🍂Falling🍂 in love with Japan

High season is approaching in Japan, which means there’s no better time to enjoy the perfect weather, fall foliage, and a whole host of activities. Our experts have selected their top 5 favorite things to do and see to help you make the most of your time, travel style, in the land of the rising sun this fall.

1

Private pop culture tour of Tokyo

Immerse yourself in Tokyo’s vibrant pop culture on a guided tour through three distinct neighbourhoods. Start in the bustling Shibuya area, home to the famous Hachiko Statue and the legendary Scramble Crossing, then wander the narrow streets of Center Gay filled with boutiques, manga cafés and quirky landmarks perfect for taking selfies. Next, explore pedestrian-friendly Harajuku and Cat Streets, where candy shops and colorful fashions await. End up in Akihabara (also known as Electric Town), home of electronics, anime and gaming culture.

2

Traditional tea ceremony

Step into a world of serenity with a tea ceremony at a traditional Machia house. There you’ll settle on tatami mats while your host explains the art of preparing and serving tea, a ritual rooted in Zen philosophy. You’ll discover the meaning behind each graceful movement, learn about the different tools and varieties of tea, and experience first-hand how this ancient practice reflects Japanese attentiveness and hospitality.

3

The ultimate ramen experience

Meet your guide in Tokyo and set out to discover one of the highlights of the city’s food culture: ramen. One of the best places to do this is Shinjuku where you’ll visit some of our experts’ favorite local ramen spots, each specializing in their own style, and enjoy steaming dishes along the way. You’ll also learn about ramen’s roots as a working-class food and why these simple restaurants are celebrated for their flavor over their decor. Hungry to learn more about ramen itself? Get your fill with this quick read of some of our favorite soups.

4

Performing arts in Kyoto

Spend an evening at Gionkobo, the city’s largest entertainment district, where you’ll see a rich variety of Japanese performances including chanoyu (the art of tea making) and… Flower arrangement, accompanied by traditional Japanese music on the koto. You can also watch an ancient Bugaku dance and a Kyojin comedy show, before watching the highlight of the night: the elegant Kyoumae dance performed by Maiko, who is training to become a geisha and embarking on a career entertaining guests with dances and songs.

5

TeamLab Planet Tokyo

Finally, our experts recommend making time to visit teamLab Planets Tokyo: a museum with stunning art installations and vast, immersive spaces. Here you’ll find immersive experiences like walking barefoot in the water as colorful koi fish swim beneath you, turning into flowers as they walk, exploring a limitless crystal world, wandering among a floating flower garden filled with blooms, and more. And with so many interactive exhibits to discover, this is more than just a visit…it’s an hours-long sensory journey.

From the vibrant city streets to the timeless celebrations, Japan in autumn is an experience like no other. These activities are some of our favorites but there are so many more out there waiting to be discovered, and with fall upon us, there’s no better time to start planning an unforgettable trip.