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Japan

Ancient traditions meet modern marvels

Sakura Blossom Garden Tokyo

Kon'nichiwa!

From ancient temples to neon-lit cityscapes, stepping into Japan is like stepping into another world. Imagine strolling through emerald-green bamboo forests, exploring vibrant streets alive with gleaming red shrines, and uncovering a treasure trove of kawaii curiosities that’ll have you smiling ear to ear.

Treat your tastebuds to soul-warming bowls of ramen, irresistible street eats, and indulge your inner child at magical spots like Disneyland. From tradition-rich temples to quirky pop culture and flavours you'll be dreaming about long after you've returned, Japan really does have something for every adventurer.

With insider tips from our Japan specialists, we'll help craft the magical moments and hidden gems that make a holiday truly unforgettable. Get ready to sushi-roll your way through the Land of the Rising Sun!

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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.

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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.

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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.

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Couple wearing Kimonos in Japan

Stay in a Ryokan & relax in an Onsen

A must-do experience!

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Bowls of ramen

Eat like a local

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

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Mt Fuji Sunset Japan

Best. Sunrise. Ever!

Chase the sunrise on Mt Fuji

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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.

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Ariel view of Shibuya Crossing in Japan

Experience the world’s most famous crossing

Brave the Shibuya Crossing in Tokyo!

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Two women walking in Japan

Ever dreamed of becoming a Maiko or Geisha?

Now’s your chance!

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Buddhist Temple Japan

Stay at a Buddhist temple

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

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Maree Thompson Mario-karting

Tour the streets of Tokyo in Mario-karts!

Ready for a wild ride?

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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!

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Meet our Japan specialists

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Alyssa Kane

Alyssa Kane

House of Travel Rotorua

After achieving my New Zealand Level 5 & 6 Diplomas in Travel and Tourism, I’m excited to have joined the team at House of Travel Rotorua back in December 2022 - not even Covid could derail my dreams of becoming a travel consultant.  

My years of studying and my personal experience of travelling to Australia on family holidays has fuelled my passion for creating unforgettable holidays. I spend my days designing holidays within New Zealand, Australia, the South Pacific and Asia, and I absolutely love arranging cruise holidays. Working with you to create your perfect getaway is what I enjoy the most, so bring me your dream holiday, and we can build it together! Leave me to focus on the details, so that you can relax and have your best adventure yet!

Alyssa
David Williams

David Williams

House of Travel Christchurch City

In the 28 years of owning House of Travel Christchurch City, I have successfully developed a passionate and award-winning team of travel specialists. Our holiday specialists can take you to the destinations that you have dreamed of and let you know inside information that will enrich your travel experience.  The highly experienced business travel division will exceed your expectations leaving no stone unturned to ensure a seamless travel experience every time. We also have a fantastic HOT Events team that can take care of your conference, team building or any event requirement you might have from a planned dinner event to incentive or recognition programme.

From my beginnings in customer sales and service, travelling to over 60 countries, my primary focus is overseeing all divisions, and growing our every popular Sporting Events Programmes.  A highlight is delivering a highly successful games campaigns with our New Zealand Olympic Travel team.  This includes all New Zealand Team Athlete Travel to providing a family and friends programme as well as a world class corporate offering for sponsors.

I am however most proud of the team for us being awarded three top awards at the National Travel Industry Awards - Best Retail Travel Agency in New Zealand, Best Travel Consultant in New Zealand, Best Groups Team in New Zealand.

Great holidays are made better together with the House of Travel Christchurch City team.

David
Namrata Patel

Namrata Patel

House of Travel Hobsonville

Hi, I’m Namrata — a travel consultant who genuinely cares about your time, your budget, and your hopes for that memorable holiday. I love turning travel ideas into something real and unforgettable. For me, building an itinerary is like solving a puzzle — shaped by your interests, personality, and sense of adventure.

I’m research-driven and love digging into the details that make a trip special. Whether it’s tricky airfares, island-hopping cruises, or crafting meaningful family journeys, I’m here for it.

Travel is never one-size-fits-all, and I look forward to discovering your unique travel style.
Every trip starts with a good chat — let’s start there.

Namrata

Cherry McGovern

Cherry McGovern

House of Travel Mount Maunganui

Having worked in the Travel Industry for 9 years and counting, I am incredibly passionate about detail and no trip is too small!

I have lived in London & Perth, both opening destinations for me to explore! My favourite trips to date were Greece and Thailand. 

Every part of the process excites me, from simple flights, group holidays, to your bucket list trips! 

I enjoy getting to know my clients and I understand that no detail is too small and warm prompt service is key to delivering great customer experiences.

Cherry

Customer holidays snaps

Best. Japan Holidays. Ever!

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