Japan, Your Way.
Where ancient temples whisper their stories and neon cities pulse with modern energy — discover Japan through thoughtfully curated experiences that honor both the timeless and the new.
Japan:
Where Tradition and Tomorrow Meet
Japan isn’t just a destination — it’s a living story that unfolds at its own rhythm. From the quiet grace of Kyoto’s temples to Tokyo’s electric heartbeat, every moment here is an invitation to slow down, look closer, and step into a world where history and modernity exist side by side.
Whether it’s witnessing cherry blossoms in full bloom, soaking in an onsen beneath winter snow, or wandering through lantern-lit streets at dusk, Latitude & Leisure crafts journeys that immerse you in Japan’s beauty, culture, and spirit.
Years spent exploring Japan — paired with insider expertise — allow us to design travel that goes beyond the surface. With the right pacing, meaningful encounters, and just enough luxury, your Japan journey becomes less about sightseeing and more about being.
Plan Your Dream Japan Journey
Not sure where to start? Begin with a free interactive Japan Bucket List — a curated planning guide designed to help travelers dream big, stay organized, and build unforgettable itineraries.
Destinations That Shape the Journey
Every region in Japan holds its own story — these are the places that shape the journey.
Modern Pulse & Hidden Corners
Tokyo moves to its own rhythm — a city where tradition hums softly beneath a skyline of shimmering glass. Step from the stillness of Meiji Shrine into the bright surge of Shibuya Crossing, linger over Michelin-star omakase tucked inside a quiet alley, and watch the city blush with cherry blossoms in spring.
This is where modern elegance meets cultural nuance: sunrise walks through manicured gardens, glittering skyline views from Tokyo Bay, and late-night izakaya conversations that stretch into morning. With the right timing, Tokyo reveals itself not just as a destination, but as a living story.
Highlights: Tsukiji Outer Market tastings · Meiji Shrine & Shinjuku Gyoen gardens · Shibuya Sky · Ginza shopping & dining · Private izakaya tastings · Lantern-lit alleyways · Ueno Park cherry blossoms
Curated Experiences
Discover hand-selected tours that bring Tokyo’s modern rhythm and hidden corners to life. These curated experiences blend culture, cuisine, architecture, and immersive storytelling — ideal for travelers who want to feel the true energy of the city.
Local Experiences to Enjoy
- Night Food Tour in Shibuya — an evening of neon-lit flavors and back-alley tastings
- Expert-Led Aesthetics & Architecture Walk — a design-forward look at Tokyo’s striking contrasts
- Tsukiji Market Culinary Experience — an intimate, sensory journey through Japan’s historic food capital
- Hakone Day Trip with Lake Ashi Cruise — scenic escapes with iconic Mt. Fuji views
- Tea Ceremony in Ginza — a serene, elegant introduction to Japan’s timeless tea traditions, set in one of Tokyo’s most refined districts
Timeless Traditions & Golden Stillness
Kyoto is where Japan slows its breath. Wooden teahouses and temple gardens are framed by crimson maples and spring blossoms, where the hush of a bamboo grove carries centuries of quiet devotion. Sip matcha in a private machiya house, stroll the stone paths of Gion at dusk, or stand beneath the vermilion torii of Fushimi Inari as the morning mist curls around you.
Kyoto isn’t a place to rush — it’s a rhythm to match. A world where grace is felt in every detail and stillness becomes a kind of luxury.
Highlights: Fushimi Inari Shrine · Kinkaku-ji Golden Pavilion · Arashiyama Bamboo Forest · Private tea ceremony · Gion district evening strolls · Riverside dining · Philosopher’s Path
Curated Experiences
Discover hand-selected tours that immerse you in Kyoto’s timeless elegance — where lantern-lit alleyways, tranquil gardens, and centuries-old traditions unfold at a gentler, more contemplative pace. These curated experiences blend heritage, artistry, spirituality, and serene landscapes, offering travelers a deeper connection to the cultural heart of Japan.
