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10 Days in Japan: A First-Timer’s Complete Japan Itinerary

last Updated: March 7, 2024 hiroshima japan kyoto miyajima nara osaka tokyo

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Looking for the best way to spend 10 days in Japan? You’re in the right place!

Continue reading for tons of first-hand tips, recommendations, and a complete 10 day Japan itinerary, which can easily be turned into two weeks in Japan if you’ve got a few more days. I absolutely LOVED my time in the country, and with some proper planning, I can guarantee you will too.

Heading to Japan soon?! Check out this COMPLETE 10-DAY JAPAN ITINERARY filled with exactly how I spent my 10 days in Japan, which could easily be expanded to 2 weeks in Japan.

Japan is over-stimulating and over-whelming in the best way possible. An absolute thrill to the senses.

From the shiny bright lights of Tokyo’s Akihabara District to the serene temples and zen gardens in Kyoto , Japan is a country where the past and the future collide more than you initially realize.

I can promise you that every bite of food will be better than the last, and you’ll be saying oishi (“delicious” in Japanese) during every meal.

If you can visit during cherry blossom season, you’re in for a real treat – the streets will be lined with the most beautiful bunches of white and pale pink flowers you’ve ever imagined, which in turn makes the country smell absolutely phenomenal.

Japan is quite literally the most fascinating country I’ve explored to date. (And I just hit my goal of 30 countries by my 30th birthday a few months ago!) #killingit

I’d love to spend more time in Japan, and am highly encouraging everyone I know to discover this little piece of Asia sooner than later. So today, I am sharing with you my 10 day Japan itinerary, all heavily researched (for hours!) before my trip and followed pretty much to a T.

Overview of this 10 Day Japan Itinerary

When I initially started planning my trip, I was worried that 10 days in Japan wouldn’t be enough. Thankfully, I proved myself wrong and was able to see and do oh so much , as well as stuff myself silly with all those Japanese snacks I had heard so much about. [Spoiler alert: bring stretchy pants.]

The country is filled with so many fascinating areas, but 10 days in Japan will give you enough time to see the highlights. To be completely honest, this Japan itinerary is rather jam packed, yet highly efficient (I promise!), although I suggest slightly modifying it if you’d like a more relaxed trip or are traveling with kids.

While we’re at it, check out all my travel planning tips right over here!

This Japan itinerary starts in Tokyo , makes a day trip to either Kamakura, Nikko, or Hakone, then ventures south to Kyoto , with day trips to Nara, Osaka, Hiroshima, and Miyajima Island. Distances really depend on the mode of transport you use, with bullet trains being the fastest.

Days 1-3 : Tokyo
Day 4: day trip from Tokyo
Days 5-6: Kyoto
Day 7 : Nara and Osaka
Day 8 : Miyajima and Hiroshima
Day 9 : morning in Kyoto → Tokyo
Day 10: Tokyo in morning/afternoon → airport

Japan is a decently large-sized island country located in Eastern Asia, being slightly smaller than California . Rest assured, the entire country is connected via trains. In my experience, Japan may have the most efficient and well-connected public transportation system in the world (and that’s coming from someone who spent their childhood riding the extensive New York City subway).

Despite holding the title for the 10th most populated country in the world (aka: it’s crowded), you can still find some peace and solitude in the many gardens and temples located just about everywhere.

Pre-Travel Guide to Japan

Where to get the best flight deals to japan:.

I swear by Skyscanner and Google Flights , and always always always use these two sites when looking for airfare. The option to watch prices and get email notifications are top notch and one of my favorite features of the two.

Always check budget airlines that may not be listed, especially if you are coming from other areas in Asia with shorter flight times. A great list of budget airlines can be found here .

For reference, we flew premium economy on China Airlines with a short layover in Taipei for about $1200 round trip from San Francisco – during Easter and cherry blossom season – but I saw deals for under $800 in coach. [I’m not complaining about the upgrade that my husband insisted on buying, but know that cheaper flights are out there.]

If you’re coming from the East Coast USA, flights will be a bit more expensive but shouldn’t be more than $500 more or so.

Where to stay:

In an effort to keep things simple (and avoid changing accommodation every night or two – what a pain!), this itinerary will have you staying in 2 main areas (Tokyo and Kyoto).

I highly advise booking accommodations near centrally located train stations in each as it’ll be easiest for the day trips mentioned in the 10 day Japan Itinerary below.

I opted to stay near Shibuya Station in Tokyo, as it’s centrally located and easy to reach other districts. In Kyoto we stayed near Kyoto Station as we were taking a bunch of day trips and wanted to be able to walk to our accommodation easily after a long, busy day on the road bullet train.

Luxury: Cerulean Tower Tokyu Hotel
Mid-Range: Shibuya Excel Hotel Tokyo
Budget: Shibuya Tokyu Rei Hotel
Check out other hotels in Tokyo here.
Luxury: Hotel Granvia Kyoto
Mid-Range: Kyoto Century Hotel
Budget: Rihga Royal Hotel Kyoto
Check out other hotels in Kyoto here.
Yado Kiramachi
Kyoto Takasegawa Bettei
Muromachi Yutone Kyokoyado

Airbnb is also a great option and a good way to save some money if you’re spending a few nights in one spot (always check the cleaning and booking fees, as these can greatly increase the price should you only need a 1-night stay).

New rules regarding Airbnb rentals were implemented in June 2018, and now listings must be registered and display a license number on their booking page. Thankfully all current listings on Airbnb are compliant (the company removed any which failed to register in 2018), so you can be sure your booking is absolutely legit.

While I’d love to recommend the Airbnbs we stayed in during our trip to Japan, they are no longer available. However, there’s tons more to choose from – just check out the Airbnb website .

First time using AirBnB? Sign up with THIS LINK to get $30 off your first stay!

When to visit:

There’s never a horrible time to spend 10 days in Japan, but each season has their pros and cons.

Spring : If you’re hoping to see the ever-so-beautiful cherry blossoms, April is your best bet. That being said, it’s also the month most people visit Japan for that very reason. I visited in early to mid-April, and while yes it was crowded, the beauty of the cherry blossoms found throughout the country was well worth it.

Fall : Autumn is another wonderful time to visit Japan, as you’ll get to experience the vibrant fall colors (bright red leaves) from September to November.

Summer (June to August) is hot, humid, and rainy (although the rain tends to dissipate in early July), while winter (Dec-Feb) is generally cool, sunny, dry and great for snow-sports in the mountains.

Note that weather varies dramatically throughout the country, so be sure to plan accordingly especially if you visit higher altitudes.

Read Next: When to Visit Japan (Weather, Seasons, Festivals, and Crowds)

Planning a trip and confused about the best month to visit Japan?! Keep on reading, because I’ll not only be dishing out info on when to visit Japan, but when to avoid the crowds, best times to see those beloved cherry blossoms, and when you can get the best bang for your buck.

How to get Japanese Yen:

I highly advise you to NOT exchange your money at a currency exchange kiosk before or after you land as you won’t get the best rates. Instead, take out local currency (Japanese Yen) at the airport via ATM machine.

If you travel quite frequently, consider applying for a Charles Schwab bank account. The company refunds any and all fees associated with foreign transaction ATM withdrawals. You’ll pay no ATM fees anywhere in the world, including your home country. It’s what I’ve been using for years and it’s saved me 100’s in unwanted pesky fees.

Surprisingly, considering it’s crazy-advanced technology and all, Japan is mostly a cash society; yes, we were exceptionally wowed by that! Expect your credit card to get rejected at most places (especially small eateries and of course street-food stands) and be sure to carry enough Yen with you.

If you’re coming from the US, an easy way to figure out USD to JY is to move the decimal point two spots to the right >> 100Y = approximately $1USD. Just for quick reference, 10,000Y = approximately 100USD.

How to Get Around Japan:

If you’re visiting Japan from elsewhere in the world (i.e. you are not a resident of Japan), you are able to purchase a JR train pass for varying amounts of time. The JR pass gives you access to all of the trains, most Shinkansen lines (bullet trains), the ferry to Miyajima, and a few other transportation lines. Options include 7-day, 14-day, and 21-day.

I used a 7-day JR pass during my trip, and I highly advise you to do the same if you’ll be following this 10 day Japan itinerary. The Green Car option, while a bit more expensive, is JR’s version of “first-class” and most definitely worth it in my opinion. Note that it does not cover all bus routes/lines and some local trains, but these only cost about 100-300Y ($1-3USD), so no biggie.

If you plan on using a JR pass, you NEED to purchase it before you enter the country . Once you arrive in Japan, there is no option to buy it. And when I say no option, absolutely NO option at all.

Once you purchase the pass (which must be done outside of Japan) you will receive a voucher in the mail (within a few days) which you will then exchange upon your arrival in Japan at a designated JR ticket booth in major train stations.

Buy your Japan Rail Pass here (it’s the company I used and our voucher arrived promptly in the mail). There was free delivery straight to our home which I greatly appreciated, and once in Japan we saved a ton of money on the Shinkansen (high-speed bullet train), and breezed through the JR rail stations like a boss.

I can’t imagine doing Japan any other way than with a JR Pass. Check out the options (standard and green pass) here.

UPDATE — Buying a JR Pass in Japan : The Japan Rail Pass be will sold at a higher price point and on a trial basis in Japan through October 1, 2023 at major stations and airports. However, if you know you’ll be using one, miiiight as well save a bit of money and purchase it beforehand from a trusted company . There’s really no reason not to.

The public transportation system in Japan is top-notch, and although extremely overwhelming (at first, trust me), it’s by far the best (and most cost effective) option for getting around throughout the country.

Electricity and Power in Japan:

Japan uses the same 2-pronged electrical outlets as found in the USA. If you’re coming from America, note that some electrical devices use a three-pronged plug.

It’s also important to understand that the amount of voltage is different and you’ll need a converter (different than an electrical adapter) to change the amount of electricity pushed to each device if you plan on bringing anything which uses an excessive amount of power (including hair dryers, curling irons, and/or straightening irons).

If you don’t want to worry about this, I suggest you invest in dual-voltage devices made especially for travel like this dual-voltage blow dryer , dual-voltage mini straightener , and this dual-voltage curling iron .

Using a Pocket Wifi Router in Japan :

If you’ve done any research on Japan, you probably came across something called Pocket Wifi . What is it exactly and why should you consider getting it for your trip to Japan?

Pocket Wifi is exactly as it sounds — a small portable device that you can keep in your pocket (or purse/backpack/day bag) that provides wifi to all your devices (cell phone, iPad, computers, etc). And the best part? One Pocket Wifi will power up to 10 devices, so you can share the same Pocket Wifi with your family and friends.

Since wifi is less common in Japan than in other countries (surprising, right?!), this handy little device does wonders! You will be able to find free wifi in your hotel/ryoken, Starbuck locations around the city, and some other restaurants, but I always recommend having your own, especially if you’re visiting any smaller cities. Do note that some ryokans and older hotels might only have LAN cable internet access, instead of wifi, so you’ll definitely want a Pocket Wifi there!

You’ll use wifi on your phone for just about everything in Japan — train schedules, getting around, translating important phrases, making FaceTime calls to family, etc. You don’t wanna be without it when you need it!

And they make it so super easy — the Pocket Wifi will be delivered straight to your hotel in Japan! Once you’re done with your trip, use the convenient prepaid envelop to return your router from any address in Japan. Couldn’t be simpler than that!

Check out the benefits and purchase your Pocket Wifi here. Honestly, a life saver!

Useful Japanese Phrases:

Hello/Good Afternoon: konnichiwa
Good bye: sayonara
Delicious: oishi
Thank you: arigatō
Please: kudasai
Where’s the toilet: benjo wa doko desu ka?
Does anyone speak English? Eigo no hanaseru hito wa imasen ka

Headed to Japan and looking for the best things to do in Kyoto? You’re in luck, because I’ve compiled a whole bunch of Kyoto sights and attractions!

Packing tips for Japan:

Clothing : Seaso ns are kind of temperamental in Japan, and you may be wishing you brought different clothing. Therefore, I highly suggest you pack layers for your trip to Japan. An umbrella (cute ones here , here , and here ) and light raincoat (like this or this one ) are recommended as well.

We encountered much more rain during our 10 days in Japan than we had originally planned for, and I’m glad I brought along a raincoat. If you don’t want to stuff a coat in your luggage, consider bringing along a poncho just in case.

Electricity and Power : As noted above, most of Japan’s electrical outlets are the 2-pronged “Type A” type (100 Volt, 50-60 Hz).

If you have a device with a 3-pronged or European/UK-style plug, you may need a travel adapter (for all devices) and power converter (for high powered devices like a hair straightener or blow dryer).

Pack comfy shoes that are easy to take off. You’ll need to slip off your shoes at various temples, at the airport, at ryokans, and some restaurants. My favorite ones here (on sale), here , and here .

I also suggest bringing along socks if you don’t want to go barefoot… These sushi socks are quite cute and perfect for the occasion… 🙂

Small throwaway bags for garbage. You won’t find many garbage cans around Japan in general, and it’s expected that you keep your trash on you until you can throw them away. Keep a small bag in your purse/backpack for this purpose. A small foldable tote is perfect for this, and can be used for spontaneous shopping trips.

Pack light. Navigating Japan is much easier when you have a small suitcase, especially since Japanese trains (and train stations) do not cater to travelers with a lot of luggage. In addition, there’s not as many elevators or escalators as you might wish, so remember, you may be carrying your luggage up and down a few flights of stairs.

I recommend traveling with a small rolling suitcase (one that fits in the overhead bin on an airplane like this one or this one ) and a backpack (I have this one and love it).

Stay organized with packing cubes , which also help you fit more into smaller suitcases (I’m able to fit about a months worth of summer clothing using packing cubes and packing strategically).

Language : If you’re up for it, you can also consider taking along a small Japanese Phrase Book . The language is quite difficult, and Google Translate (which won’t work without wifi or a cell plan) saved our butts far too many times.

Japanese written language uses characters, which you’ll see all over the place. Thankfully, most signs are written in phonetics using the alphabet we use.

We were also surprised by the low number of people who speak any English. Save yourself some frustration and pack a lightweight phrase book in your bag. Interested in learning some Japanese before your trip?

This book looks like loads of fun, and I’m actually thinking of buying it before my next trip back to the country. (The Japanese language is difficult you guys, just trust me.)

Travel Insurance for Japan

Yes, you need this. I always recommend purchasing travel insurance before your trip. You never know what might happen (flight delays, lost baggage, illness), and travel insurance definitely helps with all of those unfortunate unexpectancies.

I highly recommend the companies World Nomads and SafetyWing . I’ve recently been buying coverage with SafetyWing since they cover pandemic-related costs (which most travel insurance companies do not do).

Whenever we travel, we always buy a short term plan (depending on how many days/weeks we’ll be away) before leaving for any trip! Even if you don’t end up using it, peace of mind is 100% worth it in my opinion.

Find plan options and pricing here (and at only a few bucks a day, there’s no excuse not to!) I always say, if you can’t afford travel insurance, you can’t afford your trip. It’s that easy.

Buy your travel insurance now — don’t wait until it’s too late!

10 Days in Japan: A Complete Japan Itinerary

And now, the fun part! The 10 day itinerary in Japan!

Day 1: Arrive in Tokyo!

You’ll most likely be flying into Narita Airport and will need a little over an hour to get into the city center via the Narita Express. After such a long flight (with lots of time difference), it’s best not to plan much on this first day – hello, jetlag!

I suggest exploring the area you’re staying in (my suggestions: Shibuya or Akihabara) and devouring your first Japanese dinner of either ramen or pork Katsu.

During my stay, I opted for an AirBnB in Shibuya , which has an epic nightlife with tons of stuff going on, restaurants included (even if “partying” isn’t your thing- it sure ain’t mine!). Use this first afternoon/night to relax and rest up, as the rest of this itinerary will be go-go-go!

Day 2: FULL DAY IN TOKYO (West Side)

Today’s all about modern Tokyo ! You’ll be exploring the western districts of the city, including Shibuya, Harajuku, and Shinjuku – just saying these names are fun! You can either walk from district to district as they are fairly close together, or buy single use train tickets to hop between each.

DO NOT USE YOUR JR PASS YET as it will expire before you finish needing it later on during the trip. Train tickets within Tokyo are not very expensive, and you won’t be needing many today anyways!

Stop 1: Shibuya

If you opted to stay in Shibuya, you won’t need to take a train here! Shibuya is Tokyo’s version of Times Square , and with all the bright lights and massive amounts of people, it’s easy to see why. Be sure to check out the world-famous Shibuya Crossing , where 100’s of people scramble across the street at once.

For the best view above, head to Starbucks (you’ll need to order something before going upstairs), or find the Keio Inokashira Line at Shibuya Station for another perfect view.

Also say “Hello” – or Konichiwa — to Hachiko (the most loyal dog in the world statue) at Shibuya Crossing and do some shopping at Tokyu Hands .

Meiji Shrine shouldn’t be missed as well, which is the Shinto shrine that is dedicated to the deified spirits of Emperor Meiji and his wife, Empress Shōken. You’ll be seeing lots of shrines and temples during your time in Japan, and Meiji is a great one to start with!

If you’re lucky, you may even witness a traditional Japanese wedding ceremony! I, however, was not so lucky.

Stop 2: Harajuku

If you want to get a taste for Japanese street style, visit Harajuku. On Sundays, you can see traditional Harajuku Girls dressed in elaborate costumes and anime – so fun! Try and spot the girl in the photo below all decked out in costume. If you can’t make it on a Sunday, you can get a feel for Japanese street style any day of the week.

You can reach Harajuku by taking the Yamanote line to Harajuku Station, although it’s not a far walk from Meiji Shrine.

Walk down the famous shopping street of Takeshita Dori , where you’ll find a whole mess of fun stores and fun cafes. Note that most shops don’t open until 11am, but if you’re following this itinerary, you’ll probably arrive here around 1pmish or so.

Be sure to try a crepe – the unofficial street food of Harajuku, which you’ll find all over Takeshita Dori! We also visited a hedgehog café and played with them for about 45 minutes or so. A super quirky and super weird area, definitely not meant to be missed!

Read Next: Top Things to do in Harajuku

Stop 3: Shinjuku

Shinjuku is the largest neighborhood in Tokyo (dubbed the crazy entertainment district), and you’ll find thousands of restaurants, shops, entertainment, and other attractions that you could easily spend all day here.

With limited time, we spent a decent portion of the afternoon and night here and felt that was sufficient enough to see the highlights.

Many people opt to see the ever-so-popular Robot Restaurant , which I’ve heard is an other-worldly experience, but after reading reviews, we decided against it. Do your own research and decide for yourself whether this show is worthy of your time and money.

Whether you decide to spend part of the evening at the Robot Restaurant, I highly encourage you to make a visit to Omoide Yokocho , commonly known as Piss Alley.

Piss Alley is a small network of alleyways along the tracks northwest of Shinjuku Station filled with dozens of tiny eateries serving ramen, soba, sushi and yakitori. Just pick one with open seats and go in – they’re all worthy of some stomach real-estate.

Consider the free observation deck on the 45th floor of the Tokyo Metropolitan Government Building , visit Shinjuku Gyoen (a large public park near Shinjuku Station being a perfect cherry blossom spot – check on hours, we missed the entrance by about 20 minutes 🙁 ), and find an epic view of the area from the pedestrian overpass near the northwest corner of the Shinjuku station.

Day 3: FULL DAY IN TOKYO (East Side)

Now it’s time to experience the more traditional side of Tokyo , including Sensoji Temple and Ueno Gardens. Another bird’s eye view can be seen today, at nearby Tokyo Skytree.

If you’re staying in Shibuya like I did, you’ll need to take the train from Shibuya Station to Asakusa Station (35-45 min on train) via the JR Yamanote Line to Ginza or Asakusa Line. Make sure to purchase single tickets – do NOT activate your JR pass yet!

Asakusa and Sensoji Temple

Asakusa is the spiritual heart of Tokyo and a good place to start your day! Sensoji Temple is the main attraction here, and you’ll start your morning journey at the Kaminarimon Gate .

As you walk toward the temple buildings, check out the historic Nakamise Dori shopping street, pick out some souvenirs and grab a Japanese snack (or two!) before exploring Sensoji Temple.

