Japan

Japan is the world\u2019s most extraordinary country for the seasoned traveller \u2014 a civilisation of profound depth that combines impeccable courtesy, breathtaking natural beauty, extraordinary food and infrastructure so efficient it feels like travelling in the future. From ancient Kyoto temples to bullet trains to Tokyo\u2019s neon-drenched neighbourhoods, Japan operates to a standard that consistently astonishes.

Cherry blossom (late March\u2013early April) is magical but very busy \u2014 book accommodation 6+ months ahead. Autumn foliage (November) is equally beautiful with fewer crowds. May and October are ideal: excellent weather, no holiday crowds. Golden Week (late April\u2013early May) is a major domestic holiday \u2014 transport very crowded.

The Japan Rail Pass offers outstanding value for foreign visitors \u2014 buy before travelling. IC cards (Suica or ICOCA) work on virtually all transport and convenience store purchases. Taxis are honest, metered and use navigation systems \u2014 no need to direct the driver.

Classic itinerary: Tokyo (3\u20134 nights, Shinjuku or Marunouchi), Kyoto (3\u20134 nights), Hiroshima and Miyajima (1\u20132 nights), Hakone or the Japan Alps (1\u20132 nights). At least one night in a traditional ryokan with kaiseki dinner and onsen is essential \u2014 the single experience that most defines Japan for Western visitors.

Shinkansen Tokyo to Kyoto, right-side window seat: Mount Fuji views \u2014 one of the world\u2019s great 2-hour journeys.
Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park: Among the most moving places in the world.
Fushimi Inari at 6am.
Tsukiji Outer Market at 7am: The world\u2019s finest fish market \u2014 the sushi sets a benchmark for the trip.
An onsen ryokan in Hakone: Private outdoor hot spring bath with views of Mount Fuji through the steam.

Japan has more Michelin-starred restaurants than any other country \u2014 but extraordinary food is available at every price point. Ramen, sushi, tempura, yakitori \u2014 all can be revelatory. Japan\u2019s convenience stores (7-Eleven, Lawson) are unlike any others \u2014 genuinely excellent food worth several visits.

Japan is exceptionally well-set-up for visitors with mobility considerations. Most Shinkansen stations have lifts and assistance services. The summer heat and humidity (June\u2013September) requires planning \u2014 vending machines selling cold drinks appear on virtually every corner.

Japan is among the safest countries in the world. Emergency: 110 (police) or 119 (ambulance). Crime affecting tourists is exceptionally rare; lost property is almost always returned. Japan\u2019s earthquake preparedness is world-class.

Philosopher\u2019s Path in Kyoto at 7am in late March \u2014 lined with 450 cherry trees, one of the world\u2019s great walks.
Naoshima island: an extraordinary contemporary art island in the Seto Inland Sea \u2014 Tadao Ando\u2019s museums and James Turrell\u2019s sculptures are among the world\u2019s finest art experiences.
Kinosaki Onsen (2 hours from Kyoto): a perfectly preserved onsen town where guests wander between seven public baths in yukata robes.