Our Favorites:
- Private Tea Ceremony with a Geisha — an intimate, culturally privileged encounter that reveals the grace and symbolism behind Japan’s most revered ritual
- Gion Geisha District Night Tour — an atmospheric walk through Kyoto’s historic hanamachi, rich with stories, soft lantern light, and hidden pathways
- Fushimi Inari Taisha Expert-Led Tour — a guided journey through iconic vermilion gates and lesser-known mountain paths
- Private Kyoto Excursion: Arashiyama, Fushimi Inari & More — a full-day luxury journey through bamboo forests, sacred shrines, and scenic districts
- Golden Pavilion & Ryoan-ji Garden Tour — a serene exploration of Kyoto’s Zen masterpieces, led by an expert in garden design and symbolism
Flavor, Energy & Urban Heart
Osaka hums with a pulse all its own — vibrant, bold, and endlessly delicious. Follow the glow of lanterns through Dotonbori, taste your way through bustling street stalls and intimate chef’s counters, and step into castle gardens where the city softens into green.
This is Japan at its most dynamic: Michelin-starred dining and sizzling takoyaki stands, towering skylines and hidden river walks. Osaka rewards those who lean into its energy — and savor its flavors slowly.
Highlights: Osaka Castle · Dotonbori · Kuromon Market · Michelin dining & street eats · Shinsaibashi shopping · Riverfront strolls · Night skyline views
Curated Experiences
Discover hand-selected tours that capture Osaka’s vibrant spirit — a city where bold flavors, neon-lit streets, and warm, welcoming neighborhoods create an atmosphere unlike anywhere else in Japan. These curated experiences blend cuisine, culture, nightlife, and hidden backstreets, offering travelers an immersive look at the energetic heart of Kansai.
Local Experiences to Enjoy
- Dotonbori Night Food Tour — a flavorful journey through Osaka’s iconic neon district, filled with sizzling street bites, local specialties, and lively food stalls
- Kuromon Market Culinary Tour — an expert-led tasting through one of Japan’s most celebrated markets, rich with seafood, produce, and regional delicacies
- Private Osaka Highlights & Hidden Gems Tour — a personalized exploration of castles, temples, gardens, and vibrant neighborhoods with a knowledgeable local guide
- Osaka Backstreets & Nightlife Walk — an insider’s look at cozy alleyways, retro bars, and the city’s playful, after-dark personality
- Osaka Home Cooking Experience — an intimate, hands-on class in a local home, blending cultural exchange with authentic Kansai flavors
Sacred Peaks & Silent Lakes
Here, the horizon belongs to Fuji. Mist drifts over tranquil lakes, torii gates rise from still waters, and forest trails wind past centuries-old hot spring retreats. This is where Japan’s natural beauty feels both sacred and serene.
Unwind in a ryokan overlooking Fuji’s perfect cone, soak in a steaming onsen beneath a maple canopy, or glide across Ashinoko’s mirrored surface at sunrise. Hakone is a place to pause — to breathe in quiet and exhale wonder.
Highlights: Lake Ashinoko · Hakone Shrine torii · Mt. Fuji viewing points · Ryokan stays with onsen · Ropeway & cablecar panoramas · Scenic train journeys · Seasonal foliage
Curated Experiences
Discover hand-selected tours that showcase the breathtaking landscapes of Mt. Fuji and Hakone — a region defined by mirror-like lakes, misty forests, volcanic hot springs, and sweeping panoramic views. These curated experiences blend natural beauty, cultural touchpoints, and unforgettable scenic moments, offering travelers a serene escape into Japan’s most iconic countryside.
