The Ultimate Guide for first time travellers
Japan is a top bucket-list destination for many, offering an incredible mix of vibrant cities, serene temples, and world-class cuisine. With so much to explore, from Tokyo’s bustling neighbourhoods to Kyoto’s historic landmarks, Japan has something for everyone. However, to truly enjoy your trip, planning is key. Japan’s language barrier, complex public transportation, and the need for advance reservations make preparation essential.
This comprehensive Japan travel guide covers everything you need to know—from the best times to visit, must-see attractions and practical travel tips. Whether you’re planning to see cherry blossoms in Kyoto, indulge in sushi in Tokyo, or Ski in Hokkaido – this guide has you covered for an unforgettable trip.
FAQs
What Language is spoken in Japan?
Japanese, and English are spoken in most tourist areas. We found most main stations and shops had everything written in English as well as Japanese.
What currency is used in Japan?
Japanese Yen is the currency of Japan. You will need to have some cash with you but cash machines are widely available in convenience stores across cities with low withdrawal fees. Apple or Google pay are accepted in most places but you will also need your physical card for some places.
Do I need to buy a Sim Card for visiting Japan?
We had heard lots about unreliable public wifi before visiting and this was fairly accurate. We would recommend at least one person getting a sim card. Now, don’t make the same mistake as us by getting one in the airport for an EXTORTIONATE price. Make your way to a 7/11 or convenience store closer to your accommodation and purchase one there. Expect to pay around $30 for 14 days of 3G.
Is Japan Safe to visit?
Japan is probably one of the safest places you will ever visit in your life. As a woman, you will feel extremely comfortable walking down the street and this is mainly because the people here are so polite they rarely even look you in the eye let alone at you!
What is the main form of public transport in Japan?
The metro will be your main form of transport within major Japanese cities. The bus system is also very easy to navigate. Download your Suica or Pasmo card before you leave to be able to move around the cities easily at an affordable price. Between cities such as Tokyo and Kyoto, you’re probably going to be taking Shinkansen (Bullet trains) but longer trains and buses are also common. Cheap flights are also available throughout the country but be aware of which airport you will be flying into.
What to expect when visiting Japan?
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Communication can be difficult. Although English is commonly spoken in Japan, there is sometimes a ‘cultural barrier’ which makes communicating your point difficult.
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Social Norms are very Important in japan—understanding basic etiquette, like removing your shoes before entering a home or being quiet on public transportation, is essential.
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Japanese people, primarily in Tokyo, don’t eat or drink while walking and even in some convenience stores they won’t allow you to open a drink you just bought.
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Public Bins are hard to find; avoid using store or restaurant bins for personal waste.
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Expect to experience Sensory Overload when visiting major cities. Japan’s cities are vibrant and hectic. Schedule downtime to recharge.
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The crowds in Japan are unmatched. Expect to wait in line everywhere you go. Particularly anywhere that’s gone viral on TikTok. Japanese people are extremely orderly so you won’t find people shoving or skipping the queue.
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Early mornings are the secret to experiencing Japan’s most popular sights. To avoid crowds, visit popular sites as early as 5-7 AM for a quieter experience.
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Preparing for a trip to Japan is key – for a full guide on what to know and prepare before you go see here.
Early Mornings are essential in Japan to avoid the crowds!
Do you need a visa to visit Japan?
Japanese Visa Exemption
Citizens from 68 countries, including the USA, Canada, Australia, the UK, and EU countries, can enter Japan without a visa for short stays (usually up to 90 days) for tourism, business, or visiting friends and relatives. Always check the most current list, as policies can change.
Japan visa on Arrival
Japan does not offer visas on arrival. If your country is not on the visa exemption list, you will need to apply for a visa in advance.
Tourist Visa
For those requiring a visa, you can apply at your nearest Japanese embassy or consulate. You’ll need to provide documents such as a valid passport, completed visa application form, passport-sized photos, and proof of sufficient funds. Processing times vary, so apply well in advance of your travel dates.
Extension of Stay
If you need to stay longer than the allowed period, you can apply for an extension at an immigration office in Japan. This process is subject to approval, and you must provide a valid reason for the extension.
Tax-Free Shopping in Japan
Japan offers a tax-free shopping program for non-residents of Japan who are staying in the country for less than six months on certain goods. What this means is basically if you spend a certain amount (5000yen) in one transaction you can avail of a 10% discount.
