Wander through elegant Kyoto visiting ancient temples and quirky moss gardens, bamboo fields, character-filled neighbourhoods and bustling markets.

Keep the kids engaged by investigating Japanese pop culture, traditional tea ceremonies, origami lessons, sushi-making or a samurai class!

Ride along rugged coastline and rice paddies, through traditional towns and verdant farmland. The Noto Peninsula and Yamanaka are the best places to combine exceptional biking with wabi sabi.

Use food as a lens to understand the rich mosaic of contemporary and time-honoured Japan. In the countryside a traditional yukata celebrates the local; in Tokyo, Michelin-star restaurants crowd the landscape.

With an incomparable perspective on the city and a singular, moat-side setting across from the Imperial Palace gardens, the Palace Hotel is a haven of hospitality—serene and refined and imbued with understated luxury throughout.View hotel website »

Overlooking the Kamo River, The Ritz Carlton sits on a site favoured by Japanese nobility since the 17th century. Rooms feature traditional Kyoto aesthetics and sophisticated elegance. A Michelin-starred restaurant graces the property. View hotel website »

In its own bay at the tip of the Noto Peninsula, Lamp no Yado has remained faithful to traditional Japanese heritage while also incorporating luxury elements. The ryokan is famous for its many natural hot baths and spa, all contained within an absolutely serene environment.  View hotel website »