JAPAN

Welcome to Japan! This island nation, shaped by millennia of rich history and dramatic volcanic landscapes, offers a unique blend of ancient traditions and cutting-edge modernity. From bustling neon-lit cities to serene temples and breathtaking natural beauty, Japan promises an unforgettable journey.

Region: East Asia

Capital: Tokyo

Official Language: Japanese

Level of Travel Safety: Japan is widely considered one of the safest countries in the world, with extremely low crime rates. Exercise normal precautions, as you would in any major travel destination.

A map of Asia with Japan highlighted in green.

Why Visit Japan?

Ancient & Modern Fusion: From Kyoto’s temples to Tokyo’s neon skyline.

World-Class Cuisine: Sushi, ramen, wagyu beef, and Michelin-starred dining.

Cherry Blossoms & Seasons: Stunning sakura (March–April) and autumn leaves (November).

Mount Fuji with cherry blossoms in the foreground, under a clear blue sky.

Unique Culture: Tea ceremonies, sumo, and futuristic robot restaurants.

Natural Beauty: Mount Fuji, Okinawan beaches, and Hokkaido’s snowscapes.

Unmatched Hospitality: Experience Japan’s legendary Omotenashi

A traditional Japanese street scene with wooden buildings, a pagoda, and two people walking away.

Essential Trip Information

Japan has visa exemptions for many countries (e.g., U.S., UK, EU, Australia, Canada). Check the official Japanese visa website for your nationality.

Passports must be valid for the duration of your stay (some nationalities require six months).

Immigration may ask for proof of onward travel and accommodation.

Tourists from visa-exempt countries can stay up to 90 days.

Japan uses the Yen (¥). Bills: ¥1,000–10,000. Coins: ¥1–500.

Best Ways to Handle Currency

  • Before Your Trip: Exchange a small amount; ATMs in Japan offer better rates.
  • During Your Trip: Use 7-Bank or Japan Post ATMs (accept international cards). Credit cards (Visa, Mastercard) work in cities, but cash is king in rural areas.

What to Avoid: Airport exchange kiosks (high fees).

Japanese is the main language. English is limited outside major cities.

Helpful phrases:

  • “Sumimasen” (Excuse me)
  • “Arigato gozaimasu” (Thank you)
  • “Eigo ga hanasemasu ka?” (Do you speak English?)

Extremely safe—low crime, but watch for pickpockets in crowded areas (Shibuya, Shinjuku).

Emergency number: 110 (police), 119 (ambulance).

No special vaccinations required.

Travel insurance recommended (medical costs can be high).

Pharmacies (“drugstores” like Matsumoto Kiyoshi) are widespread. Tap water is safe.

Trains: Punctual and efficient (stops around midnight).

Buses: Useful in rural areas (IC cards like Suica/Pasmo work).

Walking/Biking: Best for exploring neighborhoods.

Taxis: Expensive but clean and reliable.

Japan ranges from affordable to expensive, depending on location (Tokyo > Osaka > rural areas).

Accommodation

  • Budget: Capsule hotels/hostels (US$20–50/night)

  • Mid-range: Business hotels (US$80–150/night)

  • Luxury: Ryokan/4-5 star hotels (US$200+/night)

Food

  • Quick eats: Convenience stores (US$3–8), ramen 7–12)

  • Casual dining: Izakaya (US$15–30/person)

  • Fine dining: Sushi omakase (US$100+/person)

Drinks

  • Beer: US$4–8 (bars), 1–3 (convenience stores)

  • Sake: US$5–15/glass

Transportation

  • Train: Tokyo Metro (US$1.50–5/ride), Shinkansen (100–150 one-way)

  • Taxis: Expensive (US$10+ for short trips)

  • Bike rentals: US$10–20/day

Money-Saving Tips

  • Get a JR Pass (US$250–400 for unlimited Shinkansen travel).

  • Eat at convenience stores (7-Eleven, Lawson) for cheap, quality meals.

  • Visit free shrines & temples (e.g., Meiji Shrine, Fushimi Inari).

Explore Japan

Japan’s bustling capital, located in the Kanto region on Honshu island. A vibrant metropolis where ancient traditions meet cutting-edge technology, offering everything from historic temples and tranquil gardens to neon-lit skyscrapers and world-class dining.

Situated in the Kansai region of Honshu. The former imperial capital is a cultural treasure trove, famous for its exquisite temples, serene Zen gardens, traditional geisha districts, and beautiful cherry blossom and autumn foliage.

A mountainous town within Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park, easily accessible from Tokyo in the Kanto region. Renowned for its stunning views of Mount Fuji, hot springs (onsen), and the serene Lake Ashi, offering a perfect natural escape.

