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Telegraph
29-04-2025
- Telegraph
Holidays to Japan have never been more popular – here's how to do it better than everyone else
Cloud-brushing skyscrapers, flashing neon and seas of salarymen. The rhythmic whisk of matcha in the stillness of a tatami mat tea room. The dancing hands of a sushi chef slicing sashimi on a cypress wood counter. Decadent quantities of world-class powder snow. Steam rising from a hot spring onsen bath. And the list goes on. Japan has long been a timeless haven of colourfully unique experiences. It's home to a spectrum of only-in-Japan moments, balancing the rich layers of its deep cultural heritage with a futuristic modern edge – whether enjoying dinner in a robot restaurant in Tokyo or slipping shoes off at the threshold of a centuries-old Zen temple. Japan's diversity is mirrored in its geography. The landscape of the scattered archipelago – a narrow vertical stretch of volcanic islands – ranges from the snow-flecked ski resorts of northernmost Hokkaido to the subtropical island gems of southern Okinawa. And it's never been more popular. Tourism is booming – as is well documented, along with a growing reports of overtourism. This, however, should not deter visitors – instead, it should inspire them to get creative and explore the many quieter, less obvious spots. For many, one timeless draw is Japan's legendary food (Tokyo alone has 170 Michelin-starred restaurants – the highest number in the world). Culinary experiences vary wildly from shiny skyscraper eateries to tiny hidden sushi counters – plus countless local restaurants specialising in a cornucopia of treats such as soba noodles, tempura, ramen, yakitori (skewered chicken) and tonkatsu (breaded pork cutlets). For others, the appeal is rooted in its aesthetics – from the modern minimalism of architect Tadao Ando's concrete buildings, to the wabi-sabi philosophy of transience and imperfection experienced in the stillness of tea rooms and Zen gardens. It was a mix of all the above (plus a sprinkling of romantic notions relating to cherry blossoms) that prompted me to swap my native London for Japan 17 years ago. After nearly two decades of living here (now based in the old kimono district of Kyoto), there is still so much more to see and learn. My itinerary does not attempt to cover everything, a near-impossible feat in two weeks. It does, however, aim to offer a curated taste of the cultural richness and diversity Japan has to offer, with the goal of creating memories that linger long after flying home – starting with Tokyo. Days 1, 2 & 3 Tokyo Find your feet in the city The first day of your trip will be occupied by an overnight flight from London to Tokyo. On arrival, after checking in at Trunk(Hotel) Cat Street, wander around Harajuku, the street fashion mecca. Soak up the rainbow-bright crowds of teenagers strolling down Takeshita Dori. Then, get a glimpse of the other side of Japan: just behind Harajuku station, roam through a wide forested path to the serene sanctuary of Meiji Jingu shrine. Next, head past the fashion flagships of tree-lined Omotesando. Pick up some Issey Miyake shopping at the northern end of Omotesando, before exploring time-capsule traditional treasures (plus the serene gardens) at the Kengo Kuma-designed Nezu Museum. Skip the city crowds If jetlag is kicking in, make the most of rising early and try to skip the crowds at Sensoji – Japan's oldest temple – wandering along its lively market walkway, in Asakusa, an atmospheric old district in eastern Tokyo. Not far away is Ueno Koen, one of the city's oldest public parks, filled with national museums, shrines, a lotus pond and quality people-watching. For a low-key detour, head a little farther east to Yanaka, one of the few neighbourhoods to have survived wartime bombing – resulting in a rare time-warp atmosphere. Stroll through its cherry-tree-filled cemetery and sip coffee in old-school cafés. Don't miss Scai the Bathhouse, one of Tokyo's best independent contemporary galleries, housed, as its name suggests, in an old sento bathhouse. Later, for dinner, head to Kyubey in Ginza for quality sushi – asking for a counter seat to watch the master chefs at work. Day 4 Kanazawa Take the bullet train Take a bullet train to the crafts-rich Hokuriku region, which hugs the Sea of Japan