travelling japan tips

Boutique Japan

Japan Travel Tips: Expert Advice for an Amazing Trip

Thanks to years of planning Japan trips for our clients (and ourselves ), we’ve amassed a wealth of invaluable experience and essential travel tips.

Whether you’re visiting Japan for the first time, or planning a return visit, these Japan travel tips will help you prepare for your trip and get the most out of your time in the country.

This is a long article, featuring 39 of our best pieces of Japan travel advice. If you have the time and interest, we hope you’ll read all the way through. Or, refer to the table of contents below and skip ahead to the section most relevant to you!

Japan Travel Tips: Table of Contents

Planning your trip to japan, pre-departure: preparing for your visit to japan, you’ve arrived: tips for your time in japan, japanese etiquette tips.

• Eating and Drinking in Japan

We hope our tips help you in planning your Japan adventure!

First things first: if you’re in the early planning stages, this section will help you decide when to visit, where to go, and what to do during your Japan adventure!

1. Decide When to Visit to Japan

Japan is truly a year-round destination. Each season brings its own highlights, from cherry blossoms in spring and festivals in summer, to the stunning foliage of autumn and epic skiing in winter. Any time you visit, you’ll find plenty to enjoy.

The best time of year to visit Japan depends on your preferences for weather and crowds, and which experiences you most desire.

The dramatic differences between seasons require that you plan and pack appropriately for the weather – whether you’re hitting the beaches or the ski slopes! Bear in mind that the temperature can vary significantly depending on which part of the country you visit, so be sure to check the forecast for your specific destinations.

2. Where to Go: Japan’s Best Destinations

Japan has a remarkable number of destinations to choose from and an equally impressive number of things to do in each one.

To get the most out of your trip, we recommend sorting out your itinerary well in advance. Things like accommodation and event tickets often sell out quickly – especially during peak travel seasons – so planning ahead means avoiding disappointment.

If you’re after some inspiration, check out our sample itinerary for two weeks in Japan , and the rest of our unique and immersive sample Japan itineraries .

3. Unique Japanese Experiences

Visiting Japan is an opportunity to enjoy some truly unique and memorable experiences. There are, of course, far too many to fit into a single trip.

You’ll find inspiration in some of our top recommended experiences below. For even more ideas, see our article on 25 Japan experiences to add to your bucket list .

4. Venture Outside the Big Cities

When you think of Japan, the first places you think of are probably the big-name cities of Tokyo , Kyoto , and Osaka . These are amazing places to visit, but by no means everything the country has to offer.

To gain a deeper understanding of Japan, try exploring some of the more off-the-beaten-path destinations – especially if this is not your first trip. Head north to the wilds of Hokkaido, visit the peaceful villages of Shikoku, or explore some of Okinawa’s achingly beautiful islands. Not only will you escape the crowds, but you’ll also get a glimpse of some of the most authentic and memorable parts of Japanese culture.

5. Spend a Night in a Ryokan

A ryokan is a traditional, Japanese-style inn, and we highly recommend staying a night or two in one during your trip. Ryokan are very different from regular hotels, and a quintessential part of the Japanese experience.

The majority are located in the countryside, providing the perfect opportunity to unwind, rejuvenate, and enjoy the very best of Japanese hospitality. Complete with minimalist tatami mat rooms, yukata robes, kaiseki meals, onsen baths, and futon bedding, you’re guaranteed to find it an experience like no other!

To get a more detailed picture, take a virtual tour of a ryokan .

6. Discover True Relaxation at an Onsen

Japanese onsen (hot springs) resorts provide the ultimate in luxury and relaxation. Whether you choose a historic indoor bath or a remote outdoor location surrounded by breathtaking natural scenery, they are a sublime, authentic cultural experience that you won’t encounter anywhere else.

We have even more info about the onsen experience in the virtual ryokan tour mentioned above, but here are a few etiquette tips to keep in mind:

• Wash yourself thoroughly before entering the onsen itself, to keep the water sparkly clean.
• Keep towels, toiletries, and clothing (everything but yourself!) out of the water.
• Don’t stay in hot water too long if you’re not used to it – and be careful getting out. The high temperatures can make you feel lightheaded.
• If you’re nervous about being naked in front of other people, consider renting a private onsen instead. Many high-end ryokan provide private baths attached to the rooms, and others offer hourly rentals.

7. Stay in a Buddhist Temple

For even more of an escape from everyday life, a spiritual retreat at a Buddhist temple is just the ticket.

Visitors can get a taste of Buddhist life by staying at a shukubo (temple lodging), where you can take part in early morning prayers, meditation classes, and traditional Buddhist vegetarian cuisine. Some stays will also give you the option to help out with work around the temple as a form of active meditation.

One of the best places to experience temple life is on the mystical Mount Koya . Home to over 100 Buddhist temples and the otherworldly Okunoin Cemetery, it’s one of the most sacred destinations in Japan and the ideal location to immerse yourself in Zen.

8. Attend a Matsuri (Festival)

Japan’s matsuri (festivals) are nothing short of spectacular. Rich in tradition and bursting with color and energy, they showcase the country at its most dynamic and lively.

Attending a festival during your trip will be an unforgettable experience: a chance to try authentic and seasonal street food, witness unique traditions, and immerse yourself in an important part of Japanese life.

Festivals take place throughout the year all across the country, so regardless of your travel dates and itinerary, you should be able to find at least one to attend. Our list of Japan’s best festivals is a great place to start.

9. Cheer at a Ball Game or Sumo Tournament

To get an insight into a very different side of Japanese culture, consider attending a sporting event such as baseball or sumo – even if you’re not a sports fan.

Sumo tournaments are all-day events steeped in ancient tradition — and they take place just six times a year. If you can’t make it to a tournament, there’s also the option to go to a sumo exhibition or morning practice. All the details you need are in our guide to sumo in Japan .

Baseball is an altogether more modern affair. A Japanese take on an American classic, the games are lively but very friendly, with enthusiastic fans singing and cheering in unison virtually non-stop from beginning to end. Players often have personal fight songs, and each team has unique celebrations involving props such as balloons and mini umbrellas.

Games happen several days a week during the season, and tickets can be purchased online, at the stadium, or from convenience stores.

10. Take a Walk in the Woods

It may come as a bit of a surprise, but Japan is roughly 68% forested and 73% mountainous – making it very easy to escape the noise and lights of the city to spend quality time in nature. So grab your hiking shoes and a bento box lunch, and get out there!

Japanese culture emphasizes harmony with and appreciation for the natural world, and hiking is a popular pastime for people of all ages. In pretty much any city, you’ll find easily accessible and scenic trails to explore. From challenging mountain peaks – including the iconic Fuji-san – to stunning riverside walks, there’s something to suit all abilities and preferences. Plus it’s a great way to burn off the calories from all the delicious food you’ll be eating!

Next up, it’s time to prepare for your trip! Here are a few key things to think about before you leave home, from necessities like passports and currency, to packing advice and more.

11. Check Passports and Visas

A crucial part of any overseas travel!

Your passport should have at least six months’ validity from the end date of your visit, and two to four blank visa pages are recommended.

When it comes to visas, you might not need one – citizens of these countries can enter Japan without a tourist visa, usually for 90 days. Always check with the Japanese Embassy for the most up-to-date information before you travel.

We also recommend getting comprehensive travel insurance for your trip, to plan for the unexpected.

12. Learn Some Key Japanese Phrases 

First of all – don’t panic! It’s entirely possible to travel around Japan without knowing the language. Most Japanese people speak a little bit of English, and you’ll find plenty of English-language signage in big cities and popular tourist locations.

Having said that, learning a few Japanese phrases can significantly enhance your overall travel experience in Japan. It’s a rich and fascinating language, and Japanese people really appreciate tourists making an effort to learn it – even if only the most basic of phrases!

Download the Boutique Japan Tiny Phrasebook to get started with some carefully-selected words and phrases.

13. Decide Whether to Buy a Japan Rail Pass

The Japan Rail Pass is a discounted train pass offered exclusively to tourists. It gives you unlimited travel on most JR trains – including the shinkansen (bullet train) – for periods of 7, 14, or 21 consecutive days.

It sounds like a great deal, and if you’re making multiple long-distance journeys it may save you money on travel. However, depending on your itinerary and preferences, it might not be the best option. Our short guide to the Japan Rail Pass can help you decide.

14. Travel with Plenty of Yen

Despite its hi-tech reputation, Japan is a very cash-oriented society – so bring plenty with you!

Many bars, markets, small shops, and local restaurants only accept payment in cash, particularly in rural areas. You will probably need to carry more hard currency than you’re used to. Luckily, Japan is very safe, so you can feel comfortable doing so.

Ideally, you should purchase yen in your home country, but you can also exchange money in Japan at the airport, and at currency exchanges in any big city. Alternatively, more and more ATMs are starting to accept international cards – especially those in convenience stores. Before you go, get the complete lowdown on cash, cards, and ATMs in Japan .

Don’t forget to let your bank and credit/debit card provider know that you’ll be abroad to help ensure you can use your cards while you’re away. If you’re not sure exactly how much yen to bring, check out our article: Is Japan expensive ?

15. Pack Light

Navigating Japan is much easier when you only have a small, easily portable bag or suitcase to contend with, particularly if you’re visiting a number of different destinations.

Can’t pack light? Skip ahead to the Luggage Forwarding section below .

Most trains have only a small amount of space for luggage, and even on the shinkansen there is no guarantee that you’ll find a space for a massive suitcase. Besides, stations are often crowded, making it awkward to navigate with large bags. You may even find yourself dragging bags up and down stairs if you can’t find an elevator or escalator.

If possible, limit yourself to a backpack and a small rolling suitcase – and remember to save room for souvenirs, because Japan is truly a shopper’s paradise!

16. Remember the Essentials!

We’ve already mentioned passports, yen, and weather-appropriate clothing, but there are a few more essentials you don’t want to forget:

• A small towel and some hand sanitizer: Some public bathrooms in Japan don’t have soap, hand towels, or dryers.
• Travel adaptors: Most of Japan’s electrical outlets are 2-pronged “Type A” (100 Volt, 50-60 Hz), so if your devices have a different style of plug, make sure you bring an appropriate adaptor.
• Small gifts from home: These are wonderful for giving to guides and other people you meet during your travels in Japan. Local specialties are ideal!

Check out our complete guide to packing for Japan for more advice on what to bring and what to leave at home.

17. Rent Pocket Wi-Fi

Free Wi-Fi is not as readily available in Japan as you might expect, so we strongly recommend getting a pocket Wi-Fi device for the duration of your stay. Pocket Wi-Fi is a small, mobile hotspot that allows you to connect to the internet from your laptop, tablet, or smartphone pretty much anywhere in the country.

It’s best to order one well in advance, and either collect it at the airport or have it sent to your first hotel. Most companies will also give you the option to rent a Japanese mobile phone or SIM card for your existing phone (if it’s unlocked), which can save you from paying exorbitant prices if you need to make local calls.

For more information and recommended providers, take a look at our Wi-Fi and Mobile in Japan page.

18. Download Some Useful Apps

If you’re opting for Pocket Wi-Fi, you may as well use it to make your trip go smoothly!

Numerous apps can be helpful during your time in Japan, but here are a few to get you started:

• Google Translate : It won’t always give you perfect translations, but it’s useful when trying to negotiate the language barrier.
• Japanese-English dictionary apps: There are plenty to choose from, including Imiwa? and Japanese . A dictionary app can be useful for looking up individual words quickly.
• Hyperdia : This app (and the associated website) enable you to search Japanese train routes and timetables across the country in English. Combined with specific transportation apps for the cities you’re visiting (like a Tokyo subway app), you’ll have no trouble getting around.
• Google Maps : This is invaluable for navigating your way through Japan’s sometimes labyrinthine streets. The general lack of road names can make finding restaurants and bars by address difficult, whereas Google Maps will lead you straight to the door.

Now that you’re all prepared, here are some things to keep in mind once you arrive in Japan. A mix of travel hacks and insider advice, they’ll help ensure your trip goes as smoothly as possible:

19. Get an IC Card

If there’s one thing that will add convenience to your time in Japan, this is it.

IC cards are rechargeable credit-card-sized passes that can be used to pay fares on various public transport networks with a single tap (like London’s Oyster card and New York City’s MetroCard). With one of these, you won’t have to worry about which ticket to buy or how much the fare will be — just tap and go.

Be aware that you will need to purchase paper tickets for the shinkansen and limited express/special express trains. For more information, here’s a dedicated article on train travel in Japan .

What’s great about Japan’s IC cards is that they can be used in other cities, besides the one where you purchased it. For example, Tokyo’s PASMO card can also be used in Kyoto. Plus you can use them to pay for drinks and snacks at most convenience stores and vending machines – it doesn’t get much more convenient!

20. Forward or Store Your Luggage

If you haven’t managed to pack light – or if you’ve purchased many souvenirs – you might find traveling around Japan with a large suitcase a bit awkward.

Luckily, Japan has an answer to your problem: ship your bags separately with the wonderful takuhaibin luggage forwarding service . This overnight service (longer if you’re shipping to airports or far-flung destinations like Okinawa and Hokkaido where ferry travel is involved) will have your bags ready and waiting for you when you arrive. Your hotel or ryokan will be happy to make arrangements for you.

Alternatively, if you only need somewhere to store your bags for a few hours, you can make use of Japan’s numerous coin lockers. Commonly found at train stations and shopping malls, coin lockers are safe, affordable, and convenient places to leave your bags during a day of sightseeing.

21. Take Advantage of Conbini (Convenience Stores)

Japan’s legendary convenience stores – known locally as conbini – make life for travelers and locals really, well, convenient!

In conbini , you can find ATMs to withdraw cash using your overseas credit or debit card, and arrange luggage forwarding if you’re staying somewhere like an AirBnB rather than a hotel. They offer a surprising array of food, drinks, and snacks, including reasonably priced coffee. On top of this, they sell a fantastic range of travel goods and toiletries in case you forget something.

You can also buy tickets for events like baseball games, and attractions such as Universal Studios Japan in conbini . You can even pay for domestic flights and bus tickets, although not always in English.

The best bit – there’s one on pretty much every corner.

22. Take Your Litter Home

For such a clean country, Japan has surprisingly few rubbish bins.

You’ll find them in places like convenience stores and train stations, but there are hardly any on the street. Apart from sometimes next to vending machines or in public areas like parks, you won’t see many places to dispose of trash. You may find yourself holding on to your litter for much longer than you expect – perhaps even until you get back to your hotel.

You can prepare for this by bringing a plastic bag or reusable tote with you to store rubbish while you’re out and about. It’s a small tip, but can make all the difference when you’ve got a handful of litter and nowhere to put it!

Incidentally, more and more Japanese supermarkets are starting to charge a couple of yen for grocery bags, so bringing your own can save you some cash – and the environment.

23. Avoid Crowds by Timing Your Sightseeing Right

It’s no secret that many of Japan’s top sightseeing spots can get pretty crowded. Kyoto , in particular, is known for attracting huge numbers of tourists to its most famous locations, including the stunning Fushimi Inari, Kiyomizu-dera, and Kinkaku-ji.

To avoid the worst of the crowds, consider timing your visit to coincide with quieter times of day, namely early morning or late evening. The sights are just as stunning, but you’ll have to share them with far fewer people. Perfect!

Japanese people don’t expect travelers to know all of their customs inside out — don’t sweat it too much. As long as you’re respectful, you’ll be forgiven for making an etiquette mistake or two! However, a little effort goes a long way, so here are some Japanese etiquette pointers .

24. Think Before You Tip

Tipping is pretty much unheard of in Japan, despite the phenomenal level of customer service. In fact, if you try to leave a tip, it will almost definitely be turned down – making for a potentially awkward moment.

If you want to show your appreciation to someone like a private guide or interpreter, one alternative is to bring a small gift from your home country. If you feel strongly about offering a monetary tip, be sure to do so in a manner that matches Japan’s tipping etiquette to avoid causing embarrassment or appearing crass.

25. Take Off Your Shoes

Before entering homes, ryokan , certain temples, traditional restaurants, and any area with tatami matting, you will need to take off your shoes. It’s advisable to wear shoes that slip on and off easily because you’ll be doing this a lot!

Some places provide indoor slippers for you to wear, but this won’t always be the case. For instance, on tatami it’s generally best to wear socks in order to protect the matting. As such, it’s a good idea to wear decent, hole-free socks – or bring a pair with you if you’re not wearing any.

Generally speaking, it will be obvious when you need to remove your shoes: look for indicators like a lower entrance hall, tatami flooring, slippers laid out on the floor, and shoe storage shelves. If in doubt, just ask.

26. Watch Out For Bathroom Slippers

During your travels in Japan, you may notice that certain places, like homes and ryokan, have slippers exclusively for use in the bathroom.

When you enter the bathroom, leave your regular slippers outside the door and switch to the bathroom slippers. These should only be worn in the bathroom, so don’t forget to change back when you leave. This common faux pas might result in you being greeted by (friendly) laughter from the locals!

27. Familiarize Yourself with the Toilet Buttons!

Speaking of bathrooms, Japan is well known for its fancy toilets, which have an array of buttons to control various features. These functions can include small and large flushes, a bidet, a dryer, and an automatic lid opener.

Sometimes the controls are labeled in English as well as Japanese, but more often than not, you’ll be left to decipher the pictures and kanji characters yourself. The icons should be reasonably self-explanatory, but if you’re feeling nervous about it, you can search for a sample image online.

28. Taxi Doors

Japan is famous for technology and efficiency, so it should come as no surprise that taxi doors open automatically.

When you hail a taxi, the driver will pull up, and the rear door will automatically open for you to get in. Once inside, it will close again automatically behind you.

It’s just a tiny thing to be aware of, but one that might save you a bit of a surprise!

29. To Bow or Not to Bow

Bowing is one of the most commonly seen Japanese customs, and it’s used in a wide variety of situations, including greeting people, thanking someone, and apologizing. As a general rule of thumb, the deeper the bow, the more respectful it is.

Don’t worry if you feel uncomfortable at first. Most Japanese people know that bowing is uncommon in the west, and they won’t be scrutinizing your efforts! If you’d prefer to shake hands instead, that will most likely be fine too.

30. Smoking in Japan

If you’re a smoker, you’ll probably find that Japan is more lenient than your home country when it comes to cigarettes. Many traditional restaurants and bars still permit smoking inside. Train stations and other public areas often have an indoor smoking room where you can go to light up. Be careful on the street though, as smoking is usually not permitted on busy sidewalks – instead, you’ll need to look for a designated smoking area.

If you’re a non-smoker, you may well find the situation in Japan a little frustrating. However, an increasing number of bars and restaurants are thankfully choosing to make their premises smoke-free. A quick check of their website or signs in the window should help you find non-smoking establishments.

31. Cover Your Tattoos

In Japan, there is still an association between tattoos and organized crime. As a foreigner, you’re unlikely to be mistaken for a member of the yakuza. However, you might need to cover up your tattoos if you want to use public facilities such as gyms, swimming pools, and onsen (hot spring baths).

If your tattoos are too big or awkward to cover, don’t worry. You can always use a private onsen or search online for a tattoo-friendly one. These are becoming more common nowadays, particularly among establishments looking to cater to overseas visitors.

32. Be Respectful on Public Transport

Japanese society is known for its emphasis on politeness, and one of the places this is most apparent is the train network. Conductors bow to you, carriages are spotlessly clean, and departures are so punctual you can set your watch by them.

Keep these simple pointers in mind, and you’ll fit right in:

• Don’t talk on your phone on public transport. If you need to make or answer a call on the train, you can do so in the small compartments between carriages.
• Queue in the designated areas. On the train platform, you will usually see painted lines, numbers, and symbols on the ground indicating where to wait. And of course, let people off the train before trying to board.
• Enjoy it! Take photos out the window, recline your seat on the shinkansen , grab a delicious bento box lunch from the station or beverage cart. Trains are a great place to relax as you glide seamlessly to your next destination.

33. Use the Money Tray

In Japan, money is rarely passed directly from hand to hand.

When you’re purchasing something in a shop, restaurant, or bar, you’ll often notice a small tray next to the cash register. It might be on the counter or attached to the cash register itself. You should place your money or credit/debit card in the tray, instead of handing it to the cashier.

The cashier will usually place your change in the money tray after completing the transaction. The same system operates when paying for services in places like hotels, cinemas, and onsen.

Another common practice for exchanging money is to place cash in an envelope, rather than passing it openly, and using both hands to pass it.

Japan Travel Tips: Eating and drinking

Japan really is a foodie’s paradise. From Michelin-standard delights to authentic local cuisine, it more than deserves its reputation as a top culinary mecca. Here are some tips to ensure you make the most of Japan’s edible delights during your trip:

34. Try All the Food!

This may seem like a bit of an obvious point, but it’s still one travel tip worth making.

For a truly high-end experience, you’ll want to splurge on a multi-course, seasonal kaiseki meal – or the vegan/vegetarian version known as shojin ryori . To sample an eclectic variety of Japanese food in one place, head to an izakaya . These casual Japanese-style gastropubs are a must-visit, and one of the best ways to fully immerse yourself in local culture.

From well-known classics such as sushi and ramen to lesser-known but no less delicious dishes like soba and karaage there is a wealth of mouthwatering Japanese foods to try .

On top of this, there are countless local specialties to enjoy as you visit different cities. So if your itinerary includes several destinations, be sure to investigate! To get you started, check out our recommendations for must-eat foods in Kyoto , foods in Osaka , and foods in Fukuoka .

35. Brush Up on Your Chopstick Etiquette

Even if you consider yourself an expert with chopsticks, you might not be aware of some etiquette to keep in mind while using them:

A must for all the food you’re going to be trying!

• Never point your chopsticks at another person, wave them in the air, or spear food with them.
• Don’t stick your chopsticks into a bowl of rice, or pass food from chopsticks to chopsticks, as this is reminiscent of funeral rites.
• When serving yourself from a communal dish, use the opposite end of your chopsticks (not the end you put in your mouth) to serve yourself.

If you can’t use chopsticks don’t worry – you can always ask for a knife and fork.

36. Plan Ahead if You Have Dietary Requirements

Contrary to popular belief, traveling through Japan with special dietary requirements is definitely possible – if you plan ahead.

It is, unfortunately, true that dietary restrictions are not as well understood in Japan as in some other countries, and they cannot always be accommodated. However, following this advice will make your life much easier:

• To prevent misunderstandings, convey what you can and can’t eat specifically (rather than just stating that you are vegan or gluten-free, for example).
• Give plenty of advance notice when asking a restaurant or ryokan to alter their menu, as it will take time and preparation.
• ‘I’m allergic to ___.’
• ‘I can’t eat ___.’
• ‘Does this contain ___?’
• Research, research, research! The internet is a goldmine of information and advice for travelers with dietary requirements in Japan . There is an ever-increasing number of websites about being vegan/vegetarian/gluten-free/etc. in Japan, which can be absolute life-savers.

37. Go Sake Tasting

No list of Japan travel tips would be complete without a little sake!

If you’re not an expert, the best way to gain an appreciation for sake is quite simply to drink it. If you’re unsure of where to start, try a sake tasting experience or go on a brewery tour for a crash course. Another option is to ask the bar or restaurant staff for their recommendations.

One thing to bear in mind is that in Japanese, the word ‘sake’ refers to all alcoholic drinks in general. Use the word ‘nihonshu’ when you order, and you’re sure to impress! If you’re drinking with a group, always fill up other people’s glasses, not your own – and they’ll do the same for you.

For a longer primer on Japan’s national tipple, take a look at our Sake 101 guide. For something a little different, consider branching out into shochu .

Incidentally, while Japan might be best known for sake, it also has an internationally-acclaimed whisky industry . There are several Japanese whisky distilleries across the country that you can visit for a glimpse behind the scenes and a tasting, as well as a plethora of specialty whisky bars.

38. Attend a Tea Ceremony

Japan is home to one of the world’s most venerable tea cultures, and nowhere is this more apparent than in the traditional tea ceremony.

Participating in tea ceremonies is a wonderfully Japanese experience. Conducted using matcha – a high-quality, finely ground powder made from shade-grown green tea plants – it is not simply a way to learn more about preparing and serving tea. The ceremony is also a chance to take a break from the hustle and bustle of everyday life and enjoy authentic Japanese hospitality.

You won’t be expected to know the etiquette of the tea ceremony – after all, that’s part of what you’re there to learn! Just remember to wear nice socks and comfortable clothes, as you’ll likely be in a tatami room and therefore have to remove your shoes and sit on the floor.

39. Don’t Restrict Yourself to Just Matcha!

Matcha might be the most famous, but it’s certainly not the only tea in Japan that you can explore.

If you’re a tea lover, be sure to take the opportunity to try all the varieties of tea on offer. From grassy sencha and top quality gyokuro , to roasted hojicha and brown rice-laden genmaicha , Japan has a tea for every taste and occasion. Besides tea ceremonies, you can visit tea houses for tastings, and even tea plantations for tours.

Tea leaves also make an ideal souvenir, enabling you to bring a taste of Japan back home with you.

Not a fan of tea? Japan also has a booming specialty coffee scene , so be sure to check it out if a cup of joe is more your style.

Looking for More Authentic Japanese Experiences?

Hopefully, these Japan travel tips have helped you in planning and preparing for your trip.

Whether you usually plan your own trips, or normally work with a destination expert, planning a trip to Japan can seem overwhelming at times.

At Boutique Japan, our specialty is crafting completely customized trips for travelers seeking unique, authentic experiences.

If you are interested in learning more about working with us, please feel free to explore our trip planning process .

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Japan travel tips: 13 things to know before you go

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written by Freya Godfrey

updated 27.06.2019

With its glittering royal palaces, ancient temples and sacred shrines as well as sandy beaches, some of the world’s best skiing and beautiful national parks, Japan is a country you'll want to return to again and again.

• 1. Make sure you're wearing the right shoes

2. Visit during cherry blossom season

3. there’s no need to tip, 4. be polite, 5. ride the shinkansen, 6. buy a suica or pasmo card, 7. get used to the face masks, 8. check your drugs, 9. if you’re visiting tokyo, fly to haneda airport, 10. write down addresses, or print the kanji, 11. bring cash, 12.make use of konbinis, 13. prepare to come back.

It's also a very traditional place with a strict etiquette; if you're visiting for the first time, follow our tips to make sure you don't get caught out, with more insights in our round-up of fascinating facts about Japan.

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1. Make sure you're wearing the right shoes

Always ensure that you take off your “outdoor” shoes before entering a temple or someone's house, where you'll find “indoor” shoes to change into.

You'll need to take these off, though, to walk on tatami mats (often in temples and traditional houses).

And, if you go to the toilet in a temple, restaurant or home, make sure you switch into the toilet slippers.

Geta sandals © ZulAzri Zainal/Shutterstock

You might be surprised to learn that the glorious cherry blossom, seen adorning postcards and tourist brochures from across Japan, actually only blooms in the country during sakura (cherry blossom) season.

Running roughly from the end of March to early May, it can be the most expensive time to visit, but it’s also when Japan is at its most enchanting and vibrant.

Sakura is so prized that there’s even a word for enjoying looking at it (and other flowers): hanami . Walking through parks, you’ll notice crowds gathered for hanami parties, picnicking under trees.

In fact, it can be seen as rude, and if you do tip, you may find yourself being chased by a waiter, thinking you've left your change by mistake. An alternative, if you take a guided tour or cookery class for example, is to bring a small present from your country as a token of your appreciation.

Foreigners have a reputation for being noisy in Japan, especially on public transport, so be respectful; it’s impolite to answer your phone, and, if you’re listening to music, turn the volume down low. It’s ruder in Japan to blow your nose in public than sniff, and avoid eating on the go.

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Japan’s bullet trains are an experience in their own right. They glide smoothly through the country and, incredibly fast and always perfectly on time, they’re the best way to get around.

Organise a JR Pass before you go, which can be used on all Japan railways. Be aware that, while most people will be racing through the ticket barriers on prepaid cards, you’ll need to wait at ticket barriers for someone in the station to check your pass.

In our list of the best things to do in Japan find other things that need to be experienced in this fascinating country.

These prepaid cards are similar to London ’s Oyster card, and can be used on most metros and bus services and topped up in stations. You’ll have to pay a small deposit, but you’ll get most of it back if you hand your card in at the end of your trip.

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The cards can prove cheaper than paper tickets, particularly on journeys involving a change of lines. Not to mention, with a card you won’t have to stop and queue to print a ticket every time you board a train.

Japanese people often wear paper face masks, and while this might look odd to you, it’s perfectly logical. It’s to keep them, and you, healthy. During cherry blossom season they’re also worn to keep allergies away.

If you need to take medication on your travels, you may also be required to take your prescription, a letter from your doctor, or even an import certificate ( Yakkan Shoumei ). To avoid getting caught out without your medication, check uk.emb-japan.go.jp.

It’s likely to work out easier and cheaper to reach central Tokyo and your accommodation from Haneda airport than Narita airport.

Make sure you have any addresses you’ll need to locate written in Japanese. This will make it far easier for people to point you in the right direction, or for a taxi driver to understand where you want to go (although, be aware that taxis can be expensive).

Indeed, you may also want to download a map app that you can use offline, or buy a Japanese-English map.

© taffpixture/Shutterstock

It can prove fairly difficult to find ATMs in Japan, so it’s a good idea to exchange money before you go, or to take reasonably large amounts out at a time. When you do need to take more out, head to a post office, or to a 7-Eleven or Citibank ATM.

Konbinis , or convenience stores, tend to have many of the things that visitors will need, as well as delicious steamed buns. Familymart, 7-Eleven and Lawson are the big names, and you’ll find them everywhere you go.

From gadgets and gizmos for things you didn’t even realise you needed (a chopstick-held fan for your noodles, anyone?) to the bright, brash lights of Osaka and Tokyo, plus some of the most awe-inspiring architecture and peaceful temples you’ll find in the world – Japan will have you hooked.

Explore more of Japan with The Rough Guide to Japan . Compare flights , find tours , book hostels and hotels for your trip, and don’t forget to buy travel insurance before you go.

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6 questions travelers need to ask before visiting Japan this year

Oct 5, 2022 • 5 min read

Unrestricted international tourism is returning to Japan on October 11 © Getty Images

On October 11,  Japan will finally open its doors to independent travel following more than two years of some of the world’s toughest border restrictions. The country is also bringing back visa-free entry for visitors from more than 60 countries.

Does that mean it will be as easy to visit now as it was pre-pandemic? Sort of. There are still some pandemic-era rules in place, and you might find that locals are still taking many precautions against the virus compared to other nations. Yet at the same time, there’s much excitement on the ground about the return of international tourism, with Japan gearing up to welcome visitors back with exciting new attractions and events.

Eating on trains, embracing bidets and more tips for your Japan trip

1. Do I need to pack a mask?

Yes. Face masks have been a norm in Japan since before the pandemic. People often wear them year-round to protect their lungs from air pollution and to protect themselves and others from viruses, infections and allergens. While Japan has no official mask mandate in place, you’ll find that many businesses still require people to wear one indoors; you’ll also see people with a mask while on a bus, train or taxi, or in any sort of crowded indoor environment. They’re an everyday item for many, and it wouldn’t hurt to have one in your bag or pocket at all times. If you forget to pack one, it’s easy enough to find a surgical-style disposable face mask in airports and pharmacies all over Japan.

2. Have I checked which entry rules apply to me?

Japan has a color-coded classification entry scheme for all countries, which will continue even after travel rules ease on October 11. The system sets out distinct rules depending on what country you’re entering Japan from. Travelers coming from a “blue” country – a list that currently includes the United States, Canada, the UK, Australia, Mexico, Thailand and many EU nations – no longer have to quarantine and have the option to show proof of vaccination or negative test results before traveling. Travelers from “yellow” and “red” countries are subject to additional entry requirements, such as testing upon arrival and quarantine. You can view the complete list of countries and categories  here .

The 10 most spectacular road trips in Japan

3. Have I downloaded the MySOS app?

MySOS is a smartphone app (available for Android and iOS ) that’s used to record your vaccine and health information for entry into Japan. It should help you get through airport security checks more quickly by being a one-stop shop for all of your essential documents. If you’re traveling with kids, their relevant information can be stored in your MySOS app, too.

4. Do I need to apply for a visa?

Japan will reinstate visa-free travel on October 11 for travelers from more than 68 countries, including the US, Canada, the UK, Ireland, Australia, Mexico, Argentina, Singapore, Thailand and more . If a passport holder a country on the visa-waiver list, you won’t need a visa to travel to Japan if you’re staying for less than 90 days.

The ultimate guide to karaoke in Japan

5. Should I reserve restaurants and museums in advance?

Japan has some of the most sophisticated, creative and celebrated restaurants on the planet. And for many travelers, its cuisine is one of Japan's biggest draws. Getting a table at the top spots has always been a challenge in the capital  Tokyo  (whether it's  Kozue for seafood, Tamawarai for soba, or the two-star Michelin Den , you generally need to express your interest well before showing up), and in cities like  Kyoto  and Osaka  – but since the pandemic, most restaurants across the country require advance reservation, a rule that hasn’t gone away even as the government relaxes its response to the pandemic.

Museums also have new entry systems in place as well, and you’ll likely need to book your spot before showing up. Check the website of the museum you wish to visit ahead of your trip to secure your preferred date and time.

8 unique places to stay in Tokyo

6. What new attractions can I add to my Japan itinerary?

Theme Parks

It feels like there’s always something exciting brewing in Japan. While the pandemic may have paused momentum, it’s now full speed ahead for the opening of some much-anticipated new attractions. After the world's first Super Nintendo World opened in Osaka during the pandemic, the next big thing is  Ghibli Park , a theme park based on the works of animation legend Hayao Miyazaki set to open in Aichi Prefecture on November 1. Unlike traditional theme parks, you won’t find rides here: instead, you’ll walk through the dreamy, watercolor-style landscapes and architecture from Ghibli movies like My Neighbor Totoro and Howl's Moving Castle .

Earlier this year, Ishikawa’s New Prefectural Library opened, featuring 300,000 open stacks of books (and the capacity for two million). It’s quickly become a magnet for anyone who loves books, crafts, art and history, and anyone with even a passing interest in cutting-edge architecture. The building’s exterior resembles the pages of a book being turned, while inside you’ll find craftworks by Ishikawa’s master artisans.

Trying the traditional crafts of Ishikawa prefecture

Now that borders are open you can visit a new UNESCO site in northern Japan, open since May 2021. The Jomon Prehistoric Sites  collectively form a Cultural Heritage Site, at which you’ll learn about the culture of the indigenous Jōmon people across 17 archaeological areas. 

Bullet Trains

Japan’s public transport system is among the best in the world, its jewel the high-tech, high-speed bullet-train network, which is continuously expanding. If you want to test a new route on your travels, the Nishi- Kyūshū line opened in September, taking passengers on a 41-mile journey between the famous hot spring town of Takeo Onsen in the northwest and the city of Nagasaki (gateway to the Gotō Islands) in just 23 minutes.

Japan's best food and drink experiences

If you’re in Tokyo, check out Okushibu,   the Japanese nickname for “Deep Shibuya.” This once well-kept secret within the shopping district of Shibuya  has now become a go-to zone for late-night cafe culture, as well as some really unique and creative restaurants. Okushibu runs parallel to the new rooftop Miyashita Park , and you can stay in the heart of the action when the new Trunk Hotel Yoyogi Park opens in 2023. Expect a rooftop infinity pool with views across the park – and the city.

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Nomadic Matt's Travel Site

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The Perfect 7-Day Japan Itinerary for First-Time Visitors

Japan captured my heart from the moment I firs visited. The delicious food, the rich culture, breathtaking landscapes, vibrant history, and the very friendly and polite people – it all blew my mind.

But Japan often feels impenetrable, especially to first-time visitors. While I think Japan deserves a minimum of 10 days, I get that some people might only have a week, so I wanted to write this, my ideal seven-day itinerary for Japan for a first-time visitor.

With only a week, there’s not much you can see unless you really rush it. And I don’t think you should do that.

So this itinerary only focuses on Tokyo and Kyoto (the most popular destinations) as well as some day trips from each. If you wanted to rush things a little, you could add in Osaka (more on that at the end).

(Note: If you purchased a Japan Rail Pass , activate it on arrival. That way, you can take advantage of the free JR trains throughout the city.)

Table of Contents

Japan Itinerary Day 1: Tokyo

Japan itinerary day 2: tokyo, japan itinerary day 3: tokyo, japan itinerary day 4: kyoto, japan itinerary day 5: kyoto, japan itinerary day 6: nara, japan itinerary day 7: tokyo, an alternative itinerary.

Tsukiji and Toyosu Fish Markets Cure your jet lag with some food! In 2018, Tokyo’s main fish market moved to Toyosu. It is now twice the size of Tsukiji (the old one), making it the largest such market in the world. Here you can eat fresh sushi for breakfast, just a few feet from where it was hauled in from the sea, while marveling at the chaotic atmosphere.

You can still head to the old market in Tsukiji to eat, shop, and wander as well. I like it a lot, because there are more food options! Food and drink tours of the Tsukiji Outer Market are available for around 15,000 JPY.

Toyosu Fish Market is open Monday-Saturday 5am-5pm, though most shops don’t open until 7am. Admission is free, but you have to pick up a visitor’s pass when you enter. Tsukiji Fish Market’s hours vary by shop (usually 5am-2pm). Admission is free.

teamLab Planets This digital art installation is a multi-sensory and immersive experience in which you become part of the artwork, walking barefoot through the four exhibition spaces and gardens as you interact with the installations’ elements in unique ways. It’s really fun! TeamLab is generally sells out in advance, so I recommend getting your tickets online ahead of time .

Take a walking tour Walking tours are a great way to get the lay of the land while connecting with a local guide. I always go on one or two when I arrive somewhere. Tokyo Localized offers many free tours, including a classic overview and ones of both the famed Harajuku and Shinjuku neighborhoods. Its Imperial Palace tour would be the most convenient one after teamLab.

The Imperial Palace Formerly Edo Castle, the Imperial Palace was built in the 15th century, and some of the walls and moats from that time are still in use to this day. When the emperor moved from Kyoto to Tokyo in 1869, he took Edo for his new palace and renamed it. While you can’t go inside, it is surrounded by beautiful grounds, a moat, and a park worth wandering through. You can also see the changing-of-the-guard ceremony (though it’s relatively low-key and unassuming). Admission to the grounds is free.

Shinjuku Gyoen National Garden This park is over 144 acres and home to some 20,000 trees. Most of the original park was destroyed in World War II but was rebuilt and reopened in 1949. During spring, it is one of the best places to see cherry blossoms. My favorite area is the landscape garden, which has several ponds with bridges and islands. It’s a peaceful oasis away from the urban hustle and bustle.

Depending on how you feel relative to your jetlag, you could fit a few more activities before you end your day. Check out this post for suggestions .

