The Ultimate Japan Travel Guide for 2024

Tips from a Local for an Authentic trip!

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 GuideSummarised
🌏 OverviewJapan is a unique blend of ancient traditions and modern marvels, known for its safe environment, distinct seasons, and globally recognized cuisine.
🏯 Destination highlightsJapan's key destinations include culturally rich Tokyo, historic Kyoto, vibrant Osaka, and scenic Mount Fuji, each offering unique experiences and attractions.
🌸 When to visitThe 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.
🎒 PackingYour packing for Japan should be seasonally appropriate, with average temperatures ranging from 5°C in winter to 25°C in summer.
💰 BudgetAccommodation 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.
💴 CurrencyThe Japanese Yen is the official currency, with credit cards widely accepted, though cash is needed for vending machines, street vendors, and certain traditional stores.
🔌 PlugsJapan uses Type A electrical plugs with a standard voltage of 100V.
🛡️ SafetyJapan 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.
💬 LanguageThe 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 etiquetteIn Japan, etiquette includes practices like bowing, maintaining a quiet demeanor in public, punctuality, proper queuing, and pocketing your trash.
🚅 Getting aroundJapan's efficient public transportation, particularly the Japan Rail Pass for tourists, offers convenient and cost-effective travel across the country.
🍣 Cuisine and diningJapan 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 accomodationsJapan 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 experiencesJapan 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.

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!

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.

☝️ 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 ♨️

Yes, right now Japan is accepting tourists. All covid restrictions are lifted.

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.

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.

It takes about 13 hours from London, England and 14 hours from New York, United States.

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.

Here are some general tips to have in mind for a great first visit:

  1. Manners: Wait your turn in line and be quiet in public places is very much appreciated by locals.
  2. Shoe-less culture: Especially in ryokan (Japanese style inns), temples and shrines.
  3. Cash is often needed: In vending machines, gatya-gatya, ticket machines at train stations, small stores.
  4. Public transportation: Trains and buses run on time and are well organised.
  5. Advance reservations: Popular accommodations tend to fill up quickly (especially in Ginzan Onsen).

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.

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).

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📖 Jump to Guide Section >

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!

Rika's popular Castle in Fukushima
In front of Doll Castle in Fukushima, an image that captures how i feel about traveling in Japan!

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.

    Capsule hotel
    Capsile hotel : Photo by Ueno Station Hostel ORIENTAL
  • 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.
    Ryokan

Japanese style hotel in Ginzan onsen

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:

CityRecommended TransportationPrice per session
(adult)
Price for 1-day pass (adult)Where to Buy
TokyoTokyo Metro (subway)Around 200 yen600 YenTicket vending machine in subway
OsakaSubwayAround 200 yenWeekday: 820 Yen
Weekend: 620 Yen
Ticket vending machine in subway
KyotoKyoto BusAround 200 yen700 YenDriver / 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

Women only train
Photo by MUFG

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:

  1. Women can walk alone in the street at night without any problem.
  2. It is normal for children to go to school alone.
  3. Tired people are sleeping on the train after work.
  4. It is no problem to leave your baggage at a restaurant or outside.
  5. 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.

Women only train
Women only train during specific hours : Photo by Tokyo Metro

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

Plug

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

Sensozi in Tokyo
Senso-ji in Asakusa

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.

  • Sensoji Temple
  • Tsukiji Market
  • Scramble Crossing
  • Tokyo Sky Tree
  • Akihabara
  • Imperial Palace
  • Takeshita Street

Places to visit in Tokyo >

Things to do in Tokyo >

Tokyo’s top foods and where to eat >

All Tokyo travel tips >

Osaka

Dotonbori
Dotonbori

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.

