A Complete Japan Travel Guide - Akbar Travels Blog

Japan is one of those countries that seems to always have more than meets the eye. The pictures, videos, and information you see online, simply doesn’t do justice to the fascinating country that Japan is sometimes.

It is part of the reason why you need an efficient Japan travel guide to explore the country. Because the country offers an endless number of attractions and experiences, visiting without a plan or a guide is bound to overwhelm you. Besides, to make your journey worthwhile, it is important to make the most of your Japan tour, cover its iconic landmarks along with some of its hidden gems, all while making sure your in-country experience is smooth and efficient.

Here is everything you need to know about the Land of the Rising Sun, before you set out to visit.

Important Things to Know Before Travelling to Japan
The Best Time to Visit Japan
Top Places to Visit And Things to do in Japan
Japan Travel Tips For a Smooth Experience
Wrapping Up: The Best Japan Travel Guide
FAQs
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Important Things to Know Before Travelling to Japan

A tourist posing near Mt. Fuji in Japan
Image courtesy: Shutterstock/Jo Panuwat D

Before you visit Japan, there are a few things you need to know and keep in mind, for a smooth and pleasant journey. First on this Japan travel guide, is some minor prep work to do before you book your flights.

Before you go…

Research well – As mentioned before, Japan has an overwhelming number of attractions and things to do. It is always a good idea to research well, and decide on the things you want to see, depending on the number of days you have. Once you have a list, you can book your hotels and flights accordingly.
Respect local customs and traditions – While the Japanese are incredibly polite and kind to tourists, it is always good to learn about the country’s local customs and traditions. Making an effort to follow their customs is respectful, and will attract pleasant interactions.
For example, it is common practice in Japan to bow a little when thanking service personnel. Observe the locals, and try to mimic the gesture when thanking your waiters, cashiers, etc. as a mark of respect.
Pack comfortable shoes – You will most likely be walking a lot when sightseeing and restaurant hopping. Be sure to pack comfortable shoes.
Wear clean socks when visiting temples and shrines – Much like in India, you will be required to take off your shoes when entering temples, shrines, and sometimes hotels as well. Make sure you are wearing clean, good socks in such situations.
Don’t stick to only the viral spots – A quick search online will reveal the most viral spots in Japan. However, when preparing your Japan itinerary, remember to leave room for spontaneous activities and casual exploring. Because Japan can surprise you in ways you would never have thought.
Avoid tipping in restaurants – While customer service is beyond all regular benchmarks in the world in Japan, it is often considered rude to tip. Hence, avoid doing so.
Carry cash – Japan is a delightful mix of old and new. Most of the city is futuristic and forward, but many places still may not accept cards. Hence, be sure to carry enough cash in Japanese Yen.

Also Read: Japan Visa For Indians: Requirements And How to Apply

The Best Time to Visit Japan

Sensoji Temple in Tokyo, Japan on a winter's day — Sensoji Temple in Tokyo, Japan on a winter’s day
Image courtesy: Shutterstock/Hiroshi-Mori-Stock

One of the most wonderful things about Japan is that it does not have a bad time to visit. It offers pleasant and unique experiences year round.

The spring season is the most popular time to visit Japan, as it brings the famous cherry blossoms in full bloom. From March to May, particularly throughout April, the entire city gets wrapped in hues of pink as the sakura flowers bloom. This also marks the peak season in the country, which means it can be incredibly busy and crowded as well.

Summer is also a fantastic time to visit Japan as all major landmarks and sights remain open. However, sometimes the weather tends to get very hot and humid.

The Autumn and Winter seasons are some of the best times to visit Japan if you wish to enjoy exploring the city in cooler weather.

During the fall season, the weather is delightful and pleasant with clear skies and mild temperatures. Winter on the other hand transforms Japan into a winter wonderland. You also get to enjoy winter sports such as skiing in Mt. Fuji and Hokkaido.

As it may be evident, the best time to visit Japan depends on the kind of experiences you wish to have. Pick a season according to your personal climate preferences when it comes to exploring and book well-curated Japan tour packages.

Top Places to Visit And Things to do in Japan

Next on this Japan travel guide is an overview of some of the best places to visit in Japan, and experiences to enjoy. These are some must-visit destinations for a head start on preparing your Japan itinerary. As mentioned before, be sure to leave room for impulsive activities and spontaneous plans.

