Dressing up as a Geisha girl

Konichiwa! Time to visit Japan?

Japan is one of those places that just sticks with you – the first time you see Mount Fuji peeking through the clouds, or the buzz of Tokyo’s streets at night, or that bowl of ramen so good you’d fly halfway across the world for it again. Travelling here is like stepping into another world – one where ancient temples sit next to gaming arcades, and your train leaves exactly when it’s supposed to.

I’ve explored Japan’s big-hitting cities, found quiet corners in the countryside, soaked in hot springs, and eaten more convenience store onigiri than I can count. Whether you’re here for the food, the festivals, the culture, or all of it at once, these guides and tips will help you make the most of your trip.

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Visiting Japan

The first time I visited Japan I went for six weeks in winter. The next was two weeks in December and then the third, 10 days in January. I need to go in summer!

Based on these adventures I’ve written the perfect guide to spending three weeks in Japan, plus a few things you really need to know about Japan before you go.

One of the absolute highlights of my trips was my Koyasan temple stay. And don’t forget that Japan loves a festival. How about checking out the Otaru Light Path Festival, or the Dosojin Festival while you’re there?

BEST FOOD IN Japan
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Accommodation in Japan

Your day to day will feel very different in Japan, starting and ending with where you sleep. There are just so many cool options for you to try – from love hotels , to capsule hotels, ryokans, temples and more. Just try these unique accommodations for size…

Day trips in Japan

Japan is packed with incredible day trip options, whether you’re based in a buzzing city or a quiet coastal town.

From Tokyo, you can hop on a bullet train to see Mount Fuji, soak in Hakone’s hot springs, or wander the temples of Kamakura. Kyoto has its own gems within easy reach, like the deer-filled parks of Nara or the tea fields of Uji.

Even smaller cities have quick escapes to mountains, beaches, and historic towns. With Japan’s fast, reliable trains, you can pack in a lot without the hassle of changing hotels – perfect for adding variety to your trip.

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Top tips for travelling to Japan

  • Get a JR Pass (and plan to use it!)
    If you’re travelling between cities, a Japan Rail Pass can save you a small fortune. Order it before you arrive and plan your itinerary to get maximum value out of those speedy Shinkansen rides.
  • Carry cash – Japan is still surprisingly cash-reliant
    While card use is growing, many small restaurants, markets, and rural spots are cash-only. ATMs in convenience stores like 7-Eleven are foreign-card friendly.
  • Learn a few handy Japanese phrases
    Even basic greetings like konnichiwa (hello) and arigatou (thank you) go a long way in showing respect and breaking the ice.
  • Pack light – luggage space is limited
    Trains, hotels, and streets can be tight on space. Travelling with a smaller suitcase or backpack will save you from dragging a giant case up endless station stairs.
  • Respect local etiquette
    No eating while walking, keep your voice down on public transport, and always remove shoes when required.
  • Use luggage forwarding services
    Takuhaibin (baggage delivery) is a lifesaver if you’ve overpacked – send your bag ahead to your next hotel and travel hands-free.
  • Book popular attractions in advance
    Ghibli Museum, teamLab Borderless, and certain sumo tournaments sell out quickly. Reserve as early as possible to avoid disappointment.
  • Try convenience store food
    Lawson, FamilyMart, and 7-Eleven are culinary wonderlands – fresh onigiri, bento boxes, and iced coffee for a few hundred yen.
  • Get a Suica or Pasmo card
    These rechargeable IC cards make train, subway, and even vending machine purchases effortless. You can top them up at any station.
  • Embrace the bath culture
    Visiting an onsen (hot spring) is a uniquely Japanese experience – just remember to wash before entering and leave swimwear at home.