Navigation
Back

Japan

Ancient traditions meet modern marvels.

Asia Japan Tokyo Sakura Blossom Garden

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!

Plane Stabiliser Icon

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.

Calendar Icon

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.

Watch Icon

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.

Read more

Stay in a Ryokan & relax in an Onsen

A must-do experience!

Read more
Bowls of Ramen

Eat like a local

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

Read more
Mt Fuji Sunset Asia Japan Mount Fuji Spring

Best. Sunrise. Ever!

Chase the sunrise on Mount Fuji

Read more
Floating torii gate of Itsukushima Shrine

A Japan bucket list experience

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

Read more
Shibuya Crossing

Experience the world’s most famous crossing

Brave the Shibuya Crossing in Tokyo!

Read more

Ever dreamed of becoming a Maiko or Geisha?

Now’s your chance!

Read more

Stay at a Buddhist temple

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

Read more
Maree Thompson Mario-karting

Tour the streets of Tokyo in Mario-karts!

Ready for a wild ride?

Read more

Tokyo's most iconic fashion street

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

Read more

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

"Johnathen was 100 percent on to it…"

Janine and Kathleen

"Tania always does a great job for us and is always happy to answer questions."

Di

"excellent past service"

Anne

Meet our Japan specialists

See all See more
Jay Irvine

Jay Irvine

House of Travel Barrington

With my own experience in travel, along with my corporate background as well.

I have been able to book a wide variety of trips ranging from flop and drop holidays through to sport events and everything in between.

Jay

Toni Rendell

Toni Rendell

House of Travel Rotorua


Peter Davies

Peter Davies

House of Travel Wellington CBD

I’m Peter - A born again travel fanatic who didn't leave New Zealand until the ripe age of 20. For that trip, I went coast to coast in the USA. Taking buses, trains, and planes to traverse the country. Seeing this incredibly vast and diverse place, that felt so different, yet so similar, was unforgettable and left me wanting more.


The quality of my first overseas trip can be attributed to the travel consultant that got me there, it was enhanced by their vast knowledge, advice, and recommendations. As soon as I returned to NZ, I began applying for work within the travel industry to emulate and share this experience with others, and have been doing it ever since!


My passion is for improving and adding to the overall experience of my clients, just as this was done for me. Everyone has their own preferences and unique style when traveling and I love to truly tailor the experience to each individual. Whether it’s extending a stay to include a small half-day excursion you hadn’t thought of, going off the beaten track to visit lesser known locations, or visiting a nifty rooftop bar on the outskirts of town, these small, often overlooked aspects of your journey, can be the most memorable.


Peter

Melanie Hubber

Melanie Hubber

House of Travel Ferrymead

I am passionate about sustainable travel for the future. 

My entire career of 30 years has been in travel sales and tourism. I have travelled overseas more than a hundred times to over 70 countries and 6 continents for personal holidays, business and leisure.

I've made my home in London, Dorset, Chamonix and Auckland. I settled back in my home town of Christchurch after being away for five years. 

I love travel and how it enriches lives and provides a livelihood for people and communities around the globe. I love helping to inspire and inform clients, who care about the impact their choices have on local communities and the environment, and who want to have a great holiday. 

Sustainable doesn't mean you can't have luxury! My personal holidays always have a sense of adventure, you will find me on a beach or mountain or taking in a cultural experience to make the most of a destination. 

I personally rate train travel one of the best ways to casually explore, there's nothing I love more than checking in at a downtown railway station off to a new destination. I think travel provides new perspectives and respect for different cultures and values are par for the course. We can always find common ground when we are prepared to go out of our comfort zone. 

Why book your travel with me? I am a CLIA certified Cruise Master and dedicated to helping you with your travel plans. I have the tools and the networks available to assist with all styles of travel experiences you may be looking for. 

Mel

Best. Holidays. Ever!

Start here

Let us help you find the perfect holiday or deal. 
Here’s how to get in touch...

Subscribe

Want the insider word on all things travel?

Sign up below and be the first to hear about out hottest holiday deals, flights steals, and essential travel hints and tips from out team of travel specialists.

#houseoftravelnz

Follow us!
Consultant Consultant Consultant

Experience all things Japan