Nagano prefecture but the big appeal is that it is located in Nozawa Onsen, Japan’s best ski town. While most are modern purpose-built pedestrian villages or simple ski hill base areas, Nozawa Onsen is a charming hot springs resort town that dates to the Samurai era and exudes authentic, traditional Japanese charm—think of it as the Pacific Rim’s Telluride . No large hotels, no chains, no bank, one ATM, a dozen hot spring baths, and lots of great bars and restaurants, almost all of them Japanese. The main reason to ski Nozawa is because visitors want to stay in Nozawa Onsen. It also has a large Nordic center used for the Olympic cross-country events.

Shiga Kogen : The largest ski resort on the main island of Japan, Shiga Kogen hosted several Olympic events, and offers ridiculous amounts of untouched powder. It has a several large ski-in/out hotels across its slopes, but they are secluded and self-contained, and there is no village because it's located in a National Park.

Madarao : A small resort that is so famous for its snow-filled glades, Madarao's nickname is MadaPow! For years, tree skiing was considered off limits in Japan, and at some resorts still is, but Madarao was the first to clear brush and create designated glades, and while many others have followed suit, it is still the pinnacle for tree skiing fans. Sixty percent of the terrain is left ungroomed, unusual by Japanese standards, including famed runs with apt names like Powder Theater. But it’s small, has no village, and is best experienced as a day trip from Nozawa or Shiga Kogen.

Ryokan Sakaya : The most upscale accommodations in Nozawa Onsen, this is a traditional ryokan, so you leave your shoes in the lobby, never wear them indoors, and can go to breakfast and dinner in a yukata robe. Rooms are simple and small, but service, food, and excellent onsen baths are high-quality. Consider it a cultural immersion in a great location on the edge of town closest to the slopes. 9329 Nozawa Onsen, +81-26-985-1230

Ryokan Jon Nobi : The sister property to Sakaya and just across the street, this is very similar but with a larger, less intimate feel and two full-service restaurants open to outside guests. It also has excellent private onsens. 9288 Nozawa Onsen, +81-26-985-1230

Shiga Kogen Prince Hotel : Prince is one of Japan’s largest upscale hotel and resort operators, and this full-service, self-contained ski-in/ski-out property sprawls across three separate wings clustered at the base of one of the lifts at Nagano’s largest ski resort. The hotel has a spa, outdoor hot spring pool, and eight bars and restaurants.

Where to Eat

Ryokans : If you stay in a ryokan, it is typical to spend one night eating at the inn’s restaurant, sometimes only for guests and typically featuring kaiseki cuisine, an array of extremely artful small plates (generally all vegetarian) with as much emphasis on beauty, variety, and presentation as taste.

Mizuo : Hidden away on the second floor of the Ryokan Jon Nobi, this small spot specializes in tempura and locally made small batch sakes and is a lot of fun. 9288 Nozawa Onsen, +81-26-985-1230

Wanryu Ramen : The ramen spot is hole in the wall in the heart of the village that looks like you should order at the counter but has waiter service for the handful of tables. There are myriad variations of big bowls of ramen and a variety of dumplings, with hearty but delicious après-ski fare. 9258 Toyosato Yokochi, +81-269-85-2439

Libushi :This sleek, modern, tiny and fantastic brew pub has no food, but does offer a variety of standout small-batch craft beers on draught, all made on the premises, and a nice break from the standard Kirin, Suntory and Asahi fare. It also offers a sense of secret discovery, since there is no sign and you would never find it if you did not know to look for it. With 10 taps and two hand-pulled cask pumps, it serves more beers than the number of people it can fit in the space. 9347 Toyosato (across from Ryokan Sakaya)

Local Guide/Organizer : Ski Nagano–Kaz Sekiya lived at Colorado ski resorts for years before returning home to start his private guiding/ski concierge business. He offers planning advice, assistance, and private small group day trips with door-to- door transport to all the area resorts, as well as other highlights like the region’s famous hot spring bathing snow monkeys and dining. He’s especially knowledgeable about tree skiing and where to find the best powder stashes at each resort. +81-90-7940-5188, [email protected] , goskinagano.com

The Shinkansen bullet train is just two hours with no changes from Tokyo station to Iiyama, the closest to Nozawa, then a 45-minute cab ride, making it ideal to combine this ski trip with a stay in Tokyo before or after. If coming from either Tokyo airport, Narita or Haneda, it’s fastest (four hours) to take a bus or train into Tokyo and switch to this train, but it is also a real pain with luggage, especially skis, given the size and crowds of Japan’s main rail hubs and lack of luggage space onboard. Slower but much more seamless is to book a van transfer directly from the airport to Nozawa: you’re met with a sign, plenty of luggage space, you go door to door, and you can sleep en route. This takes five to six hours. Chuo Taxi offers both private transfers and small shared vans for handful of skiers and makes this run several times daily.

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Starting 2023, Visit These New Luxury Hotels In Japan For A Taste Of Magnificence

With the reopening of doors to foreign tourists in japan, excitement is high for the upcoming hotels in the country. read on to know more..

By: Manas Sen Gupta Published: Sep 10, 2022 10:00 AM IST

Japan has started reopening its doors to foreign tourists after a strict border closure for two years because of the COVID-19 pandemic. This has led several new hotels in Japan to plan their inaugurations from 2023 through 2027. By Manas Sen Gupta

These upcoming luxury hotels in Japan are not only architecturally beautiful but are also designed to provide the utmost comfort and bespoke experiences to their visitors.

Most of these hotels will be in Tokyo and Kyoto — two of the country’s biggest cities, each unique in its own way because of the distinction in their diverse attractions and cultures. However, another iconic name among luxury hotels is the world-famous Hilton, which will welcome guests on the breathtakingly beautiful island of Miyako-jima, located around 300 kilometres from the main island of Okinawa in Japan’s south.

