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Visiting Japan

• Information Related to COVID-19 - JapanGov
• Border enforcement measures to prevent the spread of novel coronavirus (COVID-19)　- Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Japan
• TeCOT (COVID-19 Testing Center for Overseas Travelers) - Ministry of Economy, Trade and Industry
• Vaccination Certificate for Overseas Travel - Ministry of Health, Labour and Welfare
• Novel Coronavirus (COVID-19) - Ministry of Health, Labour and Welfare
• Coronavirus (COVID-19) advisory information - Japan National Tourism Organization

We welcome you to visit Japan

Empowering the Disabled

This movie introduces the new essential steps ahead of an unforgettable travel in Japan.

General Information

Japan: the Official Guide

Japan National Tourism Organization

General tourism information of Japan in multi languages. Climate, Healthcare, Money, Visa, Emergency info, etc. WEB: http://www.jnto.go.jp/

Open for Professionals

Japan External Trade Organization

The Government of Japan strongly welcomes highly-skilled foreign professionals. WEB: https://www.jetro.go.jp/en/hrportal/

Disaster Prevention Portal

Ministry of Land, Infrastructure, Transport and Tourism

Portal Site for Disaster Prevention in a Tokyo Inland Earthquake Ahead of the Tokyo 2020 Olympic and Paralympic Games. WEB: http://www.mlit.go.jp/en/

Safety Tips

Safety tips is an app to push notify the disaster information of Japan. Download the app from the website as follow; WEB: http://www.jnto.go.jp/safety-tips/

Japan Weather Forecast for Travelers

Weather forecast in English for travelers. WEB: http://www.jnto.go.jp/weather/eng/index.php

Japan Meteorological Agency

WEB: http://www.jma.go.jp/jma/indexe.html

Embassies, Visas, Customs and other Tourism Related Information

• Japanese Embassies, Consulates and Permanent Missions Overseas [Ministry of Foreign Affairs]
• Visas – Guide to Japanese Visas – [Ministry of Foreign Affairs]
• Customs – Procedures of Passenger Clearance – [Japan Customs]
• The Working Holiday Programmes in Japan [Ministry of Foreign Affairs]
• Animal Quarantine [Ministry of Agriculture, Forestry and Fisheries]
• Plant Protection Station [Ministry of Agriculture, Forestry and Fisheries]

Studying and Teaching

• Study in Japan Comprehensive Guide [Ministry of Foreign Affairs]
• Gateway to study in Japan [Japan Student Services Organization]
• Erin's Challenge! I can speak Japanese [The Japan Foundation]
• Marugoto: Japanese Language and Culture [The Japan Foundation]
• Portal Site on Policies for Foreign Residents [Cabinet Office]
• The Japan Exchange and Teaching Programme (JET)

Welcome to the official website of the Japan Tourism Agency.

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Sunrise Tours: New "Kyushu Authentic Route" Promoting an Influx of International Visitors

[Caution] ALERT ON "JAPANiCAN.com" FAKE APP

Sunrise Tours' Package Tour for International Visitors: New Must-see Sights Welcoming an Influx of Visitors on the Setouchi Scenic Route

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Value Creation

The Source of Value Creation at JTB:Connect & Contribute JTB helps to potentiate solutions and value by connecting its customers (consumers, businesses, communities, schools, etc.) to the people, information and resources they need .

The Value C reation Process at JTB

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We strive to foster peace and global interconnectedness through the creation of opportunities for meaningful human interaction.

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Through the delivery of unparalleled solutions (products, services, information, systems), JTB brings people, places and possibilities together all across the world, creating smiles, customer satisfaction… and perfectmoments.

Exchange = flow of people, distribution, money, information

Using tourism as a platform for evolution, the JTB Group is expanding its lineup of community-focused and business-focused solutions. 3-pronged strategy, our corporate group works as an integrated whole (One JTB) to maximize cross-business synergies.

Strengths that support our business

お客様や事業パートナー様との取引を通じて培った「交流創造力」が当社グループの強みです。

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For 110 years, we have been creating value and memories for our customers. We are proud to showcase how the JTB Group has grown.

We will create a new era of exchange by connecting smiles and excitement from all over the world.

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Global JTB Network ; Exchange, culture, economics, health, education — the power of travel moves people, cargo and emotions alike in all of these fields.

Based on international standards for corporate social responsibility, international standards for sustainable tourism, and the JTB Group's Code of Conduct, we have formulated the following six pillars for specific initiatives.

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• Creating an Inclusive, Fair and Sustainability-Oriented Work Environment

Japan Travel Guide

Planning a successful trip in japan.

Japan is a destination attracting a growing number of foreign travelers, from all around the world. In 2017, for the first time, they were almost 30 million to discover its territories, and the figures keep increasing. If Asian people (Chinese, Korean, Taiwanese…) are the first tourists on the archipelago in numbers, Westerners are not that far away.

Traveling to Japan is not as difficult as it used to be , but it is still important to gather as much information as possible to make the most of your trip in the archipelago. Bearing that in mind, we will offer you here essential information and will try to answer all your questions about this topic.

Thanks to Kanpai Japan, prepare your stay in Japan with serenity, travel without spending more than needed. You can find all our guides here: sightseeing in Japan , accommodation, transportation , phone and internet, Japanese food , calendar per seasons and much more.

Read our Japan travel guide

Our complete Japan destinations' guide (see the link above) provides visits descriptions, with interactive maps and numerous practical information, illustrated with photos and videos , with recommendations for all places and tips to find spots off the beaten tracks.

Since 2019, January 7th, all foreign visitors leaving Japan must pay a ¥1,000 (~US$6.59 International Tourist Tax , collected by airlines on every return ticket, except for children under 2 years old. The collected amounts are used to improve touristic travels throughout the country.

