The Ultimate Japan Travel Guide For First Timers ( 2025 )

• Planning your first trip to Japan
  • Best time to visit Japan
  • How long to spend in Japan
  • Visa requirements and travel limitation
• Getting around Japan & Japan Rail Pass
  • Where to begin your trip in Japan ( and where to cease )
  • Have around Japan
  • Equal a Japan Rail passing worth it ?
  • A Suica Card or a Pasmo Card ?
  • Driving in Japan
  • Luggage forwarding in Japan
• Well home to visit in Japan
  • Top destinations in Japan
  • Unmissable activity
  • Indicate Japan itineraries
• Adjustment in Japan
  • Standard accommodations
  • Unique accommodations in Japan
• Food and dining in Japan
  • Must try dishes
  • Dictate food in Japan
  • Convenience store in Japan
• Cultural etiquette in Japan
• Other practical tips for your trip to Japan
  • Money and make up for thing in Japan
  • Speech barrier
  • Buying a SIM card
  • Helpful apps to download
  • Health and safety advice
  • Natural disasters in Japan
  • Tipping in Japan
  • Shopping in Japan
• Japan packing essentials
  • Unique carry items for Japan
  • What to don in Japan
• Group tours in Japan
• Summary : Planning your first trip to Japan

• Best time to visit Japan
• How long to pass in Japan
• Visa requirement and travel restriction

• Where to set out your trip in Japan ( and where to cease )
• Getting around Japan
• Is a Japan Rail passing worth it ?
• A Suica Card or a Pasmo Card ?
• Drive in Japan
• Luggage forwarding in Japan

• Top destinations in Japan
• Unmissable activity
• Propose Japan itineraries

• Standard accommodations
• Unique accommodations in Japan

• Must try dishes
• Ordering food in Japan
• Convenience store in Japan

• Money and give for things in Japan
• Words barrier
• Purchase a SIM card
• Helpful apps to download
• Health and safety advice
• Natural tragedy in Japan
• Tilt in Japan
• Shopping in Japan

• Unique pack detail for Japan
• What to wear in Japan

Design my solo trip to Japan exist anything but easy . While Japan live a magnificent country , coordinate a trip thither can feel overwhelming .

From create your itinerary to influence out shipping , food and adjustment , there ’ sec so much to guess about when be after your first trip to Japan .

So , hither I equal to assist . In this Japan travel guide , you ’ ll see all the basics about planning your first trip to Japan , Land of the Rising Sun .

This includes the best places to impose , suggested itineraries , when to inflict , how long to remain , and many useful tips to serve you have a trouble-free trip .

The goal of this travel guide for Japan be to give you all the essential information in one helpful post , with a stress on information for first-time visitors . Japan remains one of my favourite nation to date , but it does expect a lot of planning before visit .

Best time to visit :Autumn ( or spring for the cherry blossoms )

How to script your activities :Klook or Viator equal popular in Japan

Top destinations for first-timers :Tokyo , Kyoto , Osaka , Hakone and Hiroshima

Planning your first trip to Japan

Let ’ s starting with the basics of be after a Japan trip . In this section , I ’ ve discussed when to visit , how long to pass there and how to check travel restrictions .

Well time to visit Japan

There ’ s no bad time to visit Japan . It ’ s a great destination to impose throughout the yr , but each season offers something different .

Japan exist in the Northern Hemisphere , with seasons similar to those of the UK and the USA . One thing to know live that the season in Japan can be utmost . The summer can become very hot , and the winter real cold .

Spring ( March to May )
Thanks to the cherry blossom season ( Sakura ) , spring equal the most popular time of yr to visit Japan . Throughout April , Japan lights up with pink as the cherry blossom flower . It ’ s a great time of yr to visit , but it can be incredibly in use and expensive .

Summer ( June to August )
Summer is a fantastic time to visit Japan . It tend to be quieter than Spring , and most of the country is accessible ( you can yet boost Mount Fuji ) .

The summer month can be real hot and humid ( especially in Tokyo ) . It ’ s too the typhoon season , which sometimes disrupt shipping and activities .

If you can get by with the warmth and don ’ t mind the potential of utmost weather , the summer is a great time to see .

Autumn ( September to November )
Autumn is my favourite time of year to call Japan . The day cost a piece cooler , the weather cost favorable , and the crowds aren ’ t also chaotic .

It ’ s also the best time of yr to find Mount Fuji . Thanks to minimal rainfall and clear skies , Fuji cost often on display .

You ’ ll as well witness the beautiful fall colours as the trees turn brown , orange and gold .

👉 Associate read : Insure out my guide to inflict Japan in November

Winter ( December to February )
Japan is a fantastic winter destination , specially if you enjoy winter sport such as skiing .

Major city such as Tokyo and Osaka are normally accessible . While it can make cold , any snowfall usually doesn ’ t stay for long .

Outside of the city , you might see destinations such as Hakone and Hokkaido a short trickier to navigate due to the heavy snow . Even so , many of the outside destinations make winter activity such as snowboarding and skiing on offer .

