Japan – home to sushi, miso soup, geishas, sumo, samurai, karate, hello kitty and ultra modern high-technology mixed with the traditional.
See the famed cherry blossoms in the spring or ski the Japanese Alps in the winter. Indulge in Japanese cuisine and admire the many temples and shrines devoted to the two national religions. And travel Japan-style on a top-notch transport system!
Check out my Japan travel tips with all the information you could hope for before you go, including important advice, facts, prices; events and essential must see attractions. Read on for the ins and outs of Japan tourism.
Japan Travel Booking Resources
These are my favourite companies to use when I travel.
• Search cheap flights with Skyscanner.
• Find the best deals on hotels on Booking.com.
Fast Facts
Population
125,000,000
Languages Spoken
Japanese
Currency
Yen (JPY) ¥
Electricity
The electric current in Japan is 100V. There are two cycles in use; 50Hz in eastern Japan and 60Hz in western Japan (including Nagoya, Kyoto and Osaka). A convertible type of appliance like a hair dryer, travel iron or shaver will be handy, but otherwise you’ll need a step-down transformer to convert the voltage. The plugs in Japan are the 2-flat-pin variety so an adapter may be necessary.
Time Zones
GMT + 9 (Japan Standard Time)
Daylight Saving Time is not practiced in Japan.
Country Dialling Code
+81
Weights & Measures
Metric
Visas
Get all your Japan work & tourist visa info right here! Whether you’re wanting to go on holiday or you’re keen to work you’ll find all you need to know before you go about Japan visas.
Tourism Visa
Your nationality will determine whether you need to get a visa and how long you can stay. Citizens from most countries can stay up to 3 months visa-free; UK citizens are able to stay without a visa for up to 6 months. Japanese immigration requires your passport to remain valid during the period of stay.
Working Holiday Visa
Want to soak up the true culture of Japan, how about working there! If you’re a UK national and between the ages of 18 and 30 you can apply for a working holiday visa, which allows you to stay for up to one year.
Weather
The weather in Japan is generally temperate, with four distinct seasons:
Winter, from December to February, is quite dry and sunny along the Pacific coast and the temperatures rarely drop below 0°C. The temperatures drop as you move north, with the Central and Northern regions experiencing snowfall. Southern Japan is relatively temperate and experiences a mild winter.
Spring is from March to May. Temperatures are warm but not too hot, plus there isn’t too much rain. The famous cherry blossoms are out during this time and there are plenty of festivals to enjoy.
Summer begins in June and the country experiences a three to four-week rainy season during which the farmers plant their rice. It is hot and humid during this time and temperatures are often in the high 30’s. Summer wraps up in August.
Autumn is from September to November and is characterised by light breezes and cooler temperatures of around 8-10oC. It’s during autumn that many exhibitions, music concerts and sports tournaments are held in Japan.
When to Go
Spring is considered the best time to go, since the temperatures are most favourable. Just try to avoid – or book well in advance – for Golden Week (April 27 to May 6). It is the longest holiday of the year, when everybody travels and everything is booked full. Skiers and snowboarders will be keen to head over in winter when snow is on the mountains.
Getting to Japan
Flying from London to Tokyo, takes 12 hours.
Japan Airports
Tokyo Airport
Tokyo’s Narita airport is located 65 km east of Tokyo and is about an hour’s drive away. There are luxury coaches and shuttle buses which depart regularly from the airport to city-centre hotels, tickets for these can be bought in the terminals. There is also a train service but this needs to be pre-booked. The line runs from Narita station terminal located beneath the airport to Tokyo, Shinjuku and Yokohama stations regularly. There are taxis available but these are considerably more expensive than the train (about five times more) at around ¥ 19,000.