These magnificent hotels will have their own set of restaurants offering signature dishes. Though details of most of these new restaurants in Japan are unknown as of now, they are expected to be among the very best as they will be part of hotels that are renowned names in hospitality. One such restaurant, Tsuruya, will be part of Regent Kyoto. It isn’t new but could be a top draw for everyone, owing to its history.

The sites for the hotels have been carefully picked to ensure they are easily accessible and can become the perfect springboard for an adventurous or informed trip to nearby landmarks, cities and other attractions.

Staying in Japan and enjoying everything the country has to offer — from cuisine to cultural sites that are known for their grandeur — is going to be much more luxurious 2023 onwards.

Here are some of the finest new hotels opening in Japan

(Main image: Yu Kato/@yukato/Unsplash; Featured image: IHG Hotels & Resorts)

Jump To / Table of Contents

Bulgari hotel tokyo, six senses kyoto, nikko style niseko hanazono hotel, regent kyoto, hilton okinawa miyako island resort, hilton yokohama, jw marriott hotel tokyo, four seasons hotel osaka, unnamed hotel from swire hotels in tokyo, banyan tree group.

Bulgari will open its first hotel in the Japanese capital in 2023 as part of an agreement between Bulgari Hotels & Resorts and Mitsui Fudosan Co., Ltd., a Tokyo-based real estate company.

According to Bulgari, the hotel will be located on the top seven floors — from 39 to 45 — of an upcoming skyscraper close to the Imperial Palace, Ginza, Nihombashi and the Tokyo Station. It will be designed by Antonio Citterio Patricia Viel, the Italian architectural firm behind all Bulgari hotels.

The Bulgari Hotel Tokyo will have 98 rooms, including double rooms and luxury suites. There will also be a unique Bulgari Suite. Like its other hotels, Bulgari will also create socialising spaces for its guests in the Tokyo hotel in the form of The Bulgari Bar, Fireplace Lounge, Il Ristorante, a Ballroom and  Il Cioccolato store. All the special areas will have large outdoor spaces. The hotel will also have a 25-metre indoor pool.

Additionally, Bulgari Hotel Tokyo will be equipped with several facilities for grooming and fitness, including a 1,500-square-metre BULGARI Spa for the well-being of guests.

Image credit: Bulgari Hotels

Kyoto is a city where Japan’s rich heritage comes alive through its palaces, Sakura blossoms, Shinto shrines, Buddhist temples and other traditional Japanese buildings. Many of Kyoto’s architectural marvels are a part of the UNESCO World Heritage-listed Historic Monuments of Ancient Kyoto.

It is in this magnificent city — in front of the Myoho-in Temple and Toyokuni-Jinja shrine — that Six Senses Kyoto will stand in 2024.

As one of the most prominent upcoming luxury hotels in Japan, Six Senses Kyoto will have 81 guest rooms, along with socialising spaces such as meeting rooms with a fireplace and an Earth Lab — a special area designed for environmental engagement and innovation.

The hotel will also have an all-day dining restaurant, speciality sushi restaurant, brew bar and cocktail lounge bar.

A unique feature of Six Senses Kyoto lies in its design. Planned by BLINK Design Group, it will reflect the historical landscape of Kyoto in tandem with its modern façade.

According to Six Senses, a central courtyard will help connect “guests to nature through its biophilic design as a garden of seasonal landscapes.” The interiors will have earthy organic tones contrasted by simple lines, exuding a relaxing vibe.

There will also be a spa for healing and relaxation of guests besides tea ceremonies and other unique experiences.

Image credit: Six Senses

This Japanese hotel comes from the Okura Nikko Hotel Management Co., Ltd., which is a subsidiary of Hotel Okura Co., Ltd.

Designed as the perfect rest and regeneration stop for enthusiasts of skiing, snowboarding, trekking, mountain climbing and other adventure sports, it will be ready to receive guests looking for skiing opportunities in Niseko on the island of Hokkaido in 2024.

Nikko Style Niseko HANAZONO hotel will be one of the biggest hotels in Japan. It will have eight stories housing 234 guest rooms, each measuring 34 square metres. Among the rooms are 16 suites. The total area of the establishment will be around 14,070 square metres.

According to a statement by Okura Nikko, all rooms on the top two floors will have a private natural hot spring bath in every bathroom. There will also be hot spring facilities with open-air baths, from where some of the finest views of the nearby Mount Yōtei — an active stratovolcano and national park — will be visible.

Apart from baths, there will be a communal lobby, a banquet hall, club lounge and fitness centre, among other facilities for guests.

When it comes to food, the hotel will serve the best in local Hokkaido cuisine through its open kitchen at its all-day dining facility, which will also have private rooms and a circular bar counter. Guests at the restaurant will be able to enjoy their drinks and dishes while soaking in the breathtaking natural landscape around the hotel.

Image credit: Okura Nikko Hotels

Kyoto is certainly at the centre of companies opening new hotels to stay in Japan. It is a perfect choice for Regent Kyoto, which will be Regent Hotels & Resorts’ first in Japan under the management of minority stakeholder IHG Hotels & Resorts.

The location of Regent Kyoto, which will be opened by IHG with GI Capital Management, is currently occupied by Tsuruya (pictured). It is an acclaimed restaurant situated in a garden that was originally landscaped by the illustrious Kumakichi Kato 100 years ago. According to IHG, Regent Kyoto will incorporate Tsuruya as well as the garden in its design.

This will ensure that guests are not only treated to the highest level of luxury accorded by the hotel but also experience the finest of cuisines in an iconic restaurant that has been visited by the likes of the Japanese Imperial family, Queen Elizabeth II and Princess Diana.

There will be 86 rooms in the hotel, which will open in 2024.

Image credit: IHG Hotels & Resorts

The Hilton Okinawa Miyako Island Resort will be opened in 2023 as one of the six hotels in Okinawa Prefecture, operating under two brands — Hilton Hotels & Resorts and DoubleTree by Hilton.

Miyako Island, also known as Miyako-jima, has some of the most beautiful beaches in Asia, including the white sandy beach of Yonaha-Maehama. The waters all around the island have a dazzling blue glitter and are among the cleanest in the region.

