trip to japan 2023

Planning a Trip to Japan: DOs & DON’Ts (2024)

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This post is based on an amazing guide our friend Amy Dunn-Cham compiled us full of her Japan tips on how to plan a trip to Japan years ago. We have since visited Japan five times and update this post regularly with what we’ve learnt.

Ah Japan, irasshaimase! Welcome to the land where everything just works. The land of convenience, the land of delicious food, paradox, naked strangers, and where respect permeates through every part of society and culture.

In Japan the food can be described as clean and minimalist, but never simple, which probably sums up Japan as a whole. It’s a place that both lives up to, and out does, any expectation you have upon arrival.

Uh-huh, they have the fastest, sleekest, most efficient trains (ever!), but they still have paper posters pegged up on their Tokyo subway. Yeah, they have amazing futuristic architecture, but they also have countless traditional wooden buildings in amongst it all. 

Yes, they have the busiest people crossing in the world (Shibuya), but at no point is it ever chaotic, no need for anyone to bang on a cab screaming, “Hey, I’m walking here!”. 

Yes, they have scores of scarily trendy, funkily clad young people who like to cosplay on weekends, but they also have evening family outings to sentos (public bathhouses).

In this Japan travel guide, we’ll help you make sense of it all and share our best tips for planning a trip to Japan.

2024 Update: No Japan Travel Restrictions

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Japan reopened to independent international tourists on 11 October 2022.

Remaining restrictions were dropped on 29 April 2023, so visitors no longer need to show proof of vaccination or a negative Covid test.

The government also dropped the indoor masking recommendation. Many Japanese people still wear masks (on our late 2023 trip, I’d say about 30-40% of people wore them), but you are unlikely to be required to.

With the yen at the lowest it has been for decades, now is a great time to travel to Japan.

Health care is expensive in Japan, so I highly recommend purchasing travel insurance that covers Covid-19 medical expenses.  SafetyWing Insurance  is an excellent budget option, especially for travellers on longer trips and families (as children under 10 are free). It’s available worldwide.

If you want a more comprehensive policy with cancellation cover, check out Heymondo travel insurance , which we used on our last Japan trip (it came in handy when Simon broke his foot!). It’s also available worldwide and offers 5% off for our readers.

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We’ve visited Japan in all four seasons and don’t think there’s a bad time to go. 

In winter , it’s chilly and gardens are a bit bare, but crowds are lower, you’ll find great deals on accommodation, and you’ll really appreciate those onsens (hot springs). You can also go skiing or snowboarding and have the best chance of seeing snow-capped Mount Fuji.  

In summer , it is steaming hot and humid (and June is the rainiest month), but there are fewer foreign tourists around and lots of local festivals to enjoy. It’s also the best time to visit the many beaches and the only time you can climb Mount Fuji. 

The most popular and best overall times to visit Japan are spring (March-April) and autumn (October – early December). This is when you can enjoy the gorgeous cherry blossoms (sakura) or autumn leaves (koyo). It’s more crowded and expensive, but the weather can be ideal and it is just stunning. 

See our guide to visiting the Kyoto cherry blossoms for more information on the popular sakura season. 

On our recent autumn trip, we had warm weather (up to 77ºF/25ºC) with very little rain from October until mid-November, when the temperature in Kyoto suddenly plummeted ahead of the leaves turning colour.

Shoulder seasons May and late-September/early October  are also good times to visit with warm weather and lower crowds.

Two times of year I would avoid for a vacation to Japan are:

Golden Week in early May – In 2024, Golden Week is from 27 April – 6 May. This is a series of national holidays so many Japanese travel domestically, trains and hotels book up, and popular spots will be extra crowded.

New Year – Late December to early January. This is also a busy time with local travellers and most businesses close for up to four days.

How long do you need in Japan? As long as possible!

There is so much to see—we have spent months in the country and still have a long bucket list.

For first time visitors, I recommend visiting Japan for two weeks. This is enough time to see some highlights—Tokyo, Kyoto, and one or two smaller destinations. See our Japan two week itinerary for suggestions.

A week is the minimum time I recommend for a Japan trip. For a more relaxed Japan vacation, spend the whole week in Tokyo or Kyoto and take day trips. Or if you don’t mind rushing about, visit both major cities with an overnight stop on the way (such as Hakone).

Read our guide on the best places to visit in Japan to decide where interests you most and come up with an itinerary. You’ll find some suggestions at the end of this guide.

Watch this video for Japan trip ideas.

• Check if you need a visa . Visa-free travel is possible for citizens of 68 countries for stays of up to 90 days (including US, UK, Canada, Australia and the EU). Do have a return or onward flight out of the country as they may grill you upon arrival. It was the nicest immigration interrogation we’ve ever had, though.
• Purchase your Japanese Rail Pass exchange order before you travel to Japan (if needed, more on that later).
• Learn some Japanese —numbers are especially useful! While you can get by with Google Translate, it’s much more fun to learn some Japanese (which isn’t as hard as you might think) and locals really appreciate it. We are currently learning with the comprehensive Rocket Japanese online course , which includes audio lessons with natural dialogue, grammar and culture tips, and voice recognition to test your pronunciation. It’s a little pricey but unlike most subscription-based courses, you get lifetime access and discounts are often available.
• Get an International Driving Permit . You’ll need this for go-karting on the real Tokyo roads dressed as your favourite character. Insanity but one of the most fun things we’ve done in Japan.
• Arrange travel insurance. Healthcare is expensive in Japan, so make sure you are covered in case the worst happens. We’ve used and recommend Heymondo and  SafetyWing (both available worldwide). 

• Apply for a Mastercard credit or debit card – If you don’t already have one. Some Japanese websites don’t work with Visa so it’s good to have a backup. We used a Starling Bank debit card (UK only), which has free international transactions and cash withdrawals.
• Walk as much as possible – You will walk a lot in Japan cities so it helps to get some training in beforehand (and wear in some comfy shoes).
• Practice using chopsticks – You’ll need them to eat in almost every restaurant (curry is the exception as it’s eaten with a spoon). Getting used to sitting on the floor is a good idea for some restaurants and experiences too.

• Buy a pre-paid transport IC card  for local trains, metro and buses. You just tap on and off and don’t have to worry about buying a ticket. In Kyoto and Osaka, it’ll be an ICOCA card, and in Tokyo, it’s a Suica or Pasmo, but you can use any of the cards all over the country. Physical cards are currently in short supply (due to a chip shortage), so I recommend adding Suica to Apple Wallet on your phone or watch. Visa doesn’t work as a payment method so use Apple Pay, Mastercard, or American Express to top up. We just tapped on transport with our Apple watch and didn’t even need to open the app. Unfortunately, this doesn’t work for Android phones bought outside Japan.
• Set up an Airalo eSIM – You’ll want affordable data on your phone as having access to maps and Google Translate makes life so much easier. A digital eSIM is simple to set up before you arrive and prices at Airalo start at just US$4.50. We used it on our last Japan trip and it worked great. If your phone doesn’t support eSIMs, you can buy a physical Umobile SIM from a vending machine at Tokyo Narita Airport (make sure your phone is unlocked).
• Sign up to the Timeout Tokyo newsletter – To learn about special events during your stay.

• Buy tickets for Ghibli Museum and Ghibli Park – If you are a Studio Ghibli fan, you might want to visit the museum in Tokyo or new park in Nagoya. It’s essential to book ahead. See below for details.
• Research what else to book in advance – Many attractions and restaurants in Japan require advance booking so decide what’s important to you (ideally at least three months ahead) and set reminders for when bookings are available. At the end of this post you can see the timescale for what we booked for our latest trip.

• Consider a Japan Rail Pass . The luxury of shinkansen (bullet train) hopping is exhilarating. No need to book seats in advance, just choose a train, wave your pass and hop on. These passes are only available to foreigners and you can order online from  JRailPass.com . Read our guide to whether a Japan Rail Pass is worth it for everything you need to know after the price increase in October 2023 (it’s still worth it for some trips if you are travelling a lot).

• Bow if you are being bowed to . If you can manage it too, don’t turn your back upon exit. Don’t overdo it though or you’ll be a total gaijin , no need to bow to the supermarket checkout person!
• Pre-book accommodation. Wise anyway as the more affordable accommodation fills up fast, but also in line with the whole respect thing, Japanese people like to be prepared for your arrival.  So don’t just randomly rock up at a ryokan for the night! Booking.com is our favourite site for finding hotels and guesthouses, and we also use AirBnb and Vrbo  to find apartments in the big cities (which are often cheaper than hotels). See our Japan accommodation guide for recommendations.

• Go onsening! You might want to skip this in summer as hot doesn’t even come close to describing the water temperatures! But soaking in a hot spring is one of the most typical things to do in Japan and is ultra relaxing once you get over your fears of public nudity (yep, no clothes allowed!). Best of all, visit an onsen town where you can onsen-hop dressed in a kimono. See our Kinosaki Onsen travel guide for details on this lovely onsen town as well as hot spring etiquette. 

• Stay in a ryokan (traditional inn). Pricey but worth it for at least a night or two for the unique experience and the amazing meals that are often included in the room rates (and many can cater for vegetarians/vegans). Our favourite ryokan is Tsukihitei in Nara, so traditional and with a magical forest setting. We also loved our private bath overlooking the scarlet maple trees at Nanzenji Ryokan Yachiyo in Kyoto (book a suite not a standard room). More budget-friendly options are Hotel Musashiya in Hakone, where our room and onsen had a view of Lake Ashi, and Morizuya Ryokan in Kinosaki Onsen, which is perfect for onsen-hopping.
• Stay in a traditional tatami mat room.  If you can’t stay in a ryokan, a much cheaper way to stay in one is a traditional room in K’s House hostels—they have branches in Hakone  (with onsen), Kyoto , Izu Peninsula (in a 100-year-old building with onsen), and all over the country. We never had a bad experience with this hostel chain in our budget travel days.

• Appreciate the zen-like calm on all modes of transport – no need for quiet only carriages here! Just remember that it’s rude to speak on your phone on trains in Japan.
• Use Google Translate . Many people don’t speak English, so the Google Translate app is helpful for communicating. Write what you want to say in English then show the Japanese translation to the person. Even more impressive is the feature to translate images—point your camera at a sign, menu, or food label and it translates the text instantly. It’s not perfect but when it works, it’s brilliant.
• Translate websites too – Many Japanese websites (especially restaurants) are only in Japanese so using Chrome or Safari, refresh the page and select the English option at the top. On Safari on my iPhone, I tend to select a block of text and tap translate from the popup.
• See some sumo . If you’re lucky enough to be in the country when one of the sumo tournaments is on, go! The pre/ post game rituals are fascinating to watch. If you aren’t there during a tournament, you can see a practice session at a sumo stable in Tokyo . It was one of our favourite experiences in Japan—it felt like such an honour to see these huge, impressive sumotori training so close.
• Expect bursts of freakery!

• Get your paper fortune at a Japanese Buddhist temple. Okay, we cheated and got an English one at the Golden Pavilion (see our guide on the best things do to in Kyoto ), but what the hell! You can also get one at the gorgeous Sensoji Temple in Tokyo . 
• Love the Japanese for their never-ending capacity to help you out , and they won’t stop until they do!
• Read these Japan books before you visit for a greater understanding of this weird and wonderful culture. 
• Have some sushi – Sushi is the essence of Japan, plus sushi-train/ sushi stand up bars are so much fun watching the chefs take your order, and all shout in unison, “samon!” or “tamago!” etc. Vegetarian sushi isn’t very common, but we did find some—see our vegetarian Japanese food guide .

• Appreciate the plastic food models as works of art!
• Pack slip-on shoes. You’ll be taking your shoes on and off a lot in temples and restaurants. I wear the comfy ballet flats Allbirds Tree Breezers in warmer weather and Allbirds Wool Runner sneakers (for men and women) in cooler weather—they keep your feet cosy but can be worn without socks and easily slipped off without untying the laces. See my detailed Allbirds review .
• Shop at the 100 Yen shops.  Like pound shops BUT BETTER! Daiso is a great one.
• Play in the arcades dotted around cities, the taiko drum game rocks! 
• Make use of the many vending machines EVERYWHERE . You will never go thirsty in Japan that’s for sure.  You can even get hot coffee…in a can! (Simon’s saviour when we had early morning trains to catch.) In fact, you can get friggin’ anything from vending machines from cheap 100 yen sake (yuk!) to hot chips (not surprisingly we did not try!) and SIM cards. In Tokyo you can use your Suica transport card to pay. 
• Press random buttons on the panel next to you on the loo . It will make you giggle ;o)!  Also, if it’s cold then appreciate the absolute miracle of heated toilet seats.
• Fall in love with seeing toriis (shrine gates) everywhere , especially small red ones in rows behind each other. Fushimi Inari Shrine in Kyoto is our favourite (but go early as it’s popular). 
• Love and appreciate the beautiful presentation of absolutely everything from the amazing architecture to the way bento boxes are wrapped in a napkin tied in a knot just so, to amazing manhole covers!
• Pack light.  It will be much easier to hop on and off trains while travelling around Japan if you pack light, and hotels have limited storage space for luggage. Best of all, travel with just carry-on luggage . The Away Bigger Carry-On was perfect for our trip and fit overhead in trains.

• Consider luggage shipping – We haven’t used this yet, but if you have large luggage, it’s common to send it between hotels (it takes a day, so pack essentials in an overnight bag).
• Withdraw cash from 7-11 ATMs.  They are the most reliable no-fee option for international cards and can be found everywhere. Make sure you always have cash on hand as many places don’t accept credit cards (although this is improving). Note that some 7-11 ATMs in popular spots (the airport, Gion), do now charge, so try to withdraw in less touristy areas.
• Use Navitime to check train times and prices (and to work out if a Japan Rail Pass is worth it for your itinerary ).
• Visit BIC Camera if you need any kind of electronics. These massive stores have everything you could imagine. Take your passport if you are making a large purchase (over 5000 yen) and get it tax free. I bought a camera here and ended up getting lots of extra discounts and free accessories. It’s also a good place to buy a SIM card if you didn’t pick one up at the airport.

DON’T:

• Rent a car – For most visitors the best way to travel Japan is by train. Elsewhere we love road trips, but renting a car in Japan is just not worth the hassle unless you are travelling far off the beaten track.
• Open the door if taking a taxi. They are either automated or the driver will open it for you. It’s also a good idea to have your destination’s address written down in Japanese to show the driver as most don’t speak English.
• Feel bad if you need to take a break from Japanese food – Japan isn’t always an easy destination and indulging in a comfort meal can be restorative (we’ve had some excellent pizza in Japan).

• Forget to check opening hours – Japanese restaurants aren’t usually open all day and both restaurants and attractions usually have a last order/entry 30 to 60 minutes before closing.
• Go whizzing around the country too much. It can save energy to base yourself in one place and take day trips as we did in Kyoto and Okayama .
• Wear holey socks. You’ll only be embarrassing yourself when you take your shoes on/ off constantly!
• Go into an onsen without washing first , that’s just dirty dude!  Also, don’t go into the bathing area with a towel wrapped around you, you’ll just look stupid. Embrace the nudity! Everyone’s naked so no-one cares. My Kinosaki Onsen guide has more etiquette tips for newbies.

Japan is a popular destination and many hotels, restaurants, and attractions book up in advance. While you can still have a wonderful last-minute trip, it’s worth researching what you’d like to do months in advance to see what needs reservations.

On our most recent trip to Japan (in the busy autumn October/November season), this is what we booked ahead:

5 Months Before

• Flights – This is personal preference and earlier or later could also work. Tokyo Narita (NRT), Tokyo Haneda (HND), or Kansai International Airport in Osaka (KIX) are all good options to fly in to.
• Accommodation – Ryokans and hotels in smaller towns are most important to book ahead. Some hotels don’t take bookings more than 3 or 6 months in advance, though. We used Booking.com and almost all had free cancellation.

4 Months Before

• Tokyo DisneySea Hotel MiraCosta – Our favourite place to stay in Japan is right inside the best Disney park in the world. Rooms go on sale 4 months in advance at 11am JST and sell out in minutes, so it’s essential to do some practice runs.

3 Months Before

• Harry Potter Studio Tour, Tokyo – We booked 7 weeks in advance and only got an afternoon slot, so earlier is a good idea. Check Klook and the Warner Bros Studio Tour website as they have different availability.

2 Months Before

• Ghibli Park , Nagoya – Tickets go on sale on the 10th of the month at 2pm JST for 2 months later (it changed recently from 3 months). So May tickets will be on sale on 10 March. These sell out quickly, so be prepared.
• Teamlab Planets , Tokyo – Book early if you want a specific time for this interactive digital art exhibition (we wanted the first slot). We booked on Get Your Guide . The new TeamLab Borderless is also selling out fast (tickets available on Klook or direct ).
• Some Restaurants – We booked Monk in Kyoto exactly 2 months in advance at 12pm JST (after five attempts) and Shigetsu in Kyoto (as we were visiting during peak autumn colour). Creating a Tablecheck account is a good idea as quite a few restaurants use it for bookings.
• Saihoji (Moss Temple) , Kyoto – It’s expensive and might not be a priority with limited time in Kyoto, but it’s our favourite temple. Reservations open 2 months in advance.
• Universal Studios Japan Express Passes – These are essential to skip the lines at this very busy park in Osaka, and they do sell out. We bought the Express Pass 7 – Backdrop and Spiderman on Klook (much easier than the official site which is in Japanese only). We bought our USJ entrance tickets on Klook at the same time. See our Universal Studios Japan guide for more tips.

