Japan Travel Guide: Definitive Guide To Your First Time In Japan

Often nicknamed “The Land of the Rising Sun”, Japan has long been a dream destination for travel lovers around the world (and with good reason). So, if you’re hoping to make the most of your time in this enchanting country (and come away with memorable experiences), what exactly should you prepare?

In this handy Japan travel guide, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know: the most beautiful places to visit, where to stay without breaking the bank, and how to pack light with your Japan packing list for a stress-free holiday. By the end, you’ll feel more confident whether you’re exploring solo or embracing the full digital nomad lifestyle right in Japan.

But First, Always Pack Light

The lighter and smaller you pack for Japan, the better. Space is a bit cramped on Japan's trains, especially on the bullet trains and subways. Baggage storage is minimal. So, it's best to have something that you can store in the overhead compartment or hold in front of you on full rides between cities.

Our Japan travel guide here suggests opting for an ultra-light, compact backpack such as CabinZero’s Classic Cabin Backpack 44L (roughly 760 g when it’s empty). This 44-litre backpack has ample room for all your everyday essentials on a 7–10 day trip – from travel documents to several changes of clothing, and towels. There's even a discreet laptop sleeve that fits up to 17-inch laptops. And the water-resistant material is such a lifesaver in Japan's humid and hot climate.

The Classic Cabin 44L also comes with a limited lifetime guarantee.

Best Time to Visit Japan

Generally speaking, springtime warmth and autumn's cool, fresh days are usually the optimal times to visit this amazing nation.

1. Spring – A Scenic Season of Cherry Blossoms

From early March through May, Japan slowly sheds the winter chill and gathers the soft warmth of spring. Local parks, historic castles, and moats across the country are covered in the pale pink hue of cherry blossoms (or sakura). It's quite possibly one of the most magical times to be there. 

Just a quick note in this Japan travel guide: if you’re keen to catch the cherry blossoms at their peak, be sure to check the bloom forecast for each region. The flowers usually start blooming in the south around January, reaching Tokyo and Kyoto in March to early April. If you’re heading up north to Sapporo, though, you’ll need to wait until May for the full bloom.

2. Summer – Bustling Festivals and Fireworks Galore

June to late August is when Japan gets really hot and humid – not exactly the nicest weather, to put it mildly. But if you're not deterred by the heat (we aren’t either!), then summer is the kind of season our Japan travel guide wouldn’t let you miss. It can be an excellent time to visit, too.

Several of the country's most famous fireworks festivals light up the skies over this time, including Tokyo's Sumidagawa Festival (late July) or Niigata's Nagaoka Festival (early August). And if Tokyo is on your travel plans, also note some of the city's celebratory summer festivals.

3. Autumn – Cooler Days and Fiery Red Leaves

Missed cherry blossom season? No need to worry, autumn in Japan (typically October to November) is just as picturesque! 

The weather is wonderfully cool and mild at this time. There’s no longer the sweltering heat of summer, nor the bitter cold of winter. It’s exactly the perfect time our Japan travel guide recommends for leisurely strolling along scenic paths, while gazing at the chrysanthemums and cosmos in bloom.

The gorgeous autumn scenery around Minoh Waterfall (Osaka). Photo by anekoho on Adobe Stock

4. Winter – Snowy Days, Skiing and Visiting the Hot Springs – Why Not?

From December through to late February, winter presents a very different image throughout Japan, particularly in the northern island of Hokkaido. If skiing is your thing, this is the ideal time to come. Such top ski resorts as Niseko and Hakuba are favourite destinations of foreign visitors, not only for excellent powder snow but also for the warm hospitality.

Don't love skiing? Not a problem. You can simply enjoy the season with a relaxing soak in a classic hot spring (or osen). Or, you can also find joy in viewing the storybook winter scenery in endearing old villages such as Shirakawa-go and Takayama.

What Is The Cheapest Month To Go To Japan?

