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10 Reasons Why You Should Visit Japan Now

10 Reasons Why You Should Visit Japan Now

By Catriona Deredas, Asia Specialist 

Japan: a weird and wonderful destination, lightyears ahead in modernity, yet with such ancient traditions weaving its way through the culture. It has been a country which has fascinated me for some time, and I have wanted to visit for years and years, so when the opportunity to go arose, I couldn’t resist! From the moment I boarded my flight with All Nippon Airways, I was a buzzing ball of uncontrollable excitement – the 11 hours couldn’t pass quickly enough! Many of my friends, family and clients have told me that visiting Japan is top of their lists, and now is the perfect time to go. Based on my travels from my own introductory tour of Japan, here are my top ten reason for why you should visit now:

1). The People

I can honestly say that the Japanese are the friendliest people that I have met in the world! They are polite, helpful considerate and don’t want to inconvenience anyone. It is a refreshing attitude and environment to be in!

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2). The Food

The Japanese certainly now how to cook and their presentations are like a work of art, not to mention completely delicious!

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3). Tokyo City Vistas

Vibrant and buzzy Tokyo has so much to offer, but the unique architecture and sky high views across the city are incredible!

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4). The Hotels

From the quaint and traditional rural ryokans to world-class chic and luxurious hotels, there is something for everyone in Japan.

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5). The Culture

The ancient Japanese culture dates back hundreds of years, and is still remains unchanged in today’s culture.

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6). The Temples & Shrines

Japan is full of beautiful Buddhist temples and Shinto shrines which are just waiting to be explored.

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7). The Gardens

Perfectly manicured landscape gardens are scattered throughout Japan, offering a beautiful and peaceful place to contemplate your surroundings away from the hectic buzz of the cities.

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8). The History

From ancient sites and monuments dating back hundreds of years, to the most recent Second World War site of Hiroshima, Japan has a rich and interesting history.

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9). The Weird & Wonderful

Japan is full of these sights! Everything you can expect and everything you didn't even know existed, Japan has it!

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10). The Countryside

Japan isn’t just about the cities, it has beautiful rural areas too. Perfect to break up the city visits and to connect with nature.

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If you need any help or advise in planning your next Japan holiday, please do not hesitate to contact me on +44 (0) 207 819 9770 or drop me an email on catriona@ampersandtravel.com. It would be a pleasure to help!



Client Testimonials

Difficult to choose the highlight of the trip, can’t choose between… 1) Taj Mahal & Oberoi Amarvilas. 2) Ranthambore. 3) Lake Palace. We have to say a particular thank you for selecting Parmod as our driver. He is a delightful and kind man who took our holiday and our enjoyment as his responsibility. Thank you for putting together such an amazing trip for us. The balance of city and rural destinations was perfect for us and the variety of rooms and hotel types brilliant. Our driver and guides also added so much to the trip with their knowledge of India’s history and culture and their willingness to discuss it both from a professional and personal angle.
- Carruthers family, North India
So many highlights to choose from! The hotels were amazing but Maya Villa was a highlight… I loved just hanging out in the hammock reading my book and watching the peacocks chase the cows!
- Krista Weir, Sri Lanka
Getting to Amanpulo from Manila was very simple and the beach was the most beautiful I’d ever been on; pristine white sand, not a single piece of rubbish in sight. You get your own solar powered golf buggy to drive around resort (and a butler at request). The views from the Hillside Casita were spectacular!
- Mr Wyburd, Philippines
Ampersand provided a bespoke and flexible holiday, tailored to my every whim. Their highly professional staff had only one goal which was to arrange an exceptional holiday and some unforgettable experiences in India. I have no hesitation in fully recommending them and they will be the first company I approach in the future - 10/10
- Anonymous, India
I would recommend Ampersand without any hesitation!!! The best travel agent that I’ve ever had. Everything – from the individual care and attention in planning the trip, through to the efficiency of the agents on the ground in India – was handled brilliantly. An absolutely first-class service all round!
- Matthew Annable, Rajasthan, India
We have just returned back from a wonderful trip. Thank you very much for organising everything. The transfer was excellent – for once they had perfect car seats. The villa was lovely, just what we needed and the hotel had helpfully put us as far away as possible from everyone else. The breakfast buffet was the best I have ever seen – and I am slightly obsessive over breakfast!! There was an incredible choice, something for everyone and so beautifully presented. A real highlight of the trip. Thank you again for sorting everything - and at such short notice!
- Redmayne family, Phuket
I had a very lovely time and was looked after splendidly. My first visit to India could not have been better, save for being longer! But I shall return at some point and I shall look to you to make the arrangements.
- Matthew Nicklin, North India
We really enjoyed the trip and were happy that we squeezed so much into a few short days. The Burmese people were lovely and the sites were fantastic. We really enjoyed the balloon ride and would highly suggest it to others in the future. The trip went super smoothly and a good time plus learning happened for all. Yangon was nice as the Strand was quite amazing and we of course loved the giant gold temple. Many thanks for all of your help and look forward to future travel with you.
- Wallace Family, Burma
I barely know where to begin... though a sincere 'thank you' would be the best. You have organised this trip perfectly. May was an inspiring and delightful companion in Myanmar – thoroughly professional and friendly at the same time. My accommodation throughout has been superb, especially The Governor's Residence and The Mandarin Oriental. The view from the cottage at Inle Lake was beautiful and I loved every moment of being there. And here I am now on the last leg of this extended holiday at my favourite place. I could stay here for ever, the peace, silence and surroundings all amazing, plus the people and the whole aura of Vana. Thank you for much, and I look forward to speaking to you on my return.
- Ms Margulies, Burma, India & Thailand
Everything you did for us whilst we were away was hugely appreciated, and Ampersand has been exemplary in every way. I'll always recommend you!
- Mr Richard Stoughton, Sri Lanka
Difficult to articulate just how good the service from you and your team really was. We know you will continue to do well and hope we have the chance to seek your assistance again before long.
- Mr & Mrs Manson, North India
Ampersand’s preparation, attention to detail and interaction before and during our trip show exactly why good travel agents have a role in today’s internet booking age. They were a delight to deal with!
- Mr David Wallace, North India
Ballyfin was great - we loved it! Best things were the amount of space, it felt like you had the whole place to yourself, the history of the house, and the staff. We'd definitely recommend it. Thanks very much for all the help getting it booked!
- Mr Wyburd, Ireland
We had a wonderful holiday - everything was perfect. Thank you for helping us to make a thoughtful plan to enjoy and make most out of our trip. The places we visited, the guides, the transportation and driver, the hotels selected... Everything was great!
- Jaime Benitez, South India
I thought the Ampersand team was outstanding. We couldn’t have hoped for anything more.
- Mr Geoffrey Johnson, India
Without question, you put together the best trip I have ever taken. We were shown around like visiting dignitaries, the hotels were fantastic and the itinerary was just right. Everybody I know will hear about how amazing Ampersand is!
- Leslie Siben, India

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