Japan is a destination that seamlessly blends ancient traditions with modern luxury, making it a perfect choice for discerning travellers. In this extensive guide to luxury Japan tours we go beyond sightseeing so you experience the very best of Japan. We’ll explore some of the most exclusive accommodations in five-star hotels and ryokans to private guided tours of iconic landmarks. Every detail comes together in this incredible companion resource that showcases only the very best of Japan.
Must-See Places
Japan is known for its incredible mix of natural beauty, cultural heritage, and modern marvels. Therefore, we recommend you add Tokyo, Hiroshima, Osaka, Miyajima, Kyoto, Hokkaido, Mt. Fuji, Kinosaki Onsen, Nara and Yamanashi to your tour of Japan. So without further ado here are just some of the must-see places and attractions you’ll want to visit;
Featured Destinations
Tokyo – Timeless tradition, modern luxury
It is a place where centuries-old traditions exist quietly alongside some of the most advanced urban experiences in the world. For those arriving for the first time, Tokyo can feel vast, but with the right guidance, it reveals itself as deeply ordered, intuitive, and remarkably welcoming.
View our Best of Tokyo Travel Guide
Key Highlights
Privately guided visit to the Meiji Shrine and its forested grounds
Explore traditional neighbourhoods such as Asakusa alongside modern districts like Ginza
Sushi omakase experiences
Refined kaiseki dining showcasing seasonal ingredients
Hakone – Tranquillity, Nature, and Timeless Japanese Retreats
A natural contrast to Tokyo, Hakone offers a slower, more restorative pace centred around mountain landscapes, traditional hospitality, and immersive cultural experiences. It is here that many first-time travellers begin to truly unwind, where the focus shifts from seeing to feeling Japan.
Key Highlights
Stay in a traditional ryokan, featuring tatami rooms and personalised service
Private or in-room onsen (hot spring) bathing with views of the surrounding landscape
Visit the Hakone Open-Air Museum, blending sculpture and nature in a unique outdoor setting
Scenic cruise across Lake Ashi, with views of Mount Fuji on clear days
Kyoto-Cultural Heart of Japan
Kyoto offers a deeper, more contemplative experience of Japan, where centuries-old traditions are preserved in temples, gardens, and quiet streets. For first-time visitors, it is the city that brings meaning and context to everything you’ve seen, best explored at a relaxed pace with expert guidance.
Key Highlights
Guided visits to iconic sites such as Kinkaku-ji, Fushimi Inari Shrine and the spectacular Arashiyama Bamboo Grove
Walk through the historic Gion district with insight into geisha culture
Privately hosted tea ceremony in a traditional setting
Cultural workshops including calligraphy, ceramics, or kimono experiences
Osaka – Culinary Energy and Vibrant Cityscape
Osaka is known for its welcoming atmosphere and exceptional food culture. It offers a more informal contrast to Kyoto, while still delivering high-end dining and memorable experiences.
Key Highlights
Explore the lively streets of Dotonbori and Osaka’s entertainment districts
Visit Osaka Castle for a glimpse into Japan’s feudal history
Private food-focused tour showcasing Osaka’s renowned culinary scene
Premium wagyu dining and refined local specialities
Nara – A Gentle Glimpse into Japan’s Ancient Origins
Nara offers a quieter, more contemplative contrast to Kyoto—where Japan’s early history is preserved in open parklands, grand temples, and a slower, more reflective pace. For first-time visitors, it provides a meaningful connection to the country’s cultural foundations, without the intensity of larger cities.
Key Highlights
Visit Todai-ji Temple, home to the Great Buddha and one of Japan’s most significant historical sites
Stroll through Nara Park, known for its freely roaming deer and expansive grounds
Explore traditional shrines and heritage sites with expert guidance
Curated lunch featuring regional Japanese cuisine
Hiroshima & Miyajima – History, Perspective, and Island Serenity
Hiroshima is a destination that leaves a lasting impression, not through grandeur, but through meaning. It is a city that has been thoughtfully rebuilt, where moments of reflection sit alongside a calm, modern energy. Paired with the nearby island of Miyajima, it offers a journey that blends historical depth with natural beauty and quiet spiritual atmosphere.
