free travel japan

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JAPAN Hands-Free Travel | JAL ABC

• JAPAN HANDS-FREE TRAVEL
• DATA SIM & MOBILE
• AIRPORT COUNTERS
• Sending luggage from the airport
• Sending luggage to the airport

Haneda Airport

• Tokyo Station
• Luggage Storage Service
• SIM cards for use within Japan
• WiFi rental service
• Mobile phones rental service
• Narita International Airport Terminal1
• Narita International Airport Terminal2
• Haneda Airport Terminal2
• Haneda Airport Terminal3
• Kansai International Airport Terminal1
• Chubu International Airport Terminal1

JAPAN Hands-Free Travel

What is "hands-free travel".

"Hands-Free Travel" makes it possible to easily and safely travel around Japan for a more enjoyable stay without carrying around heavy suitcases and carry bags. Services related to "Hands-Free Travel," such as our Luggage Delivery Service, which delivers your luggage to a specified location, and our Storage Service, which stores your luggage when unneeded, provide travelers from overseas with peace of mind and convenience. JAL ABC's counters at Narita International Airport, Haneda Airport International Passenger Terminal, and Kansai International Airport are called "Hands-Free Travel" Counters.

JAL ABC's "Hands-Free" Travel Service

Delivery service.

• Airport Luggage Delivery Service

This service allows you to send your luggage to the place you will be staying in Japan from Narita International Airport, Haneda Airport International Passenger Terminal, or Kansai International Airport, and also allows you to send your luggage back to one of these airports. This also makes travelling by train, bus, or similar means less of a hassle since the need to carry around heavy luggage has been eliminated.

• Hotel Luggage Delivery Service

Luggage Delivery Service allows customers to send luggages from the airport to hotels (or vice versa) for delivery on the same day. Recommended for customers here for sightseeing or business.

Storage Service

Storage Service allows you to store luggage at the airport that you won't need during your trip. Since you can leave your luggage with us much longer than possible using a coin locker, it is convenient and will provide you with peace of mind during your trip.

Where are your services offered?

Jalabc　“hands-free travel　counter”, narita airport terminal1.

Departure Counter (4F)

Arrival Counter (1F)

Narita Airport Terminal2

Departure Counter (3F)

Arrival Counter (2F)

Kansai Airport Terminal1

※At Chubu Centrair International Airport, some JAL ABC services are offered at the Yamato Transport counter.　　 MAP

Various Services of "Hands-Free Travel"

How to plan a free and easy trip to Japan on a budget

After closing to the world since the start of Covid in early 2020, Japan has reopened to all travelers on 11 October 2022. Finally, you can visit Japan without booking through travel agencies or worrying about daily arrival limits, quarantines, Covid tests (if you are fully vaccinated).

Are you as excited as me? Yes! The freedom to rediscover Japan! I miss Japan and everything about Japan. I have received many questions about how to plan a free and easy trip to Japan. To celebrate Japan’s reopening, I have put together this step by step guide with money-saving travel hacks so you can see the best of Japan on a budget.

Table of Contents

Where to visit in Japan?

The first step in your Japan trip planning process is the most difficult step as you have to decide where to visit and plan your itinerary.

Japan is home to 47 prefectures that are spread over 8 main regions: Hokkaido , Tohoku , Kanto (Tokyo) , Chubu , Kinki/Kansai (Kyoto and Osaka) Chugoku , Shikoku , Kyushu  ( Okinawa ).

Most of the links I have provided in this guide are from my favorite website Japan-guide.com . I have been using this website for years as they provide concise and informative travel content. Other useful websites include the JAPAN by Japan website by Japan National Tourism Organization (JNTO) and Cheesie’s Cheeserland blog .

Thanks to the Japan Exchange and Teaching (JET) program , I spent 2 life-changing years in Okinawa and managed to explore Japan and visit 31 prefectures. I am more familiar with Okinawa and the Kyushu region and I usually recommend them to travelers who have been to the “Japan’s trinity of tourist attractions” in Tokyo, Kyoto, and Osaka and are looking for new places in Japan to visit.

Inspired by Rick Steves’ Europe travel guides and the super useful overview he uses to recommend must-see sights in Europe, I have adapted his method for Japan to recommend top destinations for first-time and repeated travelers.

I used to pack many places during my trip. But these days, I prefer to spend more days to explore one place and not do a “fast and furious” trip to tick off bucket list attractions. Here are my recommendations and travel tips! Well, this list may change as I see more of Japan.

One week in Japan (for first-time travellers)

• Tokyo (3 days)
• Kyoto (3 days)
• Osaka (1 day)
• If you have more days, add day trips to Yokohama, Hakone (to view Mount Fuji), and even Disneyland from Tokyo. And add day trips to Nara and Kobe in Kansai (Kyoto and Osaka are in this region).

One week in Japan (for repeated travellers)

• Sapporo, Otaru, Asahikawa (for the amazing  Asahiyama Zoo  if you are traveling in winter and with children), ski resorts like Niseko or Rusutsu, Furano and Biel.
• If you have more than one week, add Abashiri for the spectacular drift ice in winter, Kushiro and Shiretoko for hiking, and Hakodate (the most northern part of Hokkaido).
• Highlights: Fukuoka, Nagasaki, Yufuin, and Beppu.
• If you have more than 1 week, add Kumamoto (Mount Aso), Kagoshima (4-5 days at  Yakushima  for the best hiking experience, Sakurajima, and sand onsen at Ibusuki), Miyazaki for the Takachiko waterfalls, Amakusa islands, Saga (Ureshino onsen), and Kitakyushu.
• Road trip all over Okinawa mainland and trips to outer islands like the Kerama islands.
• If you have more than 1 week, add far-flung islands like Miyako and Ishigaki to your summer adventures.
• Check out my guides to Okinawa:  Top 15 things to do in Okinawa  ,  islands to visit from Naha  , and the  ultimate guide to everything about Okinawa .
• Setouchi islands (see my  guide to Naoshima ), Tokushima (in August for the famous Awa Odori festival), Ehime (Matsuyama, Dogo Onsen), and Kochi (Iya Valley).
• If you have more than 1 week, try the scenic cycling route  Shimanami Kaido  from Hiroshima (Chugoku) to Imabari (Shikoku).
• Highlights: Hiroshima, Kinosai Onsen, and Tottori.
• If you have more than 1 week, add Shimane (famous Izumo Grand Shrine), Matsue, Yamaguchi, and Okayama.
• Highlights: Kanazawa (a “quieter Kyoto”) and Gifu (Shirakawago, Takayama).
• If you have more than 1 week, add Nagoya, Fukui, Mie (Izu Peninsula), and Matsumoto.
• If you are travelling in winter, amazing ski slopes in Nagano/Hakuba area.
• Wakayama (Mount Koya, temple stays, and hiking), Himeji, and Lake Biwa.

When to visit Japan?

Japan welcomes travelers all year round! The changing seasons make travel around Japan very interesting as you can enjoy a variety of sights and experiences in spring, summer, autumn, and winter.

Here’s a summary of what you can enjoy when you visit Japan in different seasons. If you have the flexibility to choose when to visit Japan, you can visit during popular flowering and festival periods.

Japan in Spring (March to May)

• Plum blossom season   marks the start of spring! Most people do not know about the beautiful plum trees bloom and plum festivals that take place in from February to March.
• Cherry blossom season   starts from end March to April. The flowers start blooming from the south with the dark pink cherry blossoms in Okinawa appearing in early February to the flowers blooming in Hokkaido in April
• Popular spots in Tokyo and Kyoto are packed. Head to other regions further away from the big cities like Tohoku, Shikoku, and Kyushu for spectacular sakura viewing spots without the crowds.
• Check out the super useful  Japan-guide.com’s Cherry Blossom Forecast and Reports  .
• The Japanese have very accurate Sakura Navi (桜ナビ) so you can search for the Japanese sites like  this  (using Google Translate) and get accurate and timely updates about the progress of the flowers blooming (like 50% bloom or full bloom (sakura mankaiさくら満開).
• Avoid the  Golden Week  (a period of 4 national holidays in Japan when domestic travel is at the peak) from end of April to the first week of May.
• Try to avoid the  rainy season  (tsuyu 梅雨) starts in Okinawa in early/mid May and lasts for a month till early/mid June.

Japan in Summer (June to August)

• In early summer, most parts of Japan have the  rainy season  from early June to early/mid July. While it may be inconvenient to travel during the rainy season, you can enjoy lush vegetation and the  blooming season of hydrangeas .
• July and August are busy periods for summer celebrations with local festivals and fireworks. The Japanese festivals are out of this world so make sure you check the  festival calendar  and participate in some festivals!
• July is the famous flower viewing season in Hokkaido.
• Mount Fuji  is open for climbing during July and August.
• The hot weather and clear blue skies perfect for beaches and island hopping. Summer destinations like Okinawa are packed.
• Take note that the August to September is the peak season for  typhoons  (sometimes the typhoons can also hit anytime from May to October). Watch out for the weather reports.
• Travel activity is high in August due to summer school holidays.

Japan in Autumn (September to November)

• September is still considered summer in some prefectures in the south as the weather is warm for sea activities and island-hopping in Okinawa, Kyushu, and Shikoku areas.
• Autumn starts in mid/late September in the north of Japan where the leaves start to turn colors in Hokkaido. November is the best period to see autumn colours. Check out the autumn leaf viewing spots  here .

Japan in Winter (December to February)

• December heralds the start of winter and winter/Christmas illuminations decorate most cities. There are many Christmas festivals and markets so do some research about their locations and check them out.
• From mid December, the Japanese start to prepare to celebrate the Japanese New Year (oshogatsuお正月). Join the festivities by watching the first sunrise of the year (hatsuhinode 初日の出) and visiting the first shrine or temple (hatsumode 初詣), on the 1st of January (or on New Year’s Eve).
• Some shops and attractions close for oshogatsu (from end December to early January). Find out more about  visiting Japan during New Year here  .
• Ski season starts from December and January, and February is the best time for winter sports and viewing winter sceneries.
• February is the closest month so fantastical winter festivals are in action.

Check out Japan-guide.com ’s informative guide about when to visit Japan with tips about the weather, recommended activities, and more.

How to get to Ja pan?

Once you have selected the places/prefectures and confirmed on your travel dates, it’s time to book your air tickets to Japan.

Step 1 : Use Skyscanner to have a quick overview of the types of airlines flying to your destinations and the range of air fares.

Step 2: After you have selected your desired flight, book your air tickets directly on the airline website.

Airports in Japan

To Tokyo : Narita Airport (NRT) (handles most of the international flights), Haneda Airport (HND) (handles mostly domestic flights and increasing number of international flights)

To Kyoto/Osaka : Kansai International Airport (KIX)

To Hokkaido T: New Chitose Airport (CTS)

To Kyushu : Fukuoka Airport (FUK)

To Okinawa : Naha Airport (OKA). Check out this guide on how to get to Okinawa .

Here are some general tips based on my experiences traveling to Japan from Singapore and my budget saving strategies. Remember to always book your air tickets in advance (as early as you can to secure good fares)!

Japan Airlines (JAL) and All Nippon Airlines (ANA ): These two national air carriers are great but I find their air fares quite high. I only flew JAL to Japan from Singapore when my air tickets were paid for (thanks to the JET program and travel prizes).

Singapore Airlines (SIA ): It’s always nice to fly SIA but air tickets can be more expensive. One good to way to fly SIA is to redeem flights using KrisFlyer miles. My best flight was redeemed with 48,000 miles for return flight to Narita Airport-Changi Airport. This was thanks to my Citibank PremierMiles card.

The credit cards I recommend for earning miles for flight redemption:

• Citi PremierMiles Credit Card : Use my code ( s1152801010N) to get up to 30,000 Citi Miles (which can be easily converted to KrisFlyer miles).
• Citi Rewards Credit Card: Use my code ( s1152801010N) to get up to 30,000 Citi Thank You Points (which can be easily converted to KrisFlyer miles).
• American Express Singapore Airlines KrisFlyer Credit Card: Use my link and earn 5,000 KrisFlyer miles with minimum spending and 10,000 miles if you are new to AMEX.

Delta Air Lines : I flew once to Narita Airport from Singapore during the Lunar New Year period. Delta offered the cheapest return direct flights and the experience was decent.

Low-cost carriers like Jetstar and Scoot : They offer flights that are value for money and the flight time to Japan from Singapore is not too long for no-frills flights. Jetstar used to have direct flights to Okinawa, Naha Airport (it takes just 5 hours to reach the island paradise) and they may resume the flights soon. Jetstar is running a special “Hello Tokyo Sale” now till 14 October 2022! Enjoy cheap flights from Singapore to Tokyo (via Manila) from $271 SGD!

  Domestic Airlines

There are many airlines running domestic flights all over Japan. Sometimes taking domestic flights to get from one prefecture to another is faster and cheaper than taking train and other modes of transportation.

Japan Airlines (JAL) and All Nippon Airlines (ANA ): They offer many flight routes and options. The air tickets can cost as low as budget airlines if you buy in advance. Based on my experiences, ANA domestic fares seem cheaper than JAL.

 Skyscanner may not show flights by small budget airlines so you can search for flights and fares on their websites. Some common budget airlines include:

• Jetstar Japan
• Skymark Airlines
• Peach Aviation

Make sure to check the luggage allowance and any hidden fees. If you have big luggage, you have to top up the fares for the budget airlines and sometimes it may be more worthwhile to fly with ANA or JAL.

Find more flight options and tips here .

How to get around Japan?

Japan has a fantastic public transportation network that connects big cities to smaller towns. Depending on the places you are visiting in Japan, you may have to take a range of public transportation from trains to buses and even ferries. Here are my insider tips to traveling around Japan efficiently and cheaply!

Rail passes

Tourists to Japan (short term visitors) are entitled to purchase rail passes and they are convenient and offer great savings if you are traveling around Japan.

There are many types of rail passes available. The most popular rail pass is the Japan Rail Pass that offers unlimited travel on almost Japan Rail (JR) trains nationwide. You should get this pass if you are doing heavy travel for 7, 14, or 21 days. A general tip: The 7-day JR Pass (at 29,650 yen) is worth it if you do at least one return train trip between Tokyo and Kyoto/Osaka plus some shorter trips. Spend some time to select the most suitable the rail pass based on your travel destinations and do some calculations to evaluate if you should buy it.

Many people do not know that there are other passes that are cheaper for region-specific travel. There are 6 JR companies (collectively known as the Japan Railways JR Group) that operate train routes in Japan:

• JR Hokkaido

There’s no JR service in Okinawa! I kind of get annoyed when people don’t do simple research and ask me this!

For example, I used the JR East Tohoku Area Pass to explore the Tohoku region and Nikko for my winter trip, Takayama-Hokuriku Tourist Pass to visit Kansai, Kanazawa, Takayama and Shirakawago, and JR Setouchi Area Pass for the Setouchi Triennale and island hopping around the Seto Inland Sea. Check out all the available rail passes here . Remember to check the eligible train lines for the rail pass and take note of any exclusions.

Don’t forget to experience special sightseeing and themed trains in Japan! This is something uniquely Japan that you can only enjoy in the land of trains. Check out the dazzling network of scenic train lines here . My best train travel memories were crossing the Setouchi sea from Okayama to Takamatsu on the Marine Liner and passing through snow-capped landscapes in Yamagata and Hokkaido. I love themed trains and I have fulfilled my childhood fantasies onboard Anpanman trains in Shikoku and the Asahiyama zoo train in Hokkaido.

How to buy rail passes?

You can buy your rail pass in Singapore before you enter Japan. Here are some places/websites you can purchase from:

• Japan Tourism Bureau (JTB)
• Nippon Travel Agency (NTA)
• Changi Recommends
• Japan Rail Pass (official website by the JR Group)

There are many other websites selling the JR passes. Remember to check if they are legitimate and the current exchange rates. I usually check different websites (or even call the vendors directly) and compare the rates. You can enjoy free travel consultation at Japan Rail Café in Singapore . Check out their informative JR Times website with travel itineraries and guides.

Once you have purchased the rail pass from your selected/verified website, you will receive a voucher. Use the voucher to exchange for the rail pass when you arrive in Japan. Klook has an informative FAQ about how to redeem the rail pass . Use my special Klook promo code WENDYKLOOK to enjoy 5% any Klook purchases (no min. spend; capped at USD $10). ⁣

Buses are everywhere in Japan. Local buses provide convenient travel in cities and towns. In Kyoto, the local buses bring you to more places than the train. There are highway buses for long and medium distance travel. Highway buses that travel overnight are cheaper than express trains even though the traveling time is longer. I took a long distance bus from Tokyo to Nagoya and it was quite comfortable. Find out more about the bus routes and bus companies here .

I love road trips in Japan! My favorite trips in Japan were driving around the Okinawa islands, Kyushu, and even Tottori. Car rental can be affordable in Japan if you travel with your friends/family (because of cost sharing) and you can explore more places. Make sure you have your International Driving Permit (for Singaporeans) to rent vehicles and drive in Japan.

Book rental cars with car companies like Orix Rentacar , Toyota Rentacar , Nippon Rentacar , OTS Rentacar , and more. You can also book with websites like Tabirai and Tocoo that provide a wide selection of car brands and types. I usually book my cars directly with the car rental company that offers the lowest rate (with English GPS navigation system and insurance). I find that the rental rates are cheaper when I book through Japanese websites. Learn more about driving in Japan here .

Do you know Japan has over 6000 islands? So it’s not surprising that Japan as an extensive network of ferry routes that connect Japan to 4 main islands–Honshu (main island), Hokkaido, Kyushu (including Okinawa), and Shikoku–and the smaller outer islands.

I love ferry rides as they are relaxing (as long as the ocean is not too choppy). Find out more about the ferry routes and ferry companies here .

Tips for taking ferry rides in Japan

• Book your ferry tickets in advance for popular routes (especially in summer and during special events/festivals).
• There are different types of ferries like regular, high speed, and slower cargo ship. High speed ferries are usually the best choice as they bring you to the island much faster but they cost more. High speed ferry rides tend to be choppy so prepare your sea sickness pills.
• Car ferries are fun! Some ferries allow you to pay more and bring your car across the ocean to the island so you can just conveniently drive your car around the island.
• Overnight ferries help to save time and money. And they can be quite comfortable. I had a memorable long ferry ride from Shodoshima to Kobe!

Japan is a very cyclist-friendly country! The Japanese love their bicycles (自転車 jitensha) and cycling is a popular activity. There are many scenic cycling routes in Japan great for short cycling expeditions. I highly recommend Shimanami Kaido しまなみ海道. This well known bikeway connects Japan’s main island Honshu to Shikoku and runs through 6 islands and 6 bridges in the Seto Inland Sea. This picturesque route is every cyclist’s dream. Read about my Shimanami Kaido adventure here ! Every time when I write or talk about it, I just want to go back to Japan and do the cycling route again!

Tips for cycling in Japan

• Bicycle rental is widely available in Japan. The most common type of bicycles is the simple bicycle called mamachari or mom’s bicycle that usually comes with a useful basket. You can also pay more for efficient bicycles like mountain and road racing bikes at more specialized bicycle rental shops found in places with popular cycling routes.
• Make use of the convenient and inexpensive takuhaibin (宅配便) delivery service to transfer your luggage for multi-day cycling trips.
• Don’t drink and cycle! Just like drink-driving, drink-cycling is illegal. True story: I met a foreigner in Japan who was fined for riding a bicycle while drunk on an island!

If you are adventurous and seeking a different kind of travel experience, you can walk through Japan! Interested to do a meditative walk through Japan and learn more about the country? Check out this classic book “The Roads to Sata: A 2000-Mile Walk through Japan” by Alan Booth where he shared his experiences walking from the northernmost point of Japan, Cape Soya in Hokkaido, to the southernmost point of mainland Japan, Cape Sata in Kagoshima.

Want more information? Check out Japan-guide.com’s comprehensive overview of transportation in Japan !

Where to stay in Japan?

The rule of thumb is to book your accommodation as early as possible. The earlier you book, the more options and cheaper rates you will find. The cost of accommodation is one of the biggest travel expenses so I tend to plan a lot of time looking around for the best deals. For popular travel periods like the cherry blossom and autumn leaves seasons and during major festivals, you should try to book your accommodation at least 6 months in advance.

Here are some of my travel tips to secure convenient and affordable accommodation ranging from hotels to hostels for your next trip to Japan!

I like to choose hotels near major train stations (not more than 1 km away) for my trip especially for winter travel (dragging luggage on snow-covered pavement is not fun). Hotels can be expensive in city centres in Tokyo so I usually stay in small business hotels (room size about 18-20 sqm) to save money (location trumps room size for me) since I will not be in the room most of the time.

There are many hotel websites that you can use to book to hotels. Quoting Rick Steves again, he advises traveler to use general hotel websites to research for options and rates and book directly with hotels. I sometimes try to do that but if the rates offered by hotel websites like Booking.com are better, I will book with the platform.

Here’s a list of websites I usually use:

• Agoda : I use Agoda the most as they usually offer cheaper rates than other booking platforms. You can earn Agoda PointsMax and use them to offset the cost of your next hotel booking. Their customer service is generally responsive and friendly. Check out their discount coupons !
• Booking.com : I use Booking.com too as I find their rates cheaper than other websites and their customer service is generally responsive and friendly.
• Trip.com : Like the other websites, Trip.com offers competitive rates. Their customer service is quite good too. Join their telegram group to receive regular alerts about discount deals.
• Traveloka : Traveloka is gaining popularity. I have used them to book hotels in Singapore and some countries. Use my exclusive promo code wendywritesTVLK and enjoy 5-10% discount for your hotel bookings!⁣ Join their telegram group to receive regular alerts about discount deals.
• Expedia : I use Expedia when I find good rates (usually because of credit card promotions).

Tips to enjoy discounts when booking hotels:

• Use Skyscanner to compare and find the best hotel rates! Skyscanner shows you all the rates from a range of booking platforms like Agoda, Booking.com, Expedia and more!
• Always check if there are credit card promotions for the websites. Many hotel booking websites have regular partnerships with companies/banks (like AMEX, Mastercard, Standard Chartered, POSB/DBS and more) and they offer discounts when you book using the credit cards.
• Use ShopBack (use my link to enjoy $5 when you sign up) when you book the hotels to enjoy cash back! ShopBack is a cash back reward program that allows online shoppers to receive a small percentage of their purchases on the platform. When you click on the Booking.com link on the ShopBack website or app and book your hotels using the link via ShopBack, you will receive a percentage of your booking price. The cash back percentage can be quite generous from 6 to 14%! I have saved quite lot for my hotel bookings thanks to ShopBack!

I used to stay in hostels around Japan when I traveled solo to save money! I have spent nights in female and even mixed dorms and also in capsule hotel and all my experiences were pleasant. Hostels in Japan are generally clean and safe so if you are backpacking or traveling on a budget, staying in hostels is a good choice. My favorite hostel chain is K’s House ! I enjoyed all my K’s House stays especially in these beautiful hostels: K’s House Fuji View and K’s House Habuka Alps.

