Japan

It depends on your country! If you’re from the U.S., Canada, the U.K., and the EU, you can enter Japan for up to 90 days without a visa as a tourist.

That being said, it’s always best to check the latest visa requirements on the Japanese Embassy website or your country’s foreign travel advice before your trip.

Here’s the one for the UK: https://www.gov.uk/foreign-travel-advice/japan/entry-requirements

Yes and no. Japan has a reputation for being expensive, but it is possible to travel on all budgets.

Accommodation ranges from cheap(er) hostels and capsule hotels if you’re looking to save money, to luxury ryokan (traditional inns) for the ultimate experience.

Use public transport where possible to keep costs low, which is always efficient and comfortable. Consider investing in a Japan Rail Pass (JR Pass) if you’re doing multiple city-to-city journeys – read our post about everything you need to know about the Japan Rail Pass for more info.

Book your accommodation early on platforms like Booking.com for the best deals.

Free Wi-Fi is available in most hotels and cafes, as well as many tourist areas in Japan, but it can be inconsistent in rural areas.

We’d recommend renting a portable Wi-Fi device or getting a prepaid SIM card before your trip, so that you stay connected.

You can look at the affordable options on Klook.

Eating the Japanese food was one of the highlights of our trip, and you will VERY likely feel the same.

Don’t miss trying:
– Sushi and sashimi – Hannah’s favourite!
– Ramen, udon, and soba noodles
– Okonomiyaki (savory pancakes) in Osaka – Connor’s favourite!
– Tempura (battered, fried seafood or vegetables)
– Kaiseki (a traditional multi-course meal) in Kyoto

Consider booking food tours or cooking classes through Klook or GetYourGuide for the best experience!

When visiting Japan, you should always respect the local customs. Not only will you avoid offending anyone, but you will enjoy a more enriched experience!

Here’s some top tips:
– Remove your shoes when entering homes, traditional inns, and even some restaurants.
– Bowing is a common form of greeting and saying ‘thanks’.
– Avoid speaking loudly or making phone calls on public transportation.
– When visiting a hot spring (onsen), you’re usually expected to shower and clean yourself before entering the shared baths.

Japan is home to so many unique festivals throughout the year.

The most popular events include:
– Cherry Blossom Festival in late March to April.
– Gion Matsuri in Kyoto (July), one of Japan’s most famous summer festivals.
– Sapporo Snow Festival in February, featuring incredible ice sculptures.
– Autumn Festival in Nikko (October), where you can see traditional samurai processions.

You can book tickets or tours to experience these festivals via Klook or GetYourGuide.

This is tricky one! Japan is incredible all year-round, but the most popular times to visit are during spring (March to May) for the famous cherry blossoms and autumn (September to November) for stunning fall foliage.

However, those seasons tend to be much busier and more expensive, sadly.

Not to worry though – the other two seasons still offer an incredible experience, and are often much quieter! Head to Japan in the winter (December to February) for skiing and hot springs, or consider a trip during summer (June – August) for lots of festivals – but beware, it can be hot and humid.

Public transport is the way to go! Japan has a brilliant public transport system, which is always efficient, convenient and comfortable.

The Japan Rail Pass (JR Pass) is a great option for tourists, which allows unlimited travel on JR trains, including the famous Shinkansen (bullet trains) – make sure to read our post about everything you need to know about the Japan Rail Pass for more info.

For local city travel, buses and subways are everywhere and they’re really convenient. Read our Japan public transport guide for all you need to know.

You don’t need to speak Japanese, no. But, a little preparation and few basic phrases will go a long way.

Download the Japanese language on translation apps before you travel – our recommendation is Papago, which we found to be more accurate and reliable for translating between English and Japanese. Read more about our recommendation here.

In major cities, lots of signage is in English which is super helpful, and some (but by no means all) locals working in hospitality roles may be able to help you in English.

In summer (June-August), lightweight clothing, a hat and sunscreen are essentials, since it gets very hot and humid. Make sure to carry an umbrella for sudden rain showers.

Winter (December-February) can be cold, especially in northern Japan and cities like Tokyo, so pack warm layers and a coat.

Comfortable shoes are a must for walking around cities and temple grounds.

Tipping is not customary in Japan and can even be considered rude.

Excellent service is the norm in Japan, and any extra gestures of appreciation should be given as an enthusiastic “Domo arigato gozaimasu” (thank you very much) rather than cash.