Journey through the heart of Japan with a local’s touch. From iconic landmarks to hidden alleys, experience the diverse beauty, culture, and tastes of the Land of the Rising Sun with Top 10’s & Guides. Let us be your gateway to an authentic Japanese adventure!
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Guide in summary
Part of Guide
Summarised
🌏 Overview
Japan is a unique blend of ancient traditions and modern marvels, known for its safe environment, distinct seasons, and globally recognized cuisine.
🏯 Destination highlights
Japan's key destinations include culturally rich Tokyo, historic Kyoto, vibrant Osaka, and scenic Mount Fuji, each offering unique experiences and attractions.
🌸 When to visit
The best times to visit Japan are late March for cherry blossoms and November for autumn leaves, with consideration for the rainy season in June and July and typhoons in late summer.
🎒 Packing
Your packing for Japan should be seasonally appropriate, with average temperatures ranging from 5°C in winter to 25°C in summer.
💰 Budget
Accommodation and food costs in Japan vary, with options like capsule hotels starting around 30 EUR/31 USD, and a comprehensive three-week trip can cost as little as 1000 EUR if done right.
💴 Currency
The Japanese Yen is the official currency, with credit cards widely accepted, though cash is needed for vending machines, street vendors, and certain traditional stores.
🔌 Plugs
Japan uses Type A electrical plugs with a standard voltage of 100V.
🛡️ Safety
Japan is extremely safe, with low crime rates, but travelers should be aware of occasional issues like crowded trains, and natural hazards like earthquakes and typhoons.
💬 Language
The most widely spoken language in Japan is Japanese. While few Japanese speak English, adequate English signage and menus facilitate easy travel for non-Japanese speakers.
🙇 Customs and etiquette
In Japan, etiquette includes practices like bowing, maintaining a quiet demeanor in public, punctuality, proper queuing, and pocketing your trash.
🚅 Getting around
Japan's efficient public transportation, particularly the Japan Rail Pass for tourists, offers convenient and cost-effective travel across the country.
🍣 Cuisine and dining
Japan offers a diverse range of culinary experiences, from affordable local eateries to high-end sushi restaurants, with specialties like sushi, ramen, and unique regional dishes.
🏨 Hotels and accomodations
Japan provides a variety of lodging options, from budget-friendly capsule hotels to traditional ryokans, offering unique experiences like tatami rooms and on-site hot springs.
🎎 Activities and experiences
Japan offers very diverse activities ranging from cultural experiences like tea ceremonies and geisha meetings to outdoor adventures such as viewing cherry blossoms and exploring historic temples and shrines.
Popular questions (FAQ)
A Girl from Japan answers your Popular Questions
What do I need to travel to Japan?
In most countries, a visa is not required for stays of 90 days or less.
Why should you visit Japan?
To enjoy the coexistence of Japan’s diverse Japanese foods, unique architecture such as shrines and temples, seasonal scenery, traditions such as tea ceremony and kabuki, and modern culture such as anime and manga.
I always say there is truly something for everyone!
What to wear in Japan?
If you want to fit in with the general public in Japan, we generally dress conservatively, especially when visiting shrines and temples. Very revealing clothes like crop tops with a lot of skin showing is not common. But of course in the hotter months of summer people wear shorts and t-shirts.
Here are some recommendations for different seasons:
🌸 Spring, Late March – May: Long-sleeved clothes and light coats.
🌞 Summer, June – September: Short sleeves, short pants.
🍁 Autumn, October – November: Long-sleeved clothes, light coat.
⛄️ Winter, December – early March: Warm clothes such as knitwear, thick coats, gloves and other warm clothes.
When to go to Japan?
☝️ Most recommended: I would recommend you go to Japan in Late March to early April, because I want you to actually see the beauty of cherry blossoms unique to Japan, and the weather is usually comfortable with temperatures at around 15 °C/59 °F 🌸
✌️ Second recommendation: If you can bare colder climates, January and February is my second recommendation, as the hot spring baths feel great during the cold winter, temperatures are usually around 0-5 °C/32-41 °F ♨️
Are Japan accepting tourists?