If the budget for travelling to Japan is a concern, mid-January to March is definitely the way to go. It's low season for tourists (except for ski resorts), so you would likely find lower-cost flights and hotel packages.

Getting There And Getting Around

Most international flights to Japan land in Tokyo, where the nation's two principal international airports, Haneda and Narita, are situated.

Flying

In our own experience, Haneda is a bit closer to the centre. That said, there's no great cause for concern about which one you fly into, as both airports are well connected to Tokyo by public transport.

• If you want a hassle-free experience from London, we recommend booking a direct flight with JAL or ANA from Heathrow Airport (LHR). A direct return flight costs around £800-1,400.

• For US travellers, the typical cost for a return flight is around $1,500 (sadly, airfare has been going up and up since pre-COVID). Again, go with Japanese Airlines for better services and comfort. Plus, it feels like you’re already in Japan the moment you set foot on the plane.

If you want to stretch your money further, separate your itineraries. For instance, book a flight into LAX, then another from LAX to Tokyo. Do it right, and airfares may cost around $1,200 or less, though this method requires much planning and timing.

The flights are long (10+ hours), so remember to stock up on entertainment for long flights or consider upgrading to premium economy or even first class, if you can spare it.

Going Into Town

And what about getting from the international airport to the city? Pretty simple. In the main cities like Tokyo and Osaka, you'll have Airport Express Trains that can take you right into the city centre. From there, proceed onwards by whichever transport is most convenient to you.

An Airport Express Train in Japan. Photo by coward_lion on Adobe Stock

Now, let's take a look at some functional ways to get around: tips straight from our Japan travel guide to help you see more of this incredible country:

• Rent a car and drive yourself: If you hold an international driving license, car rental is a great idea (primarily if you want to go to places harder to reach by train). 

• Take the Shinkansen (bullet train) between cities: Punctual to the minute, these bullet trains will whisk you away to the main stations in whichever city you're staying. You can then board a local train or bus from there to reach your final destination. Practical tip: if you'll be in Japan for 7, 14, or even 21 days, our Japan travel guide highly recommends that you purchase a JR Pass. It gives you unlimited travel on most Shinkansen lines and can save you a significant amount of money in the end!

• Use domestic flights for longer distances: If you’re heading somewhere very far, like from Tokyo to Sapporo, domestic flights are a real time-saver. The best part? No extra immigration procedures, just check in and go, easy as that!

• Take a taxi for unexpected situations: You can't fault Japanese taxis. The drivers are mostly courteous and professional, and there is no need to tip. Taxis in Japan are not the most affordable, though, so it's best to save them for emergencies. Take an example: when you've missed the last train after a wild evening out in a Shibuya bar!

Top Destinations

This Japan travel guide will show you some of the most fabulous destinations around the nation. That’s the kind of spots that will simply steal your heart.

1. Visit the Tokyo Tower (Shibakoen, Minato City)

Rising above the urban jungle, Tokyo Tower is not just to be marveled at for its sheer size and its dramatic design. It also stands as a symbol of Japan's powerful post-war rise.

Tokyo Tower is beautifully lit up at night. Photo by tawatchai1990 on Adobe Stock

Of course, with big fame, there's a price. You'll pay around ¥1,500 to get into the main observation deck, and around ¥3,500 if you want to take the trip to the top. But trust us, it's worth the cost. Visit in the evening and look out over the flashing Tokyo skyline in all its 360-degree glory. On a clear day, you might even spot Mount Fuji looming in the distance. It's enchanting, actually!

2. Admire the Himeji Castle (Himeyama Hill, Himeji, Hyogo Prefecture)

If you’re wondering, “Is Himeji worth visiting?”, our answer is an enthusiastic yes. With its elegant white exterior and beautifully crafted wooden interiors, visiting the Himeji Castle feels like stepping back in time to the 17th century.

