Japan

Why Choose an Escorted Holiday to Japan?

Japan is consistently ranked among the most extraordinary travel destinations on earth, and it is also one of the countries where having a knowledgeable guide makes the greatest difference. The language barrier is real, the transport system - excellent as it is - takes some understanding, and the cultural context behind what you are seeing is rich enough that many things benefit from explanation.

Japan is one of the most popular long-haul destinations among our Indian passengers. The combination of breathtaking scenery, impeccable cleanliness and safety, world-class cuisine (with good vegetarian options) and a culture of respectful hospitality resonates strongly. Many of our Japan departures include travellers joining from India directly - please ask about group pick-up arrangements at origin when booking.

Indian-Friendly Features on Our Japan Tours

• Indian dinners included on most evenings of a Japan tour - our groups typically have Indian meals at least four to five times per week
• Vegetarian options available throughout - Japan has a rich tradition of Buddhist vegetarian cooking (shojin ryori) and most restaurants can accommodate vegetarian requirements
• No beef or pork compulsory - all included meals planned accordingly
• Hindi-speaking representatives on selected Japan departures - ask at the time of booking
• India departure add-on available - some Japan itineraries allow passengers to join from Delhi or Mumbai. Contact our India team on 1800 123 181 181 for details.

Best Time to Visit Japan

March and April - cherry blossom season. The sakura typically peaks in late March in Kyoto and Tokyo. This is the most popular time to visit and must be booked well in advance.

October and November - autumn foliage season. The maple leaves turn red and gold across temple gardens and mountain forests. One of the most beautiful times to see Japan.

May and September offer a middle ground: manageable weather and quieter main sights than peak season.

July and August are hot and humid. Certain festivals - Gion Matsuri in Kyoto, Tanabata across the country - fall in this period.

Popular Destinations Within Japan

Tokyo - the largest city in the world by metropolitan population. Shibuya Crossing, Senso-ji in Asakusa, Tsukiji outer market, the Imperial Palace gardens and the tower districts of Shinjuku.

Kyoto - the cultural heart of Japan. Over 1,600 Buddhist temples, 400 Shinto shrines, traditional machiya townhouses. Fushimi Inari's thousands of torii gates, the Arashiyama bamboo grove, Kinkaku-ji.

Hiroshima and Miyajima - the Peace Memorial Museum is one of the most significant experiences available to any traveller. The nearby island of Miyajima has its famous floating torii gate.

Nara - sacred deer roam freely around the Todai-ji temple complex. A half-day from Kyoto.

Mount Fuji - Japan's highest mountain at 3,776m. Extraordinary from the Fuji Five Lakes region.

Hakone - mountain resort known for hot spring baths (onsen), traditional ryokan inns and views of Fuji.

Practical Information

• Currency: Japanese Yen (¥). Japan remains significantly cash-based; ATMs at 7-Eleven stores reliably accept international cards.
• Language: Japanese. English signage is widespread in tourist areas.
• Time zone: JST (GMT+9). No daylight saving.
• Electricity: Type A plugs (100V). UK devices need a voltage converter. Most hotels provide adapters.
• Tipping: Not customary in Japan. Tips for your Star Tours manager and drivers are included in the holiday price.
• India bookings: Call our India line free on 1800 123 181 181 (10am–7pm IST)
• ABTA & ATOL: All our Japan holidays are fully protected