Consider drawing Omikuji (written fortunes) while here. If you’re up for it and are interested, check out the surrounding old-fashioned neighborhoods around Asakusa.

Sumida Park and Tokyo SkyTree

If you’re visiting during cherry blossom season, I highly advise you to visit Sumida Park , which is an absolutely wonderful spot to see the flowers in bloom! It was one of the least crowded public parks we went to and FULL of cherry blossoms!

I cannot recommend this spot enough! Bring a snack or two and sit on a blanket for the ultimate experience. We got sakura donuts from Mister Donut (located all around), and ate our flower-themed treats amongst the cherry blossoms.

Next up – Tokyo SkyTree , the tallest tower in not only Japan, but the entire world! At 634m (2,080 feet), the complex has two observation decks with great views over the city. There’s even a glass floor for any of you brave souls! Expect a cue, so plan on spending a bit of time here. The Tokyo Skytree is about a 20 minute walk or a 5 minute train ride from Asakusa.

If you don’t wanna wait in line, I highly encourage you to book your skip-the-line Tokyo SkyTree ticket in advance. You can even upgrade to include the Tembo Galleria.

End the afternoon at Ueno Park , another large public space located in central Tokyo and another lively cherry blossom spot. There are more than 1000 cherry trees of multiple varieties lining its central pathway and lots of temples and shrines here to check out, as well as museums and a zoo if those are of interest to you.

You’ll most likely want to take the JR train from Tokyo SkyTree to Ueno Park.

Akihabara District

Wake up because we’re off to Tokyo’s crazy Akihabara District! Spend the evening perusing the many electronic shops, including Yodobashi Akiba – the world’s largest with nine stories stuffed with hi tech equipment – for geeks with money.

You’ll also find Japan’s diehard fan anime culture here, with stores devoted to anime and manga; just be sure to keep kids away from the adult-only sections (I wondered at first why all the anime was butt naked)!

You could easily fill up a whole afternoon and night in Akihabara, from its maid and Gundam cafes, gaming centers (check out Super Potato Retro Shop if you want to be transported into the 90’s), and just gazing at the bright lights.

Day 4: DAY TRIP from Tokyo — 3 Options

Today you’ll activate your JR pass and start putting it to use! Now that you’ve explored Tokyo, get out of the busy city center and explore another nearby area. There are numerous day trips you can take from Tokyo , and depending on your interests, you may want to visit more than one!

Unfortunately this ten day Japan itinerary only allows for one, but if you have another day or two to spare, you could easily do all three.

I opted for Kamakura because of the rainy and cold weather, but I would have loved Nikko or Hakone had the weather been more cooperative that day. With two weeks in Japan, you can most definitely do all three if you’d like.

Here are my three recommended day trips from Tokyo:

1) Kamakura

Don’t miss the Great Buddha of Kamakura (at Kotokuin Temple), easily the most popular attraction in the area, and literally hard to miss at 44 feet. Here you’ll find the second largest Buddha in all of Japan.

Another site not to miss, and only a few minute walk from the Great Buddha – the Hase Dera Temple , which is a beautiful temple located on a hillside overlooking the ocean.

There’s also a bamboo forest at Hokokuji Temple , similar to that in Kyoto, and it’s possible to see Mt. Fuji on a clear day from Kenchoji Temple.

Once you’ve had your fair share of temples, or are just hungry for some lunch, head on over to Komachi-dori , the busiest commercial street in Kamakura. Try the local specialty of Shirasu-don , (a Whitebait rice bowl), which you’ll easily find in numerous restaurants on the busy street.

Not interested in venturing to Kamakura alone and prefer a group tour? Looking back, I wished I booked a tour. Although it wasn’t too far away, we got a bit confused on the train and wasted a bunch of time trying to navigate our way to Kamakura, and then even more time once we arrived.

Many of the tours include other highlights like a tea ceremony and a view of the Bay, which we missed by going alone. I recommend these (from Tokyo) which cover all the top attractions:

Full Day Trip to Kamakura, Yokohama, and Tokyo Bay (from Tokyo) : Not only does this day tour from Tokyo take you to all the highlights of Kamakura, but you’ll also get to have lunch in Yokohama’s bustling Chinatown, visit the traditional Japanese-style sunken garden of Sankei-en (including tea rooms!), and admire the modern cable-stay Yokohama Bay Bridge.
5 Hour Nature and History Walking Tour: This walking tour follows a hiking route from Kita-Kamakura to Hase-dera Temple, passing many historic temples and shrines. You’ll be able to enjoy some wonderful panoramas from a hiking trail that offers views in all directions. Note that transportation is not included.

Literally sick of the city and need to get some nature into your life? Nikko may just be your answer. Full of ancient moss, stone lanterns, vermillion gates, and towering cedars, there’s a reason why this area is one of Japan’s most visited areas.

Located about two hours north of Tokyo, Nikko is the site of the famous Toshogu Shrine , the mausoleum of Tokugawa Ieyasu (VIP in Japan), and numerous other temples and shrines. Don’t miss the famous Shinkyo bridge , the beautiful Nikko National Park (on a sunny day), Kanman-ga-Fuchi Abyss, and Kegon Falls .

I’m quite bummed we didn’t make it here as all the photos look absolutely spectacular, but now I’ve got another reason to return to Japan!

Trying to fit in a lot during your one day in Nikko? Consider a group tour which gets you around easily to all of the highlights.

Day Trip Options here:

From Tokyo: Nikko World Heritage Full-Day Tour : Explore the beautiful mountain landscape of Nikko, Japan, experience the majesty of the Tamozawa Imperial Villa, bow to the three golden Buddah’s at the Rinnoji Temple, explore the surrounding landscape with a trip to Kirifuri Falls, and have a relaxed Japanese lunch at a local restaurant.
Nikko: Autumn Leaves and World Heritage Full–Day Tour : Discover the beautiful autumn leaves and world heritage of Nikko. During your full-day tour by air-conditioned coach, visit Nikko’s natural sights, Senjo-gahara and Kegon waterfalls, and Nikko Toshogu Shrine. Perfect during those autumn months!

If you have more than 10 days in Japan, check out these additional day trips from Tokyo .

If seeing Mt. Fuji is on your bucket list, then I definitely recommend making the day trip to Hakone.

Once arriving, you have a whole slew of options to fill your day, including the Hakone Tozan Cable Car for stunning views, the Hakone Ropeway for even more epic views, Owakudani with views of Mt. Fuji on a clear day, and a small Buddhist alter.

You can also take a Hakone Sightseeing Cruise and spend time at the Hakone Open Air Museum (art gallery). Brave? Try a black egg!

If you’re not up for heading to Hakone alone , there are numerous day trips from Tokyo that leave the transportation and planning up to someone else. You’re on holiday – treat yourself and save yourself the hassle! I recommend the followings tours:

From Tokyo: Mt. Fuji and Hakone Day Trip by Shinkansen : Spend a day trip traveling to Mt. Fuji, Japan’s most famous symbol and highest mountain. Enjoy the view from the 5th Station before visiting the nearby resort town of Hakone, known for its onsen hot springs. Return to Tokyo by bullet train!
From Tokyo: Mt. Fuji and Hakone Tour with Bullet Train : Get spectacular views of Mt. Fuji and its surrounding mountains on a day trip from Tokyo. Cruise across Lake Ashi by boat and take the ropeway up Mt. Komagatake. Relax in the hot springs resort of Hakone, and then catch the bullet train back to Tokyo.

However, note that seeing the mountain is never guaranteed and it’s possible you may make the trip only to be disappointed. Some months out of the year have higher chances of visibility, including the winter months. If it looks like a questionable morning with lots of clouds, I highly suggest you alter your plans and opt for either Nikko or Kamakura instead.

Day 5: MORNING BULLET TRAIN TO KYOTO then EXPLORING

First Bullet Train Ride!

*Note that you’ll be required to make a seat reservation if you have opted for the Green JR Pass. Make this reservation when you first exchange your JR voucher for a ticket, or the night before leaving for Kyoto. Don’t wait until the morning of because it’s possible the reservation desk will not be open yet.

Get up nice and early, grab some breakfast in the station/on the way to the station, and take a 7:00/7:30am bullet train from Tokyo Station (you may need to transfer at Shinagawa Station) in route for Kyoto!

If you take this early morning train ride, you’ll arrive in Kyoto around 10:30am or so, which is necessary if you want to see a bunch of Kyoto sites today. Once you arrive in Kyoto, put your luggage/bags into a coin locker (roughly 500-900 Yen for two suitcases for the entire day) and get exploring!

A note about Kyoto’s public transportation: Unlike Tokyo, Kyoto relies on large public buses. We were unaware of this and unfortunately caught off guard when we couldn’t take fast trains to get around. Give yourself some extra time as it’ll take longer to get around. Embrace it – look outside the window on the bus and take in some local Kyoto life.

Arashiyama Area

Catch the bus to the Saga-Arashiyama Station , where you’ll be hanging out for a few hours. First up, Tenyru-Ji Shrine and its accompanying zen garden. So many beautiful plants and flowers (nicely labeled in both English and Japanese) here, such as the Japanese wisteria, which you’ll never see outside of Japan.

Once you exit the garden, you’ll come across the Arashiyama Bamboo Grove/Forest . Walking through the Bamboo Grove is definitely one of the essential experiences to have in Kyoto so don’t pass it up!

The grove is much smaller than I thought, taking roughly 15 minutes to walk through, but is absolutely excellent for photography.

Walk through slowly to take it all in, and don’t forget to look up at the towering bamboo! Bring a wide-angle lens and if possible, a go pro, in order to include as much of the bamboo in your photos!

Before you head to the Monkey Park (coming up next!), you’ll most likely come across a lovely area with small eateries and a beautiful, green emerald lake. A good spot for some photos in my opinion! 🙂 We enjoyed a few vending machine coffees and teas here (you’ll be doing that everywhere in Japan too, you’ll see!).

Read Next: Top Things to do in Kyoto and Attractions

Next up, walk to the Iwatayama Monkey Park ! Yes, it’s about a 15-20 minute walk completely uphill to reach the park, but definitely worth it! Just be aware, the Google Maps directions to this attraction are wrong.

The entrance to the park is simply near the orange shrine gate at the south side of the Togetsu-kyo bridge. Look for a cartoon picture of a monkey and you’re golden!

The park is a nice change from the temples and shrines you’ll be seeing a lot of in Kyoto, and it’s so much fun to feed the monkeys for only 100Y. There’s also a wonderful view of Kyoto from up here.

Before anyone gets mad at those pictures of the monkeys “behind bars”, please know they are free to roam wherever they’d like throughout the park, and us humans are actually put in an enclosed area when feeding them. This is to protect both the animals and us.

We could have easily spent hours watching the monkeys and admiring the view, but off to the Golden Pavilion it was!

Golden Pavilion (Kinkaku-ji)

If you’ve got more time today, take the bus to the Golden Pavilion , which is super impressive and made entirely of gold! Reflected in the lake, it’s no wonder this is one of the top things to do in Kyoto.

Make sure to try some Japanese flavored ice cream here, such as green matcha and/or black sesame, my new favorite! It’s guaranteed to be crowded, but very, very worth it in my opinion.

*Don’t forget to head back to Kyoto Station to collect your bags before heading to your hotel or AirBnb for the night!

Day 6: FULL DAY IN KYOTO

Nishiki Market

Start the day at the Nishiki Market – known for its different food stalls where you can try all kinds of Japanese cuisine and treats.

Stroll for an hour or so up and down the streets of the market, stopping whenever something tickles your fancy. The market is a great place to dive into some of the more unusual dishes – don’t be a chicken, try them!

However, absolutely don’t leave the market without trying tako tamago – the infamous candied baby octopus stuffed with a quail egg. It tastes way better than it sounds – I could have eaten three!

Want a taste of those cutesy animal donuts you’ve possibly seen all over the internet? You can try them here – at Floresta Donuts . I had a hard time eating mine as it was just too cute to bite into! Quite possibly my favorite thing I ate during our 10 days in Japan! SO cute!

After your fix of Japanese delicacies and donuts, walk on over to Gion, Kyotos famous geisha district. If you’re lucky you may spot a real true-life geisha , although they tend to walk fast to their destination and don’t like to show their face.

However, if you do spot one, but courteous and don’t obviously follow them or point your camera directly to their face. Show respect for their culture. I wasn’t so lucky and didn’t spot any on my trip.

Higashiyama District

End the day at the Higashiyama District, the world famous hub of Kyoto’s best-known shrines and temples. And let me tell me, this place is worth checking out. It’s one of my favorite areas in all of Kyoto .

Make sure to walk down Sannenzaka and Ninensaka – the two most beautiful streets in the district, with numerous souvenir shops and eateries. It can get rather crowded during the day (for good reason!), so we chose to come a bit before dusk had encountered a less cramped experience.

Still cramped, but less cramped than I imagine mid-day would be. You’ll find some eats on the walk – make sure to try a sakura cream puff !

Kyomizu-dera Temple , a listed UNESCO site, should be next on your list. Again, it’s quite busy, but the view out over a sea of trees is hard to beat – just imagine this during cherry blossom season (absolutely to die for!) And yea, try an onigiri maki – an emoji in the wild!

Finish off this (long and tiring) day by walking part of the Philosopher’s Path (found on Google Maps as Tetsugaku-no-michi) , a path that runs along a narrow river and is lined with more cherry blossom trees than you can ever imagine!

You’ll end at the Silver Pavilion, although not as fancy and intricate as the Golden Pavilion, and not even lined in silver, but still impressive nonetheless.

Day 7: DAY TRIP TO NARA AND OSAKA

It’s time for some day trips today, and we’ll be crossing off two in one day’s time! Head to Nara from Kyoto Station (via JR Nara Line – roughly 1 hour on the express train), then after seeing some of the top temples, head on over to Osaka and eat everything!

Get ready to interact with some deer in Nara Park , which can be found all throughout the area and are literally impossible to miss! And oh yea, those crackers you see being sold on the street? Those are for the deer, not us hungry humans!

A few temples to see: Todaiji (must visit Unesco World Heritage Site with super tall Buddha), Kasaguga Taisha Shrine (the most important shrine in Nara), Kofukuiji Temple, and Gangou-ji Temple. If you’ve had enough of temples by this time, head over to Osaka and skip a temple or two.

Tip : Get the Nara Kotsu one day pass (it’s more of a wooden plague you can wear around your neck if you please) for 500 Yen. This sightseeing bus brings you around to the top attractions in Central Nara, and is good for most of the buses you see throughout the city.

Off to Osaka for the rest of the day! Many people skip Osaka as they think it’s just another large city like that of Tokyo, but we absolutely loved our few hours here! Don’t skip it!

First up, the ever-so-beautiful Osaka Castle , one of Japan’s most famous landmarks! Get off at Osakajokoen Station.

Note that the castle may very well be closed by the time you reach it depending on how long you spend in Nara (last admission is 4:30pm in April, a bit later in the summer months), but the outside alone is worth the train and short 20 minute walk!

Next up, Dotonbori Street ! It’s an absolute madhouse full of people, shops, and eateries, and an absolute must-do while in Osaka. Be sure to look up and admire the moving animal billboards found on the buildings.

Osaka is the food capitol not just of Japan, but of the entire world. Hence, you’ll want to eat everything in sight (just leave some room for a Kobe beef dinner). Try beloved regional dishes like okonomiyaki, takoyaki (fried octopus balls – tastes way better than it sounds), udon, and hiyashi ame ginger drink.

Rule of thumb: if there’s a long line, the food is out of this world. Wait and you’ll be rewarded.

If you want to get some shopping on, head on over to nearby Shinsaibashi, the city’s premier shopping district. We chose to skip the shopping and focused on stuffing our faces 😉

Great dinner suggestion: Tsurugyu. This place is all about Kobe beef , and is super fresh and decently priced. Expect to pay around 5,000Y per person, drink included. Reservations are highly recommended, although we somehow got extremely lucky and were able to sit at the bar – but don’t count on this!

Looking for the best places to go in Japan?! This Japan bucket list has you covered! Definitely saving this for my future trip to Japan!

Day 8: DAY TRIP TO MIYAJIMA AND HIROSHIMA

Get ready for another jam-packed day. Yes, it’ll take a while to get here, but trust me, on a clear, sunny day, it’s 100% worth it and absolutely beautiful.

Take an early morning bullet train to Hiroshima, which takes roughly 2 hours from Kyoto Station, then a local JR train to Miyajimaguchi Station, then finally the JR ferry to Miyajima. All included in your JR Pass .

You can choose to visit either Miyajima or Hiroshima first, but I highly recommend visiting Miyajima during high tide to see the gate “floating” in the water. Check tide schedules online.

If you opt for Miyajima first (again, tide dependent), and take an 8am bullet train out of Kyoto Station, you’ll reach Miyajima by approximately 11am.

Head straight to the tori gate (after some deer interaction of course, yes there’s deer here and they’re SUPER friendly, just watch your food).

You’ll want to snap a million photos because this place is just so damn beautiful it’s hard not to! You can also check out the floating shrine as well, which we loved and was unlike any other shrine/temple we saw in Japan!

Spectacular views your thing? Take the Miyajima Ropeway (~15 minutes, $17 roundtrip) for better-then-great views of the whole area from the top of Mt. Misen . There’s a bus at the base of Miyajima Island which will take you to the ropeway station fo’ free as well if you’re already feeling super tired from your journey.

Before heading back to the ferry, pick up some ice cream (green tea or black sesame, you are in Japan!) – perfect on a hot, sunny day.

Take the ferry back to Miyajimaguchi Station, then the JR train to Hiroshima. Note that you’ll need to either take a tram or buy a Hiroshima Sightseeing Hop-On, Hop-Off Loop Bus “Meipuru-pu” to get around in Hiroshima super easily – which is free of cost for JR pass users .

We took the sightseeing bus to Hiroshima Castle , and then to the area with the A-Bomb Dome , Children’s Peace Monument , and Peace Memorial Museum and Park . The museum was closed by the time we arrived, but we were still able to wander around at the memorials and pay our respects.

End this super long day eating okonomiyaki at Okonomimura , a humungous multi-level eatery with tiny stalls of different shops making varieties of the famous pancake. Just for reference, we made it back on a bullet train around 8:30/9pm, getting back to Kyoto around 11pm. Told you it was a long day. 😉

Day 9: KYOTO THEN BULLET TRAIN BACK TO TOKYO

Today’s your last day in Kyoto, so it’s time to do those last-minute things you missed, including the Fushimi Inari Shrine. Put your bags in coin lockers at Kyoto Station before heading out for the day (just don’t forget to pick up before the bullet train heading back to Tokyo!)

Morning/Afternoon in Kyoto

1. Fushimi Inari Shrine (Taisha): COME EARLY BEFORE THE MASSES ! No matter how tired you are, do not skip Fushimi Inari Shrine! To get here, you’ll need to take the JR Line (Nara or Keihan Main) from Kyoto to Inari Station.

The shrine is comprised of over 10,000 beautiful orange-y red tori gates arching over a scenic, possible 2-hour-long walking trail. You don’t need to do the entire circuit, but definitely make it past the initial arch as this is the most populated one due to its close proximity to the start.

Make sure to notice the numerous fox statues along the shrine grounds, as they are thought to be Inari’s messengers and hold much importance to this area. And get some inari sushi if you’re a bit hungry – look how cute they are! Definitely one of my favorite things we did during our 10 days in Japan.

Read Next: Alllll the best things to do in Kyoto

2. Nijo Castle: One of Kyoto’s most popular and impressive sights, and a wonderful place to walk around on your last official morning in the city. The grounds are large with numerous fortifications, a lovely castle, beautiful moat, and gardens.

Inari Shrine to Nijo Castle: Head back to Kyoto Station, then take the JR Sagano train to Nijo stop

3. To-Ji Garden and Temple: Depending on your groups level of tired-ness, you may choose to skip these gardens (which are a 15 minute walk from Kyoto station). We were too pooped from the week’s festivities to even think about wandering around here, and let’s face it – I saved myself an hour or so of complaints from my husband.

We both get a little grumpy when the tiredness kicks in. If you do decide to go, you’ll find the tallest wooden pagoda in Japan, a lovely garden with a koi fish pond, and some beautiful cherry blossoms. Next time for me!