Every single detail, right down to the tiled rooftops and the gardens just across the street, is scrupulously cared for. All of these lovely things generate a peaceful, quasi-sacred atmosphere throughout the entire complex. Moreover, it's especially photogenic come cherry blossom season or during autumn leaf colour when it's all aflame.

Still, watch out: there are quite a few shocking long staircases and walkways to contend with, so do wear your best walking shoes!

3. Explore the Ghibli Museum (Shimorenjaku, Mitaka, Tokyo)

Honestly speaking, if you’re not a big fan of Studio Ghibli’s animated films, this museum in our Japan travel guide might feel a little underwhelming. But if you’re a die-hard Miyazaki fan or just curious about the magic behind the movies, then this place is an absolute 10/10. From the fantastic displays and one-off short films to the imaginative children's play areas, it's all gorgeously done and very fulfilling.

Unfortunately, photography and video are not allowed indoors. And, truthfully, it's so busy that it might be hard to get tickets. Tickets go on sale on the 10th of each month online, and they sell out fast, so remind yourself and get ready to book.

4.  Stroll Through the Charming Old Alley of Hozenji Yokocho (Chuo Ward, Osaka)

In refreshing contrast to the hustle and bustle of nearby Shinsaibashi and Namba, Hozenji Yokocho certainly preserves the idyllic atmosphere of old Japan. This short cobblestone street runs east-west and formerly was part of the hallowed grounds of Hozenji Temple.

As you wander through this quaint little alley, you'll see old-fashioned wooden buildings that have not changed shape in decades. It is also where a lot of age-old Japanese bars, restaurants, and street-side eateries are found. So in this Japan travel guide, we suggest you try the famous okonomiyaki (sizzling pancake) or indulge in some crispy kushi-katsu (meat, seafood, and vegetable sticks deep-fried golden brown).

Accommodation Options

There are many types of accommodations available in Japan, from small capsule hotels for individual travellers to serene traditional inns called ryokan. There's sure to be something to suit your needs and location.

It’s wonderfully cosy and squeaky clean inside the ryokan. Photo by bhakpong on Adobe Stock

If you're drawn to the old-world charm of old Japan, we enthusiastically endorse staying in a ryokan.

These traditional hotels are typically housed in classic Japanese buildings, with tatami mat flooring, futon beds, and private onsen baths where you can soak and relax.

A good ryokan will set you back about ¥17,000 a night. For example, a lovely ryokan in Miyagi is slightly over ¥22,000 a night.

Alternatively, if you're on your own and looking to save on accommodation, capsule hotels are the way to go – a good choice from our Japan travel guide. These have men's and women's sections, with either dormitory-style 4–8 bunk bed rooms or cosy sleeping capsules. They usually cost around ¥5,500 a night for a capsule bed, even in some space-starved cities like Tokyo or Osaka.

And it's notable that Japan's accommodation is a little pricier. In addition, hotel rooms tend to be smaller than what you might be accustomed to from Western norms. Fear not, though; Japan's cleanliness standards are impeccably high across the board. You won't need to spend an arm and a leg to find a clean, comfortable place to rest your head as you travel.

Foods And Drinks

When you hear Japanese cuisine, you probably think of sushi and ramen first – food so popular worldwide. But that's only the beginning of Japan's surprisingly vibrant food culture. The country boasts an amazing variety of delicious, must-try foods far beyond the usual suspects:

• Okonomiyaki: Think of it as a golden, savoury pancake packed with meat or seafood, finely shredded cabbage, and spring onions. All drizzled with a tangy-sweet sauce. It’s a favourite in Osaka, as well as in our Japan travel guide, so if you’re visiting, give this one a try!

• Takoyaki: Little, round balls of crunchy outside and soft batter with chewy octopus on the inside. Topped with sweet and slightly spicy sauce and a dollop of creamy mayo. They're extremely addictive, you won't be able to eat just one!