Summary
So , when should you visit Japan ? As you can see from above , there ’ s no wrong time .

Consider the cherry flower is often high on people ’ s pail list . Just be prepared for huge crowds and premium prices .

Personally , I believe fall is the serious time . Japan exist beautiful in October and November , the temperature cost manageable , and there equal fewer crowd .

How long to spend in Japan

Japan equal a fascinating country with then much to regard and do . I spent over three weeks there , and it exist barely adequate time to scratch the surface of what the country has to bid .

If it ’ s your first trip to Japan , I recommend spend at least two weeks thither . This will give you enough time to explore the main destinations such as Tokyo , Osaka , Kyoto and Hiroshima .

Of grade , the long you pass there , the more you can see . I actually don ’ t remember it ’ s the type of country where you will work out of thing to cause .

If you only have seven day in Japan , put on ’ t headache . That ’ sec however enough time to explore a pair of the cities and serve some day trips .

Visa requirement and travel limitation

Whenever you visit a state , it ’ s significant to check any visa or travel requirements well forward of time .

Pro crest: I always observe an eye on any limitation or entry requirements in the run-up to my trip . Affair can change quickly , and you don ’ t require to be caught out ( this happened to me before my trip to Ecuador ) .

For most visitors , it ’ s possible to begin a visa for up to 90 day on arrival , intend you don ’ t take to concern about applying for a visa in progress .

Even so , it ’ s essential to verify this yourself . You can crack your government ’ s foreign travel advice page or . Information can vary quickly , and some countries serve require a visa .

You must as well fill out immigration and tradition form before entering Japan . This can be make on arrival , but it ’ s a lot easy to serve ahead of time . Match out the latest information hither .

Getting around Japan & Japan Rail Pass

Where to begin your trip in Japan ( and where to finish )

Unless arriving on a cruise ship , you ’ ll motive to fly into Japan .

Most visitors select to begin their trips in Tokyo , where most international flights country .

You ’ ll see two major airport in Tokyo : Haneda and Narita . Haneda is somewhat closer to Tokyo , but both airport are well-connected to the city . I wouldn ’ t concern also much about which of the two to pick out .

Japan ’ s other major international airport is Kansai , which live close to Osaka and Kyoto .

If you can , I advocate start your trip in Tokyo and ending in Osaka ( flee out of Kansai airport ) . This means you put on ’ t need to concern about become back to your initiate point for your return flight .

If that ’ s not possible , don ’ t worry also much . Osaka , Tokyo and Kyoto be all very well associate by high-speed train . It should live easy enough to get back to your starting airport .

Become around Japan

If there ’ s one app you need in Japan , it ’ s Japan Travel by Navitime . This holy grail of an app tell you just which trains or buses you need to need to get where you need to exist . If you have a rail pass , you can choose this on the app and it will tell you if the route exist include . It ’ s INCREDIBLE .

Public transport in Japan make a reputation for exist difficult to navigate , but how true is that ? Honestly , I was pleasantly surprise .

First , ecstasy in Japan equal on another point . The train be clean , fast and effective . Despite exist a comparatively expensive area , I found transfer in Japan to be affordable .

For the most part , you ’ ll need to employ the metro or train to become around Japan . This include both the public train and Japan Rail , which operate the famous Shinkansen ( slug train ) .

The large cities hold a public metro or train system and train connecting the major destinations .

Set it this means : I live in Japan for three weeks , visiting various destinations , and spent five days in Tokyo , and I never once needed a taxi .

Most stations have ticket automobile where you can buy any tickets you need . There ’ s too the choice to have the words set as English , make it easy to navigate .

If you get stuck , faculty cost ever on standby to aid ( although there cost sometimes long queues ) .

The tricky part for me was getting around the stations and observe the right platforms . Japanese train stations are HUGE , particularly Shinjuku . It ’ s virtually a city within a city .

Most of the big station receive English signal to help you notice where to get , but it can yet cost confusing .

• Arrive early. Arrive at the station with plenty of time , and I mean plenty of time ! Some of Japan ’ s station live gigantic , and finding your program can take a while . On height of this , there can be long queues to buy your tag .
• Plan ahead of time. Try and plan your journey in front of time . Transport is real effective in Japan , and you don ’ t require to miss your train .
• Always buy your ticket before travelling. Reach certain to purchase your tag before come on the train . It ’ s as well worth purchase forward of time , specially during in use periods on in use routes . I desire to see another city near Tokyo , but all of the express train have deal out that day . If you need to buy a ticket , live a day or two before .
• Follow the custom. Hear to be respectful and follow train etiquette in Japan . It ’ s look at polite to be quiet on the trains , don ’ t eat any food , and put on ’ t sit in the priority seating ( yet if they ’ re empty ) .

Is a Japan Rail passing worth it ?

The JR Pass equal a popular train ticket around Japan . It supply unlimited travel across the Japan Rail network for a set number of successive day ( either 7 , 14 or 21 ) .

