It can be head-spinning at first, so arriving into a smaller city such as Osaka, with ancient shrines, lip-smacking street food and neon-lit nightlife, is the ideal starting point. From here, speed across the countryside on an iconic Shinkansen bullet train to Hiroshima, where you can learn about its harrowing recent history, and roam with tame deer on an out-of-this-world island.

Kyoto is unmissable, with orange torii gates, bamboo forests and graceful geishas, while, to the north, the Japanese Alps serve up champagne powder, freshly brewed sake, and natural hot springs to soak in. The snow-capped cone of Mount Fuji never looked more majestic than when viewed from the serene Lake Ashi – aboard a cruise boat.

This is the perfect time to take a deep, calming breath before plunging into the frenetic capital of Tokyo, with all-night karaoke bars, flamboyant street culture and high-rise restaurants. There are pockets of peacefulness in parks and temples, but Tokyo is all about noise, colour and new experiences – so roll your sleeves up and dive in. What are you waiting for?

If it’s a Local Insider-led small-group tour, stuffed with all the must-sees and more, then you’re in the right place. Book onto one of our exclusive Trips, and we’ll pack an itinerary full of unforgettable experiences, premium places to stay, and genuine local know-how, so all you have to pack is your suitcase.