Located in the Chugoku region of Honshu. A city of resilience, offering poignant historical sites like the Peace Memorial Park and Museum, alongside a vibrant contemporary atmosphere and the nearby iconic Itsukushima Shrine.

Japan’s first permanent capital, found in the Kansai region, near Kyoto and Osaka. Famous for Nara Park, where wild sika deer roam freely, and impressive ancient temples, including Todai-ji Temple with its giant Buddha statue.

A vibrant city in the Kansai region of Honshu, known for its lively entertainment districts, delicious street food, and impressive Osaka Castle. It’s a modern hub with a distinctive Kansai spirit.

Japan’s northernmost main island, renowned for its stunning natural beauty, especially its vast national parks, pristine lakes, and world-class ski resorts in winter. A haven for outdoor enthusiasts.

Japan’s iconic and sacred mountain, located on Honshu island, straddling Yamanashi and Shizuoka prefectures. A majestic symbol of Japan, it offers breathtaking views and opportunities for climbing (in summer) or appreciating from afar.

Nestled in the mountains of the Gifu Prefecture in the Chubu region of Honshu. This charming city preserves its traditional Edo-period streets, historic houses, and morning markets, offering a glimpse into old Japan.

Located on the Sea of Japan coast in the Ishikawa Prefecture, Chubu region of Honshu. This city boasts beautifully preserved samurai and geisha districts, magnificent Kenrokuen Garden, and traditional crafts like gold leaf.

Smart Travel

Key Advantages:

  • Lowest Prices
  • Fewer Crowds
  • Authentic Local Vibe
  • Winter Sports (especially in Hokkaido)
  • Cozy Onsen (hot spring) experiences

Main Drawbacks:

  • Cold Temperatures (average around 41ºF/5ºC in Tokyo)
  • Shorter Days
  • Limited Outdoor Activities (non-ski)
  • Some closures, especially in rural areas

Key Regions:

  • Hokkaido: Winter sports paradise with abundant snow and excellent ski resorts.
  • Northern Honshu: Great for onsen visits and experiencing traditional winter landscapes.
  • Kyoto: Quieter, allowing for a more serene exploration of temples and gardens.
  • Shirakawa-go: Picturesque traditional village blanketed in snow, truly magical.

Key Advantages:

  • Ideal Weather (pleasant temperatures, manageable humidity)
  • Manageable Crowds (outside of peak bloom/foliage)
  • Reasonable Prices (compared to peak)
  • Festivals & Events (Cherry Blossom Festivals, Autumn Leaf Viewing)
  • Blooming Landscapes (Spring) & Autumn Colors (Autumn)

Main Drawbacks:

  • Spring Mud Season (can affect some hiking trails)
  • Unpredictable Weather (Spring/Autumn, occasional typhoons in early autumn)
  • Autumn Crowds for Momiji (fall foliage) Season

Key Regions:

  • Kanto (Tokyo, Hakone, Nikko): Excellent for cherry blossoms and vibrant city life in spring, or stunning autumn foliage in surrounding areas.
  • Kansai (Kyoto, Osaka, Nara): Perfect for experiencing traditional culture with cherry blossoms or fiery autumn leaves.
  • Japanese Alps (Takayama, Matsumoto): Offers beautiful hiking and scenic drives with vibrant autumn colors.
  • Northern Japan (Tohoku region): Features later cherry blossoms in spring and breathtaking autumn landscapes.
  • Setouchi Region (Hiroshima, Naoshima): Mild weather and beautiful coastal scenery.
  • Cherry Blossom Season (late March – early April): Exact dates vary by region.
  • Golden Week (late April – early May): Major national holiday period.
  • Summer (June – August): Especially July and August with school holidays and Obon festival.

Planning Your Trip

Shoes Off: In ryokans, temples, and some restaurants.

Tipping: Not expected (can be considered rude).

Quiet Transit: No calls on trains; queue orderly.

Onsens: Wash thoroughly before entering; tattoos may require cover-ups.

Cash: Many small businesses/ryokans only accept cash (withdraw at 7-Eleven ATMs).

Accommodation: Hostels (US$25–50), hotels 100–250), ryokans (US$200+).

Food: Convenience stores (US5–10), ramen 8–15), kaiseki (US$100+).

Transport: Shinkansen (US$120/leg), JRPass 300/7 days), local transit (US$10/day).

Activities: Temples (US$5–10), teamLab Tokyo 30), ski passes (US$50/day).

Daily Budget:

  • Budget: US$70–100 (hostels, convenience stores, buses).

  • Mid-range: US$150–250 (hotels, casual dining, Shinkansen).

