Japan Travel Guide
Planning a trip to Japan? Our guide includes everything from the best places to visit, hiking and biking routes, local culture and customs, safety and health tips, and much more. Start your adventure in Japan today!
- Introduction to Japan
- List of Places to Visit in Japan
- Hiking/Biking Routes of Japan
- Best Things to Do in Japan: Activities and Tours
- Week-Long Itinerary for Japan
- Food and Drink Scene of Japan
- Where to Stay in Japan: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses
- What to Buy in Japan: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home
- Local Culture and Customs of Japan
- Best Time to Visit Japan
- Do’s and Don’ts of Japan
- Safety and Health
- Getting to Japan: Transportation Options and Logistics
- How to Get Around in Japan
- Where to Go Next from Japan: Nearby Destinations and Excursions
- Conclusion
Introduction to Japan
Located in East Asia, Japan is a vibrant and unique country known for its blend of ancient tradition and modern technology. With its bustling cities, stunning natural landscapes, incredible food scene, and rich cultural heritage, Japan is a must-visit destination for anyone traveling to Asia.
List of Places to Visit in Japan
Japan is a country with a diverse range of attractions, from historical sites and museums to natural parks and outdoor adventures. Here is a list of must-see destinations when traveling to Japan:
Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places
- The Tokyo National Museum
- The Hiroshima Peace Memorial Museum
- The Kyoto National Museum
- The Osaka Castle
- The Nagoya Castle
- The Himeji Castle
Natural Attractions of Japan: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views
- Mount Fuji
- Hakone National Park
- Kamikochi
- Shirakawago
- Izu Peninsula
- Yakushima Island
Hiking/Biking Routes of Japan
Japan is a great destination for hiking and biking enthusiasts. Here are some of the best hiking and biking routes:
- The Tokaido Trail
- The Nakasendo Trail
- The Kumano Kodo Trail
- The Shimanami Kaido Bike Route
- The Hokkaido Nature Trail
Best Things to Do in Japan: Activities and Tours
There is no shortage of things to do and see in Japan. Here are some of the best activities and tours to enjoy:
- Attend a traditional tea ceremony in Kyoto
- Visit the Studio Ghibli Museum
- Take a ride on the bullet train
- See the cherry blossoms in full bloom
- Experience a traditional hot spring bath
Week-Long Itinerary for Japan
For those planning a week-long trip to Japan, here is a sample itinerary:
Day | Destination |
---|---|
1 | Tokyo |
2 | Mount Fuji |
3 | Kyoto |
4 | Osaka |
5 | Hiroshima |
6 | Nagoya |
7 | Tokyo |
Food and Drink Scene of Japan
Japan is renowned for its cuisine, with an incredible variety of dishes and flavors to try. Here are some must-try dishes and beverages:
Must-Try Dishes
- Sushi and sashimi
- Ramen
- Tempura
- Yakitori
- Okonomiyaki
- Takoyaki
Local Beverages
- Sake
- Shochu
- Japanese whisky
- Green tea
- Coffee
Where to Stay in Japan: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses
Japan has a variety of accommodation options to suit all budgets and preferences. Here are some popular choices:
- Traditional ryokans (Japanese inns)
- Capsule hotels
- Business hotels
- Hostels and guesthouses
- Luxury hotels
What to Buy in Japan: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home
Japan is famous for its high-quality products and exquisite craftsmanship. Here are some items to consider purchasing:
- Japanese tea and teaware
- Traditional pottery and ceramics
- Kimonos and yukatas
- Japanese knives and cutlery
- Electronics and gadgets
- Japanese snacks and candy
Local Culture and Customs of Japan
Japan has a unique culture and customs that visitors should be aware of. Here are some cultural norms and practices:
- Bowing as a form of greeting and showing respect
- Taking off shoes before entering a home or temple
- Eating with chopsticks
- Using public transportation quietly
- Avoiding loud or disruptive behavior in public
Best Time to Visit Japan
The best time to visit Japan depends on your preferences and travel activities. Here is a breakdown of the seasons:
- Spring (March to May): Cherry blossom season
- Summer (June to August): Hot and humid, but great for outdoor activities
- Fall (September to November): Mild weather and stunning autumn foliage
- Winter (December to February): Cold weather, but great for winter sports and hot springs
Do’s and Don’ts of Japan
When traveling to Japan, it’s important to be aware of cultural norms and practices. Here are some do’s and don’ts:
Do:
- Bow when greeting someone
- Take off your shoes before entering a home or temple
- Respect personal space on public transportation
- Try traditional Japanese foods and drinks
- Use cash instead of credit cards
Don’t:
- Tip at restaurants or hotels
- Talk on your phone on public transportation
- Eat or drink while walking in public
- Use chopsticks incorrectly
- Wear shoes in certain buildings or temples
Safety and Health
Japan is a safe destination for travelers, with low crime rates and excellent healthcare infrastructure. However, visitors should be aware of safety and health precautions when traveling to Japan.