• Senso-ji – This is Tokyo’s most popular and famous temple. Beautifully painted, it sits in a scenic spot near a pagoda and the lovely Kaminari Gate. There’s a huge statue of Kannon, the goddess of mercy, inside the main hall. It’s very busy during the day, so maybe check out the grounds in the evening.
• Asakusa Shrine – This nearby Shinto shrine is much more peaceful, with fewer visitors, but with people praying, meditating, or performing traditional rituals. It was built during the Edo period (1603–1868) and survived the air raids of World War II.

Afterward, head to Ueno Park . Spanning over 133 acres, Ueno Park was established in 1873 on land formerly owned by a 17th-century Buddhist temple. It gets super busy in cherry blossom season, as there are over a thousand trees here. Throughout, you’ll find various stalls and vendors selling snacks, drinks, and souvenirs. On weekends, there are usually cultural events or festivals showcasing traditional arts, music, and dance. Four of Tokyo’s main museums are here:

• Tokyo National Museum – Established in 1872 on the north end, this massive building is the oldest and largest art museum in Japan. It houses one of the world’s largest collections of art and artifacts from Asia, particularly Japan.
• Tokyo Metropolitan Art Museum – This museum showcases rotating exhibitions of contemporary and traditional Japanese art.
• National Museum of Nature and Science – This museum features a wide range of permanent and temporary exhibitions covering natural science and history.
• Tosho-gu Shrine – This beautiful 17th-century Shinto shrine has carved gold doors and other ornate carvings. It’s worth seeing up close!

Afterward, walk down to Akihabara to explore the video game parlors, arcades, and anime shops. This very buzzy area is ground zero for all things electronic, and it’s fun to play many of the games. This is where you’ll find the famous maid cafés, where servers dress up as maids and serve you food and drinks. These range from big touristy ones to holes-in-the-wall (the girls on the street are promoting the latter, which are a lot more culturally fun). They aren’t cheap, though, as you have to buy drink packages and pay a fee, but they’re kitschy and fun.

In the evening, visit Shinjuku and then drink in Golden Gai . In Shinjuku, you’ll find a plethora of cool bars, bright lights, and tiny hole-in-the-wall eateries. Be sure to wander down Memory Lane (aka Piss Alley) for tiny izakaya joints and bars. Afterward, head over to Golden Gai, a warren of narrow alleyways with a bit of a red-light-district feel, flanked by diminutive backstreet bars. It’s quite touristy but also a lot of fun. I’ve had some wild nights here!

With Arigato Tours , you’ll learn about the neighborhood while stopping to sample Japanese classics like sushi, yakitori, and ramen. The 23,900 JPY cost includes a drink and dishes at four stops.  

Kamakura Here you can see a 13-meter (43-foot) bronze statue of Buddha that was built in 1252. It was initially constructed within Kotoku-in Temple, but that has since been washed away by several storms, so it now sits in the open air. Admission to enter the temple grounds is 300 JPY, while it’s 20 JPY to go inside the statue. The journey there — around an hour — is free with a Japan Rail Pass .

Tokyo Disneyland I’m a sucker for Disney. You’ll find many of the same classic rides from Disney World here, like Splash Mountain, Big Thunder Mountain, The Haunted Mansion, and everyone’s favorite teacup ride, The Mad Tea Party. But there are several unique attractions as well, like Pooh’s Hunny Hunt and Journey to the Center of the Earth.

Ticket prices vary depending on the day and time, but full-day admission begins at 7,900 JPY for adults and 4,400-6,200 JPY for children. It’s best to book in advance .

Mount Fuji Mount Fuji is located an hour outside of Tokyo. An active stratovolcano (which last erupted in 1708) and covered in snow for almost half of the year, it stands an impressive 3,776 meters (12,389 feet) and provides one of the most iconic views in the country. One of the Three Holy Mountains of Japan, Mount Fuji is both a Special Place of Scenic Beauty and a UNESCO Cultural Site. In the summer, the mountain is open to hikers, who take 5-12 hours to reach the summit (traditionally, they depart at night to arrive at the top for the sunrise).

If you don’t want to hike, you can simply visit on a day trip. There are buses that can take you partway up, where you’ll be offered sweeping vistas of the surrounding area. Guided day tours from the city cost around 12,000 JPY.  

Wander the Bamboo Forest For a relaxing break, head to Arashiyama and let the dense and towering stands of bamboo envelop you. Located near the famous Tenryu-ji temple, it’s one of the most beautiful places in the entire country. It’s not that big, but there are some hidden areas to explore. Just make sure to arrive early if you want to enjoy it without the crowds (it fills up fast after sunrise).

While there, I would also recommend visiting the Okochi Sanso Garden, which (along with the home) belonged to the famous Japanese actor Denjir? ?k?chi (1898–1962). It’s not free (it’s 1,000 JPY), but it’s really nice and has some wonderful views.

Visit the Golden Pavilion Originally built in the late 14th century as a retirement villa for the shogun (military governor), this iconic structure was later converted into a Zen Buddhist temple. The present-day edifice dates only to the 1950s, however, when a monk attempting to kill himself burned the historic original to the ground. The rebuilt temple is covered in brilliant gold leaf, symbolizing purity and enlightenment. Each of the three stories exhibits a different architectural style. Completing the scene are the serene reflecting pool and traditional Japanese gardens that contain lush foliage, manicured trees, and scenic walking paths.

1 Kinkakuji-cho, Kita-ku, Kyoto-shi, Kyoto, +81 075-461-0013, shokoku-ji.jp. Open daily 9am-5pm. Admission is 500 JPY.

Admire Ryoan-ji Temple This is my favorite temple in Kyoto. Originally established in 1450 as a residence for a high-ranking samurai, it was soon converted into a Zen temple and is now a UNESCO World Heritage Site, with a mausoleum that houses the remains of seven emperors. Its traditional rock and sand garden is considered one of the best in the country. There’s also a teahouse where you can experience the traditional Japanese tea ceremony ( chanoyu ) as you overlook the Kyoyochi reflecting pool.

There are other temples in the area to check out as well:

• Daitoku-ji Temple – This massive complex dating back to 1315 covers almost 60 acres. It contains several dozen temples and is a good place to see a variety of Zen gardens and architectural styles. It’s also deeply linked to the Japanese tea ceremony, as several of the country’s most noteworthy masters studied here.
• Toji Temple – This is home to Japan’s tallest pagoda (five stories high). Founded in 796, just after Kyoto became the capital, it was one of only three Buddhist temples allowed in the city.

Go on a sake brewery tour Kyoto has a sake (rice wine) brewing tradition going back 400 years and is known for some of the best in the world, due to using the area’s pure natural spring water in the brewing process. Arigato Tours offers an excellent three-hour tour of Fushimi (the brewing district) for 23,320 JPY, including stops at several breweries, a guided tour of the Gekkeikan Okura Sake Museum, and tastings.  

See the Fushimi Inari Shrine This mountainside Shinto shrine, dating back to 711, is dedicated to Inari, the god of rice and prosperity. It’s known for its thousands of vibrant orange torii gates that form a network of trails leading up Mount Inari. You can hike the trails on your own while enjoying panoramic views of Kyoto below or join a guided hiking tour , on which you’ll get off the paved paths and into hidden bamboo groves. Get here as early as possible to avoid the crowds.

68 Fukakusa Yabunouchicho, +81756417331, inari.jp. Open 24/7. Admission is free.

Walk around Higashiyama Spend an afternoon walking along the narrow streets of one of the oldest and best preserved districts on your own or on a walking tour . The traditional machiya buildings (traditional wooden townhouses) are filled with small shops selling local specialties and handicrafts, as well as restaurants and teahouses. It’s a popular area in which to participate in a tea ceremony . Another nice place to stroll in this neighborhood is the Philosopher’s Path, which follows a cherry-tree-lined canal that’s beautiful and meditative even when the blossoms aren’t in season.

Visit Kiyomizu-dera One of a number of UNESCO sites in ancient Kyoto, Kiyomizu-dera (meaning “pure water temple”) is located in the foothills of Mount Otowa in the eastern part of the city. It’s one of the most famous temples in all of Japan. It was established in 778, but most of the existing buildings date to the 17th century. There’s not a single nail used in the construction, which becomes all the more impressive once you see how large the temple is, which is best known for its wooden terrace that juts out over the hillside. The temple’s name comes from the nearby waterfall whose waters (from which you can still drink today) are said to have wish-granting and healing powers.

1 Chome-294 Kiyomizu, +81 75-551-1234, kiyomizudera.or.jp. Open daily 6am-6pm. Admission is 400 JPY.

Explore Shorin-ji Temple This small temple dates back to the 16th century. What makes it worth visiting is its meditation classes. You’ll get to tour the temple and then be instructed in zazen , the Japanese style of meditation. It’s a very unique experience and something that I think will add a lot of depth and nuance to your visit (especially if you’ve seen a lot of temples). Just make sure to dress comfortably.

15 Chome-795 Honmachi, +81 75-561-4311, shourin-ji.org. Open daily 10am-4pm. Admission is 800 JPY.

Wander the Nishiki Market Nishiki Ichiba is now one of the biggest indoor markets in town. Known as “Kyoto’s Kitchen” and spanning over five blocks, it is full of vendors selling traditional dishes from the region, classic Kyoto souvenirs, and really just about anything else. There are over a hundred stalls here, many of which have been in the same family for generations. Opening hours depend on the shop but are typically from 9am to 6pm.

To dive deeper into Japanese food culture, you can take a food tour of the market . It’s the best way to learn about all the food you’ll see, as well as the market’s history.

Explore Gion Gion, the historic geisha district, is renowned as being one of the most iconic and atmospheric areas of town. It’s known for its traditional wooden machiya houses, narrow alleyways, cobblestone streets, and preservation of geisha (known locally as geiko) culture. Lining the main street are ochayas (teahouses where geishas entertain), small shops, and many restaurants, ranging from upscale kaiseki restaurants serving traditional Kyoto cuisine to casual eateries.

To really learn more about this amazing party of town and its past, take a walking tour of Gion . You’ll learn a ton and get a lot of context. They cost around 1,800 JPY.

At night, go to the Pontocho Row , a narrow street lined with restaurants, hole-in-the-wall bars, and jazz clubs. It’s one of the more lively areas in Kyoto.  

Nara was the capital of Japan in the eighth century, so there are lots of buildings and temples here that are upwards of a thousand years old (which is rare in Japan, due to the prevalence of fires and earthquakes, as well as World War II). Some things to do:

• Frolic with deer – The real draw in Nara are the deer. Since the 17th century, those in and around the city have been considered sacred. You can buy crackers to feed them or just watch them stroll around carefree.
• See the Buddha – Don’t miss a visit to Todai-ji, the world’s largest wooden building, home to a 16-meter (52-foot) Buddha statue. It was built in 738 and is now a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
• Take a walking tour – This guided half-day walking tour for 11,500 JPY includes all of Nara’s highlights as well as a traditional lunch.

Ryogoku Kokugikan, Japan’s most famous sumo wrestling arena, hosts tournaments three times each year, in January, May, and September. Tickets sell out quickly, so book online in advance. Prices vary but start around 3,200 JPY for arena seats. You can book a ticket online here (you’ll be accompanied by a guide too, so you can learn more about the tradition as it unfolds before your eyes).

To learn more about the sport in in the off-season, book a tour of a sumo stable .  

So, if you want to add another city to this itinerary you can follow this breakdown:

• Days 1 & 2: Tokyo
• Days 3 & 4: Kyoto
• Day 5: Nara
• Days 6 & 7: Osaka

Tokyo, Kyoto, and Nara are all covered above. As for Osaka, some of my favorite things to see and do:

Take a food tour Known as “the Kitchen of Japan,” Osaka boasts a diverse culinary scene. Mouthwatering sushi and sashimi, Kobe beef and Japanese BBQ, and flavorful ramen can all be found here in abundance. Plus, there are local specialties like okonomiyaki (a savory pancake with egg and vegetables) and kushikatsu (kebab skewers). You can take a food tour for around 13,000 JPY, a ramen and gyoza cooking class for 9,500 JPY, or just wander and eat.

Osaka Castle One of the most famous landmarks in the country, the castle was originally built in the late 16th century by Toyotomi Hideyoshi and played a pivotal role in the unification of Japan during the Sengoku period (1467-1615). Over the centuries, it has been destroyed and rebuilt multiple times due to wars, fires, and natural disasters. The current version dates to 1931. The castle is situated amid sprawling grounds and surrounded by a moat. It’s also home to a small but insightful museum and an observation deck that offers some picturesque urban views.

Dotonbori This is arguably Osaka’s most iconic district, known for its vibrant nightlife (bars, clubs, theaters, and music venues), colorful signage, and delicious food. It’s best seen at night due to the plethora of huge neon lights and signs lining both the canal and streets, which have become symbols of Osaka’s nightlife. A guided walking tour that includes Dotonbori as well adjacent neighborhoods is 6,500 JPY.

Shitennoji Temple This temple is one of the oldest Buddhist temples in Japan, founded in 593. The architecture is a blend of traditional Japanese and East Asian styles, featuring impressive pagodas, gates, and shrines set amid serene gardens. Stroll through the tranquil grounds, admire the beautiful architecture, and learn about the temple’s historical and cultural significance at the museum. The temple is 300 JPY to enter, the garden is 300 JPY, and the museum is 500 JPY.  

Japan is one of my favorite countries. While it’s relatively small, it offers an amazing array of things to see and do (as well as some of the best food in the world). With seven days, you can easily see a good number of the main highlights and get a taste for the incredible history and culture. It will be a busy week, but this itinerary ensures you’ll still have some time to slow down, relax, and take in the local pace of life.

Just make sure you get a Japan Rail Pass before you go. While it’s not as cheap as it used to be, it will likely save you time and money!

Book Your Trip to Japan: Logistical Tips and Tricks

Book Your Flight Find a cheap flight by using Skyscanner . They are my two favorite search engines, because they search websites and airlines around the globe, so you always know no stone is being left unturned!

Book Your Accommodation You can book your hostel with Hostelworld as they have the most comprehensive inventory so they are best for booking a hostel. If you want to stay in a hotel or guesthouse in Japan, use Booking.com as it consistently returns the cheapest rates for guesthouses and hotels.

Don’t Forget Travel Insurance Travel insurance will protect you against illness, injury, theft, and cancelations. It’s comprehensive protection in case anything goes wrong. I never go on a trip without it, as I’ve had to use it many times in the past. My favorite companies that offer the best service and value are:

• Safety Wing (best for everyone)
• Insure My Trip (for those over 70)
• Medjet (for additional evacuation coverage)

Looking for the Best Companies to Save Money With? Check out my resource page for the best companies to use when you travel! I list all the ones I use to save money when I travel — and I think they will help you too!

Be sure to check out the Japan Rail Pass if you’ll be traveling around the country. It comes in 7-, 14-, and 21-day passes and can save you a ton of money!

Looking for More Travel Tips for Japan? Check out my in-depth Japan travel guide for more ways to save money, information on costs, tips on what to see and do, suggested itineraries and reading and packing lists, and much, much more!

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Home » Budget Travel » 27 Japan Travel Tips You NEED to Know! • 2024

27 Japan Travel Tips You NEED to Know! • 2024

Japan! With over 14,000 islands, the Land of the Rising Sun is truly a place of mystery. This is where the traditions of the past gone ages graciously dance with the bustling craziness of the present.

Here you’ll find ancient villages living in harmony with skyscrapers and futuristic tech. This is the birthplace of anime, home to sushi perfection, and a land of mystical mountains and tropical island dreams.

What truly makes Japan special is its culture – it stands strong and is utterly unique, drawing travelers from far and wide. But, for first-time travelers, Japan can be a tad perplexing, occasionally intimidating, and even rather overwhelming.

In October 2023, I spent over a month backpacking and hitchhiking across this wonderful country, so fear not, friends… I’ve compiled the ULTIMATE list of 27 Japan travel tips that I wish I’d known before setting foot in this enchanting world.

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1. Think About Hitchhiking

2. get an ic card – godsend, 3. try staying at k’s house hostels, 4. your ultimate japan travel tip: don’t tip, 5. trash disposal, 6. carry cash, 7. be prepared to walk…. a lot, 8. invest in a cultural experience, 9. before you go, get familiar with the language, 10. shhh-inkansen, 11. travel during off-season, 12. chopstick etiquette: pro japan travel tip, 13. don’t order too much food, 14. eat your breakfast at the convenience stores, 15. japan is not all sushi and ramen, 16. being vegan is difficult in japan, 17. try to make it to one of japan’s festivals, 18. get a japan rail pass, 19. understand japanese religions, 20. always travel with insurance, 21. head to the ocean, 22. and don’t forget about the mountains, 23. you can drink the tap water, 24. amazingggg public bathrooms, 25. onsen etiquette, 26. get pocket wi-fi or a sim card.

We all know something that holds people back from traveling to Japan is the cost . But the main cost of backpacking in Japan is actually the transportation. So why not make it free, stick it to your thumb, and see how it goes?

I was pleasantly surprised by how smooth it was to hitchhike as a woman here. I made new friends, learned more of the language, and saw places public transport never could have taken me. Even more remarkable is how my perspective on the Japanese people has deepened.

Japan is a very safe place to travel, which makes it a wonderful place to begin your hitchhiking journey.

This Japan travel tip is a GAME-CHANGER. I can’t believe I spent a week backpacking in Japan without one, grappling with the confusing ticket machines EVERY TIME I tried to take the subway. 

Trust me, grab an IC card like Suica, Pasmo, or Icoca. 

You can add them to your Apple Wallet in a matter of seconds. Just tap when you enter and tap again when you exit, and your fare is automatically deducted. 

You can use them at convenience stores and some grocery stores too which is great if your debit card has foreign transaction fees.

K’s House Hostel is a hostel chain in Japan. Unlike other hostel chains, where they’re exact replicas of each other just in different locations, this hostel chain caters to each hostel’s surroundings and local culture.

Some are renovated 150-year-old Japanese buildings, while others are normal homes in lakeside neighborhoods.

But one thing they all have in common is a very friendly atmosphere, freshly brewed coffee in the mornings, and clean shared kitchens. 

If you stay at K’s house repetitively, you get a 10% discount, which really adds up for budget travelers looking for where to stay in Japan !

Tipping is generally not practiced or expected in Japan, it can actually be seen as unusual, awkward, or even rude. 

The reason behind this is deeply rooted in Japanese culture, where service is considered an integral part of the job and employees take pride in providing excellent service as part of their duty.

Tipping could imply that the staff isn’t paid well enough. Instead, expressing gratitude with a simple “arigatou gozaimasu” (thank you) is appreciated.

Japan’s limited public trash disposal system can be a bit puzzling for newcomers, especially for me when I started my journey backpacking in Tokyo and couldn’t find a bin for the life of me…

The reason for this? Well, it’s largely due to the Japanese culture of personal responsibility.

People are expected to take their trash home with them and sort it meticulously into categories like burnable, non-burnable, and recyclables.

Then wash it before putting it in the relevant trashcan. It’s all about minimizing waste and maintaining clean public spaces.

So, while you might struggle to find public trash bins, remember that it’s a shared commitment to environmental cleanliness, and it’s a small price to pay for Japan’s pristine streets and parks.

My perspective on this changed from annoyance and frustration to respect and gratitude when I learned about the reason behind having no trash cans on the streets.

If you really need to throw away the trash, there are normally bins in 7/11 or Lawson’s . Keep this Japan travel tip for future reference. 🙂

Japan is a very cash-centric place. Always carry some cash with you, as some restaurants and shops don’t accept cards. While in bigger cities like Tokyo, this is changing quickly, rural areas seldom accept cards.

Drink water from ANYWHERE. The Grayl Geopress is the worlds leading filtered water bottle protecting you from all manner of waterborne nasties.

Single-use plastic bottles are a MASSIVE threat to marine life. Be a part of the solution and travel with a filter water bottle. Save money and the environment!

We’ve tested the Geopress  rigorously  from the icy heights of Pakistan to the tropical jungles of Bali, and can confirm: it’s the best water bottle you’ll ever buy!

Whilst there is public transport in Japan, bring a good pair of walking shoes because you’ll be walking everywhere. I walked AT LEAST 5-10 km a day. Even walking to and from subway stations or bus stops can add an extra 1-2 km.

I also HIGHLY recommend bringing a foldable day pack. I traveled with the Nomatic packable daypack #1, and it was perfect for wandering around with.

This is good, though, as you’ll work up an appetite and have room for more sushi. Japan travel hack, guys!

An absolute HIGHLIGHT of my time in Japan was spending a couple of hours learning all about Samurai culture!

MANY dojos offer touristic samurai experiences, however, only a handful are the real deal, and I strongly recommend doing your research. The school we went to was amazing, I trained with a Samurai master with over 20 years of experience.

You’ll learn the fascinating history of the samurai as well as the proper techniques to hold the sword, attack your foes, and defend yourself.

At the end of the class, you’ll have the chance to slash and decapitate some rolled-up reed mats; a really thrilling ending. As a girl who isn’t always as stoked on swords as my guy friends, I wasn’t sure if I would particularly enjoy this, but it was a really powerful experience, and I highly recommend it.

Japan can be one of the trickiest places to travel in terms of the language barrier. Japanese people generally don’t speak much English and also tend to speak Japanese pretty quickly!

Learning some of the language before you arrive in Japan is a good idea . Not only will this lessen the number of awkward Google translate exchanges, but it will also allow you to experience the country much more INTIMATELY. 

Here are some of my favorite/most useful words I picked up while in Japan:

• Gochisousama deshita (Goh-chee-soh-sah-mah deh-shee-tah) is a Japanese phrase used after finishing a meal to express gratitude. It’s a way to say, “Thank you for the meal” or “It was a feast.” It’s a polite way to acknowledge the person who prepared the food and the restaurant staff.
• Itadakimasu (Ee-tah-dah-kee-mahs) is said before beginning a meal in Japan to express gratitude for the food, the animals who were sacrificed to make the food, and the people who prepared it.
• Arigatou gozaimasu (Ah-ree-gah-toh goh-zai-mahs) = Thank you
• Onegaishimasu (Oh-neh-gah-ee-shee-mahs) = Please
• Sumimasen (Soo-mee-mah-sen) = Excuse me/Sorry
• Osusume? (Oh-soo-sue-meh) = What’s your recommended dish? ( Perfect for when you can’t read the menu and have no idea what order to place )

Japanese public transport is insanely quiet, especially the Shinkansen bullet trains. Even when the trains are packed shoulder-to-shoulder full of people, it’s still dead silent.

Guys, take note of this Japan travel tip: DO NOT answer phone calls on a bus or train, and do not speak and laugh super loudly with your friends . There is signage in most stations and inside trains to remind passengers of this.

Japan is well known for its cherry blossoms and fall foliage. It’s beautiful! But if you want a more budget adventure , try traveling during the summer or winter, as there are far fewer crowds and prices decrease significantly.

In the summer, there are vibrant festivals throughout the country, such as Gion Matsuri in Kyoto and Tanabata festivals.

December, January, and February are the absolute best times to explore Japan . In winter, you can check out skiing and snowboarding in regions like Hokkaido and Nagano . Warm up in traditional hot spring baths (onsens) while surrounded by snow.

In Japan, it’s a good idea to avoid sticking your chopsticks upright in a bowl while chowin’ down . Now, that’s one chopstick etiquette I wish I knew before travelling to Japan.

This practice has some eerie ties to funeral rituals and can give off an uncomfortable vibe for those around you.  It’s about more than just etiquette; it can also come across as a lack of respect for the chef who prepared your meal.

Even Shintoism, which has its say in these matters, frowns upon this practice. It can be seen as disrespecting the spirits who inhabit the rice.

To keep things cool and culturally sensitive, just pop your chopsticks flat on a rest or the edge of your plate when you’re not using them. It’s a simple Japan travel tip that goes a long way, and I wish I’d known sooner.

Archive this Japan travel tip for later: Order with your stomach, not your eyes! 

Not finishing your food is looked down upon in Japan. It implies wastefulness, a lack of appreciation for the chef’s efforts, and a disregard for portion sizes.

To show cultural sensitivity, it’s best to try to finish your food. Even if you can’t, make sure you still express gratitude for the meal’s deliciousness. Remember, you can always order more!

One of the things to know when traveling to Japan is that stores like 7/11 and Lawson have very yummy and budget-friendly options for breakfast.

You can have egg sandwiches and onigiri (Japanese rice balls). They also have coffee machines with lattes, which cost only $1.00.

Many budget travelers choose this as an easy and convenient breakfast. I was so surprised at the delicious quality of the food at these stores compared to the ones in the US or Europe.

I thought I would be eating sushi and ramen every day in Japan, but I was pleasantly surprised by the variety of food Japan offers. 

Make sure to eat other noodle dishes like Soba or Udon. Or try the yummy Yakitori, famous meat skewers in Tokyo, if you’re looking for something quick.

If you are looking for things to do in Osaka , try taking a street food tour and eating some Okonomiyaki and Takoyaki !

For vegans, Japan can present some challenges, as the country’s traditional foods rely heavily on seafood and meat. Even seemingly plant-based dishes can often contain hidden animal ingredients, like fish stock or bonito flakes.

Ingrained in Japanese culture is a strong emphasis on hospitality and tradition, making it sometimes tricky to request special considerations. 

While exploring places like Kyoto or Tokyo, they may have more vegan-friendly options. But they will still be more limited compared to Western countries, although this is improving as time goes on.

Attending a Japanese festival can be an amazing way to experience the culture more intimately, get a glimpse into the past, eat amazing food, and see parts of Japan you never normally would.

Try to see if you can incorporate any of these incredible festivals in Japan into your itinerary.

• Cherry Blossom Festivals: Celebrated in spring all over the country, these festivals honor the cherry blossoms with picnics and light-up events.
• Gion Matsuri: This is one of Japan’s most famous and grandest annual festivals. It is held in Kyoto in July and features a beautiful parade of traditional floats
• Tanabata (Star Festival): Celebrated on the 7th day of the 7th month every year, locals decorate bamboo trees with strips of paper, with wishes written on them.
• Gion Kobu Geiko and Maiko Dances : Here you can see Geishas perform beautiful dances all around Kyoto, a truly once-in-a-lifetime experience.
• Sapporo Snow Festival: For a whole week, Hokkaido becomes decorated with crazy, elaborate snow and ice sculptures 
• Takayama Festival: This Japanese town in the mountains becomes full of floats, music, and food and celebrates the coming of spring and autumn.

The Japan Rail Pass can be the ultimate budget hack for traveling around Japan. With this, you get unlimited access to all JR lines for 1, 2, or even 3 weeks, depending on what you choose.

Armed with your trusted JR Pass, you can crisscross the entire country and use it to navigate big cities like Tokyo as well.

However, be sure to crunch the numbers and see if it’s cost-effective for the journeys you have planned, especially with the recent price hike (up by 70%!) in October 2023 .

If you plan on making multiple longer journeys, it’s likely a money-saver. You should try to order one ahead of time, and it will get shipped to your house.

But if you’re like me and don’t really have an address to ship to, you can pick it up at a JR ticket office at bigger stations across the country.

It’s important to educate yourself on the difference between shrines and temples , as it’s easy to group them together or assume they are the same. 

Shrines, known as “jinja,” are places of Shinto worship and often have a Torii gate at their entrance. They are associated with Japan’s indigenous Shinto religion which focuses on kami (spirits).

They normally have the word “shrine” at the end of the name, which is an easy way to identify them. Temples tend to utilize the suffixes “ji,” “in,” “tera” or “dera” at the end instead.

Some good examples of these are Asakusa’s Senso-ji, Kyoto’s Kiyomizu-dera, and Miyajima’s Daisho-in. Knowing this difference can help you appreciate the rituals and customs at each site, from clapping at shrines to bowing at temples. 

When backpacking, you never know what can happen. While travelling, I’ve had several unfortunate accidents where travel insurance would have saved me so much anxiety and trouble.

From motorbike crashes, food poisoning, ear infections, and broken bones. Take it from me, make your Japan trip anxiety-free and get solid travel insurance .

ALWAYS sort out your backpacker insurance before your trip. There’s plenty to choose from in that department, but a good place to start is Safety Wing .

They offer month-to-month payments, no lock-in contracts, and require absolutely no itineraries: that’s the exact kind of insurance long-term travellers and digital nomads need.

SafetyWing is cheap, easy, and admin-free: just sign up lickety-split so you can get back to it!

Click the button below to learn more about SafetyWing’s setup or read our insider review for the full tasty scoop.

When people think of Japan, the first thing they think of is definitely not amazing waves or pristine beaches. But trust me, the ocean in Japan is MDMAmazing.

Head to the IZU peninsula just south of Tokyo for amazing waves, cute surf towns, some of the best beaches in Japan , or CRAZY scuba diving experiences with hammerhead sharks.

Of course, you can also head to Okinawa , a group of islands in the southern part of Japan known for its coral reefs, unique culture and food, and amazing people.

A lot of people spend their Japanese travels in Tokyo, Kyoto, and Osaka and call it good. But oh boy, they are missing out.

The mountains in Japan attract people far and wide. Whether you’re looking for amazing skiing in the winter, trekking in the summer, amazing fall foliage, or adorable mountain towns, they’ve really got it all.

You can take day trips to the mountains easily from Tokyo to places like Hakone or Nikko , or if you’re feeling more adventurous, head to the Japanese Alps and explore.

You can also trek one of the top 10 pilgrimage routes in the world , the Kumano Kodo, located in the ancient forests of the Kansai regions. This is truly a spiritual experience.

I’m sure everyone knows the dreadful feeling of having to purchase plastic water bottles in places like Southeast Asia, where you cannot drink tap water. 

Japan is amazing for this reason, as you can bring your reusable water bottle with you everywhere and just refill it in bathrooms or your hotel room sink .

Environmentally friendly, convenient, and free! Can’t get much better than that.

Here at The Broke Backpacker, we are big fans of Grayl filtration water bottles . You can drink tap water from ANYWHERE when traveling; you can even drink water from puddles… The filter takes care of it.

Speaking of convenience and free, EVERYWHERE you go in Japan, you’ll find clean and lavender-smelling public restrooms. They’re sometimes even adorned with fresh flowers or air fresheners.

It’s incredibly surprising to walk into a bathroom in the middle of the busiest areas of Tokyo, or the most remote areas of the countryside, and be met with a SPOTLESS restroom. One of the few places I’ve been in the world with this luxury, it certainly differs from backpacking in the USA !

Chances are, while you’re in Japan, you’ll at some point find yourself relaxing in an onsen, a traditional Japanese hotspring. But the first time can be a bit intimidating. So here are some pro Japan travel tips and etiquette, so you won’t be as lost as I was.

• Wash Up First: Before getting in the hot spring, make sure to thoroughly clean yourself in the washing area.
• No Swimsuits: Yep, you heard it right – no swimsuits allowed. Embrace your birthday suit.
• Respect Quiet: Keep it hushed. Onsen time is a peaceful time.
• Towels: The Onsen staff or your hostel will give you a small white hand towel. Don’t put it in the hot water; it’s for dabbing your face, not for dunking. You’ll see the locals balancing it on top of their heads as they soak.
• Tattoos: Some places might not allow tattoos. Check ahead if you’re inked up.

While there are some countries you can skate by without the internet, Japan is NOT one of them.

You’ll be using Google Translate…a lot! You’ll also need Google Maps to navigate the extensive public transport systems.

Having a SIM card is literally a life-saving Japan travel tip! I recommend getting an international SIM ahead of time; there’s some good info on how to pick up a SIM card for Japan in this post.

The people of Japan are a diverse and interesting bunch. And whilst the vibe is not the MOST friendly in the hectic urban metropolis, real rural Japan has truly lovely people.

I found that by smiling, being curious, and trying to speak a few words in Japanese, I had many really special experiences where it was just me and the locals…

I had great success hitchhiking in Japan and making friends on hikes. What’s more, I’ve learned a lot about Japanese culture from the people who picked me up or invited me to hang out with them.

So embrace these Japan travel tips, venture out with a smile, be curious, and you’ll find the best side of Japan waiting to embrace you.

And for transparency’s sake, please know that some of the links in our content are affiliate links . That means that if you book your accommodation, buy your gear, or sort your insurance through our link, we earn a small commission (at no extra cost to you). That said, we only link to the gear we trust and never recommend services we don’t believe are up to scratch. Again, thank you!

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Japan Trip Planner [2024]: How to Plan Your First Trip to Japan

Home » Blog » Japan » Japan Trip Planner [2024]: How to Plan Your First Trip to Japan

This information-packed Japan trip planner has the answers to all your questions. Find out the best places to visit, which Japanese foods to try, and how to ride the bullet trains. All the research is done for you to assist in planning a trip to Japan.

If you have been dreaming of traveling to Japan and want to get serious about planning your vacation, this Japan travel planning guide is packed with all the tips and information that you’ll need to know before your trip to the land of the rising sun.

We’ve traveled to Japan 3 times (and counting!) and have picked up plenty of insider tips. From which foods to try, to how much money to budget, to what travel gear to pack, to the best things to do in Japan . 

In this guide, we’re showing you exactly how to plan a trip to Japan by covering everything. And I mean everything! 

We’re even answering your embarrassing questions like, “ What are the toilets like in Japan? ”

We’ll also share exactly how much it costs to travel to Japan, plus we’re throwing in some money-saving budget tips! This is the ultimate resource with everything you need to know to get started planning a trip to Japan. 

Japan Travel Planning Guide

Wondering how to plan a trip to Japan? You’ve come to the right place!

Important info about Japan

• How long should you spend in Japan
• Best time to visit Japan

Booking timeline: Know what to book when

• Top places to visit in Japan
• Top things to do and see in Japan
• Budget for Japan

Transportation in Japan

• Practical information for visiting

Food in Japan

• Japan trip ideas based on interests

Our experience in Japan

• What to pack for Japan
• Things to buy in Japan
• Japan travel resources

If you’re planning a trip to Japan, we have the ultimate resource for you!

This  FREE   PDF download  includes  everything  you’re going to want to pack for your Japan trip, including what NOT to bring, plus tons of insider tips!

Sign up for our  ultimate Japan packing list  now and get a copy sent straight to your inbox.

Why should Japan be on your travel bucket list?

Japan is a country that we wholeheartedly believe has something for every type of traveler. Yes, even you . Whether you’re into history or pop culture, cities or nature, wild nightlife or absolute zen, you’ll find it all in Japan.

While Kyoto, Tokyo, and Osaka make it onto most first timer’s itineraries, you’ll quickly see that there is so much more to this country beyond the main attractions.

Once you travel here, it becomes kind of addicting — you’ll see! — because you’ll realize just how much this country has to offer. 

• Incredible foodie experiences
• Epic (and off the beaten path) hikes
• Unique hotel stays you can’t find anywhere else in the world
• Temples and shrines that are shrouded in history
• Beautiful cultural experiences, like tea ceremonies and geisha performances
• Rural villages that few tourists see
• Some of the world’s biggest and safest cities
• Impeccable Japanese zen gardens

I could truly go on and on and on…

We have personally traveled to Japan 3 times and will certainly be back many, many more times. 

Read next: We’ve rounded up all the things Japan is most famous for in a guide that’s also packed with practical travel tips. Plus, we’re sharing a few things we personally think Japan should be famous for, but most foreign tourists are surprised to know.

Here is a general overview of some of the high level important info and things to know before traveling in Japan. We’ll go into more detail about specifics in the rest of this article. 

• Location: Island nation in Asia, located in the North Pacific  ( view on Google Maps )
• Capital city: Tokyo
• Language: Japanese
• Currency: Yen (JP¥ / ¥)
• Japan uses the same plugs as in the U.S. but they have a different voltage (100 vs. 120 in the U.S.)

Visa requirements

There are 66 countries in total whose citizens do not require a visa to enter Japan, but the time you can stay depends on which country you’re from.

• Citizens from many countries (including the U.S.A., the U.K., Canada, and Australia) get a visa exemption (aka FREE) 90-day tourist visa, provided they will not be working in Japan.
• Other countries get a temporary tourist visa for a period of 15 days or less.

To find out the specifics for your country, check out the Japan National Tourism Organization , which explains the requirements for each country. 

Language in Japan & useful phrases

The language in Japan is, quite obviously, Japanese. But many people in big cities, like Tokyo, Kyoto and Osaka also speak English. Signs are written in Japanese characters, and in the cities most have their Roman counterparts.

When traveling, we always try to learn a couple important phrases. It shows locals you are trying to learn about their country and it can be fun too!

These phrases are ones we have found to be the most useful in any location we visit:

• Hello: Kon’nichiwa
• Thank you: Arigato
• Thank you very much: Domo Arigato
• Beer, please: Biru kudasai
• Cheers!: Kanpai
• Bathroom: Basurumu
• How much?: Ikura
• Delicious: Oishi
• Beautiful: Kireina

Interested in learning more? We’ve got a list of Japanese words and phrases that will be useful to know for traveling in Japan.

Helpful Japanese Words & Phrases to Know for Traveling in Japan 

We’ve rounded up some practical Japanese words and phrases (that you can actually use!).

Manners and customs in Japan

When traveling in a country other than your own, it is always a good idea to do a little research on what is polite so that you don’t accidentally offend people like this.

Here are couple manners to keep in mind when traveling to Japan:

• Eating while you walk is considered sloppy. Instead, find a place to sit and enjoy your snack.
• Pointing is considered rude. Instead, use an open hand to make gestures.
• Blowing your nose in public can be considered rude. Japanese people often go into the bathroom to blow a stuffy nose.
• On a crowded subway or train, it is polite to take off your backpack and hold it in your hands.
• Slurping noodles not only cools them down as you eat, but it indicates that the meal is delicious. So slurp away, it’s the polite thing to do!
• Taking off your shoes is common courtesy before entering many places. If the floor is raised at the doorway, it is an indicator that you should remove your shoes.

If you want a full run-down, check out our article on Japanese etiquette!

Japanese Etiquette: Dos and Don’ts When Traveling in Japan

Don’t get caught doing something embarrassing in Japan! We’ve compiled some important Japanese etiquette and manners to keep in mind while eating, riding trains and other common activities. 

Tipping culture in Japan

Should I tip at restaurants in Japan? This is a question we always ask ourselves once we reach a new country, and it is never fun being caught off guard, unsure of what to do.

In Japan, tips are not expected, and can even be considered rude. And even if the server is not offended, they will likely be confused.

So in other words, NO , you should not tip in Japan. 

Religion in Japan

Buddhism and Shinto are the main religions in Japan, though they don’t play a huge role in the lives of many Japanese people today.

All throughout the country, you can visit temples and shrines to get a better understanding of the religions and culture. You can even do a temple stay in order to really delve in and learn about Buddhism. 

Read this before visiting a temple or shrine in Japan.

Fun facts about Japan

These facts will be good conversation starters with other travelers or even locals. So break that ice and let them in on some fun facts about Japan!

Interesting Facts About Japan (that may surprise you!)