Key Highlights
Visit the Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park, a powerful space dedicated to remembrance and peace
Explore the Atomic Bomb Dome, a UNESCO World Heritage-listed site and enduring symbol of history
Guided visit to the Peace Memorial Museum for deeper historical understanding
Ferry excursion to Itsukushima Shrine, known for its iconic “floating" torii gate
Local dining featuring refined regional cuisine, including Hiroshima-style specialities such as okonomiyaki
Cherry Blossom Viewing
Cherry blossom season is one of Japan’s most iconic experiences. However, peak bloom can be elusive, personalised itineraries are the best way to experience this natural wonder in style.
personalised itineraries are the best way to experience this natural wonder in style.
Kyoto – Maruyama Park: stunning views and private guided tours of nearby temples like Yasaka Shrine and Kiyomizu-dera. Philosopher’s Path: Scenic, tree-lined path along the canal take a private walking tour or a serene boat ride to view the blossoms from the water.
Tokyo – Shinjuku Gyoen: A sprawling garden in the heart of Tokyo with over 1,000 cherry trees. Private garden tour features traditional Japanese landscaping and teahouses. Chidorigafuchi: Located near the Imperial Palace, a tree-lined moat with cherry blossoms. Private rowboat rental available to view the blossoms.
Hakone – Gora Park : Known for its stunning cherry blossoms against a backdrop of beautiful natural scenery. Stay at a luxury ryokan to combine cherry blossom viewing with hot spring relaxation. Lake Ashi: Enjoy cherry blossoms with Mount Fuji as a backdrop. Private boat tours or lakeside dining are available.
Osaka – Osaka Castle Park: Filled with over 3,000 cherry trees, making it a spectacular place for Hanami. Afterward, take a private guided tour through the castle and its park, followed by a gourmet picnic.
Hokkaido – Matsumae Park: Located in the northernmost region of Japan, Hokkaido’s cherry blossoms bloom in late April to early May. The park features over 10,000 cherry trees. Private excursions to nearby hot springs and stays in upscale ryokans add an extra layer of comfort.
Kanazawa – Kenrokuen Garden: One of Japan’s Three Great Gardens—stunning during cherry blossom season. Guided tours that delve into the garden’s history. Personalised photography sessions available.
Hot Springs
A visit to Japan isn’t complete without relaxing in an onsen. Accordingly, luxury ryokans in places like Hakone and Kinosaki Onsen offer serene hot spring escapes with private baths and unparalleled service.
- Hakone – Gora Kadan: A former imperial villa turned into a luxurious ryokan, Gora Kadan offers modern elegance with traditional Japanese hospitality. Guests enjoy private onsen baths, stunning garden views, and kaiseki dining in an exclusive, serene setting.
- Kowakien Ten-yu: Luxury ryokan in Hakone features rooms with private open-air hot springs, stunning mountain views and Japanese-Western fusion dining. It offers a seamless blend of relaxation and natural beauty.
- Kinosaki – Nishimuraya Honkan: A historical ryokan in Kinosaki Onsen, Nishimuraya Honkan offers traditional elegance with modern comforts. Guests enjoy private onsen baths, beautifully landscaped gardens, and multi-course kaiseki meals, all delivered with impeccable service.
- Nishimuraya Hotel Shogetsutei: Located in a tranquil forest, this luxury ryokan combines traditional Japanese design with contemporary luxury. It offers private onsen, spacious rooms, and gourmet dining, making it perfect for a serene and indulgent onsen retreat.
For those wanting to delve further into this incredibly beneficial and satisfying Japanese bathing tradition, we recommend checking out our guide to the best onsens in Japan.
Tokyo Disneyland & DisneySea
Tokyo Disneyland and DisneySea offer magical experiences for travellers of all ages in a way that makes them truly special. Enjoy VIP access, exclusive guided tours, and priority entry to the most popular attractions. Tokyo Disneyland captures the classic Disney magic, while DisneySea, offers a nautical theme with breathtaking design and thrilling rides. Luxury travellers, enjoy personalised itineraries, private dining, and premium seating for parades by arrangement to these world-renowned parks.
Tokyo Tower & Skytree
Tokyo Tower is a 333-metre structure inspired by the Eiffel Tower, offering panoramic views of the city from its observation decks. It also features restaurants and shops. Tokyo Skytree, standing at 634 metres, is the tallest structure in Japan, with observation decks providing breathtaking views of Tokyo. It also includes shopping, dining, and an aquarium at its base.