Osaka Airport
Osaka’s Kansai International airport is located 50 km southwest of Osaka, and is about an hour away from the city by car. The Nankai RR service takes around half an hour to Namba station and the JR West service reaches the JR Osaka station in a little over an hour. Taxis are available to the city at a cost of around ¥21,000. A cheaper alternative is the airport bus at ¥1,700. If you’re headed to Kobe’s Port Island it’s possible to get the ferry, which takes about 30 minutes.
Central Japan International Airport (Centrair)
Centrair airport is located 35 km south of Nagoya. There is a bus which operates frequent services between the airport and the city, at a cost of ¥1,000. The journey takes about an hour. Taxis are available as well and a fare to central Nagoya is approximately ¥12,000. The fastest way to get to the city is by taking the Rapid Limited Express’ service, which connects the airport to Meitetsu Nagoya Station in 28 minutes
Fukuoka Airport
Fukuoka International airport is very close to the city centre. The airport is directly connected to the subway providing immediate access to Hakata Railway Station 5 minutes (¥250), and to Tenjin, the city centre of Fukuoka, only about 10 minutes away. Taking a cab will cost around ¥2,000 and the journey takes about 20 minutes.
How to Get Around
Japan transport is top notch, having one of the worlds most highly developed transportation systems.
Japan is well serviced domestically by several airlines that maintain an extensive network covering Japan proper and its islands. If you want something a bit more scenic, why not jump on the train? Japan has one of the best rail networks in the world that covers almost all destinations. You can pick up a handy Japan rail pass before you travel to the country, valid for 7, 14 or 21 days. Find out more about Japan rail passes.
In the cities, the metro is the most efficient way to get around. While the buses are cheap it’s probably best to use them only if you’re travelling with someone who knows the system. Taxis are expensive but if you take one you should try to have your destination written in Japanese, with a local landmark also written down to help the driver find it. Go prepared and you’ll find Japan transportation no problem.
If you want to explore more of the country and don’t speak Japanese one of the easiest and most fun ways to get around is by organised tour. I recommend small group tours with G Adventures or Contiki – both offer multiple itineraries.
Best Places to Visit
Check out my list of tourist attractions including all the best places to go sightseeing in Japan. This is just a taste of what this great country has to offer!
Tokyo
Effortlessly blending the old and the new, Tokyo is a city that defies definition. Cutting edge technology glitters beside ancient temples, flashing neon lights bathe kimono-clad women, and shining skyscrapers tower above Shinto shrines.
With the latest figures estimating an incredible 60,000 eateries in Tokyo and home to the world’s largest fish market, food is an obsession even closer to Japanese hearts. Make sure go and see the sumo wrestlers in action
Tokyo really is a vast city that can both depress and amaze you. Not much of the old Japan is left here, except in Asakusa, once the ‘pleasure district’. The business districts lies to the west of the central Ginza shopping precinct, and the residential neighbourhoods to the east.
Shinjuku is present-day Tokyo’s entertainment district. Shibuya is the place for love hotels. These are often themed buildings with fantasy rooms you can rent for a few hours or for the night. Lack of space and privacy in Japanese homes means they’re often used by married couples to get away from it all. Visit Rapongi for a night of dancing and fun. Or wander around the famous Senso-ji Temple for some tranquility.
As well as the usual museums explaining Japanese life and history, Tokyo has the Button Museum, going dating back to 4000 BC, a Kite Museum, a Cigarette Lighter Museum and a Drum Museum where you can try out drums from around the world.
Hakone is also a recommend day trip from Tokyo.
Kyoto
Kyoto was once Japan’s capital and is still one of Japan’s loveliest cities. Its Buddhist temples, exquisite imperial palaces, wooden houses, traditional Japanese inns and restaurants make it a fascinating place to explore.
Kyoto was spared during the second World War and therefore houses thousands of ancient shrines and temples which date back centuries. Walking through the city is a fantastic way to experience the elegant architecture and appreciate the beauty of Japan.
On a visit to traditional Kyoto you will get to see a living museum of Japan’s artistic heritage. Rest in the shade of Buddhist temples that have stood for over a thousand years or peruse the offerings of ultramodern department stores.