Bullet Train to Tokyo

Once you’re done with your activities in Kyoto, back on the Shinkansen (bullet train) to Tokyo it is!

The bullet train from Kyoto to Tokyo takes around 3 hours or so, and with our stomachs grumbling already, we opted for a dinner of bento boxes to take on the train with us. You’ll find a handful of stalls in the train station selling a wide variety of food options, with bento boxes being absolutely perfect for the long train ride!

Since you’ll only be in Tokyo for one additional night and will need to take the train from Tokyo station to Narita International Airport the next day, I suggest staying in the Ginza area, 1 or 2 stops on the train depending on which line you take.

It also lets you explore a new area the next morning before heading off to the airport.

Recommended hotels in Ginza:

Luxury : Millenium Mitsui Garden Hotel (where we stayed and we absolutely loved it! – and less than $150 a night!)
Mid-Line : Solaria Nishitetsu Hotel Ginza (super chic upscale hotel at affordable rates in a great location)
Budget : Tokyo Ginza Bay Capsule Hotel (if you don’t know what a capsule hotel is… go check that out!)

Day 10: SUSHI BREAKFAST AND OFF TO THE AIRPORT

Before heading out for the day, it’s a good idea to check out of your hotel to avoid rushing back for the mid-morning check-out time, and be sure to ask your hotel to store your bags (which you’ll pick up later before heading off to the airport).

Sushi Breakfast at Tsukiji Market

On your last official morning after 10 days in Japan (cue the sad face), there’s nothing better than an authentic sushi breakfast! And no better place to get fresh sushi than at the Tsukiji Fish Market – the world’s largest, busiest fish market!

Note that the Tsukiji Fish Market is comprised of two parts – the inner market (the Uogashi wholesaler market) and the outer market. The inner market is where you’ll find the early-morning wholesale tuna auction (think 4am, yes, really that early), while the outer market is for all of us foodies hoping to satisfy our taste buds with some seafood goodness.

While Daiwa Sushi and Sushi Dai are two of the most common sushi shops in Tsukiji Market, the lines are astronomically long. We picked a place at random and had a wonderful experience – the fish was fresh, service was adequate, and prices were competitive.

You won’t find mediocre sushi anywhere in this area, so decide for yourself (and your hungry belly) if waiting in those long lines is worth it.

If you have a little extra time and wanna learn about Japanese food culture and the market in general, consider signing up for a Tsukiji Outer Market Food and Drink Walking Tour . You’ll sample bonito, katsuobushi, dashi stock, sushi, sake, fresh tuna, local omelets (my all-time fave) and so much more. I so wish we did this as we didn’t learn much about the market and honestly didn’t even know where to begin on our own — there’s so many stalls and we didn’t know half of the foods!

Next time we’re in Japan I REALLY wanna take this combined tour of the Tsukiji Outer Fish Market and sushi-making class! I love taking cooking classes when I travel (I’ve made macarons in Paris, egg tarts in Lisbon, and tamales in Mexico so far), so I think sushi in Japan is next for me!

Shopping in Ginza

After filling up on some sushi (and ice cream, because, why not?!), head back to Ginza for some upscale window shopping. This district is home to the most expensive shopping and real estate in Tokyo – kind of like New York’s Fifth Avenue, but with more lights!

Off to the Airport

Depending on your flight time, you may have a bit more time, but it’s always wise to get to the airport extra early for international flights.

Head back to your hotel, collect your bags, head to Tokyo Station, then to Narita Airport (takes approximately 1 hour via Narita Express), have one more Japanese meal at the airport, and say goodbye to this eclectic yet charming country.

If you have any questions on this 10 day Japan itinerary, please ask below in the comments! If you follow this itinerary (exactly what we did), I can promise you not only will you see so much in such a short period of time, but you won’t be stressed out planning either! 🙂

TRAVELING TO JAPAN SOON? Don’t forget travel insurance! I’m a big fan of World Nomads and SafetyWing when traveling abroad.

Recently, I’ve been mostly using SafetyWing since they cover pandemic-related claims (most travel insurance companies do not). Be sure to protect yourself from possible injury, lost baggage, travel delays, and theft before it happens. Learn more and Sign up here.

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The Best of Japan in One Month

Among the many tips for travel to Japan I offer on this site, my most important is to spend as much time here as possible—one month in Japan or even longer.

While Japanese trains are efficient and Japan’s cities are organized well enough to see in a relatively short number of days, there are just so many destinations to enjoy. I’ve taken more than a dozen trips to Japan, and I’ve barely scratched the surface!

Yes, 1 month in Japan is the ideal amount of time to devote in order to see all of Japan’s primary destinations and many of its most impressive secondary ones. You’re going to want to book your flight after reading this!

Where to Stay With One Month in Japan

With a 1 month in Japan itinerary and a diversity of destinations, you’re likely to stay at a wide variety of properties, at different levels of luxury (or precisely the opposite). For example, while you might opt for the high-end Tokyo Station Hotel in Japan’s current capital, simple Ryokan Uemura might best suit your needs in Kyoto, which served as the seat of Japan’s Imperial government for much of the last millennium.

The same is true when it comes to less popular destinations during your Japan 1 month itinerary. From “city hotel” properties like Hotel Forza Nagasaki to the Japanese Alps’ Takaragawa Onsen , which is literally built into the bottom of a ravine, variety is the name of the game on a long trip to Japan.

How to Get Around During One Month in Japan

Now, you’re probably concerned about your Japan Rail Pass —it’s good for a maximum of 21 days, after all. There’s an easy workaround if you plan to spend a month in Japan, however—and staying in Japan for a month is not going to cost you ¥1,000,000 either.

Since the JR pass doesn’t work in Tokyo (which takes five days off the time you’ll need it), and since the local trains of Hokkaido and the Alps aren’t worth using a full JR pass to ride, order the three-week JR pass and, optionally, a Hokkaido Pail Pass .

Where to Go With One Month in Japan

Tokyo and kanto.

I mentioned in my two weeks in Japan guide that you should spend three days in Tokyo (at most) on a trip of that length. If you have a month to spend in Japan, however, you can extend your stay in Tokyo and the surrounding Kanto region to between five and seven days, whether you explore traditional attractions or the avant-garde Miraikan, the futuristic “Museum of Emerging Science.”

Follow up a full two or three days in Tokyo with a day trip to Nikko , a UNESCO World Heritage city that features a shogun shrine splayed across a scenic hillside. Spend another day in Kamakura , a historical city in Kanagawa prefecture famous (among other reasons) for its giant Buddha, pairing it with underrated Yokohama (namely, Sakei-en Garden and the Cup Noodle Museum ) for good measure.

Alternatively (or, if your Japan 1 month itinerary is more flexible, additionally) take an overnight trip or two from Tokyo. Head to towns of the Fuji Five Lakes region like Kawaguchiko , home to Lake Kawaguchi and Fujiyoshida , where most climbers of Mt. Fuji begin their treks, either on your own or with a guided Mt. Fuji tour from Tokyo . Or soak up everything there is to love about Japan’s de-facto onsen capital, Hakone .

READ MORE: How Many Days Should You Spend in Tokyo?

Kyoto, Osaka and Kansai

The sheer amount of sightseeing in Kyoto makes it a (pleasantly) bloated part of any one month Japan itinerary. As is the case with Tokyo, you’ll want to spend at least two or three days of your month in Japan in Kyoto , just in the city-proper, enjoying its temples, shrines, forests, ryokan guest houses and culture.

With this being said, having a month in Japan opens up Kyoto’s surrounding Kansai region. For example, you can visit Osaka for longer than a day, devoting at least a full day (or two) to this delectable, quirky city, which really holds its own against Tokyo , in a similar way to how Kyoto does versus Tokyo . As was the case with my two week itinerary, a day trip to Nara is probably all you’ll need for a 1 month Japan itinerary, unless you enjoy deer or ancient wooden structure significantly more than the average person.

My favorite place in Kansai to recommend to travelers, however, is Himeji Castle . Located in Hyogo prefecture about an hour from Osaka (slightly less from Kobe ) by Shinkansen bullet train, it’s perhaps Japan’s most picturesque castle, and is particularly beautiful if you can manage to see it during sakura season. Speaking of castles, the ones in Nagahama and Hikone on the shores of Lake Biwa are also worthwhile if you’re seeing Japan for a month.

READ MORE: How Long Should You Spend in Kansai?

Shikoku or Hokuriku

Get a bus from Osaka Station to Tokushima , gateway to Japan’s most underrated island: Shikoku. Overlooked up until recently by everyone except pilgrims wanting to hike its 88 Temple Trail , Shikoku is a mysterious island filled with pristine nature and perfect cities in just the right combination, especially for a sumptuous one month in Japan itinerary.

Assuming you spend five days each in Tokyo and Kyoto, devote the same number of days to Shikoku. Moving in a clockwise loop from Tokushima, visit enchanting Naruto Whirlpools , dramatic Iya Valley and the gorgeous castle cities of Kochi and Matsuyama , followed up by stops at Dogo Onsen and Kotohira-gu Shrine , in well-manicured Takamastu and in the udon -slurping town of Marugame .

Alternatively, hop onboard the Thunderbird Limited Express, which will take you to the city of Kanazawa : Welcome to the Hokuriku region. Stay in the city center and explore legendary Kenroku-en garden, or instead take one of the many day trips at your disposal. Head for the hills—namely, the Tateyama Kurobe Alpine Route in Toyama —or the coasts of the castaway Noto Peninsula . Explore the mountain villages of Shirakawa-go and Gokayama , or the mysterious temples of underrated Fukui prefecture. No matter how you occupy your time along the Sea of Japan coast, you can’t go wrong.

Hiroshima, Chugoku and San’in

After you finish in Shikoku, get a local train from Takamatsu to Okayama (which is itself worthy of a night, if you can spare it) and from there, ride the Shinkansen westward to Hiroshima , which is not only infamous but is the largest city in Chugoku , the westernmost region of Honshu island. Beyond Hiroshima Peace Park (which will take about a half-day of your time), you can enjoy 1-2 days in the Hiroshima area by adding sunset behind the floating torii gate of Itsukushima Shrine on Miyajima island to your itinerary.

Extend your stay in far-western Honshu island to between 5-7 days by adding in a couple of other excursions. From Hiroshima, the so-called “rabbit island” of Okunoshima is an easy day trip. Alternatively, head far off Japan’s beaten path into the underrated San’in region, from the bizarre Tottori Sand Dunes , to sprawling Izumo Shrine and from the charming small-town of Tsuwano to the lively city of Shimonoseki , the last city in Honshu before crossing over to Kyushu.

Kyushu or Tohoku

Most of this month in Japan itinerary so far has required little choice. Unfortunately, since you’ll have spent between 17-20 days in Japan already if you’ve followed it, you will need to make some decisions as to your travel priorities, starting now.

If you like the urban vibe of Hiroshima and the not-quite-tropical scenery of Shikoku, head southward to Kyushu island . Whether you stick to cities like Fukuoka and Nagasaki or natural experiences such as Beppu Onsen and Yakushima Island (accessible, you should note, via hydrofoil ferry—this alone takes 1-2 days), 3-5 days is more than enough to enjoy the best of Kyushu.

Hokkaido or Okinawa

Another important choice is how you’ll end your month in Japan. From Tohoku the most obvious choice is to continue northward to Hokkaido island, spending 3-5 days here before flying back to Tokyo to connect back home. In Japan in winter , skiing in Hokkaido and the Sapporo Snow Festival are your best bests, while Hokkaido wildflowers are a great idea in summer ; Hakodate is a great city 365 days per year.

Night view of Hakodate in Hokkaido, Japan

If you chose Kyushu or simply don’t find a Hokkaido road trip appealing, point your compass southeastward to the Okinawa archipelago. Whether you close out your Japan one month itinerary in Naha city, learning about the culture of the Ryukyu Kingdom that once ruled over these islands, or frolic on the tropical beaches of Ishigaki island , it’ll be almost impossible to leave.

When Should You Spend a Month in Japan?

As is the case irrespective of how long you spend in the country, the best time to see Japan for a month is April, when pink-and-white sakura blossoms cover Japan like a spectacular spring snow. Then again, while cherry blossom season in Japan is like no other spectacle on Earth, the country’s autumn color ( koyo ) viewing isn’t too shabby either .

On the other hand, being less particular about when your 1 month in Japan takes place allows you to focus more on where you go and what you do. There’s even a compelling visual case to be made that winter is a great time to visit Japan , even if you don’t ski or don’t particularly like the cold—and especially if you hire me to plan your trip .

FAQ About Spending a Month in Japan

How much money do you need for a month in japan.

The minimum you can expect to spend during 1 month in Japan, not including your flights to and from the country, is about 3,000 USD per person. The majority of travelers in the low- to mid-range probably get closer to the $5,000 mark, while the sky is the limit for luxury travelers spend 30 days (or longer) in Japan.

How long you should spend in Japan?

Obviously, I’m a big advocate for spending a month in Japan—if I wasn’t, I wouldn’t have written this post! However, you can also cover a decent amount of ground with three weeks , two weeks or even a week in Japan , if you absolutely don’t have 4 weeks in Japan to devote.

What month is the cheapest to fly to Japan?

Spending a month in Japan can cost more or less, depending on when you spend it. Namely, months like April and November, which are the peaks for cherry blossoms and fall colors, respectively, are the priciest. To enjoy the best weather, lightest crowds and lowest prices, visit Japan during “shoulder” months like May and September, particularly if you’re planning a Japan itinerary 1 month or longer.

The Bottom Line

One month in Japan allows you to see all the country’s most incredible cities and attractions, though you will still have to do some picking and choosing when it comes to secondary sights. Follow up your time in Tokyo and Kyoto with emotional Hiroshima and spiritual Shikoku , then choose between the wilds of Kyushu and Tohoku, and the mountain scenery of Hokkaido and Okinawa. Your 1 month Japan itinerary will be either the beginning or continuation of a great love affair, depending on whether you’ve already been—but it definitely won’t be the end.

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Home » Travel » Destinations » Comprehensive Japan Travel Checklist for First Time Visitors

Comprehensive Japan Travel Checklist for First Time Visitors

Ultimate Japan Travel Checklist - train with cherry blossoms around track

If you’re traveling to Japan for the first time, you’re probably feeling a mix of excitement and anxiety. Planning a trip to Japan can be overwhelming, especially if you haven’t done much international travel! Luckily, I’m here to share my personal Japan travel checklist to help you prepare for the trip of a lifetime.

Tokyo Asakusa Shrine during cherry blossom season should be on everyone's Japan travel checklist

This post contains affiliate links. For more information, click here .

My very first international trip was two weeks in the Land of the Rising Sun. I made it my mission to learn how to prepare for a trip to Japan, from reading travel guides–Abby Denson’s Cool Japan Guide is amazing–to watching etiquette videos.

Since then, I’ve visited Japan four times (I may have an addiction…), and I’ve refined this Japan travel checklist to reflect everything I’ve learned.

Have you booked your accommodation?

This checklist is meant for the month or so leading up to your Japan trip. But if you still haven’t booked your accommodation, do it ASAP!

Hotels fill up quickly during the busy seasons, especially with the recent shutdown of Airbnbs and other property rentals. If you want to stay in an affordable, well-located place, you should book as soon as you know your itinerary.

I’ve always used Booking.com when traveling to Japan . They have tons of options, from capsule hotels to high-end ryokans. Plus, you don’t have to worry about the language barrier when researching amenities or making requests.

Essential Japan Travel Checklist

Order your Japan Rail pass

Plan what to wear in Japan

Create a list of what to take to japan, book local tours for a more authentic experience, purchase advance tickets to japan’s popular attractions, buy travel insurance before you leave for japan, read up on japan travel etiquette, share your itinerary with an emergency contact, order your japan rail pass.

Japan train on tracks surrounded by cherry blossom trees.

One of my favorite things about Japan is its fast, well-connected rail system. You can visit a ton of cities in a short amount of time thanks to the shinkansen (bullet train), and even semi-remote areas have a regional train station.

However, it’s not exactly cheap to travel this way. A one-way shinkansen ticket from Tokyo to Kyoto costs around $120 USD. Add in a few day trips from Tokyo , and you’re looking at hundreds of dollars in public transit costs.

Fortunately, Japan has an amazing solution to help visitors explore the country easily and affordably: the Japan Rail Pass .

The Japan Rail Pass gives you unlimited rides on all JR train lines, including the shinkansen! It even works on the JR-operated Tokyo metro lines, like the popular Yamanote line, as well as the Narita Express and certain bus routes.

It also saves you time as well as money. Instead of buying individual tickets for each journey, you simply put the pass through the ticket slot at the turnstile and grab it from the other side as you walk through. It’s even easier now that the pass serves as a ticket instead of being a document that you need to show a gate attendant.

RELATED: 12 Easy Day Trips from Kyoto

The JR pass comes in 7, 14, and 21 day increments. You’ll receive a voucher in the mail that you exchange for your pass at any JR office (all the Japan airports have one). You can choose to activate it as soon as you exchange it, or request a later start date.

I always suggest figuring out your itinerary and doing the math to see if the JR pass is worth it. Personally, I will buy a pass even if it costs up to $20 more than individual tickets, because I like the convenience.

You can’t purchase a JR pass once you’re in Japan, so be sure to order it before you leave.

Order your Japan Rail Pass now!

Girl feeding deer in Nara Japan during autumn.

It drives me crazy to read Japan packing tips that tell you what to wear in Japan by season. Japan is a huge country with climate zones ranging from tropical island to snowy mountain!

Instead of packing for Japan by season, you need to pack for the weather in each region you’re visiting. You might start out in Osaka in late spring, where you don’t even need a jacket during the day, and finish your trip hiking in Nagano, where you need a winter coat. Check the forecast for every area on your itinerary before packing!

Still in the planning phases of your trip? Check out my comprehensive itinerary for 10 days in Japan or this 6 day Osaka-Kyoto-Nara itinerary !

Be advised that warm weather in Japan comes with a big dose of humidity . It’s best to choose lightweight, breathable fabrics to stay cool during days that can reach 30°C/86°F. June through July is tsuyu , the rainy season, so keep that in mind when choosing a jacket and footwear.

Outside of Hokkaido and mountainous regions, cold weather in Japan is fairly mild , with temperatures rarely dipping below freezing. That being said, you’ll be spending a fair bit of time sightseeing outdoors, so a good weatherproof jacket, gloves, and warm base layers are essential.

Finally, Japan is a somewhat conservative country when it comes to dress. If you plan to visit shrines and temples, you should have your shoulders and midriff covered.

Wearing and removing shoes in Japan

In Japan, it’s common to remove your shoes and replace them with slippers when entering historic buildings, certain restaurants, and people’s homes. Always wear a comfortable, easy-to-remove pair of shoes when sightseeing in Japan, along with a good pair of socks (no holes!).

Warm weather packing list for Japan

Lightweight rain jacket – This breathable Columbia jacket comes with me on every trip
Comfortable shoes – Classic white Adidas go with everything
Rain boots – My Sperry’s are shorter and easier to pack than traditional rain boots
T-shirts/lightweight tops
Jeans/trousers
Undergarments – Preferably cotton
Moisture-wicking socks – I wear cushioned athletic socks to keep my feet dry and comfy

Cold weather packing list for Japan

Weatherproof coat – My 3-in-1 Patagonia parka is weatherproof, works for all seasons, and has a lifetime warranty
Walking boots -You’ll need quality waterproof boots if hiking through mud or snow
Warm, comfortable shoes
Long sleeve base layers – Merino woo l is best for insulation and moisture-wicking
Undergarments
Wool socks – These cushioned SmartWools are comfy and odor-resistant

Check out my hiking gear guide if you’re planning to have some outdoor adventures in Japan’s beautiful nature!

Save me for later!

Essential Japan Travel Checklist - train under cherry blossom tree and Nagoya castle with red leaf tree

Aside from clothes, there are a few other must pack items for Japan. This is not a country where you can just show up with a passport and your toothbrush. If you want to be fully prepared for a great trip, be sure these items make it on your Japan travel checklist.

