IN FULL FOCUS Japan,
Welcome...
to Japan, where craftsmanship, beauty and tradition come together in ways few destinations can rival. In this guide, we at Winged Boots have curated the routes and experiences our clients return to time and again. Japan can feel complex at first glance; our role is to simplify it and show what is possible.
Inside, you will find our recommended regions, standout hotels and the moments that define a stay here. Whether exploring Tokyo’s neighbourhoods with an expert guide, unwinding in Hakone’s hot springs with views of Mount Fuji, and travelling by shinkansen between cities, every detail is carefully considered.
If something sparks your interest, speak to our team in store or contact us on 01277 289 777. We will tailor your time in Japan to suit you entirely, with additional stops, specialist guides and experiences you may not expect.
Your Japan Expert, Jack Stean, Personal Travel Manager
JAPAN Discover
Japan moves between worlds with ease; neon-lit streets give way to temple pathways; snow-draped alpine peaks to island shores. This map guides you through just some of the country's infinite allures.
Street-side yatai stalls line the waterfront, serving hearty bowls of tonkotsu, while temples, beaches and spirited nightlife give the city its easy-going tempo.
Stories of distant shores echo through the streets, from European façades to poignant landmarks, all framed by harbour views and rich culinary heritage. NAGASAKI
OSAKA
KYOTO
HIROSHIMA
MIYAJIMA
KOCHI
NAGASAKI
FUKUOKA
FUKUOKA
Powder snow and winter festivals define this northern hub, where warming ramen, expansive parks and a proud brewing heritage meet Hokkaido’s natural beauty. SAPPORO
FUJI
Rising above mirror-like lakes and forested foothills, the landscape is made for hiking before retreating to a traditional ryokan and warming onsen.
NISEKO
TOKYO
HAKONE
MT FUJI
SAPPORO
MOUNT
NIKKO
NAGANO
Japan,
REGION BY REGION
Japan rewards those willing to look beyond the obvious. From cities to slopes; temples to tropical beaches, each region reveals a different side of the country, sometimes quietly, sometimes with full sensory force. This guide brings together the places that best capture that contrast, helping you shape a stay that feels uniquely yours, but undeniably Japanese.
OSAKA
Located just a short journey from Kyoto, Osaka offers a bold alternative to Japan’s more traditional cities, shaped by its love of food and easy-going spirit. The city reveals itself after dark, when neon reflections ripple along the canals of Dotonbori and streets fill with late-night diners and hidden bars. Food sits at the centre of everything here, shaping both mood and movement. Beneath the energy, more serene moments emerge, with Osaka Castle offering a sense of continuity and a connection to the city's richly textured past.
TOP TIP
Don't miss a post-dark boat ride along Dotonbori’s canals.
JACK'S
TOKYO
Japan’s one-of-a-kind capital never settles on a single identity, instead unfolding in contrasts that reveal themselves over time. Neon canyons of Shinjuku give way to shrine-lined backstreets and centuries-old rituals observed with reverence. Food here is an art form, from Michelin-starred counters to late-night ramen joints. Impeccable efficiency shapes daily life, yet an undercurrent of spontaneity keeps every encounter surprising. This is a city that rewards curiosity and invites you to look closer at every turn, revealing hidden bars, tranquil gardens and ever-changing cultural layers throughout.
KANASAWA
A more preserved vision of old Japan lingers here, where samurai districts and geisha quarters remain strikingly intact. Kenrokuen Garden is among the country’s most celebrated, while contemporary galleries and craft ateliers show how tradition continues to evolve in step with modernity.
TAKAYAMA
Set in the Japanese Alps, Takayama also offers a slower, more traditional pace of life throughout the year. Morning markets and wooden merchant houses line quiet streets, while local sake breweries are the setting for unhurried tastings, all framed by mountain scenery.
OKINAWA
Separate from the mainland in both geography and character, Okinawa offers a slower pace shaped by sea and climate. Expect clear waters, coral reefs and some of Japan’s best diving, particularly around the Kerama Islands where marine life thrives in dazzling abundance.
KOYASAN
High in the forested mountains south of Osaka, Koyasan is the heart of Shingon Buddhism. Stay in a temple lodging, join morning prayers and wander through Okunoin Cemetery, where tall cedar trees and winding moss-covered pathways create an almost otherworldly atmosphere.
