Best in Mar
Japan
Hiroshima
Moderate
From $101 /day
Japan
Japan is a fascinating land where ancient traditions and futuristic technology coexist in a delicate and beautiful balance. You can spend your morning exploring a quiet wooden shrine nestled in a forest and your afternoon navigating the neon-lit streets of a world-leading metropolis. From the serene gardens and temples of Kyoto to the bustling food markets of Osaka, every corner of the country offers a profound sense of craftsmanship and hospitality. Its commitment to safety and punctuality makes it one of the most accessible and rewarding destinations for any traveler. Whether you are seeking spiritual peace in the mountains or high-energy urban adventure, Japan provides a unique sensory experience that stays with you long after you leave.
On This Page
We built this guide using official tourism data, local travel insights, and real pricing from our city guides, so you can plan your trip with confidence.
5 cities
15 guides
$94 – $102 Daily Budget
Quick Facts
Capital
Tokyo
Languages
Japanese
Currency
Japanese yen (JPY)
1 $ ≈ 156 ¥
Plug Type
Type A (two flat pins; some Type B/grounded). Electricity: 100V AC, 50Hz (east) / 60Hz (west)
Driving Side
Left
Dial Code
+81
Entry Requirements
Check requirements →
Time Zone
JST (UTC+9, no daylight saving time)
Emergency
110 (Police), 119 (Ambulance/Fire), 118 (Coast Guard)
Why Visit Japan
Seamless Blend of Eras
Witness the unique harmony of 1,000-year-old temples standing alongside cutting-edge skyscrapers. This juxtaposition of the ancient and the modern is visible in every city, offering a travel experience unlike any other.
World-Class Culinary Scene
From humble street food stalls to high-end Michelin-starred restaurants, the focus on seasonal ingredients and presentation is unparalleled. You can enjoy iconic meals like fresh Sushi or rich Ramen for prices that fit any budget.
Efficient Public Transport
Navigating the country is a breeze thanks to a rail network that is world-renowned for its punctuality and speed. The high-speed Shinkansen trains can whisk you between major cities at speeds of up to 320km/h with total comfort.
Unmatched Safety and Hospitality
Japan is consistently ranked as one of the safest nations globally, allowing for a stress-free travel experience. The local philosophy of Omotenashi ensures that guests are treated with the utmost care and respect everywhere they go.
Spectacular Seasonal Beauty
Whether it is the delicate pink cherry blossoms in the spring or the vibrant red maple leaves in autumn, the landscape undergoes dramatic and beautiful transformations. These natural cycles are celebrated with local festivals and seasonal delicacies.
Top Experiences
Top-rated tours and activities in Japan
Cities & Destinations
Regions
Kanto
Dominated by the sprawling metropolis of Tokyo, this region is the economic and modern heart of the country. It offers a mix of high-end shopping, quirky subculture districts like Akihabara, and historic sites like the Sensō-ji temple.
Kansai
Known as the cultural soul of Japan, Kansai is home to the historic capital of Kyoto and the food-obsessed city of Osaka. Here you can explore thousands of temples, see Geisha in the Gion district, and visit the majestic Himeji Castle.
Chugoku
This western region is home to the moving city of Hiroshima and its Peace Memorial Park. It also features the iconic floating torii gate of Miyajima Island and the beautiful historic canal district of Kurashiki.
Hokkaido
The northernmost island is a haven for nature lovers, offering vast national parks, volcanic landscapes, and world-class ski resorts. It is famous for its fresh seafood and the colorful flower fields of Furano that bloom in the summer.
Kyushu
Located in the southwest, Kyushu is known for its active volcanoes and abundance of natural hot springs, or Onsen. The region features the vibrant city of Fukuoka and the historic port of Nagasaki, reflecting a unique blend of cultural influences.
Cities & Destinations:
Best Time to Visit
The most favorable times to visit are spring and autumn when the weather is mild and the natural scenery is at its most vibrant. Travelers should prepare for high humidity and heat during the summer months and cold, dry conditions in the winter.
Peak Season
Mar, Apr, Oct, Nov
Peak travel occurs during the cherry blossom season (late March–April) and the autumn foliage period (October–November). During these windows, temperatures range from 10–20°C (50–68°F), though popular sites experience significant crowds and accommodation prices increase.