Essential Japan travel documents

Passport and tourist visa*
Proof of onward travel
Japan Rail Pass exchange voucher
Accommodation addresses and contact info
Car rental or airport transfer reservations
International driving permit
Color photocopy of your passport

Japan Immigration and Customs Process

Currently, Japan allows visa-free entry for tourists from 68 countries, including the US, Australia, and most of Europe. Citizens who aren’t on the list of visa-free countries must apply for a tourist visa at their local embassy or consulate.

The plan was for Japan to move their tourist visa application process online in April 2020, and start issuing e-Visas for foreign citizens who require them. Unfortunately, this has been delayed due to the current state of international travel.

Recently, Japan introduced a streamlined process for visitor entry that you should complete online in advance of your trip. These online forms replace the physical disembarkation card and customs declaration as well as provide test/vaccination proof, so you can more quickly enter the country.

I recommend completing this using your smartphone so that you can take screenshots of the various QR codes and approval screens and show them to the staff, just in case you have poor or no internet connection inside the airport.

Japan travel accessories

Pocket wifi and/or sim card.

You’ll be relying heavily on Google Maps and other online apps to travel around Japan. Many western phones will not work on the Japanese cellular data network, so you’ll need a Japanese SIM card or pocket WiFi for mobile data.

Getting a Japanese SIM card is ideal if your phone is an international model (i.e. unlocked). All of the major airports in Japan have counters and even vending machines where you can pick up a pre-loaded Japan SIM card to use during your trip.

If you can’t or don’t want to deal with switching SIM cards, you can use a pocket WiFi instead. It uses mobile data to generate a small hotspot for you and your travel companions to use on the go.

Reserve your pocket WiFi for pickup or delivery in Japan!

Travel adapter

Universal Travel Adapter Good news for Americans: Japan uses Type A and B plugs with 110v, which is the same as the US! For everyone else, you’ll need to buy an adapter to use your electronics in Japan. Grab a universal adapter with multiple USB ports that you can use time and time again.

Anker PowerCore 10000 I never travel without my Anker PowerCore. A dead phone battery is my worst nightmare in any foreign country, especially Japan. It also comes in handy when binging Netflix on long train rides.

Neck pillow

Cabeau Evolution Neck Pillow Having a great neck pillow is essential for surviving long flights to Japan. I’ve tried a few, and this one by Cabeau is by far the best. It also rolls up into a compact bag that easily attaches to your personal item!

Sony Active Noise Cancelling Headphones Don’t let chatty neighbors or crying babies leave you feeling jetlagged! Sony’s large ear cups, wireless connection, and active noise cancellation make these the perfect choice for long flights.

Wallet with coin purse

Travelon RFID Blocking Wallet Cash is still king in Japan, and you’ll end up with a lot of yen coins during your trip. Be sure to bring a coin purse, or a wallet with a change pocket.

Silicone Travel-Sized Bottles Most Japanese hotels provide decent quality body wash, shampoo, and lotion. But if you use conditioner or a special shampoo, remember to bring it from home. I use these airline-sized silicone bottles for my liquid toiletries, and they’ve lasted through dozens of international trips.

The nice thing about Japan is that there are convenience stores on every corner, so you won’t have to walk far if you need to pick up a few personal items. However, they likely won’t carry the brands that you have at home. Also, feminine products tend to cost more in Japan than western countries like the US.

Here are the toiletries I always bring to Japan:

Toothpaste and toothbrush
Conditioner
Moisturizer
Basic makeup

If you’re looking for a great personal item bag, I highly recommend this toiletries organizer . My mother-in-law gave me one for Christmas, and it keeps all of my supplies easily accessible! I also love that I can hang it up in the bathroom so it doesn’t take up the limited counter space.

RELATED: Ultimate Long Haul Flight Survival Guide

The best luggage for Japan travel

Japan is not a country where you want to be hauling around tons of luggage. Trains and metros are crowded with little to no storage space, and it’s easy to get turned around when traveling even short distances.

Thus, I suggest embracing minimalist packing for Japan, and opting for a travel backpack rather than a rolling suitcase.

I’ve been traveling exclusively with my 40L Tortuga Setout , and it’s been marvelous.

The Setout is a suitcase-style, front loading travel backpack that’s also carry-on sized. At 40L, it can easily fit everything on this Japan travel checklist. In fact, I regularly pack for a week of travel using just this backpack and a personal item!

I’ve taken the Setout on planes, trains, buses, and crowded streets with ease. The padded hip belt and adjustable chest straps also make it super comfortable to wear on long walks.

If your Japan itinerary involves traveling to multiple cities, it can get annoying to unpack and re-pack every time you move. With the Setout, you can leave everything in the bag without worrying about wrinkles or digging around for socks buried at the bottom.

I especially love that the bag is designed differently for men and women. Being able to actually use a backpack chest strap has been a real game-changer.

Order your Setout Backpack now!

Other useful things to bring to Japan

Duffel bag for souvenirs: We brought this collapsible duffel bag in our suitcase and filled it with a crazy amount of Japanese souvenirs .
Hand sanitizing wipes: Many public restrooms you’ll find at shrines and other outdoor attractions don’t have hand soap.
Handkerchief: These same public restrooms also don’t have hand dryers, so a handkerchief is essential.
Prescription medications: Make sure they are in the original bottle accompanied with the prescription!
Yen: Always bring enough yen to get you from the airport to your accommodation! You never know if your cards will have issues in Japan.

Nagano Japan snow monkey with baby at Jigokudani onsen.

Exploring Japan is like eating a cake. While the surface level–the frosting–is attractive and delicious, there’s a deeper layer waiting to be savored. Unfortunately, the language barrier and cultural customs make it hard for foreigners to go beyond the outer layer.

To truly experience the best of Japan and its unique culture, you should book at least one local tour for your trip. I use Get Your Guide as well as Magical Trip to easily find and book my international tours.

Here are some popular experiences to add to your itinerary:

Shinjuku walking tour + secret bars of Golden Gai
Participate in a tea ceremony in Kyoto
Evening walk in Kyoto’s Gion “Geisha” district
Eat you way around Osaka’s Kuromon Market
Snow monkeys and cherry blossoms with a private guide

RELATED: 14 Must Eat Foods in Japan (and Where to Find Them)

Two women in yukata walking through Fushimi Inari shrine torii gate path.

Tourism is one of the biggest industries in Japan, with over 30 million international travelers visiting in 2019. With those kinds of numbers, it’s no surprise that ticket queues can get really long, especially during the busy seasons.

Having been to Japan in spring of 2023, it’s clear that travelers are returning in full force and long lines are becoming the norm once more.

There are also a few attractions, like the Studio Ghibli Museum, that require advance bookings and have limited visitor slots each day.

To save yourself time and disappointment, book tickets for these popular attractions before you go to Japan:

Studio Ghibli Museum (Yes, Lawson convenience store is the official vendor!)
teamLab Planets skip-the-line tickets
Tokyo Skytree skip-the-line tickets
Mount Fuji and Hakone Boat Tour

Red bridge over gorge in Japan park during autumn.

Whether you’re going to Japan for a few days or a few weeks, I always recommend buying travel insurance. You probably spent thousands of dollars on your Japan trip. But it only takes one injury, family emergency, or cancelled flight to derail your vacation (and your bank account).

This is especially true if you plan to hike outside of major cities, where emergency medical treatment and transport can be costly.

While there are kiosks inside Haneda and Narita airports where you can buy travel health insurance upon arrival, it’s best to take out a policy before traveling so that you’re covered from the minute you start your journey.

Am I supposed to bow when saying “thank you”? What are shopkeepers yelling when I walk in the door? Where are all the trash cans?

These are all common questions that first time travelers to Japan ask after they arrive. If you’re from a western country, you might find Japanese etiquette confusing and a little intimidating. But with a bit of advanced reading, you’ll do just fine.

Here are a few things to know before you go:

Don’t eat or drink on public transit unless you’re riding the shinkansen
Always offer up your public transit seat to young children, the elderly, and pregnant women
Don’t blow your nose in public
Prepare to carry your trash and recycling around, as street bins are limited
Many onsen (Japanese hot spring baths) do not allow guests with tattoos, so use this list to find ones that do
Never leave your chopsticks sticking out of food or use them to pass food around, as these are similar to Shinto funeral rites
Read my full guide on things to avoid in Japan as a traveler

Tokyo Shibuya Crossing with light trails and people waiting to cross the street.

The last item on this Japan travel checklist is for your personal safety. Once you figure out your travel plans and accommodation, send the details to a trusted friend or family member. This is extremely important if you’re traveling to Japan solo , but best practice for all types of travelers.

I also recommend signing up for emergency travel alerts if your government offers it. Americans can enroll in the US STEP program , which will send you email and/or text alerts if you’re traveling to an area with severe weather or other hazards.

And if you’re still planning your trip to Japan, here are a few ideas for your itinerary:

25 Famous Things to do in Japan
15 Amazing Places in Japan Off the Beaten Path
3 Ways to Spend 5 Days in Japan
Ultimate Nara Day Trip Guide
2 Day Kyoto Itinerary
5 Reasons to Visit Nagano
Check out my Japan archives for even more ideas!

I hope you found my travel to Japan checklist helpful! For more insider travel tips, subscribe to my newsletter below.

How to Really Plan the Perfect Trip to Japan: First-Timer’s Guide

Many travelers in Japan often find themselves frustrated during the summer when they can’t catch a glimpse of Mt. Fuji. This frustration may stem from following a tiring day trip suggested by a Japan guide website, staying at an Airbnb or hotel far from the train station, or struggling to find a trip that fits their schedule.

These issues typically arise from poorly designed itineraries, insufficient planning, or relying on misleading or outdated information from websites and guidebooks. As emphasized before, your itinerary doesn’t have to mimic what’s found online. The key is organization, understanding your interests, and crafting an itinerary that strikes the right balance between activities and rest days tailored to your preferences.

Below are the steps to planning, organizing, and researching needed to create the perfect itinerary for your trip to Japan:

1. Decide whether you want to plan your own trip or use a Japan travel specialist.

Japan is a fascinating mix of traditionalism and modernity. It’s safe and clean, and the people are incredibly polite. The transportation system is safe, fast, and efficient, and is easily the best in the world. But as with any place, there are certain issues that can hinder the traveler. Despite the politeness of its people, there are still locations that are off-limits to “gaijin” (a somewhat rude term for foreigners), which can include certain restaurants, hotels, stores, and bars. And while the transportation system is certainly great, it can be very confusing for first-timers, and you could easily end up on the wrong train or bus, or miss them altogether.

Japan also doesn’t name its streets, so it’s easy to get lost in unfamiliarity. And despite being the host of the Summer Olympics, you’ll definitely still encounter language barriers. If all of that sounds a bit daunting for you, then you might want to consider hiring a travel advisor specializing in Japan travel. Even if you are well-traveled, Japan is a destination where you want insider knowledge to help alleviate the language barrier, avoid tourist traps, and minimize the common problems mentioned above. An advisor can also provide you with travel tips that you might not be able to find online when planning your own trip.

1.1. Planning and booking everything on your own

For some, planning and booking everything on their own is attractive since it saves money. But that also means spending a lot of time researching and planning. Should you decide to plan the trip on your own, Japan Guide Books and the Japan National Tourism Organization can be great resources. However, remember that the information listed in these resources will be presented in the best possible light, which may lead you to rely on travel blogs. But an extra precaution is needed when referring to them. Most are “paid” or “sponsored” and often receive incentives to be positive, so these websites can sometimes be even more unhelpful. Don’t get me wrong, there are plenty of reliable travel blogs out there, and I’d like to think we’re one of them, but I suggest looking at a few smaller blogs to get a more balanced consensus, then make your decision. Within the community of do-it-yourself Japan trip planners, four issues stand out the most: the wrong choice of accommodation, over-packing, a too-full itinerary, and selecting popular tourist traps. These are common mistakes which, I admit, I myself have been guilty of committing on occasion.

One area of trip planning that almost always requires outside help is when people want to treat themselves to a VIP-like experience, such as dining at a Michelin-star restaurant or having dinner with a modern-day authentic Geisha. If you’re planning everything for yourself, you won’t be able to experience those without strong Japanese language skills, connections with the local operators, and a lot of luck. All of those things often make it more trouble than it’s worth. So in summary, planning your own trip to Japan has the following advantages and disadvantages:

You could save money.
You can book using your travel points or rewards deals.
Can be a more personalized experience, if done right.
Ideal for return travelers.
Independent travel.
You can’t Google search your way to an insider’s knowledge and expertise.
Can’t access many exclusive experiences.
Time-consuming planning and researching.
Mistakes and inconveniences might cost you more.

Need itinerary ideas? Here’s our 10-day itinerary for a little inspiration .

1.2. Booking a Japan package tour by using a travel advisor

There are many Japanese package tours online, and as a traveler, you can book directly with them. The problem with this is that there are many excellent and reputable tour operators specializing in Japanese travel packages that cannot be found in Google search results. This is where a travel advisor comes in. Ideally, you want to consult with a travel advisor that specializes in Japanese travel. Contrary to popular belief, using travel advisors are not always expensive. They may charge a fee for consultation, but many find it worth the extra cost to remove the burden and frustration of planning for their trip. They can even find package deals that are hard to come by online, and they can pass on the savings to you by letting you book the trip without a markup, which is a win-win.

Our tip is for you to work with a travel advisor who either lives in or has traveled to Japan within the year. Japan is ever-changing so you want to work with someone who’s up to date with the latest information on top Japanese experiences.

Summary of package tours advantages and disadvantages:

Research, planning, and logistics are already taken care of.
It can be personalized up to a certain extent.
Access to exclusive and authentic Japanese travel experiences.
Access to a wealth of knowledge and experience about Japan that can provide you with advice and suggestions according to your needs and interests.
Save time and money if they find a crazy Japan travel package deal for you.
Fees can vary between a flat rate and per day.
Can’t book using your points or travel rewards.

1.3 Hire a Japan trip designer for a fully-customized tour.

While it may sound similar to a travel agent or advisor, hiring a trip designer is on a completely different level. Whereas an advisor can help with an itinerary, match you to a tour, and even customize some aspects of it, a designer builds your trip completely from scratch, and the itinerary is highly personalized around you. If you opt for this route of trip planning, it is undoubtedly the most costly of all as most trip designers charge a fee based on the number of days you are traveling to Japan. Despite the cost, the experience can be quite luxurious as these trip designers have special partnerships with many suppliers in Japan that can offer you exclusive access to activities and experiences you can’t get anywhere else. Additionally, they book everything for you. Your itinerary is truly tailor-made compared to packaged tours where choosing your own accommodations is often not allowed.

VIP treatment.
Research, planning, and logistics are entirely taken care of.
Your trip is highly personalized and fully tailored around you.
Can accommodate specialized needs and interests (senior, wheelchair travel, large group, etc.)
Can remove all communication barriers.
Access to select exclusive Japanese travel experiences.
Is very expensive.
Constant back-and-forth communication is involved until everything is in agreement.

Examples of trip designers specializing in Japan:

The Art of Travel starts from $1,000 per person per day.
Michi Travel starts from $1,000 per person per day.
Japan and More start from $197 per person per day + final costs of all bookings.

Now if you’re ready to move on to planning, organizing, and finalizing your itinerary on your own , proceed to the next section!

2. Find out when you would like to visit Japan.

Japan’s climate is similar to a state like Virginia, and by that I mean the seasons can vary wildly. So summer can be brutally hot and humid and winter can be very cold and windy. The main difference here is that Japan gets more rainfall and snow than a place like Virginia.

Here’s a quick overview relating to visiting Japan by season:

Winter (Dec-Feb)

Least amount of travelers and the least expensive season. The off-season time to travel to Japan, but be prepared to tackle the cold.
The major winner when traveling to Japan in winter is Japan’s world-class ski resorts.
Winter Illuminations are also everywhere, which are beautiful at night.
Best of all if you’re around Tokyo, Mt. Fuji has a much higher chance of visibility in the winter.

Spring (March-May)

Spring in Japan is undoubtedly the most beautiful time to visit due to cherry blossoms.
The blooming of cherry blossoms makes this Japan’s peak season for tourism, so expect flights and accommodations to be very expensive.
Timing (and luck) is everything here since rain is frequent and can knock the petals off the cherry blossom trees pretty quickly.
Expect large crowds at each attraction.

Summer (June to August) .

Summer in Japan is incredibly humid and hot.
It’s also typhoon season, which reduces the number of tourists unless they plan to climb Mt. Fuji .
Despite the weather in summer, Japan is full of vibrant and lively festivals ( matsuri ) and firework festivals ( Hanabi ).
To stay away from its brutal heat, it’s best to design your itinerary to visit places in the northeast region for a milder climate, the island of Hokkaido, or the mountainous areas, like Gifu, Fuji, or the Nagano Alps.

Autumn (September to November) .

Autumn in Japan is another popular time of the year to visit.
The most ideal weather for travel.
The red leaves offer a great alternative to the pink hues of spring. But unlike in the east coast U.S., leaves in larger cities, such as Tokyo and Yokohama, start to change from late November to early December.
Just like cherry blossom season, the koyo (red leaves) season is a popular time of the year to visit Japan. So be prepared to battle with slightly higher accommodation prices.

3. Assess your destinations based on the season of your visit.

Once you determine the timeframe you’d like to go, you can move on to determining the best destinations to explore during your visit. Each season in Japan has its own pros and cons and we suggest that you visit the places that are their best during that time of year. If this is your first-time visiting Japan, it’s no brainer to include the “Three Classics” in your itinerary: Tokyo , Kyoto and Osaka .

Some people say it’s not always necessary to visit the three but I disagree. Tokyo, Kyoto, and Osaka are the three most culturally relevant cities in all of Japan, and visiting them allows you to see how varied the Japanese culture truly is, despite the islands small size. But that’s just my opinion.

4. Determine your trip length.

Two weeks (14 days) is the most common trip length for both first-time and repeat travelers to Japan. So be prepared to cash in on some of that leave time from your workplace!

If you want a more “wallet-friendly” trip while still tackling the Three Classics, it can be done in as short as 7 nights (8 days). If doing the 7 nights, we find it more practical, time-wise and money-wise, to make your air travel an “open-jaw” itinerary, where you fly into Tokyo and fly out of Osaka or vice versa, in order to make the most out of your time during your trip.

If you’re a bit of a Japanophile and feel like returning again and again (for sure you will), we suggest that you limit yourself to one region at a time instead of cramming your itinerary with too many things. Also, despite what you might have heard, getting the Japan Rail Pass (JR Pass) is actually often a bad idea unless you plan on using the bullet trains constantly since most efficient itineraries can keep the cost below that of a JR Pass.

5. Organize and finalize your itinerary.

Here are my top tips when finalizing your itinerary:

Consider day trips . Such as a day trip from Tokyo to Hakone or Tokyo to Kamakura. For day trip ideas from Tokyo click here .
Include one or two Japanese experiences . Watching a Sumo match, participating in a “true” tea ceremony experience, bathing in an onsen, staying at a ryokan, and cherry blossom viewing are a few examples.
For activities, make sure to book them well in advance . If you want to watch a grand sumo tournament or visit Ghibli Museum , those things require advance reservations. Don’t wait to do those activities until you arrive, because Japan is big on reservations!
Make a balanced itinerary. Include some rest days or countryside day trips.
Make sure your itinerary is realistic and works well with your physical abilities . Avoid an itinerary that is packed. And if you’re a family with small children or have a wheelchair, ensure the destination or attraction is a stroller and wheelchair accessible, because this is not a given in Japan as it is in other places.
If you know someone in Japan, consider meeting up with them on your rest day . If you don’t know anyone, join a local food tour. Take some time and make a new friend! It’s nice to meet up with a local and experience more of the Japanese culture with them.
Have someone critique your itinerary . Post on forums like TripAdvisor or Reddit and have someone critique it to see if it’s doable or not. A lot of members are actually helpful.

Itinerary Ideas

Nationwide itineraries.

Regional Itineraries

Local Itineraries

Questions? Ask in our forum .

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!

The Perfect 3 Days in Tokyo Itinerary

The best day trips from every city in japan [2024], 18 amazing things to do in kyoto at night (2024 guide), travelling in japan: at a glance.

Here are the basics about travel to Japan.

