Japan: a land where ancient traditions seamlessly blend with cutting-edge technology and serene temples stand next to towering skyscrapers. Whether you’re planning your first trip or returning for another adventure, this comprehensive guide to Japan has all the essential information to plan the best trip possible.
While planning a trip to Japan might seem overwhelming due to cultural differences and the amount of choices to make, the rewards of experiencing this incredible country far outweigh any initial challenges.
So, here are all the things to know before visiting Japan for the first time!
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The Best Time to Visit Japan
Japan experiences four distinct seasons, each with its own charm and reasons to visit:
- Spring (March to May): This is the best time to see cherry blossoms in Japan, with dates varying by region. While beautiful, it’s also the most crowded and expensive time to visit.
- Summer (June to August): Summer is a good time for festivals and hiking, but be prepared for hot and humid weather. If there’s an off-season in Japan, this is it.
- Autumn (September to November): This is the best time to visit Japan for fall foliage, with pleasant temperatures and stunning backdrops. It’s also popular, like cherry blossom season, so expect more crowds, but not as much as in spring.
- Winter (December to February): Winter is perfect for snow festivals, skiing, and enjoying the outdoor onsen (hot springs).
Overall, the best time to visit Japan is from October to May. For fewer crowds and good weather, consider visiting during the shoulder seasons in late spring or early autumn. Keep in mind that climate can vary significantly between regions, with Hokkaido in the north being much cooler than subtropical Okinawa in the south.
Visas and Entry Requirements
Visa requirements for Japan vary based on nationality. Many countries have visa exemption agreements with Japan (such as the United States), allowing tourists to stay for up to 90 days without a visa. However, it’s essential to check the specific requirements for your country before booking anything.
Ensure your passport is valid for the duration of your stay, and be prepared to provide proof of onward travel and sufficient funds upon arrival. They typically don’t ask for it, but it’s good to have it just in case.
Before your trip, visit Japan Web and create an account to “register” your trip with Japanese immigration. This saves you time and potential confusion at the airport when you arrive. You’ll receive a QR code that can be scanned at the appropriate kiosks at the airport.
How to Get to Japan
Japan’s major international airports include Narita (NRT) and Haneda (HND) in Tokyo and Kansai (KIX) near Osaka. There are others, but these are the ones you’ll most likely fly into. If you’re coming from the U.S. or Europe, expect to see long-haul flights to Japan, at least 12 hours. So, be sure you take the necessary steps to prevent jet lag.
When booking flights, compare prices using comparison websites like Daily Drop Pro. You can search for the best prices, flight paths, flight times, etc., and track them over time until you find what works best for you. With Daily Drop Pro, you can even search by airline miles and save up to 80% on some international flights!
The best time to book flights to Japan is about 4-6 months in advance, especially if you’re visiting during peak seasons. It’s sometimes possible to find cheaper fares closer to your travel time, within 40-75 days.
How to Get Around Japan
This section is all about how to get around Japan, from the Shinkansen (bullet train) and slower trains to local trains, buses, and subways. Public transportation in Japan is very efficient and reliable, and it is a great way to travel from city to city and get around each city.
For easy payment on public transport, get a rechargeable IC card like Suica or Pasmo, which can also be used for purchases at konbini (convenience stores).
Shinkansen (Bullet Train)
The Shinkansen, or bullet train, is an iconic way to travel around Japan. With trains reaching speeds of up to 320 km/h (200 mph), it offers a convenient way to cover long distances quickly.
Major Shinkansen lines include the Tokaido, Sanyo, and Kyushu lines (plus several more), connecting major cities across the country. Popular routes include Tokyo to Osaka (about 2.5 hours) and Tokyo to Kyoto (around 2 hours 15 minutes). On a slower train or by car, this route might take at least 5 hours.
You can buy Shinkansen tickets at the train station before you travel or online in advance. I recommend buying them in advance to ensure seats are available at the time you need to travel. You can buy them online through Smart-ex or Navitime. When you buy them through Smart-ex, you’ll receive a QR code that can easily be scanned to board the train.
With Navitime, your QR code needs to be exchanged for physical tickets at a designated JR station counter or ticket machine. Not all stations have the right machine to exchange your QR code, so make sure you check which stations have them. I recommend getting all your physical tickets the day you arrive, so you don’t have to worry about it when trying to catch your train.