The Hilton Okinawa Miyako Island Resort will come up on the waterfront close to the Irabu Bridge, connecting Miyako to Irabu island. The hotel is also going to be among the biggest in Japan with 329 rooms and an array of guest recreation and socialising facilities, including meeting rooms, restaurants, spa, banquet hall and ocean-view rooftop bar.

It has become easier to travel to the island by air, too, since the opening of Miyako Shimojishima Airport Terminal in 2019. However, those who love travelling in ultra luxury might want to rent a private yacht from any popular destination in East or South East Asia for a trip on the seas to Miyako Island. A voyage, after all, has its own unparalleled charm.

Image credit: 663highland – Own work/ CC BY 2.5 /Wikimedia Commons

One of the hottest new hotels opening in Japan in 2023 is also a Hilton property. The Hilton Yokohama is the first Hilton hotel in the city, which is the second-largest by population size after Tokyo.

Yokohama is a major urban city. The hotel will be located in a seaside part and will be at a distance of around 20 kilometres from the Haneda Airport. This means foreign tourists coming to Japan will find it easy to reach Hilton Yokohama.

Owing to its location, the hotel will serve as the perfect place to kick off a tour of renowned places in Kanagawa Prefecture. One such place is the Instagram-worthy city of Kamakura (pictured). The ever-busy Tokyo is also close by and so are attractions within Yokohama, such as Japan’s largest Chinatown.

A unique feature of this hotel is that it will be part of a mixed-use development project by Ken Corporation, with whom Hilton entered a partnership. According to a statement released in 2021 announcing the hotel plan, Hilton said that the plan includes the opening of a music venue named K-Arena Yokohama, which can accommodate 20,000 people. It also has an office building named K-Tower Yokohama.

Hilton had then also stated that Hilton Yokohama is part of its guest-loyalty programme named Hilton Honors, which offers members a range of benefits, including a flexible payment option and member discount, when they book via the Hilton website.

Image credit: Hilton

JW Marriott is one of the strongest hotel brands in the world. Its latest address in Japan, JW Marriott Hotel Tokyo, will be the brand’s second in the country. It will have 200 rooms and suites and is being built in association with East Japan Railway Company between the Shinagawa and Tamachi Stations.

The hotel will be located from the 22nd to 30th floor of the Station Complex Building (South) and is part of a major redevelopment project.

Set to open its doors in 2025, the hotel’s interiors will be designed by Yabu Pushelberg and will have a deep indigo colour as the main highlight.

The hotel will also provide massive spaces for events. Its amenities include a 25-metre indoor swimming pool, a fitness centre and the Spa by JW.

Two restaurants — a speciality restaurant and an all-day restaurant with a semi-open kitchen — will make the stay more memorable for visitors who can lounge at the Croissant Bar as well.

Image credit: Marriott International

The Four Seasons Hotel Osaka will be situated in a 195-metre-tall building named One Dojima Project, which has been under construction in the Kinki region of Osaka since 2020. The building is being raised by Four Seasons Hotels and Resorts along with Japanese real-estate company Tokyo Tatemono Co., Ltd and Singaporean real-estate company Hotel Properties Limited (HPL).

A troika of designers — Gwenael Nicolas of Curiosity, Shinichiro Ogata of SIMPLICITY and Yasuhiro Koichi of Design Studio Spin — will lend their creative vision to the hotel. The sail-like design of the building itself comes from master architect Otani of the Japanese architectural firm Nikken Sekkei.

Located in Dojima, one of the most significant business districts in Osaka City, the hotel will have 175 spacious guest rooms. Dojima is where the world’s first futures exchange, the Dojima Rice Exchange, is situated. One of the most significant nearby attractions is Nakanoshima Art Museum Osaka, which opened its doors in February 2022.

Image credit: Four Seasons

In 2027, the world-famous high-end shopping district of Shibuya (pictured) in Tokyo will welcome a new luxury hotel under The House Collective brand of Swire Hotels. It will be the first hotel of the brand outside China and built in collaboration with L Catterton Real Estate (LCRE) and Tokyu Group.

Constructed on the site of the flagship store of Tokyu Department Store, the hotel will be part of the 117,000-square-metre Shibuya Upper West Project. According to a statement by The House Collective, the project will bring together everything — from luxury and high-quality retail to art and cultural experiences — in one place.

The House Collective was launched in 2008 and has since opened luxury lifestyle stays for travellers in Chinese cities and special administrative regions, including Beijing’s The Opposite House, Chengdu’s The Temple House, Shanghai’s The Middle House and Hong Kong’s The Upper House.

The highlight of every hotel is its unique location, which has the most distinctive features such as art and fashion.

One of the biggest news in the hospitality sector in Japan is Banyan Tree Group’s inaugural entry and immediate expansion in the country. As part of its plan, the group, which is also opening a new hotel in Bali , Indonesia, is set to open two new hotels in Japan — Banyan Tree Higashiyama Kyoto and Banyan Tree Ashinoko Hakone — in 2026.

The Banyan Tree Higashiyama Kyoto will open in 2024 as a luxury hilltop urban resort in the Gion and Higashiyama districts. According to Banyan Tree Group, it will be the “first and only hotel in Kyoto city to have a Noh stage.”

The other, Banyan Tree Ashinoko Hakone, will welcome guests to the world-famous hot springs of Mount Fuji in the Hakone region near Lake Ashino. It will open in 2026.

Banyan Tree Group has also joined hands with Terraform Capital for a newly built Cassia Hirafu resort, which will open in 2025 near the Hirafu ski slope. The resort will include one-bedroom accommodations as well as villas for sale.

Additionally, the group also opened Dhawa Yura Kyoto and Garrya Nijo Castle Kyoto (pictured) on 17 June 2022. The newly opened hotels in Japan are a result of the group’s partnership with Wealth Management Group.

Dhawa Yura Kyoto has 138 rooms and is located near the historic Sanjo Ohashi bridge. The Garrya Nijo Castle Kyoto is a 25-room hotel in front of the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Nijo Castle. It has an innovative French restaurant and a Wellbeing Room, among other elevated amenities for guests.