Japan is an exciting country packed with things to do and places to see. In this article, we’re sharing all sorts of interesting facts about Japan. Plus advice and tips that’ll help you appreciate your time there even more!

How many days do you need in Japan?

There’s so much to see and do in Japan that it can be overwhelming trying to decide how long your trip should be. Ideally, 2-3 weeks  will give you enough time to see iconic and lesser-known sights as well as recover from a long travel day and potentially a big time difference.

But the ideal duration for your trip depends on several factors, including destinations you want to visit and your travel style. Our guide to how many days to spend in Japan will help you figure out how much time you need based on what you want to do.

Best times of year to visit Japan

If you’re considering a trip to Japan, you’re probably wondering what time of year is best to visit. 

The wonderful thing is every season is a great time to visit Japan , and you will have a completely unique experience. 

We’ve laid out what to expect in each season, as well as the pros and cons of visiting during these times in our article: Best Time to Visit Japan: When to Go & When to Avoid! .

Here’s a quick breakdown of the seasons in Japan and why you might want to visit during each.

Summer in Japan

Summer in Japan is the time for festivals and celebrations. The summer spans from June to August, with August being the busiest travel month because school is out and many Japanese people travel over the Obon holiday (August 13-15).

Be prepared for ways to beat the humidity because it can get pretty sticky. Also it’s rainy season and the start of typhoon season, so don’t forget your rain jacket and umbrella!

Summer in Japan: Ultimate Seasonal Guide

Summertime in Japan is a great time to hit the beach or cool off in the mountains. We’re sharing the best places to visit and things to do during summer in Japan, as well as lots of insider tips for planning your trip!

Autumn in Japan

With typhoon season peaking at the beginning of September, the start of fall in Japan is typically rainy depending on where you are. However, the weather starts to clear up in October and by November the leaves are changing.

We visited Japan in November 2023 and put together this guide to autumn in Japan that’s full of useful info.

Autumn in Japan: Where & When to see Fall Foliage

With spectacular foliage and nice weather, we think fall is one of the best times to visit Japan. We’re sharing the best places to experience autumn in Japan as well as lots of insider tips for planning your trip!

Winter in Japan

During the winter months, major cities like Tokyo, Osaka and Kyoto tend to enjoy mild temperatures, but you can find snow and colder temps in the mountains and on Hokkaido (the northernmost island in Japan).

While winter may not be the first season you think of traveling, there’s actually a ton to do, and we think it is a great time to visit Japan .

Winter in Japan: Things to Do + Why It’s a Great Time to Visit

There is something truly special about winter in Japan! We think you’ll be surprised by all the exciting things to do in Japan in winter. Plus, we’ll let you in on average winter temperatures around the country, as well as what to pack for the winter months.

Spring in Japan

With stunning sakura (cherry blossoms) popping up all around the country and temperatures warming, it should come as no surprise that spring is a popular time to visit Japan. A very popular time, indeed. If you travel to Japan in the spring , you’ll be rewarded with comfortable temperatures, beautiful blossoms, and lots of crowds.

Spring in Japan: When & Where to See Cherry Blossoms 

Witnessing the cherry blossoms in Japan is a once-in-a-lifetime travel experience. We’re sharing the best places to experience spring in Japan as well as lots of insider tips for planning your trip!

Before you book your Japan trip in the spring, know this…

Spring is considered by many as a great time to visit Japan for its comfortable temperatures, cherry blossoms and little chance of rain.

One thing you should be aware of is the so-called “Golden Week” which happens in the springtime and is made up of 4 national holidays which fall into a 7-day span. During this week many Japanese people will also be traveling around the country and accommodation and tours are often booked far in advance. 

Dates of Golden Week in Japan:

• 2024: April 29 – May 5
• 2025: April 29 – May 5
• 2026: April 29 – May 5

It’s not every year the holidays fall on exact same dates, but for the next 3 years, they just so happen to. This site has more information about Golden Week in Japan .

Best Time to Visit Japan: When to Go & When to Avoid!

Choosing the best time of year to visit Japan can be downright overwhelming. Each of Japan’s 4 distinct seasons has its draws and drawbacks. We’re going to break down exactly what to expect during each season so you can choose the best time to visit Japan based on your travel style and interests.

Traveling in Japan is a little different than many other places in the world.

By nature, we tend to be somewhat last-minute travelers, but not when planning a trip to Japan. If possible, we recommend planning your trip to Japan well in advance.

Now, this isn’t to say you can’t plan a trip to Japan at the last minute, but your options for great accommodation (especially in popular areas) will be limited. Plus, you may miss out on some of the most popular attractions because many require advanced booking and tickets go quickly. 

We’ve laid out our recommended timeline for planning a trip to Japan so you can ensure you’re able to secure some incredible accommodation and do all the things on your bucket list.

This timeline is a suggestion, but you can certainly adjust dates a bit. Hopefully this gives you a better idea of how far in advance to plan your trip to Japan.

1 year before your trip

• Start researching and draw up your dream itinerary
• Make a note of how far in advance the ryokans you like open up reservations 
• Flag any attractions that are “must dos” for you
• Check out our Japan budget article to get started
• Here are our favorite tips for saving money for travel
• Insider Tip: Sign up for a mistake fare newsletter and set Tokyo as an “alert city” so you can get notified of any really good deals departing from your home airport.

The research phase should be fun and you don’t want to feel rushed. We recommend recording all the hotels and attractions you want to prioritize in a Google Doc so you don’t lose any of your research. 

Coming up with a budget will help you determine which accommodations you can realistically book and it will help you start saving for this trip.

Want the perfect itinerary planned for you? 

If you don’t have a ton of time to spend planning your Japan itinerary (or you just don’t find travel planning fun!), we’re working on something you might be interested in… 

We are in the process of creating done-for-you Japan itineraries that are packed full of all sorts of tips we’ve gathered from 3 trips to Japan as well as literally hundreds of hours of research (no exaggeration). 

We will have both off-the-beaten path routes as well as a classic itinerary that hits the top attractions. 

If you want to be the first to know when our Japan itineraries are on sale, get on the waitlist !

6 months before your trip

• Flights: If you are flying from afar, aim to book your flights around 6 months prior to your trip. We’d recommend keeping an eye on them for a couple of months (starting 10 months before your trip).
• Ryokans: Many ryokans only release booking dates 3-6 months ahead of time. Really great ryokans fully book up quickly after dates are released.
• Accommodation in small towns (like on the Nakasendo Trail)
• Hotels near any major attraction or popular area (at DisneySea, or near Mount Fuji)
• Special hotels that you really want to stay at (like the Park Hyatt in Tokyo , or a temple stay at Koyasan)
• Accommodations that fall over festival dates or popular tourist seasons, like Golden Week (which falls during Japan’s cherry blossom blooms )

It can feel a little overwhelming to make these big bookings all at once, but it will ensure you are able to stay where you’d like and secure good prices on flights. 

Booking tips: When possible, we like to use Booking.com since many hotels offer free cancellation via this platform (often up until just days before your stay). Also, you often don’t have to pay at the moment of booking, which makes the commitment a little less scary. We typically like to compare the price on Booking.com to Agoda , as they sometimes differ. We also stayed at a couple of Airbnbs in Japan , which was a good option in the more rural areas.

2-3 months before your trip

• All accommodation not yet booked: the sooner the better for the best locations and prices
• Japan Rail Pass : You can purchase this pass up to 3 months before the date you’ll use it . We personally got ours 2 months in advance so it wasn’t left until the last minute.
• FYI: we have lots of advice and info about renting a car in Japan
• Tickets go on sale 3 months in advance
• If you want best available times slots (we recommend the first one at 9-9:30 a.m. ), book at least 2 months ahead of time
• Compare availability on the teamLab website (tickets available further in advance) and on GetYourGuide
• Tickets go on sale roughly 5 months in advance. We recommend booking at least 2-3 months in advance for the best availability of time slots.
• Compare availability on the Warner Bros Studio website and on Klook
• This will mean you don’t have to wait in crazy long lines, and we’ve heard it’s very worthwhile at this notoriously crowded theme park. Purchase it here .

1 month before your trip

• Tickets go on sale on the 10th of each month for the following month
• We recommend setting an alarm to purchase tickets as they become available on the 10th of the month before your trip so you don’t miss out.
• You cannot purchase tickets onsite (you must have advance reservations)
• Tickets go on sale 1 month in advance
• The most popular time slot is right before sunset and those times go quickly
• Compare availability on the Shibuya Sky website and on Klook
• Popular theme restaurants like Ninja Restaurant (Tokyo) or the Pokémon Café (Tokyo & Osaka)
• Insider tip: For the restaurants on your “must” list, research and write down how far in advance reservations are available (some may even require booking further than 1 month in advance). Set alarms in your calendar so you can be sure to snag a spot right away. Popular places fill up very fast!
• Sumo stables
• Cooking class
• Tokyo dinner cruise
• Photoshoot in Tokyo
• Tokyo Go-Karting
• Tea ceremony

Download the PDF version of our Japan booking timeline so you can print it out at home and keep track of your Japan trip planning process! Enter your email and we’ll immediately send the booking timeline to your inbox (totally FREE). 

Japan Booking Timeline

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We’ll also be sending you bonus tips on all things Japan, like how to travel cheaply, where to go and the best places to stay. 

Top places to visit on your Japan trip

Japan is a huge country, and it would be an extensive list if we went through all the notable cities to visit. But if you are visiting Japan for the first time, these cities are a good place to start as they will give you a good taste of the country’s culture.

Another thing that’s important to keep in mind when planning a trip to Japan is the destinations’ proximity to one another and all of these suggestions are relatively easy to get to and from.

• Tokyo : This huge metropolis is likely where you’re flying in and out of, and it is one of the most interesting cities we’ve visited anywhere in the world. From quirky experiences, to amazing foods, Tokyo is definitely worth some time on your itinerary. 
• Kyoto : Considered the “cultural capital of Japan”, Kyoto is packed with history, important temples, gorgeous architecture and a charming atmosphere. If you are traveling with your little ones, there are tons of things to do in Kyoto with kids .
• Osaka : Another major hub to fly in and out of Japan, Osaka is worth a visit . Known for lively nightlife and endless street food, there’s a lot more to discover beyond Osaka’s neon-lit facade. 
• Hakone: At the footsteps of Mt. Fuji, Hakone is a peaceful retreat from the big cities of Japan and a chance to relax in an onsen and sleep in a ryokan. 
• Hiroshima : This historical significance of this city draws tourism from all over the world, but you can enjoy the lighter side of this beautiful place too. 
• The ‘Roof of Japan’ : The Tateyama Kurobe Alpine Route is a single day mountain traverse where you take 8 different modes of transportation over what’s known as the Roof of Japan .

Want more info? We have an entire article with a round up of the most beautiful places in Japan , including some top things to do and see. 

Most Beautiful Places in Japan You Need to See for Yourself

With storybook villages, forested mountain ranges and white sand beaches that rival the tropics, there are some incredibly diverse and beautiful places in Japan. This bucket list is full of places you’ve never heard of, and after reading it, we bet you’ll be ready to book a flight to Japan!

Top things to do in see in Japan

Just as with places to visit, there are seemingly endless sights to see in Japan. Here is a quick list of our top recommendations for your first visit to Japan.

• Mount Fuji : The most famous mountain in Japan, you can get a glimpse of this beauty when traveling in Hakone. 
• Fushimi Inari Taisha Shrine :  Known to tourists as the “Orange Gates”, there are thousands of majestic orange gates covering a maze of paths leading up to the shrine. 
• Arashiyama: Located on the western edge of Kyoto, Arashiyama is an area that is filled with temples and shrines, but the main attraction is the Arashiyama Bamboo Grove.
• Temples in Japan: Of course temples will be on your list of things to see in Japan. The Golden Pavilion in Kyoto is stunning with the garden setting and reflection off the pond. 
• Shibuya Intersection: Famously known as the “busiest intersection in the world” crossing the street here is quite an experience. 

These places all make for great pictures! If you want to take better travel photos, we wrote up some easy and creative tips to improve your travel photography skills ! 

Psst! We have a list of must-see landmarks in Japan that’s sure to give you some inspiration for your itinerary!

Unique experiences to have on your Japan trip

One of the many reasons Japan is such a wonderful place to visit is there are so many unique experiences that can only be had in this country. Here are just a few of the things that are quintessentially “Japanese”. 

Quintessential cultural experiences

• Soak in an Onsen: Strip down to your birthday suit and soak in a hot tub until you get pruney. Don’t worry, they are gender separated and some are even private. The best one we dipped in was in the Hakone region .
• Stay at a Ryokan: Experience a traditional Japanese-style inn and stay in a ryokan to enjoy Japanese hospitality and relaxation.
• Take a Japanese cooking class: Learn how to make proper sushi or traditional ramen to impress your friends at home. (Read why we LOVE taking cooking classes on our travels !) Or take a food tour, like this Kyoto food tour from Magical Trip.
• Sleep in a Temple: Usually taken as retreats to refresh your body and mind or deepen understanding of religion, temple stays are an unique experience you won’t forget.
• Go Geisha spotting: On the old street of Kyoto, Geisha scurry from one event to the next. Try to get a glimpse of them, or better yet try to get a picture.
• See the fish auction each morning: Show up around 3 a.m. (yep, that early) as the fishermen come into port and sell their fish at the Tsukiji Fish Market . Then find a shop and have the freshest sushi you’ll ever eat.
• Take a Sumo wrestling tour in Ryogoku and learn about Sumo culture.

Get personalized recommendations for where to save and splurge during your trip when you use ViaHero —a trip planning platform that will connect you with a local in Japan.

Quirky Japanese experiences

• Take your picture in a photo booth: Pop into one of these with your friends and take a few snaps. Then, edit your photos instantly, enhancing your eyes, adding blush, or slimming your cheeks. It takes the word selfie to a whole new level.
• Responsible Travel Tip: Be cautious about animal tourism. Domesticated animal cafes (like dog or cat cafes) seem to take care of their animals. But for non-domesticated animals cafes, like owl cafes, we would just be a little hesitant to visit.
• Theme restaurants: We went to the Robot Restaurant in Tokyo (unfortunately now closed) and it was one of the craziest dinners we ever attended! For more theme restaurants, check out our guide to the best things to do in Tokyo at night .

Unique experiences in nature

• See the Nara Deer: Just a little ways outside of Osaka in the city of Nara , there is a park (and part of the city) literally flooded with cute spotted deer. They’re used to being around humans, but make sure you read these tips before visiting the Nara deer.
• Jigokudani Snow Monkeys: A few miles away from Nagano, there is a park where the local macaques monkeys soak in a spring-fed hot tub and play around in the snow.
• Hike the Kumano Kodo Trail : If you’re feeling adventurous, this is quite literally, off the beaten path. The Kumano Kodo Trail is a historic pilgrimage through the mountainous Kii Peninsula that has been trekked for thousands of years.

Need more inspiration? We have an entire article with a round up of the best things to do in Japan , including all the info you need to make it happen during your visit!

Crazy Fun Things to Do in Japan

If you’re looking for unique things to do on your trip to Japan, you’ve come to the right place! From super quirky, only-in-Japan experiences to must-see sights and the best food to try, we’ve rounded up the top things to do in Japan on your first visit.

Wanna take a tour?

We recommend taking a tour with the highly-rated tour company, Magical Trip . They specialize in small group tours led by local guides all over Japan, from Tokyo to Osaka. 

Click through to browse all small group Japan tours they offer.

Best Things to Do in Tokyo

Best Things to Do in Kyoto

Best Things to Do in Osaka

Budgeting for Japan

I’ll be straight to the point: Japan is not cheap.  

Contrary to many other destinations in Asia, like Thailand or the Philippines , Japan is not an ideal location for budget travelers. That said, it is unlike any country in the world and totally worth visiting. 

Typical daily budget for Japan

Below is an estimated breakdown of (about) how much money you should plan to budget for a trip to Japan based on your travel style. 

*Note: These are estimations for one person and do not include flights.

• You’ll stay in hostel dorm beds, grab breakfast from one of the many 7-Eleven’s or Family Marts, and do as many free activities as possible.
• You’ll be staying in comfortable, though not fancy, hotels or Airbnbs . You’ll want to try lots of Japanese food—both budget meals and a couple nicer ones too. You will use public transportation to get around and you want to see as much as possible, but you’re willing to make some sacrifices to save money.
• Budget isn’t too much of a concern for you. This isn’t necessarily luxury travel, but you are willing to pay more money for convenience and comfort; and splurging on unique, once-in-a-lifetime experiences is not a problem for you. 

Japan travel planning tip: This article breaks down the exact cost of a trip to Japan . Based on our own experiences traveling in Japan, we share the costs associated with each portion of our Japan trip — from transportation to food to accommodation to entertainment. 

Japan Travel Cost: Exactly How Much is a Trip to Japan?

In this article, we’re breaking down the cost of a trip to Japan — from food and hotels to trains and entertainment. We get super detailed so you can work out your perfect Japan travel budget.

Psst! If you want to know how we afford to travel (& how you can too!) , we think you’ll love this article!

Are credit cards accepted in Japan?

Yes, but hold up… 

Major credit cards will typically be accepted at big hotel chains, nice restaurants or shops in large cities, but you’ll want to have cash on hand to use in small restaurants, markets or in more rural towns. 

There are still many places where credit cards are not accepted, so it is a good idea not to rely on plastic alone.

Should I get money from my bank before my trip to Japan?

This is a question we get all the time. The answer really comes down to your personal preference, but we never get money out in advance before international travel.

Whenever we enter a new country, we walk right past the Currency Exchange counters (they are a huge rip off most of the time!) and we go to an ATM to withdraw cash. You will get the best exchange rate by withdrawing foreign currency from an ATM.

If the thought of showing up in a new country without cash on hand makes your hands sweaty, then by all means ignore this advice and grab some yen from your home bank before you leave.

But I will say that airports always have ATMS, and they are easy to find in train stations as well as in 7-Eleven’s and Family Marts in most big Japanese cities. 

Before heading to a rural town though, be sure to take out cash just in case you can’t find an ATM.

Credit card travel tips

• Turn on travel notification: Be sure to alert your bank ahead of time that you will be traveling, and where, so they know your transactions aren’t fraud.
• Have a backup card: It’s a good idea to carry more than one card in case you have an issue with one of them. Remember to always pack them in two different places within your luggage — for example, one in your wallet and another in your backpack so if one gets lost or stolen, you still have access to the other.
• Invest in a debit card with no fees: We have a checking account with Charles Schwab , and they reimburse every single ATM fee. This means we never have to take out more money than we feel comfortable with carrying at a time. Try looking into accounts with similar benefits. It will save you so much money on your travels. 
• Check out which travel credit cards we personally recommend.

Money-saving tips for Japan

While it’s not a cheap country to visit, there are certainly ways you can save money while traveling in Japan.

• This article breaks down how much the Japan Rail Pass costs and how to purchase it .
• Get your breakfasts and snacks at 7-Eleven or Family Mart (they are everywhere around the country!). While you might never consider eating at a convenience store in your home country, the fresh food options are surprisingly good at these stores in Japan. I’m not joking. You’ll see many locals doing the same.
• Have your biggest meal midday and take advantage of “lunch sets” which often consist of a large meal (sometimes with a dessert) and are typically between $5-7 USD.
• Conveyor belt sushi is a good way to try all the types of sushi your little heart (and stomach!) desire without a huge price tag. Plus, it’s a fun experience in itself!
• Use an app to record your spending and see how well you’re staying on top of your budget! We find it’s much easier to overspend when you don’t know how much it’s all adding up to. We love Trail Wallet for recording our expenses. (We’re not affiliated with them, we just love using it ourselves!)
• Download a converter app on your phone like this one to see the exact exchange rate for your selected currency at the time of your trip, so you always know exactly what you are spending. 

The trains and metros in Japan are some of the cleanest and most efficient in the world , and the rail system covers almost the entire country making it a very efficient way to get around. 

However, transportation is one of the biggest expenses to factor into your Japan travel budget . 

Travel by train in Japan

We have an entire guide to navigating the Japan Rail system and whether or not getting a J Rail Pass is worthwhile for your trip, depending on your itinerary.

Japan Rail Pass: Where to Buy a JR Pass & Is it Worthwhile?

If you’re traveling to Japan, the Japan Rail Pass can be a huge money saver. We’ll explain exactly when you should purchase the JR Pass and if it is worthwhile for your route. This is everything you need to know including where to buy the rail pass.

Likewise, if you are just planning to spend your time in Tokyo and trying to figure out how to navigate the metro, you can find that info in our Tokyo article . 

Renting a car

While we love the ease and efficiency of Japan’s public transportation system, we rented a car during our most recent trip to Japan and we absolutely loved it.

Having our own car was really convenient, especially now that we’re traveling with a toddler . Plus, it gave us the opportunity to get off the beaten path and explore places with very few tourists that would be difficult to visit via public transportation. 

I think we will forevermore be renting cars when we visit Japan, even if just for part of our trip. We have a guide to renting a car in Japan (packed with lots of driving tips you won’t want to miss!).

Renting a Car in Japan: Essential Driving Tips You Need to Know!

Renting a car in Japan is the best way to get off the beaten track and see parts of the country most tourists miss. We’re sharing our top tips to help you get a car rental and feel comfortable driving in Japan.

What are the trains like in Japan?

Overall, the trains are clean, comfortable and efficient. The rail system covers almost the entire country, making it a wonderful way to get around. This article goes into detail with everything you’d ever want to know about the Shinkansen Japanese Bullet Trains .

Practical information for visiting Japan

Traveling in Japan for the first time can be overwhelming to plan if you aren’t sure what to expect. A lot of questions can arise that you may not think about with other travel destinations. 

We have an article with our top Japan travel tips and advice. This article goes over all the do’s and dont’s for traveling in Japan.

Expert Tips for Visiting Japan (Do’s and Dont’s!)

In this article we’re covering essential tips for visiting Japan, plus helpful advice we learned from personal experience that’ll ensure you enjoy your time in the  Land of the Rising Sun  even more!

We’ve done our best to narrow down some of the more practical information and answer some specific questions about traveling in Japan. 

Do I need travel insurance for Japan?

While it’s not required to enter the country, we always recommend purchasing travel insurance before any trip. It is a small price to pay for the peace of mind you’ll have knowing you will be covered in case of an emergency or if anything is stolen. 

For a trip to Japan, we’d recommend getting a plan with Safety Wing insurance . They make it easy to get a quote for the exact duration of your trip and offer the most comprehensive coverage at the best rate.

Check out our travel insurance comparison article for more information on how to pick a policy and what we look for in travel insurance.

How safe is Japan?

Japan is overall very safe and crime is low. 

I once met a girl who was an English teacher in Tokyo, and she said she left her wallet in a train station. It sat there, untouched, and the next day when she retraced her steps it was in the same (heavily trafficked) place she had left it. 

But even though theft isn’t common in Japanese culture, that doesn’t mean it can’t happen to you. As with any place in the world, always be aware of your surroundings and use common sense. 

This is another reason we always recommend getting travel insurance to make sure you’re covered in case anything gets stolen or you run into other emergencies.

Do I need a power converter in Japan?

In Japan the standard voltage is 100 V and the power sockets are type A and B (pictured below). The socket is the same used in North America, but the voltage is lower, so yes you will need a power converter for electronics that don’t already have a converter. 

This website is a super helpful resource when it comes to electricity all around the world. Simply select your home country and it will tell you if you need a converter and/or plug adapter for your visit to Japan. 

We recommend this all-in-one converter-adapter that works in any country. This means you only need one item no matter where your travels take you!

What are the bathrooms like in Japan?

This might be an embarrassing question to ask out loud, but I promise you aren’t the only one thinking it. If it’s your first time visiting Japan, you likely have no idea what to expect when it comes to bathrooms. 

The good news is, many bathrooms around the country are very nice and quite… luxurious . 

In nicer restrooms, you’ll find toilets equipped with a built-in bidet to spray your bum. And some toilets even have buttons that will play music or rainforest sounds to cover up, well, you know…

Be warned though that in some train stations or in more rural parts of the country, you may find squat toilets similar to ones you’d find in many places around Asia. 

How to get cell phone service in Japan

There are two common options for staying connected to data while traveling in Japan: pocket Wifi and local SIM card. This article does a great job of comparing the two and giving our honest opinions about which worked best for us.

Japan Pocket WiFi vs. Japanese SIM Card: Review & Comparison

Staying connected in Japan is super important for navigating trains and translating menus. But how do you access the Internet in Japan? In this guide, we share our experience using a Japanese SIM card and a Pocket Wifi and tell you which is best for your travels in Japan.

Helpful (& free!) apps for travel in Japan

We have an entire list of the most useful apps for traveling in Japan that you should check out, but here are some of our favorites:

• Google Translate : This is a go-to app for us while traveling in Asia because you can take a photograph of the characters on a menu or label and it will translate for you. Be warned that some things don’t quite translate into English all that well…
• Google Navigation : Can give you the best routes for the metro and trains and even has live updates on delays.
• Hyperdia : The go-to train scheduling app/website in Japan. Plug in a route and it will tell you the times throughout the day and the prices, including each seating class.

Best & Most Useful Japan Travel Apps

Traveling in Japan is made so much easier (and less confusing!) with a few handy apps. Before packing your bags, be sure you have these helpful Japan travel apps downloaded to your phone to make transportation a cinch and the language barrier practically non-existent.

Japanese cuisine stretches far beyond the sushi rolls we’ve come to associate with this country. (Though of course you must try sushi from the source while you’re in Japan!) This article lists the foods you should definitely try in Japan !

What to Eat in Japan: Foods to Try + Tips for Eating in Japan!

If you’re wondering what to eat in Japan, we’ve got you covered! We’ve put together a list of foods and drinks to try — from famous dishes to those you’ve never heard of. Plus, we’re going over important information everyone should know about eating in Japan.

And if you’re traveling to Japan with food allergies and wondering how that’s going to work. We have a whole section dedicated to dietary restrictions which walks you through what you need to know about Japanese cuisine and how to accommodate your allergies/restrictions in Japan. 

Consider doing a food tour

If you want to try as much Japanese food as possible and learn about the cuisine on a deeper level, a food tour is where it’s at!

There are two companies that we trust above the rest for highly-rated food tours throughout Japan:

• We did this Old Town Tokyo Food Tour and really enjoyed it because it was off the beaten path in a neighborhood we would never have explored otherwise.
• Magical Trip is our go-to for unique night time tours like bar and Izakaya hopping. One tour that looks particularly interesting is their Shinjuku food tour in Tokyo.

Japan trip ideas based on your interests

Japan is more than just Tokyo. If it’s your first time traveling to the Land of the Rising Sun , we’d definitely recommend a visit to its capital city as well as some of the other more well-known places like Kyoto and Osaka.

But, if you have been-there-done-that , or you have a lot of time to play with, check out our unique Japan itinerary ideas to get some inspiration.

Unique Japan Itinerary Ideas Based on Your Interests

If you’ve been wondering where to start when planning your Japan itinerary, we’ve got some inspiration for you! These unique Japan itinerary ideas are based on your personal travel interests.

We are in the process of creating  done-for-you Japan itineraries  that are packed full of all sorts of tips we’ve gathered from 3 trips to Japan as well as literally hundreds of hours of research (no exaggeration). 

We will have both off-the-beaten path routes as well as a classic itinerary that hits the top attractions. If you want to be the first to know when our Japan itineraries are on sale,  get on the waitlist !

If you’re curious to see more about what traveling in Japan is like, we made a video after our first time visiting.

If you cannot see the video, please turn off your AdBlocker. Thanks!

What to pack for your Japan trip

When deciding what to pack for your trip to Japan, a big thing to consider is the time of year you will be visiting. In the wintertime, for instance, you will encounter cold temperatures and will need warm clothing, whereas in summer the temperatures can be quite hot. 

We created a whole guide to  all the things you need to pack for Japan . Plus, we even have a (totally free!)  packing list you can download !

This  FREE PDF download  includes  everything  you’re going to want to pack for your Japan trip, including what NOT to bring, plus tons of insider tips! Click the image below and fill out the form to get the packing list PDF sent straight into your inbox:

For more tips, check out our packing list for long term travel or the eco-friendly packing list full of travel gear that will minimize your footprint around Japan. 

Here are some other items you’ll want to consider packing for your trip to Japan:

• Universal travel adapter : This adapter can plug in to Japanese outlets (and over 150 other countries outlets) safely.
• Away luggage : We recently jumped on the bandwagon and purchased our first Away bags and were not disappointed. These durable hard-sided roller bags come in lots of different sizes and with a lifetime guarantee, they are likely to be the last bags we ever need to purchase!
• Packing cubes : A backpacking staple, these cubes help keep your clothes organized in your bag.
• Power bank : It’s the worst when you arrive in a new city and your phone is dead. Keep it charged with an Anker Battery Pack, this one can charge your phone up to 7 times.
• Travel tripod : If you’re into photography…(if you want some travel photography tips, we’ve got you covered !)

Wondering what to wear in Japan ? We have a guide that goes over exactly what clothing items to pack for each season , including lists for both women and men. We’ll help you build a capsule wardrobe for your trip and let you in on some cultural taboos you should be aware of.

What to Wear in Japan: Packing List + What NOT to Wear!

If you’re wondering what to wear in Japan, this is the guide you need! We’re going over what to wear in each season and how to create a perfect capsule wardrobe. We’re also divulging some items you should  not  wear in Japan.

What to buy in Japan

If you’re anything like us, you enjoy bringing back mementos from your travels to remind you of the places you’ve been. We have a great round up of things to buy in Japan , including plenty of unique ideas for Japanese souvenirs.

Things to Buy in Japan: Ideas for Unique Japanese Souvenirs

When traveling to Japan, you’ll have no shortage of shopping opportunities. We are going over the best Japanese Souvenirs to buy so you don’t end up filling your suitcase with unnecessary purchases.

More resources for traveling in Japan

We have TONS of resources on travel in Japan and destinations throughout the country. Check out our  Ultimate Japan Travel Guide  for all the answers to your most burning questions, or read some of our favorite articles below!

• Best Time to Visit Japan
• Is the Japan Rail Pass Worthwhile?
• Best One Week Japan Itinerary for Your First Visit

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We want to hear from you!

Now that you’ve read through this extensive Japan trip planner, do you feel more prepared for your trip?! Is there anything we didn’t cover that you still have questions about? Comment below and we’ll try our very best to find the answer if we don’t know ourselves!

Comments (161) on “ Japan Trip Planner [2024]: How to Plan Your First Trip to Japan ”

Wow! This IS the ultimate Japan travel guide – complete with what to do during what season, costs, and some Japanese words. Thank you for this!

Such great content. Loved your content. Looking forward to more such content.

Hi. My name is Jack, I live in Japan for more than 10 years and run a personal blog jackinjapan.com I would be glad if you can read my work)

Planning your first Japan trip? Exciting! Research cultural norms, attractions, and accommodation options. Consider exploring Kyoto’s historic temples and Tokyo’s vibrant cityscape for a memorable adventure.

Very informative post.

Best Travel Blog I have Ever Read. Thanks for Sharing this Article.

Helpful information of traveling to Japan and different places for making the memories lasts forever.

Your article is marvelous , It is very interesting topic and loved it , you were defined it very clear and make it informative for us. i am came first time on your blog , It is really good. thanks for valueble writing ..

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One of my biggest dream! hope can visit japan soon!

This guide has everything you need to know to plan and book your dream trip to the Land of the Rising Sun. We’ve got you covered from visas and flights to transportation and accommodation. Thanks for sharing this amazing information with us…

Thanks to your travelog and detailed info! I’m planing a trip to Japan and this guide will really help me to arranging and planning.

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Thank you for sharing this post with us, I was actually looking for same.

Thanks so much, you guys! Glad you like the article.

Nice Article

Thanks for sharing, I would love to travel.

Superb information for the Japan travel guide.

Very helpful; many thanks.

This Japan Travel Guide is an invaluable resource, seamlessly guiding newcomers through the intricacies of booking their first trip with comprehensive insights and practical tips. The engaging content not only simplifies the process but also sparks excitement for the unparalleled experiences awaiting in the Land of the Rising Sun.

This Japan Travel Guide is a comprehensive gem, providing valuable insights on booking a first-time trip. Clear, concise, and incredibly helpful, it’s a must-read for anyone planning to explore the Land of the Rising Sun.

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Very informative, thanks.

Very Relevant Post. Thankyou so much for sharing this with us.

I just planning to visit Japan. thanks for your guide.

If you aren’t hitting the ski slopes, March to May and September to November are generally considered the best times to visit the country for pleasant weather.

Yes! We are so excited to visit this coming November!

I found the post to be highly good. The shared information are greatly appreciated

Great Article, Thanks for writing.

Nice Article; thanks for writing the informative content.

Nice Artice, Thanks for writing.

it`s a good and unique tips to travel japan

Thanks Carol! Japan travel is amazing, but sometimes it can be confusing for the first time traveler. We are glad you found it useful!

It is my dream to visit Japan once in my life currently I am a student also preparing for a Job but soon I will definitely visit my dream country Japan once in my life to experience heaven on earth and I bookmarked this article for future Help. I really want to thank to the writer of this post,

Thanks for sharing such an informative article.The article was a delightful read, and I found it to be exceptionally well-crafted and enlightening.I think this is a fantastic article, and I really appreciate you letting me know about it.

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Thanks for sharing, I always want to travel to Japan, a beautiful country.

This is so comprehensive! Must have ben so much effort, thanks so much!!!

Wow! This comprehensive resource covers everything you need for planning a trip to Japan. Discover essential tips and information to make your Japanese adventure unforgettable.

amazing information

nice post, thanks for sharing

The blog post was insightful and well-written, providing valuable information on the topic. The content was well-organized, making it easy to read and understand. The author’s writing style was engaging, keeping me hooked from start to finish. I appreciated the inclusion of relevant examples and practical tips, which added depth to the article. Overall, it was an excellent read, and I look forward to more informative posts in the future.

I love and appreciate it so much. And I would like to recommend my blog to the people who visit your blog.

Thanks For Sharing This incredible information

Regards, Carol Although travelling in Japan is fantastic, it can occasionally be challenging for first-timers. We’re happy it was helpful for you!

The article is written very well. It provides such a great information about Japan trip. The content has full information about Japan , i love travelling, your article is very impressive. I would definitely travel this amazing place. Thank you for this great content please read my blogs too.

Wow, guys. This is the most comprehensive Japan travel post I’ve ever seen! There’s no way I could read through this entire thing right now, but I’ll certainly bookmarking this for our future trip to Japan. I noticed that you’re a VIPKid teacher as well. It’s amazing how this company has made traveling a reality for so many of us! Keep the amazing content coming!

Thanks for the in-depth wonderful article you turned out here Enjoyed reading the article above and thank you for sharing good knowledge and information it’s very helpful. I was searching for a travel blog and found your blog site. I like your high-quality blog site design plus your posting abilities. Keep doing it

Thanks Jamie, glad you found it useful. Let us know if you have any questions about traveling in Japan

Yes i am completely concurred with this article and i simply need say this article is extremely decent and exceptionally useful article.

I just found this good blog and have high hopes for it to continue. Keep up the great work, its hard to find good ones. I have added to my favorites. Thank You.

Thanks for sharing this article it was quite insightful. Hoping to see more articles. Meanwhile, refer

amazing blog thnaks for sharing with us

yes, It is very helpful to take help from japnanies tourist guide. I love your post. thanks keep it good information.

Wow! Great works guys – this is a superb guide. The amount of work you’ve put into this is seriously impressive. Good practical information and tips too.

I’m also an onsen fan, and I completely agree for the truly immersive cultural experience nothing beats staying in a ryokan (traditional Japanese inn).

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Nice blog! I really like it. Japan is one of my dream place in my travel list.

Thank your for this plan

Really enjoying all of your Japan blogs – they’re so helpful for planning while waiting for travel to open up again!

I loved your post…

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Thank you for sharing this blog. You have summed up all the beautiful topics of Japan in this blog. Keep up the good work guys!!! If anyone wants to visit India we are here to serve you the best taxi service all over India. For more information visit our website

Excellent site except for the lack of info on Tokyo bus and subway passes/fares. Need info on where to buy, how to buy, cost and what they can be used for.

If I see a good post, you will not go without praising me, because every word written in the post you have written is very thoughtful, your way of writing is very beautiful and your views are also very good. This is a commendable post, as much as this post is praised, it is less, you should keep writing more beautiful posts in your life.

Really the knowledge given by this blog is 100% thanks for making such a knowledgable article on travelling life.

Thanks for this great article! Have got of tons of ideas for my trip! This country is definitely now my bucket list on more priority now!

Thanks a lot for sharing all the details. would really help me plan my trip in a better way!

This is the first time I visit here. I found so many interesting stuff in your blog especially its discussion. From the tons of comments on your articles, I guess I am not the only one having all the enjoyment here keep up the good work.

It made me more crazy for Japan. Soon will plan for it.

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what a great article about japan. its been a my favorite country always

Japan is on my family’s bucket list. I am definitely going to pin this guide for reference when I am planning

Thank you for information about Japan! Does anyone have an itinerary with a trip to Japan on the Worldee?

Amazing Japan guide! Cant wait to go back!!!

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Thanks so much, glad you enjoyed it 🙂

Great Info. Thanks!

Glas it’s helpful 🙂

Nara was mind-blowing! The Deer, walking up to you, begging for food, the Mochi pull at the mall and all the beautiful Temples. Unfortunately, it rained during our visit, but I still look at the pictures and think about how lucky I am to have seen this.

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Hi! Such a wonderful article. Japan is definitely a beautiful place to visit, will be adding this to my travel bucket list

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Hey, your post is amazing and informative. thanks for sharing this info. If you want to travel anywhere in India, our taxi service is available all over India.

Wonderful content. Really thought provoking and super informative. Keep it up guys.

What an amazing and extensive post. I would like to add something to the foodie part. Japanese food is amazing, and while you can try delicious things in Tokyo, every region and city has its specialties. For real foodies I would suggest visiting the following cities and trying the following foods: Osaka – Osaka style Okonomiyaki and Takoyaki Kobe – Kobe Beef (other regions also have amazing Wagyu) Hiroshima – Hiroshima style Okonomiyaki and Oysters Nagoya – Hitsumabushi and everything with red Miso like Miso Nikomi Udon Fukuoka – Hakata Ramen Of course, there is much much more but these are the foodie highlights of Japan.

wow i have a dream to visit japan

Impressive writing. You have the power to keep the reader occupied with your quality content and style of writing. I encourage you to write more.

very nice info, i will go there soon!

very nice place and recommended to visit

As someone that had lived in Okinawa (Military posting) for two years, I never got to travel around Japan. I’m planning on a trip next year. Should I have one AirBnB that I use as my ‘home’ for my trip (I’ll be in Japan for about 3 or 4 weeks) or should I only book spots for a couple of days while I travel around the country?

