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How to Plan Your Trip to Japan 2024/2025 — 7 Easy Steps

Japan, being a bucketlist trip destination for many travelers, especially attracts families with teenagers and couples. Besides nature, history, and modernity, Japan's unique and lively culture of sumo , samurai , anime, and sushi continues to draw curious visitors from all over the world.

In this article, we'll explain everything you need to know for planning a trip to Japan, including how to budget, when you should visit, top places to go, how to get around, and more.

• 1. Do I Need a Visa to Visit Japan?
• 2. Top 7 Places to Visit in Japan
• 3. Best Time to Visit Japan
• 4. How Much Does a Japanese Vacation Cost?
• 5. How Many Days to Stay in Japan?
• 6. Accommodation in Japan - Ryokans
• 7. How to Get to and Around Japan?

Do I Need a Visa to Visit Japan?

Nationals of many countries are exempt from needing a visa to enter Japan, including the United States, Canada, the United Kingdom, and Australia. Most travelers can stay in Japan without a visa for 90 days.

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7 Top Places to Visit in Japan

With our experience traveling in Japan, we know it can be difficult to narrow down where you want to visit, in a place that has so many incredible destinations. Below are some of our favorite destinations according to our experience of traveling and planning holidays in Japan.

1) Tokyo: Modernity & Japanese Anime

As the booming and modern capital city, Tokyo has a lot to offer by way of foods, shopping malls, temples, museums, and skybars, as well as the iconic Mount Fuji.

Beyond the representative attractions, we can arrange a variety hand-picked activities for you to enrich your experiences. For example, you can make sushi at a local home and enjoy it as your lunch and learn about the legendary samurai warriors by wearing a samurai costume.

Many people come to Japan because their children, especially teenagers, love it. Tokyo is a great place to meet your children's interests in anime with a variety of theme parks such as J World, the Pokemon Center, and Tokyo Disneyland , sure to captivate their attention.

Check more details about  Plan Your First Trip to Tokyo >>>

2) Kyoto: Ancient Temples & Geisha

Kyoto has a lot of prominent ancient and historical sites to explore. This city has some special and authentic experiences you should not miss.

Kyoto is home to the striking Fushimi Inari Shrine , which featured in the film Memoirs of a Geisha and is famous for its countless vermilion torii gates. Stay at a cozy ryokan with old-style tatami bedrooms to experience tradition Japanese accommodation.

Walking around the Gion District with kimonos, along lantern-lined cobblestone streets, will make you feel like you are on a trip back in time.

In Kyoto, you are never too far from the natural side of Japan. Meander through the lush bamboo groves in Arashiyama or admire cherry blossoms in lots of famous places.

Get more ideas about  Plan a Trip to Kyoto >>>

3) Hakone: Ryokans & Hot Springs

Known all over the country for its picturesque beauty and natural hot springs , Hakone is one of the most popular destinations in Japan.

The Hakone region has more than a dozen springs that provide natural hot water. These springs are surrounded by ryokans where you can stay, eat delicious kaiseki meals, and bathe in the healing waters .

When not luxuriating in the relaxing hot springs, you can explore this sleepy undeveloped town located on the shores of Lake Ashinoko, with Mount Fuji in the background .

4) Nara: Deer Park

Nara is an ancient Japanese city less than an hour from Kyoto and Osaka . Most travelers come to Nara because of the Nara Park (often referred to by locals as Deer Park ). It is home to over a thousand free-roaming deer which can be seen throughout the park and even fed in some areas.

5) Hiroshima: Learn the value of peace

Hiroshima, a thriving cosmopolitan city in Japan, captivates families with its blend of fascinating history, innovative technology, and natural beauty, making it an ideal destination for teens.

Families can engage in enriching experiences at the Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park and Museum , where impactful stories from World War II are shared. Further, the combination of history and technology engages teens at astonishing places like Mazda Zoom-Zoom Stadium or the Mazda Museum.

6) Takayama and Shirakawa-go: Rural Countryside

Takayama is a city in the mountainous Hida region of the country, a great place for escaping from the country's larger cities and relaxing for a few days in the rural countryside . You can enjoy exploring the well-preserved townhouses, savoring delicious Hida beef, and visiting local sake brewery for a mellow sake.

After exploring Takayama, many visitors like to go to Shirakawa-go to see its near-perfectly preserved Old Town. It is famous for its traditional gassho-zukuri farmhouses , some of which are more than 250 years old. In the winter months from January to February, the farmhouses are illuminated at night, creating a charming and attractive wintry lighting scene that draws in lots of travelers.

7) Kanazawa: Ancient City During the Edo Period

Kanazawa is an ancient Japanese city that during the Edo period used to be home to one of the most powerful clans in the country. Today, Kanazawa is a great place to visit for anyone interested in the ancient culture of the country .

Because Kanazawa wasn't destroyed by air raids during WWII, it's one of the few areas left with so many surviving ancient districts .

Kanazawa is also a good place for a close look into the life of samurais and geishas.

Best Time to Visit Japan

Japan can be visited year-round, though there are benefits and drawbacks of every season.

• For the most comfortable weather , March to May are the best months to travel . Spring is one of the most popular times to visit Japan because of the beautiful, comfortable weather and the arrival of the cherry blossoms .
• For the lowest prices and less crowds, visit Japan from June to August . Many people choose not to visit Japan during these months due to the high heat (average 32℃ (90℉) and humidity, which means that standard prices for accommodation and flights are often lower. Summer is the festival season in Japan , offering you an opportunity to experience multiple holidays and firework-shows in another country. Get more ideas about planning a summer trip to Japan .
• For cool and dry weather and less crowds, September to November is a wise travel season . Visit Japan during this period to enjoy the changing colors of the leaves, turning brilliant orange and red, in the countryside near Kyoto and Tokyo. Autumn is also the best time to visit some of Japan's best national parks, such as Mount Fuji and the Five Lakes.
• For snow scenery and skiing , come to Japan from December to February . Winter in Japan is the best time to stay in a ryokan , with a natural hot spring. Nothing beats bathing in the hot pools surrounded by snow and quiet forests. Christmas/New Year holiday is one of the busiest times. Hotels and flights are easily booked up. Be sure to plan ahead and make reservations in advance. Let us know your interests and requirements , and we'll take care of everything.

How Much Does a Japanese Vacation Cost?

Japan keeps up with Europe both in livelihood and service standards, which means travel in Japan costs more than in China or in southeast Asia countries. US$350-500 per person per day is the typical cost for a private tour with 4 star hotels based on a family of 3-5 people . This includes a private guide, private car, full-day itinerary, tickets for attractions, and a local 4-star hotel. 

March to May are the busiest travel months in Japan, which means higher cost for travel and more crowds than the rest of the whole year . Booking flights and hotels in advance are necessary. To reserve a professional tour guide for your dream trip in Japan, you're suggested booking a Japan tour at least 6 months ahead of your departure date.

Some Japan tour packages come with public transport (mainly subway) to save some cost. This is an option for travelers willing to walk 20,000+ steps per day . For a family group or a retired couple, a private tour with a private vehicle is highly recommended for a more hassle-free experience to maximize the enjoyment.

Our Japan expert will customize your trip based on your requirements, and make the most of your money.

How Many Days to Stay in Japan?

We suggest you take at least a week for your first trip to see a spectrum of the highlights in the top two cities.

• 3 days in Tokyo
• 3 days in Kyoto
• 1 day in Osaka

To discover more of Japan and popular destinations, like picturesque Hakone and Takayama , you will need two or three more days.

Suggested itinerary ideas for you:

• 8 Days in Japan
• 10 Days in Japan
• 12 Days in Japan
• One Week in Japan
• 2 Weeks in Japan
• 3 Weeks in Japan

Here are three well-organized Japan itineraries ideal for holidays of three popular lengths (9, 14, and 17 days) , each offering plenty of fun hands-on activities. We could customize the itinerary based on your requests, and we could also reserve some free days for you to rest and relax or do some exploring on your own.

1) 9-Day Classic Route: Major Highlights of Japan and a Ryokan Experience

• Tokyo - Hakone - Kyoto - Osaka

This itinerary covers the main highlights of Japan: experience its old-vibe in Asakusa, visit the samurai museum in Tokyo, try on kimonos for a memorable photo and participate in a classical tea ceremony in Kyoto, relax in a ryokan with onsen in Hakone, and sample street food in Osaka.

• Days 1–3: Tokyo (sushi-making, discover samurai, Meiji Shrine, anime, and Disneyland)
• Days 4–5: Hakone (stay at a ryokan with an onsen)
• Days 6–8: Kyoto (geishas, Fushimi Inari Shrine, sample sake and Kaiseki, and feed deer in Nara)
• Day 9: Osaka (Dotonbori district and Osaka Castle)

2) 14-Day Private Family Route: Learning Through Fun

• Tokyo – Takayama – Hiroshima – Kyoto

With this itinerary, you could visit the major attractions of Japan's cities and breathe in the fresh mountain air . Experience anime elements and have a full view of the city at Tokyo Tower in Tokyo, enter a traditional folk village in Takayama, cherish peace at Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park, stay at a cozy ryokan, stroll through the bamboo groves in Kyoto, and have fun at Universal Studios in Osaka.

• Days 1–3: Tokyo (Meiji Shrine, Tsukiji Market, Pokemon Center, and Akihabara)
• Days 4–5: Takayama (Hida Folk Village, sample sake and Hida beef)
• Days 6–7: Hiroshima and Miyajima (Peace Memorial Park and the 'Floating Torii Gate')
• Days 8–11: Kyoto (geisha, ryokan, Nijo Castle, and feed deer in Nara)
• Days 12–14: Osaka (Cup Noodle Museum, Super Nintendo World, and Universal Studios)

3) 17-Day Japan Itinerary: Hands-on Experiences and Outdoor Activities

• Tokyo – Kawaguchiko – Karuizawa – Nagoya – Kyoto – Osaka

To have an unforgettable Japan journey, you and your family or partner can take a wonderful trip with the following experiences: immerse yourself in a samurai experience in Tokyo, take a light hike close to nature in Karuizawa, and have fun in lovely Ghibli Park or full-of-technology Nagoya City Science Museum in Nagoya, have a geisha dinner andspend a cozy night at a ryokan in Kyoto, and visit outstanding Osaka Castle and have fun in Universal Studios in Osaka.

Here is the itinerary for your inspiration:

• Days 1–4: Tokyo (Meiji Shrine, sushi-making, ninja experience, samurai and Tokyo Tower)
• Days 5–6: Lake Kawaguchi ( Mount Fuji and biking)
• Days 7–8 Karuizawa (national park and light hiking)
• Days 9–11: Nagoya (Ghibli Park and Toyota Commemorative Museum of Industry and Technology)
• Days 12–14: Kyoto (geisha, ryokan, Kinkakuji Temple, Arashiyama, and feed deer in Nara)
• Days 15–17: Osaka (Cup Noodle Museum, Osaka Castle, Universal Studios and Super Nintendo World theme park)

Accommodation in Japan - Ryokan

While there is plenty of accommodation available in Japan, with different standards, our favorite is the ryokan . A ryokan is a traditional Japanese inn that will make you feel simultaneously comfortable and relaxed. Its floors are usually made of rice- or bamboo-straw. You sleep on traditional mattresses on the floor, and eat fresh kaiseki -style dinners.

Ryokans are the essence of comfort. Members of staff are often dressed in kimonos, they provide excellent service, the food is top-tier, and many ryokans are located on natural hot springs that have waters with healing properties.

The ryokans with hot springs in Hakone are particularly famous , with their Japanese western-style rooms and atmosphere of total peace and harmony.

Cannot decide which ryokan to choose? Submit an inquiry for a best suitable choice for your family. You could also get more ideas about How to Plan a First-Time Family Trip to Japan >>>

How to Get to and Around Japan?

Getting to japan.

Most flights from international starting points such as Europe, North America, Australia, and New Zealand, land at Narita International Airport in Tokyo or Kansai International Airport in Osaka . These airports are conveniently close to their corresponding cities and are international hubs for some of Japan's leading airlines.

For the best prices, we advise buying tickets at least 6 weeks in advance. You can contact us for the best suitable travel route recommendation.

Getting Around Japan

The famous Japanese bullet train, or Shinkansen , provides an easy and quick way to travel across the whole country, without the risk of delays or the hassle of getting to an airport. Most cities are conveniently connected by Shinkansen bullet trains , such as the two and a half-hour journey from Tokyo to Kyoto. Each shinkansen line has different types of train, which customers can choose from.

The one downside of traveling by train is that there is often little space for luggage larger than a carry-on suitcase. Many hotels do, however, provide the service of sending your luggage on to your next hotel.

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Jessie was amazing ! Everything from her level of English to her understanding of what we valued .

We had a good time exploring the city with Selinda!

Our guide lele is a wealth of information, Lele is very professional and very attentive to our needs. Lele is amazing. Lele got everything spot on. It probably helps that Guilin is a brilliant place to visit so Lele has great material to work with but that doesn't take anything away from how much Lele helped make it a great trip.

Our guide for Beijing was super knowledgeable and experienced and able to help us to achieve as much as we wanted within the time given. We had a fun time guided by him as he is also super humorous and you can see how he interacts with the vendors and people whom he comes by. Thank you for a very enjoyable time in Beijing and accommodating to all our needs!

Our China Highlight guide. Michael, was attentive, thoughtful and knowledgeable. He narrated many interesting historical events about Chengdu while touring around the city and having afternoon tea with us. He was thoughtful to provide us with snacks during long hikes at Leshan or walks around the city.

She was very flexible and added extra time when we needed it and we felt extremely well taken care of. She also chose the best restaurants for us,

Our tour guide Helen, was excellent, she was very kind, professional and passionate for her work and she also loves Pandas! She will take you to take the best panda photos and to know more about Chengdu city. Our tour was great, she took us to all our destinations always with the best spots: Temples, pagodas, famous streets, theaters, pandas...you name it! Everything was great.

He picked up our pre-booked boat/other excursions tickets so we were able to avoid all the long lines and chaos. He is knowledgeable of the places we visited, courteous, fun to travel with and well-versed in Chinese classics.

Tom is the guide that will take you to where no other guide will. We pushed for the experience and Tom and the team delivered more than what we could have ever asked for. His English speaking ability and his Chinese history knowledge is second to none.

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The Ultimate Japan Itinerary for First-Timers: From 1 to 3 Weeks

I’ve yet to meet a traveler who didn’t love their time in Japan . It’s just one of those countries that everyone loves. How can you not? The food is carefully crafted and delicious; the history and culture are both rich and long; the landscape breathtaking; and the people super friendly and polite.

Japan remains one of my favorite countries. No matter how long I visit, it’s never enough. I always leave wanting more.

But the country always seems forbidding to many travelers. It definitely still has that “exotic” stereotype that makes people think it’s hard to travel around.

Where should you go? What should you include in your Japan itinerary? Should you buy a JR Pass to help you get around?

To help you out, here are a few suggested itineraries based on my years of visiting that will ensure you see the best sites on your Japan trip — as well as get off the beaten path and get a real sense of Japanese culture!

Table of Contents

Japan Itinerary: Know Before You Go

Japan itinerary: one week, japan itinerary: two weeks, japan itinerary: three weeks.

Just be sure to get one BEFORE you go as you cannot purchase them on arrival. For more information on the pass, including how much they cost and how you can get one, read this blog post . It has everything you need to know!

Mobile Data in Japan In Japan, English isn’t widely spoken (especially outside of the major cities) so having access to the internet is vital for checking addresses, using translation apps, and looking up things to see and do. The easiest way to get data is through an international eSIM for Japan .

An eSIM allows you to access mobile data via a QR code so you can have internet wherever you are, without worrying about physical SIM cards or roaming charges. This will save you a lot of time and hassle when using apps like Google Maps, Google Translate, Instagram, and YouTube. It will also come in handy for checking menus at restaurants (since they are rarely in english).  

Day 1 & 2: Tokyo Chances are you’ll be starting your trip in Tokyo , since it’s home to the country’s biggest international airport. If your trip is seven days long, activate your JR Pass right away, so that you can take advantage of the free JR trains that run through the city.

While you could easily spend your entire week in Tokyo and not get bored, here are some of the highlights:

Visit the fish market – Toyosu is the world’s largest fish market. The daily auction here powers much of the world’s sushi supply, and it is truly an absolute must-see! You can go for free, but food and drink tours of the Tsukiji Outer Market are available for around 14,500 JPY.

See Sensoji Temple – Sensoji is beautifully painted and sits in a scenic spot near a five-story pagoda and the famous Kaminari Gate. There’s a huge statue of Kannon, the goddess of mercy, inside the main hall. It’s always busy but is worth seeing with your own eyes. The temple is free to visit.

Drink in Golden Gai – This alleyway of back-street bars is a lively place to drink at night and has a bit of a red-light-district feel to it. It is not to be missed. Even if you don’t drink, be sure to wander about. Arigato Tours offers tours of the area where you’ll learn about the neighborhood while stopping to sample Japanese classics like sushi, yakitori, and ramen. Tours are 23,900 JPY and include a drink and dishes at four food stops.

Visit the Imperial Palace – The home of the emperor of Japan was built in the 15th century, and while you can’t go inside, the palace and its grounds are a peaceful place for a stroll.

Watch a sumo match – If you’re in town at the right time, this is a must-do . Tickets sell out quickly, so book early. Expect to pay around 11,000-13,000 JPY.