• Flights and Airports
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• Transportation
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• Budget and money
• Japanese Food
• Visit with Kids
• Seasons: spring / summer / autumn / winter
• Weather forecast
• Time in Japan
• Holidays & Festivals
• Natural Disasters
• Customs and Duties
• Works and Closures
• From April 14 to 15 -- Sanno Matsuri (the Spring Takayama Festival)
• From April 29 to 5 May -- Japanese Golden Week
• May 12 -- Mother's Day in Japan
• June 6 -- Beginning of the rainy season (Tsuyu) in Japan
• June 21 -- Summer starts in Japan
• From July 1 to 31 -- Gion Matsuri Festival in Kyoto with float processions on July 17 and 24
• Tokyo : Shinjuku , Shibuya , Harajuku , Asakusa , Akihabara , Odaiba , Ikebukuro , Ueno , Roppongi , Chiyoda , Ryogoku ...
• Around Tokyo: Kamakura , Nikko , Hakone , Mount Fuji , Mount Takao , Yokohama ...
• Kansai: Kyoto , Nara , Osaka , Mount Koya , Himeji , Kobe , Kinosaki , Kumano Kodo , Ise ...
• Japanese Alps: Kanazawa , Matsumoto , Takayama , Shirakawa-go , Nakasendo ...
• West: Hiroshima , Miyajima , Shikoku , Onomichi , Naoshima , Izumo , Kurashiki , Matsue ...
• South: Kyushu , Okinawa , Yakushima ...
• North: Hokkaido , Tohoku ...

• Temples and Shrines
• Gardens and Parks
• Hiking and Trekking
• Observation Decks
• Public Baths (Onsen and Sento)
• Festivals (Matsuri)
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• Visit on a Budget / Luxury

Keikaku is a travel agency specialist of Japan and providing different kind of services:

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• English speaking Guides
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• Introducing yourself
• Thank you / Apologize
• Count / Say Your Age
• Say the Date / Tell the Time
• Happy birthday
• Enjoy Your Meal
• Writing your name

Kanas are the much-needed basic characters of written Japanese language. Memorize them at a fast pace with our method.

Ask any kind of question and share your knowledge about Japan in Kanpai’s community space, our Q&A section Kotaete.

Isshoni means "together" in Japanese: share your trip details (dates, places you would like to visit) and find companions to travel in Japan.

Create your Kanpai account to manage your profile and view your participation history (questions, answers).

The Ultimate Japan Travel Guide: Explore the Land of the Rising Sun

Japan is a fascinating country that offers a unique blend of ancient traditions and modern marvels. If you are planning a trip to Japan, this ultimate travel guide will provide you with all the information you need to make the most of your visit to the Land of the Rising Sun.

Immerse Yourself in the Rich Culture of Japan

Must-visit destinations for an unforgettable trip, discover the unique cuisine of japan, practical tips for navigating japan’s public transportation, experience the traditions and festivals of japan, uncover hidden gems off the beaten path, q: what is the best time to visit japan, q: is it necessary to learn japanese before visiting japan, q: how much does a trip to japan cost, q: what is the etiquette for visiting temples and shrines in japan, expert advice.

Japan is known for its rich and ancient culture that is deeply ingrained in every aspect of daily life. From traditional tea ceremonies to the art of flower arrangement, there are countless cultural experiences to explore in Japan. To truly immerse yourself in the culture, consider staying in a traditional Japanese ryokan, where you can experience the traditional tatami rooms, communal baths, and delicious kaiseki meals.

When visiting Japan, be sure to explore the historic temples and shrines that dot the country. Kyoto, in particular, is home to numerous UNESCO World Heritage sites, including the iconic Kiyomizu-dera Temple and the Golden Pavilion, also known as Kinkaku-ji.

Japan is a country of diverse landscapes and attractions. Whether you are interested in bustling cities, serene countryside, or picturesque coastal towns, Japan has something for everyone.

Tokyo, the capital city, is a must-visit destination for its vibrant street culture, world-class shopping, and delicious street food. Don’t miss the iconic Shibuya Crossing and the historic Senso-ji Temple in Asakusa.

If you are looking for a more traditional experience, visit Kyoto, the cultural heart of Japan. Explore the enchanting Arashiyama Bamboo Grove, take a stroll through the historic Gion district, and visit the majestic Fushimi Inari Shrine.

For nature enthusiasts, a visit to the Japanese Alps is a must. The region offers breathtaking landscapes, hot springs, and hiking trails. Don’t miss the stunning snow monkeys in Jigokudani Monkey Park.

The island of Hokkaido is known for its beautiful national parks, hot springs, and delicious seafood. Be sure to visit the charming city of Sapporo and explore the stunning landscapes of Daisetsuzan National Park.

Japanese cuisine is renowned worldwide for its freshness, quality, and unique flavors. From sushi and ramen to tempura and yakitori, there is an endless variety of delicious dishes to try in Japan.

When in Japan, be sure to sample sushi from a traditional sushi bar, where the fish is fresh and expertly prepared. Don’t miss the chance to try authentic ramen, a comforting noodle soup that comes in various styles and flavors.

For a unique dining experience, try a traditional kaiseki meal, which consists of multiple small courses that showcase the chef’s skills and the season’s best ingredients. Wash it down with some sake, Japan’s famous rice wine.

Don’t forget to explore the local food markets, such as Tsukiji Fish Market in Tokyo or Nishiki Market in Kyoto. Here, you can taste a wide variety of street food and local specialties.

