A trip to Japan is an adventure full of contradictions. In major cities such as
Tokyo and Osaka you will see modern neighborhoods and busy streets while a little further away you will find ancient temples and peaceful gardens. The diversity makes a roundtrip Japan unique: each region has its own atmosphere and highlights.
The country also surprises on the culinary front. From a simple Japanese restaurant serving ramen or sushi to sophisticated kaiseki meals: Japanese food is an experience in itself. Add nature reserves, special places like Mount Fuji and unusual theme parks like Disney and Universal, and you have a destination that has endless things to offer.
At Florivida, we know this country well and are happy to help you choose the right itinerary, hotels, theme parks and activities. This way you will get the most out of your roundtrip Japan.
During a roundtrip Japan, there are a few cities that should not be missed. Each city has its own character and shows a different side of the country.
The capital is a mix of busy neighborhoods, skyscrapers and temples and city parks. You'll stroll the busy streets of Shibuya and Akihabara, visit cultural sites like the Meiji Shrine and enjoy views from the Tokyo Skytree. There is also plenty to do for theme park lovers: Tokyo Disneyland and Tokyo DisneySea are just outside the city and easily accessible.
Kyoto is known as the cultural heart of the country. You will find hundreds of temples and shrines, including the red gates of Fushimi Inari and the wooden Kiyomizu-dera. In the Gion district, you will find traditional tea houses and can attend a traditional tea ceremony. In this part of the country, there is a good chance of seeing a geisha.
Osaka is a city full of energy, known for its street food in busy neighborhoods such as Dotonbori. Visit Osaka Castle, stroll along the illuminated riverbank and discover unique attractions at Universal Studios Japan. For those who love food, Osaka is the place to try local specialties such as takoyaki and okonomiyaki. If you love shopping, don't miss Shinsaibashi-suji, Osaka's upscale shopping street.
Want more inspiration for other cities and regions? Then check out the official site of Japan National Tourism Organization
Japan is a dream destination for theme park enthusiasts. You will find not only the famous names, but also attractions you won't experience anywhere else in the world.
Just outside Tokyo are two parks that are loved worldwide. Tokyo Disneyland is similar in concept to the original park in Anaheim, but also has its own attractions and shows found only here. Tokyo DisneySea is unique to Japan and is known as one of the most beautiful Disney parks in the world. The park is located by the sea and is divided into eight unique ports. These themed areas range from recognizable spots, such as Mediterranean Harbor and Arabian Coast, to imaginative worlds like Mermaid Lagoon and Mysterious Island. Each port has its own atmosphere, attractions and experience. For many travelers, a visit to DisneySea is the highlight of their trip.
Osaka is home to Universal Studios Japan, a park that attracts millions of visitors each year. You'll experience spectacular attractions centered around Harry Potter, Jurassic Park and Minions. One of the newest attractions is Super Nintendo World, where you literally step into the world of Mario and his friends. We often recommend spending one day in the park. With an Express Pass and a good hotel nearby, you'll make the most of your visit. Thanks to its location in Osaka, you can easily combine it with other attractions in the city.
A trip to Japan is not complete without getting acquainted with its rich culture. All over the country you will find temples, shrines and gardens where you can see and feel the Japanese traditions. In Kyoto, you can participate in a tea ceremony or visit one of the many special temples.
In addition to its spiritual side, this country also has a modern culture that is globally influential. Think anime, manga and fashion from Tokyo, which you experience in neighborhoods such as Harajuku and Akihabara. It is precisely the combination of traditional customs and modern trends that makes a vacation to Japan so special.
Japanese food is an important part of any trip. Everywhere in the country you will find dishes and flavors not to be missed. Sushi and sashimi are world famous and are often prepared with daily fresh fish and in traditional ways.
Just as popular is ramen, a savory noodle soup served in countless varieties. izakayas, cozy eateries where you share small snacks, are also a regular part of daily life.
A visit to a Japanese restaurant shows well how versatile the cuisine is. From simple ramen bars to upscale Michelin-starred restaurants, there is something for every budget and taste.
Street food plays an especially big role in Osaka, with takoyaki (octopus balls) and okonomiyaki (savory pancake) as favorites. In Kyoto, on the other hand, you will taste matcha specialties and traditional sweets such as yatsuhashi, wagashi and dango.
Japanese food is always a highlight of your trip. Read more about Japanese cuisine here.
Besides cities and theme parks, Japan has impressive nature and historical sites that make a round trip extra special:
These tips will help you prepare for your Japan vacation:
Want to know more or get personalized advice? Feel free to contact with us, we are happy to help you with additional tips and information!
At Florivida, we know Japan well. We know which cities, hotels and activities best suit your needs and will help you plan everything smoothly. Ask here your travel proposal and find out what your trip could look like.
Want to discover the nicest parks? Check out our theme park tour of Japan and experience how Disney and Universal come to life in Asia.
Japan consists of more than 6,800 islands, of which the four largest (Honshu, Hokkaido, Kyushu and Shikoku) host the most land and population. The country lies on the “Ring of Fire,” an area of intense seismic and volcanic activity.
Japan has one of the highest life expectancies in the world, with an average of more than 84 years. The Okinawa region is often called the “Blue Zone” because of its concentration of centenarians.
Yes, Japan is among the safest countries in the world. Crime is low and cities are well organized. As everywhere, though, it is wise to watch your personal belongings in crowded areas.
A Japan vacation does not have to be extremely expensive. Hotels and food come in all sorts of price ranges. You can eat cheaply at a local Japanese restaurant or opt for more luxurious options. Traveling with a rail pass (Japan Rail Pass) makes transportation more affordable during a tour.
Time in Japan is 8 hours ahead of the Netherlands in winter and 7 hours in summer.
The most commonly used greeting is Konnichiwa (hello/good afternoon). In the morning you say Ohayō gozaimasu (good morning) and in the evening Konbanwa (good evening).
No, Dutch travelers do not need a visa for stays up to 90 days in Japan. Different rules apply for longer stays.
A direct flight from Amsterdam to Tokyo takes about 11 to 12 hours. With a transfer, it may be longer.
Spring (March-May) with cherry blossoms and autumn (September-November) with autumn colors are the most popular periods. In terms of weather, both seasons are pleasant and photogenic.
Thanks to high-speed trains, such as the Shinkansen, you travel quickly between cities. A rail pass Japan (Japan Rail Pass) allows unlimited travel on many routes. In the cities themselves, subways are best to use.
Popular spots include Tokyo (Shibuya, Akihabara), Kyoto (Fushimi Inari, Kiyomizu-dera), Osaka (Dotonbori, Universal Studios Japan) and natural areas such as Mount Fuji and Nara.
Yes, many travelers combine a tour of Japan with a visit to Hong Kong or China.
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