coastline, west of Tokyo – and in around three hours, arrive at Kanazawa. This mountain-wrapped city is a historic gem in Ishikawa prefecture, famed for its wooden architecture and quality craftsmanship. Check into the sleekly comfortable (and convenient) Hyatt Centric Kanazawa near the station, before exploring highlights, such as the historic lanes of the Higashi Chaya district and Kenroku-en, one of Japan's top-three traditional gardens. Don't miss the 21st Century Museum of Contemporary Art, with world-class exhibitions housed within clean, minimal lines of curved concrete and glass designed by architects Sanaa. Day 5 Kaga Onsen Recharge in an onsen This is often when jetlag fatigue kicks in: take a break from exploring and jump on a 45-minute train to Kaga Onsen (about halfway between Kanazawa and Kyoto), home to a hub of generations-old onsen ryokan inns. One stand-out gem is Beniya Mukayu – an innovative family-run inn that exudes a sense of stillness and beauty – through its seamless blend of ryokan heritage, intuitive omotenashi hospitality, tea culture and delicious cuisine mixed with contemporary design and art installations alongside a serene green garden. Not to forget its onsen bathing: recharge with addictively restorative soaks in its mineral-rich hot spring baths. Stay the night to wake feeling refreshed. Day 6 & 7 Kyoto The ancient city It may be famously busy, but a trip to Japan is still incomplete without a visit to the ancient city and time-capsule of traditional culture: Kyoto. Take a Thunderbird train from Kaga Onsen to Kyoto Station (around one hour 45 minutes). Despite the furore over tourist volumes, visitors tend to stick to the same places – making certain spots intensely busy, while others are refreshingly peaceful. It's worth checking out different neighbourhoods and smaller temples for a taste of local Kyoto. Staying at Aman Kyoto is a good example of this: it's located in the rural north-eastern reaches of the city, with countless local makers, temples, shrines on its doorstep (accessible via hotel bicycles). For those who prefer to be in the heart of the city, the Shinmonzen, a beautiful art-packed Tadao Ando-designed hotel, is located in geisha district Gion, which is bracingly busy – yet this hotel sits on one of the quieter streets, overlooking a serene river, making it the perfect spot to pause and recharge. See the sights A day of exploring. Rise early (to avoid the crowds) if visiting popular spots such as the Philosopher's Path, the stunning hilltop Kiyomizu-dera temple and Nijo Castle. The best way to enjoy the grid-lined lanes of Kyoto is on two wheels: hire a bicycle (Kyoto Eco Trip can deliver them to your hotel). Explore the historic green gardens at Gosho – the Imperial Palace Park – and temples which tend to be a bit quieter, such as Yoshimine-dera and Daitoku-ji. At the end of the day, treat yourself to a poetically crafted Kyoto dinner in a serene traditional setting, at the Michelin-star-worthy Kikunoi Honten. Day 8 Koya San The sacred mountain Another early start to bid Kyoto sayonara and embark for Mount Koya, one of the nation's most sacred mountains, in Wakayama prefecture. After a string of trains, take a cable car to reach the mountaintop town. Upon arrival, check into Fudo-in, one of countless local temples that take in guests. Then stroll among the exquisite temple architecture before viewing the tombstones deep in the forest at Okunoin, Japan's biggest cemetery. Back at the temple, tuck into a vegetarian Buddhist dinner. Day 9 & 10 Osaka Japan's second city Witness the monks' pre-sunrise prayers, complete with drumbeats, chanting and incense burning before a gold altar. After breakfast, head back down to earth on the cable car – and travel by train to Osaka. Heaven for foodies, Japan's second-biggest city is famed for its down-to-earth atmosphere and boisterous nightlife. It's also the setting for Osaka Expo 2025, running from April 13 to October 13. Head to Yumeshina on Osaka Bay to explore a string of international pavilions wrapped in a giant wooden ring designed by architect Sou Fujimoto (be sure to book tickets in advance). Check into the Four Seasons Osaka for a cloud-brushing taste of luxury; or Zentis Osaka for a less-pricey design hotel experience. Cookery, culture and karaoke Learn how to make Osakan street food – from okonomiyaki