Japan is known for its efficient and extensive public transportation system, which makes it easy to explore the country. Here are some practical tips for navigating Japan’s public transportation:

• Get a Japan Rail Pass: If you plan to travel extensively within Japan, consider getting a Japan Rail Pass, which offers unlimited travel on Japan Railways trains, including the famous Shinkansen bullet trains.
• Use the Suica or Pasmo Card: These prepaid cards can be used on trains, buses, and even for shopping at convenience stores. They save you the hassle of buying individual tickets for each journey.
• Learn Basic Japanese Phrases: While many signs and announcements are in English, it’s helpful to learn a few basic Japanese phrases to navigate the transportation system and ask for directions if needed.
• Plan Your Route in Advance: Use online resources or smartphone apps to plan your route in advance. This will help you save time and ensure a smooth journey.
• Be Mindful of Etiquette: Japanese public transportation is known for its cleanliness and punctuality. Be sure to follow the local etiquette, such as giving up your seat to the elderly or keeping your phone on silent mode.

Japan is a country deeply rooted in tradition, and there are numerous festivals and events held throughout the year that showcase the country’s cultural heritage. Some of the most famous festivals include:

• Sakura Matsuri: Also known as the Cherry Blossom Festival, this event celebrates the arrival of spring when cherry blossoms bloom all over the country. Join the locals in hanami, the tradition of picnicking under the cherry blossom trees.
• Gion Matsuri: Held in Kyoto in July, this festival is one of the most famous in Japan. It features spectacular processions of floats, traditional music, and dance performances.
• Obon Festival: This Buddhist festival, held in August, is a time to honor the spirits of ancestors. It is celebrated with traditional dances, lantern processions, and the lighting of bonfires.
• Shogatsu: Also known as New Year, this is one of the most important celebrations in Japan. It is a time for family gatherings, visiting shrines, and enjoying traditional New Year’s dishes.

While popular tourist destinations like Tokyo and Kyoto are must-visit places, Japan also offers hidden gems off the beaten path. These lesser-known destinations provide a chance to experience the authentic and lesser-explored side of Japan.

One such hidden gem is Kanazawa, a city on the west coast of Japan. Known for its beautifully preserved samurai and geisha districts, as well as its stunning Kenroku-en Garden, Kanazawa offers a glimpse into Japan’s feudal past.

Another hidden gem is the island of Naoshima, which has become an art lover’s paradise. The island is home to numerous contemporary art museums and installations, including the famous Benesse House museum.

If you are looking for natural beauty, head to the Oki Islands in the Sea of Japan. This remote archipelago offers pristine beaches, rugged coastlines, and stunning hiking trails.

These hidden gems provide a chance to experience a different side of Japan, away from the crowds and tourist hotspots.

Frequently Asked Questions about Japan Travel Guide

A: The best time to visit Japan depends on your preferences. Spring (March to May) is popular for cherry blossoms, while autumn (September to November) offers beautiful fall foliage. Summer (June to August) can be hot and humid, while winter (December to February) is cold, especially in northern regions.

A: While it is not necessary to learn Japanese before visiting Japan, knowing a few basic phrases can be helpful, especially in more rural areas where English may not be widely spoken. However, in major cities and tourist areas, English signage and communication are more common.

A: The cost of a trip to Japan depends on various factors such as the duration of stay, accommodation choices, dining preferences, and activities. On average, a moderate budget for a two-week trip to Japan can range from $3,000 to $5,000 per person, excluding airfare.

A: When visiting temples and shrines, it is important to show respect. Remove your shoes before entering, dress modestly, and be mindful of your behavior. Avoid loud conversations and photography in sacred areas unless permitted.

When planning your trip to Japan, it’s important to research and make a detailed itinerary to make the most of your time in the country. Consider the season and weather conditions, as well as any specific events or festivals you may want to experience. Don’t be afraid to venture off the beaten path and explore lesser-known destinations, as they often offer unique and unforgettable experiences.

Lastly, embrace the local customs and traditions, and be open to trying new foods and experiences. Japan is a country that is rich in culture and history, and by immersing yourself in the local way of life, you can truly make the most of your Japan travel adventure.

Izumi Kenta

Hi, I’m Izumi Kenta from Japan. By profession, I worked as a tourist guide and interpreter in Japan. Besides this profession, I’m a hobbyist blogger. I love to talk about different things about Japan and share them with a wider audience who wants to know about my country. To share my thoughts, I’ve created this site Visitjapan and brought some Japanese travel enthusiasts and tourists worldwide to share their experiences.

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In Kyoto, Five Hotels to Add to Your Travel Wish List

The city’s newest crop of hotels — from a luxury retreat on a historic estate to a 10-room inn surrounded by forested mountains — were worth the wait.

By John Wogan

The pandemic lockdown in Japan coincided with a flurry of new hotels, especially in Kyoto, where the Park Hyatt, Aman and Four Seasons were joined by a group of independent properties and the first Ace hotel in the archipelago. When the country finally reopened to foreign visitors in October 2022, tourists came flooding back to the city of 800-year-old temples and bamboo forests spoiled for choice of accommodations, at a range of prices. The number continues to grow: Next month, the wellness-focused Six Senses brand will open its first Japanese outpost in the city’s Higashiyama district, home to many of the main tourist sites. Here, a look at five of Kyoto’s newer hotels that are redefining the city’s hospitality scene.

Hotel the Mitsui Kyoto

Andre Fu, the interior designer behind hotels like the Upper House in Hong Kong and Villa La Coste in Aix-en-Provence, France, has infused his signature aesthetic (extravagantly refined, with warm woods and luxurious textures) within the confines of a particularly historic area of Kyoto. The 161-room Mitsui, opened in late 2020, sits across from Nijo Castle, an enormous 17th-century compound and a UNESCO World Heritage site. It’s in stark contrast to the hotel, whose only timeworn element is an imposing entrance gate — a traditional wood structure over 300 years old and a remnant of the days when the Mitsui family lived on the grounds. Once past the gate, you’ll find a glass-and-steel building, designed by the Japanese architect Akira Kuryu, and landscaping that’s meant to echo the original garden pathways of the Mitsui residence, planted with cherry trees and steppingstones that meander above a glassy pond. The four food and drink venues include the French-Japanese Toki, overseen by the chef Tetsuya Asano (previously of the Ritz Paris), and the Garden Bar, strategically positioned to capture seasonal views, like the spring cherry blossoms and blazing autumnal foliage, out of massive double windows. Rooms from about $1,360 a night.