SENSATIONS
TEMPLE GARDENS
Discover fresh openings from one of the biggest names in luxury: Six Senses.
Discover centuries-old spaces designed for stillness and reflection.
SIX SENSES MILAN
RYOAN-JI, KYOTO
KYOTO
Italian charm meets the brand’s signature style in a chic new space at the core of the country's fashion capital.
Famed for its intricate rock garden, Ryoan-ji invites contemplation through simplicity and stillness.
Temple bells echo as ritual shapes daily life, with narrow lanes revealing wooden machiya houses and doorways draped in noren curtains. In Gion, a geisha slipping between engagements still feels entirely present, while early mornings reveal bamboo groves and shrine pathways at their most atmospheric, softened by shifting light and the hush of the waking city. Beyond the landmarks, private tea ceremonies, kaiseki dining experiences and guided walks bring traditions to life, offering a more intimate understanding of an enduring culture steeped in grace and captivating beauty.
SIX SENSES THE PALM, DUBAI
KENROKUEN, KANAZAWA
On the famed Palm Jumeirah, undulating rooftops melt into the landscape, offering superb city views and an aura of calm.
Balancing water, stone and immaculate planting, views shift as you move through the perfectly composed grounds.
NAOSHIMA
MIYAJIMA
SIX SENSES AMAALA, SAUDI ARABIA
ADACHI MUSEUM GARDEN, SHIMANE
A Red Sea beachfront sanctuary designed for restoration and reconnection.
More like a living painting than a garden, with colours shift with the seasons.
Naoshima transforms modern art into something immersive and elemental. Set within the Seto Inland Sea, the island is home to world renowned museums and open-air installations that respond to land, light and water, creating a cultural experience rooted in place.
Just off the coast of Hiroshima, Miyajima is best known for its floating torii gate, which appears to rise from the sea at high tide. Beyond the shoreline, forested trails lead to panoramic viewpoints, while intricate, ancient shrines lend the island a sense of deep reverence.
THE JOURNEYS
Of Japan
Japan is a country best explored with a sense of direction, but never at the expense of discovery. A well-planned route might trace the line from Tokyo to tranquil Kyoto, taking in mountain landscapes, hot springs and moments of stillness between the cities. Yet some of the most memorable experiences sit just beyond that path, from watching snow monkeys in Nagano to carving through fresh powder in Niseko.
What follows aren't fixed itineraries, but a framework to build on. Each route can be adapted with added stops, specialist guides and experiences, allowing you to explore in a way that feels intuitive, engaging and tailored to you.
The HonshuCIRCUIT
TOKYO • HAKONE • KYOTO
• HIROSHIMA • OSAKA • TOKYO
12 NIGHTS
Stretching from north to south across Honshu, Japan’s main island forms the backbone of the country’s best-known route. This journey follows its spine, linking major cities with quieter interludes, seamlessly connected by the country's famously efficient high-speed rail.
Begin with three nights in Tokyo, where a stay at Aman Tokyo sets the tone high above the city. Time here is best spent exploring its distinct character, from the polished storefronts and sushi counters of Ginza to the streets of Yanaka and the energy of Shibuya. Early mornings might be spent at the fish market with a private guide, while evenings give way to the spectacle of sumo wrestling at Ryogoku Kokugikan.
From Tokyo, travel by shinkansen, ideally in the Green Car, to Hakone for two nights, where hot springs and Mount Fuji glimpses shift the pace. Kyoto then follows for three nights, with its temples, teahouses and traditions that continue to influence daily life. A night in Hiroshima brings a more reflective tone, paired with time on nearby Miyajima Island, before continuing to lively Osaka for two nights. Return to Tokyo for a final night, bringing the route full circle.
TOKYO
HAKONE
OSAKA
HIROSHIMA
WINGED BOOTS WISDOM
"I learned the magic of Japan’s luggage forwarding service, sending suitcases ahead between hotels so they vanish in Kyoto and reappear pristine in Tokyo. Almost all luxury stays offer it, leaving you free to travel light, hands unburdened, with only the essentials in tow. I’d highly recommend it if your itinerary involves switching cities."
LOUISE SILVERMAN
PERSONAL TRAVEL MANAGER
YOUR WAYTailored
The Honshu Circuit is just the beginning. Let us shape your time in Japan around you, extending the route into something more personal. Share your preferences and we’ll take care of the rest.