If you have more time, consider taking a day trip to Kamakura to see the giant Buddha statue (Daibutsu). It is over 13 meters (42 feet) tall and dates back to the 13th century. The journey is around 90 minutes each way — and free with the JR Pass !

For delicious food, some of my favorite bars and restaurants include: Uogashi Nihon-Ichi (Standing Sushi Bar), Nemuro Hanamaru KITTE Marunouchi, Motodane, Tokyo Whisky Library, Ichiran Shibuya, and Uohama.

WHERE TO STAY IN TOKYO : Hostel Chapter Two – A small, family-run hostel not far from Skytree Station in Asakusa. I really like the shared kitchen and common room, as there’s a real social feel to them.

With its beauty come lots of crowds though, so try to visit outside of the busy summer months. Even with lots of tourists, though, the city is still magnificent and has a lot to offer. Some things to see and do that you shouldn’t miss are the following:

Visit the Golden Pavilion – This famous (and picturesque) temple dates to the 1950s, when a monk burned down the previous temple (from the 14th century) while trying to commit suicide. It’s a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the most-visited destinations in the country!

Explore Gion – Gion is the historic geisha district. Stroll along the main street and see ochaya s (teahouses where geishas entertain), the small shops, and the many restaurants that line the district’s streets. You can take a walking tour of Gion for 1,800 JPY.

Wander in the Bamboo Forest – For a relaxing break, head to Arashiyama and let the calm swaying of the forest envelop you. Located near the famous Tenryu-ji temple, it’s one of the most beautiful places in the entire country. Arrive early if you want to enjoy it without the crowds. Kyoto Bike Tours offers an early-bird bike tour for a guided way to do just that.

Admire Ryoan-ji temple – This is my favorite temple in Kyoto. It’s a UNESCO World Heritage Site and home to a mausoleum that houses the remains of seven emperors. The traditional rock and sand garden is considered one of the best in the country.

For a half-day trip, you can also visit Nara. It’s a small city just one hour from 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 fires, as well as World War II). But 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. A guided half-day walking tour that includes all of Nara’s highlights as well as a traditional lunch is 11,500 JPY.

While you’re here, don’t miss a visit to Todai-ji. It’s the world’s largest wooden building and is home to a 16-meter (52-foot) Buddha statue. It was built in 738 CE and is now a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Admission is 600 JPY.

WHERE TO STAY IN KYOTO : Backpacker Hostel K’s House – A fun, social backpacker hostel in a great central location. The rooftop terrace is a cool spot to hangout and meet other travelers after a day of exploring.

Don’t miss Osaka Castle though. While it’s not the original (this version dates to 1931), it’s nevertheless an impressive sight. It’s home to a small but insightful museum and an observation deck that offers some picturesque city views.

And be sure to stroll down Dotonbori (ideally at night), the main street, which is lined with restaurants, stores, and tons of neon lights and signs. A guided walking tour that includes Dotonbori as well adjacent neighborhoods is 6,500 JPY.

Today, Hiroshima is thriving . Don’t miss the Atomic Bomb Museum, which depicts the history of the city before and after that fateful day. It has photos, artifacts, videos, and information about the effect of radiation on the population. It’s a sobering experience but one that should not be missed.

If you feel like getting out of town afterward, head to Miyajima , an island that offers a place to hike and enjoy nature. You can also take a cable car to the peak of the mountain to take in the view. A one-way ferry ride to the island takes 10 minutes and is free to JR Pass holders.

WHERE TO STAY IN HIROSHIMA : Roku Hostel – A cozy, small hostel with a rustic atmosphere and design. It feels like you’re staying with a friend here, and the beds are super comfy too.

If you like history, don’t miss the Hida Minzoku Mura Folk Village, home to a collection of traditional thatch-roof houses that you can enter to further immerse yourself in the country’s past.

This city (and region, really) is famous for its Hida beef, a high-fat variety that’s even better than any A5 Wagyu you might have. It just melts in your mouth. Be sure to have some while you are here!

The Japanese Alps are not far from here as well, so if you love hiking and want to extend your time in the region, head to Kamikochi for a day hike or overnight trip. It’s just an hour away and has both easy and moderate trails, which are open from April to November. Hiking trails can also be found in Hakusan National Park (also just one hour away by car).

One of the more unique temples in Japan is here too: Ninja (Myoryuji) Temple. While the temple wasn’t home to actual ninjas, Myoryuji was built as a defensive structure (strict laws forbade local lords from building defenses, so they were hidden in the temple to circumvent the rules). These include hidden rooms, secret tunnels, and a maze of staircases and halls to confuse enemies.

If you need a break from exploring cities, Hakusan National Park, home to Mount Haku, one of the three holy mountains, is just an hour south of town.

If you’re here in April, there are incredible cherry blossom displays that are famous in the region. And, just like Takayama, Matsumoto is close to the Japanese Alps, so you’re just a stone’s throw from some of the best hiking in the country.

There are tons of hotels (both modern and traditional) that have their own hot springs (often both indoors and outdoors). It’s the perfect place to wrap up a trip, relax, and take in the views.

In addition to getting a copious amount of R&R, be sure to ride the cable car up the mountain for even more amazing views. The area is surrounded by craters from an inactive volcano that erupted 80,000 years ago (not to be confused with nearby Mount Fuji, which is an active volcano), and you’ll find lots of vendors at the top selling eggs cooked in the sulfurous waters. It’s said the eggs prolong one’s life by seven years, so feel free to give them a try!

If you prefer to hike up instead, the trail is open between July and September, with the trek taking anywhere from 5 to 12 hours, depending on your level of fitness. Typically, hikers leave at night in order to arrive at the summit by dawn. There are little shops along the way that sell food and even beds you can rent in advance if you want to split your journey up. Just make sure you do your research and prepare in advance as it’s a tough hike!

If you really want to play tourist, you can also ride a mock pirate ship around the lake for more views of the mountains, and Mount Fuji in particular.

Full-day tours around Hakone that include all the main sights cost 14,800 JPY.

WHERE TO STAY IN HAKONE : Hotel Green Plaza – With gorgeous views of Mount Fuji, a huge buffet dinner (with both Western and Japanese options), and a private onsen where you can relax and enjoy the view, this is one of the best places to stay in Hakone if you want value but don’t want to break the bank.  

Using the suggestions above, here’s how I would organize your itinerary:

• Days 1-3 : Tokyo
• Day 4 : Mount Fuji or Hakone
• Day 5 : Takayama
• Days 6 & 7 : Kanazawa
• Days 8 & 9 : Matsumoto
• Days 10-12 : Kyoto
• Days 13 & 14 : Osaka
• Days 15 & 16 : Hiroshima

If you do want to spend a few hours in Hakodate, don’t miss the Morning Market, where you can find lots of fresh seafood. You can also visit Fort Goryokaku, the first “Western”-style fort in the country.

Be sure to stop in at the local Beer Museum too, owned by Sapporo Breweries (the oldest beer company in the country). It showcases the history of beer in Japan and how the business got its start. If you’re a whiskey fan, stop by The Bow Bar, home to some rare (and expensive) whiskeys and considered one of the best such bars in the world.

What I love about the city is its location. This region has some of the best hiking in the country. There are plenty of hills and mountains, offering options for both day hikes as well as overnight trips. Some highlights include Mount Me-akan, Mount Asahim, Mount Mashu, and Nishibetsu-dake. For the best views of the city, head to Mount Moiwayama. It’s just a 30-60-minute hike to the top, though there is a cable car you can take as well.

And if you’re visiting in the winter, hit the slopes! There are over a hundred ski resorts in Hokkaido. You can rent skis (or a snowboard) for around 10,000-18,000 JPY. Lift prices are usually 4,000-6,000 JPY per day. In the winter, don’t miss the annual Sapporo Snow Festival. It’s held every February and draws over two million visitors. There are ice sculptures, igloos, live music, and delicious local foods on offer.

Additionally, be sure to take a day trip to Otaru, where you’ll find some of the freshest uni in the whole country (this is the main area where the famed Hokkaido uni is caught). Go hungry and visit the markets, stalls, and shops around there.

WHERE TO STAY IN SAPPORO : Waya Hostel – This is a laid-back, colorful hostel with a social atmosphere that makes meeting people a breeze. It has a homey, DIY feel and is perfect for budget travelers looking for a no-frills place to crash.

There is a ton to see and do in Japan , and you could easily spend another month here and still just scratch the surface (we didn’t even get to Okinawa and the islands!). And while these itineraries are a bit fast-paced, Japan isn’t cheap, so budget travelers need to move around the country quickly to avoid breaking the bank.

But no matter how long you visit, you won’t be disappointed. Japan is an amazing, beautiful, and unique destination that I never get tired of visiting. While it’s not as affordable as its neighbors, there are still plenty of ways to save money , and it’s definitely worth spending the time (and money) visiting. You won’t be disappointed!

Just make sure to get your Japan Rail Pass before you go!  

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 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, reading, and packing lists; and much, much more!

Got a comment on this article? Join the conversation on Facebook , Instagram , or Twitter and share your thoughts!

Disclosure: Please note that some of the links above may be affiliate links, and at no additional cost to you, I earn a commission if you make a purchase. I recommend only products and companies I use and the income goes to keeping the site community supported and ad free.

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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.

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

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.

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

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

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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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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.

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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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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.

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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?

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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!! ♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥

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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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Planning a trip to Japan: Best Tips for 2024

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Planning a trip to Japan is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to explore one of the most fascinating and unique destinations in the world. My husband and I have had the pleasure of visiting Japan multiple times and each time, we fell in love with it all over again. We are now grateful to be living in Japan, and we couldn’t be any happier.

As you might have seen on our site, we help others organise their perfect Japan trip by organising self-guided tours . We’re already helped a thousand first time visitors to Japan, so we really know all the tips and tricks to have a wonderful time.

The perfect trip to Japan needs to be fairly all rounded, which means you will want to ensure that you get to see the main highlights, you experience the ultramodern and the super traditional, eat various Japanese foods , try some street food and get enough souvenirs to remember this wonderful trip.

From my experience, the best time to start planning is around 6 months in advance, but we’ve had clients with much less time and it was still brilliant. I will explain why timing is important and when it’s good to start as early as possible. I will share everything that I learnt to make sure your planning turns into a super smooth holiday to Japan.

Table of Contents

When to start planning, when to visit, how long to visit, trip to japan cost, where to visit, 6-12 months in advance, 3 months in advance, 2 months in advance, 1 month in advance, 1 week in advance, tips for your visit, frequently asked questions.

I put together a timeline for your Japan trip to make it easier to understand when to start and why. My experience is that you should start planning at least 6 months in advance. This will give you enough time to book great rates for flights and hotels.

The general rule of thumb for Japan is that the earlier you book, the cheaper your accommodation prices.

The great news is that Japan is an all year round destination with four distinctive seasons. This means that you can visit at any time of the year and each season will have something unique and beautiful to offer.

The most popular times to visit (and the most expensive) Spring and Autumn. Summer and Winter are considered shoulder seasons when prices are much lower.

Spring (March – May) – Spring in Japan is by far the most popular time to visit, and also the most expensive. Well priced accommodation usually books up at least 6 months in advance.

Summer (June – August) – Summers in Japan are often hot and humid. This is the rainy season in Japan, which often times can bring typhoons. Summers in Japan are cheaper to visit. It’s a beautiful season full of flowers and green nature, but you do need to be fine dealing with intense heat.

Autumn (September – November) – Autumns are mild with long sunny days and cooler evenings. It’s a beautiful time to visit, especially if you time your arrival for the kōyō (viewing of colourful foliage) which has been a tradition in Japan for centuries. An autumn highlight in Japan are the ginkgo trees that turn their leaves into a vibrant yellow. Tokyo is an excellent place to appreciate the ginkgo trees in the autumn.

Winters (December – February) – Winters are cold, and it usually snows, especially in mountainous areas and in Hokkaido. Temperatures are milder in cities like Tokyo or southern islands like Kyushu or Okinawa. Winter is the most affordable time to visit the country , with fewer tourists and the best price deals.

The climbing season for Mount Fuji is from early July to early September.

Outside Sakura season, Japan will be packed during national holidays: Christmas and New Year (Dec 22 – Jan 4), during Golden Week (April 29 – May 5), and during the Obon Festival, in mid-August.

If it’s your first visit to Japan, a two-week trip is perfect. This allows you to explore major cities like Tokyo, Kyoto, Osaka, along with day excursions to places like Hakone, Nikko, Kamakura and Nara. You’ll have the chance to enjoy top attractions, engage in fantastic activities, savour both traditional and modern Japanese cuisine, and experience travelling on the high-speed shinkansen trains. Along the way, you’ll discover a blend of UNESCO World Heritage sites and breathtaking Japanese gardens.

Some people go for an initial 7 days in Japan to see if they like the country. In such a short period of time you can only see Tokyo and Kyoto really, maybe with a day trip to Nara. These visitors almost always end up taking another, longer trip to Japan.

For your ease, I put together a resource with all my Japan itineraries .

Based on the tours people book on our site, the estimated total cost for 2 weeks in Japan is $5,530, £4,400 for 2 people.

This works out to around $200, £157 per person per day, and it includes flights, accommodation, transportation, food, activities, souvenirs, and other small expenses.

This is a for a medium-budget holiday with some a kaiseki dinner, top attractions and occasional splurges on indulgent souvenirs.

Of course, every trip is personal, and you can choose to enjoy Japan on a stricter budget or splurge on luxury accommodation. We put together a comprehensive budget guide to give you a good idea of how much does a trip to Japan cost .

You will want to see as many places as possible during your visit, but without feeling rushed or compromising on the quality of your holiday. I have complete guides for many of the most popular Japanese cities .

We recommend staying in Tokyo, Kyoto, and Hiroshima and taking day trips from there.

Tokyo – Tokyo is the ultra-modern capital of Japan and my favourite place in the world, so I’m a little biased here. But in all fairness, everyone who visits finds themselves madly in love with Tokyo too. Tokyo is great for at least 5 days to be able to see the main neon-lit districts (Shibuya, Shinjuku) but also the more traditional areas (Ueno, Asakusa). From Tokyo, you can take many day trips to Hakone , Kamakura and Nikko .

Kyoto – Kyoto is the traditional heart of Japan and ideal to see shrines and temples, beautiful gardens and eat kaiseki dinners. You’ll want to partake in a tea ceremony, dress in a kimono and see the authentic and well-preserved side of the country. Stay for at least 5 nights and take day trips to Nara and Osaka .

Hiroshima – Hiroshima is well known for its WWII tragedies; hence it’s a more historical place to visit. I recommend 2 nights here, with one day exploring the nearby magnificent Miyajima island .

Other places to consider : Nagoya to take a day trip to the Nakasendo trail and explore its most beautiful part ( Magome – Tsumago). Kanazawa is an incredible city with well-preserved samurai districts, tea houses and traditional food. For a more extensive trip, consider adding Okinawa or Hokkaido to your itinerary.

Book your flights as early as possible to ensure you get a good deal. Ideally, you will want to reserve your preferred seat, too. It’s rare to find a last-minute deal for flights to Japan during popular times, but you might score cheap flights in the winter and summer, which are the shoulder season.

Book your accommodation to get preferential prices and discounts . I highly recommend that you book your accommodation at least 6 months in advance if you intend to visit Japan during the Sakura season or national holidays. The earlier you book, the cheaper the prices, really! Check all my accommodation guides for Japan .

Purchase your travel insurance , so you’re covered for any cancellations and curtailments. Our go-to travel insurance is Insure My Trip .

Check your passport and apply for a renewal if needed . Remember that it can take up to 10 weeks to receive your new passport.

Apply for your tourist visa if you require one . Citizens of 68 countries don’t require a visa for stays up to 90 days. There are currently no restrictions to visiting Japan.

Buy your Japan rail Pass . Your JR Pass enables you to enjoy unlimited train travel on JR lines around Japan. The Shinkansen (bullet train) which is run by Japan Rail, is also included. This is very useful if you plan extensive trips around the country.

Book activities . Many popular Japan experiences sell out closer to the dates, so make sure to book your entry tickets to popular places such as teamLab Planets , Shibuya Sky , Universal Studios and Disneyland . We recommend using Klook or Viator .

Reserve your table at Michelin restaurants . Use services like omakase to find dining experiences and book your table. Please note that omakase does charge a fee for using their service.

Purchase your How to behave in Japan book to familiarize yourself with the etiquette and manners in Japan. I created this book to make it fun to learn about Japan. Besides, it’s packed with manga style drawings to make it even easier to immerse yourself in Japanese culture.

Book your pocket wifi . You will want to use your internet in Japan, and having a pocket Wi-Fi is the best way to go. It’s much cheaper than your roaming costs and will enable you to stay connected and use maps when you’re on the go.

Book your table at restaurants and bars . It’s wise to book your restaurant and bar tables in advance, as most establishments in Japan accept reservations only up to a month ahead. I suggest using TableCheck , a user-friendly platform that’s free to sign up for and use. This is especially important for sought-after spots like SG Club, high tea venues in Tokyo , and the Sakurai tea experience , all of which can only be booked 30 days in advance.

Get all remaining passes . You will want to order your Tokyo metro passes, any Odakyu passes (for Kamakura or Hakone) and Kansai Thru passes. These have been created to save you time and money. I recommend using Klook for this.