1 Month Before

• Ghibli Museum , Tokyo – Available at 10am JST on the 10th of each month for the following month.
• Shibuya Sky , Tokyo – Bookings open 4 weeks in advance at midnight Japan time. Book fairly soon after that to get the peak slot (one hour before sunset).
• Tours – I booked a sumo stable visit (highly recommended) and Shinjuku bar hopping tour in Tokyo. Go-karting is another fun option we’ve done before. I used Get Your Guide for most tours. Klook is a good option for tickets and attractions too.
• Tea Ceremony Ju-an , Kyoto – Learn the traditions of tea in a temple. One of the highlights of our trip.
• Sakurai Tea Experience , Tokyo – If you love green tea, don’t miss the tea tasting at this modern tea room.
• More Restaurants – I booked Saido in Tokyo, Uzu Vegan Ramen in Kyoto (reservations essential), and Ristorante di Canaletto at DisneySea (one month in advance at 10am JST exactly).
• Tokyo DisneySea and Disneyland tickets – I booked on Klook. The parks probably won’t sell out, but we didn’t want to take the chance.
• Japan Rail Pass – If you decide to get one, allow plenty of time for your exchange order to arrive by post, just in case (you activate it on arrival).

2 Weeks Before

• Shinkansen Train Seat Reservations – We used the SmartEx website , which can be difficult to set up (use a Mastercard and keep trying to authenticate the payment method) but very handy. When booking a train from Tokyo to Kyoto, choose a seat on the right side of the train for Mt Fuji views (if clear). If you have large suitcases, you’ll also need to make an oversized baggage reservation .
• Airport Taxi Pickup – From Narita Airport we get the Narita Express train, but from Haneda Airport (which is closer to central Tokyo), we prefer a taxi for ease. We booked this Haneda airport pickup on Klook .
• More Tours and Restaurants – Book any more priorities as you finalise your itinerary.

Japan has so much to offer but here are a few places to get you started.

• Tokyo – The best of modern Japan. This huge city has incredible food, diverse neighbourhoods, and some unique experiences. Try these cool things to do in Tokyo and enjoy the best vegetarian restaurants in Tokyo . 
• Kyoto – The best of traditional Japan with many stunning temples to explore . Read the best things to do in Kyoto .
• Takayama – A smaller, quieter alternative for traditional Japan with a beautiful historic centre of preserved wooden houses. 
• Hakone – For the chance to see Mount Fuji, mountain scenery, lakes, onsens, and fun transport options (cable cars and pirate ships!). 
• Kawaguchiko – Even better views of Mount Fuji at Lake Kawaguchiko . 
• Nikko – Stunning temples in the forest. Could be visited as a day trip from Tokyo. 
• Hiroshima – Visit the moving peace memorial that commemorates the atomic bombing and don’t miss nearby Miyajima Island. 

See our Japan 2 Week Itinerary for a detailed guide to visiting many of these places including things to do, transport, and where to stay and eat.

Or our guide to the best places to go in Japan has more ideas.

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166 Comments

Thank you for the lovely Japan Blogs – it is making our travel planning fun! It would be really helpful to understand the areas to stay in within the cities, especially first time travelers to Japan.

Reply ↓

Thanks JK! Our Kyoto guide has tips on the best area to stay (Gion or downtown) and in Tokyo, we recommend Shinjuku for first time visitors. Enjoy Japan!

Wow, an amazing blog, Erin. This is helping us so much plan our trip. It is great to see you updating it regularly too. It’s becoming a daily read.

Kind regards,

Thanks so much for this post! As is often the case I am following you around the world and now I’m going to Japan. Look forward to reading everything you’ve written on it!

Good to hear you are going to Japan, Ruth! I hope you enjoy it as much as we always do!

We are a very active retired couple and love exploring different cultures, sights, and exploring nature. We are planning on going to Japan for the first time for 3 -4 weeks, around the third week or so in Sept to mid October or later. We will travel with just carry on luggage and backpacks. We love touring on our own, or booking individual tours at the different places. We are open to basing in Tokyo, Kyoto, Hiroshima(?) plus other places and doing day trips from these places. What would be a good itinerary for our 21+ day trip? Thanks so much! We love your website! Bunny

Hi, I lost my comment somewhere on your blog 😅 So, me and my partner are going to Japan for 4-6 weeks in sept/october. We want to travel in a slow pace and want to visit Tokyo, Kyoto, hiking around Kiso Valley (and Kumano Kodo?), Nagano, Kanazawa? We also want to explore some nice nature, visit onsen, sleep at a roykan etc. Hokkaido would be cool but i don’t know if we will have time with that. Do you have any tips where we must go? I think our plan is to be at least 7 days each in Kyoto and Tokyo, we want to stay for minimum 2 nights at each place. Would you recommend to start in Tokyo? Is it worth to start a week in a busy town with jetlag? Should we go somewhere else (where?) for a nice start on the vacation?

Thank you! /Johanna

Hi Johanna!

I’m planning a solo trip from ~May 21-June 21, but i’m worried i’ll hit the rainy season and humidity. What to you advise? I’m limited to May 21st as my earliest trip start date due to school!

I think it makes sense to start with Tokyo if that’s where you are flying in to. That way you don’t have to worry about travelling elsewhere and you have enough time there that you can plan for the first few days to be pretty relaxed – wander some neighbourhoods, eat etc.

Sounds like you have plenty of time to do everything you want. You could easily use that time in central Japan, but you could add in Hokkaido if you really wanted (we still haven’t made it there). Enjoy!

Hi Erin, is it advisable to visit Lake Kawaguchiko in November? And, do you think it is possible to do a day trip to Lake Kawaguchiko having Tokyo as the base?

We haven’t been in November but we definitely would. You will likely see the autumn colours too (generally peak around mid-Nov), which would be beautiful.

It will likely be colder than Tokyo, but as long as you are prepared with warm clothes it should be enjoyable.

And yes, it is possible as a day trip from Tokyo – many people go by train or on bus tours. Just be aware that Mt Fuji is often hidden in cloud, so if you stay overnight you increase your chances to see it. But you could also try to choose a clear day for your day trip. Enjoy!

Our Lake Kawaguchiko travel guide has more details.

Thank you for creating this! I’m making my way through reading all of your posts. I will be visiting Japan for 14 days for the first weeks in April with my husband, a 7 year old, 10 year old and my two of my adult siblings. We’ll be a big group but I’m very excited as this is my first time and have always dreamed of going. Wondering if you have any advice for the younger kids or any kid entertainment? Thanks again!

Travelling with kids isn’t our area of expertise so I don’t have any specific recommendations except for Tokyo Disney, which we love. Tokyo DisneySea is our favourite park—it’s the only one in the world and has plenty to offer for kids and adults. Enjoy!

Absolutely love this perspective on travel! It beautifully captures the essence of what it means to explore the world. Travel isn’t just about ticking off destinations; it’s about slowing down, immersing yourself in new cultures, savoring moments, and absorbing the rich tapestry of life that the world has to offer. 🌍✈️🌏

Thank you so much for this! I have started notes and saved the page so that I can come back and check out all the links. :) I am wanting to take my 14 (would be 15 then) daughter alone (we do girl’s trips every year without dad) to Japan. She loves all things Cherry Blossoms! We try and do her spring break time (next year will be the first week of April), but I am concerned about that being too short of time period. Could we do it? If that is all the time you had, would you have a ‘base in Tokyo and then do some excursions from there (which is how we like to travel)? I am also worried about the language barrier and us being able to navigate since sometimes Google translate will not work. Thanks again!

Hi Jennifer, With one week I would focus on Kyoto, which is a better location for cherry blossoms and also has so many beautiful temples and gardens. It’s more traditional Japan (although there is a modern part too). Ideally, you’d fly into Kansai Airport which is closest.

If you have to fly into Tokyo, you could spend a few nights there before taking the shinkansen train to Kyoto (the quickest one is just over 2 hours).

If you really want to see the more modern side of Japan or don’t want to take the train, then Tokyo would be a great base. You can still see plenty of cherry blossoms there.

We don’t speak Japanese (although we are trying to learn this year) and have always managed. The Japanese are very helpful and will always try to help you out, even with a language barrier. And there are an increasing number of signs in English. Just make sure you have data on your phone as Google Translate and Maps are super helpful (you can download Japanese offline in Translate too).

Be sure to book accommodation far in advance for the cherry blossom season (ideally 6 months+).

Enjoy Japan! Erin

Hi Erin, My husband & I are travelling to Japan in August as he is competing in the world masters swimming competition. We have to be in Fukuoka for the competition and then he have 9 days to explore the country ending up in Tokyo for our flight home. Could you advise what we should do at this time of year. Do you think it is sensible to base ourselves in Kyoto and then take daily trips from there using the JR Pass, (do you recommend we get the Green pass). Your advise would be greatly appreciated. Thanking you in advance.Pia

Hi Pia, that’s exciting!

If you don’t want to move around too much then I do think Kyoto is a great base. There’s so much to do (including festivals in August) and lots of possible day trips. You could finish up with a couple of nights in Tokyo.

If you want to add some extra places you could stop in Hiroshima on the way to Kyoto for the peace memorial and nearby Miyajima Island. It’s a quick journey on the bullet train from Fukuoka.

You’ll need to work out your route first to see whether a rail pass is worth it. It probably won’t be worth it for day trips but could work out worthwhile including the shinkansen up from Fukuoka and on to Tokyo.

We’ve never used a green pass but if you want a bit more space you could consider it.

Also bear in mind that around the Obon holiday (13-16 August) the trains will be busier than usual so book your seat in advance.

Enjoy Japan!

Hi Erin – great post, thanks for your comprehensive insight! My partner and I are heading to Tokyo for NYE and planning on heading from there to Kyoto around the 2nd for a couple of nights. I understand that Japan can be very quiet during the first week of January. Do you have any experience travelling at this time? If so, do you have any suggestions about how to make the most of the trip while the country is a bit quieter? Thanks in advance :)

Hi Sarah, We haven’t been to Japan at New Year. The important thing to bear in mind is that many businesses will be closed on some or all days between 29 Dec and 4 Jan. So make sure you look at the hours of any restaurants and attractions you want to visit and work around them.

I think Kyoto will be lovely at a quieter time of year especially as it does get so busy. There are so many temples and shrines to explore and they stay open over NY. Enjoy!

Wonderful website and tips. I know one of your dont´s is rent a car, but we are hoping to visit Shirakawa-go, Gokayama and Takayama, and have found no easy way to get there from Tokyo or Kyoto on train. Do you have any recommendation on how to do that?

Many many thanks¡

Hi Natalia. You can get to Takayama from Kyoto or Tokyo easily by changing trains in Nagoya. The journey from Nagoya to Takayama is beautiful.

The other villages can be reached by bus from Takayama (Shirakawa-go is easiest), but yes, a car would give you more flexibility to explore the countryside around here.

Maybe look into renting a car for a few days in Takayama? Just remember you’ll need an international driving licence, which you’ll need to get in your home country.

While a car could be useful in the countryside, I wouldn’t want to drive in the cities and the train between cities is probably quicker.

I’ve written a bit about Takayama in our 2 week itinerary: https://www.neverendingvoyage.com/japan-2-week-itinerary/

Have a wonderful trip to Japan! Erin

Hello Enrin, your tips makes me very enthousiatic to plan a 4week trip to Japan. Is that a good way to tour? (Will be half september-half oktober).

forgot to say ;-) we plan to travel with a campervan: is that a good way to tour?

That’s a great time to visit and a nice amount of time to explore. I don’t think a campervan or any rental car is the best way to travel though. Driving (and finding parking) in the cities is a challenge and it’s much easier to travel by train.

A campervan would only be advisable if you want to focus on rural areas like Hokkaido.

Remember you’ll need an international driving licence, which you’ll need to get in your home country.

Hello Great Blog. full of advices How do you suggest to travel the “alps” from Kanazawa that one can reach by train to takayama and around ? would that be the place where you rent a car?

You can visit places like Kamikochi by bus from Takayama so a car isn’t essential.

Hi Erin, would like to ask is hiring tour guide better or do it yourself to see all nice place in Japan?

It depends how you prefer to travel. I definitely think it’s possible to travel by yourself. A compromise might be to hire a guide for a day (or join a tour) in Kyoto and/or Tokyo.

Good Day Erin. Just doing beginning research for our yearly trip this year, and we are considering Japan. Your excellent article is the first I started with. We like to spend minimum of 2 weeks, usually longer at our destination. You suggest that using public transportation throughout the country and not to rent a car. My husand and I are seniors. My husband has difficulty (pain) after walking a short distance (100 yards). Would this destination be a wise choice for us? Before going further in my research an answer to this question is most appreciated. Regards

Hi Diane, yes, trains are definitely the best way to visit Japan’s cities. You could hire a private driver for day tours within places like Kyoto, though, which could minimise the need to walk as much when sightseeing.

It would probably be best to minimise the places you visit (such as Tokyo and Kyoto or even just Kyoto) as train stations are quite large and do involve walking. If you fly into Kansai airport you could take a taxi to Kyoto and see a lot based there.

Perhaps renting a wheelchair is worth considering. There is also an overnight luggage delivery service where you can send your bags between hotels to make train travel easier.

As we don’t have any experience of travelling Japan with mobility issues, I would look for advice from those who have. Here’s one post that might be useful: https://www.japan-guide.com/forum/quereadisplay.html?0+132386

Diane: As someone who recently travelled to Japan having had double knee replacement surgery less than 12 months previously, I can offer a little insight! While I agree that travelling by train is a fantastic way to get around Japan (I covered a LOT of miles!) you should be aware that not all train stations have lifts or escalators. Many stations in Tokyo have quite long flights of stairs which can be a challenge to anyone less able or in pain, especially when you have luggage. Even when there is a lift, it’s typically right at the end of the platform (often the “wrong” end for where you want to be), so I would do some research before deciding how much urban train travel you will do; it’s less of an issue when taking the shinkansen to cover a reasonable distance. I much prefer trains to coaches, but I did use buses in places and that was fine. On the topic of car hire, I probably wouldn’t bother myself but I know someone who travels widely across Japan with a couple of kids and she swears by it, not least because they can easily reach locations that would otherwise be a hassle to get to. She doesn’t use one in the cities though. Lastly, I don’t think you should be put off going to Japan – it’s an amazing country and I found everyone to be unfailingly helpful. No problem is insurmountable!

Thank you so much for sharing your experience, Sue.

Hello Erin,

Would you recommend visiting Jaoan with a 1.5 year old? Do the onsens have babysitters?

We don’t have any experience travelling with kids but our friends took their toddler and loved it. The onsens don’t have babysitters as far as I know.

Thank so much for all the amazing info! Heading to Japan in June for two weeks with my daughter. It’s especially wonderful to know there are some great vegan/vegetarian options.

Hi Erin… I stumbled onto your website as I’ve started looking into planning for a trip in 2024 for my daughter’s High school Senior trip. Is Mid June a good time weather wise? Super hot? Also, are there food/restaurants that are gluten free for Celiacs? You mentioned beaches are those places more expensive than the cities? I will check out all your links too. TY for all the info, this will truly help.

It will be hot but if that’s the only time you can go, I wouldn’t let it stop you and it’s cooler than July and August.

I don’t have any experience being gluten free in Japan but our friend has written this guide: https://www.legalnomads.com/gluten-free/japan/

Beaches shouldn’t be more expensive than the cities but it depends where you go. We haven’t spent much time at the beaches.

Have a wonderful trip!

hi Erin, lovely website with a lot of good information. Do you list of places to visit / see – for a 4 week trip. We wanted to do the North part of the country as well. thanks for any tips and help. We are vegetarians as well but saw that you all managed to get delicious looking vegetarian food : ).

We haven’t actually made it very far north as there’s always so much to do in the central part. See our guide to the best places to visit in Japan for our favourite places: https://www.neverendingvoyage.com/best-places-to-visit-in-japan/

And yes, vegetarian food in Japan is great if you plan in advance (use the Happy Cow app).

Thanks for the info Erin. Cultural.differences are amusing at least.

Thank you so much for this guide Erin! It’s really helpful. I’m planning a 2-3 week trip to Japan around September. However, I’ve read and seen a lot of people saying to avoid this time of year due to typhoon season. Would you recommend visiting Japan around this time despite the typhoons that might hit?

We’ve been in September and enjoyed it. We did get some rain but nothing that disrupted our trip. I wouldn’t let it stop you visiting.

Hello Erin! Great information. Thank you! What percentage of small businesses (resturants, clubs, rooms, etc) are open this month (March)? What percentage may be open in May? Should I wait until September to experience Japan? Take care,

Everything should be open now so any month this year is good to visit!

How easy is it to navigate in Tokyo and Kyoto with a group of 8? We’re concerned about everything from attractions to train travel to being able to eat together. This is a trip to celebrate our friends’ 40th birthday and logistics just seem to be overwhelming!

Hi Laurie We’ve only visited Japan as a couple, but I’d say it might be a bit challenging in a big group. Many restaurants are quite small and trains can be crowded (although you can book seats together for the longer trip between Kyoto and Tokyo).

