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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

"Madison was helpful and thorough as she searched for my flights. I feel confident in the arrangements made."

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"Michelle is detail oriented, has great ideas to offer, is full of handy pointers/tips and tricks. Michelle is also very prompt in replying to any requests or queries."

Karyn

"Jess was great to work with. She quickly provided us with a quote and tailored it to meet our specific needs."

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Meet our Japan specialists

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Kirsty Stalker

House of Travel Northlink (formerly Northlands)

With over 12 years in the industry I have always had travel and tourism in my blood, including working as cabin crew for nearly 8 years. I was so lucky to visit so many great destinations while working and on personal trips.

When I'm not working you will find me at home cooking and spending quality time with my young family and friends.

Kirsty

Toni Rendell

House of Travel Rotorua

As a 17 year old, I headed off to Finland on a student exchange for a year, my first ever overseas trip and the start of my passion for travel.

Whether it’s a quick jaunt across the Tasman, an adventure through Vietnam or a guided coach tour of Europe, I love working with you to create the perfect holiday.

Having been in the industry for over 30 years, I have an extensive knowledge of airfares, and travel providers, I combine that with the knowledge of my returning customers and the wisdom of the House of Travel collective to craft your travel.

There sure is a lot you need to know and I pride myself on keeping up to date with industry trends and changes. That may be new destinations to visit, beautiful places to stay or changes in travel requirements.

So get in touch and let me help make your travel dreams come true.

Toni

Tracey Ormsby

House of Travel Prestons

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