Konnichiwa!

Welcome to our bi-monthly newsletter, your essential guide for planning a trip to Japan.

November is the middle of Autumn, and this is a very significant time in Japanese culture – particularly as this is the harvest season and is a time of abundance and gratitude, celebrated with colourful festivals and offerings to the gods.

Autumn in Japanese is known as Aki (秋). The shared kanji symbol 紅葉 connects the specific image of the red maple tree (momiji) to the broader concept of autumn foliage (koyo), emphasising the central role of this vibrant tree in the seasonal transformation.

Momijigari means ‘hunting for autumn leaves’ and it refers to Japanese tradition of travelling to scenic spots to view the colours of the season. This pastime is second only to Hanami (hunting for Sakura or cherry blossoms), and just like the famed Spring season, there are forecasts as to when the fall leaves will begin to turn. Autumn colours start to appear first in the northernmost part of Japan in September with most regions peaking in November. Locals and tourists alike will travel throughout Japan to experience the best displays.

During this time the maple leaf reigns supreme with the Momiji symbol dominant seemingly everywhere. You will find the striking motif on every form, be it kimono, chopstick rests, as well as maple flavoured snacks. Starbucks even sell Momiji Coffee mugs and of course you can even buy maple syrup Kit Kats!

Places We Love

Kanazawa – Japan’s hidden jewel

Each edition we highlight a unique aspect of Japan that we adore. This time it’s a bit of an overlooked spot that’s too good not to talk about.

We make no secret of the fact that we are very taken with Kanazawa. Sometimes referred to as Kyoto light, Kanazawa is an intriguing alternative to Kyoto.

A modern city with a deeply traditional past, Kanazawa’s old town was spared during the Second World War bombing raids and boasts an unspoilt samurai district and the Geisha district. Then there are the spectacular Kenrokuen Gardens which are one of the top three Japanese gardens in Japan – particularly at this time of year, when its foliage exhibits the full range of autumnal tones. A short walk from these gardens, you will find the impressive Kanazawa Castle originally completed in 1583, the most recent rebuild dates back to 1881.

Modern Kanazawa is renowned for its art scene and the 21st Century Museum of Contemporary Art is a must visit.

Kanazawa is also an exceptional foodie town, boasting everything from cheap and cheerful izakaya to Michelin starred restaurants.

 We ADORE Kanazawa and highly recommend that you visit before it gets too famous.

Japan Travel Info

Free domestic flights on JAL

JAL is now offering travellers a complimentary domestic flight to any destination within Japan when booking an international flight with JAL. To take advantage of this exclusive offer, simply book your initial flight to Tokyo with Japan Airlines and simultaneously reserve your desired domestic flight.

This initiative is part of Japan’s broader strategy to combat over-tourism in the more popular cities and to distribute tourism more evenly across the country, which we think is a great initiative.

Japan Hotel News

The World’s 50 Best Hotels

These premier hotel awards were recently announced and it comes as no surprise that three of Best 50 Hotels in the World are in Japan.

Aman – No.7 - The Aman Tokyo is a ultraluxe property known for its serene atmosphere, spacious rooms, and exceptional spa services. Located in the bustling Otemachi financial district, the hotel offers a stylish and serene retreat from Tokyo’s pulsating energy.

Bvlgari Tokyo – No.22 – is the new kid on the block when it comes to luxury hotels and offers a stunning blend of Italian design and Japanese craftsmanship. It also took out the Nikka Best Hotel Award for 2024. Located in a high-rise skyscraper near Tokyo Station, the hotel features elegant rooms, a relaxing spa, and exceptional dining options. The rooftop terrace is worth a visit whether you are lucky enough to be a guest at this amazing hotel or not.

Park Hyatt Kyoto – no.27 Located in the heart of Kyoto. This beautiful property delights with its contemporary Japanese design and prime location. It offers a peaceful retreat from the city's bustling tourist scene as well as stunning views of Kyoto's rooftops, exquisite cuisine, and the chance to recharge in the hotel's tranquil Zen garden after a day of sightseeing.

Recent Hotel Openings

Edition recently added a sister property to accompany The Tokyo EDITION, Toranomon with opening of The Tokyo EDITION, Ginza. Located in the Champs-Élysées of Tokyo, this is not your typical understated Japanese abode.

The vibe is more Manhattan than Meiji as it seamlessly blends the avant-garde with traditional Japanese aesthetics and is consider the place to be seen within the creative jet-set. The hotel is intimate, sleek, sexy and uber-cool –

The Tokyo Edition Ginza fits right in with her close neighbours Cartier, Bvlgari, and Tiffany & Co. We will be dropping in for a hotel inspection next month and will report back.

Want to stay up-to-date on all things Japan travel? Subscribe to our newsletter for exclusive content and insider tips. We’ll also send you a FREE copy of The Japan Concierge Insider's Guide to Tokyo.