I’m sure it would be possible if you plan in advance (book some restaurants etc) and maybe break into smaller groups for some of the time. Perhaps discuss what everyone definitely wants to do and do those things together, but then have some time doing your own thing.

Good luck with it and enjoy Japan!

I’ll be visiting Japan for 10 days in March! Could you give me a little insight on the paying methods there? How much cash should I bring/have on hand? Do they mostly accept cash or do most places accept credit cards?

Thanks in advance!

Hi Susan When we visited Japan previously we needed cash for most places. We just withdrew from an ATM (the ones at 7-11 were most reliable for foreign cards) when needed so we didn’t exchange any cash in advance. Just make sure you use a card that doesn’t charge international transaction fees (this will depend which country you are from).

But I have heard that since Covid more places accept credit cards and contactless payment methods, so I’m really hoping there’s less of a need for cash now. I would still recommend always having some with you just in case.

Hello . I want to visit Japan with my 13 year old granddaughter in June. I have never been in Japan, but have traveled widely. We plan to visit Kyoto and its environs mostly but want to spend couple days in Tokyo. We do not speak Japanese but will find a way to learn some. We are coming from the US, but my home country is Finland (very Japan friendly :)). We definitely want to get bullet train passes and need to learn about cell phone communication. And we are both into adventure and are looking forward to seeing Japan. Thank you for any advice you can give us.

I plan to visit Japan soon, spiritualy a home I have never been to yet. This is due to my work and my partners need for beach and sun. I’m hoping I can convince her soon to travel with me there. Or it’s over… the Japanese have a way of life with nature that we miss here in the UK….. I have so much respect for the people of Japan. We could learn a thing or two….. I plan to beg konami tsukamoto to mentor me in order I can preserve British trees as she does her native species…… much respect.

Excellent post Erin. You’ve included some great examples of things specific to Japan that it would be great to know in advance for new travellers.

I especially liked your recommendation not to try and cram too much in and whiz around the country. This is a common mistake people make when visiting Japan. Also, not wearing socks with holes in! Once you’ve done this in Japan, you’ll never do it again LOL!

Also, an upvote for your suggestion to visit Takayama – a wonderful place that has a charming historical district that’s like stepping back in time.

Good information given u

I’m doing a project on Japan for school, your posts on Japan were all SUPER helpful- thank you so much!

Glad it helped!

Hello We are looking to travel to Tokyo with out 2 year old in October. We were told that we would need to book travel guides for us to have a visa to enter in Japan. As great as that all sounds, it’s also more then we intend to spend for our trip. How true is needing the visa to enter Japan? Should we do a tour guide for a couple days? If that is allowed.

Hi Vee, As things currently stand, Japan’s borders are still closed to independent travellers. You can only enter the country as part of a package tour that is very restrictive (you can’t do any exploring alone), and, yes, it would be expensive. You would need a guide for the whole trip.

There is a chance borders will reopen by October but really there’s no way of knowing right now. If you decide to go ahead and book in the hope they do reopen, I would make sure everything has free cancellation.

So I’m trying to plan a trip to Japan with my family next year July (4kids) but I keep hearing super expensive, anyways nanny suggestions on where or how to plan n book.? Also my chance do you have any info on Tokyo Disneyland?

yes, japan can be quite expensive but if you plan your stay well and get a rail pass if you’re hopping between cities then you should be able to manage it :)

Should we rent a car or is public transportation the preferred mode of transportation for tourists?

Public transport is easier to deal with. I wouldn’t rent a car unless you are going somewhere remote.

Is it better to custom plan everything? Like book 2-3 week stay and go whichever places we want to visit ourselves or get a package that offer planned trips?

I think it’s best to book everything yourself, but it really depends on how much experience you have travelling and how much time you have to plan it all.

I’m going to Shinjuku. Next year in June this has really helped thank you

This helped so much, im going to Japan in 2 years with my dad (to film a documentary) and this helped so much

Thanks Lillee and have a great trip!

I’d love all the great tips, but should add make sure that you keep eyed out on your train timetable…I’d went to the Takayama Festival and didn’t watch my time. I’d miss my train and got stuck in Nagoya for six half hours trying to get back to Asakusa. (Never again?)…watch your JR Rail or Metro timetable. Japan trains are on point.

Oh no, what a nightmare!

Bravo, your article full of good advice with beautiful pictures. A small precision for foreigners who wish to drive in Japan, they have to translate their driving license at a JAF center.

Now this I call a detailed guide! We are hoping to visit Japan next year so I am gathering all the info I can before I start any serious planning. This post was really helpful!

Thanks Julia! Good luck with your planning!

Hi thanks for sharing this Me & my nephew are planning to visit japan for the 1st time this September can you pls recommend any place to stay or eat and should we do tour or should we go on our own ? We kinda nervous abt the trip .

You should be fine without a tour. The train system is very comfortable and efficient and if you buy a rail pass, you don’t even have to worry about buying tickets for each trip. If you ever get confused, the Japanese are very friendly and will help you out.

Here are a few posts that should give you some ideas on where to go with accommodation and restaurant recommendations: https://www.neverendingvoyage.com/japan-2-week-itinerary/ https://www.neverendingvoyage.com/best-places-to-visit-in-japan/

Good luck and enjoy!

Wonderful and very Insightful Information.

I am a solo traveler from India, planning to travel to Japan for this first time, this summer for about 7-8 nights (June’2020), do you recommend going through some tour company or going on my own. How difficult is managing through Japan, without any knowing any Japaneses. Would you have a recommendation for a tour company.

I think Japan is fairly easy to manage without a tour company. The trains are a great way to travel and with a rail pass you don’t even need to worry about buying a ticket each time.

It helps to buy a local SIM card so you can use Google Translate on your phone. The Japanese are also usually very helpful even if they only speak a little English. We only speak a few words of Japanese are always manage fine.

Hello Erin, this is very useful. Thank you for sharing. Can you suggest us an 8 days itinerary for Japan. We’re visiting Japan for the first time and wish to enjoy the natural beauty and culture.

I would probably just focus on Kyoto and Tokyo in that time, perhaps with some day trips. Enjoy!

Hi! I’ve already been to Japan 2 times in the summer. The first time I visited Tokyo, Kyoto, Nara, Osaka and the Island of Shôdoshima. The second time I browsed a bit more around Tokyo and in the countryside (mainly in the Gunma prefecture – gorgeous landscapes!). I am going back in February. Two places I will visit for sure are Yokohama (first stop) and Sendai (2nd stop). And I and am wondering if there are “musts” I should not miss at that time of year (are snow festivals worth it? Or anything else?) and if it would be worth it to go as far south as Hiroshima? I should have about 12 days for Sendai onwards. I haven’t decided yet if I am going to fly back to Canada out of Tokyo (I could fly out from elsewhere too). Many thanks for your help and for sharing all of this! You’re doing a tremendous job!

Honestly this guide is incredible. I’ve booked marked this as I’m currently planning my things to do for March/April 2020! Any website booking recommendations?

Thanks Alyssa! Spring is such a lovely time in Japan.

Do you mean websites for booking accommodation or tours? We use Booking.com for hotels, Airbnb for apartments (in the big cities like Tokyo), and Voyagin for tours. You might find this post helpful: https://www.neverendingvoyage.com/things-to-do-in-japan/

Good afternoon! I’m planning a 1-month trip to japan in two years and would like to know how much money you think I should save up. I already have the places I wanna visit in mind and would just like some bit of info.

Thank you. :)

That’s a difficult question to answer as it depends so much on your travel style. Do you want to stay in hostels or fancy ryokan or a mix of both? Do you want to do expensive tours and activities or are you happy just wandering? Are you happy with cheap ramen or do you want to try a pricey kaiseki meal?

As a rough idea, on this two week itinerary ( https://www.neverendingvoyage.com/japan-2-week-itinerary/ ) we spent about US$120 per person a day which I’d say is a mid-range budget. There is more info in the itinerary post.

“Well there it is” I shouted as I scrolled through this fantastic information resource. An superb honest, unbiased view and answer to all, yes all, my questions. Except one…. Did you get to visit Okinawa? I desperate to get there… I will have 3-4 weeks….

Thank you so much Brian!

Unfortunately, we haven’t visited Okinawa yet. You’ll have plenty of time to add on a flight down there though. Enjoy Japan!

Awesome post! Thanks for sharing the knowledge and keep up the good work.

Thanks Brian!

Those photos of the dog pulling the mans underpants!?! My child was looking at this with me and now he is scarred for life!

Oh dear! You do find some very strange things in Japan.

I really enjoyed the detail you gave on your trip to Japan! This is 100% helpful as someone planning a trip there for the first time.

Thanks and enjoy Japan!

Hi Erin, thank you for taking the time to put all this great info together. One question I have is in regards to Takayama. Did you like it more than Kanazawa and Shirakawa-go, if you went? We originally planned to stop for a night in each place, however, because of availability in Shirakawa-go, we had to switch up our itinerary a little bit. To adjust, we have considered skipping Takayama and just doing Kanazawa and Shirakawa-go, but this makes me think twice. We also have the option of leaving Tokyo a day early (currently booked for 4 full days there) to keep all 3 places in the line-up. Would love to hear your input! Thank you!

I did like Takayama more than Kanazawa. It’s smaller and cuter and is surrounded by countryside. But then I do prefer small towns to big cities so it depends on your preferences. If you can fit it in I would.

We didn’t visit Shirakawa-go in the end. We were thinking of visiting as a day trip on the way between Takayama and Kanazawa but it would have meant having to use buses rather than take the train which we prefer (and we had a rail pass). If we had had time for a night’s stay there it would have been better I think.

Whatever you choose you’ll have an amazing time though!

Thank you so much for your post! It’s incredibly informative :)

I have one question, I am a woman traveling alone is there anything I need to consider? I have heard that Japan is a safe country, as you have the real-life experience, I’d love to hear what you think!

Thank you for your time, and excellent blog post!

I don’t think you need to worry – Japan is a very safe country. Have a great trip!

Nice list, and pretty accurate- thanks for sharing all the info!

I have to say though- DO try non-Japanese food. Things off the top of my head: bread from the local bakeries, 600¥ cake from fancy department stores, Starbucks (the seasonal things!). Pork buns in Yokohama, Pirozhki in Kamakura… The list is endless. Of course eat all the Japanese food too, because it’s amazing too.

But, I’m also so sorry you had such a bad experience (I’ve been there too)! The size of the nan though? Oh-my-god, right? :)

I do think non-Japanese food has improved a lot in recent years. We had some fantastic Italian food on our last trip (as vegetarians it’s a good backup option for us!).

Which places do you wish you would have stayed longer?

Kyoto (even though we had three weeks there!) and Tokyo.

Great list! It’s made me even more excited to get to Japan now!

I love saying ‘moshi moshi’ – i used to hear it when I worked in an international call centre – it’s so much better than plain old ‘hello’!

Excellent post – interesting, funny and very informative! Currently planning my Japan trip, this was a lot of help :)

Have an amazing trip to Japan!

I am visiting my daughter in Singapore and on the way back to the US my wife and I are visiting Japan (3Jun-8Jun). It is only for 5 days so unfortunately our time there will be very short. Originally I wanted to climb Fuji but the guided trip company I emailed claimed they only had a 1 day guided trips and crampons were required. Although we love to hike this may be too much for such a short trip. If anyone has hiked Fuji in crampons in 1 day I would love to hear about the experience. I still want to see Fuji up close, Kyoto, old family member used to live in Nagoya so would like to stop by there and perhaps Hakone. I just started looking for any special events that take place in the first week of June. Looking forward to this trip and a longer one next time.

Hi there :) Loved your post. I’m from Portugal but I’m a Japan fan. Went to Tokyo las year on March but this time I’m planning on 3 weeks travel around Japan. Can you help me? I already have the places to visti but I need help spliting the time… Oh and if yo see any of the plaes below that arenot woth to visit or less mportant please I’d aprreciate if you tell me: – Chiba – Nikko – Nagano and Matsumoto – Kawagoe – Kanagawa – Mt. Fuji (just planning on going near to have a view – Lake Kawaguchiko) – Magome – Takayama – Nagoya – Kyoto – Nara – Osak – Himeji – Hiroshima – Miyajima – Tokyo (and surroundings)

Thank you so much if you can help me.

Kind regards

Hi guys! I’m planning a trip to Japan in January with mum (I know it’s cold over there, but that’s the only break we’ve got!). We’re planning for a stay for around 8 days, any tips on where to go? I heard that an ideal short trip will consist of arriving at Tokyo and departing at Osaka, is that true? I really don’t know much about Japan so any advice is appreciated!

I would focus on Kyoto and Tokyo and take the train between them. Maybe include a day in Osaka if you can get a flight out from there.

We’ve written lots more about Japan: http://www.neverendingvoyage.com/japan-round-up/

Good advice. I hope to use this on my up come trip.

This is a great post! It is very helpful. I am planning to go to Tokyo this June. I will be staying in Shibuya/Shinjuku area. I don’t know which hotel to stay in and where to go first. Do you have any advice for the first time traveler? Thank you very much! :)

I am planning a trip in March 2015. Reading your website has got me extra excited already

Hi Matthew, I’m planning to travel to Japan at the beginning of March 2015 as well. If you got any great idea, we can discuss. Thanks

I am planning a trip to Kyoto to see where Reiki was started, your insights are great. Thank you

Are you house sitting for a friend or do you use a website to find/sign up for sitting jobs?

We used mindmyhouse.com

Hi guys, great blogs-thank you for sharing it. We’re planning to do a trip in December 2013 14-27/12.

Could you advise which cities we should visit using the shinkansen. We have 14 days to spend with the first 3 days in Tokyo, so it’ll leave us with 11 days in other cities.

I am confused with the the shinkansen map and which one we should take and which cities we can visit that is on the way. We are targetting to return to Tokyo on the last 3 days to do some shopping.

It is basically that 8 days, we need to use to the cities that can be visited using the shinkansen line.

Thank you in advance for your help

Hi Hemmy. I wrote up an itinerary I followed with a one-week JR Pass that might be of some help. It includes other useful tips for planning as well. Find it at:

http://www.lengthytravel.com/saving-on-travel-in-japan-with-a-jr-rail-pass-my-itinerary-tips-and-cost-savings/

Hi Jeff, thank you for your prompt reply. I really appreciate it. You’re really helpful

This site is really helpful about Japan and shows a route map: http://www.japan-guide.com/e/e2018.html

I would definitely recommend Kyoto and probably Hiroshima as well. These are the details of where we visited: http://www.neverendingvoyage.com/japan-round-up/ .

Have a great trip!

Hi I was wondering if you could help. Basically I want to pay my mum and dad back for being such brilliant parents and helping me bring up my little boy. My dad went to Japan about 40 yrs ago he has always wanted to go back. I want to plan a surprise trip next year to Japan. I’m planning about 10 or 14 days away but not too much travelling maybe a few days in 3 places and ending up in Tokyo for 4 days to finish . Can you recommend anywhere that would be a must. I am completely lost as am not familiar with hotels or places etc. Any help would be brilliant Thanks nadya :)

It really depends what you are interested in but I’d definitely recommend Kyoto as well as Tokyo. Have a read through our Japan posts and see what you like the sound of. Good luck with it.

Thanks had a look and they’re into history so definitely Kyoto . Cheers for ur help Nadya

I going to Japan next year and through out my researches I always came across those dos an don’ts and I have to say this is really nice and short one but has a lot of information in it, which is something I really like! Keep up the good work ;D

Thanks and have a great trip.

Hello, i am starting a trip around the world in february. I start in Tokio and end in Canada in december. How many days do i need to see Tokyo and are there some real good hidden secrets? Gr. Bert

That’s a difficult question. There is so much to do in Tokyo you could spend a few days or months. We didn’t spend that much time there so can’t really advise.

Hello, with one of your Dos its not mushy mushy its moshi moshi aka (もしもし). I’ve been leaning japanese for about 9 years now i was wondering id you could correct it please

ありがとうございます　（＾＿＾）

Done. Thanks for letting us know.

Your topic is amazing, I learned a lot but can you tell me what money should i required for 1 month to travel in Japan.

It’s hard to say but you can see our budget post for an idea of what we spent: http://www.neverendingvoyage.com/how-much-does-it-cost-to-travel-in-japan/

Very nice and interesting article plus points. Japan is a place I really have wanted to go forever!

I am planning a 10 day trip with my two teenage girls. We really want to see Tokyo well. I keep hearing about Kyoto is it worth seeing, it seems far from Tokyo (8hrs) and expensive to get to?

I don’t think it’s that far if you get the bullet train. You can look up train times and prices on this website: http://www.hyperdia.com/ . You might also want to consider a rail pass if you are planning to visit other places. Compare the prices on that site with the rail pass.

Great Post. I lived in Japan for a few years and loved it. I would suggest going to any matsuri (festival) that are going on during your stay. There is lots of culture to be seen at those events. Plus there is good food. Depending on the location you’re at in Japan, during August or September, there are festivals for Obon.

In the planning stages for 9 days in Japan during June 2012 (flights booked). Can anyone help me with how long to see Hiroshima/Miyajima and whether we should base in Osaka or Kyoto to do the Osaka / Kyoto / Nara and possibly Takayama?

Hi Leonie, Two days would be enough for Hiroshima/Miyajima. I would chose Kyoto as a base as we much preferred it to Osaka and there’s more to see there. You can easily visit Osaka and Nara as day trips. We didn’t go to Takayama but it is quite a bit further away so it’s up to you how much you want to rush around. You could definitely find enough to do in Kyoto with a week.

