In Japan, the arrival of a new year is much more than a moment of celebration. Known as Shogatsu, the New Year period is one of the most important occasions in the Japanese calendar, deeply rooted in family traditions, seasonal food and spiritual customs. It is a time to leave the previous year behind, express gratitude, welcome good fortune and make wishes for the year ahead. Unlike Christmas, which has increasingly become a romantic and commercial occasion in Japan, New Yea

In Europe and North America, Christmas is traditionally a time for family. It is about returning home, gathering around the table, exchanging presents and spending the day with the people closest to you. In Japan, however, Christmas has developed a rather different character. Although Christmas is widely celebrated across the country, it is not a national holiday and is not traditionally centred around family gatherings or religious observance. Instead, Christmas Eve has beco

There are few places in the world where winter feels quite like it does in Japan. From the vast snowfields of Hokkaido to the dramatic peaks of the Japanese Alps, the country's mountains receive remarkable quantities of snowfall, creating exceptional conditions for skiing and snowboarding. Yet what makes Japan particularly interesting as a winter destination goes well beyond the quality of its powder. Here, a day on the slopes can end with a soak in a natural hot spring. A pr

There is a particular moment in winter when Japan seems to belong to another world. A forest falls silent beneath fresh snow. Steam rises from an outdoor hot spring as snowflakes settle on the water. Somewhere in the distance, the sound of bells carries through the cold mountain air. On a frozen lake, the day begins with a fishing line, a small tent, and the anticipation of what might emerge beneath the ice. These are not experiences that necessarily appear on a first itinera

There is a particular beauty to Japan in winter. Not simply in the snow-covered mountains or the quiet streets of its historic towns, but in the way the season transforms the country, revealing places, traditions and experiences that remain less familiar to those who visit. Japan is a country of extraordinary geographical diversity. While the northern island of Hokkaido settles into deep snow and icy landscapes, the Japanese Alps become a destination for winter sports and mou

Hakuba Valley: Ski Like an Olympian This winter, Luxurique invites discerning travelers to experience Japan’s premier ski destination, Hakuba Valley, host of the 1998 Nagano Winter Olympics. With ten interconnected ski resorts accessible with a single pass, guests can enjoy varied terrain, from high alpine runs to serene tree-lined slopes. Beginners and intermediates can glide along meticulously groomed trails, while advanced skiers challenge themselves on steep moguls, powde

Japan is a country of endless fascination. While Tokyo, Kyoto, and Osaka have long been favorites for travelers, 2026 is the perfect year to explore destinations that offer authentic cultural immersion, natural beauty, and serene luxury. For those seeking experiences beyond the usual, Luxurique has curated a selection of off the beaten path destinations that reveal the hidden heart of Japan. Fukui: Tradition and Timeless Landscapes Fukui Prefecture, nestled along the Sea of J

Miyakojima is a place where time seems to slow, where turquoise waters meet powdery white sands, and where every moment invites reflection, renewal, and connection. For travelers seeking an escape that blends natural beauty, cultural richness, and wellness, Miyakojima is a sanctuary unlike any other. This island is more than just a destination. It embodies the Miyako Spirit, a gentle way of life that celebrates harmony, care, and a deep connection to nature. Here, guests can

Nestled in Ishikawa Prefecture, Kaga City is a place where history, culture, and tranquility converge. With over thirteen hundred years of hot spring tradition, Kaga offers travelers a serene retreat that feels both timeless and intimate. Every corner of the city reflects Japans refined sense of beauty and craftsmanship, providing an immersive experience that nourishes the body, mind, and spirit. For those seeking a journey beyond the ordinary, Kaga is a destination where lux