Only in Kyoto is it possible to cross paths with a real geisha. There are more than 2,000 temples and shrines, and no fewer than 17 major sites in and around the city which have gained UNESCO World Heritage status.
Fukuoka
Fukuoka was established after the port city of Hakata and the former castle town of Fukuoka were united as one in 1889. Hakata remains the name of Fukuoka’s central district and main railway station. No visit would be complete without seeing the Shofukuji Temple, the first Zen temple to be built in Japan. It was founded by the father of Japanese Zen, Eisai, in 1195.
Nagoya
Nagoya’s history goes back 400 years. The city was created in the aftermath of the Battle of Sekigahara. Uniting Japan through his victory at the battle, Tokugawa Ieyasu commenced construction of Nagoya Castle in 1610, and in the years that followed the residents of the former town of Kiyosu moved to the area surrounding the new castle. The castle still stands and is famous for the golden dolphins adorning its rooftop.
Osaka
A modern city, you’ll find a skyscraper-studded skyline and vast underground shopping complexes in Osaka.
The city is busy, bustling, commercial, creative, energetic, versatile and friendly. Also widely regarded as the country’s gourmet food capital, it is the place to go whether you want a top-notch traditional Japanese multi-course dinner or a more hearty and generous fare like the pan-fried batter cake, a local speciality.
The motto that more than any other sums up Osaka and the mentality of its people is ‘kuidaore’, which simply means ‘Eat until you drop’.
Sapporo
Sapporo is an excellent base for exploring the rest of the island – places like Daisetsuzan national park, Akan or Rishirito Island.
During daytime you should visit the Botanical Garden in the Batchelor Memorial Museum, the Clock tower – the major landmark of Sapporo – and the Beer Brewery, the first in Japan.
During winter the Sapporo snow festival attracts visitors from all over the country to see the huge (15 to 20 meters high) snow sculptures that are on display all over Odori Park. You can rent cross-country skis for free in Nakajima Park.
Hiroshima
For those interested in history, a visit to Hiroshima is a sobering experience, as you learn about the first atomic bomb and its devastating effects on the country and its people.
Koyasan
For a holistic retreat, head to the centre of Buddhism in Japan, at the apex of Mount Koya. Grab yourself a shukubō (lodgings in a temple) and release your inner monk. Be warned; you can’t just rock up to Koyasan. It’s a combination of trains and cable cars.
Hokkaido
Hokkaido is Japan’s second largest island. It is sparsely populated and has five national parks. Daisetsuzan, the largest and one of the most beautiful, is famous for its volcanoes, fir and birch forests and the Sounkyo Gorge, it has superb hiking, cycling and skiing. Neighbouring Shikotsu-Toya is a place of hot-spring resorts such as Toyako Spa.
Kyushu
Kyushu is the third largest island. Its main city is Fukuoka, famed for its vibrant nightlife. Another tourist attractions on the island is Nagasaki, with it’s A Bomb museum. The volcano Mount Aso and Kirishima National Parkhas great hiking and wonderful hot springs to relax in.
Shikoku
Shikoku is the smallest and least visited of the main islands. It is a relaxed and tranquil place with lovely scenery, splendid castles, beautiful gardens and hot springs. It’s one of the best places to see traditional Japanese life.
National Parks
Japan has 28 national parks which preserve a variety of landscapes from industrialisation. Those within easy reach of Tokyo include Fuji-Hakone-Izu which is home to the famous Mount Fuji. The Park has numerous hot springs, lakes and historic attractions.
The Japan Alps National Park was the site of the 1998 Winter Olympics and is good for hiking as well as skiing. Nikko is centred around the Toshogu Shrine and famous for its lakes waterfalls and cedar forests. These are particularly spectacular in the autumn. There’s cross country skiing here in the winter.