A visit to Japan is not complete without indulging in a ryokan stay. Staying in Japanese traditional inn is truly a pampering experience where you can immerse in the Japanese traditions and Japanese-style hospitality “omotenashi.” A typical ryokan experience includes a well-furnished room, lavish meals (breakfast and dinner), and facilities like hot springs. Ryokan stays can be expensive but you are paying for outstanding service, food, and outdoor onsen or even private access to exclusive baths. I have been lucky to I have stayed in some ryokans in Japan and I did not pay too much for my experiences.

Where to book ryokans?

You can book ryokans via the usual hotel websites listed above. But I find that the English websites have limited selection of ryokans and they tend to be quite expensive. Here are some recommended sites:

Jalan : I have used Jalan a number of times. I like their selection of ryokans and they provide different packages for the ryokans (like with or without meals, in-room tubs, and etc.). I usually use Google translate to access their Japanese website as I find that there are more and cheaper options.

Rurubu : This Japanese website is similar to Jalan. You can find a wide range of hotels and ryokans in every prefecture in Japan. If you can’t read Japanese, you can try to navigate using Google translate.

Rakuten : Like Jalan, I use their Japanese website to book for cheaper deals.

There are other websites like Japanican , Japanese Guesthouses , and Ryokan.jp . I have never booked with these websites before but I used them for research and then I look for cheaper deals on other websites.

I have used Airbnb a few times in the past, especially when I traveled in big groups and needed bigger rooms. But I don’t think I can save much when I book through Airbnb when I travel alone or with a companion. So I usually book hotels as I don’t have to worry about check in and out times and security.

Creative sleeping spaces

What if all the decent accommodation options are fully booked for your travel destinations? Well, you can be creative and try to find non-conventional sleeping spaces. Or if you really like to save money and don’t like slight inconvenience and discomfort.

Manga Cafes (Manga kissa まんが喫茶) : 24-hour manga cafes is your resting haven if you like to save money or need a short rest. Manga Cafes offer packages where you can enjoy all the comics you can read, drinks, and a public seat or private mini room. I spent a night in a manga cafe in Takamatsu during the Awa Odori Festival because all the affordable hotels were fully booked during this famous festival period and I didn’t want to pay for an expensive hotel for a few hours of sleep. Let’s just say it wasn’t the most comfortable sleeping experience but it was definitely the most interesting.

Karaoke Rooms : One of the favorite pastimes of the Japanese is singing karaoke! In big cities like Tokyo and Osaka, you can find karaoke chains easily. If you like singing and just need a room with AC to rest for a few hours, book a karaoke room!

Some other unforgettable sleeping experiences during my young backpacking days: Sleeping on a bench in a park at Miyajima during the Miyajima Fireworks Festival as my camping attempt failed and sleeping in Kansai airport to save money as my flight was very early.

How to save money?

Currency exchange and credit cards.

The Japanese yen is quite weak now so it’s good for you if you are holding stronger currencies. I have been changing my Singapore dollars to Japanese yen to prepare for my next trip to Japan.

I found the best exchange rates on Wise and YouTrip .

Wise is a convenient platform to transfer money and change currencies. It is free to register for an account and apply for a Wise debit card (just pay 9 USD for a physical card).

How to use the Wise card in Japan? You just have to top up your account with funds transferred from your local bank. Then you can exchange currencies easily (like Singapore dollars to Japanese yen) using the Wise app. You can store in yen our WISE app and use your WISE debit card (physical card or e-card via your phone’s e-wallet like Apple Pay) when you make purchases/payments in Japan. You can also just use your Wise’s auto convert feature so you don’t have to exchange yen in advance and you can pay using your Wise card and the payment made in Japan will be converted automatically to yen with the lowest possible fees. I love using my Wise card to make payment in Japan.

Join Wise using my link and enjoy fee-free money transfer of up to $900 SGD.

I have been using YouTrip too. It works like Wise and you can exchange up to 150 foreign currencies with no fees. Sign up with this my link to earn $5 SGD. Start saving Japanese yen for your next trip to Japan!

Travel insurance

Remember to purchase your travel insurance once you have booked your air tickets! In this Covid-19 environment, you may want to pay abit more to have Covid-19 coverage just in case if your trip is affected by any Covid-19 disruptions. Here are some travel insurance companies that offer travel insurance for Singaporeans.

1. FWD : I have recently purchased FWD travel insurance for my family. I like that I can enhance your coverage with COVID-19 add-on benefit and they have an app that facilitates claims easily. I have no issues making claims so far. Check out the policy coverage and cost here (use my link to get extra 2% discount on top of their existing promotional code TRAVEL25). If you are planning a more complex trip that requires more coverage, read their policy wordings carefully.

2. Income : I have been purchasing Income travel insurance for many years. Recently, I find that FWD offers more comprehensive travel insurance packages recently. But Income is always reliable and you can add their Covid-19 travel extension .

3. MSIG : They offer some comprehensive travel insurance coverage and rates. However, for my recent trip to Turkey, my luggage was damaged during transit and their claim process/response was so troublesome that I gave up trying to make a claim.

There are many other travel insurance options and you can check out websites like Singsaver and Moneysmart to see a summary of travel products and promotions. Sometimes these aggregator/third party websites offer quite attractive perks and discounts if you purchase through them. However, before you make any purchase through these websites, check the official travel insurance company website to cross-check the policy coverage and final cost.

Some credit cards come with complimentary travel insurance if you use them (like AMEX Singapore Airlines KrisFlyer and Citi PremierMiles) to purchase the air tickets. But please note that the coverage offered is very limited. So you are planning a long trip and would like adequate coverage, you should buy a separate travel insurance!

I strongly believe in empowering travelers to know better, travel better! I value privacy and transparency. The article contains affiliate links so I may be compensated to run the website and continue to create content if you make a purchase at no extra cost to you.

1 thought on “How to plan a free and easy trip to Japan on a budget”

I want to live in Japan and get a passport

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Tokyo free guide (tfg).

***   One day Tour   ***  

TFG provides a guided tour in Tokyo or its vicinity for a half or full day .

There is no guiding fee for this volunteer service. However, the costs of the guide during the tour such as transportation fares, entrance fees and meals are payed by the guests.

Usually TFG guided tours begin at the guest's hotel or accommodation .

TFG volunteer guides spea k  English , and some can speak Spanish , Italian and other languages.

TFG welcomes both individuals and group of  up to six (6) people . Guests can request a guide for a tour on several different days within two(2) months in advance of the requested dates.

Please note that TFG cannot fulfill all the requests we received due to seasonal demands and the availability of volunteer guides. TFG was able to provide a guide for 6 0% of requests in 2018.

To register, please fill out the form. You will receive an email from a guide when one comes available.

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Tokyo Greeters (TG)

***   A Few Hours Tour   ***

TG provides   a tour for two or three hours   in one or two areas  in Tokyo.

TG provides walking tour  wi thout using local transportation and at places with no entrance fees. There is no tour fee for this volunteer service.

TG greeters and visitors meet at designate d locations such as information centers, notable landmarks and stations.

Most TG greeters speak English .

TG welcomes both individuals and a group of  up to six (6) people . Visitors can request a greeter for a tour on two(2) different days up to two(2) months in advance of the requested dates. However, TG can only provide a greeter on one of the requested days .

Please note that TG cannot fulfill all the requests we received due to seasonal demands and the availability of volunteer greeters. TG was able to provide a guide for 50% of requests in 2018.

To register, please fill out the form. You will receive an email from a greeter when one comes available.

Click here  or click the above photo!  

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19 best free things to do in Tokyo

Mar 21, 2024 • 8 min read

From iconic urban landmarks to sumo wrestling, there's plenty to see for free in Tokyo © Mint Images / Getty Images

Exploring Japan's capital is a mind-blowing experience, but it can also blow your budget.

Don't despair – there’s an abundance of things to do and see in Tokyo that don’t cost a single yen. From gardens and temples to contemporary art, sumo practice and a world-famous fish market, here's a list of Tokyo's best free attractions.

1. Stroll the grounds of the Imperial Palace

Follow the moats and paths surrounding Tokyo’s central point, the Imperial Palace , for views of its famous bridges and remnants of the old medieval keep. It’s 5km (3 miles) around the palace grounds – a popular local jogging course if you want to fit in some cardio while admiring the scenery.

Take a detour through the accompanying gardens without dipping into your wallet. The Imperial Palace East Garden encompasses the Honmaru and Ninomaru , the former innermost circles of the castle, featuring broad lawns, small stretches of woodland and seasonal flora (check out what’s in bloom on the Flower Calendar ).

Kokyo Gaien National Garden marks the area in front of the palace’s Sakuradamon Gate, where Ii Naosuke, a controversial proponent of opening Edo-period Japan to the outside world, was assassinated in 1860.

Kitanomaru Park is the pick of the bunch, home of the Budokan, Japan’s premier martial arts arena, and the Chidorigafuchi Moat. In spring, the path encircling the moat is enlivened by blooming cherry blossoms . 

Read more: Discover the best time to visit Tokyo

2. Follow the pilgrim route to Sensō-ji

Follow in the footsteps of countless pilgrims by approaching Sensō-ji , Tokyo’s most famous Buddhist temple, in Asakusa.

The way is lined with colorful stalls selling all manner of souvenirs, from giant rice crackers to washi  (handmade paper) fans. Senso-ji is Tokyo’s most-visited religious monument, so prepare for swarms of photo-snapping tourists and a smattering of locals decked out in traditional kimono. 

Planning tip: Visit at the crack of dawn – the temple is open from 6am – for a quieter excursion. 

3. Explore the streets of Harajuku

The Harajuku neighborhood is probably the world's greatest eye candy; its main street, Takeshita Dori, bursts forth in a maelstrom of vivid colors, kawaii (cute) motifs and the constant babble of frivolous consumers. 

Stroll tree-lined Omote-sandō , a glam boulevard of upscale boutiques housed in contemporary buildings, or hang out in Yoyogi-kōen (Yoyogi Park). The sprawling green space hosts frequent international festivals celebrating cultures from Ireland to India, Spain to Thailand, Brazil to Sri Lanka, and many more.

Read more: Tokyo's best neighborhoods  

4. See the tuna auction at Toyosu Market 

Want to witness Tokyo’s famous tuna auction at Toyosu Market ? A limited number of visitors who apply in advance can watch the hour-long quick-fire bidding from a viewing platform near the market floor; check the website for details .

Although Toyosu Market may lack the rustic charm of its predecessor in Tsukiji, visitors are nevertheless welcome to wander the sprawling complex. Infographics and exhibition spaces detail the storied history of the world’s greatest fish market; scan the clearly indicated QR codes for multilingual interactive tours.

Planning tip:  If you've secured tickets for the tuna auction, you'll need to set your alarm early because it starts around 5:30am.

5. Watch sumo wrestlers training

Even if you can't make a sumo tournament, you can see sumo wrestlers going through their training drills at a sumo stable, such as Arashio Stable , where visitors can watch the morning practice session ( asa-keiko ) through windows on the street.

Practice typically takes place between 7:30am and 10am on weekday mornings, except in March, July, November and on the week following a major tournament. Check the stable’s website for the up-to-date training schedule .

6. Follow the crowd at Shibuya Crossing

Every few minutes a wave of humanity washes across Shibuya Crossing , thought to be the world's busiest intersection. Join the masses or stand back and watch.

An ideal vantage point is Mag's Park , on the roof of the Shibuya 109-2 department store. A couple of floors down, at the entrance to Mark City, check out the Myth of Tomorrow , a monumental 1967 mural by artist Okamoto Tarō.

7. Visit Yasukuni Shrine

To some, Yasukuni-jinja is Tokyo’s most controversial religious monument. To others, it’s a source of pride. Then there’s the argument that removing it would amount to revisionist history. 

Yasukuni Shrine commemorates Japan’s approximately 2.5 million war dead (moral ambiguities notwithstanding), including the kamikaze pilots of WWII and convicted war criminals.

Along its flagstone entranceway, you’ll find locals paying homage to their fallen ancestors indicated by a procession of paper lanterns – all 30,000 of which are illuminated during the summer Mitama Matsuri festival – while the comparatively humble shrine building is surrounded by blooming groves of sakura (cherry blossoms) in spring.

8. Hear Godzilla roar 

Fans of kaijū  (strange beasts from Japanese monster flicks) will want to pay their respects to the giant Godzilla that lords over the Hotel Gracery Shinjuku . Amateur videographers should head down between noon and 8pm when Godzilla belts out thunderous roars on the hour.

Planning tip: While you’re here, wander around the electrified Kabukicho neighborhood, Tokyo's red-light district, or head to nearby Golden Gai, a warren of Showa-period alleyways housing hundreds of shoebox bars.

9. Visit Tokyo's weird, wonderful (and free) museums

Tokyo has some of the most bizarre museums in the world, and in a bid to attract curious eyes, many offer free admission. The Meguro Parasitology Museum , thought to be the only institution of its kind globally, displays a range of sinister parasites suspended in formaldehyde-filled casings.

The Rainbow Sewerage Museum delves into the engineering feats necessary to flush excrement from the world’s most populous metropolis – interactive exhibitions included.

For coin collectors and enthusiasts, head to the Bank of Japan Currency Museum , which is (ironically) also free. Or check out the Advertising Museum Tokyo , where montage displays of old ads illuminate the visual history of commerce in Japan over the last century or so.

10. Walk the forests of Meiji-jingū

Escape to the densely wooded grounds that envelop the capital’s premier Shintō shrine, Meiji-jingū . The walking path is particularly ethereal on misty and drizzly afternoons and, if you’re lucky, you might spot a traditional wedding procession or robe-clad priest.

11. Walk the Rainbow Bridge to Odaiba

This island of reclaimed land in Tokyo Bay is linked to the city by the Rainbow Bridge, which is illuminated in its eponymous colors come nightfall.

Walk over the 798m-long (2618ft) single-span suspension bridge to Odaiba , an uber-modern commercial district, where you can sunbathe on an artificial beach (weather permitting), see a Statue of Liberty replica , and gaze upon a larger-than-life Gundam statue .

12. Take a tour of the National Diet

Art and anime not your thing? Then how about a free tour of Japan’s seat of governance, the National Diet , to view the wood-panelled, leather-bound and gilded interiors and the gardens planted with species from across the country.

English tours take place on Mondays at 2pm, and Tuesday to Friday at 3pm (excluding national holidays). Reservations , with some stipulations, are necessary.

13. Crack open a beer at one of Tokyo's parks and gardens

Admire beautiful foliage and horticultural skills in Tokyo’s traditional gardens. Free-to-enter gardens include those attached to the Hotel New Ōtani in Akasaka and the Hotel Chinzanso, as well as the lush grounds of Happō-en , near Shirokanedai Station.

Tokyo also has excellent public parks , from Ueno-kōen in the north, to Inokashira-kōen in Kichijōji (where the not free-to-enter Studio Ghibli Museum is also located).

Planning tip: Parks are prime spots for joining beer-fueled hanami (flower-watching) parties during the spring cherry blossom season.

14. Travel back to pre-WWII Tokyo in Yanesen

The streets of Yanaka, Nezu and Sendagi – three areas collectively known as Yanesen – offer a lens into pre-WWII Tokyo.

These areas were collectively spared by firebombings, so you'll find narrow walking streets, small temples and shrines, craft shops, galleries, and cafes, and Yanaka-reien , one of the city’s oldest graveyards. Interesting galleries include SCAI the Bathhouse , in a 200-year-old public bath.

15. Traverse Tokyo’s winter wonderlands

Tokyo embraces the festive spirit every winter with seasonal illuminations in parks and commercial complexes, many of which are free of charge.

Around 600,000 crystal blue lights create Shibuya's Ao no Dokutsu (blue cave) along a pedestrianised street leading to Yoyogi Park, while the barren zelkova trees lining fashion-focused boulevard  Omote-sandō are wrapped in champagne gold.

Admire a glimmering LED display in view of Tokyo Tower from the observation bridge at Roppongi Hills. Or head to the Yebisu Garden Place  Christmas Market presided over by a 10m-tall Christmas tree and Baccarat crystal chandelier.

16. Get arty in Roppongi

This fabled nightlife neighborhood is also a treat to explore in daylight. There’s plenty of public art scattered around the glitzy commercial complexes of Roppongi Hills and Tokyo Midtown , as well as dazzling contemporary architecture at the National Art Center Tokyo .

Tokyo Tower – the Eiffel-esque symbol of the modern metropolis – is nearby; there’s an admission charge, but a free stroll around the base gives a real sense of its imposing stature. 

17. Take in the views from the Tokyo Metropolitan Government Building

Survey the city 202m (663ft) above ground from the observation deck of the Tokyo Metropolitan Government Building – on a clear day you may even catch a glimpse of Mt Fuji . Come at dusk to see spectacular sunsets and to witness the city bursting into neon-lit action.

18. Peruse the stalls and street food vendors at Tsukiji Market

Tsukiji Market has a bunch of stalls selling culinary products such as dried aonori (edible seaweed), pickles, bamboo rolling mats, kitchen knives, and more. Come early to get breakfast (at a price) from the food vendors and to bask in some old Tokyo ambience.

Planning tip: If the weather is on your side, embark upon a lengthy (approximately 6km/4-mile) stroll along the Sumida River promenade to Asakusa in the north, where Sensō-ji resides. Expect to find afternoon joggers, lone musicians practicing their craft, and river taxis chugging along the way. 

19. Climb Mount Takao

Deep in the west Tokyo suburbs sits Mt Takao, a 599m-tall (1965ft) peak topped by an observation area, beer garden and Buddhist temple.

There are several walking trails to the top, all of which are manageable with a moderate level of fitness.

Planning tip: Head during  kōyō  (autumn foliage season) for the best views – but be prepared for crowds.

This article was first published May 31, 2019 and updated Mar 21, 2024.

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TRAVEL to JAPAN – Tips and Information Guide (2024)

Everything you need to know about travel to Japan in our brand new Japan travel guide.

Japan is an island nation with a tremendous amount of history and culture intertwined with is present fast-paced reputation. 

From the epic wilderness of Hokkaido down to the tropical beaches of Okinawa, travelling to Japan is an experience like no other.

Whether you’re into food, culture, history or the outdoors Japan has it all. Travel to Japan is on the rise and it’s easy to see why.

Of Japan’s four main islands Honshu gets the vast majority of visitors. Travellers are in constant awe of the spectrum of Kyoto’s temples, taken captive with Nara’s deer and consumed by eating everything in sight in Tokyo.

However, the islands of Hokkaido, Kyushu and Shikoku are also home to some of the country’s most stunning scenery and are definitely worth a visit. 

Whatever you want, you can find it in Japan. Let us help you plan your journey to one of the most awe-inspiring destinations on the planet!

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Here are the basics about travel to Japan.

OTHER MAIN CITIES:

Osaka ,  Kyoto , Nagasaki,  Fukuoka ,  Sapporo  and  Nagoya  

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

ENTRY / VISA:

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

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

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

ELECTRICITY:

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

TRANSPORTATION:

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

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

TOP 5 TRAVEL EXPERIENCES IN Japan

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

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

Gorge yourself on sushi.

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

Book a  sushi cooking class here .

Visit ancient temples in Kyoto

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

Check out our  3 days in Kyoto itinerary  here.

Spend the night in a Ryokan

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

You can stay in a  great ryokan in Murakami .

Climb/View Mt. Fuji

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

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

Get lost in a giant bamboo forest

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

Other Things to do in Japan

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

BEST JAPAN TRAVEL ITINERARY

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

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

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

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

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

3-Week Japan Travel Itinerary Highlights

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

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

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

2-Week Japan Travel Itinerary Highlights

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

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

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

1-Week Japan Travel Itinerary Highlights

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

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

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

JAPAN TRAVEL PLANNING

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

Best Time to Visit Japan

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Japan Travel Budget Guideline

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

Budgeting Tips

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Getting To and Around Japan

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

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

Entry Requirements

Visa requirements for Japan are very straightforward.

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

Getting Around Japan

Travelling in Japan is both easy and convenient. 

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

Additionally, hiring a car is both easy and safe. 

Travelling by Air

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

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

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

Travelling by Car

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

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

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

Travelling by Bus

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

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

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

Travelling by Boat/Ferry

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

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

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

Travelling by Train

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

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

PURCHASE YOUR JR PASS TODAY

How to Maximise a JR Pass

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

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

Apps and Technology

Japan is definitely well connected when it comes to technology.

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

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

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

Best Things to Eat in Japan

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

ACCOMMODATION IN JAPAN

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

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

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

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

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

Types of Accommodations

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

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

Western-Style Hotels

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

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

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

Capsule Hotels

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

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

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

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

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

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

Onsen Hotels

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

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

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

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

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

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

JAPAN TRAVEL TIPS

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

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

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

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

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

General Japan Travel Tips 

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

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

1. Research Cultural Norms and Behaviour

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

Here are a few basic Japanese cultural expectations:

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

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

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

2. Eat, Eat, Eat.

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

3. International Drivers Permit

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

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

4. Take your own chopsticks

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

5. Do your research

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

6. Show respect and places of worship:

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

7. Remove your shoes

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

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

8. Embrace Japanese toilets

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

Japan Packing List

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

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

TRAVEL INSURANCE. SIMPLE & FLEXIBLE.

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Japan is a relatively safe country in which to travel.

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

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

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

If this is your first trip, congratulations!

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

Staying Connected in Japan

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

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

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

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

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

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

Purchase a SIM Card

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

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

Rent a Portable WiFi Device

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

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

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

Access Free WiFI

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

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

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

Be a Responsible Traveller in Japan

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

First, you represent yourself wherever you travel.

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

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

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

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

Additionally, the resources of the world are limited.

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

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

Key Japanese Travel Phrases

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

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

Books To Read About Japan

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

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

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

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

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

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

BOOKING RESOURCES

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

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

Table of Contents

Read our vietnam posts, ryokan ochiairo review – is this japan’s best ryokan, budget travel in japan – ultimate backpacking guide [2024], 25 awesome things to do in tokyo, japan, 7 best day trips from osaka, japan (2024 travel guide).

Planning a Trip to Japan: DOs & DON’Ts (2024)

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This post is based on an amazing guide our friend Amy Dunn-Cham compiled us full of her Japan tips on how to plan a trip to Japan years ago. We have since visited Japan five times and update this post regularly with what we’ve learnt.

Ah Japan, irasshaimase! Welcome to the land where everything just works. The land of convenience, the land of delicious food, paradox, naked strangers, and where respect permeates through every part of society and culture.

In Japan the food can be described as clean and minimalist, but never simple, which probably sums up Japan as a whole. It’s a place that both lives up to, and out does, any expectation you have upon arrival.