Start packing . Start checking the weather. Almost all weather apps will give you an idea of the temperatures to expect for your upcoming trip. Check our guide on what to wear in Japan and ensure you have everything for your upcoming trip. I recommend our what to pack for Japan guide, to help you figure out if there is anything specific you still need for your trip.

Download all the apps for Japan . I put together a list of all apps you will need for a smooth trip, which include maps ( Google maps ), a translator ( Google translate ) and an emergency app ( Safety Tips ) that notifies you of any natural disasters.

Order your Wifi . The best and easiest way to stay connected in Japan is by purchasing a pocket Wi-Fi device. There are many companies which sell them for very affordable prices. I use Klook for all my clients. You will get a small device delivered to your accommodation, and you can simply connect your phones and laptops to it as you would to a normal router. They all come with unlimited internet, but their battery can sometimes drain before the end of the day. Grab a battery pack with you to ensure you never run out of power.

Check your ryokan – No trip to Japan is complete without staying in a ryokan, a traditional Japanese inn. Some ryokans are small, while others are hotel-like larger establishments. Make sure to check if your ryokan has a private bathroom, as most of them have shared toilets. If your ryokan offers traditional rooms with tatami, book those as they are a lot more authentic. Try the oldest hotel in the world called The Nishiyama Onsen Keiunkan . We stayed there and loved our experience.

Onsen and tattoos – Japan is not big on tattoos and if you have them, consider booking a private onsen option. When entering an onsen, you will need to be completely naked (don’t worry, it’s normal in Japan). Almost all onsen are separated by gender. Make sure you respect the rules of how to onsen properly.

Cheap snacks at konbini – Head to a 7/11, FamilyMart or Lawson to purchase many Japanese snacks for very affordable prices. It’s common to find ready made food and drinks here too so if you’re traveling on a budget, then konbini will be your best friend.

Learn a few Japanese phrases – Contrary to common belief, Japanese people don’t speak much English. Many of the younger Japanese can understand English but don’t feel confident in speaking it. It’s appreciated when you learn a few essential phrases .

You don’t need to rent a car – Japan has sound public transport which is fast, reliable, and clean. Not to mention, they are always on time. We recommend making good use of your Japan Rail passes to take as many bullet trains between your Japanese destinations. The only time I recommend renting a car is if you plan on visiting a very remote village or if you’re in Hokkaido or Okinawa.

Bring cash with you – Make sure to carry sufficient cash, as many places in Japan, surprisingly, do not accept credit cards. Although hotels and certain restaurants might take cards, having cash on hand is essential. Especially in less touristy areas, smaller eateries and shops often only accept cash.

Be respectful . Familiarize yourself with the manners and etiquette in Japan. As mentioned, I highly recommend our book How to Behave in Japan . I live in Japan and learnt about the local customs.

Learn the restaurant etiquette . It’s a good idea to learn how to use an oshibori and how to use your chopsticks. Don’t worry, it’s a lot of fun practising some restaurant etiquette in Japan and locals will really appreciate your efforts.

Don’t dress improper – People wear neutral colours and very few stand out. Dress well and smart and try to blend in. Remember that wearing tracksuit bottoms or leggings outside the gym is considered lazy and in poor taste.

Don’t tip -There is no need to tip in Japan, as the country doesn’t have a tipping culture. Service is included in your bill.

How do I organise a trip to Japan?

Start at least 6 months in advance by booking your flights. Create an itinerary, then book your accommodation. Ensure your passport is up to date. About 3 months in advance, book your JR Pass About 2 months in advance book any tours and experiences you wish to enjoy in Japan.

How much does it cost to travel to Japan?

The average total cost for 2 weeks in Japan is $5450 (£4530, ¥715,000) for 2 people. This works out to ¥28,300 ($195) per person per day, and it includes flights, accommodation, transportation, food, activities, souvenirs, and other small expenses.

What is the best month to go to Japan?

The best month to visit Japan is November or April. November is ideal for peak autumn colours, and April is the peak for Sakura season.

Where should I go first time to Japan?

On your first trip to Japan, you should go to Tokyo and Kyoto. Depending on the length of your trip, you can add day trips to Osaka, Nara, Nikko, and Mount Fuji.

How many days is enough to see Japan?

The ideal time to visit Japan for a first timer is 2 weeks. This allows you enough time to visit Tokyo and Kyoto and also take a few day trips to see other main attractions.

Cory Varga – Cory is a published travel writer and award-winning photographer. She travels full time with her husband and is passionate about creating in-depth travel guides. Cory published her first book on Japanese customs and manners because she’s obsessed with everything Japan. She has visited hundreds of destinations and has lived in 7 different countries. Cory is multilingual and an alumna from The University of Manchester.

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2 responses to “planning a trip to japan: best tips for 2024”.

Japan is a place were a modern type of living is very much welcome at the same time traditional way of living is being preserved.

Wow your blog for Japan is so awesome. Getting a lot of tips and tricks for a first time trip in October. Thank you!

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How to Plan a Trip to Japan [2024]: Traveler's Full Guide!

Traveling to Japan can be a daunting task because of the amount of things you can do there. I've been there, so let me help through all of the questions you'll have so you can get started planning that trip to Japan you've been dreaming of!

So you're planning a trip to the land of the rising sun?

Thanks to Japanese music, entertainment, and food's rising popularity in the West, it's perhaps no wonder that traveling to Japan has found its way onto many people's bucket lists over the years.

And for a good reason!

No matter who you are or your interests, you're almost guaranteed to find something to pique your interest in Japan.

Planning a trip can get tricky, whether you're planning your first trip to Japan or have visited a few times already.

Sure, you can show up with your bag on your shoulder and go where the wind takes you. But unless you have plenty of time to spare, chances are that you'll miss out on many worthwhile experiences if you come unprepared.

Lucky for you, I've fallen in love with Japan over the past few visits, and I want to share my knowledge!

This comprehensive planning guide will help you make the most of your visit to Japan with some of my best tips on planning a trip to Japan.

Here's a quick rundown of what we'll cover in this guide:

• Where to Visit in Japan
• Best Time to Visit Japan

Types of Travel in Japan

• How to Get Around Japan
• How Expensive Will Japan Be
• How Early Should You Book Your Flight to Japan
• Additional Tips and Tricks Around Japan

Feel free to pick and choose the topic relevant to your trip-planning journey with the table of contents above!

But First, A Note on Travel Restrictions

Unlike other countries in Asia, Japan was sluggish in opening the country back up and allowing tourists to visit after COVID-19.

While it's possible to enter Japan, there are still some restrictions at the time of publishing this article. These restrictions can change at a moment's notice, so check the current regulations and entry rules with your local Japanese embassy and your airline before you travel.

Now that I've touched on that crucial part of traveling to Japan let's dive into important questions you must consider when planning your dream Japan trip!

Where to Visit in Japan - 10 Top Destinations

If you're not sure where to start, we've got you covered. Make sure to check out our 10 days in Japan itinerary! It's filled with cool places and activities that will make the most out of your Japan trip in 10 days.

If you feel inspired and want to start planning your own trip, give Pilot , our free social trip planner, a try! Start planning from scratch, or use our AI-powered Quick Start Feature to map out your trip to Japan.

Want to know all of the cool places to visit in Japan ?

Here are the top 10 places and destinations people visit in Japan and why they're unique

Tokyo is Japan's capital city, offering a mixture of modern skyscrapers, historic temples, beautiful natural parks, and unique shopping districts like Shibuya and Akihabara, as well as a hub for entertainment and culture. While transportation is highly accessible and convenient in Tokyo, there are best places to stay in Tokyo to save on train tickets and time on commutes!

Tokyo turns up during the night as well. If you're looking for nightlife in Tokyo , read our guide in further detail.

There are so many things to do in Tokyo ; my colleague wrote a separate blog about it. Check it out!

Being Japan's ex-capital city, Kyoto offers a more charming side of rural Japan. From its world-famous temples, wooden traditional ryokans, tea houses, and streets, Kyoto is truly Japan's cultural hub.

Osaka is a unique city featuring a beautiful blend of historical and cultural roots with modernity.

From the historic Osaka Castle to the bustling Dotonbori area, visiting Osaka is a must if you want to experience Japan fully. There are tons of things to do in Osaka ; you'll never get bored of the city!

Some people argue that because of the blend of history with modernity, Osaka nightlife has vibes unique to Tokyos. My highlight is Osaka's street foods , which includes my favorite Japanese pizza called okonomiyaki.

4. Hokkaido

Located in Northern Japan, Hokkaido is known to be a winter destination filled with ski resorts, beautiful parks, and unique wildlife.

Definitely check out the Hokkaido Snow Festival and the city of Sapporo while you're there. It's truly a winter wonderland!

Okinawa is an island located between Japan's mainland and Taiwan, offering Japanese and indigenous culture, beaches, and marine wildlife. It's also a great place to surf in Japan . Can't visit the island without visiting some of the beautiful beaches in Okinawa !

Having been there myself, it's really unique from the rest of Japan.

6. Hiroshima

Hiroshima is often known in the United States and Canada as the city that was bombed during World War II.

While that may be true, the city has wholly transitioned after the war, turning into a beautiful modern city filled with museums like the Peace Memorial Park and Museum, providing education and commemorating the victims of the atomic bomb.

The Prefecture of Nara is most known for the large Shinto shrines and the abundance of wild deer populations that roam around the region.

Fukuoka is renowned for ancient temples, beaches, modern shopping centers, and local cuisine, including the world-famous Hakata ramen, also known as the Tonkotsu ramen.

9. Kanazawa

Kanazawa is well known for its preserved Edo-period history and culture, boasting museums, parks, and gardens that showcase its history with modern attractions.

Nikko, in my opinion, is an underrated gem and a UNESCO World Heritage Site that hosts historical shrines, lush forests, and breathtaking waterfalls.

If you're into Japanese architecture, you should definitely visit Nikko!

When Should I Visit Japan?

Did you know that Japan actually has 72 seasons? No, that is not a typo.

The four seasons the rest of us are more familiar with are separated into 24 sekki, characterized 節気 in Japanese, according to the traditional lunisolar calendar.

Each of these sekki are, in turn, separated into three, leaving a total of 72 shijijūni ko, 七十二侯 in the Japanese language, that last for roughly five days each.

But for the sake of this article, let's stick to the original 4 that we are all more familiar with.

So, what's the best time to visit Japan?

When you should visit, Japan depends largely on what you want to see and do while you are there.

Another aspect to consider is that some of Japan's seasons are far more pleasant than others, which may or may not affect your trip to some extent.

In general, if you're trying to find the best times to visit Japan without a specific agenda or event, I'd recommend going during the shoulder seasons. Any time between May and late September to early October are great time for mild weather and fewer crowds.

That said, no matter what time of the year you decide to show up, you're guaranteed to find plenty of things to experience and explore while you're there. There are also plenty of festivals and activities that are unique to each season.

Japan in Spring - Best for Cherry Blossoms

I'm normally an autumn girl, but nothing beats Japan in spring!

Perhaps unsurprisingly, this is also one of the most popular seasons to travel to Japan for tourists from abroad and the Japanese themselves.

The reason for this? Cherry blossoms, or "sakura" as they are called in Japanese.

Sure, it's possible to see beautiful cherry blossoms in many other parts of the world. However, there's something extra special about watching the whole country suddenly turn pink seemingly overnight.

Let's just say that there's a reason why I have been scheduling the majority of my yearly trips to Japan to coincide with the cherry blossom season.

Whether traveling alone or with friends, don't miss the opportunity to join a "hanami," which literally translates to flower viewing, in one of Japan's many famous spots.

The best time to visit Japan for cherry blossoms is often during late March into early April when the cherry blossoms bloom. Japan in the spring is also an enjoyable season with mild days and slightly colder nights and evenings.

Prepare to book your flight 8-12 months in advance, because it's the peak travel season during those times of the year for Japan!

Japan in Summer - High Temperatures & Humid

Despite the best attempts of my Japanese friends to warn me, my very first trip to Japan was in July 2011. As I stepped out of the air-conditioned Tokyo airport and into the giant sauna that is Tokyo during the summer, I thought that perhaps I should've waited a few weeks.

While you can find milder temperatures up north in Hokkaido, the rest of Japan experiences high temperatures and very high humidity during the summer months.

Japan's summers can be a less than pleasant experience for those of us who aren't used to a tropical climate. There is also the added risk of suffering heat stroke if you're out and about during the day.

Summer Festivals

Summer is also the high season for "matsuri," or Japanese festivals. This is reason alone to brave the heat and stop by for a visit.

My absolute favorite festival to visit is Awa Odori , which occurs in August every year. The original festival is in Tokushima on Japan's Shikoku island. Suppose you're planning a trip to Osaka, Kobe, or Kyoto. In that case, you can easily make a day trip over to Tokushima for the festival. You won't regret it.

Smaller versions of Awa Odori can be found in other cities like Tokyo. However, nothing beats the original, where the whole humble city of Tokushima comes alive with people laughing and dancing together in the streets. It's an unforgettable experience for sure.

Aside from Awa Odori, there are, of course, many other festivals and events taking place all over the country.

The Summer Rainy Season

Worth noting is that Japan's rainy season also occurs during the summer. During this time, typhoons will sweep the country and leave a massacre of umbrellas in their wake.

The rainy season, or tsuyu as it's called in Japanese, starts in early summer, around May and July, depending on the region. While this usually means several weeks of rain, how much it does rain varies dramatically from year to year. Some years, we barely see any rain, whereas others are exceptionally wet.

If you decide to visit during the summer months, please take care not to get sunstroke while you are there. Avoid going out when the sun is at its highest, and drink plenty of water.

Japan in Autumn - Incredible Sceneries

Just like spring, autumn in Japan is a beautiful season with the leaves changing colors into bright reds and yellow. Like spring, it's also a season with very mild temperatures, often lasting well into November.

For better or worse, this is also a trendy season for tourism, which unfortunately means that prices often go up during this time of the year.

It's an incredibly beautiful time of the year to visit Japan, so I'd definitely highly recommend it!

Japan in Winter - Perfect for Winter Sports

Winter is an often overlooked season for travel to Japan, which is a shame because there is still a lot to see and do. My favorite thing about Japan in winter is the illuminations you can find all over the country, particularly in the bigger cities.

While places like Tokyo or Osaka generally don't see much snowfall, the gorgeous illuminations turn the country into a sparkling winter wonderland once the sun goes down.

One of the most famous illuminations can be found in Tokyo's Roppongi district, Ginza and Tokyo Dome. But you can also find many other places, such as temples and shrines, decked out in beautiful lights as well.

Winter Destinations and Attractions in Japan

Head further up north, and you can experience Hokkaido's snow festival featuring impressive sculptures made entirely from snow.

Shirakawa-go is a famous village with traditional "gassho-zukuri"—those are the houses with steep thatched roofs. It's worth a visit at any time of the year.

However, the magic of this village is taken to an entirely new level during winter when the snow turns the entire village into a dreamy fairytale-like town.

There is no wonder that Shirakawa-go is a popular winter destination for the Japanese as well. Shirakawa-go is most easily reached from Nagoya or Kanazawa, but there are plenty of companies, such as Willer Express , who regularly arrange package trips to the village every winter. While many make it a day trip, it's also possible to stay overnight in one of the houses.

If you're visiting Nagano during late winter or early spring, check out the snow monkeys bathing onsen-style in natural hot springs!

Times of the Year to Avoid

As I said, Japan is worth a trip at any time of the year, but I avoid two particular holidays.

One of these holidays is Golden Week, which occurs in late April/early May. This holiday is made up of a series of Japanese national holidays and is a very popular time for the Japanese to travel domestically.

The result is that trains, buses, and accommodation tend to not only become more expensive but also quickly sell out. Popular tourist spots such as Kyoto also tend to become extra crowded.

The second holiday I would avoid is New Year. While New Year's in Japan on its own is a fun and exciting experience, like Golden Week, it tends to get a lot busier with Japanese people traveling home to see their families.

Many businesses also tend to close for several days during this time.

For the sake of your sanity, I recommend against visiting any shrines or temples during this time, or you may have to wait in line for hours before you can even get in.

The first visit of the year to a temple or shrine is something the Japanese take very seriously, which means enormous crowds daily well into January.

How Long Should You Stay in Japan?

That depends, how much time have you got?

The first time I visited Japan, I stayed for a little more than a year to study Japanese at a language school. Fast-forward 11 years, and I have spent roughly 7 years in Japan during this time. It still doesn't feel like enough!

I have a Japanese friend from Kobe who told me that you could spend a decade in a city like Kyoto, and it still wouldn't be enough time to see and experience everything it has to offer.

Obviously, taking a decade-long vacation isn't in the cards for most of us.

For a first-time visitor, I recommend spending at least 2 weeks in Japan if you can, or at least a week. This gives you enough time to travel around the country to see different parts of Japan, but it's also a great option even if you decide to stay in just one city.

For first-time travelers, I recommend doing the classic Tokyo, Kyoto, and Osaka trip to get the highlights of Japan that'll make sure you leave the country wanting to come back.

While there are a lot of people traveling to Japan year-round, many repeat travelers often come back to Japan often for different purposes.

For example, my first trip to Japan was the classic Tokyo, Kyoto, and Osaka trip, where I got to see what makes Japan so special. My second trip to Japan involved actually checking out Mount Fuji in Hakone. There really are tons of different things you can do while you're in Japan.

Let's quickly run you through a few reasons why people travel to Japan.