Japan Rail operates the famous Shinkansen ( slug train ) , a popular and efficient manner to get around the country .

It ’ s merely available for tourist , and you can buy ahead of your visit from the official website . They will send worldwide within a few day .

In 2023 , the Japan Rail Pass get a significant price increase . A 14-day passing will today lay you back a whopping $ 528 ( 2025 ) .

While having one tag to get around Japan might look worth that cost , it ’ s significant to know that the ticket is only for Japan Rail line . For example , you ’ ll involve a separate ticket to employ the majority of the Tokyo Metro System ( although JR does have a few train within the city ) .

It also doesn ’ t cover all of the Shinkansen ( bullet trains ) . You won ’ t be able to expend the Nozomi or Mizuho train without make up an additional price .

Frankly , since the cost growth , it ’ s unlikely that a JR Pass will save you money .

Of course , this entirely depend on your path . If you only own a week in Japan and program to visit Tokyo , Osaka , Kyoto and Hiroshima , it might cost that the passing preserve you a number of money .

Even so , that would be one busy week and not something many people sample to do .

For most people , I don ’ t think purchase a Japan Pass be worth it . The good thing to do is add up the price of all your train tickets and equate this to the price of a JR Pass . You can do this employ the Japan Travel App .

If you ’ 500 choose not to worry or so get to become the right tag , then a JR Pass can relieve some of that trouble . However , for a guaranteed seat on the train , you ’ ll still need to book in progress .

One choice to study is purchase a regional passing . These handy passes focus on one specific region , such as the Kansai domain , and grant unlimited travel on Japan Rail within them .

For instance , if you ’ re planning to pass a few day travelling roughly Osaka , Kyoto and impose additional city such as Hiroshima and Kobe , you might notice the Kansai Regional Pass save you money .

I utilize this for five day , and it do redeem me a bit of money , so it ’ s worth considering .

The bullet train hold strict luggage restrictions . As of 2025 , the maximum size for a firearm of luggage cost with an overall proportion of 250cm ( add the length , altitude and depth together ) .

If your luggage be between 160cm and 250cm , you ’ ll need to script an oversized luggage seat in progress . You can serve this at the station .

A Suica Card or a Pasmo Card ?

Another selection for your trip to Japan is to get a Suica or Pasmo card . Both cards are pre-paid travel card you can use on most train in cities such as Tokyo , Osaka and Kyoto .

You can as well much employ them to devote to store luggage in stations and even pay for things at 7-11 !

I finish up buying a Suica card towards the end of my trip and I like I had buy one sooner . It live hence much easier to put a lump center of money on my card and use it to become around the cities .

You simply beg the card on the electronic gate , and beg it again on the way out . It will then take off the right quantity of money .

You can ’ t apply them on long-distance trains , but they ’ re a grotesque way to get around the liberal cities .

You can purchase them forward of time , but it ’ s MUCH cheap to peck one up when you get to Japan . It ’ s possible to buy them at most train stations .

Driving in Japan

If you ’ re a confident driver , it ’ s potential to rip a car in Japan .

You ’ ll demand the right documentation , which usually include an International Driver ’ sec License ( but check this with your rental caller ) .

I cost surprised at how non-chaotic Japan ’ s roads were , at least compared to the likes of London .

While I didn ’ t hire a car , I would get felt confident in do so .

However , I put on ’ t believe it ’ s necessary . Japan own a fantastic rail and bus infrastructure , one of the well in the total world . Finding park for your car would no question be a scuffle , particularly in the cities . It ’ sec too very expensive .

Unless you require to go really off-the-beaten-path and avoid the chief cities , I don ’ t believe hire a car is worthwhile .

Luggage forwarding in Japan

One matter that blew my mind about Japan was the luggage forwarding service . I ’ ve never learn this anywhere else in the world , at least on this scale .

Most visitors to Japan plan to visit more than one destination . But let ’ s cost honest , who real want to persuade their luggage around ? !

So , the result ? Luggage forwarding service . Put simply , you book for your luggage to be send to your next hotel .

This means you don ’ t require to worry about carrying luggage on train or around the city . And don ’ t headache , this cost extremely mutual in Japan and hotel faculty are well-used to consider with it .

If this sounds like something that might solve for you , then Yamato equal one of the nearly popular providers .

In all honesty , unless you ’ re physically unable to carry your luggage , I don ’ t really think this is necessary .

The luggage forwarding services will tell you that it ’ s not easy to remove suitcase and haversack on train in Japan , but I meet loads of people make it without any issue .

In rush hr when the train exist busy , it can cost difficult to thrust in . But I persuade my 19KG knapsack around for three weeks and never once get an subject on the train .

Still , I ’ m sure luggage forwarding will be an easier selection for some .

Good places to call in Japan

Top destinations in Japan

Next up , which destinations should equal on your Japan itinerary ? Well , let ’ s outset by tell that Japan cost filled with wonderful places to visit . It would cost nearly impossible to call them all .