Yes, right now Japan is accepting tourists. All covid restrictions are lifted.
How long should I stay in Japan?
If you want to fully enjoy Japan from north to south, you should stay for at least three weeks.
Of course, the typical stays in Tokyo, Mt. Fuji, Osaka, Kyoto, and Hiroshima are attractive and can be done in 1,5-2 weeks, but there are plenty of less well-known and fascinating places to visit that can justify a longer visit or a second visit.
I would not recommend to travel to Japan for anything less then one week.
Is it worth going to japan for a week?
I would say it is worth staying even a week. However, you will have to be very selective about the places you visit and have a packed schedule. Because there is some distance to cover between the best places in Japan.
I have carefully selected a few ideas of how to spend a day in each city for your reference, you can find them here.
How long (time) will it take to travel to Japan?
It takes about 13 hours from London, England and 14 hours from New York, United States.
Where do Japanese people go on holidays in Japan?
For some general tips on where to find locals enjoying their vacation time (which usually is shorter then western standards) I would suggest starting to look here:
During the cherry blossom season, many people picnic and view cherry blossoms in the parks where they bloom. Since there is also a lot of unique nature not that far away, many people spend their time climbing mountains or camping in the mountains or by lakes.
What to think about for your first visit to Japan?
Here are some general tips to have in mind for a great first visit:
Manners: Wait your turn in line and be quiet in public places is very much appreciated by locals.
Shoe-less culture: Especially in ryokan (Japanese style inns), temples and shrines.
Cash is often needed: In vending machines, gatya-gatya, ticket machines at train stations, small stores.
Public transportation: Trains and buses run on time and are well organised.
Advance reservations: Popular accommodations tend to fill up quickly (especially in Ginzan Onsen).
Do I need a tour guide in Japan?
I would not say it is needed to get the kind of tours that take you to various sightseeing spots.
I think it is easy to know when to get off the subway and on the train, as there will be announcements in English and station names will be clearly marked each time you arrive at a station.
However, when visiting famous temples, it might be interesting to get guidance about their history.
How much does a tour Guide cost in Japan?
In Japan, a tour guide’s cost can vary based on experience, location, and tour length. On average, you might spend between 15,000 – 50,000 yen for a full day. That’s about €115 – €385 (EUR) or $135 – $450 (USD).
The enchanting cherry blossoms, painting Japan with the colors of spring, never fail to captivate our hearts, whether they bloom in the bustling city streets or elsewhere 🌸 But isn’t there something special about experiencing them at renowned spots? The cherry blossoms at these iconic locations offer a unique allure of their own 😍
If you’re planning to spend some time in Japan, don’t miss out on extending your trip to Hakata in Fukuoka. Indulge in delicious food, explore the historic Tenmangu Shrine, soak in the natural beauty, and have a blast at modern leisure spots. Let’s make unforgettable memories together 👍
Did you ever imagine that hot springs come in such diverse forms? 💭 And that they’re not just for us humans to soak in? Hot springs offer more than just a relaxing dip. The deeper you dive into their world, the more irresistible they become ♨️❣️
Get ready for a drool-worthy adventure in Hakata! With so many delicious options, it’s a real challenge to decide what to eat in the limited time you have 🤤 Hakata is a foodie’s paradise waiting to be explored.
Imagine spending a day in Hiroshima, where you can soak in all its highlights, delve into its rich history, and savor its famous delicacies 🤩 This one-day tour is like a greatest hits album of Hiroshima – a perfect way to experience the best of the city in just one day. Doesn’t that sound amazing? 🎉
Hiroshima takes the crown in Japan for producing the most oysters and lemons 👑 Sure, slurp up some oysters and zest up with lemons, but don’t miss out—the local fare spans from hearty meals to delectable sweets 🦪🍋 Dive into the full Hiroshima experience; your taste buds will thank you!