Romantic Getaways and Honeymoons

I don't think it comes as a surprise that Japan, with its cherry blossoms, breathtaking waterfalls, winter wonderlands, and traditional Ryukans, would be the perfect honeymoon destination for travelers.

If you're planning a romantic getaway or a honeymoon in Japan , definitely check out what the highlights are so you don't miss out!

Theme Parks

Ever watched films by Studio Ghibli like Totoro or Spirited Away?

From Hello Kitty in Sanrio to Super Mario in Universal Studios, many people around the world visit Japan's amusement parks each year. It's not just the typical Disneyland, DisneySea, or Universals either.

From historical to cultural themes, Japan is definitely a place to visit for its amusement parks.

Hiking & Camping

Travelers around the world visit Japan for the country's diverse landscapes, including mountains, forests, coastal beaches, and islands. Because of that, hiking in Japan has so much to offer, from traditional temples and shrines to natural breathtaking landscapes, it's really a sight to see!

Because of the country's beautiful and unique landscape, camping in Japan has risen in popularity. From historical trails like Nakasendo and Kumano Kodo to beautiful sceneries across the entire Japan, hiking allows travelers to immerse themselves in Japan's rich nature, history, and culture.

After a long day of hiking or a few days of camping, the availability of natural hot springs (onsen) and traditional inn (ryokan) offers relaxation and a glimpse into Japan's world-class hospitality and service.

Food & Shopping

Shopping is huge in Japan, mostly because of its unique offerings that aren't found anywhere else.

I have friends who go to Japan exclusively to buy Japanese tea, candy, and Sake (Japanese wine). If you're interested in finding all sorts of gadgets and electronics, visit Akihabara. For cool apparel and trendy fashion, visit Harajuku.

There are so many things to buy in Japan I often run out of luggage space and resort to shipping things back. While I know this might not be everyone's experience, the shopping scene in Japan is definitely something to experience.

As for food, do I need to explain how good Japanese food is in Japan?

Not only are traditional dishes in Japan made at a higher standard, the service in Japan is also world-class. From fresh sushi and barbecues in cozy izakayas to vending machine food (yes, you read that right), Japan will never cease to amaze you.

If you're in the capital, definitely check out all of the mouthwatering street food in Tokyo !

Skiing & Snowboarding

Travelers who have Snowboarded and Skied in Japan can attest to the fact that the snow in Japan is just different. How, I can't explain, but it's definitely the consensus.

The best times for skiing in Japan , in my opinion, is around early spring, right before the Cherry Blossom Season, as there's less accumulation of travelers.

While some resorts are Skiing only, Snowboarding in Japan is also very popular! The rentals in larger resorts are also very high in quality, so don't worry about bringing all your gear to Japan and save some space for souvenirs to bring home.

While there are slopes all across Japan, the largest accumulation of ski resorts is found in Hokkaido, Nagano, and Niigata. If you're in Hokkaido during the winter for Skiing, definitely also check out the Sapporo Snow Festival !

Getting Around in Japan

Japan's public transportation is one of the best in the world, both in terms of the variety of travel and the efficiency with which they operate.

You can get just about anywhere with public transportation. It really doesn't make sense to get a car rental unless you're camping or exploring the outskirts of Japan.

The most popular ones are the Japanese subway, local trains, and bullet trains, which run often throughout the day but can get busy and crowded during rush hours, especially in big cities like Tokyo.

On rare occasions you need to take a Taxi, just remember to always hail them in the right direction as they might refuse service just because it's not in the direction they're going. Also, tipping is not a thing in Japan and is generally frowned upon, so do not tip your taxi driver!

Speaking of Japanese public transportation, let's talk about the JR Pass.

Should You Get a Japanese Rail Pass?

Read any article or blog about Japan, and you're almost guaranteed to find a recommendation for the Japanese Rail Pass , or JR Pass for short.

What many of these same articles and blogs fail to mention is that while the pass is great for many, it can also be a complete waste of money for many others.

Whether you should or should not get one depends mainly on your itinerary and how much you intend on traveling through the country while you are there. Contrary to popular belief, it's not always the cheapest option.

Let's say you're planning a trip to Japan, where you're planning on visiting Tokyo, Kyoto, Osaka, and Nara. Would I recommend you get the pass? Absolutely not.

Kyoto, Osaka, and Nara are all right next to each other, which means that you can easily travel between each other without spending a lot of money on a ticket!

Even the trip back and forth to Tokyo on the Shinkansen (bullet train) wouldn't make the pass worth the price. On the contrary, you would spend more money on the Japan Rail Pass than you would if you bought each ticket directly.

Many cities in Japan, particularly the bigger cities like Osaka and Tokyo, have their own bus and train passes that you can buy. These last for everything from one day up to several days and can be used all throughout the region where they are issued.

Sites like Klook offer these passes at a discount. These are a great way to save money.

Another way to save money would be to book a highway bus to and from Tokyo. These highway buses cost at least half of a Shinkansen ticket, often even less, and unlike in other countries, they are very comfortable and convenient.

JR pass only comes in handy when you're traveling long distances, especially for consecutive days. I'd highly recommend checking out other options to save money.

If you book a night bus, you can save money on accommodation for the night as well. Willer Express and Kosoku Bus are great options for finding and buying tickets for highway buses all over Japan.

When Should You Get a Japan Rail Pass?

If you intend to travel all over the country with many stops along the way, get yourself the pass. This is the only situation where it would save you money.

If you're unsure, I recommend sitting down with Google Maps and looking up the directions between each city you plan to visit during your trip. Here, you can see how much each individual trip would cost you, and you can calculate if the pass is worth it or not.

Do note, though, that if you want to get the pass, you'll have to book it in advance BEFORE arriving in Japan. These are only available for purchase outside the country.

What is the Cost of Traveling in Japan?

Many, unfortunately, put off traveling to Japan because it is infamously expensive. However, it doesn't have to be if you do your homework.

My jaw drops whenever I see or hear a fellow traveler describe how they've spent thousands of dollars in Japan on a short vacation.

Contrary to popular posts on Instagram, you don't have to rob a bank or sell your kidney to afford a visit to Japan. There are plenty of ways to save money without feeling deprived!

Just make sure you always keep Japanese Yen cash with you at all times, as credit cards are seldom accepted around the country.

If you plan on sticking around for a month or longer, I'd recommend getting a room in a shared house. Occasionally, you can book them for as little as a week or two, but you save more money if you stick around for a month or longer.

Even in big cities like Tokyo or Osaka, it's possible to find shared houses for as little as $500/month or even less if you're okay with staying in a suburb. This isn't precisely luxury accommodations, but you don't plan on spending all your time in your room anyway, do you?

If you only need a place to sleep and store your luggage, shared houses are a great option. As a bonus, it's also a great place to meet new people, whether travelers like yourself or locals happy to give tips or show you around.

You can save even more money if you cook most of your food yourself instead of eating out every day.

Not a fan of cooking? Japanese supermarkets and convenience stores offer a wide selection of bento boxes that are both cheap and delicious. Depending on the contents, you can often find bentos for as little as $2-3.

Another great option is street food. You often find street food stalls at popular tourist spots or at festivals, but there are also hidden gems known only to the locals. Why not ask your new Japanese housemate for recommendations?

How Early Should You Book Your Trip to Japan?

It depends. When buying tickets or booking accommodation to most destinations worldwide, the general rule is "the earlier, the better" if you are looking to save money. And, of course, Japan is no different in this regard.

Aside from saving money, how early you should book also largely depends on what you want to do during your trip. Some activities need to be booked at least several weeks in advance, and others more.

If, for example, you want to visit the Awa Odori festival in Tokushima, I recommend getting your booking done as early as possible if you intend to stay the whole week.

Suppose you only intend on staying a day. In that case, it's totally fine if you just show up in the morning and leave in the evening after the festivities are done for the day. However, if you plan on spending the whole week or more than a day, being last minute with your plans to see the Awa Odori festival won't work!

This festival is one of the most popular ones domestically, and practically all forms of accommodations actually start getting booked up as early as a year in advance. In other words… if you snooze, you lose.

I was planning on spending the whole festival in Tokushima in August 2020 and went online at the start of November 2019 to look for hotels, but they were already all sold out. The closest I could find that still had beds available for the week was a hostel in Takamatsu. I checked again two weeks later, and it was all sold out.

To be fair, this is an extreme example, and most of the time, you don't have to book that far in advance. Personally, I start looking at accommodation and tickets somewhere around 1-2 months in advance at the very latest.

Should You Learn Some Basic Japanese?

While you can often get by in English alone, particularly in the big cities, learning a few simple phrases before you go will benefit you in several ways.

While Japanese people do learn some basic English in school, most are very hesitant to use the little English that they do know. That is unless you take them out drinking because as soon as they get a couple of beers in them, they'll be fluent in any language you can think of.

While you don't have to become fluent in Japanese before your trip, knowing how to say simple things can help! The two simplest being:

• Thank you = Arigatou gozaimasu
• Excuse me = Sumimasen

Learning the basics will make a big difference in your experience with Japanese people. Even if your pronunciation is off, they'll appreciate that you are making an effort.

What Do I Need to Know About Japanese Etiquette?

Anyone visiting Japan will quickly notice that there is a correct way of doing things, whether it is how you hold your chopsticks or how deep you bow to someone.

Let's get one thing out of the way right away: despite your very best efforts, you're guaranteed to break a rule and offend someone unknowingly in Japan. We've all been there so don't let that fact scare you away from going.

Japanese society is made up of so many rules that you're only really aware of if you grow up there. With this in mind, a foreigner is likely to get a "free pass" for not knowing these unspoken rules.

This, however, doesn't mean that you shouldn't make an effort.

Just like with speaking some basic Japanese, making an effort to be polite will show respect to the locals and will win you favors in the long run. You'll also avoid the risk of watching other foreigners shuffle away and distance themselves from you in public. It sounds harsh, but neither of us wants to be associated with "that guy."

A quick google search will give you plenty of hits on what to do and what not to do in Japan, but some basic ones to keep in mind include:

• Don't eat or be loud on public transport, including talking loudly.
• When eating, don't put your chopsticks pointing straight up in your rice (this is associated with burial rituals and is simply just bad taste).
• Don't use your chopsticks to pass food from person to person.
• Always take your shoes off when entering a temple, shrine, or someone's home.

If you decide to visit an onsen or public bathhouse, which I highly recommend, there's a whole set of etiquette rules you should follow as well! The two most basics rules are:

• Wash yourself off properly BEFORE entering the bath
• Don't wear a swimsuit or trunks

Another thing to note is that there's still a stigma surrounding tattoos in Japan, unlike in the west. While it is getting better, there are still situations where having visible tattoos might inconvenience you.

Onsens and public bathhouses are notorious for turning you away if you have any visible tattoos. If the tattoo in question is small and can be easily covered, then that can be an easy fix to the problem in most situations.

However, if your tattoo is on the larger side or you have many of them, your best bet would be to look up either private options or to ask beforehand if the place in question accepts tattoos or not.

Websites like tattoo-friendly allow you to search for tattoo-friendly establishments all over Japan.

Tips for Japan on a Budget

I still remember the first time I visited Japan over a decade ago. While it's still amazing all these years later, I can't think of anything that beats that very first time you step out of the airport and get to explore and experience this wonderful country for the first time.

Japan is perhaps infamous for being expensive, and compared to other Asian countries, it definitely is. But there are many ways that you can cut down on costs and still have a great trip, even if you are on a budget.

One of the biggest regrets people have when visiting Japan isn't what they did but what they didn't do while there. So here are my best tips to enjoy your time and ensure you don't break the bank!

Track Your Flights Early

I've already mentioned that intelligent planning for your trip to Japan includes starting to organize early. This is true of flights. If you don't have set dates yet, that's even better!

I recommend looking 8 - 10 months before your estimated travel dates. Then find the cheapest days to fly—maybe that's a Tuesday instead of a Friday night. Then start monitoring their price until you buy it a bit closer to the trip date.

If you're still looking at flights for your trip to Japan, make sure you're booking the cheapest flights available on the market with SkyScanner !

By using comparison sites like SkyScanner, you find the cheapest flights available so that you wouldn't have to pay more for flight tickets and save that money for more things to do or food to eat!

Search for Non-Touristy Spots

Don't just look at the tourist spots in the city/cities you plan to visit, but also look up what local events or festivals that are taking place while you are there.

Japan Cheapo is a great guide for finding information about what is going on right now all over Japan!

Take Detours

Take the scenic route!

What I mean by this is you should be bold, take detours outside of the bigger cities, and explore lesser-known locations in Japan. While Tokyo and Kyoto are both beautiful cities, many more are just waiting to be explored.

Save Money on Accommodations

Don't waste your money on unnecessary fluff like luxury accommodation. You won't be spending all your time in your room anyway, right?

Even if you don't like the idea of share houses, there are many other affordable options. Think of stays like hostels, capsule hotels, or even working for your room! And, if you're traveling as a group, Airbnb is still a great option to split costs between your travel mates. Backpacking in Japan is also becoming more and more frequent, with many travelers each year choosing to backpack through Japan to mitigate the costs of expensive hotels.

Spend your money on exploring delicious foods and fun activities instead. These are the things that will take your trip from average to awesome.

Talk to Locals

As long as you take my advice on learning basic language skills and etiquette in Japan, most locals are very friendly to tourists. Feel free to ask for help or recommendations from the locals.

While Japanese people tend to struggle with English, they're some of the sweetest and most helpful people you'll come across. And most of them, particularly if you meet them in a shared house or hostel, are more than happy to give you tips or show you around.

Learn Japanese Basics

I've mentioned this before, but it's so crucial that I want to repeat it again. Try to learn a few phrases of Japanese before you go! You don't have to become fluent, but being able to say at least simple words and terms will make a great impression on the locals.

Pack the Right Essentials

Curating the perfect packing list for Japan is hard without knowing what you'll be doing there. With that being said, we've curated a guide anyway to walk you through it.

Do you need a sim card? If your phone is compatible, try out Airalo's e-sims ! If you've decided to purchase, use code " PILOT10 " for 10% off your purchase, or use referral code " PILOT2992 " when you first sign up to receive $3 off your first purchase!

Due to its stretched longitudinal geography, temperature can change pretty fast if you're traveling across the country. Make sure to pack for the right occasion using Pilot!

Plan Your Trip to Japan With the Help of Pilot

Traveling to Japan is unlike many other places you can visit. And it will be an experience that you will remember fondly for a very long time.

Perhaps you'll, like me, "catch the bug" and find yourself coming back repeatedly.

If you're still wondering how you should start planning your trip to Japan, check out Pilot! From figuring out your visa problems to helping you plan trips with friends effortlessly, it'll help you make the most out of your trip to Japan!

Disclosure : Pilot is supported by our community. We may earn a small commission fee with affiliate links on our website. All reviews and recommendations are independent and do not reflect the official view of Pilot.

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All Japan Tours offers unlimited vacation possibilities to explore and experience an unforgettable trip to Japan. Whether you’re interested in Japanese cherry blossom tours , festival tours , autumn leaves tours or special interest tours , our Japan tour packages will bring your vacation dreams to reality. Choose tours based on style , interest , date , or season . Our Japan group tour packages are fully escorted, and we can also arrange special-interest private tours , custom group tours , and other Asia country tours to match your specific needs. | Why All Japan Tours

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Japan Cherry Blossom Tours

Our Japan cherry blossom tours are our most popular tours because we highlight the top places to see sakura, the most renowned flower in the country. Experience Japanese cherry blossom festivals, a cherry blossom dance show performed by geisha, and sakura views from Mt. Fuji, to gardens in Kyoto.

Japan Autumn Leaves Tours

Our Japan autumn leaves tours give you exclusive access to beautiful gardens, temples, shrines, and famous landmarks while enjoying the colorful autumn scenery along the way. We offer Japan tours to rural parts of Japan, historical towns, World Heritage sites, and diverse shopping districts.

Japan Festival Tours

Our Japanese festival tours cover festivals from all seasons. Matsuri (festivals) can range from celebrations to honor a shrine's deity to joyful seasonal occurrences. Participate in one of the biggest festivals in Japan, the Kyoto Aoi Festival, or check out the Gion Summer Festival on one of our Japan tours.

Special Interest Tours

We offer tours for people specifically interested in anime, the pilgrimage route of Japan, visiting the most beautiful places in Japan, focusing on Japan's breathtaking flowers, seeing snow monkeys in winter, visiting the best nature spots of Hokkaido, and spending time at the art island of Naoshima.

Top 12 Attractions in Japan

Takayama Festivals

Lavenders in Hokkaido

Tateyama Kurobe Alpine Route

Snow Monkeys

Japan Winter Festivals

Awa Odori Dance Festival

Gion Summer Festival

Kyoto Aoi Festival

Shibazakura Festivals

Baby Blue Eye Flowers at Hitachi Seaside Park

Tohoku 3 Great Summer Festivals

Experience the takayama spring & autumn festivals during your trip to japan, one of japan's most beautiful festivals..

Witness the beautiful Takayama Festivals in Japan, not once, but twice a year. We offer a list of Japan tour packages that allow you to experience the lavishly decorated floats, known as yatai, which feature karakuri (mechanical puppets) that dance and move impressively. Whichever season you prefer, we have a Japan tour package reserved for either Takayama Festivals.

View our Japan tours featuring Takayama Festivals

Get lost in the lovely furano flower fields surrounded with lavender flowers, and enjoy views of the spacious fields in biei..

