Destination Management Company (DMC) / Japan
DESTINATIONS
Photo by Takashi Yamada
Destinations We Cover
The Land of the Rising Sun has captivated the imagination of travellers for centuries. Enigmatic, dynamic and intriguing in equal measure. Japan is a unique destination where modernity and tradition blend together to make a truly unique and fascinating destination for travellers.
From the northernmost prefecture of Hokkaido to the southernmost subtropical islands of Okinawa, the Japanese archipelago stretches over 3,000 kilometres from top to bottom, creating a varied climate across the country.
With a rich cultural heritage juxtaposed with technology and innovation, Japan has something for everyone. Travellers will be enthralled by the distinctive personalities of the major cities and marvel at the iconic landmarks, the historic UNESCO World Heritage Sites, and the magnificent and pristine natural landscapes. They will enjoy the exquisite cuisine, take part in traditional activities and experiences, and feel the true essence of Japanese hospitality.
We are able to arrange trips throughout Japan, from the most popular cities and regions to the more unusual and lesser-known destinations.
Simply get in touch and we will make it happen.
Japan’s bustling capital city. Offers an endless array of things to see and do.
One of the five lakes situated at the foot of Mt. Fuji. Striking views of Mt. Fuji on clear days.
Hot spring town with seven public baths and a history spanning 1,300 years.
Access the scenic Shimanami Kaido cycling route via Imabari, a town famous for its shipbuilding industry and beautiful castle.
This sacred island is said to be the dwelling place of the gods, and boasts one of Japan’s three most beautiful views - the ‘Floating Torii Gate,’ of Itsukushima Shrine. The shrine is a designated UNESCO World Heritage Site.
One of Japan’s best cities for food, and famous for its style of ramen and open-air food stalls.
Yakushima’s dense, lush, primeval forest was the inspiration behind Hayao Miyazaki’s Studio Ghibli film Princess Mononoke. With its pristine, verdant forests, hiking in Yakushima feels like one is wandering through an enchanted wood. Part of the island is listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site of Natural Beauty.
The poetically named ‘Island of Mist’ is as beautiful as its name suggests. Hiking through the scenic mountains is highly recommended.
Nikko is a cultural highlight and home to several UNESCO Heritage Sites. The town also serves as a gateway to Nikko National Park, a mountainous area with excellent outdoor opportunities for nature lovers. Kinugawa Onsen is an important hot spring town that in addition offers some great family-friendly activities.
Technically part of Tokyo, but lightyears away from bustling city life, is a series of islands known as the Tokyo remote islands. Here you can find pretty sandy beaches, lush jungle, seaside onsen, dolphins, great hiking trails, waves perfect for surfing, breathtaking starry skies, rugged coastlines and volcanic landscapes.
Kyoto’s cultural capital. Home to 17 UNESCO World Heritage Sites, and unparalleled traditional culture and cuisine.
Rich in history, culture, and traditional crafts. Particularly famous for the production of gold leaf and exquisite artisanship.
This charming port city with a distinctive skyline is renowned worldwide for its eponymous Kobe beef - a delicacy not to be missed. A particularly exquisite area of the city is the historical district of Kitano, where the beautifully-preserved Western-style residences of former foreign merchants and dignitaries are open to the public.
One of Japan’s oldest and finest hot spring resort towns with traditional architectural elements in the town centre.
A region steeped in folklore and mystery, famous for the legend of Momotaro, the Peach Boy. Okayama Castle is known as the “Crow Castle” for its unique black exterior. Beside the castle is Korakuen Garden, one of the Three Great Gardens of Japan.
Port city with a Peace Park and Atomic Bomb Museum. Glover Garden is a marvel to behold, as is the sumptuous Glover House, the former residence of Scottish merchant Thomas Glover. Offers one of the top three spectacular night views in Japan. Nearby Hashima Island (Gunkanjima) is a UNESCO World Heritage Site - fans of James Bond will recognise this location from the film “Skyfall.”
This peninsula located just a short drive from Kanazawa city is full of beautiful, natural wonders, including the only sandy beach in Japan where vehicles can drive along the water’s edge, rice terraces on steep slopes overlooking the sea, and traditional farmhouses with distinctive black roof tiles.
With dramatic coastal rock formations, stunning sunsets, a castle, mystical deserted islands, cute themed trains, lively fish markets and scuba diving opportunities, Wakayama Prefecture is a lesser visited treasure trove of interesting cultural experiences and beautiful nature.
