
Best Holiday Destinations for 2026
29/12/2025 · By Ian Holt
To inspire your travels for 2026, Great Rail Journeys reveals our Top 10 best holiday destinations and expert tips, from bucket list sights to hidden gems.
Read moreEnjoying a central location on Japan's main island, Kyoto was first settled in the 7th century and was the nation's capital from 794AD to 1868. As a result of its history and subsequent preservation, Kyoto is home to many of the 'typical' images of Japan and ranks as one of the world's most culturally rich places, boasting 17 UNESCO World Heritage sites and more than 2000 temples and shrines.
Exuding the traditions that make Japan such a cherished destination, Kyoto displays ageless beauty within its tranquil parks and timeless streets. Witness the sakura season as a sea of pink cherry blossom blankets Kyoto's parks or stroll past traditional wooden houses in the Gion district.
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Discover the contrasting culture, superb landscapes and hidden stories of Japan with expert local guides, enjoying a variety of experiences - from unique cuisine and zen tea ceremonies to futuristic cities and serene island shrines. Experience the buzzing metropolis of Tokyo, where ornate wooden temples are illuminated by flashing neon billboards...





Explore Japan from Sapporo in the north to Fukuoka in the south on this epic overland journey across three islands: Hokkaido, Honshu and Kyushu. Stay in 4 & 5-Star hotels and travel on four ultramodern Shinkansen bullet trains. Soak up iconic views of Mount Fuji, uncover the idyllic Japanese Alps in Kanazawa and discover Japan's history while...