TWO NIGHTS IN NIKKO 2-hours 50-minutes from Tokyo
Leave the capital behind for a region of forested mountains, still lakes and richly adorned shrines. The intricately carved Toshogu Shrine captivates, before lakeside paths draw you deeper into nature.
TWO NIGHTS IN KANAZAWA 2-hours 15-minutes from Kyoto
Kanazawa rewards a closer look, particularly through its craft traditions. Spend time with master artisans working in gold leaf and lacquerware, then explore a quietly progressive food scene rooted in regional flavours.
TWO NIGHTS IN NAGANO 2-hours 30-minutes from Tokyo
Travel into the Japanese Alps for crisp air and a stronger sense of seasonality. Visit Jigokudani’s snow monkeys in winter, then shift focus to Zenko-ji Temple and private tastings of the region’s renowned sake.
TWO NIGHTS IN TAKAYAMA 3-hours 20-minutes from Kyoto
Arrive in time for Takayama’s seasonal festivals, where intricately carved floats move through streets lined with onlookers in traditional dress. Evenings are best spent in a ryokan, where kaiseki dinners showcase alpine produce.
THREE NIGHTS IN OKINAWA 2-hours 45-minutes from Osaka
Swap cities for coastline with time on Japan’s subtropical islands. Expect clear waters, coral reefs and a distinct cultural identity, with days spent between beach, boat and some of the country’s best diving spots.
TWO NIGHTS IN MIYAJIMA 1-hour from Hiroshima
Stay overnight to experience Miyajima beyond the day-trippers, when the island quietens and its sacred atmosphere deepens. Visit Itsukushima Shrineat high tide, then gaze over views of the Seto Inland Sea.
Remarkable JAPAN'S
RAILS
Japan’s rail network offers a distinct approach to luxury travel, defined by precision, comfort and quiet efficiency. The shinkansen, or bullet train, connects the country’s major cities at remarkable speed, simplifying journeys that might otherwise feel complex. For an elevated experience, the Green Car provides more generous seating and a calmer atmosphere, while Gran Class – available on some selected routes – introduces a more premium, airline-style level of service.
Beyond the main lines, regional trains reveal a more characterful side of travel.
The Spacia X, running between Tokyo and Nikko, pairs panoramic windows with lounge-style seating and a café bar, turning even shorter journeys into something far more memorable, with ever-changing views drawing your attention beyond the tracks.
The real appeal lies in the continuity. Travel becomes part of the experience rather than simply the means to an end, allowing you to move through Japan with ease while remaining connected to the scenery, culture and cadence of a country where even a train journey has meaning.
Alpine Arc THE
TOKYO • NISEKO • NAGANO • KYOTO • TOKYO 13 NIGHTS
Turning north from Tokyo, this route explores a cooler, more elemental side of Japan, where mountain air, deep powder and temple towns shape the experience. It moves from the intensity of the capital into wide, open landscapes, before returning south through one of the country’s most culturally rich regions.
Begin with two nights in Tokyo, where a stay at Janu Tokyo places you within easy reach of the city’s liveliest districts. Time here takes you from the polished avenues of Ginza to the backstreets of Asakusa, punctuated by moments of theatre, whether that is a sumo match or an evening at an intimate sushi counter.
Continue north for five nights in Niseko, which is home to some of the world’s finest powder snow. From here, travel to Nagano for two nights, where the mountains remain central but the emphasis shifts. Visit the snow monkeys at Jigokudani, then spend time at Zenko-ji Temple, a site of quiet significance that has drawn pilgrims for centuries. Finish with three nights in Kyoto, where lantern-lit lanes and temple gardens offer a contemplative contrast, before returning to technicolour Tokyo for an unforgettable final night amid the bright lights and soaring skyscrapers.
NISEKO
WINGED BOOTS WISDOM
CLAIRE BAKER HEAD OF CUSTOMER EXPERIENCE
"A visit to an onsen, a natural hot spring heated by geothermal activity, is essential when visiting Japan. There are many public options, often with steam rooms and saunas, or you can experience one privately by staying at a ryokan. It's worth noting that they are generally single-sex, sometimes nude and tattoos may need covering!"
YOUR WAYTailored
Of course, this is just a starting point. Let us shape your holiday around you, whether that means more time on the slopes or an extra night somewhere new.
THREE NIGHTS IN NAOSHIMA 3-hours from Kyoto
Naoshima centres on art-led exploration, offering gallery-hopping between Chichu Art Museum and Benesse House, cycling paths and immersive installations, all set against serene coastal island landscapes.
