japan sunrise over mount fuji blossom tree

Japan Holidays

Flights + Hotel

Japan – a land of ancient and futuristic wonders

Japan holidays deliver a true feast for the senses – from the neon lights and aromas billowing out of Tokyo's yakitori restaurants to the vibrant hues of cherry blossom season.

In this mesemerising country the past sits side-by-side with the ultramodern. Zip between cities on the shinkansen, then soak up the wealth of heritage that's on show. 

Theme parks such as Tokyo Disneyland take you from one out-of-this-world experience to the next. Get a bird’s eye view of the sights from the Tokyo Tower, see your favourite movie characters at Universal Studios in Osaka and take in Nagoya’s historic castles and shrines.

Meanwhile, this mountain-rich nation offers plenty of space for reflection amid stunning natural wonders and dazzling wildlife.

Discover the best of this remarkable destination with a Japan holiday package from Etihad.

woman wearing japanese traditional kimono at bamboo forest in kyoto japan

Things to do in Japan

Whether you’re looking for an action-packed adventure or want to immerse yourself in some of the world’s most high-tech cities, there's a Japan holiday to suit.

japan amusement park roller coaster

Experience thrilling theme parks

Japan is home to some of the world’s most exciting theme parks.

Hit the rides at Tokyo Disneyland and Universal Studios Osaka, or marvel at some of the world’s most impressive miniature creations at Legoland Nagoya. 

Hello Kitty fans will love Sanrio Puroland in Tokyo, where daily parades and shows celebrate the popular character.

The capital also boasts Tokyo Dome City, complete with an amusement park and the world's largest roofed baseball stadium, as well as the TeNQ Space Museum.

Where to stay in Japan

Luxury Japan holidays

For a luxury stay in the heart of Tokyo, consider the five-star Peninsula Hotel.

Located opposite the Imperial Palace, it’s just minutes away from Tokyo’s top attractions. 

Guests can take advantage of the hotel’s local knowledge with a ‘key to the city’ and receive hand-picked suggestions for nearby culture and art.

Deluxe suites at the Peninsula come with stunning views of Tokyo's skyline. 

japan shibuya crossing at night
japan nagoya castle at night on lake

Romantic Japan holidays

If you’re looking to enjoy a romantic holiday in Japan, the beautiful city of Nagoya is a fantastic option. 

The reconstructed Nagoya Castle and its grounds provide a serene backdrop for exploration, while the local parks and gardens, scenic river and sky tower all add to the charm.

For spectacular autumn colours, head to nearby Korankei valley. Here you'll find Mount Iimori, on which stands Kojakuji Temple. The temple's head priest planted maple trees along the approach to the temple back in the 17th century.

Today these trees provide a riot of colour, peaking around mid to late November. The best views can be found around the paths that run alongside the Tomoe River at the western and southern sides of Mount Iimori.

Japan city breaks

Vibrant Osaka is a great place to spend some time, either as the main destination of your holiday or if you’re planning a wider trip that also takes in Tokyo. 

Staying in Umeda district provides easy access to shopping, dining and entertainment venues, while the Osaka Castle area is well-placed for a number of popular sites and attractions.

If you're planning a visit to Universal Studios you'll find a good choice of convenient hotels nearby.

japan sutenkaku tower people on street
japan moving train at night

All you need to know about Japan

Currency

Japan’s local currency is the yen. There are plenty of ATMs in towns and cities, while most places will accept major debit and credit cards.

Languages spoken

Japanese is, of course, the most widely spoken language across the nation. In major cities, however, many signs and menus will have English translations. 

Getting around

Japan’s travel network is comprehensive and extremely efficient, with plane, ferry, bullet train, subway and bus options. Locally, bikes are useful for exploring cities while hire cars make remote areas more accessible.

Cultural considerations

Japan is an extremely polite nation and bowing and saying ‘arigato’ – or thank you – is common. However, tipping in restaurants is not expected and is sometimes even frowned upon.

More about Japan

Delicious food

Holidays in Japan are an opportunity to sample the country's famous sushi. 

One of Japan’s national dishes, the colours, shapes and intricate handiwork involved make these extraordinary inventions almost too good to eat.

Newcomers can try simple kappa maki – cucumber sushi rolls – for an introduction to this Japanese delicacy. 

Curry is also hugely popular across Japan, served with delicious, spice-rich sauces and mounds of rice. Wagyu beef is a must for steak lovers, its marbled appearance delivering a tender, buttery taste. 

japan traditional sushi
japan meji jingu temple trees

Japan’s ancient temples

There are thousands of temples across Japan. One of the most beautiful can be found in Kyoto – around an hour away from Osaka by train.

Built in the 14th century, Kinkaku-ji is covered in gold leaf and sits on a serene pond. 

Tokyo’s oldest temple, Sensoji, dates back to 645 AD and has become one of the area’s major attractions.

Visit these spiritual sites and find yourself enchanted by the magnificent architecture and peaceful atmosphere. 

See a different side to Tokyo

Famed for its electronic billboards, neon signs and hyper-modern attractions, Tokyo nonetheless has a retro side. 

In the city’s old East Side you’ll find the Hanayashiki Amusement Park, where you can ride on Japan’s very first rollercoaster. 

For an evening of theatre or comedy, Rokku Broadway is home to Engei Hall, a historic theatre still selling out its seats with slapstick shows and traditional storytelling.

japan aerial view of tokyo at sunrise
japan cherry tree

Why we love Japan

“Visit Japan and you’ll fall in love with its bright cities and breathtaking landscapes. If you’re lucky enough to arrive in cherry blossom season, you’ll be amazed by the beautiful colours on show. It’s the mix of old and new that makes Japan so special.”

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