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Curator’s statement
Japan's architectural wonders, fabulous food, ancient temples, stunning gardens and museums awaits. Welcome aboard, to a voyage of discovery, culture and wonder. Embark on an extraordinary journey into the essence of Japan. Japan is filled with cultural treasures. Let the railways be your portal to the heart and soul of Japan.
The Fora Difference
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Killer perks
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Insider knowledge
Expert advice from people who’ve actually been there
Where to stay In Japan
Luxury Hotel SOWAKA
Immerse yourself in a world of elegance and tranquility at this luxury hotel, where traditional Japanese architecture harmoniously blends with contemporary design, creating a serene sanctuary for guests to indulge in refined comfort and exceptional service.
Fora Perks
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$50-100 hotel / resort credit.
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Breakfast daily.
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Upgrade & extended check-in/out whenever possible.
Park Hyatt Kyoto
Hotel, restaurant and farm with a hip L.A.-meets-Bali vibe.
Fora Perks
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$100 food / beverage credit.
- ★
Breakfast daily.
- ★
Upgrade & extended check-in/out whenever possible.
Hyatt Regency Hakone Resort & Spa
Experience Japanese tranquility and modern luxury in Hakone, where soothing hot springs, scenic beauty and Hyatt's hospitality create a rejuvenating stay.
Fora Perks
- ★
$100 hotel / resort credit.
- ★
Breakfast daily.
- ★
Upgrade & extended check-in/out whenever possible.
Aman Tokyo
A serene stay high above the city, with Aman’s signature faultless service, ryokan-style rooms and a zen-like spa.
Fora Perks
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$100 hotel / resort credit.
- ★
Breakfast daily.
- ★
Upgrade & extended check-in/out whenever possible.
Benesse House
A Tadao Ando-designed minimalist gem that’s more museum than hotel, on Japan’s art hub of Naoshima Island.
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Things to do In Japan
Art Island
Head to Naoshima, also known as Art Island, famous for its contemporary art museums and installations.
Spend the day exploring the Benesse House Museum and Chichu Art Museum.
Relax at Naoshima public bath "I ♥ You."
Nara
Nara, known for its friendly wild deer and historical sites.
Visit Todai-ji Temple, which houses a massive bronze Buddha statue and is one of the world's largest wooden structures.
Explore Nara Park and interact with the deer that freely roam the area.
Kasuga Taisha Shrine with its hundreds of stone lanterns lining the pathways.
Kyoto
Begin the day with Spirituality in Kyoto Tour: Shinto and Buddhism. Engage in a serene Green Tea Ceremony at a traditional tea house, delving into the heart of Japanese customs. Traverse the UNESCO-listed Kiyomizu-dera Temple, where a wooden terrace offers panoramic vistas of Kyoto. At sunset, stroll through the historic Gion district, characterized by its charming wooden Machiya dwellings. Witness the vivid spectacle of Fushimi Inari Taisha's countless red Torii Gates. The Bamboo Grove and the graceful Togetsukyo Bridge to awe venture to Arashiyama. Continue with Kinkaku-ji, a Zen Buddhist temple adorned in gold leaf. Concluding the day, explore Nijo Castle, famed for its creaking "nightingale floors" designed to thwart potential intruders.
Hot Springs in Hakone
Travel to Hakone by speed train This will be your opportunity to relax in a serene hot springs.
There are seventeen hot spring sources in the area, and they are called Hakone Ju-nana-yu . They each have various features.
Enjoy a traditional multi-course Kaiseki dinner, showcasing seasonal and local ingredients.
Take a stroll around the Ryokan garden.
The Hakone Open Air Museum Art blends with nature at this huge outdoor sculpture park.
Tokyo
Day trip by Bullet Train to Mt Fuji and Lake Ashi Cruise.
Relax at Niwa no Yu.
Day Trips
Day trip from Tokyo by Bullet Train to Mt Fuji.
Plan a day trip from Osaka to Tottori Sand Dunes, Uradome Coast Island Cruise & Kinosaki Onsen.
Places to eat & drink In Japan
Restaurants
Japan offers the most amazing array of food and must-try dishes like Udon, Ramen, Sukiyaki, Yakiniku, spaghetti and the most amazing surprise was the best Indian food.
Ichiran - Kyoto Kawaramachi: Ramen
Yamamoto Menzou - One of the most famous Udon restaurants in Kyoto.
Naoshima
Terrace Restaurant - Beautiful water view
Sawada Sushi - A Tokyo gem, Chef Koji.
Sukiyabashi Jiro Roppongi - Tokyo
Travel Advisor
Marilyn Fay
Get in touch with Marilyn
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Looking for more Japan travel inspo? Check out Travel Advisor Cindy La's guide, Exploring Japan: Things to Do in Osaka, Tokyo & Kyoto.
This guide is part of our ongoing series on travel to Japan.