Very useful! I wish I could go soon!!! Do you recommend any specific time in the year?

We were there in summer which suited us as we like hot weather. It is more scenic in the spring or autumn as you have the cherry blossoms or autumn leaves. The spring is peak season though. My friend went in the winter and loved it as the snow is beautiful, you can ski, and you can warm up in onsens (it was too hot for those when we were there). It really depends what you are looking for but anytime has something to offer.

I think Japan is going to be my next trip abroad, and this list is extremely helpful. I love that it addresses those smaller opportunities and moments and not just the big sites to see. Bookmarking right now!

Glad you found it helpful. Yes, for us travel is always more than just about the big sites. So far we are really enjoying Japan and soaking up the cultural differences.

Oh I forgot one of the highlights of Kyoto (besides the monkey park) is a trip on a little train that takes you outside of Kyoto and up into the mountains to Kurama and Kibune. You can then do a walk up over the hills from one village through to one of the big shrines at the other village. There are onsens at the end to rest in. A really lovely walk out in the countryside and the train trip is so much fun.

Sounds wonderful!

We stayed in Kyoto in 2008 for a week and went back there last year for a quick day during a week long trip to Osaka. The best thing about Kyoto is it’s location to other places for day trips – Osaka, Nara, Kobe, Himiji (although the castle is covered in scaffolding). You can get a cheaper Kansai Japan rail pass for four days (about $80?) to get to all these places.

Make sure you get to the Nishiki Market for fresh food – our post at is a big band width one with loads of pictures and we have more posts on our trip last year. Also, the rice burger at MOS burger is vegetarian and yum.

We will be in Tokyo from Sep 23 for a week of exploring Tokyo and surrounds. Thanks for the onsen tips nearby, will be looking for some there.

Thanks for all your tips Alison. Your post on the Nishiki market is fantastic – we will definitely visit although I’m not sure I’ll know what most of the things are! Looks like we’ll be in Tokyo around the same time as you!

Oh yeah, JTB (Japan Travel Bureau) has an excellent series of booklets on different topics. Unfortunately, they don’t seem to have Kindle versions, but probably worth the price to pick up one or two. For example: http://www.amazon.com/Look-into-Japan-Your-Pocket/dp/4533013813/ref=pd_sim_b_1

I love Kyoto though it has been years since I was in Japan and longer since I was specifically in Kyoto. My recollection is that it was easier to find English speakers there, though I tend to agree the not speaking the local language is harder in Japan than many places. To make up for that though, the people are probably more willing to be helpful than anywhere else I have ever traveled. Anyway, the number of incredible temples in Kyoto is impressive. Also, if you will be there for the fall foliage (Kouyou in Japanese) you will indeed be fortunate as it is incredible in Kyoto.

I would also point out that Japan is definitely one of the safest places in the world to visit.

Also worth mentioning is that Japan is a country where many towns and cities are famous for something very specific (knives, a certain type of food, pottery, etc.) so always try to find out what a place you are visiting is famous for.

I can’t recall how far away it is from Kyoto, but I think not too far is a place called Takayama which is one of my favorites. Especially if you can make it to the Fall festival which is one of the most impressive festivals in all of Japan, though there are many all around the country and throughout the year. Good festival street food is always available too, though I can’t recall if any of it is vegetarian friendly.

Many famous things in Japan come in 3s – 3 famous gardens, 3 famous shrines, etc. One of the 3 famous shrines is Ise Jingu which is a bit south of Nagoya and one of my favorites if you get a chance to see it. Nara is also quite special and not too far from Kyoto.

Speaking of food, you’ll have no trouble satisfying a sweet tooth as there are many good bakeries to be found, especially in the train stations. And, a popular chain of restaurants called Mister Donut is good and ubiquitous. You may also be surprised by how many people get a quick meal at the local convenience store.

If I think of anything else I’ll add it later. Ganbatte ne! (“good luck”)

Thanks so much for the advice Jeff! Unfortunately we are only in Japan until the end of September so I think we’ll miss the foliage. I had been considering Takayama though so glad to hear you like it.

Great post and very informative. The Japan Rail pass is a must if you plan to to a lot of traveling and the 100 yen shops are great for souvenirs.

Japan Australia

Am really hoping to make it to Japan sometime in the next 12 months – bookmarking this!

Hopefully we’ll have lots more posts about Japan when we get there next month.

Hi, it’s Mariko, came to check out your blog. Interesting article but I can’t keep my mouth shut on a few things. Please DO try non-Japanese food in Kyoto… we have such a great selection of Brazilian, Nepalese, Indian, Thai, Chinese, Italian restaurants it would be a shame if you stuck to only Japanese food. Also, Kyoto is probably the vegetarian capital of Japan if there ever was one. There are a lot of veggie and vegan places as well as a special kind of buddhist vegan meal that you have to pre-book, but is very nice.

A lot of people speak English here (not necessarily GOOD English, but…) . Almost everywhere in Japan there are English translations of Japanese signs (subway, trains, buses etc. ).

….I swear I’m not a jerk! I just want your information (and the info for anyone else who reads this) to be up to date. Don’t hate me, Amy!

It sounds like Kyoto is a lot more cosmopolitan than other parts of Japan. We are really looking forward to trying the vegetarian food, especially the Buddhist meals.

Thanks for your comment and of course you’re not being a jerk, :o)! The post is based on our 3 week experiences in Japan so obviously would never be definitive in anyway. I’m sure that other non-japanese food is great (apart from the Indian curry we had in Fukuoka!) but I guess my point for fellow travellers is that Japanese food is so delicious why waste your stomach and yen on other food during your stay!

I’m sure too that many people do speak english, in our encounters this was rare even in Tokyo, but again Japanese is such a beautiful language why not go ahead and dive in and try to speak it!

Lastly too, in our 3 weeks there were indeed occasional english transport signage to be found, but we also had many experiences standing at a bus/ subway terminals not having any clue as to where to go or what to pay. Again though, this isn’t a bad thing, sometimes the best thing about being intrepid travellers is being able to figure things out!

I certainly don’t hate you (!), in fact I apologise if you found anything in the article to be of offence. I certainly did not mean to, and again after only 3 weeks in your amazing country, the list was only ever meant to be a broad guide to anyone else going to visit.

All the best,

Totally agree about the non-Japanese food!! I loved Japanese pizza so much I would go back just for that :D

Awesome Amy my husband and I who have never been overseas before have chosen Japan as our first overseas destination for our honeymoon and soaking up any information we can get ?

Glad everyone likes the post! Love your story too Erin! I remember our friend Noriko said that, after living in Manchester for awhile, she was glad to return to her homeland of convenience!

Oh, how I want to see Kyoto! Bamboo grove, old temples, aaaah…

I know about this website: http://www.vegietokyo.com/info4vegie/articles/article2.html Though it’s for Tokyo mostly. Hope it’s helpful :) Have fun on your trip!

Thanks for that – the article is really useful.

100 Yen shops are soooooo brilliant. Get some tabbi socks too. Shinkansen, though expensive, are so worth it – you can travel vast distances so quickly and it is a breath of fresh air to use any Japanese public transportation after the British version! Gavin and I were due at Tokyo airport one cold wintery day. Woke up at 4.30am to catch our bus to Tokyo (4 hours away) to find snow knee deep. Freaked out, how would we get to Tokyo now? Needn’t have worried – Japanese workers were all out clearing the roads and our bus rolled in right on time.

Really good post, Amy you sure squeezed a lot into your 3 weeks! Erin x

I love that story! I can’t wait to try the bullet trains and enjoy everything being super-efficient and on time.

Really great posts, I have been to Japan several times and you are spot on!

Oh I love Japan so much and I haven’t even been there yet! This is a great list – it solidified everything I was thinking about our upcoming trip to Japan. My 3 years of Japan in college might finally pay off…haha.

I’m excited to hear about your 3 weeks in Kyoto too!

When will you be in Japan Ashley? We can’t wait for our trip too. Kyoto seems like the perfect place to base ourselves.

Won’t be there until January! But super excited cause I’ve wanted to visit fooooorever.

Great tips! Thanks for sharing!

GREAT post – you’ve got a little bit of everything here =) Let me know if you need any ideas on Tokyo – I spent about 10 days in and around that area last year =)

Any highlights of your trip in Japan that you can share would be much appreciated!

Toni, I am going to Japan for 10 days at the end of June. Can you give me the scoop of MUST SEE sites that you really liked?

I DO :) would love some recommendations if still relevant

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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.

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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.

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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.

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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.

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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.

View our Japan tours featuring Tateyama Kurobe Alpine Route

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.

View our Japan tours featuring Shibazakura Festivals

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……

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

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

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

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

1. Do I need to pack a mask?

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

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

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

The 10 most spectacular road trips in Japan

3. Have I downloaded the MySOS app?

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

4. Do I need to apply for a visa?

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

The ultimate guide to karaoke in Japan

5. Should I reserve restaurants and museums in advance?

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

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

8 unique places to stay in Tokyo

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

Theme Parks

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

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

Trying the traditional crafts of Ishikawa prefecture

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

Bullet Trains

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

Japan's best food and drink experiences

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

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Vacations in Japan

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• There are loads of types of vacations in Japan and the cost will depend on what type of trip you’re taking and for how long you’d like to stay. Here are the latest prices for a 3 night trip for 2 travelers: Top vacation $619; Family vacation $539; Romantic vacation $854; Luxury vacation $813; Budget vacation $412.

Why should you book a vacation package to Japan?

It's better to choose a travel package that fits your choice, preferences, and budget in advance. The cost is charged at standard preferential rates which are pre-paid and inclusive of accommodation and travel.

When should you book a vacation package to Japan?

Japan experiences an annual average temperature of 75 degrees Fahrenheit. The hottest month is August, which has a high of 79 degrees Fahrenheit. The shoulder seasons of March to May and September to November are the most ideal, when tourism is between peak and off-peak. Temperatures are comfortably moderate at this time and the landscape transforms with the vegetation blossoming in early March while the vivid hues of the leaves in September are stunning. Since this is the off-peak tourist season, the travel deals are much better and you can find fair and inexpensive vacation package pricing.

Where should you stay in Japan during your vacation?

For any vacation type in japan:.

Hotel Kanra Kyoto has wooden floors and is fitted with deep soaking tubs made of cypress. The rooms boast such amenities as flat-screen TVs, minibars, and free Wi-Fi. The upgraded suites feature gardens and terraces.

The Screen is a boutique hotel which is about a quarter mile from the Yebisu Garden Place and little more than a mile from the Nezu Museum. The room amenities include air conditioning, flat screen TVs, and free Wi-Fi.

For family vacations in Japan:

Hotel Rose Garden Shinjuku is only a minute away from the metro station and is situated only a 1 1/4 miles from the Shinjuku Gyoen and less than 2 miles from the Meiji Shrine. The rooms have low-key decor, wood furnishings, and flat-screen TVs. The upgraded rooms have separate sitting areas, making them ideal for families with children.

Hilton Tokyo Bay is only 7-minutes away from the Bayside monorail station and features pastel and fairy tale themes. It also has DVD players to keep the children busy and the separate kid's bedrooms are cartoon themed. Additionally, it also has an Asian restaurant for fine dining.

For romantic vacations in Japan:

Four Seasons Hotel Tokyo At Marunouchi has floor to ceiling windows which offer a panoramic view of the city. It is a particularly enticing feature at sunset and sunrise, offering breathtaking views during dinner and breakfast.

The Ritz-Carlton, Kyoto has elegant rooms that overlook a garden with mountain and river views. By way of activities, the hotel offers art tours, cycling, and hiking.

For luxury vacations in Japan:

Gōra Kadan has unique and exquisite features such as wood framed beds and tatami mats. The rooms have dining tables, soaking tubs, free Wi-Fi, saunas, and whirlpool tubs. You can also request in-room massages.

Asaba Ryokan features traditional short-legged tables, tatami floors, and the refined rooms are equipped with flat-screen TVs, free Wi-Fi and indoor baths. You can order an in-room dinner and breakfast as well.

For budget vacations in Japan:

The Claska has custom furnishings and decor which have a minimalist theme. The rooms are equipped with desks, flat-screen TVs, sitting areas, and free Wi-Fi. Parking and breakfast are free while the restaurant offers both Japanese and French cuisine.

Kimamaya Boutique Hotel is an upscale but reasonably priced establishment that offers exposed timber beams, hardwood floors, and rainfall showers. There are flat-screen TVs, iPod docks as well as free Wi-Fi. A French restaurant with vaulted ceilings serves a free breakfast buffet. You can also book a shiatsu massage in the oak-walled stone thermal baths.

Where to stay in Japan

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Japan Trips & Tour Packages

Beautiful landscapes? Check. Cultural experiences? Check. Tastebud-tingling food? Check. Our Japan tours have it all.

There’s a certain allure to Japan – a place where eastern tradition and western modernity collide among otherworldly scenery that’ll take your breath away and refuse to give it back. Add mouthwatering cuisine, a fascinating history, and a multifaceted culture into the mix and it's easy to understand how Japan continues to captivate travelers. From enjoying a sake tasting at a local brewery and soaking in a steaming hot onsen to marveling at World Heritage-listed temples thousands of years old, our tours in Japan promise the ultimate adventure: one you’ll continue to think about long after you return home. 

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Japan at a glance

Capital city.

Tokyo (population approximately 37 million)

Approximately 123.1 million

(GMT+09:00) Osaka, Sapporo, Tokyo

CALLING CODE

Electricity.

Type A (North American/Japanese 2-pin) Type B (American 3-pin)

Learn more about Japan

Culture and customs.

Japan is a multifaceted country made up of many different cultures, rituals, and traditions influenced by Confucianism (introduced in AD285), Buddhism (introduced in AD552), and Shintoism (Japan’s ritualistic native religion). The rise of technology and international trendsetting has also played a part in the culture of Japan today as the younger generation embraces fashion-forwardness, online personas, and high-tech gadgets.

This is in direct contrast to the Confucian-influenced, old-school Japanese culture that the older generations still live by, with a larger emphasis on modesty, respect, and discipline. This can sometimes cause conflict between the two demographics, however, there are still some traditions that are considered sacred regardless of age – tea ceremonies, bowing, kendo, geisha, and sumo.

Visit ancient temples and walk history-laden pilgrim routes on a 8 day Koya-san & Kumano Trek.

History and government

Japan has had an interesting past with its ancient history, pre-modern history, and 20th-century history, all influencing the country we all know and love today.

Ancient history

While there is evidence the archipelago has been occupied by humans for around 35,000 years, what we know now as ‘Japan’ began to take shape about 1700 years ago as disparate tribes started to unify.

Pre-modern history

Over the centuries, Japan has alternated between feudal, empirical, religious, and government rule, with each period birthing different styles of art, architecture, and spirituality. Buddhism and Confucianism, introduced in 552 BC and AD 285, respectively, both proved massively influential on the class structures and governance of pre-modern Japan. You can still visit and stay in many Buddhist temples in Japan today.

20th century

It’s difficult to discuss the emergence of modern Japan without talking about WWII. During the war, the Empire of Japan used aggressive military tactics in an attempt to expand its reach and control in Asia and elsewhere. In response, the US Army instigated a strategic bombing campaign that included the notorious use of nuclear weapons in Hiroshima and Nagasaki. The result of these attacks was mass human and structural devastation.

These bombings, along with depleted armed forces and the looming threat of invasion from the Soviet Union, led the Empire of Japan to surrender unconditionally to the Allies in September 1945.

The ‘Empire of Japan’ became ‘Japan’ as part of the extensive terms of surrender, and the nation faced the prospect of rebuilding and reinventing itself in the second half of the 20th century.    

Reflect on the historic and sobering sites of Hiroshima and Nagasaki while on an 24 day Ultimate Japan tour.

After WWII, Japan found its feet operating as a free-market economy based around the manufacture and export of automobiles and electronics, experiencing particularly rapid growth between 1960 and the late 1980s. The late 20th century saw the country emerge as an economic superpower, and with that came the flourishing of several cultural sectors, such as the arts and cuisine. 

Experience Japan's historic sites on a 13 day Land of the Rising Sun tour.

Top places to visit in Japan

One minute you’re walking through a former black-market quarter, the next, you’re paying your respects at a 1400-year-old temple. Eclectic Tokyo is an essential part of any visit to Japan. Wander through the streets of Tokyo on our 12 day Classic Japan tour.

If you’ve ever eaten at a sushi train restaurant, you’ve got the underrated city of Osaka to thank! The motto in this city is 'kuidaore', which roughly translates as ‘eat until you drop’ . You can consider that a (friendly) order. Experience Osaka on our 12 day Japan Family Holiday.

The home of temples, palaces, and the Gion district (where geisha live and work), Kyoto is also where you’ll find the famed Fushimi Inari Taisha Shrine. Spot Geisha in Kyoto on our 9 day Japan Express tour.

4. Kanazawa

A great place to see a slice of old Japan, with classic sculpted gardens, a restored Old Town, and well-preserved architecture from a variety of eras. Explore Kanazawa on our 11 day Cycle Japan tour or on our 10 day Essential Japan adventure.

5. Hiroshima

Most travelers visit Hiroshima to see the Peace Memorial Park, constructed around the hypocentre of the atomic bomb that destroyed the city in 1945. Follow this up with nearby Miyajima, a tranquil island where tame deer roam the streets. 

