Japan Holidays: Tokyo, Kyoto + a Scenic Stop

Japan is one of those destinations that leaves people slightly obsessed. It’s the contrast that gets you: Tokyo feels like the future, Kyoto feels timeless, and in between you can slip into hot-spring calm where everything goes quiet.
If you’re writing a “Travel Ideas” page, Japan is gold because it naturally reads as a multi-destination trip — you’re not forcing the itinerary. It’s how Japan works best.
Flights to Japan from the UK
You can fly direct from London Heathrow to Tokyo (Haneda) with major carriers. (British Airways)
Tokyo Haneda is also a very convenient arrival point for getting into the city quickly, which helps after an overnight flight.
How to structure it (the classic route for a reason)
  • Tokyo (4–5 nights): neighbourhood-hopping, food, day trips
  • Hakone / Fuji area (1–2 nights): hot springs, scenic reset
  • Kyoto (3–4 nights): temples, gardens, traditional streets
    Optional add-ons: Osaka for food and nightlife, or a ryokan stay for the full “Japan moment”.
Insider tip: Don’t try to do too many cities. Japan rewards slower travel. Two bases + one scenic stop is the sweet spot for first-timers.
Where to stay in Tokyo (choose your vibe)
  • Shinjuku: brilliant transport links, lively evenings, very convenient.
  • Shibuya: stylish, energetic, great for first-time “Tokyo buzz”.
  • Asakusa: calmer, more traditional feel, lovely mornings.
Insider tip: Tokyo can look huge (because it is), but the trick is picking a base with easy transport and then “owning” a few neighbourhoods rather than trying to tick off the whole city.
Kyoto without the crowds (yes, it’s possible)
Kyoto is famous for a reason, but the secret is timing and pacing.
  • Go early (truly early) for the headline sights.
  • Then spend afternoons in quieter areas, gardens, and smaller temples.
Insider tip: Do one “big” temple morning, then keep the rest of the day gentle: a tea stop, a riverside stroll, a slow dinner. Kyoto is most beautiful when you’re not sprinting around it.
Practical tips that make the whole trip feel smoother
  • Luggage forwarding is a game-changer: travel light between cities, your bags meet you there.
  • Convenience stores are genuinely excellent for breakfast and snacks (and surprisingly good coffee).
  • Have a few meals booked, but leave plenty of space for spontaneity — Japan’s best moments often happen when you wander.
Food and drink: what to prioritise
  • A proper sushi meal (not necessarily the priciest one).
  • Ramen as a “quick dinner” option — it’s satisfying and fun.
  • In Kyoto, lean into kaiseki (a beautifully paced multi-course meal) if you want one special night.
Why Japan is so loved
It’s safe, fascinating, beautifully organised, and full of small “how is this so thoughtful?” moments. It also feels like a genuine adventure without being hard work — especially when your itinerary is built to flow.