Japan National Tourism Organization, London UK
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Travel nieuwsbrief
January 2025

Japan 2025 Hotlist: Looking Towards a New Year Full of New Experiences

Happy New Year! 2024 was a whirlwind of amazing openings and events, and 2025 is shaping up to be another year full of unmissable experiences and events. From the Osaka Expo to various luxury hotels, art museums and commemorations, 2025 will be nothing short of amazing. Let’s dive into some of what 2025 has to offer, so get ready to start planning your trips to Japan! Read more.
Lantern launch event "Hanamaki Night around the stars"
Enjoy a silvery-white world covered in snow at the Iwate Hanamaki Night Around the Stars! This is a winter-only event, and the view of lanterns floating in the starry sky amidst the snowy landscape is both beautiful and fantastical. Many people from all over Japan participate in the event to see this spectacle. After the event, spend the night at Hanamaki Onsenkyo and enjoy a special, relaxing time in the many hot springs available in the area. Don't forget to indulge in the local cuisine, which is a delightful blend of traditional and modern flavours. Why not raise a lantern with your wish under the starry sky of Hanamaki in Iwate Prefecture, and have a memorable time?
Patina Osaka : A Tranquil Stay Within a Historical Section of the Lively City
At Patina Osaka, Japanese tradition beautifully melds with modern luxury. Though set among the bustling metropolis, the hotel is situated right between landmarks that stand as testaments to Osaka's long-standing history, such as Osaka Castle and the Remains of Naniwa-no-Miya Palace. It boasts an incredible view free from obstructions on three sides and incorporates natural motifs and Japanese aesthetics to invoke a sense of calm, holding 221 fabulous guest rooms that both relax and entertain. A unique establishment at the hotel is the Listening Room, lined with vinyl records that can be enjoyed day or night. For any inquiry, please contact Patina Osaka.
Step Into the World of Ukiyoe Through Digital Art at the Upcoming Exhibition
Till 31 March, Tokyo 
"Under the Wave off Kanagawa (The Great Wave)" by Katsushika Hokusai and other iconic woodblock prints have become some of the Japanese art world's most well-known and iconic representatives. Known as "ukiyo-e," which translates to "images of the floating world," these pieces vibrantly illustrate their subjects, such as landscapes, people clad in kimono, and nature scenes through beautiful linework and captivating composition. Thanks to the use of 3DCG and projection mapping, visitors to the Ukiyoe Immersive Art Exhibition will be able to jump into the scenes and feel as though they are in the artwork. The exhibit will take place in Tokyo, five minutes from Tennozu Isle Station. The exhibit will include over 300 pieces by renowned masters including Hokusai, Utagawa Kuniyoshi, Utagawa Hiroshige, and more. 
EXPO2025 | The Rivers of Life, Kanto | Japan Lives of Wonder | JNTO
Expo 2025 is coming to Osaka 13 April - 13 October 2025
Experience the power of nature as you enjoy canyoning in a refreshing gorge, feel the passage of time strolling through the historic streets of Edo, and venture into a huge "underground temple" that supports the water system of the Kanto region. This is an unforgettable journey that weaves together water and history. The JNTO Expo website can be find here.

Learn All About an Iconic Japanese Whisky with a Distillery Tour, Hokkaido

Taketsuru Masataka, known as the "father of Japanese whisky," studied whisky distillation in Scotland before bringing his knowledge back to his home of Japan. He later created the Nikka Whisky brand, setting up its first distillation centre in the town of Yoichi in Hokkaido. The distillery holds tours (prior reservation required), where visitors can learn about the distillation process and the history of the Nikka Whisky brand—especially relevant as Japanese whisky is becoming more and more popular around the world—as well as partake in a tasting at the end. The grounds are also home to a museum, which goes in-depth into the Nikka label and whisky production through detailed exhibits and even a tasting bar.
Jumping ahead of the season
Early Cherry Blossoms in February in Shizuoka
The town of Kawazu in Shizuoka Prefecture is famous for being the origin of an early blooming species of cherry blossom called Kawazu-zakura. Kawazu-zakura tends to bloom from early February to early March, earlier than other varieties, and it heralds spring. During this time, the Kawazu River is surrounded by ephemeral flowers, creating pink clouds stretching around 2.5 miles along the bank. The Kawazu-zakura Cherry Blossom Festival is held from 1 to 28 February near Kawazu Station and it is recommended to check the status reports of the flowers before visiting.
 

New York Times Picks Toyama for 2025

The New York Times has named Toyama and Osaka as part of its 52 Places to Go in 2025. Read the full New York Times write-up here. 
 
Toyama is nestled between the majestic Japanese Alps and the Sea of Japan. The prefecture offers stunning natural landscapes, a rich cultural heritage, and unforgettable culinary experiences. Learn more about Toyama at Visit Toyama, and book travel for your clients with Toyama DMC Mizu to Takumi.
 
Osaka will be hosting host the World Expo from April to October, and pavilions from 161 countries are expected to draw more than 20 million visitors. Osaka opened its first Pride Center in 2022 and in October hosted the International LGBTQ+ Travel Association convention.
JNTO
Explore Shizuoka
Explore Shizuoka
Explore Shizuoka

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