Fun Things to Do in Japan
Visit or Climb Mount Fuji
Mount Fuji is the most recognizable landmark in Japan. Mount Fuji located about 100 km (60 mi) west of Tokyo is an almost perfect volcano venerated by the Japanese, who call it Fuji-san – their most sacred mountain.
The Mount Fuji volcano is dormant – last eruption was in 1707 – and it is a popular tourist attraction. In the summer people enjoy going to the summit to see the dawn and at night the light from their torches looks like a trail of lava on the mountainside.
The main climbing season is during July and August. The crater takes about an hour to walk around. Ity is cold up there – the summit, which is 3,776 m (12,340 ft) high, is snow-covered between October and May.
Take a Sushi Making Class
Japan is a mix-match of ancient history and modern technology all wrapped into one, delicious sushi roll. A country where past meets present, Japan is home to stunning lakes, a generous scattering of cherry blossom and of course the impressive snow-capped Mount Fuji.
While Japan is known for having some quirky fads and a questionable obsession with Hello Kitty, Japanese cuisine is some of the best in the world. Sushi has made its mark around the globe – but for an authentic and unforgettable experience learn the secrets behind the famous roll in the country where it all began.
Go to an Onsen
You know how you probably go to the pub with your mates after work? Well, in Japan, they go
an onsen – that’s a hot spring, to you and me. Relaxing and purifying, this is a Japanese experience not to be missed – and what a way to bond with the locals!
Male and female onsen are kept separate; arguably a good thing, since nudity is mandatory. Men, women, children and monkeys alike have been known to enjoy the onsen. Yep, I did say monkeys. Head to Yamanouchi, central Japan, and marvel at the snow monkeys who enjoy relaxing in the hot springs. Probably not a good idea to get in with them, though.
Discover Sumo
Japan’s signature sport is actually quite hard to come by – it’s seasonal, so you’ll have to be there in January, May or September to catch a match. Ryogoku Kokugikan, Tokyo’s National Sumo Hall, is the place to go.
Bouts are scheduled throughout the day, and usually only last a few seconds – but what a few seconds they are. Stomping, twisting, slapping, interlocking: the sumos here do it all. Watch out for sumo fans throwing their seat cushions in the heat of the moment.
Hit the Slopes
While not traditionally synonymous with skiing and snowboarding, Japan actually has some of the world’s best resorts. Retreat to the hills and grab a ski package to Hakuba, the heart of the country’s snow scene. For something really different, head north to Hokkaido and try out some night skiing – a truly sensational experience.
Teach English
Would you like to stay longer than your average tourist? Take a TEFL course and apply to teach English! This is a popular option for foreigners who would like to live and teach English in Japan or Asia. Schools in the country hire all year round. Salaries are high!
More Activities
In addition to the amazing cycling through dramatic Japanese scenery, especially through Hokkaido, splendid hiking through well marked trails, skiing in the now famous Nagano area and other wonderful pastimes that keep those in Japan busy, there are plenty of more esoteric pastimes to effectively pass the time.
Spend a night in a ryokan, a traditional inn, and get a glimpse of old Japan: futons, tatami floors, sliding paper doors and views of perfect Japanese gardens. Or study martial arts at one of the many traditional dojo which admit visitors. If you think you have the meat, have a round of Sumo and see how handy all those hamburgers you weren’t supposed to eat can be!
How about some kabuki, a form of Japanese theatre with spectacular costumes. For the more talented, try Japanese calligraphy or a touch of ikebana. There list hasn’t even started yet!
Money & Budget
The Japanese currency is the yen, and the exchange rate is approximately ¥127 = £1.
Japan Sample Prices
It’s important to budget for your trip so you don’t run out of money, and can get the most of out your Japan trip! Here are some sample prices to help you:
• Sushi from a conveyor belt sushi shop = ¥100 – ¥120 per plate
• 500 ml bottle of Sake = from ¥1,000
• Karaoke = ¥600
• Sumo (2nd floor, Section C, reserved seat) = ¥3,600
• Average room prices = cheaper rooms are in the range of ¥2,000-3,600, mid-range from ¥3,600-7,600 and for somewhere top-notch you’re looking at paying between ¥7,600-20,000.