Ace Hotel Kyoto

The youthful Ace hotel brand might seem like an odd fit in staid Kyoto. But this 213-room property, which opened in 2020, fits seamlessly into the city center thanks to a collaboration between the Japanese architect Kengo Kuma and the California-based design firm Commune. Kuma, who designed the Japan National Stadium (the centerpiece of the 2021 Tokyo Olympics), renovated the imposing 1920s-era, red brick Kyoto Central Telephone Office, while adding an industrial-looking building — sheathed in copper sulfide plating, cedar, glass and concrete — next door. Commune infused the guest rooms with Ace’s signature mix of bright colors and patterns: original dyed prints from the Japanese folk artist Samuro Yunoki sit alongside Tivoli radios, turntables and vintage records. The most popular part of the hotel, though, might be the street-level branch of Stumptown Coffee Roasters — the first in Japan. From about $300 a night.

Arashiyama House Mama

Like Kyoto’s dozens of temple gardens, this 10-room property offers an immediate sense of calm. Its entrance is so discreet, you could easily miss it. (Look for the flowing white cloth curtain with simple black signage, behind which is a garden path leading to a minimalist building made of wood, concrete and glass.) The hotel’s location informs the interior design: Thirty minutes west of central Kyoto, the Arashiyama district is defined by nature, with the Katsura River at its center, and filled with bamboo groves and surrounded by forested mountains. Guest rooms are simply furnished with beds, chairs and tables handmade by both Kyoto artisans and the Danish furniture maker Carl Hansen & Son, and each one has a soaking tub. Rooms from about $540 a night.

The Shinmonzen

The Gion district epitomizes Kyoto for many visitors, with its maze of narrow alleys and ryokans, traditional Japanese inns. It’s here, on a quiet side street among artists’ studios, antique shops and galleries, that the Shinmonzen opened in December 2021. Although it’s a new build, the aim was for the hotel to blend in with the surrounding structures. To accomplish this, the famed Japanese architect Tadao Ando created a wooden facade that replicates a machiya , one of the venerable townhouses found throughout Kyoto. There are only nine guest rooms, but they’re unusually spacious, and all have balconies with views of the Shirakawa River. Each one is an ode to Japanese interior elements, furnished with tatami mats, shoji (panels lined with rice paper) and cypress soaking tubs. And for dining, the chef Jean-Georges Vongerichten, whose restaurant empire spans the world, devised a menu blending French, American and Asian influences, sourcing much of the produce from local farms. Rooms from about $1,500 a night.

Maana Kiyomizu

A three-suite hotel near the 16th-century Toyokuni Shrine, Maana Kiyomizu is the latest offering from Maana Homes, the small local hospitality group, which operates two other properties in the city. This one, opened in the winter of 2022, is located in Higashiyama, and is a complex of four machiya that also houses POJ Studio — a boutique that sells artisanal Japanese crafts and home goods. There’s also Kissa Kishin, the second branch of a popular Gion cafe, which serves coffee, matcha and pastries and acts as the unofficial social center for the property. The Japanese architects Uoya Shigenori and Takeshi Ikei renovated the suites to create a minimalist wabi-sabi ideal of city living, where handmade pottery from Shigaraki (a town famous for its ceramics) are the only decorative flourishes to be found. Rooms from about $560 a night.

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Japan tourism agency picks model areas aiming to address overtourism

The Japan Tourism Agency has selected 20 areas to implement model projects aimed at addressing challenges related to overtourism — a surge in tourists that negatively impacts the lives of local residents and the natural environment.

The areas include Niseko in the northernmost prefecture of Hokkaido, Tokyo's Asakusa, the city of Kyoto and Iriomote Island, a UNESCO World Heritage site in the southernmost prefecture of Okinawa.

In Niseko, which attracts many skiers from overseas, a plan is being considered to allow taxis from outside the area to operate to help address that lack of transport options.

Asakusa is expected to take steps to disperse crowds at popular tourist spots. On Iriomote Island, areas with restricted access will be introduced to protect the natural environment.

In the ancient capital of Kyoto, the city office is considering establishing express buses to take visitors to popular sightseeing spots almost directly from its main train station to reduce crowding on city buses and stress on local residents. The local government has said it is looking to introduce "a sightseeing express bus" in June that can travel to major tourism sites such as Kiyomizu temple and the geisha district of Gion with fewer stops from Kyoto Station.

While areas in Osaka Prefecture are not included in the 20 areas, the Osaka Prefectural Government said earlier this month that it will consider charging foreign tourists staying in the prefecture with an “entry fee” to combat overtourism. The planned levy is separate from the lodging tax already in place for both domestic and international tourists, and will be used to fund measures against overtourism and keep the streets clean.

If introduced, it would be the first levy of its kind nationwide.

The tourism agency also selected 51 areas, where measures to address overtourism will be implemented without the need to craft specific plans. Expected steps include allowing tourists to leave large luggage at train stations during sightseeing outings and operating shuttle buses to major tourist destinations.

In a time of both misinformation and too much information, quality journalism is more crucial than ever. By subscribing, you can help us get the story right.

Taking the train in Japan - all you need to know

Mar 28, 2024 • 11 min read

Find your way in Japan with our ultimate guide to rail travel © Chay_Tee / Shutterstock

You will fall passionately in love with trains in Japan .