Our Favorites:
- Hakone Day Trip with Lake Ashi Cruise — a premium journey across shimmering waters with postcard-perfect views of Mt. Fuji
- Private Hakone Nature & Culture Tour — a personalized exploration of ropeways, lakeside paths, artisan villages, and forested viewpoints
- Mt. Fuji Helicopter Experience — a breathtaking 70-minute flight offering unmatched aerial views of Mt. Fuji, Tokyo Bay, Rainbow Bridge, and Yokohama — an unforgettable, once-in-a-lifetime panoramic adventure
- Village E-Bike Ecotour & Sake Tasting — a boutique, immersive ride through tranquil countryside with a stop at a local brewery
- Mt. Fuji Seven Scenic Spots Tour — an expertly designed route featuring the region’s most iconic viewpoints and photo locations
Wild Beauty & Whispered Seasons
Hokkaido reveals itself in layers — sapphire lakes, alpine meadows, steaming hot springs, and landscapes that shift with the seasons. In summer, lavender fields stretch toward mountain horizons; in autumn, fiery forests reflect on glassy ponds; in winter, powder snow drapes the world in silence.
This is a land of wild elegance, where time slows and nature takes center stage. Soak in Noboribetsu’s mineral-rich onsen, wander flower fields in Furano, or stand beneath endless skies as snowflakes settle on quiet trails.
Highlights: Blue Pond (Biei) · Furano flower fields · Noboribetsu Onsen · Sapporo culture & dining · Scenic drives · Alpine lakes & seasonal foliage · Powder snow escapes
Curated Experiences
Discover hand-selected tours that reveal Hokkaido’s northern magic — from tranquil lakes and snow-dusted forests to vibrant markets, coastal towns, and intimate cooking experiences. These curated journeys blend nature, regional flavors, and local culture, offering travelers a deeper connection to Japan’s wild and wonderfully diverse northern frontier.
Local Experiences to Enjoy
- Sapporo Market Tour & Cooking Class — an intimate culinary experience showcasing Hokkaido’s renowned seafood, produce, and seasonal flavors
- Private Sapporo Highlights & Hidden Gems Tour — a personalized look at local neighborhoods, historic sites, and panoramic viewpoints
- Noboribetsu, Lake Toya & Otaru Scenic Day Trip — a stunning journey through volcanic landscapes, lakeside vistas, and charming port towns
- Biei Blue Pond & Furano Flower Fields Tour — a photographer’s dream with iconic turquoise waters and sweeping fields of color
- Hakodate Private Day Tour — a coastal exploration of markets, hilltop views, historic streets, and unique regional culture
Island Ease & Turquoise Horizons
Okinawa is Japan’s sunlit secret — a place where emerald lagoons meet soft white sand, where time stretches and salt air lingers on the skin. Dive beneath coral reefs, drift between islands on turquoise seas, and savor slow coastal evenings framed by golden sunsets.
Rooted in its own island culture, Okinawa blends barefoot ease with subtle luxury: private beach villas, fresh-caught seafood, and the warm rhythm of island hospitality. It’s not just an escape — it’s an exhale.
Highlights: Emerald Beach · Kerama Islands · Shurijo Castle · Island-hopping by ferry or yacht · Coral reef snorkeling & diving · Sunset dining · Beachfront villas
Signature Ways to Explore — Expertly Crafted Journeys
There’s no single way to experience Japan — only the one that feels right for you. Whether it’s drifting through temple gardens at sunrise, savoring Michelin-star artistry, or losing yourself in the glow of Tokyo’s neon nights, every journey invites its own rhythm. At Latitude & Leisure, we pair iconic seasonal beauty with insider access, thoughtful pacing, and a touch of effortless luxury to make each moment unforgettable.
Cultural Heritage Path
Temples, tea houses & timeless landscapes
Step into centuries-old traditions as you wander Kyoto’s serene temple gardens, sip matcha in a quiet teahouse, or witness the beauty of a Shinto shrine at sunrise. This path reveals Japan’s cultural soul through private tours, heritage stays, and meaningful local encounters.
Seasonal Splendor Trail
Cherry blossoms, autumn colors & snowy escapes
Japan’s landscapes transform with each season, creating ever-changing canvases of beauty. From hanami beneath delicate spring blooms to fiery autumn forests and snow-dusted onsen towns, these itineraries are designed to celebrate nature’s poetry at its peak.
