Travel Guide to Japan

Japan stands as one of the world's most captivating travel destinations, seamlessly blending ancient traditions with cutting-edge modernity. From the neon-lit streets of Tokyo to the serene temples of Kyoto, from world-class skiing in Hokkaido to tropical beaches in Okinawa, Japan offers an almost unmatched diversity of experiences in a relatively compact country.

Most trips to Japan naturally revolve around four pillars: city life, cultural and historical experiences, nature and onsen (hot springs), and seasonal or adventure activities. The fun is in how you combine these pieces into your own itinerary.

Japan's major cities feel like worlds of their own. Even a simple transit ride through a Tokyo station can feel like stepping into a carefully choreographed machine: everything is clean, efficient, and clearly signposted.

• Tokyo – a massive metropolis of over 14 million people in the city proper and more than 37 million in the wider area. You'll find skyscrapers, quiet shrines, designer boutiques, tiny bars, anime shops, and some of the best food on the planet.
• Osaka – often called "Japan's kitchen", famous for street food, nightlife, and a more outgoing, humorous local culture.
• Yokohama – a major port city just south of Tokyo with a relaxed waterfront, large Chinatown, and modern harbor district.
• Fukuoka and Sapporo – medium-large cities with great food scenes and easy access to beaches (Fukuoka) or snow (Sapporo).

• First-timer tip:** A classic intro itinerary is 3–4 days in Tokyo, 2–3 days in Kyoto, 1–2 days in Osaka and 2–3 days in either a ski area, onsen town, or Okinawa.

Japan's historical side is concentrated in cities like Kyoto, Nara, Kanazawa, and parts of Tokyo. Here, you'll walk past wooden townhouses, stone lanterns, and temple gates that have survived for centuries.

• Kyoto – home to over 2,000 temples and shrines, including Fushimi Inari's tunnels of vermillion torii gates, the Golden Pavilion (Kinkaku-ji), and Kiyomizu-dera's wooden balcony overlooking the city.
• Nara – Japan's first permanent capital, famous for Tōdai-ji Temple and its giant bronze Buddha, plus Nara Park's free-roaming deer.
• Kanazawa – known for samurai and geisha districts, Kenrokuen Garden, and preserved Edo-period streets.
• Hiroshima – a modern city rebuilt after the atomic bombing, offering powerful memorials and easy access to Miyajima Island.

Just a short distance from the big cities, Japan becomes surprisingly rural and mountainous. Rice fields, small wooden stations, and quiet villages are never far away.

• Onsen towns like Hakone, Beppu, Noboribetsu, and Kusatsu are built around hot springs, with ryokan (traditional inns) and bathhouses at the center of local life.
• Rural homestays and farm inns offer a slower pace, seasonal local food, and a look at everyday life away from the cities.
• Coastal areas and islands, especially in the Seto Inland Sea and Okinawa, offer fishing villages, beaches, and island hopping.

Many travelers find that one or two nights in an onsen town or countryside inn end up being some of the most relaxing and memorable parts of their trip.

Japan's cultural experiences go far beyond sightseeing. Many traditions are still part of everyday life, meaning you're not just looking at history – you're stepping into living culture.

• Kyoto features iconic sites like Fushimi Inari Shrine, Kinkaku-ji (Golden Pavilion), Ginkaku-ji (Silver Pavilion) and Kiyomizu-dera.
• Nara has Tōdai-ji and Kasuga Taisha, plus parklands where deer wander freely.
• Miyajima Island near Hiroshima is famous for Itsukushima Shrine and its "floating" torii gate.

These areas often include beautifully preserved streets, traditional shops, and teahouses, making them ideal for slow walks and photography.

Tea Ceremonies, Geisha & Performing Arts

A traditional tea ceremony (chado) reveals Japanese aesthetics and hospitality through highly structured, deliberate movements. In Kyoto's Gion district and parts of Kanazawa and Tokyo, you may glimpse geisha and maiko on their way to evening appointments.

Japan also has a rich performing arts scene: - Kabuki – dramatic theatre with elaborate costumes and stylized acting. - Noh – minimalist, symbolic theatre using masks and slow, precise movement. - Bunraku – sophisticated puppet theatre accompanied by narration and shamisen music.