Very interesting article, thank you for sharing your travel experience to Japan. By reading this, I want to come to Japan. It’s nice to come there and feel the holiday atmosphere in Japan. landhoteldiever.nl

Wonderful post! Congratulations!

honestly WOW! this website is so useful and helpful and it has really, and I mean REALLY good info on Japan. This has helped me so much to plan my dream trip to Japan and I thank you both! Katie and Ben! for taking the time to share your experience and your knowledge that ultimately helped me in so many ways! THANK YOU!! ♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥

Outstanding vacation point. Great!

Great Post. Thanks for sharing Great information about Japan tour, The travel experience is great.

Thanks so much for your nice comment! Cheers!

Hey Guys, I just have to say "hats off" on this guide… "Ultimate Guides" are so misused and the term gets thrown around so much it’s nice to actually see one that’s this robust!

Thanks so much Sara! Are you planning a trip to Japan soon? Let us know if you have any more questions. Cheers!

You are very welcome Agen! Let us know if you have any questions!

a very extraordinary website ! your discussion is really very helpful. thank you very much for what you convey. Good luck always.

Thank you so much for your nice comment, we really appreciate it. Let us know if you have any questions about traveling in Japan!

Hi Really grate information. you have done your best. I hope one day I can afford it to take a short trip to Japan which is my wonder land. I have been reading Japanese for a while. (Mai asa watash wa nihon go benki shimasu) (domo arigato gozaimasu)

Thanks so much for your nice comment!

Planning to visit Japan in autumn of 2019, found a lot of interesting information and some very good suggestions/tips here, thanks!

You are very welcome Mari! Hope you have a great trip to Japan!

Wow, thanks for sharing Katie and Ben, this is insanely detailed and covers everything a traveller needs!

If we may add just add some safety issues for fellow travellers to watch out for, mainly do be aware of some of the bar scams and bill padding that happen in Roppongi and Shinjuku, as well as donation touts/scammers. May everyone enjoy Japan!

Thanks for the tip David, but from our experience we didn’t see any scams while traveling in Japan.

Will be using this in the future with specific items to get before hand. Traveling to Japan alone and for the first time in a couple months. Extremely excited and nervous ? Thank you!

Hey Cody, Thanks for the comment. Traveling to Japan solo can seem intimidating, but it is totally possible. Let us know if you have any questions, we would be happy to help. Cheers, Ben

what’s your camera and lens? 🙂

We have a Nikon D7500 DSLR camera that we take most of our photos with. If you want more tips on travel photography, you might want to check out our article on it. Let us know if you have any questions. Cheers!

Oh my your post is verrrrrryyyyy informative. I wish I saw this before our trip. Anyhow, will keep this in my bookmarks for my future travels in Japan. Thanks a lot.

Dang, sorry you missed it. Hopefully it will be a good start for your next trip!

Wow! Very informative. I’ll be sure to use these handy hints when we go there next year!

Glad you liked the tips, Melissa. Hope you have fun planning your trip to Japan!

I literally found this post very interesting and it just cast spell on me. I am soon going to visit Japan, thanks for sharing this post.

You are very welcome. Have fun visiting Japan soon!

Hi Good Morning to all of us! How is it like going to live at Japanese are more confidence swept even though they not shy fronts others? What can they most travel like wise Japanese become the standard language, seeing use in most official communications among JAPAN;which later developed in "Kanji" which is a form of writing used to express ideas in the Japanese and Chinese languages.[11] many ordinary Japanese people tend to consider the languages as dialects of Japanese. This is the result of the official language policy of the Japanese government, which has declared these languages to be dialects and prohibited their use in middle high education after graduation even though they will understand unfortunate front of and others?

Thank you Karen for the additional information on Japan.

Hi Katie & Ben…My better half and I visited Japan last week from India and had a wonderful trip…thanks to your travelog and detailed info! We blindly followed your steps at almost every point and did very little customization. Thanks again for these contents. Keep traveling and guide amateurs like us 🙂

Thank you so much for the kind words. It truly makes our day knowing we have helped make someone’s trip better or easier! Thank you for taking the time to let us know! It just brought a smile to our faces 🙂

Great and useful information about travelling through Japan! But are you sure that a two-way trip from Tokyo to Kyoto covers the price of the 1 week JR-Pass? Maybe it depends on your location, but where I am from (NL) it seems cheaper to buy two separate tickets. Especially considering that you cannot take the fastest Shinkansen (Nozomi) when using the JR-Pass.

Hey there JapanYo, the round trip ticket from Kyoto to Tokyo is basically the same price as the one week JRail Pass. And if you are traveling anywhere else in Japan, even intercity, if you have the pass, you can think of all your other train trips are free, since you can ride JRail unlimited times within the week.

And you still can ride the Shinkansen Bullet Trains with the pass, the only one it excludes is Nozomi.

Hope this information helps others choose what’s best for them when traveling to Japan.

The ultimate Japan travel guide helps me a lot in planning my trip. The pictures look beautiful and stunning. I really enjoyed the trip and please let me know what are the other incredible sights to explore in Japan.

Hey there, Glad you liked the article. We have tons of tips and advice in our other Japan articles, so if you don’t find what you’re looking for here, be sure to check out our Japan travel page.

Loved your post.

Thanks so much Japan Tours! Glad you liked it!

I’ve been offered a place in japan to intern so cherry blossoms here we come!

Congratulations D on your internship! Cherry blossom season will be a beautiful time of year to be in Japan.

Great guide! So many helpful tips!

Thanks so much DeJuan for your comment.

Excellent guide! I frequent Japan so I’ll be sure to keep your tips in mind 🙂 This is so comprehensive!

Thanks Lev, glad to hear you like it. Let us know how it comes in handy for your next trip. Cheers!

Wow. This is simple epic. Not sure how long it took you to write this but it’s AMAZING and having been in Japan couldn’t agree more!

Thank you so much Paula! We spent a lot of time on it, so it is wonderful to hear that you find it helpful (especially since you’ve been to Japan!).

Wow what a great resource. You have really covered everything you need to plan a trip to Japan.

Thanks Patti, glad you found it useful!

Wow, I think this is the most thorough guide to Japan ever! Guys, you should create an ebook out of it! It’s not only good for first timers, but for anyone giving Japan a visit!

Aww thanks Bistra. We tried really hard to make it one of the best Japan travel guides out there. Glad you liked it!

Japan is on my family’s bucket list. I am definitely going to pin this guide for reference when I am planning.

Thanks Jamie, glad you found it useful. Let us know if you have any questions about traveling in Japan.

Wow, guys. This is the most comprehensive Japan travel post I’ve ever seen! There’s no way I could read through this entire thing right now, but I’ll certainly bookmarking this for our future trip to Japan. I noticed that you’re a VIPKid teacher as well. It’s amazing how this company has made traveling a reality for so many of us! Keep the amazing content coming!

Thanks so much you guys! Glad you like the article. VIPKID is awesome and has really helped us stay on the road. So nice we can teach from anywhere in the world.

Wow! This IS the ultimate Japan travel guide – complete with what to do during what season, costs, and some Japanese words. Thank you for this!

Seriously it’s a total Japan guide

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• Location guides
• Travel tips
• Things to do
• Food and drinks
• Best Japan Travel Tips: 15+ Things to Know before You Go

Japan is a unique and fascinating travel destination that offers visitors a rich cultural experience, stunning natural landscapes, and delicious cuisine. However, planning a trip to Japan can be intimidating, especially for first-time travelers. With its complex transportation system, unfamiliar customs and traditions, and language barriers, it’s important to be well-prepared before embarking on your journey.

In this guide, we’ll offer practical tips and advice to help you make the most of your visit to Japan. From deciding when to go to understanding cultural etiquette, navigating transportation, and discovering local cuisine and attractions, we’ve got you covered. So whether you’re a seasoned traveler or a newbie, read on for our top Japan travel tips !

When to Visit Japan – Japan travel tip

Overview of the four seasons in japan.

Japan is known for its distinct four seasons, each with its own unique features and attractions.

Japan is known for its distinct four seasons, each with its own unique features and attractions. (Source: Internet)

1. Spring (March to May):

• Spring in Japan is famous for cherry blossom season when the country’s parks and gardens burst into bloom with delicate pink and white flowers.
• The weather is mild, making it a great time for outdoor activities like hiking and exploring the countryside.
• Popular events during this season include hanami (cherry blossom viewing parties) and various spring festivals.

2. Summer (June to August):

• Summer in Japan can be hot and humid, but it’s also festival season, with many live events taking place throughout the country.
• Beaches and water sports are popular during this time, as well as attending firework displays and other summer festivities.
• July and August can also bring typhoons, so it’s important to stay updated on weather forecasts if traveling during this time.

3. Fall (September to November):

• Fall in Japan is known for its stunning autumn foliage, with leaves turning shades of red, orange, and yellow across the country.
• The weather is generally mild, making it a great time for outdoor activities like hiking or visiting hot springs.
• This season is also a great time to try seasonal foods and attend harvest festivals.

4. Winter (December to February):

• Winter in Japan can be cold and snowy, but it’s also a great time for winter sports like skiing and snowboarding.
• Many Japanese cities and towns celebrate the new year with traditional customs and decorations.
• Onsen (hot springs) are especially popular during the winter months, offering a cozy way to warm up and relax.

Pros and cons of each season for travel

• Cherry blossom season is a unique and beautiful experience to witness
• Mild weather makes outdoor activities enjoyable
• Spring festivals offer a glimpse into Japanese culture
• High tourist season means more crowds and higher prices for accommodations and transportation
• Unpredictable weather can affect cherry blossom viewing dates

Cherry blossom season is a unique and beautiful experience to witness. (Source: Internet)

• Festivals and fireworks displays provide lively entertainment
• Beaches and water sports are popular
• Longer days mean more time for sightseeing
• Hot and humid weather can be uncomfortable
• Typhoons and heavy rain can disrupt travel plans
• High tourist season leads to more crowds and higher prices

Festivals and fireworks displays provide lively entertainment. (Source: Internet)

4. Fall (September to November):

• Beautiful autumn foliage creates stunning landscapes
• Comfortable weather makes outdoor activities pleasant
• Harvest festivals offer unique cultural experiences
• The peak season for fall foliage viewing means more crowds and higher prices
• Changing weather conditions can make planning difficult

In the fall season, Janpan has beautiful autumn foliage creates stunning landscapes. (Source: Internet)

5. Winter (December to February):

• Winter sports like skiing and snowboarding are popular
• New Year’s celebrations offer a unique cultural experience
• Onsen (hot springs) provide a cozy way to warm up and relax
• Cold weather may not be enjoyable for everyone
• Higher chance of flight cancellations due to snow and ice
• Shorter daylight hours may make sightseeing harder

Winter sports like skiing and snowboarding are popular. (Source: Internet)

The best time to visit is based on interests and activities – Janpan travel tip

• Cherry blossom viewing: The best time to see cherry blossoms in Japan is usually late March to early April, depending on location and weather conditions.
• Summer festivals: If you’re interested in attending summer festivals and fireworks displays, plan your trip for July or August.
• Hiking and outdoor activities: Spring (March to May) or fall (September to November) are great times to enjoy outdoor activities like hiking and exploring nature, with mild temperatures and beautiful scenery.
• Skiing and winter sports: If you’re interested in skiing or other winter sports, plan your trip for December to February when snowfall is heaviest.
• Autumn foliage viewing: Late October to early December is the best time for autumn foliage viewing throughout Japan, with the peak season varying by region.
• New Year’s celebrations: If you want to experience traditional Japanese New Year’s customs and festivities, plan your trip for late December to early January.

Overall, the best time to visit Japan depends on your specific interests and activities. Be sure to research local events and weather patterns before booking your trip to make the most of your visit.

• How Expensive Is Japan? – A Complete Guide For Travelers
• Planning A Trip To Japan Like A Travel Master

Preparing for the Trip

Visa requirements: information on visa requirements for different nationalities, 1. visa-exempt nationals:.

• Citizens of 68 countries and regions, including the United States, Canada, Australia, and most European countries are exempt from obtaining a visa for stays of up to 90 days.
• However, travelers must still meet certain requirements such as having a valid passport and return ticket, and not engaging in paid activities during their stay.

2. Visa required nationals:

• Nationals of some countries, including China, Russia, and India, require a visa to enter Japan.
• Depending on the purpose of travel, the types of visas available include tourist visas, business visas, student visas, and work visas.

3. Visa waiver program:

• Japan has a visa waiver program for certain nationalities who hold a valid visas for the United States, Canada, the United Kingdom, or other specified countries.
• Travelers must obtain an Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA) prior to departure.

It’s important to note that visa requirements can change at any time, so it’s best to check with your local Japanese embassy or consulate for the most up-to-date information and requirements for your specific nationality. Additionally, entry requirements may be impacted by COVID-19-related travel restrictions and guidelines, so be sure to research current regulations before planning your trip.

Booking flights: Tips for finding affordable flights to Japan

• Book in advance: Booking your flight several months in advance can often save you money, as last-minute bookings tend to be more expensive.
• Be flexible with travel dates: Flights to Japan can vary significantly in price depending on the time of year and day of the week. Being flexible with your travel dates can help you find more affordable options.
• Consider low-cost carriers: Low-cost carriers like Jetstar Japan, Peach Aviation, and Vanilla Air offer affordable options for domestic and international flights within Asia.
• Look for deals: Airlines often offer promotions and sales throughout the year, so it’s worth checking their websites or signing up for email newsletters to stay informed.
• Use comparison sites: Websites like Skyscanner, Kayak, and Expedia allow you to compare prices across multiple airlines and book the most affordable option.
• Fly indirect: Consider booking a flight with layovers, which can sometimes be cheaper than direct flights.
• Check alternative airports: Flying into Tokyo’s Haneda airport instead of Narita, or Osaka’s Kansai airport instead of Itami or Kobe, may offer more affordable options.

Remember to factor in baggage fees and other additional costs when comparing prices. By being flexible and doing some research, you can find affordable flights to Japan that fit your budget.

You can also like:

• Best Places to Visit in Chiba: A Comprehensive Guide in 2023
• New Haneda Airport Garden, Shopping Mall – Everything about It

Accommodation options: Overview of hotels, ryokans, hostels, and other accommodation options

• Japan has a wide range of hotels, from budget-friendly options to luxury accommodations.
• Major hotel chains like Hilton, Marriott, and Intercontinental have a presence in major cities like Tokyo, Osaka, and Kyoto.
• Boutique hotels and ryokans (traditional Japanese inns) offer a more unique and immersive experience.

2. Ryokans:

• Ryokans are traditional Japanese inns that offer a unique cultural experience for travelers.
• They typically feature tatami-matted rooms, futon bedding, and communal bathhouses known as onsen.
• Ryokans often serve traditional Japanese meals, including multi-course dinners called kaiseki.

3. Hostels:

• Hostels are a budget-friendly option for travelers, especially solo travelers or those on a tight budget.
• Many hostels in Japan offer private rooms as well as dormitories.
• Hostels often provide communal areas where travelers can socialize and meet other guests.

4. Guesthouses:

• Guesthouses are similar to hostels in that they offer budget-friendly accommodations, but they often have a more homely and personal atmosphere.
• Guesthouses may have fewer amenities than hotels, but they often offer a unique local experience.

5. Capsule hotels:

• Capsule hotels are a uniquely Japanese accommodation option, consisting of small capsule-like rooms with basic amenities.
• They’re typically intended for short stays and often cater to business travelers who need a convenient and affordable place to stay.

No matter what type of accommodation you choose, it’s important to book in advance, especially during peak travel seasons. (Source: Internet)

No matter what type of accommodation you choose, it’s important to book in advance, especially during peak travel seasons. Additionally, be aware of local customs and etiquette when staying in ryokans or other traditional accommodations.

Packing essentials: Recommended clothing and gear for a trip to Japan

1. comfortable walking shoes:.

• With so much to see and do in Japan, you’ll likely be doing a lot of walking. Make sure to bring comfortable shoes that can handle long days of exploring.

2. Weather-appropriate clothing:

• Japan experiences all four seasons, so it’s important to pack weather-appropriate clothing.
• In spring and fall, layers are key as temperatures can vary significantly throughout the day.
• Summer can be hot and humid, so lightweight clothing is recommended.
• Winter can be cold and snowy, so make sure to pack warm clothing like a heavy coat, gloves, and a hat.

3. Umbrella or rain jacket:

• Japan sees a fair amount of rainfall year-round, so it’s a good idea to pack an umbrella or rain jacket to stay dry.

4. Power adapter:

• Japan uses Type A and Type B electrical outlets, so if you’re coming from a country that uses a different type of plug, make sure to bring a power adapter.

5. Portable charger:

• With so many photo opportunities and navigating with your phone, a portable charger is a must-have item.

6. Pocket Wi-Fi:

• Wi-Fi access can be limited in certain areas of Japan, making a pocket Wi-Fi device a useful tool for staying connected while on the go.

7. Cash and credit cards:

• While credit cards are widely accepted in major cities, it’s a good idea to have some cash on hand for smaller purchases and transportation.

8. Japanese phrasebook:

• While English is spoken in many tourist areas, having a basic knowledge of Japanese phrases can be helpful when communicating with locals.

Remember to pack light and leave room in your suitcase for souvenirs and gifts to bring back home.

Getting Around Japan

Transportation options, overview of trains, buses, and taxis.

• Japan has an extensive and efficient train network, including high-speed shinkansen (bullet trains) that connect major cities.
• JR Passes are available for foreign travelers and offer unlimited rides on most JR trains, making them a cost-effective option for those planning to travel extensively.
• Buses are a more affordable alternative to trains, especially for shorter trips or traveling within a city.
• Local and express buses are widely available throughout Japan, and highway buses offer longer-distance travel between cities.
• Taxis can be expensive in Japan, but they’re useful for short trips, traveling late at night, or if you have heavy luggage.
• Taxis typically have a starting fare and additional charges based on distance traveled and waiting time.

4. Subways:

• Most major cities in Japan have subway systems that provide convenient and efficient transportation around the city.
• Subway maps and signs are often available in English, making it easy for foreign travelers to navigate.

5. Renting a car:

• While not as popular as public transportation, renting a car can be a good option for those wanting to explore rural areas or areas not well-served by public transportation.
• Keep in mind that driving in Japan requires an International Driving Permit, and traffic can be congested in major cities.

Overall, Japan has a reliable and efficient transportation system that makes it easy to get around. Depending on your itinerary and budget, there are many transportation options available to suit your needs.

Japan Rail Pass: whether it’s worth purchasing

The Japan Rail Pass is a special ticket available exclusively to foreign visitors that allows unlimited travel on most Japan Railway (JR) trains, including shinkansen (bullet trains), for a set period of time. The pass is available in different durations, ranging from 7 to 21 days.

The Japan Rail Pass can be a great value for those planning to travel extensively throughout Japan. For example, a round-trip ticket on the shinkansen between Tokyo and Kyoto costs around the same as a 7-day Japan Rail Pass, so if you’re planning to take several shinkansen trips within a week or two, the pass can save you money.

The Japan Rail Pass is a special ticket available exclusively to foreign visitors that allows unlimited travel on most Japan Railway (JR) trains, including shinkansen (bullet trains), for a set period of time. (Source: Internet)

In addition to shinkansen travel, the Japan Rail Pass also covers local JR trains, some buses, and JR ferries, providing convenient and cost-effective transportation options.

However, the Japan Rail Pass may not be worth it for everyone. If you’re only planning to stay in one region of Japan or won’t be taking many train trips, buying individual tickets may be a more affordable option. Additionally, while the Japan Rail Pass offers unlimited travel on JR trains, it does not cover non-JR trains or public transportation like subways or buses.

Ultimately, whether the Japan Rail Pass is worth purchasing depends on your itinerary and planned activities. Be sure to compare the cost of individual tickets versus the pass, and consider how many trains travel you’ll be doing, before making a decision.

Navigation tips

Introduction to using public transportation in japan.

• Trains are the most common and convenient mode of transportation in Japan.
• Most major cities have extensive train networks, including local and express trains, subways, and shinkansen (bullet trains).
• Train tickets can be purchased at ticket machines or ticket offices located in stations.

2. Subways:

• Most major cities in Japan have subway systems that provide efficient transportation around the city.
• Subway fares typically vary based on distance traveled and can be paid with a rechargeable IC card, which is available for purchase at subway stations.
• Bus fares can be paid with cash or an IC card.

5. IC Cards:

• IC cards are rechargeable smart cards that can be used to pay for transportation fares on trains, subways, and buses in most regions of Japan.
• They can also be used to make purchases at vending machines and convenience stores.
• The most common IC cards are Suica in Tokyo and northern Japan, Pasmo in Tokyo and surrounding areas, and Icoca in western Japan.

Overall, using public transportation in Japan is a convenient and efficient way to get around. With a little preparation and research, you can easily navigate the various modes of transportation and explore all that Japan has to offer.

Using Google Maps and other apps for navigation

1. Google Maps:

• Google Maps is a useful tool for navigating around Japan, especially if you’re unfamiliar with the area.
• It provides directions for walking, driving, and public transportation, including train schedules and estimated travel times.
• The app also shows photos of businesses and landmarks, making it easier to find your destination.
• Data charges may apply for using Google Maps depending on your mobile phone plan.

2. Hyperdia:

• Hyperdia is a popular app specifically designed for train travel in Japan.
• It offers detailed train schedules and fares, as well as information on platform numbers and transfer instructions.
• You can search for routes based on specific departure and arrival times, and the app offers both English and Japanese language options.

3. Navitime:

• Navitime is another navigation app that provides directions for driving, walking, and public transportation in Japan.
• It includes features like real-time traffic updates, train and bus schedules, and maps of major cities.
• Navitime also has a feature that allows you to save maps offline, which can be helpful when traveling in areas without internet access.

4. Japan Connected-Free Wi-Fi:

• If you need internet access while out and about in Japan, the Japan Connected-Free Wi-Fi app provides free Wi-Fi hotspots throughout the country.
• The app allows you to easily connect to Wi-Fi at airports, train stations, and other public spaces.
• Note that you’ll need to register for an account in order to use the service.

Overall, there are several useful apps available for navigating around Japan. By using these tools, you can make your travels more convenient and efficient.

Cultural Etiquette

Customs and traditions: overview of japanese customs and traditions that travelers should be aware of.

• Bowing is a common gesture of respect in Japan, and it’s often used as a greeting or farewell.
• When meeting someone for the first time, a slight bow is appropriate.
• The depth of the bow depends on the situation and the status of the person being greeted.
• Removing shoes:
• It’s customary to remove your shoes when entering someone’s home, traditional ryokans, temples, and some restaurants and stores.
• Look for a shoe rack or designated area to store your shoes.
• Chopsticks:
• Chopsticks are commonly used in Japan, and there are certain etiquette rules to follow.
• Don’t cross your chopsticks on your plate, as this is considered bad luck.
• Don’t use chopsticks to pass food directly from one person’s chopsticks to another.
• Onsen, or hot springs, are a popular part of Japanese culture.
• Before entering an onsen, make sure to shower and thoroughly wash your body.
• Tattoos are generally not allowed in onsens, so be sure to check the rules before entering.
• Gift-giving:
• Gift-giving is a common practice in Japan, especially in business settings.
• If you’re visiting someone’s home or meeting with a business associate, it’s customary to bring a small gift.
• Make sure to wrap the gift nicely and offer it with both hands.
• Silence is highly valued in Japan, and people tend to speak softly and avoid making noise in public.
• In trains and other public transportation, it’s common to keep conversations quiet or use headphones to listen to music or watch videos.

By being aware of these customs and traditions, travelers can show respect for Japanese culture and make their trip more enjoyable. Additionally, it’s always a good idea to research local customs and etiquette before traveling to any new destination.

Dos and don’ts

Tips for respecting japanese culture and etiquette.

2. Removing shoes:

3. Chopsticks:

5. Gift-giving:

6. Silence:

Examples of dos and don’ts, such as removing shoes before entering a home or temple

• Say “arigatou gozaimasu” (thank you) and “sumimasen” (excuse me) frequently.
• Bow slightly when meeting someone for the first time or when expressing gratitude.
• Remove shoes when entering a home, traditional ryokans, temples, and some restaurants and stores.
• Handle chopsticks properly and avoid sticking them vertically in your food.
• Use a tissue or handkerchief if you need to blow your nose in public.
• Eat quietly and avoid making slurping noises while eating noodles.
• Don’t speak loudly or make noise in public places like trains, buses, or restaurants.
• Don’t eat or drink while walking on the street, as it’s considered impolite.
• Don’t leave chopsticks standing vertically in a bowl of rice, as this is associated with funerals and death.
• Don’t smoke in public places, except in designated smoking areas.
• Don’t touch or point at people or things with your chopsticks.
• Don’t wear shoes inside homes or certain public places like temples and shrines.
• Don’t tip in restaurants or other service establishments, as tipping is not expected in Japan.

By following these dos and don’ts, travelers can show respect for Japanese culture and etiquette and have a more enjoyable trip. Remember to research local customs and etiquette before traveling to any new destination.

Food and Drink

Overview of japanese cuisine: popular dishes and regional specialties.

• Sushi is one of the most famous Japanese dishes, consisting of vinegared rice topped with raw or cooked fish, vegetables, or other toppings.
• Popular types of sushi include nigiri (hand-formed sushi), maki (sushi rolls), and chirashi (scattered sushi).
• Ramen is a noodle soup dish that originated in China but has become a popular staple in Japan.
• The broth can be made from pork, chicken, or seafood, and it’s often flavored with soy sauce, miso, or salt.
• Toppings can include sliced pork, boiled egg, bamboo shoots, and green onions.
• Tempura is a dish of battered and deep-fried seafood, vegetables, or other ingredients.
• The batter is made from flour, water, and eggs, and the dish is typically served with a dipping sauce.

Okonomiyaki:

• Okonomiyaki is a savory pancake made with shredded cabbage, flour, eggs, and a variety of fillings like meat, seafood, and vegetables.
• It’s typically topped with mayo, okonomi sauce (a sweet and savory sauce), and bonito flakes.
• Takoyaki is a small ball-shaped snack made with diced octopus, batter, and seasonings.
• They’re typically served with toppings like mayo, takoyaki sauce (a sweet and savory sauce), and bonito flakes.

Regional specialties:

• Each region in Japan has its own specialty dishes and flavors.
• For example, Hokkaido is known for its seafood and dairy products, Osaka is famous for its street food like takoyaki and okonomiyaki, and Hiroshima is known for its style of okonomiyaki.

Japanese cuisine is diverse and flavorful, with a wide variety of dishes to try. (Source: Internet)

Overall, Japanese cuisine is diverse and flavorful, with a wide variety of dishes to try. Whether you’re enjoying sushi at a high-end restaurant or slurping ramen in a casual eatery, there’s something for everyone to enjoy.

Restaurant recommendations

Tips for finding great places to eat in japan.

1. Ask locals for recommendations:

• Locals often know the best places to eat in their own neighborhoods or cities.
• If you’re staying at a hotel or hostel, ask the staff for their favorite restaurants in the area.

2. Check online reviews:

• Websites like TripAdvisor and Yelp can be useful for finding popular restaurants and reading reviews from other travelers.
• However, keep in mind that reviews may not always be reliable, so use your judgment when choosing where to eat.

3. Follow food bloggers and social media influencers:

• Many bloggers and influencers specialize in food and travel, and they often share their favorite restaurants and dishes on social media platforms like Instagram and Facebook.

4. Explore local markets:

• Visiting local markets like Tsukiji Fish Market in Tokyo or Nishiki Market in Kyoto is a great way to sample a variety of Japanese cuisine in one place.
• Try sampling dishes from different vendors to get a feel for the local flavors and specialties.

5. Look for long lines:

• It may sound counterintuitive, but long lines outside a restaurant can be a sign of delicious food.
• If you see a line of locals waiting outside a restaurant, it’s likely because the food is worth the wait.

6. Visit Michelin-starred restaurants:

• Japan has more Michelin-starred restaurants than any other country in the world.
• While these restaurants can be quite expensive, they offer a unique culinary experience and some of the best food Japan has to offer.

You’ll be sure to find some great places to eat and enjoy the diverse and delicious cuisine of Japan. (Source: Internet)

By following these tips, you’ll be sure to find some great places to eat and enjoy the diverse and delicious cuisine of Japan.

Izakayas, sushi bars, and other dining experiences

1. Izakayas:

• Izakayas are a type of casual Japanese pub that serves small plates of food along with alcoholic drinks like beer and sake.
• They’re popular with locals and visitors alike for their relaxed atmosphere and variety of dishes.
• Some popular izakaya dishes include yakitori (grilled chicken skewers), edamame (boiled soybeans), and karaage (fried chicken).

2. Sushi bars:

• Sushi bars are restaurants that specialize in serving sushi, a dish of vinegared rice topped with raw or cooked fish, vegetables, or other ingredients.
• Some sushi bars offer omakase, a chef’s choice menu where the chef selects the dishes for you based on what’s fresh and in season.
• Sushi bars can range from high-end Michelin-starred establishments to more casual eateries.

3. Kaiseki:

• Kaiseki is a traditional multi-course Japanese meal that originated as a tea ceremony accompaniment.
• It typically features seasonal and local ingredients and is served in a specific order.
• Kaiseki meals can be quite expensive, but they offer a unique, high-end dining experience.

4. Ramen shops:

• Ramen shops serve bowls of piping hot noodle soup, often made with pork or chicken broth and topped with meat, egg, and vegetables.
• There are many regional varieties of ramen throughout Japan, each with its own unique flavor and style.
• Many ramen shops have a ticket vending machine, where customers purchase their meal tickets before being seated.

5. Conveyor belt sushi:

• Conveyor belt sushi, also known as kaitenzushi, is a type of casual sushi restaurant where plates of sushi pass by on a conveyor belt.
• Customers can select the dishes they want to try as they pass by, and the plates are priced based on color.
• Conveyor belt sushi restaurants are often affordable and popular with families.

Overall, dining in Japan offers a wide range of experiences, from casual izakayas to high-end kaiseki meals. (Source: Internet)

Overall, dining in Japan offers a wide range of experiences, from casual izakayas to high-end kaiseki meals. Whether you’re looking for an upscale culinary experience or a quick and tasty meal on the go, there’s something for everyone to enjoy.

Activities and Attractions

Must-see attractions, overview of popular tourist destinations in japan.

• Tokyo is the capital city of Japan and one of the most popular tourist destinations in the country.
• It offers a wide range of attractions, including historic temples and shrines, modern shopping districts, and unique food experiences.
• Kyoto is a city in central Japan known for its rich history and traditional culture.
• It’s home to numerous temples, shrines, and gardens, as well as traditional crafts and cuisine.
• Osaka is a large city in western Japan known for its food and entertainment.
• Its highlights include the bustling Dotonbori district, Osaka Castle, and Universal Studios Japan.

4. Hiroshima:

• Hiroshima is a city in western Japan that’s famous for being the target of the first atomic bomb during World War II.
• Visitors can learn about the city’s history at the Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park and Museum, as well as explore nearby Miyajima Island.

5. Hokkaido:

• Hokkaido is Japan’s northernmost island and a popular destination for winter sports like skiing and snowboarding.
• It’s also known for its natural beauty, including national parks and hot springs.

6. Okinawa:

• Okinawa is a chain of islands in southern Japan known for their tropical climate and beaches.
• The islands offer opportunities for snorkeling, scuba diving, and other water activities.

7. Mount Fuji:

• Mount Fuji is Japan’s tallest mountain and a popular destination for hiking and outdoor adventure.
• Visitors can also enjoy views of the mountain from nearby lakes and hot springs.

Overall, Japan offers a wide range of destinations for every type of traveler, from bustling cities to serene natural landscapes. Whether you’re interested in art and architecture, history and tradition, or outdoor adventures, there’s something for everyone to enjoy.

Recommendations for unique and off-the-beaten-path experiences

1. Visit a local onsen:

• Onsens are traditional Japanese hot springs that are popular with locals and tourists alike.
• While there are many famous onsens throughout Japan, visiting a smaller, lesser-known onsen can offer a more authentic and unique experience.

2. Explore the art island of Naoshima:

• Naoshima is a small island in the Seto Inland Sea that’s home to a variety of modern art installations and museums.
• The island offers a unique blend of contemporary art and traditional Japanese architecture and is a must-visit destination for art lovers.

3. Stay in a ryokan:

• Ryokans are traditional Japanese inns that offer a glimpse into Japan’s rich cultural heritage.
• While there are many ryokans throughout the country, staying at a smaller, family-run inn can offer a more personalized and authentic experience.

4. Take part in a tea ceremony:

• The tea ceremony, or chanoyu, is a traditional Japanese ritual that involves preparing and serving matcha, and powdered green tea.
• While tea ceremonies can be found throughout Japan, participating in one with a smaller, independent tea master can offer a more intimate and educational experience.

5. Visit a local farm or fish market:

• Japan is known for its high-quality produce and seafood, and visiting a local farm or fish market can offer a unique and immersive culinary experience.
• You may have the opportunity to try fresh, seasonal ingredients and learn about traditional cooking techniques from local producers.

By seeking out unique and off-the-beaten-path experiences in Japan, travelers can gain a deeper understanding of the country’s culture and traditions while also enjoying memorable and authentic experiences.

Outdoor activities

• Japan is home to many beautiful hiking trails, ranging from scenic mountain routes to coastal paths.
• Some popular hiking destinations include Mount Fuji, the Nakasendo Trail, and the Kumano Kodo pilgrimage route.

2. Skiing and snowboarding:

• Japan is known for its world-class ski resorts and abundance of powdery snow.
• Some popular ski areas include Niseko in Hokkaido, Hakuba in Nagano, and Nozawa Onsen in Niigata.

3. Scuba diving and snorkeling:

• Japan is surrounded by beautiful oceans and is home to a variety of marine life.
• Some popular scuba diving and snorkeling spots include Okinawa, Izu Peninsula, and Ogasawara Islands.

4. Cycling:

• Japan is a cyclist-friendly country with many scenic cycling routes.
• The Shimanami Kaido, a cycling route that spans several islands in the Seto Inland Sea, is particularly popular.

5. Whitewater rafting:

• Japan has many rivers with rapids suitable for whitewater rafting.
• Some popular rafting spots include the Tone River in Gunma Prefecture and the Yoshino River in Tokushima Prefecture.

Overall, Japan offers a wide range of outdoor activities for adventure seekers. Whether you’re interested in hiking through stunning natural landscapes, skiing on fresh powder, or exploring underwater worlds, there’s something for everyone to enjoy.

Cultural experiences

1. Tea ceremonies:

• Tea ceremonies, or chanoyu, are a traditional Japanese ritual that involves preparing and serving matcha, a powdered green tea.
• Participating in a tea ceremony can offer a glimpse into Japan’s rich cultural heritage and the principles of harmony, respect, purity, and tranquility.

2. Festivals:

• Japan is home to many lively and colorful festivals throughout the year, each with its own unique traditions and customs.
• Some popular festivals include the Gion Matsuri in Kyoto, the Nebuta Matsuri in Aomori, and the Sapporo Snow Festival.

3. Calligraphy:

• Japanese calligraphy, or shodo, is an art form that involves writing kanji (Chinese characters) using a brush and ink.
• Taking a calligraphy class with a local teacher can offer a fun and unique way to learn about Japanese writing and aesthetics.

4. Taiko drumming:

• Taiko drumming is a traditional Japanese percussion art that involves playing large drums with sticks.
• Many groups offer taiko drumming workshops and performances throughout Japan, providing a fun and exciting way to experience Japanese music and culture.

5. Zen meditation:

• Zen meditation, or zazen, is a practice that originated in Japan and involves sitting quietly and focusing on your breath.
• Many temples and centers throughout Japan offer Zen meditation classes and retreats, providing a chance to experience the peaceful and introspective qualities of Zen Buddhism.

By participating in these cultural experiences, travelers can gain a deeper understanding of Japan’s rich history and tradition, while also enjoying unique and memorable experiences.

1. What is the best time of year to visit Japan?

• The best time to visit Japan depends on your preferences and what you want to do.
• Spring (March to May) is a popular time to see cherry blossoms, while fall (September to November) offers mild weather and beautiful foliage.
• Winter (December to February) is ideal for skiing and winter sports, while summer (June to August) can be hot and humid but offers many festivals and events.

2. Do I need a visa to visit Japan?

• This depends on your nationality.
• Citizens of many countries, including the U.S., Canada, Australia, and most European countries, can enter Japan as tourists without a visa for up to 90 days.
• Check with your local Japanese embassy or consulate to verify entry requirements.

3. What should I pack for a trip to Japan?

• It depends on the season and where you plan to go.
• Comfortable walking shoes are a must, as there is a lot of walking involved in sightseeing.
• In general, dress modestly and conservatively, especially when visiting temples and shrines.
• Don’t forget to bring adapters for electrical outlets, as Japan uses a different type of plug than other countries.

4. Is it safe to travel to Japan?

Yes, Japan has generally considered a very safe country for travelers. However, as with any destination, it’s important to be aware of your surroundings and take sensible precautions, such as keeping valuables secure and avoiding unlit areas at night.

5. Can I get by with just English in Japan?

• While English is widely spoken in tourist areas, especially in larger cities, it’s still a good idea to learn a few basic Japanese phrases.
• Many signs and train announcements are in Japanese only, and locals may not speak much English outside of tourist areas.

6. What is the best way to get around Japan?

Japan has an excellent transportation system, including trains, buses, and subways. The Japan Rail Pass can be a cost-effective way to travel throughout the country by train. Taxis can be expensive but are a convenient way to get around in some areas.

In conclusion, here are some Japan travel tips :

• Research and plan ahead to make the most of your trip.
• Embrace unique experiences, such as staying at a ryokan, attending a tea ceremony, or visiting local festivals.
• Respect Japanese culture and customs, such as bowing, taking off your shoes indoors, and following etiquette when using public onsen baths.
• Try local cuisine and be adventurous with your food choices.
• Consider purchasing a Japan Rail Pass for cost-effective transportation throughout the country.

Japan offers a wealth of cultural, culinary, and outdoor experiences for travelers to enjoy. By embracing the unique aspects of Japan and respecting its culture and customs, visitors can gain a deeper understanding and appreciation of this fascinating country.

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Japan Travel Tips: 34 Things to Know In 2024

Japan is a fascinating and unique country, so there is a lot to wonder about when planning a trip. These Japan travel tips are bound to give you extra peace of mind on your travels.

Learn how to behave on certain occasions and to respect the local Japanese culture. What to order in restaurants. How to move around efficiently. And many other practicalities of the modern traveler to Nippon . These are 34 Japan travel tips to help you make the best out of your stay!