Bullet Train (Shinkansen)
The Shinkansen, or Bullet Train, is Japan’s high-speed rail network, reaching speeds of up to 320 km/h (200 mph). It connects major cities like Tokyo, Kyoto, and Osaka, offering a fast, efficient, and comfortable travel experience. First-class “Green Car" and premium “Gran Class" options provide added luxury and comfort for travellers.
Snow Monkey Park
Notably, Snow Monkey Park, officially known as Jigokudani Monkey Park, located in Nagano Prefecture and famous for its population of wild Japanese macaques, or snow monkeys. The snow monkeys bathe in the park’s natural hot springs, especially during the winter months. The park offers visitors the chance to observe the monkeys up close in their natural habitat.
Things to Do
Japan’s rich culture and world-class cuisine offer the perfect balance of adventure and relaxation. All activities are carefully curated to provide you with exclusive and unforgettable experiences.
Luxury Rail Tours
Experience Japan in comfort and style with first-class rail journeys aboard the iconic Shinkansen and Seven Stars in Kyushu. The Shinkansen, known for its speed and efficiency, offers premium Green Car and Gran Class seating. Experience it’s spacious cabins and attentive service as you travel between cities like Tokyo, Kyoto, and Osaka.
Alternatively, for an even more exclusive experience, the Seven Stars in Kyushu delivers a luxurious, multi-day journey through Kyushu. See Kyushu’s scenic landscapes in private cabin comfort and gourmet dining. Ask about their curated excursions. Both options ensure breathtaking views, impeccable service, and a travel experience that is both seamless and indulgent.
Exclusive Walking Tours
Immerse yourself in Japan’s rich history and vibrant culture with one of many private walking tours designed for luxury travellers. Explore Kyoto’s famous Higashiyama District, home to the iconic Kiyomizu-dera Temple and charming, narrow streets lined with traditional teahouses. In Tokyo, visit the bustling Tsukiji Outer Market for an exclusive culinary tour. Or stroll through the historic Asakusa district, home to the renowned Senso-ji Temple.
Gain insider access to hidden gems, secret gardens, and lesser-known temples, while avoiding the crowds with expert personal guides. Each one of these bespoke walking tours provide you with a deeper connection to Japan’s heritage.
Coach Tours
- Abercrombie & Kent: offers bespoke, small-group luxury tours of Japan, including first-class coach transport, equipped with modern amenities. Moreover, each tour focuses on exclusive experiences, such as private tea ceremonies, guided temple and gardens tours, and Michelin-starred dining.
- Tauck: provides upscale, all-inclusive tours through Japan with a focus on cultural immersion and comfort. Their luxury coach tours include visits to top destinations like Tokyo, Kyoto, and Hiroshima. Enjoy exclusive experiences like a private geisha performance and a visit to the iconic Mt. Fuji.
- Artisans of Leisure: Tailor-made, luxury journeys through Japan, combining the convenience of coach travel with personalised, high-end experiences. Their tours focus on luxury accommodations, private tours of cultural sites, and curated experiences. Enjoy exclusive access to traditional art performances and sake tasting.
- Inside Japan Tours: Offers high-end, small-group tours designed for luxury travellers. While not solely coach-based, they provide deluxe transportation, often using private vehicles for small groups. These tours focus on comfort, privacy, and access to off-the-beaten-path locations with personalised guides.
- APT: APT coach tours offer travellers an enriching, comfortable journey through Japan’s iconic destinations. Passengers experience the culture, history, and beauty of cities like Tokyo, Kyoto, and Hiroshima. Expert guides, premium accommodations, and modern, well-appointed coaches. APT ensures comfort and an immersive, worry-free exploration of Japan’s vibrant landscapes and heritage.
Sake Tasting and Noodle Making
Elevate your culinary experience in Japan with exclusive sake tastings and intimate, hands-on cooking classes led by expert chefs. Visit renowned sake breweries such as Gekkeikan Okura Sake Museum in Kyoto or Dassai Brewery in Yamaguchi. These private tastings reveal the intricacies of Japan’s iconic rice wine.
For a truly unique culinary experience, join a master chef in a noodle-making class in Tokyo or Sapporo. Learn to create traditional soba or ramen from scratch. Indulge in the finest local flavours, from delicate sashimi in coastal towns to kaiseki, Japan’s exquisite multi-course meal, deepening your appreciation for Japan’s world-renowned cuisine.
