Holiday destination: Japan Holidays

Japan both bewilders and bewitches in equal measures. Japan is westernized but quite different from any western country. It is part of Asia but unlike any other Asian society. Japan appeals to the visitor who likes to observe, have their senses stimulated and enjoys difference. Holidays in Japan can embrace the country’s many contrasts, from fast frantic Tokyo to the quiet mountainous beauty of Hakone (best in autumn). From Kyoto with its temples, shrines, gardens and long-standing connection to the imperial family, to the cherry blossom season in early April. The country is separated from the Asian mainland by 160km/100 miles of sea. As much as 70 per cent of the land is covered by hills and mountains with a series of mountain ranges and a very long coastline in relation to its land area.