• Use 7-Bank.
• Public transportation is super efficient.
• A JR Pass can be a great buy.
• Pick the best areas to stay in cities strategically.
• Why do Japanese wear surgical masks on the streets?
• Try all the foods!
• Convenience stores are really convenient.
• Do not tip.
• Indulge in sushi.
• You can’t smoke everywhere.
• It’s an unique place to shop.
• Hold on to your garbage.
• Stay in a ryokan.
• Tattoos are not welcomed.
• Get a IC Card.
• You won’t hear a no as an answer.
• Almost any time is a good time to go.
• Grab some food in an izakaya.
• Venture out of the cities and find amazing nature.
• The best ramen of your life is here.
• A trip to Japan won’t necessarily break your budget.
• Learn the basic etiquette and customs.
• Cities are incredibly crowded…
• You can get away with English.
• Learn some basic Japanese words.
• Explore the underground world.
• You can get templed out.
• Make use of luggage forwarding services.
• Japanese gardens are something else.
• Get lost in a 100-yen store.
• Think twice before going to an animal café.
• Going to the toilet is a life-changing experience.

Let’s go into more detail of each one of these now. 👇

1 Use 7-Bank.

Japan is still far from being a cashless society, so the first thing to worry about is money.

Exchanging currency doesn’t yield the best rates, especially on those sketchy airport booths. Withdrawing money from ATMs directly is a better option, but not any bank. I found the one with the best rates/fees to be 7-Bank (7-Eleven’s bank).

If you’re arriving at Narita Airport in Tokyo, you can find a 7-Bank ATM inside a 7-Eleven store on the departure floor (4F), next to the restaurant’s area.

Pro tip: An IC Card can technically be used as a debit card in many stores, vending machines and restaurants throughout Japan. Also make sure you have a Revolut card , saves money on payments and withdrawals.

2 Public transportation is super efficient.

It’s easy to get overwhelmed with metro and train systems in Japan . There are spider webs less complex: we’re talking about 150 lines and 2,000 stations of overground and underground rail in Tokyo alone! The good news is once you figure it out how to get around, it’s amazingly efficient.

For journeys inside the cities, the fare is calculated depending on the length of your trip. I recommend getting an IC Card (Suica, Pasmo, etc) to avoid these calculations every time you board the subway. Instead, the fare is discounted automatically once you tap the card on the reader when you’re going out of each station.

If you’re traveling long distances with the incredible country’s rail network, JR Pass can be a time and money saver . Make sure you also download Hyperdia for your phone. This app is not exactly a UI delight, but has detailed train schedules and even a useful filter “JR Pass” to find the best trains that fit your itinerary.

3 Consider a JR Pass.

Emphasis on the can . Every travel blogger out there will tell you to buy a JR Pass through their affiliate link no matter what. The reality is: it depends .

If you’re planning to travel around the country, a 2 or 3-week JR Pass can save you time and money. It’s super convenient and will give you unlimited access to (some types of) Shinkansen and JR-branded trains, buses, and ferries.

However, if you’re staying in one region of Japan only or planning to visit just a few places, a region-specific pass or even individual tickets can be more than enough. This tool can help you understand in what cases does it pay off .

Japan Rail Pass Tips

A Japan Rail Pass is a pass available for travelers only that allows you to move around Japan hassle-free in trains, buses, and even ferries. Choose between a 7, 14 or 21-day pass.

The passes are costly and have spiked 70% in cost after the pandemic, but if you look at prices of individual train tickets you’ll understand they can still save you money with just a couple of trips.

Also, you can buy your JR Pass in some stations in Japan but it will be more expensive. Buy it online before your trip and get them delivered to your home address or hotel in Japan. In either case, you’ll need to activate it in a train station when you arrive in the country.

4 Pick the best areas to stay in cities strategically.

Picking a smart location to stay can literally save hours in getting from point A to point B.

Best areas to stay in Tokyo

To be honest, anywhere on the circular JR Yamamote Line is a good bet, as you can get to any area of the city rather quickly.

Shinjuku and Shibuya are popular areas to stay in, with a lot to see, eat and do. Ginza and Tokyo Station are extremely convenient transport-wise but lack the fun factor in my opinion.

Check out this pre-filtered list of the highest-rated places to stay in Shinjuku area in Tokyo.

Looking for an experience straight out of a sci-fi movie. This is it.

Best areas to stay in Kyoto

The area around Nishiki Market is definitely the most convenient to get to the major attractions of Kyoto . You’ll also be in walking distance to hundreds of malls, bars, shops, and restaurants.

However, if you want a much more unique experience amongst well-preserved architecture and century-old traditions, Gion – the famous Geisha district – is the place. Plus, it’s not every day you get the chance to bump into an authentic geisha and her maiko on the way to your hotel.

Check out this pre-filtered list of the highest-rated places to stay in the Gion district, Kyoto.

Best areas to stay in Osaka

There are 2 main “city centers” in Osaka – Umeda and Namba – which correspond to the main transport hubs.

Namba is superior in nightlife and food, it’s bright, busy and loud unlike the rest of Japan .

Umeda is more business-y, but with great food options too. It’s also close to some sights and it’s more strategic for shopping.

5 Wear a mask.

Before COVID hit, seeing people with surgical masks made me a bit uneasy. Eeewww, poor people! They need to wear masks because of the intense pollution and diseases, what a terrible place to visit!

Turns out it’s quite the opposite: Japanese wear these masks to prevent allergies (i.e. pollen) or to avoid that their germs infect others when they’re sick. Do the same when riding public transport.

6 Try all the foods!

I might be biased here because Japanese food was already amongst my favorites in the world, but I’ve found eating out in Japan to be an absolute wonder.

Firstly, the amount of restaurants is in-cre-di-ble. Customer service is top-notch, the quality of ingredients and the way they’re prepared is something they care about a lot and let’s not even talk about clean they are.

The standards are so high I honestly think it’s hard to have a “bad meal” in Japan.

What to eat in Japan 🍜

Here’s a non-exhaustive list of the foods to try in Japan .

• Gyozas – Crispy and golden brown on the outside, juicy on the inside. Pork is the standard, but shrimp and veggy are my favorites.
• Japanese Curry – tried this in Coco Ichibanya in Tokyo. Delicious going in, not so pleasant going out.
• Okonomiyaki – typical from Hiroshima, where is served with noodles, this is a Japanese savory pancake with many different ingredients.
• Ramen – wheat noodles served with toppings like seaweed, menma and green onions in a meat or fish-based broth. Can be flavored with miso or soy sauce.
• Soba – thin noodles made from buckwheat or wheat flour. Served either in hot broth (as a soup) or cold, with a dipping sauce.
• Sushi – pretty sure you know what this is.
• Takoyaki – deep-fried dough in shape of a ball with minced octopus inside. Usually served with bonito flakes on top.
• Tempura – deep-fried vegetables or seafood. Did you know this technique has Portuguese origin?
• Tonkatsu – deep-fried breaded pork cutlet.
• Udon – the thick version of wheat noodles, usually served as hot noodle soup.

7 Convenience stores are really convenient.

This is one of the things I love about Asia: there’s always a convenience store nearby, open 24 hours/day for whatever random item you’re in need during your stay.

There are three main stores in Japan : Lawson, Family Mart, and 7-Eleven. 31% of the worldwide stores of the latter are here. They’re incredibly varied on the inside, selling everything from cookies to face masks, from cookies to underwear.

The highlight here is the food though: from small snacks to delicious ready-to-eat meals and everything in between. Sushi, onigiri (rice balls) and full bento boxes although I personally recommend the egg salad sandwiches.

8 Do not tip.

Guys, this one is important. Do not – under any circumstances – tip in Japan. Not only it’s not a common practice, it’s actually considered rude. No matter how great the food or exceptionally good the customer service is.

To ask for your bill, simply make an “X” sign with your index fingers.

9 Indulge in sushi.

Sushi is NOT the most common food you can find in Japan. That would be ramen . Especially if you get out of the big cities, sushi is really not that common and treated as a more premium meal.

The major difference of sushi in Japan is in 1) how fresh are the ingredients 2) the experience you can get. The fish-to-rice ratio is quite big, with several different types of tuna to choose from. Plus – and this is what I think it makes it special – you can find places where sushi chefs make the rolls per order, right in front of you. All for the price of an average meal in Europe or US.

Tips to eat sushi in Japan 🍣

• Unless you have money to spend in a luxury high-end experience, the best sushi places are tiny, with limited seating where you ask directly the chefs what you want and they make the pieces in front of you. Case in point: Standing Sushi Bar in Tokyo.
• Try a conveyor belt sushi. These are some levels below in the quality scale, but still very acceptable for western standards. You grab your items directly or order through a tablet and the food comes in cute train platforms. It’s incredibly cheap.
• There are many different types of tuna, but fatty tuna ( maguro ) will rock your world.
• Sashimi is only eaten with chopsticks but it’s acceptable to eat nigiri with your hands. Only the fish part should be dipped in the soy sauce.
• Green tea – cold or hot – is often complimentary in sushi restaurants.

First time in Japan? Know where to go and let me help planning a memorable trip!

10 You can’t smoke everywhere.

Like in other places in Asia, smoking on the streets is forbidden . When you’re outside, make sure you go to a designated smoking area, usually next to big buildings, shops or train stations. Smoking outside these areas is extremely disrespectful and one of the biggest offenses you can do in Japan.

On the other hand, in some places smoking inside is allowed , such as bars, specific cars of bullet trains or even restaurants.

11 It’s an unique place to shop.

Let’s put it this way: there’s no shortage of ideas to buy cool souvenirs in Japan . Gadgets – particularly DSLR cameras or anything related to video games – are excellent buys too. And don’t miss a 100-yen store !

Shops worth going as a traveler 🛍️

• Don Quijote – the wackiest department store I’ve been. Anything you can imagine, from drones and gardening supplies to sweets and phone cases. Great place to find weird Kit-Kat flavors.
• Muji – house supplies and furniture with the slick and minimal Japanese style.
• Tokyu Hands – a more sophisticated version of Don Quijote, with the same random assortment of items.
• Bic Camera – massive department store dedicated to all sorts of electronics and gadgets.
• Super Potato – a heaven for lovers of retro games in the Akihabara district in Tokyo .
• Uniqlo – simple and slick clothing for men, women and kids. As a foreigner, you can apply for a direct VAT refund (8%).

12 Hold on to your garbage.

Japan is a SUPER clean country. And when I say clean, I mean immaculate (ok maybe apart from Osaka). Thus it’s counter-intuitive that such impeccable cities have so few trash cans. But it’s true – I found myself holding trash with me for hours before I found a place to put it.

This happens because there’s little garbage in the first place. When locals are walking, they don’t smoke or eat so there’s no need for bins. If you find yourself with the odd piece of paper or plastic, the quickest way to get rid of it is inside a convenience store.

13 Stay in a ryokan.

Heading back to the 17th century, when Japan was enclosed in the Edo period, ryokans are traditionally Japanese inns where guests sleep on tatami mats rolled onto the floor. Most ryokans serve a Japanese set breakfast and/or dinner and have communal bath facilities, including private onsen (hot spring baths) where you’re enter fully naked.

Staying in a ryokan for at least one night is a must-have experience in Japan . I stayed in charming Sumiyoshi Ryokan in Takayama and it was one of my most memorable experiences of the whole trip.

This pre-selection contains the best traditional ryokans with hot spring baths in the entire country.

14 Tattoos are not welcomed.

Across Japan, tattoos are strongly associated with criminal gangs like the Yakuza . Although this is (allegedly) changing with increasing tourism, foreigners with tattoos are not particularly welcomed by some. You can expect to be denied entry in some places, especially onsen (hot springs), saunas and pools.

15 Get an IC Card.

IC cards are prepaid rechargeable cards used to pay public transportation tickets but also work on convenience stores, vending machines and even game arcades (!). Each city has its own card and in Tokyo it’s called Suica card. It has a cute little penguin on it.

I am a big fan of these cards because of 3 reasons:

• They also work in vending machines, convenience stores, and even some shops and restaurants, making it an effective debit card.
• If you’re traveling across Japan you can use your Suica card in other cities too. In 2013, the different systems were made compatible so you can use it as an additional debit card to pay for your travels.
• It works on your Apple Wallet and in fact you can add it and charge it even before you land in Japan.

Getting an IC Card

You can buy an IC Card at any major train or metro station in Japan. I got mine from the automated ticketing machines, which support English language.

Using an IC Card

Once you have preloaded money onto your IC Card, the card works with a simple tap. In train stations, you’ll have to do it on the ticket gates on both the way in and out (fares are not fixed and depend on the length of the journey). You can check the remaining balance on your card as you pass through the gate.

Returning an IC Card

When leaving Japan, you can bring your IC card to a station attendant, who can return you ¥500 deposit and the remaining balance on your card.

In vending machines and shops, you’ll need to tap it just like any contactless bank card.

16 You won’t hear a no as an answer.

Japanese have a really hard time to say “no” to strangers. When you ask something, many times the answer is “no” but they will say “yes” anyway. This is a way for them to avoid offending people. 🤷

Keep this in mind when you ask something – look out for clues on nonsensical behavior or uneasy body language.

17 Almost any time is a good time to go.

In case you’re still deciding when to go to Japan , rest assured every season has something to wonder about.

The weather will obviously depend on where you’re going – the southern islands of Okinawa are very different from the northern tip of Hokkaido – but there’s a lot to see and do no matter when you go.

• Spring (March-June) : a magical season in Japan where flowers bloom and weather is neither too hot or cold. Prices can be (crazily) inflated in hanami season, when everyone goes crazy for the cherry blossoms all around the country.
• Summer (June-September) : brings out the hot sunny weather and the green foliage. Mount Fuji is open for hiking.
• Fall (September-December) : foliage acquires all sorts of colors of the rainbow. During this season, Kyoto is especially beautiful.
• Winter (December-March) : snow covers the highest lands, but in Tokyo there’s minimal rain and snow. Best time to visit the snow monkeys in Jigokudani .

18 Grab some food in an izakaya.

Work culture is intense in Japan. It’s common for people – particularly men – to devote their time, sweat and tears to their company, even more than to their families. And this doesn’t stop at 6. After work or even during weekends, they head to an izakaya , sort of a Japanese version of a gastropub, to drink and grab something to eat.

You can visit one of these tiny and cozy places too and have small dishes like yakitori made in front of you.

Best areas for izakayas in Tokyo 🍻

• Omoide Yokocho – this narrow alley near Shinjuku station is very popular amongst tourists.
• Ameyoko/Ameya Yokocho – located near Ueno station, it’s an open-air market style.
• Yurakucho – many cheap izakaya places right under the railway.

19 Venture out of the cities to find amazing nature.

When we think of Japan we normally think of futuristic tech, Blade Runner alleys, and massive skyscrapers. That certainly corresponds to the reality of the big cities.

What you might not be aware of is that 2/3 of the country is covered in forest. Nature – at least an orderly version of it – is highly appreciated and if you venture out a bit into remote Japan , you’ll find incredible waterfalls, monkeys, lakes, hiking trails, bears, and mountains.

Japanese people are extremely polite – that’s one of the foundations of their society – and bowing is the way to show respect when you meet someone. But this gets complex when you realize there are different types of bows depending on who you’re greeting.

• 30-degree bow (quick):
• 70-degree bow (quick):
• 90-degree bow (long): usually reserved for high authorities, like the CEO of a company or a president.

However, if you don’t feel confident to control this bowing technique, don’t worry. Japanese people are understanding and most likely you’ll get some chuckles.

21 The best ramen of your life is here.

I’m not the biggest fan of ramen , but if I had to describe it in Japan it would be: OH MY GAWD. The depth of flavor of ramen in Japan is unlike anything I’ve tasted before and now I get why it’s considered to be the ultimate comfort food.

There are over 200,000 (!) ramen places across Japan and every single one of them is perfect to go for dinner after a cold day traveling around. It’s a hearty and very affordable meal – very rarely surpassing 1000 yen per bowl.

I could recommend many different places to eat ramen in Japan , but from an experience perspective, try Ichiran . It’s a chain present in Kyoto , Fukuoka , Tokyo , and now even New York City and Hong Kong too.

22 A Japan trip won’t necessarily break your budget.

A top concern for many travelers going to Japan : the budget. Well, I have to say I was surprised with how inexpensive it can be!

Entrance fees to attractions are rarely prohibitive. Passes can reduce the cost of public transportation. For every expensive restaurant, there are 10 low-cost ramen and ikazaya spots. And for the ultra-budget traveler, food in convenience stores is actually much better than you think.

Flights and accommodation will likely take the biggest chunk of your budget.

But there are workarounds in that department too. Guesthouses with futon beds are cheaper and the unique capsule hotels are all across Japan . The latter can be a problem for the more claustrophobic, but with TV, earbuds, air conditioning and a full kit with PJs, toothbrush, towels, and slippers, it can actually be a very comfy night.

I stayed in a capsule hotel in Tokyo and turned out to be a fun and memorable experience for under $30/night. Highly recommend it!

More than a budget saver, staying in a capsule hotel is an experience . The best capsule hotel experiences in Japan are in this list.

23 Learn the basic etiquette and customs.

I can’t stress how important politeness and an orderly way of behaving is to Japanese people. And this is only the tip of the iceberg as regards to their fascinating unique culture.

Some of the things that are a big no-no in Japan are:

What you should not do in Japan 🙅

• Eating in the streets (do it inside the stores or restaurants)
• Smoking in the streets outside the designated areas
• Taking photos of people
• Pointing at people or things
• Speaking loud outside, including in public transportation (although in Osaka this didn’t seem to be an issue)
• Saying “no” aggressively or abruptly
• Entering someone’s house with shoes on (sometimes applies to guesthouses and restaurants too!)

If you wish to know more, I recommend reading a book. I devoured Hitching Rides With Buddha and A Geek In Japan – both written by expats in the country – during my trip and it definitely helped to gain a lot of insider knowledge on Japanese culture.

24 Cities are incredibly crowded…

… but efficient. Despite being the largest and more populous city in the world, Tokyo is so well connected that it doesn’t feel that big. The train network is excellent, led by the circle JR Yamamote Line which stops at every main area of the city.

Masses move quickly and everything is designed to flow as efficient as possible. So make sure you go with that flow. When awaiting your train, queue up next to one of the doors. Check which carriage it’s closer to the exit you want to take. When riding escalators, stand on the right (except in Osaka where for some reason you should stand on the left).

I used Citymapper to help me get around. Bottom line is don’t even think about renting a car in Tokyo , it’s not needed at all.

Find a deal in Tokyo, Japan!

25 you can get away with english..

Even though it won’t look like it, Japanese are good in English. They can understand almost anything you say, but they’re usually too shy to answer back because their domain of the language is not perfect. To increase your chances of getting an answer, smile, be polite and speak slowly.

That said, the above is true for big cities like Kyoto , Tokyo , and Osaka , where it’s common to find menu and signs in English. If you explore other more remote areas of the country, don’t be surprised by the lack of any translations in signs and menus. This is where the next tip becomes even more important.

26 Learn some basic Japanese words.

Regardless of where you go, I always suggest learning a few words in the local language when you travel. It’s fun and it can really go a long way!

In a country where respect and etiquette are so important, learning some Japanese is even more important. It may be overwhelming at first to look at the symbols, but the good thing about Japanese is that sounds exactly the way it’s written in Rōmaji (Latin alphabet version).

Here’s some important words and expressions I’ve used:

Basic Japanese for travelers 🗣

• 🗣 Hello – こんにちわ (konnichiwa)
• 🗣 Yes – はい (hai)
• 🗣 No – いいえ (iie) – hardly used.
• 🗣 Thank you (close friends) – ありがとう (arigatō, for close friends)
• 🗣 Thank you (everyone else) – ありがとうございます (arigatō gozaimasu)
• 🗣 Please – ください (kudasai)
• 🗣 Excuse me/Sorry – すみません (sumimasen)<

27 Explore the underground world.

I consider myself to have a strong sense of direction and I rarely get lost. Still, I’ve got lost several times in the underground malls in both Tokyo and Osaka. They link each subway station to the next via DOZENS of restaurants, shops, and different exits to the surface.

Department stores are another world to explore. Even if you’re not in the mood for a shopping spree, head to the ground floor or basement – depachika – to find very good quality restaurants at affordable prices. Easy meals for those in a budget.

28 You can get templed out.

Despite being architectural wonders and spiritual landmarks, Japanese temples and shrines are like churches and cathedrals in Europe – after a while, they will all start to look the same. If you don’t know anything about Buddhism, all the statues, shrines, and temples will look dull.

But I don’t want to sound too uncultured, so I will also say that it depends on your knowledge of Japanese culture and religion. Once you dig into it a bit – more than travel guides, I recommend reading a book! – visiting a temple will be fascinating and the longer it will take to get bored.

For standard travelers though and especially in Japan’s ancient capital, Kyoto – which alone has over 1,600 temples – it’s easy to get “templed out” so study the places to visit beforehand .

29 It’s safe.

Japan is one of the safest countries in the world, where people go out of their way to avoid any kind of conflict or upset. It’s one of those places you can leave your laptop or phone on the table when you’re going to the WC.

Stemming from Shinto beliefs, Japanese people believe physical objects carry a part of the spirit of the owner, so they don’t have much interest in stealing it from you.

The country is so safe we, as travelers, face the opposite problem: for locals, every gaijin (foreigner) can potentially be dangerous! There’s a barrier to overcome before Japanese trust a foreigner completely.

30 Make use of luggage forwarding services.

One thing you’ll quickly understand in Japan is that for every problem there is a solution. So for instance, if you decide to bring one of those massive bags or trolleys, let me tell you it won’t be easy to navigate the public transportation system.

That’s why they invented Yamato . This luggage-forwarding service available at many hotels or convenience stores (again, mega convenient) works like a parcel delivery, taking your bags to another hotel or city in Japan . It’s not that expensive and can save you a lot of hassle.

An alternative is the train station lockers (that I used a lot). For about 500-700 yen/day, you can store a large bag. These were particularly useful when we had to check-out in the morning but didn’t want to carry our luggage for the rest of the day.

31 Japanese gardens are something else.

The best compliment I can give gardens in Japan is that every garden I go seems like a subpar experience now. But you must be wondering – what the heck, aren’t gardens in the world all the same? No.

There is a zen feeling when you visit a Japanese garden. No rock is out of place. Everything makes sense and is beautiful from every angle or perspective.

Japanese gardens are planned thoroughly from the start and need to follow 6 features to produce true beauty. These are grouped into contrasting pairs: spaciousness & seclusion, artifice & antiquity, water flow & panorama. Don’t miss one.

32 Get lost in a 100-yen store.

One of the most fun and budget-friendly activities you can do on a gloomy day. Head to a 100-yen store like Daiso – you’ve guessed it – everything costs 100 yen! It’s a golden opportunity to dive in into the wackiest products you can think of, as well as cute souvenirs or interesting items for a bargain.

Amongst the absolutely random items I’ve bought there is a couple of miso soup bowls, kitchen glass paper, cable holders, insoles for my sports shoes, and chopsticks with intricate designs.

33 Think twice before going to an animal café.

Full disclosure here: I have been to animal cafés. These are very tempting in Japan as you can find cafés with many different animals – owls, porcupines, bunnies and even otters and what can I say, I have a sweet spot for cats. But I don’t recommend it.

Not only it was a deflating experience but also most of these places are authentic petting zoos where the animals are constantly being picked up for selfies, pets, and even drugged to behave. Do your research beforehand. If the animals are not up for adoption it’s usually a red flag.

34 Going to the toilet is a life-changing experience.

Germophobics will like this one. Public toilets can be a nightmare for some in the West… but not here! Japanese people take cleanliness very seriously anywhere so toilets are as germ-free and comfortable as you never seen before.

Oh and expect technology too. Even in the tiniest restaurants of the more remote places, expect a keypad with different functions. From seat heating to extra sounds for privacy (usually ambiance music or waterfalls).

• おしり (oshiri) – releases a spray of water
• ビデ (bidet) – same as oshiri , but for women
• 乾燥 (kansou) – releases a burst of air
• 小 – tiny flush
• 大 – big flush

Note: in some (rare) bathrooms the toilet paper has to be purchased from a vending machine before you go in.

Which other Japan travel tips do you think are important and that a traveler should know? Let me know in the comments 👇

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Temples, Tipping, and Train Rides: A Guide to Japan for First-Timers

Planning a trip to japan can be intimidating for the first-time visitor, so we’ve turned to a team of travel experts to learn the secrets to a successful vacation..

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Expert tips can get you on the right path to a perfect vacation in Japan.

Photo by Sergii Rudiuk/Shutterstock

Japan’s culture—complex enough to encompass samurai warriors and Hello Kitty—is one that begs exploration, ranking it high on the must-see lists of many travelers. But because of the language barrier, its unfamiliar rules of etiquette, and the off-putting expense of travel to Asia, visiting Japan can be intimidating.

We reached out to people we trust—travel advisors, hotel concierges and general managers, and writers and editors—for their best travel tips for first-time visitors to Japan.

Plan your trip for spring or autumn

Spring and autumn are generally the best time to visit Japan. Summer in Japan is typically hot and humid, and winter can be gray, damp, and cold.

That said, a winter trip can mean attractive off-season airfares and hotel rates, so to take advantage of a more affordable Japan, pack accordingly with some extra layers for exploring. (You’ll also want to travel between December and March if your trip includes skiing the slopes of Hokkaido or Honshu.)

Our experts offered a couple of additional trip-scheduling tips:

• Avoid Golden Week , one of the most important public holidays in Japan, which spans late April into early May (the specific dates shift annually). Many Japanese take their spring vacations during Golden Week, so hotels often sell out.
• Don’t get fixated on cherry blossoms . While the blooming trees are justifiably legendary, you’ll be admiring them shoulder to shoulder with crowds. Expand your color palette: Almost every week of Japanese spring means a new and different floral celebration, from plum trees (which bloom as early as February, before the cherry trees) to wisteria (early May) and irises (June). And if fall’s your chosen season to visit, the vivid foliage in parts of Japan rival New England’s autumn colors.

Save money on flights by flying into an airport outside of Tokyo

The expense of airfare to Japan from North America is one of the most daunting parts of deciding on a trip. Tokyo is an important international business destination, so many visitors are paying for tickets with expense accounts, even the ones in economy class.

Leisure travelers can find cheaper fares by visiting during the off-peak winter months, as mentioned earlier, or by considering flying into airports other than Tokyo’s Narita International. If your trip includes plans to visit Osaka or Nagoya, check if there are better airfares into and out of those airports instead of Tokyo. (Alas, this trick is not guaranteed—sometimes Tokyo is the same price or means a direct flight.)

Use the trains to get around and consider a Japan Rail pass

Japan’s trains, a marvel of public transportation, were recommended by many of our experts as the best way to explore the country. Consider buying a Japan Rail Pass , which includes journeys on the Shinkansen (bullet trains) and, if you’re taking multiple trips, is a better value than buying individual tickets.

You can make train travel even easier, too: Judy Perl of Judy Perl Worldwide Travel recommends using luggage delivery services (called takkyubin in Japanese). For a reasonable price (less than US$25 to ship a suitcase from Tokyo to Kyoto), the service will pick up your luggage at one hotel and deliver it to the next, so you won’t have to lug your bags through train stations. Hotel concierges or front desks can assist with making these arrangements.

Once you have settled at your hotel, David Lee of luxury tour operator Into Japan recommends forgoing taxis and exploring on foot instead. Walking in Japan, Lee says, “is always safe and will get you away from the crowds very easily. . . . You are sure to find some hidden gems, such as little-known temples or restaurants run by the same family for hundreds of years.”

Tokyo is a little spread out for you to rely solely on walking, however. When it comes to getting around the big city, AFAR’s deputy editor Jenn Flowers, a frequent traveler to Japan, recommends buying a refillable Suica card. “You’ll avoid long queues at subway ticket machines,” she explains. “Pay the $5 deposit, and you can refill it as many times as you like. You can use it on buses, too.” Flowers picks up a Suica card at the airport or train station, but you can also order ahead and get it delivered by mail.

Carry cash and download Suica to pay for things

While much of the world—and especially much of Asia—has embraced credit cards and other digital transactions, Japan is the rare holdout. “Many shops, small businesses, and taxis don’t accept credit cards,” says Ross Cooper, the general manager of Andaz Tokyo Toranomon Hills . “Without cash, you won’t be able to enjoy the great little ramen shops where you buy your ticket from a machine and there isn’t even a cashier present!”

Also download and load-up a Suica card on your smartphone. This card, similar to Apple Pay, can be used to pay for everything from subways in Tokyo to midnight snacks at 7-11.

Stay connected

You might not consider renting a mobile Wi-Fi hot spot for most trips, but it can be an invaluable investment for a visit to Japan. You’ll rely on your digital device to translate street signs, decipher menus, and to consult Google Maps to figure out where, exactly, you have ended up. A mobile Wi-Fi hot spot lets you stay online all day, wherever you go, for around $10 per day.

A number of companies offer mobile hot spots for rent, but the easiest option is to add one to your Japan Rail Pass order. You can arrange either to pick it up at the airport or have it delivered to your hotel. Simply return it at the end of your trip by sealing it in the self-addressed, stamped envelope that’s provided with the device and then putting it in any mailbox.

Book a night at a traditional ryokan

Familiar upscale Western hotel brands have outposts in Japan’s major cities, and you can book a room at a Four Seasons in Tokyo or a Ritz-Carlton in Osaka —where your stay will probably be flawless.

Consider, however, spending at least one night at a traditional ryokan. At these inns, guests stay in rooms with tatami mats and futons and have a chance to enjoy a Japanese bath and to relax in an atmosphere of quiet serenity unfamiliar to modern citizens. Even though ryokans can be more expensive than other hotels, breakfast and dinner are usually included in the rates. These multicourse meals will likely be among the highlights of your trip.

Not only is tipping uncommon in Japan, but in many cases, tips will be outright rejected: A waiter may rush after you to return the change left on the table. You are truly not expected to leave a gratuity.

There are two exceptions to that general rule, however: Guides are accustomed to receiving small tips, so you may want to offer one at the end of a tour (though it is still not required). Second, if you are making an unusual or especially complicated request of the staff at a ryokan or a concierge at a hotel, you may want to leave a gratuity.

Observe simple etiquette

Use your indoor voice everywhere. You won’t be in Japan too long before the relative quiet reminds you how truly loud Americans can be. The Japanese tend to keep their voices low on trains and in other public places, and chatting away on a cell phone while walking down the street is not as common as it is in the United States.

Bow or nod your head instead of shaking hands as a greeting . Also leave that hilarious T-shirt or revealing sundress at home because you’re probably going to tour some of Japan’s shrines and temples. While few have specific dress codes, modest attire conveys an appropriate respect for those who are there to worship, not sightsee.

Meet the locals

Visitors can dip a toe into Japanese culture by sitting in the audience of a Kabuki performance or by admiring objects in a museum, but those activities can limit the depth of your understanding.

For Scott Gilman of JapanQuest Journeys , the best part of visiting the country is getting to know the people who live there. “Make sure that you go out of your way to interact with Japanese people from all walks of life to soak up this amazingly kind, interesting, and eclectic culture,” he says.

Outside of Tokyo, schoolkids may approach you in the hope of practicing a few English phrases, and everywhere you go, locals will do their best to get around language barriers to help you find your way and to share the best of their city or neighborhood with you.

Travel deeper

A final tip for visitors to Japan is a universal truth of travel, and one that is important to remember in a destination where many visitors hesitate to venture beyond the major tourist sites. “Be adventurous and don’t be afraid to explore local areas and get off the beaten paths in Japan,” says Charles Jack, the general manager of the Westin Tokyo . “Ask a local, or your hotel concierge, for their favorite areas to hang out and you will be pleasantly surprised with your discoveries.”

TRAVEL to JAPAN – Tips and Information Guide (2024)

Everything you need to know about travel to Japan in our brand new Japan travel guide.

Japan is an island nation with a tremendous amount of history and culture intertwined with is present fast-paced reputation. 

From the epic wilderness of Hokkaido down to the tropical beaches of Okinawa, travelling to Japan is an experience like no other.

Whether you’re into food, culture, history or the outdoors Japan has it all. Travel to Japan is on the rise and it’s easy to see why.

Of Japan’s four main islands Honshu gets the vast majority of visitors. Travellers are in constant awe of the spectrum of Kyoto’s temples, taken captive with Nara’s deer and consumed by eating everything in sight in Tokyo.

However, the islands of Hokkaido, Kyushu and Shikoku are also home to some of the country’s most stunning scenery and are definitely worth a visit. 

Whatever you want, you can find it in Japan. Let us help you plan your journey to one of the most awe-inspiring destinations on the planet!

The Perfect 3 Days in Tokyo Itinerary

The best day trips from every city in japan [2024], 18 amazing things to do in kyoto at night (2024 guide), travelling in japan: at a glance.

Here are the basics about travel to Japan.

OTHER MAIN CITIES:

Osaka ,  Kyoto , Nagasaki,  Fukuoka ,  Sapporo  and  Nagoya  

Yen (See  current exchange rates ) (1$USD is approximately 108 yen) 1 beer is approximately 500 yen (USD$5)

ENTRY / VISA:

Visa requirements for Japan are very straightforward. Most travellers are visa-free and can stay for 15, 30 or 90 days depending on their nationality. For information about which countries are granted visa-free access click  here.

Japanese is the official language in Japan. And while most of the world speaks a fair amount of English, do not expect Japanese people to speak it. However, in some hostels and hotels, English is spoken. Before travelling to Japan be sure to learn a few key phrases to help you enjoy your travels more and, of course, to show respect for the Japanse way of life. Many signs are in both Japanese and English and announcements at subway and train stations are often in both languages.

Japan is one of the safest countries in the world for both men and women. Petty theft and violent crime are extremely rare. Stories of people leaving wallets, passports and bags on trains and being reunited with them are the norm. However, you should still be sensible and follow the usual travel precautions.

ELECTRICITY:

100 volts / Type A and B electric sockets (Be sure to get your universal travel adapter  before you leave)

TRANSPORTATION:

By far the most common way to get between cities in Japan is by using the JR Pass. Within the larger cities, you can very often make your way around using public transportation.  Traditional taxis are also available in most cities and suburban regions. And rideshares such as Uber are on the rise as well – though don’t count on one of these outside of the main Japanese metropolises.

Don’t Forget to Pack the Most Important Thing: Travel Insurance !

TOP 5 TRAVEL EXPERIENCES IN Japan

With so much to see and do in Vietnam, it really is hard to pick the top experiences.

However, we think that to truly appreciate Vietnam you need to plan to do these 5 activities during your visit.

Gorge yourself on sushi.

Japan is known for sushi. You can find it everywhere. For added enjoyment, try your hand at making it!

Book a  sushi cooking class here .

Visit ancient temples in Kyoto

Kyoto is the magical, ancient city of Japan known for being the spiritual centre of the country. Immerse yourself in the beauty and stillness of its many temples.

Check out our  3 days in Kyoto itinerary  here.

Spend the night in a Ryokan

Staying in a ryokan is the most authentic way to experience Japan. Splurge on the experience and find yourself turning Japanese after a refreshing stay!

You can stay in a  great ryokan in Murakami .

Climb/View Mt. Fuji

One of the most picturesque volcanic mountains in the world is accessible to climb, or simply view, throughout much of the year.

This is the best  Mt. Fuji day trip you can find anywhere

Get lost in a giant bamboo forest

Bamboo that stretches to the sky can be found in Kyoto. Be mesmerized by the sound of the swaying forest.

Other Things to do in Japan

Party with robots in Tokyo:  The  90-minute show  is one of the most unique and bizarre must-do activities in Tokyo. It may take you a few minutes to figure out  what you’re watching  (don’t miss that video of it). But you’ll definitely be glad you went!

Watch a sumo wrestling match . Sure, sushi can be found on every street corner. But eating it at every meal won’t give you a chance against world-famous sumo wrestlers. Catch a match and be a part of a long and sacred activity.

Cross the world’s busiest pedestrian intersection . Shibuya Crossing in Tokyo will blow your mind with the number of people moving at any given time when the traffic stops to let pedestrians cross. Head to the QFRONT building to watch 2,500 people cross the streets below.

Hang out with deer in Nara . The normally shy creatures are anything but shy as they  can be found in abundance in Nara Park . Whether you want to interact with them, or simply view them in nature, the experience is worthwhile!

Spend the night in a capsule hotel . Japan is known for tiny packaging. A Capsule hotel is just as it sounds: a tiny box-like structure intended for one person to spend the night. Warning, this is not for the claustrophobic!

Relax in an onsen . Onsens are hot springs that can be found in natural and man-made settings. You haven’t relaxed until you’ve spent a few hours in an Onsen. Just know sometimes the dress code is your birthday suit! Check out  this one in Hokkaido . Just be careful if you have tattoos, because many onsens don’t allow them.

Go diving in Okinawa . While the northern Japanese islands have a tendency to be cold,  Okinawa  is located in a more tropical climate and lends itself to spectacular diving. You’ll love the underwater world of these islands!

Go Kart dressed as your favourite cartoon character . If you’ve ever played Mario Kart and wondered where in the world you could go and  ride around a go-kart  dressed up like Mario, Yoshi, Princess Peach or your other favourite characters, this is it.

Watch the cherry trees blossom . Japan has cornered the market in cherry tree blossoms. This is so much so that every year thousands of people participate in cherry blossom festivals as the trees unload their dazzling colour across the country. If you visit Japan in spring be sure not to miss out! This  particular tour is incredible as a day trip from Tokyo .

Hike with monkeys . If you enjoy hiking AND monkeys then the 30-minute hike outside of Kyoto is for you! But if you just prefer to hike and don’t want anything to do with monkeys, there are plenty of other great trails to hike in Japan!

BE SURE TO CHECK OUT THESE  OTHER AMAZING THINGS TO DO IN   JAPAN

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There are plenty of amazing places to visit in Japan. Depending on your interests, trip duration and time of year you will find plenty of things to do during any length of stay. 

There’s a reason Tokyo is considered one of the most incredible, vibrant, unique and fascinating cities on the planet! Where ancient meets modern, history rubs shoulder with the future and the world’s best cuisine is out in full force.

Japan’s capital and a city full of awesome things to do !

A city where ultra-modern meets ancient and you can  do just about anything  you can imagine.

A magical place to  explore Japan’s rich culture and history .

Get away from the cities and explore the gorgeous island of Hokkaido !

For more information on specific things to do in the top places to visit in Japan, reference our following city travel guides: 

• 3 Day Tokyo Itinerary
• Day Trips from Tokyo
• 3 Day Kyoto Itinerary
• Day Trips From Kyoto
• 3 Day Osaka Itinerary
• Day Trips From Osaka
• 3 Day Yokohama Itinerary
• Day Trips from Yokohama
• Hokkaido itinerary
• Hokkaido activities

BE SURE TO CHECK OUT THESE OTHER AWESOME PLACES TO VISIT IN JAPAN . 

BEST JAPAN TRAVEL ITINERARY

Depending on whether you are starting from scratch or have a general idea of what kind of things you would like to see and do, we’ve put together a few itineraries that are sure to leave you wanting for nothing at the end of your visit. 

There are so many amazing things to do in Japan that planning an itinerary for your travel can be a little overwhelming. 