Shoulder Season
May, Jun, Sep
The shoulder season includes late spring and early autumn. While June brings the start of the rainy season, travel is manageable, and the heat of late August begins to subside in September, with average temperatures around 20–26°C (68–79°F).
Off-Peak
Jan, Feb, Jul, Aug, Dec
Winter (January–February) is the quietest time for cities, offering clear skies and cold temperatures around 1–10°C (34–50°F). Mid-summer (July–August) is off-peak for many due to extreme heat and humidity, often exceeding 30°C, except during major festivals or in the northern regions.
Getting Around
Japan possesses one of the world's most efficient and punctual public transport networks, centered on an extensive rail system. Domestic travel is dominated by high-speed trains and comprehensive local transit options in major urban centers.
Train
The Shinkansen (bullet train) connects major cities like Tokyo and Osaka at speeds up to 320km/h, with tickets often costing ~$94–$141 / ¥14,676–¥22,014. Note: Japan Rail Pass is not valid on Nozomi/Mizuho services.
Metro
Major cities like Tokyo, Kyoto, and Osaka have dense subway networks with fares starting at ~$1.41–$1.77 / ¥220–¥275. Digital IC cards like Suica or Pasmo, which can be added to mobile wallets, are the standard for seamless tap-and-go payment nationwide.
Bus
Highway buses offer a budget-friendly alternative for long-distance travel between cities, with overnight options available. Local city buses are common in Kyoto, where the rail network is less dense than in Tokyo.
Flight
Domestic flights are a fast way to reach distant islands like Hokkaido or Okinawa from Tokyo, with several low-cost carriers providing competitive rates for 1–3 hour journeys.
Food & Drink
Japanese food culture is deeply rooted in the concept of Shun, or seasonality, ensuring that ingredients are eaten at their peak flavor. Presentation is considered just as important as taste, with every meal prepared as a work of art.
Must Try
Sushi
Hand-pressed vinegared rice topped with fresh seafood, often served with wasabi and soy sauce. Trying Nigiri at a traditional counter is a quintessential Japanese experience.
Ramen
A hearty wheat noodle soup served in a rich meat or fish-based broth, often flavored with soy sauce or miso. Each region has its own signature style, from creamy Tonkotsu to salty Shio.
Takoyaki
A popular street food from Osaka consisting of battered octopus balls topped with savory sauce, mayonnaise, and bonito flakes. They are best enjoyed hot and fresh from a street stall.
Kaiseki
A traditional multi-course haute cuisine dinner that balances the taste, texture, and appearance of food. It is the ultimate expression of Japanese culinary refinement and hospitality.
Okonomiyaki
A savory pancake filled with cabbage and various toppings like pork, squid, or cheese. You can often cook it yourself on a griddle at your table, especially in Osaka or Hiroshima.
Matcha
Finely ground powder of specially grown and processed green tea leaves used in traditional tea ceremonies. It is also a popular flavor for sweets, ice cream, and modern lattes.
Tonkatsu
A breaded, deep-fried pork cutlet that is incredibly crisp on the outside and juicy on the inside. It is typically served with shredded cabbage, rice, and a thick, savory sauce.
Money & Costs
Travelers should budget approximately ~$100 / ¥15,593 per day for a mid-range experience, covering moderate dining and local transport. While modern and high-tech, certain sectors remain surprisingly reliant on traditional payment methods.
Tipping
Tipping is not practiced and can be considered confusing or even insulting in many contexts. Exceptional service is included in the price, and leaving extra cash at a restaurant may result in a staff member chasing the customer to return it.
Cards
Credit cards are widely accepted in department stores, hotels, and convenience stores, but cash remains necessary for temple entrance fees, small restaurants, and traditional markets.
ATMs
The most reliable ATMs for international cards are found in 7-Eleven (Seven Bank) and Japan Post offices, which typically offer English menus and 24/7 access in urban areas.
Culture & Etiquette
Respect and social harmony are the cornerstones of Japanese society, governed by a set of unspoken rules that ensure smooth daily interactions. Visitors are not expected to be perfect, but showing an effort to follow local customs is highly appreciated.
✓
Remove your shoes when entering someone's home, a traditional inn, or certain areas of temples and restaurants. Look for a raised floor or a shoe rack at the entrance.