6. Yudanaka

This quaint resort town is best experienced in the winter, when snow coats the normally evergreen trees and Japanese macaques come down from the mountains to bathe and groom each other in the steaming natural hot springs of Jigokudani (Hell Valley).

Geography and environment

Japan is an archipelago of more than 6000 islands located in the Pacific Ocean in Asia . The main islands are Hokkaido, Honshu, Kyushu and Shikoku. Lying on the Pacific Ring of Fire, Japan is prone to destructive earthquakes, tsunamis, and volcanic activity. The most famous volcano, Mount Fuji , is also Japan's highest peak and only 100km from Tokyo.

Japan has plenty of forested, mountainous terrain that is unsuitable for agriculture and development, so much of the population lives in the coastal cities. This has led Japan to become one of the most densely populated countries in the world and the majority of its inhabitants are used to living in very small spaces, with a heavy reliance on public transport.

Although life is fast-paced and crowded in cities like Tokyo and Osaka, rural areas typically feature low-density, traditional housing and a slower pace of life surrounded by greenery such as lush forests and plenty of moss-covered boulders. 

Traverse mountains, cycle coastlines, and meander through forests on a 12 day Japan: Hike, Bike and Kayak tour.

Shopping in Japan is fun but expensive, so be sure to have a budget for souvenirs planned in advance! In cities like Tokyo, there are loads of quirky stores and funky galleries showcasing the works of independent fashion designers and gadget creators. From the outlandish to the kitsch, you're guaranteed to find loads of colorful clothing and edgy art that you won't be able to find elsewhere. 

If you’re planning to bring back leaf tea or any other perishable or edible items, it's a good idea to check with your local customs officials to ensure that you are able to bring certain items back into your home country. Australia and New Zealand, in particular, have strict quarantine laws.

What to buy

• Kimonos This quintessential Japanese souvenir looks great hung on the wall as an interesting decorative piece. If you plan on wearing one, make sure you do so respectfully and learn the correct way to fold the garment.
• Paper lanterns, kites and fans Japanese paper goods make great, relatively inexpensive souvenirs. Choose from high-quality, traditionally-made kites or delicate rice paper lanterns.
• Electronics Shops in Japan are bursting with the latest tech gadgets. Just be sure to check that they are compatible for use at home.
• Fashion Have fun with the amazing diversity of popular street culture fashion available in Japan. Vibrant, brash and sometimes bizarre – find something that no one back at home will be wearing.
• Anime and manga paraphernalia Another inexpensive gift option, even for people who can’t read Japanese. Pick up a book, magazine, t-shirt or print from one of Japan’s many anime and manga stores.

Festivals and events

If you want an adventure with a point of difference, consider planning your travels to coincide with these popular festive events in Japan. 

Sapporo Winter Festival

Held every February since 1950, this festival features hundreds of statues and ice sculptures, snow slides and mazes, regional food and artistic performances. Winter in Japan is truly amazing, and the Sapporo Winter Festival is a magical way to celebrate.

Hadaka Matsuri

Head to Okayama to watch thousands of men wearing nothing but loincloths vie to touch the chosen 'naked man'. It may look like a bizarre male-bonding exercise but it's actually a historic cleansing ritual dating back thousands of years. Dates change yearly.

Fuji Rock Festival

Held annually in the stunning surroundings of the Naeba Ski Resort, this outdoor music festival is huge and draws in big-name acts and local bands Thousands of music lovers flock to Naeba for three days of camping, music and partying in the summer months. 

Read more about festivals in Japan

Further reading

For inspiring stories to prepare you for your Japan adventure, check out these books:

• The Wind-Up Bird Chronicle – Haruki Murakami
• Sembazuru – Yasunari Kawabata
• Moshi Moshi – Banana Yoshimoto
• Goodnight Punpun – Inio Asano
• Okinawa Notes – Kenzaburo Oe
•  A History of Japan – George Sansom
• Embracing Defeat – John W Dower

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Japan travel FAQs

Do i need a covid-19 vaccine to join an intrepid trip.

Trips from 1 January 2023 onwards

From 1 January 2023, Intrepid will no longer require travelers to provide proof of vaccination against COVID-19 (excluding all Polar trips and select adventure cruises).

However, we continue to strongly recommend that all Intrepid travelers and leaders get vaccinated to protect themselves and others.

Specific proof of testing or vaccination may still be required by your destination or airline. Please ensure you check travel and entry requirements carefully.

Do I need to purchase travel insurance before traveling?

Absolutely. All passengers traveling with Intrepid are required to purchase travel insurance before the start of their trip. Your travel insurance details will be recorded by your leader on the first day of the trip. Due to the varying nature, availability and cost of health care around the world, travel insurance is very much an essential and necessary part of every journey.

For more information on insurance, please go to: Travel Insurance

Do I need a visa to travel to Japan?

Under current restrictions, a visa is required to enter Japan as a tourist. We recommend you apply for your visa no later than one month before your departure date. Please contact your local consulate or embassy for more information.

This page is for general information only and may be subject to change. It is your responsibility to obtain relevant visa and travel information required for entry, departure and travel to each country or region you visit on your trip. You should confirm these with the relevant embassies and/or consulates. 

Last updated: 15 June, 2023 

Is tipping customary in Japan?

Tipping isn't customary in Japan and is not expected – in fact, it will sometimes be considered impolite. Some inns or ryokans may leave a small envelope in your room where a small gratuity can be left for housekeeping staff.

What is the internet access like in Japan?

Internet access is excellent in Japan, with one of the most developed high-speed internet networks in the world. Internet cafes and wi-fi hotspots are easily found in most cities and major towns.

Can I use my cell while in Japan?

Cell phone coverage is excellent in Japan but be aware that talking loudly on your phone in public places (like in train carriages) is frowned upon. You will be expected to hide your mouth behind your hand if you must take a call in public. If you want to use your cell phone, ensure global roaming is activated before you arrive (but be aware of the fees this may incur).

What are the toilets like in Japan?

In Japan, toilets range from high-tech bidets to standard western-style flushable toilets to squat toilets, which are still common outside the city. Sometimes you may need to pay for toilet paper, which can usually be purchased from a vending machine nearby.

What will it cost for a...?

Japan's unit of currency is the yen:

• Bento box = YEN 550
• Bowl of ramen = YEN 650-1,200
• Can of beer = YEN 250
• Coffee = YEN 100-600
• Convenience store snack = YEN 200-500

Can I drink the water in Japan?

Drinking water from taps in Japan is considered safe. For environmental reasons, try to use a refillable water bottle rather than buying bottled water. Major cities often have water fountains in train stations.

Are credit cards widely accepted in Japan?

Major credit cards are accepted by some stores; however, Japan is still very much a cash culture and as such, some places may not accept credit cards. Ensure you carry enough cash to cover purchases.

What is ATM access like in Japan?

ATMs are common in Japan but unfortunately many of them don't accept foreign-issued cards. However, you can access cash from non-Japanese bank accounts via the Cirrus and Maestro systems at all post office ATMs around the country, as well as ATMs at 7-Eleven convenience stores.

What public holidays are celebrated in Japan?

• 1 Jan: New Year's Day
• *Coming of Age Day
• 11 Feb: National Foundation Day
• 23 Feb: Emperor's Birthday
• *20 Mar: Vernal/Spring Equinox Day
• 29 Apr: Showa Day
• 3 May: Constitution Day
• 4 May: Greenery Day
• 5 May: Children's Day
• *Jul: Marine Day, also known as Sea or Ocean Day
• 11 Aug: Mountain Day
• *Sep: Respect-for-the-Aged Day
• *23 Sep: Autumnal Equinox Day
• *Oct: Health and Sports Day
• 3 Nov: Culture Day
• 23 Nov: Labour Thanksgiving Day

* Please note, Japan public holidays may vary.

When is the best time to travel to Japan?

There’s never a bad time to travel to Japan but the months that see the most travelers are March, April, and May as the weather is mild and the cherry blossoms are in full bloom. The warm weather (with low humidity levels) of September, October, and November are also suitable months to visit Japan – you’ll even be treated to landscapes colored with oranges, reds, and browns for autumn. While winter can be cold, this is the best time for snow activities such as skiing, snowboarding, and snow festivals. On the other hand, the summer months see high humidity levels that can leave some travelers uncomfortable.

What is the weather like in Japan?

• Spring (March to May): temperatures range from 50 to 68°F, with conditions getting sunnier and clearer towards the end of the season.
• Summer (June to August): temperatures range from 70 to 90°F depending on where you are. It’s warmer in the south than in the north. You can expect some rain in June, and it can get quite humid towards the end of the season.
• Fall (September to November): temperatures range from 45 to 68°F. The humidity starts to calm down in September, but days stay warm until October. Nights can be chilly.  
• Winter (December to February): break out the coats, temperatures during winter range from 32 to 59°F. The mountains and the north experience snowfall .

How safe is Japan?

Japan is generally safe and is rated among the safest countries in the world. Reports of crime such as theft are very low and travelers are often stunned by the fact that locals leave belongings unaccompanied in cafes and bars (though we certainly don’t recommend it!). 

Is Japan safe for LGBTQIA+ travelers?

LGBTQIA+ travelers shouldn’t have any issues visiting Japan with violence, outright hostility or overt discrimination extremely rare. However, Japan’s older generation still holds conservative values when it comes to LGBTQIA+ sexuality and non-binary gender expression, especially those that live in regional areas.

Same-sex relationships are considered legal in some districts (such as Tokyo); however, same-sex marriage hasn’t been legalized yet. Public displays of affection are often frowned upon, regardless of sex, gender, or sexual orientation so keep that in mind when you’re out in public. 

For more detailed and up-to-date advice, we recommend visiting  Equaldex  or  ILGA  before you travel.

Is Japan accessible for travelers with disabilities?

Intrepid is committed to making travel widely accessible, regardless of ability or disability. That’s why we do our best to help as many people see the world as possible, regardless of any physical or mental limitations they might have. We’re always happy to talk to travelers with disabilities and see if we can help guide them towards the most suitable itinerary for their needs and, where possible, make reasonable adjustments to our itineraries.

The needs of travelers with mobility issues, including wheelchair users, are considered in the infrastructure in major cities. Train stations have lifts (elevators), wide turnstiles and (for the most part) raised platforms so that wheelchair users can glide onto the train without being assisted.  Sidewalks in Japanese cities are sometimes sloped towards the road, which can make traveling a straight line difficult for wheelchair users or people with vision impairment.

It is common practice in Japan to remove shoes when entering a home. Wheelchair users should carry something to wipe down their wheels in respect of this custom. Apply the same logic for other mobility aids such as canes.

Ryokans and other traditional accommodation can be difficult to navigate for people with limited mobility, but accessible hotel options are plentiful in the major cities.

Travelers with vision impairment may find the tactile yellow strips that guide the way to various places in train stations helpful, though please note that there is no barrier between the train tracks and platforms.

If you have a battery-operated hearing aid, it’s a good idea to bring extra batteries or familiarise yourself with the Japanese equivalent of the batteries it takes.

If you do live with a visual, hearing or other impairment, let your booking agent or group leader know early on so they’re aware and suitable arrangements can be made. As a general rule, knowing some common words in the local language, carrying a written itinerary with you and taking to the streets in a group, rather than solo, can help make your travel experience the best it can be.

What should I wear in Japan?

Summer months can be incredibly hot and sticky, so loose, lightweight and breathable clothing is essential.

Spring and autumn can be crisp and cold, so you might want to pack thermal layers in addition to your coat and boots. 

Outside of Hokkaido and the mountains, the winter temperatures in Japan are manageable as long as you have regular cold-weather clothes like a good coat, pair of gloves, a winter hat and a scarf. 

The style of dress common for women in Japan may be a little more covered up than you are used to, particularly outside the major cities.

Packing comfortable trousers is essential as you may find yourself sitting cross-legged on the floor during your stay. 

What are some common phrases/words I should learn before my trip to Japan?

Having a basic understanding of the language and culture of the country you're visiting can go a long way when it comes to, not only communicating efficiently but your overall trip experience as well. Some common phrases you need to learn are: 

• 'hello' - Konnichiwa
• 'good morning' - Ohayō 
• 'thank you' - Arigatou Gozaimasu
• 'please' - Onegaishimasu

What religions do they practice in Japan?

There are two dominant religions in Japan - Shinto and Buddhism. The majority of Japanese people practice both simultaneously, however, there is a small number of the population that practise other religions such as Christianity, Judaism, Hinduism, and Islam. 

What are the best places to visit in Japan?

From the neon-lit streets of Tokyo to the peaceful nature of the Japanese Alps, there are plenty of bucket-list destinations to include on your itinerary of Japan. We know it's hard to see everything but here are a few of our favourite places to visit in Japan: 

What are the best things to see in Japan?

Japan isn't short of spectacular attractions to wander through and fascinating historical landmarks to marvel at but it's pretty hard to do it all on your trip to Japan. So you don't miss the things you simply have to see, we've put together a short list of parks, temples, and monuments worth visiting. Happy exploring! 

• Hiroshima Peace Park 
• Cherry blossom trees
• Osaka Castle
• Himeji Castle

What should I eat in Japan?

Food lovers, including  vegetarians and vegans , will be more than satisfied with the variety and quality of Japanese cuisine. With a focus on fresh, seasonal produce that is prepared meticulously and presented beautifully, dining in Japan is a memorable experience.

What drinks should I try in Japan?

From craft beer to sake, Japan has plenty of tasty liquids to keep you hydrated throughout your travels.

How do I stay safe and healthy while traveling?

From Australia?

Go to: Smart Traveller

From Canada?

Go to:  Canada Travel Information

From the UK?

Go to:  UK Foreign Travel Advice

From New Zealand?

Go to:  Safe Travel

From the US?

Go to:  US Department of State

The World Health Organisation also provides useful health information.

What is it like traveling on a small group tour?

Whether you’re a seasoned traveler or you’re about to embark on your first trip, traveling can be as intimidating as it is exciting. That's the beauty of a small group tour. From handling the logistics and organizing amazing cultural activities to local leaders who know each destination like the back of their hand (like which street has the best markets and where to get the most authentic food), traveling on a small group tour with Intrepid will give you unforgettable travel experiences without the hassle that comes with exploring a new place. Plus, you'll have ready-made friends to share the journey with. All you have to do is turn up with a healthy sense of adventure and we’ll take care of the rest.

Does my trip support The Intrepid Foundation?

Yes, all Intrepid trips support the Intrepid Foundation. Trips to this country directly support our global Intrepid Foundation partners, Eden Reforestation Projects and World Bicycle Relief. Intrepid will double the impact by dollar-matching all post-trip donations made to The Intrepid Foundation.

Eden Reforestation Projects

Eden Reforestation Projects are helping to mitigate climate change by restoring forests worldwide; they also hire locally and create job opportunities within vulnerable communities. Donations from our trips support restoration across planting sites in 10 countries around the globe. Find out more or make a donation World Bicycle Relief

World Bicycle Relief provides people in low-income communities with bicycles to mobilize school kids, health workers, and farmers in far-out areas – giving them access to vital education, healthcare, and income. Donations help provide Buffalo Bicycles – specifically designed to withstand the rugged terrain and harsh environment of rural regions – to those who need them most. Find out more or make a donation

Does my Intrepid trip include airfare?

While our Intrepid trips include many modes of transport, from tuk-tuks to overland vehicles, bullet trains and feluccas, airfare to and from your home country is not included in your tour package.

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Fully Guided Tours & Trips in Japan

Find the right fully guided tour for you in Japan. There are 283 trips to choose from, that range from 5 days in length, up to 28 days. The month with the most departures is October, making it the most popular time to visit Japan.

250+ Fully Guided tour packages in Japan with 4,354 reviews

• In-depth Cultural
• Train & Rail
• Christmas & New Year

Japan Express: Osaka to Tokyo

The guide was the best

• Coach / Bus

Central Japan End Kyoto

Great tour. Staff were lovely. Other guests were very friendly. There wasn't much d it in time and more walking than I had expected. All in all I had a great time and would go again.

Epic Japan: Speed Trains & Street Food

Japan was so fun! A looooooot of free time so do you researches about what to do and visit in every city. Would have love more ''organised'' activities (like a dinner every night with the group,...). Compared to other G Adventures tour I did in the past, I felt that this group was less stick together since there was only a few group activities.

Japan: Tokyo Nights & Kyoto Temples

My expectations for the tour was exceeded. I had a really good time and I am really thankful to our CEO Ms. Ayako Ueda.

Japan Adventure

Excellent tour. Knowledgeable and passionate guide. Tour had great value for the money. Great itinerary. I would have probably skipped Hakone and added Hiroshima if it makes sense logistically. Otherwise perfect itinerary.

Back Roads of Japan

A great trip overall!

Japan Express

A good intro to Japan. Short daily orientation and tours leaving most afternoons and evenings (if one so desired) to one’s own devices. Good hotels most nights, w some authentic or western (mixed options) lodgings w onsen. Most transport needs were accommodated in trains (the best), and some city buses where more effective. I added extra days, both front and back for extra exploration. Japan is surprisingly clean, safe, orderly, polite (to a fault) and relatively cheap (I found). Our guide did very well, and her English good and improved as we went along.

Tokyo, Kyoto and Hiroshima end Tokyo

Very good coordinated arrangement and accommodation. The tour itself was very organized.

