Japan

Visiting Japan in September does mean that you miss the cherry blossom season that sees thousands of tourists descending on Kyoto to witness this in all of its fluffy marshmallow like perfection. Yet September ushers in the onset of the autumnal beauty in Kyoto, the ornate temples and gardens are adorned with leafy trees brushed scarlet and gold, and the bright blue sunny skies make for enjoyable afternoon meandering.

You could also find your zen in Japan’s spiritual heartland; a land of forest, ritual and storytelling. The Kii region spirits travellers away to holy mountains and misty woodlands. This enchanting region is relatively untouched by travellers, try exploring the pilgrimage trails, remote shrines and detoxing steam onsens before anyone else does.

To really get in touch with the spiritual feel of the Kii region and channel your ‘Memoirs of A Geisha’ vibe we recommend staying at the Maeniwa Machiya, a tatami floored townhouse complete with silk screens and a perfectly pruned private garden.