Safety in Japan
- Keep valuables secure in crowded areas
- Follow traffic rules when biking or walking
- Respect local customs and avoid confrontations
- Be mindful of natural disasters such as earthquakes and typhoons
Health in Japan
- Ensure you have adequate travel insurance
- Be aware of food allergies and sensitivities
- Seek medical attention promptly if needed
Getting to Japan: Transportation Options and Logistics
Japan has a well-developed transportation system, with multiple options for getting to and around the country. Here are some transportation options:
Airports Near Japan
- Tokyo Narita International Airport
- Tokyo Haneda International Airport
- Osaka Kansai International Airport
- Fukuoka International Airport
Bus Stations Near Japan
- Shinjuku Bus Terminal (Tokyo)
- Kyoto Ekimae Bus Station (Kyoto)
- Osaka Station City Bus Terminal (Osaka)
- Nagoya Bus Center (Nagoya)
Other Options
- Shinkansen bullet trains
- Local trains and subway lines
- Buses and taxis
How to Get Around in Japan
Japan has a variety of transportation options for getting around:
- Shinkansen bullet trains
- Local trains and subway lines
- Buses and taxis
- Rental cars and bikes
Where to Go Next from Japan: Nearby Destinations and Excursions
For those looking to explore other destinations near Japan, here are some nearby excursions to consider:
- Seoul, South Korea
- Taipei, Taiwan
- Beijing, China
- Hong Kong, China
- Bangkok, Thailand
Conclusion
Japan is a fantastic destination with so much to offer visitors, from its captivating culture and incredible food scene to its stunning natural landscapes and exciting outdoor adventures. With this comprehensive guide, you’ll be ready to start planning your trip to Japan today.