Japanese people didn’t invent rail travel, but they arguably perfected it. Whether you’re on the newest shinkansen (bullet train) zooming across the country at 320km/h (199mph) or an elderly regional railcar, you can count on your train being scrupulously clean, safely operated, highly reliable, famously punctual and generally a joy to ride.

You can see almost the entire country by train, and with a wide variety of rail passes — including the iconic Japan Rail Pass — you can travel across Japan for less than US$50 per day, including the shinkansen.

Signs are in English even at the smallest stations, translation apps and devices are widely used for complicated questions, and staff are genuinely happy to help travelers.

Japan has an enormous number of train lines and kinds of train, but don’t be put off by the sheer volume: it’s surprisingly easy to navigate , even on your first trip, with your phone’s maps app and a sense of adventure.

There are different services on the Japanese train network

Trains run almost everywhere in Japan. The main backbone of the network, and the fastest, is the shinkansen. These bullet trains run from Hokkaidō  in the far north all the way to Tokyo Station , where you have to change for the shinkansen going to Nagoya , Kyoto , Osaka , Hiroshima and on to Kyushu. For travelers visiting Japan’s main sights , this will be the kind of train you take the most.

The next fastest are Limited Expess trains — “limited” as in “limited stops” — that run between cities and to rural areas on pre-shinkansen conventional lines (the non-high-speed ones). Many run through beautiful parts of Japan, so don’t count them out.

Local trains are the slowest and may even be as small as one single car. “Rapid” trains are fairly rare, and are essentially local trains that skip a few of the smaller stops.

Urban rail, commuter trains and subway lines are widespread in cities. These usually work very similarly to what you might be used to in your home country, although do watch out for limited-stop semi-expresses. The big picture transit maps can look a little intimidating, but most major cities now have a system of colors and station codes in place to help you navigate, and your phone's maps app is great for a quick idea of how to get from A to B.

Confident visitors outside major cities will love Joyful Trains, which are special tourist trains operated largely on weekends and holidays in rural areas. These might be renovated steam trains, or specially themed — JR East’s Koshino Shu’Kura is all about sake, including tastings, while the  JR Kyushu A Train is jazz-themed.

Japan’s train stations are destinations by themselves, with larger and newer stations offering a huge range of restaurants for every appetite and budget, and shops ranging from high-quality handmade artisanal local goods to Japanese malls to 100-yen stores. Convenience stores and pharmacies are also often on hand.

Do look out for special local snacks in the omiyage souvenir shops (these are intended for Japanese travelers to take back to friends and colleagues as presents) and for ekiben,  local specialty boxed bentō  lunches.

Travel short distances with a prepaid travel card

Coming from overseas, traveling short distances on Japanese railways often feels very inexpensive, while traveling longer distances without a rail pass can feel more costly. Let’s start with shorter distances.

Taking subways and urban rail is simple if you get an IC card – one of the many prepaid stored-value contactless cards – that works in a similar way to Oyster in London or Clipper in San Francisco: just tap on and tap off. Most rail operators across Japan will sell you their version, which are almost all interchangeable when it comes to loading and spending them — you can use an ICOCA card from the Osaka region in Tokyo , or a Pasmo from Tokyo in Sapporo . You can also use iPhones to get a virtual Suica card (JR East's version of a prepaid card) via the Wallet app and load it with money using Apple Pay. If you're using an international Visa card, be aware that JR East has had issues processing those payments in the past, so you may need to use a different credit card.

Travel long distances with the JR Pass

Over longer distances, the Japan Rail Pass (¥50,000 or about US$335 for seven days – less than US$50 a day!) is generally a good deal if you are planning anything more than simply Tokyo–Kyoto–Hiroshima–Tokyo, and the flexibility it gives you to take an earlier or later train is an added bonus.

You can either buy the ticket online or from an overseas travel agent. Note that you don’t actually buy the pass itself from overseas — you buy a voucher called an Exchange Order, which you then  exchange at a major station (including all international airports) for the pass itself. 

If you don’t have a pass, tickets cost the same no matter what time of day you travel, where you book, or how busy it will be — it’s not like airline tickets where that can change wildly. Most overseas travelers still use paper tickets for everything outside urban travel.

Long-distance travel fares are based on two elements:

• Ticket price, essentially the distance you travel
• Whether you want to reserve a seat or not, and in which class, if that’s available: Limited Express and Shinkansen trains will offer non-reserved seat tickets, a reserved seat in standard class, a reserved seat in the Green Car business class, or in some regions a reserved seat in Gran Class (first class).

Tickets can be bought at stations or at JR Travel Service Centers

Use Google Maps or the  Japan Transit Planner from Jorudan to find fares, or for JR trains visit your local JR station (look for the “green window” ticket booking office or a JR Travel Service Center), where you can also reserve a seat. At major airports and in Tokyo, you can expect some basic train-related English to be spoken by "green window" ticket agents. JR Travel Service Center staff tend to be more multilingual. Elsewhere, if you speak no Japanese you may well get lucky with someone who speaks English, and you can always lean on your phone's translation apps. Write down (on a printout or even just on your phone's notes app) the dates, times, destinations and details of the train you want, for example: "12 April, Tokyo–Osaka, 12:00, window seat, Mt Fuji side please."

Unless you’re visiting during a major Japanese holiday or want to take a specific Joyful Train, there’s little need to book before arriving in Japan. You can in some cases book online, but it’s pretty complicated and I wouldn’t recommend it to first-time visitors. If you’re confused and want English-speaking advice, head to  one of the stations that specializes in Japan Rail Passes . Only a few trains outside the JR network allow prebooking.

There are many rail passes to choose from

Japan has a wide variety of rail passes available to overseas visitors, from the JR Pass valid across the JR network (with a few exceptions like the very fastest trains west of Tokyo) to regional and commuter passes.

The most useful is the  Japan Rail Pass in its six variants: 7/14/21 days and standard car or Green Car business-class versions. This is probably what you should get your first time in Japan if traveling outside Tokyo.

