Japan Vacations — Cherry Blossoms, Ancient Temples, and Extraordinary Culture
Japan
Japan is one of the world's most extraordinary travel destinations — a country of extraordinary contrasts where ancient Buddhist temples stand alongside futuristic skyscrapers, where the world's most refined cuisine is served in tiny ramen shops, and where extraordinary natural beauty is found in every season. The cherry blossoms of spring, the fiery autumn colours, the pristine powder snow of Hokkaido, and the extraordinary hospitality of the Japanese people make Japan one of the world's most rewarding travel destinations.
Why Visit Japan?
- ✓Cherry blossom season — the most beautiful two weeks in Japan (late March to early April)
- ✓Kyoto — the cultural heart of Japan, with extraordinary temples, geisha districts, and bamboo forests
- ✓Tokyo — one of the world's most extraordinary cities, with world-class food, fashion, and culture
- ✓Mount Fuji — Japan's most iconic landmark, best viewed from Hakone or the Fuji Five Lakes
- ✓Bullet train (Shinkansen) — the world's finest railway system, connecting Japan's major cities
Things to Do in Japan
Wendy can arrange any of these experiences as part of your personalised itinerary.
Cherry Blossom Viewing (Hanami)
Experience the extraordinary cherry blossom season — Japan's most beloved tradition, with picnics under the blossoms in parks across the country.
Kyoto Temple Tour
Explore the extraordinary temples and shrines of Kyoto — Fushimi Inari, Kinkaku-ji, Arashiyama Bamboo Grove, and the Geisha district of Gion.
Tokyo Food Tour
Explore Tokyo's extraordinary food scene — from world-class sushi at Tsukiji to ramen in Shibuya, tempura in Asakusa, and wagyu beef in Ginza.
Bullet Train Journey
Ride the extraordinary Shinkansen bullet train — the world's finest railway system, connecting Tokyo, Kyoto, Osaka, Hiroshima, and beyond.
Mount Fuji
See the extraordinary Mount Fuji from Hakone or the Fuji Five Lakes — Japan's most iconic landmark, best viewed at sunrise.
Hiroshima Peace Memorial
Visit the extraordinary Hiroshima Peace Memorial Museum and the Atomic Bomb Dome — a profoundly moving and important experience.
Ready to book your Japan trip?
Wendy handles flights, hotels, transfers, and experiences — all in one place.
Where to Eat in Japan
Wendy's recommended restaurants — from fine dining to authentic local cuisine.
Sushi
Sukiyabashi Jiro, Tokyo
The world's most celebrated sushi restaurant — the subject of the documentary Jiro Dreams of Sushi, with extraordinary omakase sushi.
Kaiseki
Kikunoi, Kyoto
Kyoto's most celebrated kaiseki restaurant — extraordinary multi-course traditional Japanese cuisine in a beautiful setting.
Ramen
Ichiran Ramen, Tokyo
Japan's most celebrated ramen chain — extraordinary tonkotsu ramen eaten in individual booths, a uniquely Japanese experience.
Where to Stay in Japan
Wendy has personal relationships with these properties and can often secure upgrades and exclusive rates.
Aman Tokyo
LuxuryOne of Tokyo's most extraordinary hotels — exceptional design, world-class spa, and extraordinary views of the Imperial Palace gardens.
The Ritz-Carlton Kyoto
LuxuryKyoto's finest hotel — a beautiful riverside location, exceptional Japanese design, and world-class service.
Dormy Inn Hotels
Mid-RangeJapan's best mid-range hotel chain — excellent locations, natural hot spring baths, and good value across Japan.
Planning Your Japan Trip
📅 Best Time to Visit
March through May (cherry blossom season) and September through November (autumn colours) are the most beautiful times. Summer (June–August) is hot and humid; winter (December–February) is cold but beautiful.
🌤️ Climate
Temperate with four distinct seasons. Tokyo: spring (15–22°C), summer (25–35°C), autumn (15–22°C), winter (2–10°C). Hokkaido is significantly colder.
✈️ Getting There
Direct flights from Calgary to Tokyo Narita (NRT) or Haneda (HND) — approximately 10–11 hours. Multiple airlines offer direct service.
Frequently Asked Questions — Japan
Do Canadians need a visa for Japan?
No — Canadian citizens can visit Japan visa-free for up to 90 days with a valid passport. However, Japan requires visitors to register with the Visit Japan Web system before arrival.
What is the best time to see cherry blossoms in Japan?
Cherry blossom season typically runs from late March to early April in Tokyo and Kyoto, and a week or two later in northern Japan. The exact timing varies by year — Wendy can help you plan around the forecast.
Is Japan expensive?
Japan is more affordable than many people expect. Accommodation, food, and transport are all excellent value compared to Western Europe or Australia. A Japan Rail Pass makes the bullet train very cost-effective.
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Book Your Japan Trip with Wendy
As your trusted travel consultant, Wendy handles every detail of your Japan vacation — from flights and hotels to transfers and experiences. Get in touch for a free, no-obligation quote.
Book Your Japan Trip with Wendy
Tell Wendy about your Japan travel plans and she'll respond within 24 hours with personalised options and pricing.