Uh-huh, they have the fastest, sleekest, most efficient trains (ever!), but they still have paper posters pegged up on their Tokyo subway. Yeah, they have amazing futuristic architecture, but they also have countless traditional wooden buildings in amongst it all. 

Yes, they have the busiest people crossing in the world (Shibuya), but at no point is it ever chaotic, no need for anyone to bang on a cab screaming, “Hey, I’m walking here!”. 

Yes, they have scores of scarily trendy, funkily clad young people who like to cosplay on weekends, but they also have evening family outings to sentos (public bathhouses).

In this Japan travel guide, we’ll help you make sense of it all and share our best tips for planning a trip to Japan.

2024 Update: No Japan Travel Restrictions

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Japan reopened to independent international tourists on 11 October 2022.

Remaining restrictions were dropped on 29 April 2023, so visitors no longer need to show proof of vaccination or a negative Covid test.

The government also dropped the indoor masking recommendation. Many Japanese people still wear masks (on our late 2023 trip, I’d say about 30-40% of people wore them), but you are unlikely to be required to.

With the yen at the lowest it has been for decades, now is a great time to travel to Japan.

Health care is expensive in Japan, so I highly recommend purchasing travel insurance that covers Covid-19 medical expenses.  SafetyWing Insurance  is an excellent budget option, especially for travellers on longer trips and families (as children under 10 are free). It’s available worldwide.

If you want a more comprehensive policy with cancellation cover, check out Heymondo travel insurance , which we used on our last Japan trip (it came in handy when Simon broke his foot!). It’s also available worldwide and offers 5% off for our readers.

Back to Contents

We’ve visited Japan in all four seasons and don’t think there’s a bad time to go. 

In winter , it’s chilly and gardens are a bit bare, but crowds are lower, you’ll find great deals on accommodation, and you’ll really appreciate those onsens (hot springs). You can also go skiing or snowboarding and have the best chance of seeing snow-capped Mount Fuji.  

In summer , it is steaming hot and humid (and June is the rainiest month), but there are fewer foreign tourists around and lots of local festivals to enjoy. It’s also the best time to visit the many beaches and the only time you can climb Mount Fuji. 

The most popular and best overall times to visit Japan are spring (March-April) and autumn (October – early December). This is when you can enjoy the gorgeous cherry blossoms (sakura) or autumn leaves (koyo). It’s more crowded and expensive, but the weather can be ideal and it is just stunning. 

See our guide to visiting the Kyoto cherry blossoms for more information on the popular sakura season. 

On our recent autumn trip, we had warm weather (up to 77ºF/25ºC) with very little rain from October until mid-November, when the temperature in Kyoto suddenly plummeted ahead of the leaves turning colour.

Shoulder seasons May and late-September/early October  are also good times to visit with warm weather and lower crowds.

Two times of year I would avoid for a vacation to Japan are:

Golden Week in early May – In 2025, Golden Week will be from 29 April – 6 May. This is a series of national holidays so many Japanese travel domestically, trains and hotels book up, and popular spots will be extra crowded.

New Year – Late December to early January. This is also a busy time with local travellers and most businesses close for up to four days.

How long do you need in Japan? As long as possible!

There is so much to see—we have spent months in the country and still have a long bucket list.

For first time visitors, I recommend visiting Japan for two weeks. This is enough time to see some highlights—Tokyo, Kyoto, and one or two smaller destinations. See our Japan two week itinerary for suggestions.

A week is the minimum time I recommend for a Japan trip. For a more relaxed Japan vacation, spend the whole week in Tokyo or Kyoto and take day trips. Or if you don’t mind rushing about, visit both major cities with an overnight stop on the way (such as Hakone).

Read our guide on the best places to visit in Japan to decide where interests you most and come up with an itinerary. You’ll find some suggestions at the end of this guide.

Watch this video for Japan trip ideas.

• Check if you need a visa . Visa-free travel is possible for citizens of 68 countries for stays of up to 90 days (including US, UK, Canada, Australia and the EU). Do have a return or onward flight out of the country as they may grill you upon arrival. It was the nicest immigration interrogation we’ve ever had, though.
• Purchase your Japanese Rail Pass exchange order before you travel to Japan (if needed, more on that later).
• Learn some Japanese —numbers are especially useful! While you can get by with Google Translate, it’s much more fun to learn some Japanese (which isn’t as hard as you might think) and locals really appreciate it. We are currently learning with the comprehensive Rocket Japanese online course , which includes audio lessons with natural dialogue, grammar and culture tips, and voice recognition to test your pronunciation. It’s a little pricey but unlike most subscription-based courses, you get lifetime access and discounts are often available.
• Get an International Driving Permit . You’ll need this for go-karting on the real Tokyo roads dressed as your favourite character. Insanity but one of the most fun things we’ve done in Japan.
• Arrange travel insurance. Healthcare is expensive in Japan, so make sure you are covered in case the worst happens. We’ve used and recommend Heymondo and  SafetyWing (both available worldwide) and True Traveller for UK/EU residents.

• Apply for a Mastercard credit or debit card – If you don’t already have one. Some Japanese websites don’t work with Visa so it’s good to have a backup. We used a Starling Bank debit card (UK only), which has free international transactions and cash withdrawals.
• Walk as much as possible – You will walk a lot in Japan cities so it helps to get some training in beforehand (and wear in some comfy shoes).
• Practice using chopsticks – You’ll need them to eat in almost every restaurant (curry is the exception as it’s eaten with a spoon). Getting used to sitting on the floor is a good idea for some restaurants and experiences too.

• Buy a pre-paid transport IC card  for local trains, metro and buses. You just tap on and off and don’t have to worry about buying a ticket. In Kyoto and Osaka, it’ll be an ICOCA card, and in Tokyo, it’s a Suica or Pasmo, but you can use any of the cards all over the country. Physical cards are currently in short supply (due to a chip shortage), so I recommend adding Suica to Apple Wallet on your phone or watch. Visa doesn’t work as a payment method so use Apple Pay, Mastercard, or American Express to top up. We just tapped on transport with our Apple watch and didn’t even need to open the app. Unfortunately, this doesn’t work for Android phones bought outside Japan.
• Set up an Airalo eSIM – You’ll want affordable data on your phone as having access to maps and Google Translate makes life so much easier. A digital eSIM is simple to set up before you arrive and prices at Airalo start at just US$4.50. We used it on our last Japan trip and it worked great. If your phone doesn’t support eSIMs, you can buy a physical Umobile SIM from a vending machine at Tokyo Narita Airport (make sure your phone is unlocked).
• Sign up to the Timeout Tokyo newsletter – To learn about special events during your stay.

• Buy tickets for Ghibli Museum and Ghibli Park – If you are a Studio Ghibli fan, you might want to visit the museum in Tokyo or new park in Nagoya. It’s essential to book ahead. See below for details and our Ghibli Park review .
• Research what else to book in advance – Many attractions and restaurants in Japan require advance booking so decide what’s important to you (ideally at least three months ahead) and set reminders for when bookings are available. At the end of this post you can see the timescale for what we booked for our latest trip.

• Consider a Japan Rail Pass . The luxury of shinkansen (bullet train) hopping is exhilarating. No need to book seats in advance, just choose a train, wave your pass and hop on. These passes are only available to foreigners and you can order online from  JRailPass.com . Read our guide to whether a Japan Rail Pass is worth it for everything you need to know after the price increase in October 2023 (it’s still worth it for some trips if you are travelling a lot).

• Bow if you are being bowed to . If you can manage it too, don’t turn your back upon exit. Don’t overdo it though or you’ll be a total gaijin , no need to bow to the supermarket checkout person!
• Pre-book accommodation. Wise anyway as the more affordable accommodation fills up fast, but also in line with the whole respect thing, Japanese people like to be prepared for your arrival.  So don’t just randomly rock up at a ryokan for the night! Booking.com is our favourite site for finding hotels and guesthouses, and we also use AirBnb and Vrbo  to find apartments in the big cities (which are often cheaper than hotels). See our Japan accommodation guide for recommendations.

• Go onsening! You might want to skip this in summer as hot doesn’t even come close to describing the water temperatures! But soaking in a hot spring is one of the most typical things to do in Japan and is ultra relaxing once you get over your fears of public nudity (yep, no clothes allowed!). Best of all, visit an onsen town where you can onsen-hop dressed in a kimono. See our Kinosaki Onsen travel guide for details on this lovely onsen town as well as hot spring etiquette. 

• Stay in a ryokan (traditional inn). Pricey but worth it for at least a night or two for the unique experience and the amazing meals that are often included in the room rates (and many can cater for vegetarians/vegans). Our favourite ryokan is Tsukihitei in Nara, so traditional and with a magical forest setting. We also loved our private bath overlooking the scarlet maple trees at Nanzenji Ryokan Yachiyo in Kyoto (book a suite not a standard room). A more budget-friendly option is Morizuya Ryokan in Kinosaki Onsen, which is perfect for onsen-hopping.
• Stay in a traditional tatami mat room.  If you can’t stay in a ryokan, a much cheaper way to stay in one is a traditional room in K’s House hostels—they have branches in Hakone  (with onsen), Kyoto , Izu Peninsula (in a 100-year-old building with onsen), and all over the country. We never had a bad experience with this hostel chain in our budget travel days.

• Appreciate the zen-like calm on all modes of transport – no need for quiet only carriages here! Just remember that it’s rude to speak on your phone on trains in Japan.
• Use Google Translate . Many people don’t speak English, so the Google Translate app is helpful for communicating. Write what you want to say in English then show the Japanese translation to the person. Even more impressive is the feature to translate images—point your camera at a sign, menu, or food label and it translates the text instantly. It’s not perfect but when it works, it’s brilliant.
• Translate websites too – Many Japanese websites (especially restaurants) are only in Japanese so using Chrome or Safari, refresh the page and select the English option at the top. On Safari on my iPhone, I tend to select a block of text and tap translate from the popup.
• See some sumo . If you’re lucky enough to be in the country when one of the sumo tournaments is on, go! The pre/ post game rituals are fascinating to watch. If you aren’t there during a tournament, you can see a practice session at a sumo stable in Tokyo . It was one of our favourite experiences in Japan—it felt like such an honour to see these huge, impressive sumotori training so close.
• Expect bursts of freakery!

• Get your paper fortune at a Japanese Buddhist temple. Okay, we cheated and got an English one at the Golden Pavilion (see our guide on the best things do to in Kyoto ), but what the hell! You can also get one at the gorgeous Sensoji Temple in Tokyo . 
• Love the Japanese for their never-ending capacity to help you out , and they won’t stop until they do!
• Read these Japan books before you visit for a greater understanding of this weird and wonderful culture. 
• Have some sushi – Sushi is the essence of Japan, plus sushi-train/ sushi stand up bars are so much fun watching the chefs take your order, and all shout in unison, “samon!” or “tamago!” etc. Vegetarian sushi isn’t very common, but we did find some—see our vegetarian Japanese food guide .

• Appreciate the plastic food models as works of art!
• Pack slip-on shoes. You’ll be taking your shoes on and off a lot in temples and restaurants. I wear the comfy ballet flats Allbirds Tree Breezers in warmer weather and Allbirds Wool Runner sneakers (for men and women) in cooler weather—they keep your feet cosy but can be worn without socks and easily slipped off without untying the laces. See my detailed Allbirds review .
• Shop at the 100 Yen shops.  Like pound shops BUT BETTER! Daiso is a great one.
• Play in the arcades dotted around cities, the taiko drum game rocks! 
• Make use of the many vending machines EVERYWHERE . You will never go thirsty in Japan that’s for sure.  You can even get hot coffee…in a can! (Simon’s saviour when we had early morning trains to catch.) In fact, you can get friggin’ anything from vending machines from cheap 100 yen sake (yuk!) to hot chips (not surprisingly we did not try!) and SIM cards. In Tokyo you can use your Suica transport card to pay. 
• Press random buttons on the panel next to you on the loo . It will make you giggle ;o)!  Also, if it’s cold then appreciate the absolute miracle of heated toilet seats.
• Fall in love with seeing toriis (shrine gates) everywhere , especially small red ones in rows behind each other. Fushimi Inari Shrine in Kyoto is our favourite (but go early as it’s popular). 
• Love and appreciate the beautiful presentation of absolutely everything from the amazing architecture to the way bento boxes are wrapped in a napkin tied in a knot just so, to amazing manhole covers!
• Pack light.  It will be much easier to hop on and off trains while travelling around Japan if you pack light, and hotels have limited storage space for luggage. Best of all, travel with just carry-on luggage . The Away Bigger Carry-On was perfect for our trip and fit overhead in trains.

• Consider luggage shipping – We haven’t used this yet, but if you have large luggage, it’s common to send it between hotels (it takes a day, so pack essentials in an overnight bag).
• Withdraw cash from 7-11 ATMs.  They are the most reliable no-fee option for international cards and can be found everywhere. Make sure you always have cash on hand as many places don’t accept credit cards (although this is improving). Note that some 7-11 ATMs in popular spots (the airport, Gion), do now charge, so try to withdraw in less touristy areas.
• Use Navitime to check train times and prices (and to work out if a Japan Rail Pass is worth it for your itinerary ).
• Visit BIC Camera if you need any kind of electronics. These massive stores have everything you could imagine. Take your passport if you are making a large purchase (over 5000 yen) and get it tax free. I bought a camera here and ended up getting lots of extra discounts and free accessories. It’s also a good place to buy a SIM card if you didn’t pick one up at the airport.

DON’T:

• Rent a car – For most visitors the best way to travel Japan is by train. Elsewhere we love road trips, but renting a car in Japan is just not worth the hassle unless you are travelling far off the beaten track.
• Open the door if taking a taxi. They are either automated or the driver will open it for you. It’s also a good idea to have your destination’s address written down in Japanese to show the driver as most don’t speak English.
• Feel bad if you need to take a break from Japanese food – Japan isn’t always an easy destination and indulging in a comfort meal can be restorative (we’ve had some excellent pizza in Japan).

• Forget to check opening hours – Japanese restaurants aren’t usually open all day and both restaurants and attractions usually have a last order/entry 30 to 60 minutes before closing.
• Go whizzing around the country too much. It can save energy to base yourself in one place and take day trips as we did in Kyoto and Okayama .
• Wear holey socks. You’ll only be embarrassing yourself when you take your shoes on/ off constantly!
• Go into an onsen without washing first , that’s just dirty dude!  Also, don’t go into the bathing area with a towel wrapped around you, you’ll just look stupid. Embrace the nudity! Everyone’s naked so no-one cares. My Kinosaki Onsen guide has more etiquette tips for newbies.

Japan is a popular destination and many hotels, restaurants, and attractions book up in advance. While you can still have a wonderful last-minute trip, it’s worth researching what you’d like to do months in advance to see what needs reservations.

On our most recent trip to Japan (in the busy autumn October/November season), this is what we booked ahead:

5 Months Before

• Flights – This is personal preference and earlier or later could also work. Tokyo Narita (NRT), Tokyo Haneda (HND), or Kansai International Airport in Osaka (KIX) are all good options to fly in to.
• Accommodation – Ryokans and hotels in smaller towns are most important to book ahead. Some hotels don’t take bookings more than 3 or 6 months in advance, though. We used Booking.com and almost all had free cancellation. See our posts on the best places to stay in Kyoto and Japan accommodation guide .

4 Months Before

• Tokyo DisneySea Hotel MiraCosta – Our favourite place to stay in Japan is right inside the best Disney park in the world. Rooms go on sale 4 months in advance at 11am JST and sell out in minutes, so it’s essential to do some practice runs.

3 Months Before

• Harry Potter Studio Tour, Tokyo – We booked 7 weeks in advance and only got an afternoon slot, so earlier is a good idea. Check Klook and the Warner Bros Studio Tour website as they have different availability.

2 Months Before

• Ghibli Park , Nagoya – Tickets go on sale on the 10th of the month at 2pm JST for 2 months later (it changed recently from 3 months). So May tickets will be on sale on 10 March. These sell out quickly, so be prepared. See our Ghibli Park guide for how to secure your tickets.
• Teamlab Planets , Tokyo – Book early if you want a specific time for this interactive digital art exhibition (we wanted the first slot). We booked on Get Your Guide . The new TeamLab Borderless is also selling out fast (tickets available on Klook or direct ).
• Some Restaurants – We booked Monk in Kyoto exactly 2 months in advance at 12pm JST (after five attempts—see our Monk Kyoto review for how) and Shigetsu in Kyoto (as we were visiting during peak autumn colour). Creating a Tablecheck account is a good idea as quite a few restaurants use it for bookings.
• Saihoji (Moss Temple) , Kyoto – It’s expensive and might not be a priority with limited time in Kyoto, but it’s our favourite temple. Reservations open 2 months in advance. See our guide to visiting Kyoto Moss Temple for more details.
• Universal Studios Japan Express Passes – These are essential to skip the lines at this very busy park in Osaka, and they do sell out. We bought the Express Pass 7 on Klook (much easier than the official site which is in Japanese only). We bought our USJ entrance tickets on Klook at the same time. See our Universal Studios Japan guide for more tips.

1 Month Before

• Ghibli Museum , Tokyo – Available at 10am JST on the 10th of each month for the following month.
• Shibuya Sky , Tokyo – Bookings open 4 weeks in advance at midnight Japan time. Book fairly soon after that to get the peak slot (one hour before sunset).
• Tours – I booked a sumo stable visit (highly recommended) and Shinjuku bar hopping tour in Tokyo. Go-karting is another fun option we’ve done before. I used Get Your Guide for most tours. Klook is a good option for tickets and attractions too.
• Tea Ceremony Ju-an , Kyoto – Learn the traditions of tea in a temple. One of the highlights of our trip.
• Sakurai Tea Experience , Tokyo – If you love green tea, don’t miss the tea tasting at this modern tea room.
• More Restaurants – I booked Saido in Tokyo, Uzu Vegan Ramen in Kyoto (reservations essential), and Ristorante di Canaletto at DisneySea (one month in advance at 10am JST exactly).
• Tokyo DisneySea and Disneyland tickets – I booked on Klook. The parks probably won’t sell out, but we didn’t want to take the chance.
• Japan Rail Pass – If you decide to get one, allow plenty of time for your exchange order to arrive by post, just in case (you activate it on arrival).

2 Weeks Before

• Shinkansen Train Seat Reservations – We used the SmartEx website , which can be difficult to set up (use a Mastercard and keep trying to authenticate the payment method) but very handy. When booking a train from Tokyo to Kyoto, choose a seat on the right side of the train for Mt Fuji views (if clear). If you have large suitcases, you’ll also need to make an oversized baggage reservation .
• Airport Taxi Pickup – From Narita Airport we get the Narita Express train, but from Haneda Airport (which is closer to central Tokyo), we prefer a taxi for ease. We booked this Haneda airport pickup on Klook .
• More Tours and Restaurants – Book any more priorities as you finalise your itinerary.

Japan has so much to offer but here are a few places to get you started.

• Tokyo – The best of modern Japan. This huge city has incredible food, diverse neighbourhoods, and some unique experiences. Try these cool things to do in Tokyo and enjoy the best vegetarian restaurants in Tokyo . 
• Kyoto – The best of traditional Japan with many stunning temples to explore . Read the best things to do in Kyoto .
• Takayama – A smaller, quieter alternative for traditional Japan with a beautiful historic centre of preserved wooden houses. 
• Hakone – For the chance to see Mount Fuji, mountain scenery, lakes, onsens, and fun transport options (cable cars and pirate ships!). 
• Kawaguchiko – Even better views of Mount Fuji at Lake Kawaguchiko . 
• Nikko – Stunning temples in the forest. Could be visited as a day trip from Tokyo. 
• Hiroshima – Visit the moving peace memorial that commemorates the atomic bombing and don’t miss nearby Miyajima Island. 

See our Japan 2 Week Itinerary for a detailed guide to visiting many of these places including things to do, transport, and where to stay and eat.

Or our guide to the best places to go in Japan has more ideas.

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• Is a Japan Rail Pass Worth It?
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184 Comments

Hi, Planning trip to Japan in october 2024. Me and my wife retired (Age 62) fit couple would like to cover Japan in aprox 20 days . Please suggest city and places to cover and how to travel economically from one city to another , one trip we would like to experience Bullet train. We are vegetarian . From India Direct Air ticket is available to Tokyo only. Please help us to plan the trip. Thank you, Regards,

Reply ↓

Thanks for your article – I found it really interesting as my son (aged 17) and I are planning a trip to Japan in October. Unfortunately, we don’t have anywhere near as long to spend there as I would like! We arrive on the 21st and leave on the afternoon of the 30th. From the 23rd to the 25th inclusive I am at a work conference but the rest of the time is our own. We will have some time on the conference days to have a look around Osaka but are wondering if we have time to see a bit of both Kyoto and Tokyo in the days afterwards. I am concerned we may be trying to pack too much in with the result that we won’t see anything properly! I would appreciate any thoughts you may have!

Hi Cheryl, I think it’s worth spending a few days each in Kyoto and Tokyo after your conference. You can always spend more time in both those places but it will give you a taste. The shinkansen train journey between the two is easy and enjoyable too. Enjoy!

Hi Erin, Thank you for compiling all the tips. I have been reading your website for a few weeks now. I am planning a trip with my wife and teenage daughter in April 2025 ( 13th- 24th). I was going to stay in Tokyo for 5 nights( 1st night does not count as we arrive late), 3 nights in Tokyo and 3 nights in Osaka. I was planning a day trip to Hakone and Kawaguchiko from Tokyo( is it possible by a private car to get both places fully) and day trip to Hiroshima and Miyajima from Osaka. Is this feasible? Friends who have visited Japan say I am spending too much time in Tokyo. Your input would be most valuable. I have booked a few places to stay but happy to change based on your input. I am based in the UAE so is it worthwhile getting the JR pass sent to the hotel in Tokyo or should it be sent to UAE before we travel. Thanks once again

I would choose either Hakone or Kawaguchiko and not try to do both in one day.

It is possible to day trip to Hiroshima/Miyajima from Osaka if you get an early start, but it’ll be a long day.

There’s loads to do in Tokyo so I wouldn’t say you are spending too long there. Although you might consider removing one night and spending it in a ryokan in Hakone on the way to Kyoto/Osaka for a different experience (and to avoid doing a day trip).

It would be easier to get the rail pass sent to you at home.

Great tips thank you! My husband, our 17 & 19 yr olds sons and I have 16 days in Jan/Feb 2025 so very helpful. We are visiting Tokyo, Osaka/Kyoto before skiing in Nozawa Onsen. I’m thinking we will base ourselves in either Osaka or Kyoto rather than moving in between. Given our son’s I’m thinking Osaka might be a more fun base – what do you think?

It really depends what you are looking for. I think Kyoto offers a different experience to Tokyo (Osaka is more similar) and there’s so much to do. If your sons won’t be interested in temples or historic streets or if they want to visit Universal Studios, then Osaka makes most sense.