How to Avail of Tax-free Shopping in Japan
Before you arrive in Japan you’re going to fill out this online form. When you go through immigration, you’ll scan a QR code at the desk and the border agents will put a sticker, with a QR code beside your visa. Before you leave the airport just at the exit, there will be an additional point to scan this QR code.
Now, you MUST bring your passport with you when shopping to avail of this point-of-sale discount. Most major stores like pharmacies and major clothes outlets will have ‘tax-free shopping’ counters where you can bring your items and get the discount at counter. Other locations, like the cooking area, will have a ‘tax-free’ office where you will bring all your receipts and avail of a cash refund.
Tips for Tax-Free Shopping
Meeting the Minimum Spend – you must spend at least 5,000 yen in one transaction to avail.
Check Store Policies as different stores may have slightly different procedures.
Keep Receipts and Documents in case you get asked at customs (I’ve not heard of this actually happening to anyone but better safe than sorry).
Be Aware of Restrictions. Some items, especially consumables, need to remain sealed until you exit Japan. This mainly related to cosmetic and edible goods, clothes we were able to wear straight away.
What is the best time to visit Japan?
The best times to visit Japan are during the spring (March to May) for cherry blossoms and autumn (September to November) for the colourful foliage. These seasons offer pleasant weather and beautiful scenery. Summer can be hot and humid, while winter is ideal for skiing in places like Hokkaido.
How many days is enough to visit Japan?
You could spend a year travelling Japan and it still wouldn’t be enough. There is so much to do, see and experience.
In our opinion, between 10-14 days is sufficient to get a good visit for the three main ‘tourist cities’ of Tokyo, Kyoto and Osaka. Any less than 10 days you’re probably only going to want to visit Tokyo and Kyoto.
For us, Japan was very stimulating and more than ⅔ weeks travelling around would have been a lot as you’re ALWAYs on the go. We decided to extend our trip by 4 days and visit one of the Okinawa islands – if this is in your budget we’d definitely recommend it.
Is Japan expensive to visit?
There’s a notion that visiting places like Japan are unattainable because of the cost. We want to bust that Myth.
Like many popular destinations, Japan can be as expensive or inexpensive as you like. Some people go and see and do EVERYTHING, all of these things add up. However, we truly believe Japan can be a budget destination. It’s not going to be as affordable as other countries in Southeast Asia, but it’s also not out of reach for travellers on a budget. Here are some tips to keep costs down:
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- Accommodation: Stay in budget-friendly options like hostels, capsule hotels, or business hotels. Airbnb and guesthouses are also great alternatives. Stay outside the major city centres. Transport is so good in Tokyo and Kyoto it won’t make a difference.
- Food: Food is going to be the best to cut costs when travelling. Eat at local izakayas, ramen shops, conveyor belt sushi restaurants, and convenience stores (known as konbini) for delicious and affordable meals. Many supermarkets offer discounts on prepared foods in the evening.
- Transportation: The Shinkansen is the fastest way to transfer in between cities but opting for a longer route will prove most economical. Within cities, take advantage of day passes for public transport and consider walking or biking.
- Attractions: Many temples, shrines, parks, and museums have free or low-cost entry fees. Look for discount passes and coupons for tourist attractions.
- Shopping: Set a budget and stick to it. Explore local markets and 100-yen stores for unique and affordable souvenirs. Avail of the tax-free shopping when purchasing bigger items.
How to get around Japan?
Navigating Japan is a breeze thanks to its efficient transportation system. The Tokyo Metro and other underground networks are fast, reliable, and easy to use with a Suica or Pasmo card, which also works on buses and some taxis. For long-distance travel, the Shinkansen bullet trains offer quick and comfortable journeys between major cities like Tokyo, Kyoto, and Osaka and can be easily booked online only a few days in advance. The Japan Rail Pass for unlimited travel on JR trains used to be a popular option for visitors but due to recent price increases, you might want to reconsider and just book the tickets separately!
For a full guide on travel around and within Japan, see our Comprehensive guide to getting around japan.
Where to go in Japan?
Tokyo
Tokyo is the perfect place to begin your trip to Japan. It’s organised, easy to get around and there is so much to do. You could spend your whole trip to Japan in Tokyo and not get bored. But, Tokyo is huge and finding the right thing to do for you can be overwhelming.