Museums like the Tokyo National Museum and the Hiroshima Peace Memorial Museum add deeper context to what you see on the streets and in historic districts.

Everyday Culture: Food, Design & Onsen

• Food is a major highlight. Japan is home to thousands of ramen shops, izakaya (pubs), sushi counters, department store food halls, and convenience stores with surprisingly good ready-to-eat options.
• Design and architecture show up everywhere – from minimalist cafés and museums to packaging, signage, and station layouts.
• Onsen bathing is central to leisure culture and is often combined with a stay in a ryokan, where you wear a yukata robe, soak in hot spring baths, and enjoy a multi-course dinner.

Note that some onsen still restrict visible tattoos, although attitudes are slowly changing. Many places now list tattoo policies on their websites.

Despite its image of megacities and neon, Japan is remarkably rich in natural beauty. Mountains cover much of the country, volcanoes dot the landscape, and coastlines range from rugged cliffs to white-sand beaches.

• Mount Fuji** (3,776 m) is Japan's highest and most iconic peak. It can be climbed in the official season (usually early July to early September), and while technically straightforward, it's a long, steep ascent that requires fitness, layers, and preparation.

The Japanese Alps on Honshu offer dramatic mountain scenery and trails ranging from leisurely valley walks in places like Kamikochi to challenging multi-day ridge routes. In winter, these same mountains become ski and snowboard destinations.

Snow Country & Ski Resorts

Japan is legendary for light, dry powder snow ("Japow"). Key areas include: - Niseko, Rusutsu, Furano – in Hokkaido, renowned for deep snow and international visitors. - Hakuba, Nozawa Onsen, Myoko Kogen – in the Japanese Alps, with a mix of resorts and traditional hot-spring towns.

Peak season is typically January to February. December and March can be slightly less crowded with somewhat more variable conditions.

Geothermal activity feeds Japan's thousands of onsen: - Beppu in Kyushu – one of the world's largest hot-spring areas, with both public baths and "hells" (colorful, boiling pools for viewing). - Hakone – near Tokyo, famous for its hot springs, mountain views, and, on clear days, glimpses of Mount Fuji. - Kusatsu, Noboribetsu, Yufuin – other well-known hot-spring towns with unique local character.

Coasts, Islands & Reefs

• Okinawa and its surrounding islands** offer a subtropical climate, coral reefs, and clear water ideal for snorkeling, diving, and beach breaks. Other coastal highlights include the Noto Peninsula, parts of Shikoku and Kyushu, and the island-studded Seto Inland Sea.

Japan's four distinct seasons are a huge part of its appeal. When you visit dramatically shapes what you see – and what you pay.

Spring: Cherry Blossom Season

Spring (March–May) is dominated by cherry blossoms (sakura). The bloom front moves from south to north, usually appearing in Kyushu in late March, central Honshu in late March to early April, and Hokkaido in late April to early May.

Parks and riversides fill with *hanami* (flower-viewing) picnics. It's beautiful but very popular, so flights and hotels can be at their highest prices.

Summer: Festivals, Fireworks & Beaches

Summer brings matsuri (festivals), fireworks (hanabi), and beach weather. Big cities and regional towns host processions, dances, and food stalls.

The rainy season (tsuyu) typically hits in June and early July, followed by hot, humid weather – but it's a great time for high-altitude hiking and trips to Japan's coasts and islands.

Autumn: Fall Foliage

Autumn (September–November) brings cooler temperatures and vivid koyo (fall foliage). Kyoto's temple gardens, Nikko, and the Japanese Alps are particularly dazzling in late October and November.

Like cherry blossom season, peak foliage weeks see higher demand and higher prices for accommodation.

Winter: Snow & Illuminations

Winter (December–February) is prime time for skiing and snowboarding, plus winter illuminations – elaborate light displays that decorate city centers, parks, and landmarks. Onsen towns under snow are especially atmospheric.

Japan is excellent for active travelers, with options in every season.