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Do not tip at restaurants, bars, or in taxis as it is not part of the culture and can cause confusion or offense. The service is already included in the price.
✓
Use both hands when giving or receiving objects, especially business cards or money. This gesture shows respect and gives full attention to the person you are interacting with.
✕
Do not talk loudly on your mobile phone or have loud conversations while on public transport. Trains and buses are considered quiet spaces for everyone to relax.
✓
Bow slightly when greeting someone or saying thank you. The depth of the bow indicates the level of respect, but a simple nod is often sufficient for tourists.
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Do not eat or drink while walking down the street, as it is seen as impolite. Instead, finish your snack at the stall where you bought it or find a designated seating area.
✓
Carry a small bag for your trash, as public bins can be very difficult to find on the streets. Most locals take their rubbish home to sort and recycle it properly.
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Do not point at people or objects with your fingers or chopsticks. Instead, use your whole hand with the palm facing up to gesture in a general direction.
Safety & Health
Japan is consistently ranked as one of the safest countries globally with a very low crime rate. Most travelers feel comfortable walking alone at night, though standard awareness is still advised in crowded nightlife districts.
Tap Water
Safe to drink
Vaccinations
No vaccines are required for entry for most travelers; yellow fever vaccination is not required. CDC recommends being up to date on routine vaccines; consider Hepatitis A for many travelers and Hepatitis B for unvaccinated travelers, plus Japanese encephalitis for higher-risk itineraries (e.g., rural/long stays).
Common Scams
- ⚠ Bar touts in districts like Roppongi or Kabukicho luring tourists with 'free' drinks only to charge exorbitant hidden fees.
- ⚠ Fake monks dressed in robes asking for donations or 'selling' prayer beads for ~$12–$59 / ¥1,835–¥9,173 in busy tourist areas.
- ⚠ Visit Japan Web phishing apps that look like the official government portal to steal personal and credit card data.
- ⚠ Menu photo scams at certain street stalls where the actual food served is significantly smaller or lower quality than the advertised image.
Healthcare is of an exceptionally high standard but can be expensive for uninsured visitors. It is strongly recommended to purchase travel medical insurance that covers emergency evacuation and hospital stays.
Language
While Japanese is the sole official language, English is commonly used on public transport signage and in major hotels. Communication in more rural areas or traditional shops may require basic phrases or a translation app.
English Spoken: Moderately spoken
Key Phrases
| Meaning | Local | Pronunciation |
|---|---|---|
| Hello | Konnichiwa | kohn-nee-chee-wah |
| Thank you | Arigato gozaimasu | ah-ree-gah-toh go-zai-mass |
| Excuse me / I'm sorry | Sumimasen | soo-mee-mah-sen |
| Please | Onegaishimasu | oh-neh-guy-shee-mass |
| How much is this? | Kore wa ikura desu ka? | koh-reh wah ee-koo-rah dess kah |
| Where is the toilet? | Toire wa doko desu ka? | toy-reh wah doh-koh dess kah |
| Yes | Hai | high |
| No | Iie | ee-eh |
Visa & Entry
Visit Japan Web is an online service to complete arrival procedures (immigration, customs) and tax-free shopping registration. Paper forms (e.g., customs declaration) are still available/accepted.
Max Stay
Most visa-exempt short-term stays are up to 90 days per entry (some nationalities may be granted 15, 30, or 180 days)
Passport Validity
Passport must be valid for the duration of your stay
Visa-free for
Japan has reciprocal visa-exemption arrangements for short-term stays with 74 countries/regions (includes USA, UK, Canada, Australia, EU members, Singapore, South Korea)
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Japan safe for solo travelers?
How expensive is Japan for tourists?
When is the best time to visit Japan?
Do I need a visa for Japan?
Is English widely spoken in Japan?
What food should I try in Japan?
How do I get around Japan efficiently?
Can I drink tap water in Japan?
Is Japan a cash-based society?
Why you can trust this guide
Jan Křenek
35+ countries • 8 years analyzing travel data
Independent developer and travel data analyst based in Prague. 35+ countries visited across Europe and Asia, 8+ years analyzing flight routes, accommodation prices, and seasonal weather patterns.
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