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!
| 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. |
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:
☝️ 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:
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).
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!
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! 👀
I will show you both how to enjoy Osaka as a tourist and how to have fun in Osaka as a person accustomed to Osaka. 😎
Osaka was once known as the “kitchen of the nation”. Even today, Osaka is a treasure trove of food, overflowing with delicious delicacies. 😋
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 ❤️🔥
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!
Packing for Japan is all about what season you plan to visit. Here are some average temperatures for seasons:
Pack clothes for the season, and some other pro tips:
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.
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 |
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.
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€.
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.
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.
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.
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.
It is very safe. Here are some examples of daily life in Japan that clearly show this:
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.
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.
The standard voltage in Japan is 100V. The type is A.
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.
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.
Tokyo’s top foods and where to eat >
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.
Local food and where to eat in Osaka >
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.
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.
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.
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 👘🏮
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.
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.
⚠️ 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.
Unique but delicious delicacies in Japan >
Traditional Japanese sweets and confectionery >
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.
All things to do & activities articles >
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.
Best anime and gaming spots in Japan >
| Time of year | Special Seasonal Event | Image |
|---|---|---|
| January | 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 🎉 |