TWO NIGHTS IN KOYASAN 2-hours 30-minutes from Kyoto
High in the mountains south of Kyoto, Koyasan offers an immersive stay rooted in temple life. Stay in a shukubo, dine on shojin ryori (Buddhist vegetarian cuisine), and rise early to join morning prayers with resident monks.
TWO NIGHTS IN KAMAKURA 1-hour 30-minutes from Tokyo
Scenery and spirituality abound with walking routes linking shrines, sea views and fishing villages, rewarding explorers with ever-changing scenery and glimpses into centuries-old traditions and rituals.
THREE NIGHTS IN YAKUSHIMA 1-hour 30-minutes from Osaka
Looking for a wilder side to Japan? You found it. Here, rainforest hikes wind through ancient Yakusugi cedar forests, some over a thousand years old, passing moss-covered trails, waterfalls and mountain mist.
SPOTLIGHT ON Niseko
Our Retail Store Manager, Matt Clayden, shares insights on the snow destination everyone’s talking about.
"Ski in Japan? It’s not always the first thing people think of – but it should be. On the northern island of Hokkaido, Niseko has built a reputation for delivering some of the most consistent powder in the world, paired with a level of comfort and design that elevates it beyond your typical ski destination.
"What I like most is how the appeal extends beyond the slopes. At Park Hyatt Niseko Hanazono, ski-in, ski-out access is matched with expansive rooms, restorative onsen and a dining scene that makes lingering over dinner part of the day’s agenda. There’s a sense that everything has been carefully considered, from first lift to final course.
"For something more private, I often suggest Zaborin. Set within a grove of silver birch trees, this contemporary ryokan is built around stillness and space. Each villa comes with its own indoor and an open-air onsen, while the kaiseki dining draws on Hokkaido’s finest produce with confidence and flair.
"What makes Niseko so rewarding is the contrast within a single day – early tracks through light, dry powder followed by long soaks and unhurried evenings. It’s skiing, certainly, but approached with a level of care that transforms the whole stay.
"And it’s not just a winter story. Come summer, the same landscape opens up for hiking, golf and wide, uninterrupted views of Mount Yotei. Seen this way, Niseko becomes less about a single trip and more somewhere you’ll want to return to, season after season, year after year.
"With a little Winged Boots direction, Japan's snowy north opens up beautifully, revealing a side to Japan few know, but that's easy to fall in love with."
JAPAN'S
Finest Stays
In Japan, where you stay shapes how you see the country. In larger metropolises like Tokyo, hotels rise above the skyline, pairing wide-reaching views with interiors defined by light, space and that ever present precision. Service is seamless, with every detail considered yet never overstated.
Beyond the urban space, ryokans offer something more grounded. Tatami rooms, kaiseki dining and onsen bathing easily become part of a daily ritual, often framed by nature. Moving between the two brings a natural balance – one that reveals Japan’s richly multifaceted character in full.
JANU TOKYO
TOKYO
Within Azabudai Hills, this address brings a different energy to Tokyo’s luxury scene, one shaped around openness. The design draws people in, not closing them off, and a sense of movement runs throughout, from restaurants to wellness areas, making it as much a place to linger as a base for exploring the capital.
PATINA OSAKA OSAKA
Framed by Osaka’s cultural quarter, Patina is an ideal base for exploring the city, with key sights, dining districts and waterfront walks all within easy reach. Time moves between neighbourhood discoveries and restorative downtime, with dedicated spaces for wellbeing offering a balanced counterpoint.
THE RITZ-CARLTON, OKINAWA OKINAWA
Here, Japanese luxury takes on a softer, sensorial form. Subtropical greenery frames wide ocean views, while design is inspired by local heritage. Time is spent outdoors, between golf, shoreline and spa, before evenings ease into something slower, shaped by the warmth and flow of island life.
THE RITZ-CARLTON
Overlooking Lake Chuzenji, The Ritz-Carlton, Nikko draws on the spiritual heritage of its setting close to the shrines and temples that define the region. Design details reference local craftsmanship, while the onsen, fed by natural hot springs, lends an authenticity that grounds the stay in its surroundings.
HOTEL HATSUHANA HAKONE
Refreshingly understated, Hotel Hatsuhana draws its character from the landscape. The nearby river lends a constant presence, while private onsen invite long soaks. Interiors remain restrained, allowing the surroundings to take centre stage, with time shaped by bathing rituals and seasonal dining.