Born and bred in Japan, we’ve got a ton of unique food and traditions that you just can’t miss 🍣 I mean, you wouldn’t want to leave Japan without diving into the things us locals enjoy the most, right?
In Japan, where the seasons truly come alive, the charm shifts with every passing season 🇯🇵 Add that magic to the already enchanting Kyoto, and you’re in for an unforgettable experience 😆
Kyoto’s got some unique bites you won’t find anywhere else, all thanks to its local ingredients 🍵 Make sure to savor the refined flavors that have been perfected over the ages. Trust me, it’s a taste trip you won’t forget!
Japan isn’t just about the majestic Mount Fuji. Being a long, skinny island nation, we’ve got a wild mix of climates and landscapes 🗾 Every region flaunts its unique charm. Trust me, with every visit, there’s always a fresh slice of nature to fall in love with 💚
Cuisine, tea ceremony, traditional performing arts, and many other unique cultural aspects that have been cultivated in Kyoto throughout the long period of time have been handed down to the present day 🍵 It is no exaggeration to say that the experience of these deep and well preserved culture activities can only be found in Kyoto 💥
Experience the charm of Kyoto, Japan’s ancient capital, with its beautiful temples and streets where time seems to have stopped ☺️ Enjoy the city’s rich history and the landscapes that have captivated travelers for centuries ☘️
Mount Fuji is not only beautiful to look at, there are “mountains” of stuff to experience here 🗻 Learn how to enjoy the surrounding area around Mount Fuji like a local. Here are my tips for the best sightseeing spots, activities, and specialty foods for your trip to Mt. Fuji 🌈
Japanese food is known worldwide for its delicious taste, and traditional Japanese confectionery is no exception. 🩷 They are not only delicious, but also affordable. Please try them and enjoy both the delicious taste and cost-effectiveness 😆
If you plan to visit shrines and temples that play an important role in Japanese culture and history, it is important to understand the significance of proper worship procedures and behavior. Please let me, a local Japanese show you the way of the shrines and temples. It will give you a much greater sense of the culture and spirit of Japan. 😌
In Tokyo, where delicious food is plentiful, it must be very difficult to choose one restaurant from the many available. 😓 How about choosing from my (a local food lover) carefully selected foods and restaurants? 💡
Everything you need for a shorter visit to Tokyo. Great food, iconic places and experiences, all combined in one day in this ultimate itinerary. ✨ It is sure to be a very satisfying day for locals and tourists alike. 🌈
If you are looking for cultural experiences that are specific to Tokyo, then i will show you where to experience it! Read on and i will take you through the best things to do in Tokyo from a locals perspective! 😉
When local Japanese people think of popular theme parks, i can say with confidence, many people favour USJ for its magical atmosphere. Immerse yourself in the world of movies, anime, and video games, all from the Universal Universe! 🥳
Embracing local delicacies leads to understanding the culture, history, and essence of a place 🥢 So, while you’re journeying through Japan, let’s dive into some of its culinary wonders I’ve handpicked for you. Open up your palate and let the adventure begin💥
Here I introduce big seasonal events that go on for a limited time. 💥 These are popular events that you will definitely be satisfied with going to. 🌸 I recommend you to consider staying in Tokyo during these periods if possible!
Here is a collection of things in Tokyo that come to mind when thinking of Japan. 💭 I hope this can give you directions for where to enjoy typical Japanese culture. 💡
Why don’t you get away from the hustle and bustle of the city, enjoy the night view in peace and quiet, and bask in the afterglow of the day’s memories? 🌃 Here i introduce my favorite places to take in the view and do just that. 😌
Capital Tokyo. There are so many attractive places to visit that even Japanese people have trouble deciding where to go and what to do. 🤔 From the many tourist attractions, I have narrowed it down to the top places rich Japanese culture.
A complete guide to the best one day plan for Osaka. 👍 The best means of transportation, prices, and recommended timetable are also included, so all you have to do is just enjoy the experiences!