Japan Image Gallery
![The Great Buddha of Kamakura](https://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/thumb/5/53/Kamakura_Daibutsu_JIM9943-vi.jpg/100px-Kamakura_Daibutsu_JIM9943-vi.jpg)
![Nuclear devastation in Hiroshima (1945)](https://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/thumb/d/d6/AtomicEffects-p42a.jpg/100px-AtomicEffects-p42a.jpg)
![Japan is not always crowded — like this beach in Taketomi, Okinawa](https://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/thumb/e/e5/Taketomi_Island_20071002_07.jpg/100px-Taketomi_Island_20071002_07.jpg)
![The Awa Odori, a famous Obon Festival in Tokushima](https://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/thumb/9/94/Awa-odori_2008_Tokushima.jpg/100px-Awa-odori_2008_Tokushima.jpg)
![Buddhist temples, Mount Koya](https://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/thumb/8/81/Koya-rooftops-jpatokal.jpg/100px-Koya-rooftops-jpatokal.jpg)
![Shinto ''torii'' gate, Dewa Sanzan](https://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/thumb/4/41/DewaSanZan_Japan_YudonosanGate.jpg/100px-DewaSanZan_Japan_YudonosanGate.jpg)
![Autumn colors in Kofu, Yamanashi (prefecture)](https://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/thumb/c/c2/JP-19_Syousenkyo.jpg/100px-JP-19_Syousenkyo.jpg)
![Tama Toshi Monorail](https://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/thumb/9/94/TamaToshiMonorail6061.jpg/100px-TamaToshiMonorail6061.jpg)
![Japanese town block indicator plate displaying the location's ward, neighborhood, and district and block number](https://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/thumb/f/fc/Nakamura-ward_meieki_Sag.jpg/100px-Nakamura-ward_meieki_Sag.jpg)
![The ''N700'' Shinkansen train](https://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/thumb/e/e8/JR_west_N700series_N1_maibara.jpg/100px-JR_west_N700series_N1_maibara.jpg)
![A typical JR intercity bus bound for Gifu at a bus stop in Nagoya.](https://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/thumb/6/65/D71-1903_front_left.jpg/100px-D71-1903_front_left.jpg)
![A Taxi in Tokyo](https://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/thumb/2/2a/A_Teito_Group_Taxi_in_Tokyo.jpg/100px-A_Teito_Group_Taxi_in_Tokyo.jpg)
![A ramp at Meiji Shrine allows seniors and people with disabilities easy access to the shrine.](https://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/thumb/0/02/Ramp_at_Meiji_Jingu_in_Tokyo.jpg/100px-Ramp_at_Meiji_Jingu_in_Tokyo.jpg)
![Matsue Castle, Matsue](https://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/thumb/d/db/Matsue_castle01bs4592.jpg/100px-Matsue_castle01bs4592.jpg)
![Horyuji Temple, Horyuji](https://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/thumb/1/17/Horyu-ji11s3200.jpg/100px-Horyu-ji11s3200.jpg)
![Saint Francis Xavier Memorial Church in Hirado](https://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/thumb/5/52/Hirado_Catholic_Church_1.jpg/100px-Hirado_Catholic_Church_1.jpg)
![Ground Zero, Nagasaki](https://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/thumb/1/18/NagasakiGroundZero.jpg/100px-NagasakiGroundZero.jpg)
![Amateur baseball match](https://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/thumb/4/42/Amateur_baseball_match_-_Tokyo_Domo_-_Japan_%2815838269026%29.jpg/100px-Amateur_baseball_match_-_Tokyo_Domo_-_Japan_%2815838269026%29.jpg)
![Playing Go in Osaka](https://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/thumb/d/df/Go_and_shogi_center_by_pommes_king_in_Osaka.jpg/100px-Go_and_shogi_center_by_pommes_king_in_Osaka.jpg)
![Taiko performance](https://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/thumb/2/24/Agidaiko01.jpg/100px-Agidaiko01.jpg)
![Preparing tea](https://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/thumb/0/07/Toshihana_tea_ceremony.jpg/100px-Toshihana_tea_ceremony.jpg)
![Kanto Festival in Akita](https://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/thumb/4/47/Kan_n01.jpg/100px-Kan_n01.jpg)
![Japanese ¥500 coins](https://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/thumb/a/a4/500yen-R3.jpg/100px-500yen-R3.jpg)