  • Luxury: US$400+ (ryokans, fine dining, private guides).

Pocket Wi-Fi: Rent at airports (~US$8/day; Ninja WiFi).

SIM Cards: Prepaid data-only SIMs (US$20–30 for 10GB; IIJmio).

Free Wi-Fi: Spotty; download Japan Connected app for hotspots.

Essential for: Medical coverage (hospitals often require upfront payment).

Adventure add-ons: Skiing, hiking, or onsen injuries.

Read fine print: Some exclude natural disasters (typhoons, earthquakes).

From capsule hotels to ryokans, Japan caters to all budgets.

Hotels:

  • Luxury: Park Hotel Tokyo, Hoshinoya Kyoto (US$400+).
  • Mid-range: APA Hotels, Mitsui Garden (US$100–200).
  • Budget: Business hotels (Toyoko Inn: US$60–80).

Ryokans:

  • Traditional stays with kaiseki meals (US$200–500/person); book months ahead.

Hostels:

  • Clean and social (UNPLAN Tokyo, Khaosan Kyoto: US$25–50).

Capsule Hotels:

  • Novel but cramped (US$30–60); best for solo travelers.

Airbnb:

  • Limited due to regulations; verify licenses.

Tip: Stay near a JR station for easy transit.

Japan’s transit is world-class but requires planning.

Trains (Shinkansen & JR Pass):

  • Shinkansen (bullet trains): Fast but pricey (Tokyo–Kyoto: ~US$120 one-way).
  • JR Pass: Buy before arrival if doing multi-city trips (US$300–500 for 7–14 days).

Local Transit:

  • IC Cards (Suica/Pasmo): Reusable for trains/buses in cities (~US$2/ride).
  • Subways: Efficient in Tokyo/Osaka; avoid rush hour (7:30–9:30 AM).

Buses:

  • Highway buses (e.g., Willer) are cheaper for long distances (Tokyo–Kyoto: US$30).
  • Local buses fill gaps in rural areas (Kyoto, Takayama).

Taxis:

  • Expensive (US$10+ for short rides); use only late-night or for groups.

Walking/Biking:

  • Compact cities like Kyoto are walkable; bike rentals (~US$15/day).

Tip: HyperDia or Google Maps for real-time schedules.

Handy Tips

Japan uses the Yen (¥). Bills come in ¥1,000, ¥2,000, ¥5,000, and ¥10,000 denominations; coins include ¥1, ¥5, ¥10, ¥50, ¥100, and ¥500.

  • Exchanging Currency: Avoid airport exchange kiosks (high fees). Use ATMs at 7-Eleven, Post Offices, or JP Bank for the best rates.

  • Using Cards: Major credit cards (Visa, Mastercard, JCB) are accepted in cities, but carry cash for rural areas, small shops, and temples.

  • Tipping Etiquette: Tipping is not customary and may be refused. Exceptional service can be acknowledged with a small gift (e.g., chocolates).

Japanese is the primary language. Helpful phrases:

  • “Sumimasen” (Excuse me / Sorry)

  • “Doko desu ka?” (Where is…?)

  • “Ikura desu ka?” (How much is it?)

  • “Eigo no menyū arimasu ka?” (Do you have an English menu?)
    Pro Tip: Learn basic bowing etiquette—deeper bows show respect.

Japan is extremely safe, but watch for pickpockets in crowded areas (e.g., Shibuya, Shinjuku).

  • Emergency Contacts:

    • 110: Police

    • 119: Ambulance/Fire

    • #9110: English-speaking police helpline

    • Your Embassy: Keep details handy (major embassies in Tokyo).

Japan uses 100V/50-60Hz with Type A/B plugs (two flat pins). International visitors may need an adapter; converters are rarely needed for modern electronics.

Tap water is safe to drink nationwide. Restaurants provide free tap water—ask for “mizu” (water).

Major closures on:

  • 1 Jan: New Year’s Day (many shops closed until Jan 3).

  • 11 Feb: National Foundation Day.

  • Late Mar–Apr: Cherry Blossom Season (dates vary).

  • 29 Apr–5 May: Golden Week (busiest travel period).

  • 3rd Mon in Jul: Marine Day.

  • 23 Dec: Emperor’s Birthday.
    Note: Trains/subways are packed during holidays; book transport early.

Stores: Typically 10:00–20:00 (department stores close earlier on Sundays).

Convenience Stores (7-Eleven, Lawson, FamilyMart): 24/7.

Markets: Visit Tsukiji Outer Market (6:00–14:00) or Ameya-Yokochō (Ueno) for street food/souvenirs.

Sushi: Especially omakase-style at a local Tokyo sushi bar.