Japan was ranked first in the “Tourism Attractiveness Ranking” for the year 2021 👑 Recently, the number of tourists coming to Japan has been increasing, with more than 2 million people currently visiting Japan per month 🇯🇵 and this number is expected to continue increasing. If you are one of the people also visiting, here are tips from a local Japanese for the best authentic experience!
If you don’t go to these places in Osaka, you will definitely regret it! ⚠️ Want to make your stay in Osaka a satisfying one? Then you should read more! 👀
Discover Japan’s culinary treasures not from the high-end restaurants, but from the daily delights that locals adore. These are chain restaurants recommended by Japanese people where you can enjoy popular, local & delicious food at a reasonable price.
Capital Tokyo. There are so many attractive places to visit that even Japanese people have trouble deciding where to go and what to do. 🤔 From the many tourist attractions, I have narrowed it down to the top places rich Japanese culture.
Why don’t you get away from the hustle and bustle of the city, enjoy the night view in peace and quiet, and bask in the afterglow of the day’s memories? 🌃 Here i introduce my favorite places to take in the view and do just that. 😌
Here is a collection of things in Tokyo that come to mind when thinking of Japan. 💭 I hope this can give you directions for where to enjoy typical Japanese culture. 💡
Here I introduce big seasonal events that go on for a limited time. 💥 These are popular events that you will definitely be satisfied with going to. 🌸 I recommend you to consider staying in Tokyo during these periods if possible!
If you are looking for cultural experiences that are specific to Tokyo, then i will show you where to experience it! Read on and i will take you through the best things to do in Tokyo from a locals perspective! 😉
Everything you need for a shorter visit to Tokyo. Great food, iconic places and experiences, all combined in one day in this ultimate itinerary. ✨ It is sure to be a very satisfying day for locals and tourists alike. 🌈
If you don’t go to these places in Osaka, you will definitely regret it! ⚠️ Want to make your stay in Osaka a satisfying one? Then you should read more! 👀
A complete guide to the best one day plan for Osaka. 👍 The best means of transportation, prices, and recommended timetable are also included, so all you have to do is just enjoy the experiences!
When local Japanese people think of popular theme parks, i can say with confidence, many people favour USJ for its magical atmosphere. Immerse yourself in the world of movies, anime, and video games, all from the Universal Universe! 🥳
Experience the charm of Kyoto, Japan’s ancient capital, with its beautiful temples and streets where time seems to have stopped ☺️ Enjoy the city’s rich history and the landscapes that have captivated travelers for centuries ☘️
Cuisine, tea ceremony, traditional performing arts, and many other unique cultural aspects that have been cultivated in Kyoto throughout the long period of time have been handed down to the present day 🍵 It is no exaggeration to say that the experience of these deep and well preserved culture activities can only be found in Kyoto 💥
Kyoto’s got some unique bites you won’t find anywhere else, all thanks to its local ingredients 🍵 Make sure to savor the refined flavors that have been perfected over the ages. Trust me, it’s a taste trip you won’t forget!
In Japan, where the seasons truly come alive, the charm shifts with every passing season 🇯🇵 Add that magic to the already enchanting Kyoto, and you’re in for an unforgettable experience 😆
I’ve put together a personalized itinerary to make the most of your day in Kyoto 💡 With confidence, I assure you an enjoyable Kyoto experience ❤️🔥
Nagisa Tsuchida October 17, 2023
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Introduction
Japan is an island nation, and because of its past, when it ceased foreign trade 400 years ago, many of the ancient traditions and culture unique to Japan still remain.
It may be full of very surprising things to many foreigners, such as the popular public onsen bathing with rules/rituals around what to wear and how to behave, and the common practice of eating raw foods of many kinds!
Traveling to Japan is because of this unique setting guaranteed to bring new experiences to anyone who comes here. And it is a great destination for all types of people and the whole family. I am proud to say it is truly one of the safest countries in the world with helpful people and a great railway and public transportation system.
And Sushi, a typical Japanese food you probably have at least heard of, is now accepted and very popular all over the world. Japanese food has been selected as a UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage, and our food culture is recognized around the world.
