Inside the latest issue of National Geographic Traveller (UK)
Where will the new year take you? Usher in 2026 with the Jan/Feb issue of National Geographic Traveller (UK), which roams little-known corners of Japan in search of subcultures, snowy peaks and time-honed traditions.
With a new year of adventures on the horizon, the Jan/Feb issue of National Geographic Traveller (UK) invites readers to uncover unique experiences in one of the world’s most varied and culturally rich destinations — Japan.
The East Asian archipelago has truly captured the imaginations of travellers in recent years, thanks in part to the ever-increasing prestige of its art, cuisine and fashion. Between January and October 2025, Japan saw record-breaking visitor numbers, and while that means some parts of the country have been busier than usual, much of it remains unknown to travellers. Comprising four main islands and thousands of smaller ones, this is a nation that stretches some 2,000 miles in length. Uncover its most idiosyncratic experiences — from island-hopping in Okinawa to hopping between vinyl listening bars in Tokyo — with the Jan/Feb issue of National Geographic Traveller (UK).
Readers will also find a free guide to cruise travel included with the Jan/Feb issue. Brimming with inspiration for anyone looking to explore the world’s oceans, the cover story this year looks at the best small-ship expeditions, taking travellers everywhere from French Polynesia to uninhabited islands in the Seychelles.
Don’t miss
Sweden: Sámi creativity blooms amid the ice and snow of the country’s northern Lapland region
Grand Canyon: A backcountry hike through Arizona along the multi-day Escalante Route
Türkiye: Take a photographic journey through the lush, tea-wreathed hills around the city of Rize
Poland: ‘Drunk’ cheese and herring vodka — it’s no holds barred for the chefs of the Tricity region
Sydney: From bush tucker to oyster shucking, cuisine in the city tie locals to the environment
Lyon: Known for its food icons and ancient history, the French city now tempts with a young spirit
Skye: Fairy Pools, emerald valleys and warming drams of whisky on Scotland’s near-mythical island
La Paz: Using Bolivia’s rich pantry, Indigenous women are revolutionising this city’s food scene
Marrakech: The Moroccan city’s best sleeps, from olive-tree-dotted resorts to ancient riads
Plus, our pick of the hottest tickets for 2026; Boston celebrates 250 years of the US; six alternative carnivals not to miss; Ixta Belfrage on the flavours of Brazil; birdwatching on the Greek island of Folegandros; a stroll through history in Niagara-on-the-Lake; a guide to visiting St Lucia with teenagers; Cambridge in the footsteps of its creative luminaries; winter warmers to see you through the darker months; and the best kit for budding travel photographers.
We talk with Piers Torday on his fiction-inspiring voyage to Transylvania, and pioneering ski mountaineer Di Gilbert. In our Ask the Experts section we give advice on Amazonian adventures, cold-weather safaris and more; Hot Topic explores the debate surrounding Wales’s proposed new national park; The Info delves into the world of Agatha Christie; and The Report looks ahead to the trends set to shape travel in 2026. Finally, photographer Jonathan Stokes discusses capturing the otherworldly landscapes of Puerto Rico for the December issue.
