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    Chureito Pagoda in Japan with Mount Fuji

    Japan Gap Years & Group Tours

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    Ancient meets urban in Japan, and the extraordinary contrasts blend together effortlessly. From awe-inspiring shrines and temples to neon-lit megacities and mountains that reach out to the sky, experience it all on our Japan group tours. Sample sake, sing your heart out in private karaoke booths, attend tea ceremonies with a geisha, and embrace your inner Samurai as part of your gap year in Japan. The sense of adventure that Japan offers is rare, and no matter how niche your interests are, you’ll feel at home inside this mesmerising destination!

    Read more in our Japan Travel Guide.

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    Japan Facts

    Capital City

    Tokyo

    Currency

    Japanese Yen (JPY)

    Language

    Japanese

    Dialling Code

    +81

    Plug Type

    A & B

    Japan Highlights

    Neon billboards in neon-lit Tokyo street at night

    Tokyo

    Tokyo is a cultural and culinary powerhouse. Encounter exciting contrasts throughout this megacity, from the swift speed of Shibuya Crossing to the serenity of Senso-ji Temple. Slurp noodles served by robots, or dine at centuries-old establishments. And if you’re an anime fan, then the Pokemon Center and Shuga Shrine stairs are calling your name.

    Mount Fuji at dawn with cherry blossom trees below

    Mount Fuji

    Japan’s highest mountain is the source of legend. This active volcano is a sacred spirit in the Shinto faith and features in Japan’s most iconic artwork, The Great Wave. Mount Fuji’s snow-capped peaks are easily accessible on a guided hike or can be admired from the five lakes and iconic Chureito Pagoda viewpoint.

    Vibrant pink cherry blossoms up-close

    Cherry Blossoms

    There is something special about Japan in the spring from March to May. Partake in the tradition of Hanami (“flower viewing”) during Sakura season. With live performances and picnics, Japan’s spring festivals are a once-in-a-lifetime experience for travellers. If you miss out on seeing them on your trip to Japan, then it’s a good reason to go back.

    Man and woman in traditional kimonos walking in village with wooden homes, Kyoto

    Kyoto

    Discover old-world Japan in Kyoto. From the Golden Pavilion to the Imperial Palace and Miyama Village, this destination is like stepping into another century. Learn about ancient samurai culture, enjoy a traditional tea ceremony and wear a kimono while exploring this ancient capital with a rich history.

    Orange Torii gates with Japanese calligraphy and stone path

    Fushimi-Inari Shrine

    Stepping inside the Fushimi-Inari shrine is a one-of-a-kind experience. Take in the enchanting scenery as you wander through 1000 Torii gates, each as vibrant as the next. This magical path whisks you through Mount Inariyama, with the crowds dispersing the higher you hike. You can see Kyoto at the summit and even spot Mount Fuji in the distance!

    Bright green bamboo trees lining wide path with orange Torii gates in the distance

    Arashiyama Bamboo Forest - Kyoto

    Towering bamboo shoots, winding paths and captivating soundscapes make this forest one of Japan’s most magical destinations. The endless emerald scenery and tranquil atmosphere are unlike anything you have experienced before. While beautiful photos are taken here, nothing compares to visiting this natural wonder in person.

    up-close shot of happy deer with a few of its deer friends in the distance surrounded by trees and dry grass

    Nara Park

    Befriend the locals inside Japan’s sacred deer sanctuary. Valued as sacred messengers in the Shinto faith, over a thousand Sika deer roam around this charming park. Well-accustomed to photos, the deer confidently approach visitors and are happy to bow in exchange for a rice cracker – sold at the vendors set up around the park.

    Blue sky over a white traditional Japanese castle with green roofs and gold details, next to two bright green trees.

    Osaka Castle

    Symbolic of Japan’s samurai past, Osaka Castle’s origin story is fascinating. This majestic fortress was constructed in celebration of Japan’s unification and has been burned down and rebuilt multiple times throughout history. Today, this ivory castle embellished with gold is a mesmerising contrast to Osaka’s vibrant cityscape.

    Traditional Japanese shrine in water at sunset with reflections and green hill to the left

    Itsukushima Shrine - Miyajima Island

    Only 45 minutes away from Hiroshima is the spectacular island of Miyajima, where you will discover the world-famous Itsukushima Shrine. Built over water, the floating Torii gates transform with the high and low tides. If you have the chance to see this awe-inspiring shrine at sunset, take it.

    Japan Travel Advice

    Bright landscape of blue sky, pink cherry blossom tree and snow-caped mountain with green hill and town, Mount Fuji

    Climate & Weather

    Japan’s climate varies depending on which area you visit, making this country an exciting all-season destination. While the East and West of Japan both have hot and humid summers, the East experiences heavy snow during the winter. Japan’s southern islands - Kyushu, Amami and Okinawa - have subtropical climates, while the northern island of Hokkaido has freezing winters and refreshing summers.