• Skiing & snowboarding – famous powder resorts in Hokkaido and the Japanese Alps, with runs for all levels.
• Hiking & trekking – from short hikes around Kamakura, Hakone and Nikko to multi-day pilgrim trails like the Kumano Kodo and historic routes like the Nakasendo.
• Cycling – the Shimanami Kaido connects Honshu and Shikoku via a series of bridges and islands, offering a well-marked, scenic route.
• Surfing – spots in Chiba, Shizuoka, and parts of Shikoku and Kyushu attract local and visiting surfers.
• Diving & snorkeling – Okinawa, Ishigaki, Miyako, and the Kerama Islands are popular for coral reefs and warm water.

Tokyo

Tokyo is Japan's capital and largest city, with around 14 million residents in the 23 wards and over 37 million in the metropolitan area. It's the country's political, economic, and cultural center.

• Key districts include:
• Shibuya** – famous scramble crossing, youth fashion, shopping and nightlife.
• Shinjuku** – business district and transport hub with the world's busiest station and a cluster of skyscrapers.
• Ginza** – luxury shopping, high-end dining, and traditional theatres.
• Akihabara** – electronics, anime, manga and gaming culture.
• Harajuku & Omotesandō** – youth fashion, street style and chic boutiques.
• Asakusa** – more traditional feel centered around Senso-ji Temple.

Tokyo also has one of the world's best food scenes, with everything from Michelin-starred counters to tiny ramen and yakitori spots.

Kyoto

Kyoto was Japan's imperial capital for over 1,000 years and remains the country's cultural heart, with 17 UNESCO World Heritage sites.

• Fushimi Inari Shrine and its hillside of red torii gates.
• Kiyomizu-dera Temple with views over the city.
• Arashiyama's bamboo groves and riverside scenery.
• Gion and other geisha districts with traditional wooden houses.
• Kinkaku-ji (Golden Pavilion) and Ginkaku-ji (Silver Pavilion).

Kyoto is also known for kaiseki fine dining, matcha sweets, tea houses, and traditional crafts.

Osaka

Osaka is Japan's third-largest city and is famous for outgoing locals and a strong food culture.

• Osaka Castle and its surrounding park.
• Dotonbori – neon signs, giant restaurant billboards, and street food.
• Shinsekai – retro entertainment area.
• Kuromon Ichiba Market – seafood and local specialties.
• Universal Studios Japan – a major theme park.

Osaka's signature dishes include takoyaki (octopus balls), okonomiyaki (savory pancakes), and kushikatsu (deep-fried skewers).

Yokohama

Yokohama is Japan's second-largest city and a major port just south of Tokyo.

• Minato Mirai – modern waterfront district with malls, a ferris wheel, and harbor views.
• Yokohama Chinatown – one of the largest Chinatowns in the world.
• Sankeien Garden – expansive traditional garden with historic buildings.
• Cup Noodles Museum – interactive exhibits about instant noodles.
• Red Brick Warehouse – a former warehouse converted to shops and event spaces.

Hiroshima

Hiroshima is a modern city rebuilt after the 1945 atomic bombing and is now a global symbol of peace.

• Peace Memorial Park & Peace Memorial Museum.
• A-Bomb Dome – preserved ruins near the hypocenter of the blast.
• Hiroshima Castle – reconstructed castle with a museum.
• Shukkeien Garden – traditional landscaped garden.
• Nearby Miyajima Island and Itsukushima Shrine's floating torii gate.

Hiroshima-style okonomiyaki – a layered savory pancake – is the city's culinary claim to fame.

Fukuoka

Fukuoka is the largest city on Kyushu island and is known for its relaxed atmosphere and food stalls (yatai).

• Hakata ramen – rich pork-bone broth with thin noodles.
• Yatai – open-air food stalls along the river.
• Ohori Park – large city park with a lake.
• Canal City – shopping and entertainment complex.

Sapporo

Sapporo is the capital of Hokkaido and is known for its cooler summers, snowy winters, and beer.

• Sapporo Snow Festival in February – massive snow and ice sculptures.
• Sapporo Beer Museum and classic beer halls.
• Access to nearby ski resorts and winter sports areas.

Nara

Nara, Japan's first permanent capital, is rich in religious and historical sites and is easy to visit as a day trip from Kyoto or Osaka.

• Tōdai-ji Temple with its giant Buddha statue.
• Nara Park and its free-roaming deer.
• Kasuga Taisha Shrine and its stone and bronze lanterns.

