Ultimate Japan: A Visual Feast of Quirky, Essential Experiences

Andrea Thompson

ByAndrea Thompson

July 28, 2025

For business travellers seeking inspiration beyond the boardroom, Ultimate Japan is a vibrant invitation to explore the country’s most unforgettable moments.

This beautifully produced hardback from DK is more than a guidebook — it’s a curated celebration of Japan’s eccentricities, elegance, and everyday magic.

Structured around 100 must-do experiences, the book is cleverly organised by interest — from food and pop culture to nature and futuristic tech — making it easy to dip into between meetings or plan a weekend detour. Whether it’s sipping sake under cherry blossoms, soaking in volcanic hot springs, or dining with robots, each entry is paired with striking full-page photography and practical tips that bring the experience to life.

What sets this book apart is its sense of fun. It doesn’t just highlight the iconic — it revels in the unexpected. Think snow monkeys in Nagano, manhole cover art, and vending machine curiosities. For professionals navigating Japan’s cities, it’s a reminder that cultural fluency comes not just from knowing etiquette, but from embracing the country’s joyful contradictions.

Published by DK Travel and authored by Rebecca Hallett, Ultimate Japan is available in hardcover for around £19.35. It’s a perfect companion for those who want their business trips to be rich with discovery — and just a little bit quirky.