  • Universal Studio Japan (USJ)
  • Dotonbori
  • Osaka Castle
  • Shinsekai
  • Kaiyukan

Places to visit in Osaka >

Local food and where to eat in Osaka >

All Osaka travel tips >

Kyoto

Fushimi inari shrine
Fushimi inari shrine

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

Miyajima
Miyajima

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

Arakura Fuji Sengen Shirine with Mt.Fuji
Arakura Fuji Sengen Shirine with 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

Bullet train
Shinkansen 🚅

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.

For more information, please read Japan Rail Pass official site here.

How to buy tickets

For most types of public transport you buy tickets at the station in vending machines.

It is a fairly easy and straight forward process but keep this in mind:

⚠️ Vending machines for ticket purchase (most commonly) only accepts cash, so be prepared with some Japanese Yen!

⚠️ You can change language to English or other preferred language in the settings screen for the machines.

For trains 🚃 and subways 🚇:

  1. Purchase a ticket from a ticket machine near the ticket gate before boarding the train.
  2. Put the purchased ticket through the ticket gate.
  3. After getting off the train, the ticket must be deducted to exit through the ticket gate, as a ticket is required to exit through the ticket gate.

For bus 🚌:

  1. Board without a ticket.
  2. Pay the fare at the fare box next to the driver when you get off.

⚠️ It is not an automatic fare adjustment machine, so pay in such a way that you do not have to make change.

⚠️ It is recommended that you exchange money as much as possible while the bus is stopped before you get off to prevent congestion.

What about taxi? 🚕

Cuisine & Dining

Unique but delicious delicacies in Japan >

Traditional Japanese sweets and confectionery >

Introduction to Japanese cuisine

  • Sushi
  • Yakitori
  • Ramen
  • Udon
  • Soba
  • Shabu-shabu
  • Sukiyaki
  • Yakiniku
  • Tonkatsu
  • Okonomiyaki
  • Takoyaki
  • Onigiri

Local delicacies – Insights from a local Japanese

Negi soba
Negi soba, speciality food in Fukushima
  • 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.

Activities & Experiences

Things to do in Japan

kimono

  • Riding a Rickshaw
  • Sightseeing in kimono
  • Viewing cherry blossom
  • Staying at a Ryokan (Japanese traditional inn)
  • Touring hot springs
  • Touring shrines and temples
  • Experience high-quality Japanese karaoke
  • Taking purikura (photo booths)
  • Going to an izakaya (Japanese-style pub)
  • Gambling at a pachinko parlor
  • Meeting a geisha
  • Eating unique Japanese confectionery
  • Tea ceremony experience
  • Eating a lot of Japanese sushi

All things to do & activities articles >

Anime & Gaming Spots

Nintendo world
Nintendo world in Universal Studio Japan, Osaka

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.

  • Nintendo World (Osaka)
  • Ghibli Park (Aichi)
  • Sanrio Puroland (Tokyo)
  • Sanrio Harmony Land (Oita)
  • Nijigen no mori (Hyogo)
  • Gundam Base (Tokyo, Fukuoka)
  • Pokemon Center

Best anime and gaming spots in Japan >

Seasonal Activities

Time of yearSpecial Seasonal EventImage
JanuaryHatsumode 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 JanuaryA 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 AprilCherry blossoms begin to bloom and many people enjoy hanami (enjoying food, drinks, and conversation while viewing cherry blossoms) 🌸
Early MayCarp streamers are decorated everywhere (especially on rivers) and big carp swim in the sky. The carp streamers are 🎏
MayMany flowers, such as nemophila, are at their best. Check 👉 Hitachi Seaside Park
JuneThe rainy season is here and hydrangeas, which are originally from Japan, are blooming everywhere ☔️
JulyWriting 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 – AugustFireworks festivals are held all over the country and many people attend in yukata 🎆
Middle AugustThere’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🏮
OctoberHalloween events will be a lot of fun. (Shibuya, USJ) 🎃
Check 👉 Shibuya, USJ
NovemberEnjoy the spectacular view as the leaves begin to change and the mountains turn red and yellow 🍁
DecemberThe 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 🎉