Our Hokkaido lavender tours showcase the best spots to indulge in lavender beauty during its flowering season. Take a Japan trip to Farm Tomita in Furano, known as one of the best places in Japan to see spectacular backdrops of lavender. Our lavender tours will also take you to a small town called Biei, overlapping with picturesque hills, vast fields, and the popular Panorama Road.

View our Japan tours featuring Lavenders in Hokkaido

The tateyama kurobe alpine route is an amazing route that goes through the northern japan alps..

Visit the famous and long demanded Alpine Route in Japanese Alps. Requiring varying modes of transportation, this route takes you through mountains and valleys for some of the most scenic views in all of Japan. From high mountain peaks reflected in the surface of calm, crystal lakes to the lower elevations at the Kurobe Dam and the famous site of the snow corridor, this route is sure to be unforgettably beautiful.

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Take delight in viewing elegant wisteria flowers at ashikaga flower park and kawachi fuji garden during your tour to japan..

Wisteria are dream-like flowers that hang like pink and purple chandeliers. On our Japan Wisteria Tours, you will visit places like the Kawachi Fuji Garden and Ashikaga Flower Park. The Kawachi Fuji Garden features picture-worthy flower tunnels you can walk underneath, while the Ashikaga Flower Park is significant for their "Great Wisteria", a famous tree that's over a 150 years old.

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Watch japanese snow monkeys bathe in hot springs at jigokudani snow monkey park on a japan winter tour..

Our snow monkey tours will take you to the Jigokudani Yaenkoen Park, where you can see Japanese Macaque, known as "snow monkeys". Thousands of people come to see the monkeys, whom are native to northern Japan and can be recognized by their red faces and light brown-grey fur. Watching the snow monkeys bathe up close is quite an experience, so don't forget your camera!

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Our japan tours will take you to the best winter festivals in the country, where you can admire giant ice sculptures and unique fairgrounds..

Believe it or not, some of the best festivals that attract millions of visitors each year are located in the coldest parts of Japan. We have arranged tours to travel to the Sapporo Snow Festival, Otaru Snow Light Path, Lake Shikotsu Ice Festival, Asahikawa Winter Festival, and the Sounkyo Ice Waterfall Festival. Experience seeing illuminated ice sculptures on one our tour packages.

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Join a tour that visits japan's largest dance festival, awa odori, and enjoy traditional music accompanied with lots of food in a lively celebration..

Attracting over 1.3 million visitors per year, Awa Odori is the largest dance festival in Japan. We have a Japan tour package showing you the best of Japan, including this famous dance festival. It is also called the "Fool's Dance", which originates from 400 years ago. Many instruments including taiko, shamisen, and flutes are accompanied with the dancers that parade through the city.

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Spend your japan vacation indulging in traditional japanese culture and stunning floats at the gion summer festival..

The Gion Matsuri is Kyoto’s largest annual festival and one of Japan's most famous. We have arranged Japan tour packages that include this 1100 year old celebration, which originally began as a religious ceremony dating back to 869. The main event occurs on July 17th and July 24th, where locals and visitors gather to view two extravagant procession parade floats.

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Book a trip to japan that includes a taste of japanese history at the elegant and popular kyoto aoi festival..

Every May 15th, the Kyoto Aoi Festival features a large parade of over 500 people dressed in Heian Period (794-1185) styled clothing to illustrate a graceful procession. We provide several tours that highlight one of Kyoto's most celebrated festivals. The Kyoto Aoi Matsuri takes you back to the 10th century, where traditional makeup and impressive costumes can be appreciated.

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Admire thousands of ground cherry blossoms at the fuji shibazakura festival & takinoue koen park shibazakura festival during your japan tour..

Known as the ground cherry blossoms, our Shibazakura Festival tours will take you to attractions that are blanketed with vivid shibazakura. See the Fuji Shibazakura Festival, featuring over 800,000 spectacular moss phlox with the great Mt. Fuji in the background. Also visit Takinoue Koen Park, noteworthy for its hillside covered with 100,000 square meters of shibazakura.

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Take your japan tour to the majestic flower gardens at hitachi seaside park, widely known for its hillside of 4.5 million baby blue eye flowers..

Scientifically known as Nemophila, the largest collection of baby blue eye flowers can be seen at the Hitachi Seaside Park. There are over 4.5 million baby blue eyes blooming from mid-April to mid-May, referred as "Nemophila Harmony" during its annual bloom. The Hitachi Seaside Park features vast, gorgeous flower gardens of tulips, poppies, roses, kochia, and more.

View our Japan tours featuring Baby Blue Eye Flowers at Hitachi Seaside Park

Join the fiery celebration at tohoku's 3 great summer festivals during your japan trip..

Be keen on Tohoku's Three Great Summer Festivals all in one Japan tour package. These summer festivals known as Aomori Nebuta, Akita Kanto, and Sendai Tanabata are lively experiences you don't want to miss. Enjoy magnificent views of lantern-lit floats, high-spirited dancing, music performances, kanto skills, firework displays, thousands of colorful streamers, and more.

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Top 12 places to visit in japan.

1. Hokkaido

Enjoy a tour to japan in hokkaido, renowned for its flower fields and attractions unique to every season..

Hokkaido, Japan has a distinctive change of seasons that only adds to its beauty. The island is renowned for its lavender fields in the summer and winter festivals that attract millions of visitors every year. Our Japan tours to Hokkaido will take you to the flower fields in Furano, the atmospheric Otaru Canal, Hokkaido's biggest entertainment district in Susukino, and to Shiraoi to learn about the Ainu people of Hokkaido. A Japan trip to Hokkaido means trying various fresh foods at the famous Nijo Market, strolling through the heart of Sapporo in Odori Park, and stopping by Hokkaido's most famous hot spring resort in Noboribetsu. Hokkaido is proud to have its four distinct seasonal differences that include a number of events and acitivities each unique to the season. There is no other place like Hokkaido to enjoy your Japan vacation to the fullest.

Make your way to the Tohoku region to see the great Towada Lake, visit the prominent Zeuiganji Zen temple, and see one of Japan's three most scenic views during your Japan tour.

Tohoku is known for its great summer festivals, picturesque landscapes, and its long history of samurai. Predominantly mountainous, this region offers broad areas of natural surroundings. A Japan tour to Tohoku involves visiting must-see sites among its six prefectures. Tour to one of Japan's three most scenic views at Matsushina, Tohoku's famous Zuiganji Zen temple, and the lovely Towada Lake. Numerous castles and samurai homes reside in Tohoku, making it an appropriate place to visit and appreciate history. Tohoku is also a suitable backup option when cherry blossom viewing, since the blossoming period takes place a few weeks later than in Kyoto or Tokyo. We offer several tours to see the best of Tohoku in one Japan trip.

Dive into the fascinating world of Tokyo, where you will visit ancient landmarks and electrifying towns during your tour to Japan.

Populated by over 36 million people, Tokyo is the worlds largest city. It is a metropolis that offers a mixture of both futuristic and traditional qualities. We offer tours to Tokyo that take you to destinations such as the Meiji Shrine, the Tokyo Tower, and the Imperial Palace. Indulge in Japanese history at the interesting Edo-Tokyo Musuem. We have Japan tour packages that will also take you to a popular tourist attraction called Odaiba, a man made island that serves as a shopping and entertainment district. Admire Tokyo's oldest temple built in 645, the colorful Sensoji Temple, also known as the Asakusa Kannon Temple. Find yourself in the lively and colorful Shibuya, renowned for endless dining, shopping, and clubbing. Its trademark is a large intersection featured in a number of films and photos. A Japan trip is not complete without traveling to Japans most distinguished city.

Travel to an active volcano in Hakone and ride the scenic Hakone Ropeway on one of our Japan tour packages.

Located in the Kanagawa Prefecture, the town of Hakone is mostly a mountainous region part of the Fuji Hakone Izu National Park. Hakone is a famed holiday resort renowned for its variety of popular hot springs. On our Japan tours, you can enjoy a stunning view of Mt. Fuji in Hakone and its natural beauty. Our tours will also take you to Owakudani, a volcano with active steam vents, hot river valleys, and scenic trails. Enjoy a ride on the Hakone Ropeway, where you can view the active volcano zone and excellent views of Mt. Fuji on clear days. Hakone is a popular destination in Japan for travelers looking to enjoy their tour outside of Tokyo. Since Hakone is in the Kanagawa Prefecture, our Japan tour packages will also include the must-see sites in this region.

5. Mt. Fuji

Check out astonishing views of mt. fuji and all of its natural surroundings when you book a tour to japan..

Take a tour to the highest mountain in Japan, Mt. Fuji, an active volcano standing at 12,380 feet (3,776 meters). Mt. Fuji is not only famous for its majestic cone shape and impressive aura, but also being the subject for distinguished paintings, photos, and literature. It is recognized as an international famous symbol of Japan. Impressive views can be seen from Tokyo and Yokohama on clear days. On the other hand, cloudy days often block visibility of Mt. Fuji, so those who get to experience the clear view of the mountain are considered fortunate. Our Japan tour packages will take you to the Fuji Subaru Line 5th Station, the halfway point on the climb to Mt. Fuji. It is accessible almost any time of the year and is well developed. This is a popular sightseeing spot for thoroughly admiring the grand and awe-inspiring view of Mt. Fuji and its surroundings.

6. Takayama

Add a traditional touch to your japan tour by visiting rural destinations in takayama and its authentic, historical buildings..

Celebrate at one of Japan's three most beautiful festivals here in Takayama, the Takayama Festivals, held in both spring and autumn. Since Takayama is located in the Japanese Alps, it is preferred among travelers wishing to add a rural destination to their visit to Japan. Takayama has been referred as "Little Kyoto", due to its preserved historical structures and traditional atmosphere. It is also popularly known as Hida-Takayama to refrain from confusion with other places called Takayama. We offer Japan tours to Old Town, where you can view entire streets and structures dating back to the Edo Period (1600-1868). Continue your Japan trip to the Matsumoto Castle, also called "Crow Castle" due to its black exterior. Here you can admire a prime example of original Japanese wooden architecture. Take delight in sightseeing in Takayama on your Japan vacation.

7. Kanazawa

Tour to kanazawa if you wish to see one of japan's three great gardens and a well-preserved samurai district during your trip to japan..

Capital of the Ishikawa Prefecture, the eminent city of Kanazawa is known for its preserved Edo districts and other historical attractions. Since the construction of the Kanazawa Castle during the rule of powerful feudal lord Maeda Toshiie, the city has prospered with many cultural achievements. Visit one of the Three Great Gardens of Japan, the Kenrokuen Garden, during your tour to Japan. Its name translates to "Garden of the Six Sublimities", qualities that make up the perfect garden according to Chinese landscape theory. Here you can find Japan's oldest fountain and the two meter tall Kotojitoro Lantern, an icon of Kanazawa and Kenrokuen. Some of our tour packages even travel to Kanazawa's Samurai District. Upon arrival, you will catch sight of well-preserved buildings and the former living quarters of samurai. Tour to Japan to enjoy these attractions unique to Kanazawa.

Say hello to authentic Japanese culture by visiting Japan's most popular temples and shrines, beautiful parks and gardens, and the best summer festivals during a tour to Kyoto.

Kyoto is famous for its numerous Buddhist temples, Shinto shrines, and ravishing gardens. The city served as Japan's capital and was the residence of the Imperial family during 794 to 1868. During your tour to Kyoto, you will get to participate in sake tasting at the Gekkeikan Okura Sake Musuem, visit the famous tunnel of scarlet torii gates at Fushimi Inari Shrine, see the iconic Kinkakuji Temple (Golden Pavillion), and stroll through the city of geisha in Gion. Continue your trip to the former residence of Tokugawa Ieyasu at Nijo Castle, check out the noteworthy Kiyomizu Temple and its impressive wooden stage, and see what a traditional Zen garden looks like at the Tenryuji Temple. Experience three of Kyoto's world-famous festivals, including the Aoi-matsuri Festival, the Gion-matsuri Festival, and the Jidai-matsuri Festival. Tour to Kyoto for an unforgettable Japan experience.

Experience visiting the world's largest wooden building and Japan's biggest bronze statue of Buddha when you travel to Japan.

Located less than one hour away from Kyoto and Osaka, the city of Nara is one of Japan's most rewarding destinations. Nara is Japan's first permanent capital, and is second to Kyoto as a cultural legacy with eight Unesco World Heritage Sites. Under the rule of the Imperial family and aristocrats, many temples and shrines were built here, as well as the development of temple towns. Our tours include seeing one of Japan's most significant temples, the Todaiji Temple, home to the famous Daibutsu (Big Buddha). The temple's main hall (Daibutsuden) is the world's largest wooden building, which is where you can also find the giant bronze statue of Buddha. Your trip to Japan will also give you the opportunity to visit the popular Deer Park nearby the temple, filled with over 1,000 deer you can greet and feed. Choose one of our Japan tour packages to experience Nara's historic treasures.

10. Hiroshima

Travel to the peace memorial park for an awakening experience about war and world peace, as well as the famed "floating" torri gate on the beautiful miyajima island, only in hiroshima..

Hiroshima is located in the Chugoku Region, a major city that is home to over a million residents. After the first atomic bomb dropped, there were predictions that the city would be uninhabitable. However, great endeavors were taken to rebuild Hiroshima and the speculations were proved wrong. During your Japan tour, you can visit the Hiroshima Peace Memorial Museum and the Atomic Bomb Dome (Genbaku Dome), a must-see exhibition and eye opening experience. You can visit these landmarks of world history at Peace Memorial Park, located in the center of the city. Our Japan tour packages also take you to Itsukushima-jinja, a Shinto shrine located on Miyajima Island. It is famous for its "floating" torii gate and is inscribed as a World Cultural Heritage Site and one of Japan's three most scenic places. Don't miss out on a remarkable tour to Hiroshima.

11. Shikoku

Journey to shikoku during your japan vacation for a tour full of remarkable sites and impressive coastal views, such as the incredibly scenic drive along the great seto bridge and the shimanami kaido toll road..

Shikoku is home to the Shikoku pilgrimage route, which includes 88 temples and other sacred sites. Shikoku offers many historic locations, breathtaking spots in nature, and traditional festivals. Here on your tour to Japan, you can enjoy scenic views from the Great Seto Bridge and the Shimanami Kaido, passing six small islands to get to Shikoku. Shimanami Kaido is renowned for its beautiful drive along its picturesque toll road. Take a pleasant stroll through Shikoku Mura Village and experience an awe-inspiring masterpiece of Japanese landscape at Ritsurin Park, featuring ponds, pavilions, and a Mt. Shuin backdrop. Shikoku may be the smallest main island of Japan, but offers many spectacular attractions to experience.

Explore Kyushu during your tour to Japan, where you'll wander through an abandoned island known as Gunkanjima, and visit the site of legend where the Shinto Sun Goddess hid herself in a cave.

Kyushu is the third largest main island of Japan and offers significant landmarks, natural beauty, and vibrant cities. Our Japan tour packages will take you to the best things to see and do in Kyushu. Take a trip to Gunkanjima, translating to "battleship island", a small and abandoned coal mine with the highest recorded population density in the world. You will also visit Glover Garden, an open-air exhibit featuring mansions of former Western residents in Nagasaki. Tour to Takachiho, a town pervaded with Japanese mythology. There you can visit the supposed site of legend of the Sun Goddess Amaterasu, where she hid in a cave distraught from her brother's cruel pranks, causing other gods and goddesses to attempt to lure her out. Takachiho is a "power spot" profound with spiritual energy and religious importance. Nearby, you can see a cascading waterfall at the Takachiho Gorge.

Though it is possible to do a cherry blossom trip on your own, if you want to see multiple sites and get more out of the trip, I’d suggest a tour. It is much easier to navigate in these rural areas that off the English speaking tourist path when……

Testimonials

My husband, Daniel Levine and myself (Cherilyn Brunetti) just returned from our tour which started in Osaka on July 3 and ended in Tokyo on July 8. It was our first trip to Japan and we had a wonderful experience. I credit our tour guide, Bil……

Japan Cherry Blossom Guide

Cherry blossoms in Japan have been a major attraction for tourists. The most common question people ask is “when is the cherry blossom season?” It is an easy yet difficult answer because it depends on the area we are talking about.

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Autumn leaves in Japan are almost as popular as the cherry blossom season. Kōyō is the Japanese word for autumn leaves. Kōyō and momiji (maple leaves) use the same kanji and has been that way since the Heian Period.

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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).

The Travel Sisters

Planning for a trip to japan: the ultimate guide on how to prepare for your first trip (2024).

Planning for a trip to Japan?  If you are traveling to Japan for the first time, this guide has everything you need to know to plan and prepare for your first trip to Japan in 2024.

Planning For a Trip to Japan: A Step By Step Guide

Disclaimer: This article contains affiliate links. We may make a small commission if you make a booking using our links  at no extra cost to you . See our  Disclosure page  for more information.

When to Visit Japan

If you don’t have specific travel dates in mind, the first thing to decide is when is the best time to visit Japan for you.  Japan is a great country to visit year round but there are certain activities that are seasonal (cherry blossoms, autumn leaves, climbing Mount Fuji, skiing).

Also keep in mind that certain times of the year (such as cherry blossom season ) are more popular with visitors. Be aware of visiting Japan during national holidays (including New Years, Golden Week in the spring and Ubon in the summer) which are busy travel periods for domestic tourists.