But did you know there are many other attractive foods in Japan besides sushi?
I will tell you more about the most popular ones and some strange and unique picks i think you must try later!
As we also will explain in more detail later, there are four very distinct seasons in Japan, and the sights to be enjoyed in each season are different.
The cherry blossoms you see in pictures are completely different from experiencing the real thing. The slight scent of cherry blossoms, the sound of swaying cherry blossoms, and the sight of dancing cherry blossoms move us deeply.
Japan is sure to offer many beautiful, delicious, new and wonderful experiences. The charms of Japan are endless, we will give you the absolute best local tips for an authentic experience, lets begin!
Quick Travel Tips for your journey to Japan
Packing
Packing for Japan is all about what season you plan to visit. Here are some average temperatures for seasons:
April (Spring): 14 °C/47.2 °F
July (Summer): 25 °C/77 °F
October (Autumn): 18 °C/64.4 °F
January (Winter): 5 °C/41 °F
Pack clothes for the season, and some other pro tips:
Trash bag – A strange thing I have learned is unique to Japan is that there are not many trash cans in town, that is why it is convenient to carry something in your bag that can be used as a trash bag.
Umbrella or Rain coat – Japan has a rainy season from June to July, and typhoons sometimes hit in August and September. So you might also need an umbrella or kappa, but you can get them cheaply at 100 yen stores if you do not have space to pack it.
Warm clothes – The lowest average temperature in Tokyo in winter is 0-3°, and it gets even colder along the overseas coasts with the wind blowing. Pack the winter essentials like comfy hat and gloves.
If you plan on staying at hotels, then they have a good supply of towels on hand, which are changed daily. Shampoo and body soap are also provided, so there is little need to bring your own.
Budget
Hotels (e.g. two people per room, per night in Tokyo)
Capsule hotels – about 30 EUR/31 USD. Private rooms have beds, lighting, and power at a minimum, and share showers and toilets. The rooms are very clean and have a women-only floor. The atmosphere is like a hideout and comfortable.
Business hotels – about 40 EUR/42 USD are sufficient to satisfy your needs. Slippers, towels, pajamas, etc. are always provided.
Ryokan – from about 140 EUR/148 USD with half board Traditional Japanese accommodation with tatami mats and the warmth of wood. Many rooms have futons on the floor instead of beds.
Public Transportation
Tourists who visit several places in one day should buy a one-day pass for most value. The following is a list of recommended train tickets for Tokyo, Osaka, and Kyoto. Good examples of prices for public transport in Japan.
My recommended Transportation for cheap and easy travel:
City
Recommended Transportation
Price per session (adult)
Price for 1-day pass (adult)
Where to Buy
Tokyo
Tokyo Metro (subway)
Around 200 yen
600 Yen
Ticket vending machine in subway
Osaka
Subway
Around 200 yen
Weekday: 820 Yen Weekend: 620 Yen
Ticket vending machine in subway
Kyoto
Kyoto Bus
Around 200 yen
700 Yen
Driver / Ticket Vending Machine at Kyoto station
Meals
Inexpensive restaurants offer very good meals for 3 eur/usd. Check out the article “10 cheap but delicious meals & restaurants” for good meal and restaurant recommendations that tourists often miss.
Normal restaurants are usually around 7 eur/usd per meal.
However, prices go up when drinking alcohol or at high-end sushi restaurants.
Total price
When I traveled to Japan for 3 weeks, including Tokyo, Mt. Fuji, Kyoto, Osaka, Hiroshima, etc., I was able to fully enjoy my time in Japan for about 1100€.
What you need to go to Japan – Visa, Corona Restrictions etc.
All entry restrictions due to the Corona have been lifted, and you can enter Japan as you did before the Corona.
69 countries are exempt from visa requirements, but the length of stay without visa varies from country to country. Most countries allow visitors to stay for 90 days.
