{"id":502446,"date":"2026-10-05T10:52:10","date_gmt":"2026-10-05T10:52:10","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.akbartravels.com\/in\/blogs\/?p=502446"},"modified":"2026-10-05T10:52:54","modified_gmt":"2026-10-05T10:52:54","slug":"things-to-know-before-your-first-trip-to-japan","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.akbartravels.com\/in\/blogs\/things-to-know-before-your-first-trip-to-japan\/","title":{"rendered":"Things to Know Before Your First Trip to Japan"},"content":{"rendered":"\n

Statistics suggest that more than 230,000 Indian travellers took a trip to Japan during the first half of 2026 indicating a 21.7% year-on-year increase.<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n

There is something special about exploring a place like Japan. You step foot in the country feeling equal parts excitement, intrigue, and intimidation, and at the same time you feel energized and ready to roll. As fascinating as it is, you cannot help but feel overwhelmed with the attractions, cities, culture, food and people. Your first trip to Japan is bound to be a roller coaster of emotions in a good way. And very few other countries match that first experience.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

If you are travelling to Japan for the first time, aside from technical documentation, there are a host of other travel and navigation aspects that you need to pay attention to. More so, if you are looking for certain specific experiences in the country, such as catching the cherry blossoms or visiting Mt. Fuji.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

This Japan travel guide is for everyone who wishes to travel to the Land of the Rising Sun this season. Before you book cheap flights to Tokyo<\/a> on popular flight comparison tools for Indian travellers,<\/em> here is everything you need to know.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

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Japan Visa For Indians<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n
\"Close<\/a>
Close up view of Japan Visa stamp on passport
Image courtesy: SNEHIT PHOTO\/Shutterstock<\/a><\/em><\/strong><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

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The very first document you need to get sorted before planning a trip to Japan is your Japan visa<\/a>. To tour the country you need a standard Japan tourist visa, the validity of which is typically for 90 days. The period of stay that your visa allows will depend on the embassy you apply at.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The processing time for a Japan visa is typically 4 to 5 days. However, it may take longer during peak seasons, or in cases where the embassy requires further information. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

To apply for your Japan visa, all you need to do is file the application at VFS Japan – the official visa application centre for the Japan Embassy in India. They can book an appointment for an interview at the Japanese Embassy <\/em>for you.
You can also apply through a travel agency that provides reliable online visa services for 180+ countries<\/a>. Submit the required documents along with your application and wait for approval.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Be sure to check Japan tourism laws and regulations too for any other important documents you need to carry before booking Japan tour packages<\/a>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

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Also Read:\u00a0Japan Autumn Festival Guide: Best Festivals and Travel Tips<\/a><\/strong><\/h4>\n\n\n\n

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The Best Time to Visit Japan<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n
\"Katsuo-ji<\/a>
Katsuo-ji temple in autumn in Osaka, Japan
Image courtesy: Blanscape\/Shutterstock<\/a><\/em><\/strong><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

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Spring time is one of the most popular seasons in Japan owing to the famous cherry blossoms. However, it is also one of the busiest times in the country. If viewing the iconic blooms is a top priority on your Japan bucketlist, then early April to early May would be the best time to visit Japan.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Timing your visit a little early in March, will let you experience other little delights like the Ume-plum blossoms. Cities like Tokyo and Kyoto can get slightly chilly during this shoulder season. Yet, if a peaceful and quieter escape is on your mind, then early March would be the best time to visit Japan.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Fall and summer seasons are fairly popular in the country. While fall brings stunning foliage and cozy ambiences, summer makes the countrysides and temples look straight out of a painting. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Winter, on the other hand, is a paradise for lovers of a classic winter wonderland. Between November and February, the major cities as well as the Japanese Alps often get drenched in snow, while also prepping for the holidays with Christmas lights and other decorations. Between shopping at the holiday markets and watching snow monkeys bathe themselves in the hot springs<\/a>, it will be a delight to explore the country. Besides, the prices are relatively lower during this time, and there are fewer tourists in the country.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

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Cheapest Time to Visit Japan<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

While spring is the best time to travel to Japan weather-wise, it can get quite crowded and expensive, as the prices of accommodation and flights during this can shoot up. Furthermore, you may experience a shortage of availability.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Considering the costs, the cheapest time to visit Japan would be during winter, as it is considered low season. Airlines also often release holiday discounts between November and January, making it possible for you to score amazing deals on your trip to Japan.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

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Things to See in Japan When Visiting for the First Time<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

When travelling to Japan for the first time, it is easy to get overwhelmed with the sheer number of cities, attractions, and landmarks to cover. Going through videos and reels highlighting the \u201cbest places to visit in Japan\u201d hardly helps you make a checklist. To narrow down your options and create a practical itinerary that works for you, it is essential to put in some thought.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

On your first trip to Japan, consider exploring a mix of iconic cities and attractions as well as some quaint and tasteful hidden gems in Japan<\/a>. Some of the less-frequented corners in the country can bring you closer to its soul and maybe even give you some core memories to cherish<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Here are some important places to visit and things to see in Japan when travelling for the first time.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

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Also Read:\u00a0Complete Japan Visa Guide For Indians Before You Apply\u00a0<\/a><\/strong><\/h4>\n\n\n\n

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Tokyo<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n
\"Cityscape<\/a>
Cityscape of Tokyo, Japan
Image courtesy: Sean Pavone\/Shutterstock<\/a><\/em><\/strong><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

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Consider spending a good 3 to 4 days in the capital city. While you do, try to book your accommodation at any of the best hotels in Tokyo<\/a> across different neighborhoods, so that you can feel the dynamic energy of the city. Shinjuku, Shibuya and Asakusa are some of the most popular places travellers stay in when touring Tokyo.
Soak up the busy streets, the lights, the lingering smell of sushi and tempura and the famous landmarks you\u2019ve been saving to your phone\u2019s gallery since you started planning.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Here\u2019s what not to miss in Tokyo:<\/p>\n\n\n\n