• Average meal prices = you can score a cheap meal for ¥550 – 900, a nice restaurant for ¥900-2,800 and at the higher end you’re looking at paying ¥2,800 and beyond.
These prices are in Japanese yen, and are subject to change.
Tipping
Japan is one of the few countries in the world where it’s actually considered rude to tip; good service = Japan life, yo! That said, some of the fancier ryokans and hotels include ‘service charges’ in the bill. A service charge is also becoming more common in higher end restaurants and western-style hotels.
Banking
Japanese banks are usually open Monday to Friday from 9 am to 3 pm. All major credit cards are acceptable at major establishments, but if you’re heading out of the big cities its best to get hold of some cash beforehand. Travellers cheques are accepted by leading banks, hotels, ryokan (Japanese inns) and stores in major cities.
Important Japanese Phrases to Know
Even if you don’t understand the Japanese language, you can still certainly enjoy Japan. But if you know a few everyday Japanese phrases and words then it will make your trip even more memorable. A few words make a big difference! Learn Japanese below:
• Ohayou gozaimasu (good morning) – The Japanese are super polite so follow suit and they’ll be more than accommodating.
• Kon’nichiwa (hello) – A well-known Japanese greeting.
• Sayounara (goodbye) – Another well-known Japanese word meaning goodbye.
• Wakarimasen (I don’t understand) – It’s ok to admit you aren’t a Japanese language expert.
• Arigatou (thank you) – The most important word in the land of politeness!
• Hai/iie (yes/no)
• Kanpai (cheers)
• Kanpai for the sake!
• 1 to 10 – ichi, ni, san, shi, go, roku, shichi, hachi, kyu, ju
• Kawaii (cute) – Everything in Japan seems to be cute! Use it for anything and everything.
• Oishii (delicious) – If you taste something nice, either food or drink, simply say ‘oishii’ to give it your seal of approval!
Japan Travel Tips
Have a great time in Japan, but don’t forget to respect the local culture. Check out my essential Japan travel tips and advice below to help you:
Food
Japan has some of the tastiest food in the world and there are options for all tastes. Be ope minded, try everything and savour all the different tastes. You might like to view my tips for vegetarians travelling to Japan.
Alcohol
You can get your alcohol out of a vending machine in Japan – anything from whisky to beer. Yup it’s true! But be aware that the drinking age is 20. The culture in Japan of obedience to authority seems to stop underage drinkers.
Bowing
The polite greeting in Japan is the bow. While you won’t be expected to know all the ins and outs of the bow (it can take decades to learn rules regarding the appropriate depth) there are a few things to remember. Bow from the waist and keep your arms straight by your side. Imitate the bows you receive – don’t overbow or ignore the greeting. Smile and nod if nothing else, you don’t want to be perceived as rude.
Hygiene
While there are plenty of western-style restrooms in the larger department stores and restaurants, you might still encounter a Japanese-style toilet (of the squat variety). It’s helpful to carry toilet tissues with you because not every restroom will have these!
If you forget to take some with you, hope you get lucky and run into a promo person handing out packs of tissues with ads on them (a current marketing trend). Also keep in mind that you should blow your nose in a restroom rather than in public, and into a tissue.
Money
It’s considered rude to count your change after you’ve received it – the Japanese culture is one that prides itself on its honesty. Plus you probably won’t be able to translate the currency quickly enough to avoid looking impolite…
Politeness
The Japanese are absolutely always polite. One of the noticeable features of the Japanese languages is that there are many different words which are used to communicate the same meaning. Some words are considered to be far more polite than others. Even if you don’t intend to speak much Japanese, this is an important concept to understand during your stay in Japan. At all times try your best to be VERY polite.