Customs & Etiquette
Bowing – Bowing is a sign of courtesy most often used in formal settings. Japanese people use it for all types of expressions like apologies and thank you’s. A good place to start when it comes to bowing is to do it when you say thank you and sorry.
In public places – People in Japan really value quiet demeanor and behavior in public places. On trains and buses, avoiding talking on cell phones is expected.
Queuing – When boarding a bus or train, wait in one or two lines in an orderly fashion, often the area dedicated for queuing is marked on the ground.
Escalators – Leave one side of the escalator open for people in a hurry, on which side you should stand depends on the area you are currently in, keep an eye on what other people are doing.
Pocket your trash – There are few trash cans in the city, but it is common to pocket the trash with a bag specifically for this until you reach a trash can.
Punctuality – Punctuality is the norm, and being late for a meeting is not tolerated. Trains and buses are almost always on time.
Greetings from waitstaff – “irassyaimase” means “welcome” when entering a restaurant. A simple bow or smile is all that is required.
How to call for a waiter in a restaurant – Use the bell on the table to call for the waiter.
Personality of the Japanese
Polite 🙏 – Respect for propriety and good manners, bowing, quiet behavior, and punctuality.
Community minded 🤝 – Values group harmony, epitomized by the phrase “all for one and one for all.
Dedication 💪 – Committed to others, working long hours and giving up holidays to help the company and its customers. In the service industry, a high level of service is expected.
Modest and humble 🙍 – Not assertive and choose to be softer, respecting harmony.
Language
Although few Japanese speak English, even in the younger generations, there are from what i have heard from friends traveling in Japan adequate English signs in town and English menus in restaurants to be able to easily travel around without knowing Japanese. Much because Japanese people really try their best to help.
Japan has hiragana, katakana, and kanji, and by junior high school students learn 2100 kanji, but there are tens of thousands of kanji in the dictionary.
Tours & Guides
Tokyo 1-day private tour: 20,000 yen and up
Hop-on hop-off one-day bus tour: 3800 yen and up
Eating tour in Tsukiji Market and Dotonbori area in Osaka: From 5,000 yen
3-hour tour of Osaka: 3,000 yen
One-day tour of Kyoto’s classic sightseeing spots: 7,000 yen
Kimono dressing and rental: 3000 yen and up
Currency
The unit of money in Japan is the Japanese Yen; there are six types of coins and three types of bills. Tipping at restaurants is not customary.
Credit cards and ATM
Cards are accepted in many places
⚠️ Cash is required at street vendors, vending machines, toy-capsule (gatya-gatya), train station ticket vending machines, and traditional stores. Please note that vending machines only accept coins and bills of 1000 yen.
Japanese convenience stores are open 24 hours a day and have ATMs where you can withdraw money at any time; Visa and MasterCard are the most common.
Safety
It is very safe. Here are some examples of daily life in Japan that clearly show this:
Women can walk alone in the street at night without any problem.
It is normal for children to go to school alone.
Tired people are sleeping on the train after work.
It is no problem to leave your baggage at a restaurant or outside.
Even if you drop your wallet, it will be reported to the police and there is a high probability that it will be returned to you with all your possessions.
But I would be dishonest if I said it is perfect in Japan, yes women walk around alone feeling very safe day and night, which as I understand it is not common, but unfortunately there are still people taking advantage of for example rush hour trains for things like groping and inappropriate touching.
This is definitely not common but if you want to be extra careful then try to avoid rush hour and overly crowded trains. BUT there are also many crowded train-lines that have women-only carriages. Look out for the “Women Only” pink sticker on the carriage.
Earthquakes, tsunami and typhoon
A major earthquake of magnitude 7 or greater occurs somewhere in Japan approximately every 10 years.
A major earthquake accompanied by a large tsunami occurs infrequently; the last one before 2011 occurred in 1946.
Typhoons approach and hit Japan every year, especially in August and September. Catastrophic typhoons occur every few years.
Plugs
The standard voltage in Japan is 100V. The type is A.