Image credit: Garrya

Manas Sen Gupta

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The Ultimate Japan Packing List

We rounded up the essentials you’ll want to bring to Japan no matter the season.

Planning a trip to the Land of the Rising Sun? Japan is a geographically diverse — and truly stunning — island. Its regions span all types of terrain and climates from snowy peaks to black sand beaches so it’s important to know the most essential items to pack and what to leave behind. Luckily, we’re here to help by providing recommendations and all of the tips and tricks you need to know for packing for this destination, including helpful insights from Kenny Onishi, the general manager of Japan for Intrepid Travel DMC. Keep reading to see our top picks, and to learn more about the dos and don’ts for visiting.

Packing Checklist for Japan

Even if you’re traveling in the winter, Onishi recommends bringing a light load with you: “In general, I think it's best to pack light and the reason for this is that often travelers do use public transportation in Japan.” While there are elevators and escalators for accessibility in train and bus stations, Onishi stresses that if you’re moving around from city to city, bringing small luggage will be beneficial for getting around. To help with packing less, Onishi explains that you can leave behind basic amenities like shampoo, conditioner, and even pajamas depending on your accommodations. “Most hotels, I'd say at least three-star and above, will always have sleep attire ready for you,” he says. “So, most of them will have some type of pajamas or one of those nighttime kimonos to wear but you’ll want to check with your accommodation beforehand.” The same goes for other toiletry items like toothbrushes, razors, toothpaste, and shower caps.

Here are the items we’d recommend you do bring on your next trip to Japan.

Clothing for Women

• Best Top: Madewell Poplin Puff-sleeve Cutout Crop Top
• Best Pants: Maeve The Colette Cropped Wide-leg Pants
• Best Skirt: Quince 100% Washable Silk Skirt

Best Dress: Everlane The Daytripper Shirtdress

• Best Rain Coat: Athleta RainOut Sutro Trench

Best Jacket: Abercrombie & Fitch Traveler Bomber Jacket

Clothing for men.

• Best Top: VRST Men's Icon Short Sleeve Tee
• Best Pants: Bonobos Original Stretch Washed Chino
• Best Shorts: Lululemon Commission Classic-fit Short 7-inch Cord
• Best Rain Coat: Vuori Palisades Rain Jacket
• Best Jacket: Everlane The Organic Cotton Herringbone Utility Jacket
• Best Walking Shoes: Olukai Lī ‘Ili Sneakers for Women and Men

Accessories

Best Travel-size Umbrella: Goothdurs Automatic Mini Travel Umbrella

• Best Coin Purse: Travelon Rfid Blocking Clip Stash Pouch
• Best Travel Pillow: Cabeau The Neck's Evolution TNE S3 Travel Pillow

Best Sunglasses: Costa Sullivan Sunglasses

Luggage and Bags

• Best Carry-on Backpack: Cotopaxi Allpa 35L
• Best Carry-on Suitcase: Herschel Heritage Hardshell Carry-on Luggage
• Best Toiletry Bag: Calpak ​​Small Clear Cosmetics Case
• Best Crossbody Purse: Lioscre Small Sling Crossbody Bag

The current style in Japan is minimalist-chic which is perfect for traveling lightly. You’ll want to pack just a few tops and bottoms that can be mixed and matched throughout your trip to maximize space and not stand out too much. Of course, you’re welcome to wear what makes you feel the most comfortable and confident but the style in Japan is a bit more modest and elevated so you’ll likely see both men and women dressed in business-casual attire as everyday clothing.

Best Top: Madewell Poplin Puff-Sleeve Cutout Crop Top

Buy at Anrdoezrs.net

It’s important to bring tops that can be worn with several different outfits like this versatile Madewell blouse. The lightweight cotton material is ideal for Tokyo’s humid weather conditions but the simple top can easily be paired with a jacket or cardigan for cooler temperatures. Pair the blouse with high-waisted pants or a flowy skirt and you have yourself a stylish outfit for visiting temples or dining at restaurants.

Price at time of publish: $82

Best Pants: Maeve The Colette Cropped Wide-Leg Pants

Buy at Click.linksynergy.com

While jeans are certainly not a bad option, these Maeve wide-leg pants are far more comfortable and boast an elevated look. The fabric is super stretchy and comfortable so you can go straight from the long-haul flight to sightseeing in style and comfort. Best of all, the pants come in a variety of colors and sizes (including petite, tall, and plus options) so you can stock up on several pairs before your trip.

Price at time of publish: $120

Best Skirt: Quince Washable Silk Skirt

Buy at Onequince.com

The everyday clothing style in Japan is a bit more upscale than in the U.S. so bringing a silk midi skirt like this one from Quince is perfect for both day and night outfits. This mulberry silk midi skirt comes in nine colors including several muted neutral colors that can be dressed up or down. Plus, the skirt is machine-washable so you can give it a quick wash in between wears during your trip.

Price at time of publish: $60

Buy at Everlane.com

Many women opt for flowy or slightly oversized clothing in Japan so this Everlane Shirtdress fits right in with the current trends. The asymmetric style has a high-low design so the back of the dress sits below the knee and the front part should rest just above the knee for a modest-yet-stylish look. It can also be paired with boots or tights on colder days, making it a versatile staple for most seasons in the country.

Price at time of publish: $110

Related: The 14 Best Women's Rain Jackets of 2023

Best Rain Jacket: L.L. Bean Meridian Hooded Raincoat

It can rain in all of Japan’s regions , especially during the monsoon season in June and July, so you’ll want to pack a lightweight rain jacket just in case. This longer raincoat from L.L. Bean isn’t as sporty as traditional rain gear so it’s easy to pair it with your daily outfits. Made with waterproof TEK2.5 fabric, this jacket will keep you perfectly dry and it comes in several stunning colors like light green and a silvery white shade.