pancakes to udon noodles – at an Eat Osaka cookery class run by local mothers. Nakanoshima is also worth exploring – home to a growing hub of museums and culture spots. Take your pick from the Nakanoshima Museum of Art, the Museum of Oriental Ceramics and the Nakanoshima Children's Book Forest, a library designed by legendary Osakan architect Tadao Ando. In the evening, drink beer with locals in an izakaya -style pub, before letting off steam at karaoke. Day 11, 12 & 13 Naoshima Island life Next, head out to sea. Take two trains to Uno port in Kagawa prefecture, and then a private boat to Naoshima. A contemporary art mecca, this small fishing island is a textbook template of how to revitalise an ageing rural community through art. This year, the acclaimed (and ever-growing) Setouchi Triennale returns, a 100-day contemporary art festival spanning 17 islands and coastal areas, which started on April 18 ( The best place to stay is Benesse House a sleek minimal concrete space by the architect Tadao Ando. Check in for two nights before exploring the subterranean Chichu museum, with its treasured Monet Water Lilies, art installations on local wooden houses, and the abstract rock installations in the Lee Ufan Museum. Remote beaches and rural creativity Hop on a local ferry to neighbouring island Teshima. Here, hire an electric bicycle at the port and cycle across the hilly rural landscape, soaking up the creative atmosphere – from the minimal white Teshima Art Museum, inspired by a drop of water, to Christian Boltanski's installation on a remote beach where visitors can record their own heartbeat. Return to Naoshima and finish up with a muscle-warming soak at I Love Yu, a kitsch bathhouse in Miyanoura Port. Art experiences Take a ferry back to Takamatsu Port. Next stop: Isamu Noguchi Garden Museum. It was in the tiny village of Mure that the sculptor built his home and studio, both painstakingly preserved – in a beautiful natural setting (an advance appointment is essential). Take a 20-minute train ride to Furutakamatsu Minami and a 10-minute taxi, before being escorted through the intimately scattered abstract artworks. Head to Takamatsu airport and fly to Tokyo Haneda. For a final touch of luxury, check into the Palace Hotel, which fuses contemporary comforts and quality design with legendary hospitality, in a prime location overlooking the Imperial Palace moat. Day 14 Tokyo Final farewell Request a table on the terrace for your final breakfast (looking out for passing swans). If you have time, enjoy some last-minute shopping – from the boutiques and flagships of Omotesando to the department stores of Ginza. Fly back to UK. When to go Autumn is perhaps the best time of the year to visit, with mild weather, blue skies and vivid landscapes of fiery-leafed trees. From late December and early January, temperatures drop – making it a good time to head to a northern ski resort or south for some Okinawan winter sunshine. Spring brings the iconic cherry blossom season (and lots of crowds). Golden Week around May is best avoided as it's so busy. July and August are uncomfortably hot and humid in Tokyo and Kyoto – making it a good time to escape to the cooler green mountains of northern Japan. What to book Local specialists Among the best independent Japan travel specialists is InsideJapan (0117 409 4908; with its vast network of contacts and expertise for all budgets. It offers a 14-day Ultimate Japan cultural adventure costing £3,711pp (excluding flights). The trip passes through Tokyo, Kanazawa, Kaga Onsen, Kyoto, Naoshima and Osaka, with the price including 13 nights accommodation, transport, some private guiding and experiences such as tea ceremony and a street food tour. Blow the budget At the more luxury end of the spectrum, Black Tomato (0207 426 9888; can curate a high-end bespoke itinerary from £60,000 for a group of four people (excluding flights), including top accommodation (including Benesse House on Naoshima and Beniya Mukayu), a string of curated experiences and private guiding. On a budget Japan Journeys (020 8064 2771; offers Japan Arts Revealed, a 10-night self-guided tour tailored for lovers of arts and crafts, with visits to Tokyo, Kyoto, Kurashiki, Naoshima, Fukuoka and Arita, including B&B accommodation and a seven-day rail pass (excluding international flights), from £1,595pp.