![The dilemma of choice: a typical row of drink vending machines](https://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/thumb/0/08/Beverage_vending_machines_in_Akita_City.jpg/100px-Beverage_vending_machines_in_Akita_City.jpg)
![Night in Shinjuku](https://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/thumb/5/58/03-05-JPN153.jpg/100px-03-05-JPN153.jpg)
![Fancy Japanese ''kaiseki'' (会席) multi-course dinner](https://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/thumb/3/33/Japanese_dinner%2C_kaiseki.jpg/100px-Japanese_dinner%2C_kaiseki.jpg)
![''Bukkake udon'' with ''tempura'', Kurashiki](https://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/thumb/5/5e/Bukkake_udon_by_cloneofsnake_in_Kurashiki%2C_Okayama.jpg/100px-Bukkake_udon_by_cloneofsnake_in_Kurashiki%2C_Okayama.jpg)
![Okonomiyaki (お好み焼き) in Hiroshima](https://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/thumb/3/32/Hiroshima_yaki_by_woinary_at_the_food_court_in_Hiroshima_Airport.jpg/100px-Hiroshima_yaki_by_woinary_at_the_food_court_in_Hiroshima_Airport.jpg)
![A typical ''o-bentō''. Clockwise from top: ''kara-age'' fried chicken with a ''korokke'' potato croquet and cocktail wieners, salad, rice with an ''umeboshi'' plum, ''harusame'' noodles and ''tsukemono'' pickles.](https://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/thumb/b/bd/Shop-made_bento_box.jpeg/100px-Shop-made_bento_box.jpeg)
![Beverage vending machines galore](https://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/thumb/5/5f/Getr%C3%A4nkeautomaten_in_Japan.jpg/100px-Getr%C3%A4nkeautomaten_in_Japan.jpg)
![Beer vending machines at an onsen in Hokkaidoi](https://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/thumb/3/32/Beer_vending_machines_at_an_onsen_in_Japan.jpg/100px-Beer_vending_machines_at_an_onsen_in_Japan.jpg)
![Flat ''sakazuki'' tray, a small ''choko'' cup and a wooden ''masu'' box](https://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/thumb/c/c8/Sake_set.jpg/100px-Sake_set.jpg)
![Many love hotels, such as this property in Himeji, have unique exterior decorations.](https://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/thumb/0/07/Hotel_Little_chapel_Christmas_Himeji.jpg/100px-Hotel_Little_chapel_Christmas_Himeji.jpg)
![One of many friendly ''shukubō'' in Mount Koya](https://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/thumb/b/b0/Fukuchin_temple_entrance_Koyasan.jpg/100px-Fukuchin_temple_entrance_Koyasan.jpg)
![A riders' house in Ishikari (Ishikari)](https://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/thumb/3/30/Rider_House_KAZE_Ishikari_Ishikari_beach.jpg/100px-Rider_House_KAZE_Ishikari_Ishikari_beach.jpg)
![A typical 'manga kissa' in Tokyo's Tokyo/Chiyoda](https://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/thumb/c/cd/Manga_Kissa_5_%286021168063%29.jpg/100px-Manga_Kissa_5_%286021168063%29.jpg)
![University of Tokyo, Tokyo/Bunkyo](https://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/thumb/c/c5/JP-13_Bunkyo-ward_Tokyo-Univ_Yasuda_auditorium.jpg/100px-JP-13_Bunkyo-ward_Tokyo-Univ_Yasuda_auditorium.jpg)
![Police boxes (交番 kōban)](https://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/thumb/5/5f/Kakamigahara_Police_Station_Unuma_Koban.jpg/100px-Kakamigahara_Police_Station_Unuma_Koban.jpg)
![Mount Aso, one of the world's largest volcanic calderas](https://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/thumb/b/b6/Aso_crater.jpg/100px-Aso_crater.jpg)
![A typical washlet control panel. The five large controls are](https://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/thumb/9/9f/WirelessToiletControlPanel.jpg/100px-WirelessToiletControlPanel.jpg)
![Please take off your shoes](https://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/thumb/8/8e/Tidy_Japan_%E5%9C%9F%E8%B6%B3%E5%8E%B3%E7%A6%81_%E3%81%8F%E3%81%A4%E3%81%B9%E3%82%89%E5%85%A5%E3%82%8C_2011_%286314266743%29.jpg/100px-Tidy_Japan_%E5%9C%9F%E8%B6%B3%E5%8E%B3%E7%A6%81_%E3%81%8F%E3%81%A4%E3%81%B9%E3%82%89%E5%85%A5%E3%82%8C_2011_%286314266743%29.jpg)