Shoes
When, where, why, and how shoes are worn in Japan can be confusing. Generally, shoes are not worn in Japanese homes, temples, ryokan, and various other public places (including some restaurants). Follow the lead of locals and don’t panic! Your shoes won’t be stolen while you’re off touring a temple.
Health
Japan’s healthcare and hospitals are of a high standard but unfortunately the cost is also high so make sure you get travel insurance! The emergency operator staff, which can be reached by dialling 119, has English-speaking staff available. Tap water is safe to drink anywhere in Japan.
Safety
Take all the usual precautions regarding the safety of yourself and your belongings. Don’t carry more cash than you need – utilise credit cards and travellers cheques. Leave belongings in hotel safes and keep copies of your passport, tickets, and other travel documents in a separate place from the originals. Be aware that Japan is in a major earthquake zone and earthquakes of varying sizes occur very frequently. Also, the typhoon season in Japan normally runs from June to October.
Travel Insurance
Don’t leave home without it! Accidents happen – and they can happen in the strangest places at the strangest times, like on the side of the Japan Alps or in an alley in Tokyo at 3 am. Travel insurance can cover you for all sorts of mishaps during your travel, and even before you leave. Did you know up to 25% of all insurance claims are due to cancellation of travel?
Events & Festivals
Expect a total sell-out for travel and accommodation during Japan’s biggest holidays, New Year (December 29 to January 3) and Golden Week (the lumping together of Green Day, Constitution Day and Children’s Day, from April 27 to May 6). Other festivals include Coming-of-Age Day (second Monday in January), when ceremonies are held for boys and girls who have reached the age of 20.
The Japanese celebrate the end of winter on February 3 or 4 by indulging in Setsubun (bean throwing) while chanting ‘in with good fortune, out with the devils’. Hanami (Blossom Viewing) usually runs from February to April; the romantic Tanabata Matsuri (Star Festival) is on July 7; and O Bon (Festival of the Dead), when lanterns are floated on rivers, lakes or the sea to signify the return of the departed to the underworld, takes place from July 13-16 and mid-August.
Kyoto’s Gion Matsuri (July 17) is perhaps the most renowned of all Japanese festivals. The climax is a parade of massive man-dragged floats decked out in incredible finery, harking back to a 9th-century request to the gods to end a plague sweeping the city. In the cute and kooky department, Niramekko Obisha (January 20; Chiba) combines a staring contest with consumption of sake – the one with the straightest face wins.
The Yah-Yah Matsuri (first Sunday to the following Saturday of February; Owase) is an argument contest: competitors scream Samurai chants and try to look fearsome. Afterwards, they take off all their clothes and jump in the ocean. White Day (March 14) is a bizarre follow up to Valentine’s Day where men are supposed to reciprocate to their valentine with a gift of chocolate or marshmallow.
Public Holidays
• January 1: New Year’s Day ( Ganjitsu)
• January 2 and 3: Bank Holidays
• January 10: Coming of Age Day ( Seijin-no-hi)
• February 11: Foundation Day ( Kenkoku Kinem-bi)
• March 21: Vernal Equinox ( Shumbun-no-hi)
• April 29: Greenery Day ( Midori-no-hi)
• May 3: Constitution Day ( Kempō Kinem-bi)
• May 4: People’s Day ( Kokumin-no-Saijitsu)
• May 5: Children’s Day ( Kodomo-no-hi)
• July 18: Marine Day ( Umi-no-hi)
• September 19: Respect for the Aged Day ( Keirō-no-hi)
• September 23: Autumnal Equinox ( Shūbun-no-hi)
• October 10: Fitness Day ( Taiiku-no-hi)
• November 3: Culture Day ( Bunka-no-hi)
• November 23: Labour Thanksgiving Day ( Kinrō Kansha-no-hi)
• December 23: Emperor’s Birthday ( Tennō Tanjōbi)
• December 31 Bank Holiday
Japan really is one of the most fascinating and amazing countries to visit when travelling in Asia. Now go explore this country for yourself.