Ramen: Tonkotsu (pork broth) in Fukuoka, or miso ramen in Hokkaido.

Okonomiyaki: Savory pancake with cabbage, meat, and sauces (Osaka or Hiroshima style).

Yakitori: Grilled skewers, especially chicken thigh and negima (with scallion).

Tempura: Lightly battered seafood and vegetables—try shrimp or eggplant.

Tonkatsu: Crispy breaded pork cutlet served with shredded cabbage and rice.

Takoyaki: Octopus balls drizzled with mayo and bonito flakes (Osaka street food classic).

Gyoza: Pan-fried dumplings with garlic-chive filling (often served with ramen).

Kaiseki: Multi-course seasonal meal in Kyoto’s ryokan or fine dining.

Mochi: Chewy rice cake stuffed with red bean paste or strawberries.

Dorayaki: Pancake sandwich filled with sweet red bean paste.

Matcha Desserts: From parfaits to soft-serve—green tea everything.

Taiyaki: Fish-shaped waffle filled with custard, chocolate, or red bean.

Alcoholic:

  • Sake (Nihonshu): Japan’s signature rice wine—served hot or cold depending on type.

  • Umeshu: Sweet plum wine, often served on the rocks.

  • Shochu: A stronger distilled spirit, often made from sweet potatoes or barley.

  • Awamori: Okinawan rice spirit—earthy and unique to the islands.

  • Yuzushu: Citrus-infused liqueur—refreshing and slightly tart.

  • Sapporo Beer: Crisp lager from Hokkaido—perfect with grilled food.

  • Asahi Super Dry: Japan’s iconic dry beer—ubiquitous and popular.

  • Kirin Ichiban: Premium beer with a mild, malty flavor.

Non-Alcoholic:

  • Matcha Tea: Powdered green tea—earthy, energizing, and ceremonial.

  • Genmaicha: Green tea with roasted brown rice—nutty and calming.

  • Calpis: Tangy yogurt-based drink (served cold or with soda water).

  • Ramune: Fizzy soda in a marble-sealed bottle—nostalgic Japanese childhood classic.

  • Royal Milk Tea: Black tea with sweet milk—popular in convenience stores.

  • Pocari Sweat: Mild sports drink, perfect for summer hydration.

Cherry Blossoms: Hanami picnics (late Mar–Apr).

Tea Ceremonies: Kyoto’s Camellia Garden.

Samurai History: Himeji Castle or Nagoya’s Tokugawa Art Museum.

Shrines/Torii Gates: Meiji Shrine (Tokyo) or Miyajima’s floating torii.

Geisha Districts: Gion (Kyoto)—observe respectfully.

Ryokan Stay: Traditional inns with kaiseki meals and futons.

Bullet Trains: Shinkansen (book Japan Rail Pass before arrival).

Festivals: Gion Matsuri (July) or Nebuta Matsuri (Aug).

Snow Monkeys: Jigokudani Onsen (Nagano).

Art Islands: Naoshima’s modern museums.

Onsen: Hot springs (e.g., Hakone or Beppu)—no tattoos allowed at many.

Kabuki Theater: Tokyo’s Kabukiza (rent English earphones).

Maid Cafés: Quirky Tokyo experience (Akihabara).

Sumo Tournaments: Jan/May/Sep in Tokyo, Osaka, Nagoya.

Robot Restaurant: Over-the-top Shinjuku show (book ahead).

Ghibli Museum: Anime magic in Mitaka (tickets sell out fast).

Karaoke: Chains like Big Echo or Karaoke Kan.

Nightlife: Golden Gai (Tokyo) or Dotonbori (Osaka).

Temples at Dawn: Kyoto’s Fushimi Inari (avoid crowds).

TeamLab Planets: Immersive digital art (Tokyo).

Golden Gai (Tokyo): Shinjuku alley packed with tiny, themed bars—each fits 4–6 guests.

Pontocho (Kyoto): Lantern-lit alleyway with intimate bars and riverside terraces.

Rooftop Izakayas: Sip highballs and grilled skewers under Tokyo’s skyline.

Kampai Culture: Join locals for after-work drinks and snacks at a standing bar.

Japanese Whisky Bars: Taste aged Suntory or Nikka at hidden whisky dens.

Nonbei Yokocho (Tokyo): “Drunkard’s Alley”—retro drinking spot near Shibuya.

Okinawa Live Houses: Mix of drinking and live folk music performances.

Jazz Bars: Tokyo has world-class venues—try Pit Inn or Blue Note.

Craft Beer Scene: Try local brews at Baird Beer, DevilCraft, or Yona Yona.

Themed Bars: From ninja servers to prison décor—expect the unexpected.