Okinawa is a unique part of Japan, completely different to any other part of the country. For centuries, the Ryukyu Kingdom was the crossroads of many cultures as they passed through on their trading routes and this influence has made the local culture here unlike anything else your clients may have experienced on any previous trips to Japan.

Japanese people have a strong appreciation of the changing seasons, cherry blossoms in particular have been deeply loved since ancient times. Whilst cherry blossom season is a standout in Tokyo there are highlights throughout the year showcasing other blooms and foliage events.

Kyoto City, the former capital of Japan with over a millennium of history, is the place to discover the origins of many cultural Japanese practices. Traditional arts co-exist with modern lifestyle and thrive. Kyoto-City has certified guides expert in a range of disciplines who are waiting to share their insights into Japan’s cultural capital with visitors.

Research has been showing that when leisure travel resumes to Japan the luxury market will be seeking authentic cultural experiences like never before.

When travel returns Tokyo is ready and waiting with a staggering range of new accommodation options. In 2020 an incredible 80+ new hotels opened in the capital hoping to welcome international guests for the Tokyo 2020 Olympic and Paralympic Games. Add to this, 50 additional new hotels in 2021, not to mention the hotel upgrades and renovations which are too numerous to mention.

Tokyo is a vast megalopolis celebrated for its seamless fusion of innovation with tradition. A city of contrasts and so many facets to explore, from world-class modern architecture and ancient cultural sights to unforgettable dining experiences.

Tokyo Tourism has launched two new modules of the Tokyo Tourism Expert program focused on luxury experiences and the Preferred Hotels & Resorts portfolio.

Six Senses Hotels Resorts Spas has revealed plans to open its first property in Japan in 2024. Six Senses Kyoto will be an urban sanctuary set in front of the Myoho-in temple and Tokyokuni-Jinja shrine and within walking distance of the Gion district.

Viking has opened for sale a selection of ocean cruises in Asia, Australia, New Zealand and Alaska departing up to April 2024, offered aboard Viking Orion.

LXR Hotels & Resorts – one of three luxury brands within the Hilton portfolio – has officially debuted in Asia Pacific this week with the opening of ROKU KYOTO. The property also represents Hilton’s inaugural property in Kyoto, Japan.

PONANT has released a new brochure for Australia and New Zealand focused on Luxury Expeditions for 2022 and 2023. The guide features an atlas of destinations and discovery of some of the company’s most exceptional itineraries, from the polar cap to the outback.

Japan National Tourism Organization (JNTO) will launch a 2021 virtual roadshow, kicking off in November. The roadshow will consist of two specially crafted virtual events, designed to connect agents and wholesalers with local suppliers to better equip them with the tools to sell Japan, once international travel resumes.