South China Morning Post
18-04-2025
- Business
- South China Morning Post
Hong Kong pharmacy joins Russell Street retail scene to capitalise on rent slump
A local pharmacy has emerged as the newest tenant on Russell Street in Causeway Bay, filling the space previously leased by Italian luxury lingerie brand La Perla to take advantage of a 46 per cent slump in rents in one of Hong Kong's costliest retail strips. Advertisement Yu Shing, the pharmacy owner, is expected to pay about HK$1 million (US$129,000) a month for the premises at 22-24 Russell Street, according to property agents, who declined to be named because the information is private. No other tenancy terms were immediately available. La Perla, which signed a long-term lease for HK$7.5 million a month in 2015, vacated the four-storey building in September 2020 during the Covid-19 pandemic. Since its exit, the landlord Emperor International has rented out the space on a weekly or monthly basis, including to pop-up stores The Yu Shing leasing deal marks the latest change of tenant mix in Causeway Bay, one of Hong Kong's four core shopping districts, as the city's retail industry continues to grapple and evolve with economic conditions and changing spending habits among local consumers and tourists. Retail space along Russell Street in Causeway Bay once commanded the highest rates among global shopping strips. Photo: Sun Yeung Tenants along Russell Street, a 250-metre-long thoroughfare, paid as much as US$2,671 per square foot on average in annual rent at the peak of the market in 2018, topping global shopping strips including the Champs Elysees boulevard in Paris, Omotesando in Tokyo and Fifth Avenue in Manhattan, according to Cushman & Wakefield. Advertisement
Campaign ME
17-04-2025
- Business
- Campaign ME
Luxury OOH: Turning glances into captivating stories
Luxury today is no longer just about being seen, it's about being remembered. Out-of-home (OOH) advertising, when done right, transforms fleeting glances into unforgettable stories. For decades, luxury has stood for more than a price tag. It's been about craftsmanship, emotion, and iconic experiences. Yet many luxury brands still lean on traditional prestige placements: massive billboards in Times Square, digital screens in Knightsbridge, or landmark displays in Hong Kong. These placements radiate status. But in a world where attention is fragmented and fleeting, is visibility still enough? Modern consumers are mobile, connected, and craving authenticity. They're not moved by ads that shout. They're drawn to those that resonate emotionally and speak with relevance. This is the new imperative for OOH is not just bigger or brighter, but smarter, more immersive, more human. 'Luxury's most powerful moments no longer unfold behind velvet ropes. They're sparked in real time, on real streets, in ways that stay with you.' From static to strategic Cities such as New York, London, Hong Kong, Singapore, and Los Angeles are leading a quiet revolution in OOH. The game is shifting from owning premium real estate to owning the right moment. Enter Programmatic Digital OOH (pDOOH), a smarter approach where content responds to location, audience, and even time of day. Picture a Louis Vuitton campaign in Tokyo's Omotesando that updates based on foot traffic, or Cartier showcasing timepieces during Hong Kong's evening rush. In London, Burberry syncs its visuals with Fashion Week moments, while LA's beauty brands change messaging based on UV levels. This is not technology for technology's sake, it's about context. Platforms like Moving Walls enable luxury marketers to tell richer stories with precision timing, location intelligence, and dynamic creativity. 'OOH lets luxury move beyond visibility. It invites participation.' Experience is the new exclusivity Luxury is no longer just about admiration. Today's affluent consumers want to feel something. They want stories, not just symbols. OOH has evolved into a creative playground. Think of Burberry's motion-reactive displays in Hong Kong, Gucci's augmented reality bus shelters in Singapore, or Dior's storefronts in SoHo that change as people walk by. These are more than ads and they're unexpected, delightful moments that invite interaction. From AI-powered displays to interactive countdowns for limited drops, the fusion of tech and creativity allows luxury to surprise, engage, and spark emotional connections, all in public spaces. Even luxury should measure Traditionally, luxury marketing has relied on image, heritage, and gut instinct. But today, data doesn't diminish luxury instead it enhances it. Measurement isn't just about proving ROI. It's about understanding