Wonders of Japan End Osaka

very good to excellent !

Contrasts of Japan end Tokyo

Great trip. Very well organized, surprisingly it was a small group trip (5-11 people, depending on place), which give us opportunity to have plenty of times to visit/check everything. Great and very helpful guides.

Japan One Life Adventures - 14 Days

Jam-packed tour but good amount of free time to explore! There are few days with lots of travel but you get to see a lot. Well worth the price.

South Japan Express

Pablo was a great guide and we got to see so much of Japan, no regrets booking this tour it was great !

All Inclusive Japan Classics- 9 days

Was looked after start to finish. The itinerary was great and the food was excellent. Such a happy experience :-) Love Japan, hope to return soon.

Contrasts of Japan

Good tour - maybe too many temples

Epic 13-Day Japan Budget Tour: Odyssey Across the Land of the Rising Sun

Ricardo was our trip leader and was incredible! He is so chill. Even with such a fast paced tour he was always calm and collected and always giving out recommendations and advice for things to do. The trip is fast paced and involves a lot of walking and public transport. I personally loved this as it meant I was always busy and travelling like a local. There is a good amount of free time and to be able to do Nara on the free day is great as it meant we could take our time there. The hostels were pretty good (one was a bit too cramped for the amount of people but that’s hostel travelling for you). The rest were good and to be honest it’s only a place to sleep as you’ll be so busy. I would highly recommend this trip. I had never heard of the company before but so glad I took the risk. Again I would like to thank Ricardo for being so amazing as a tour leader!

• 5% deposit on some dates Some departure dates offer you the chance to book this tour with a lower deposit.

What people love about Fully Guided Tours in Japan

Positive: great tour guides, perfect sites to see, good food, nice hotels Cons: not enough time to see certain sites. Was hard to have English and Spanish mix together

Japan was so fun! A looooooot of free time so do you researches about what to do and visit in every city. Would have love more ''organised'' activities (like a dinner every night with the group,...). Compared to other G Adventures tour I did in the past, I felt that this group was less stick together since there was only a few group activities.

Regions in Japan

• Southern Japan (245)
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• Northern Japan (13)
• Mount Fuji (12)
• Kansai (10)
• Hokkaido (7)
• Shikoku (7)

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Tokyo Tour - Kyoto Tour - Hiroshima Tour - Anime Tour - Festival Tour - Kyushu-Shikoku Tour

Japan Deluxe Tours is a company created to bring to anyone who wish to see this unique country firsthand since 1981. Whether your interests are Japanese cherry blossom tours , Japan festival tours , Autumn leaves tours or special Interest tour such as Anime related tours , Tokyo Quilt Festival tours or Japanese ancestry furusato tours , all tours are expertly planned and designed to help you get the most our of your time. Just contact us and take your first step towards making your Japan dreams into reality.

Featured Japan Tours

Takayama festival tour with anime & hiroshima.

Join our 12-day Spring Takayama Festival Tour in Japan, featuring a blend of traditional culture and anime. Experience Tokyo's Akihabara, the Ghibli Museum, and Hiroshima's historic sites. Ideal for anime enthusiasts and cultural explorers.

Takayama Festival Tour with Anime & Hiroshima From Tokyo to Hiroshima

From $5,438 | Apr. 9

Cherry Blossom Anime & Mario Nintendo World

Embark on a 9-day Cherry Blossom & Anime Tour, including Mario World at Universal Studios Japan. Experience the allure of cherry blossoms, explore Akihabara's otaku culture, and enjoy iconic attractions like the Ghibli Museum and the historic Asakusa district. Perfect for families and fans of anime and gaming.

Cherry Blossom Anime & Mario Nintendo World March & April

From $4,333 | Apr. 16

Kawachi Wisteria Tours

Capturing attention around the world, the Kawachi Fuji Gardens in Kitakyushu is a fantasy come true filled with breathtaking Japanese flowers. Navigate your way through the Wisteria, Nemophila, Lupine and Azalea during Japan's most beautiful season on our tour.

Kawachi Wisteria Tours The top 10 sites to see in the world

Breathtaking Wisteria Tunnel

from Tokyo to Fukuoka Starts Apr.17 (Limited Seats)

Group Tour Packages & Japan Vacations

The best japan cherry blossom tours 2024 - 2025.

Our guided Essence of Spring – Japan Cherry Blossom Tours cover the must-see spots in Tokyo, Kyoto, Hiroshima, and Southern Japan during Sakura season.

Cherry Blossom Tours Travel Japan during the most beautiful season.

Was $4,098 Now $3,483 | March - April

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Anime Japan Tours | Anime & Game Tours 2024 - 2025

Experience the heart of anime culture with our Top Anime Japan Tours. Visit Tokyo's Akihabara, the Ghibli Museum, Pokemon Center, Mario store, and exclusive Anime & Manga spots, including the vibrant AnimeJapan event.

Anime Japan Tours Akihabara, Ghibli Museum, Pokemon Center, Mario

Was $2,498 Now $2,123 | Year Round

Highlights of Japan Tours 2024-2025 | Hiroshima

Discover Japan's iconic landmarks with our Highlights of Japan Tours. Explore ancient temples, modern cities, and cultural treasures in Tokyo, Kyoto, and beyond. Perfect for travelers seeking an all-encompassing Japanese experience.

Highlights of Japan Tours Tour Japan's iconic sights | Tokyo to Hiroshima

Was $3,623 Now $2,948 | May - Dec

Takayama Festival Japan Tours 2024 | Japan Festival Tours

Our Takayama Festival Japan Tour Packages in April & October visit beautiful Edo-style buildings in Takayama, Tokyo, Kyoto, Hiroshima, and more.

Takayama Festival Tours Spring Cherry Blossom Festival Tours

Was $4,123 Now $3,298 | Apr & Oct

Japan Golden Route Tours 2024-2025 | Guided Japan Tour Packages

A Golden Route Japan Tour is the perfect get away to see the world-famous, iconic spots of Kyoto, Nara, Hakone, and Tokyo

Japan Golden Route Tours Must see spots in Tokyo | Hakone | Kyoto

Grand japan tour vacations 2024-2025 | japan deluxe tours.

Our Grand Japan Tour packages are dynamic vacations filled with temples & sights, a bullet train ride, a tea ceremony, and more during your Japan adventure.

Grand Japan Tours Travel through Honshu | Kyushu | Shikoku

Was $5,498 Now $4,998 | Year Round

Autumn Japan Tours 2024 | Japan Deluxe Tours

During our Autumn Japan tours enjoy red and orange hues as the Fall leaves enhance all the sites through Tokyo, Kyoto, Osaka, and Southern Japan.

Japan Autumn Tours Fall Foliage Tours of Japan

Was $3,623 Now $2,948 | Sep - Nov

Kyoto Gion Festival Tours | Japan Travel Guide | Japan Deluxe Tours

Our Kyoto Gion Festival Tours showcase Japan's most popular festival during an epic summer journey through Tokyo, Hakone, and Kyoto.

Kyoto Gion Festival Tours Kyoto Tours with the Best Japanese Festival

Was $4,060 Now $3,298 | July

Japan Quilt Tours 2024 | Quilt Festival & Craft Workshops

Our Japan Quilt Tours features Quilt Festivals and evets, a tea ceremony, and explores the best quilt & craft spots in Tokyo and Kyoto.

Japan Quilt Festival Tours Travel Japan One Stitch at a Time

Was $5,598 Now $5,298 | Jun

Winter Japan Tours 2023-2024 | Snow Monkey Tour Packages

The perfect winter vacation packages, our Winter Japan Tour packages range from seeing adorable snow monkey to enjoying Japan's traditional culture.

Winter Japan Tours Winter Holiday Package with Snow Monkey

Was $3,998 Now $3,548 | Dec - Jan

Hokkaido & Northern Japan Tours | Tour Guide | Japan Deluxe Tours

Our Northern Japan Tours uncover Tohoku and Japanese festivals including the Kanto Festival, Nebuta Festival, and Sendai's Tanabata Matsuri.

Northern Japan Tours Tohoku & Hokkaido Tours

From $4,482 | May - Dec

Southern Japan Tours 2024-2025 | Kyushu & Shikoku Tour Packages

Enjoy our escorted Southern Japan Kyushu & Shikoku Tour packages for 2022-2023, featuring several UNESCO World Heritage Sites in Hiroshima, Kumamoto and more.

Southern Japan Tours Small Group Tours in Kyushu & Shikoku

Was $5,748 Now $4,648 | Year Round

Japanese American Ancestry Tours 2024 - 2025 | Nikkei Japan Tours

Our unique Japanese Ancestry Tours explore the Museum of Japanese Emigration to Hawaii & the Japanese Overseas Migration Museum to discover Nikkei History.

Japanese Ancestry Tours Tour Hiroshima & Yokohama Nikkei History

Was $4,748 Now $3,848 | Year Round

Escorted Cruise Japan Vacations 2024 - 2025 | Japan Deluxe Tours

Escorted Cruise Connecting Japan Tour options and packages are available for your next vacation or holiday.

Cruise Connecting Tours All Inclusive Tours from the Port

From $4,998 | Year Round

Private & Custom Japan Tours

Our Private Tour packages (Classic Series & Luxury Series) feature all the perks of a small group tour of Japan, exclusively for you. Enjoy scenic Japanese flower gardens, visit Samurai museums, join Japanese festivals, or hike through the Mt. Fuji five lakes to see native Japanese wildlife. Custom Tour is also available to create from the scratch. Flexible vacation packages designed to suit your interests, select your favorite tour itinerary, pick the dates, and add additional Japan excursions for a custom, luxury Japan trip as unique as you.

Discover Japan | 8 Days

Get ready for an adventure from Tokyo to Kyoto with your own tour guide during a 8 Day Private Japan Tour. Enjoy your Japan experience at the comfort of your own pace to truly take in each site as it comes. See all Japan has to offer between the modern & traditional capitals of the country.

Discover Japan | 8 Days Classic Private Tour | Tokyo, Hakone, Kyoto, Nara

From $2,758 | Year Round

Discover Japan | 10 Days

Explore Tokyo, Kyoto, Nara, and Hiroshima during our 10 Day Private Japan Tour. Enjoy UNESCO locations like Nara Deer Park, the floating gates of Miyajima, and all Japan has to see.

Discover Japan | 10 Days Classic Private Tour | Tokyo, Hakone, Nara, Kyoto, Hiroshima

From $4,098 | Year Round

Discover Japan | 9 Days plus ANIME

Get ready for an adventure from Tokyo to Kyoto with your own tour guide during a 9 Day Private Japan Tour with Anime. See all the essential sites from both anime and traditional world at the comfort of your own pace for an unforgettable trip.

Discover Japan | 9 Days plus ANIME Classic Private Tour | Tokyo, Hakone, Nara, Kyoto

From $3,478 | Year Round

Hidden Trails | 10 Days

Explore Tokyo, Kyoto, Nara, Takayama, Kanazawa and more during our 10 Day Private Takayama Tour. Experience and learn about the history, culture, and life of both the big city and rural towns through curated sites where you can get an authentic look. All with a private tour guide and the comfort to travel at your own pace, an unforgettable Japan trip awaits.

Hidden Trails | 10 Days Classic Private Tour | Tokyo, Nagano, Kamikochi, Takayama, Kanazawa, Kyoto, Nara

From $3,598 | Year Round

Exclusive Japan Journey | 8 Days

Get the VIP treatment as you take an adventure from Tokyo to Kyoto with your own personal tour guide during your 8 Day Private Japan Tour. Indulge in delicious food, enjoy comfortable accommodations, and explore the best of what Japan has to offer.

Exclusive Japan Journey | 8 Days Luxury Private Tour | Tokyo, Hakone, Nara, Kyoto

From $4,758 | Year Round

Exclusive Japan Journey | 10 Days

Travel in comfort and style as you embark on our 10 Day Luxury Private Japan Tour. We've curated the best sites and hotels for your stay for an unforgettable trip. Experience the best of both worlds as you make your way through the must see sites such as Sensoji Temple, the Golden Pavilion, and the tranquil bamboo forest of Arashiyama.

Exclusive Japan Journey | 10 Days Luxury Private Tour | Tokyo, Hakone, Nara, Kyoto, Hiroshima

From $5,698 | Year Round

Cherry Blossom Japan Tours

Spend your next vacation during Japan's most beautiful season, often considered the best time to go to Japan! Join us on a Cherry Blossom Tour , Takayama Japan Festival Tours , Sakura Flower Nikkei Ancestry Tours , or any of our Spring vacation packages to enjoy Japan's gorgeous cherry blossoms! Tour through the best sights in Tokyo, Kyoto, Nara, Hiroshima, Osaka, & Southern Japan while fresh Sakura fills the air. Take plenty of photos of your Japanese Cherry Blossom vacation and upload them instantly with complimentary Wi-Fi on your tour bus & at most hotels. Travel in style, join a Japanese green tea ceremony, ride a bullet train, bathe in a hot-spring, and enjoy Cherry Blossom flowers. Vacation with our small group tours during Japan's peak season while sakura flowers bloom in the background of Mt. Fuji, Kyoto's Golden Pavilion, Itsukushima Shrine, UNESCO World Heritage Sites, & more during our Spring Cherry Blossom Festival Japan Tours!

View the 2023 Japan Cherry Blossom Forecast

Travel News

Guidelines for entering japan, japan to resume accepting guided foreign tour groups from june 10, 2022.

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TRAVEL to JAPAN – Tips and Information Guide (2024)

Everything you need to know about travel to Japan in our brand new Japan travel guide.

Japan is an island nation with a tremendous amount of history and culture intertwined with is present fast-paced reputation. 

From the epic wilderness of Hokkaido down to the tropical beaches of Okinawa, travelling to Japan is an experience like no other.

Whether you’re into food, culture, history or the outdoors Japan has it all. Travel to Japan is on the rise and it’s easy to see why.

Of Japan’s four main islands Honshu gets the vast majority of visitors. Travellers are in constant awe of the spectrum of Kyoto’s temples, taken captive with Nara’s deer and consumed by eating everything in sight in Tokyo.

However, the islands of Hokkaido, Kyushu and Shikoku are also home to some of the country’s most stunning scenery and are definitely worth a visit. 

Whatever you want, you can find it in Japan. Let us help you plan your journey to one of the most awe-inspiring destinations on the planet!

19 BEST Things to Do in Osaka, Japan [2024 Edition]

The perfect 3 days in tokyo itinerary, the best day trips from every city in japan [2024], 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

READ MORE...

18 Amazing Things to Do in Kyoto at Night (2024 Guide)

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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, ryokan ochiairo review – is this japan’s best ryokan, 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).

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Your Japan Vacation

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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Japan Vacation

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 34,866 hotels (starting at $46 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.

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Where to go when

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

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

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Naha’s lively main street is home to an array of superb restaurants, souvenir shops and galleries selling fine glassware.

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Here's What's New in Japan for Travelers Planning a Trip in 2023

An expert deep-dives into how the Land of the Rising Sun has changed over the last three years.

Brandon Presser

After living in Tokyo as a student and young professional, I’ve made visiting Japan a priority at least once a year since, deep-diving new and interesting themes and destinations as the country continues to evolve both with and against the rising tide of globalization. I’ve written about everything from the secret world of “rotten girl” fan fiction manga to the far-flung village in Shikoku that’s become a cult attraction among Kengo Kuma architecture devotees; I’ve also authored three travel books about the country. This time, I’ve been on a quest to discover everything that’s new and different now that Japan’s officially open for tourism once more. Here’s what I’ve found after a month of on-the-ground research: 

Hotels want to be more than just a place to stay.

They want to be your tour guide. Born from the ashes of the pandemic, hotels are leaning harder into diversifying their offerings. In Japan, hotels are upping the ante to become not just the place you hang your hat, but the lens through which you capture the destination. 

Leading that trend in the luxury section is Aman , which has established a reputation for embedding itself so deep within its locales that it feels endemic. Aman Tokyo was the first Aman to take the recipe for sprawling resorts into the heart of a city ; a sanctuary incorporating natural materials, a floor plan pastiche of the traditional Japanese house, and incredible views of the imperial gardens with — on a clear day — Mount Fuji just behind. During the quiet of the pandemic, the brand dug even deeper, creating a circuit of bespoke tours for guests to the nearby Nihonbashi district, where they connect with artisans who have been perpetuating precise, generations-old traditions like kimono making and chopstick whittling. At the in-house restaurant, Musashi by Aman, the eponymous chef Musashi takes diners on the most comprehensive culinary experience possible. Never mind the flight of sushi shopped from the market earlier in the day; on Sundays and Mondays, Musashi retreats to his mountain hideaway to grow rice, farm wasabi root, and spin his potters wheel into compelling ceramics — all of which then find their place on his dinner table. 

The theme of intentionality continues at Aman Kyoto, which opened just as COVID-19 was ripping across Asia; a sanctuary on the outskirts of the city with a tucked-away garden in Mount Hidari's forest, inspired by the ruins of Machu Picchu, but with distinct local flair. The perfect antidote to the touristic hustle of the country’s favorite temple town, the resort’s modus operandi is to encourage guests to completely slow down, whether that means soothing soaks in the geothermal onsen , riding bikes around the nearby temples (wondrous places of worship but with a fraction of the tourist traffic), or strolling through the property’s forest and sitting down in a quiet nook with a resident artist to paint the vivid sakura buds of spring or the deep red maples of koyo in the autumn. 