I’m sure you’ll enjoy either though!

“It’s also a good idea to have your destination’s address written down in Japanese to show the driver as most don’t speak English.”

I absolutely second this. I had copied our destination in English from the website. Somehow we got part of the way, then the driver became completely at a loss. He couldn’t understand what I had written. I had no idea what to do, then was suddenly inspired to read it out to him phonetically. He burst into a beaming smile and we took off immediately, and arrived at our destination a few minutes later. Who knew that I could speak Japanese!!

Good job on improvising! It really helps to have it written down in Japanese unless you are going somewhere super well known (and even then you need to pronounce it right!).

My family is planning a 2 week celebratory trip to Japan in 2025. There will be 2 seniors (grandparents), 3 couples (two DIL’s speak some Japanese) with 6 children between them (ages infant to 8), and 1 adult with Down Syndrome. We are hoping to spend some time in the country and small towns as well as Tokyo and Kyoto. Is it crazy for the 15 of us to travel together as a group? I assume that we will spend the days in smaller groups as we search out what feeds our interests. But what about hotels/inns for the group? We would all prefer to stay in more traditional lodgings if possible. What about meeting up for a meal at the end of the day? What about traveling between towns/cities? Some of us in the group are great planners, so what should we be thinking about to make this a trip that everyone will fondly remember.

Hi Paul, we don’t have any experience travelling in a group, but I am sure you can make it work. Travelling by train will be fine – just book in advance although you’ll probably be fine even on the day (although you might not get seats all together).

Make sure to book restaurants if you want to eat together, and you’ll have to skip some of the smaller places that just seat a few people at the counter (or you could do those for lunch in smaller groups). Sushi Gonpachi in Tokyo is a good option for groups as they have plenty of space (branches in Shibuya and Roppongi).

I actually wouldn’t recommend traditional lodging (ryokans) for the whole trip. They are amazing experiences but are expensive and most involve sleeping on futons on the floor, which isn’t super comfortable for most Westerners.

I recommend spending 1-2 nights in a ryokan when you are visiting the smaller towns. They often include dinner and breakfast, so that’ll make it easier for your group, but you might want to look for ones with a dining room rather than those that serve meals in your room (so you can eat together). For example, we loved Iwaso Ryokan on Miyajima island. Book far in advance.

In Kyoto and Tokyo it makes more sense to stay in larger hotels. Our Japan places post has recommendations that would work for groups.

With advance planning and some time in smaller groups, I’m sure you’ll have an amazing time. Enjoy Japan!

Thank you for this insightful site. My daughter (who is in the Navy) is taking me to Japan for one week at the end of September. She has already purchased the plane tickets and taken leave. We are flying into Narita, and wanted to spend some time in Tokyo, Hakone, Kyoto and Osaka. Does that seem too ambitious for the time we have (Sept. 24 – Oct. 2)? Also, do you recommend getting first class tickets for the bullet train in order to be sure we can get reservations? I have to admit, planning this trip feels a bit overwhelming, so your site and help are appreciated more than you can know! Thank you!

I do think that’s a bit much in that time frame. I would skip Osaka or just visit on a day trip from Kyoto if you have the energy.

First class (called the Green Car) is a bit more comfortable and spacious and we sometimes like to book it for longer train trips. You aren’t more likely to get a reservation though – you can reserve the regular cars just as easily. You shouldn’t have a problem getting reservations at that time of year a few days in advance.

You can just go to the train station when you get to Tokyo and book them all at the counter (it helps to write down which trains you want). Queues can be long though. There are also self service machines but they can be confusing.

We now prefer to use the SmartEx website to book the shinkansen: https://smart-ex.jp/en/ It can be hard to get the credit card set up at the beginning but keep trying (Mastercard often works better than Visa on Japanese websites). Then once you’ve booked you can collect the tickets from machines at the station which is pretty easy.

Good luck with all the planning! Erin

Hi, Good Day! Great Information for people read this including me. Arigatou Gozaimasu. I wish i can go travel to Japan Its my Dreams when i was kid 7 years old when i already know and read Manga books Doraemon. Geertings from Indonesia.

THanks for your recommendation on hotels and restaurants, i know something about it.

Thank you for the lovely Japan Blogs – it is making our travel planning fun! It would be really helpful to understand the areas to stay in within the cities, especially first time travelers to Japan.

Thanks JK! Our Kyoto guide has tips on the best area to stay (Gion or downtown) and in Tokyo, we recommend Shinjuku for first time visitors. Enjoy Japan!

Thank you , your blog is miracke I was looking for while planning two weeks vacation for my friends and family

I’m glad it helped. Enjoy Japan!

Wow, an amazing blog, Erin. This is helping us so much plan our trip. It is great to see you updating it regularly too. It’s becoming a daily read.

Kind regards,

Thanks so much for this post! As is often the case I am following you around the world and now I’m going to Japan. Look forward to reading everything you’ve written on it!

Good to hear you are going to Japan, Ruth! I hope you enjoy it as much as we always do!

We are a very active retired couple and love exploring different cultures, sights, and exploring nature. We are planning on going to Japan for the first time for 3 -4 weeks, around the third week or so in Sept to mid October or later. We will travel with just carry on luggage and backpacks. We love touring on our own, or booking individual tours at the different places. We are open to basing in Tokyo, Kyoto, Hiroshima(?) plus other places and doing day trips from these places. What would be a good itinerary for our 21+ day trip? Thanks so much! We love your website! Bunny

Hi, I lost my comment somewhere on your blog 😅 So, me and my partner are going to Japan for 4-6 weeks in sept/october. We want to travel in a slow pace and want to visit Tokyo, Kyoto, hiking around Kiso Valley (and Kumano Kodo?), Nagano, Kanazawa? We also want to explore some nice nature, visit onsen, sleep at a roykan etc. Hokkaido would be cool but i don’t know if we will have time with that. Do you have any tips where we must go? I think our plan is to be at least 7 days each in Kyoto and Tokyo, we want to stay for minimum 2 nights at each place. Would you recommend to start in Tokyo? Is it worth to start a week in a busy town with jetlag? Should we go somewhere else (where?) for a nice start on the vacation?

Thank you! /Johanna

Hi Johanna!

I’m planning a solo trip from ~May 21-June 21, but i’m worried i’ll hit the rainy season and humidity. What to you advise? I’m limited to May 21st as my earliest trip start date due to school!

I think it makes sense to start with Tokyo if that’s where you are flying in to. That way you don’t have to worry about travelling elsewhere and you have enough time there that you can plan for the first few days to be pretty relaxed – wander some neighbourhoods, eat etc.

Sounds like you have plenty of time to do everything you want. You could easily use that time in central Japan, but you could add in Hokkaido if you really wanted (we still haven’t made it there). Enjoy!

Hi Erin, is it advisable to visit Lake Kawaguchiko in November? And, do you think it is possible to do a day trip to Lake Kawaguchiko having Tokyo as the base?

We haven’t been in November but we definitely would. You will likely see the autumn colours too (generally peak around mid-Nov), which would be beautiful.

It will likely be colder than Tokyo, but as long as you are prepared with warm clothes it should be enjoyable.

And yes, it is possible as a day trip from Tokyo – many people go by train or on bus tours. Just be aware that Mt Fuji is often hidden in cloud, so if you stay overnight you increase your chances to see it. But you could also try to choose a clear day for your day trip. Enjoy!

Our Lake Kawaguchiko travel guide has more details.

Thank you for creating this! I’m making my way through reading all of your posts. I will be visiting Japan for 14 days for the first weeks in April with my husband, a 7 year old, 10 year old and my two of my adult siblings. We’ll be a big group but I’m very excited as this is my first time and have always dreamed of going. Wondering if you have any advice for the younger kids or any kid entertainment? Thanks again!

Travelling with kids isn’t our area of expertise so I don’t have any specific recommendations except for Tokyo Disney, which we love. Tokyo DisneySea is our favourite park—it’s the only one in the world and has plenty to offer for kids and adults. Enjoy!

Absolutely love this perspective on travel! It beautifully captures the essence of what it means to explore the world. Travel isn’t just about ticking off destinations; it’s about slowing down, immersing yourself in new cultures, savoring moments, and absorbing the rich tapestry of life that the world has to offer. 🌍✈️🌏

Thank you so much for this! I have started notes and saved the page so that I can come back and check out all the links. :) I am wanting to take my 14 (would be 15 then) daughter alone (we do girl’s trips every year without dad) to Japan. She loves all things Cherry Blossoms! We try and do her spring break time (next year will be the first week of April), but I am concerned about that being too short of time period. Could we do it? If that is all the time you had, would you have a ‘base in Tokyo and then do some excursions from there (which is how we like to travel)? I am also worried about the language barrier and us being able to navigate since sometimes Google translate will not work. Thanks again!

Hi Jennifer, With one week I would focus on Kyoto, which is a better location for cherry blossoms and also has so many beautiful temples and gardens. It’s more traditional Japan (although there is a modern part too). Ideally, you’d fly into Kansai Airport which is closest.

If you have to fly into Tokyo, you could spend a few nights there before taking the shinkansen train to Kyoto (the quickest one is just over 2 hours).

If you really want to see the more modern side of Japan or don’t want to take the train, then Tokyo would be a great base. You can still see plenty of cherry blossoms there.

We don’t speak Japanese (although we are trying to learn this year) and have always managed. The Japanese are very helpful and will always try to help you out, even with a language barrier. And there are an increasing number of signs in English. Just make sure you have data on your phone as Google Translate and Maps are super helpful (you can download Japanese offline in Translate too).

Be sure to book accommodation far in advance for the cherry blossom season (ideally 6 months+).

Enjoy Japan! Erin

Hi Erin, My husband & I are travelling to Japan in August as he is competing in the world masters swimming competition. We have to be in Fukuoka for the competition and then he have 9 days to explore the country ending up in Tokyo for our flight home. Could you advise what we should do at this time of year. Do you think it is sensible to base ourselves in Kyoto and then take daily trips from there using the JR Pass, (do you recommend we get the Green pass). Your advise would be greatly appreciated. Thanking you in advance.Pia

Hi Pia, that’s exciting!

If you don’t want to move around too much then I do think Kyoto is a great base. There’s so much to do (including festivals in August) and lots of possible day trips. You could finish up with a couple of nights in Tokyo.

If you want to add some extra places you could stop in Hiroshima on the way to Kyoto for the peace memorial and nearby Miyajima Island. It’s a quick journey on the bullet train from Fukuoka.

You’ll need to work out your route first to see whether a rail pass is worth it. It probably won’t be worth it for day trips but could work out worthwhile including the shinkansen up from Fukuoka and on to Tokyo.

We’ve never used a green pass but if you want a bit more space you could consider it.

Also bear in mind that around the Obon holiday (13-16 August) the trains will be busier than usual so book your seat in advance.

Enjoy Japan!

Hi Erin – great post, thanks for your comprehensive insight! My partner and I are heading to Tokyo for NYE and planning on heading from there to Kyoto around the 2nd for a couple of nights. I understand that Japan can be very quiet during the first week of January. Do you have any experience travelling at this time? If so, do you have any suggestions about how to make the most of the trip while the country is a bit quieter? Thanks in advance :)

Hi Sarah, We haven’t been to Japan at New Year. The important thing to bear in mind is that many businesses will be closed on some or all days between 29 Dec and 4 Jan. So make sure you look at the hours of any restaurants and attractions you want to visit and work around them.

I think Kyoto will be lovely at a quieter time of year especially as it does get so busy. There are so many temples and shrines to explore and they stay open over NY. Enjoy!

Wonderful website and tips. I know one of your dont´s is rent a car, but we are hoping to visit Shirakawa-go, Gokayama and Takayama, and have found no easy way to get there from Tokyo or Kyoto on train. Do you have any recommendation on how to do that?

Many many thanks¡

Hi Natalia. You can get to Takayama from Kyoto or Tokyo easily by changing trains in Nagoya. The journey from Nagoya to Takayama is beautiful.

The other villages can be reached by bus from Takayama (Shirakawa-go is easiest), but yes, a car would give you more flexibility to explore the countryside around here.

Maybe look into renting a car for a few days in Takayama? Just remember you’ll need an international driving licence, which you’ll need to get in your home country.

While a car could be useful in the countryside, I wouldn’t want to drive in the cities and the train between cities is probably quicker.

I’ve written a bit about Takayama in our 2 week itinerary: https://www.neverendingvoyage.com/japan-2-week-itinerary/

Have a wonderful trip to Japan! Erin

Hello Enrin, your tips makes me very enthousiatic to plan a 4week trip to Japan. Is that a good way to tour? (Will be half september-half oktober).

forgot to say ;-) we plan to travel with a campervan: is that a good way to tour?

That’s a great time to visit and a nice amount of time to explore. I don’t think a campervan or any rental car is the best way to travel though. Driving (and finding parking) in the cities is a challenge and it’s much easier to travel by train.

A campervan would only be advisable if you want to focus on rural areas like Hokkaido.

Remember you’ll need an international driving licence, which you’ll need to get in your home country.

Hello Great Blog. full of advices How do you suggest to travel the “alps” from Kanazawa that one can reach by train to takayama and around ? would that be the place where you rent a car?

You can visit places like Kamikochi by bus from Takayama so a car isn’t essential.

Hi Erin, would like to ask is hiring tour guide better or do it yourself to see all nice place in Japan?

It depends how you prefer to travel. I definitely think it’s possible to travel by yourself. A compromise might be to hire a guide for a day (or join a tour) in Kyoto and/or Tokyo.

Good Day Erin. Just doing beginning research for our yearly trip this year, and we are considering Japan. Your excellent article is the first I started with. We like to spend minimum of 2 weeks, usually longer at our destination. You suggest that using public transportation throughout the country and not to rent a car. My husand and I are seniors. My husband has difficulty (pain) after walking a short distance (100 yards). Would this destination be a wise choice for us? Before going further in my research an answer to this question is most appreciated. Regards

Hi Diane, yes, trains are definitely the best way to visit Japan’s cities. You could hire a private driver for day tours within places like Kyoto, though, which could minimise the need to walk as much when sightseeing.

It would probably be best to minimise the places you visit (such as Tokyo and Kyoto or even just Kyoto) as train stations are quite large and do involve walking. If you fly into Kansai airport you could take a taxi to Kyoto and see a lot based there.

Perhaps renting a wheelchair is worth considering. There is also an overnight luggage delivery service where you can send your bags between hotels to make train travel easier.

As we don’t have any experience of travelling Japan with mobility issues, I would look for advice from those who have. Here’s one post that might be useful: https://www.japan-guide.com/forum/quereadisplay.html?0+132386

Diane: As someone who recently travelled to Japan having had double knee replacement surgery less than 12 months previously, I can offer a little insight! While I agree that travelling by train is a fantastic way to get around Japan (I covered a LOT of miles!) you should be aware that not all train stations have lifts or escalators. Many stations in Tokyo have quite long flights of stairs which can be a challenge to anyone less able or in pain, especially when you have luggage. Even when there is a lift, it’s typically right at the end of the platform (often the “wrong” end for where you want to be), so I would do some research before deciding how much urban train travel you will do; it’s less of an issue when taking the shinkansen to cover a reasonable distance. I much prefer trains to coaches, but I did use buses in places and that was fine. On the topic of car hire, I probably wouldn’t bother myself but I know someone who travels widely across Japan with a couple of kids and she swears by it, not least because they can easily reach locations that would otherwise be a hassle to get to. She doesn’t use one in the cities though. Lastly, I don’t think you should be put off going to Japan – it’s an amazing country and I found everyone to be unfailingly helpful. No problem is insurmountable!

Thank you so much for sharing your experience, Sue.

Hello Erin,

Would you recommend visiting Jaoan with a 1.5 year old? Do the onsens have babysitters?

We don’t have any experience travelling with kids but our friends took their toddler and loved it. The onsens don’t have babysitters as far as I know.

Thank so much for all the amazing info! Heading to Japan in June for two weeks with my daughter. It’s especially wonderful to know there are some great vegan/vegetarian options.

Hi Erin… I stumbled onto your website as I’ve started looking into planning for a trip in 2024 for my daughter’s High school Senior trip. Is Mid June a good time weather wise? Super hot? Also, are there food/restaurants that are gluten free for Celiacs? You mentioned beaches are those places more expensive than the cities? I will check out all your links too. TY for all the info, this will truly help.

It will be hot but if that’s the only time you can go, I wouldn’t let it stop you and it’s cooler than July and August.

I don’t have any experience being gluten free in Japan but our friend has written this guide: https://www.legalnomads.com/gluten-free/japan/

Beaches shouldn’t be more expensive than the cities but it depends where you go. We haven’t spent much time at the beaches.

Have a wonderful trip!

hi Erin, lovely website with a lot of good information. Do you list of places to visit / see – for a 4 week trip. We wanted to do the North part of the country as well. thanks for any tips and help. We are vegetarians as well but saw that you all managed to get delicious looking vegetarian food : ).

We haven’t actually made it very far north as there’s always so much to do in the central part. See our guide to the best places to visit in Japan for our favourite places: https://www.neverendingvoyage.com/best-places-to-visit-in-japan/

And yes, vegetarian food in Japan is great if you plan in advance (use the Happy Cow app).

Thanks for the info Erin. Cultural.differences are amusing at least.

Thank you so much for this guide Erin! It’s really helpful. I’m planning a 2-3 week trip to Japan around September. However, I’ve read and seen a lot of people saying to avoid this time of year due to typhoon season. Would you recommend visiting Japan around this time despite the typhoons that might hit?

We’ve been in September and enjoyed it. We did get some rain but nothing that disrupted our trip. I wouldn’t let it stop you visiting.

Hello Erin! Great information. Thank you! What percentage of small businesses (resturants, clubs, rooms, etc) are open this month (March)? What percentage may be open in May? Should I wait until September to experience Japan? Take care,

Everything should be open now so any month this year is good to visit!

How easy is it to navigate in Tokyo and Kyoto with a group of 8? We’re concerned about everything from attractions to train travel to being able to eat together. This is a trip to celebrate our friends’ 40th birthday and logistics just seem to be overwhelming!

Hi Laurie We’ve only visited Japan as a couple, but I’d say it might be a bit challenging in a big group. Many restaurants are quite small and trains can be crowded (although you can book seats together for the longer trip between Kyoto and Tokyo).

I’m sure it would be possible if you plan in advance (book some restaurants etc) and maybe break into smaller groups for some of the time. Perhaps discuss what everyone definitely wants to do and do those things together, but then have some time doing your own thing.

Good luck with it and enjoy Japan!

I’ll be visiting Japan for 10 days in March! Could you give me a little insight on the paying methods there? How much cash should I bring/have on hand? Do they mostly accept cash or do most places accept credit cards?

Thanks in advance!

Hi Susan When we visited Japan previously we needed cash for most places. We just withdrew from an ATM (the ones at 7-11 were most reliable for foreign cards) when needed so we didn’t exchange any cash in advance. Just make sure you use a card that doesn’t charge international transaction fees (this will depend which country you are from).

But I have heard that since Covid more places accept credit cards and contactless payment methods, so I’m really hoping there’s less of a need for cash now. I would still recommend always having some with you just in case.

Hello . I want to visit Japan with my 13 year old granddaughter in June. I have never been in Japan, but have traveled widely. We plan to visit Kyoto and its environs mostly but want to spend couple days in Tokyo. We do not speak Japanese but will find a way to learn some. We are coming from the US, but my home country is Finland (very Japan friendly :)). We definitely want to get bullet train passes and need to learn about cell phone communication. And we are both into adventure and are looking forward to seeing Japan. Thank you for any advice you can give us.

I plan to visit Japan soon, spiritualy a home I have never been to yet. This is due to my work and my partners need for beach and sun. I’m hoping I can convince her soon to travel with me there. Or it’s over… the Japanese have a way of life with nature that we miss here in the UK….. I have so much respect for the people of Japan. We could learn a thing or two….. I plan to beg konami tsukamoto to mentor me in order I can preserve British trees as she does her native species…… much respect.

Excellent post Erin. You’ve included some great examples of things specific to Japan that it would be great to know in advance for new travellers.

I especially liked your recommendation not to try and cram too much in and whiz around the country. This is a common mistake people make when visiting Japan. Also, not wearing socks with holes in! Once you’ve done this in Japan, you’ll never do it again LOL!

Also, an upvote for your suggestion to visit Takayama – a wonderful place that has a charming historical district that’s like stepping back in time.

Good information given u

I’m doing a project on Japan for school, your posts on Japan were all SUPER helpful- thank you so much!

Glad it helped!

Hello We are looking to travel to Tokyo with out 2 year old in October. We were told that we would need to book travel guides for us to have a visa to enter in Japan. As great as that all sounds, it’s also more then we intend to spend for our trip. How true is needing the visa to enter Japan? Should we do a tour guide for a couple days? If that is allowed.

Hi Vee, As things currently stand, Japan’s borders are still closed to independent travellers. You can only enter the country as part of a package tour that is very restrictive (you can’t do any exploring alone), and, yes, it would be expensive. You would need a guide for the whole trip.

There is a chance borders will reopen by October but really there’s no way of knowing right now. If you decide to go ahead and book in the hope they do reopen, I would make sure everything has free cancellation.

So I’m trying to plan a trip to Japan with my family next year July (4kids) but I keep hearing super expensive, anyways nanny suggestions on where or how to plan n book.? Also my chance do you have any info on Tokyo Disneyland?

yes, japan can be quite expensive but if you plan your stay well and get a rail pass if you’re hopping between cities then you should be able to manage it :)

Should we rent a car or is public transportation the preferred mode of transportation for tourists?

Public transport is easier to deal with. I wouldn’t rent a car unless you are going somewhere remote.

Is it better to custom plan everything? Like book 2-3 week stay and go whichever places we want to visit ourselves or get a package that offer planned trips?

I think it’s best to book everything yourself, but it really depends on how much experience you have travelling and how much time you have to plan it all.

I’m going to Shinjuku. Next year in June this has really helped thank you

This helped so much, im going to Japan in 2 years with my dad (to film a documentary) and this helped so much

Thanks Lillee and have a great trip!

I’d love all the great tips, but should add make sure that you keep eyed out on your train timetable…I’d went to the Takayama Festival and didn’t watch my time. I’d miss my train and got stuck in Nagoya for six half hours trying to get back to Asakusa. (Never again?)…watch your JR Rail or Metro timetable. Japan trains are on point.

Oh no, what a nightmare!

Bravo, your article full of good advice with beautiful pictures. A small precision for foreigners who wish to drive in Japan, they have to translate their driving license at a JAF center.

Now this I call a detailed guide! We are hoping to visit Japan next year so I am gathering all the info I can before I start any serious planning. This post was really helpful!

Thanks Julia! Good luck with your planning!