Why a Guided Luxury Tour Is the Smartest Way to Experience Japan
Rather than managing the details yourself, your focus remains exactly where it should be, experiencing Japan. A carefully curated small-group luxury tour removes the uncertainty entirely, allowing you to experience the country with ease, depth, and confidence.
You benefit from:
- Fully coordinated travel across Japan’s key regions
- Hand-selected luxury accommodation in prime locations
- Expert English-speaking guides throughout
- Exclusive cultural experiences not easily arranged independently
- Seamless logistics so your journey flows effortlessly
We specialise in carefully curated Japan itineraries and premium small-group tours designed specifically for first-time visitors who value comfort, structure, and quality at every stage of their journey. Availability on the most desirable departures is limited, particularly during peak cherry blossom and autumn seasons, and is often secured months in advance.
Speak with a travel specialist at FirstClass.com.au to explore tailored options and secure your preferred travel dates with confidence.
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Classic Japan Experiences
Geisha Culture
Immerse yourself in Japan’s rich cultural heritage with experiences designed exclusively for luxury travellers. Participate in a private tea ceremony at a traditional tea house in Kyoto’s Gion District, a historic area known for its well-preserved architecture and ties to the geisha culture. For a rare glimpse into this centuries-old art form, enjoy an exclusive geisha performance in Kanazawa’s Higashi Chaya District or at a private dinner in Kyoto. These performances, featuring graceful dances, traditional music, and conversations with geisha, offer a window into Japan’s elegant past. Each experience is personalised to provide an intimate connection to Japan’s time-honoured traditions, ensuring your journey is unforgettable.
Sumo Training Stables
A visit to a sumo training stable offers an immersive glimpse into one of Japan’s oldest and most respected traditions. Visitors can observe the rigorous routines and dedication required of sumo wrestlers. Sumo wrestlers engage in intense physical conditioning and practise ancient techniques under the watchful guidance of their coaches. Mornings start early, with wrestlers honing their skills and discipline through drills and practice matches. This unique experience provides insight into Japan’s cultural heritage, revealing the blend of strength, respect, and ritual at the heart of the sumo lifestyle.
Temples
Home to UNESCO World Heritage sites and ancient temples, Nara offers a peaceful retreat for luxury travellers. Visit Todai-ji Temple and the famous Nara Park with a private guide, ensuring a tranquil experience away from the crowds. Stay in boutique accommodations that provide an intimate connection to Japan’s rich history.
Parks and Gardens
Discover the breathtaking beauty of Japan’s parks and gardens, where traditional landscapes come to life in serene, meticulously designed environments. With exclusive access, luxury travellers can enjoy peaceful, off-the-beaten-path spots without the crowds. Stroll through Kyoto’s tranquil Kenrokuen Garden, renowned for its perfect balance of natural elements, or explore the serene ponds and bridges of Shinjuku Gyoen in Tokyo.
For those seeking hidden gems, visit Korakuen Garden in Okayama or the picturesque Ritsurin Garden in Takamatsu. Each of these spaces offers a harmonious blend of nature and art, creating the ultimate tranquil escape.
Here are the top 10 parks and gardens in Japan:
- Kenrokuen Garden – in Kanazawa is one of Japan’s most beautiful landscape gardens. Known for its stunning seasonal views, meticulously designed ponds, bridges, and traditional teahouses, offering a tranquil escape year-round.
- Kiyosumi Teien – in Tokyo is a serene traditional Japanese garden featuring meticulously landscaped ponds, stone paths, and beautifully arranged rocks, offering visitors a peaceful retreat from the bustling city surroundings.
- Ritsurin Garden – in Takamatsu is a beautifully landscaped, historic garden featuring tranquil ponds, arched bridges, and lush greenery, offering visitors stunning views of Mount Shiun and a peaceful, immersive experience of traditional Japanese design.
- Korakuen Garden – in Okayama is one of Japan’s most renowned landscape gardens, known for its spacious lawns, scenic ponds, and stunning seasonal views, providing a tranquil escape with views of Okayama Castle.
- Shinjuku Gyoen – in Tokyo is a sprawling, peaceful garden blending Japanese, French, and English landscape styles, featuring beautiful cherry blossoms in spring, serene ponds, and lush greenery, offering an urban escape.
- Sankeien Garden – in Yokohama is a traditional Japanese garden featuring historic buildings, picturesque ponds, and seasonal blooms. It offers a serene atmosphere with beautiful views of pagodas, teahouses, and walking paths.