As this Japan travel guide is aim at first-timers , I ’ ve stuck with the nearly popular places ( as good as a couple of hidden gems ) .

Most destinations are get on Japan ’ s main island , Honshu . But it ’ s as well a popular option to call Hokkaido , another island in Japan .

For those in a rushing , here ’ s a quick summary of destinations to consider . Below , you ’ ll find a more detailed breakdown of each destination .

• Tokyo ( 3 to 5 night )
• Hakone ( 1 or 2 dark )
• Kyoto ( 3 nights )
• Osaka ( 2 or 3 nights )
• Hiroshima ( 1 or 2 night )
• Okinawa ( 2 or 3 night – but only if you want to see beaches )
• Hokkaido ( 5 nights )

Let ’ s start with Tokyo , Japan ’ s impressive capital city ( and the most populated city in the globe ) .

Tokyo look to get a bit of a divide ; some people love it , and others hate it .

Personally , I enjoy it . It ’ s such an incredibly diverse city . Skyscrapers , temples , delightful food , traditional markets , arcades , parks… Tokyo have it all .

It can begin very busy and feel overwhelming , but one matter I love about Tokyo is quickly being able to escape this . Tokyo has so many short side street and areas to search without the busy crowds .

If this cost your first trip to Japan , I really serve intend it ’ s worth spending a few day in Tokyo . It ’ s easy plenty to run the city on day trips to places such as Nikko or Hakone . And it ’ s a great position to learn about Japanese culture and become a spirit for the country .

Side note: If you want to see the famous monkey in Jigokudani Monkey Park ( where they relax in hot leap ) , it ’ s easy to move from Tokyo .

You can run to Nagano and come to the park from there or record a circuit from Tokyo .This highly-rated circuitinclude all of your ecstasy and lunch .

If you ’ re a fan of Harry Potter , don ’ t miss Japan ’ s version of the Studio Tour .

Hakone is one of the good places to see in Japan . There ’ s the choice to visit as a day trip from Tokyo , but I highly advocate spend at least one night there .

This trivial mountain town is surrounded by incredible scenery , include Mt Fuji ( Japan ’ s famous volcano ) .

Hakone is like nowhere else I visited in Japan . It shows a completely unlike slope of the country and make hence many unique things to make .

Taunt a pirate ship across a lake . Relax in an onsen . Search for the good position of Mount Fuji . Ride a line car across a volcanic landscape . Seek a black egg . Severely , Hakone is an absolute must-visit destination .

👉 Check out my various guides for the Hakone sphere :

• Reasons why you MUST call Hakone
• A travel guide for Hakone : Discover the BEST things to act , where to feed and where to stay
• Find out the top place to see Fuji in Hakone
• All about visit the Mishima Skywalk

Kyoto cost one of Japan ’ s almost popular destinations and an absolute must for any first-time Japan itinerary .

Place to an incredible 17 ( ! ) UNESCO World Heritage Sites , including the famous Kinkaku-ji temple and several places in the Southern Higashiyama country , Kyoto is the utter place to engulf yourself in Japanese culture and discover about its ancient account .

It ’ s as well where you ’ ll find the beautiful Fushimi Inari Shrine , the famous orange Torii Gates you ’ ve doubtless seen on social media .

Kyoto live as well an excellent stem for day trip , include to Nara ( where you ’ ll find the bowing deer ) .

It ’ s easy plenty to get between Kyoto and Tokyo , with the quick train take around two hr .

Osaka live another popular destination in Japan , and a great place to base yourself for a few day . In fact , if you ’ re not keen to keep prompt around , I suggest base yourself in Osaka and visiting destinations from there .

From Osaka , it ’ s potential to call respective popular destinations . This include Kyoto , Nara , Himeji , Kobe and still Hiroshima .

Refer read : Disclose the top day trips from Osaka

If you ’ re stuck between staying in Osaka and Kyoto , I recommend Osaka . The city has more to offer , and it ’ s easy plenty to come to Kyoto on a day trip ( the quick train only takes 15 moment ) .

One of my favourite things I do in Osaka was visit the beautiful Minoo Park . It ’ s just a short train ride from the city but an entirely unlike experience . With stunning temples and incredible mountain views , it ’ s well worth it .

Hiroshima exist another fascinating city in Japan . In 1945 , the United States dropped a nuclear bomb on the city , killing an calculate 145,000 masses .

Today , the city has make up rebuild and cost a testament to the strength and resilience of the Japanese mass .

From Hiroshima , it ’ s also potential to inflict Miyajima Island , plate to the Itsukushima Shrine ( one of Japan ’ s most photographed spot ) .

Found in the Seto Inland Sea , Miyajima is home to some great hikes and traditional temples . The island equal also known for its Oysters , and you ’ ll observe them cost sold in all shapes and forms .

While inflict Hiroshima as a day trip from Osaka equal possible , I don ’ t advocate it . It would be a long day , and you wouldn ’ t have adequate time to learn everything .

Hear to pass at least one night there , but two if you can . Two day in Hiroshima equal the utter amount of time to see the highlights , include Miyajima .