In this section, we’ll not only help you plan a 1-, 2-, or 3-week Japan itinerary but also give you an overview of many of the places you might want to consider visiting and things you may want to do. 

Of course, no one-size-fits-all plan will suffice. But if we were to head back to Japan these are the top places and things that we would want to do! 

KEEP AN EYE OUT FOR  AWESOME DAY TRIPS  FROM EVERY MAJOR JAPANESE CITY

3-Week Japan Travel Itinerary Highlights

Even with a country that seems as small as Japan, three weeks is hardly enough time to get started in seeing it all! 

However, with three weeks you can have a really nice time both spending more time in places many people only glance by as well as visiting some places that most people don’t see when they visit Japan.

Here’s an overview of how we’d spend 3 weeks in Japan. 

2-Week Japan Travel Itinerary Highlights

With two weeks to travel to Japan, you are going to have to cut out some of the nicer places you could see with an extra week or two. 

But the good news is you are still going to see and do a lot while you are here! 

This is an idea of how we’d spend 2 weeks in Japan. 

1-Week Japan Travel Itinerary Highlights

If you only have 1 week to visit Japan, don’t worry it is definitely worth your time. Of course, you’re going to have to pick and choose where you go and what you do much differently than if you had more time. 

And you likely won’t want to spend all of your time travelling from one island to the next. 

So if we had just 1 week in Japan, this is how we’d spend it. 

JAPAN TRAVEL PLANNING

You’re well on your way to becoming an expert when it comes to travel to Japan! Now we’ll fill you in on the rest.

Best Time to Visit Japan

There really is no best or worst time to visit Japan. The timing of your trip all depends on what you want to see and do and how willing you are to share your Japan travel experience with other travellers. 

Across the country  sakura  (cherry blossom) season in Spring is one of the most popular times to visit. But it happens at different times across the country due to the differences in climate from north to south along the island chain.

Another less popular, but no less stunning, time to visit is  Autumn  as the leaves begin to change colour.

Whilst this doesn’t quite bring in the crowds like  sakura  season does, the sheer array of colours on display is absolutely stunning, particularly on Japan’s most northerly island, Hokkaido. 

Summer  brings sweltering temperatures and typhoons in the south. However, Japan is extremely well prepared for such events. As such is still possible to travel to Japan during this of year. 

Winter  brings some of the world’s best skiing on Hokkaido as snow makes some roads and hiking trails impassable. However, this is also the best time to see the famous ice flows close to the Shiretoko National Park.

And, of course, it’s a great time to shred some powder if you’re looking for some world-class slopes! 

Japan Travel Budget Guideline

Japan has an unfair reputation for being incredibly expensive. And whilst you could easily empty your bank account in a short time, it is possible to travel in Japan for less money than you think.

Budgeting Tips

To make your money go further here are a few tips: 

1. Purchase the rail pass you need. There are a huge number of different types of rail passes available in Japan. This is your one-stop-shop for a variety of rail passes. 

2. Take advantage of low-cost internal flights. You can fly affordably between most major cities.  

3. Utilise convenience stores for finding cheap and delicious eats. 

4. Japan has an extensive and reliable night bus service. Use it to save on travel and hotel fees. 

5. Limit your alcohol intake, it’s surprisingly expensive. 1 beer = 500-600 yen (USD$5-$6).

6. Check the subway passes available in the city in which you’re staying and purchase the rail pass you need.

CHECK OUT OUR  JAPAN BUDGETING GUIDE  TO HELP MAKE YOUR MONEY GO FURTHER.

But there are a few things you should know about the different budgets at which you can choose to travel.

Note: Budgets shown as Single Traveller / Couples per day. 

Budget Traveller ($50-60 Single / $80-110 Couples)

Hostels are the best options for single budget travellers. However, if travelling as a couple it’s often cheaper to get a private room. 

There are plenty of awesome free things to do all over Japan. You will need to think outside the box and do your research but it is very possible to travel in Japan on a budget like this.

Your meals will likely come from low-cost restaurants and corner stores. And you’re likely going to spend a fair amount of time walking and taking public transportation. 

Mid-Range Traveller ($60-100 Single / $120-180 Couple)

Whilst you may not get much of an upgrade on the accommodation front, travelling in this budget range will put you in the position to possibly rent a car to explore parts of Japan that are more difficult to reach. 

In addition, you may be able to spend more time eating in some funky izakayas and sushi restaurants and participate in a few formal tours. 

Luxury Traveller ($250+ Single / $400+ Couple)

Luxury hotels and fancy restaurants are the order of the day here. If money is no object then travelling in Japan can extremely luxurious! 

For instance, you can stay in beautiful ryokans instead of hostels or hotels. And you can order a variety of different meals to enjoy while dining at some of the finer restaurants. 

Of course, you’ll also be able to do more by way of renting a car and/or joining up on a variety of different tour groups to keep your itinerary completely packed. 

Getting To and Around Japan

Japan is an island nation, thus travelling to Japan is limited to only air or water transportation.

The majority of International Flights will take you to Tokyo’s Narita or Haneda Airport’s or Osaka International Airport. From there you will connect, as necessary, to other Japanese destinations.

Entry Requirements

Visa requirements for Japan are very straightforward.

Most travellers are visa-free and can stay for 15, 30 or 90 days depending on their nationality. For information about which countries are granted visa-free access click  here.

Getting Around Japan

Travelling in Japan is both easy and convenient. 

The public transport network is wide-ranging and extremely reliable. And compared to many places in the world, it can also be quite affordable. 

Additionally, hiring a car is both easy and safe. 

Travelling by Air

Japan has an excellent domestic air travel network. There are two passes run by  JAL  and  ANA  that will allow you to take domestic flights for around $100.

The price can sometimes vary depending on where your origin and destinations. 

If you plan this effectively with other transport options available it has the potential to make your visit to Japan even more convenient and affordable.  

Travelling by Car

Although the country is fairly well connected with both public and private transportation options, hiring a car is an excellent option for travelling in Japan.

The best part is that it is not as difficult as you may imagine. 

Driving in Japan is safe and easy. For Hokkaido, Kyushu and Shikoku, a car is the best way to see most of each island’s most beautiful sights outside of the city centres. 

Travelling by Bus

There are a number of bus companies operating in Japan. The biggest of these is  Willer Bus Service.  

Not only are fares convenient and affordable, but they can also help you consolidate expenses if you travel at night. 

Combining overnight bus travel with a JR pass can save you a fortune as the difference in price between regional, 1 week national and 2-week national passes are huge. 

Travelling by Boat/Ferry

Often the only way to access some of Japans smaller islands, particularly in the Seto Inland Sea, is by boat or ferry. Japan boasts an excellent maritime transport network. 

Generally, ferries are affordable and in some cases, they are covered by a JR pass (the ferry to Miyajima being the most well-known example).

Naturally, the costs increase if you ferry a car or if you are taking a long-distance ferry.

Travelling by Train

Japan’s train network is simply incredible as it can take you from the north of Hokkaido to the south of Kyushu. 

But it can also be confusing as, like with a lot of things in Japan, there is a myriad of different options available to you. 

PURCHASE YOUR JR PASS TODAY

How to Maximise a JR Pass

Because your travel to Japan will very likely involve transportation on a JR line at some point, we’ve put together a few tips to help you plan your JR Pass use accordingly. 

• Download  Hyperdia  – This amazing app allows to research train times and more importantly prices. Currently, it is free to use for 3 months (after that you will need to pay). You can work out which JR pass is the best financial option. Do note that the seat fare (sometimes two-thirds of the cost) is not optional, you will need to pay it.
• You don’t need a rail pass for your entire time. Some people may be visiting Japan for 2 weeks and will buy a 2 week nationwide JR pass. You are likely not going to be using the train every day and it’s likely you will pay more than you need to. 
• Activate your JR pass at the right time. To activate you pass you will need to go to the station and inform them of when you want to activate it. Make sure you activate it when you really need it so you can get the most out of it.
• Check out the regional passes. There are numerous regional passes available that are much cheaper, but they cover a smaller area and don’t last as long. However, they can be a fantastic option. Combining such passes with night bus services can save you plenty of money. 

Apps and Technology

Japan is definitely well connected when it comes to technology.

When you visit Japan you are likely going to want to remain connected to the outside world as well as take advantage of mobile apps that make travelling through Japan a little easier. 

Here are a few we think you should definitely acquaint yourself with prior to your travels:

• Hyperdia  – Hyperdia is the premiere app for helping you to understand the transportation system in Japan. Find the right rail line, station and even schedules to help navigate what could otherwise be a complicated transportation system. 
• XE Currency  – Transfer, monitor and calculate currency as the need arises. This app may not be totally necessary as you are typically tied into rates the banks charge for services. But it is handy to have around. 
• Express VPN – This will protect your sensitive information wherever you travel – not just in Japan. Be sure to have this to keep your online information secure as you travel. 
• GuruNavi  – This app will help you to find food options in whatever prefecture you happen to be at the moment. You can search through different types of cuisine as well as to filter your selections for things like English-speaking staff and WiFi availability. 
• Google Translate – Even if you don’t know more than a handful of Japanese words, iTranslate will help you communicate as you travel in Japan. 

Best Things to Eat in Japan

Japanese cuisine is justifiably one of the worlds popular. It focuses heavily on high-quality ingredients and as a result portion sizes are smaller than you may expect.

Although fried dishes are common in Japanese cuisine, Japan has the lowest rate of childhood and adult obesity amongst the OECD nations.

This is down to a mixture of smaller portions and a culture that promotes restraint and health.

Yakiniku:  Japanese BBQ. These restaurants can be found all over Japan, and it is very rare that they are anything other than delicious. Many offer time based all you can eat/drink deals. Look out for the characters 放题 as they usually don’t advertise this in any language other than Japanese. 

Katsu Curry:  Fried chicken or pork cutlets smothered in Japanese curry. Heaven on a plate. 

Kushikatsu:  All manner of meat and veg skewered and deep-fried. 

Sushi and Sashimi:  This can go from cheap to eye-watering expensive. Conveyor belt sushi restaurants offer the cheapest prices. Be brave and try delicacies like sea urchin, horse or chicken sashimi.

Sukiyaki:  Meat and vegetables cooked in a hot pot with a small amount of water and soy sauce. 

Ramen:  The nations most popular noodle dish, often an excellent budget option. 

Gyoza:  Pan-fried dumplings, often filled with pork. 

There is certainly much more available than this, but hopefully this gives you a quick overview. 

Convenience   Stores:  For budget eating options convenience stores like lawsons, family mart and 7-11 are often an excellent option for a cheap and hearty meal! 

Izakaya : No mention of eating in Japan would be complete without mentioning Japan’s most famous eating places; the Izakaya (居酒屋).

An izakaya is a Japanese pub that is generally a place where friends, colleagues and family members will go to eat, drink and chat. 

The huge menus consist of small plates that are shared amongst the group. Expect to find sashimi, yakitori, cold dishes, salads, fried dishes and desserts.

ACCOMMODATION IN JAPAN

Japan has a huge range of accommodation options. The most obvious difference is whether it’s a Japanese or western style room.

In Japanese style rooms, you will be sleeping on tatami mats on the floor, which are actually incredibly comfortable.

This option is far more common outside of popular tourist destinations. Western-style rooms have regular beds. 

Many single rooms in hostels, guesthouses or hotels will have bunk beds to fit more people. This will usually be stated when booking.

It is not always the most romantic option but it does help you get more bang for your buck. 

Types of Accommodations

Whilst hostels exist in Japan, they are not as cheap South East Asia. There is a reasonably good hostel network throughout Japan. But hostels are not as common or widespread as in other popular travel destinations.

If travelling in Japan as a couple or pair, a hotel room is often cheaper than 2 beds in a dorm. It’s always worth comparing, hostels are not always the cheapest option when there’s more than one of you. 

Western-Style Hotels

These will be the traditional hotels that you would find in most places in the world.

They include major Japanese and international brands and are more common in larger cities.

You can expect amenities and comfort similar to those you’d find in other destinations. 

Capsule Hotels

A unique way to spend a night or two in Japan is in a capsule hotel. As the name suggests, these are small enclosed spaces usually only large enough for a bed.

Sometimes you will have a television and a small storage space. But more often you can expect to have to stash your gear in a locker. You’ll also, obviously, be using shared restrooms. 

Traditional Japanese Ryokans offer luxurious stays in often gorgeous accommodation and locations. However, they can sometimes be very expensive.

It’s not uncommon for Ryokans to have an onsen. But if you want an authentic Japanese overnight experience you won’t find anything that surpasses a stay in a Ryokan.

Another good option in recent years is AirBnB, and there are more and more amazing places popping up to stay for very affordable prices every day.

As is typical in many destinations where Airbnb accommodations are popping up, you’ll likely find great value and a little more personal space with an Airbnb stay. 

Onsen Hotels

Last, but by no means least; Onsen Hotels. In short, these are hotels that have an onsen attached.

They cover a wide variety of budgets but often they are not the cheapest options available.

However, the luxury of being able to have an onsen whenever you want is well worth it. 

Just note that with onsens there are some basic rules to follow. These will often clearly displayed, but here they are:

• You must be completely naked – no bathing suits. Leave awkward at the door, with your clothes. 
• Do not put your towel into the onsen water. Most people wrap it around their head.
• Shower before you enter the onsen, taking care to splash others with your shower water.

Or, if you’d like to check out a few options on your own here are a few resources to get you started!

JAPAN TRAVEL TIPS

Travelling in Japan can definitely be rewarding. But it can also be a bit of a headache – especially if your knowledge of the Japanese language and culture is limited. 

Further, not being prepared for adventure can hamper your optimism as well.

Imagine you’re all set for your day of walking around majestic Kyoto and you failed to pack an umbrella or raincoat. 

Of course, you have your own reasons for travelling to Japan. So likely you know whether you plan to dive in Okinawa or climb Mt. Fuji. 

But for everything else in your journey, let us remind you of a few travel tips for Japan to make your adventure safer, more enjoyable and more affordable. 

General Japan Travel Tips 

While there are  many basic travel tips  we suggest you use when travelling to Japan, there are also plenty of Japanese-specific tips that will make your visit the best it can be. 

Here are a few we recommend you consider as you plan your trip to visit Japan: 

1. Research Cultural Norms and Behaviour

Japan is a country with a very strong national identity and behaviour. Breaking these behavioural norms is most definitely frowned upon. 

Here are a few basic Japanese cultural expectations:

• Do not talk loudly or answer your phone on the subway, bus or train. 
• Do not eat on the above. 
• Walking and eating are sometimes frowned upon. 
• Stand on the left-hand side of an escalator. 
• Follow the rules in an onsen.
• Do not litter – Japan is immaculately clean. 

If you’re not sure if something is ok, just ask.

Many Japanese people know that foreigners are unlikely to be aware of Japanese norms and expectations and will be happy to help you. 

2. Eat, Eat, Eat.

Japanese food tastes so much better in Japan. Take the opportunity to try things that you are very unlikely to find in your home country. 

3. International Drivers Permit

If you plan on renting a car in Japan you MUST have this document.

Without it not only will you be unable to rent a car, but you also will not be given a refund if you have already paid. 

4. Take your own chopsticks

Single-use chopsticks are the norm in Japan. Take your own and do a little bit for the planet. 

5. Do your research

A bit of planning and research does make a real difference, especially for utilising public transport. Getting a handle on this will leave you in the best place to get the most out of your trip. 

6. Show respect and places of worship:

All temples and shrines will have rules and guidelines clearly displayed in English or with pictures, yet some people are still not able to understand them. Don’t be one of those travellers that give everyone else a bad name. 

7. Remove your shoes

This is common everywhere in Japan. In some cases, you may need to remove them before entering the lobby of a hotel.

However, it is more common that you are expected to leave your shoes in the coves next to the door of your hotel room. This is especially common in more traditional Japanese hotels. 

8. Embrace Japanese toilets

The gadgets available in Japanese bathrooms are the stuff of legend. Soft music can be played so no-one can hear you doing your business, seats can be warmed on cold winter mornings and the variety of spray options will leave you feeling as clean as a whistle. 

Japan Packing List

We always travel with a  core packing list  wherever we go. And when it comes to Japan, many factors will affect what else you need to bring along with you. 

Check out our  travel essentials  and be sure to add any of the other additional items listed below. 

TRAVEL INSURANCE. SIMPLE & FLEXIBLE.

Which countries or regions are you traveling to, what’s your country of residence, enter traveler’s age, staying safe in japan.

Japan is a relatively safe country in which to travel.

Clearly you should always practice some basic safety guidelines no matter where in the world you travel. 

• Keep copies of your passport and financial documents in the event they are lost or stolen. 
• Don’t be flashy with expensive items or cash. You’re not very likely to be targeted as a tourist in Japan. But this would surely set you apart. 
• Avoid travelling alone at night. Call a taxi or Uber in advance and wait inside the venue until it arrives. 
• Be aware of your surroundings, particularly if you’ve had a night out drinking. 
• Keep your personal items close. Pickpocketing is about as bad as you can expect in Japan, so make sure your purse, wallet and phone, etc are secure particularly when travelling in crowded public transportation.

We won’t bore you with a more extensive list. Unless this is your first trip out of your home country you’ll be better off when you travel in Japan than many other places in the world. 

If this is your first trip, congratulations!

If you practice many of the same common-sense habits you would at home, then you’ll be quite safe and enjoy your time in Japan. 

Staying Connected in Japan

Japan is an ultra-modern country, particularly when it comes to technology. Thus staying connected when you travel to Japan will be no issue. 

Of course, like any place in the world, the further you go away from metropolitan areas the more you can expect slow to no-service in areas. 

For phone and data service, first check with your local cellular carrier to determine if your current plan will cover you when you travel to Japan.

In many cases, carriers have expanded their international coverage to popular places such as Japan. 

If not, they will likely have a very expensive option for you to purchase on a daily/weekly basis.

We feel like your money will go a lot further if you consider a few other options. 

Purchase a SIM Card

First and foremost is to pick up a local SIM card upon arrival in Japan. You will need to make sure that your device is unlocked before you can switch SIM cards.

However, this will be a reasonably inexpensive and fairly common way to access Japanese cellular networks without paying outrageous international travelling fees through your home carrier. 

Rent a Portable WiFi Device

A second option would be to  rent a portable WiFi device  that will allow you a certain amount of data/service over a set period of time.

These are relatively affordable compared to most cellular plans’ international options.

You’ll typically have to pick these up from central locations such as the airport or train station. But it’s likely you’ll be passing through here anyway. 

Access Free WiFI

And finally, you could always just ensure that your device is on aeroplane mode and then hop from one WiFi hotspot to another.

Plenty of places in the towns and cities you will visit will offer WiFi.

From restaurants, hotels, railway and train stations and even some public spaces, you’ll find many venues that will cater to your need to stay connected. 

Be a Responsible Traveller in Japan

Being a responsible traveller in Japan is important on many levels.

First, you represent yourself wherever you travel.

Nobody likes a jerk – especially people minding their own business in their own country.

Taking the time to learn about Japanese customs and culture will help you understand how you can be more responsible when you travel to the country. 

Second, you represent your home country and other travellers. If you act or say things that reflect poorly on yourself while travelling in Japan then these actions also reflect poorly on other travellers.

While stereotypes suck – the truth is that most people form opinions based on first experiences. So let’s try to make your interactions with others positive while travelling in Japan.

Additionally, the resources of the world are limited.

Even though you might have certain customs or routines back in your home country does not mean you need to extend them when you travel to Japan.

For instance, carrying a reusable water bottle is loads more responsible as a traveller – although you may not think twice about using disposable bottles back home. 

Key Japanese Travel Phrases

You don’t have to be fluent in Japanese to have a great time when you travel to Japan. But it does help to know a few key phrases.

This will not only assist you in your travels but it will also show respect to the local Japanese people that you are doing your best to assimilate into their culture. 

Books To Read About Japan

Maybe you already know everything about Japan. Chances are you don’t!

But even if you are well-read, here are a few suggestions that might be worth your time while you’re on the plane to Japan. 

A Geek in Japan . A fascinating read that takes you into the heart of understanding Japanese culture. This is a top pick among most Japan travellers.

Memoirs of a Geisha . Perhaps the. most well-known book in recent times thanks to its popularity as a movie. The historical fiction follows the story of a young woman thrust into the life of a geisha.

Rice Noodle Fish . A creative way of exploring Japan from a culinary standpoint. Tantalizing pictures of delicious food accompanies the personal story and in-depth information about some of Japan’s best eats.

Hokkaido Highway Blues . Follow a hilarious and entertaining journey by the author to traverse Japan in stride with the cherry blossoms. Meet a cross-section of Japanese culture through the lens of the author.

BOOKING RESOURCES

I know, I know – we’ve already mentioned these resources a bunch in this travel guide.

But here’s the thing… we know you’re going to want and need these resources to help you save money and have a more enjoyable trip

Table of Contents

Read our vietnam posts, budget travel in japan – ultimate backpacking guide [2024], 25 awesome things to do in tokyo, japan, 7 best day trips from osaka, japan (2024 travel guide), 12 awesome things to do in hakone, japan (2024 guide).

Traveling Canucks

Canada Family Travel Blog

25 Japan travel tips for first time visitors

06/01/2023 By Traveling Canucks 1 Comment Categories: Japan Popular Tokyo Travel Stories Trip Ideas

Japan travel tips for first time visitors 

Japan can be a culture shock to the senses for first time visitors. There’s a lot of things to know before traveling to Japan, so today’s blog post shares a few useful Japan travel trips. 

Japan is easily one of our favourite travel destinations in the world. It’s unlike anywhere else. The people, the food, the culture, the quirkiness, the architecture, the history, the World Heritage Sites.

Simply put, Japan has everything you want in travel destination.

Japan travel tips for first timers

To give you a little context, the purpose for us traveling to Japan was to attend the Rugby World Cup . We spent a total of 15 days in Japan, visiting Tokyo, Kyoto, Kobe, and Shizuoka.

We visited Japan 10 years ago, before having kids, so this trip included a few new destinations and activities, like visiting Tokyo Disneyland . Read about our experience at Tokyo Disney Resort .

On our previous trip, we visited the aforementioned cities plus Osaka, Nara, Hiroshima, Yokohama and Narita, which is a lot of travel for two weeks. Too much, actually. This recent trip was much slower. We enjoy the slower pace and find it’s more suitable for family travel.

More posts from our trips to Japan:

• Beginners Guide to Food in Japan for first time visitors
• 50 Photos of Kyoto that will inspire you to visit  
• 15 Things to do in Kobe, Japan
• How to spend 3 days in Tokyo: Travel guide for first time visitors
• Staying at Tokyo Disney Resort – what you need to know
• 100 Photos of Tokyo Disneyland, Japan

This Japan travel blog shares what you need to know before your Japan vacation. We share practical travel tips for your first trip to Japan, including the dos and don’ts for tourists in Japan. 

1. Cash is still king in Japan

Surprisingly, cash is still the preferred method of payment in japan..

Most convenience stores, like Family Mart, 7 Eleven and Lawson, accept debit and credit cards. And most restaurants in touristy areas will also accept credit cards, but many restaurants, cafes and shops still only accept cash.

Before you sit down at a restaurant, it’s wise to ask if they accepts debit or credit cards. If the restaurant does accept plastic, use your cards and save your cash for later. You’ll be glad you did.

You will find ATM’s scattered throughout the cities. They are relatively easy to find. We typically got cash from the ATM’s at the 7 Eleven convenience stores and at the train stations. 

Most ATM machines will limit your withdrawal to 50,000 Yen, which is approx. $600 CAD or $460 USD. We took the max withdrawal each time to avoid unnecessary international bank charge. Bank fees range from $2 CAD to as high as $20 CAD per transaction, plus the ATM fee.

It’s wise to bring at least 50,000 Yen with you. Your bank may need to order Yen, as it’s not widely held at Canadian banks, so it’s best to do this a few weeks before your departure date.

Avoid converting your currency at the airport. The conversion rates are terrible.

2. Soy Sauce is not widely used 

Our first lost-in-translation moment in japan happened at a restaurant when we tried to order soy sauce..

Our boys love white rice. They also love to dump soy sauce all over their rice. We assumed soy sauce was widely used in Japan and that we’d find it at most restaurants.

This was an incorrect assumption. 

When we ordered soy sauce at a restaurant (to be clear, this was NOT a sushi restaurant), the server looked very confused. We did the typical hand gestures and talked slower, but she was not picking up what we were putting down.

I Googled soy sauce images on my phone and showed them to her. She smiled and nodded.

Yes, we did it! We navigated our first awkward language encounter.

Nope. Wrong again.

She brought us Worcestershire shire sauce instead. I assumed the black sauce was soy sauce, so I put it all over the rice. Both boys made funny faces and said the rice was bad. They were not impressed.

Confused, I tried the rice. This is when I realized the error. 

Have you ever tried rice with Worcestershire sauce all over it? It’s really, really bad. Don’t do it. 

That said, you will find soy sauce at sushi restaurants.

We eat sushi all the time in Vancouver . At least once per week, for years. We thought we knew the correct way to eat sushi, but we were wrong. How did we not know this before going going to Japan? 

Here’s an etiquette guide for how to eat sushi the correct way . 

Apparently, the golden rules are: (1) don’t stick your chopsticks upright in the rice; (2) don’t cut a piece of sushi in half with your chopsticks; and (3) don’t mix wasabi in your soy sauce.

There are a lot of things to know about Japanese culture. Most people will forgive foreigners for not knowing proper Japanese customs and etiquette, so long as you’re respectful, quiet and polite.

Related reading – Quick guide to eating in Japan  

Above – Nigiri sushi at a conveyor best sushi restaurant in Tokyo.

3. Download the Google translate app 

The soy sauce fail mentioned above could have easily been avoided.

The answer = Google Translate. 

We can usually navigate language barriers by learning a few basic words. But here’s the challenge with Japan – we can’t read the characters. We can’t see patterns or memorize words because we only see shapes and lines. 

If you don’t already use Google translate when you travel, you should. 

When we tweeted about our lost in translation moment , a few people sent us messages saying, “Why aren’t you using Google Translate?” Great question! We felt a little dumb.

It’s free, it’s easy and it works like a charm. If you’re nervous about visiting Tokyo without knowing Japanese, Google Translate will act as your Japan tourist guide.

Download the app from Google Play or Apple Store .

4. Save time – get a Suica Card 

The Suica Card is a prepaid smart card that allows you to use most public transport (metro, trains, buses, monorail). Initially, these convenient transit cards could only be used in Tokyo; however, Suica cards are now usable at most train stations in Japan. Using a Suica Card is the best way to travel in Tokyo.

Here’s a map of where you can use Suica Cards .

You can purchase Suica Cards at most train stations using the electronic vending machines pictured above. Suica Cards allow you to avoid purchasing tickets from machines before each ride.  

You can also order Suica Cards online and have them mailed to your house prior to your trip. That’s what we did. We were unsure about the process to purchase Suica cards at train stations, so we decided to get them ahead of time, to avoid confusion.

In hindsight, this was unnecessary. It’s just as easy to buy Suica cards when you get to Japan.

How to use Suica Card in Japan

Once you purchase your Suica Card, and add money to the card, head to the turnstiles that say IC Card or Suica Card. You simply tap the Suica Card at the turnstile and pass through the gate once it opens – see photo below.

When you arrive at your destination, you tap the card again to exit the station. Suica automatically calculates and deducts the fare owed for the trip. 

Things to know about Suica Card

• Prices include a deposit of 500 yen. The difference between the adult’s card and child’s card is the amount deducted when using transportation.
• Suica Cards can be loaded up to a maximum of 20,000 yen at Automatic Ticket Vending Machines and Fare Adjustment Machines displaying the Suica mark.
• Only yen may be used to load a card. A credit card cannot be used to load a Suica.
• Suica card does not work on express trains, shinkansen, long distance buses (highway buses) or airport shuttles.
• You can use your Suica to make purchases onboard trains as well as from vending machines, to rent coin lockers and for spending at convenience stores and restaurants.

Credit source – the above bullet points were copied directly from the JR East website .

Children under 5 years old travel for free when accompanied by an adult. 

This is not widely advertised to foreigners. We purchased 4 x Suica Cards and used them for a few days before it was time to reload (we spent 2,000 yen per card – which is about $25 CAD). A friendly ticket agent at the train station informed us that Connor, who was 5 years old at the time, was able to ride for free.

Children 6 to 11 years old pay 50% of the adult fare. 

Related –  Our experience at 2019 Rugby World Cup in Japan

5. You don’t have to get a JR Pass

Almost every japan travel tips post we’ve read states you should get a japan rail pass..

We’re not convinced the JR Pass is an essential purchase for first time visitors. While the JR Rail Pass (Japan Rail Pass) does have many benefits, especially if you plan to cover a lot of ground in a short period of time, it might not actually be the right fit for your Japan trip.

If you plan to travel slow and spend time in big cities, like Kyoto, Osaka, Kobe and Tokyo, it might make more sense to skip the JR Pass and opt for one way train tickets. 

For shorter distances, like Kyoto to Osaka, you don’t actually need to take the Shinkansen train . Instead, you can take local trains, which are cheaper and not that much longer. 

Research Shinkansen ticket prices here .

We mapped out our Japan itinerary and priced out each segment. Trains are the best way to get around Japan, so we did the math and realized it was cheaper for us to purchase one way tickets.

Our Japan trip was 15 days, so we would need to purchase the 14 day JR Rail Pass. The price for the 14 day JR Pass is $576 per adult and $288 per child, as of October 2019. By purchasing individual segments, we saved about $100 per adult and $50 per child.

Not huge savings, but enough to make us skip the JR Pass.

Most of our time was spent visiting Tokyo, Kyoto and Kobe, so we used our Suica Card to ride subways and local trains (most subways are not covered by the JR Pass). 

If you’re only spending one week in Japan, the JR Pass might make sense for your Japan vacation. 

Research the JR Pass here and use the Japan Rail itinerary planner. 

Shinkansen seat reservations

To make Shinkansen seat reservations, which is recommended during busy travel times, you must see a ticket agent at the train station. So, you’re not really saving time by having the JR Pass. 

Now, keep in mind, we were traveling with 2 young boys, so it’s important that our seats are side by side. If you’re traveling solo or you don’t mind sitting alone, you likely won’t need reservations and you can wing it. That was not an option for us. 

6. Taxis are expensive. Avoid if you can.

Taxis in Japan are expensive. We knew this before arriving, but it still surprised us when we took an airport taxi from Tokyo Haneda Airport to Sheraton Tokyo Bay Hotel at Tokyo Disneyland .

The distance from the airport to hotel is 25 km and it takes about 30 minutes.

After currency conversion from Japanese yen to Canadian dollar, the price was almost $100 CAD. That felt expensive to us. For perspective, a similar distance in Vancouver costs around $50-$60 CAD, depending on traffic. Vancouver is also an expensive city, so it’s a relative comparison.

Now, to give the taxi experience some credit, the cars are impeccably clean and comfortable. Taxi drivers are helpful and they even wear clean white gloves. So, while taxis are an expensive option, they do offer a comfortable and convenient white glove treatment – literally. 

Traveling to Tokyo? Read: How to spend 3 days in Tokyo

7. There is Uber in Japan – but it’s different

Yes, japan has uber, but it’s mostly limited to big cities, like tokyo and kyoto..

However, it’s not widely used by locals because the train system is so convenient. Most people use Uber for airport pickup and dropoff, rather than for intercity transportation. 

We took an Uber in Tokyo and Kyoto.

The Uber app syncs just like it does in North America, so you don’t need to worry about downloading a different app. This means you can input your destination in English, which avoids confusion and language barriers (many taxi drivers do not speak English).

Uber rides in Japan are basically like taxis. The cars actually look like taxis, too.

We like that fares are automatically paid for with the credit card on our account, so we don’t have to use cash or wait for change. Uber fares are generally cheaper than taxis and the app gives a maximum fare for the trip. We like this feature – it gives us peace of mind that we’re not being overcharged. 

A downside to Uber in Japan is that there aren’t as many drivers (when compared to North America), so you end up waiting longer than if you flagged a taxi. In Kyoto, it took 20 minutes for our driver to pick us up. To be fair, it was during rush hour and the traffic was bad, but we saw dozens of taxis pass us by while we were waiting.

If you don’t like Uber, or you’re having problems with the app, you can also use the JapanTaxi App . We’re told this platform is relatively new and it connects with multiple taxi companies. 

Related – Staying a Tokyo Disney Resort? Read our review .

8. Most restaurants have plastic food displays

You don’t have to worry about ordering food from restaurant menus that are in Japanese. Most restaurants in Japan have plastic replicas of their food on display, especially restaurants located near train stations, shopping areas and tourist zones. 

We love this! It takes away the confusion about what you’re ordering and removes language barriers. When in doubt, just point to the dish you want.

Most restaurant menus also have photos of the available dishes. 

Related – Beginner’s Guide to Eating Food in Japan

Do you have Japan travel tips? Leave us a comment below.

9. Don’t walk and eat in Japan

In Japan, it is considered rude to walk and eat at the same time. If you purchase food to go, the expectation is that you will NOT walk down the street while eating your food.

This applies to food purchased at convenient stores, like 7 Eleven and Family Mart, as well as food purchased from street vendors or yatai stalls . 

It is acceptable to eat at the place of purchase (see photo below) or just outside the store. There’s usually a designated area for eating. Benches or seats in parks or public spaces are generally okay to eat on, but avoid eating messy or strong smelling foods.

Eating on public transit is not allowed. Don’t be that tourist. 

Above – a yatai selling quick bites at the Nishiki Market in Kyoto.

10. Do NOT tip at restaurants

One of the most common questions for first time visitors is – do you tip in Japan?

Tipping is not expected in Japan. In some cases, it’s actually considered to be rude.

We made this mistake on our first trip to Tokyo. We left a generous tip and the server chased us down the street to give us back our change. He was not impressed, either.

This is one of the best Japan travel tips we can give – do NOT tip in Japan.

Related:  50 Photos of Kyoto that will inspire you to visit

11. Order your lunch from a vending machine

One of the things we love about Japan is that everything is efficient and convenient. A perfect example of this efficiency is the electronic vending machines located outside many restaurants.

The touch screen machines often have photos of each dish, which is convenient and avoids the potential language barrier that may arise if you had to order from a server who does not speak English.

The process is simple. You select the food you want from the touch screen machines, pay with cash or credit card, grab your receipt and head inside. Your food is then delivered to your table or your number is called and you pick it up from the counter. 

Once you’re finished eating, you leave. No need to wait for a server to bring your bill. 

12. Pack your trash. Garbage bins are hard to find.

This one still confuses me. .

How on earth does a country not supply garbage bins in public areas? And, even more baffling, how does Japan stay so clean and garbage free without offering garbage bins?

It makes no sense. Yet, it makes perfect sense. 

First of all, if you’re practicing travel tip #9, you shouldn’t be walking and eating, therefore you shouldn’t have garbage in public. If you do bring snacks and drinks with you, the expectation is that you will bring your garbage home with you. 

It’s a counter-intuitive approach to littering, but it appears to work very well in Japan.

Without question, Japan is the cleanest country we’ve visited.

13. No smoking in public areas

Not only is Japan the cleanest country we’ve visited, it’s also the most smoke free. Most city streets and public areas are designated as smoke free. Even sidewalks have no smoking signs on them (see photo above – these signs are found in most heavily trafficked areas).

Now, you may be asking, where do smokers smoke?

There are designated smoking areas scattered throughout the city (see photo below). These designated smoking areas are typically located on side streets and away from people. 

The best part about this system is that people actually follow the rules and only smoke in designated areas. Imagine that. 

14. Train and subway stations have storage lockers 

Most train and subway stations have storage lockers available for temporary use.

This comes in handy if you plan to do some sightseeing and you don’t want to drag your luggage around.

For example – you check out of your hotel at 11:00 AM but you still want to visit a few temples before you catch a train. Simply drop off your luggage at these storage lockers and your free to explore without your luggage. 

The above photo was taken at Tokyo Station . As you can see, there’s a variety of sizes to choose from. You pay for the locker using cash or credit card. Price depends on the size, but it’s generally around 500 yen.

15. Japanese toilets are fancy

You will always remember the first time you try a japanese toilet..

Japanese toilets are next level, when compared to toilets in North America. Public washrooms in Japan are also very clean and organized. 

Toilets in Japan typically look like the one pictured above. Toilet seats are often heated and they have a control system that allows you to spray water at varying speeds.

Some toilets even have sounds and music for privacy. I used one that makes a fake flushing sound, so it drowns out the sound of you doing your business.

BUT – Not all toilets are high tech

We feel it’s important to highlight the other types of toilets in Japan. Though not as common in Japan, you may come across a toilet that looks like the one pictured above. 

This hole-in-the-floor toilet is commonly found in Asia. If your trip to Japan is also the first time visiting Asia, the sight of this toilet will no doubt rattle you.

I remember my first encounter with this toilet in Thailand. It takes some getting used to.

16. Eat at convenience stores

We rarely pick up ready-to-eat food at convenience stores in Canada, unless we’re on a road trip or there aren’t other food options available. 

Ready-to-eat food at convenience stores is common in Japan.

Convenience stores actually have a good selection of prepared food, from sandwiches to bento boxes to baked goods. We often grabbed prepackaged sandwiches (picture above) and pastries for breakfast each morning. You can purchase beer and wine from these convenience stores. Eating at convenience stores is one of the easiest ways to travel cheap in Japan.

The main stores in Japan are 7 Eleven, Family Mart and Lawson. Most are open 24 hours.

 Related – Quick Guide to Japanese Cuisine for Tourists

17. Kimonos in Kyoto is a thing

When you visit Kyoto for this first time, you will see hundreds of people wearing kimonos as they wander the old streets of Gion and Higashiyama.

At first, we assumed it was common dress attire for residents. However, we later learned that most people were dressing up in kimonos to take photos at traditional Kyoto landmarks, like  Kiyomizu-dera , Hōkan-ji Temple  and  Yasaka Shrine .

Many of the people wearing kimonos are not residents of Kyoto. They are visitors from other Japanese cities or they’re foreign tourists. It’s popular to rent kimonos and hire a photographer for a few hours.

You will find several kimono rental stores in the old Higashiyama District of Kyoto. 

Look at the advertisement to the right. Then, look at the woman on the right. Coincidence? 

18. Toy stores have interesting figures on display

Alright, let me start by reminding you that we visited Japan with our two young boys.

Like most boys, they want toys. They both like Pokemon right now, so they were constantly on the lookout for Pokemon cards and toys.

As you’d expect, we came across a few toy stores on this trip to Japan. 

What we didn’t expect to find was half-naked stripper dolls on display right beside the Pokemon toys. Some of these figurines were quite provocative, too. 

Now, I don’t want to sound like a prude, but be aware of this should you decide to bring your kids to toy stores that sell animated figures. I wasn’t prepared for the questions that followed. 

Some of the figures and posters are quite suggestive – and disproportionate. 