Accommodation prices vary by season, city, and type of property, but the ranges below offer a solid starting point for budgeting.

• Hostel dorm beds: ¥2,500–¥4,500 per night (roughly US$18–32).
• Private rooms in hostels: ¥4,000–¥8,000 per night (US$28–56).
• Capsule hotels: ¥3,000–¥6,000 per night (US$21–42).
• Business hotels (basic private rooms): ¥6,000–¥12,000 per night (US$42–85).

• Standard hotels: Single rooms around ¥12,000–¥25,000 per night (US$85–175); double or twin rooms around ¥15,000–¥35,000 (US$105–245).
• Mid-range ryokan: Typically ¥15,000–¥40,000 per person per night (US$105–280), usually including dinner and breakfast.

These options are common in major cities and tourist areas; rooms are often compact but well-equipped.

• High-end city hotels: Deluxe rooms at roughly ¥30,000–¥80,000 per night (US$210–560); suites can run ¥80,000–¥200,000+ (US$560–1,400+).
• Luxury ryokan: ¥40,000–¥150,000+ per person per night (US$280–1,050+), especially in famous onsen areas or properties with private open-air baths.

• Peak seasons: Cherry blossom (March–April), autumn foliage (October–November), and New Year can push prices to 150–300% of low-season baselines.
• Off-season: January–February (away from ski resorts), June and September usually offer more availability and closer-to-baseline prices.

Citizens of many countries can enter Japan visa-free for short stays (typically up to 90 days) for tourism or business. This includes visitors from:

• The United States, Canada, the United Kingdom, Australia, New Zealand
• Most European Union countries
• South Korea, Singapore, Hong Kong, Taiwan and others

Some Southeast Asian nationals have shorter visa-free periods (for example 15 or 30 days) depending on current agreements. Visa-free entry generally does not allow paid work.

Travelers from countries not on the visa-exempt list must apply for a visa in advance. Typical requirements include:

• Valid passport (often recommended to have 6+ months remaining)
• Completed visa application form and passport photos
• Proof of financial means (bank statements, income documents)
• Travel itinerary and hotel bookings or an invitation letter
• Proof of return or onward flights

Processing times vary but commonly take around 5–10 business days. Some nationalities may be able to use an online e-visa system.

• Working holiday visas – available to young people (often 18–30) from certain countries; allow extended stays with permission to work.
• Student visas – for language schools, universities, or vocational programs; require acceptance by a school and proof of financial support, and allow limited part-time work.
• Work visas – cover categories like Engineer, Instructor, Business Manager, etc.; require a sponsoring employer in Japan.

On arrival, expect to:

• Complete an arrival card (or use digital pre-registration if available).
• Present your passport and required documents to immigration.
• Have fingerprints and a photo taken (for most foreign nationals).
• Receive an entry stamp (or residence card for some long-term visas).
• Collect your baggage and go through customs.

You must declare cash or monetary instruments totaling more than ¥1,000,000. Some medications, weapons, and food products are restricted or prohibited. Bring prescription medicine in original packaging along with a doctor's note or prescription paperwork if possible.

Japan's healthcare system is high quality and consistently ranks among the best in the world. Residents are covered by a universal system where most people pay around 30% of standardized medical costs while insurance covers the rest.

However, this public system does not automatically cover tourists. Short-term visitors are usually expected to pay the full cost of treatment up front and then seek reimbursement from their travel insurance.

• Payment at the time of service is the norm; some clinics require cash, but many hospitals accept credit cards.
• English-speaking staff are more common in major cities and international clinics; rural areas may have limited English support.
• Costs are often lower than in the United States but can still be significant, especially for emergencies and inpatient care.

• Routine Care:
• General practitioner visit: ¥5,000–¥12,000 (about US$35–85).
• Specialist consultation: ¥8,000–¥20,000 (US$55–140).
• Prescription medications: ¥2,000–¥8,000 (US$14–55), depending on the medication and duration.

• Emergency Care:
• Emergency room visit (initial assessment): ¥15,000–¥50,000 (US$105–350).
• Overnight hospital stay: ¥30,000–¥100,000 per day (US$210–700).
• Intensive care unit (ICU): ¥100,000–¥300,000 per day (US$700–2,100).
• Emergency surgery: ¥500,000–¥2,000,000+ (US$3,500–14,000+).