How long to spend in Tokyo
We split our trip with 4 nights in Tokyo at the start and 2 at the end, which we highly recommend if you’re flying in and out of the city. Tokyo offers so much to explore that at least 4 nights are essential to truly immerse yourself. In fact, you could plan an entire trip around Tokyo alone and leave completely satisfied
Where to stay in Tokyo
The beauty of Tokyo is that wherever you stay, you’ll find great food, a nearby subway station, and several convenience stores within a short walk. The downside, however, is that there’s no single “central” area, meaning you’ll often need to take at least two metro lines to reach various parts of the city, adding a bit to your commute time.
Other travel blogs will recommend you to stay in Shinjuku or Shibuya on your first visit. Yes, these areas are amazing to visit and spend a day but they are super busy and can be quite overwhelming (not to mention a lot more expensive). These areas are also really easily accessible by metro so it’s no harm to stay in a slightly different area.
If you have the luxury of time, we suggest you move a bit further out from these neighbourhoods. Asakusa offers easy access to historic sites like the Senso-ji Temple, providing a glimpse of Tokyo’s past amidst its modern surroundings. Ginza is ideal for those seeking luxury, with its upscale shopping, dining, and proximity to the Imperial Palace.
Oshiage is a fascinating neighbourhood in Tokyo where we stayed, often overshadowed by its more famous neighbours but offering plenty for visitors to explore. Check out the One@Tokyo hotel below:
We stayed at One@Tokyo for four nights, and it was perfect. Although the room was small, it had everything we needed, lots of great amenities, and was conveniently located near two metro stations and a 7/11. Best of all, it offered a stunning rooftop area where you could relax, enjoy some food, and take in the city views. The rates at this hotel are extremely reasonable for a nice hotel in Tokyo; we ended up paying around €430 for the two of us for four nights (which is relatively good for Tokyo standards).
** Accommodation tax in Tokyo: Tokyo has implemented an accommodation tax on lodging. It’s not much, between 100-200 yen which was payable upon check in. Check out how much it will cost you depending on your stay below:
| Accommodation Rate (per person, before tax) | Amount of Tax |
|---|---|
| Under 10,000 yen | No tax |
| 10,000 – 15,000 yen | 100 yen |
| Over 15,000 yen | 200 yen |
Staying at a traditional (or modern) Onsen Ryoken
We spent one night in Onsen Ryoken Yuen Shinjuku. The rooms were a little oddly layed out, but for a one night experience it’s perfect. Rates were a little more expensive at €160 a night for two but this included access to the onsite Onsen!
Tattoos in the Onsen: can you go into the Onsen in Japan with tattoos?
In Japan, tattoos are often linked to the Yakuza, leading to a cultural stigma. Many traditional establishments, especially onsens (hot springs), enforce strict rules on tattoos in Japan.
General Rules for Tattoos in Onsens:
- No Visible Tattoos: Many onsens ban visible tattoos due to their association with criminality in Japan.
- Covering Tattoos: Some allow entry if tattoos are covered, but this mainly works for small tattoos. You can buy the tattoo covers in most pharmacies or they will have them available at reception.
- Private Onsens: Private baths may be more relaxed about tattoos in Japan.
- Tattoo-Friendly Onsens: A few onsens now accept tattoos in Japan due to increased foreign tourism, but it’s still rare. Check out this tattoo friendly public bath
Always check the specific onsen’s policy to avoid inconvenience when visiting with tattoos in Japan.
What to do in Tokyo
Like we’ve mentioned, there is so much to see and do in Tokyo. For a more comprehensive list see our XXXXXXX. Here are our top five activities to do in Tokyo:
Tsukiji Market: While it may not have the best food in Japan, it’s an exciting, immersive experience to try many iconic Japanese dishes in one spot, especially if you’re short on time.
Shopping: Japan offers a mix of traditional crafts, luxury brands, and quirky pop-culture items, making it a shopper’s paradise from bustling malls to street markets.
TeamLab Planets: This immersive digital art museum in Tokyo is a must-see for its breathtaking, interactive exhibits that blend light, sound, and motion to create unforgettable experiences.
