Destination of the Month – October: Japan 2026

(As showcased by DG Travel Centre of Henley / @dgtravelhenley)

October has always been one of our favourite months to talk travel — and this year, we were thrilled to showcase Japan as our Destination of the Month. Through our Instagram stories and posts over at @dgtravelhenley, we took our followers on a virtual journey through one of the world’s most captivating destinations, setting the stage for Japan 2026 travel inspiration.

🍁 Why Japan Was Our October Feature

Japan is a spectacle of colour, calm, and culture. As the autumn foliage begins to sweep across the islands, the country transforms into a masterpiece of reds, golds, and ambers — especially around Kyoto, Nikko, and the Japanese Alps.

We chose to highlight Japan this month not just for its beauty, but for how perfectly it aligns with 2026 travel plans. It’s the ideal time for clients looking to plan ahead for authentic cultural experiences, comfortable weather, and breathtaking landscapes.

What We Showcased

Kyoto – Timeless Elegance in Autumn

Our posts captured the serene gardens and temple paths of Kyoto, framed by vibrant maple leaves. We highlighted must-see spots such as Kiyomizu-dera, Arashiyama Bamboo Grove, and the Golden Pavilion (Kinkaku-ji). For 2026 travellers, we recommend staying in a traditional ryokan — complete with tatami mats and onsen baths — for a true taste of Japanese hospitality.

Tokyo – The City of Contrasts

From the neon streets of Shibuya to the peaceful Meiji Shrine, Tokyo offers a blend of ultra-modern and deeply traditional. We showcased how travellers can sip coffee in a sky-high café in Shinjuku one moment, and find stillness in a centuries-old garden the next.

Mount Fuji & Beyond

We couldn’t feature Japan without a nod to the iconic Mount Fuji. October’s clear skies make it one of the best times to witness its snow-capped symmetry — whether from Lake Kawaguchi or aboard the famous Shinkansen train.

🗾 Looking Ahead to Japan 2026

Showcasing Japan this October was about more than just wanderlust — it was about helping travellers plan early for one of the most rewarding destinations on Earth.If Japan is on your radar for 2026, here’s why now is the perfect time to start:

• ✨ Early bookings secure the best ryokan stays in scenic spots like Hakone or Takayama.

• 🚅 Rail passes and regional routes can be mapped to include the best autumn foliage trails.

• 🎎 Cultural events — from Kyoto’s Jidai Matsuri to Tokyo’s food festivals — can be built into a bespoke itinerary.

• 🍵 Seasonal cuisine such as matsutake mushrooms, wagyu beef, and autumn bento boxes make October a food-lover’s dream.

🌸 The DG Travel Touch

At DG Travel, we don’t just talk about destinations — we bring them to life. Our Japan showcase this past month was designed to inspire and inform, offering a taste of what’s possible when your trip is thoughtfully curated.

Whether it’s a luxury rail journey, a family adventure through Tokyo Disneyland, or a quiet couples’ escape among Kyoto’s gardens, we’ll design your Japan 2026 itinerary with care, insight, and a touch of DG Travel flair.

✈️ Start Your Japan 2026 Journey Now

Planning early means peace of mind — and a richer travel experience. If Japan has captured your imagination this month, let’s start turning that inspiration into your next great adventure.

✨ Sample Itinerary: Japan 2026 – A Journey Through Autumn Beauty

10 Days of Culture, Colour & Connection

Dreaming of Japan in 2026? Here’s a taste of what an unforgettable journey might look like when you travel with DG Travel Centre of Henley. This sample itinerary blends Japan’s highlights with authentic experiences — ideal for first-time visitors or those ready to return and explore deeper.

Day 1–2: Arrival in Tokyo

Welcome to Japan’s dazzling capital! Settle into your stylish Shinjuku or Ginza hotel before diving into the city’s rhythm.

• Visit the Meiji Shrine and stroll through the forested paths of Yoyogi Park.

• Experience the bright lights of Shibuya Crossing and dine at a traditional izakaya.

• Optional: Enjoy an evening sushi-making class or private guided night tour of Tokyo’s best rooftop views.

🛏️ Suggested stay: Park Hotel Tokyo or The Blossom Hibiya.

Day 3: Tokyo’s Old Meets New

• Start your morning exploring Asakusa and the iconic Senso-ji Temple.

• Take a river cruise along the Sumida River to Odaiba, enjoying panoramic skyline views.

• Discover the quirky streets of Harajuku for boutique shopping and matcha desserts.

🍵 DG Travel tip: Plan a stop at a local tea house for an authentic Japanese tea ceremony experience.

Day 4–5: Hakone & Mount Fuji Region

Escape the buzz of the city and immerse yourself in Japan’s natural beauty.

• Travel by train to Hakone, famed for its hot springs and views of Mount Fuji.

• Ride the Hakone Ropeway for sweeping views of Lake Ashi.

• Relax in an onsen (hot spring bath) and savour a multi-course kaiseki dinner at your ryokan.

🛏️ Suggested stay: Gora Kadan or Hakone Kowakien Ten-yu.

Day 6–8: Kyoto – The Heart of Japanese Tradition

Travel by Shinkansen bullet train to Kyoto, Japan’s cultural capital.

• Visit Kinkaku-ji (Golden Pavilion), Fushimi Inari Taisha, and Arashiyama Bamboo Grove.

• Explore Gion, the historic geisha district, and enjoy an evening of traditional dining.

• Take part in a kimono experience or a calligraphy workshop to connect with Japanese artistry.

🍂 October highlight: Kyoto’s gardens glow with red and gold foliage — perfect for photography and peaceful walks.

🛏️ Suggested stay: The Celestine Kyoto Gion or a traditional machiya townhouse.

Day 9: Nara & Osaka Day Trip

• Visit Nara Park to meet its friendly deer and admire the towering Great Buddha at Todai-ji Temple.

• Continue to Osaka, Japan’s kitchen, for lively street food at Dotonbori and riverside neon views.

🍜 DG Travel tip: Try Osaka’s famous takoyaki and okonomiyaki — authentic Japanese comfort food!

Day 10: Departure or Extended Stay

Take a leisurely breakfast before travelling back to Tokyo for your flight — or extend your trip with optional add-ons:

• Hiroshima & Miyajima Island for peace and reflection.

• Kanazawa for art and heritage.

• Sapporo for nature and northern landscapes.

🗺️ Tailor Your Japan 2026 Journey

Every traveller’s Japan story is unique. At DG Travel , we’ll customise your itinerary to your pace, style, and interests — whether that’s luxury stays, rail adventures, cultural immersion, or foodie discoveries.

📞 01491 575511 | ✉️ sales@dgtravel.co.uk📸 Follow more inspiration on Instagram: @dgtravelhenley