The JR Rail Pass
The Japan Rail (JR) Pass is convenient for tourists planning extensive travel across Japan. Designed exclusively for foreign visitors, this pass offers unlimited rides on JR trains, including most high-speed Shinkansen, as well as some JR buses and ferries. It’s a decent option if you intend to cover long distances and visit multiple cities during your trip.
They’re available in 7, 14, and 21-day passes and can be purchased in advance online or once you arrive in Japan. For travel only in specific regions, consider regional JR passes, which can be more cost-effective for localized travel, such as exploring Hokkaido or Kyushu.
To activate your JR Pass, present it at a JR ticket office along with your passport. Staff will stamp the pass with a start date of your choosing, and when you want to use it, show it at the manned ticket gates at stations. You’ll still need to get a reserved seat ticket for certain trains. See the full conditions of use for the JR Rail Pass here.
While the JR Pass can offer significant savings, the cost has gone up in recent years, so it’s worth crunching the numbers for your itinerary. During a recent 14-day trip across Japan, purchasing individual tickets saved me over $100 compared to using a JR Pass. This was due to spending extended periods in single locations and only making a few long-distance trips.
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Local Transportation (Within Cities)
Most cities in Japan have highly efficient local transportation systems, too. Subways are the backbone of public transport in major cities, offering fast and frequent services that connect key areas. There are also local train lines, including JR lines and private railway companies, which often extend further into the suburbs and surrounding regions.
Buses can be more convenient in some cities, particularly in Kyoto, where they cover areas not reached by trains. Keep in mind they can be slower, though, due to traffic. Ubers and taxis are also available in most places but can be expensive, especially during late-night hours.
For easy payment, use rechargeable IC cards such as Suica, Pasmo, or ICOCA, to name a few. These smart cards can be used for some trains, subways, buses, and even for purchases at convenience stores and vending machines. Suica, issued by JR East, is primarily used in the Tokyo area, while ICOCA, issued by JR West, is more common in the Kansai region, including Osaka and Kyoto.
How to Use Your Tickets & Subway Cards
Navigating Japan’s rail system can be daunting at first, but understanding how to use your tickets and IC cards is key to a smooth journey. For Shinkansen travel, you’ll typically receive two tickets: a passenger ticket and an express ticket. Both must be inserted simultaneously into the entrance gate at the start and end of your trip.
At entry, the machine returns both tickets, but at exit, it keeps them. If you encounter any issues, don’t hesitate to ask the friendly station staff. Your passenger ticket lists your car and seat numbers, and platform signs guide you to the correct boarding areas. Orderly queuing is very important in Japanese culture, so pay attention to these signs.
For local travel, SUICA, Pasmo, and other IC cards can easily be swiped at the entrance to every subway station. I added my SUICA card directly to my phone, which made tapping in and out of the subway and adding funds incredibly easy.
Money and Currency
Japan’s currency is the yen (¥). While credit card acceptance is increasing, many places prefer cash, and some won’t take credit cards at all, especially outside major cities. ATMs accepting foreign cards can be found at most 7-Eleven stores and Japan Post offices.
You can exchange currency at airports, banks, and exchange bureaus, though rates will vary and may not be the best. Banks and post offices provide reliable exchange services but operate with limited hours on weekdays. I found it easiest and more affordable to just withdraw cash from ATMs for a small fee. Be sure to select the local currency and not your home currency, though!
It’s always a good idea to have small denominations (10 yen and 100 yen coins, as well as 1,000 yen notes) handy, as many ticket and vending machines will not accept larger denominations (especially 5,000 and 10,000 yen bills). I recommend getting a coin purse to keep track of all the coins you’ll get back as change!
On another note, tipping is not customary in Japan and can sometimes be considered rude. Excellent service is the norm and is not expected to be rewarded with extra payment. Some tour guides do appreciate tips, but it’s best to ask first. And always hand over (or accept) money with two hands.
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Accommodations in Japan
Japan offers a wide range of accommodation options to suit every budget and preference:
- Hotels: From Western-style to traditional Japanese-style.
- Ryokans: Traditional Japanese inns offering a cultural experience with tatami rooms, often with onsen access and kaiseki (set, multi-course) meals.
- Minshuku: Family-run guesthouses (bed-and-breakfast style), typically more budget-friendly than ryokans.
- Hostels: Ideal for budget travelers and those seeking a social atmosphere.
- Capsule Hotels: Very budget-friendly hotels offering small, pod-like sleeping spaces.
For a truly cultural experience, I recommend spending at least a couple of nights in an onsen hotel or ryokan in Japan. Your whole stay is an experience to enjoy and relax rather than just a place to rest your head at night.