Overview of Japan
Located in East Asia, Japan is a collection of beautiful islands stretching from the chilly confines of Hokkaido to the subtropical paradise of Okinawa.
The allure of Japan is further amplified by its distinct four seasons, exemplified by the cherry blossoms of spring and the vibrant autumn leaves.
Alongside its breathtaking nature, Japan boasts rich traditional arts like tea ceremonies, Kabuki, and Ikebana. Its globally renowned cuisine, including sushi and ramen, has even earned a spot on UNESCO’s Intangible Cultural Heritage list.
Japan’s history tells a captivating tale from the era of samurais to imperial reigns, periods of isolation, and subsequent modernization.
Particularly after World War II, Japan underwent a meteoric rise to become a leading developed nation. Today, its prominence is so significant that many around the world recognize not only its geographical position and national flag but also its unique cultural identity.
Destination Highlights
Tokyo
Tokyo is a dazzling blend of ultra-modern skyscrapers and timeless traditions, where neon-lit streets meet serene temples. As Japan’s bustling capital, it offers a unique mix of innovative technology, fashion, and ancient history in one dynamic cityscape.
Osaka is a vibrant city known for its warm-hearted locals and mouth-watering street food, especially takoyaki and okonomiyaki. Balancing modern architecture with historic landmarks, it’s a hub of commerce and culture, offering both bustling markets and serene riverside views.
Kyoto, once Japan’s imperial capital, is a city steeped in history and tradition, boasting ancient temples and serene gardens. Its atmospheric streets, from the geisha district of Gion to the bamboo groves of Arashiyama, offer a glimpse into the timeless soul of Japan.
Fushimi Inari Shrine
Kiyomizu Temple
Kinkaku temple
Arashiyama (bamboo grove)
Yasaka Shrine
Kimono dressing experience
Nishiki Market
Hiroshima
Hiroshima, forever marked by the atomic bomb of 1945, stands today as a symbol of peace and resilience. With its bustling downtown, beautiful Hiroshima Castle, and the poignant Peace Memorial Park, the city offers a deep reflection on history while looking confidently towards the future.
Itsukushima Shrine, Miyajima
Atomic Bomb Dome
Atomic Bomb Museum
Mt.Fuji
Mount Fuji, Japan’s iconic and highest peak, majestically rises against the skyline, drawing both pilgrims and photographers alike. Its surrounding areas, replete with serene lakes and lush forests, offer breathtaking views and tranquil retreats that capture the essence of natural beauty in Japan.
Mt. Fuji 5th
Niikura Sengen Shrine
Oshinohakkai
Kawaguchiko
Miho no Matsubara
Lake Ashi
When to Visit
If you want to enjoy cherry blossoms, your best bet is to be in Japan around the end of March 🌸
November if you want to enjoy red leaves 🍁
If you want to enjoy hot springs, the end of November to February ♨️
⚠️Around June and July : rainy season August and September : typhoons approaching and landing, high humidity However, many traditional festivals are often held in the summer around these months. These are very special events where many people wear yukata (light cotton kimono) to participate,these events are a special treat to visit 👘🏮
Getting Around
Here we go through some of the ways to get around Japan, but the easiest and my recommended way has to be the very great public transport system, and the JR Groups JR Pass is the way to go for foreigners.
JR Pass (Japan Rail Pass) is only available for foreign tourists. Japanese people envy this type of ticket as we can not get it this cheaply.
This ticket allows unlimited rides on all JR Transportation types like trains, buses and ferries. And allows you to travel throughout Japan very inexpensively. 7-day, 14-day, and 21-day passes are available. To purchase, you need a seal or stamp of entry to Japan and you must use a manned gate at the station when entering.
Negi soba (Fukushima): A unique food where the soba is eaten with green onions instead of chopsticks, a common part of Japanese meals
Miso Katsu (Nagoya): A Nagoya specialty: pork cutlet topped with a generous amount of red miso-based sauce.
