Overview

Japan is a land of contrasts—futuristic cities alongside ancient temples, neon lights next to quiet gardens, and sushi bars next to centuries-old ryokans. Whether you're soaking in an onsen, exploring Kyoto’s geishas, or riding the bullet train to Mount Fuji, Japan is endlessly inspiring, efficient, and deeply respectful of tradition.

Quick Facts

• Language: Japanese

• Currency: Yen (¥)

• Religion: Shintoism & Buddhism

• Main Airports: Tokyo Narita (NRT), Haneda (HND), Kansai (KIX), Osaka Itami (ITM)

• Visa: Visa-free for 90+ countries (check current requirements)

• Climate: Ranges from subarctic to subtropical; four distinct seasons

• Power Plugs: Type A & B (same as North America)

• Essential Apps: Google Translate, Suica/Pasmo, Japan Travel by Navitime, Hyperdia or Japan Transit Planner

Where Is Japan?

Japan is an island nation in East Asia, consisting of 14,000+ islands—mainly four: Honshu, Hokkaido, Kyushu, and Shikoku. It's surrounded by the Pacific Ocean and Sea of Japan and sits east of China and Korea.

Best Time to Visit

• Spring (March–May): Cherry blossoms and mild temps (high season)

• Autumn (Oct–Nov): Fall foliage and cool weather (ideal)

• Summer (June–Aug): Hot, humid, with lively festivals

• Winter (Dec–Feb): Snow sports in Hokkaido and onsens in the Alps

Safety

Japan is one of the safest countries in the world. Lost items often get returned, crime is extremely low, and cities are clean and organized. Earthquake readiness is part of everyday life—know basic safety drills.

Budget

• Budget: ¥8,000–12,000/day ($50–80) – hostels, convenience store meals, rail passes

• Mid-range: ¥15,000–25,000/day ($100–180) – hotels, restaurants, regional trains

• Luxury: ¥30,000+/day ($200+) – boutique ryokans, sushi omakase, private guides

Things To Do

🏯 Top Cities

• Tokyo: Shibuya crossing, sushi, shrines, shopping

• Kyoto: Geisha, temples, tea houses

• Osaka: Street food and nightlife

• Hiroshima: Peace Memorial and Miyajima Island

• Nara: Bowing deer and giant Buddha

🌋 Nature & Adventure

• Mount Fuji: Climb in July/August or view from Hakone

• Nikko & Kamikochi: Hikes, waterfalls, forests

• Hokkaido: Skiing in Niseko, flower fields in Furano

• Okinawa: Coral reefs, white beaches, and island life

What to Eat

• Sushi & Sashimi: Try conveyor-belt (kaitenzushi) or fine dining

• Ramen: Tonkotsu in Fukuoka, miso in Hokkaido

• Okonomiyaki: Japanese savory pancakes in Osaka

• Tempura: Crispy and delicate, perfect with soba

• Convenience Store Meals: Surprisingly fresh and tasty!

• Matcha Everything: Ice cream, lattes, mochi, and more

Where to Stay

• Budget: K’s House Hostel (Kyoto), Book & Bed Tokyo

• Mid-range: Hotel Gracery Shinjuku, Tokyu Stay chain

• Luxury: Aman Tokyo, Hoshinoya Kyoto, ryokan in Hakone

• Unique: Capsule hotels, temple stays, or traditional ryokans

Getting Around

• Japan Rail Pass: Best value for intercity train travel

• Subways & Trains: Reliable and on-time—buy an IC card (Suica/Pasmo)

• Taxis: Expensive but safe

• Domestic Flights: For long distances like Okinawa or Hokkaido

• Biking & Walking: Great in Kyoto and small towns

Suggested Itinerary (10 Days)

1–3. Tokyo – Asakusa, Harajuku, Shinjuku, Tsukiji
4–5. Hakone/Mt. Fuji – Onsen, views, Lake Ashi
6–7. Kyoto – Arashiyama, Fushimi Inari, Gion
8. Nara Day Trip – Temple and deer park
9–10. Osaka – Dotonbori, castle, night eats

Final Tips

• Always bow politely—manners are everything

• Don’t tip—it’s not part of Japanese culture

• Keep quiet on trains (especially shinkansen)

• Trash bins are rare—carry your own bag

• ATMs in 7-Eleven are the most foreign card-friendly

• Public Wi-Fi is spotty—consider a pocket Wi-Fi