A few notes about booking accommodations in Japan:
- Not all hotels have air conditioning all year. I visited in the fall, and they had already switched the central air to heating instead of cooling, even when the weather wasn’t that cold yet. You can ask the front desk for a mini fan to use during your stay.
- If you have tattoos, you may not be able to visit most onsen as they are still considered taboo. In that case, look for hotels with a private onsen.
Food and Drink in Japan
Japanese cuisine is a major reason a lot of tourists come to Japan, with diverse flavors and culinary experiences you can’t find anywhere else.
Don’t miss out on trying some amazing foods such as sushi, ramen, kara-age (fried chicken), tempura, udon/soba, curry rice, yakitori, and okonomiyaki (to name a few). And, of course, you have to drink some sake and matcha green tea, too.
You’ll see various dining experiences there, including Kaiseki (a traditional multi-course meal), Teishoku-ya (serving “set” meals), and Izakaya (Japanese-style pubs). There are many more types, and a lot of restaurants specialize in one type of food, like soba, tempura, or sushi.
Use the Tabelog app to find places to eat based on local reviews rather than Google Maps. The rating system is stricter, so a 3.5-star rating can be equivalent to a 5-star rating on Yelp or TripAdvisor. Don’t miss out on a fantastic restaurant because you think it has a “bad” rating!
Making reservations often requires calling using a Japanese number; hotel staff can assist you with this. It’s also a good idea to learn a few key Japanese phrases to help communicate your dietary restrictions.
And finally, for quick and affordable meals, don’t overlook Konbini (convenience stores). Places like 7-Eleven, Family Mart, and Lawson offer a surprising variety of quality food options. Most of the food is refreshed daily, even the packaged food items.
This was my go-to breakfast from 7-Eleven most mornings! The pancakes have butter and syrup inside them already, and the smoothies are so good. Grab a frozen smoothie cup from the freezer section, pay for it, and then take it to the machines by the entrance. Insert your cup, follow the on-screen instructions, and voila – it blends your smoothie!
Japanese Etiquette and Culture
Understanding and respecting Japanese customs can significantly enhance your travel experience in Japan. Not to mention, it’s just the nice and polite thing to do. The country’s rich cultural heritage is reflected in its social norms and etiquette, which may differ from Western practices.
By familiarizing yourself with these customs, you can navigate social situations more comfortably and show respect for local traditions.
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General Etiquette Tips
Politeness and respect are cornerstones of Japanese society. Here are some key Japanese etiquette points to remember:
- Bowing: Bowing is a common greeting and sign of respect. The depth of the bow varies depending on the situation. A slight nod is sufficient for casual encounters, while a deeper bow (about 45 degrees) is appropriate for more formal situations.
- Removing shoes: It’s customary to remove shoes when entering homes, ryokans (traditional inns), temples, and some restaurants. Look for shoe racks or slippers at the entrance as a cue.
- Chopstick etiquette: Never stick chopsticks vertically into your bowl (this resembles a funeral ritual) or pass food directly from chopsticks to chopsticks. Instead, rest them on top of your bowl and place food on a plate before passing.
- Public behavior: Maintain quietness in public spaces, especially on public transport. Loud conversations or phone calls are generally frowned upon.
- Queuing and orderliness: Japanese culture values efficiency and order. Always queue patiently and respect designated waiting areas, particularly at train stations and bus stops.
- Business card and money etiquette: When exchanging business cards or money, use both hands to give and receive. Take a moment to read the card before carefully putting it away.
- Waste disposal: Public trash cans are scarce in Japan. Carry your rubbish with you until you find an appropriate disposal site.
Other things NOT to do: Avoid blowing your nose in public, eating while walking, jaywalking, and pointing directly at people.
Temples and Shrines
Buddhist temples and Shinto shrines are integral to Japanese culture, and you’ll find them everywhere. While both are places of worship, they have distinct characteristics:
Buddhist temples often feature large Buddha statues and incense burners, and may have a pagoda.
Shinto shrines are recognized by their torii gates and are often dedicated to specific kami (Shinto deities).
When visiting these sacred sites:
- Dress modestly, covering shoulders and knees, and remove your shoes if indicated at the entrance. Pack a large scarf or shawl with you; linen fabrics are best for warm weather, and cashmere is best for cooler weather.
- Follow purification rituals at the entrance, such as washing hands and mouth at the provided water fountain.
- Bow slightly before entering the main hall. At shrines, do not walk through the middle of the torii gate. Walk through toward the left or ride side.