Adventurous travelers and long-term visitors, or anyone wanting to go deep in a particular region, could also consider:

• The  various regional passes from JR East , including the very useful  Hokuriku Arch Pass for traveling the slower way between Tokyo and Osaka via Kyoto and Kanazawa
• The many  JR West Passes , including the  All Area Pass for most of western Honshu
• The  four JR Kyushu passes
• The  three JR Hokkaido passes  
• The  JR Shikoku ALL SHIKOKU pass

You’ll usually need to be visiting with the “temporary visitor” stamp in your passport, and there may be a small discount (a couple of thousand yen or US$5–10) for buying it online or outside Japan. Otherwise, check out the details online or visit a large station, including those at airports: the bigger, the better, and the more likely to have English-speaking assistance.

Train etiquette means not disturbing fellow travelers

Japanese urban trains can be famously crowded during rush-hour, but by and large even Tokyo is no worse than any major global city.

Even if crowded, the etiquette on a Japanese train is to be as quiet as possible and disturb others as little as possible: headphones on quiet, very little chatting, backpack on your front, give up your seat to anyone who needs it more than you.

There is something of a stereotype of loutish tourists yapping away to their traveling companions on long-distance trains. Try not to contribute to it. Separate your trash according to the recycling bins, and always leave the seat as clean and tidy as you found it.

Eating and drinking is fine (even encouraged!) on longer distance trains. General rule: if the seats are subway-style along the sides of the car facing inwards then don’t, but feel free if the seats are airline-style facing forwards. If in doubt, follow the lead of the nearest senior Japanese person.

On-board facilities vary depending on the service

With the exception of the Joyful Train tourist excursion services, Japanese trains don’t have buffet cars any more, although you can see what they used to look like at several of Japan’s excellent railway museums. A shrinking number of trains still have a trolley service offering snacks, sometimes bentō  and a variety of drinks.

Good news, though: any station smaller than the tiniest rural halt will have a convenience store inside or nearby, which will offer bentō , hot meals, snacks, drinks and essentials. Many larger stations have restaurant complexes, while some smaller ones will have delightful smaller options like a soba or ramen shop.

Long-distance trains will usually have toilet facilities, with newer ones (including all shinkansen and some Limited Expresses) having excellent facilities for disabled passengers, people with reduced mobility and often ostomy facilities too.

Shinkansen and newer Limited Expresses offer two-pin US-style 110V charging ports, while wi-fi is also increasingly available and easy to use.

Most Japanese trains are not set up for luggage bigger than a small carry-on — and “small” here does not include a US-sized rollaboard or anything like a bicycle. On some trains you have to pre-reserve anything bigger. Take advantage of the nationwide luggage shipping services like Yamato  – known as Kuroneko Yamato for its black (kuro) cat (neko) logo – that ships larger bags for US$10–20.

These are the best seats for great views

Always take a window seat, whether you’re gazing out on Japan’s sprawling megalopolises from an urban train, watching the country fly by at 320km/h (199mph) from a shinkansen, or enjoying picturesque views from a slow rural train.

On the shinkansen, if you want the best mountain views — including the iconic Mt Fuji between Tokyo and Shizuoka — select a window E seat in standard class and a D seat in the Green Car.

Limited Expresses are wonderful for countryside views, with the  Hida from Nagoya to Toyama through the Japanese Alps and the Inaho from Niigata to Akita just two great examples.

Ask for help when navigating busy city networks

Urban trains, commuter rail and subways may have a set of complicated and confusing names with different stopping patterns, especially during rush hour, but this is no worse than figuring out what a “Watford Semi-Fast” is on London’s Tube or how skip-stop works on the subway in New York. As a visitor, just ask station staff or, in a pinch, a fellow passenger — and be prepared to get on the wrong train with a confident smile and a sense of affable adventure.

The majority of trains are wheelchair accessible

A significant majority of intercity, urban rail and subway stations in most major cities (80–90% in Tokyo  according to official numbers ) are accessible for wheelchair users, with elevators, stair-climber lifts, and ramps widespread. 

Older stations, such as the main Tokyo Station, may be complex and accessible only from certain entrances. Tactile strips to assist blind people or those with reduced visual acuity are almost everywhere. 

Accessible Japan is an excellent resource for information, while the very detailed  For Safe and Convenient Accessibility website offers route and station search as well as  contact details for further assistance. Station staff are keen to help wherever they can.

Many trains offer wheelchair positions, level boarding, with ramps available if you need them. Urban rail and subways have priority seating, and Japan developed the  Help Mark badge system for people with invisible disabilities to easily signal their needs. The badge is  free from a number of locations in Tokyo , under US$10 from Amazon Japan (consider having it delivered to your first night hotel), or you can DIY your own before leaving home.

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Japan introduces e-Visa for Indian tourists: From eligibility criteria to application process, here's a complete guide

Japan has streamlined its visa process for indian travellers with the introduction of evisas. here's your quick guide to the hassle-free application process..

Indian passport holders no longer need to carry a physical visa sticker to travel to Japan. From April 1, Japan began issuing eVisas to Indian travellers. The much-awaited Japan e-Visa programme allows anyone to apply for a visa electronically through Japan Visa Application Centres operated by VFS Global. This programme allows visitors to enter Japan for up to 90 days for tourism purposes.

Under the revised system, applicants must still submit their applications to the Visa Application Centres overseen by VFS Global, which is the same process as before. However, one notable change is in the way visas are issued. Instead of receiving traditional visa stickers affixed to their passports, successful applicants will now receive electronic visas. (Also read: Travelling to the USA for baseball game? Check these 5 best hotels near major league stadiums that can save your money )

The e-Visa process requires travellers to present a 'visa issuance notice' on their mobile device upon arrival at the airport. It's important to note that internet access is required for this process. Any format other than a digital visa issuance notice, including PDFs, photos, screenshots or printed copies, will not be considered valid.