Across the midrange and budget categories, it’s Hoshino Resorts , the legendary Japanese hospitality company, that’s making a concerted effort to be the custodian of local culture. Their KAI properties put playful twists on Japanese wellness, granting visitors entry into an arcane realm of traditions that extend far beyond soaking one’s body in hot water. Each KAI ryokan , or traditional Japanese inn, is grounded within its native destination, where dinners and breakfasts prioritize seafood, meat, vegetables, and even dishware from the local prefecture; and activities go as in depth as creating one’s own line of beauty products using geothermal water and local essential oils. 

Hoshino’s OMO hotel brand focuses on urban destinations. At their property in the Sanjo district of Kyoto, for example, there’s a map of the neighborhood painted as a massive mural in the lobby, with restaurants and shops hand-picked by the staff painted in (each one has a QR code, too, so you can save them to explore). Their hour-long “Ranger Tours” match guests to employees for brief walkabouts around the hotel; mine highlighted unique souvenirs from shops dating back 300 to 400 years.

The Olympics spawned new accommodations across the entirety of Japan, not just in Tokyo.

Tokyo’s 2020 Olympics ambitions extended far beyond supercharging the city’s infrastructure; the strategy was nationwide. Of course, the Games ended up being a pale shadow of its intended self due to COVID-19, but plans to build new hotels all across the country had long been in motion already. 

While the capital certainly had its fair share of openings — most notably the dazzling new Four Season Tokyo at Otemachi , and the party-prone Tokyo Edition, Toranomon (with its sister property, the Tokyo Edition, Ginza, opening up the street next year), Kyoto saw a huge number of hospitality heavy-hitters plant roots, too. Beyond the Aman Kyoto, the heart of the city now has a dozen new and notable addresses including the Ace Hotel , Hotel Ethnography , Marufukuro in the former Nintendo headquarters, and the standout Park Hyatt Kyoto , just steps away from Kiyomizu-dera. Do yourself a favor: even if you’re not calling the Park Hyatt home, it’s imperative that you stop by at sunset for cocktails at the small bar on the fourth floor — the views of Yasaka pagoda are as iconic as any Fuji photo. 

Of all the hospitality stalwarts, it’s IHG — with over 50 years' presence in Japan — that’s making the biggest bet on the country's reopening tourism boom. First out the gate in 2020 was the Hotel Indigo Hakone Gora , a hybrid retreat that blends European comfort with Japanese wellness. Then the Kimpton Tokyo Shinjuku opened next to the Park Hyatt Tokyo with more approachable nightly rates; and without an initial influx of international travelers, the pet-friendly property became a haven for well-heeled Tokyoites and their pooches during the border closures. Two more Hotel Indigos opened in 2022 — one in the forested Karuizawa area, and one on the outskirts of Nagoya , and seven more properties are slated to open in the portfolio over the next couple of years, including another Hotel Indigo in Tokyo’s vital Shibuya neighborhood.   

“Now, more than ever before, there’s a lot of support to get tourism out into the rural areas of Japan,” explains Rob O'Leary, Black Tomato’s Japan travel expert. “The Kura project north of Tokyo is worth noting as a big sustainability effort to bring young Japanese back to the countryside and help renovate traditional properties for accommodation and internationally inclined tourism services.” Despite the downturn of the pandemic, the Japanese government continued a pipeline of fiscal aid to areas experiencing population drain. “We recently signed a pledge with the town of Ine on the Tango Peninsula (near Kyoto),” adds Tyler Palma, the head of operations for Inside Japan Tours . “The agreement ensures that the travelers [we bring to the region] will stay for a minimum of two nights, which will allow them to not only experience the culture and atmosphere, but give back to the local economy, thereby preserving a unique way of life.”

Kyushu is becoming the must-visit destination outside Tokyo and Kyoto. 

With a spate of international travelers poised to plan their second (or third, or fourth) trip to Japan, Kyushu is eagerly positioning itself as the go-to destination for those wanting to venture a little deeper, beyond the well-trodden Tokyo-to-Kyoto circuit. The country’s third-largest island is the heartland of many of Japan’s most coveted touchstones: tonkotsu ramen (Ippudo et al.) was born in Hakata; some of the finest beef is raised on the ranches of Miyazaki; shochu is distilled from barley and potato here; and it’s where Buddhism first arrived in the Japanese archipelago. Further, Yakushima Island is said to have inspired Studio Ghibli's Princess Mononoke, and there are more hot springs per capita here than anywhere else in the country, coaxed up from the below the Earth by some of the most active volcanoes on the planet.   

A long-time favorite for Korean travelers, Kyushu is closer to Seoul than Tokyo as the crow flies, and it’s now catching the eye of major hospitality players. The InterContinental ANA Beppu Resort and Spa in Beppu is the island’s first legitimate international endeavor; Hoshino has recently opened an outpost of their KAI brand here as well; and there’s a Kengo Kuma-designed KAI up the mountain in the onsen town of Yufuin nearby. Both destinations are a part of Oita Prefecture, the perfect place in Kyushu to dip one’s toe, so to speak, if you only have three extra days to venture beyond Japan 101. 

Next year, The Ritz-Carlton will open in Fukuoka, Kyushu’s largest city, and the Shinkansen bullet train will continue to expand here as well, proffering speedier service to locales that have been traditionally more burdensome to reach. Check out Inside Japan Tours’ two-week self-guided Kyushu tour if you can devote more time to this worthy area.  

Tokyo is finally getting more green space and pedestrian-friendly routes.

Perhaps another function of the outdoors-oriented pandemic narrative, Tokyo finally seems to have more walking arteries away from busy roads. With tiny, packed-together apartments, Tokyoites have always used shopping areas as proxy hangout spaces due to the dearth of parks relative to the sprawling size of their city. Recently, however, a handful of greener pastures (literally!) have cropped up, lined with cafes, shops, and public seating. Check out the buried metro track line in Shimokitazawa, stretching from Higashi Kitazawa station through the heart of the hip neighborhood and down to Setagaya Daita station. In Shibuya, Miyashita Park is breathing new life into a rather forlorn section of the neon-clad area. And now it’s incredibly easy to link Sensō-ji temple to the Tokyo Skytree along the newly redeveloped Mizumachi canal. 

An interesting aberration of Tokyo’s shop-to-socialize culture is the creation of luxury brand cafes. Take home a piece of Fendi or Louis Vuitton at their branded eateries; a latte at the new glass snake of a building in Ginza will set you back 1,500 yen (around $12), a bargain for the brag and the Vuitton logo-ed paper napkin holder you can take home. (The coffee itself was so-so, but the geometric design on the foam was definitely worthy of the ‘gram.) 

The crowds are already back.

If you’re rushing to make Japan travel plans (Japlans?) before the crowds descend on the country anew, I’m sorry to say: that ship has sailed. Kyoto’s temples are jam-packed, and reservations at must-try restaurants are already backlogged. Although mainland Chinese visitors — who made almost half of Japan’s tourism intake before the pandemic — have not yet returned, travelers from neighborhood nations like Korea and Taiwan are arriving in droves. Americans are back in full force, too, and domestic guests are moving around their country like never before thanks to a generous travel subsidy by the government putting up to 11,000 yen (around $80) a day in the pockets of roving Japanese nationals.

There’s a currency Catch-22. 

In the 20 years that I’ve been visiting — or living —in Japan, I’ve never seen such a strong U.S. dollar relative to the Japanese yen. It’s made mealtime an absolute pleasure; dining in Japan has always been lower-priced and higher-quality than in Western countries, but now I find myself planning all-day eating excursions to hit up establishments that are no longer aspirationally priced, plus gorging on all of the incredible cheap eats in between. The catch, however, is that accommodation prices are soaring as hotels falsely inflate their rates for the inbound international travelers booking up their rooms. A luxury hotel room in Tokyo this month (Dec. 2022) might set you back $1,200 a night, or more, and staff at these hotels are still getting used to the onslaught of diverse demands again. Breakfast’s been a sore spot at many of the properties, with unmitigated lines, and long wait times for a cup of coffee. Kudos are owed to the Grand Hyatt Tokyo for crushing their buffet service — it's speedy, tasty, and has the best croissants in town.

Masking is still prevalent.

Endemic to Japanese society since SARS in the early 2000s, wearing a mask in public has long been a courtesy performed by those who are feeling unwell to protect people around them. Officially, mask-wearing mandates have completely relaxed, yet everyone is still wearing them all the time — even outside, even dozens of feet from the nearest person. Recently, I had to eat a meal wearing plastic gloves provided to me by the restaurant. The influx of foreign tourists will likely help normalize a more relaxed approach to masking (traveler-laden Kyoto already had noticeably less masks than some of the rural destinations I’ve visited).

Related Articles

Travel News & Opinion

How to Travel to Japan in 2023 as a Tourist

What to expect and how to travel to Japan in 2023

May 8, 2023 Updated On June 20, 2023

Among fellow G7 countries, Japan has had some of the strictest travel rules for Covid-19. It was finally announced that from April 29, 2023, anyone who travels to Japan will not be subject to any testing, and the start of May saw it declassified.

Let’s have a proper look at what has changed for those planning to travel to Japan in 2023 and what to expect when you finally do get here.

Can I Enter Japan?

On May 8, 2023, Covid-19 i s on the same level as the common flu in Japan. On April 29, 2023, all border restrictions were removed and from that date, anyone entering Japan does not have to provide any extra documentation.

That said, the country is still recovering from Covid. While many things are back to normal, tourists may notice a few changes. Read on to find out about the current atmosphere in the country.

What is Japan Like Currently?

Japan, like much of the world, has changed due to the pandemic. Let’s have a look at the measures that are still in place.

Wearing Masks in Japan

Since mid-March, wearing masks indoors lost its governmental advisory rating. The majority of employees still wear masks on the job, so if you head into a convenience store, don’t be surprised to see the staff masked up.

The general public still wears masks widely, more so than pre-pandemic levels, especially on public transport.

Using Hand Sanitizer in Japan

In Japan, customers can still sanitize their hands when entering shops and restaurants. If you like to sanitize, we recommend carrying a tube of hand cream, as some formulas can be quite drying.

Dining Out in Japan

The staff at many restaurants still wear masks and divider screens can still be seen in many establishments.

Single-use cutlery is rife, including disposable chopsticks and plastic forks. Some places expect more self-service than before, such as helping yourself to water and returning trays, though this can change from one establishment to another. In many places, customers should browse the menu via a QR code.

Photo by iarecottonstudio via Shutterstock

Visiting Tourist Attractions in Japan

Guidelines for tourist attractions are straightforward. Most attractions don’t require visitors to wear a mask, but temperature checks may be in place. 

Many pre-booking systems were introduced during Covid, and many places have retained this. Facilities such as museums, aquariums, and theme parks still require prior booking or a ticket purchase. We recommend checking with the facilities you want to visit before heading out.

Before You Go

Before heading to Japan to travel, make sure to check the most up-to-date information. We recommend consulting the official website of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs .

Other Covid Resources from Tokyo Weekender

Personal Stories

• Conquering a Fear of the Unknown: The Psychology Behind Covid-19 Anxiety and How to Cope With It
• What the Covid-19 Pandemic can Teach Japan about Climate Change

News & Opinion

• The Long-term Expat: How Covid Changed My Life in Tokyo
• Traveling Through Japan in the Age of Covid-19: A Personal Encounter
• Why I’m Glad I Got Stuck in Japan During Covid-19
• Lessons in Isolation: How a 10-Day Silent Retreat in Japan’s Countryside Helped Me Cope With the Covid ‘New Reality’

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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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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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14 Souvenirs You NEED To Bring Back From Japan

• Cherry blossom-themed items, such as kimonos and tea sets, are a perfect souvenir to remember the iconic cherry blossom season in Japan.
• Japanese calligraphy artwork is a captivating and meaningful souvenir that showcases the country's artistic heritage.
• Traditional Japanese toys, like wooden dolls and kendama games, serve as cherished keepsakes and reflect the rich cultural history of Japan.

The idea of traveling to a new country can be as exciting as it can be stressful. Yet, daily, millions of individuals pack their bags and courageously take trips to foreign territory. And of the several top destinations visited, which include Paris, Dubai, New York, and more, we find the many-sided country of Japan.

Every year, the country receives countless tourists on its land, and travelers should research the different types of visas to enter the country before booking their tickets. Explorers get to experience a memorable trip as they make their way to the iconic peak of Mount Fuji, graze through the bamboo and monkey forest of Arashiyama, and so much more. A 10-day itinerary is enough to cover the three major cities in the country , and travelers with extra time can plan to visit charming small towns in Japan .

Though, as in every destination spot, the question constantly swirls about when it comes to what to bring back. Because unfortunately, one cannot encapsulate Japan in a tiny box and offer it as a gift. Therefore if Japan is your next travel destination, here are the souvenirs you should strongly consider bringing back to family and friends(or keep to yourself) to give them a glimpse of your amazing experience.

UPDATE: 2023/10/01 19:35 EST BY LUANA FERREIRA

More Things To Bring Back Home From Japan!

Japan is one of Asia's most fascinating countries, and tourists can easily pack a whole suitcase with souvenirs. To make things easier for tourists, this least has been updated with more things they can bring back from Japan.

RELATED: 10 Awesome McDonald’s Foods You Can Only Get In Japan

Cherry Blossom-Themed Items

The cherry blossom season is a main event in Japan , attracting tourists from all over the world. Visiting the country during this period is a guarantee to have impressive pictures, and travelers can also bring a souvenir to remember this moment.

There is a range of cherry blossom-themed items, from accessories to home decor. Cherry blossom-patterned kimonos and yukatas offer a wearable piece of this cultural symbol. Porcelain tea sets and pottery adorned with sakura motifs bring elegance to the dining experience.

• Where to buy: Daiso, Tokyu Hands, Tokyu Plaza Omotesando Harajuku, Asakusa Nakamise Shopping Street

Japanese Calligraphy Artwork

Japanese calligraphy artwork makes for a captivating and meaningful souvenir. It consists of carefully inked characters, typically kanji or hiragana, on washi paper using a brush and ink. Each piece is a unique expression of the artist's emotions and intentions.

Calligraphy can depict various themes, from traditional proverbs to personal sentiments. The artwork's elegance and cultural significance offer a beautiful reminder of Japan's artistic heritage.

• Where to buy: Artisan Markets, Specialty Calligraphy Stores, Traditional Craft Shops

Traditional Japanese Toys

Traditional Japanese toys hold a unique charm as souvenirs, as they are crafted with care and steeped in cultural history. These toys not only evoke a sense of whimsical joy but also serve as tangible reminders of the rich cultural heritage Japan proudly shares with the world.

From intricately designed wooden kokeshi dolls to delightful kendama games, each toy reflects the craftsmanship and creativity of Japanese artisans.

Their unique blend of simplicity and elegance makes them cherished keepsakes, capturing the essence of traditional play.

• Where to buy: Toy stores, Traditional Craft Shops

Origami Paper And Supplies

Origami paper and supplies in Japan offer a distinct quality and variety, making them a sought-after souvenir. This art is known for its vibrant colors, precise folding ability, and traditional patterns. Washi paper, crafted from mulberry fibers, provides a unique texture and durability.

Specialty origami stores in Japan offer a wide range of paper sizes and designs, allowing enthusiasts to explore the art in depth. While origami supplies can be found in the US, the authenticity and diversity of choices in Japan make them a memorable keepsake for both beginners and experienced folders.

• Where to buy: Taro's Origami Studio, Itoya

Japan has a rich culinary tradition , and it's no surprise that their food compartmentalizing methods can easily put us foreigners to shame. Have you ever found yourself reaching into your lunch box only to find a soggy sandwich waiting inside? Or perhaps your DIY salad bowl did not exactly turn out the way you expected it to and turned into a dressing-loaded mess. If so, you might want to consider getting a few bento boxes from Japan before you go. The latter allows for beautifully-curated lunches, which keep your meals and snacks perfectly stored, and mess-free. To make things even more fun, some bento boxes even allow you to store some chopsticks.

• Where to buy: 100 Yen Shops, Supermarkets

Tabi Socks are a go-to souvenir if you go to Japan. These adorable mittens for feet are considered traditional Japanese socks. Moreover, the interesting socks allow for separation between your big toe and the other toes. How ingenious is that? That way, you may sport these socks with sandals and related footwear. Indeed, wearing socks and sandals is a thing in Japan, and proudly so. Especially when paired with a traditional kimono. Keep your feet warm and stick to the country's traditions by purchasing these goodies and taking them back home with you.

• Where to buy: Ōnoya, Tabio, Beams Japan

Japanese Whiskey

Japan is reputable when it comes to Whiskey. Indeed, the country produces some of the finest whiskey in the world. For instance, Suntory's Yamakazi Single Malt snagged the number one spot in the 2015 World Whisky Bible competition. Hence, you may consider grabbing one of these prior to your departure.

The most prominent brand recommended is Nikka Yoichi Single Malt, which is economically friendly for the frugal. Though, if you have a bit more cash in store, you can grab some Suntory, the award winner itself. This one would be a great souvenir for anyone who enjoys a stark drink.