Perfectly golden, deliciously fragrant takoyaki. Photo by martinhosmart083 on Adobe Stock

• Momiji Tempura: Red maple leaves simply coated in batter, deep-fried, and finished off with sesame seeds and sugar on top. Sweet, crispy, and slightly strange. This specialist snack is only available in the Kansai region during the autumn leaf period. Definitely worth a go if you happen to be around at the right time!

And here is what to do about the country’s mythical drinks in our Japan travel guide:

• Sakura Tea: Made from salted cherry blossoms, this tea has a subtle salty taste and aroma with a mild floral scent. It's traditionally served in Japan with honey and lemon, ideal for a quiet afternoon.

• Sake: Delicate styles with jasmine-like aromas and sweet fruity scents (e.g., apple or almond) to richer types. It's typically served on a cold night, accompanied by scented grilled seafood or fresh sashimi.

• Matcha Green Tea: A little bitter at first, with earthy flavours, then leading into a silky smooth sweetness. You know, this isn't just yummy, it's full of health benefits, too.

7-Day Japan Travel Mini Itinerary

You might be thinking, “How many days are enough for a Japan trip?” Truth is: there isn't a one-size-fits-all answer. It just comes down to how much time you have, how much you want to spend, and your personal style of travel. Some are happy with a week, while others fall in love with Japan and stay for two weeks, or even more!

Here's a handy tip for a 7-day, 6-night itinerary that takes you through three of Japan's most popular cities: energetic Tokyo, traditional Kyoto, and vibrant Osaka. Feel free to modify it to your taste and schedule:

Day 1: Arrival in Tokyo - Shopping in Ginza - Relaxation at a Hot Spring

Chances are, you are still recovering from jet lag. There are 2 options here: go straight to Kyoto on a Shinkansen bullet train or explore Tokyo leisurely on your first day.

Upon arrival at Narita Airport on a (likely) red-eye flight, breeze through immigration and go straight to the hotel to sleep. Take it easy in the morning, and then dive into Tokyo living in the afternoon.

Start by walking through the chic, shiny shopping district of Ginza. In the evening, spoil yourself with a true Japanese-style refuel. Our Japan travel guide surely recommends a visit to Thermae-yu, a quaint and spotless hot spring spa within walking distance of bustling Shinjuku.

Ginza’s vibrant buzz really comes alive at night. Photo by f11photo on Adobe Stock

Once you’re feeling like yourself again, make your way to Ebisu Yokocho or Golden Gai in Shinjuku for dinner. There are around 30 spots to pick from, so you’ll be spoiled for choice.

Day 2: Off to Kyoto - Sagano Train Ride - Venture to Arashiyama

Board the Shinkansen bullet train for a ride to Japan's old imperial capital city.

If you’re in the mood to start your Kyoto journey with something truly scenic, the Sagano Scenic Railway is an absolute must. This pleasing little train runs along the gentle Hozugawa River. The journey typically ends in the famed Arashiyama district.

So why is Arashiyama famous? Firstly, there is the renowned Sagano Bamboo Grove, towering stalks of bamboo scenery with an otherworldly presence (and apparently a good place to propose). What’s more, there are peaceful temples and old shrines among the trees, and a once-imperial residence.

Day 3: Day Trip to Nara

Fushimi Inari Shrine is located at JR Inari Station, which is directly on the JR Nara Line that connects Kyoto Station to Nara Station. Thus, it’s wise to visit Fushimi Inari first, very early in the morning, and then continue on the same train line to Nara.

After approximately 40-45 minutes, you will reach Nara Park. The good thing is that all the main sights are clustered within the vast and walkable park. Be sure to greet the deer (they bow whenever they receive a cracker, how cute is that!)

There’s no need to stay overnight here. Just come back to Kyoto by evening.

Day 4: Wander Around Nijo Castle - Visit Gion Old Town - Head Back To Tokyo

You can’t really come to Kyoto without visiting the historically rich Nijo Castle. Its grounds are absolutely stunning, with seasonal beauty all year round. Just a quick note: there’s an entry fee of about ¥1,000 if you’d like to go inside the main castle.