Matsumoto attracts nature lovers from near and far as the city serves as a gateway to the Japan Alps and Kamikochi. With a plethora of hiking trails, countryside cycling opportunities, hot springs and ski resorts on its doorstep, Matsumoto also has a rich history and one of the most beautiful castles in all of Japan.
One of Japan’s original, historic highways snakes through this valley. It is dotted with charming, atmospheric, and well-preserved Edo Period post towns.
A larger than life city with incredible cuisine and flamboyant inhabitants. Fondly referred to as “the nation’s kitchen,” it is particularly famous for its soul food and is an essential destination for gastronomes.
Designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site, the Kumano Kodo is an ancient network of pilgrimage routes that weaves its way across the mountainous Kii Peninsula. Tranquil, ethereal, and mystical, walking these routes offers a one-of-a-kind experience. Those who walk the Kumano Kodo and the Camino de Santiago in Spain are known as Dual Pilgrims and receive a limited edition badge.
Japan’s quintessential ‘Art Island.’ Home to the renowned Benesse House Museum and several other art exhibitions and installations. Yayoi Kusama’s Yellow Pumpkin has become the symbol of Naoshima.
Sakurajima, one of Japan’s most active volcanoes located in Kagoshima Bay, provides a dramatic backdrop to and is the symbol of this delightful city. Visitors can take a ferry to Sakurajima and explore the island. Senganen is a truly magnificent garden and former residence of the Shimadzu family.
Surrounded by turquoise waters, azure skies, white-sand beaches, and a distinct culture very different from the rest of mainland Japan, idyllic Okinawa is a slice of paradise. Soak up the way of life and relax to the sound of local traditional music carried on the wind.
For the adventurous traveller, there is a lot to explore in the mountainous and mythical region that is Tohoku. Home to outstanding hot springs, rugged coastlines, a rich samurai history, amazing hiking trails and fabulous cuisine and local produce, Tohoku is a treasure trove of unique experiences far from the crowds.
Japan’s southernmost islands are surrounded by crystal-clear waters and white-sand beaches, cobalt skies above and towering tropical mountains in their interior. With activities like snorkelling, kayaking, hiking and wildlife-spotting, these islands are a true paradise for nature lovers who want to get away from it all.
On the Sea of Japan coast, Shimane and Tottori have preserved their rugged landscapes and traditional culture and charms. Home to rich folklore, mystical temples, a unique pilgrimage trail, beautiful countryside and great onsen, the prefectures are perfect for an off-the-beaten-path adventure.
A picturesque city with beautifully preserved Edo Period merchant houses, framed by the stunning Japanese Alps.
Mountaintop temple town with a mystical atmosphere. Spend the night in a temple lodging, dine on delicious Buddhist vegetarian cuisine, and join the monks for a morning meditation and prayer session.
A picturesque city along the Seto Inland Sea. Stroll up gentle slopes to Senko-ji Temple for panoramic views of the urban landscape.
The city stands as a testament to the enduring human spirit. Visit the Peace Memorial Park and Museum, A-Bomb Dome, and other historically significant sites. Designed by Pritzker Prize winning architect, Kenzo Tange, the Peace Memorial Museum is also culturally noteworthy.
Standout sights include Kumamoto Castle, the delightful Suizenji Garden, and Hosokawa Residence, a gorgeous example of the Edo Period home of a highly ranked samurai family. Mt. Aso is a large, active volcano found within the limits of the prefecture. The ancient caldera is one of the largest in the world.
With a total of 6 National Parks, 5 Quasi-national Parks, and 12 Prefectural Nature Parks, Hokkaido is the go-to destination for visitors who love unspoiled nature and the great outdoors. Certain species of Japanese wildlife are, in fact, only found here. Hokkaido offers exciting outdoor activities and adventures year-round.
The quaint town of Uji is located between the historical cities Kyoto and Nara, and from ancient times it prospered from its proximity to these cultural centres. Today it's a breath of tranquility and fresh air away from the nearby bustling tourist hubs and makes for a wonderful day trip.
Shikoku is the smallest of Japan’s four main islands, but what it lacks in size, it more than makes up for in rich cultural heritage, natural wonders, delicious cuisine and encounters with locals eager to share their stories from this lesser-visited corner of Japan.
We are a dedicated team of Japan travel experts delivering unique, tailored itineraries with meticulous attention to detail
As a full service DMC, we work exclusively with tour operator clients. Essential Japan Travel ensures a seamless and integrated experience from start to finish. We welcome the opportunity to share our ideas with you. Come and explore Japan with us.