Hi thanks for sharing this Me & my nephew are planning to visit japan for the 1st time this September can you pls recommend any place to stay or eat and should we do tour or should we go on our own ? We kinda nervous abt the trip .

You should be fine without a tour. The train system is very comfortable and efficient and if you buy a rail pass, you don’t even have to worry about buying tickets for each trip. If you ever get confused, the Japanese are very friendly and will help you out.

Here are a few posts that should give you some ideas on where to go with accommodation and restaurant recommendations: https://www.neverendingvoyage.com/japan-2-week-itinerary/ https://www.neverendingvoyage.com/best-places-to-visit-in-japan/

Good luck and enjoy!

Wonderful and very Insightful Information.

I am a solo traveler from India, planning to travel to Japan for this first time, this summer for about 7-8 nights (June’2020), do you recommend going through some tour company or going on my own. How difficult is managing through Japan, without any knowing any Japaneses. Would you have a recommendation for a tour company.

I think Japan is fairly easy to manage without a tour company. The trains are a great way to travel and with a rail pass you don’t even need to worry about buying a ticket each time.

It helps to buy a local SIM card so you can use Google Translate on your phone. The Japanese are also usually very helpful even if they only speak a little English. We only speak a few words of Japanese are always manage fine.

Hello Erin, this is very useful. Thank you for sharing. Can you suggest us an 8 days itinerary for Japan. We’re visiting Japan for the first time and wish to enjoy the natural beauty and culture.

I would probably just focus on Kyoto and Tokyo in that time, perhaps with some day trips. Enjoy!

Hi! I’ve already been to Japan 2 times in the summer. The first time I visited Tokyo, Kyoto, Nara, Osaka and the Island of Shôdoshima. The second time I browsed a bit more around Tokyo and in the countryside (mainly in the Gunma prefecture – gorgeous landscapes!). I am going back in February. Two places I will visit for sure are Yokohama (first stop) and Sendai (2nd stop). And I and am wondering if there are “musts” I should not miss at that time of year (are snow festivals worth it? Or anything else?) and if it would be worth it to go as far south as Hiroshima? I should have about 12 days for Sendai onwards. I haven’t decided yet if I am going to fly back to Canada out of Tokyo (I could fly out from elsewhere too). Many thanks for your help and for sharing all of this! You’re doing a tremendous job!

Honestly this guide is incredible. I’ve booked marked this as I’m currently planning my things to do for March/April 2020! Any website booking recommendations?

Thanks Alyssa! Spring is such a lovely time in Japan.

Do you mean websites for booking accommodation or tours? We use Booking.com for hotels, Airbnb for apartments (in the big cities like Tokyo), and Voyagin for tours. You might find this post helpful: https://www.neverendingvoyage.com/things-to-do-in-japan/

Good afternoon! I’m planning a 1-month trip to japan in two years and would like to know how much money you think I should save up. I already have the places I wanna visit in mind and would just like some bit of info.

Thank you. :)

That’s a difficult question to answer as it depends so much on your travel style. Do you want to stay in hostels or fancy ryokan or a mix of both? Do you want to do expensive tours and activities or are you happy just wandering? Are you happy with cheap ramen or do you want to try a pricey kaiseki meal?

As a rough idea, on this two week itinerary ( https://www.neverendingvoyage.com/japan-2-week-itinerary/ ) we spent about US$120 per person a day which I’d say is a mid-range budget. There is more info in the itinerary post.

“Well there it is” I shouted as I scrolled through this fantastic information resource. An superb honest, unbiased view and answer to all, yes all, my questions. Except one…. Did you get to visit Okinawa? I desperate to get there… I will have 3-4 weeks….

Thank you so much Brian!

Unfortunately, we haven’t visited Okinawa yet. You’ll have plenty of time to add on a flight down there though. Enjoy Japan!

Awesome post! Thanks for sharing the knowledge and keep up the good work.

Thanks Brian!

Those photos of the dog pulling the mans underpants!?! My child was looking at this with me and now he is scarred for life!

Oh dear! You do find some very strange things in Japan.

I really enjoyed the detail you gave on your trip to Japan! This is 100% helpful as someone planning a trip there for the first time.

Thanks and enjoy Japan!

Hi Erin, thank you for taking the time to put all this great info together. One question I have is in regards to Takayama. Did you like it more than Kanazawa and Shirakawa-go, if you went? We originally planned to stop for a night in each place, however, because of availability in Shirakawa-go, we had to switch up our itinerary a little bit. To adjust, we have considered skipping Takayama and just doing Kanazawa and Shirakawa-go, but this makes me think twice. We also have the option of leaving Tokyo a day early (currently booked for 4 full days there) to keep all 3 places in the line-up. Would love to hear your input! Thank you!

I did like Takayama more than Kanazawa. It’s smaller and cuter and is surrounded by countryside. But then I do prefer small towns to big cities so it depends on your preferences. If you can fit it in I would.

We didn’t visit Shirakawa-go in the end. We were thinking of visiting as a day trip on the way between Takayama and Kanazawa but it would have meant having to use buses rather than take the train which we prefer (and we had a rail pass). If we had had time for a night’s stay there it would have been better I think.

Whatever you choose you’ll have an amazing time though!

Thank you so much for your post! It’s incredibly informative :)

I have one question, I am a woman traveling alone is there anything I need to consider? I have heard that Japan is a safe country, as you have the real-life experience, I’d love to hear what you think!

Thank you for your time, and excellent blog post!

I don’t think you need to worry – Japan is a very safe country. Have a great trip!

Nice list, and pretty accurate- thanks for sharing all the info!

I have to say though- DO try non-Japanese food. Things off the top of my head: bread from the local bakeries, 600¥ cake from fancy department stores, Starbucks (the seasonal things!). Pork buns in Yokohama, Pirozhki in Kamakura… The list is endless. Of course eat all the Japanese food too, because it’s amazing too.

But, I’m also so sorry you had such a bad experience (I’ve been there too)! The size of the nan though? Oh-my-god, right? :)

I do think non-Japanese food has improved a lot in recent years. We had some fantastic Italian food on our last trip (as vegetarians it’s a good backup option for us!).

Which places do you wish you would have stayed longer?

Kyoto (even though we had three weeks there!) and Tokyo.

Great list! It’s made me even more excited to get to Japan now!

I love saying ‘moshi moshi’ – i used to hear it when I worked in an international call centre – it’s so much better than plain old ‘hello’!

Excellent post – interesting, funny and very informative! Currently planning my Japan trip, this was a lot of help :)

Have an amazing trip to Japan!

I am visiting my daughter in Singapore and on the way back to the US my wife and I are visiting Japan (3Jun-8Jun). It is only for 5 days so unfortunately our time there will be very short. Originally I wanted to climb Fuji but the guided trip company I emailed claimed they only had a 1 day guided trips and crampons were required. Although we love to hike this may be too much for such a short trip. If anyone has hiked Fuji in crampons in 1 day I would love to hear about the experience. I still want to see Fuji up close, Kyoto, old family member used to live in Nagoya so would like to stop by there and perhaps Hakone. I just started looking for any special events that take place in the first week of June. Looking forward to this trip and a longer one next time.

Hi there :) Loved your post. I’m from Portugal but I’m a Japan fan. Went to Tokyo las year on March but this time I’m planning on 3 weeks travel around Japan. Can you help me? I already have the places to visti but I need help spliting the time… Oh and if yo see any of the plaes below that arenot woth to visit or less mportant please I’d aprreciate if you tell me: – Chiba – Nikko – Nagano and Matsumoto – Kawagoe – Kanagawa – Mt. Fuji (just planning on going near to have a view – Lake Kawaguchiko) – Magome – Takayama – Nagoya – Kyoto – Nara – Osak – Himeji – Hiroshima – Miyajima – Tokyo (and surroundings)

Thank you so much if you can help me.

Kind regards

Hi guys! I’m planning a trip to Japan in January with mum (I know it’s cold over there, but that’s the only break we’ve got!). We’re planning for a stay for around 8 days, any tips on where to go? I heard that an ideal short trip will consist of arriving at Tokyo and departing at Osaka, is that true? I really don’t know much about Japan so any advice is appreciated!

I would focus on Kyoto and Tokyo and take the train between them. Maybe include a day in Osaka if you can get a flight out from there.

We’ve written lots more about Japan: http://www.neverendingvoyage.com/japan-round-up/

Good advice. I hope to use this on my up come trip.

This is a great post! It is very helpful. I am planning to go to Tokyo this June. I will be staying in Shibuya/Shinjuku area. I don’t know which hotel to stay in and where to go first. Do you have any advice for the first time traveler? Thank you very much! :)

Hi Erin , thanks for all your advises .. anyway ,i would like to ask your opinion . I’m travelling with my husband and son in the late Jan to early of Feb next year but planning to visit Japan for 3 days only from Philippines due to our short vacation from US . Do you have any suggestions where and what to visit in that short period of time? or any travel tour guide you can recommend? Thank you .

I am planning a trip in March 2015. Reading your website has got me extra excited already

Hi Matthew, I’m planning to travel to Japan at the beginning of March 2015 as well. If you got any great idea, we can discuss. Thanks

I am planning a trip to Kyoto to see where Reiki was started, your insights are great. Thank you

Are you house sitting for a friend or do you use a website to find/sign up for sitting jobs?

We used mindmyhouse.com

Hi guys, great blogs-thank you for sharing it. We’re planning to do a trip in December 2013 14-27/12.

Could you advise which cities we should visit using the shinkansen. We have 14 days to spend with the first 3 days in Tokyo, so it’ll leave us with 11 days in other cities.

I am confused with the the shinkansen map and which one we should take and which cities we can visit that is on the way. We are targetting to return to Tokyo on the last 3 days to do some shopping.

It is basically that 8 days, we need to use to the cities that can be visited using the shinkansen line.

Thank you in advance for your help

Hi Hemmy. I wrote up an itinerary I followed with a one-week JR Pass that might be of some help. It includes other useful tips for planning as well. Find it at:

http://www.lengthytravel.com/saving-on-travel-in-japan-with-a-jr-rail-pass-my-itinerary-tips-and-cost-savings/

Hi Jeff, thank you for your prompt reply. I really appreciate it. You’re really helpful

This site is really helpful about Japan and shows a route map: http://www.japan-guide.com/e/e2018.html

I would definitely recommend Kyoto and probably Hiroshima as well. These are the details of where we visited: http://www.neverendingvoyage.com/japan-round-up/ .

Have a great trip!

Hi I was wondering if you could help. Basically I want to pay my mum and dad back for being such brilliant parents and helping me bring up my little boy. My dad went to Japan about 40 yrs ago he has always wanted to go back. I want to plan a surprise trip next year to Japan. I’m planning about 10 or 14 days away but not too much travelling maybe a few days in 3 places and ending up in Tokyo for 4 days to finish . Can you recommend anywhere that would be a must. I am completely lost as am not familiar with hotels or places etc. Any help would be brilliant Thanks nadya :)

It really depends what you are interested in but I’d definitely recommend Kyoto as well as Tokyo. Have a read through our Japan posts and see what you like the sound of. Good luck with it.

Thanks had a look and they’re into history so definitely Kyoto . Cheers for ur help Nadya

I going to Japan next year and through out my researches I always came across those dos an don’ts and I have to say this is really nice and short one but has a lot of information in it, which is something I really like! Keep up the good work ;D

Thanks and have a great trip.

Hello, i am starting a trip around the world in february. I start in Tokio and end in Canada in december. How many days do i need to see Tokyo and are there some real good hidden secrets? Gr. Bert

That’s a difficult question. There is so much to do in Tokyo you could spend a few days or months. We didn’t spend that much time there so can’t really advise.

Hello, with one of your Dos its not mushy mushy its moshi moshi aka (もしもし). I’ve been leaning japanese for about 9 years now i was wondering id you could correct it please

ありがとうございます　（＾＿＾）

Done. Thanks for letting us know.

Your topic is amazing, I learned a lot but can you tell me what money should i required for 1 month to travel in Japan.

It’s hard to say but you can see our budget post for an idea of what we spent: http://www.neverendingvoyage.com/how-much-does-it-cost-to-travel-in-japan/

Very nice and interesting article plus points. Japan is a place I really have wanted to go forever!

I am planning a 10 day trip with my two teenage girls. We really want to see Tokyo well. I keep hearing about Kyoto is it worth seeing, it seems far from Tokyo (8hrs) and expensive to get to?

I don’t think it’s that far if you get the bullet train. You can look up train times and prices on this website: http://www.hyperdia.com/ . You might also want to consider a rail pass if you are planning to visit other places. Compare the prices on that site with the rail pass.

Great Post. I lived in Japan for a few years and loved it. I would suggest going to any matsuri (festival) that are going on during your stay. There is lots of culture to be seen at those events. Plus there is good food. Depending on the location you’re at in Japan, during August or September, there are festivals for Obon.

In the planning stages for 9 days in Japan during June 2012 (flights booked). Can anyone help me with how long to see Hiroshima/Miyajima and whether we should base in Osaka or Kyoto to do the Osaka / Kyoto / Nara and possibly Takayama?

Hi Leonie, Two days would be enough for Hiroshima/Miyajima. I would chose Kyoto as a base as we much preferred it to Osaka and there’s more to see there. You can easily visit Osaka and Nara as day trips. We didn’t go to Takayama but it is quite a bit further away so it’s up to you how much you want to rush around. You could definitely find enough to do in Kyoto with a week.

Very useful! I wish I could go soon!!! Do you recommend any specific time in the year?

We were there in summer which suited us as we like hot weather. It is more scenic in the spring or autumn as you have the cherry blossoms or autumn leaves. The spring is peak season though. My friend went in the winter and loved it as the snow is beautiful, you can ski, and you can warm up in onsens (it was too hot for those when we were there). It really depends what you are looking for but anytime has something to offer.

I think Japan is going to be my next trip abroad, and this list is extremely helpful. I love that it addresses those smaller opportunities and moments and not just the big sites to see. Bookmarking right now!

Glad you found it helpful. Yes, for us travel is always more than just about the big sites. So far we are really enjoying Japan and soaking up the cultural differences.

Oh I forgot one of the highlights of Kyoto (besides the monkey park) is a trip on a little train that takes you outside of Kyoto and up into the mountains to Kurama and Kibune. You can then do a walk up over the hills from one village through to one of the big shrines at the other village. There are onsens at the end to rest in. A really lovely walk out in the countryside and the train trip is so much fun.

Sounds wonderful!

We stayed in Kyoto in 2008 for a week and went back there last year for a quick day during a week long trip to Osaka. The best thing about Kyoto is it’s location to other places for day trips – Osaka, Nara, Kobe, Himiji (although the castle is covered in scaffolding). You can get a cheaper Kansai Japan rail pass for four days (about $80?) to get to all these places.

Make sure you get to the Nishiki Market for fresh food – our post at is a big band width one with loads of pictures and we have more posts on our trip last year. Also, the rice burger at MOS burger is vegetarian and yum.

We will be in Tokyo from Sep 23 for a week of exploring Tokyo and surrounds. Thanks for the onsen tips nearby, will be looking for some there.

Thanks for all your tips Alison. Your post on the Nishiki market is fantastic – we will definitely visit although I’m not sure I’ll know what most of the things are! Looks like we’ll be in Tokyo around the same time as you!

Oh yeah, JTB (Japan Travel Bureau) has an excellent series of booklets on different topics. Unfortunately, they don’t seem to have Kindle versions, but probably worth the price to pick up one or two. For example: http://www.amazon.com/Look-into-Japan-Your-Pocket/dp/4533013813/ref=pd_sim_b_1

I love Kyoto though it has been years since I was in Japan and longer since I was specifically in Kyoto. My recollection is that it was easier to find English speakers there, though I tend to agree the not speaking the local language is harder in Japan than many places. To make up for that though, the people are probably more willing to be helpful than anywhere else I have ever traveled. Anyway, the number of incredible temples in Kyoto is impressive. Also, if you will be there for the fall foliage (Kouyou in Japanese) you will indeed be fortunate as it is incredible in Kyoto.

I would also point out that Japan is definitely one of the safest places in the world to visit.

Also worth mentioning is that Japan is a country where many towns and cities are famous for something very specific (knives, a certain type of food, pottery, etc.) so always try to find out what a place you are visiting is famous for.

I can’t recall how far away it is from Kyoto, but I think not too far is a place called Takayama which is one of my favorites. Especially if you can make it to the Fall festival which is one of the most impressive festivals in all of Japan, though there are many all around the country and throughout the year. Good festival street food is always available too, though I can’t recall if any of it is vegetarian friendly.

Many famous things in Japan come in 3s – 3 famous gardens, 3 famous shrines, etc. One of the 3 famous shrines is Ise Jingu which is a bit south of Nagoya and one of my favorites if you get a chance to see it. Nara is also quite special and not too far from Kyoto.

Speaking of food, you’ll have no trouble satisfying a sweet tooth as there are many good bakeries to be found, especially in the train stations. And, a popular chain of restaurants called Mister Donut is good and ubiquitous. You may also be surprised by how many people get a quick meal at the local convenience store.

If I think of anything else I’ll add it later. Ganbatte ne! (“good luck”)

Thanks so much for the advice Jeff! Unfortunately we are only in Japan until the end of September so I think we’ll miss the foliage. I had been considering Takayama though so glad to hear you like it.

Great post and very informative. The Japan Rail pass is a must if you plan to to a lot of traveling and the 100 yen shops are great for souvenirs.

Japan Australia

Am really hoping to make it to Japan sometime in the next 12 months – bookmarking this!

Hopefully we’ll have lots more posts about Japan when we get there next month.

Hi, it’s Mariko, came to check out your blog. Interesting article but I can’t keep my mouth shut on a few things. Please DO try non-Japanese food in Kyoto… we have such a great selection of Brazilian, Nepalese, Indian, Thai, Chinese, Italian restaurants it would be a shame if you stuck to only Japanese food. Also, Kyoto is probably the vegetarian capital of Japan if there ever was one. There are a lot of veggie and vegan places as well as a special kind of buddhist vegan meal that you have to pre-book, but is very nice.

A lot of people speak English here (not necessarily GOOD English, but…) . Almost everywhere in Japan there are English translations of Japanese signs (subway, trains, buses etc. ).

….I swear I’m not a jerk! I just want your information (and the info for anyone else who reads this) to be up to date. Don’t hate me, Amy!

It sounds like Kyoto is a lot more cosmopolitan than other parts of Japan. We are really looking forward to trying the vegetarian food, especially the Buddhist meals.

Thanks for your comment and of course you’re not being a jerk, :o)! The post is based on our 3 week experiences in Japan so obviously would never be definitive in anyway. I’m sure that other non-japanese food is great (apart from the Indian curry we had in Fukuoka!) but I guess my point for fellow travellers is that Japanese food is so delicious why waste your stomach and yen on other food during your stay!

I’m sure too that many people do speak english, in our encounters this was rare even in Tokyo, but again Japanese is such a beautiful language why not go ahead and dive in and try to speak it!

Lastly too, in our 3 weeks there were indeed occasional english transport signage to be found, but we also had many experiences standing at a bus/ subway terminals not having any clue as to where to go or what to pay. Again though, this isn’t a bad thing, sometimes the best thing about being intrepid travellers is being able to figure things out!

I certainly don’t hate you (!), in fact I apologise if you found anything in the article to be of offence. I certainly did not mean to, and again after only 3 weeks in your amazing country, the list was only ever meant to be a broad guide to anyone else going to visit.

All the best,

Totally agree about the non-Japanese food!! I loved Japanese pizza so much I would go back just for that :D

Awesome Amy my husband and I who have never been overseas before have chosen Japan as our first overseas destination for our honeymoon and soaking up any information we can get ?

Glad everyone likes the post! Love your story too Erin! I remember our friend Noriko said that, after living in Manchester for awhile, she was glad to return to her homeland of convenience!

Oh, how I want to see Kyoto! Bamboo grove, old temples, aaaah…

I know about this website: http://www.vegietokyo.com/info4vegie/articles/article2.html Though it’s for Tokyo mostly. Hope it’s helpful :) Have fun on your trip!

Thanks for that – the article is really useful.

100 Yen shops are soooooo brilliant. Get some tabbi socks too. Shinkansen, though expensive, are so worth it – you can travel vast distances so quickly and it is a breath of fresh air to use any Japanese public transportation after the British version! Gavin and I were due at Tokyo airport one cold wintery day. Woke up at 4.30am to catch our bus to Tokyo (4 hours away) to find snow knee deep. Freaked out, how would we get to Tokyo now? Needn’t have worried – Japanese workers were all out clearing the roads and our bus rolled in right on time.

Really good post, Amy you sure squeezed a lot into your 3 weeks! Erin x

I love that story! I can’t wait to try the bullet trains and enjoy everything being super-efficient and on time.

Really great posts, I have been to Japan several times and you are spot on!

Oh I love Japan so much and I haven’t even been there yet! This is a great list – it solidified everything I was thinking about our upcoming trip to Japan. My 3 years of Japan in college might finally pay off…haha.

I’m excited to hear about your 3 weeks in Kyoto too!

When will you be in Japan Ashley? We can’t wait for our trip too. Kyoto seems like the perfect place to base ourselves.

Won’t be there until January! But super excited cause I’ve wanted to visit fooooorever.

Great tips! Thanks for sharing!

GREAT post – you’ve got a little bit of everything here =) Let me know if you need any ideas on Tokyo – I spent about 10 days in and around that area last year =)

Any highlights of your trip in Japan that you can share would be much appreciated!

Toni, I am going to Japan for 10 days at the end of June. Can you give me the scoop of MUST SEE sites that you really liked?

I DO :) would love some recommendations if still relevant

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The Ultimate Japan Itinerary for First-Timers: From 1 to 3 Weeks

I’ve yet to meet a traveler who didn’t love their time in Japan . It’s just one of those countries that everyone loves. How can you not? The food is carefully crafted and delicious; the history and culture are both rich and long; the landscape breathtaking; and the people super friendly and polite.

Japan remains one of my favorite countries. No matter how long I visit, it’s never enough. I always leave wanting more.

But the country always seems forbidding to many travelers. It definitely still has that “exotic” stereotype that makes people think it’s hard to travel around.

Where should you go? What should you include in your Japan itinerary? Should you buy a JR Pass to help you get around?

To help you out, here are a few suggested itineraries based on my years of visiting that will ensure you see the best sites on your Japan trip — as well as get off the beaten path and get a real sense of Japanese culture!

Table of Contents

Japan Itinerary: Know Before You Go

Japan itinerary: one week, japan itinerary: two weeks, japan itinerary: three weeks.

Just be sure to get one BEFORE you go as you cannot purchase them on arrival. For more information on the pass, including how much they cost and how you can get one, read this blog post . It has everything you need to know!

Mobile Data in Japan In Japan, English isn’t widely spoken (especially outside of the major cities) so having access to the internet is vital for checking addresses, using translation apps, and looking up things to see and do. The easiest way to get data is through an international eSIM for Japan .