- Kokedera (Moss Temple Garden) – in Kyoto is a tranquil, UNESCO-listed garden known for its lush, green moss-covered landscape, serene ponds, and ancient temples, offering a peaceful and meditative experience for visitors.
- Adachi Museum of Art Gardens – The in Shimane is renowned for its meticulously designed landscapes, blending art and nature with beautiful seasonal views. The gardens complement the museum’s impressive collection of Japanese art.
- Hamarikyu Gardens – in Tokyo is a beautifully landscaped park featuring tidal ponds, traditional teahouses, and seasonal flower displays, offering a tranquil retreat amidst the bustling city, with views of the Tokyo skyline.
- Nijo Castle Gardens – in Kyoto surround the historic Nijo Castle, featuring beautifully landscaped ponds, carefully manicured trees, and stone pathways, offering a serene and scenic complement to the castle’s impressive architecture and cultural significance.
Restaurants and Nightlife
Step out and indulge your senses in Japan’s renowned Michelin-starred dining, where luxury travellers can experience world-class cuisine. Tokyo alone boasts over 200 Michelin-starred restaurants, including the famed Sukiyabashi Jiro, known for its exceptional sushi, and Narisawa, celebrated for its innovative fusion of French and Japanese techniques. In Kyoto, enjoy kaiseki at Kikunoi, or in Osaka, savour fine dining at Hajime. For a modern twist, Den in Tokyo offers a playful take on traditional Japanese dishes.
After dining, immerse yourself in Japan’s vibrant nightlife. Visit Tokyo’s upscale Roppongi district, the neon-lit streets of Shibuya, or the intimate cocktail bars in Ginza. For a more local experience, explore Dotonbori in Osaka or Kyoto’s Pontocho Alley. Private bar tours with expert sommeliers offer exclusive access to hidden bars and the finest Japanese whiskies, ensuring an unforgettable evening of luxury and entertainment.
Top 5 Nightlife Hotspots:
- Roppongi – in Tokyo is known for its upscale and vibrant nightlife scene. Luxury venues include Roku Roku, an elegant sushi bar at The Ritz-Carlton, Mori Art Museum’s Sky Lounge, offering stunning city views, and R2 Supperclub, a chic cocktail lounge with live music.
- Shibuya – in Tokyo is a lively nightlife district blending trendy and upscale venues. Luxury options include Cerulean Tower’s Bellovisto Bar, offering panoramic city views, Ishinohana, a stylish cocktail bar, and Kaikaya, an upscale seafood restaurant with a creative fusion menu.
- Ginza – in Tokyo is renowned for its upscale nightlife, offering elegant bars and fine dining. Luxury venues include Bar High Five, a world-class cocktail bar, Ginza Kojyu, a Michelin-starred kaiseki restaurant, and The Bar at the Peninsula, known for its refined ambiance and premium drinks.
- Dotonbori in Osaka is a vibrant nightlife area known for its neon lights and lively atmosphere. Luxury venues include Bar Nayuta, a sophisticated cocktail bar, Hariju, a renowned high-end sukiyaki restaurant, and Zuboraya, famous for its premium fugu dining experience.
- Pontocho Alley – in Kyoto is a narrow, historic street offering an elegant nightlife experience. Luxury venues include Kappo Sakamoto for refined kaiseki dining, Pontocho Kaburenjo Theatre for exclusive geisha performances, and Mizai, a Michelin-starred restaurant offering seasonal Japanese cuisine.
Top 5 Restaurants:
- Sukiyabashi Jiro – in Tokyo is a world-renowned, Michelin-starred sushi restaurant led by master chef Jiro Ono. Offering an unforgettable, omakase-style dining experience, this exclusive 10-seat venue is famous for its impeccable sushi craftsmanship and precision.
- Narisawa – in Tokyo is a Michelin-starred restaurant renowned for its innovative blend of Japanese and French cuisine. Chef Yoshihiro Narisawa’s seasonal tasting menu focuses on sustainability and nature, offering a unique and artistic dining experience.
- Kikunoi – in Kyoto is a Michelin-starred restaurant specialising in traditional kaiseki dining. Led by chef Yoshihiro Murata, Kikunoi offers exquisitely crafted, multi-course meals that highlight seasonal ingredients, combining artful presentation with a deep respect for Japanese culinary traditions.