SIX SENSES KYOTO
Here, the mood is shaped by a deep connection to its surroundings. Architectural details echo nearby temples, while interiors lean into natural textures and a grounded palette. Wellbeing is woven throughout, from spa to table, creating a stay that feels restorative and aligned with the city’s reflective tone.
KYOTO
NIKKO
YOUR JAPANQuestions, Answered
We understand that travelling to a new country can feel daunting. Let us answer your frequently asked questions to put your mind at ease and make your holiday planning simple.
WHEN IS THE BEST TIME TO VISIT JAPAN?
Japan is a year-round destination, with each season offering something distinct. Spring brings cherry blossom and autumn offers vibrant foliage, while winter is ideal for skiing and summer showcases festivals and tropical coastal escapes of the highest order.
DO I NEED A VISA TO TRAVEL TO JAPAN?
UK travellers can visit Japan visa-free for short stays of up to 90 days. Entry requirements can change, so it’s always best to check ahead of travel.
HOW LONG SHOULD I SPEND IN JAPAN?
For a first visit, 10 to 14 days allows enough time to experience both the cities and more rural regions at a comfortable pace. Longer stays can be tailored to include more remote areas, seasonal highlights or slower-paced, immersive additions.
WHAT ARE THE BEST WAYS TO TRAVEL WITHIN JAPAN?
Japan’s rail network is fast, reliable and easy to navigate. The shinkansen connects major cities efficiently, while regional trains and private transfers allow for more tailored exploration.
IS
JAPAN
EASY TO TRAVEL AROUND?
Despite its size, Japan is exceptionally well organised, making it straightforward to navigate with the right planning. With pre-arranged tickets, luggage forwarding and expert guidance, travel feels smooth and well-paced at every stage of your journey..
IS JAPAN SAFE FOR TRAVELLERS?
Japan is widely regarded as one of the safest countries in the world. A strong sense of respect and order underpins daily life, allowing travellers to explore with confidence, whether in cities or more rural regions.
DO I NEED A GUIDE WHEN TRAVELLING AROUND JAPAN?
While Japan is accessible, a private guide can add significant depth to your experience. From navigating neighbourhoods to unlocking cultural nuances, their insight brings each destination to life.
WHAT CURRENCY IS USED IN JAPAN?
Japan uses the Japanese Yen. Credit cards are widely accepted in cities and hotels, though it’s advisable to carry some cash for smaller establishments.
ARE THERE ANY ETIQUETTE RULES I SHOULD BE AWARE OF?
A few simple customs go a long way. Shoes are removed in homes and some traditional settings, quietness is valued on public transport and tipping is not expected. Tattoos may need to be covered when using onsen baths.
WHY SHOULD I BOOK WITH WINGED BOOTS?
Japan rewards thoughtful planning. Our team brings first-hand knowledge and local connections, creating tailored itineraries that balance structure with flexibility and deliver experiences that go beyond the expected.
JACK'S GUIDE TO
Japanese Food
Discover some of Japan’s most crave-worthy dishes.
A savoury pancake layered with cabbage, meat or seafood, then drizzled in sauce.
Crisp-bottomed dumplings packed with juicy filling, best dipped in soy and vinegar.
Golden, panko-coated pork cutlet fried to perfection, delivering a satisfying crunch.
OKONOMIYAKI
GYOZA
TONKATSU
Travel Consultation
Visit our Shenfield store and allow us to craft your perfect Japan holiday.
WHAT TO EXPECT FROM US
Our store offers private, one-to-one consultations where you can speak to our expert personal travel managers in a comfortable environment… with a cuppa and biscuits, of course. All of our staff boast a minimum of 10 years’ experience in the travel industry and are extremely well-travelled, so you'll benefit from their insider knowledge and recommendations as they tailor their advice to you and your holiday. After your initial appointment, your personal travel manager will use your specifications and their expertise to craft your trip. They'll then invite you back to fine tune the details until your perfect holiday is just a flight away.
63 Hutton Road, Shenfield, Essex, CM15 8JD shenfield@wingedboots.co.uk 01277 289 777
All of Winged Boots holidays are licensed by ATOL and governed by ABTA, offering you 100% financial protection and peace of mind. BOOK YOUR IN-STORE LUXURY