19. Craft beer is available, but it’s not popular

You will find craft beer in Japan but it’s not as popular as North America or Europe. We don’t often associate Japan with craft beer, it’s an ongoing evolution ; however, the scene has experienced growth in recent years.

While exploring Kyoto’s Nishiki Market , we stumbled across Spring Valley Brewery . We ordered a flight of beer, pictured above, and it came with 8 varieties of beer in 4 oz glasses.

Most restaurants in Japan serve the big three – Asahi, Kirin and Sapporo.

We don’t normally drink lagers or pilsners, we prefer pale ales. However, we often found ourselves craving a frosty pint of Sapporo during our time in Japan. It reminded us of drinking Guinness in Ireland – it tastes so much better when consumed in its home country.  

Here’s a list of the best craft breweries in Japan.

Spring Valley Brewery in Kyoto.

20. McDonald’s menus are basically the same 

Sometimes, you just need an egg mcmuffin for breakfast. am i right .

Our boys love Chicken McNuggets and French fries from McDonald’s. After days of trying new food in Tokyo, unsuccessfully at times, they were excited to see the familiar Golden Arches. 

We like to visit McDonald’s when we travel overseas. Not because we enjoy the food, but because we like to see how McDonald’s has adapted its menu to appeal to local audiences.

The McDonald’s menu in Japan is basically the same as Canada.

You will find Big Macs, McChicken sandwiches, Egg McMuffins and Chicken McNuggets. However, it does offer some unique sandwiches and burgers. I tried the Teriyaki Burger and Shrimp Burger. They were okay. Not great. The main difference is the sauce.

Here’s a list of McDonald’s menu items found only in Japan . I only saw a handful of these menu items, so I’m not sure how accurate or up-to-date this list is. The menu is also regional and seasonal.

McDonald’s is a good place to get free WiFi in Japan. 

Share YOUR Japan travel tips in the comments below.

21. Choose your themed cafe wisely

Tokyo is known for it’s unusual and quirky themed cafes..

Most Japan travel tips blog posts will tell you to visit a themed cafe in Tokyo – and we agree. But here’s the thing – many of these cafes are tourist traps and they exploit the people and pets involved.

It’s important to do a little research and choose your cafe experience carefully. 

We decided to visit the Hedgehog Cafe in Harajuku , Tokyo.

Our oldest boy recently got a hamster, so he was excited to play with hedgehogs. We like that HARRY Hedgehog Cafe has separate resting areas, so they’re not being handled constantly. It can be stressful for the hedgehogs. This cafe sells the hedgehogs, so its goal is to also find a home for them.

HARRY hedgehog cafe is located 2 minutes from the Harajuku Station . It’s on the 4th floor.

Read more Japan blog posts here .

22. Stay at a traditional Japanese Ryokan 

Staying at a ryokan is a unique japanese experience that first time visitors should try – at least once..

A ryokan is a traditional Japanese inn that typically features tatami-matted rooms and communal baths. Basically, the hotel rooms do not have beds. Instead, each guest is provided a Japanese futon mattress and bedding.

Here’s a video about how to make a futon bed at a traditional Japanese Ryokan. 

Our boys had fun sleeping together on the tatami-matted floor. They said it felt like camping indoors. We’re used to sleeping on a mattress, so our backs were pretty sore and stiff in the morning. It’s a fun experience, but after a few nights sleeping on the floor, we were thankful for a bed.

Another unique feature of a Ryokan is the shared baths.

This traditional bath experience is quite different from Western culture. Spoiler alert – you will be naked with other guests. You do not share baths with the opposite gender (ie. men with men, women with women). 

Many Canadians will find this public nudity to be uncomfortable. What can I say, that’s just how some of us are hardwired. 

Communal baths will vary depending on the Ryokan, but typically you shower while sitting on a plastic stool. See photo below. After your shower you can soak in shallow hot tub. Some ryokans also have saunas. 

Above – shared bath and shower at a ryokan hotel in Japan.

23. Cover up. Tattoos are not well received.

If you stay at a ryokan, or visit an onsen (japanese hot spring), you will likely be told to cover your tattoos..

If you’re covered in tattoos, you might be denied access to the bath or onsen. In Japan, tattoos are not socially acceptable and they’re often associated with criminals and gang members. 

This happened to us in Kobe City. The hotel we stayed at has a nice spa and bath on its top floor. 

When we arrived, we were handed the letter you see pictured above. If you look at the 3rd item, in the middle of ‘forbidden actions’, you will read ‘Individuals with tattoos is not allowed into the Skyspa’. 

We both have a tattoo, so we asked the front desk if were allowed to use the Skyspa. They handed us a stack of bandages and said we had to cover our tattoos with the bandages. It seemed excessive, but we followed the rules and covered up. 

If you have tattoos, keep this in mind when making your travel plans.

24. You can communicate with English 

Contrary to what we read prior to visiting Japan, most train stations, hotels and shopping centers have English signs. We did not have trouble navigating Japan without speaking Japanese. 

Japan hosts many world events, including the 2019 Rugby World Cup and the upcoming 2020 Tokyo Olympics , so the country has adapted to the global language. 

The United Nations World Tourism Organization (UNWTO) estimates that over 28.7 million tourists visited Japan in 2017 ( source ). And that number is expected to rise by 6% each year. 

It’s recommended you learn a few basic Japanese words. Even if your pronunciation is off, people will appreciate you making an effort to learn the language.

When in doubt, revisit #3 on this list of Japan travel tips.

25. Japan is very safe

Yes, it is safe to travel to japan. .

Japan is a great family travel destination. It’s consistently ranked as one of the safest nations in the world. We found the people of Japan to be very friendly, respectful and accommodating.

We did not feel unsafe at any point during our trip.

How safe is it to travel in Japan?

Japan ranks in the top 10 in the Global Peace Index ( source ). Violent crime is rare. The general crime rate in Japan is ranked well below the national average of the United States. 

Of course, like anywhere in the world, you still need to use common sense. For example, don’t walk down dark alleys in the middle of the night, be careful when taking money out of ATMs and don’t engage in criminal activity.  

Before you travel to Japan, check travel advisories here . Japan is prone to typhoons, earthquakes, volcanic activity, landslides and tsunamis. 

More Japan travel tips you should know 

• Take off your shoes when entering a home, hotel room or onsen.
• Don’t point directly at people – it’s rude.
• Wait your turn. Japanese respect the queue. Don’t skip the line.
• Japanese people often wear paper face masks to keep them, and you, healthy.
• Don’t be loud in public areas. No talking on phones or playing music, shows or games without using headphones (see above photo).
• Be polite and respectful to everyone. 
• When paying for things, place your money on the tray instead of handing it directly to the cashier.
• Don’t blow your nose in public. 
• Bring a portable multi charging adaptor with USB outlets.
• Get a portable Wifi device so you can stay connected during your travels.
• Tourists are not always welcome. While the Japanese are very friendly and helpful towards foreigners, there are some establishments where tourist aren’t welcome (eg. high-end restaurants in Ginza).
• Everything is tiny. Hotel rooms are tiny (like capsule hotels ), restaurants are tiny, cars and vans are tiny – everything in Japan feels smaller. Have you heard of the Kei Car vehicle class ?
• Most standard hotel rooms have twin beds. Consider this before booking your hotels. Search for cheap Japan hotels here .

Read more posts from Japan:

• 100 Photos of Tokyo Disneyland
• Guide to eating Japanese Food in Japan for travellers

Have you visited Japan? What did we miss?

What would you add to these japan travel tips.

Share your Japan travel tips in the comments section below.

Related posts:

03/18/2020 at 9:20 pm

Great to read your info on ‘current’ aspects of visiting Japan. I had many business visits there in the 1970s and always tried to spent an extra day or weekend there to enjoy the interesting country and their cleanliness and civility. I even went to a wedding there after lunch at a country ryokan. One final comment – their English translations on posters etc seems to have improved in the last 40-50 years!

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Traveling to Japan For the First Time: Helpful Tips (2024)

By: Author Sylvia

Posted on Last updated: January 23, 2024

Are you traveling to Japan for the first time and wondering what are the best travel tips for your first time in Japan?

Japan is a fascinating destination and a trip to Japan was on our bucket list for quite some time.

But we noticed that Japan is quite different from Europe or other Western countries. 

That is why we partnered up with other travel bloggers to give you useful Japan travel tips for those visiting Japan for the first time. 

There is a really good chance that this post contains affiliate links. If you click one of them, we may receive a small commission (for which we are deeply grateful) at no extra cost to you.

Table of Contents

Japan Essentials

We almost always find the best flights to Tokyo and Osaka on Momondo .  It may be worthwhile to compare these with Skyscanner and a new but promising flight aggregator, WayAway .

Don’t lose time upon arrival at the airport and order your Japan travel SIM  or portable WiFi device in advance so that it’s ready and waiting for you at the airport when you arrive.

Find out which JR Pass will save you the most for your trip to Japan.

Check out our ultimate Japan travel blog where you can find many more interesting Japan articles to prepare for your trip.

Need help with your Japan trip planning? Check out this post on how to plan your trip to Japan.

Planning a Trip to Japan for the First Time

Is this your first Japan trip and are you feeling a bit overwhelmed about planning this trip, what to see and to do in Japan. Check out our  Japan travel planner.  This document will help you plan your trip smoothly.

Finding Cheap Flights to Japan

If you want to score  cheap flights  to Japan we advise you to have a look at  Momondo and  Skyscanner.   

Both are flight aggregators that compare several hundreds of booking sites and give you an overview of the best flights and the cheapest sites to book them. 

Our complete Japan travel guide where you will find all our Japan articles.

Momondo and Skyscanner are both very good at finding good deals, of the two, Momondo is probably the one with the most intuitive user interface.

Read our full review of 10 booking sites here. 

Joining is free and once you’ve joined you will get alerts in your mailbox whenever cheap flights out of your home airport have been found. 

Book your hotels in advance

It is the custom in Japan to book your hotels in advance.

Especially in busy seasons, like the golden week or the cherry blossom season , you will run the risk of not finding a place to stay or having to pay excessive prices for your hotel room.

If you are traveling to Tokyo, our guide about where to stay in Tokyo for the first time will help you to choose the best place to stay in Tokyo. Here you can find an overview of the best Airbnb’s in Tokyo.

Are you also going to Osaka?  Here we have a 1-day Osaka itinerary. Do you have 2 days? Take a look at this 2 day Osaka itinerary.

Wondering where to stay in Osaka? Check out these posts.

• Best place to stay in Osaka
• 12 cool hotels in Osaka
• How to find the best Airbnb in Osaka

Looking for a list of fun things to do in Osaka at night? Check out this post.

Check if Buying a Japan Rail Pass is Worth It

All tourist attractions in Japan are easily accessible by train. Riding the train is not cheap but neither is renting a car.

If you travel a lot by train, you can benefit from a Japan Rail Pass.   

There are rail passes for 1 week, 2 weeks, and a maximum of 3 weeks (JR pass 21 days).

You can enter all your individual routes from your Japan itinerary on the website of  Hyperdia . 

Along with the timetable, Hyperdia will also show you the exact prices for these routes.

Over the 3 weeks of our Japan vacation, we regularly compared this site with other sources like Google maps and came to the conclusion that Hyperdia is really the most reliable site for prices and timetables.

To find the best option you just need to compare the prices of your individual trips with the price of a Japan Rail Pass for the length of your stay.

If a Japan Rail Pass turns out to be cheaper it’s best to buy one beforehand.  Until recently the passes could not be bought in Japan. 

At the time of writing, there is a pilot project where the passes can be bought in Japan but with a surcharge over the price you pay if you would order in advance.

Here you will find more information about Japan Rail Pass: Japan Rail pass

You can decide when you want to activate the rail pass. 

If the validity of your pass is shorter than your stay in Japan, you can activate the pass for the time period that benefits you most.  Here’s more info about traveling by train in Japan .

Tip: When you have a long trip ahead of you. Make sure to bring something to eat and drink with you on the train.

Here you can find all our Japan itineraries:

• 7 days in Japan
• 2 weeks in Japan
• 3 weeks in Japan

Take Overnight Buses to Save Money and Time

Contributed by Ben from Horizon Unknown

Even though the Japan Rail Pass already economizes your travel expenses it still takes a big chunk out of your travel budget.

If you don’t mind giving up some comfort in exchange for a cheaper alternative you should have a look at the overnight buses.

Taking overnight buses in Japan is a great way to save money and time when you’re traveling through this beautiful country.

Not only does tasking overnight transport save a day in travel, but since you’re traveling while you’re sleeping rather than through the day, it also makes travel cheaper.

Taking transport during the night in Japan acts as your accommodation as well. You don’t need a bed to sleep if you have one on your bus. Sure, it isn’t always easy having a full and peaceful 8 hours of sleep on a moving bus, buts it’s a great way to save a bit of Yen and a day time travel-day if you’re on a tight schedule.

Willer Bus is one of the companies offering overnight bus routes throughout Japan, and you can save even more money by booking a multi-ticket pass.

Rental Car Tips for Japan

Contributed by Chris from CTB Global

If you think of Japan, you might not directly think of hiring a car as public transport is so efficient.

This is true for lots of places, but a car makes life much easier in other cases.

If you add a snow monkey visit (near Nagano) together with a Tomioka Silk Mill visit on your Japan itinerary you won’t be able to visit both on a day from Tokyo.

There are a few things to keep in mind when hiring a car in Japan.

The following tips will help you have a smooth trip.

Japan drives on the left side of the road. If you’re not used to this then take extra precaution when driving. It’s not difficult and most cars are automatics which make switching sides much easier as you don’t need to use the gear box with your hand.

Tolls are expensive if you do not have a subscription. Ask the rental agency if they can supply a subscription together with the car which you’ll pay when returning the car. Paying on the spot at each toll road otherwise double or triples the rental price.

Directions are in Japanese only so make sure you have a local data sim-card which allows you to use Google maps. This is your friend navigating Japan by car.

If you keep these 3 tips in mind when adding day trips by car to your Japan itinerary , you’ll be fine and get the most out of your day.

Drive safe.

Make sure you have enough cash

Most restaurants accepted credit cards, but smaller establishments still swear by cash, and sometimes credit cards are not accepted for train or subway tickets.

We learned the latter at a very inconvenient moment when we were rushing to the airport for our return flight home and we had spent all of our money.

The only ATM that accepted foreign cards in the station had a minimum withdrawal amount of 10,000 yen. 

Luckily we found a money exchange office in the station that was willing to exchange the 7 euros we needed to buy our tickets.

The perfect Kyoto itinerary for first-time visitors.

Except for this we never encountered any problems withdrawing money or paying with credit cards but after this very stressful moment, we swore to never spend all our cash again.

That is why we advise you to always have enough cash with you when you travel to Japan for the first time. 

But even if you have been to Japan several times it seems like a good idea.

You never know, an ATM that you rely on might be out of service or there might be an unexpected problem with your credit card. This stressful moment learned us that having cash is a good backup plan.

We just made it in time for our flight but we don’t want you to experience the same stress we had.

The Best Travel Credit Card

Since expenses abroad can be seriously inflated by fees from your bank or credit card, we are huge fans of our N26 account. 

The account is available to most EU residents.

The  checking account  is free as well as the associated Mastercard and there’s no exchange rate provision when you use to card for payments abroad. 

There’s a 1,7% exchange rate provision when you withdraw money abroad but even that is free with  the premium Black Mastercard.  

The app is another great feature of the card, you can follow your expenses in real-time and instantly block your card if you see any signs of fraud.

Save Money with a Tax Refund

Contributed by Pinoy Adventurista

As a budget traveler, I always make sure to find ways on how I could save on travel expenses.

Traveling to Japan is not cheap, and could be very expensive in terms of transportation and hotel expenses.

One of the best ways to save on travel expenses is to take advantage of the tax refund scheme. But how does it work?

Tax-free shopping in Japan is simple and easy to avail.

Tax-free shopping can be availed by foreign tourists at licensed stores when making purchases of over 5,000 yen at a given store.

All you need to do is pay the full amount first at the cashier then proceed to the tax refund counter. Present your passport and receipt, fill-up the form and get a refund. As easy, and simple as that!

Get a Public Transit Smart Card

Contributed by Ingrid from Second-Half Travels

One of the first things to do in Japan is getting a public transit smart card at a subway or train station.

These essential rechargeable cards can be used for public transport as well as purchases at vending machines, shops, and restaurants. 

They can even be used to pay for taxis and the Shinkansen.

Smart cards generally do not provide discounts over regular tickets, but their convenience makes them indispensable.

Obtaining a card usually requires a small deposit, refundable when you leave the country. Note that a card cannot be used by multiple travelers at the same time.

While there are many card networks, the best for travelers are PASMO and Suica.

Most networks are compatible, making it possible to travel on almost all trains, subways, and buses in Japan’s major cities with just a single card.

Suica also offers a mobile app and is supported by Apple Pay, so you can tap your phone instead of the card.

First timer’s guide to Tokyo’s Public Transport

It’s a Super Safe Country

We never felt unsafe and we regularly walked to our hotel after dark. Apparently, one of the most stolen items are umbrellas.

We can absolutely confirm this as ours was also stolen once.

But as long as it’s only umbrellas we don’t mind too much :-).

Arrive at Popular Sights Early

Contributed by Alexei from Travel Lexx

Japan is an incredible country of magnificent castles, grand temples, stunning natural beauty, and much much more.

This fact is not lost on the millions of visitors that head to the Land of the Rising Sun every year.

So how to avoid long queues and crowds at popular spots? By setting that alarm clock, of course!

Arriving early to major sights is one of the best ways to beat the masses and experience them without fighting your way through selfie stick-wielding tour groups. While this may mean sacrificing your lie-in, you’ll thank yourself later.

Getting to places such as the Fushimi-Inari Shrine in Kyoto, one of the most famous places in Japan around sunrise will allow you to explore in peace and take some stunning photos.

Public transport in major cities starts running around 5 am so wrap up warm, grab breakfast and a hot coffee from a 24/7 convenience store and head off on your early morning adventure.

It’s usually not so convenient to travel with luggage on the trains.

In many train stations, you have to walk quite some distance and do quite some stairs before you arrive at your platform.

Often there will be escalators or elevators but it’s not always as easy to find them (despite very good signage in most stations).  And most trains have no dedicated luggage storage.

That’s why Yamato’s service which allows you to forward your luggage from hotel to hotel is so convenient.

Most of the time we traveled with 2 small pilot suitcases with enough things for a few days and we would forward the big suitcases to the hotel where we would arrive a few days later.

9 fun things to do in Kyoto at night.

Forwarding a suitcase will cost about 15€ (depending on size) and it would normally arrive the next day. You arrange and pay at the front desk of the hotel.

Easy and inexpensive if you look at the comfort you will get instead.

Japanese People Do Not Like Tattoos

Japan has had a long tattoo history and somewhere around the 17th century the government even used tattoos to publicly humiliate criminals.  Criminals had the word “dog” tattooed on their foreheads.

2 centuries later the government changed course and tattoos were banned completely in the country.  Japan wanted to set a modern course and tattoos were seen as primitive and barbaric.

The ban was lifted again after the second world war but today tattoos are still not widely accepted and are much rarer in Japan than abroad.

There are various reasons for this but the most important reason is probably that tattoos are still associated with criminals.

Partly because criminals used to be marked with tattoos but also because the “Yakuza”, Japanese for members of organized crime syndicates, traditionally have their bodies inked.

In some Onsen (public baths), tattoos are even banned or you may only enter if you can cover your tattoo with a bandage that is no larger than 8 by 10 cm. The same rules apply to Onsen in some hotels.

If you are considering to spend some relaxing time in an onsen definitely check out Yudanaka, or this particular onsen in Hakone.  Did you know that you even have a beer onsen ?

If you prefer bathing in a private onsen, check out the following posts:

• Best ryokans in Hakone that have a private onsen
• Best ryokans with private onsen in Kyoto

Understand Onsen Etiquette

Contributed by Katie from Two Wandering Soles

Soaking in an onsen, or hot spring is one of the top things to do in Japan . But before you undress and slip into the water, there are a few important things to know about onsen etiquette so you don’t break any rules or offend the locals.

First of all, it’s necessary to rinse off before entering the water. Most onsen will have some sort of shower area for you to use.

Secondly, if you have tattoos, it is important for you to cover them with a waterproof bandage of some sort or find an onsen where tattoos are acceptable (this is becoming more common).

Another onsen “rule” is you must not wear any clothing or bathing suits in the water, which is considered unclean.

While it may feel uncomfortable at first to get naked around complete strangers, take this as an opportunity to get out of your comfort zone.

When you realize everyone else is nude and nobody cares, it may actually be a freeing experience.

If this makes you very uncomfortable, there are some onsen where bathing suits are allowed. These aren’t the traditional experience but can be a good way to try an onsen if you don’t want to completely shed your clothing.

Now that you’re in the onsen, there are still a couple of things to keep in mind. If you have long hair, secure it so it doesn’t touch the water.

And don’t even think about dunking your head beneath the surface – a big onsen taboo. This prevents oils, styling products, and hair from collecting in the water.

One last thing to keep in mind is to cover yourself with a towel when walking to and from the onsen.

It might seem like a contradiction that you can’t wear clothing but should cover up with a towel, but this is seen as a way to practice modesty.

Just don’t let your towel touch the onsen water (again, seen as unclean!).

It may sound like a lot of rules, but it comes down to being respectful, modest, and clean.

Don’t forget to take it all in and enjoy this unique Japanese experience!

Research what is and isn’t culturally acceptable

Contributed by Melissa from Parenthood and passports

Visiting Japan is a cultural experience that can send you into serious culture shock if you aren’t prepared for it.

There are certain things that are considered rude and unsanitary in Japan that many in western cultures may find completely normal.

Throughout Japan, it isn’t uncommon for restaurants and hotels to require you to take off your shoes upon entering.

Some hotels will even wipe down the wheels of rolling luggage before allowing you to take it any further than the lobby.

The flooring in many places, particularly inside homes, ryokans, or hotel rooms is a type of weaved bamboo called tatami, which is difficult to clean.

• Best ryokan in Osaka
• Best ryokan in Kanazawa

In Japan, it’s customary to sit on the tatami floor when you eat and some families even roll out a futon on the floor at night.

So requiring shoes to be removed is a way to keep the floor clean and sanitary.

It’s a good idea when entering any building to observe others, take note of the flooring inside the building and look for shoe cubicles or lockers to determine whether removing your shoes is expected.

It’s also smart to pack plenty of socks or carry a pair with you in your purse if wearing slip-on shoes.

If visiting Japan with kids make sure they know the rules and expectations, as well.

Japan is a very family-friendly country so you may find many establishments that will provide small, kid-sized socks or slippers for your children in addition to some for you to wear while you are shoeless.

You do not need to leave a tip

In several places, you will find Japanese who will offer you a guided tour and explicitly mention they will not accept a tip.

Also in restaurants, it’s out of the question to give a tip.

Japanese will feel insulted by this. And you don’t want to insult the Japanese if you are traveling to Japan for the first time. 😉

Here you can read more about tipping in Japan. 

The Toilets Come With a Manual

You will never have seen such special toilets, often with lots of buttons and a heated seat.

The toilets often come with special toilet slippers.

Quite funny and as some toilets had quite fancy features it became almost fun to go to the toilet.

There are public toilets everywhere, always free and always very clean.

Smoking is Still Allowed in Restaurants

Despite the strict restrictions on smoking in public places, smoking in restaurants is sometimes allowed.

For us non-smokers this was slightly annoying.

Especially when you eat in a typical Izakaya, a local pub, you will sometimes have to eat with your head in a cloud of cigarette smoke.

Don’t Touch the Taxi Doors

Contributed by James from Travel Collecting

Japan is one of the world’s leaders in technology and this extends to taxis. Taxi doors are automatic in Japan.

When you approach a taxi or the taxi pulls up to you, the door will open automatically. Don’t touch it. Just get in and the door will close for you.

When you arrive, the doors open and then close again after you get out.

Taxi doors are operated by taxi drivers and they get very upset if passengers attempt to open or close them manually.

I’m not sure if this is because it’s part of their – not the passengers’ – job, or if it’s because moving the doors manually can break the driver-controlled mechanism, but I do know that you should NEVER touch a taxi door in Japan.

It can take a bit of getting used to, but after a while, you learn to love and possibly even resent having to open your own taxi door when you get back home 😊.

Handy “Handy” Mobile

Some hotels in Japan provide a free “Handy” mobile phone in your hotel room. With this phone comes a local number where you can be reached and you can use it to make free local and international phone calls.

But even more convenient is that it comes with a data plan.

The phone has quite a few apps with local information and you can install additional apps.

You could also use it as a hotspot. At the end of your stay, all data will be erased or you erase the data yourself anytime you want.

In our list of Osaka and Tokyo hotels we mention the availability of a Handy-phone for those hotels we know that provide them.

We used Google Maps on the mobile phone to find our way around the city and we also installed an app from the local metro system to find our way in the metro.

We used Google Maps a lot in Japan. And a mobile Wi-Fi device certainly comes in handy here.

Even if you don’t have a useful “Handy” mobile phone in your room, it’s easy to find your way through the skyscraper jungle with a local SIM you have bought yourself.

You can buy one in local electronics stores like Yodobashi & BIC Camera or you can order one in advance and it will be waiting for you in your hotel upon arrival.  Ordering online is possible on Klook and Bmobile .

This will make traveling for the first time in Japan so much easier.

You Often Have to Take Off Your Shoes

Temples, ryokans as well as some restaurants require you to take off your shoes before you enter.

 So if possible, wear comfortable shoes that you can easily put on and off. 

The floors are always very clean but if you don’t feel comfortable walking on your bare feet you can take a pair of socks with you.

Many Japanese Wear a Mouth Mask

They wear these primarily to protect against bacteria and allergies but apparently, they also think it’s “cool”.

We mostly noticed it the first time we were in the area around Tokyo. 

You will see mouth masks in all shapes and colors, but despite the fact that wearing mouth masks is apparently trendy, most are still just plain white.

We thought it looked strange, but for them it’s normal.

If you are looking for the best area to stay in Tokyo, take a look here. 

Many Menus are Only in Japanese

Often you don’t even know what you are ordering. Japanese are very helpful but waiters usually spoke limited English.

Not quite enough to explain the options on the menu.

Pointing at pictures or at dishes at other tables got us quite far and sometimes we just tried our luck by picking random menu options. We ate some delicious food, but occasionally it was disappointing.

With varying success, we also used the google translate app on our phone.  Google’s instant translation allows you to translate menu options on the fly by just pointing your phone’s camera to the menu options.  The translations were certainly not perfect but it often gave an idea of some of the ingredients of the dishes.

We saw it as an adventure.

If you are not so adventurous, they do have a lot of McDonald, KFC, TGY Friday’s and so on. 😉

Learn to cook Japanese with an Osaka cooking class

Learn Some Basic Japanese Phrases

Contribution by Alyse from The Invisible Tourist

Part of the mystique of Japan is the preservation of their unique culture, which includes their language.

New visitors to Japan may be surprised to learn that outside the major cities, English is barely spoken or understood at all.

When visiting a new country, it’s respectful to use a little of the local’s native tongue. Considering Japanese has three alphabets, it’s understandable why it’s easy to feel intimidated! Although contrary to popular belief, learning a few basic phrases doesn’t have to be as hard as you think.

Luckily for English speakers, Japanese is a very phonetic language so you’ll already be familiar with many of the sounds.

Even if you don’t learn the alphabet, it will be immensely helpful if you can communicate with a few simple greetings and questions.

Some tips for learning basic Japanese phrases include phrasebooks with audio , mobile apps, and even a short language course if you’re really keen. No one expects you to be fluent, but learning a little of the language will go a long way in Japan!

Here is a list of more great Japan travel apps that will help you to plan an unforgettable trip.

Vegetarians: Japanese are Not Really Familiar With It

Contributed by Carine & Derek from We did it our way

Eating local food is probably the best part about traveling, and a great way to discover the country’s culture, heritage, and customs.

Traveling while being a vegetarian adds a small layer of difficulty, but if you’re prepared, it can easily make any restaurant outing more exciting!

In Japan, the food culture is quite meat and fish heavy.  After all, it is the home of sushi!

In order to survive as a vegetarian, it’s important to understand that ‘meat’ only refers to beef, pork, or other four-legged mammals in Japan.

Fish and chicken are not considered as meat.

So when you order your food, make sure you specify what animals you can and cannot eat.

Just saying you’re vegetarian will only create confusion as it’s not a common lifestyle in Japan.

We would highly recommend using Google Translate, or another dependable translation tool, and learn how to say the names of what you can and cannot eat. You can do the same for allergies, just to make sure!

This will help save you time and make eating in Japan a lot more fun!

Don’t Stick Chopsticks Into Your Rice Vertically Standing Up.

Contributed by Henry & Zory from This Life of Travel

Called tsukitate-bashi (突き立て箸), this is incredibly taboo in certain Asian cultures, including in Japan, since it resembles the rice offerings to people who have passed away.

In a way, when you do this to your own bowl of rice, you’re declaring yourself ‘dead’ to your family, which is an incredible insult.

An even more incredible insult would be to place your chopsticks this way in another person’s bowl of rice!

Here you find all our Japan posts.

But really, if you’re a tourist and you do this, most Japanese wouldn’t be offended since they’d realize you’re not aware of their customs.

But still, it’s better to be aware of any country’s customs and cultural norms so you don’t embarrass yourself or make other people uncomfortable.

One other minor thing about chopsticks – try not to use them to ‘spear’ food – it’s considered tacky in Japanese culture.

Japan is Not as Expensive as Most People Think

Ok, planning a trip to Japan will be more expensive than traveling for example around Southeast Asia. But not as expensive as traveling around Europe.

The hotel prices are comparable to those in Europe and transport will probably take the biggest chunk out of your budget.

Restaurants are a lot less expensive. For a complete meal, we usually paid around 13€ per person. That’s including a beer which is quite pricey at around 4.5 €.

You can also buy cheap food and drinks in the convenience stores. More than 50,000 convenience stores, known as Konbini, can be found across Japan. It’s the place to be to buy cheap food, snacks, sandwiches, etc.

Japan has also countless bakeries where you can treat yourself to a sweet or sour snack.

We especially loved the Melopan bread. It’s a sweet roll with a light flavor and texture and a crumbly cookie surface.

There are Usually No Waste Bins

Apparently, Japan had lots of trash cans before 1995. But then Aum Shinrikyo committed an attack on the Tokyo subway where 12 people died. 

After this attack, the Japanese got extremely sensitive against unknown objects left in stations, and all trash cans immediately disappeared from the stations, the streets, and all public places within a few weeks. 

At the same time, there was also an ecology awareness growing, which coincidentally matched the public mood, and that’s why you don’t see many trash cans in Japan today.

Now the only trash cans you can find in Tokyo are privately managed, at convenience stores and the like. 

So make sure you have a plastic bag with you to carry your waste until you are back at your hotel.

Take a Factory Tour

Contributed by Sarah from ASocialNomad

Japan is the birthplace of “just in time” manufacturing and has some superb free factory tours that you just won’t find anywhere else in the world.  It’s well worth building time into your schedule to head out to one of them.

You can take a factory tour at the birthplace of instant noodles (Ikeda) – and make your own cup noodle to take home for dinner.

There are great free brewery and beer factory tours available from Asahi, but our favorite has to be the car factory torus.

They’re run by Mazda and Toyota at their plants near to Nagoya. 

At the Toyota Factory Tour , you’ll get to visit their museum and see the full production process – including a revolutionary line that allows for multiple models to be made on the same production line.  At the same time.

The best thing?  All these tours are free and presented in both Japanese and perfect English!

More Japan Travel Tips

Don’t forget to become a member of our brand new Japan Travel Planning and Tips Facebook group. 

More travel tips about visiting Japan can be found in this article. 

Public transport is very well organized in Japan but can seem quite complicated at first. That’s why  I’ve compiled a first-timers guide to Tokyo’s public transportation .  We already had to pay a supplement on the first train we boarded upon arrival at the airport.  I hope  my complete guide  will save you from paying any such supplements.

Wondering what to wear in Japan? Take a look at our complete  Japan packing list. 

Last but not least… As you might expect health care in Japan is excellent but it comes at a high cost.  Make sure you have some sort of travel insurance before you leave for Japan.  We never had anything serious happen on any of our journeys around the world but you know what they say, better safe than sorry…

Have you ever traveled to Japan, and have other tips? Share them in the comments.

Planning a trip to Japan? Have a look at these fun things to do in Japan.

Things to do in Gion at night

If you like this article, pin it. 

Sunday 30th of June 2019

Hi Sylvia, thank you so much for all the useful information. It´s a non stop about Japan. I have a question regarding health: is there any website, app witch can help people find a medicine (without prescription) at a pharmacy at Japan? Pedro

Monday 1st of July 2019

Thanks for the compliment. Unfortunately, I can't help you with your question. Maybe just walk in a pharmacy in Japan and ask if they can help you.

best regards,

Friday 12th of April 2019

I couldn’t pass by and not leave a comment. This post provides so many interesting and practical tips that I am saving it for later and definitely will refer to it in the future again. I don’t know much about Japan but hope to visit later this year. I loved learning about stolen umbrellas, taxi door, and smoking. Good to know :) Such a great post!

Sunday 14th of April 2019

Japan is an amazing destination that definitely deserves a visit. Hope you will enjoy it as much as we did.

9 Tips for Japan Travel You Can't Afford To Miss

I f you’re planning a trip to Japan, know that the process is a commitment . We’ve gone all over the world and back again, even traveling full-time for two years with our young children.

Even so, planning a trip to Japan sometimes felt like a Herculean task. There are so many moving parts, rules and barriers that it was easy to be overwhelmed at times. After putting together what I’d deem a very successful first visit, I’ve put together some of my best Japan travel tips to help you plan the trip of a lifetime!

I promise, you won’t want to miss these tips for traveling to Japan – they’ll help you make the most of your time with the fewest hassles.

1. Plan as far in advance as you can

As frequent readers of this website know, we’re avid travelers and have been all over the world – sometimes hopping countries on just a few days’ notice.

Japan isn’t a place where I’d want to do that. Ever.

The most important of my tips for Japan travel is to give yourself as much lead time as possible.

We were shocked at just how important it is to plan a trip to Japan well in advance. In my experience particularly if you plan to visit during a peak time (roughly March through May and, to a lesser extent, September and October) you’ll be happiest if you start arranging your hotels 4-6 months in advance. Even 4 months before our March trip, a few small or specialty hotels were already sold out. When I looked to shift our itinerary 3 months in advance, our hotel in Tokyo was double the price I had paid.

But it isn’t just about booking your flights and hotels. There are so many cool attractions in Japan that require booking at least a month in advance. It’s not just the obvious ones! Everything from TeamLab Tokyo (which we got) to Pokemon Cafe (which we didn’t) sells out. Heck, even the wonderful onsen we visited had limited availability for private rooms a month in advance.

Unfortunately the need to lock down times and places so far in advance can make Japan travel planning very tricky. Give yourself plenty of time and try not to get overwhelmed – take it one area at a time and don’t be too disappointed if you can’t get into one specific attraction or hotel. Know that you’ll still have an incredible trip and you’ll be starting to consider a return visit while you’re still there!

Pro tip: When you’re planning, don’t be afraid to book through Klook ! It’s one of the most popular sites for booking activities throughout Asia. It’s easy to use and has a great reputation. We used it many, many times without a hitch.

2. Consider the overall structure of your itinerary

Obviously the first thing to nail down when you’re planning a trip to Japan is the basic framework of your trip: your flights and roughly which regions you’ll visit when. There are a few ways to do it, which I’ll go over here. Here are some ideas for family-friendly Japan itineraries .

If you’re coming from North America, chances are you’ll fly into one of Japan’s three main international airports: Narita (NRT), Haneda (HND) or Kansai (KIX). West coasters may have the luxury of choosing where they’ll go, while travelers coming from the midwest and east coast will probably have to take what they can get based on how their connections work out.

Both Narita and Haneda are in greater Tokyo, but Haneda is much much more convenient: our taxi ride was an easy 20 minutes, which we appreciated after spending most of a day traveling. Narita would have taken over an hour and been more expensive for our family of four.

The other airport option is Kansai, which is about an hour from downtown Osaka by train. A west coast family member recently chose an open-jaw itinerary that arrived in Osaka and departed from Haneda. That was a great option as it avoided an extra few hours of train travel – and depending on your itinerary it could allow you to choose a shorter duration Japan Rail Pass (but more on that later). When we considered a similar itinerary, unfortunately the connections weren’t as favorable and the price was a lot higher but be sure to evaluate options for your airport and dates.

The second half of structuring your itinerary is figuring out the order in which you want to visit Japan’s wonderful and diverse regions. On a first visit, most tourists split their time between Tokyo , Kyoto /Osaka and Hiroshima . It’s worth considering the order of your trip, especially if you end up with a roundtrip ticket to Tokyo (as most visitors do). If you’re lucky enough to have a KIX flight on one leg, your itinerary will mostly build itself.

There are two schools of thought on how to structure your Japan itinerary . This excellent book recommends exchanging your Japan Rail Pass voucher at the airport when you arrive and immediately hopping on a bullet train for Hiroshima as one of the top tips for travelling in Japan. In theory you could also take a short domestic flight to Hiroshima, as it’s less than 2 hours and sometimes only $50 per ticket. You’ll then slowly make your way back up to Tokyo to finish out your trip. The benefits of this option are that you’ll be able to sleep for much of the 6 hour travel time (since most visitors are exhausted after crossing so many time zones) and you’ll also start off in the quieter parts of the country before tackling the hustle and bustle of Tokyo.

We took a different approach and it worked out fine as well. Our trip started with 5 nights in Tokyo, which was just a busy as advertised but allowed us to settle in and feel as rested as possible when we were clocking 10 miles on foot each day. Then once we had our bearings we went all the way to Hiroshima and Miyajima Island. Our final stay was in Kyoto , halfway between Tokyo and Hiroshima. With only 10 nights in Japan, our stays in Miyajima and Kyoto was shorter and might have been harder with the kids right when we’d gotten off the plane.

I’d probably avoid closing out your trip in Hiroshima. The security line when we returned to Haneda was one of the longest I’ve ever waited in and you would likely have to build in three hours to check in and get through security, whether you’re taking the 5-6 hour train ride or the 2 hour domestic flight (remembering to allow 60 minutes to get to the Hiroshima airport from downtown or 2.5 hours from Miyajima Island and 2 hours for domestic check in). Going through all of that followed by an incredibly long international flight is just too brutal.

3. Always factor transportation into your advance planning

Speaking of transportation, there’s a lot of it in Japan and it should factor into your planning from the beginning in terms of both time and money.

Japan is famous for its shinkansen bullet trains, but in reality the nation’s transportation network is far more vast than most people realize until they visit. Japan has more than 30,000 km of rail, which would get your 3/4 of the way around the globe if it was all laid end-to-end. Those rails are part of everything from the bullet train lines that travel at 200 mph to regional railways to local subways.