- Hajime – in Osaka is a Michelin three-star restaurant renowned for its exceptional fine dining experience. Led by chef Hajime Yoneda, the restaurant offers innovative, artfully presented dishes that blend French cuisine with Japanese philosophy and seasonal ingredients.
- Den – in Tokyo is a Michelin-starred restaurant offering a creative and playful take on modern Japanese cuisine. Chef Zaiyu Hasegawa crafts inventive dishes with a personal touch, blending humour, seasonal ingredients, and impeccable culinary technique.
Luxury Accommodation
Hotels
Japan boasts an array of luxurious accommodations, from modern five-star hotels in bustling cities to traditional ryokans in tranquil settings. Each of these luxury hotels offers a distinct experience, capturing Japan’s blend of modern sophistication and deep cultural heritage. They’re ideal for travellers seeking exclusive amenities, refined service, and immersive local touches.
- The Ritz-Carlton, Kyoto — Nestled along the Kamogawa River, The Ritz-Carlton Kyoto embodies elegance with its Zen-inspired design and riverside views. Guests are treated to impeccable service, Michelin-starred dining, and luxurious rooms that reflect Kyoto’s cultural heritage, making it a top choice for discerning travellers.
- Park Hyatt Tokyo — Located in Shinjuku, Park Hyatt Tokyo gained fame through the film Lost in Translation and offers iconic views of Tokyo and Mount Fuji. With its world-class spa, rooftop pool, and refined dining, it’s a sophisticated retreat for those seeking luxury and panoramic city views.
- Amanemu – Shima — Amanemu in Ise-Shima National Park offers a peaceful escape with its hot spring onsen and suites overlooking Ago Bay. Combining traditional Japanese ryokan style with modern luxury, it provides wellness-focused experiences and exclusive access to the natural beauty of the region.
- HOSHINOYA Kyoto — Accessible by a scenic boat ride along the Oi River, HOSHINOYA Kyoto is a luxurious riverside ryokan offering traditional Japanese hospitality. Its spacious rooms, beautiful garden views, and seasonal kaiseki dining make it an immersive experience of Kyoto’s beauty and culture.
- The Peninsula Tokyo — Overlooking the Imperial Palace gardens, The Peninsula Tokyo combines modern luxury with Japanese art and design. Known for spacious rooms, world-class dining, and exceptional service, it’s a prime choice for travellers wanting luxury accommodations near Tokyo’s Ginza district.
- Four Seasons Hotel Kyoto — Set in Kyoto’s historic Higashiyama district, this Four Seasons hotel features a beautiful pond garden, tranquil spa, and luxurious accommodations. With its blend of contemporary and traditional design, it offers an elegant sanctuary close to Kyoto’s ancient temples and shrines.
- Conrad Osaka — Located in the heart of Osaka, Conrad Osaka offers breathtaking views of the city from its floor-to-ceiling windows. Known for its stylish design, art collections, and vibrant dining options, it brings a chic, modern touch to luxury in Osaka.
- Hoshinoya Tokyo — A modern take on the traditional ryokan, HOSHINOYA Tokyo provides a unique experience in the city’s Otemachi district. The hotel’s tatami-matted rooms, rooftop onsen, and meticulously crafted Japanese meals create an immersive cultural escape in the heart of Tokyo.
- Mandarin Oriental Tokyo — Located in Nihonbashi, the Mandarin Oriental Tokyo is known for its award-winning dining, sophisticated design, and stunning skyline views. With luxurious rooms, a holistic spa, and proximity to Tokyo’s best shopping and dining, it’s a perfect blend of tradition and modern elegance.
Flights
Several international airlines continue to offer premium first-class or luxury long-haul services through Japan’s major airports, especially Narita International Airport (NRT), Haneda Airport (HND), and Kansai International Airport (KIX).
- Singapore Airlines – Singapore Airlines continues to operate its renowned First Class and Suites products on select routes, including flights connecting Tokyo with Singapore and onward destinations in Europe, Australia, and North America. Availability depends on aircraft type and route.
- Emirates — Emirates offers First Class service from Tokyo Narita and Osaka Kansai via Dubai, with onward connections to Europe, the Middle East, Africa, and the Americas. Its flagship First Class Suites remain available on select Boeing 777 and Airbus A380 aircraft.