Gaming and Entertainment: Japan is a hub for gaming culture, offering everything from arcades and VR centers to themed cafés. Set aside some time to explore and bring coins
Temple Hopping: Japan’s temples offer a serene glimpse into its rich cultural and spiritual heritage, from iconic sites like Kyoto’s Kinkaku-ji to hidden gems nestled in quiet towns, each with its own history and beauty.
Some things NOT to do in Tokyo.
Animal cafes: Here’s the truth, pretty much anything you do that involves animals is not going to be 100% ethical. If you’re ever feeling slightly iffy about it, don’t go. All over the city you will see Dog cafes, Cat Cafes, Owl cafes, literally most small household pet – there will be a cafe for it.
Or why not try out an Latte Art cafe instead !
Shibuya Sky: This one is pretty controversial but hear us out. We booked Shibuya SKY a month in advance, the minute sunset tickets became available. We planned that whole day around it and when the day came, it was SUPER windy and overcast (at the end of May) this meant the rooftop was closed, for safety which is totally understandable. The views were so subpar and it was SO crowded up there. Instead we recommend visiting Umeda Sky in Osaka, a fraction of the price and we just got tickets at the door!
Kyoto
Kyoto was our absolute favourite place in Japan. In our opinion, it’s the perfect blend of Traditional Japanese culture and history with the modern and advanced living Japan is so known for.
How long should you spend in Kyoto?
3-4 nights is an ideal amount of time to spend in Kyoto (you could spend even longer if you’re planning any day trips).
Where to stay in Kyoto?
The beauty of Kyoto lies in its seamless blend of ancient tradition and modern convenience. No matter where you stay, you’ll be surrounded by history, serene temples, and charming streets, with excellent public transport links to explore the city.
Unlike Tokyo, Kyoto has a more compact and centralised layout, making it easier to navigate. However, like Tokyo, the most popular areas can be crowded and expensive. Staying in neighbourhoods like Gion or Higashiyama offers easy access to iconic temples, traditional teahouses, and the famous geisha district. For a quieter experience, consider Arashiyama, known for its bamboo groves and riverside views, or Nishijin, where you can immerse yourself in the city’s textile history and enjoy a more local, less touristy atmosphere. Kyoto’s efficient bus and subway system ensures you’re never too far from the city’s treasures, no matter where you choose to stay.
We stayed just outside of the central area in The Blossom Kyoto, in probably one of the nicest hotels we’ve ever stayed in! The moderate twin room was huge (especially for Japanese standards), with modern amenities and thoughtful design that made our stay incredibly comfortable. The hotel also featured an onsite Onsen and gym, providing a perfect way to relax after a day of exploring. One of our favourite perks was the downstairs ‘snack room,’ where we could enjoy freshly brewed coffee, daily snacks, and delicious ice creams at any time. This hotel offered the perfect blend of luxury and convenience, making it an ideal base for our Kyoto adventure.
** The accommodation tax in Kyoto is the most expensive in Japan, but still only a small fee depending on the value of your stay paid at check in. Check it out below:
| Accommodation Rate (per person, before tax) | Amount of Tax |
|---|---|
| Under 20,000 yen | 200 yen |
| 20,000 – 50,000 yen | 500 yen |
| 50,000 yen | 1,000 yen |
What to do in Kyoto
Visit Fushimi Inari Shrine – Walk through the iconic red torii gates leading up to Mount Inari for stunning views. Prepare to hike and get there Early (7am early)
Explore the Streets of Ninenzaka – Wander the charming, historic streets lined with traditional wooden shops and teahouses.
Make Rings at Glanta – Create a personalized silver ring at this unique jewelry-making experience in the heart of Kyoto.
Admire Kinkaku-ji (Golden Pavilion) – Marvel at the famous gold-covered Zen temple reflected in its serene pond.
Tour Nijo Castle – Explore this UNESCO World Heritage site, known for its beautiful gardens and intricate interiors, once home to Japan’s shoguns.
What not to do in Kyoto
A day trip to Nara Dear Park
Before visiting Japan, we questioned if Nara Deer Park lived up to the hype. After spending a day there, we found it’s a mixed experience. The park is beautiful, with lush greenery, ancient temples like Todai-ji, and the iconic free-roaming deer. While feeding the deer is fun, the experience may not be as serene as it appears online.