What are the eligibility criteria

Citizens and residents of the following countries and regions are eligible: Brazil, Taiwan, Singapore, United Arab Emirates, South Africa, United Kingdom, Canada, Australia, Cambodia, Saudi Arabia, USA. Additionally, Indian citizens and foreign nationals residing in India are also included in the eligibility criteria. Residents of these countries or regions, with exceptions for those exempt from short-term visas, can apply for an eVisa through the Japan e-Visa website.

How to apply

Here's a step-by-step guide to the application process:

Step 1: To initiate the application process, individuals should access the official website of the Japan Visa Application Centre, managed by VFS Global, by visiting https://visa.vfsglobal.com/ind/en/jpn/.

Step 2: Choose the "Temporary Visitor Visa" option and review all visa requirements carefully. Download the application form, fill it out accurately, and print it. Ensure all fields are completed. Additionally, prepare photocopies of the required documents for the single-entry short-term tourism visa.

Step 3: Schedule an appointment to submit your application at the Visa Application Centre. Once booked, you'll receive a confirmation email for your appointment, which will include the letter of appointment.

Step 4: Submit your completed visa application form at the center during your appointment. Then, wait for an email notification informing you when your decision is ready for collection. You can track the progress of your visa application online using the reference number provided on your invoice or receipt. Approved applicants for the eVisa will receive an electronic visa instead of a physical visa sticker. However, travelers are required to show a "visa issuance notice" on their mobile devices upon arrival at the airport.

Step 5: At the airport check-in, display the "visa issuance notice" on your device. The travel agency will furnish a "Visa Issuance Notice" inclusive of a two-dimensional barcode. Scan the barcode using your device and input the required details to access the notice. Tap "Display" to view the electronic "visa issuance notice."

During the application process, individuals may be required to appear in person at the Japanese overseas establishment with jurisdiction over the applicant's place of residence for an interview.

• Tourist Visa

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Nightlife City Guide

Moscow: nightlife and clubs

Moscow nightlife: despite the freezing weather, the Russian capital gets hot as the sun goes down. Between discos, luxury, exaggerated parties and beautiful Russian girls, the Moscow nightlife offers everything you need for memorable nights.

Moscow nightlife

The city of Moscow is definitely one of the most interesting European cities: the stories about underground lines and secret bunkers, the architecture of its buildings, from the Kremlin to St. Basil's Cathedral, up to the Soviet style of the Seven Sisters and modern skyscrapers, make the Russian capital is a unique and fascinating city.

One of the many things that Moscow is famous for is its wild nightlife . Moscow never sleeps. If there is anything true about Russians, it is that they love to party! Despite its freezing weather, Moscow turns out to be a hot city with endless fun, hip nightclubs, extreme luxury, beautiful Russian girls and lots of booze when night falls!

In fact, in recent years, the Russian capital has definitively abandoned the gray period of communism and its inhabitants have given vent to their desire for fun. As you might expect in a city of over 12 million people, Moscow has an amazing array of nightlife options and a huge choice for all tastes, whether you are a jazz fan, hardcore clubbers or just plain old alcoholics. The nightlife in Moscow winds through a multitude of alternative and transgressive nightclubs where the watchword is to meet new people and spend a night of unbridled and uninhibited fun . In addition to the numerous discos, in the Russian capital there are also 20 casinos open until dawn. For those who want a break of intriguing relaxation, in the city of Moscow there are also numerous massage salons .

Most of Moscow's nightclubs contain a restaurant, a bar area and a nightclub (the larger ones also have bowling alleys, billiards and a casino!). Perhaps because Moscow is such a large metropolis with very cold temperatures and taxis are so expensive that the owners of the bars and clubs want to offer their customers an all in one place for night entertainment.

So, in other words, Moscow is not the best city in the world for bar-crawling, especially bearing in mind that these multipurpose venues often charge entrance, but rather it is better to carefully choose the club where to spend the night.

For a quieter and more sober evening, head for an evening stroll along the Via Arbat or the Red Square to be fascinated by the lights of the city and the grandeur of the buildings, and admire the shops and street artists. An alternative to experience Moscow's nightlife is to spend an evening of lyric, ballet or opera. The Russian capital is home to around sixty theaters, the most famous of which is the world-renowned Bolshoi Theater (Theater Square, 1, Moscow).

Moscow nightlife districts

Moscow's nightlife is not concentrated in a single district but is scattered throughout the city. However, there are areas with a greater concentration of bars and nightclubs .

The Krasnij Oktjabr (Russian for "Red October") complex, a red brick building located on the island in the center of the Moscow River that once housed a chocolate factory, is dotted with numerous trendy nightclubs and offers spectacular views of the river and the symbolic places of the Russian capital. This is where the most glamorous parties in Moscow take place, there are numerous bars, restaurants and art galleries.

Other neighborhoods with good nightlife are the old manufactory area near the Russian government building which houses some bars, the area around the Trubnaya metro and around Kuznetsky Most , while the Kurskaya groups the clubs with electronic music. We can also mention the area of ​​the Patriarch's ponds, an area that is teeming with quiet bars.

Clubs and discos in Moscow

The crowd is very mixed. Students, young professionals, techno lovers, tourists all gather at Propaganda. Everyone comes to enjoy the music and have fun. It is one of the few clubs where the dancefloor dominates and there are hardly any tables, apart from a few that overlook the entire space. Propaganda is a restaurant until midnight. You can come earlier for dinner and stay for dancing. After midnight, the staff clears the tables from the dance floor and the whole place turns into a club. The place is different from the usual Moscow restaurant / club hybrids, however, because the atmosphere changes completely from "relaxed restaurant" to "underground electro club". Not to be missed.