OTHER MAIN CITIES:

Osaka , Kyoto , Nagasaki, Fukuoka , Sapporo and Nagoya

Yen (See current exchange rates ) (1$USD is approximately 108 yen) 1 beer is approximately 500 yen (USD$5)

ENTRY / VISA:

Visa requirements for Japan are very straightforward. Most travellers are visa-free and can stay for 15, 30 or 90 days depending on their nationality. For information about which countries are granted visa-free access click here.

Japanese is the official language in Japan. And while most of the world speaks a fair amount of English, do not expect Japanese people to speak it. However, in some hostels and hotels, English is spoken. Before travelling to Japan be sure to learn a few key phrases to help you enjoy your travels more and, of course, to show respect for the Japanse way of life. Many signs are in both Japanese and English and announcements at subway and train stations are often in both languages.

Japan is one of the safest countries in the world for both men and women. Petty theft and violent crime are extremely rare. Stories of people leaving wallets, passports and bags on trains and being reunited with them are the norm. However, you should still be sensible and follow the usual travel precautions.

ELECTRICITY:

100 volts / Type A and B electric sockets (Be sure to get your universal travel adapter before you leave)

TRANSPORTATION:

By far the most common way to get between cities in Japan is by using the JR Pass. Within the larger cities, you can very often make your way around using public transportation. Traditional taxis are also available in most cities and suburban regions. And rideshares such as Uber are on the rise as well – though don’t count on one of these outside of the main Japanese metropolises.

Don’t Forget to Pack the Most Important Thing: Travel Insurance !

TOP 5 TRAVEL EXPERIENCES IN Japan

With so much to see and do in Vietnam, it really is hard to pick the top experiences.

However, we think that to truly appreciate Vietnam you need to plan to do these 5 activities during your visit.

Gorge yourself on sushi.

Japan is known for sushi. You can find it everywhere. For added enjoyment, try your hand at making it!

Book a sushi cooking class here .

Visit ancient temples in Kyoto

Kyoto is the magical, ancient city of Japan known for being the spiritual centre of the country. Immerse yourself in the beauty and stillness of its many temples.

Check out our 3 days in Kyoto itinerary here.

Spend the night in a Ryokan

Staying in a ryokan is the most authentic way to experience Japan. Splurge on the experience and find yourself turning Japanese after a refreshing stay!

You can stay in a great ryokan in Murakami .

Climb/View Mt. Fuji

One of the most picturesque volcanic mountains in the world is accessible to climb, or simply view, throughout much of the year.

This is the best Mt. Fuji day trip you can find anywhere

Get lost in a giant bamboo forest

Bamboo that stretches to the sky can be found in Kyoto. Be mesmerized by the sound of the swaying forest.

Other Things to do in Japan

Party with robots in Tokyo: The 90-minute show is one of the most unique and bizarre must-do activities in Tokyo. It may take you a few minutes to figure out what you’re watching (don’t miss that video of it). But you’ll definitely be glad you went!

Watch a sumo wrestling match . Sure, sushi can be found on every street corner. But eating it at every meal won’t give you a chance against world-famous sumo wrestlers. Catch a match and be a part of a long and sacred activity.

Cross the world’s busiest pedestrian intersection . Shibuya Crossing in Tokyo will blow your mind with the number of people moving at any given time when the traffic stops to let pedestrians cross. Head to the QFRONT building to watch 2,500 people cross the streets below.

Hang out with deer in Nara . The normally shy creatures are anything but shy as they can be found in abundance in Nara Park . Whether you want to interact with them, or simply view them in nature, the experience is worthwhile!

Spend the night in a capsule hotel . Japan is known for tiny packaging. A Capsule hotel is just as it sounds: a tiny box-like structure intended for one person to spend the night. Warning, this is not for the claustrophobic!

Relax in an onsen . Onsens are hot springs that can be found in natural and man-made settings. You haven’t relaxed until you’ve spent a few hours in an Onsen. Just know sometimes the dress code is your birthday suit! Check out this one in Hokkaido . Just be careful if you have tattoos, because many onsens don’t allow them.

Go diving in Okinawa . While the northern Japanese islands have a tendency to be cold, Okinawa is located in a more tropical climate and lends itself to spectacular diving. You’ll love the underwater world of these islands!

Go Kart dressed as your favourite cartoon character . If you’ve ever played Mario Kart and wondered where in the world you could go and ride around a go-kart dressed up like Mario, Yoshi, Princess Peach or your other favourite characters, this is it.

Watch the cherry trees blossom . Japan has cornered the market in cherry tree blossoms. This is so much so that every year thousands of people participate in cherry blossom festivals as the trees unload their dazzling colour across the country. If you visit Japan in spring be sure not to miss out! This particular tour is incredible as a day trip from Tokyo .

Hike with monkeys . If you enjoy hiking AND monkeys then the 30-minute hike outside of Kyoto is for you! But if you just prefer to hike and don’t want anything to do with monkeys, there are plenty of other great trails to hike in Japan!

BE SURE TO CHECK OUT THESE OTHER AMAZING THINGS TO DO IN JAPAN

The Ultimate Travel Guide to Chino in Nagano, Japan

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There are plenty of amazing places to visit in Japan. Depending on your interests, trip duration and time of year you will find plenty of things to do during any length of stay.

There’s a reason Tokyo is considered one of the most incredible, vibrant, unique and fascinating cities on the planet! Where ancient meets modern, history rubs shoulder with the future and the world’s best cuisine is out in full force.

Japan’s capital and a city full of awesome things to do !

A city where ultra-modern meets ancient and you can do just about anything you can imagine.

A magical place to explore Japan’s rich culture and history .

Get away from the cities and explore the gorgeous island of Hokkaido !

For more information on specific things to do in the top places to visit in Japan, reference our following city travel guides:

3 Day Tokyo Itinerary
Day Trips from Tokyo
3 Day Kyoto Itinerary
Day Trips From Kyoto
3 Day Osaka Itinerary
Day Trips From Osaka
3 Day Yokohama Itinerary
Day Trips from Yokohama
Hokkaido itinerary
Hokkaido activities

BE SURE TO CHECK OUT THESE OTHER AWESOME PLACES TO VISIT IN JAPAN .

BEST JAPAN TRAVEL ITINERARY

Depending on whether you are starting from scratch or have a general idea of what kind of things you would like to see and do, we’ve put together a few itineraries that are sure to leave you wanting for nothing at the end of your visit.

There are so many amazing things to do in Japan that planning an itinerary for your travel can be a little overwhelming.

In this section, we’ll not only help you plan a 1-, 2-, or 3-week Japan itinerary but also give you an overview of many of the places you might want to consider visiting and things you may want to do.

Of course, no one-size-fits-all plan will suffice. But if we were to head back to Japan these are the top places and things that we would want to do!

KEEP AN EYE OUT FOR AWESOME DAY TRIPS FROM EVERY MAJOR JAPANESE CITY

3-Week Japan Travel Itinerary Highlights

Even with a country that seems as small as Japan, three weeks is hardly enough time to get started in seeing it all!

However, with three weeks you can have a really nice time both spending more time in places many people only glance by as well as visiting some places that most people don’t see when they visit Japan.

Here’s an overview of how we’d spend 3 weeks in Japan.

2-Week Japan Travel Itinerary Highlights

With two weeks to travel to Japan, you are going to have to cut out some of the nicer places you could see with an extra week or two.

But the good news is you are still going to see and do a lot while you are here!

This is an idea of how we’d spend 2 weeks in Japan.

1-Week Japan Travel Itinerary Highlights

If you only have 1 week to visit Japan, don’t worry it is definitely worth your time. Of course, you’re going to have to pick and choose where you go and what you do much differently than if you had more time.

And you likely won’t want to spend all of your time travelling from one island to the next.

So if we had just 1 week in Japan, this is how we’d spend it.

JAPAN TRAVEL PLANNING

You’re well on your way to becoming an expert when it comes to travel to Japan! Now we’ll fill you in on the rest.

Best Time to Visit Japan

There really is no best or worst time to visit Japan. The timing of your trip all depends on what you want to see and do and how willing you are to share your Japan travel experience with other travellers.

Across the country sakura (cherry blossom) season in Spring is one of the most popular times to visit. But it happens at different times across the country due to the differences in climate from north to south along the island chain.

Another less popular, but no less stunning, time to visit is Autumn as the leaves begin to change colour.

Whilst this doesn’t quite bring in the crowds like sakura season does, the sheer array of colours on display is absolutely stunning, particularly on Japan’s most northerly island, Hokkaido.

Summer brings sweltering temperatures and typhoons in the south. However, Japan is extremely well prepared for such events. As such is still possible to travel to Japan during this of year.

Winter brings some of the world’s best skiing on Hokkaido as snow makes some roads and hiking trails impassable. However, this is also the best time to see the famous ice flows close to the Shiretoko National Park.

And, of course, it’s a great time to shred some powder if you’re looking for some world-class slopes!

Japan Travel Budget Guideline

Japan has an unfair reputation for being incredibly expensive. And whilst you could easily empty your bank account in a short time, it is possible to travel in Japan for less money than you think.

Budgeting Tips

To make your money go further here are a few tips:

1. Purchase the rail pass you need. There are a huge number of different types of rail passes available in Japan. This is your one-stop-shop for a variety of rail passes.

2. Take advantage of low-cost internal flights. You can fly affordably between most major cities.

3. Utilise convenience stores for finding cheap and delicious eats.

4. Japan has an extensive and reliable night bus service. Use it to save on travel and hotel fees.

5. Limit your alcohol intake, it’s surprisingly expensive. 1 beer = 500-600 yen (USD$5-$6).

6. Check the subway passes available in the city in which you’re staying and purchase the rail pass you need.

CHECK OUT OUR JAPAN BUDGETING GUIDE TO HELP MAKE YOUR MONEY GO FURTHER.

But there are a few things you should know about the different budgets at which you can choose to travel.

Note: Budgets shown as Single Traveller / Couples per day.

Budget Traveller ($50-60 Single / $80-110 Couples)

Hostels are the best options for single budget travellers. However, if travelling as a couple it’s often cheaper to get a private room.

There are plenty of awesome free things to do all over Japan. You will need to think outside the box and do your research but it is very possible to travel in Japan on a budget like this.

Your meals will likely come from low-cost restaurants and corner stores. And you’re likely going to spend a fair amount of time walking and taking public transportation.

Mid-Range Traveller ($60-100 Single / $120-180 Couple)

Whilst you may not get much of an upgrade on the accommodation front, travelling in this budget range will put you in the position to possibly rent a car to explore parts of Japan that are more difficult to reach.

In addition, you may be able to spend more time eating in some funky izakayas and sushi restaurants and participate in a few formal tours.

Luxury Traveller ($250+ Single / $400+ Couple)

Luxury hotels and fancy restaurants are the order of the day here. If money is no object then travelling in Japan can extremely luxurious!

For instance, you can stay in beautiful ryokans instead of hostels or hotels. And you can order a variety of different meals to enjoy while dining at some of the finer restaurants.

Of course, you’ll also be able to do more by way of renting a car and/or joining up on a variety of different tour groups to keep your itinerary completely packed.

Getting To and Around Japan

Japan is an island nation, thus travelling to Japan is limited to only air or water transportation.

The majority of International Flights will take you to Tokyo’s Narita or Haneda Airport’s or Osaka International Airport. From there you will connect, as necessary, to other Japanese destinations.

Entry Requirements

Visa requirements for Japan are very straightforward.

Most travellers are visa-free and can stay for 15, 30 or 90 days depending on their nationality. For information about which countries are granted visa-free access click here.

Getting Around Japan

Travelling in Japan is both easy and convenient.

The public transport network is wide-ranging and extremely reliable. And compared to many places in the world, it can also be quite affordable.

Additionally, hiring a car is both easy and safe.

Travelling by Air

Japan has an excellent domestic air travel network. There are two passes run by JAL and ANA that will allow you to take domestic flights for around $100.

The price can sometimes vary depending on where your origin and destinations.

If you plan this effectively with other transport options available it has the potential to make your visit to Japan even more convenient and affordable.

Travelling by Car

Although the country is fairly well connected with both public and private transportation options, hiring a car is an excellent option for travelling in Japan.

The best part is that it is not as difficult as you may imagine.

Driving in Japan is safe and easy. For Hokkaido, Kyushu and Shikoku, a car is the best way to see most of each island’s most beautiful sights outside of the city centres.

Travelling by Bus

There are a number of bus companies operating in Japan. The biggest of these is Willer Bus Service.

Not only are fares convenient and affordable, but they can also help you consolidate expenses if you travel at night.

Combining overnight bus travel with a JR pass can save you a fortune as the difference in price between regional, 1 week national and 2-week national passes are huge.

Travelling by Boat/Ferry

Often the only way to access some of Japans smaller islands, particularly in the Seto Inland Sea, is by boat or ferry. Japan boasts an excellent maritime transport network.

Generally, ferries are affordable and in some cases, they are covered by a JR pass (the ferry to Miyajima being the most well-known example).

Naturally, the costs increase if you ferry a car or if you are taking a long-distance ferry.

Travelling by Train

Japan’s train network is simply incredible as it can take you from the north of Hokkaido to the south of Kyushu.

But it can also be confusing as, like with a lot of things in Japan, there is a myriad of different options available to you.

PURCHASE YOUR JR PASS TODAY

How to Maximise a JR Pass

Because your travel to Japan will very likely involve transportation on a JR line at some point, we’ve put together a few tips to help you plan your JR Pass use accordingly.

Download Hyperdia – This amazing app allows to research train times and more importantly prices. Currently, it is free to use for 3 months (after that you will need to pay). You can work out which JR pass is the best financial option. Do note that the seat fare (sometimes two-thirds of the cost) is not optional, you will need to pay it.
You don’t need a rail pass for your entire time. Some people may be visiting Japan for 2 weeks and will buy a 2 week nationwide JR pass. You are likely not going to be using the train every day and it’s likely you will pay more than you need to.
Activate your JR pass at the right time. To activate you pass you will need to go to the station and inform them of when you want to activate it. Make sure you activate it when you really need it so you can get the most out of it.
Check out the regional passes. There are numerous regional passes available that are much cheaper, but they cover a smaller area and don’t last as long. However, they can be a fantastic option. Combining such passes with night bus services can save you plenty of money.

Apps and Technology

Japan is definitely well connected when it comes to technology.

When you visit Japan you are likely going to want to remain connected to the outside world as well as take advantage of mobile apps that make travelling through Japan a little easier.

Here are a few we think you should definitely acquaint yourself with prior to your travels:

Hyperdia – Hyperdia is the premiere app for helping you to understand the transportation system in Japan. Find the right rail line, station and even schedules to help navigate what could otherwise be a complicated transportation system.
XE Currency – Transfer, monitor and calculate currency as the need arises. This app may not be totally necessary as you are typically tied into rates the banks charge for services. But it is handy to have around.
Express VPN – This will protect your sensitive information wherever you travel – not just in Japan. Be sure to have this to keep your online information secure as you travel.
GuruNavi – This app will help you to find food options in whatever prefecture you happen to be at the moment. You can search through different types of cuisine as well as to filter your selections for things like English-speaking staff and WiFi availability.
Google Translate – Even if you don’t know more than a handful of Japanese words, iTranslate will help you communicate as you travel in Japan.

Best Things to Eat in Japan

Japanese cuisine is justifiably one of the worlds popular. It focuses heavily on high-quality ingredients and as a result portion sizes are smaller than you may expect.

Although fried dishes are common in Japanese cuisine, Japan has the lowest rate of childhood and adult obesity amongst the OECD nations.

This is down to a mixture of smaller portions and a culture that promotes restraint and health.

Yakiniku: Japanese BBQ. These restaurants can be found all over Japan, and it is very rare that they are anything other than delicious. Many offer time based all you can eat/drink deals. Look out for the characters 放题 as they usually don’t advertise this in any language other than Japanese.

Katsu Curry: Fried chicken or pork cutlets smothered in Japanese curry. Heaven on a plate.

Kushikatsu: All manner of meat and veg skewered and deep-fried.

Sushi and Sashimi: This can go from cheap to eye-watering expensive. Conveyor belt sushi restaurants offer the cheapest prices. Be brave and try delicacies like sea urchin, horse or chicken sashimi.

Sukiyaki: Meat and vegetables cooked in a hot pot with a small amount of water and soy sauce.

Ramen: The nations most popular noodle dish, often an excellent budget option.

Gyoza: Pan-fried dumplings, often filled with pork.

There is certainly much more available than this, but hopefully this gives you a quick overview.

Convenience Stores: For budget eating options convenience stores like lawsons, family mart and 7-11 are often an excellent option for a cheap and hearty meal!

Izakaya : No mention of eating in Japan would be complete without mentioning Japan’s most famous eating places; the Izakaya (居酒屋).

An izakaya is a Japanese pub that is generally a place where friends, colleagues and family members will go to eat, drink and chat.

The huge menus consist of small plates that are shared amongst the group. Expect to find sashimi, yakitori, cold dishes, salads, fried dishes and desserts.

ACCOMMODATION IN JAPAN

Japan has a huge range of accommodation options. The most obvious difference is whether it’s a Japanese or western style room.

In Japanese style rooms, you will be sleeping on tatami mats on the floor, which are actually incredibly comfortable.

This option is far more common outside of popular tourist destinations. Western-style rooms have regular beds.

Many single rooms in hostels, guesthouses or hotels will have bunk beds to fit more people. This will usually be stated when booking.

It is not always the most romantic option but it does help you get more bang for your buck.

Types of Accommodations

Whilst hostels exist in Japan, they are not as cheap South East Asia. There is a reasonably good hostel network throughout Japan. But hostels are not as common or widespread as in other popular travel destinations.

If travelling in Japan as a couple or pair, a hotel room is often cheaper than 2 beds in a dorm. It’s always worth comparing, hostels are not always the cheapest option when there’s more than one of you.

Western-Style Hotels

These will be the traditional hotels that you would find in most places in the world.

They include major Japanese and international brands and are more common in larger cities.

You can expect amenities and comfort similar to those you’d find in other destinations.

Capsule Hotels

A unique way to spend a night or two in Japan is in a capsule hotel. As the name suggests, these are small enclosed spaces usually only large enough for a bed.

Sometimes you will have a television and a small storage space. But more often you can expect to have to stash your gear in a locker. You’ll also, obviously, be using shared restrooms.

Traditional Japanese Ryokans offer luxurious stays in often gorgeous accommodation and locations. However, they can sometimes be very expensive.

It’s not uncommon for Ryokans to have an onsen. But if you want an authentic Japanese overnight experience you won’t find anything that surpasses a stay in a Ryokan.

Another good option in recent years is AirBnB, and there are more and more amazing places popping up to stay for very affordable prices every day.

As is typical in many destinations where Airbnb accommodations are popping up, you’ll likely find great value and a little more personal space with an Airbnb stay.

Onsen Hotels

Last, but by no means least; Onsen Hotels. In short, these are hotels that have an onsen attached.

They cover a wide variety of budgets but often they are not the cheapest options available.

However, the luxury of being able to have an onsen whenever you want is well worth it.

Just note that with onsens there are some basic rules to follow. These will often clearly displayed, but here they are:

You must be completely naked – no bathing suits. Leave awkward at the door, with your clothes.
Do not put your towel into the onsen water. Most people wrap it around their head.
Shower before you enter the onsen, taking care to splash others with your shower water.

Or, if you’d like to check out a few options on your own here are a few resources to get you started!

JAPAN TRAVEL TIPS

Travelling in Japan can definitely be rewarding. But it can also be a bit of a headache – especially if your knowledge of the Japanese language and culture is limited.

Further, not being prepared for adventure can hamper your optimism as well.

Imagine you’re all set for your day of walking around majestic Kyoto and you failed to pack an umbrella or raincoat.

Of course, you have your own reasons for travelling to Japan. So likely you know whether you plan to dive in Okinawa or climb Mt. Fuji.

But for everything else in your journey, let us remind you of a few travel tips for Japan to make your adventure safer, more enjoyable and more affordable.

General Japan Travel Tips

While there are many basic travel tips we suggest you use when travelling to Japan, there are also plenty of Japanese-specific tips that will make your visit the best it can be.

Here are a few we recommend you consider as you plan your trip to visit Japan:

1. Research Cultural Norms and Behaviour

Japan is a country with a very strong national identity and behaviour. Breaking these behavioural norms is most definitely frowned upon.