Nijo Castle - another fascinating stop in this Japan travel guide. Photo by oben901 on Adobe Stock

Later, in this Japan travel guide, we simply have to suggest taking some time to tour the wonderful old town of Gion. It's about one of the last places you can actually observe genuine Maiko and Geiko (Kyoto-style geishas) moving along the streets.

Next, catch a Shinkansen (bullet train) from Kyoto Station for a quick journey back to Tokyo, which takes about 2.5 hours.

Day 5: Walk in Yoyogi Park – Boat Cruise on the Meguro River

Yoyogi Park itself is one of those nice places where you could very well lose track of time. 

After you've absorbed the tranquillity of Yoyogi, stroll or take the train for a brief journey to the Meguro River area (neither Meguro nor Nakameguro stations are far away). If something else interests you, track down a small boat cruise that floats along the river. It's a pleasant, intimate means of enjoying the sakura trees lining both banks.

By evening, our Japan travel guide really thinks you should exchange nature for neon and soak up Shibuya's hectic atmosphere. It's ideal for purchasing everything from good fashion and cosmetics to cutting-edge electronics and wacky Japanese gadgets. Prices are surprisingly reasonable, too!

Day 6: Day Trip To Mount Fuji

From Tokyo, it takes around 2.5 and 1.5 hours to go to Lake Kawaguchiko and Hakone, respectively. 

Even before reaching Mount Fuji's base, there are plenty of things you can do around it. Walk around Oishi Park to see gorgeous flower views, or ride on the Kachikachi Ropeway to catch a panoramic view of the mountain’s natural surroundings.

If you’ve got a bit more time, definitely swing by Oshino Hakkai, an appealing traditional village known for its peaceful vibes and crystal-clear ponds.

Most people would book an overnight stay at K's House Fuji View for, you guessed it, a room with a view of Japan's most recognisable icon. 

Be sure to check what day is clear to see Mount Fuji, if it’s not ideal, you can continue exploring Tokyo. Or plan another day trip, such as Nikko or Mt. Takao. 

Day 7: Back To Tokyo - Shopping Til You Drop - Return Home

We always recommend having the last day for shopping only. It’s your last chance to splurge on souvenirs. We are sure you will fill up your suitcase quickly (and even buy another one to carry them back home).

A common piece of advice you see in Japan travel guides is to arrive in Tokyo, visit Kyoto/Osaka, and then return to Tokyo before flying out. This is because the return flight would be cheaper than flying out of another city.

Is $5000 Enough For A Week In Japan?

Alright, chances are this question has probably popped into your head more than once. Well, with that amount, you’re looking at roughly ¥720,000, based on the current exchange rate. And that’s more than enough for a fun, exciting (and even pretty comfortable) 7-day holiday in Japan. Here’s why:

• Return flights from the US to Japan usually range from $700 to $1,500, while flights from UK airports typically fall somewhere between £600 and £1,700.

• Capsule hotels are usually super cheap. If you’re after something more comfortable, mid-range hotels in big cities can be around $50-$80 a night, which is still quite affordable.

• Food, too, is actually very reasonable compared to the UK or the States. You could simply spend around $500 on your night market street food, snacks and evening meals.

• There are numerous ancient shrines, old temples and cultural parks that you can go to for free. Those that charge entrance fees are worth checking out their websites in advance so you can plan your budget for sightseeing accordingly.

Ueno Park (in central Tokyo) is one of Japan’s well-loved public parks with free entry. Photo by 百合 須藤 on Adobe Stock

Tips on Travelling Around Japan

Okay, you’ve got a whole list of fantastic ideas mapped out for your next trip with this Japan travel guide. Now, let’s learn some handy tips to keep in mind. These small tips might seem trivial, but they'll make your travel smoother and, quite squarely, help you avoid those embarrassing foreigner moments with the locals.