- For prayers or offerings, toss a coin into the offering box, bow twice, clap twice, and then bow once more. You may make a wish or say a prayer after your offering.
- Respect photography rules. Look for signs indicating where photos are allowed.
Onsen (Hot Springs)
Onsen are natural hot spring baths, an essential part of Japanese culture. They offer relaxation and are believed to have health benefits due to their mineral content. Here are some key etiquette points to remember:
- Onsen are typically gender-separated and involve communal bathing.
- Shower thoroughly before entering the bath. Soap and shampoo are provided in the washing area. You are meant to remove everything – everything (even underwear)!
- Do not bring towels into the water. Small towels can be used for modesty while walking around but should be kept out of the bath.
- Tattoos may be prohibited in some onsen due to their association with organized crime in Japan. Some establishments offer private baths for tattooed guests.
- Relax and enjoy the experience, but avoid excessive noise or splashing.
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What to Pack for Japan
The weather in Japan can vary from the north to the south, so check the temperature and forecast for each area you’ll be visiting before you pack. Bringing layers is a great way to maximize space in your luggage while being prepared for whatever the weather might be. Compression packing cubes are also a great way to maximize space.
If you have tattoos, bring clothing that will cover them or pack bandaids/tattoo covers to be respectful of the local culture. They are slowly becoming more accepted, but some establishments may refuse you entry if you have visible tattoos.
Some businesses and restaurants require you to take your outdoor shoes off, so it’s best to wear shoes that are easy to take on and off. I also recommend wearing or carrying around a nice pair of socks that don’t have holes in them. There may be guest slippers for you to use, but not always. Also, do not go into the bathroom in your indoor slippers – use bathroom shoes only (typically provided).
Things you don’t need to pack: Most hotels typically provide items like toiletries (shampoo, conditioner, soap) and even a nightshirt for sleeping!
Basic Japanese Phrases to Know
While many people in tourist areas speak some English, learning a few basic Japanese phrases can make a big difference in your travel experience. It shows respect for the local culture and can help you navigate various situations more easily, especially in smaller towns where fewer people speak English. Below, I’ve listed some phrases you can use to greet people, ask for directions, and order at restaurants.
Because politeness is so important in Japanese culture, many of these phrases can be made more polite by ending them with ‘-masu’ or ‘-desu.’ For example, ‘Arigatou’ (Thank you) becomes more polite when said as ‘Arigatou gozaimasu.’ This is especially appreciated when interacting with staff in restaurants, hotels, or shops.
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Greeting People
|
English
|
Japanese
|
Pronunciation
|
|---|---|---|
|
Hello/Good afternoon
|
Konnichiwa
|
kohn-nee-chee-wah
|
|
Good morning
|
Ohayou gozaimasu
|
oh-hai-yohh goh-zai-mahs
|
|
Good evening
|
Konbanwa
|
kohn-bahn-wah
|
|
Thank you
|
Arigatou gozaimasu
|
ah-ree-gah-toh goh-zai-mahs
|
|
Please
|
Kudasai
|
koo-dah-sigh
|
|
Excuse me/Sorry
|
Sumimasen
|
soo-mee-mah-sen
|
|
Yes
|
Hai
|
hi
|
|
No
|
Iie
|
ee-eh
|
|
Nice to meet you
|
Hajimemashite
|
hah-jee-meh-mah-shee-teh
|
|
Goodbye
|
Sayonara
|
sai-yoh-nah-rah
|
|
Bye
|
Jaane
|
jaah-neh
|
Asking for Directions
|
English
|
Japanese
|
Pronunciation
|
|---|---|---|
|
Do you speak English?
|
Eigo ga hanasemasu ka?
|
ay-goh gah hah-nah-say-mahs
|
|
Where is [location]?
|
[Location] wa doko desu ka?
|
wah DOH-koh dehs kah
|
|
Train station
|
Eki
|
eh-kee
|
|
Hotel
|
Hoteru
|
hoh-teh-roo
|
|
Toilet
|
Toire
|
toh-ee-reh
|
|
On the left
|
Hidari
|
HEE-dah-ree
|
|
On the right
|
Migi
|
mee-gee
|
Ordering Food & Drinks
|
English
|
Japanese
|
Pronunciation
|
|---|---|---|
|
I'll have this
|
Kore o kudasai
|
koh-ray oh koo-dah-sigh
|
|
I would like [item], please
|
[Item] o Kudasai
|
oh koo-dah-sigh
|
|
Water
|
Mizu
|
mee-zoo
|
|
Beer
|
Biru
|
bee-roo
|
|
Thank you for this meal (when served)
|
Itadakimasu
|
eeh-tah-dah-kee-mahs
|
|
Check, please
|
Okaikei onegaishimasu
|
oh-kai-kay oh-neh-guy shee-mahs
|
Helpful Apps to Download
Transportation Apps
Google Maps: This works well enough for general navigation and finding locations, but it’s sometimes less accurate for train times than dedicated apps.