Price at time of publish: $160

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It depends on which part of Japan you’re visiting (spoiler: every region is beautiful ) and when but you can’t go wrong with a water- and wind-resistant jacket in the spring, summer, and fall like this sleek bomber from Abercrombie & Fitch. You may want a thicker jacket for winter but for most seasons, this bomber will keep you warm and protected without feeling restrictive.

Price at time of publish: $100

Similarly to planning outfits for women, men can keep it fairly simple as well by bringing several staple pieces to be mixed and matched. Generally, you’ll want to avoid any clothing that is tattered so investing in some nicer T-shirts, pants, and shorts is the best route to go. In terms of outerwear, you’ll want to pack a rain jacket and/or a windbreaker, and several overshirts or shackets to tie together an outfit when the weather conditions are wet or chilly.

Best Top: Cuts AO Curve-Hem Tee

Buy at Cutsclothing.com

Although this T-shirt from Cuts comes at a higher price point, it’s worth it for the high-quality materials that will hold up against multiple wears throughout the duration of a trip. The fabric is made with wrinkle-resistant materials so you can toss the shirt in your luggage while traveling throughout Japan and pull it out looking good as new. Plus, it comes in tons of earthy colors making it easy to pair the top with any bottoms. Trust us, you’ll want to buy several for your trip since they’ll last way longer than your typical cotton tees.

Price at time of publish: $54

Related: The Best Travel Clothes for Men

Best Pants: Bonobos Original Stretched Washed Chinos

Buy at Bonobos.soyxmd.net

A pair of pants that are both comfortable and nice-looking can be hard to come across but these Bonobos chinos check all of the boxes. The cotton blend pants have a two-percent stretch so you can sit comfortably on a long-haul flight or walk up the 1,368 steps to get to the famous Kotohira-gu Shrine. With over 10 color options in sizes 28 to 54 (in slim, athletic, straight, tailored, slim taper, and skinny cuts), we love that the brand is size-inclusive to fit a wide range of body types.

Price at time of publish: $99

Best Shorts: VRST Men's 7-inch Resort Short

Buy at Dicks-sporting-goods.pxf.io

Buy at Vrst.com

If you’re traveling throughout Japan in the summer , you’ll likely run into both rain and high temperatures. These lightweight and quick-dry shorts from VRST could not be more perfect for any weather conditions thanks to the versatile fabric that can be worn in and out of water. The material has UPF 30 protection and it’s wrinkle-resistant so you won’t have to worry about crumpled clothing on the go.

Price at time of publish: $55

Best Rain Jacket: Vuori Palisades Rain Jacket

Buy at Rei.com

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Traveling to Japan in June or July? A rain jacket is a must-pack item for visiting during the wet season so this Vuori rain jacket will be a lifesaver. The recycled three-layer fabric is completely waterproof and the fit of the jacket is a slimmer athletic style so you don’t have to compromise style for functionality. It’ll match your chino pants or resort shorts and pairs nicely with a variety of shoes for even more versatility.

Price at time of publish: $248

Best Jacket: Everlane Organic Cotton Herringbone Utility Jacket

For effortless style, this Everlane utility jacket is the perfect outer layer for completing an outfit. The lightweight cotton material and boxy shape are an ideal combination for a comfortable jacket that still looks sharp. It comes in green, white, and navy blue making it easy to pair with a T-shirt underneath in the summer or a sweater in the fall.

Price at time of publish: $148

Depending on the length and season of your trip, one or two pairs of shoes is all you need, especially for packing lightly. We recommend bringing one or two pairs of comfortable and waterproof walking shoes that are versatile enough to be worn with pants, shorts, skirts, or dresses. “You'll be doing a lot of walking as well. Mushy, wet shoes are really uncomfortable so bringing anything waterproof will be very handy,” Onishi advises. Generally, you won’t see too many people in Japan wearing sandals unless it’s very warm out and flip-flops are frowned upon for entering shrines or temples.

Best Walking Shoes for Women and Men: Olukai Pehuea Lī ‘Ili Women’s Leather Sneakers

Buy at Amazon.com

It’s hard to beat the style and comfort built into these minimalist Olukai sneakers. The men’s style is nearly identical to the women’s pair with both boasting the brand’s signature drop-in heel feature so you can easily slip in and out of the shoes. This is ideal for going into temples and shrines or eating at restaurants where you’ll need to take off your shoes. Plus, the ultra-cushioned footbed is removable and washable so after a long day of sightseeing, you can toss the cushions into the wash to breathe extra life into the shoes during your trip as well as before and after.

Related: The 12 Best Travel Shoes With Arch Support of 2023

Since the goal is to pack lightly, we’re keeping the list of essential accessories to a minimum so you don’t bring too many unnecessary items. According to Onishi, it would be wise to bring your own compact umbrella, although you can always buy one in Japan if the weather takes a turn. “It does rain a lot,” he explains, especially in the summer and fall. “I personally bring a waterproof jacket plus an umbrella.” In addition to bringing accessories to combat the weather, we recommend packing a coin purse to hold your loose cash and coins to stay organized on the go and a pair of sunglasses to protect your eyes from the bright sun.

Onishi recommends bringing a compact umbrella, along with a raincoat, to combat the inclement weather while traveling around Japan. “Usually typhoons start from around August to October so I guess throughout the whole summer until mid-autumn, it's always nice to bring rain gear,” he said. This travel-size umbrella folds down to just 8.5 inches tall so it can easily fit in a backpack, purse, or pocket when needed.

Price at time of publish: $20

Best Coin Purse: Travelon RFID Blocking Clip Stash Pouch

Having cash on hand while traveling throughout Japan is helpful even though a lot of places take cards. The Japanese currency, yen, uses paper cash as well as coins so you’ll want to have a coin pouch or small purse on hand to store all of your 100, 50, 10, 5, and 1-cent coins. This small pick comes with a carabiner clips to easily attach the pouch to your bag for convenient access.

