The new year is a perfect time to plan a trip to Japan.
The country’s daily arrival cap and testing requirements for fully-vaccinated travelers have been abolished.
New hotels and exciting developments are opening across the islands while ancient sites and must-see experiences are ready to welcome bucket-list tickers.
What’s new in Japan?
Zip World Hanazono: A variety of thrilling experiences opened during Japan’s two-and-a-half-year closing. During the summer season, Zip World Hanazono opened with one of the longest ziplines in the world.
Mount Yotei: Visitors can fly past the active Mount Yotei for a unique view of the landscape during its second season in the summer of 2020.
Ski at Night: Skiers can now ski into the night at Hanazono after the resort began new services.
Japan’s rail: In Autumn, the Nishi-Kyushu Shinkansen opened linking the Saga prefecture to Nagasaki, a historic port city and gateway to the Goto Islands.
Hotel Retreat Goto Ray: The retreat Goto Ray opened on the island of Fukue at the end of summer.
Looking over the sea of Goto with a design that brings the outdoors in, the boutique hotel has 26 rooms with panoramic views.
What to add to a 2023 Japan itinerary
Sapporo Snow Festival: The Sapporo Snow Festival will be back in person in three years, bringing winter festivities, sports, and culture to millions.
There are huge ice sculpture shows, an international snow sculpture competition, snow experiences from slides to rafting, and local warming cuisine at the annual festival.
Not A Hotel property: Three years from now, the Sapporo Snow Festival will be back in person, bringing winter festivities, sports, and culture to millions of people.
Huge ice sculpture shows, an international snow sculpture competition, snow experiences from slides to rafting, and local warming cuisine are some of the highlights of the annual festival.
Snorkeling in Okinawa: Visitors can take full advantage of the warm climate by visiting the natural and cultural UNESCO World Heritage sites and snorkeling in the coral-rich sea.