An eSIM allows you to access mobile data via a QR code so you can have internet wherever you are, without worrying about physical SIM cards or roaming charges. This will save you a lot of time and hassle when using apps like Google Maps, Google Translate, Instagram, and YouTube. It will also come in handy for checking menus at restaurants (since they are rarely in english).  

Day 1 & 2: Tokyo Chances are you’ll be starting your trip in Tokyo , since it’s home to the country’s biggest international airport. If your trip is seven days long, activate your JR Pass right away, so that you can take advantage of the free JR trains that run through the city.

While you could easily spend your entire week in Tokyo and not get bored, here are some of the highlights:

Visit the fish market – In 2018, Tokyo’s main fish market moved to Toyosu, which is twice the size of the old one, Tsukiji, making it the largest in the world. While a lot of good restaurants moved too (Sushi Dai being the most famous), I find the place itself very stale, since you can no longer wander the floor (you look down via a walkway above; you also need a visitor’s pass to enter).

The old outer market in Tsukiji is still great though, and you can still find food and stores there too. You can wander alone and just eat and shop until you can’t anymore! Most businesses open at 6am, so it’s a perfect place to go in the morning when you wake up early because of jet lag. Food and drink tours of the Tsukiji Outer Market are available for around 13,500 JPY.

See Sensoji Temple – Sensoji is beautifully painted and sits in a scenic spot near a five-story pagoda and the famous Kaminari Gate. There’s a huge statue of Kannon, the goddess of mercy, inside the main hall. It’s always busy but is worth seeing with your own eyes. The temple is free to visit.

Drink in Golden Gai – This alleyway of back-street bars is a lively place to drink at night and has a bit of a red-light-district feel to it. It is not to be missed. Even if you don’t drink, be sure to wander about. Arigato Tours offers tours of the area where you’ll learn about the neighborhood while stopping to sample Japanese classics like sushi, yakitori, and ramen. Tours are 23,900 JPY and include a drink and dishes at four food stops.

Visit the Imperial Palace – When the emperor moved from Kyoto to Tokyo in 1869, he took Edo for his new residence and renamed it Tokyo. Though you can’t go inside (or get very close), the building is amazing. It is surrounded by lovely grounds and a park, and there’s a moat around the stone walls. You can also see the changing of the guard, though it’s a relatively low-key and unassuming ceremony.

Watch a sumo match – Kokugikan, Japan’s most famous sumo arena, hosts tournaments three times each year. The wrestling that we see today dates to the 17th century, though its origins go back even further, and it’s still one of the most popular traditions in the country. If you’re in town at the right time, this is a must-do! Tickets sell out quickly, so act fast. You can book a ticket online here (you’ll be accompanied by a guide too, so you can learn more about the tradition as it unfolds before your eyes).

If you have more time, consider taking a day trip to Kamakura to see the giant Buddha statue (Daibutsu). It is over 13 meters (42 feet) tall and dates back to the 13th century. The journey is around 90 minutes each way — and free with the JR Pass !

For delicious food, some of my favorite bars and restaurants include: Uogashi Nihon-Ichi (Standing Sushi Bar), Nemuro Hanamaru KITTE Marunouchi, Motodane, Tokyo Whisky Library, Ichiran Shibuya, and Uohama.

WHERE TO STAY IN TOKYO : Hostel Chapter Two – A small, family-run hostel not far from Skytree Station in Asakusa. I really like the shared kitchen and common room, as there’s a real social feel to them.

With its beauty come lots of crowds though, so try to visit outside of the busy summer months. Even with lots of tourists, though, the city is still magnificent and has a lot to offer. Some things to see and do that you shouldn’t miss are the following:

Visit the Golden Pavilion – This famous (and picturesque) temple dates to the 1950s, when a monk burned down the previous temple (from the 14th century) while trying to commit suicide. It’s a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the most-visited destinations in the country!

Explore Gion – Gion, the historic geisha district, is renowned as being one of the most iconic and atmospheric areas of town. It’s known for its traditional wooden machiya houses, narrow alleyways, cobblestone streets, and preservation of geisha (known locally as geiko) culture. Lining the main street are ochayas (teahouses where geishas entertain), small shops, and many restaurants, ranging from upscale kaiseki restaurants serving traditional Kyoto cuisine to casual eateries.

To really learn more about this amazing party of town and its past, take a walking tour of Gion . You’ll learn a ton and get a lot of context. They cost around 1,800 JPY.

Wander in the Bamboo Forest – For a relaxing break, head to Arashiyama and let the dense and towering stands of bamboo envelop you. Located near the famous Tenryu-ji temple, it’s one of the most beautiful places in the entire country. It’s not that big, but there are some hidden areas to explore. Just make sure to arrive early if you want to enjoy it without the crowds (it fills up fast after sunrise).

While there, I would also recommend visiting the Okochi Sanso Garden, which (along with the home) belonged to the famous Japanese actor Denjir? ?k?chi (1898–1962). It’s not free (it’s 1,000 JPY), but it’s really nice and has some wonderful views.

Admire Ryoan-ji temple – This is my favorite temple in Kyoto. Originally established in 1450 as a residence for a high-ranking samurai, it was soon converted into a Zen temple and is now a UNESCO World Heritage Site, with a mausoleum that houses the remains of seven emperors. Its traditional rock and sand garden is considered one of the best in the country. There’s also a teahouse where you can experience the traditional Japanese tea ceremony ( chanoyu ) as you overlook the Kyoyochi reflecting pool.

Wander the Nishiki Market Nishiki Ichiba is now one of the biggest indoor markets in town. Known as “Kyoto’s Kitchen” and spanning over five blocks, it is full of vendors selling traditional dishes from the region, classic Kyoto souvenirs, and really just about anything else. There are over a hundred stalls here, many of which have been in the same family for generations. Opening hours depend on the shop but are typically from 9am to 6pm.

To dive deeper into Japanese food culture, you can take a food tour of the market . It’s the best way to learn about all the food you’ll see, as well as the market’s history.

For a half-day trip, you can also visit Nara. It’s a small city just one hour from Kyoto. Nara was the capital of Japan in the eighth century, so there are lots of buildings and temples here that are upwards of a thousand years old (which is rare in Japan, due to fires, as well as World War II). But the real draw in Nara are the deer.

Since the 17th century, those in and around the city have been considered sacred. You can buy crackers to feed them or just watch them stroll around carefree. A guided half-day walking tour that includes all of Nara’s highlights as well as a traditional lunch is 11,500 JPY.

While you’re here, don’t miss a visit to Todai-ji. It’s the world’s largest wooden building and is home to a 16-meter (52-foot) Buddha statue. It was built in 738 CE and is now a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Admission is 600 JPY.

WHERE TO STAY IN KYOTO : Backpacker Hostel K’s House – A fun, social backpacker hostel in a great central location. The rooftop terrace is a cool spot to hangout and meet other travelers after a day of exploring.

Don’t miss Osaka Castle though. While it’s not the original (this version dates to 1931), it’s nevertheless an impressive sight. It’s home to a small but insightful museum and an observation deck that offers some picturesque city views.

And be sure to stroll down Dotonbori (ideally at night), the main street, which is lined with restaurants, stores, and tons of neon lights and signs. A guided walking tour that includes Dotonbori as well adjacent neighborhoods is 6,500 JPY.

Today, Hiroshima is thriving . Don’t miss the Atomic Bomb Museum, which depicts the history of the city before and after that fateful day. It has photos, artifacts, videos, and information about the effect of radiation on the population. It’s a sobering experience but one that should not be missed.

If you feel like getting out of town afterward, head to Miyajima , an island that offers a place to hike and enjoy nature. You can also take a cable car to the peak of the mountain to take in the view. A one-way ferry ride to the island takes 10 minutes and is free to JR Pass holders.

WHERE TO STAY IN HIROSHIMA : Roku Hostel – A cozy, small hostel with a rustic atmosphere and design. It feels like you’re staying with a friend here, and the beds are super comfy too.

If you like history, don’t miss the Hida Minzoku Mura Folk Village, home to a collection of traditional thatch-roof houses that you can enter to further immerse yourself in the country’s past.

This city (and region, really) is famous for its Hida beef, a high-fat variety that’s even better than any A5 Wagyu you might have. It just melts in your mouth. Be sure to have some while you are here!

The Japanese Alps are not far from here as well, so if you love hiking and want to extend your time in the region, head to Kamikochi for a day hike or overnight trip. It’s just an hour away and has both easy and moderate trails, which are open from April to November. Hiking trails can also be found in Hakusan National Park (also just one hour away by car).

One of the more unique temples in Japan is here too: Ninja (Myoryuji) Temple. While the temple wasn’t home to actual ninjas, Myoryuji was built as a defensive structure (strict laws forbade local lords from building defenses, so they were hidden in the temple to circumvent the rules). These include hidden rooms, secret tunnels, and a maze of staircases and halls to confuse enemies.

If you need a break from exploring cities, Hakusan National Park, home to Mount Haku, one of the three holy mountains, is just an hour south of town.

If you’re here in April, there are incredible cherry blossom displays that are famous in the region. And, just like Takayama, Matsumoto is close to the Japanese Alps, so you’re just a stone’s throw from some of the best hiking in the country.

There are tons of hotels (both modern and traditional) that have their own hot springs (often both indoors and outdoors). It’s the perfect place to wrap up a trip, relax, and take in the views.

In addition to getting a copious amount of R&R, be sure to ride the cable car up the mountain for even more amazing views. The area is surrounded by craters from an inactive volcano that erupted 80,000 years ago (not to be confused with nearby Mount Fuji, which is an active volcano), and you’ll find lots of vendors at the top selling eggs cooked in the sulfurous waters. It’s said the eggs prolong one’s life by seven years, so feel free to give them a try!

If you prefer to hike up instead, the trail is open between July and September, with the trek taking anywhere from 5 to 12 hours, depending on your level of fitness. Typically, hikers leave at night in order to arrive at the summit by dawn. There are little shops along the way that sell food and even beds you can rent in advance if you want to split your journey up. Just make sure you do your research and prepare in advance as it’s a tough hike!

If you really want to play tourist, you can also ride a mock pirate ship around the lake for more views of the mountains, and Mount Fuji in particular.

Full-day tours around Hakone that include all the main sights cost 14,800 JPY.

WHERE TO STAY IN HAKONE : Hotel Green Plaza – With gorgeous views of Mount Fuji, a huge buffet dinner (with both Western and Japanese options), and a private onsen where you can relax and enjoy the view, this is one of the best places to stay in Hakone if you want value but don’t want to break the bank.  

Using the suggestions above, here’s how I would organize your itinerary:

• Days 1-3 : Tokyo
• Day 4 : Mount Fuji or Hakone
• Day 5 : Takayama
• Days 6 & 7 : Kanazawa
• Days 8 & 9 : Matsumoto
• Days 10-12 : Kyoto
• Days 13 & 14 : Osaka
• Days 15 & 16 : Hiroshima

If you do want to spend a few hours in Hakodate, don’t miss the Morning Market, where you can find lots of fresh seafood. You can also visit Fort Goryokaku, the first “Western”-style fort in the country.

Be sure to stop in at the local Beer Museum too, owned by Sapporo Breweries (the oldest beer company in the country). It showcases the history of beer in Japan and how the business got its start. If you’re a whiskey fan, stop by The Bow Bar, home to some rare (and expensive) whiskeys and considered one of the best such bars in the world.

What I love about the city is its location. This region has some of the best hiking in the country. There are plenty of hills and mountains, offering options for both day hikes as well as overnight trips. Some highlights include Mount Me-akan, Mount Asahim, Mount Mashu, and Nishibetsu-dake. For the best views of the city, head to Mount Moiwayama. It’s just a 30-60-minute hike to the top, though there is a cable car you can take as well.

And if you’re visiting in the winter, hit the slopes! There are over a hundred ski resorts in Hokkaido. You can rent skis (or a snowboard) for around 10,000-18,000 JPY. Lift prices are usually 4,000-6,000 JPY per day. In the winter, don’t miss the annual Sapporo Snow Festival. It’s held every February and draws over two million visitors. There are ice sculptures, igloos, live music, and delicious local foods on offer.

Additionally, be sure to take a day trip to Otaru, where you’ll find some of the freshest uni in the whole country (this is the main area where the famed Hokkaido uni is caught). Go hungry and visit the markets, stalls, and shops around there.

WHERE TO STAY IN SAPPORO : Waya Hostel – This is a laid-back, colorful hostel with a social atmosphere that makes meeting people a breeze. It has a homey, DIY feel and is perfect for budget travelers looking for a no-frills place to crash.

There is a ton to see and do in Japan , and you could easily spend another month here and still just scratch the surface (we didn’t even get to Okinawa and the islands!). And while these itineraries are a bit fast-paced, Japan isn’t cheap, so budget travelers need to move around the country quickly to avoid breaking the bank.

But no matter how long you visit, you won’t be disappointed. Japan is an amazing, beautiful, and unique destination that I never get tired of visiting. While it’s not as affordable as its neighbors, there are still plenty of ways to save money , and it’s definitely worth spending the time (and money) visiting. You won’t be disappointed!

Just make sure to get your Japan Rail Pass before you go!  

Book Your Trip to Japan: Logistical Tips and Tricks

Book Your Flight Find a cheap flight by using Skyscanner . They are my two favorite search engines, because they search websites and airlines around the globe, so you always know no stone is left unturned!

Book Your Accommodation You can book your hostel with Hostelworld as they have the most comprehensive inventory so they are best for booking a hostel. If you want to stay in a hotel or guesthouse in Japan, use Booking.com as it consistently returns the cheapest rates for guesthouses and hotels.

Don’t Forget Travel Insurance Travel insurance will protect you against illness, injury, theft, and cancelations. It’s comprehensive protection in case anything goes wrong. I never go on a trip without it, as I’ve had to use it many times in the past. My favorite companies that offer the best service and value are:

• Safety Wing (best for everyone)
• Insure My Trip (for those over 70)
• Medjet (for additional evacuation coverage)

Looking for the Best Companies to Save Money With? Check out my resource page for the best companies to use when you travel! I list all the ones I use to save money when I travel — and I think they will help you too!

Be sure to check out the Japan Rail Pass if you’ll be traveling around the country. It comes in 7-, 14-, and 21-day passes and can save you a ton of money!

Looking for More Travel Tips for Japan? Check out my in-depth Japan travel guide for more ways to save money; information on costs; tips on what to see and do; suggested itineraries, reading, and packing lists; and much, much more!

Got a comment on this article? Join the conversation on Facebook , Instagram , or Twitter and share your thoughts!

Disclosure: Please note that some of the links above may be affiliate links, and at no additional cost to you, I earn a commission if you make a purchase. I recommend only products and companies I use and the income goes to keeping the site community supported and ad free.

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Luggage Delivery Between Hotels

Travel to your next destination hassle-free

Enjoy traveling to your next destination, even when using crowded public transport, by sending your luggage to your next hotel with Yamato.

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Leave for Your Next Destination

Send your luggage to the next hotel at the reception desk of the current hotel and go sightseeing.

See the Sights of Kamakura and Yokohama Without Your Luggage

As you do not have to carry heavy luggage with you, you can enjoy the sights, shops and food more comfortably.

Arrive at Your Next Hotel

When you arrive at the next hotel in Yokohama after a day of sightseeing, you will find that your luggage is waiting for you.

About Luggage Delivery between Hotels

Make a request at a “Hands-Free Travel Service” counter located at the hotel reception.

Write the address of the hotel you will be staying on a waybill and pay the shipping fees.

The request is accepted. Enjoy traveling around Japan in comfort.

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GUIDE Travel around Japan luggage-free by JNTO Travel on 14 November 2018

One of the biggest hassles about travelling is often the issue of handling your luggage, especially when you’re taking public transport to get around. You don’t want to be burdened with dragging your luggage around an unfamiliar city, or carrying them up and down the stairs at train stations. It’s a lot more tricky when you take public transport during rush hours.

Thankfully, there are multiple ways to handle your luggage so you can enjoy travelling with ease of mind, and without the burden, thanks to the nationwide ‘ Hands-FreeTravel ’ network.

What is Hands-Free Travel?

Simply look out for the ‘Hands-Free Travel’ logo at places like airports, train stations, hotels, and department stores, and you’ll be able to deliver your baggage between two locations, or store them in a safe place so that you can enjoy luggage-free travel (some locations may have limited service).

Luggage Delivery: From the airport to your hotel, or vice versa

How do you get your luggage from the airport to your hotel when you’ve just arrived early in the morning and your check-in is in the afternoon? Or what if you don’t want to drag your heavy luggage – after you’ve stuffed it full of souvenirs – from your hotel to the airport?

There are several luggage mail service options, some of which offer same-day services if you send before 11am. Prices normally depend on the size and weight of the luggage; most companies charge between 2,000-3,000 yen to deliver a piece of check-in luggage (up to 30kg; 160cm dimension). Most also offer delivery for odd-sized luggage like sports gear (ie. snowboards, bicycles) as well as insurance for lost items up to 300,000 yen.

From the airport to your hotel:

Simply drop your baggage off at a designated delivery counter – look out for signs that say ‘Hands-Free Travel’. Staff will be at hand to assist you with filling in the forms; your luggage will normally be sent to the hotel reception.

Some credit cards and airlines may offer discounted luggage delivery; for example,  JCB  and  UnionPay  customers get discounts on select operators when they pay with their card.  JAL  passengers can also take advantage of discounted baggage delivery to and from major airports.

From your hotel to the airport:

There are several options, but all require advance booking at least a day ahead. Your luggage will normally be delivered to a designated counter to be picked up before you check-in.

• Some hotels have a ‘Hands-Free Travel’ counter, where you can arrange for your luggage to be delivered to the airport
• Schedule a pickup via services like  Airporter  or  Luggage-Free Travel  online, and they will pick up your luggage
• Head to the nearest  Yamato  or  Sagawa  Express service counters - which can usually be found at major hotel lobbies or convenience stores - to drop your luggage. Sagawa can drop your luggage by 4pm the same day if you send it off before 11am (Haneda Airport only).

Travel between hotels and cities without your luggage

Are you travelling to another city by train and don’t want to bother with dragging your luggage onto trains, up the stairs, or across platforms? On trains, there is limited storage space, so what do you do? You can have your luggage sent to your next accommodation, so you can easily get to your destination without the burden, and even go sightseeing along the way!

Depending on the distance, some companies offer same-day delivery if dropped off before 11am. There are several options for delivery depending on your accommodation:

• Check with your hotel if they offer a ‘Hands-Free Travel’ service
• Yamato operates nationwide, so you can simply drop your luggage at the nearest service counters. Sagawa Express has drop-off counters at train stations and tourist centres in Tokyo, like Asakusa and Tokyo Skytree
• Schedule a pickup via services like Luggage-Free Travel (nationwide) or  QL Liner  (Tokyo, Kyoto, Osaka) which will pick up your luggage from your hotel

Same-day delivery for your luggage is also ideal in these situations:

• From major JR stations in cities all over the country to various hotels within the city; each station will have different courier providers like Yamato or Sagawa Express
• Between the stations and hotels along the  Tateyama Kurobe Alpine Route ; depending on the distance, fees cost between 1,000-2,200 yen
• Between the towns of Tsumagoi and Magome in the Kiso Valley, which is handy if you’re walking the Old Nakasendo Road; drop your luggage off at either tourism information center between 8:30 and 11:30, and it will arrive at 13:00 (not valid during winter) at 500 yen per luggage

Here’s a sample price list to deliver one check-in luggage (160cm dimension)*:

*Check directly with the service provider for a more accurate quote. Dimensions calculated as width+height+depth

Luggage storage: Store your luggage for hands-free day trips

Ever wondered what to do with your luggage when you want to go sightseeing without the burden? Or what if you went shopping and bought a ton of stuff and you don’t want to drag it around town with you? If you’re in these situations, there are several ways for you to store them safely.

Coin lockers

Most train stations all over Japan have coin lockers where you can store your luggage or bags – usually, the locker sizes are only large enough to accommodate small backpacks, although larger stations may have lockers large enough for luggage. These lockers are ideal if you’ve got a lot of small bags to carry, or if you don’t want to lug heavy packs around. Coin lockers at train stations charge by the day, whereas lockers at airports like Narita and Centrair can store them for longer period (up to 8 days).

Coin lockers cost from   300 yen (small) , which is usually valid for a day. If you don’t have coins, some lockers accept Suica or Pasmo (similar to our MRT card) payment.

Left luggage

If you have odd-sized luggage that don’t fit into lockers, the best place to store them is with a luggage storage service. Most services have a size limit of 200cm in dimension (height + width + depth). Prices range from about  500 yen per day .

At cafes and offices:

A growing number of cafes, shops, and offices (in addition to selected JR stations and post offices) are offering luggage storage service via a service called  ecbo cloak . You can store your items in Tokyo, Kyoto, Osaka, Fukuoka, Okinawa, Hokkaido, Ehime, and Iwate. With your smartphone, locate available spaces and reserve a spot.

If you’re in Tokyo,  Voyagin  offers luggage storage at their Shibuya office, while  Sagawa Express  has several luggage storage locations at tourist sites like Tokyo Skytree.

At train stations, hotels, and commercial areas:

Some train stations, VIP Liner bus lounges, department stores (like Daimaru and Aeon Mall), and tourist information centres (like Kansai Tourist Information Center) offer luggage storage – simply look out for the ‘Hands-Free Travel’ logo, or look out for Yamato (with its iconic black cat logo).

At the airport:

If you want hands-free travel at the airport, like Narita International, Haneda Airport, and Kansai International Airport – usually offer luggage storage. You can store large/bulky items as well, and prices are determined by size.

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

last Updated: August 16, 2024 hiroshima japan kyoto miyajima nara osaka tokyo

FYI: Affiliate links may be sprinkled throughout the awesome, free content you see below. I’ll receive a small commission when you purchase from my links (at no extra cost to you), which I’ll totally blow on adult things like boba tea and avocado toast. As always, thanks for the support.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Overview of this 10 Day Japan Itinerary

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Pre-Travel Guide to Japan

Where to get the best flight deals to japan:.

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

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

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

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

Where to stay:

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

When to visit:

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

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

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

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

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

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

How to get Japanese Yen:

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

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

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

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

How to Get Around Japan:

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Electricity and Power in Japan:

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

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

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

Using a Pocket Wifi Router in Japan :

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

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

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

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

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

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

Useful Japanese Phrases:

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

Packing tips for Japan:

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Travel Insurance for Japan

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

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

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

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

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

10 Days in Japan:  A Complete Japan Itinerary

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

Day 1: Arrive in Tokyo!