- Qatar Airways — Qatar Airways does not currently offer traditional international First Class on most Japan routes, but its award-winning Qsuite Business Class is available from Tokyo and Osaka, providing a highly premium transit experience to destinations worldwide.
- Japan Airlines (JAL) — Japan Airlines continues to offer international First Class on select long-haul routes from Tokyo Haneda, including destinations such as New York, Los Angeles, London, Paris, and Dallas. Its newer Airbus A350-1000 aircraft feature upgraded enclosed First Class suites.
- Nippon Airways (ANA) — ANA’s “The Suite" First Class remains one of the top premium products globally, available primarily on Boeing 777-300ER aircraft operating from Tokyo Haneda and Narita to cities such as New York, London, Chicago, and San Francisco.
- Cathay Pacific — Cathay Pacific still offers First Class on selected Boeing 777-300ER routes. While Hong Kong remains its main hub, travellers can connect through Japan on itineraries between Asia, North America, and Europe.
- Lufthansa — Lufthansa’s continues to operate First Class between Japan and Germany on select aircraft and routes, including Tokyo Haneda. Passengers also receive access to premium ground services such as the Lufthansa First Class Terminal in Frankfurt.
These airlines provide luxury travel experiences that may include private suites, lie-flat seating, gourmet dining, premium lounges, chauffeur services, and exclusive airport amenities for travellers transiting through Japan.
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Discover Japan Like Never Before
Japan is a destination that seamlessly blends rich traditions with modern luxury, offering a travel experience like no other. From private tours of ancient temples in Kyoto to indulging in the finest dining experiences in Tokyo, every aspect of your journey can be tailored to perfection on any number of custom Japan Tours. Whether you’re looking for a tranquil escape in a hot spring resort, a first-class culinary adventure, or an immersive cultural experience, Japan offers it all—elevated to meet the highest standards of comfort and exclusivity.
For discerning travellers seeking an unforgettable holiday, we can help you plan your luxury Japan tour with personalised itineraries, exclusive access, and world-class accommodations. We recommend booking well in advance to secure the best options. Contact the experts at Firstclass.com.au and start crafting your perfect Japan journey today.
Contact us on 1300 308 081 or
Email us at travel@FirstClass.com.au
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Frequently Asked Questions
Planning a luxury trip to Japan can raise a lot of questions, so we’ve compiled answers to some of the most common queries to help you make the most of your Luxury Japan Tour.
Absolutely. A private tour guide can offer exclusive insights, provide personalised recommendations, and ensure you experience the best of Japan’s culture and history. Luxury tours often include bilingual guides who can arrange bespoke experiences, giving you access to hidden gems and off-the-beaten-path locations.
The best times to visit are spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November). In spring, you can enjoy the cherry blossoms, while autumn offers beautiful foliage. Winter is ideal for skiing in Hokkaido and enjoying hot springs, while summer is great for festivals and coastal escapes.
The most expensive months to visit Japan are typically during cherry blossom season (late March to early April) and the New Year period. Prices for accommodation and flights can also spike in August during the Obon holiday season.
For a luxury holiday, we recommend at least 10 to 14 days. This allows enough time to explore major cities like Tokyo and Kyoto, as well as relaxing in more serene destinations such as Hakone or Hokkaido. A longer stay also ensures you can enjoy bespoke experiences without feeling rushed.
Visa requirements depend on your nationality. Citizens from many countries, including the United States, Australia, and most of Europe, can enter Japan visa-free for short stays. However, it’s best to check the latest requirements before your trip.
For luxury travellers, the Shinkansen (bullet train) offers a fast and comfortable way to travel between cities, with first-class seating available. Private transfers and chauffeured cars are also popular for a more exclusive experience, especially for airport transfers and day trips.
While there are many, Mt. Fuji remains one of Japan’s most iconic attractions. For luxury travellers, private tours and guided hikes around the base or panoramic views from exclusive hot springs make for an unforgettable experience.
Sushi is arguably Japan’s most famous dish. For a luxury experience, dine at Michelin-starred sushi restaurants where master chefs create exquisite, personalised meals. Other popular dishes include ramen, tempura, and kaiseki, which can all be enjoyed at high-end restaurants.
Japan’s ski season typically runs from December to March, with peak conditions in January and February. Hokkaido and Nagano are top destinations for luxury travellers seeking world-class slopes and après-ski in exclusive resorts.