• Specialized Procedures:
• MRI scan: ¥20,000–¥40,000 (US$140–280).
• CT scan: ¥15,000–¥30,000 (US$105–210).
• Appendectomy: ¥800,000–¥1,500,000 (US$5,600–10,500).
• Treatment for significant fractures (including surgery and hospitalization): ¥200,000–¥800,000 (US$1,400–5,600).

• Dental Care:
• Routine cleaning: ¥3,000–¥6,000 (US$21–42).
• Filling: ¥5,000–¥15,000 (US$35–105).
• Root canal: ¥50,000–¥150,000 (US$350–1,050).
• Crown: ¥80,000–¥200,000 (US$560–1,400).

In serious cases, the most expensive part may not be treatment in Japan but medical evacuation to your home country.

• Air ambulance to the US West Coast: roughly US$150,000–250,000.
• Air ambulance to the US East Coast or Europe: roughly US$175,000–300,000.
• Commercial flight with medical escort: about US$15,000–50,000 if the patient is stable.
• Ground ambulance within Japan: typically ¥50,000–¥200,000 (US$350–1,400).

Major cities such as Tokyo, Osaka, Kyoto, Yokohama, Fukuoka, and Sapporo have hospitals and clinics that serve international patients. Many list English-speaking departments or provide interpretation services.

In an emergency, you can call 119 for ambulance and fire services, or 110 for police. In larger cities, operators often have access to English support.

Given the cost of medical care and the potential expense of evacuation, comprehensive travel insurance is strongly recommended for trips to Japan – even for short, healthy vacations.

• Medical Coverage
• Recommended minimum: about US$100,000 in medical coverage.
• For older travelers or those with health conditions, consider US$250,000 or more.
• Confirm whether pre-existing conditions are covered, and under what conditions (e.g. if you buy soon after your first trip payment).

• Medical Evacuation & Repatriation
• Look for at least US$250,000 in evacuation coverage; many experts suggest US$500,000 for extra safety.
• Ensure the policy covers evacuation to the nearest appropriate facility and repatriation to your home country when medically necessary.
• Check that repatriation of remains is included in the unlikely event of death abroad.

• Trip Cancellation & Interruption
• Protects non-refundable costs like flights, hotels, and tours if you have to cancel or cut the trip short for covered reasons (serious illness, injury, family emergencies, etc.).
• If you want maximum flexibility, consider "Cancel For Any Reason" (CFAR) upgrades, understanding they cost more and usually reimburse a percentage of your expenses.

• Adventure & Winter Sports Coverage
• Standard policies may exclude skiing, snowboarding, scuba diving beyond certain depths, and other higher-risk activities.
• If your trip centers around ski resorts, diving in Okinawa, or challenging hikes, check that these are included or add specific riders.

• Medical: food poisoning, minor accidents, winter sports injuries, heat exhaustion, slips and falls.
• Trip interruption: typhoon-related flight disruptions (mainly June–October), earthquake-related issues, family emergencies back home.
• Baggage: lost or delayed luggage on multi-leg flights; occasional theft of cameras, phones, or laptops.

When comparing policies, focus on: - Medical and evacuation limits. - How pre-existing conditions are handled. - Which activities are included versus excluded. - Deductibles and co-pays. - Reputation for handling claims and the quality of 24/7 assistance.

For most visitors focused on cities and light sightseeing, a mid-to-high tier comprehensive policy with strong medical and evacuation coverage is ideal. For winter sports or diving trips, prioritize policies specifically built for those activities.

Japan offers an extraordinary combination of ancient traditions, cutting-edge modern life, world-class food, beautiful natural landscapes, and a very high standard of safety and cleanliness. With thoughtful planning around seasons, accommodation, visa rules, healthcare costs, and travel insurance, you can maximize enjoyment and minimize surprises.

Whether you're crossing Shibuya Crossing at night, meditating in a Kyoto temple at sunrise, skiing Hokkaido powder, or soaking in an outdoor onsen while snow falls around you, Japan is the kind of destination that stays with you long after you fly home.