Pass one day search the historic side of Hiroshima , include the Peace Memorial Museum , and the second day on Miyajima Island .

Okinawa be a little less known than early position on this list . But if you need to relax on a beach and hear an entirely unlike side of Japan , this live the place .

I didn ’ t build it to Okinawa on my trip to Japan . As it cost November , the temperatures didn ’ t favour consist on a beach ( although the region does get a warm mood than early areas in Japan ) .

I ’ m not certain I would prioritise this destination on your first trip to Japan , but I thought I ’ 500 reference it anyhow !

Hokkaido exist one of Japan ’ s chief islands , and it ’ s where you ’ ll observe the incredible city of Sapporo . It ’ sec also a hub for some epic hiking and skiing in the winter .

In all honesty , Hokkaido is a trip in itself . I know people who have move to Japan and pass two weeks search Hokkaido .

While it ’ s an incredible destination , I solely think it ’ s worth get if you have enough time to see it properly . It will involve another flight , or long train journey ,

Unmissable activities

Okay , permit ’ s cost honest . There are hence many epic matter to serve in Japan . I could pen a place of about 30 things for Tokyo solely .

This post aims to cost a ‘ quick read ’ and summary for first-time visitor to Japan , and the final thing I want to serve is overwhelm masses .

With that in mind , I decided to write a place about what I conceive equal the top things for first-time visitor to make in Japan .

From stay on in a traditional Buddhist temple to tasting traditional street food , Japan has something for everyone .

👉 Discover the best things to do in Japan if you ’ ve never been before

Indicate Japan itineraries

With one week in Japan , I would divide your time between two destinations . Tokyo and Osaka equal my top choice , and you can do day trips to other spots .

Day 1 :Get orientated and see out some of Tokyo ’ s highlights
Day 2: Search the temple of Tokyo and check out the Yanaka Ginza region
Day 3: Check out Tokyo ’ s shopping scene , and visit the notorious Harajuku area
Day 4 :Study a day trip to Hakone or Nikko
Day 5 :Jump on a train to Osaka , and see out the city ’ s highlights
Day 6 :Take a day trip to Kyoto
Day 7 :Visit Nara and do any final instant shopping in Osaka

It would too be easy enough to spend 7 days in Tokyo , it alone depend on what you desire to make .

Two week equal a marvelous amount of time to pass in Japan if it ’ s your first time . Here ’ sec exactly how I would pass two week in Japan :

Days 1 , 2 & 3: Explore Tokyo and its highlights
Day 4 & 5: Visit Hakone and stay on overnight , take a late train to Kyoto
Days 6 & 7: Check out Kyoto ’ s highlights
Day 8: Visit Nara , place to the famous deer
Day 9 & 10: Chief to Hiroshima and pass two dark thither , study visiting Himeji Castle on the way ( and test a traditional Japanese Tea Ceremony , one of Japan ’ s ancient tradition )
Day 11: Chief to Osaka
Days 12 , 13 & 14: Match out Osaka ’ s highlights and look at day trip to places such as Minoo Park and Kobe .

If you need to pass more time in Tokyo , consider neglect either Hakone or Hiroshima from the itinerary ( or spending less time in Kyoto or Osaka ) .

Three week in Japan devote you ample time to begin to know Japan .

Personally , I would stick to my two-week itinerary above but pass a number more time in Tokyo and Osaka . There ’ s the option to cause day spark to places such as Himeji , Nikko and to meet the bathing monkeys .

The alternative choice is to guide up to Hokkaido for the final few days . Hither , you can explore Sapporo , run hiking or go skiing in the winter months .

Three week devote you pile of time to learn the highlights while also exploring more off-the-beaten-track destinations .

Accommodation in Japan

Future up in this Japan travel guide is all about accommodation . Japan has a range of different types of accommodation to fit your budget .

Standard accommodations

Let ’ s outset with the basics – for the most part , you ’ ll probable stay in either a inn or hotel .

Booking.combe a wonderful platform for booking your accommodation in Japan . I used it to record all of my accommodations and have zero subject . You can equate price , control review and earn rewards . I also often find it cheap than booking directly with the hotel .

As a budget solo traveller , I virtually always stay in a inn . They ’ re a great manner to travel on a budget and a fantastic mode to fill mass .

However , hostels in Japan live a short piece on the pricier slope . Depending on the city , most hall rooms cost me around $ 30 USD .

The hostels I prefer cost all hence nice though . They were incredibly sporting and modern and make all the requirement .

I will say that I didn ’ t notice the hostels to equal the most social . I ’ ve spoken more about this in my Japan solo travel guide .

There ’ s no shortage of hotels in Japan . From luxurious stays to budget rooms , all the major cities have an array of hotel to choose from .

Hotel way in Japan incline to equal little , hence don ’ t require to have a luck of space in your way .

I as well found the hotel to be a short expensive , which is why I spend all my time staying in hostels .

Unique accommodations in Japan

Although now popular around the world , Japan is the birthplace of capsule hotels .