Price at time of publish: $10

Best Travel Pillow: Cabeau The Neck's Evolution S3 (TNE) Neck Pillow

Buy at Cabeau.com

While it depends on where you’re embarking from, it’s likely that you’ll be on a long-haul flight to get to Japan. If you’re flying from the West Coast, the flight is about nine hours and it’s about 14 from the East Coast so be sure to bring items to help you get some shut-eye on the longer flight. This ultra-plush neck pillow from Cabeau folds down into a compact carrying case and can be clipped to a backpack or placed inside without taking up too much space in a backpack.

Price at time of publish: $50

Related: The 11 Best Travel Pillows of 2023, Tested and Reviewed

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A pair of sunglasses is an essential accessory for both fashion and functional purposes. These Costa Sullivan sunglasses have a simple square shape that is versatile for anything from hiking to sightseeing. There are six frame colors to choose from with the option of gray or copper lenses so you can design your next favorite pair of polarized shades.

Price at time of publish: $262

If you’re planning on traveling to other cities in Japan besides Tokyo, you’ll want to think carefully about the type of luggage you want to schlep around. The most portable piece of luggage you can use is a carry-on backpack that boasts the same capacity as a suitcase but offers the portability of a backpack. Of course, you can use a carry-on suitcase, but we recommend using a smaller one that is easier to maneuver. When it comes to smaller bags like purses, opt for a compact and smaller bag like a trendy fabric crescent bag that has a bit more style than a sporty fanny pack.

Best Carry-on Backpack: Cotopaxi Allpa 35L Travel Pack

For itineraries that include stops in cities outside of Tokyo like Kyoto or Osaka, the most portable piece of luggage is Cotopaxi’s Allpa 32L backpack. It’s our favorite carry-on backpack we’ve tested since it can fit the same amount as a typical suitcase but it can be tossed over the shoulders and carried as a backpack for superior portability. There are tons of pockets for staying organized and it has a clamshell-style opening so you can pack all of your essentials with ease.

Price at time of publish: $198

Best Carry-on Suitcase: Herschel Heritage Hardshell Carry On Luggage

Backpacks aren’t for everyone when it comes to traveling so if you’re looking for a compact suitcase, this one from Herschel is a great option. It’s small yet spacious with two main compartments to fit enough outfits for a two-week trip. Plus, its smaller size is ideal for flying on airlines with more restrictive carry-on dimension requirements such as WestJet or United.

Price at time of publish: $225

Related: I’ve Tested Suitcases From Every Popular Luggage Brand — and Here’s Why Monos Is My Favorite

Best Toiletry Bag: Calpak Mini Clear Cosmetics Case

Buy at Calpaktravel.com

One of the best ways to pack lightly for Japan is by bringing as few toiletry items as possible. It’s customary for hotels and Airbnbs to have a large selection of toiletries like shampoo, toothbrushes, combs, and more readily available to guests. However, since you’ll likely still need to pack specific toiletries, this small, clear cosmetic case from Calpak makes it easy to see what you’ve packed thanks to the transparent material. It has a clamshell design so you can pack the case flat or folded up as well.

Price at time of publish: $75

Best Crossbody Purse: Iioscre Small Sling Crossbody Bag

Crescent bags are wildly popular in both Japan and the U.S. right now and this under-the-radar Amazon bag is the perfect travel accessory for storing your wallet, passport, and other small items. It’s made with wrinkle-resistant nylon so it can be folded up and tucked away in a suitcase for long-haul flights without getting crumpled and the capacity is large enough to fit all of your travel essentials without feeling too bulky.

Price at time of publish: $15

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the weather like in Japan?

Japan has four distinct seasons and it’s important to pack according to season along with the basic essentials in our list above that you can bring no matter the time of year. In addition, Onishi explains “the weather is dependent on the location as well. So the northern island of Hokkaido , which is closer to Russia, [gets] cold and with the southernmost island, Okinawa, you'll probably get that sort of Southeast Asia weather so it's relatively warm.” The weather in any part of the country can change rapidly so you’ll want to bring a variety of outfits to be prepared for changing weather conditions. 

Packing layers and clothing that can be mixed and matched is the best way to be prepared for any weather while still packing lightly. “In spring or autumn, it can be cold, it can be warm so T-shirts, long sleeves, windbreakers are always nice. Thinner, down jackets come in handy as well,” Onishi shares. And, in the summer, the air conditioning inside can be very cold to combat the heat and humidity so Onishi recommends bringing a shawl or light jacket indoors since you may get cold.

What should I not bring to Japan?

Generally, there are no hard and fast rules about what you can and can’t wear in Japan but to be respectful of the culture, there are several clothing items you could leave out of your packing list. “Especially in the Western countries, people just wear leggings or yoga pants just out on the street [and] that's not normal in Japan,” Onishi explains, noting that modesty is a prominent but evolving part of the fashion culture in the country. If you’re planning on visiting a traditional onsen (hot spring) you can leave your swimsuit at home since it’s customary to enter the water  nude. “So, kind of going back to my initial comment about packing lightly — I wouldn't bring a swimsuit, unless you know that you're going to a pool or to a beach,” Onishi says. In addition, you can leave behind outlet adapters if you’re coming from the U.S. since Japan uses the same Type A and B outlets.

What are some dos and don’ts for Japan?

When it comes to entering sacred spaces like temples or shrines, there are dress codes that are encouraged but not always heavily enforced. While it’s generally frowned upon to wear sandals, tank tops, or shorts, no one will likely say anything to you in more touristy areas like Kyoto and Tokyo, Onishi shares. If you’re planning on visiting an onsen , be sure to look up the policies on tattoos, as it’s very common for people with tattoos to not be allowed in a public onsen. Some will allow tattoos if they are covered with special bandages that you can find in pharmacies in Japan, or if the resort offers them, but it’s important to respect the rules. You may end up needing to reserve a private onsen if you have large tattoos that can’t be covered.

What currency is used in Japan?

The currency used in Japan is called yen which consists of both paper cash and coins. The bills are in the thousands and the most common coins you’ll use are 50 and 100 pieces but there are also one, five, and 10 coins, too. You can typically order yen ahead of time through most U.S. banks or use an ATM when you arrive, although you may encounter fees so it’s always smart to convert currency ahead of time.