1. Keep Some Cash

Though Japan is one of the planet's leading technological nations, it is nevertheless intensely a cash culture, particularly at old-school restaurants, family-owned stores, and venerable shrines. So, yes, you will definitely need to keep some paper money on hand at all times.

Aside from that, don't bother lugging around a big wad of Yen to take with you from home. You'll find ATMs everywhere (or at least at 7-Eleven outlets), and most will accept international cards. So you can get what you need easily enough.

2. Stay Connected

Well, you'll have some free Wi-Fi at major airports, large train stations, and some convenience shops. But if you're planning to remain connected during your holiday, then, according to this Japan travel guide, you'll need a plan B.

The most hassle-free option is to hire a pocket Wi-Fi (a portable Wi-Fi router), which you can pick up from the airport or pre-order online. Reliable providers like Ninja WiFi, Japan Wireless, or SoftBank Global Rental offer high-speed internet. And they’re worth considering, mainly if you need to stay online a lot during your Japan trip.

Otherwise, if you do not intend to use lots of data, you might be best off buying a local eSIM that provides 4G or 5G service. Operators like Gohub, Simplify Trip, or Sim2Go are extremely popular among international travellers.

3. Use the Luggage Forwarding Service

Hands-free travel in Japan is most easily achieved by using a luggage forwarding service (or Takkyubin, as it is locally known). This handy tip from our Japan travel guide is a ridiculously convenient way to send your bags ahead, whether to the airport or your next hotel.

As an example, on one recent trip, we were travelling on the Skyliner train from downtown Tokyo to Narita Airport. We deposited more than 30 kg of luggage at the hotel front desk by 9 am. And by the time we arrived at the airport, our luggage was already there waiting for us. Sheer bliss! No dragging heavy suitcases around, and no fighting for luggage space on the train either.

Some of the reputable companies offering Takkyubin services include Yamato, JAL ABC, and Airporter.

4. Give Yourself Buffer Time

Checking in and out of hotels, getting lost and confused at the train stations (who doesn’t?), or jet lag on the first day. You will thank yourself later for leaving some wriggle room and not planning down to the minute, as any good Japan travel guide will tell you.

Plus, see things as priorities, not a must-do. Do one to two things that excite you the most, then leave room for spontaneity. Go anywhere that catches your interest. Take your time. There are many pleasant surprises around every corner in Japan.

Your guide to the perfect first trip to Japan. Photo by chemistkane - stock.adobe.com

FAQs

1. What Are The Requirements To Travel To Japan?

In order to enter Japan properly, the first and most important thing you'll need is a passport that is valid for six months beyond your entry date. The second is a visa, though whether you need one or not is based on your country of origin. For example, if you're a UK, US, or EU citizen, you generally won't need a visa to stay for up to 90 days.

And you will also need to produce proof of return or onward ticket, especially if you're arriving on a visa waiver.

2. Which Part Of Japan Should I Visit First?

We believe you should begin with Japan's three largest cities: Tokyo, Kyoto, and Osaka. However, we recommend picking only two of these for your first trip to Japan.

Tokyo is Japan's vibrant capital, packed with amazing sights: Tokyo Tower observation decks, Akihabara's electronics-lined streets, or Shinjuku's neon nightclubs after dark.

Kyoto, meanwhile, is a glimpse into Japan's rich cultural heritage. There are ancient temples, serene Shinto shrines, and even imperial palaces.

Then, of course, there's Osaka. A place famous for its amazing street food, lively entertainment districts, and oh-so-friendly locals who'll make you feel like family.

How to Plan the Perfect Trip To Japan

And there you have it – how to get around, what to eat, and some of our top recommendations for places to find and unwind, all wrapped up in our practical Japan travel guide. With everything right at your fingertips, there's simply no reason not to start planning your trip to this mystical land today. And to make it all even simpler, don't forget to take a CabinZero backpack – the perfect travel companion for discovering Japan without the hassle of checked luggage.

Quyen Pham