influence. QR scans in Covent Garden, foot traffic in Beverly Hills, search spikes in Hong Kong, these are modern signals of impact. Tools from companies that specialising in OOH tech offers visibility into campaign performance without compromising the mystique of the brand. The goal isn't to reduce luxury to numbers. It's to use insight to evolve storytelling and strategy. Innovation Is the new signature Forward-thinking luxury brands are already pushing OOH boundaries. In LA, Dior's 3D billboards create theatrical spectacle. Hermès explores sustainable display formats in the UK. Chanel's motion-sensitive visuals in Hong Kong physically stop passersby. In cities where culture, commerce, and creativity collide, OOH becomes more than a medium, it becomes a canvas. And luxury, long bound by tradition, is beginning to color outside the lines. Looking ahead at luxury OOH As media continues to evolve, luxury stands at a unique inflection point. With smarter targeting, immersive experiences, and real-time feedback, OOH can become a stage for storytelling that resonates far beyond the street. The next iconic luxury moment may not happen in a boutique or at a runway show. It may unfold on a city screen in an unexpected, moving, and unforgettable way. By Mandy Negi, Co-founder of Moving Walls
Yahoo
17-03-2025
- Yahoo
Everything to you need to know about Japan
Japan's popularity is rising again post-Covid, with tens of millions every year visiting the mix of old, new, and futuristic in Tokyo; World Heritage sites in the ancient capital Kyoto; Hakone's hot springs, ryokan inns, and the majestic Mount Fuji. Beyond those classic destinations, you could travel to Shikoku to visit the contemporary art islands in the Seto Inland Sea or embark on lesser-known experiences, such as hiking the Michinoku Coastal Trail in Tohoku and horse riding in the volcanic landscape of Aso-Kuju National Park in Kyushu. Japan has something for everyone! Spring: Cherry blossoms briefly turn much of Japan pink from late March to mid-April. In Tokyo, picnic under the sakura in Ueno Park or take a laid-back stroll along the blossom-lined Meguro River. For hanami (flower viewing) in a traditional setting, head north to Akita for Kakunodate's old samurai district or visit Aomori, where the delicate blossoms engulf Hirosaki Castle. Summer: As Japan settles in for several months of hot and sticky weather, the festival season kicks into high gear. Tokyo's Sumida River Fireworks display in late July is one of the capital's highlights. In early August in Aomori, giant paper-covered floats are paraded for the week-long Nebuta Matsuri. In Tokushima, thousands of colorfully dressed dancers take to the streets for the Awa-Odori in mid-August. Autumn: Take in the fiery-red and golden-yellow koyo (autumn leaves) from a piping-hot onsen bath in Jozankei Onsen or an open-air seat on the scenic Kurobe Gorge Railway in Toyama. For a long fall foliage trek, hikers can head to Daisetsuzan National Park in Hokkaido or summit the 5,606-foot Mount Daisen in Tottori. Winter: In early February, visit the city of Sapporo in Hokkaido for the giant ice sculptures of the Snow Festival, then warm up with the city's miso ramen and spicy soup curry. Fifty-five miles away, the powder snow of Niseko provides some of Japan's best skiing and snowboarding. (Related: The essential guide to visiting Japan's Kyushu island.) Cities: Experience old Tokyo with a stroll around the retro Yanaka neighborhood or visit Meiji Jingu Shrine. Explore the contemporary side of the city at fashionable Omotesando (dubbed Tokyo's Champs Elysees) or the futuristic teamLab galleries. As one of the planet's finest foodie destinations, don't miss Tokyo's sushi, ramen, and high-end kaiseki. In Kyoto, the gilded Kinkaku-ji Temple and torii gateway-covered paths of Fushimi Inari Shrine are two of the former capital's must-see (and most visited) World Heritage sites. However, there's plenty to experience away from the crowds, including the quiet fishing village of Ine in Kyoto's north and lesser-visited temple complexes like Myoshin-ji and its pretty gardens. North: Pack your hiking boots and go backpacking on the Michinoku Coastal Trail, a 621-mile route that runs along jagged clifftops, sandy beaches, and pretty fishing ports in the less-crowded Tohoku region. Inland, follow in the footsteps of haikuist Matsuo Basho with a hike to the mountaintop temple of Yamadera. East: Traditional ryokan inns, hot-spring baths, and close-up views of Mount Fuji make Hakone a popular side trip from Tokyo. Walk between the beautifully preserved Edo-era (1603-1868) villages of Magome and Tsumago on the remains of the