Why Trust Travel + Leisure

T+L commerce writer Anna Popp writes the majority of the team's tested articles and she participates in nearly every travel test. Anna spent nearly two weeks traveling throughout Japan in May 2023 and she chatted with Kenny Onishi , the general manager of Japan for Intrepid Travel DMC to get tips and tricks for packing for and visiting this destination.

Related: The Ultimate Packing List for Iceland, According to Tour Guides

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Japan hotel rates spike 25% as weak yen draws foreign tourists

Average room rates jump for 26 straight months amid shortage of hotel workers

TOKYO -- A flood of inbound tourists visiting Japan looking to take advantage of the weak yen has caused hotel room prices to spike to rarely seen heights, according to the latest industry data.

The average daily room rate in February stood at 18,915 yen ($124.68), up 25.5% from a year earlier, according to hotel industry tracker STR. Room rates have surpassed year-earlier figures for 26 consecutive months through February.

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Japan tackles overtourism with restrictions for some iconic sites

Mar 27, 2024 • 5 min read

From restricted capacity to increased tourist taxes, options are being considered to counter overtourism in Japan © Jon Hicks / Getty Images

Japan is set to limit visitors at some popular attractions so that sites don't suffer from overtourism. Here's what you need to know.

Japan’s enduring popularity for overseas visitors is bringing consequences as the country seeks to balance the benefits of tourism and the impact on the areas visited, particularly at iconic destinations . 

Recently, tourists have been banned from certain private streets in Kyoto ’s famous historic Gion district , traditionally home to the teahouses where geisha  (geiko) and maiko (apprentice geiko ) performers work, largely due to antisocial behaviour. Unruly tourists have even been blamed for harassing geisha, with the Japan Times  reporting that one had her kimono torn and another had a cigarette butt put in her collar.

What new policies are being considered?

New fees and restrictions have already been introduced on climbing specific trails up Mt Fuji , in order to combat overcrowding, reduce the environmental impact — including cleaning up all the trash that results from so many people on the mountain — and improve safety for everyone doing the climb. 

Kyoto is considering special tourist express bus routes, that will whisk visitors to the city’s most iconic sites in order to reduce overcrowding and improve efficiency on regular local buses, as well as to make what can be a complicated system easier for travelers. 

Higher pricing for tourists is also being considered, having largely been absent in Japan, where many of the most famous cultural attractions are surprisingly inexpensive to enter. For example, Kyoto's famous golden temple Kinkaku-ji costs ¥400 for adults, which is about US$2.50. Changing this would be controversial, and it seems more likely that there would be increases in tourist taxes in order to fund services for visitors.

What are tourist taxes used for?

Local tourist taxes, usually collected as an extra on top of payment for your hotel, are common across many parts of the world, although these are relatively low in Japan compared with, say, destinations in the US like Honolulu and San Francisco.

These aim to fund some of the local costs associated with visitors: Kyoto’s is on a sliding scale based on the price of your hotel room, from ¥200–1000 a night (about US$1–7). The city of Hatsukaichi, home to the UNESCO-listed Itsukushima-jinja , often known as Miyajima and famous for its torii gate standing in the water off the island, recently implemented a ¥100 (about US$0.60) fee to fund the preservation and management of the site.

Japan already has a ¥1000 (about US$7) tourist departure tax that you may have never noticed as part of your plane fare.

How is Japan likely to manage the problems of overtourism?

It seems unlikely that Japan will curtail its overall number of visitors because of overtourism. More likely, we’ll see more examples of capacity restrictions in specific places, like on Mt Fuji, where a certain number of people per day are allowed in.

This already happens in some cases in Japan: the famous Ghibli Museum in Tokyo and the new Ghibli Park in Nagoya both have a ticket maximum to maintain the quality of experience and to avoid overcrowding — the price for the former is just ¥1000 or about US$6.50, so it really is about capacity.

Some trains — specifically the fastest Nozomi and Mizuho Shinkansen between points west of Tokyo — are  not included as part of the Japan Rail Pass , even though the slightly slower trains like the Hikari are. There’s only a few minutes' difference in terms of travel time, but at peak times there can be a half-dozen of the faster trains for every one of the slower ones. This is done for a variety of reasons, including that the clockwork-like efficiency of the shinkansen’s busiest section leaves only the briefest times for passengers to get on and off the train, and confused tourists (often carting large luggage with them) have been known to disrupt operations. Overseas visitors are therefore concentrated into the slightly slower Hikari and much slower Kodama services instead.

A more recent change is the 2020 introduction of  the “Baggage 160” system , where travelers must reserve a space for larger pieces of luggage (over 160cm/63in in combined height, width and depth) on more popular bullet train lines or pay a carry-on fee. The change largely stemmed from the complications of visitors bringing large pieces of luggage onto trains that were not designed with large luggage storage. Japanese travelers tend not to bring large suitcases with them on trains, instead shipping them ahead to their destination via the excellent and inexpensive set of luggage delivery services like Yamato Transport , known as kuroneko  (black cat) after its ubiquitous logo of a black cat carrying a kitten in its mouth.

How will this impact on group tours?

Keep an eye out for capacity management caps or even outright bans to potentially affect group tours first. These can be very unpopular with local people, and indeed with other visitors.

A tour bus full of visitors descending all at once can change the character of a place instantly, and that’s certainly the case in a lot of the most famous Kyoto temples and shrines like Kinkaju-ji, Ryōan-ji or Kiyomizu-dera . These groups often have a reputation for behaving disrespectfully, like talking loudly in places where quiet is expected, not following rules, and getting in the way of local people and more respectful travelers.

You’re unlikely to be affected as an independent traveler, and a smart tactic is to visit at times when these groups are either still making their way from their hotels, have been packed off for lunch, or are heading back at the end of the day — and to plan to explore the less-traveled corners of this fascinating country.