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

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

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

Day 2: FULL DAY IN TOKYO (West Side)

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

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

Stop 1: Shibuya

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

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

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

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

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

Stop 2: Harajuku

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

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

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

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

Read Next: Top Things to do in Harajuku

Stop 3: Shinjuku

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

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

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

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

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

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

Day 3: FULL DAY IN TOKYO (East Side)

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

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

Asakusa and Sensoji Temple

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

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

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

Sumida Park and Tokyo SkyTree

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

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

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

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

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

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

Akihabara District

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

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

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

Day 4: DAY TRIP from Tokyo — 3 Options

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

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

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

Here are my three recommended day trips from Tokyo:

1) Kamakura

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Day Trip Options here: 

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Day 5: MORNING BULLET TRAIN TO KYOTO then EXPLORING

First Bullet Train Ride!

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

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

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

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

Arashiyama Area

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

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

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

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

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

Read Next: Top Things to do in Kyoto and Attractions

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

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

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

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

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

Golden Pavilion (Kinkaku-ji)

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

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

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

Day 6: FULL DAY IN KYOTO

Nishiki Market

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

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

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

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

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

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

Higashiyama District

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

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

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

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

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

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

Day 7: DAY TRIP TO NARA AND OSAKA

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Day 8: DAY TRIP TO MIYAJIMA AND HIROSHIMA

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Day 9: KYOTO THEN BULLET TRAIN BACK TO TOKYO

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

Morning/Afternoon in Kyoto

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

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

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

Read Next: Alllll the best things to do in Kyoto

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

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

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

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

Bullet Train to Tokyo

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

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

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

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

Recommended hotels in Ginza:

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

Day 10: SUSHI BREAKFAST AND OFF TO THE AIRPORT

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

Sushi Breakfast at Tsukiji Market

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

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

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

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

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

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

Shopping in Ginza

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

Off to the Airport

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

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

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

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

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Feel free to share this 10 day Japan itinerary with a friend (just copy and paste the link!), and get started planning your trip! Have you been to the country before? What were your favorite things to do in Japan?

Photos via Day 1a | Day 2 and Steam Fire at Asakusa  | cherry blossoms | Akihabara | Hakone 1 and 3 | Hakone 2 |

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September 23, 2020 at 10:18 pm

Great post! We are planning to visit Japan around cherry blossoms season next year. Your 10-day itinerary seems perfect. We might add 3 to 4 days to it as we love to follow the slow pace when we travel 🙂

September 23, 2020 at 10:47 pm

You’re gonna have the best time ever – I wish I could go back and do my entire itinerary again! An extra few sounds would be perfect; we had to rush around a lot!

April 13, 2021 at 11:26 pm

Very elaborate Japan guide! Hope to visit this wonderful place in the near future!

March 27, 2022 at 5:54 am

Thanks so much, this was very helpful, and fun to read. I’ve been once by myself and hope to return with my wife. If it’s not too personal, what was the total cost of the trip for two?

April 4, 2022 at 6:16 pm

Hi Bill! So glad the post was helpful! Unfortunately it’s really hard to say the total cost, as it greatly varies depending on what hotels you choose, activities you do, and restaurants you eat at! With that being said, the street food is absolutely phenomenal and a great way to save a bit of money! We loved it all!

April 7, 2022 at 1:22 am

such an amazing post and trip, wish i can go there very soon. thankyou for sharing 🙂

July 18, 2022 at 8:44 am

I am so very grateful for your post. I have been researching for months and this is the most helpful post I have found! We will be traveling to Japan April 2023 for my sons graduation present. We will only have 7-8 days there. If you were to take off 1-2 days which would they be. Right now I am thinking one less day in Tokyo but not sure what else to eliminate.

July 20, 2022 at 6:58 pm

So glad you found it helpful! I would cut off the day trip from Tokyo, and eliminate a day in Tokyo like you suggested. You can see the main highlights of Tokyo in 2 long, jam packed days. It’ll be a very hectic and tiring trip, but you’ll see a lot in just a week! I cannot wait to go back to Japan! Enjoy your trip — sounds like it’ll be a special one!

August 29, 2022 at 1:19 pm

I’m planning a trip to Japan and this has been super helpful! One question though, did you mainly find lodging in just Tokyo and Kyoto? And you did day trips out of those cities but would return back?

August 29, 2022 at 8:42 pm

Hi Francesca — yup, did exactly that! I stayed in Tokyo and Kyoto and did day trips! SO much to see! Have such a great trip! I cannot wait to go back to Japan!!!

October 1, 2022 at 10:40 pm

Hey! your post is SUPER helpful for my 10 day trip I want to take in April 2023! But I was curious if you visited any hot springs or passed by any while on your trip? I want to go to one with my boyfriend and have a relaxing dip 🙂 I look forward to the trip and your trip sounds like something we would follow to enjoy our time! thnk you 🙂

October 2, 2022 at 4:33 pm

Hey there! We didn’t have time for any on our first trip, but spent a few days at an onsen in Mt. Muji on our second trip! Highly recommend adding that in if you’re looking for some peace and quiet! It was incredible!

August 9, 2023 at 9:19 am

Hi! Which onsen do you recommend?

November 1, 2022 at 11:18 am

Can u suggest a place to do one day of kintsugi lesson. I love your itinerary and plan to follow it to the T. And will definitely share my experience once I am back… I have about 13 days…one last thing..anything that a vegetarian can eat

November 6, 2022 at 2:26 am

Excellent guide! May I know is the 7-day JR pass one-way only (Tokyo -> Kyoto)? Do we need to buy another ticket/pass for the bullet train from Kyoto back to Tokyo?

November 6, 2022 at 4:32 pm

The JR pass works for all directions! As long as it’s still within the 7 days if you buy the 7 day pass! You can use the pass as many times as you want within the time frame you buy it for. It’s great!

November 27, 2022 at 10:18 pm

love your itinerary! i’m planning to visit japan in december and wondered if the disneyland in tokyo was worth it?

November 28, 2022 at 7:47 pm

Hi Rama! How exciting! I’ve never been to Tokyo Disney so unfortunately cannot comment! Have a great trip! Japan is easily one of my favorite countries!

January 19, 2023 at 12:04 pm

This post is amazing! We are planning a trip to Japan and this has everything. Thank you so much for taking the time to share your experiences!

January 20, 2023 at 5:15 pm

Of course, so glad it’s helpful! Let me know if you have any questions! We loved our trips to Japan and can’t wait to go back!

February 9, 2023 at 2:03 pm

Thank you so much for sharing, this is super helpful! I was wondering, if you were to have stayed at a ryokan during this trip, when / in which city would you recommend staying? I’m currently planning a 10 day try and would like to follow your itinerary but also want to squeeze in a stay in a ryokan!

March 22, 2023 at 6:38 am

I just wanted to thank you. My wife and I returned last night from our first trip to Japan, 11 nights in total. We followed your itinerary almost to the letter, including all three day trips from Tokyo – Kamakura, Nikko and Hakone.

It was an extra special trip for us, celebrating my 50th birthday, and your itinerary made the incredibly intimidating task of knowing how to structure a short trip to Japan, manageable and endlessly rewarding.

I commend you for your excellent research and wanted you to know how valuable of a service you are providing!

March 28, 2023 at 7:06 pm

Just to be clear, you’re recommending just two home bases during the ten days in Japan: Tokyo and Kyoto? We’re going in October and are booking hotels. So – one hotel in Tokyo and one hotel in Kyoto from which we see those cities and take day trips. It’s that simple?

April 5, 2023 at 11:07 am

Yup — makes it so much easier than booking a different hotel for every night! 🙂 The train system is amazing in Japan and you can easily get to so many day trips from both major cities.

April 26, 2023 at 3:42 pm

We are planning a trip to Japan in April 2024 and I came across you blog post. Amazing post and your detailed itinerary is very helpful. I’m wondering if there is any advantage of choosing Narita vs Haneda airport. We will be flying from SFO and have options to both.

April 27, 2023 at 2:05 pm

If you can find a flight to Haneda for a decent price, I’d actually choose that! It’s much closer to Tokyo itself. However, more airlines fly into Narita. I’ll be looking into Haneda for my next trip! 🙂

May 9, 2023 at 4:22 pm

Thank you so much for this very helpful itinerary. My husband and I are planning to visit in early December to celebrate my 60th birthday. Your suggestions and recommendations were very helpful and I will definitely be using them. Thank you again.

May 9, 2023 at 5:54 pm

Glad it was helpful! That’s so exciting — what a special spot for a birthday! Have the best time, and let me know if you have any questions!

May 21, 2023 at 2:06 am

We are booked on a cruise around Japan for 10 days but coming in earlier to do some land tours and hopefully see things we will not be able to do on the cruise. All your information was so informative and will be looking more into it all. We will be leaving Sydney Australia on 23rd March 2024 specifically for Cherry Blossom time.

August 9, 2023 at 9:17 am

Hi! We are flying to HND arriving June 8th at 21:05. We depart from NRT June 20th. I haven’t booked any accommodations yet. I’m trying to follow your itinerary. How many nights would you recommend in Tokyo and Kyoto? Should we stay in another city for a few nights to reduce traveling time? Regarding the JR Pass, we fall in between the 7 day and 14 day pass. I’m thinking the 7 day pass should be enough if we start using it day 4 or 5. Thank you!

November 5, 2023 at 2:56 pm

Hi Jess. Your itinerary was the inspiration for my first visit to Japan last month with my niece. We followed the majority of the 10 days outlined including all of the daytrips except for Hakone. Your suggestions were excellent because each day trip was unique and memorable. Your tips on where to purchase the local currency, the JR train pass as well as the packing tips were incredibly helpful. We also made it a point to try every single one of your foodie recommendations. Black sesame and Sakura were definitely our favorite Japanese flavors for ice cream. Nishiki Market, Golden Pavilion in Kyoto, the floating shrine in Miyajima, the Great Buddha statues at Kotokuin in Kamakura and at Todaji in Nara, Okonomimura in Hiroshima, Fushimi Inari Shrine were absolute highlights. Thank you so much for sharing this well-researched and well-organized itinerary that helped us make the most of our truly breath-taking adventure in Japan.

November 8, 2023 at 12:16 am

So glad it was helpful and that you had an amazing trip to Japan! Every time I go back I’m already planning my next trip! Such a wonderful, diverse country!

December 18, 2023 at 4:02 pm

Hello, I want to make sure I understand your itinerary. At the beginning, does it call for 4 or 5 nights in Tokyo?

January 16, 2024 at 12:46 pm

What would you add to this itinerary if you travel with 12 and 13 year old children?

January 20, 2024 at 10:56 pm

Hi there! I don’t have kids so not sure I’m the best person to ask! There’s tons of things to do in Tokyo for people with all different interests though.

February 20, 2024 at 5:16 am

Fantastic info for a possible first time visitor. Thanks so much! Just querying the following part of your page though:

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

If I move the decimal place to the right for 100.00Y that equal 10000 USD based on the above. Should that have said “move the decimal place two spots to the left (which would = 1.00)

February 20, 2024 at 5:19 am

Ignore all that.. I now see it from the US point of view – i.e. move the US decimal point two spots to the right to get JPY. Sorry! Great site, really appreciate ethe information.

March 7, 2024 at 3:50 pm

what is the latest the bullet trains operate for example taking a day trip from Kyoto to Osaka at what time do you have to head back? Is there a website were we can see this?

April 20, 2024 at 2:29 pm

Hi. My name is Jack, I live in Japan for more than 10 years and run a personal blog jackinjapan.com I would be glad if you can read my work)

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Located in the Pacific Ocean, this archipelago is famed for its nature, dynamic metropolises, traditional castles, and great food.

Japan, an intoxicating, charming country of startling contrasts, is home to a culture influenced by both ancient philosophy and modern enterprise. It boasts timeless traditions and pop culture, fascinating history and futuristic cities, cultural treasures and natural beauty. A captivating land of etiquette, innovation, and outstanding cuisine, Japan excels in the details.

Kyoto, known as Japan's cultural center, is a place where ancient shrines, serene gardens, and historical districts blend with modern Japanese sophistication.

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Most travelers start their adventure in Tokyo , the capital and financial center of Japan and its largest metropolis. Known as “The Land of the Rising Sun,” Tokyo embodies the country’s fusion of old-world and ultramodern with Buddhist temples, geisha districts, and elaborate traditional tea ceremonies alongside neon-lit streets, lively nightlife, and some of the world’s tallest skyscrapers. Tokyo showcases the country’s natural beauty with its famous spring cherry blossoms and breathtaking Japanese gardens – and, on a clear day, a glimpse of Japan’s three “Holy Mountains,” including the iconic snowcapped Mount Fuji . Meiji Jingu, Tokyo’s most important and popular shrine hosting many festivals and ceremonies, and the famous Senso-ji Buddhist temple are among its must-see destinations.

Kyoto , a short ride away from Tokyo on Japan’s Shinkansen bullet train, is known as “The City of Ten Thousand Shrines” and is often regarded as the cultural heart of Japan. Containing about a quarter of Japan’s national treasures, including over a thousand temples, Kyoto is an imperial city whose highlights include the Golden Pavilion (Kinkaku-ji), the 15th Century Silver Pavilion (Ginkaku-ji), the Nijo Castle , and the Imperial Palace . Gion , Kyoto’s famous geisha district, is a popular attraction with its charming wooden merchant houses and traditional tea houses. In the spring, the Philosopher’s Path bursts into color and follows a canal lined with cherry blossoms.

Osaka, a large port city and important commercial center, also highlights the unique blend of the modern and ancient in Japan. While considered by many to be the best place in Japan to eat, drink, and party, Osaka dates back to the 7th century and features the historic Shitennoji Temple, Osaka Castle , and Sumiyoshi Shrine. Osaka’s science museum and aquarium are also renowned.

Hiroshima and Nagasaki , historic cities that have emerged from destruction to become modern cosmopolitan cities, are located in the southwestern part of the Japanese islands and are rich in the natural beauty of both the sea and mountains. Hiroshima, known as “The City of Water” because of the six rivers that flow through it, was rebuilt with great effort after World War II. The destroyed monuments of its historical heritage, like Hiroshima Castle and Shukkeien Garden, were reconstructed, and a large park, named “Peace Memorial Park” was built in the center of the city as was the Hiroshima Peace Memorial Museum . Nagasaki, another important port city, is known for its vivid history and culture, and its attractive location around a narrow inlet make it another top destination for travelers.

Japan is most vibrant in the spring, when its glorious cherry blossoms are in full season, and in the autumn, when it comes alive with the rich, colorful foliage of its ubiquitous maple and ginko trees – yet it also most crowded at these times. Hikers and nature lovers enjoy travel to Japan’s mountains and national parks in the summer months, while some travelers enjoy the snowy winter months in northern Japan with its many festivals and events.

Need guidance? Whether you’re looking for historic experiences or modern adventures, must-see attractions or off-the-beaten-track treasures – or some of each, Routeperfect is your address for planning, organizing, and booking your personalized dream vacation to Japan. Unlike any other company, Routeperfect offers its exclusive popular itineraries written by tourism professionals and experienced travelers to jumpstart your planning, helping you to customize your travel and book your accommodations so that you can experience the country YOUR way.

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Hassle-free Travel in Japan: 10 of the Best Tickets to Pre-Book

Hassle-free travel is only a few clicks away. From convenient transport passes to tickets for popular attractions, these are some of the best things to book before your Japan trip!

Picture this: Loaded up for your Japan trip but having to hurriedly find a ticket vendor so that you don't miss a scheduled train and stress about making it to your hotel.

Or you could be a traveler who glides through the ticket gates with ease and convenience. Which would you rather be on your trip?

With these 10 amazing passes you'll be getting around Tokyo and Kansai without breaking the bank and without having to worry about whether or not you've got the right ticket to get you where you need to go!

Top 10 Tickets to Pre-book for Japan

Tokyo Area 1. Tokyo Disney Resort Park Ticket 2. SHIBUYA SKY Ticket 3. Tokyo Subway Ticket - Unlimited Rides 1/2/3 Days 4. Narita Airport Express Ticket: The Fastest Way To Tokyo! 5. Mt. Fuji and Hakone Day Trip from Tokyo

Osaka-Kyoto Area 6. Universal Studios Japan Studio Pass 7. Osaka Amazing Pass and Osaka e-Pass 8. JR Haruka Kansai Airport to Kyoto/Osaka/Tennoji Express Ticket 9. Kansai Thru Pass: Valid on Several Railways! 10. Kyoto and Osaka Sightseeing Pass

1. Tokyo Disney Resort Park Ticket

Picture courtesy of Klook

Seasonal events and a whimsical atmosphere make Disney parks must-visit destinations known worldwide, and the ones in Japan are no different.

With this Disney Resort park ticket, visitors can guarantee entry to one of the most popular destinations for those coming to Tokyo.

You'll have the option to choose from either Disneyland or DisneySea and enjoy all of the spectacular attractions that the Disney Parks offer. From amazing rides to themed areas based on your favorite Disney movies and shows, you'll have plenty of options and can create wonderful memories of your visit!

2. SHIBUYA SKY Ticket

What could be more scenic than an uninterrupted view of the Tokyo skyline from the frenetic heart of Shibuya? This is what awaits visitors who get the SHIBUYA SKY ticket.

This allows visitors entry to a stunning panoramic observation deck with some of the best views of Tokyo ever seen. The observation deck offers stunning views all around and a massive open space that is perfect for taking all the selfies and skyline shots visitors could want.

It is important to note that the price differs between adults, high school, and elementary students and that access to the observation deck may be subject to changes in the weather, so please plan accordingly.

Shibuya / Harajuku / Omotesando

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3. Tokyo Subway Ticket - Unlimited Rides 1/2/3 Days

The Tokyo metropolitan area is very vast. One minute you could be enjoying the culinary delights and subculture shops of Shimokitazawa, and the next you could be in the heart of the fast-paced entertainment district of Shibuya. But getting around doesn't have to be a chore.

The Tokyo Subway Ticket is a great and flexible pass for visitors looking to really get the most out of traveling around Tokyo. The pass covers both the Metro and Toei lines, which encompass 13 different routes and 250 metro stops.

The pass also comes in one-, two-, or three-day varieties that make it useful for anyone visiting Tokyo and can suit your itinerary plans as needed. Simply purchase beforehand and scan your QR code at one of the automated ticket machines before the gates at Toei or Metro stations, and soon you'll be on your way to your next amazing Tokyo adventure.

4. Skyliner Narita Airport Express Ticket

Let's say you've just landed at Narita Airport, bags laden with all the things you could need for your Japan trip, and you're struggling to figure out just how you can get to the heart of the action in Tokyo.

This doesn't have to be you, dear traveler, so long as you purchase a ticket for the Keisei Skyliner. This express train ticket lets you reach the heart of Tokyo in only around 36 minutes and is a non-stop direct service that boasts 3 trains departing every hour.

With spacious interiors for all your luggage and onboard Wi-Fi so you can document your first steps into Japan, the Keisei Skyliner ensures you arrive in Tokyo in comfort and convenience.

5. Mt. Fuji and Hakone One Day Trip from Tokyo

While exploring the fast-paced heart of Tokyo, why not take a little time to enjoy this convenient side trip to see the scenic beauty of Mt. Fuji and the Hakone area?

With this one-day trip from Tokyo, visitors will experience a nature-filled day, enjoy a tasty bento lunch, and have the opportunity for some retail therapy all in one convenient package.

The trip begins with a visit to either the fifth or second station of Mt. Fuji, allowing you to spend quality time on the slopes of the iconic mountain. You'll then be treated to a lovely Japanese lunch box provided by the day trip. Following that, you'll have the chance to indulge in retail therapy by visiting the Gotemba Premium Outlets.

Finally, you can cap off your day trip with a leisurely cruise across the beautiful waters of Lake Ashi on the iconic sailing ship that is fitted out to look like a pirate ship.

With both meet-up and drop-off at Shinjuku, the trip is convenient and a great way to squeeze in a nice little side trip for visitors to Tokyo.

6. Universal Studios Japan Studio Pass

Step into a park thrumming with energy, excitement, and action-packed adventure around every corner. Once you step off the train, you'll be greeted by the slow-spinning Universal Studios logo, along with the sounds of whizzing rollercoasters and visitors having the time of their lives.

USJ is a premier attraction for visitors to Kansai, and it is a park that must be reserved in order to visit. You can conveniently reserve your ticket to visit, all from the comfort of your smartphone, via the USJ Studio Pass. The pass offers a choice of one-, one-and-a-half-, and two-day passes, with the bonus choice of an early entry one-day pass as well.

Highlights of a visit to USJ include a host of rollercoaster ride attractions that make great use of Universal Studio's movies, such as Jurassic Park, Spiderman, and Harry Potter. The park also has a number of areas themed around a single IP, such as the Wizarding World of Harry Potter and the Sesame Street areas, which offer great meet-and-greets as well as awesome experiences.

7. Osaka Amazing Pass and Osaka e-Pass

Looking to visit a variety of amazing attractions while saving money on transportation? Look no further than the Osaka Amazing Pass, available in a convenient one or two-day form, offering pass holders flexibility during their visit to Osaka.

For only around 2,000-3,000 yen, visitors get unlimited use of the Osaka subway, tramway, and bus network. This unlimited use alone would justify the asking price, but the pass also includes free one-time access to over 20 facilities and attractions around Osaka.

Included facilities and attractions are places such as the grand historical splendor of Osaka Castle, the amazing views from the Tsutenkaku Tower, and the natural beauty of the Nagai Botanical Gardens.

If you have several spots you're looking to visit, the Osaka Amazing Pass will provide great value for money. You can even save money by opting for an electronic QR pass over a standard paper one.

8. JR Haruka Kansai Airport to Kyoto/Osaka/Tennoji Express Ticket

Similar to the Keisei Skyliner, this ticket for the Haruka Express is a great way to quickly travel from Kansai International to many important Kansai destinations.

From Kansai-Airport Station, it only takes approximately 35 minutes to Tennoji, 50 minutes to Osaka, and 80 minutes to Kyoto. This conveniently covers all the destinations that any visitor to Kansai may want to go to.

Whether you're eager to savor some delicious takoyaki or hoping to experience the traditional sights of Kyoto as soon as possible, the Haruka Express ticket will help you get there quickly and comfortably.

Umeda / Shinsaibashi / Namba

9. Kansai Thru Pass

Bid farewell to hours spent trying to figure out what tickets you need for different lines and get yourself the Kansai Thru Pass . It's an ideal way to explore more of Japan's Kansai region and visit a number of the area's most interesting cities.

The pass covers a variety of railways and buses throughout Kansai and is available in a convenient two or three-day pass, similar to many other passes on this list.

Visitors can use the Keihan line to appreciate the traditional beauty of Kyoto or ride the Kintetsu line to see the playful deer of Nara. With the Nankai and Hankyu lines also covered, this pass will allow you to experience all the amazing things Kansai has to offer.

10. Kyoto and Osaka Sightseeing Pass

Picture courtesy of Klook The Kyoto-Osaka Sightseeing Pass is the final offering for Kansai and comes courtesy of the Keihan Railway Company. This pass allows for unlimited travel to some of the best destinations in both Osaka and Kyoto.

