Leave the bright lights behind and embark on a journey through Japan’s past with a Japan cultural holiday. From Tokyo to Kyoto, you’ll be immersed in Japanese history and culture as you wander along ancient streets, visit World Heritage Sites, walk in the footsteps of samurai and learn about the country’s utterly fascinating culture. Japan is a country steeped in tradition, and this can be seen everywhere you look. From the colourful kimonos worn by locals to the elaborately decorated tea houses and temples, every aspect of Japanese life is infused with significance. For a breath of fresh air while in Kyoto, take a stroll through the Arashiyama Bamboo Grove. This beautiful forest is home to hundreds of towering bamboo stalks and provides an idyllic setting for a leisurely walk away from the crowds. Nara's ancient city, home to three World Heritage Sites and the unearthed remains of the Great Imperial Palace, provides a vivid picture of life in the Japanese capital during an important period of political, cultural and religious change. Learn the intricate rules of a traditional tea ceremony, how to tie a kimono perfectly and the art of assembling bento box lunches. And would your Japan cultural holiday be complete without watching sumo wrestlers compete in the ancient sport?

Japan cultural holiday ideas

A few suggestions to get the holiday planning process started

  • One Country Japan – Tokyo – Aizuwakamatsu – Sendai – Lake Towada – Kakunodate – Ginsen Onsen – Tsuruoka

    Off-the-Beaten-Track in Japan - Majestic Mountains, Traditional Temples and Samurai Splendour

    Unveil a more serene side of Japan on this 16-day sojourn in the lesser-known Tohoku region

    16 days, from £3900 to £5800

  • One Country Fukuoka - Hiroshima - Kobe - Osaka - Shizuoka - Tokyo

    Ramen, Sake and Takoyaki - A Culinary Journey across Japan, from Kyushu to Mount Fuji

    Soak up the tranquil atmosphere on a day trip to spiritual Miyajima Island

    13 days, from £4750 to £5800

  • One Country Japan – Kyushu – Fukuoka – Nagasaki – Sukarajima

    Kyushu From Top to Tail - Cities, Hot Springs & Volcanoes

    Discover the vast variety of Japan’s southernmost island on this 16-day trip to Kyushu

    15 days, from £4900 to £6750

  • One Country Japan – Tokyo – Shuzenji – Kyoto

    Essential Japan - From Tokyo to Kyoto by Train

    Head to the Far East for 12 days of quintessentially Japanese culture between Tokyo and Kyoto

    12 days, from £5150 to £6650

  • One Country Japan – Osaka – Mount Koya – Kyoto – Amanohashidate – Kinosaki Onsen – Kobe – Onomichi

    Highlights of Western Honshu - Urban Buzz, Hilltop Temples and Coastal Cool

    Head to western Honshu for 17 days of city sightseeing, spiritual splendour, coastal calm and fantastic food

    16 days, from £6350 to £8250

  • One Country South Korea – Japan – Seoul – Gyeongju – Busan – Osaka – Kyoto – Shuzenji – Tokyo

    From Seoul to Tokyo - A Rail Adventure through South Korea and Japan

    Watch South Korea and Japan roll past your window on this 20-day rail adventure from dazzling Seoul to high-energy Tokyo

    20 days, from £6450 to £8350

  • One Country Japan – Honshu – Tokyo – Toyama – Kanazawa – Takayama – Kyoto

    An Artistic Adventure Through Japan - Traditional Crafts & Creative Discoveries

    Tap into Japan’s artistic side on a 16-day adventure packed with culture, creativity and hands-on-fun

    16 days, from £7200 to £9350

  • One Country Japan – Tokyo –  Hida Furukawa –  Tsumago –  Kyoto –  Kumano –  Katsuura –  Osaka – Onomichi

    Active Adventures in Japan - Hike and Bike Honshu’s Highlights

    Hike, bike and bullet-train your way around Honshu on this action-packed 19-day adventure

    19 days, from £7650 to £9900

  • One Country Japan – Tokyo – Shuzenji – Kyoto – Nara – Ise

    Japan in Style - Shimmering Cities & Serene Spirituality

    Sample the rich culture of Japan during this stylish two-week sojourn on the main island of Honshu

    14 days, from £10450 to £13550

Japan Cultural Holidays Guide

Practical advice and inspiration to help you prepare for your holiday

Japan testimonials

31 reviews
4.8 / 5
"Our time in Japan, and particularly our experience at Ochiairo, was truly outstanding - everything was simply perfect. Before and during our trip, we received excellent support from Joyce, who explained everything very clearly and ensured the process went very smoothly. As if that wasn't enough, having Pierre to take care of us when we arrived was fantastic: the immersion support was invaluable."
M - UK
Published on 21st November 2025
"It was a really fabulous trip. Our teenagers, who are 16 and 17, were at the perfect age to appreciate the food, history and shopping, and all the hotels and activities were fantastic. We wish we'd had another week!"
C - UK
Published on 7th November 2025
"From the moment we arrived, it was clear that every detail had been carefully considered. The itinerary was well planned, and the guides were not only knowledgeable but also genuinely helpful. We felt truly looked after, whether navigating the bustle of Tokyo or soaking in the serenity of Kyoto. Japan has left a lasting impression on us, and your team played a huge part in that. It was the perfect place to celebrate our wedding anniversary, and thank you for our lovely surprise when we arrived in Osaka."
V - UK
Published on 25th September 2025

On your Japan holiday, you’ll have the chance to dive into one of the most interesting and unique cultures in the world. A nation with a rich history, beautiful art forms and fascinating traditions that will make you feel you're like stepping into a different world entirely.


A fusion of ancient traditions and cutting-edge technology, Tokyo is a fascinating city that draws you in with its energy and passion. Experience this unique culture in Harajuku, a district famous for its brightly-coloured street art and a thriving fashion scene. Snap a selfie in Shibuya Crossing, the Times Square of Tokyo, then join a private guide for a cruise up the Sumida River, where you can see the Senso-ji Temple, Tokyo's oldest and most significant temple.


Immerse yourself in Japan's rural natural beauty and swap the neon lights for shrines and Buddhist temples in the ancient city of Kyoto. Head to Gion and pass by elegant geisha's adorned in their traditional costume for an experience that will make you feel as if you’ve stepped into a film set. Over 2,000 Shinto shrines and Buddhist temples are scattered throughout Kyoto and it's a must for any visitor on a Japan cultural holiday to experience the tranquillity of this historically important city. The Fushimi Inari Taisha Shrine is a masterpiece sitting at the base of Inari Mountain. It's dedicated to Inari Okami, or the god of foxes, believed to bless people with fertility, agriculture, prosperity and success.


Known as the laid-back cousin of Tokyo, Osaka has earned its nickname as 'Japan's Kitchen', and we don't disagree. Japan's passion for food is evident in the way it's carefully crafted with skill, creativity and tradition - and you don't need to go anywhere fancy to experience it. Visit the iconic Kuromon Ichiba Market where you can indulge in traditional takoyaki (fried octopus dumplings) and okonomiyaki (savoury pancakes).