Here are a few basic Japanese cultural expectations:

Do not talk loudly or answer your phone on the subway, bus or train.
Do not eat on the above.
Walking and eating are sometimes frowned upon.
Stand on the left-hand side of an escalator.
Follow the rules in an onsen.
Do not litter – Japan is immaculately clean.

If you’re not sure if something is ok, just ask.

Many Japanese people know that foreigners are unlikely to be aware of Japanese norms and expectations and will be happy to help you.

2. Eat, Eat, Eat.

Japanese food tastes so much better in Japan. Take the opportunity to try things that you are very unlikely to find in your home country.

3. International Drivers Permit

If you plan on renting a car in Japan you MUST have this document.

Without it not only will you be unable to rent a car, but you also will not be given a refund if you have already paid.

4. Take your own chopsticks

Single-use chopsticks are the norm in Japan. Take your own and do a little bit for the planet.

5. Do your research

A bit of planning and research does make a real difference, especially for utilising public transport. Getting a handle on this will leave you in the best place to get the most out of your trip.

6. Show respect and places of worship:

All temples and shrines will have rules and guidelines clearly displayed in English or with pictures, yet some people are still not able to understand them. Don’t be one of those travellers that give everyone else a bad name.

7. Remove your shoes

This is common everywhere in Japan. In some cases, you may need to remove them before entering the lobby of a hotel.

However, it is more common that you are expected to leave your shoes in the coves next to the door of your hotel room. This is especially common in more traditional Japanese hotels.

8. Embrace Japanese toilets

The gadgets available in Japanese bathrooms are the stuff of legend. Soft music can be played so no-one can hear you doing your business, seats can be warmed on cold winter mornings and the variety of spray options will leave you feeling as clean as a whistle.

Japan Packing List

We always travel with a core packing list wherever we go. And when it comes to Japan, many factors will affect what else you need to bring along with you.

Check out our travel essentials and be sure to add any of the other additional items listed below.

TRAVEL INSURANCE. SIMPLE & FLEXIBLE.

Which countries or regions are you traveling to, what’s your country of residence, enter traveler’s age, staying safe in japan.

Japan is a relatively safe country in which to travel.

Clearly you should always practice some basic safety guidelines no matter where in the world you travel.

Keep copies of your passport and financial documents in the event they are lost or stolen.
Don’t be flashy with expensive items or cash. You’re not very likely to be targeted as a tourist in Japan. But this would surely set you apart.
Avoid travelling alone at night. Call a taxi or Uber in advance and wait inside the venue until it arrives.
Be aware of your surroundings, particularly if you’ve had a night out drinking.
Keep your personal items close. Pickpocketing is about as bad as you can expect in Japan, so make sure your purse, wallet and phone, etc are secure particularly when travelling in crowded public transportation.

We won’t bore you with a more extensive list. Unless this is your first trip out of your home country you’ll be better off when you travel in Japan than many other places in the world.

If this is your first trip, congratulations!

If you practice many of the same common-sense habits you would at home, then you’ll be quite safe and enjoy your time in Japan.

Staying Connected in Japan

Japan is an ultra-modern country, particularly when it comes to technology. Thus staying connected when you travel to Japan will be no issue.

Of course, like any place in the world, the further you go away from metropolitan areas the more you can expect slow to no-service in areas.

For phone and data service, first check with your local cellular carrier to determine if your current plan will cover you when you travel to Japan.

In many cases, carriers have expanded their international coverage to popular places such as Japan.

If not, they will likely have a very expensive option for you to purchase on a daily/weekly basis.

We feel like your money will go a lot further if you consider a few other options.

Purchase a SIM Card

First and foremost is to pick up a local SIM card upon arrival in Japan. You will need to make sure that your device is unlocked before you can switch SIM cards.

However, this will be a reasonably inexpensive and fairly common way to access Japanese cellular networks without paying outrageous international travelling fees through your home carrier.

Rent a Portable WiFi Device

A second option would be to rent a portable WiFi device that will allow you a certain amount of data/service over a set period of time.

These are relatively affordable compared to most cellular plans’ international options.

You’ll typically have to pick these up from central locations such as the airport or train station. But it’s likely you’ll be passing through here anyway.

Access Free WiFI

And finally, you could always just ensure that your device is on aeroplane mode and then hop from one WiFi hotspot to another.

Plenty of places in the towns and cities you will visit will offer WiFi.

From restaurants, hotels, railway and train stations and even some public spaces, you’ll find many venues that will cater to your need to stay connected.

Be a Responsible Traveller in Japan

Being a responsible traveller in Japan is important on many levels.

First, you represent yourself wherever you travel.

Nobody likes a jerk – especially people minding their own business in their own country.

Taking the time to learn about Japanese customs and culture will help you understand how you can be more responsible when you travel to the country.

Second, you represent your home country and other travellers. If you act or say things that reflect poorly on yourself while travelling in Japan then these actions also reflect poorly on other travellers.

While stereotypes suck – the truth is that most people form opinions based on first experiences. So let’s try to make your interactions with others positive while travelling in Japan.

Additionally, the resources of the world are limited.

Even though you might have certain customs or routines back in your home country does not mean you need to extend them when you travel to Japan.

For instance, carrying a reusable water bottle is loads more responsible as a traveller – although you may not think twice about using disposable bottles back home.

Key Japanese Travel Phrases

You don’t have to be fluent in Japanese to have a great time when you travel to Japan. But it does help to know a few key phrases.

This will not only assist you in your travels but it will also show respect to the local Japanese people that you are doing your best to assimilate into their culture.

Books To Read About Japan

Maybe you already know everything about Japan. Chances are you don’t!

But even if you are well-read, here are a few suggestions that might be worth your time while you’re on the plane to Japan.

A Geek in Japan . A fascinating read that takes you into the heart of understanding Japanese culture. This is a top pick among most Japan travellers.

Memoirs of a Geisha . Perhaps the. most well-known book in recent times thanks to its popularity as a movie. The historical fiction follows the story of a young woman thrust into the life of a geisha.

Rice Noodle Fish . A creative way of exploring Japan from a culinary standpoint. Tantalizing pictures of delicious food accompanies the personal story and in-depth information about some of Japan’s best eats.

Hokkaido Highway Blues . Follow a hilarious and entertaining journey by the author to traverse Japan in stride with the cherry blossoms. Meet a cross-section of Japanese culture through the lens of the author.

BOOKING RESOURCES

I know, I know – we’ve already mentioned these resources a bunch in this travel guide.

But here’s the thing… we know you’re going to want and need these resources to help you save money and have a more enjoyable trip

Read our vietnam posts, budget travel in japan – ultimate backpacking guide [2024], 25 awesome things to do in tokyo, japan, 7 best day trips from osaka, japan (2024 travel guide), 12 awesome things to do in hakone, japan (2024 guide).

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!

Lit up lanterns in cherry blossom trees at night

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.

Summer in Japan with flowers and a bridge a

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.

Passengers on the Tokyo public transportation

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.

cherry blossoms in front of a sign with Japanese writing

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

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

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

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

Do I Need a Visa to Visit Japan?

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

Discover real reviews of Highlights Travel Family 's best-rated service across trusted platforms.

7 Top Places to Visit in Japan

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

1) Tokyo: Modernity & Japanese Anime

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

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

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

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

2) Kyoto: Ancient Temples & Geisha

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

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

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

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

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

3) Hakone: Ryokans & Hot Springs

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

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

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

4) Nara: Deer Park

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

5) Hiroshima: Learn the value of peace

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

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

6) Takayama and Shirakawa-go: Rural Countryside

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

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

7) Kanazawa: Ancient City During the Edo Period

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

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

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

Best Time to Visit Japan

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

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

How Much Does a Japanese Vacation Cost?

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

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

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

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

How Many Days to Stay in Japan?

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

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

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

Suggested itinerary ideas for you:

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

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

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

Tokyo - Hakone - Kyoto - Osaka

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

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

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

Tokyo – Takayama – Hiroshima – Kyoto

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

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

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

Tokyo – Kawaguchiko – Karuizawa – Nagoya – Kyoto – Osaka

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

Here is the itinerary for your inspiration:

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

Accommodation in Japan - Ryokan

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

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

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

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

How to Get to and Around Japan?

Getting to japan.

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

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

Getting Around Japan

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

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

Get Inspired with Some Popular Itineraries

At Asia Highlights, we create your kind of journey — your dates, your destinations, at your pace. You can have any trip tailor made for your travel.

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First-Time Visitor Info

Plan Your Trip

Smooth your way with a little forward planning

It is easy to feel a little overwhelmed and disoriented when you visit Japan for the first time, so find out the basics before you fly and get acquainted with the country through our helping you plan guide.

Learn a little more about Japan's customs, culture and Wi-Fi connectivity, as well as its seasonal weather, geography and luggage delivery options. Many of the questions first-time travelers might have are answered here, along with insider tips and practical advice to help you navigate the country with confidence.

Japan's official language is Japanese, but English is generally understood in major cities and designated tourist sites.

All of Japan sits within the same time zone, and no daylight saving is practiced. The country is nine hours ahead of GMT.

Wi-Fi & Connectivity

Wireless hotspots are popping up all over major cities in Japan, so you should never be too far from a Wi-Fi connection.

Plugs & Electricity

Japan uses two flat parallel prong plugs. For guaranteed charging of your electrical necessities, purchase a plug adapter beforehand.

The Japanese yen is used throughout the country and you can exchange foreign currency at the airports and most major banks.

Tax-Free Shopping

Visitors to Japan are eligible for tax exemption on many consumer goods. The process of receiving your tax back can vary from store to store.

Tipping is not practiced in Japan. In fact, it can cause discomfort and confusion if you do. A service charge is generally added on to the final bill in restaurants.

Credit Cards

Even though Japan is a cash-centric country, credit cards are usually accepted in most shops, restaurants and taxis in major cities.

Weather (When to Visit)

The weather in Japan can vary wildly depending on where you are traveling to. Find out the best times to visit and what to pack.

Please check the latest information on Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MOFA) website or contact the Japanese embassy/consulate in your country/region of residence.

International Tourist Tax

Visitors to Japan pay a 1,000 yen departure tax to expand and enhance the country’s tourist infrastructure—a small tax that will make a significant difference.

Japan National Tourism Organization (JNTO) operates a visitor hotline 24 hours a day, 365 days a year.

Customs & Duty

The Japan Customs official page is your most trustworthy source to answer any questions or queries related to Japanese customs and duty.

IC Travel Cards

Make your journeys as smooth as the public transportation you will ride on by purchasing a chargeable IC travel card.

Drinking Water

While bottled water is readily available all over Japan—including in the infinite vending machines—the tap water is perfectly safe to drink.

Luggage Storage & Delivery

If you don't wish to haul your luggage around with you, drop your bags and cases off at the delivery service kiosks located at the airports.

Tips for Budget Travels

To stretch your yen as far as possible, research into discounted travel and accommodation, as well as eating options that won't break the bank.

Staying Safe in Japan

If you do find yourself in a situation that requires serious help, dial 110 for an urgent call to the police and 119 for fire or ambulance.

Your embassy is there to help and support you if you should need it. Make sure you know how to get in touch.

Custom & Manners

Following a general travelers code of respect for the people you meet and places you visit will stand you in good stead.

Make sure you are aware of the local laws in Japan as ignorance is not accepted as a valid line of defense.

Business Hours & Holidays

Avoid closed doors and fully-booked hotels by finding out the Japanese business hours for major businesses, services, and facilities, and the dates of the major holidays.

Download a selection of apps to make your trip to Japan run even smoother. Choose from a list of all-round, navigation, sightseeing and accommodation applications.

Postal Services

Instead of just an email, send a postcard back home to let friends and family know about your Japanese adventure.

Telephone Calls

While modern technology enables you to connect with friends and family around the world from the palm of your hand, there still might be times when you need to make use of public telephones.

Book your stay in Japan through one of these useful sites offering a wide range of accommodation options.

At major train stations, airports, and hotels, as well as in most newer shopping centers and theaters in the city, the disabled traveler or wheelchair user should have little trouble getting from place to place.

Traveling With Children

Traveling to Japan with children may seem like a daunting prospect and something best avoided, however, the country is surprisingly accessible.

Japan continues to enhance its hospitality for Muslim travelers through the introduction of Muslim-friendly facilities.

Please Choose Your Language

Browse the JNTO site in one of multiple languages

How to Plan a Trip to Japan: a Step By Step Guide

By: Author Kris

Posted on Last updated: December 6, 2023

Wonder how to plan a trip to Japan? If you don’t know where to start, or how to plan a trip to Japan, you have come to the right place.

Planning a trip to Japan, a country with a completely different culture, an unintelligible language, and several stretched-out megacities, can be a little overwhelming.

But let me reassure you immediately, it is very easy to travel independently in this country.

Japanese are welcoming, helpful, and well-organized. You will find yourself at home in this country in no time.

In this Japan travel blog post, we will explain step by step how to get started with your Japan trip planning.

We share a lot of travel tips for Japan, how to get to the country of the rising sun, where to stay, all of the best things to do for first-timers, and everything else you need to know to craft a perfect holiday.

We have some example itineraries to get you started, we will cover what to pack and the best travel time.

We also mapped some things against a timeline so you know how far in advance you should take care of some of the more important things.

This step-by-step guide is also handy if you are only planning a trip to Tokyo, Kyoto, or Osaka.

Ready? Let’s start working on this amazing Japan trip!

There is a really good chance that this post contains affiliate links. If you click one of them, we may receive a small commission (for which we are deeply grateful) at no extra cost to you.

Table of Contents

When to Visit Japan

A good item to start your planning with is to record your travel period. Once you’ve decided on a certain period you can start looking for flights.

Below is an overview of the different seasons in Japan with the pros and cons of each season.

Best Time to Travel to Japan

Japan is a long and narrow, stretched-out country. It has a mountainous region in the North that attracts skiers in winter. The Southern island of Okinawa is a popular beach location and scuba divers are raving about its untouched colorful underwater world.

The most popular tourist hotspots of Tokyo and Kyoto are located between those two regions.

The best time to travel to Japan obviously depends on your interests and the region you want to visit.

The best time to travel to Japan for first-time visitors who want to see the highlights of the country is Spring and Autumn.

We would advise against traveling in summer because the cities are very hot and humid in this season.

The Sakura is a bonus of traveling in Spring, the cherry blossoms are an attraction in and by themselves.

Here are some more details about the different seasons.

Spring is an excellent season to visit Japan. Certainly, if you can arrange your plans to coincide with the so-called Sakura, the famous cherry blossoms.

The cherry trees start blooming in the South of Japan and gradually transform the entire country into a colorful floral display.

The northern peninsula of Hokkaido is the last to showcase its beautiful colors.

It’s difficult to predict exactly when the flowers will bloom.

You can check the predictions and forecasts on the site of the Japanese tourist board and the Japanese Meteorological Corporation. The predictions become more accurate as the date approaches and they’re not really useful at this stage of your travel planning.

The period can vary a few weeks every year. It’s best to plan your trip across the country in a southerly direction. It guarantees that you will see the blossoms at their best in at least one location.

We witnessed this glorious natural phenomenon in Tokyo , Kyoto, and Osaka. The cherry blossoms attract huge numbers of people all over the country, the Japanese even organize Hanami in the parks. (A Hanami is a flower-viewing party)

You can see cherry blossoms all over the world, but the atmosphere in Japan during this time of year is one you won’t find anywhere else.

The Sakura blossoms draw in large crowds, so this is a busy and somewhat more expensive time to travel to Japan.

Right after the Sakura Season is another busy travel week, the “Golden Week”. It is formed by 4 national holidays, the first of which is Emperor day on April 29. The other days are Constitution day on May 3, Greenery day on May 4, and Children’s day on May 5.

Many Japanese take advantage of this period to explore their own country, which makes the popular tourist attractions much busier than usual. This, in turn, causes the hotel rates to increase as well.

Temperatures will range from 15 degrees Celcius to 25 degrees Celcius. In March and April, you may experience an occasional shower, during May it starts raining more often and more heavily.

Insider tip: Did you know that we also have a travel planner that you can download and use for your trip planning? Check out our Japan travel planner ! This document will help you plan your trip smoothly.

Summers in Japan are warm with temperatures that often exceed 30 degrees Celsius. The humidity makes the wind chill even higher and unenjoyable if you’re not used to tropical climates.

The cities are always crowded and the combination of this bustling activity and such a high temperature can make exploring these concrete jungles unpleasant during this season.

June and July statistically know the most rainfall. This applies to most of the country, only the northern peninsula of Hokkaido is mainly spared from the downpours.

The rainy season starts and ends a month earlier in Okinawa where most rainfall is measured in the months of May and June.

It doesn’t rain every day in the rainy season. Some days are dry, while some days have light rain and other days come with massive downpours.

It’s difficult to predict, but as a rule of thumb, one can say that it will rain roughly every other day.

The benefit of traveling through Japan during this time of year is that the popular tourist sites, where otherwise you’d be part of a huge crowd, are much less busy.

Even after the rainy season has come to an end the weather remains hot and humid.

The official typhoon season starts in May, but the typhoons that can disrupt everyday life are most common in the months of August and September.

Only a few severe storms reach the Japanese mainland and the storms are also very predictable. This means that it is not necessary to avoid this period. It’s sufficient to watch the weather forecast to know when you shouldn’t go outside.

That being said, heavy rainfall does have the potential to cripple public transportation, while temples and amusement parks are sometimes closed during strong winds or sudden floods.

Many Natsumatsuri are organized in Summer.

A Natsumatsuri is a summer festival. It’s a cause for Japanese women to get their colorful Yukata out of the closet. Huge crowds gather around the food and drink stalls and watch the fireworks together.

If you’re in Japan during Summer you must definitely join these celebrations.

If you’re not a fan of warm and humid summer weather, you could still always go to Hokkaido. This is the only region with summer temperatures around 20 degrees Celsius (68 degrees Fahrenheit).

Fall is another great time to travel to Japan.

Japan is home to many expansive parks and forests, and the fall colors transform them into a gorgeous and colorful palette.

The fall foliage craze is no match for the popularity of the Sakura but that couldn’t stop the Japanese from giving it a special word: Koyo.

The best period to admire the amazing Koyo colors depends on the weather conditions and the location. Japan is fairly big and the peak period differs significantly between the different regions.

Japan’s official tourism website has an Autumn leaves guide. You can track the Koyo predictions just like you can track the cherry blossoms.

Autumn temperatures start around 26 degrees Celcius. When you visit Japan in October, you’ll normally still be able to enjoy pleasant temperatures that exceed 20 degrees Celsius. During the month of November, the temperature drops below 20 degrees Celcius to 15 degrees Celcius.

Although November is a bit cooler, it still counts plenty of sunny days to enjoy.

This makes both October and November pleasant and comfortable months to travel to Japan.

Winter announces the low season in most parts of Japan. Only Hokkaido, with its many ski resorts, experiences a peak in tourism during this season.

Temperatures in Hokkaido range around 0 degrees Celcius. In central and South Japan it is around 10 degrees Celcius.

Some melting snow may fall in Tokyo during January and February, but the snow typically doesn’t stick around very long.

This is an atypical time to visit Japan, but the country does have some fun things to offer in winter. Great examples are the snow monkeys that you can see bathing in the onsen. You can also visit idyllic villages such as Shirakawa-go that are very enchanting when they’re covered by a layer of fresh snow.

The Japanese brighten up these cold months with various winter festivals featuring ice sculptures and fairytale-like lights. The most famous of those is the Sapporo Snow Festival.

General Do’s and Don’ts in Japan

It is clear that etiquette is still an important element of everyday life to the Japanese. They are some of the most courteous, helpful, and respectful people we’ve come across.

That was one of the aspects that made our trip so unforgettable.

You are certainly not supposed to comply with all their etiquette rules as a tourist, but the least you can do is try to return the favor.

Soaking in an onsen is one thing you absolutely must do while in Japan, but please read a little about basic onsen etiquette before you do.

Also, try your best at learning a little Japanese so you can say thank you and please when the locals help you out when you ever get lost in one of the huge train stations. (it happened to us a few times)

If you’re staying in a Ryokan, something we also recommend, it’s also good to read a little in preparation so that you know what to expect.

A Ryokan stay is an excellent way to experience Japanese tradition but you will enjoy it so much more if you understand the typical customs that come with such a stay.