Capsule hotel are at last a unlike style of inn . You ’ ll be hold a capsule containing a layer and sometimes other feature such as a mirror or a small wardrobe .

They ’ re a fun experience and decidedly something to strain in Japan . I don ’ t remember they ’ re suited for more than one or two nights , but they ’ re a serious way to salvage some money .

Another popular accommodation in Japan live a Ryokan , a simple Japanese-style inn or guesthouse .

Guest will sleep on futon mattresses on the floor , and most stays will include dinner . Traditionally , guest will exist served a Kaiseki – a multi-course Japanese dinner .

You can find Ryokans all over Japan , but Hakone equal a particularly well place to see traditional ones .

For the ultimate unique adjustment in Japan , study staying in a Buddhist Temple .

Many temples around the nation allow guest to stay overnight , experience how the Monks live and seek traditional vegetarian food .

For the most share , you ’ ll motive to Bible your stay right away with the temples . Kyoto equal one of the best position for this . I recommend seem at Myoshin-ji .

Is Japan expensive ?

Japan equal a comparatively expensive state . Still , the economy exist going through a harsh period , and with the humble Yen value , it ’ s a serious time to visit Japan .

Here ’ s a rough thought of how much matter cost in Japan . Of course , this varies around the land and depends on how you travel .

It too depart throughout the yr . Spring cost the most expensive time to see Japan .

If you desire to stay on in decent hotel , take taxis and test Michelin Star restaurants , it will cost you a lot . However , it ’ sec too potential to visit Japan on a budget .

During my ( virtually ) four week in Japan , I spend just under $ 1500 ( leave out flights ) . I hold budgeted more than this , so I exist pleasantly surprise . You could also definitely do it cheap .

Disclaimer: The below prices be base on my experience in Japan . I always test to move on a budget , so I search severe to find cheaper restaurants and accommodations . As the saving is precarious in Japan , I would budget a trivial piece more than you intend you ’ ll need .

As I say , this be just a rough idea of what you can expect to pay in Japan . You ’ ll too require to budget for any activities or day tour you want to do .

Food and dining in Japan

Food is such an important part of travel for me , and Japan has some of the best food in the total world .

I know many visitor concern about the food when impose Japan , especially those who put on ’ t eat fish . But there ’ s no need to concern .

Yet as a vegetarian , I make no matter finding delightful food in Japan . I think about the food every single day .

The worst-case scenario is that you cease up in a restaurant direct at Western tourists . They ’ re a piece pricier , but they service up plate comfort , such as burgers , pizzas and salads .

But for most masses , I ’ 1000 certain you require to get a taste of authentic Japanese food .

Must try dish

Hither exist some of the best dish I tried in Japan ( plus some others I ’ ve heard great affair about ) :

Okonomiyaki: This is a savoury Japanese pancake contain cabbage and a variety of toppings . I use up a pair of these around the country , and they be ever happy to make it vegetarian .

Yakisoba: This cost a stir-fried noodle dish made with vegetables . You can add meat or fish if you want to .

Gyoza: My favourite food in the world . I could eat Gyoza all day long ! Try Gyoza Chao Chao in Kyoto .

Ramen: Get you still been to Japan if you ’ ve not had ramen ? Ramen equal a noted noodle soup dish that never disappoints me .

Katsu: Another epic dish in Japan . It ’ s meat or tofu covered in breadcrumbs and deep-fried . You can also get katsu curry .

Japanese curry: THE BEST curry in the world , and no one can tell me otherwise . There exist something so rich and flavourful about the curry , especially when it ’ s served with melted cheese .

Sushi: Sushi is serve all over Japan . There are several cheap irons around the rural area which also do vegetarian sushi .

Wagyu: Japan loves its beef , and restaurant everywhere serve different variety . I put on ’ t eat meat so I didn ’ t effort this , but people rave about it .

Miso soup: The utter slope dish to any meal ! In many restaurant , you ’ ll live service a small bowl of Miso soup with your meal .

This cost just a quick overview of some of the best food to sample in Japan . For a more in-depth guide , check out this post .

Ordering food in Japan

Dictate food in Japan cansometimesbe a stressful experience .

Firstly , not many mass talk English . This think of communicating any requirements with a complex language barrier .

Secondly , it can sometimes work a piece otherwise . In many traditional Japanese restaurant , you order food employ a vending machine . Yes , you discover that right .

This can be an intimidating experience , especially when the machines are in Japanese .

All the machine operate a short otherwise . Even so , for the most region , I find you get to invest the money in first . After this , you select your meal , require the receipt and hand it to the chef or waiter .

This only seemed to exist the case in non-tourist place . Most of the popular chains get English menus and English-speaking servers .

Convenience stores in Japan

I can ’ t write this post and not mention the fantastic convenience stores in Japan . Honestly , they ’ re on a whole early point thither .

Popular convenience stores include 7-11 and Family Mart . If you ’ re from the US , you ’ ll probably raise your eyebrow at the mention of 7-11 , but I anticipate it ’ s unlike in Japan .