The park can get incredibly crowded, especially during peak tourist seasons. The deer, though charming, can also be quite aggressive when they know you have food, so be prepared for some pushy behaviour (it was actually a bit scary sometimes). Additionally, the park is a bit of a trek from Kyoto or Osaka, however we did get up early and do the trip in one afternoon. If you’re a fan of animals and nature, Nara can be a memorable experience, but if you’re on a tight schedule, it might not be a must-see compared to other sights in Japan.
Osaka
Osaka, Japan’s third-largest city, has a rich history as a major trading hub and culinary capital. Known for its vibrant street food and nightlife, it offers a more casual, lively atmosphere compared to Tokyo and Kyoto. However, after visiting those cities, Osaka felt a bit less refined—busy but less organized, with a slightly “tacky” vibe in some areas. Despite that, it’s still a must-see due to its proximity to Kyoto and the famous Universal Studios Japan, which was a key reason for our visit.
How long should you spend in Osaka ?
Where to stay in Osaka?
As is the case with every Japanese city we visited, public transport in Osaka is as efficient as you can imagine. With that in mind, the most important thing to keep in mind when deciding where to stay in Osaka is how close is it to the train station. With trains that can get you to Dontonobori bridge, Umeda Sky and even Universal Studios with little to no hassle, having a short walk to your nearest station is the most important thing to bare in mind.
That being said, after the fast pace of Tokyo, picking a neighbourhood a little outside the center of Osaka can offer a nice break.
We decided to stay in an E-Stay for our time in Osaka near Tsūtenaku. This remote check in apartment block offered us our own space, which was a welcomed break after some of the traditional and compact locations we had been staying in so far. While not the most luxurious, having this freedom was a delightful change of pace and could offer a fantastic option for families. But as I said before, it was the location that made this accommodation so great.
****Osaka Accomodation Tax: Osaka does have a small amount of accomodation tax that is paid when checking in. The amount you pay depends on the value of your room which you can find below:
| Accommodation Rate (per person, before tax) | Amount of Tax |
|---|
| Under 7,000 yen | No tax |
| 7,000 – 15,000 yen | 100 yen |
| 15,000 – 20,000 yen | 200 yen |
| Over 20,000 yen | 300 yen |
What to do in Osaka
Explore Osaka Castle – Visit this iconic historic landmark surrounded by beautiful gardens and learn about Japan’s feudal past.
Stroll Through Dotonbori – Experience the vibrant heart of Osaka, known for its neon lights, street food stalls, and lively atmosphere.
Visit Universal Studios Japan – Spend a fun-filled day at this famous theme park, home to attractions like the Wizarding World of Harry Potter and Super Nintendo World.
Discover the Umeda Sky Building – Enjoy panoramic views of the city from the Floating Garden Observatory in this futuristic skyscraper.
Eat Your Way Through Kuromon Ichiba Market – Savor Osaka’s street food scene by sampling fresh seafood, takoyaki, and other local specialties.
Where else to add to your Japan Itinirary?
There are endless other places to visit in Japan.
Hiroshima – A popular stop for tourists. Explore the Peace Memorial Park and Museum, and take a trip to the serene island of Miyajima with its iconic floating torii gate.
Okinawan Islands – Unwind on tropical beaches, snorkel in clear waters, and experience the unique Ryukyu culture of these beautiful island.
Takayama – Discover a traditional town in the Japanese Alps with well-preserved Edo-period streets and vibrant local markets.
Nikko – Visit the ornate Toshogu Shrine and enjoy the surrounding waterfalls and forests in this UNESCO World Heritage site.
Kanazawa – Known for its beautifully preserved samurai and geisha districts, as well as the stunning Kenrokuen Garden, one of Japan’s top landscape gardens.
Like with anything, when researching a trip make sure it aligns with what you want from your trip and that you’ve done proper prepartion!
We decided to give ourselves a bit of a ‘holiday from our holiday’ and visit the Okinawan Island of Ishigaki. We had a great time but the island is definitely geared more for Japanese tourists. If you are thinking of adding this location to your itinerary, consider renting a car (you will need an international license).
Our Honest Conclusions
If there’s one piece of advice we could give you, is that you can’t do everything. Try to pick a few activities you would like to do in each city and build your itinerary around them. In big cities, you will need to factor in waiting times and travel times between areas and consider that Japan as a country is quite overstimulating.
Everyone should visit Japan in their lifetime. It is truly an amazing country.
