inspo & info

November is a great time to visit Japan. For many travel experts, it's the best time to visit and it's certainly the time of year that Japansophy recommends to our friends. Why? It's the colour – yellows, reds, and orange everywhere, against clear blue skies – and perfect sightseeing weather. Read on to find out about what you can expect for a November trip to Japan. Jump to: Weather in Japan in November What to pack for Japan in November What to see and do in November in Jap

Tokyo shines in autumn, but some of the most spectacular colours lie just beyond the city’s bustle. You don’t need to travel for hours: in just a few short train rides, you can reach hidden valleys, elegant temples, riverside walks, and hillside forests awash in red and gold. This guide highlights leaf-viewing spots in or close to Tokyo — perfect for day trips or overnight escapes. Jump to: When can I see autumn colour in the Tokyo area? Nikko Hitachi Seaside Park Kawaguchi

If you've ever dreamt of stepping back in time, wandering through ancient halls where samurai once strode, or gazing upon landscapes that...

Tucked away in the quiet, residential Setagaya Ward, Daikeizan Gotokuji temple is a whimsical escape from Tokyo's urban jungle. While it...

Want to get up close and personal with Mt Fuji? A day trip is very doable from Tokyo Planning a day trip to Mount Fuji from Tokyo can be...

You've likely seen the now-iconic image of Japanese macaques—or "snow monkeys," as they're affectionately called—chilling out in a steaming onsen, looking as serene as a human on vacation. Coming face to face with these furry, red-faced locals is one of those quintessential Japan experiences that’s on just about everyone’s bucket list. But where exactly do you find them? Are they just sitting in hot springs all over Japan? And can you just walk up and say hi? Read on for our

So you're thinking of visiting Japan in October? Perhaps you're envisioning crisp, clear skies, the subtle start of autumn colours, and a break from the sweltering heat of summer. October is a glorious time in Japan, offering a perfect balance of pleasant weather and unique seasonal experiences. While the country is still buzzing with energy, the intensity of summer has given way to a more comfortable and leisurely pace. Read on to find out about what you can expect for an Oc

The old castle moat transforms into a wonderful sakura-viewing spot in spring. Chidori-ga-fuchi Moat  (千鳥ヶ淵) is a peaceful waterway that...

The Rainbow Stairs at DiverCity in Odaiba, Tokyo, are infinitely instagrammable Get ready for an exciting and futuristic experience at...

The "life-sized" Godzilla statue peers over Kabukicho and shows off its impressive manicure! Get ready to have a monster of a time!...

TeamLab Planets in Tokyo features a number of fascinating immersive exhibits Get ready to shed your shoes (and maybe roll up your...

Hamarikyu Gardens tea house against the modern, high-rise city of Tokyo Step into a serene slice of history and prepare to be utterly...

Zojoji Temple has a unique backdrop and wonderfully peaceful gardens Prepare for a truly iconic Tokyo photo op, because Zojoji Temple...

Tokyo Tower: Tokyo's iconic landmark is just a few metres taller than the Eiffel Tower Get ready to ascend a piece of Tokyo's heart and...

Tokyo Skytree: unparalleled, 360-degree views of the city and beyond Get ready to have your breath taken away and your perspective...

Sensoji Buddhist temple is on everybody's Tokyo itinerary. Go extra early to beat the crowds. Step into a bustling portal to old Tokyo...

Nezu Shrine in Tokyo is enchanting at any time of year but is at its best in April, when the azaleas are in bloom Step off the bustling...

Lotus ponds, a boating lake, museums, a zoo: Ueno Park has something for everyone. Get ready to stretch your legs and dive into a world...

Tokyo's infamous red-light district is tamer than you would expect, but watch out for giant reptilian monsters! Prepare to be swept away...

This beautiful park is extremely popular during sakura season but is well worth a visit at any time of year Shinjuku Gyoen National...