Unajyu (Hamamatsu): Rice dish consisting of eel grilled over charcoal with a special sauce and served on a bed of rice
Houtou (Yamanashi): A noodle dish cooked in a pot with lots of ingredients, thick noodles and plenty of vegetables
Motsu nabe (Fukuoka): A one-pot dish centered around motsu, the internal organs of beef or pork.
Chicken Nanban (Miyazaki): Deep-fried chicken with special sauce.
Tori Sashimi (Miyazaki): A local dish of fresh chicken meat served raw as sashimi
Budget-friendly options
In Japan there is a very wide range of prices for food, and contrary to what many of my foreign friends thought about what it costs to buy great food in Japan, it is actually not that expensive, IF you can find the right restaurants and spots to eat. We write more about this in our article about cheap meals and restaurants in Japan.
But here is a summary of my most recommended options for that budget-friendly meal:
A tip is also to visit all-you-can-eat restaurants, where you can get a great big meal to last the rest of the day.
Hotels & Accomodations
Business hotels – amenities such as shampoo, slippers, bath towels, razors, etc. are provided and are not inconvenient.
Capsule hotels – Only the bare necessities are provided in your private room, such as lighting, power, and a bed. Shower and toilet facilities are shared. The atmosphere is very cozy, like your own secret place.
Ryokan – The rooms are uniquely Japanese, with no sofas or beds, and you often sit on a no-legs-chair or zabuton and sleep on a futon laid directly on the floor. You can feel the warmth from the rooms made of tatami mats and wood. Ryokan staff often wear kimonos as well, making this a place where you can experience Japan from the whole experience.
Hostels and Guesthouses
Minshuku – Home-style accommodations. Generally reasonably priced. The main attraction is that you can taste home-cooked meals using local ingredients and receive warm hospitality in a Japanese family atmosphere. At minshuku by the sea, they cook with freshly caught seafood.
Luxury and resort hotels – Some hotels offer private outdoor baths on verandas with beautiful ocean or mountain views, where you can spend a quiet moment in the bath without disturbing anyone.
Love Hotels – Accommodations for couples. Features large beds, large baths, and a luxurious atmosphere. For more information about this hotel, please check this page.
What would Japan be without the wast anime and gaming culture? A lot less famous and magical, that’s for sure. And of course I recommend everyone (even if you are not particularly interested) to at least visit one of these places filled with wonder and japaneseness.
Hatsumode at shrines and temples (to express gratitude to God for the previous year and to pray for happiness in the new year, to draw omikuji, etc.) 🎍
2nd Monday in January
A festival to celebrate new adults. The streets are filled with newcomers wearing furisode (long-sleeved kimono) and hakama (traditional Japanese male dress) 👘
Late March – Early April
Cherry blossoms begin to bloom and many people enjoy hanami (enjoying food, drinks, and conversation while viewing cherry blossoms) 🌸
Early May
Carp streamers are decorated everywhere (especially on rivers) and big carp swim in the sky. The carp streamers are 🎏
May
Many flowers, such as nemophila, are at their best. Check 👉 Hitachi Seaside Park
June
The rainy season is here and hydrangeas, which are originally from Japan, are blooming everywhere ☔️
July
Writing your wishes on a piece of paper and hanging it on the upward-reaching bamboo branches, sending your hopes and dreams straight to the heavens. It’s a heartwarming tradition meant to bridge us to the skies above.🎋
Late July – August
Fireworks festivals are held all over the country and many people attend in yukata 🎆
Middle August
There’s a belief in Japan that our ancestors’ spirits return. To soothe and honor these spirits, we joyfully dance and sing, pouring our hearts into every move and note, creating a lively atmosphere filled with gratitude and remembrance🏮
October
Halloween events will be a lot of fun. (Shibuya, USJ) 🎃 Check 👉 Shibuya, USJ
November
Enjoy the spectacular view as the leaves begin to change and the mountains turn red and yellow 🍁
December
The city is decorated with lights for Christmas 🎄 On New Year’s Eve, people prepare to ring the bell and pass the year, and it is customary to eat soba noodles 🎉