Even within a single municipality, there can be multiple overlapping transit lines run by the government, private companies or public-private partnerships. As a visitor, it can sometimes be confusing or even frustrating.

You’ll want to download the excellent JapanTravel app by NAVITIME to your phone. You can also use it on your computer though I found that it didn’t work as well. Where this app is a standout is that it allows you to select which transit passes you have (or are considering purchasing) and shows you which routes are included and which ones aren’t.

Before we talk about money, passes and more I’ll just share a quick note about the time aspect of taking trains in Japan. Overall they’re extremely efficient and get you from A to B. But Japan is home to 46 of the 50 busiest train stations in the world, and when you first arrive prepare to be a little lost. When you’re taking local trains, I recommend allowing plenty of buffer time to what the directions tell you. A “20 minute trip” could easily take you 30 minutes if you struggle to find the platform for your connection or figure out which exit the walking portion of your directions indicate. It’s not your fault, but plan accordingly if you have time-specific activities.

The first piece to figure out – at least a month before your trip but not more than 90 days – is whether or not a Japan Rail Pass is right for you. This pass gives you access to nearly every Japan Rail operated line in the country for a specific number of consecutive days. If you’ll be flitting around to different regions in a fairly short period of time it can be a great savings! You won’t typically need it for your entire itinerary. For example, we made sure that we only needed ours for 7 of our 10 days.

To give you a sense of our our calculations worked, on the second day of our JR Pass we traveled from Tokyo to Hiroshima. On the final day of our pass we traveled from Kyoto to Tokyo. Those two legs alone would have cost us more than the 7 day pass, and of course we used it many times in between.

The very fastest bullet trains – which cut an hour off of the transit between Tokyo and Hiroshima – aren’t currently included with the Japan Rail Pass but they will be when the rail pass price increases in early 2024. That price increase is going to hurt and you’ll really have to evaluate whether or not the pass makes sense for you if you’re visiting beyond 3/31/2024 (the initial announcement indicated October 2023, but it seems to have been pushed back). Of course it’s also possible that fares for individual tickets will rise as well.

Fortunately there’s no need to worry about spending for the fancy “Green Car” service. The regular class is plenty comfortable and very spacious, with reclining seats and tray tables for your bento box. And families rejoice: children 6-11 can get half-price rail passes! Each adult can also take up to two children ages 1-5 on their laps (though only one is realistic) and babies travel free.

Things get much more complicated when you’re talking about local and regional transportation.

If you’re traveling kid-free or your kids are 0-5, your simplest option is to buy an IC card . These are essentially reloadable debit cards that can be used on nearly every transportation system in areas where tourists go in Japan, plus you’ll use them for cashless payment at lots of businesses and kiosks in the country. To make your life easy, once you get your IC card add it to your Apple Wallet or Google Pay app. You can even top up your IC card directly from your phone, and Apple Watch users can scan into trains with their wrists. With an IC card you won’t have to buy individual tickets for train rides, though if you’re taking lots of trains you may end up spending more than if you purchased a train pass – more details on those below.

Unfortunately for families with kids over 6, an IC card isn’t quite so simple. First, for your children to receive discounted child fares when they tap in to a train they have to be on a child IC card. You’ll need to bring the kid and their passport to the JR East office to get it (this is the same place where you’ll exchange your JR Pass voucher for actual tickets). Second, unless they have their own cell phone they won’t be able to use the digital option and will need to carry the physical card and top it up at an actual kiosk.

Given the different fares, shopping opportunities and different reloading options, you may wind up with times when most of the family is topped up and ready to go but a kiddo’s card needs money unexpectedly at the turnstile. The upside is the most of the time you can board basically any train in the country with a simple tap and no worrying about which train line you’re taking. Some families even load their kids’ souvenir shopping money on to the IC card and empower them to stay within their budgets. That’s a great hack for family travel in Japan!

If dealing with IC cards sounds like a headache or you think you’ll ride local trains a lot, there are some additional train passes worth considering. Our family got excellent value out of the 72 hour Tokyo subway pass . It covered nearly every non-JR train we needed to take around the city, including the one conveniently located underneath our hotel . The cost of that pass just can’t be beat!

As you go in the Kansai region (encompassing Kyoto, Osaka, Nara and more) you can consider the Kansai Thru Pass for 2 or 3 days (and kids at half price). It covers nearly all non-JR rail lines plus bus lines and can be used on non-consecutive days. If you have an active Japan Rail pass you can use that for select rides in the city as well, but JR lines aren’t as ubiquitous as elsewhere.

Whether or not a pass makes sense for you will depend on how much you plan to use public transportation versus taxis and Ubers. That said, there’s also the convenience factor of nearly every trip being covered without having to stop at a ticket machine every time you want to board. You could also consider separate passes for Keihan , Hankyu and buses.

There were a few times when we felt like a taxi was the best option, for instance when we were heading to the train station with all of our luggage in the pouring rain on our last morning in Japan. I was so glad that we brought folding car seats for our kids to ride safely – I consider them a “must” to travel Japan with a family!

Want to organize your plans?

Grab our fully-customizable Japan digital travel planner!

4. Get comfortable with Google Translate

The most useful app for Japan is definitely Google Translate. Unless you’re fluent in Japanese (reading and speaking) you’ll use it all day, every day. If you only take away two traveling in Japan tips, it should be this one along with planning as early as possible.

We encountered so many people in Japan who were eager to help us in our travels but virtually none of them spoke English. And that’s understandable, because it’s their country and Japanese is the local language. Thankfully Google Translate was there to bridge the divide. We had plenty of “conversations” that consisted of us typing a few sentences into our app and a Japanese person typing their reply into their own Google Translate.

The other piece of Google Translate that’s indispensable is translating text in images, whether it’s a sign on a storefront or a Japanese-only menu. Particularly if you have any dietary restrictions, you’ll want to take advantage of this.

I recommend that you download the Japanese dictionary within your Google app before you go. When you go to the translation module, click “Detect language” and find Japanese on the list. Then click the download icon to the right. Your translations will be faster when you’re on the ground and you won’t have to worry about using mobile data.

5. Bring power backups for your phone

If you’re anything like us, you’ll use your phone all day long in Japan. Directions, photos, translations and more… it all takes a toll.

We love this portable charger because it plugs directly into our iPhones without a cord and still fits in our pockets. There’s an Android-friendly version as well. We brought one with us, but only because I forgot the second one charging at home when I packed! There were plenty of days we wished we had the second battery pack. It tops my list of what to bring to Japan.

On our smarter days, we brought a USB charging cable and wall plug with us. Plenty of restaurants in Japan have outlets near the tables so we were able to charge while we ate.

Speaking of plugs, Japan uses the same style outlets as the USA. Even so, I ended up bringing this gadget because it saved tons of space and energy on USB wall adapters!

Other things to put in your day pack for Japan: a plastic bag to carry around your trash, a small travel washcloth and hand sanitizer.

6. Pack strategically

I have plenty more to say about what to pack for Japan specifically, but as you’re planning your trip it’s helpful to have an overall strategy that takes your itinerary into account.

First, packing light is always a good thing. I love the travel capsule wardrobe strategy for maximizing my outfits while minimizing my luggage.

Second, if you plan to take trains around the country (which nearly everyone does) know that there’s limited space for huge suitcases in each compartment. Carry-on suitcases and travel backpacks will fit on the overhead racks without issue.

For our family of four, we traveled with two carry-on suitcases, one 35L travel backpack (which I’m wearing above) and our kids backpacks. We also tucked this awesome packable daypack into our luggage to use on the ground. Since we were sharing luggage, we made liberal use of packing cubes to organize everyone’s stuff. Japan isn’t a country that requires a lot of specialized equipment and we made sure to book one hotel with laundry , so packing light was easy!

Now for the strategy part… our itinerary included a very busy 48 hour stretch that saw us taking trains, buses, boats and taxis as we went all the way down to Miyajima Island and doubled back to Kyoto with a half-day stop in Osaka. It was a whirlwind!

But thanks to the excellent Ta-Q-Bin luggage forwarding service run by Yamato, we didn’t have to lug all of our stuff with us. Ta-Q-Bin is beloved by locals and visitors alike, as it reliably and affordably moves your items around the country. The service is available via 7-11 and many hotels. We arranged it the night before with the concierge at our Tokyo hotel . For just $50 we sent both of our suitcases and a supplied cardboard box containing the kids’ backpacks to Kyoto, and we just brought our 35L backpack and daypack for two nights on Miyajima Island. Without a hitch, our items were waiting in our hotel room in Kyoto when we got there!

Having the freedom to move through busy parts of your itinerary unencumbered is amazing. Sure there are luggage lockers in many places (the one time I tried to snag one they were full) but we didn’t always go and come back the same way.

Some visitors also use Ta-Q-Bin on the day they arrive in Japan. While the service generally calls for about 48 hours of lead time, Yamato offers same-day service within Tokyo from the airports if your flight comes in early enough. That means you can drop off your luggage when you arrive and immediately go sightseeing without stopping at your hotel first!

7. Engage with Japanese people

While it’s true that Japanese people are generally quiet and respectful in public, don’t let that scare you from interacting. Overall we found warmth, generosity and an overwhelming desire to help us as tourists – all of this despite the understandable language barrier.

We encountered kindnesses of all sizes, from the businessman who went ten minutes out of his way to help us find a hidden train station to the young people who saw us picnicking and offered us a spare tarp to sit on. Even though there are differences in how we approach public life, plenty of Japanese people we met were happy to chat about their favorite restaurants, the sports teams they support and all of the other normal aspects of daily life.

Private or small-group tours are a great way to forge those connections, even for the DIY traveler. You’ll have an opportunity to ask all of your burning questions about life in Japan and hear an insider’s perspective from someone who is eager to be a bridge.

8. Don’t be afraid of unfamiliar (or inexpensive!) foods

I’m not afraid to say that Japan’s food scene is incredible. Whether you’re craving fresh, creative, comforting or affordable you’ll find it in spades. But the most important thing to bring when you dine (other than perhaps a reservation) is an open mind.

You’ll undoubtedly encounter plenty of foods in Japan that you never imagined, from cabbage-laden okonomiyaki to octopus-filled takoyakio to sakura mochi wrapped in salt-pickled leaves for dessert. As long as they’re within any particular dietary restrictions you have, give it all a shot!

On the note of dietary restrictions, be sure to have your Google Translate app ready at restaurants if you’re particular about what you’re eating. It can be tough.

Pro tip: If you’re looking for pork-free ramen or vegan ramen in Tokyo, don’t miss the rainbow ramen at Afuri. There are locations throughout the city.

By the same token, don’t discriminate against affordable food in Japan. There are plenty of solid options where you can get yakitori , sushi or fried chicken for just a few dollars and they’re absolutely delicious. Many Japanese people grab sandwiches or other simple lunch foods at convenience stores like 7-11 or Lawson’s – these are perfect to bring along for a lunch picnic in one of the thousands of beautiful parks you’ll stumble across.

I’ll be honest and say that we had one of our most filling and satisfying breakfasts at Denny’s of all places – but it was delicious chicken and rice porridge for the adults and broiled salmon with rice for the kids. You could eat for $15-20 per day and really enjoy a huge range of Japanese food!

9. Plan some unique activities

With the ever-increasing costs of flights and hotels, it’s tempting to try to save on other parts of your trip to Japan. There are plenty of free things to do in Japan, from visiting all of the unique temples and shrines to searching out your favorite garden.

But it would be a shame to miss out on some of the more unique things to do in Japan that you have to pay for. Check out some of these great only-in-Japan experiences that we loved:

• Take an in-home cooking class
• Dress in a kimono and participate in a traditional tea ceremony
• Attend a sumo tournament
• Stay in a traditional ryokan where you can enjoy everything from sleeping on futons to soaking in an onsen to dining on a local gourmet breakfast

Of course there are a million other things you can do in Japan! One fact is certain: no matter where you go or what you, you’ll walk away anticipating your next visit.

Planning your trip to Japan

I hope these travel tips for Japan have give you the confidence to plan your own adventure!

Ready to dive in? Don’t miss these helpful resources for planning your own Japan trip!

• Buy your Japan Rail Pass
• Best Things to do in Japan With Kids: A Kid’s Take
• Essential Japan Itinerary: 10 Days of Family-Friendly Travel
• What to Pack for Japan in Spring (and What to Leave at Home)
• Things to do in Tokyo With Kids: Itinerary for 4 Days of Old and New
• The Best Hotels in Tokyo for Families (and How to Choose Yours)
• Visiting Kyoto With Kids: 2+ Day Itinerary + Must-Read Travel Tips
• Best Family Hotels in Kyoto
• Awesome Pokémon Things to do in Japan
• Visiting the A-Bomb Sites in Hiroshima with Kids
• 10 Japan Cultural Activities & Attractions For Your Bucket List

The post 9 Tips for Japan Travel You Can’t Afford To Miss appeared first on The Family Voyage .

Bucket list travel on a budget: Expert tips for airfare, loyalty programs, credit card perks and more

Nicky Kelvin from The Points Guy dives into ways to save this summer.

Many travelers have their sights set on summer getaways , but with everything from baggage fees to fuel costs impacting the price of a ticket, "Good Morning America" is asking travel experts to share tips for booking bucket list destinations on a budget and finding savings along the way.

Travel expert Nicky Kelvin, senior director of content for The Points Guy, offered his tips for affordable travel techniques.

Where to find the best flight deals

Kelvin encourages travelers to utilize Google Flights and other free price-tracking tools to compare fare prices and snag the best deal.

He also suggests using both the calendar and map features within Google Flights to see which airports, dates and destinations how the lowest fare.

From the Google Flights homepage on a computer, click "explore destinations" and select a departure city without adding a destination. Then zoom out on the map to see the best prices for destinations all over the world.

Get the most out of free travel loyalty programs

Travelers should be earning points for anything and everything that they are buying or booking from airline and hotels to car rentals, Kelvin said.

In addition to the points that can can help travelers earn free flights and hotel stays, Kelvin said to look for extra perks just for joining.

Hyatt rewards, for example, offers all guests free breakfast.

For Thrifty Car Rental and Dollar Car Rental, he said you can add your spouse or domestic partner as an additional driver for free.

Loyalty programs are great for airlines too. JetBlue, for example, allows enrolled customers -- even if they don't have enough points for a flight -- to use points for discounts. Plus, with any airline, as you accumulate points to earn status, you can get free seating upgrades.

Travel credit cards with cash back perks

Along with earning points, travel credit cards give you protection for your trip like insurance to help with lost or damaged baggage and trip cancellation protection

Chase debuts new airport lounge: Gourmet menus, sleek interiors, free facials redefine hospitality for airport travel

As for credit cards, The Points Guy team suggests the Capital One Venture Rewards credit card as an all-around pick -- you get 75,000 miles after meeting your minimum spend in the first three months. Which Kelvin said is a value of over $1,300.

If you're looking to earn the most miles, he said look to the Chase Sapphire Preferred Card.

"You'll earn the most points on all your purchases with this one," he said.

Finally, if you want a credit card with no fee, Kelvin suggested the Bilt Mastercard, which he said is particularly great for renters because you can earn points on what's likely someone's biggest expense.

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Save money on international phone plans for summer trips

If someone's trip is taking them out of the country, using a cell phone internationally can cost $10 to 15 per day. For a family of four, that's more than $400 for a week.

If your phones support eSIM, Kelvin suggested purchasing a data plan for your destination through an app such as Airalo, Truphone or GigSky.

For example, one of Airalo's global SIM plans costs $9 for one week, which could save a family close to $350 dollars, depending on their existing international coverage.

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eSIM Research

The Best eSIM Cards for Japan Travel in 2024

Planning a trip to Japan soon? I’ve been there, and let me tell you, staying connected is key to making the most out of your experience. From navigating the bustling streets of Tokyo to finding that hidden ramen spot in Kyoto, a reliable internet connection is your best friend. That’s where eSIM cards come in handy, offering a seamless way to stay online without the hassle of physical SIM cards.

Top eSIM for Travelling Japan

When planning my trip to Japan, eSIMX caught my eye primarily because of its affordability and ease of use. For just $4.5 USD , I could get a 1GB plan valid for 7 days, perfect for my short Tokyo escapade. Setting it up was a breeze; all I needed to do was scan a QR code, and I was instantly connected. What I loved about eSIMX was the option to choose from various data packages, ensuring I had just the right amount of data for my needs. Whether navigating Tokyo’s bustling streets or hunting down the best ramen in Kyoto, eSIMX provided me with uninterrupted connectivity.

Next, I explored Airalo’s Moshi Moshi packages as a comparison. Interestingly, their starting price of US $4.50 for a 1GB, 7-day plan was identical to eSIMX’s offering. However, Airalo provides a wider range of validity options, catering to short and extended stays. The simplicity of purchasing and activating the eSIM and extensive coverage across Japan made Airalo a strong contender for my connectivity solution.

ESIMJAPAN appealed to me due to its varied plans, which included an impressive unlimited data option starting from only $3.99 for 3 days. This was incredibly enticing for someone like me, who’s heavily reliant on data for everything from navigation to streaming. Their 10GB plan at $18.99 valid for 20 days was also a great deal, considering the promised high-speed 4G LTE connectivity.

Holafly stood out for its sheer simplicity and the promise of unlimited data. For just $6.00 USD , the ease of receiving a QR code and instantly connecting to the best network in Japan without any registration was too good to pass up. Plus, the option to keep my WhatsApp number was a significant advantage, allowing me to stay in touch with family and friends effortlessly.

GigSky was another interesting option, with a unique offer of 100 MB for free for the first 7 days – perfect for travelers who might need an emergency fallback option. Their plans ranged up to $49.99 for 10GB over 30 days, which, while a bit pricier compared to others, offered the flexibility and peace of mind that comes from not requiring a credit card upfront.

Finally, Maya’s diverse plan durations and clear pricing structure intrigued me. Whether I needed 3GB for $10 USD or unlimited data for $56 USD , all for 10 days, Maya presented a clear, straightforward choice without any hidden fees. The upfront pricing and flexible options made it an attractive choice for managing my data needs in Japan.

Each eSIM provider offered unique advantages and conveniences, making the decision highly dependent on my travel needs and data requirements.

Benefits of Using eSIM Cards in Japan

Convenience

One of the biggest draws for me when using an eSIM card in Japan is its sheer convenience. No physical SIM cards mean there’s no need to visit a store or swap anything out of my phone upon arrival. I can set everything up before my plane even touches down. This ease of use extends to managing my data plans as well. With an eSIM, I’m not tied to a single provider for my stay, allowing me to switch between plans or providers based on my current needs. Keeping my primary number active while using a local data plan is a game-changer for staying connected without racking up exorbitant roaming fees.

Cost-Effectiveness

Going into my travels, I’m always looking for ways to cut unnecessary expenses, and eSIM cards in Japan help me do just that. Traditional SIM cards usually come with hidden fees or rigid plans that don’t always fit how I use my data. However, eSIM plans tend to be more flexible and transparent with their pricing, making finding an option that fits my budget easier. Here’s a quick comparison of the cost between different eSIM plans I considered for my trip to Japan:

This table highlights the diversity in plan options, showcasing price, and data allowance flexibility . It’s evident that whether I’m looking for a short-term solution for a week-long trip or need unlimited data for a month, there’s an eSIM plan that can meet my requirements at a fraction of the cost of traditional roaming services.

How to Activate an eSIM Card in Japan

Embarking on a journey to Japan, I discovered the seamless transition offered by activating an eSIM card . Here’s a step-by-step guide I followed, ensuring I stayed connected throughout my travels.

Step 1: Check Device Compatibility

First off, I had to ensure my smartphone supported eSIM technology. Not all devices are equipped with this feature, so verifying before moving forward is crucial. Most newer models of iOS and Android devices are eSIM compatible, but it’s always safe to check the manufacturer’s website or contact customer service for confirmation.

Step 2: Choose a Provider

With a compatible device, the next step was choosing a provider. The options were plentiful, each offering varying data plans, coverage, and pricing. I found it helpful to consider factors such as the length of my stay, my data needs, and the presence of customer support in English. After comparing several providers, I settled on one that balanced cost and connectivity coverage.

Step 3: Purchase and Download eSIM Profile

Purchasing an eSIM plan was straightforward. I did it online, directly from the provider’s website. After payment, I received a QR code via email, which is the eSIM profile I needed to download. It was essential to be connected to Wi-Fi for this step, as my device required internet access to download the eSIM profile. Scanning the QR code with my phone’s camera initiated the download and installation process, completed within minutes.

Step 4: Activate eSIM on Your Device

The final step was to activate the eSIM on my device. This involved entering my phone’s settings and navigating to the Cellular or Mobile Data section. I could add a new data plan by selecting the eSIM I had just installed. Following the on-screen instructions, I activated the eSIM and chose it as my primary data line for my stay in Japan. Seeing the cellular bars light up was a relief, indicating I was connected and ready to explore Japan without missing a beat.

Tips for Using eSIM Cards in Japan

When I started planning my trip to Japan, one of the main things I knew I’d need to figure out was how to stay connected. After settling on an eSIM as my go-to, I’ve picked up a few tips and tricks that made the whole process smoother and the usage more efficient. Here, I’ll share what I’ve learned about saving data, ensuring device compatibility, and staying connected for emergencies.

Saving Data Usage

While exploring the bustling streets of Tokyo or the serene landscapes of Kyoto, it’s easy to get carried away with data usage. I quickly learned that managing my data consumption was key to avoiding unwanted charges and ensuring my eSIM lasted throughout the trip. Here’s what helped me:

• Use Wi-Fi Whenever Possible : Japan has free Wi-Fi spots, especially in major cities and public areas. Connecting to these can save a significant amount of data.
• Download Maps Offline : Before heading out for the day, I’d download the areas I planned to explore on Google Maps. It’s a simple step that saved me data and stress, especially in areas with spotty coverage.
• Monitor Your Data Usage : Most eSIM providers have an app or a dashboard where you can check your data usage. Keeping an eye on this helped me adjust my activities to ensure I didn’t run out of data.

Ensuring Compatibility

Before diving into eSIMs, making sure my phone was compatible was crucial. Here’s a quick rundown of what I did:

• Check Device Compatibility : Not all devices support eSIM technology. I checked the specifications of my phone on the manufacturer’s website before making any decisions.
• Contact Your Current Provider : Some carriers lock devices to their network, making using an eSIM from another provider impossible. I gave my current provider a call to ensure my phone was unlocked.
• Software Update : Keeping my device updated ensured I had the latest eSIM management software, making the setup process smoother.

Emergency Connectivity

Even the best-planned trips can encounter hiccups, so being prepared for emergencies is essential. Here’s how an eSIM gave me peace of mind:

• Keep Important Contacts Stored : I stored essential contacts on my phone, including the local embassy and emergency services. Accessibility to these numbers without fumbling through the internet was reassuring.
• Have a Backup Plan : Despite the convenience of eSIMs, I also kept a physical SIM card as a backup. If I encountered any issues with my eSIM, I wouldn’t be left stranded without connectivity.
• Understand Your Provider’s Support Options : Knowing how to reach my eSIM provider, whether through an app or hotline, gave me confidence that I could resolve any issues quickly, no matter where I was in Japan.

Navigating eSIM cards in Japan with these tips in mind made my experience enjoyable and, most importantly, stress-free. From Akihabara’s neon lights to Nara’s historic temples, I remained connected, informed, and ready to explore all Japan had to offer.

Navigating Japan with an eSIM card was a game-changer for me. By monitoring my data usage and ensuring my phone was compatible, I managed to stay connected effortlessly. Downloading maps and utilizing Wi-Fi whenever possible also greatly kept my data consumption in check. And let’s not forget the peace of mind that came with having emergency contacts and a backup plan. All these measures ensured my trip was stress-free and incredibly enjoyable. So if you’re planning a trip to Japan, taking these steps can truly enhance your experience, letting you focus on the beauty and excitement of your journey.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the benefits of using an esim card in japan.

Using an eSIM card in Japan offers convenience, no need for physical SIM swaps, easy top-ups, and access to various data plans tailored for travelers. This ensures seamless connectivity throughout your stay.

How can I save data while using an eSIM in Japan?

To save data, utilize public Wi-Fi whenever possible, download maps and other necessary content for offline use, and regularly monitor your data usage through your device’s settings to avoid overconsumption.

Is my device compatible with an eSIM card?

Device compatibility with an eSIM card varies. Most recent smartphones and tablets support eSIM technology. It’s crucial to check your device’s compatibility on the manufacturer’s website or contact your current provider before your trip.

What steps should I take to activate my eSIM in Japan?

To activate your eSIM in Japan, ensure your device is compatible and unlocked, choose a suitable eSIM plan from a provider, and follow the activation instructions provided, which typically involve scanning a QR code.

How can I stay connected in case of an emergency?

To stay connected in emergencies, save important local contacts, consider having a backup physical SIM card, and be aware of your eSIM provider’s support options for immediate assistance. Understanding the local emergency numbers is also essential.

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Table of Contents

Jnto official sns accounts, information about noto peninsula earthquake, guide for when you are feeling ill, covid-19: practical information, warnings and advisories, safe travel portal site, safety tips for travelers, major urban railways, other railways, national airlines and lccs, mandatory registration for unmanned aircraft, a message from kono taro, minister for consumer affairs and food safety, request for discontinuation of use of red mold rice materials by kobayashi pharmaceutical.

Japan National Tourism Organization (JNTO) provides useful information on weather warnings/advisories and latest news of transportation services during your stay in Japan.

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Follow @JapanSafeTravel    Log in to view the latest posts.

Weibo/微博 @安心访日JapanSafeTravel

Public transportation operation status in the hokuriku region and surrounding areas.

For the latest operation status, please check the information provided by each transportation operator.

[Shinkansen]

[Local trains]

• Noto Railway (Nanao Station – Anamizu Station)
• Noto Airport (Ishikawa Pref.)
• Komatsu Airport (Ishikawa Pref.)
• Niigata Airport (Niigata Pref.)
• Toyama Airport (Toyama Pref.)

Niigata Port (Niigata City, Niigata Pref.)  

Intercity buses

- Kanazawa- Nagoya/Takayama/Niigata/Toyama

Emergency Disaster Support： FREE over-the-phone interpreting service

（BRIDGE MULTILINGUAL SOLUTINS, inc.）

• Free interpreting service for non-Japanese speakers who were affected by the earthquake and tsunami in Noto region
• This service is available 24/7 in any language mainly in English, Chinese, Korean, Portuguese and Spanish.

03-5366-6076 (From Japan only)

Opening Status of Tourist Facilities

Visit Kanazawa

Fukui Prefecture

Accommodations, sightseeing spots, tourist facilities, etc. in Fukui prefecture are operating and open for business as usual.

Please check the following websites before visiting just in case.

Enjoy Fukui

Tsuruga Guide

JNTO operates a visitor hotline 24 hours a day, 365 days a year. Call for tourist information or assistance in the case of accidents and emergencies including COVID-19. Support is available in English, Chinese and Korean.

• From Japan 050-3816-2787
• From Overseas +81-50-3816-2787

JNTO operates a dedicated website to provide useful information such as entry procedures, required documents, emergency tips, travel etiquette, FAQs, and so on.

Languages: English / 한국어 / 简体中文 / 繁體中文(臺灣) / 繁體中文(香港) / Tiếng Việt / Bahasa Indonesia

NHK (Japan Broadcasting Corporation) is Japan's only public broadcaster. NHK WORLD-JAPAN is NHK's international service delivering the latest information about Japan through TV, radio and the Internet.

Ministry of Land, Infrastructure, Transport and Tourism

Hokkaido Prefecture

Tourist Information Centers throughout Japan certified by JNTO can offer basic travel tips and up-to-date information on popular tourist attractions to comprehensive advice tailored to your specific needs.  

Please check the website below to find the information centers nearby.

Please Choose Your Language

Browse the JNTO site in one of multiple languages

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A Japanese Village Wants Tourists to Come for Heat, Soot and Steel

To lure visitors, residents of Yoshida, famed for its high-quality steel, are inviting tourists to help produce it.

The furnace in Yoshida reaches temperatures of about 2,500 degrees Fahrenheit. Credit...

Supported by

Photographs and Text by Craig Mod

• April 18, 2024

This past October, I found myself in Yoshida Village standing before a tatara, a giant open-top furnace that was filled with charcoal and raging with such controlled ferocity that it could have been a set piece in Lucifer’s bedroom.

Deep within the belly of those orange flames sat a growing and mangled ingot that contained some exceptionally high-quality steel called tamahagane, or jewel steel, from which Japanese swords have been made for much of the country’s history. The presence of a usable ingot seemed unlikely, and if true, downright alchemic. All we had been doing for the last 20 hours was gently shaking iron sand and fresh charcoal onto the flames at timed intervals.

Yoshida is nestled back in the mountains of Shimane Prefecture in central Japan, abutting the ever-turbulent Sea of Japan. For nearly 700 years, workers around Yoshida made jewel steel in places called tatara-ba (literally “furnace spots”) on a grueling schedule — one that reshaped mountains and rivers, that seared the brows of generations of sooty men shoveling charcoal in loincloths. Then, at the start of the 20th century, production all but ceased. Other methods were cheaper and more efficient.

At the height of its steel prowess, Yoshida swelled to nearly 15,000 people. Today, the population hovers around 1,500. As with many towns in the Japanese countryside, a mix of aging population, low birthrates and loss of industry has emptied its streets.

Recently, though, in a Colonial Williamsburg sort of way, 24-hour re-enactments of the old iron-smelting traditions began to be performed in Yoshida. The firings are managed by a man named Yuji Inoue, who works for Tanabe Corp., which owns the furnace. “We consider the tatara a symbol and a pillar of town development,” he told me, standing next to the flickering furnace. Mr. Inoue and Tanabe Corp. were trying to remake Yoshida into a kind of tatara village, which he hoped would create self-sufficiency, expand the population and revitalize the town.

And so with this notion of countryside regrowth in mind, a few times a year they fire up their furnace, invite tourists and birth an ingot weighing about 250 pounds.

The open-top blazing furnace was set on a concrete plinth in the center of a room. Flanking its longer sides were air intakes tubes, feeding the furnace, kicking it up to around 2,500 degrees Fahrenheit. Around it all hung Shinto purification ropes. Just before the fire was lit, a priest had blessed the whole place, for luck and safety.

Safety was paramount because around the flames, at various stations, milled a team of some 20 excited tourists, a mix of both Japanese and a few foreigners, all dressed in very hip dark gray jumpsuits. These were people paying roughly ¥200,000, or about $1,500, for the chance to be a worker in a tatara-ba for a day and night. (They would get to keep the jumpsuits and a small piece of raw steel as souvenirs.) Their faces and hands were streaked by charcoal.

Jewel steel is produced by sprinkling iron sand — alluvial (river-deposited) sand saturated with iron — slowly over a charcoal pit. The tourists spent hours chopping the pine charcoal to precise sizes. They used scoops woven from bamboo to gather heaps of charcoal and dump them atop the furnace.

Off to the side stood a man named Noriaki Yasuda. He was the designated conductor — called a murage — of this slow dance between heat, charcoal and dampened iron sand. Dressed in an electric blue jumpsuit, he stood out in beautiful, almost poetic, contrast to the licking orange flames.

Monitoring the airflow, the color of the fire and the height of the charcoal with paternal concern, Mr. Yasuda scowled and watched, sometimes retreating to sit in his dark alcove, his arms crossed, still scowling and watching. To produce steel using the tatara technique, it turns out, you spend a lot of time watching.

Outside the all-encompassing warmth of the tatara-ba, the October mountain air felt like prickles on the skin. The sky was abundant with shooting stars. Shimane Prefecture truly is in Japan’s hinterlands. You can take trains to Shimane, but from Tokyo it’s a fairly arduous journey. So it’s easier (and cheaper) to fly there. Of course, I rode the trains. The 500-mile trip took about seven hours.

The area is best known for its astounding Izumo Shrine, a foundational place in Japanese cultural mythology. Still, Shimane was one of the least visited prefectures in 2019. Only a sliver of all inbound tourists made their way that year. In contrast to sites like Gion in Kyoto, which is now overwhelmed by visitors, Shimane reminded me of Covid-era Japan when international tourism was effectively banned.

“Steel is just iron with a little bit of carbon,” Mr. Yasuda explained to me. When I finally built up the courage to talk with him, his face lit up in a wide smile from behind his mask. (Everyone was wearing masks, less out of Covid concerns and more because of the charcoal dust.) He casually led me to a blackboard in the back of his resting space and sketched out the basic chemical formulas of what was happening in the furnace, how charcoal serves two purposes. First, it burns much hotter than wood. And second, its carbon atoms are essential to the formation of steel; embedded between iron atoms, they increase the strength of the metal.

As I stood and watched that giant burning thing, I thought back to Akihira Kawasaki, the master Japanese swordsmith I had visited a few days earlier. I explained how I had never before held a Japanese sword, had never carefully looked at one up close. He nodded and removed one of his gleaming works from its scabbard and placed it on a piece of red felt.

I picked it up, and it felt like holding a black hole, as if light were disappearing into the ridge line of the blade, as if light was being flipped and flopped onto and into itself. My eyes couldn’t get a purchase on the thing. It glimmered and reflected like a mirror and simultaneously seemed to inhale the world. Held up to the lights, the blade seemed to glow as if lit from within.

I was mesmerized. It was a thing of extraordinary beauty: delicate yet strong, and terrifying in sharpness. An atavistic choir in the subcortical corner of my brain was screaming, “Stay away from that edge!” When I placed it back on the felt — warily, delicately, with great focus — I still accidentally sliced off a corner of the mat.

The gap between the smelting process and the end product of the sword was enough to make a thinking person faint. All this charcoal and sand, this heat, this sootiness, this periodic removal of slag — impurities that come out like molten lava, scooped up with shovels and carted away in beaten-up old wheelbarrows to be dumped outside in a smoldering heap — from the bottom of the furnace. That this process of utter rawness could result in a Japanese blade so pregnant with artistry and violence was a miracle of the highest order.

Back inside the tatara-ba, after 20 hours of feeding the furnace, the sand ran out and the process ended. A crowd of some 30 villagers, including several children, squeezed inside the furnace’s building. The concrete outer shell of the furnace was gingerly lifted with the help of a winch. The full force of the heat hit us all immediately. Inside still burned a mass of charcoal. Below the bed of charcoal was a floor of liquid slag. And in the middle of it sat what looked like a mauled rock — the ingot all this work had produced.

The crowd cheered. The ingot was brought onto the dirt floor, and we all gathered around it to take a family portrait.

Can you revitalize a town through steel-making in 2024? I don’t know. But Japan is dotted with this kind of history, culture and craft. The countryside is disappearing, but efforts like this are a worthwhile way to look back and honor what was — and to build something sustainable and future-facing.

There’s a practical element to it all, too: Tamahagane can’t be made any other way. “It seems that modern steel-making cannot produce the same thing,” Mr. Inoue told me when I asked why it was worth all the effort. “The tamahagane is right there, as the highest-quality pieces of the ingot,” he said. Those pieces will be broken off and shipped to a handful of swordsmiths across the country, and also to the museum shop in Yoshida. It turns out that tamahagane also makes amazing golf putters.

Craig Mod is a writer and photographer based in Kamakura and Tokyo. You can follow his work on Instagram: @craigmod . His previous book, “Kissa by Kissa,” chronicles a 435-mile walk along the Nakasendo Highway from Tokyo to Kyoto. His forthcoming book, “Things Become Other Things,” will be published by Random House in the spring of 2025.

Follow New York Times Travel on Instagram and sign up for our weekly Travel Dispatch newsletter to get expert tips on traveling smarter and inspiration for your next vacation. Dreaming up a future getaway or just armchair traveling? Check out our 52 Places to Go in 2024 .

Open Up Your World

Considering a trip, or just some armchair traveling here are some ideas..

52 Places:  Why do we travel? For food, culture, adventure, natural beauty? Our 2024 list has all those elements, and more .

Mumbai:  Spend 36 hours in this fast-changing Indian city  by exploring ancient caves, catching a concert in a former textile mill and feasting on mangoes.

Kyoto:  The Japanese city’s dry gardens offer spots for quiet contemplation  in an increasingly overtouristed destination.

Iceland:  The country markets itself as a destination to see the northern lights. But they can be elusive, as one writer recently found .

Texas:  Canoeing the Rio Grande near Big Bend National Park can be magical. But as the river dries, it’s getting harder to find where a boat will actually float .

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This Gorgeous California State Park Was Just Named the Best Place for Stargazing in the U.S.

All you need to do is look up.

Kevin Key/Slworking/Getty Images

The 2024 eclipse may have come and gone, but it left plenty of people hungry for more astrotourism. And luckily, there are plenty of fantastic spots to stargaze across the United States, and HomeToGo has rounded up a few of the best destinations in its new Stargazing Index . 

“Astrotourism has emerged as the defining travel trend of 2024 so far, with April’s total solar eclipse generating a notable uplift in demand. Leading up to the event, the search demand for vacation rentals in towns along the path of totality skyrocketed by 139 percent week-over-week on HomeToGo, with median nightly prices registering increases of 40 percent,” Eleanor Moody, a spokesperson and travel expert at HomeToGo shared in a statement provided to Travel + Leisure . “We predict that this piqued interest in celestial tourism will persist further into the year, and have curated HomeToGo’s 2024 Stargazing Index with a new wave of eager astro-travelers in mind.”

As Moody explained, the new index is designed to assist travelers in discovering all the darkest places to ensure the best view of the stars above. 

In total, it found 24 Dark Sky communities across nine states, including California, Arizona, Texas, Indiana, Utah, Colorado, Illinois, Idaho, and Florida.

It then ranked them on five indicators, including an "under-the-radar score," which it gave based on their search volume (the lower the search volume the higher the score); an "affordability score" based on the median nightly price per person for a vacation rental on HomeToGo; an "availability score," based on the number of vacation rentals in each destination bookable on HomeToGo; a "clear sky score" based on the average number of clear days in each community; and a "solitude score," based on the size of each certified International Dark Sky Place and the area's population size. (For the latter, the lower the population density, the higher the score.)

After looking at all that data, it named Borrego Springs, California, the home of Anza-Borrego Desert State Park , to be the No. 1 astrotourism spot. "This small community is the only International Dark Sky Community in California," the findings noted. "Dedicated to protecting the night sky from light pollution, backyard stargazing parties are a daily occurrence. Visitors are invited to embrace the local natural and cultural wonders with the annual Night Fall Star Party, southern California’s prime opportunity to view the night sky with others." 

It was joined by two Arizona locations: Fountain Hills at No. 2, followed by Flagstaff in third. Dripping Springs in Wimberley, Texas, and Cottonwood, Arizona, came in fourth and fifth, respectively.

Ready to get out and enjoy a blanket of stars? Check out the full findings at hometogo.com .