Modern Metropolis Escape
Urban elegance in Tokyo, Osaka & beyond
Discover Japan’s vibrant cities where ancient tradition meets modern innovation. Michelin-star dining, skyline hotels, art districts, and hidden alleyways offer a sensory journey through the country’s urban pulse — always balanced with quiet escapes woven in.
Culinary & Onsen Circuit
Hot springs, Michelin flavors & slow indulgence
Immerse yourself in the softer rhythm of Japan — steaming onsen retreats, perfectly plated kaiseki meals, and intimate ryokan stays. This is Japan for the senses: slow, restorative, and deeply intentional.
Seasonal Feature: Sakura Season — From late March to early April, cherry blossoms sweep across Japan. Travelers can picnic beneath soft pink petals, enjoy hanami festivals, and witness Japan at its most enchanting. For prime access and availability, early planning is key.
Best Time to Journey
Japan’s beauty shifts with the seasons, making when you travel just as meaningful as where you go.
Spring
March–May
Sakura blossoms transform the landscape.
Summer
June–August
Festivals, fireworks, and lush countryside.
Autumn
September–November
Crisp air, fiery foliage, and temple tranquility.
Winter
December–February
Snowy escapes, onsen steam, and cozy luxury.
Pro Tip: Signature experiences like hanami (flower viewing), Mt. Fuji hikes, and winter festivals often require early planning.
Insider Planning Tips
A little thoughtful planning goes a long way in Japan. With its incredible rail system, cultural etiquette, and seasonal highlights, the magic lies in the pace and placement of your journey.
- Book marquee experiences early — cherry blossom cruises, private tea ceremonies, ryokan stays
- Pair 2–3 regions for the perfect flow — e.g., Tokyo + Kyoto + Hakone
- Travel light — Japan rewards nimble travelers
- Savor the quiet moments — sunrise at a temple, a train ride through rice fields, a perfectly plated meal
- Build in buffer time — trains are on time, but the best memories are unhurried
Your Japan Journey, Answered
Your questions are where the journey begins. Here’s what travelers ask most — and how Latitude & Leisure turns answers into effortless escapes.
Can I travel Japan without speaking Japanese?
Absolutely. Japan is remarkably traveler-friendly, with excellent signage, efficient transportation, and a culture known for warmth and hospitality. Most major hotels, train stations, and tourist sites offer English support.
Where we elevate your experience is in the moments that benefit from deeper connection — tea ceremonies, rural visits, private dining, artisan workshops. For these, we arrange trusted local guides or interpreters so nothing gets lost in translation and every encounter feels effortless.
What’s the best time to visit Japan?
Japan is stunning year-round — each season offers its own story:
- Spring (March–May): Sakura, mild weather, gardens in bloom.
- Summer (June–August): Festivals, lush countryside, fireworks.
- Autumn (September–November): Fiery foliage, crisp air, peaceful temples.
- Winter (December–February): Snowy escapes, onsen towns, cozy luxury.
We’ll match your travel style to the season — whether that means a front-row hanami moment, a quiet winter retreat, or the warmth of autumn’s golden landscapes. With insider timing and curated pacing, we help you experience each season at its most enchanting.
How many cities should I see on my first trip?
Most first-time travelers enjoy 2–3 regions to keep the journey immersive, not rushed. A beautiful first itinerary might be Tokyo → Kyoto → Hakone, blending city energy, heritage, and nature.
We tailor each route to your pace — whether you love deep cultural discovery, food-forward adventures, or soft-landing luxury. And with seamless transfers and curated experiences layered throughout, your trip flows with ease from start to finish.
Do I need a Japan Rail Pass?
For multi-city journeys, a JR Pass can be a cost-effective choice, especially if you’ll use the Shinkansen. But it’s not ideal for every route.
We’ll evaluate your itinerary, compare point-to-point tickets, and pre-arrange all transfers so everything runs smooth — from your first train ride to your final departure. No ticket confusion, no guesswork.
What are the best types of accommodations?