Tokyo

Tokyo – the capital city, brings a stunning blend of modern and traditional elements, with many of the iconic landmarks of the world such as the Tokyo Tower and the Shibuya Crossing being here. Visit these, and explore other cultural hotspots like Akhihabara to indulge in arcade games, anime, and other pop culture activities. If you have time, explore historic sites like the Meiji Jingu Shrine as well.

Top things to do in Tokyo

Visit the iconic landmark Tokyo tower and enjoy sweeping views of the city
Explore Sensoji Temple – Japan’s oldest temple located in the Asakusa district.
Click pictures at the famous Shibuya crossing – one of the busiest streets in the world
Visit the Ghibli Museum – a museum dedicated to Studio Ghibli art
Have fun at the Akihabara district – famous for arcade games, anime, gadgets, cafes and more

Kyoto

Kyoto – the former imperial capital of Japan, represents the best of traditional Japan. Here, you will find many temples and shrines, wooden tea houses, and other historic sites to explore. Stunning traditional sites like the Gion district and the Arashiyama Bamboo Grove are more options to learn all about the culture of Japan.

Top things to do in Kyoto

Visit the famous Fushimi Inari-taisha Shrine famous for its torii gates
Visit the Golden Pavilion – an iconic Zen Buddhist Temple with gold leaf covers
Explore Gion – Kyoto’s traditional Geisha district, experience tea ceremonies at the wooden tea houses, and visit the artisan shops
Walk through the Arashiyama Bamboo Grove – a serene bamboo grove forest
Visit the Kiyomizu-dera Temple and admire views of the city from its colossal stage

Also Read: The Ultimate Japan Bucketlist: 15 Experiences Not to Miss

Osaka

Osaka is best known for its street food and nightlife. If you wish to experience the bustling cosmopolitan side of Japan, this is where you need to be. You can also explore more historic landmarks here such as the Osaka Castle.

Top things to do in Osaka

Visit the Osaka Castle – a historic landmark
Enjoy a day of fun at Universal Studios Japan with rides and other attractions
Explore the street food in Kuromon Market; must-haves include Takoyaki (octopus balls), and Okonomiyaki (a savory pancake)
Visit Osaka Aquarium Kaiyukan – one of the world’s largest aquariums
Visit the Umeda Sky Building – featuring the “Floating Garden Observatory”

Hiroshima

Hiroshima offers the most evocative and informative experience of Japan. Having been the center of one of the biggest tragedies ever to hit the world, you will find many sightings that serve as poignant yet insightful reminders of the World War II attack. Places like the Hiroshima Peace Memorial are a must-visit.

Top things to do in Hiroshima

Visit the Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park and Museum for an insightful flashback of Japan’s World War II tragedy
Explore the Hiroshima Castle to learn more about the region’s history
Stroll through the Shukkeien Garden
Take a day trip to Miyajima Island
Visit the Itsukushima Shrine famous for its “floating” torii gate

Okinawa

For a tropical escape in the Land of the Rising Sun, take a trip to Okinawa – an island on the southern end of Japan. Brimming with several pristine beaches, villages, and elements of the Ryukyuan culture, Okinawa is a promising destination for relaxation and cultural indulgence.

Top things to do in Okinawa

Relax at any of the island’s pristine beaches and soak up the sun
Visit Kabira Bay – known for its clear waters; take glass-bottomed boat rides
Visit Okinawa Churaumi Aquarium – another one of the largest aquariums in the world featuring whale sharks and manta rays
Explore Okinawa World – a park that features a recreated Ryukyu village, to learn more about Ryukyu culture.
Go shopping and cafe hopping at Kokusai Dori – a lively street in Naha

Mount Fuji

Mount Fuji is Japan’s highest peak, and an iconic symbol of the country. In addition to being a vacation spot for hiking lovers and adventurers, it is also a highly regarded pilgrimage destination. You can admire the perfectly symmetrical peak from the mountain, or from the nearby locations including the Fuji Five Lakes region.

Top things to do at Mt. Fuji

Climb Mt. Fuji if you visit during the official season between July and August
Hike across the numerous trails around the mountain
Explore the nearby caves and forests, such as the Narusawa Ice Cave and the Aokigahara Forest
Visit the Chureito Pagoda – famous for its postcard backdrop view of the pagoda against Mount Fuji
Explore Oshino Hakkai – a traditional Japanese village

Beppu

Beppu is a beautiful spa city located in the southern island of Kyushu. It is best known for its 2000+ natural hot springs, making it a popular destination for laid back vacationers in Japan. In addition to traditional onsen, Beppu offers facilities to bathe in mud and sand as well.

