Japan – Destination Guide

From futuristic cities and ancient temples to cherry blossoms and steaming hot springs, Japan is a country where contrasts coexist in perfect harmony. Whether you’re sipping matcha in a Kyoto teahouse, exploring Tokyo’s neon-lit neighborhoods, skiing in Hokkaido, or relaxing in a ryokan, Japan offers a rich blend of history, culture, and natural beauty that captivates travelers year-round.

Main Locations

🏙 Tokyo – Japan’s bustling capital is a dynamic mix of ultramodern and traditional. Explore neighborhoods like Shibuya, Shinjuku, and Asakusa for shopping, temples, and street eats.

⛩ Kyoto – The cultural heart of Japan, home to over 1,000 temples, traditional geisha districts, bamboo forests, and tranquil gardens.

🍣 Osaka – Known for its street food (takoyaki, okonomiyaki), vibrant nightlife, and friendly locals. Don’t miss a visit to Osaka Castle and Dotonbori.

🗻 Hakone & Mount Fuji Region – A scenic escape with hot springs, art museums, and stunning views of Japan’s iconic mountain.

🎎 Nara – Just outside Kyoto, famous for its free-roaming deer and the giant Buddha at Todai-ji Temple.

❄️ Hokkaido – Japan’s northern island, ideal for winter sports, alpine scenery, and delicious seafood.

🌸 Hiroshima – A city of peace and reflection, with poignant historical sites and the nearby island of Miyajima.

🏯 Kanazawa & Takayama – Charming towns with Edo-period architecture, traditional crafts, and samurai history.

Highlights

🌸 Cherry Blossoms – Visit in spring (late March to early April) to witness Japan’s magical sakura season in parks, riversides, and temple grounds.

🚄 Shinkansen (Bullet Train) – Zip between cities in comfort and style at speeds up to 320 km/h—an experience in itself.

🛁 Onsen Baths – Unwind in natural hot springs, from rustic mountain onsens to luxurious ryokans.

🍣 Food Culture – Sushi, ramen, kaiseki dining, wagyu beef, matcha desserts—Japan is a culinary wonderland.

🎎 Cultural Experiences – Try a tea ceremony, watch a sumo match, take a sushi-making class, or wear a kimono.

🗻 Mount Fuji – Climb it in summer or view it from nearby Hakone or Lake Kawaguchi year-round.

🎏 Festivals – From snow festivals in Hokkaido to Gion Matsuri in Kyoto and Tokyo’s summer fireworks, Japan loves a celebration.

Arrival Airports & Transportation

🛬 Main Airports:

• Tokyo Narita (NRT) and Haneda (HND) – Best for Tokyo and central Japan.

• Kansai International (KIX) – Ideal for Osaka, Kyoto, and western Japan.

• New Chitose (CTS) – Gateway to Hokkaido.

• Fukuoka (FUK) – Access point to Kyushu.

🚄 Getting Around:

Japan’s rail system is fast, efficient, and incredibly punctual. The Japan Rail Pass (available for tourists) is great for unlimited travel on JR lines. Subways and local trains are easy to use in cities. IC cards (like Suica or Pasmo) work for transit, vending machines, and shops.

Practical Information

💴 Currency – Japanese Yen (JPY). Cash is still widely used, especially in rural areas and small restaurants.

💳 Cash vs Card – Credit cards are increasingly accepted, but having cash is important. ATMs at 7-Eleven, Japan Post, and FamilyMart usually work with international cards.

🗣 Language – Japanese. English is spoken at major hotels and tourist sites, but learning a few phrases or using a translation app goes a long way.

💸 Tipping – Tipping is not expected and can even be considered rude. Exceptional service is built into the culture.

🔌 Power Outlets – Type A/B (same as North America), 100V. Check device compatibility or bring a converter.

🛂 Visa/Entry – Citizens of many countries (including US, UK, EU, Australia, and Canada) can enter Japan visa-free for up to 90 days. Check your country’s specific requirements before travel.

📱 SIM/eSIM – eSIMs and pocket Wi-Fi devices are popular. Using an eSIM is our recommended choice while travelling anywhere in the world, and our recommended provider is Holafly. For more information on eSIMs, check out this blog.

Food & Cuisine

🍜 Ramen – Slurp-worthy and soul-warming, with regional variations like tonkotsu, miso, and shoyu.

🍣 Sushi & Sashimi – Best enjoyed at a conveyor belt spot or an intimate omakase experience.

🥩 Wagyu Beef – Rich, buttery cuts from regions like Kobe, Matsusaka, and Hida.

🥟 Gyoza & Okonomiyaki – Must-try comfort foods found at izakayas (Japanese pubs).

🍵 Matcha Everything – Lattes, parfaits, cakes—matcha is a staple in Japanese desserts.

🍢 Street Snacks – Takoyaki, taiyaki, yakitori, mochi—perfect for grazing on the go.

Packing List

🌸 Spring (Mar–May)

• Tokyo/Kyoto/Osaka: Light layers, medium jacket, umbrella.

• Hokkaido: Warmer layers, coat, gloves for early spring.

• Okinawa: Summer clothes, swimsuit, sun protection.

☀️ Summer (Jun–Aug)

• Tokyo/Kyoto/Osaka: Breathable clothes, hat, sunscreen, rain jacket, bug spray.

• Hokkaido: Lighter layers, sweater for cool nights.

• Okinawa: Swimwear, sandals, light cover-up, waterproof bag.

🍁 Autumn (Sep–Nov)

• Tokyo/Kyoto/Osaka: Layers, light jacket, scarf, walking shoes.

• Hokkaido: Warmer layers, heavier jacket from October.

• Okinawa: Light summer clothes, sweater for evenings.

❄️ Winter (Dec–Feb)

• Tokyo/Kyoto/Osaka: Coat, thermals, gloves, warm shoes.

• Hokkaido: Heavy winter gear, snow boots, hand warmers.

• Okinawa: Light jacket, long sleeves—mild but cool.

Why Visit?

Japan is a journey through contrasts—tranquil temples and bustling cities, centuries-old traditions and cutting-edge innovation. Whether you’re exploring the depths of cultural heritage or chasing cherry blossoms and powder snow, Japan is a destination that continues to surprise, delight, and inspire.