Japan offers everything from skyline-view luxury hotels to intimate ryokans where you’ll sleep on tatami mats and soak in natural hot springs. We often recommend a thoughtful blend: modern comfort for easy transitions, heritage-rich ryokans for cultural immersion.
We’ll secure your preferred style — whether it’s a boutique property, a design-forward hotel, or a coveted ryokan with limited rooms and seasonal menus — ensuring your stay feels both authentic and indulgently comfortable.
How far in advance should I plan my trip?
For cherry blossom season (spring) and autumn foliage, booking 6–12 months ahead is ideal to secure the best hotels and guides.
For all other seasons, 3–6 months is usually perfect.
We can place soft holds at key ryokans, time seasonal dining, and reserve high-demand experiences (like geisha performances or private temple tours) so your itinerary falls into place smoothly.
Are cultural experiences private or group-based?
Most of the experiences we curate are private or small-group for deeper, more meaningful encounters.
Imagine:
- a private tea ceremony in a Kyoto garden,
- a guided walk through Nara’s temples,
- a personalized sushi-making class with a local chef,
- or a behind-the-scenes artisan visit.
Group options exist, but travelers often prefer the exclusivity and connection that private moments create — something we prioritize when crafting your journey.
Is it easy to get around Japan?
Yes — Japan’s transportation is world-class. Bullet trains, clean subways, and efficient transfers make moving between cities smooth and intuitive.
We design your itinerary with prearranged passes, reserved seats, clear day-by-day guidance, and even luggage forwarding between hotels so you can travel light and stress-free.
What should I pack for Japan?
Comfortable walking shoes are essential — Japan involves gentle but steady exploring. Layers work best, as weather shifts by region and season.
We’ll guide you on respectful attire for shrines and temples, and for ryokan stays, a traditional yukata (robe) is typically provided — part of the experience’s charm.
Do I need to tip in Japan?
No — tipping is not expected and can even feel out of place. Excellent service is simply part of the culture.
If you’d like to show gratitude for a private experience, we’ll guide you on appropriate gestures, such as small gifts or simple expressions of thanks.
What are the key festivals or holidays in Japan, and how do they impact travelers?
Cherry Blossom Season (March–April): Peak season, breathtaking but busy — book early.
Golden Week (late April–early May): Major national holiday; attractions are open but very crowded, and trains sell out.
Gion Matsuri (July): Kyoto’s most iconic festival with street food and parades — lively and unforgettable.
Obon (August): Ancestral holiday with fireworks and regional festivals; some businesses may close.
New Year’s (January 1): Temples are crowded; many shops close for several days.
We help you navigate these peak periods strategically — timing visits, booking accommodations early, and designing crowd-smart touring so you enjoy the energy without the overwhelm.
If I’m traveling for a specific sport or passion, where should I go?
Skiing & Snowboarding: Hokkaido, Nagano
Scuba Diving: Okinawa, Izu Peninsula
Hiking: Mount Fuji, Japanese Alps, Kumano Kodo
Golfing: Tokyo, Osaka, Okinawa
We tailor itineraries around your passion — securing equipment rentals, private guides, seasonal routes, and local experts who elevate the experience from “activity” to “immersion.”
Can I combine Japan with another country on my trip?
Yes — Japan pairs beautifully with South Korea, Singapore, or Taiwan. Tokyo and Osaka offer excellent international flight connections.
We craft multi-country journeys with seamless timing, coordinated transfers, and balanced pacing so each destination feels distinct yet interconnected.
What’s something special Latitude & Leisure can arrange?
This is where our insider edge shines. We can secure:
- private geisha dinners,
- exclusive ryokan stays,
- curated seasonal dining with Michelin-trained chefs,
- behind-the-scenes cultural access (morning prayers, private tea gardens, artisan workshops).
These elevated touches transform your trip into something deeply personal — experiences you won’t find on a standard tour.
Enhance Your Japan Journey
Thoughtfully selected tours and excursions — seamlessly added to your itinerary.