• Where to buy: Liquor Mountain Ginza 777, Suzusake, Yamaya

RELATED: 10 Kawaii Anime-Themed Cafes To Visit In Japan

Matcha-Flavored Goodies

Matcha-flavored items are all over Japan. Any food item you may imagine is made available to you in the delicious, powerful green tea form. Kit Kats. Ice Creams--and even cheese! There isn't anything that can escape matcha. You can easily pick your favorite matcha-flavored item at a grocery store or local shop and so at a very cost-friendly price. As long as you do not confuse matcha with the tongue-burning wasabi, you should be fine.

• What to try: Sakusaku Panda, Choco Pie, Sou, Pino, Häagen-Dazs Matcha Ensemble

Tenugui Towel

These traditional cotton towels are a must for your souvenir, and we are certain your mother will enjoy them most. The classic Japanese memorabilia are dyed with exotic patterns and can be used for absolutely anything.

That is from washing your hands to adding some decor to the bathroom or anywhere else in your home. Perhaps you could even pair it with your newly purchased bento box for a true Japanese souvenir combo. Additionally, you may pick from a range of different designs, which are each beautiful in their own way.

RELATED: 10 Clothing Stores In Japan That Will Help You Fit Right In

Bonsai Tree

Lovers of plants and greenery will want to make sure they grab this souvenir before they come back home. The Bonsai tree is indubitably a staple of Japanese minimalism. The art of bonsai stems from 6th-century China but has since gone on to become a famed Japanese art. Although it is a delicate plant, you may consider gifting it to a plant-lover who will enjoy nurturing it daily. The plant is also known to add a relaxing vibe and establish a truly zen environment.

If your airline policies allow you to fly with these exotic goodies, you should definitely consider grabbing one. If not, no worries. You can grab some bonsai seed packets to grow them at home.

RELATED: Spring In Japan: 10 Gorgeous Destinations To Visit During The Season Of Rejuvenation

Daruma Doll

The Daruma Doll is Japan's most popular good luck charm. You will surely spot these at any gift shop during your visit to the country. Daruma Dolls are made of paper mache and reflect the father of Zen Buddhism, Daruma. The aforementioned object is meant to symbolize positivity and perseverance towards one's personal goals.

It also comes with a ritual to promote good luck throughout the year: purchase a daruma at the beginning of the new year, color one eye, and set a goal--then watch it come true! This is the perfect gift for the optimist.

Hanko Stamp

In Japan, important documents are usually signed with the use of a Hanko instead of a signature. The latter is similar to a personal stamp, but it is traditionally made out of wood or plastic.

The Hanko stamp used to have your name on the end of it and served as an official "seal." Today, you can easily make a fake one just for fun and keep it as a souvenir. Some are custom-made, but many are pre-made with Western names and cliche phrases like "I love sushi."

RELATED: 10 Jaw-Dropping Japanese Castles You Need To See In Person

These iconic paper fans are a great souvenir idea. Considerably, they are much more sophisticated than the fold-out papers we used to make in grade school. You may encounter one of these if you visit Japan during the summer as they do serve best as a handheld fan and great self-air-conditioning option.

If you're looking to take things a step further during the hot seasons, you can grab a foldable fan to make sure you're covered.

Sheet Masks

Japan is known for its elusive skin care regimens, which indubitably promote healthy and youthful skin. As such, you may consider grabbing a few Japanese sheet masks before you head home. Skincare fanatics will love this as the masks are so varied and cater to differing purposes: troubled skin, moisture, and the list goes on. These beautifying tools are great for late nights spent pampering and watching television shows. Some can even be worn overnight and removed in the morning.

• Where to buy: @Cosmo Tokyo, Irohani, Shiseido

NEXT: 10 Glorious Mountains You Need To Climb For Your Next Trip

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Destination Japan: here’s what to look forward to in 2023

Travel to Japan is open again for Australians – resuming just in time for the autumn and winter seasons. Japan remains a firm favourite amongst Australian travellers with the country one of the fastest-growing overseas destinations for Australians before the pandemic.

If you haven’t got your Japan adventure planned just yet, there’s a lot to look forward to in 2023. Even if you’ve been a frequent visitor in the past, there are still plenty of new things to do and see. Here’s an overview of some of the must-do experiences and events on offer across the country in 2023.

World-class arts and events in 2023

Sapporo Snow Festival (Sapporo Yuki Matsuri) is one of the most popular winter festivals in Japan and 2023 will see the return of the in-person Snow Festival for the first time in three years. With ice sculptures illuminated at night, delicious hot drinks served in ice bars, and adrenaline-boosting snowmobile rides, this festival is a winter must-do and takes place from February 4-11.

New places to stay and things to see since you’ve been gone

The JR Tadami Line has come back into full operation for the first time since the Great East Japan Earthquake in 2011. The Tadami Line stretches between Aizu-Wakamatsu Station in Fukushima Prefecture and Koide Station in Niigata Prefecture. A two-carriage train, the route is often referred to as one of Japan’s most beautiful rural railways.

Trending travel experiences and destinations

Shimokitazawa has a well-earned reputation as Tokyo’s coolest neighbourhood with its independent coffee shops and one-of-a-kind vintage clothing stores. Time Out even named it one of the top 10 coolest neighbourhoods in the world. The area has welcomed three new shopping and dining complexes over the past two years: Bonus Track, Reload, and Mikan Shimokita. All three boast multiple restaurants, cafés, bars, and shops, helping cement the district’s place as a youth culture hub.

More tourists are open to getting off the tourist path. The initial return of tourists to Japan has seen mostly FIT (free independent tourists) searching for authentic experiences including adventure, luxury, and sustainable travel. By slowing down and engaging with nature and local culture, travellers to Japan are showing interest in small, locally owned businesses including accommodation, restaurants, and guides, and local experiences.

For more information, please contact: James Cooley |  [email protected]  | +61 401 316 701

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Japan’s current account surplus soars in fiscal year 2023

ANN/THE JAPAN NEWS – Japan’s fiscal 2023 current account surplus surged 2.8-fold to a record high of JPY25,339 billion, driven by a smaller goods trade deficit, according to the Japan Finance Ministry’s preliminary report on Friday.

The surplus was also boosted by a record high surplus in travel services, fuelled by increased foreign visitors to Japan.

In the fiscal year ending March 2024, the country’s goods trade deficit shrank to JPY3,572.5 billion from the previous year’s JPY17,786.9 billion.

Exports rose 2.1 per cent to JPY101,866.6 billion, reflecting robust auto exports amid eased disruptions of semiconductor supply chains, while imports fell 10.3 per cent to JPY105,439.1 billion as coal, liquefied natural gas and crude oil markets returned to calm after surges in prices.

Japan posted a deficit of JPY2,450.4 billion in services trade, smaller than the previous year’s JPY5,390.2-billion deficit. Reflecting the number of visitors to Japan jumping 3.4-fold, the surplus in the travel account stood at JPY4,229.5 billion, surpassing the previous record high, logged in fiscal 2019, before the COVID-19 pandemic.

The country also posted the largest deficit in digital-related services, including online advertising, at JPY5,571.4 billion .

The surplus in the primary income balance, which reflects dividend and interest flows, inched up 0.6 per cent to JPY35,531.2 billion, logging a record high for the third year in a row. The surplus reflected strong corporate earnings results, rising interest rates overseas and a weaker yen.

In March alone, Japan’s current account surplus climbed 44 per cent from a year before to JPY3,398.8 billion, thanks to the country marking its first trade surplus in three months. The country posted a surplus in the current account for the 14th straight month.

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Ukraine war latest: 'Astonishing' Putin reshuffle points to 'serious instability' in Russian leadership, ex-MI6 officer says

Russian defence minister Sergei Shoigu is set to be replaced more than two years into the war, in a major shakeup of Vladimir Putin's cabinet.

Monday 13 May 2024 06:42, UK

• The big picture: Everything you need to know as war enters a new week
• Defence minister Sergei Shoigu out in Putin's surprise reshuffle
• Ivor Bennett analysis: More going on here than meets the eye - and Shoigu's replacement speaks volumes
• Reshuffle points to 'serious instability' at heart of Russian leadership, ex-MI6 officer says
• Who is Andrei Belousov, Putin's new pick for defence minister?
• Eyewitness: Deborah Haynes reports from town 'flattened' in offensive

Russia has seized control of at least nine border villages in Kharkiv, its military has said. 

Ukraine has said it is repelling the attacks and battling to control the settlements claimed by Russia. 

In a post-midnight report, Ukraine's General Staff said Russian forces had achieved "tactical success" with 14 of 22 attempted advances in the area still proceeding.

Vladimir Putin's forces have been fiercely attacking the northeastern Ukrainian region over the weekend. 

Troops moved in on Friday, opening a new front and causing thousands of Ukrainians to flee the town of Vovchansk.

Fighting was raging around Vovchansk, Ukraine's General Staff added, with Russian forces "deploying significant forces for its attack on the town".

But it said Russian troops were "taking no account of their own losses", with at least 100 reported dead. 

Several Russian media outlets, including Mash and Readovka, reported that Moscow's troops had entered Vovchansk. 

The main thrusts of Russia's attack were aimed at Vovchansk and the town of Lyptsi which is around 20 km (12 miles) from the city of Kharkiv, Ukrainian military spokesperson Nazar Voloshyn said. 

Tamaz Gambarashvili, head of Vovchansk's military administration, told Reuters the town remained under Ukrainian control after its soldiers turned back small groups of Russians. 

In his nightly address, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy said heavy fighting was taking place in Kharkiv. 

At least 15 people have been killed and 20 injured after a part of a building collapsed following a Ukrainian attack in Belgorod, Russian officials have said. 

The building was struck by fragments of a Soviet-era missile which was fired by Ukraine and shot down by Russian forces yesterday morning. 

Initially, seven people were reported dead but Russia's emergency ministry has released updated figures this morning. 

It is one of the deadliest attacks on the Russian border region since the war broke out more than two years ago. 

Officials said Ukraine launched a massive missile attack, involving Tochka ballistic missiles and Adler and RM-70 Vampire (MLRS) multiple launch rocket systems.

Footage showed at least 10 floors of the building collapsing, and emergency services scouring the rubble for survivors.

Russia's defence ministry said the attack, which it called a "terrorist attack on residential areas", took place at around 8.40am yesterday. 

Both Ukraine and Russia say they do not target civilians. 

We're starting a new week hot off the heels of the announcement that Vladimir Putin is replacing defence minister Sergei Shoigu after nearly 12 years in the post.

The long-time ally of the Russian president is set to be replaced by Andrei Belousov, a 65-year-old former deputy prime minister with a background in economics. 

Meanwhile, Mr Shoigu will become secretary of Russia's powerful Security Council, replacing close Putin confidante Nikolai Patrushev, whose new position is yet to be announced.

A former MI6 intelligence officer told us the move pointed to "serious instability" at the heart of Russian leadership - and potentially something deeper going on behind the scenes.

Thousands flee Russian offensive

The reshuffle comes after Russia renewed its offensive in northeastern Ukraine on Friday, with fighting raging over the weekend and forcing thousands of civilians to flee.

Ukraine's military chief Oleksandr Syrskyi insisted his forces were doing all they could to contain the Russian threat, but admitted it was proving a challenge. Fierce battles have forced at least one Ukrainian unit to withdraw.

Voloydmyr Zelenskyy described heavy fighting in the Kharkiv region and to the east on Sunday, with battles reaching the edges of Vovchansk, which has become a war zone since Russia launched the surprise new offensive.

Delays in weapon supplies

The reopening of a major front in the northeast will stretch Kyiv's already undermanned and outgunned forces as they wait for Western weapons, our  security and defence editor Deborah Haynes reported .

Ukraine says serious delays by US Congress in passing a massive aid package including military support for Kyiv has cost its forces dearly on the battlefield.

There's hope that the new aid will reach frontlines quickly in order to push back against Russia, which has capitalised on Ukraine's shortage of manpower and shells to seize the momentum in the conflict.

'Extremely dangerous' moment

Lord Cameron says Russia's surprise offensive in Kharkiv marks an "extremely dangerous" moment in the conflict, as he reiterated that the UK must to "everything we can" do help Kyiv.

Appearing on Sky News' Sunday Morning with Trevor Phillips programme, he lamented the amount of time the US had taken to approve its multi-billion dollar aid package but said it will make a difference.

And the foreign secretary said morale among the Ukrainians is strong despite them suffering with a lack of ammunition.

"They're still inflicting appalling casualty rates on the Russians. If only the Russian people could see how many people they're losing," he said.

Russia claims Ukraine continuing to strike its territory

As Russia ramped up its attacks on Ukraine, last week was also marked by a number of further cross-border assaults in the Belgorod region that Moscow has attributed to Kyiv.

Last Monday, Belgorod regional governor Vyacheslav Gladkov claimed six people were killed and 35 others, including two children, were injured as Ukrainian drones hit the region.

A further attack on Thursday injured eight people and damaged scores of residential buildings and cars, he said.

Mr Gladkov claimed cross-border shelling by Ukraine's armed forces killed a woman and injured 29 others on Saturday, while yesterday saw at least 13 people reported dead after an apartment block collapsed in what Russia has reported to be a Ukrainian missile attack.

We're ending our live updates on the Ukraine war and Vladimir Putin's surprise reshuffle for this evening.

Scroll through the blog to read the latest updates from today.

As we've been reporting, Vladimir Putin has proposed a reshuffle which will see longstanding defence minister Sergei Shoigu replaced with civilian Andrei Belousov.

It's a name we haven't heard much through the war, but as defence minister he'll become a key figure.

So who is Andrei Belousov? Here's a quick explainer...

The 65-year-old graduated from the Faculty of Economics of the Moscow State University in 1981 with distinction.

He was appointed a non-staff adviser to the Russian prime minister in 2000 and joined the economy ministry in 2006. Between 2008 and 2012 he served as director of the economics and finance department under Vladimir Putin.

Mr Belousov was appointed economics minister in 2012, and then served as adviser to the Russian president from 2013 to 2020.

After this he was deputy prime minister - bar a brief period where he served as prime minister when Mikhail Mishustin contracted COVID in 2020.

Unlike previous defence ministers Mr Belousov does not have a military background. He's believed to be close to Mr Putin.

Sergei Shoigu being moved to Russia's Security Council signals that Vladimir Putin sees the institution as a political holding space, according to a Russian political analyst.

Tatiana Stanovaya, a senior fellow at the Carnegie Russia Eurasia Center, said in a piece online that the council was becoming a "reservoir for Putin's 'former' key figures - people who he can't let go, but doesn't have a place for".

In posts to X, Ms Stanovaya also said Andrei Belousov was a "logical choice" as Mr Putin looks to enhance arms production and meet military needs.

But she said despite the "surprising" reshuffles, which she claimed are not at an end, the Russian leadership's "overall policy and decision-making mechanisms will remain unchanged".

By Ivor Bennett , Moscow correspondent

This has come as a huge surprise. Not one, but two key figures in Russia's leadership structure sacked simultaneously.

It suggests there's a lot more going on inside the Kremlin than meets the eye.

Sergei Shoigu is a very close Putin ally and has been for years. So why replace him?

Clearly Putin is unhappy with the direction of the war. This coincides with Russia's attempt to open up a new front in the Kharkiv region of Ukraine. New directions and new leadership - Putin's ringing the changes.

Shoigu's successor speaks volumes. Andrei Belousov is an economist. A technocrat. Not an obvious choice to run the military, but this underlines where Putin's concerns are right now ("how much longer can I afford the war?").

Russia's entire economy is geared towards the military right now. He wants to ensure it's operating as efficiently as possible, so his war can continue.

Shoigu moves to the Security Council, where he'll replace Nikolai Patrushev. Technically it's a more important role, but in reality it’s a demotion. More importantly, by replacing Patrushev, it gives Putin more command over a powerful body within Russia's leadership structure. The Security Council was seen by some as a pseudo shadow cabinet. He'll now have an ally in post, albeit a disgruntled one.

Finally, to me, this speaks to Putin's confidence right now. The start of the new presidential term, he's clearly emboldened. But it also screams instability.

Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov has told reporters this evening that announcing a new defence minister makes sense as Russia's military spending balloons.

He said Russia was heading towards a situation similar to that of the Soviet Union in the mid-1980s, when 7.4% of Russia's GDP went on the military and law enforcement.

Mr Peskov said this is why Vladimir Putin wanted to hand the position to a civilian with an economic background.

"The one who is more open to innovations is the one who will be victorious on the battlefield," he said.

Vladimir Putin has likely grown frustrated with Russia's overall lack of progress in the war despite its current momentum on the battlefield, a Russian foreign policy analyst has said.

Ivan Klyszcz, from the International Centre for Defence and Security, said the "entire Kremlin" is focused on winning the war and the reshuffle should be "read in that light".

He told Sky News the Kremlin has a tendency to replace senior officials some time after a failure or defeat, or after they haven't performed at a certain level.

"With Shoigu that's part of the story. It has to do with... some of the defeats that Russia has faced in the battlefront in 2022 and lack of progress in the war for them in 2023."

Mr Klyszcz says that Mr Shoigu has been in a "weak position" for some time.

UK defence minister Grant Shapps has reacted to the news of Vladimir Putin's cabinet shakeup.

In a post to X, Mr Shapps says Sergei Shoigu has "overseen over 355,000 casualties" among Russian soldiers and caused mass suffering in Ukraine.

"Russia needs a Defence Minister who would undo that disastrous legacy & end the invasion - but all they’ll get is another of Putin’s puppets," he said.

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