They will provide you with slippers and a Yukata to wear around the property and Ryokans usually also have an onsen.

Are you afraid to cut a silly figure? Don’t let this stop you from staying a Ryokan and remember that you can always ask the owners about their house rules.

Intrigued by what we write above? Here you can find all our ryokans posts:

Best Ryokan with private onsen in Kyoto
Best Ryokans in Osaka
20 best Ryokans with private onsen in Hakone
Best Ryokans in Kanazawa

Different cultures have different eating etiquette and it won’t come as a surprise that Japan also has a number of rules about eating with chopsticks. If there’s one thing you absolutely must remember, it’s that you shouldn’t place your sticks vertically in food, which is associated with death.

Did you come here expecting a list of things absolutely not to miss in Japan? We’ve got that too. Here is our Japan bucket list and famous landmarks you shouldn’t miss !

How Many Days in Japan

There’s no easy answer to this question. As Japan lovers, we recommend that you go as long as possible. 🙂

Japan is a country of contrasts. From the bustling city of Tokyo to the stillness of a Zen garden, from the neon-lit nightlife to the serene beauty of Kyoto. There is enough variation in the various sights so that traveling around Japan isn’t boring or repetitive.

To truly appreciate Japan, and its people, we recommend taking at least two weeks to explore this fascinating country.

We have carefully mapped out 5-day, 7-day, 2-week , and 3-week itineraries specifically aimed at first-time visitors.

If you want to make a city trip, check out Tokyo is the perfect destination for a 4 or 5-day city trip .

And if you have a week you can visit Tokyo and make some side trips to nearby places such as Hakone and Nikko or even Kyoto and Osaka.

Check out this list of example itineraries for various destinations in Japan

Japan Trip Cost

Japan is not the cheapest country to explore but some good planning can save you a lot of money. Hotels will take the largest chunk out of your travel budget. You can save a lot of money by booking these several months in advance.

Transportation is the second-largest cost item. Oftentimes you can save on this by using local discount passes or special tourist passes. The most well-known is the Japan Rail Pass but we also cover other passes on our site such as the Tokyo Metro Pass (Tokyo Subway Ticket) and the Hakone Free Pass .

Food is relatively cheap in Japan. We spent an average of €12 per day per person on food. (That is excluding breakfast which was usually included in our hotel rate)

We go into much more detail about the cost of these 3 items in our Japan Travel Guide .

Your Japan Trip Planning

Once you know when you will be traveling you can start working on your Japan itinerary.

Here we share a complete timeline.

The Timeline for Your Japan Trip Planning

6 months in advance

Book international flights

Get travel insurance Plan your itinerary Check if you need a Visa

About 3 months in advance

Book your Japan Rail Pass Book domestic flights

1 month in advance

Internet in Japan Book Tours and other Fun Experiences

1 week in advance

What to pack

6 Months in Advance

Join our japan facebook group.

Be sure to become a member of our Japan Travel Planning and Tips Facebook group.

The purpose of this group is to help you plan an amazing vacation to Japan.

You can ask questions and exchange tips with fellow travelers.

Cheap Flights to Japan

We recommend that you start looking for flights as soon as your travel dates are fixed. Prices for flights fluctuate continuously and it’s hard to predict when is the best time to buy.

Tickets can be booked one year out until the very last day and over the course of this period, the price follows a stretched-out U curve.

Prices start high to drop gradually to a low point, and from there on they start rising again.

Everybody knows it’s expensive to wait until the very last minute but nobody knows the exact low point.

Usually, this is 4 to 6 months out for intercontinental flights. We recommend tracking the price of your flights before you book.

These days such tracking functionalities are available on all major booking sites (some sites call them price alerts).

You can also use the insights provided by websites such as Momondo to get a clue about what the price will do.

Here are some tips to find cheap flights to Japan

Use travel comparison sites such as Momondo , Skyscanner , and Kayak to instantly compare the prices on hundreds of sites. Direct flights are almost always more expensive.
Japan has 2 excellent airlines. Japan Airlines (JAL) and All Nippon Airways (ANA). Both are recognized by Skytrax as 5-star airlines for their outstanding service. You will notice that, because of this award, their flights are often more expensive.
Chinese carriers often offer rock-bottom prices to Japan with a stop in Shanghai or another Chinese hub. We flew with China Eastern and thought the service was equally good as what we have experienced on many other European carriers.
Japan counts several airports. Make sure to compare prices to all these airports when you’re looking for flights: Narita and Haneda in Tokyo, Kansai and Itami Airport in Osaka, and Chubu Airport in Nagoya.
Twice yearly we compare several travel booking sites to see which one offers the best flights. You can check the results here .

Travel Insurance

Flights to Japan are no longer as expensive as a few years ago but they still take a big chunk out of your budget.

That’s why we recommend taking out travel insurance as soon as these are booked.

Insurances only cover accidents that occur after taking out and you don’t want to lose this money in case things suddenly turn awry.

Such accidents happen when you least expect them.

We once couldn’t leave on vacation because one of us slipped on an icy terrace and severely bruised an ankle.

Our travel insurance saved us a lot of money back then because it was a complete family trip that needed to be canceled.

Travel Insurance is something that can be overlooked when you prepare for your vacation.

We were glad we had it back then because, in all honesty, we didn’t always think about it before then.

Since then we always make sure that our travel expenses are covered.

Travel Insurance for Japan

Japan is a safe and civilized country. The country has an excellent healthcare system that is free for most residents but the costs of medical treatments can be extremely high for foreigners.

Drawing up a travel insurance policy may seem expensive at first but it can potentially save you a significant sum, significantly more than the small insurance fee.

We explain what to look for in your travel insurance policy here . Don’t just go with the cheapest option, make sure to look at what’s covered and to what amount. Cheaper policies usually come with low limits which can result in high out-of-the-pocket expenses for you.

Most travel insurance policies are usually aimed at residents of a specific country.

Have a look at what’s available in your country and compare this with what’s offered by SafetyWing and HeyMondo travel insurance.

Both are good and trusted insurance companies and offer really good protection for a very affordable rate!

Only a few countries require a Visa to travel to Japan

Passports and Visas

Most people won’t need a visa when traveling to Japan, at the time of writing residents of 68 countries were exempt from a visa for short-term stays .

If you’re a resident of another country, such as China, the Philippines, or Vietnam amongst others, you will need to apply for a Visa before traveling to Japan.

Your passport needs to be valid for the duration of your stay and not longer. It needs to contain one empty page for the entry stamp.

Health Declaration

Currently, everybody who enters Japan needs to have a health declaration. This declaration can be completed online on the Visit Japan Web site. You need to create an account, enter your passport and flight details, and add proof of vaccination (or a recent test certificate).

At the time of writing Japan requires visitors to have at least 3 vaccinations or a test certificate from a test taken a maximum of 72 hours before boarding the flight. (Check the links for the full official guidelines. We always recommend checking the official website as this information can change anytime.)

In the next step, you can add the customs declaration.

This will result in 2 QR codes, one for the health officer and another one to show at customs. the codes will appear at the latest 6 hours after entering the data.

The Japanese government highly recommends using the online application but it is not mandatory. Just having proof of your vaccination or test results is also OK to be allowed in the country.

We recommend using the application as there have been reports of airlines denying boarding passengers without the QR codes. This is overzealous and incorrect on the part of these airlines, but it can give you serious problems.

Plan your travel itinerary

This may be the hardest part of your Japan trip planning but it’s also the most fun and rewarding part.

A good place to start your travel planning is our Japan Guide . This guide contains a mix of inspirational posts about the country complemented by very practical travel information to help you explore the land of the rising sun.

Our articles will keep you busy for several hours. if you still think you miss something have a look at the wide range of books that Lonely Planet has about Japan .

Below is our advice on the things you shouldn’t miss if this is your first trip to Japan.

We have wrapped them up in short here. More on these highlights can be found here .

Japan Highlights – Top Japan Destinations

Tokyo : Japan’s bustling capital is an amazingly fascinating city of which you will never grow tired. You will need 4 to 5 days to get an impression of the various districts. Each district has its own appearance and charm.

9 Best Ryokans in Tokyo With Private Onsen (2024 edition)

Samurai Restaurant, the new Robot Restaurant

Mt. Fuji tour from Tokyo: 9 best tours and tips (2024 guide)

Tokyo Shibuya, not to me missed on a Tokyo itinerary

How to use Tokyo’s public transport

10 Best Ryokans in Tokyo You Need To Stay At

Entire apartment hosted by Moshi Moshi room

10 Best Airbnbs in Tokyo: 2024 Guide

17 Best Onsen Hotels in Tokyo You Need To Stay At

A thrilling Tokyo itinerary for 4 days

Where to stay in Tokyo for the first time?

The Hakone day trip guide that covers everything (2024 edition)

Best Private Mt Fuji Tour: 7 Flexible and Customizable Tours

Mount Fuji, a popular day trip from Tokyo

Planning a Tokyo to Mount Fuji day trip: All you need to know

BEST Tokyo itinerary 7 days suggestions for Tokyo + surroundings

12 best Airbnbs in Tokyo for families in 2024

EPIC Tokyo Itinerary: 5 Days of Unforgettable Adventures

Where to find cheap Robot Restaurant Tickets

The best places to visit in Tokyo

Shinjuku Gyoen - Tokyo - Cherry Blossoms

Best sakura spots in Tokyo you don’t want to miss

Kyoto : Kyoto is most tourists’ favorite. Prepare for temples galore, the city counts no less than 1600 temples. 2 days won’t be enough to visit them all but it should be sufficient to see the highlights of Japan’s cultural capital.

You may want to add a third day if you don’t want to feel rushed.

19 Amazing Ryokans in Kyoto in The Best Areas (2024 Guide)

How to find the best Airbnb in Kyoto

15 Best Kyoto Onsen Hotels You Need To Stay At

16 BEST Ryokan with Private Onsen in Kyoto (2024 Edition)

Where to stay in Kyoto: Best areas and hotels for 2024

The BEST Kyoto 2-day itinerary for first-timers (2024 edition)

Shoren-in temple night illumination Kyoto, Japan-

25 Amazing Things to Do in Kyoto at Night

15 of the coolest hotels in Kyoto

Things to do in Gion at night

Osaka : Osaka is Kyoto’s neighbor. Both cities are just 30 minutes away by train. Despite it being so close many tourists skip Osaka and only visit Kyoto.

We absolutely loved Osaka, it’s also called Japan’s Kitchen, so we strongly recommend reserving 2 days to explore this city.

10 Best Osaka Capsule Hotels You Should Stay At

18 Osaka Hotels With Onsen For A Perfect Stay

Best Osaka Ryokans with Private Onsen (2024 Guide)

How To Find the Best Airbnb in Osaka (2024 Guide)

Grilled scallops at Kuromon Ichiba Market in Osaka, Japan

10 Best Osaka Food Tours For 2024

16 Best Ryokans In Osaka You Need to Stay At (2024 guide)

Osaka aquarium Tempozan Ferris Wheel Japan

EPIC Osaka 2-day itinerary: Perfect for first-timers (2024 edition)

Where to stay in Osaka: our best recommendations (2024 guide)

EPIC 1-day Osaka itinerary: Lots of highlights in 1 day

16 BEST things to do in Osaka at night

12 of the coolest hotels in Osaka you have to see

Hiroshima : A city with a dramatic past. We were touched by the stories in the peace museum and also loved nearby Miyajima with its picturesque floating Torii gate and the free-roaming deer.

You can find more info on what to see and what to do in Hiroshima here.

Mt. Fuji : Japan’s iconic volcano is a sight for sore eyes. On clear days the mountain can be seen from the capital but you better not count on that to happen.

In the following articles we explain the best ways to see the mountain with a tour or independently .

Is The Hakone Freepass Worth It in 2024? The Ultimate Guide

14 Amazing Mt Fuji Hotels with Private Onsen

Best Ryokans in Mount Fuji You Need To Stay At

16 Best Hakone Ryokans You Need To Stay At

Hakone 2-Day Itinerary: Epic Hakone Itinerary+ Tips (2024 Guide)

12 Wonderful Airbnbs in Hakone (2024 Guide)

20 Best Ryokan in Hakone with Private Onsen (2024 edition)

The snow monkeys : Being animal lovers this was a true highlight of our trip. The best time to see these cute monkeys is in Winter or early Spring when they’re bathing in the onsen. but it’s also fun to see them in Summer or Autumn. You can visit on your own or join a guided tour from Nagano Station.

Check prices and availability:

Snow monkeys tour GetYourGuide

Snow monkeys tour Viator

Visit an onsen : Living in Japan can be stressful. They have long working hours, a high work ethic, and also something known as Tatemae which means you must be an upstanding, ideal citizen to everyone except maybe your close family. Japanese like to visit an Onsen to find relief after a stressful day. We also enjoyed the warm water after a full day of walking around in the immense cities.

Samurai restaurant : The Samurai restaurant is the new name of the robot restaurant. The robot restaurant was infamous because it was the epitome of Japanese kitsch, you either hated it or you loved it. That is still the case today. Attending this crazy neo-Japanese cabaret show might be one of the highlights of your trip.

Check prices and availability: Samurai Restaurant tickets

Or read our full post about the restaurant here.

Kaiseki dinner : The Japanese kitchen is well-balanced and widely known to provide numerous health benefits. A Kaiseki dinner is Japan’s gastronomy at its best. It’s a multi-course meal made of local fresh ingredients presented in a beautiful pleasing way. It’s a real culinary treat.

Kyoto is a great place to enjoy a Kaiseki dinner. The below-mentioned tour combines a guided walk through Gion with a Kaiseiki diner.

Check prices and availability: Kyoto Evening Gion food tour

A traditional tea ceremony : This is another enjoyable Japanese tradition. It originated in Zen Buddhism and it is bound to strict rules. A lot of places offer tea ceremonies, we suggest doing some homework and not entering the first tea house you pass. Not all ceremonies are equally good.

This is a well-appreciated tea ceremony in Kyoto .

Check prices and availability: Kyoto tea ceremony

Stay in a Ryokan : A Ryokan is a traditional Japanese family hotel. Staying in one can be a real treat as the hosts are usually very accommodating and breakfast and dinner are mouth-watering.

Opt for a small ryokan for the best experience.

The success of Ryokans has attracted larger properties with dozens of rooms but these are nowhere as charming as the small traditional Ryokans where it feels like you’re really a guest staying with the family.

Rent a Kimono : Ideal if you want some great pictures of your trip. Don’t worry that you will stick out, the Japanese put on these traditional clothes for all kinds of festive occasions. We counted loads of Japanese that were taking pictures of the cherry blossoms in their colorful Kimonos.

Here is one address in Kyoto where you can rent a kimono for a day .

Check prices and availability: Kimono rental

Example Japan itineraries

Here are some example itineraries. You can copy them exactly or you can use them as a basis to start with.

Sapporo Winter Itinerary: Enjoy Sapporo in Winter in 2 or 3 Days

What to Do in Hiroshima? Best Activities in 2024

The Perfect 14-Day Japan Travel Itinerary for First Timers

4 Best Japan 7-Day Itinerary Suggestions For First Timers (2024 Guide)

A wonderful Kanazawa itinerary for 2 days

EPIC 3-week itinerary for Japan (perfect for first-timers)

The best Japan 5-day itinerary suggestions for first-timers

Hotels in Japan

Accommodation in the larger cities of Japan can be expensive.

Kyoto takes the cake with prices that can reach $800/night and higher for a standard room in a 4-star hotel in the high season.

Prices in Tokyo and Osaka skyrocket as well in peak season, albeit slightly less.

It’s good practice to be prepared and book your rooms as soon as you’ve got your Japan itinerary fixed.

Don’t be put off by the above prices. If you plan in time and compare different hotels, you can also book very good hotels for quite a bit less. We traveled through Japan during the cherry blossom season, an expensive period to be in Japan, and paid on average €105/night for our hotels.

We stayed in a combination of Ryokans and 3 or 4-star hotels. All were well-maintained and very clean.

Best Booking Sites for Japan

It’s easy to book the hotels for your trip online. These are the sites we used:

Booking.com

Who doesn’t know Booking.com ? What else do I need to say?

Less popular but equally trustworthy is Agoda. It is also part of the Booking.com group. Agoda originated in Asia and it will sometimes show better rates for Asian hotels. We also found some Ryokans on Agoda that couldn’t be booked on Booking.com

Apartments and Houses

Hotel rooms in Japan can be on the small side. Certainly in the megacities of Tokyo and Osaka.

If you’re traveling with children or friends it might be better to look for an apartment instead. We recommend renting through VRBO, Booking, and Airbnb.

And don’t worry, Airbnb is completely legal in Japan.

Here is an overview of the best Airbnb’s in Tokyo. If you are traveling to Tokyo with your family, check out this post.

If you are looking for apartments and houses in Kyoto, click here.

Those that are traveling to Osaka can find a selection of apartments and houses here.

Special Accommodations

We already shortly talked about ryokans in this article, here are some other options for an original overnight stay in Japan.

As written above a stay in a Ryokan, a traditional Japanese family hotel can be a real treat. In a Ryokan, you sleep on a futon on the floor, believe me when I say that it is much more comfortable than it sounds.

Ryokans can be booked on both Booking.com and Agoda.

A Minshuku is very similar to a Ryokan. The term Minshuku is not as widely known as many people probably just refer to these hotels as Ryokans. Opinions differ as to what a Minshuku is. Sometimes you will see it described as a low-budget Ryokan. According to us, it is better seen as a small-scale Ryokan.

All Ryokans used to be small family-run properties but these days you can find some large Ryokans with dozens of rooms. These offer luxurious accommodations with top-notch service but don’t have the homely feeling of what a Ryokan used to be about.

To experience this you have to opt for a smallish Ryokan or a Minshuku.

Very few hotels call themselves Minshuku as not many tourists know this term. Usually, they are also listed on booking platforms as Ryokans.

Temple Stay

Here you will stay at a temple.

The room is comparable to that found in a ryokan.

A healthy vegetarian dinner is usually included in your stay and we suggest you retire early as you’re also invited to participate in the morning prayers that start at 6 am sharp.

You can also enrich your stay with meditation classes offered by Buddhist monks.

Temples that offer temple stays can be found in Kanazawa and Kyoto but the most popular place by far for this experience is Koyasan. We left our temple a little disappointed, it all felt too touristy and not authentic but your mileage may vary.

There are special sites that specialize in temple stays but you will also find these temples on Booking.com and Agoda.

Check prices and availabilty: Booking.com

Check prices and availability: Agoda

Capsule Hotels

Capsule hotels, also known as pod hotels, originated in Japan.

They were originally only aiming at busy businessmen that were looking for a place to crash for a few hours.

Many still only cater to men but some now welcome both genders, still strictly separated in separate parts of the hotel.

The capsules in the hotel are usually the size of a bed with just enough space to sit upright. The capsules are stacked side-by-side and are usually two units high. In the capsule is a small TV and power sockets, all other amenities like toilets and showers are communal.

Over the years capsule hotels have become more popular among tourists, on the one hand for the unique experience but backpackers also love them because they’re cheap.

The tourists were the driver for them to start with Woman sections and Kiba hotel in Tokyo now even has pods with a double beds for couples.

Capsule hotels can be booked on Booking.com and Agoda.

Check prices and availability: Booking.com

Staying in a Machiya can be a unique experience. Machiya are vacation rentals and ideal in case you’re traveling with friends or family. The properties almost always have a full kitchen to prepare your own meals.

What distinguishes a Machiya from a regular holiday home is that they are located inside a traditional townhouse. The townhouses have been restored, respecting all elements of Japanese traditions. Some come with some Western comforts but all have a traditional Japanese interior.

Several Machiya can be found in Kyoto .

What you Should Know When Booking Accommodation

Rooms in Japan tend to be small. Certainly in the major cities. The less you pay the smaller your room will be. In our experience, the price is a good indicator of the size of the room.
Regardless of whether we stayed in cheap Ibis or Comfort Inn hotels or more expensive Hilton and Marriott properties, our rooms were always spotlessly clean.
Capsule hotels will require you to check in and check out every day irrespective of the length of your stay. Your bags will also need to be stored in lockers. Make sure you arrive prepared with all you need for the night in a separate small bag. It’s not really practical if you need to start digging in your suitcase right there.

