Spring
A beautiful time to witness cherry blossoms and mild weather.
Travel guide
Japan
Japan is a captivating blend of ancient traditions and cutting-edge modernity, offering diverse landscapes, rich culture, and delicious cuisine across its many regions.
- Best MonthsMarch to May, September to November
- AirportsNarita, Haneda, Kansai, Chubu
- TransitExtensive rail network, including Shinkansen
- Power100V, Type A/B plugs
- TippingNot customary
- LanguageJapanese
01
When to go
The best time to visit Japan is during spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November) when the weather is mild and the scenery is stunning.
Jan
Feb
Mar
Apr
May
Jun
Jul
Aug
Sep
Oct
Nov
Dec
Easiest monthsHot, coast booked outWinter: rain and cold nights
Summer
Hot and humid, ideal for beach visits and festivals.
Autumn
A stunning season with vibrant foliage and pleasant temperatures.
02
Where to stay
Pick the neighbourhood by how you want the day to start and end, not by distance to one museum.
Urban hub
Shinjuku
A bustling district known for its vibrant nightlife, shopping, and dining options.
Can be crowded, but offers great access to transport.
Cultural
Gion
Famous for its traditional wooden machiya houses and geisha culture.
Best visited in the evening for a magical atmosphere.
Nature
Nara Park
Home to free-roaming deer and historic temples, including Todai-ji.
A peaceful escape from city life.
Historical
Hiroshima City
Known for its Peace Memorial Park and vibrant food scene.
A poignant reminder of history.
Winter sports
Sapporo
Famous for its beer, skiing, and the annual Snow Festival.
Great for winter enthusiasts.
Tropical
Okinawa
Known for its beautiful beaches and unique Ryukyu culture.
A different vibe from mainland Japan.
Cultural
Kanazawa
Famous for its well-preserved Edo-period districts and gardens.
Less touristy, offering a more authentic experience.
Foodie
Fukuoka
Known for its delicious street food and vibrant nightlife.
Try the local ramen at a yatai (food stall).
03
What to eat
Everyday food, eaten the way locals do. Look for a busy place rather than a ranked list.
Sushi
Enjoy fresh sushi at Tsukiji Outer Market in Tokyo.
→ Go early for the best selection.
Ramen
Try tonkotsu ramen in Fukuoka or shoyu ramen in Tokyo.
→ Each region has its own specialty.
Okonomiyaki
A savory pancake popular in Hiroshima and Osaka.
→ Watch it being made for a fun experience.
Tempura
Delicious battered and fried seafood or vegetables, best found in Tokyo.
→ Look for specialty tempura restaurants.
Takoyaki
Fried octopus balls, a street food favorite in Osaka.
→ Try them fresh from a street vendor.
Miso Soup
A staple in Japanese cuisine, often served with breakfast.
→ Look for homemade versions in local eateries.
04
What to see
An order that works on foot, with the trip out of the first city at the end.
Mount Fuji
Japan's iconic peak, perfect for hiking and photography.
Kyoto's Kinkaku-ji
The Golden Pavilion, a stunning Zen temple surrounded by gardens.
Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park
A poignant site dedicated to the victims of the atomic bomb.
Nara's Todai-ji Temple
Home to a giant Buddha statue and beautiful park.
Tokyo Tower
An iconic symbol of Tokyo, offering panoramic views.
Okinawa's Shurijo Castle
A UNESCO World Heritage site showcasing Ryukyu architecture.
The Great Buddha of Kamakura
A massive bronze statue located in a serene setting.
Shibuya Crossing
One of the busiest pedestrian crossings in the world.
Himeji Castle
Japan's most beautiful castle, a UNESCO World Heritage site.
The Arashiyama Bamboo Grove
A stunning bamboo forest in Kyoto, perfect for a stroll.
Okinawa's Beaches
Famous for their crystal-clear waters and white sand.
The Imperial Palace
The primary residence of the Emperor of Japan, located in Tokyo.
05
Getting around
Airport to city, across the city, and onward to the next region.
Air Travel
Japan's main airports include Narita (Tokyo), Haneda (Tokyo), Kansai (Osaka), and Chubu (Nagoya).
NRTNarita
HNDHaneda
KIXKansai
NGOChubu
Rail Travel
The Shinkansen (bullet train) connects major cities efficiently and comfortably.
Public Transport
Subways and buses are reliable and widely used in urban areas.
Bicycles
Many cities are bike-friendly, offering rentals for exploring at your own pace.
Walking
Walking is a great way to explore neighborhoods and discover hidden gems.
06
Practical notes
Plugs
Japan uses Type A and Type B plugs, with a voltage of 100V.
Cash
Cash is widely used; credit cards are not accepted everywhere.
Tipping
Tipping is not customary in Japan and may be considered rude.
Language
Japanese is the official language; English is not widely spoken.
Data
Free Wi-Fi is available in many urban areas, but consider renting a pocket Wi-Fi.
Trip Duration
A week is ideal to explore major cities and attractions.