I'm booking my trip to Japan - this is why you should too.

On 2nd November 2019, I was lucky enough to be a part of the greatest sporting event on the planet - the Rugby World Cup Final in Yokohama, Tokyo. My role was merely as a spectator as I watched alongside my family, but watching Siya Kolisi lift the Web Ellis trophy above his head with the number 6 on his back, was one of the more profound moments of my young life - and this was for reasons you might not expect!

What made this moment special was the countless Japanese fans celebrating with us, most of them wearing more South African Rugby apparel than I was! The people of Japan were only too happy to open up their country to the global supporters for their prestigeous event - and they were SO proud.

I was sold. I was also comfortable in the knowledge that I would return to this fascinating nation as soon as I could. However, just a month later, we were hit with the news of Coronavirus. Japan, like most other countries, closed their doors to tourists. Travel to Japan for the past 18-months has meant visas, Covid-19 tests and general burocracy that has simply not made it worth it. But, all of that is about to change…

As of today (11th October 2022), Japan once again opens its doors for business. You no longer need a visa to get into the country with a British Passport, and I for one will be the first to plan a trip. Deep-powder skiing in the winter and mountain climbing in the summer are my 'go to' experiences, so I may need to go twice - but I'm not complaining. No matter the time of year you travel, Japan will have something to offer you.

The Japanese culture is a beautiful one, and their stunning cuisine alone is a good enough reason to visit. The freshest sushi (which, in Japan, is typically not just raw fish!) can be found around every corner, in every city, as well as smiling local faces just happy to see a foreigner enjoying the land that makes them so proud. Don't be shy when someone comes up to you and asks for a photo - you'll most likely make their day!

Accessability is key, and with all those timezones you can rest easy in the knowledge that Emirates will be restarting their A380 service to Tokyo's Narita Airport in mid-November. This means that Japan is once again accessible in ultra-comfort, from nearly any major city in Europe and Africa.

For those based in London and who can afford to spend a bit more, you can pick up any one of three direct flights per day out of Heathrow to Tokyo's Haneda Airport, on either British Airways or Japan Airlines.

Book your Japanese experience of a lifetime through Boundless Frontiers for a truly life-changing experience. Whether you're travelling for leisure or for work, we will handle your trip, from door to door, and back!