See related post: Best Time to Visit Japan to help you decide when you want to visit.

Where to Go in Japan

There are so many incredible places to see in Japan , that it can be hard to narrow down where to visit in Japan if you only have a week or two.

If you are visiting Japan for only one a week or less, then I would recommend dividing most or all of your time between Tokyo and Kyoto.  We recommend staying at least 2-3 days in Tokyo and Kyoto which should be enough time to see the major highlights in each city.

See our day to day itineraries for Tokyo and Kyoto to help you put together your Japanese itinerary:

•   3 Days in Tokyo Itinerary •   3 Days in Kyoto Itinerary

If you enjoy exploring at a faster pace you can add one or more day trips from either Tokyo or Kyoto or even a third destination such as Osaka. Some of the best day trips from Tokyo include the snow monkeys in the winter and Mount Fiji in the spring or summer.  There are many great places to visit from Kyoto on a half or full day, including Nara to see the famous deer or Osaka which has incredible street food.

See related post: 7 Days in Japan Itinerary for a sample 7 day Japan itinerary.

Booking Flights to Japan

The main airports for international visitors in Japan are Narita Airport (NRT) and Haneda Airport (HND) near Tokyo and Kansai International Airport (KIX) near Osaka (about an hour from Kyoto).

The wikipedia pages of the airports are helpful for seeing which airlines and routes serve each airport.  Make sure to compare prices across dates using Google flights.  If you know you want to visit Japan well ahead of your trip, set airfare alerts from websites like airfarewatchdog.com to receive email alerts when flight prices are lower than usual.

Tip: If you plan to visit both Tokyo and Kyoto like most first time visitors, I would check flight prices if it costs about the same to fly into Tokyo and out of Osaka (or vice versa) instead of round trip ticket from the same airport.  This will save you time and money on transportation not having to travel back to the city you came from.

Booking Accommodation

If you will be visiting Japan during cherry blossom season or other peak travel periods, it is best to book your accommodation as early as possible.

If your budget allows, we recommend staying at a ryokan (traditional Japanese inn) for at least a night (ryokan are typically more expensive than hotels). While there are ryokan in Tokyo, some of the most historic and authentic ryokan are located in Kyoto, Nara and other small onsen towns. See related post :  What to Expect When Staying in a Ryokan for tips, rules and etiquette to know when staying at a traditional ryokan.

If you are traveling on a budget you can save money on accommodation by staying at minshuku (family operated, Japanese-style bed and breakfasts), capsule hotels or hostels.

Getting Around Japan

Public transportation is very comprehensive and efficient in Japan so it can be a great way to explore Japan.

If you plan to drive a car in Japan, you will probably need an International Driver’s Permit (IDP). In the US, you can get an international permit from AAA .  Even if you don’t plan to rent a car in Japan, keep in mind that you will need an IDP to drive a go-kart .

The fastest way to travel between most cities in Japan is by train.  You usually don’t have to book rail tickets in advance except during peak travel days and times such as Golden Week, New Years and Udon.  To look up train schedules and prices visit hyperdia.com  (there is also an app).

If you are traveling on a budget, you can travel between cities by bus instead of train.

Purchase a Japan Rail Pass Before You Leave

If you are visiting several places in Japan it might make sense to purchase a Japan rail pass before you get to Japan.  Traveling by train across Japan is fast but it can be expensive. Depending on your itinerary, the Japan rail pass can save you money over the cost of buying individual train tickets. The cost of a 7 day Japan rail pass is approximately equal to the price of a round trip train ticket between Kyoto and Tokyo.

Don’t purchase a Japan Rail Pass more than 90 days before you land in Japan.  You will receive an Exchange Order , which needs to be exchanged within 90 days and activated in Japan for the actual JR Pass.

Some Activities Need to Booked in Advance

Even if you don’t usually plan your day to day activities in advance, there are a few activities that are so popular that need to be booked weeks in advance.

Activities that are best booked in advance include tickets to sumo wresting tournaments , the Robot Restaurant in Tokyo , Studio Ghibli Museum tickets .  Our favorite websites for booking activities, tickets and tours include Get Your Guide and Klook .  In addition to booking unique activities, Klook offers discounts on admission fees for booking in advance.

If you are interested in buying tickets to the Olympics, here is the link to buy tickets .

Plan How to Communicate While in Japan

You don’t want to be hit with super high cell phone bills for roaming charges using your smartphone in Japan. Check with your cell phone provider if there is an international plan to cover phone calls back or data roaming.

Another option is to unlock your phone and purchase a SIM card for use while in Japan. You can also purchase a pocket wi-fi router for your smartphone and other devices for under $10 a day.  You can purchase both online in advance and pick them up at the airport when you land in Japan.

Packing for Your Trip to Japan

Japan has hot humid summers and cold winters so what you need to pack varies according to what season you visit. I like to use weatherbase.com to look up average temperatures in the cities I am visiting.

If you ordered a Japan rail pass , make sure you bring the Exchange Order  that will be mailed to you which you will need to exchange in Japan for the actual JR Pass.

Make sure to pack at least one pair of comfortable walking shoes (you will do a LOT of walking in Japan).  You are expected to take off your shoes at temples, Japanese guesthouses and traditional restaurants, so consider bringing slip on shoes rather than shoes with laces and be sure to pack clean socks without holes.

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Destinations

• Plan Your Trip

Japan Trip Ideas

If you’re planning a trip to Japan, 2024 is your year—it’s the first year since 2019 without any covid-related restrictions.

Putting it together requires equal parts information and inspiration, which is the approach I’ve taken with the Japan trip ideas I’m about to share with you. Whether you have a specific amount of time you want to spend in Japan or prefer to organize your trip based upon Japan destinations or experiences, you’re in the right place.

For instance, if you have just one week in Japan, your top Japan vacation ideas might include a marathon trip through destinations like Tokyo, Kyoto and Hiroshima , taking advantage of lightning-fast Shinkansen bullet trains and sleeping relatively little. Alternatively, you might use this relatively short span of time to hone in on a specific region or travel interest, be it islands like Shikoku and Kyushu or, skiing in Nagano or Hokkaido’s Niseko area.

Let’s not get ahead of ourselves, however. For now, I want you to open yourself up to the knowledge and beauty I’ve acquired over more than two dozen trips to Japan, which I’m happy to share with you below.

The Two Main Ways to Plan Your Japan Trip

The first way to organize your Japan travel ideas into a trip is to work backwards, starting with the number of days or weeks you can travel and filling those up with the destinations you want to visit. To this end, I’m going to share my recommendations for one, two and three weeks in Japan, as well as my one month in Japan itinerary, if you happen to have that long to travel.

I’ll also make sure to share city itineraries for specific places in Japan, but then I’ll change course a little bit. Specifically, I’ll provide recommendations for trips that spotlight a particular aspect of traveling in Japan, be it a season (such as cherry blossoms or fall colors) or an experience like hiking or having animal encounters.

Comprehensive Japan Trip Ideas

One week in japan.

Although this is the shortest of the Japan holiday ideas I’m going to share, it’s also the most ambitious. This is because having only a few days in Japan (which is much, much larger than it looks on the map) presents you with a choice: To pack your trip full of destinations and make excessive use of your Japan Rail Pass ; or to focus on a specific part of the country or experience: The island of Shikoku , for example, is a great place to spend a week in Japan.

READ MORE: One Week in Japan

Two Weeks in Japan

If your priority is seeing the main Japanese attractions and you don’t mind traveling at a fast pace, a two-week trip through Japan is just what the doctor ordered. Starting and ending in Tokyo , trips to Japan that follow this general shape include time in Kyoto and Osaka , day-trip destinations like ancient Nikko and deer-filled Nara (a top destination for Osaka day trips ), and one night at what many consider to be the best onsen in Japan. Don’t have quite two weeks? Spend 10 days in Japan instead.

READ MORE: Two Weeks in Japan

Three Weeks in Japan

Have a little longer for Japan itineraries than two weeks? Supplement your sightseeing in Japan with some deeper cuts into the country, from emotional Hiroshima , to the ecotourism paradise of Nagano prefecture (where you’ll find the internet-famous Japan Snow Monkeys ), to the Fuji Five Lakes region near Japan’s iconic mountain of the same name.

READ MORE: Three Weeks in Japan

One Month in Japan

For travelers who can devote a month to their Japan tour ideas, it’s possible to knock off a large number of must see in Japan items. In addition to the ideas for a Japan trip I’ve mentioned before, you can add in quirky destinations like the stunning San’in region , active experiences like the Nakasendo Way and trips to secondary Japanese islands like Hokkaido , Kyushu and Shikoku , the latter of which you could separate out on its own if one week in Japan is all you have to spend.

READ MORE: One Month in Japan

Japan City Itineraries

There are so many places to visit in Tokyo that you could easily spend a month here. On the other hand, time is an issue on all but the most flexible Japan trips, so you’ll need to narrow down your Tokyo bucket list—you can visit both Shinjuku and Ueno parks, probably, but you might need to choose between day trips to Kamakura and Nikko . You should also make sure to visit the capital in many different seasons, including underrated winter in Tokyo .

READ MORE: How Many Days Do You Need in Tokyo?

Like Tokyo but for completely different reasons, Kyoto is a city where you could spend a long, long time. If you’re keen to dive deep into districts like like temple-filled Higashiyama , lush Arashiyama and the Geisha quarter of Gion district, however, you can see most of Kyoto’s essentials in just 48-72 hours, give or take, depending on which other Japan travel ideas your itinerary entertains.

READ MORE: Kyoto Starts Here

Cities of the Kansai Region

One of my favorite things about Kyoto is that it sits in the Kansai region, the most dynamic part of western Honshu island. After you finish temple-hopping in Kyoto, you can pet deer in Nara , eat yourself sick in Osaka , marvel at Japan’s best castle in Himeji or explore underrated cities like Uji , Kobe and Wakayama —all these Japanese trips are so easy to take.

READ MORE:   How Long Should You Spend in Kansai?

Underrated Japanese Cities

Speaking of underrated Japanese cities, many of the best cities in Japan are ones you’ve likely never heard. From Hakodate on the southern tip of Hokkaido, to Matsuyama in Shikoku, and from Shimonoseki at the western tip of Honshu to Matsumoto in the heart of the Japanese Alps , there are plenty of reasons to venture of Japan’s not-so-beaten path on your own Japan trips.

READ MORE: Japan’s Underrated Cities

Special Japan Trip Ideas

Cherry blossoms.

The ultimate Japan trip is coming when the sakura  cherry blossoms are at full bloom. The downside to having this dream? It’s extraordinarily difficult to time a trip just right—my first trip to Japan just so happened to hit the right spots at the right times, while many subsequent spring jaunts were daunting experiences, ones I hope you can learn from.

READ MORE:  Planning a Cherry Blossom Trip

Japan’s Best Hikes

It should come as no surprise that Japan is one of the world’s top hiking destinations, what with it being a mountainous archipelago that boasts four distinct seasons. Whether you walk the ancient Nakasendo trading route, climb Mt. Daisen or hike pilgrimage trails like Wakayama’s Kumano Kodo and Shikoku ‘s 88 Temple Trek , or simply take day hikes from major cities ( Mt. Aso from Kumamoto , for example), Japan is an ecotourism paradise.

READ MORE: Japan’s Best Hikes

Autumn Colors

I’ve gone on a lot about Takayama fall colors on this website, but the truth is that most everywhere in Japan (with the exception of maybe tropical Okinawa ) is beautiful during the fall season. However, this season is temperamental (though not as much so as cherry blossom season) and occurs later in the year than you’d probably imagine, so you’ll want to read my guide before taking Japan trip ideas related to fall colors too seriously.

READ MORE:  Fall Colors in Japan

Winter in Japan

As far as I’m concerned, seeing Japan in winter is the most underrated seasonal experience—even if you’re not a skier. Whether you rub shoulders with the so-called “Snow Monsters” of Zao Onsen in Tohoku , walk along the icicle-lined Otaru Canal in Hokkaido or simply explore major Japanese destinations without the crowds, winter in Japan will warm your soul.

READ MORE:  Japan in Winter

Japan Animal Experiences

If you’re like most of the internet, a trip to Japan’s aptly-named “Fox Village” probably sits high on your Japan bucket list. Absent that (what is wrong with you?) you likely want to visit the country’s cat- and rabbit-filled islands, or one of the many animal-themed cafés in Tokyo and Osaka . Even if your interest in Japan’s animals only extends to Hello Kitty , I’ve got you covered.

READ MORE:   Weird and Wild Japan

Custom Japan Itineraries

Set on places to go in Japan or experiences to have there, but don’t know how to put them together? The good news is that this website is a sprawling (and growing) resource that can help you find all the information you need, whether you see a two weeks in Japan itinerary or something more comprehensive.

FAQ About Planning a Trip to Japan

What does the average trip to japan cost.

You can expect to spend between 100-300 USD per person, per day in Japan, regardless of which of these Japan vacation ideas appeals most to you. Travelers who seek out luxury ryokan and Michelin-star dining experiences will be on the high side of this range, while those content to sleep simply and focus on experiences can potentially get by on even less.

What is the best itinerary for Japan?

I won’t go so far as to say the Japan travel ideas I’ve presented here are all created equal, but there isn’t one right way to travel in Japan. With this being said, if it’s your first trip to Japan, the best itinerary usually combines the “tourist” trail—from Tokyo to Kyoto/Osaka then Hiroshima and back—plus additional day trips (Nikko from Tokyo or Nara from Kyoto) and maybe a secondary destination like Shikoku island or the San’in region, depending on how long you spend.

How do I plan a trip to Japan?

You can plan your Japan trips in one of two ways. The first option is to do it yourself, mapping out your day-by-day itinerary first with lodging, then with transportation and finally with activities and meals. The second option is to hire a professional (namely, me) to plan your trip to Japan for you.

The Bottom Line

Whether you follow one of my Japan trip ideas precisely or combine a few of the suggestions I’ve made into your own custom itinerary, your Japan adventure starts here. Use the information I’ve provided to fill out the amount of time you’ve set aside to explore Japan, or take a more esoteric approach and allow your inspiration to guide to. Still think you need more help? Thankfully, you’ve arrived at a proverbial Japan encyclopedia. I’ve written literally thousands of Japan blog posts to aid you along your way!

Plan Your Japan Trip

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Japan vacation packages in 2024 deliver you to a land of discovery, a land of contrasts where serene gardens with wooden temples sit in bustling futuristic cities. Take the stress out of your travels and book a Japan vacation package with airfare included, so you can arrive at your hotel ready for adventures ahead. Ski trip packages in Japan take you to beautiful mountain resorts with fantastic beginner slopes and legendary deep powder snow for hard-core snow riders. For a first-time trip, little beats a Japan travel tour package taking in the greats: Tokyo , Osaka , and Kyoto . This is one of the world’s most exhilarating destinations for an unforgettable vacation.

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No matter how much you think you know about Japan, nothing can prepare you for the moment when you step out into the buzzing, neon-lit streets of downtown Tokyo for the first time.

Japan Hotel + Flights

Japanese accommodations are an experience in themselves. Browse through our 34,120 hotels (starting at $50 a night) and you’ll see what we mean. For the price-conscious traveler, consider bundling your flights and hotels together with our Japan Vacation Packages. You can also add a rental car and experiences to your package. With the savings you make you can throw a guided tour of the Imperial Palace into the mix.

Your Japan Vacation Itinerary

Day 1-3: Most travelers to Japan touch down at Tokyo International Airport (Haneda Airport). Settle into your hotel before checking out the best sights that this famous city has to offer, such as Shibuya Crossing, Shinjuku Gyoen National Garden and the Tokyo Skytree.

Day 4-5: Take the futuristic Shinkansen (bullet train) to Osaka. Japan’s third biggest city, this place lures travelers with its vibrant food scene and attractions such as Osaka Castle and Universal Studios Japan.

Day 6-7: Hop back on the train and head to Kyoto, Japan’s spiritual heart. Spend your days exploring its serene temples, shrines and gardens.

Japan Information

Cherry blossom season is one of the most popular times to visit Japan. The country explodes into color each year between late April and early May.

You could easily spend your entire trip in the country’s dizzying capital, so why not take a look at our Tokyo Vacation Packages ?

Top Vacation Destinations in Japan

Embrace local culture with Kyoto vacation packages

Kyoto is one of the cultural capitals of Japan, where you'll be able to immerse yourself into a UNESCO World Heritage Site. While the city as a whole isn't a heritage site, its extensive collection of temples, shrines, palaces, and gardens is. When you visit them, you'll almost feel as if you're stepping back into the past, considering how well-preserved and still in use many of them are.

Discover the mountain with a Fuji vacation

Fuji is a massive mountain in Honshu that reaches up to 4132 yards. When you visit, you'll find quite a few fun things to do, including hikes and even some climbing available. Of course, you'll find plenty of surrounding towns and villages as well that make it easy to relax and take in the sheer beauty of this massive towering natural feature.

Taste wonders with Osaka vacation packages

The city of Osaka has a lot to offer, but it's best known for its gastronomic offerings. The food available here comes in many different forms, with influences from all over the world. Whether you're looking for snacks or full-on meals, you'll never have to look far. Plus, the local chefs are always happy to talk about what goes into their takoyaki or okonomiyaki or whatever else they're preparing.