21 Amazing Hokkaido Ryokans with Private Onsen

Ryokan in Kanazawa: 9 BEST Traditional Japanese Inns To Stay At

15 of the coolest hotels in Tokyo you must stay in (2024 edition)

Getting Around Japan

Now that you know what you will be visiting in Japan it’s time to glue all this together. There are 3 means to get around Japan.

Below is a short summary of the 3 options. Click here for more information on getting around Japan .

The train is by far the most convenient way to get around Japan. It’s also the most popular among tourists. Japan’s train network consists of several companies.

The formerly state-run JR is the largest company and also the one to offer the Japan Rail Pass.

This pass is exclusively available to tourists and is often a good way to save on your transportation.

See further in this article for more about the Japan Rail Pass.

Highway buses offer a cheap alternative to the more expensive trains. Buses are a slower and less comfortable means of transportation but can save a few bucks in your travel budget.

There is a dense network of bus routes operated by several different companies.

Not all companies have an English website, to book buses, it’s best to use the website of Japan Bus Online .

Rental Car or Campers

It’s also possible to rent a car or a van.

While this probably won’t be more affordable than getting around by train it may offer you more flexibility.

Avoid large cities though where your car will be more like a liability than an asset.

Organized tours

These tours are great alternatives if you just won’t succeed to plan your trip or if you rather just enjoy your holiday without needing to worry about all the details.

There is a range of group tours, but there are also tours where you still travel independently according to a pre-organized itinerary.

TourRadar is the place to go for an all-encompassing overview of the available tours.

It is an online marketplace for tour operators.

It shows an overview of all available tours and it avoids having to separately search the website of each tour operator.

You will find tours from popular international household names as well as a broad selection of Japanese niche operators.

They have a very user-friendly website. Several filters allow you to limit the selection to your liking and the reviews can give you a good impression of what to expect from the tour.

Below is an overview of some excellent 5 and 7-day tours that can be found on TourRadar.

Lake Kawaguchiko Fall Colors Mt. Fuji Japan

How to Choose the Best 7 days Japan Tour Package (2024 Edition)

How to choose the best Japan tour package

Akihabara, also called Electric City, in Tokyo

Best Self-Guided Tours in Japan: 10 Amazing Tours For 2024

How to choose the best 5 days Japan tour package? (+tips and tours)

3 Months in Advance

Japan rail pass.

The train is a super-convenient way to get around Japan.

I’m a big fan of car rentals as these give you a lot of freedom during your trip and even I made an exception in Japan.

When planning our Japan trip I carefully checked the train schedules and prices and compared this with what it would cost to rent a car.

Renting a car is not cheap, Japan counts many toll roads and fuel prices are on the high side. What won me over is how easy it was to get everywhere with the trains.

Trains aren’t particularly cheap in Japan either but they run on time and even the most secluded stations seem to be serviced several times a day.

That brings us to the Japan Rail Pass , is it worth buying one or not? The answer is, it depends.

Those rail passes are not cheap. It would be a shame if you draw conclusions too quickly and buy one if you don’t need it. The rail pass makes it easier to travel by train but it’s too expensive to buy it only for comfort.

It’s only really worth buying one if you will save on your tickets or if the difference is marginal.

We explain how you can calculate if, and how much, you will save on your tickets in this article . I really encourage you to do the math before you buy your Japan Rail Pass.

Is the Japan Rail Pass still worth it in 2024: Tips and Tricks

Domestic Flights

The efficient Shinkansen that traverse the country in all directions make flights almost unnecessary.

Still, there remain a few locations that are more quickly reached by plane than by train.

Most notable is, of course, Okinawa, an island south of Japan’s main island that can only be reached by boat or plane. Another journey, which is also faster by plane, goes to Hokkaido. The island is north of Japan’s main island. It’s possible to ride the Shinkansen to Sapporo but the aircraft on average cuts the travel time in half.

Japan counts a wide range of low-cost carriers. You have Jetstar, Peach Aviation, Vanilla Air, and Fuji Dream Airlines to name just a few. The prices for the flights are usually very good thanks to this fierce competition.

There’s also no need to book these flights long in advance.

Somewhere between 3 months and 3 weeks in advance should be OK unless you are looking for flights in peak travel periods like Golden Week.

Use travel comparison sites such as Momondo , Skyscanner and Kayak to instantly compare the prices of all the low-cost carriers.

Check what’s included with your ticket. Some low-cost carriers have carry-on only fares, others use 15kg as the standard baggage allowance. (For comparison: Regular carriers usually allow 20-23kg for each piece of baggage).

1 Month in Advance

Staying online in japan.

A local SIM card or a Pocket Wifi device is an invaluable asset if you would like to discover Japan independently.

We did use our phones intensively to avoid getting lost, to find local restaurants, and to check the train or subway schedule.

There is a whole range of other Japan apps that can help you to travel deeper.

We cover the advantages of staying online in more detail in the below articles.

You can choose between a pocket WiFi device and a local tourist SIM card. Both have their pros and cons which we also discuss.

The BEST pocket WiFi rental for Japan (2024 guide)

What’s the best tourist SIM card for Japan (2024 guide)

Mori Building Digital Art Museum teamLab Borderless Tokyo Japan

Tours and other Fun Experiences

Tourism has boomed in Japan and popular attractions can fill up several days in advance. Most notable is Teamlab Borderless where tickets are sometimes sold out several weeks in advance.

To avoid missing out on fun experiences like these it is best to book your tickets well in advance.

In many cases, it will not only give you peace of mind but will also save you a few bucks. Often online tickets are cheaper than the price at the door.

Most activities and tours can be booked with either GetYourGuide or Klook.

Booking Sites for Japan Activities

Here is some information about the booking sites we use most for bookings in Japan.

GetYourGuide

Millions have already booked their tours with GetYourGuide.

What we love about GetYourGuide is its outstanding customer service.

They’re just a call or an e-mail away and will respond quickly and professionally.

Most activities booked on GetYourGuide can be canceled for free until 24 hours in advance which leaves you with enough flexibility in case your plans might change.

Check prices and availability: GetYourGuide

Viator is just like GetYourGuide a middleman that brings tourists in contact with local tour companies. Viator was independent until 2014 when it was acquired by TripAdvisor. It is a reputable company with a wide range of tours, even bigger than GetYourGuide.

If you can’t find what you’re looking for on GetYourGuide, maybe you should check out Viator.

Most activities can be canceled for free until 24 hours in advance. This way you can book your activity knowing that your schedule is still flexible in case your plans need a change.

Check prices and availability: Viator

Klook is a major Asian ticket-booking site aimed at independent travelers.

They offer more activities in Japan than any other booking site. In many cases, tickets on Klook are cheaper than the official prices at the door.

This might have you wonder if Klook is legit. It is!

The site is completely trustworthy, it has already been featured in several reputable business magazines (such as Forbes ) and we have used it, as well as thousands of other users , without any problems.

Not all activities offered by Klook can be canceled 24 hours in advance.

Pay attention to this when booking if your plans are not 100% fixed.

Check prices and availability: Klook

Fun Activities

Here’s a list of things you might consider booking in advance:

Robot Restaurant ( renamed the Samurai restaurant): Tickets online are usually cheaper than at the door. Read our review to see what this show is about.

teamLab Borderless : A very popular experience in Tokyo unlike anything else you have seen before.

Tokyo Skytree : Amazing 360-degree views of Japan’s capital. This ticket allows you to skip the line.

Traditional Tea Ceremony in Kyoto : An introduction to the traditional Japanese tea ceremony.

Ghibli Museum : The Ghibli Museum contains a world-famous collection of art pieces

Sumo Tournament or Sumo Practice : Sumo tournaments are only held 3 times per year. If you can attend one we certainly recommend it. If you are not in Japan during the tournaments it is still worthwhile to attend a practice session.

Amusement Parks

Tokyo Disney and DisneySea : Tokyo Disney is very much like Disneyland anywhere else in the world. DisneySea, on the other hand, is a unique and very well-designed theme park with some amazing rides.

Universal Studios : Another amazing theme park in Osaka. Your ticket includes access to the Wizarding World of Harry Potter and Minion park. To spend your time efficiently you can upgrade your pass to skip the line at 4 attractions or 7 attractions .

Fuji-Q : This theme park is located at the base of Mount Fuji, one of Japan’s famous landmarks. It has some record-holding rollercoasters and several anime-themed attractions.

Airport Transportation

Do you already know how you will get from the airport to your hotel? We definitely recommend that you plan this in advance so that you arrive in the country stress-free.

Here’s more info on how to get to Oska from the airport or on how to get to Tokyo from the airport .

Tokyo Tokyo Narita – Skyliner Express Ticket The N’ex train is covered by the JR Pass. If you have no JR pass this train is a good alternative.

You can also book a private or shared transfer .

Osaka Kansai – Nankai Line rapi:t The JR Haruka is covered by the JR Pass. If you have no JR pass this rapit train from the Nankai line is a good alternative.

You can also use the Osaka Limousine bus or a private or shared transfer .

Discount Passes

Hakone Free Pass A good discount pass to explore Hakone and see Mt. Fuji

Tokyo Subway Ticket (Tokyo Metro Pass) The cheapest option to get around Tokyo (unless you plan on using your JR Pass in the capital). If you pre-order your metro pass it will be ready at the airport and you can use it to get to your hotel.

1 Week in Advance

What to pack for your japan trip.

We’re almost there. It’s time to start packing.

The most important things are of course your passport and an open mind.

Once those are taken care of you can have a look at our Japan Packing List , a handy list that covers everything from the official stuff, to travel gear to make your trip more comfortable as well as what to wear in the various seasons.

Great, you reached the end of this post! I hope this means you’re all done and can start counting down to this amazing adventure.

Don’t forget to join our Japan Facebook group if you haven’t already done so. In this group, you can exchange tips with fellow Japan Travelers to fine-tune those last details of your trip.

Let’s wrap it up by wishing you a Japan vacation of a lifetime!

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How did you go about planning your trip to Japan? Give us your ...
As in 10-15 miles per day on a standard day. Also, expect a lot of steps. Good set of walking/hiking shoes is really, really recommended. When creating a spreadsheet with travel costs - do not convert expenditure from JPY to your local currency to avoid nasty surprises. Reply reply. tryingmydarnest.
What is one thing you wish you'd known before your first trip to Japan
Buy one before you go or in the first day. Japan is still a cash based society even in Tokyo. You might think your pockets or small bag will work, or you can offload coins in vending machines, but there will always be more coins. A related piece of advice is to actually use your coins to pay and give exact change.
Planning a trip to Japan. Would love some advice and suggestions!
Planning a trip without considering transportation is a bit silly, to be honest. Trains and other public transport is definitely the way to go; you can find routes and schedules on Google Maps (better for local travel) and Hyperdia (better for long-distance; e.g. shinkansen).
Top 10 mistakes of people "planning" a trip to Japan
If you are planning a trip, don't make these mistakes! From least bad to worst. 10 Expecting English is really a "Lingua Franca" and is spoken everywhere. English might be understood in Airports and Hotel lobbies, but sometimes not even it. 9 Thinking Japan is small.
Planning a trip : r/JapanTravelTips
Get the Reddit app Scan this QR code to download the app now. Or check it out in the app stores ... Have a quick question about traveling in Japan? Want to share a tip or suggestion? ... Planning a trip . Advice Hi, me and a small group of friends (3others) are gonna land in Osaka on Aug 1st and have a flight leaving from Tokyo on Aug 16. What ...
Trip to Japan, how to plan? : r/travel
I'm in a couple of Japan trip planning groups and it's incredible how many people book trips without knowing that Japan is closed for tourism (apart from guided tours) and are surprised when they are denied boarding. Yes, you can book flights. No, you can't enter without a visa/Japanese passport/residence card.
Planning a Trip to Japan : r/JapanTravel
View community ranking In the Top 1% of largest communities on Reddit. Planning a Trip to Japan . I have organized my itinerary by neighborhood. ... Just a reminder that our FAQ is being updated with more information and you can start here with regards to trip planning if you need tips, or have questions about planning your travel to Japan. You ...
10 Days in Japan: A First-Timer's Complete Itinerary
Days 1-3: Tokyo. Day 4: day trip from Tokyo. Days 5-6: Kyoto. Day 7: Nara and Osaka. Day 8: Miyajima and Hiroshima. Day 9: morning in Kyoto → Tokyo. Day 10: Tokyo in morning/afternoon → airport. Japan is a decently large-sized island country located in Eastern Asia, being slightly smaller than California .
2 Weeks in Japan Itinerary 2024: First-Timer 14 Day Guide
"Travel. It leaves you speechless then turns you into a storyteller." ~ Ibn Battua. How to create a unique 2 weeks in Japan itinerary. These days, it seems like every two week Japan itinerary speeds through the same few spots along Japan's famous old Golden Route — Tokyo, Kyoto, Osaka and maybe Hiroshima with rushed day trips.
An Outstanding Itinerary for One Month in Japan
Alternatively (or, if your Japan 1 month itinerary is more flexible, additionally) take an overnight trip or two from Tokyo. Head to towns of the Fuji Five Lakes region like Kawaguchiko, home to Lake Kawaguchi and Fujiyoshida, where most climbers of Mt. Fuji begin their treks, either on your own or with a guided Mt. Fuji tour from Tokyo.Or soak up everything there is to love about Japan's de ...
Planning a Trip to Japan? 20+ Essential Travel Tips for 2024
This guide for planning a trip to Japan will cover: How to prepare for a trip to Japan in 2024. 20+ crucial Japan travel tips to know before you go. Hire a pocket wifi or buy a 4G SIM card for your phone when visiting Japan. Don't blindly buy a JR Pass thinking all tourists need it. Take time to read these Japan travel guide books.
Comprehensive Japan Travel Checklist for First Time Visitors
Accommodation addresses and contact info. Car rental or airport transfer reservations. International driving permit. Color photocopy of your passport. Japan Immigration and Customs Process. Currently, Japan allows visa-free entry for tourists from 68 countries, including the US, Australia, and most of Europe.
Traveling to Japan For the First Time: Helpful Tips (2024)
One of the first things to do in Japan is getting a public transit smart card at a subway or train station. These essential rechargeable cards can be used for public transport as well as purchases at vending machines, shops, and restaurants. They can even be used to pay for taxis and the Shinkansen.
How to Really Plan the Perfect Trip to Japan: First-Timer's Guide
Below are the steps to planning, organizing, and researching needed to create the perfect itinerary for your trip to Japan: 1. Decide whether you want to plan your own trip or use a Japan travel specialist. Me in Meiji Shrine. Japan is a fascinating mix of traditionalism and modernity.
Japan Travel: Suggested Itineraries
Plan Your Trip: Itinerary Ideas. Great Traverse of Japan; Best of Japan in 14 days; Best of Kanto; Best of Kansai; Best of Hokkaido in Summer; Best of Hokkaido in Winter ... Survey What type of train tickets are you planning to mainly use on your next trip to Japan? A nationwide Japan Rail Pass. A regional rail pass. Regular tickets / IC card ...
How to Plan a Trip to Japan
There are also regional passes that cover part of Japan depending on the pass. JR trains also run throughout Tokyo central, and you will know it's a JR train because there will be a J before the train line. In October 2023, the price of an individual JR Pass rose from ¥ 29,650 to 50,000 (from $200 to $337 USD).
TRAVEL to JAPAN
To give you an idea of how much a bit of research can save you: When I travelled to Japan I purchased a Yamaguchi wide area pass for 13,500 yen. This covered my travel from Hiroshima to Kyoto.From Kyoto I then took a night bus to Tokyo for 6,500 yen. At 20,000 yen this was much cheaper than a 1-week JR pass.
The Perfect 14-Day Japan Travel Itinerary for First Timers
The next step in our 14-day Japan itinerary is Matsumoto. There're many Samurai Castles scattered across Japan and you should visit at least one during your 14 days in Japan. We opted for the castle in Matsumoto as it is one of the few remaining original castles. Most other castles you will see are reconstructions.
How to Plan a Trip to Japan [2024]: Traveler's Full Guide!
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. 3. Osaka. Osaka is a unique city featuring a beautiful blend of historical and cultural roots with modernity.
Japan trip planner: make a Japan itinerary & map
Plan on the go with our free travel app. With Wanderlog's mobile travel planner on Android and iOS, access and edit your trips wherever you go — even while offline. Keep your places to visit, flight/hotel reservations, and day-by-day itineraries for your trip to Japan in our web and mobile app vacation planner.
How to Plan Your Trip to Japan 2024/2025
We suggest you take at least a week for your first trip to see a spectrum of the highlights in the top two cities. 3 days in Tokyo. 3 days in Kyoto. 1 day in Osaka. To discover more of Japan and popular destinations, like picturesque Hakone and Takayama, you will need two or three more days.
Japan Travel Planning
Smooth your way with a little forward planning. It is easy to feel a little overwhelmed and disoriented when you visit Japan for the first time, so find out the basics before you fly and get acquainted with the country through our helping you plan guide. Learn a little more about Japan's customs, culture and Wi-Fi connectivity, as well as its ...
How to Plan a Trip to Japan: a Step By Step Guide
During the month of November, the temperature drops below 20 degrees Celcius to 15 degrees Celcius. Although November is a bit cooler, it still counts plenty of sunny days to enjoy. This makes both October and November pleasant and comfortable months to travel to Japan. Cranes in Hokkaido in Winter.

10 Days in Japan: A First-Timer’s Complete Japan Itinerary

Overview of this 10 Day Japan Itinerary

Pre-Travel Guide to Japan

Where to stay:

When to visit:

How to get Japanese Yen:

How to Get Around Japan:

Electricity and Power in Japan:

Using a Pocket Wifi Router in Japan :

Useful Japanese Phrases:

Packing tips for Japan:

Travel Insurance for Japan

10 Days in Japan: A Complete Japan Itinerary

Day 1: Arrive in Tokyo!

Day 2: FULL DAY IN TOKYO (West Side)

Day 3: FULL DAY IN TOKYO (East Side)

Asakusa and Sensoji Temple

Sumida Park and Tokyo SkyTree

Akihabara District

Day 4: DAY TRIP from Tokyo — 3 Options

1) Kamakura

Day 5: MORNING BULLET TRAIN TO KYOTO then EXPLORING

Arashiyama Area

Golden Pavilion (Kinkaku-ji)

Day 6: FULL DAY IN KYOTO

Higashiyama District

Day 7: DAY TRIP TO NARA AND OSAKA

Day 8: DAY TRIP TO MIYAJIMA AND HIROSHIMA

Day 9: KYOTO THEN BULLET TRAIN BACK TO TOKYO

Morning/Afternoon in Kyoto

Bullet Train to Tokyo

Day 10: SUSHI BREAKFAST AND OFF TO THE AIRPORT

Shopping in Ginza

Off to the Airport

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Favorite Destinations

Destinations

Destinations

The Best of Japan in One Month

Where to Stay With One Month in Japan

How to Get Around During One Month in Japan

Where to Go With One Month in Japan

Kyoto, Osaka and Kansai

Shikoku or Hokuriku

Hiroshima, Chugoku and San’in

Kyushu or Tohoku

Hokkaido or Okinawa

When Should You Spend a Month in Japan?

FAQ About Spending a Month in Japan

How long you should spend in Japan?

What month is the cheapest to fly to Japan?

The Bottom Line

Plan Your Japan Trip

Comprehensive Japan Travel Checklist for First Time Visitors

Essential Japan Travel Checklist

Plan what to wear in Japan

Warm weather packing list for Japan

Cold weather packing list for Japan

Essential Japan travel documents

Japan travel accessories

Travel adapter

Neck pillow

Wallet with coin purse

The best luggage for Japan travel

Other useful things to bring to Japan

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How to Really Plan the Perfect Trip to Japan: First-Timer’s Guide

1. Decide whether you want to plan your own trip or use a Japan travel specialist.

1.1. Planning and booking everything on your own

1.2. Booking a Japan package tour by using a travel advisor

1.3 Hire a Japan trip designer for a fully-customized tour.

2. Find out when you would like to visit Japan.

3. Assess your destinations based on the season of your visit.

4. Determine your trip length.

5. Organize and finalize your itinerary.

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Itinerary Ideas

Regional Itineraries