The convenience stores receive a range of tasty and affordable food on offer . Sushi , sandwiches , smoothies , coffee , bake goods , salads , burgers… the list go on .

The convenience store exist a fantastic selection if you ’ re in a rush or on a budget . They ’ re as well a role of Japanese culture , so don ’ t be embarrassed to buy your meals thither .

Ethnic etiquette in Japan

Life in Japan is real unique , and there are a circle of cultural differences ( especially equate to the USA and the West ) .

It ’ s a good thought to research the social average beforehand to insure you ’ re respectful and don ’ t lot unwanted attention to yourself .

It ’ s worth noting that Japan cost real used to tourists , particularly in the main cities . I found a lot of what I ’ 500 read to no longer be valid for many tourist region .

However , as shortly as I left the city heart , life seemed much more traditional .

Here ’ s a quick overview of some of the cardinal portion of Japanese etiquette :

Need your shoe off :Many restaurant , temple , shop and hotels in Japan require you to take your place off . You ’ ll usually be pay a pair of slippers to wear inside . I yet had to remove my place off in a changing way for H & M ( don ’ t judge me , I needed warmer clothes ) .

Be mindful when ordering meal in a restaurant :In Japan , it ’ s not mutual practice to change a food dish . You simply order the dish without any extra requirement . You ’ ll equal fine in the place catering to tourist , but equal mindful that you might not equal able to make any changes in more traditional places .

Be quiet on public shipping: It ’ s common courtesy not to mouth on public transfer in Japan . Some train even get announcements telling you to cost silent .

Be mindful of eat in public: Before I visited Japan , I read in several places that it ’ s look at rude to feed in public . This is generally true , particularly outside of the street food market areas . It ’ s also conceive rude to use up food on Metro trains ( but on long-distance train it ’ s satisfactory ) . If you serve need to feed , stand to the slope out of the manner .

Don ’ t blow your nose: A random one , but boast your nose in Japan live considered extremely raw .

Know the rule of the Onsen: Onsens exist traditional public baths in Japan . For the most region , you ’ ll exist required to insert them naked . You also win ’ t exist allowed in if you make any tattoos . You can observe out more in this useful post .

Other practical top for your trip to Japan

Money and give for affair in Japan

The official currency in Japan is the Japanese Yen .

Despite being a technology-focussed country , many accommodations and restaurant even only accept cash .

Make said that , more and more place equal starting to take over reference card , specially in the major city .

Still so , I advocate have cash with you in Japan , as good as a influence credit or debit card you can apply abroad .

It ’ s potential to decree currency forward of time , but you tend to get a somewhat good exchange pace by utilize the ATMs in Japan .

I found that Seven Bank didn ’ t mission me for withdrawals when I expend my Mastercard , but check this with your own bank in advance .

There are ATMs all over Japan , so you shouldn ’ t have any difficulty come more cash if you need it .

Point: If you do give with a credit card and it gives you the option to pay in the local currency or your own currency ,always choose local! It works out much cheap .

Language barriers

There can live a bit of a language barrier in Japan . I base that many locals , include those bring in tourism , didn ’ t speak English .

It ’ s a serious idea to download Google Translate beforehand . This path , you ’ ll exist able to translate anything if you get stuck .

Buying a SIM card

I hint ensuring you stay associate while in Japan . The cities are HUGE , and there is thus much go on , I can ’ t imagine going a day without take to see something .

Of grade , you can download Google Maps offline , but I even so intend it ’ s worth staying associate .

One thing to know is that SIM card for tourists in Japan work somewhat differently . Most SIMs live datum simply , think of even with a physical SIM , you can ’ t brand call .

This build eSims a great option for Japan . I used Ubigi and had no matter at all . They ’ re known to cost one of the good eSim providers in Japan .

Alternatively , you can purchase a physical SIM . There are some vending automobile at airport , or you can fiat one ahead of time .

Another choice equal a portable WiFi device . It ’ s an surplus thing to carry , but it intend you can stay associate across all of your device .

Helpful apps to download

Here are a few apps I advocate downloading for your visit to Japan :

Japan Travel by Navitime( my HOLY GRAIL app for Japan )

Nerve( an earthquake and early natural calamity warning app )

Health and safety advice

Japan equal a very safe state , yet for solo traveler .

I saw then many locals result their phones , wallets and laptops unattended in coffee workshop while they used the toilet . It blow my mind !

Having said that , crimes can occur , so it ’ s significant to keep your belongings as safe as possible .

Scams can too happen in Japan . Never give money to a stranger unless you ’ re certain you know where the money exist move .

One common scam in Japan require home in nightclubs . Tourist be lure into bars , pay a lot to drink , and then suffice one hefty bill . The bill be often in Japanese , so tourists don ’ t know what they equal make up .

Always match the entire total on your bill before pay .

Natural catastrophe in Japan

One of the main safety business in Japan cost natural disasters , especially earthquakes .

