The speed at which Tokyo moves is electrifying, on the one hand, a departure from Western sensibilities; on the other, a modernistic, high-tech metropolis that leaves most other cities trailing behind.
Indeed, Japan’s capital is hard to beat for hotel excellence, superb cuisine, avant-garde design and infrastructure, nightlife, contemporary art, and its extraordinary high-speed bullet train. Harajuku’s outlandish fashion scene is a must for those who love innovation and style, and by night, the city lights up with fluorescent neon lights and a dynamic restaurant and bar scene.
It’s hard to believe that ancient traditions remain intact beyond the towering skyscrapers and illuminated signs, including calligraphy, Sumo wrestling, papermaking, flower arranging, tea ceremonies, landscaping, and bathing in hot springs.
Cities like Kyoto offer a lens into traditional Japanese culture at a gentler pace than Tokyo. Ishikawa showcases Japanese heritage, including the Geisha and Samurai traditions, and the unique island of Naoshima is a treasure trove for art and architecture enthusiasts with some sensational lookout points over the Seto Inland Sea.
At the very least, Japan merits a two-week stay. As one of our all-time favourite destinations for its extraordinary diversity, here are some of our top under-the-radar picks:
KANAZAWA
Less explored than Kyoto, Kanazawa is a historical jewel on the Sea of Japan, accessed from Tokyo in approximately 2.5 hours by bullet train. It might be more unsung, but Kanazawa is a major city with its own distinct cultural festivals, magnificent gardens full of plum and cherry blossom trees, a truly authentic seafood market, and the impressive 16th-century Kanazawa Castle.
NAOSHIMA
Contemporary art enthusiasts are in for a treat on the island of Naoshima in western Japan. Spring 2025 will see The Naoshima New Museum of Art open its doors, adding another string to legendary architect Tadao Ando’s bow. Under the Benesse Art Site umbrella, there are several renowned contemporary art museums on the island and six traditional homes that local artists have turned into art installations.
KAGOSHIMA
High up in the volcanic mountains and forests overlooking Kagoshima, a secluded paradise awaits with just five private villas surrounded by bamboo groves and pristine montane hills. This is where you go to disconnect and escape the skyscrapers and neon lights – a reminder of Japan’s ancient natural beauty and wild spaces.
NISEKO
It is no secret that Niseko offers some of the best winter snow on earth. What remains less discovered is quite how much it offers during the summer months when the snow melts to reveal fields full of wildflowers and verdant forest trails. Some excellent glass-fronted private residences display panoramic views of Mount Yotei, while river rafting, Japanese hot springs and mountain biking are just a few draws to the region.
We work with exceptional local partners on the ground in Japan and have a huge aptitude for incorporating all sorts of treasures into our itineraries. For the ultimate journey, including the very best of the key cities, as well as the hidden gems, LET’S START A DISCUSSION.