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Riding in Style on Japanese Trains

Luxurious rail cars offer countryside views with a range of cultural itineraries and budgets.

By Vivian Morelli

Reporting from Tokyo

Japan’s public transportation is known for its punctuality, efficiency and high-quality service, which means train travel is a great way to see the countryside and to experience Japanese culture — even if you’re squeezed into Tokyo’s crowded Yamanote line at rush hour or experiencing the popular high-speed Shinkansen bullet train .

But many savvy visitors crisscross the country in another way, using luxury trains that resemble five-star hotels on rails.

Luxury rail travel appeals to “someone who wants slow travel, the experience of excellent service in a contained environment, the finest dining, the most exquisite accommodation with private bathrooms,” Simon Pielow, co-founder of the Luxury Train Club , said by phone from Wiltshire County, England. “Things that many people have no idea is possible on anything other than a royal train.”

One trip chartered by his agency starts and ends at Hakata station in the city of Fukuoka, crossing the southern Japanese island of Kyushu on the Seven Stars , a seven-car luxury sleeper train. Journeys for either two days and one night (per person, double occupancy) range from 650,000 to 900,000 yen (about $4,292 to $5,942), or four days and three nights from ¥1.2 million to ¥1.6 million. (A single supplement would apply.)

“The train is very much sought-after because of the quality of the service on the train and its exclusivity,” Mr. Pielow said. “The people who come to us are desperate to travel on the train.”

With limited space, most would-be travelers need to apply several months in advance.

The Seven Stars, or Nanatsuboshi in Japanese, was named in part after the number of its carriages, in part after the seven prefectures of Kyushu: Fukuoka, Saga, Nagasaki, Kumamoto, Oita, Miyazaki and Kagoshima, and for seven of the main attractions of the region, including its nature, food and hot springs. (Other stars have been known to ride these rails: The actress and producer Margot Robbie told Vogue last year that she and her husband had traveled to Japan in part to ride the Seven Stars.)

The train consists of a lounge car, a bar, a tatami-mat tearoom and a souvenir shop, as well as eight 108-square-foot private rooms and two larger suites, the biggest measuring 226 square feet.

Guests don’t necessarily have to spend all their time on board. They can also get off to participate in activities such as a guided walk along the Wakimoto coast, a seaside area of Kagoshima Prefecture, that lasts about an hour.

Meals can be consumed aboard the train or at restaurants along the way, and one night can be spent in a ryokan, a traditional Japanese inn.

So how does that work on a train? Some stops last an hour or more, enough time for guest excursions. But often, the train will keep rolling and pick up the guests at a later station.

But there also are other luxury trains in Japan. (Seven Stars and the Shiki-Shima, detailed below, can be booked from overseas. The others listed here must be booked from within Japan.)

The Twilight Express Mizukaze is an Art Deco-inspired sleeper train decorated from traditional crafts such as pottery and cut glass. Onboard entertainment includes a tea ceremony, live music and a signature cocktail from the bar. Five routes are offered, including a two-day, one night one-way trip and a three-day, two-night round trip. A suite includes a private balcony and bathroom with a tub at ¥875,000 for a shorter journey and ¥1.4 million for a longer one. A “royal” twin room with windows on both sides of the car was recently listed at ¥385,000 per person, double occupancy.

The Aru Ressha is known as a “dessert train” that runs between Hakata and Yufuin in Kyushu. The one-way, three-hour itinerary is just enough time to indulge in appetizer, fish, meat and dessert courses for ¥35,000 per person. The train is decorated with black and gold arabesques on the outside and baroque styling inside.

The Spacia X offers a more budget-minded luxury experience. This six-carriage train equipped with plush sofas and private lounges links Tokyo to Nikko, a picturesque city in Tochigi Prefecture. Simran Nagra, a 33-year-old Canadian actuary who lives in Tokyo, used the train for a two-hour, ¥3,840 trip in July to the hot springs resort of Kinugawa Onsen. “I was really excited to ride it because it’s a luxury train, but has very affordable pricing,” she said. “The windows are huge and hexagonal, to highlight the views,” she said, and the cafe car featured Nikko specialties including craft beer on tap, two types of sake and locally sourced coffee.

GranClass was the choice out of necessity for the Australian journalist Jake Sturmer, 35, and his wife, Rachel, in 2018. “We had just moved to Japan, some friends invited us on a trip, and the only seat available for us to travel was on GranClass,” he said, referring to the first-class cabin on the Shinkansen. “What a luxury it was,” he said, mentioning the large, cushy seats, the hot towels to cleanse hands and faces, and bento boxes they were served during a two-hour ride from Tokyo to Iiyama in Nagano Prefecture.

The Train Suite Shiki-Shima was created to contribute to the recovery from the 2011 earthquake and tsunami in northern Japan.

Riders can choose from four seasonal routes lasting from one to three nights and departing from Tokyo. One goes northward along the Sea of Japan to Hakodate and the Upopoy National Ainu Museum and Park in Hokkaido Prefecture. Another is a wintertime itinerary through the snowy Tohoku region, where guests will get off the train to view traditional dancing and participate in woodwork or sewing workshops with local artisans. Prices range from ¥420,000 to ¥1.3 million per person, based on double occupancy in a sleeper car.

Shinobu Ohashi, 34, a paper-cutting artist who lives and works in Saitama, Japan, used the Shiki-Shima in December 2020 and April 2022. “I wanted to experience the design of the Shiki-Shima train, which I had seen on TV and in magazines, and the hospitality provided,” she wrote in an email.

The attention to detail impressed her: “When my companion complimented the garnishes that were offered only to the women on the dishes,” she said, “he was then also brought the same ones. We were both surprised.”

During one trip the cherry blossoms in Hakodate were in full bloom, she said: “We were taken to a cherry blossom viewing spot that was not on the trip schedule.”

The train has special meaning for her. “I am from the Tohoku region, from Fukushima Prefecture,” she said. “Even though a lot of time has passed since the March 11, 2011, earthquake and tsunami in Japan, I believe that Shiki-Shima is a reassuring presence.”