It is available in three distinct varieties: a pass that covers Kyoto and Osaka, one designed specifically for enjoying Kyoto, and another that covers both cities along with the Osaka metro as part of the package deal.

This flexible pass allows visitors access to all the major sights and experiences these two areas have to offer. Whether it's experiencing old Heian period life in the entertainment quarter of Gion, Kyoto, or enjoying the hustle and bustle of Osaka, you're sure to get your money's worth with these passes.

Enjoy a Hassle-Free Japan Trip!

As you excitedly pack for your next trip to Japan, consider taking a look at which of these 10 tickets might make your next trip that much easier. And with Klook, a few clicks can book them right away so you don't have to worry.

Top 8 Autumn Foliage Tours in Japan: Mt. Fuji, Hokkaido, and More

Travel writer and assistant editor at MATCHA with extensive travel around the Osaka, Kyoto, and Wakayama areas. A Kansai insider who knows their Akashiyaki from their Takoyaki, Iain enjoys getting authentic stories from traditional craftspeople and interesting creators. Particularly fond of temples and shrines, Iain delves deep into the crossroads of tradition and modernity in his eight-plus years living and writing about Japan.

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Japan set to introduce new entry system for foreign tourists

Traveling to Japan as a tourist has been a breeze for visitors from 71 visa-exempt countries and regions, as there’s no requirement to obtain a short-stay visa at a local embassy prior to travel. However, that’s all set to change in the future, as the Japanese government has announced plans to introduce a new travel authorization system which will require visitors to declare personal information online in order to enter the country.

The new system is said to run in a similar way to ESTA (Electronic System for Travel Authorization) in the U.S., which was introduced as an anti-terrorism measure. Just as ESTA determines the eligibility of visitors to travel to the United States under the Visa Waiver Program, the Japanese version, which the government has tentatively named JESTA, will also screen visitors prior to entry, using a similar online system.

The government says the aim of the new system is to reduce the number of illegal immigrants who come to Japan from visa-exempt countries and regions and remain beyond the valid period of stay, which currently ranges from 14-90 days depending on the passport. Under the current system, international airlines provide the government with passenger information for screening shortly after takeoff, which means travelers who don’t pass the screening still arrive in Japan, and although they are officially ordered to leave the country, many fail to do so.

According to the government, the number of people who abuse the system and stay illegally in the country is considerable — of the 49,801 illegal short-term visitors recorded in January 2016, more than 28,000 came from visa-exempt countries and regions.

JESTA will require visa-exempt foreign nationals to declare their purpose of entry and place of stay online for screening by the Immigration Services Agency before they travel. If the application is flagged as an illegal-stay risk, the travel authorization required to leave the country will not be granted, and the traveller will be encouraged to obtain a formal visa through their local embassy instead.

Travelers from the following 71 visa-exempt countries and regions will be required to declare their details using JESTA when it’s launched.

• Czech Republic
• Dominican Republic
• El Salvador
• Liechtenstein
• Netherlands
• New Zealand
• North Macedonia
• Republic of Korea
• Switzerland
• United Arab Emirates
• United Kingdom
• United States

The government aims to allocate research costs for JESTA in next year’s budget, with plans for it to be in place by 2030. In addition, another system will be launched on a trial basis during this fiscal year whereby passenger information will be sent to the Immigration Services Agency after boarding procedures have been completed.

These details will be checked against a “blacklist” of travelers, including foreign nationals of interest and those with criminal records, which will then notify the airline so they can refuse boarding and prevent these individuals from traveling to Japan.

While JESTA is designed to keep Japan and its visitors safe, it will no doubt cause a headache for travellers who are used to the ease of entry afforded them under the visa exemption agreement. More details about how the site will work, including timelines for applying and personal information requirements, will be provided closer to the launch date.

Source: Sankei via Yahoo! Japan, Jin

Read more stories from SoraNews24.

-- Immigration raid at anime convention ends with five Japanese cosplayers being arrested overseas

-- Japanese government wants to remove tax-exemption limit for foreign tourists on consumables

-- Visiting a hot spring complex made out of a repurposed elementary school in Osaka

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• https://soranews24.com/2024/08/29/japan-set-to-introduce-new-entry-system-for-foreign-tourists/

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22 Comments Login to comment

divinda Aug. 30 07:15 am JST

the Japanese version, which the government has tentatively named JESTA

For the final name, here's few potential ideas probably being passed around:

Premium Entry.

G lobal A uthorization I nto J apan for I nter N ationals.

Eastmann Aug. 30 09:26 am JST

Mr Kipling Aug. 30 09:31 am JST

A bit more red tape but if it keeps out some undesirables then it is a good idea. However, I doubt this will be the case.

Moonraker Aug. 30 11:46 am JST

Really? You mean there are illegal immigrants from places like Finland, Singapore, Switzerland, Monaco, Luxembourg, Australia and Denmark abusing the current system? Jesta, indeed. I am calling BS on this. Which countries on the list provide the most illegals? Why not change the system just for them and not make everyone a suspect? I smell another bureaucratic budget and information grab. On the other hand, why not make it like Singapore, where you fill in details online, submit it before travel, and then just put your passport in a gate and entry takes seconds; no faffing around with fingerprint machines and cameras that half the time don't work properly and somebody asking stupid questions in broken English and putting stamps in passports.

divinda Aug. 30 12:44 pm JST

@Moonraker, its not solely about the security, its also about the money.

Its not mentioned here, but the US ESTA costs $21, or nearly 3000 yen. By 2030 when they start this in Japan, they'll probably be charging more like 4,000 yen.

With the expected 40+ million foreign tourists by then, that's a lot of yen!

Moonraker Aug. 30 01:06 pm JST

Yes, I am sure you are right, divinda. I alluded to that with "I smell another bureaucratic budget" but I maybe overlooked how much it would be a juicy tax on tourists. The big sign at KIX telling us about the current stringent security measures against terrorism excuses a whole load of BS, including queues of people getting pointless bag checks in an age where machines can pick out a milligram of hash in a sock, and keeps the locals in a state of unease, as is the purpose. So Oona's gushing "has been a breeze for visitors" seems to come once more from her dream.

Yumster100 Aug. 30 01:55 pm JST

On the other hand, why not make it like Singapore, where you fill in details online, submit it before travel, and then just put your passport in a gate and entry takes seconds; no faffing around with fingerprint machines and cameras that half the time don't work properly and somebody asking stupid questions in broken English and putting stamps in passports.

from the article

However, that’s all set to change in the future, as the Japanese government has announced plans to introduce a new travel authorization system which will require visitors to declare personal information online in order to enter the country.

my goodness. But anything Japan does is suspicioooooooooous

Moonraker Aug. 30 01:58 pm JST

But, Yumster, my point is that we will not have the ease of entry in exchange for this online info. Try to keep up.

Hannes vd Merwe Aug. 30 02:00 pm JST

As far as I can tell, there's some misinformation spread by this announcement and well-meaning YouTubers.

1) only available if you have an IC passport

2) possibly you do need a physical stamp in your passport to retain tax free refunds

For either of these scenarios, you need to still fill out the paper declaration and follow the correct line.

Yumster100 Aug. 30 02:11 pm JST

This online info is what makes it easy. There needs to be some measure of gatekeeping. Nothing is perfect but your example of changing the system for only specific countries is just plain stupid. That would be an unnecessary, costly and bureaucratic nightmare. Might be hard for you but try critical thinking.

Brian Nicholls Aug. 30 04:28 pm JST

Hmm. I wonder if anyone in the Immigration Department has realised yet the comedy potential in calling the system JESTA. One can only assume that some joker in the Department came up with that idea..

Robert Cikki Aug. 30 07:24 pm JST

Yet another government initiative that's about as welcome as a wasp at a picnic. This time, they've decided to take a page out of the American playbook and introduce something they're calling JESTA. Yes, you heard that right – the name itself is practically begging for mockery. It's like they thought, "How can we make visiting Japan as complicated as possible?" and then decided to wrap it up in a shiny new IT system that’ll likely cost more than a small nation’s GDP.

Now, if history has taught us anything, it's that when our LDP run government decides to dabble in technology, they manage to find the most convoluted, expensive, and utterly useless way to do it. They'll hand the contract to a company that's conveniently chummy with a politician or two, and instead of using something that already works, they'll reinvent the wheel – badly.

Just wait until all those bright-eyed tourists and weeaboos who think Japan's all geishas and samurai get a load of our cutting-edge 1995 web design. They're in for a treat, I tell you. Nothing says "welcome to the future" quite like a website that looks like it was built by someone's gran after a sherry binge. What they'll actually find is an IT system so archaic, it might as well be powered by hamsters on a wheel. They'll encounter the joys of navigating the difference between 半角 and 全角 characters, and they'll need to create passwords that can't be longer than eight characters or include anything remotely useful like a slash or backslash.

But that's just the beginning of their descent into madness. Wait until they try to use a modern browser or operating system. They'll be promptly rejected because, of course, the website only works on Windows 7 with Internet Explorer. Fill out the form correctly? Fat chance. They'll be met with errors like, "Name field contains an error", only to fix it and then be told, "Date format is invalid". Fix that, and they'll run into "Document number must contain three letters and seven digits" – something their passport doesn’t have. And just when they think they’ve finally cracked it, they’ll be hit with, "Passport letters must be in 全角, numbers in 半角".

Gill Aug. 30 07:46 pm JST

Strewth, will this new JESTA thing be as user-friendly as those cracker designs from the Ministry of Health or MOFA? Or are we in for something more like the 7-Eleven app or PayPay app, where it feels like they’ve jammed every feature they could think of into one page for a bit of a laugh? And you just know there’ll be some childish mascot thrown in, probably waving at you while you’re trying to figure out where the hell to click. Maybe they’ll even toss in some flashing banners, just to make sure your eyeballs get a proper workout.

But wait, it gets better! What about the FAQs? Will they be as patronising as some of the beauties we’ve got here, where it’s assumed you’ve never laid eyes on a computer before and need everything explained as if you’re a complete dunce? And don't get me started on the telemetry or analytics they'll sneak into the javascript. You can bet your bottom dollar they’ll chuck in a chatbot too – but not just any chatbot. Oh no, they’ll slap “AI” on it and expect us to be impressed, as if that somehow makes it less useless. It'll likely be about as helpful as a chocolate teapot.

So yeah, if you’re expecting anything other than a digital mess, you might want to lower those expectations right now.

Robert Cikki Aug. 30 08:06 pm JST

Pac-Person Robert, I'm disappointed. You forgot the obligatory "Japan still uses fax hurr hurr" joke. Meanwhile, the process and the web site already exist at https://www.vjw.digital.go.jp/ , fairly modern, multilingual, secure (they encourage 2FA using authenticators) and comparatively easy to use. It's just not mandatory yet.

Just briefly looking at https://www.vjw.digital.go.jp/ - Client-Side Validation, Inline JavaScript and Lack of CSP, MRZ Parsing, Missing Security Headers like X-Content-Type-Options, X-Frame-Options, X-XSS-Protection, and Strict-Transport-Security, HTML includes form fields without apparent sanitation or encoding of input data (great for XSS attacks), looks like default error handling might be used.

And that was precisely my point, so thank you.

ushosh123 Aug. 30 08:17 pm JST

Standard Money grab with government front. Sounds like the same standard info being passed around. Based on what would they even deny you of that wouldn't be done now.

More tourist than they want to handle ATM, so all par for the course.

tora Aug. 30 09:16 pm JST

l. They'll encounter the joys of navigating the difference between 半角 and 全角 characters, and they'll need to create passwords that can't be longer than eight characters or include anything remotely useful like a slash or backslash.

This!!! You wait.

Robert Cikki Aug. 30 09:44 pm JST

Pac-Person Interesting that you don't recognize AWS Cognito when it stares you right in the face. But sure, they are probably very, very insecure. That was not your point, and you full well know it.

OK. That’s a fascinating leap. You’ve managed to miss the point entirely and create a whole new one.

OssanAmerica Aug. 30 10:34 pm JST

This is no big deal. At least for most travelers. You can do it online.

The US has had ESTA since January 2009 for all Visa Waiver entries into the U.S.

GBR48 Aug. 31 01:07 am JST

If the system goes down, or your e-mail address matches one linked to negative comments online about the LDP, you won't be flying.

The Ripper! Aug. 31 10:17 am JST

N. Knight Sep. 2 09:59 am JST

Europe now has it. USA has it. Why not Japan?

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Japan’s New Entry System for Tourists (JESTA): What You Need to Know

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The Working Holiday Programmes in Japan

The working holiday programmes are, based on bilateral arrangements, intended to make it possible for the youth of Japan and its partner countries/regions to enter each country/region primarily for the purpose of spending holidays while allowing them to engage in employment as an incidental activity of their holidays for the purpose of supplementing their travel funds.

The programmes are designed to provide the youth with wider opportunities for them to appreciate the culture and general way of life in the partner countries/regions for the purpose of promoting mutual understanding between Japan and its partner countries/regions.

Japan started the working holiday programmes first with Australia in 1980. As of 3rd June 2024, Japan has introduced the programmes with the following 30 countries/regions.

[Note] Provisionally initiated in December 1999.

2. Eligibility to participate in the working holiday programmes

To participate in the working holiday programmes, an applicant must satisfy the following requirements.[Note]

[Note]The requirements may differ depending on the nationality of the applicant. Further information on visa application procedures can be obtained from Embassies or Consulates-General of Japan in your country/region or Interchange Association (Taipei Office or Kaohsiung Office） .

• For a national of Australia, New Zealand, Canada, the Republic of Korea, the United Kingdom, Ireland, Denmark, Norway, Portugal, Poland, Slovakia, Hungary, Spain, Argentina, Chile, Iceland, Czech, Lithuania, Sweden, Estonia, Netherlands, Uruguay, Finland, Latvia or Luxembourg, an applicant must be currently residing in his or her country of nationality; for a resident in Hong Kong, an applicant must possess a valid HKSAR or British National Overseas passport; for a resident in Taiwan, an applicant must possess a valid passport of Taiwan.
• Intending primarily to spend holiday in Japan for a specific length of time.
• Being between 18 and 30 years of age both inclusive at the time of application for the visa; As for Australia, Canada, Republic of Korea and Ireland, an applicant should be between 18 and 25 years of age except in those cases where the competent authorities of Japan agree to extend the limitation of age to 30 years. In the case of Iceland, the applicant should be between 18 and 26 years of age.
• Not being accompanied by dependents or children.
• Possessing a valid passport of his or her country/region and a return travel ticket or sufficient funds with which to purchase such a ticket.
• Possessing reasonable funds for the maintenance of his/her stay during the initial period of stay in Japan.
• Being in good health.
• Never having been issued a Japanese working holiday visa in the past.

3. Procedure of the working holiday visa application

The application for the visa must be made to Embassies or Consulates-General of Japan in your country/region or Interchange Association (Taipei Office or Kaohsiung Office） .

4. Work Conditions

Participants in the working holiday programmes are allowed to engage in employment as an incidental activity of their holidays for the purpose of supplementing their travel funds.

The working holiday participants are strictly prohibited from working at bars, cabarets, nightclubs, gambling establishments and other premises affecting public morals in Japan. If a participant works at such a place, he or she is deemed to violate Immigration Control and Refugee Recognition Act and will face deportation except where he or she is deemed to be victims of human trafficking.

It is also to be noted that those who are engaged in having the working holiday participants work at these establishments could face criminal charges for promoting illegal work or the buying or selling of persons.

5. Procedure at a municipal office

6. other information.

Please beware of fraudulent entities that may offer help in obtaining working holiday visas as there is no organization, including incorporated associations, in Japan with which the Ministry of Foreign Affairs cooperates in operating the working holiday programmes.

Sometimes we request consenting working holiday participants to answer a questionnaire afterwards. We would appreciate it if you could kindly cooperate with us.

Japan mulls removing tax-free limit on consumable goods purchases

The Japan Tourism Agency said Tuesday it is considering removing a 500,000 yen ($3,500) tax-free limit for purchases of consumable goods such as cosmetics, alcohol, food and medicine, as it seeks to boost spending by inbound travelers.

As part of its tax reform requests for fiscal 2025, the agency also called for scrapping a requirement that tax-free items be packed and sealed in bags, a rule put in place to prevent consumption or reselling of the items before leaving Japan.

The issue is instead expected to be addressed by shifting to a system where tax is refunded after travelers are confirmed to have the items upon departure from Japan. Details will be finalized in tax reform plans for fiscal 2025.

Meanwhile, a 1,000-yen departure tax imposed on each traveler leaving the country regardless of nationality is expected to reach a record high of 47 billion yen in fiscal 2025.

In Japan, foreign tourists are exempted from paying consumption tax when purchasing goods totaling 5,000 yen or more as long as they intend to use the items in their home countries.

The agency considers the current daily limit on consumable goods of 500,000 yen per store too low to cater to the demand for high-end alcohol and cosmetics. No such limit exists for durable items like electronics and clothing.

The packed and seal requirement for tax-free goods has not been well received by some foreign tourists amid environmental considerations over excessive plastic use, the agency said, adding that scrapping the rule would also reduce the burden on stores.

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Unwrapping Japan: Mastering Etiquette for the Savvy Tourist

I magine stepping into a world where tradition weaves through the fabric of modern life, a place where each gesture holds meaning and respect is the cornerstone of society. Welcome to Japan, a country that captivates with its contrasts and charms with its customs. But for the uninitiated American traveler, navigating this rich tapestry of manners can be as bewildering as it is beautiful.

• Over 31 million visitors need to navigate Japan's etiquette maze for a seamless experience.
• Public dining norms in Japan favor stationary snacking, not on-the-go munching.
• "Respecting Japanese customs is more than good manners; it's a bridge to understanding," says Hiroshi Horiuchi.
• Learn the dos and don’ts to enhance your travels and embrace cultural harmony.
• Immerse yourself in Japanese culture with wisdom, wit, and a touch of humor.

Why Etiquette Matters in Japan 🎎

According to a 2019 survey by the Japan National Tourism Organization , over 31 million foreign tourists have found their way to Japan's shores.

Each one represents an opportunity for cultural exchange, and in Japan, etiquette is the currency of interaction.

Fact: In Japan, stationary snacking is the social standard, contrary to the bustling street food scenes of other global destinations.

Navigating the Cultural Landscape

First impressions: greetings and gestures.

The Japanese bow , a gesture as intricate as it is emblematic, varies in depth and duration, depending on the situation.

As a traveler, mirroring this gesture, even in its simplest form, shows an acknowledgment of local customs and an openness to engage respectfully.

Money Matters: The Art of Transaction

When making purchases, embrace the small tray at registers, known as a coin tray .

It's not just a quaint custom; it's a dance of decorum, avoiding the supposed impoliteness of handing money directly to cashiers.

Dining Decorum: Beyond the Chopsticks

Fact: Sidewalk snacking is a faux pas. Here, one is expected to pause, perch on a bench, and then proceed with their palate pleasures.

"Japan is known for its unique culture and traditions. As a tourist, respecting their customs not only makes your trip more enjoyable but also helps promote cross-cultural understanding." - Hiroshi Horiuchi, renowned travel guide author.

The Unspoken Dance of Public Life

Japan's unwritten rules govern the ebb and flow of daily life.

From the hushed carriages of the Shinkansen to the orderly queues at the city bus, there's a communal rhythm that, once understood, allows you to move in harmony with the local populace.

Public Transportation: Move with the Masses

Patience is a virtue, and in Japan, it's also a requirement.

Boarding a train? Wait for others to alight. On an escalator? Stand to one side, the left in Tokyo, the right in Osaka, and allow others to pass.

Recycle Right: A Country That Cares

The scarcity of public trash cans might baffle, but it's a nod to Japan's deep-seated environmental ethos.

Learn to sort your refuse as the locals do: burnable, non-burnable, and recyclable.

American Tourists: Bridging the Cultural Gap

As Americans visiting Japan, there's a kaleidoscope of customs to consider.

From onsens (hot springs) where tattoos might stir stares, to the tatami mats where one's feet should never tread, awareness is your ally.

Parting Words of Wisdom

Mastering the intricacies of Japanese etiquette is not just a matter of politeness; it's the key to unlocking the full richness of your travel experience in the Land of the Rising Sun . As we've explored in this comprehensive guide, Japan's customs and traditions run deep, intricately woven into the fabric of daily life.

From the respectful bow to the artful handling of money, from the importance of stationary dining to the harmonious dance of public life, each element of Japanese etiquette tells a story. It's a story of cultural reverence, of respect for one another and the environment, and of a society that thrives on harmony and order.

Ingraining these etiquettes is not just about blending in; it's about respect. It's about an American abroad not just seeing the sights but truly understanding them. We have the privilege and responsibility to be respectful guests in this captivating nation. By embracing these customs, we not only show our reverence for Japan's heritage but also create meaningful connections with its people.

This understanding is the bridge that connects us as global citizens, fostering empathy and appreciation for the diversity of our world. So, as you embark on your journey through Japan, armed with newfound knowledge and cultural sensitivity, relish every moment.

Immerse yourself in the rich tapestry of traditions, explore with curiosity, and savor the unique flavors of this remarkable country. Your understanding and respect will be reciprocated with warmth and hospitality , turning your visit into an unforgettable cultural exchange that transcends borders and enriches your soul.

FAQs Based on the Blog Post

Why is it important to understand etiquette in japan.

Understanding etiquette in Japan is crucial for showing respect for the culture, enhancing your travel experience , and facilitating smoother interactions during your stay.

Is it considered rude to eat while walking in Japan?

Yes, traditionally, it is considered impolite to eat or drink while walking in public in Japan. Most people stop at a spot to eat or find a bench, especially near vending machines.

How should I handle money when making a purchase in Japan?

In Japan, you should place your money on the small tray provided at the cash register, known as a coin tray, instead of handing it directly to the cashier.

Can I tip for good service in Japan?

Tipping is not customary in Japan and can sometimes be seen as offensive, except in high-end establishments where a service charge is already included in the bill.

How should I behave in a Japanese temple or shrine?

Be respectful in a Japanese temple or shrine: follow posted rules, take photos only where permitted, wash hands at the purification fountain, and be mindful of the sacred nature of the space.

What should I do with my trash when there are no public bins available?

Carry your trash with you until you find the correct disposal area, and make sure to separate it according to local recycling rules.

What is the proper etiquette for using chopsticks in Japan?

Do not stick chopsticks upright in a bowl of rice or pass food directly from your chopsticks to someone else's, as these actions resemble funeral practices. 

If you like this article, check out: Nigeria: Understanding Nigerian customs

• Japan National Tourism Organization (2019)
• Hiroshi Horiuchi, Renowned Travel Guide Author
• "Understanding Japanese Etiquette," published by the Society for International Cultural Exchange (SICE)