road that once connected Kyoto and Tokyo. West: Visit Hiroshima for the A-Bomb Dome memorial of the nuclear attack in 1945 and the 'floating' Itsukushima Shrine on Miyajima Island. Pedal the scenic Shimanami Kaido cycle route across a network of bridges connecting Japan's main island with less-visited Shikoku. Take a ferry to Naoshima in the Seto Inland Sea for a cutting-edge collection of contemporary art venues and installations. South: Island hopping in Okinawa offers white-sand beaches, coral reef dives, mangroves, and the distinct Ryukyuan culture, shaped during the 450 years Okinawa was an independent kingdom called Ryukyu. In Kyushu, head to Aso-Kuju National Park to hike and go horseback riding on one of Japan's most active and beautiful caldera volcanoes, Mount Aso. (Related: The essential guide to visiting Japan's Hokuriku region.) RamenJapan's favorite comfort food comes in various guises. Some ramen aficionados give top rank to Hakata ramen in Fukuoka for its combination of pork bone broth and thin, yet firm noodles. For others, that accolade goes to the miso-rich broth of Sapporo-style ramen. You'll find local takes on ramen as far and wide as Wakayama, Tokushima, Hakodate, Kitakata, Okinawa, and many places in between. SushiLike ramen, sushi is a varied affair. On a budget, kaitenzushi (conveyor belt sushi) chains such as Sushiro and Kura deliver a fun experience and great cost performance, while the wallet-breaking, high-end sushi includes 20 sushiya in Tokyo alone with Michelin stars. Head to a department store food floor—like the basement of Mitsukoshi in Tokyo's Nihonbashi district—where sushi isn't just a nigiri of rice topped with seafood. Chiraizushi features chopped sushi toppings scattered over a bed of rice. Makizushi is thin rolls of rice and sushi filling wrapped with toasted nori seaweed, and oshizushi has slices of fish (like mackerel) tightly pressed in a box of vinegared rice. (Related: The essential guide to visiting western Japan.) By train: Japan Railways operates high-speed bullet trains between many of the main cities and offers money-saving rail passes for overseas travelers. Purchase rail tickets at stations or online at Eki-net. Travel time from Tokyo to Kyoto is just over two hours, while Tokyo to Hiroshima is four hours. By plane: There are domestic flights between Haneda Airport and regional hubs, including New Chitose Airport in Sapporo and Naha in Okinawa. By car: If you're only visiting the big cities, stick to the highly efficient public transport. For exploring rural areas where trains and buses are limited, you should consider renting a car from companies like Nippon Rent-a-Car and JR Rent-a-Car. An international driver's license is required, and remember, motorists drive on the left. Languages: Japanese is the official language. English is increasingly spoken in the main cities and tourist areas. LGBTQ+: Same-sex couples cannot legally marry in Japan, but there are no laws against same-sex relationships. Shinjuku Ni-chome in Tokyo is the largest LGBTQ+ neighborhood in Japan, with several hundred bars, clubs, and restaurants. In June, Tokyo Pride is the country's largest event for the LGBTQ+ community and allies. Osaka, Japan's third-largest city, has a website ( dedicated to LGBTQ+ travelers. (Related: Everything you should know before visiting northern Japan.) Outdoors: The 34 National Parks of Japan cover almost six percent of the country, protecting endangered wildlife and delicate ecosystems. When you visit, stay on designated trails, take your litter home, and follow other local rules to help keep the parks pristine. SDGs: Japanese businesses are increasingly referencing the UN's 17 Sustainable Development Goals, though look out for greenwashing or box-ticking. Businesses that are making genuine sustainable efforts tend to list the specific SDGs they are targeting and detail the exact measures they are taking to reach their goal(s). Shopping: Artisans across Japan produce a vast range of traditional arts and crafts, including ceramics, lacquerware, textiles, and woodwork. For authentic, high-quality crafts, look for products marked with the government's Designated Traditional Craft logo. Dining: With sushi, remember the 4-S rule. Eating seafood that's small, silver, seasonal, or shellfish has a lower impact. Bluefin tuna and freshwater eel are best avoided. Before visiting animal cafes where you can pet cats, dogs, and other animals, be aware that the industry has a poor track record for animal welfare. (Related: What locals love about Japan.) Rob Goss is a freelance writer based in Tokyo, covering travel and culture in Japan. Follow him on Instagram.
