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Japan

Ancient traditions meet modern marvels.

Kon'nichiwa!

From majestic temples to bustling cities, step into a different world where lush bamboo forests and gleaming red shrines await! Savour soul-warming ramen and delicious street food, explore kawaii kitsch, and maybe even visit Disneyland. From ancient temples to modern pop culture, and mouthwatering cuisine, there's something for everyone in Japan.

With insider tips from our Japan specialists, we’ll ensure your Japan adventure is truly unforgettable. Get ready to sushi-roll your way through the Land of the Rising Sun!

Flight time.

Traveling from Auckland to Japan typically takes around 11 hours on a direct flight. Though it’s a long journey, the allure of Japan’s rich culture, stunning landscapes, and unique blend of tradition and modernity make the time in the air well worth it.

Best time to go.

The best times to visit Japan are during the spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November). Spring is famous for the cherry blossoms (sakura), which bloom across the country, creating breathtaking landscapes. Autumn, on the other hand, offers beautiful fall foliage, cooler temperatures, and fewer tourists. These seasons are perfect for exploring Japan’s temples, gardens, and cultural sites.

Time difference.

Japan is 3 hours behind New Zealand. This small time difference makes it easy to adjust, allowing you to dive right into your Japanese adventure with minimal jet lag.

Our favourite things to do in Japan

Step into spring under the cherry blossom

The Japanese celebrate Sakura with Hanami, literally “flower viewing” celebrations which take place in March and April.

Stay in a Ryokan & relax in an Onsen

A must-do experience!

Eat like a local

Get your sake fix and karaage cravings satisfied at Hoppy Street!

Best. Sunrise. Ever!

Chase the sunrise on Mt Fuji

A Japan bucket list experience

Take a trip to Miyajima Island and see the iconic ‘floating’ torii gate of Itsukushima Shrine.

Experience the world’s most famous crossing

Brave the Shibuya Crossing in Tokyo!

Ever dreamed of becoming a Maiko or Geisha?

Now’s your chance!

Stay at a Buddhist temple

For a truly unique experience stay at a Buddhist Temple, or a "shukubo".

Tour the streets of Tokyo in Mario-karts!

Ready for a wild ride?

Woman looking at the streets in Harajuku

Tokyo's most iconic fashion street

Shop quirky t-shirts, hidden gems, and unique souvenirs on every corner!

How to enjoy your stopover

A decision that will have to be made if travelling to Europe, Africa, most of South America or most of North America.

Ring in the New Year in Tokyo

Japan, Asia

Alpine & apres ski ... in Japan!

Japan Ski

Smell the cherry blossoms in Japan

Japan

How to experience Japan with all five of your senses

If you want to experience Japan with all five of your senses, you need to go beyond Tokyo and explore the diversity of this fascinating country.

10 dishes you shouldn't leave Japan without trying

Whether you're wandering the bustling streets of Tokyo or exploring local eateries in Kyoto, these 10 must-try dishes should be at the top of your list.

93% of customers who book with House of Travel rate us 5/5

"She answered our questions quickly and within a couple of hours had flight options ready for us."

Dorothy

"She is very obliging and knowledgeable. She knows her stuff really well. Although I deal with her in a different city, her online help is second to none. Nothing is a problem even though I have had to change bookings."

Sarah

"Was able to answer all our questions and make suggestions."

Gregory

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Meet our Japan specialists

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Laura Simpson

House of Travel Taupo

When I first started in the travel industry, I didn’t even have a passport! Fast forward a few months, and that had all changed – I hit the ground running on my first overseas adventure, and I haven’t stopped since. Whether it’s getting immersed in the local culture, or ticking off bucket list moments, travel has a unique magic that stays with you forever.

I love using my own travel experience to bring that personal, unique touch to your dream holiday, making a seamless experience from the planning stages right through to your return home. From navigating the bustling metropolis of Hong Kong to exploring the USA on a road trip, there’s a world out there just waiting to be discovered.

Let’s have a chat, and make your travel dreams a reality!

Laura

Maree Thompson

House of Travel Mount Maunganui

From the first travel I did as a teenager I have wanted to travel the world, experience the food, absorb the culture and learn the history!!!

I have always been passionate about creating the ultimate holidays and feel that makes me the best planner of your holidays that I can be!!

I had been selling travel for over 20 years when I felt something else was needed and to the leap to be the retail manger of House of Travel Papamoa. I feel I have never looked back and enjoy leading a fantastic group of people!!

I love my job!!! I love the fact that no one holiday is ever the same and also thrive on a challenge of a complex itinerary, round the world flight or something out of the norm.

I think the benefit you get with me is the experience I have had planning and travel and the places I have travelled.

I have travelled extensively and in particular done a lot around New Zealand, Australia, South Pacific Islands, USA and Europe and find that travel opens your mind to another world full of new experiences, new tastes and an appreciation for life in general.

I have a rule that every trip I do I need to pick one unique thing to do on holiday that is un-usual or you would not do on another holiday .... I have been hot air ballooning, have been on a segway tour, have helicoptered out to an island etc.

My Travel Tips

* I am a bit of a IT geek so always travel with an adaptor that has USB ports for my IWatch, iPhone and iPad.

*Have a store of great apps that help with travel, packing, maps, closest toilet etc.!!

*Always keep in touch with your travel agent so they can keep you up to date with deals that are out for your next holiday.

*Cash passports are a MUST as safe and easy way to travel.

The best holidays are definitely created together so would love to get you in for an appointment and have a discussion about your travel dreams.

Maree

Peta Aberhart

House of Travel Calder & Lawson

I began my career in travel working in Europe as a tour director in 2001.

I never imagined over 20 years later I would be able to pass on my knowledge and passion to other people and call it my job.

Peta

Tanya Aitken

House of Travel Papamoa

Travel fuels my soul, the experiences, the opportunities, the culture, the adventures, I have been lucky enough to have a career that is a labour of love. Planning holidays with a high degree of skill, attention and knowledge has become my trade mark.

I absolutely adore planning epic family trips, luxurious holidays alongside organizing a lot of corporate travel business as well. I also travel a lot, as often as I can so I have up to date first hand experience in so many areas. This has given me the skill and experience to share with my clients and ensure they also come away with travel experiences second to none. I work with a large referral business and I do require appointments to fully assess what is going to be right for you and start planning your holiday.

Tanya