There are more areas with different music. In the first area, expect a mix of traditional music and Russian pop songs. In the second, slightly larger area, there is live Russian pop music until 2am. After that it is mostly some kind of electronic music. The club is frequented by beautiful Russian girls around 18-25 years old, stunning students or models, and of course there is a good deal of young Russians, middle-aged men and foreign tourists trying their luck! Unlike many other nightclubs, the Icon is a pure nightclub and not a club turned into a restaurant. In any case, if you like to party in a big club and want to savor the typical Moscow nightlife , this is the perfect solution.

The crowd is the same as in other high-end Moscow clubs. Men are rarely under the age of 35 and are committed to giving the impression that money is not an issue. The women are amazing even by Moscow nightlife - if you want to meet Moscow's super models, this is the place! Ideal if you want to toast with the Moscow elite.

The club is located on two floors. The lower floor is mainly frequented by people hanging out at the bar and is good for conversation. The narrow stairs that perfectly fit the student atmosphere of the club take you to the main floor where the real party takes place, complete with a bedlam and girls dancing on the bar counter. In the summer months there is also an outdoor terrace. The place is always crowded and bouncers unnecessarily queue people - having a table or someone inside can be the key to skipping the queue. Otherwise, you might end up waiting half an hour or more. Come early or come back late if you want to avoid the crowds.

The crowd that frequents this club is quite mixed. People are less trendy and more underground. The place is suitable for afterhours, so most people arrive from 3am onwards.

Immediately upon entering, you will have the feeling that you have come to the local high school graduation prom instead of a real Moscow nightclub. There is no real interior design, but basically just a large hall with a stage and a bar. The crowd is almost entirely made up of teenagers and young people. Not many of the teens speak English, but it probably doesn't matter after all the alcohol. The music ranges from Russian pop and hip-hop to the most famous international hits. Perfect if you want to party and drink alcohol in one of the cheapest clubs in Moscow .

Here too, it's full of beautiful girls and it's also a great place to hit them off, as those who come here are notoriously more approachable. The advice is to be very firm with the girls who approach and to make your intentions clear. If you want to be 100% sure to get in, come at 2am when the club is still uncrowded.

Oblaka plays a mix of Russian and international pop music. Occasionally, as in many other clubs, there are performances by Russian pop singers. As is often the case in these types of clubs, the music and DJ are not the best but the guests don't seem to care.

Moscow's bars and pubs

The bar looks similar but still distinctly different than regular Moscow posh clubs. Most of the people who frequent this place are over 25, and you can find everything from young professionals to creative types to self-proclaimed models. Great if you want to see the "real Muscovites" celebrate without the overblown flashes of wealth. The proposed music is a strange mix of old and new commercial songs and Russian pop.

Downstairs is a large open space that opens its doors wide in the summer. The interior is rustic, yet elegant, with wooden furnishings and plenty of seating. The interior combined with Ugolek's popularity creates a crowded yet intimate atmosphere, especially on weekends. People come to chat, drink and eat. The upstairs bar has a more welcoming atmosphere. It is smaller, with soft lighting and armchairs to be able to relax. On weekends there is a DJ who mixes electronic music and transforms the bar into a relaxed place, ideal for the pre-party.

Map of clubs, pubs and bars in Moscow

Related posts:.

• The best massage salons in Moscow
• St. Petersburg: nightlife and clubs
• The best cities to celebrate New Year's Eve
• Brussels: nightlife and clubs

The travel guide for nocturnal animals

Moscow City Sightseeing Tour (Japanese Guide) provided by Mos-Tour

The Best Photos of the British Royal Family on Easter 2024

King Charles and Queen Camilla were joined by a small group of Windsors at church today.

Every item on this page was chosen by a Town & Country editor. We may earn commission on some of the items you choose to buy.

While it's unclear whether or not the modern day Windsors participate in an Easter egg hunt on the grounds of the estate, royals of centuries past have enjoyed the tradition; In 1833, 14-year-old Princess Victoria (the future Queen Victoria), wrote in a letter , "Mama did some pretty painted & ornamented eggs, & we looked for them." Years later, she and her husband Prince Albert continued this tradition for their children; in a journal entry in 1869, Queen Victoria wrote , "After breakfast, the children, as usual on this day looked for Easter eggs."

This year's Easter gathering will look different from previous years , as Prince William and Kate Middleton won't be in attendance with their children following the news of Kate's cancer diagnosis , and due to King Charles's cancer diagnosis, it was a much smaller group.

Here, see all the best photos of King Charles, Queen Camilla, and the rest of the royal family in Windsor on Easter 2024:

King Charles and Queen Camilla appeared to be in good spirits as they arrived at the Easter Mattins Service.

Queen Camilla opted for a green dress and matching hat.

Sophie, Duchess of Edinburgh and Prince Edward, Duke of Edinburgh smiled as they arrived at church.

The Duchess looked lovely in purple.

James, Earl of Wessex was the only member of the younger generation of royals in attendance. (He's 16, and the youngest of the late Queen Elizabeth's grandchildren .)

Sarah Ferguson, the Duchess of York, hasn't attended the Easter Mattins Service since 1991 , before her divorce from Prince Andrew, but was there today.

Prince Andrew joined his family at church.

Princess Anne waved to the gathered onlookers.

Anne was joined by her husband, Sir Timothy Laurence. Unlike other years, the royals mainly arrived by car this year.

Queen Camilla and King Charles smile as they depart from the service.

The Queen received a festive bouquet on the way out.

The King even greeted well-wishers.

Emily Burack (she/her) is the Senior News Editor for Town & Country, where she covers entertainment, culture, the royals, and a range of other subjects. Before joining T&C, she was the deputy managing editor at Hey Alma , a Jewish culture site. Follow her @emburack on Twitter and Instagram .

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