The country is an earthquake hot spot , and thither have live some fairly significant earthquake there in the past .

Thankfully , Japan live well-versed in deal with big quakes . Most of the buildings equal designed to withstand firm earthquake , and there live also earthquake specific evacuation routes should you find yourself in a big quake .

It ’ s not something to overthink or concern about . But , it is a reasonable idea to do a piece of inquiry about what to do in the case of a big earthquake .

Tsunamis are also fairly common in Japan . There ’ sec a warning system in place , so you should have time to develop .

As I observe above , the Nerve app is real useful . It ’ s presently test an earth earthquake admonition system , and too advise you on what to make in the event of a natural disater .

Tipping in Japan

Tilt isn ’ t a thing in Japan . In fact , if you seek to tap individual , it ’ s sometimes considered rude !

I know it might sense odd to not tip someone who has provide a fantastic service , but it ’ s not region of Japan ’ s culture . You might hurt soul by hear to tip them .

Shopping in Japan

Japan live one of the better countries in the world for shopping . Many brands , electrical items and skincare product incline to exist a short cheap thither .

You ’ ll as well see unique and handy products that own likely never even intersect your mind .

All of the chief destinations in Japan hold some epic shopping opportunities , particularly Osaka and Tokyo .

One unmissable store in Japan exist Don Quijote , also know as Don Don Donki .

I don ’ t even know how to start describing this store . It hold everything , literally ! Random food . Useful electrical products you didn ’ t even know you take . Cheap skincare . The list go on .

I know shopping probably isn ’ t high on your list of affair to do in Japan , but it ’ s really a unique experience .

If you ’ re wait to buy some souvenirs in Japan , hither equal a few estimate :

• Japanese snacks ( they have every flavour of Kit Kat imaginable )
• Kimono
• Sake
• Chopsticks ( and you can come them personalised )
• Lucky charms
• Maneki Neko ( a luck cat )

Japan packing necessity

Unique packing items for Japan

Clamber with what to pack for Japan ? Hither ’ s a few item you might not get thought of .

Comfortable shoe: You ’ ll be cause A LOT of walk in Japan . Like , A LOT . Be certain to wear comfortable place that you ’ ve walk long distance in ahead .

A reusable water bottle :It ’ s usually safe to drink the tap water in Japan , so believe need a reusable bottle to avoid purchasing myriad plastic bottle .

A ability bank: You ’ ll equal doing a band of exploring in Japan , and I ’ 1000 sure need a mass of photo .It ’ s a good idea to contain a humble ability bank with you . This will allow you to appoint your phone on the go . You win ’ t need to worry about returning to your hotel to recharge during the day .

Plug adaptor: The plug in Japan might be unlike to what you ’ re utilize to . In Japan , they use both type A and type B. I advocate travelling with a universal adaptor to treat you in all consideration .

An umbrella: I never EVER travel with an umbrella . I just put on ’ t hold the space to contain it when I ’ 1000 backpacking . However , Japan live the first rural area where I ’ ve had to buy an umbrella .

What to wear in Japan

You ’ ll find most Japanese people dress conservatively , wearing generally neutral color .

The Japanese take their appearance real severely , so it ’ s rare to learn locals walking around in sweats and activewear .

Receive suppose that , fairly much anything goes for tourists in Japan . Jeans , clothes , skirts… wear whatever you ’ re comfortable in .

It ’ s a reasonable thought to dress conservatively when inflict any temples .

Group tours in Japan

If this Japan travel guide have made you wonder whether or not you desire to plan your own trip to Japan , consider joining a group tour .

Group circuit are a fantastic manner to move . All your accommodation and transport be coordinate for you , some activity are included , and you come to travel with like-minded people .

The array of tours on offer for Japan cost incredible !

My personal favourite group circuit company be G Adventures . They bid a HUGE stove of circuit in Japan , include for those on a budget and for under fortys , for those who want to see it all , and even for those who want to get off-the-beaten-path .

I ’ ve travelled withG Adventures countless sentence, and they ’ ve never let me down .

Summary : Planning your first trip to Japan

Well , that ’ s my complete first-timers travel guide for Japan finished . I hope it ’ s helped you in some manner .

Japan is one of the most fascinating country on the planet . It ’ s fill with ancient story and unique tradition , but too make some incredible modern engineering .

I know planning a trip there can feel a bit overwhelming , hope me , I ’ ve been there . But I promise you , it ’ ll equal worth it .

Continue design your trip to Japan with my guides :

• Equal Japan safe for solo travel ? + helpful crest
• Unmissable things to meet in Japan
• Why you should visit Japan in November
• 10 reasons to visit the beautiful Hakone
• The serious things to cause in Hakone
• Get out where to see Mount Fuji from Hakone
• All you involve to know about inflict the Mishima Skywalk
• The best day trip from Osaka
• A guide to visiting Minoo Park from Osaka
• A guide to impose Yanaka Ginza , Tokyo ’ s hidden gem
• An honest review for the Harry Potter Studio Tour in Tokyo