Top things to do in Beppu

Take a dip in any of the region’s many natural hot springs or onsen; famous resorts include Umi Jigoku and Tatsumaki Jigoku
Go on the famous Beppu Hell Tour which features a collection of the region’s unique hot springs
Explore the Kijima Kogen Park and get on fun rides
Go souvenir shopping; purchase bamboo crafts, mineral bath salts and more
Take the Beppu Ropeway up Mount Tsurumi for panoramic views of the region

Japan Travel Tips For a Smooth Experience

Travel to Japan - Japan travel guide — Travel to Japan
Image courtesy: Shutterstock/DemzStudio

A Japan travel guide would be incomplete without a few insider tips to ease the travel experience. Here are some things to keep in mind.

Book cheap flights to Tokyo early on to get the best deals, and plan your itinerary from there for the best coverage of top destinations
To travel around Japan, use the public transportation systems including the bullet train Shinkansen, and metro or public trains. These facilities connect almost all of the major cities making it easy for you to navigate your journey within the country
Japan’s trains are incredibly punctual. This means it is important to arrive ahead of time, considering the time for navigation at the station. Plan your itinerary well, and make sure you meet your timings for a smooth experience.
Respect the rules of local transport. Make sure not to eat any food inside the trains, and don’t use the priority seating, even if they are empty.
Apply for your Japan visa with a reliable provider of online visa services for 180+ countries. This will help improve your chances of getting approved, and on time.
Book your accommodation at one of the best hotels in Tokyo and travel around the city by local transport for a comfortable stay.
Last but not the least, avail of car rentals or cabs to visit rural areas in Japan, as they may not be well-connected by trains.

Wrapping Up: The Best Japan Travel Guide

Japan is a magical country that holds some of the most unique experiences in the world. You must maximize your trip to the Land of the Rising Sun for the same reason, so that you can cherish the memories for a lifetime. If you have ever wondered where to visit in Japan or what to do in Japan, this complete Japan travel guide, comprising the best places to visit, things to do and more, will be your seeing eye dog. Especially if you are visiting Japan for the first time, this guide can be your saviour.

Book Japan travel packages in time for winter to enjoy skiing in Hokkaido.

FAQs

How to prepare for a trip to Japan?

Some things you can do to prepare for a trip to Japan include:

Booking flights and accommodations in advance according to your itinerary to avoid hassles
Applying for your Japan visa as early as possible to ensure timely approval
Packing light but making sure to include essentials like comfortable shoes
Making plans according to the weather and preparing for changes
Making sure to carry cash
Learning basic Japanese language and etiquette to ensure a smoother experience
Making a list of the places to visit and experiences to have to avoid getting overwhelmed

Which month is best to visit Japan?

The best months to visit Japan are from March to May in spring and between September and November during fall.

During these months, you can enjoy beautiful scenery along with the iconic sakura blossoms in spring, and vibrant autumn foliage during fall. The pleasant weather is also perfect for sightseeing and exploring.

Do I need a visa to visit Japan?

Yes, Indian citizens are required to obtain a valid Japan visa to visit Japan. A typical tourist visa for Japan is valid for 90 days with a stay period decided by the Embassy.

Dos and don’ts when visiting Japan?

Some dos and don’ts to remember when visiting Japan include the following.

Do remember to take your shoes off when entering temples or homes in Japan
Don’t talk loudly when using public transportation
Do carry around any trash until you find a public dustbin in Japan, which can be scarce
Don’t leave a tip in restaurants
Do maintain patience and adhere to rules when in queues
Don’t eat while walking or walk while eating
Do bow slightly when thanking service personnel

What is the best way to travel around Japan?

The best way to travel around Japan is by public trains and Japan Rail, which includes the iconic bullet train – Shinkansen. The train systems are well connected, and provide easy and fast access to most major cities in the country.

Is a 7 day trip to Japan enough?

7 days is considered sufficient time to explore some of the core attractions in the major cities of Japan like Tokyo and Kyoto. However, for deeper exploration and to visit more cities in Japan, a longer trip of 10 to 15 days is recommended.

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