Explore the capital with Tokyo vacation packages

Tokyo is an impressive city and capital with an immense array of things to see and do. The inner city is densely packed with some streets used more often by pedestrians than cars. When you're there, you'll find restaurants, museums, arcades, coffee shops, and just about anything else you can imagine. Still, local parks and temples can be impressive if you want something a bit more serene.

Japan Essential Information

Prepare for your japan vacation with our essential travel info, japan hotel deals.

Reviewed on Apr 3, 2024

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Where to go when

Frequently asked questions, discover the most popular places to visit in japan, tokyo disneyland®.

Ride roller coasters and watch theatrical shows as you witness the magic of Disney come to life at this family-friendly amusement park and resort.

Universal Studios Japan

Watch theatrical shows, meet lovable mascots and go on exhilarating rides at this extensive movie-focused theme park.

Tokyo DisneySea®

Discover the secrets of the oceans in this magical theme park, where Disney’s sea-dwelling characters will take you on a journey to the world below the waves.

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Japan in 2024: Looking Ahead and Looking Beyond

As 2023 comes to an end, we can look back at all the amazing things that happened in Japan over the last year! From hotels to outdoor adventures, there was something for everyone. The year saw a huge amount of announcements and developments across the country, from big cities to small towns. With Japan opening up again and tourism numbers rising, the country has a lot planned for the next few years.

With the end of the year quickly approaching, it is now time to look ahead, and see what Japan in 2024 has to offer - And the answer is quite a lot! In this article, we’ll cover a few of the many exciting openings that are coming your way in 2024, and even beyond. From new luxury resorts to rugged hiking trails, from the northern tip to the southernmost islands, Japan is ready for a new year and new adventure!

Kai Okuhida

To start off, opening in autumn of 2024 is Kai Okuhida, a resort from Hoshino Resorts. Located in Gifu Prefecture, in the  city of Takayama, just over an hour away from Tokyo by train, this resort will be beautifully located in the Northern Alps mountain range of Japan. Guests will be able to relax and see magical views of Mt. Akadana, and enjoy either private open-air baths or utilise the hotel’s own bathhouse. There will also be an additional open-air footbath, or ‘ashiyu’ available to use, a wonderful way to rest your feet after a long day of walking or hiking. 

Rosewood Miyakojima

In related terms, the luxury resort, Rosewood Miyakojima is slated for a spring 2024 opening on the island of Miyako in Okinawa. In a great location near the Miyako airport, the resort will feature 55 villas and a variety of high quality facilities, from private pools to vast views of the sea. Rosewood Miyakojima will make use of local ingredients in its 4 restaurants and bars, and local materials in its unique design. The Dutch architecture firm Studio Piet Boon hopes to create a natural surrounding, evoking a sense of harmony with the outside environment and the island. 

Six Senses Kyoto

In Kyoto, the first Six Senses to open in Japan, entitled the Six Senses Kyoto, will open in Spring of 2024. The resort will be located within walking distance of the well known Gion district and nearby both Myoho-In Temple and Toyokuni Shrine. This Six Senses hotel will focus on both wellness and nature, with 81 rooms centred around a main courtyard. A busy traveller will have the opportunity to relax due to the variety of spa and wellness facilities. The resort will attempt to mimic the outside city, with pieces of the building ranging from busy and bustling to still and calm. With both restaurants, bars, meeting rooms, and activities for kids, the Six Senses Kyoto will be a prime destination in a prime city.

Hokkaido East Trail

Heading up north, there is a new long distance hiking trail planned for 2024 in Hokkaido, Japan’s northernmost prefecture. Entitled the Hokkaido East Trail, this 370 kilometre route will lead hikers through multiple national parks, showcasing the magical beauty that Hokkaido has to offer. Hiking in late spring or summer, you should be able to avoid a lot of the snow that Hokkaido is famous for. This trail will cover national parks such as Akan Mashu, Kushiro Marshlands, and Shiretoko, all with their own unique features. As the trail will be covering a vast amount of land, it’s best to start packing now!

Kurobe-Unazuki Canyon Route

A touring route in the heart of Toyama Prefecture is expected to open in 2024, a route that will let travellers experience and view landscapes that were once only accessible by experienced hikers and climbers. Starting from Keyakidaira and extending to Kurobe Dam in the Kurobe Valley, people can now travel what was once a construction route through the astounding Kurobe Valley. This deal was finalised by Kansai Electric Power and Toyama Prefecture in 2018, and will open following the implementation of various safety measures. From elevator to funicular, the route will employ various means of transportation to get people through the valley. There is also Unazaki Onsen nearby, giving travellers a much welcomed soothing spot to relax in. The route is expected to open in May or November of 2024, with operating dates of June to October.

Kumano Kodo 20th Anniversary

The Kumano Kodo pilgrimage trail is one of only two trails recognised as UNESCO World Heritage Sites, alongside the Camino trail in Spain. In 2024 the trail will be celebrating 20 years since it was recognised as a world heritage site. This 1000 year old pilgrimage trail takes trekkers through the beautiful mountains of Wakayama Prefecture and the Kii Peninsula in central Japan. Winding through the sacred areas and temples at Mt. Koya, a main attraction is the famous Kumano Nachi Taisha. With a red pagoda in the foreground, the awe-inspiring Nachi Falls in the background, this area is not to be missed!

Slow Travel

Sapporo international art festival.

Held only every 4 years, the Sapporo International Art Festival is the biggest art event in the city. From 20 January to 25 February, the festival will be held across different venues in Sapporo, including Odori Park, where the yearly Sapporo Snow Festival is held. Under the theme of “Last Snow” and the subtheme of “Where the Future Begins”, the event aims to focus on the ideas of transformation and creation for a future which has been embroiled in present day existential threats. The director, Ogawa Hideaki, explains that the meaning of the word “snow” may be different in the future than it is now, even in a city that receives so much of it such as Sapporo. With a multitude of artists from around the world, this once every four year event is not to be missed!

ENESS, Airship Orchestra, photo by Ben Weinstein

Hokuriku Shinkansen Extension

While you may not think that the shinkansen should be classified as slow, minimising the travel time and making travel easier to your destination can let you spent even more time there! On March 16, 2024, a new extension of the Hokuriku Shinkansen is slated to open its doors to travellers. Connecting Kanazawa city in Ishikawa Prefecture to Tsuruga in Fukui Prefecture, the connection now makes travel between Tokyo and Fukui, and Tokyo to Tsuruga, much quicker. From Tokyo to Fukui, the total travel time will now be only 2 hours and 51 minutes, a 36 minute reduction from the previously available routes. From Tokyo to Tsuruga, the journey will now only take you 3 hours and 8 minutes, a 51 minute reduction. The new stations along the route offer some amazing experiences. From onsens to specialty food, historic shrines and temples, there will be immersive things to do at each stop. For a more in depth guide of the extension route, see our article here !

There’s some amazing openings happening in the new year, but why not look a bit more forward to something happening in 2025?

Osaka Expo 2025

The Osaka Expo, the next iteration of World Expos, will be held for 6 months on the island of Yumeshima in Osaka Prefecture. The event will be under the theme of “Designing Future Society for Our Lives”, with a subtheme of “Saving Lives”, “Empowering Lives”, and “Connecting Lives”. The exposition hopes that it will be able to utilise the world’s knowledge to create ideas and solve problems affecting the world, and aims to attract 28 million visitors, 150 countries and regions, and 25 international organisations. This is the second time that Osaka will be holding a World Expo, the first time was in 1970, when the famous Tower of the Sun building was created by Taro Okamoto. The Expo will run from April 13, 2025 - October 13, 2025, and with less than 500 days to go, it may be time to start planning a trip to Kansai!

Setouchi Triennale 2025

Last held in 2022, the Setouchi Triennale will be the 5th edition of the event, expecting to begin in mid April and last until early November 2025, with the overarching theme of “Restoration of the Sea”. The Setouchi area is known for its amazing beauty, made up of countless islands with their own unique foods and experiences. The triennale hopes to revitalise the small island communities of the area that once thrived but are now being affected by depopulation and ageing. In November of 2023, the event began calling for art proposals for exhibitions. Held across the Seto Inland Sea, the triennale aims to create a “Sea of Hope” for the world with each participating island having their own sustainable development goal (SDG) alongside the project wide initiatives. The Seto Inland Sea is a beautiful part of Japan, rich with culture and nature. One popular method of exploration is renting a bicycle and cycling around the islands and the many bridges that connect them. With the triennale coming up, that may be a perfect way to explore it!

2024 is looking to be a fantastic year for Japan travel, this is just a small sample of all the amazing things to look forward to in the next year, and even beyond! So start planning your trip, and we’ll see you in Japan in 2024!

Make sure to follow us on  Facebook ,  Instagram , and  Twitter  for the latest from Japan!

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DON’T MISS ANYTHING: YOUR 2024 JAPAN NATIONAL HOLIDAYS GUIDE

Are you ready to travel to Japan in 2024? After several event cancellations and strict COVID-19 measures, Japan is now fully prepared to welcome travelers once again. 2024 seems like the perfect time to visit!

The most important thing to note is to book your Shinkansen, flights, and hotels well in advance, as they may sell out or become more expensive. Japan has its own set of national holidays, unique culture, and language barrier, which can pose challenges for foreigners in their planning. Therefore, I understand that booking everything very early in advance can be stressful. 

But there’s no need to worry! In this blog, we’ll guide you on the best times to visit Japan. So at least you will be able to plan a rough schedule!

2024 Schedule

In Japan, Christmas isn’t a holiday, but New Year’s is a grand celebration. Many companies offer time off from around December 28th, so families can prepare for a relaxed New Year. On December 31st, New Year’s Eve, the tradition is to visit a shrine or temple, listen to the ringing bell, and eat Toshikoshi soba, which symbolizes longevity.

There will be a lot of food stands, festivals, and even fireworks, so I recommend you to come to Japan if you want to experience the biggest traditional event in the country!

On the 1st of January, Japanese people see the first sunrise of the year to welcome the new year. If you plan to travel to Japan in January, it’s important to note that many companies are closed, and popular tourist spots might be crowded. However, it’s definitely worth visiting tourist areas as they are incredibly beautiful!!!

On the 8th of January, Japan celebrates Coming-of-Age Day to congratulate those who have turned 20 years old. On this day, many people wear traditional kimono, and this ceremony is a significant event for the young generation. Don’t forget to make restaurant and izakaya reservations in advance, as 20-year-olds often head to bars to celebrate their coming of age (Finally they can drink alcohol legally).

Furthermore, flight tickets are often more affordable after the new year and in February. If you plan to travel to multiple prefectures, it’s a great idea to visit Japan during this period.

Additionally, in the calendar, you’ll find photos of flowers, indicating the best time to enjoy them in that month. Japan has numerous beautiful flower gardens, so be sure to explore them!

It’s still cold in February, but it does bring the arrival of spring along with plum blossoms. On February 3rd, we celebrate Setsubun where we throw beans and eat Ehomaki sushi rolls for good luck. Technically, it is not a national holiday, but we celebrate it to say goodbye to the last day of winter. You should check the nearest shrine or temple to see if there is an event!

For those people who like art and snow, definitely visit Hokkaido to join the Sapporo snow festival in February.

On the 14th of February, we have our own celebration of Valentine’s Day, where many girls will give chocolates to the boys they like. It’s a great opportunity to express your love to your partner. Additionally, the Emperor’s birthday is also celebrated as well as Mt. Fuji Day. There are numerous events, including fireworks, in Yamanashi and Shizuoka near Mt. Fuji.

The end of the winter season provides many opportunities to explore different Japanese prefectures.

Even if the domestic flight tickets are more expensive in March, I am in love with March. March is a time of goodbyes in Japan due to graduations and job changes, but the warmer weather and blooming nature brings happiness.

On March 3rd, there is a festival that celebrates the birth and healthy growth of girls. Colorful foods like Chirashi sushi are sold in supermarkets, so be sure to give them a try. Moreover, White Day is the day for returning Valentine’s gifts, meaning the men give gifts to women. In Japan, the meaning of a message can vary depending on the gift, so it’s a good idea to give something that expresses your feelings. Japanese people are somewhat romantic, aren’t they?

The vernal Equinox is the day when the length of day and night is nearly equal. It’s a common tradition to eat Ohagi and Botamochi on this day.

The best thing to do in March is Hanami (Flower viewing). In Japan, it’s legal to drink alcohol in public, so I recommend everyone to enjoy good food and drinks under the cherry blossoms.

In April, domestic flight tickets become affordable again until Golden Week as new students and workers find it hard to find holidays to travel around.

As I mentioned earlier, it’s still Hanami season so you can enjoy a variety of flowers. Also, on April 8th, there’s Buddha’s birthday, known as ‘Hana-matsuri’ in Japanese, where Japanese Buddhists pour sweet tea made from a variety of hydrangea onto the statues of the newborn Buddha. This event takes place at the temple, but everyone can join and try the sweet tea.

Unfortunately, late April is not ideal for travel in Japan, so please check the May section.

Why is Golden Week Not a Good Season to Visit?

Golden Week is one of the busiest travel seasons in Japan because most Japanese people may take a vacation from the 27th of April to the 6th of May in 2024. Also, people think it is a good idea to travel before June, because of the lack of any holiday and with the rainy season. Usually, all the transportation gets super crowded during Golden Week, so be prepared in case you are traveling during this period.

However, flight tickets tend to be cheaper after Golden Week. 

As you can see, on the third Friday and Saturday of May, a festival is held at Asakusa Shrine. How about enjoying the impressive Mikoshi (portable shrines) and the festival?

However, June isn’t all about bad luck! For example, on the 2nd of June, you can enjoy 6,000 fireworks to celebrate the Yokohama Port Opening Anniversary.

In addition, around June 21, which is the summer solstice when the day is longest from sunrise to sunset, various Candle Night events are held across Japan.

Flight tickets are the most expensive during July and August.

Mount Fuji opens for climbing in July. Depending on the route you choose, the Yoshida route has a pre-climbing festival starting on June 30th, and you can start climbing as soon as the date changes. For those taking the Shizuoka side route, climbing starts at 9:00 AM on July 10th.

If you’re a beginner climber, consider joining a tour and make sure to prepare warm clothing and other necessities. Climbing Mount Fuji can be seriously tougher than you might expect. Also, don’t forget to make reservations for a mountain hut!

On the 7th of July, the Japanese celebrate the star Festival called “Tanbata”. This is not a national holiday but we usually write wishes on a piece of paper and hang them on bamboo trees.

On July 24th, there’s a tradition of eating eel rice bowls to boost stamina for the summer heat. Enjoy the delicious and sweet eel rice bowl to help you endure the Japanese summer heat.

Also, the beach season and summer festivals generally start in July, so it’s a good idea to check the local news,  head to the sea for a swim, and experience Japanese food stands at the festival.

Interestingly, Japanese people eat eel rice bowls twice a year, so if you missed the opportunity before in July, you have one more chance! You can even buy them in convenience stores and supermarkets.

In August, there are many local festivals! You must experience a fireworks festival in Japan at least once in your life. It’s unbelievably beautiful.

However, there is one more ‘red zone’. In Japan, people tend to take longer holidays, called ‘Obon Week.’ During this time, transportation and tourist destinations get super crowded. I personally recommend avoiding this week when planning your visit to Japan. In case you are planning to visit Japan during Obon Week, make sure to book the tickets and hotels early.

Well, let’s move on to September. In 2024, Japanese people will be fortunate to have several holidays, but the duration of these holidays varies from year to year. Fortunately, not everyone will be on vacation at the same time. Instead, there will be three main holiday periods: Golden Week, Obon Week, and Silver Week. This division may provide an opportunity to avoid heavy crowds.

But, it’s still advisable to avoid the peak tourist season (red zone) if possible. Furthermore, there will be fewer festivals in September, so make sure to check when and where they are planning to hold events.

Welcome to the October section! If you’re planning a trip to Japan in October, you might be in luck. As the peak vacation and travel season has passed, you can often find domestic flight tickets at lower prices, and the weather remains pleasant.

On October 14th, to celebrate Railway Day, the JR Group offers an autumn unlimited ride pass. In 2023, the purchase was available from September 16th to October 20th, allowing three days of unlimited travel on JR train lines and the JR West Japan Miyajima Ferry between October 7th and October 22nd. The pass costs 7,850 yen ($52(USD)) for adults and 3,920 yen ($26(USD)) for children, but make sure to check for 2024 updates.

Moreover, by staying at a JR Hotel Group property on the days you use, you can get a discount. However, because Japan has many non-JR train routes, and the pass has some restrictions, it’s necessary to check if the ticket suits your travel plans.

Don’t forget to check the flower calendars as well because Kochia (Bassia scoparia) is in full bloom in October. My suggestion is for you to go to Hitachi Seaside Park!

In November, in the northern regions, the first snowfall begins, while in other areas, the Kouyou (autumn leaves) are at their peak. As we transition from the comfortable autumn, it starts to get quite chilly, so make sure to prepare your warm clothing.

Also, please remember the dates of November 5, 17, and 29. In the Kanto region, there’s a traditional event held every November in shrines and temples called ‘Tori-noiIchi’. Many people visit to pray for good luck in the coming year and success in their businesses. It’s a great place to buy souvenirs like ‘Kumade,’ which are considered lucky charms!”

Additionally, on Culture Day, many museums offer free admission to promote the love of freedom, peace, and culture!!!

In Japan, there’s a tradition to eat pumpkin and take a yuzu bath on the day of the winter solstice. Since it’s the day with the shortest daylight and the longest night, please try a yuzu bath to overcome the cold winter.