Japan Official Travel App (JNTO app): This is the official tourism app for Japan, providing a wealth of useful travel information directly from the Japan National Tourism Organization.
HyperDia or Jorudan: These apps offer route planning tailored specifically for the Japanese transportation network, like trains and subways. They’re known for providing accurate timetables and connection information.
Navitime: This app not only provides comprehensive route planning but also offers ticket purchasing and management capabilities. You can use it for general navigation, too.
Translation Apps
Google Translate: This app offers text, voice, and image translation features, which can be incredibly helpful when encountering Japanese text or trying to communicate with locals.
Deepl: This one is known for its more accurate translations than Google, especially for longer texts. However, free usage is limited to a few translations per day.
Papago: This is another good translation app for Japanese (and other Asian languages) and is known for its user-friendly interface.
Other Apps
Currency Converter App: A reliable currency converter app is essential for smoothly handling foreign transactions. It helps you quickly understand prices in your home currency, ensuring you know exactly what you’re paying when you pay it.
Safety Tips: Developed by the Japan National Tourism Organization, this app connects your phone to Japan’s emergency alert system. It provides crucial emergency notifications in the user’s native language.
Weather App: The Japan Meteorological Agency website or app is recommended for accurate weather forecasts in Japan. This is especially useful when planning outdoor activities or preparing for seasonal changes.
Other Things to Know About Japan
How expensive is it?
I was shocked at how affordable things were in Japan! Of course, you can spend a ton of money at a Michelin-star restaurant or on a gourmet sushi dinner. However, you can have some absolutely incredible meals and not spend more than $80 a day.
My friend and I frequently enjoyed multi-course meals, plus sake, for only $60 – total! A meal like that in the U.S. would have easily been at least $60 per person. Many other things are very affordable, too, such as transportation, skincare, and activities.
How can I stay connected with my phone?
Staying connected while traveling in Japan is essential for easy navigation, communication, and accessing information when you need it. While Wi-Fi is available in most hotels, cafes, and some public spaces, it’s generally less widespread than you’re probably used to.
Now, you can rent a pocket Wi-Fi, but I’ve found the best way to go is to get an eSIM so you can have unlimited data access. Holafly has convenient, customizable packages for unlimited data on your phone in Japan. Use my special discount code, ABUNDANT, for 5% off your purchase!
Is it safe in Japan?
Japan is generally considered a very safe country for travelers, but it’s always wise to be prepared and aware. Here are some key points about safety in Japan:
- Low crime rates: Japan has one of the lowest crime rates and violent crime is particularly rare, especially against tourists.
- Natural disasters: Japan is prone to earthquakes and, in some regions, typhoons. The country is well-prepared for these events:
- Buildings are constructed to withstand earthquakes.
- There’s an efficient early warning system for earthquakes and other natural disasters.
- General precautions: As with any travel, be aware of your surroundings, keep valuables secure, and avoid walking alone in unfamiliar areas late at night (see other tips here).
- Food and water safety: Tap water is safe to drink in most places in Japan. The country also maintains high food safety standards, so you can generally eat with confidence.
- Travel insurance: While Japan is safe, comprehensive travel insurance is always recommended to cover unexpected events or medical emergencies.
What do I do with my luggage?
Japan has a genius system of transferring luggage, so you don’t have to haul your suitcases around everywhere you go. You can simply “forward” your luggage from one hotel to another.
It typically takes at least 24 hours for shorter distances, like between Tokyo and Kyoto or Kyoto and Osaka. You’ll need at least 48 hours for longer distances, such as from the southern tip of the island back up to Tokyo.
I hope you found my guide to Japan useful for your next adventure!
While planning a trip to Japan may seem overwhelming at first, I hope this guide has made it less so. And I promise, the unique experiences and warm hospitality you’ll encounter make it all worthwhile.
Embrace the cultural differences, try new things, and immerse yourself in the fascinating blend of tradition and modernity that makes Japan truly special.
What do you most want to see and do in Japan? Have any more questions? Let me know in the comments below!
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