    Stone Torii gates with lanterns , stone statuesand bright sky with green trees, two women carrying umbrellas

    Best Time to Visit

    The best time to visit Japan’s main islands is during the spring from March until May, or in the autumn months of October to November. This is when the weather is cool and dry but still sunny. From the famous Sakura blossom in the spring to the lesser-known red foliage in autumn, Japan’s scenery is especially colourful during these times of year.

    Japanese red pagoda with blue sky and golden top

    Customs & Culture

    Japanese culture is deeply respectful and hierarchical. It is polite to bow to greet someone and to accept gifts with both hands. Always remove your shoes before entering someone’s home, and try to avoid eating, blowing your nose and loud behaviour while in public. It is customary to show up to events and meetings 5-10 minutes early.

    Red and blue british passports

    Passports & Visas

    Entry requirements and visa regulations are different for every destination and your purpose of travel. We recommend staying updated on the latest official information before you go travelling. Your passport should be undamaged and have enough blank pages for stamps and visas. Many countries require your passport to have at least 6 months of validity beyond the date of entry.

    For more information and resources regarding entry requirements, check out our Visa Advice page.

    Woman wearing white dress feeding two deer in forest

    Health & Safety

    At Adventure360, your safety and well-being are our top priorities. From the moment your trip is confirmed until you arrive back home, you'll have access to a 24/7 emergency contact number for any urgent issues. For anything non-urgent, our friendly team is also available during office hours to help.

    We strongly recommend checking the FCDO advice for Japan, as it’s regularly updated with the latest safety and travel information and you can even sign up for email alerts to stay informed of any changes. In addition, you can check the FCDO general travel advice for British nationals abroad.

    Frequently Asked Questions

    Flights to Japan from the UK generally take 14 hours and it is possible to find non-stop flights from London to Tokyo. There are also flight options that include one layover.

    While you can generally expect to pay similar prices to the UK while in Japan, it is more than possible to travel around Japan on a budget. There are a tonne of high-quality and cheap restaurants throughout the country, and most of the country’s major attractions can be visited for free.

    The cherry blossom season in Japan takes place during the spring. Sakura festivals typically begin around March and finish in May, with the specific dates changing every year with the flowers!

    At Adventure360, our biggest priority is ensuring that travellers feel safe and supported on their adventures abroad. Before your departure on our Japan tours, you will have access to our health and safety information with advice for your travels and country fact-files for Japan. You’ll also have access to a 24/7 emergency support number, operated by our UK-based team, to assist you while you're travelling. We always encourage travellers to do their own research before visiting a destination, or if you have any questions, we are just a message or phone call away.

    Absolutely! Whether you’re a first-time traveller or looking to explore more of Asia, Japan is an amazing choice for gap year travel. From the Buddhist temples and Shinto shrines to the exciting modern cities, Japan has an exhilarating blend of activities and scenery. While this destination is worth visiting by itself, you could also add on a tour to South Korea and China for the ultimate East Asia experience!

    Adventure360 has partnered with Masta and Nomad Clinics, one of the UK’s largest networks of private travel clinics. Through Masta, you can arrange a Travel Telephone Consultation, an in-person Consultation, and book your vaccinations at your nearest clinic.

    Tipping is not customary anywhere in Japan and can be considered impolite.

    Japan Trip Reviews

    5
    rating

    110
    reviews

    "I went on this trip as I had always wanted to see Japan. The trip offered an amazing way to see lots of…"

    Ellie

    "The Japan 13 day tour was incredible overall! The pacing over the trip was spot on. We had time to take…"

    Callan

    "Had a great time with the trip and our tour guide Evie was lovely and brought all the fun and energy to our group."

    Laura

    "One of the best experiences and countries I have been too. Had the most amazing time and would definitely do it again!"

    Rachel

    "Amazingly well organised trip, Craig was a really fun and knowledgeable guide. My only regret is not doing the…"

    Sean

    "Everything has been amazing and very well thought out. Our tour guide Ashleigh has been amazing every step of the way !"

    Lauren

    "My 14-day tour of Japan with tour guide Dale was an unforgettable adventure. Dale's extensive knowledge and…"

    Jade

    "Because of all the 5-star reviews I literally thought this was going to be fake. HOWEVER turns out it's just…"

    Alexa

    "I had the most incredible experience exploring Japan with my tour guide, Dale! From the moment we started,…"

    Adam

    "Fantastic experience overall! We had Sammy as our group leader and she was so much fun, patient and super…"

    Oyin

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