Also, there will be a lot of illuminations, so you’ll love the Japanese Christmas!

Transportation Tips

Finally, I’ll provide you with some transportation tips. Typically, various transportation companies offer special promotions or time-limited sales about 1 to 2 months before the travel date. This is especially true for airlines like Peach, Jetstar, ANA, JR, and JAL. It’s always a good idea to follow their Twitter accounts or check their websites for updates.

Here, you can also explore the following websites, as they often feature great deals:

• Jalan https://www.jalan.net/en/japan_hotels_ryokan/
• Rakuten Travel https://travel.rakuten.com/
• Peach Airline https://www.flypeach.com/en
• Jetstar Airline https://www.jetstar.com/jp/en
• JAL https://www.jal.co.jp/ar/en/
• ANA https://www.ana.co.jp/ja/jp/promotion/ana_kyun29/01.html

Japanese autumn Credit: Su San Lee

How was the information I provided? I hope it helped you in planning your Japanese trip! Remember to book everything as soon as possible, and prepare for an unforgettable adventure in Japan!!

We will wait for you in Japan!

Feature photo credit: Sora Sagano  

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7 Best things to do in Japan in 2024

A s a travel enthusiast starts planning a 2024 travel itinerary, Japan, the Land of the Rising Sun, ticks all the boxes. It is the ultimate travel destination thanks to its historic streets of Kyoto, savoring delicious street food in Osaka, exploring the religious shrines, or staying at the ryokans . From the age-old cherry fields to the peaceful country roads, this place is a feast for the senses.

Springtime being this place's truly magical venture, Japan comes alive with color and energy, and visitors are feasted on a lot of enjoyable destinations to explore. Its rich tapestry of history, culture, and natural beauty offers an array of adventures for every travel enthusiast.

Disclaimer: This is purely the writer's opinion, and might have missed some favorite destinations.

The top activities to experience in Japan in 2024

Whether the avid traveler is a history buff, a food enthusiast, or a nature lover, Japan is the perfect place for their visit in 2024.

Ahead, Team Sportskeeda has thoughtfully created a list of the seven best things to do in Japan in 2024 and make the most of their visit.

• Explore Kinkaku-ji at Kyoto
• Enjoy Hanami in Tokyo
• Feed the deer at Nara
• Learn about the city's history at Hiroshima
• River cruise at Osaka
• Ski at Hokkaido
• Sun-bask on the shorelines of Okinawa

1) Explore Kinkaku-ji at Kyoto

Kyoto, the cultural heart of Japan , is a must-visit spring destination for avid travelers. Considering that the best time to travel is in late March to early April, this holiday and sightseeing place is well-known for its cherry blossoms in full bloom.

Sight-seers should not miss the spectacular Kinkaku-ji (Golden Pavilion) and the traditional Gion District. For lodging, one should consider staying at a classic ryokan to experience the hospitality at its best. Kansai International Airport, the nearest airport, can be easily commuted to thanks to local transportation.

Once in Kyoto, one should also make sure to try out the local cuisines, like kaiseki (a multicourse feast) and various matcha confectionaries. Noted diners like Nishiki Market and Pontocho Alley also rule the culinary delight list.

2) Enjoy Hanami in Tokyo

Be it the onset of autumn or spring, the metropolis of Tokyo, Japan, is always bustling with a unique blend of modernity and ritual. Including Senso-ji Temple and Meiji Shrine, this metropolis' main attractions are decorated with cherry blossoms, catering to a panoramic view.

Once in Tokyo, tourists can enjoy activities like hanami (flower viewing) picnics in Ueno Park and boat or yacht cruises along the Sumida River. For an unforgettable stay, visitors can select a hotel in the vibrant Shibuya or Shinjuku districts and indulge in a wide variety of delectable local cuisines, like sushi tempura and ramen at Tsukiji Outer Market, and the food stalls at Ameyoko Market.

Read more: 6 Best European countries to visit in Summer 2024

3) Feed the deer at Nara

Nara, well-known for its friendly deer and ancient religious shrines, it is always the perfect time for any travel enthusiast to visit this charming destination.

Visitors can engage in activities like feeding deer and exploring the picturesque Isuien Garden at Nara Park and Todai-ji Temple, the main attractions they shouldn't miss. Once here, a holiday enthusiast can stay at cozy homestays or ryokans for an authentic lodging experience. There are also sample local delicacies, like Kakinoha sushi and persimmon leaf sushi, at the best diners in the Nara-machi district.

4) Learn about the city's history at Hiroshima

Hiroshima, a Japan metropolis with a resilient spirit and a profound history, is best visited in early April. From the local Hiroshima Airport, courtesy of its travel-friendly communication, the Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park and Shukkeien Garden are the main places of interest that offer serene beauty. Here, tourists can engage in activities like visiting the Itsukushima Shrine on Miyajima Island and the Hiroshima Peace Memorial Museum to learn about the city's history.

One can also plan their stay at comfortable hotels and savor local cuisines like okonomiyaki and oysters from the best diners like Okonomimura and Mitaki-en.

5) River cruise at Osaka

Considered one of the most vibrant cities, Osaka is famed for its lively environment and mouthwatering delicacies. The best time to visit is late March or early April. Once landing at the Kansai International Airport, a vacationer can enjoy their holiday by visiting the main attractions, like Osaka Castle and Dotonbori.

Thanks to its panoramic view, travelers can enjoy local activities like exploring the bustling Kuromon Ichiba Market and river cruising along the Okawa River. Planning a 2 to 3-day trip to Osaka, a vacationer can book their stay at downtown's trendy hotels and indulge in local cuisines like takoyaki , okonomiyaki , and kushikatsu at street food stalls, and best-eating joints like Mizuno and Kani Doraku.

Read more: 6 Best treks in the world

6) Ski at Hokkaido

Hokkaido, the northernmost island, is a must-see spring holiday destination in Japan, courtesy of its spectacular natural attractions. When hiring local transportation or pre-paid cabs from New Chitose Airport, the best time to visit is late April or early May. During this time, tourists can enjoy the main attractions, such as the vast fields of Shikisai-no-Oka and the majestic beauty of Shikisai Hill.

They can engage in activities like exploring Biei's charming beauty, skiing, Onsen (hot springs), enjoying a relaxing soak in the famous Noboribetsu hot springs, or staying at comfortable ryokans or motels with stunning mountain views. They can also savor these gastronomical delights in local delicacies like fresh seafood , spicy ramen, and tasty dairy products at the best diners like Ramen Yokocho and Nijo Market.

7) Sun-bask on the shorelines of Okinawa

Off-boarding at the Naha airport, Okinawa's gorgeous shorelines and rich history welcome avid travelers, making it an excellent destination year-round for all travel enthusiasts visiting Japan. Once here, travelers can explore the lively marine life at the Churaumi Aquarium and the Ryukyu culture of historical Shuri Castle.

They can rest and recoup at beachfront resorts like the Ritz-Carlton, Okinawa, or Halekulani, Okinawa, to experience the true essence of Okinawa, Japan. Visitors can also spoil their tastebuds with the local flavors of sample Okinawan soba, agu pork , goya champuru, and rafute pork.

Read more: 6 best Spring destinations in the world to take a family vacation

These are the seven best things to do in Japan in 2024 that promise an array of unforgettable experiences for travel enthusiasts. So, avid travelers can start backpacking to enjoy their adventure-packed holiday.

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Japan Travel Guide 2024: The Up-to-Date Budget-Friendly Manual & Travel Tips with Essential Maps and Photos (First Edition) (The Complete 2024 Travel Guide) Paperback – April 3, 2024

Purchase options and add-ons, japan adventure updated 2024.

Ready for an adventure in Japan? Our beginners manual is like a magic map, filled with secrets and fun places that will make your trip super cool!

Why This Book is Your Best Travel Buddy :

• Ever felt lost about where to go in Japan? Don’t worry! We've got you covered with the best places to see and fun things to do.
• You'll find out about the coolest spots in Tokyo, Kyoto, Osaka, and even in snowy Hokkaido!
• Love food? We’ll show you where to find yummy sushi, ramen, and more.
• Want to see cool festivals and events happening in Japan? We’ve listed them all for you!
• Maps and photos? Yep, we have those too! They make finding places super easy.
• Worried about spending too much? We’ve got awesome tips to save money and still have loads of fun.
• Plus, we'll share Japan’s secret spots that not many people know about!

What’s Inside? Let’s Check it Out :

• Tokyo Tales : Discover hidden alleys, giant robots, and yummy snacks in Japan’s buzzing capital.
• Kyoto Wonders: Walk in beautiful gardens, see old temples, and maybe even spot a geisha!
• Osaka Eats: Get ready to try the best street food ever!
• Hokkaido Adventures: Play in the snow and see amazing ice sculptures.
• Okinawa’s Sunny Beaches: Build sandcastles and splash in crystal-clear water.
• Autumn Leaves and Cherry Blossoms: See Japan’s famous colorful trees!
• Easy Travel Tips: Learn how to ride bullet trains and find your way around like a pro.
• Festivals and Fun: Dance at festivals and see cool fireworks.
• Budget Tricks: Save your pocket money and still see all the cool stuff.

Come on, Let’s Go!

Grab your copy of Japan Travel Guide 2024 now and start planning your most amazing trip ever. Japan is waiting for you with lots of fun, yummy food, and cool places to explore. Let’s make your adventure in Japan the best time ever!

Get your guide today and get ready for an adventure in Japan that you’ll never forget!

• Book 1 of 2 The Complete 2024 Travel Guide
• Print length 147 pages
• Language English
• Publication date April 3, 2024
• Dimensions 6 x 0.37 x 9 inches
• ISBN-10 180362826X
• ISBN-13 978-1803628264
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• Publisher ‏ : ‎ Travel, Travel and Travel (April 3, 2024)
• Language ‏ : ‎ English
• Paperback ‏ : ‎ 147 pages
• ISBN-10 ‏ : ‎ 180362826X
• ISBN-13 ‏ : ‎ 978-1803628264
• Item Weight ‏ : ‎ 9.9 ounces
• Dimensions ‏ : ‎ 6 x 0.37 x 9 inches

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Am at the end stages of finalising itinerary and wanted some advice on day trips on the Culture Day weekend (2nd - 4th November).

I am planning to do day trips to Nikko and Hakone but have seen that the weekend and the Monday are public holidays.

Question is whether day trips to either Hakone or Nikko would be worthwhile on the Sat, Sun or Monday or whether the crowds would mean it would be difficult to get to the main attractions.

I did see that there are festivities in Hakone on the Monday and would be interested to see those, but if the crowds meant it would be too difficult to move around would happily move to another day. Likewise assume that Nikko will be busy regardless, although noting that that there is a limited express from Shinjuku to Nikko that is attractive (as staying at Century Southern Tower ) but that this only departs on weekends.

I guess ultimately the question is whether I should schedule the day trips for earlier in the week that I am in Tokyo and leave Tokyo for the weekend (on the basis that Hakone and Nikko may be too crowded on the holiday weekend)

TIA for any advice

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Tokyo Toilet Shuttle: A curated tour to enjoy Japan's public toilets

Along with experiencing temples and cherry blossoms, Tokyo visitors can now join a curated pilgrimage of the city's more modern wonders: its public toilets. Penelope Panczuk, a tourist from the US, was inspired to hop on the Tokyo Toilet Shuttle for a two-hour tour of artistically enhanced public conveniences by "Perfect Days", the Oscar-nominated film about a toilet cleaner in the city's Shibuya district.

"In the U.S. or in France where I originally come from, you just don't go," Panczuk said of using public facilities. "Here in Tokyo you're really happy to go because they're extremely clean, they're very safe and each one is so different it feels like it's a discovery each time," she added. The shuttle began in March with visitors flocking to Japan at a record pace, drawn by a slide in the yen that's made it affordable for many superfans of Japanese culture to take in its sights and quirks for the first time.

How are Japanese toilets different? Among Japan's most-revered technological exports in recent years are its toilets -- manufactured by TOTO, LIXIL and others -- that feature cleansing sprays, heated seats, music, and other functions. The animated comedy 'South Park' recently devoted an entire episode to them, and hip-hop impresario DJ Khaled gushed on Instagram about a gift of four TOTO bowls from the rapper Drake.

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The Tokyo Toilet Project, started in 2020 by The Nippon Foundation non-profit, recruited creators including Pritzker Prize-winning architect Tadao Ando to improve accessibility and artistry in 17 public toilets in the Shibuya district. The project wasn't intended as a tourist attraction, but Shibuya's government saw a chance to broaden the area's visitor appeal away from its famously chaotic Scramble crossing."The highlight for visitors is that they can be driven around the less-visited parts of Shibuya and enjoy the entire district while checking out the toilets," said Yumiko Nishi, a tourist association manager for the ward. Shuttle passengers pay 4,950 yen ($32.76) to visit nine distinct toilets, including one with clear walls that turn opaque when users enter and another operated by voice commands.

Takao Karino, visiting from Japan's western metropolis of Osaka, marvelled at the wide, vaulted entranceway of a facility created by British designer Miles Pennington."There's nothing else like this in Japan," Karino, 69, said about the tour. "It's unusual, it's unique, it's honestly brilliant."($1 = 151.1200 yen)

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Top Things to do in Tokyo, Japan

Are you planning a cruise to Tokyo, Japan , but don't know what to do while there? Luckily, Norwegian Cruise Line wants to help you make the most of your vacation, so we've crafted this helpful list of top things to do in Tokyo.

Tokyo is a hub of modern skyscrapers and bustling nightlife, with many opportunities to experience this stunning city's ancient history and new-age amenities. Whether you want to relax in an onsen, visit the Imperial Palace, or immerse yourself in a one-of-a-kind foodie experience enjoying mouthwatering global cuisine, there are plenty of things to do to make any adventurer happy. Keep reading to explore some of the top things to do before or after your cruise vacation in Tokyo, Japan .

Ready to start planning? Explore all Tokyo cruises .

Visit the Tokyo National Museum

The Tokyo National Museum focuses on Japanese and Asian history. It combines the Independent Administrative Institution National Museum and the Independent Administrative Institution Research Institute of Cultural Properties. This dual focus allows the museum to direct its conservation, preservation, and education efforts. With a variety of permanent and ever-changing exhibitions, there's something new to see every time you visit.

The museum is open daily from 9:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. Be sure to look up any local holidays or special events, as the museum often closes during those times.

Relax at the Miharashi no Yu Hot Springs

Whether you have chronic pain or stiffness or just want a unique experience, the Miharashi no Yu hot springs is just the ticket. The hot springs offer a unique insight into the Japanese way of life. Since they stay at a steady 117.5 degrees Fahrenheit, they can relieve chronic pain, muscle stiffness, and other issues.

Miharashi no Yu is open from 10:30 a.m. to 9:30 p.m. daily but is often closed to the public on Tuesdays. It's open for most holidays. Another important thing to note is that the genders in the bathrooms change on odd and even days. In Japan, it's important to follow certain etiquette requirements at hot springs, including showering before entering.

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Get a Taste of Japan at Kioicho Fukudaya

Kioicho Fukudaya began as an inn in 1939 and can boast housing Nobel-prize winners, including Yaunari Kawabata and Hideki Yukawa. While the inn eventually moved, the delicious cuisine moved with Fukudaya to deliver a Michelin-starred experience. The restaurant is open from 11:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. for lunch and 5 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. for dinner, so be sure to make reservations well in advance to get a taste.

Seasonal special course menus include tasty treats, such as deep-fried pufferfish, Sanpo mochi, miso soup, and grilled blackfin seabass. If you don't want to wait for a reservation, Fukudaya also offers home delivery and a takeaway option, so you can get a Michelin experience without leaving the comfort of your hotel room.

Take Time To Reflect at Senso-Ji Shrine

As the oldest temple in Tokyo, Senso-Ji Shrine is a religious hub that draws over 30 million worshippers each year. There are many yearly events to join in, such as the first temple visit of the year that happens between Jan. 1 and Jan. 7 or the celebration of the Bodhisattva Kannon's appearance on March 18. There are 10 different sites to see - not including the pleasure walks in between each gate and building - such as Yogodo Hall, Awashimado Hall, and Niten-mon Gate.

Enjoy a Tokyo Cruise Tour

If you want to hand the planning reins over to someone else but still have memories to last a lifetime, you can sign up for a hassle-free Tokyo cruise tour to enjoy a four-day, three-night land tour with a Tokyo cruise. Other items that might be on your itinerary include the Meiji Shrine, a drive to the Imperial Palace Plaza, Sensoji Temple, Nakamise Shipping Street, and a trip to the Tokyo Tower.

You don't have to worry about lodging, as it's included in these tours. When booking your cruise tour, be sure to verify if the tour includes transportation to your ship so you can embark on your cruise vacation without worrying about how to get there.

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Planning Your Tokyo Adventure

Tokyo, Japan, offers a plethora of activities and otherworldly experiences that'll have you and your family talking about your Japan getaway for years. Planning an unforgettable vacation doesn't have to wait until you step aboard your cruise ship; you can start making memories before your cruise vacation. Japan offers historic landmarks, exciting city life, and gourmet food, so there's something for everyone in Tokyo to explore.

Whilst you're deciding which cruise holiday is right for you, be sure to sign up for emails to get the latest cruise deals and special offers delivered right to your inbox. Where are you cruising next? Tell us in the comments!