Planning a Trip to Japan: Everything You Need to Know

Japan is one of the most rewarding countries in the world to travel to. It combines ancient traditions with cutting-edge technology, ultra-efficient transport with deep cultural etiquette, and bustling megacities with serene countryside.

Whether you’re visiting for the first time or returning to explore more deeply, good planning will make your trip smoother, cheaper, and more enjoyable.

This guide covers everything you need to know: when to go, where to visit, how to get around, practical essentials, and the best resources for planning.

Key Information

Currency: Japanese Yen (JPY)
Language: Japanese (English signage and speaking relatively common)
Time Zone: GMT +9 (Japan Standard Time)
Plug Type: Type A (same as the US), Voltage: 100V
Emergency Numbers: Police 110, Ambulance/Fire 119
Driving: Drive on the left (same as UK and Australia)

Entry Requirements

Passport validity requirements

UK passport holders must have a passport valid for the entire duration of their stay. No additional validity period is required. You will need at least one blank page.

Visas

UK citizens can enter Japan visa-free for up to 90 days for tourism or business. No application is required before travel. Always check the latest guidance on the UK Government website before travelling.

Vaccine requirements

There are currently no mandatory vaccines for entry in. Japan. For details about medical entry requirements and recommended vaccinations, see TravelHealthPro’s Japan guide.

Customs rules

Japan has strict customs regulations, particularly around food. It is illegal to bring meat products such as bacon, ham, or sausages into the country without permission from the Japanese Animal Quarantine Service. Penalties can include heavy fines and imprisonment. Whale meat, while available in Japan, is illegal to import into the UK or EU and will be seized by customs officers.

Best Time to Visit

Japan is a year-round destination, but your experience will vary significantly by season.

Spring (March–May): Cherry Blossom Season

Spring, from March to May, is famous for cherry blossom season. Mild temperatures and the brief bloom of sakura make this one of the most beautiful times to visit, particularly in Tokyo, Kyoto, Osaka, and Hiroshima. The downside is that it is extremely busy and often more expensive, especially from late March to early April. Blossom timing varies by region and year, so forecasts are worth monitoring closely.

Summer (June–August): Festivals and Mountains

Summer runs from June to August and is defined by festivals, mountains, and humidity. June is typically rainy, while July and August can be uncomfortably hot in cities. Later summer also marks the start of typhoon season. That said, this is when Japan’s vibrant matsuri take place, and it’s the official climbing season for Mount Fuji.

Autumn (September–November): Fall Colours

Autumn, from September to November, is often considered the best overall time to visit. Temperatures are comfortable, crowds are thinner than spring, and autumn foliage transforms cities and countryside alike. Kyoto, Nikko, and Hakone are particularly stunning at this time of year.

Winter (December–February): Snow and Hot Springs

Winter, from December to February, brings snow, fewer crowds, and excellent food. Hokkaido and Nagano are popular for skiing, while places like Jigokudani offer the iconic sight of snow monkeys bathing in hot springs. Clear skies and crisp air also make winter a surprisingly rewarding time to explore Japan’s cities.

Top Destinations in Japan

Tokyo

A vast, energetic metropolis where tradition and futurism collide. One of the world’s best cities for food, shopping, nightlife, and pop culture.

Must-see and do: Shibuya Crossing, Asakusa and Senso-ji Temple, Meiji Shrine, Tokyo Skytree, teamLab Borderless, Harajuku, Disney resorts. Mario Kart street racing is popular but requires an International Driving Permit.

Kyoto and Nara

Japan’s cultural heart. Kyoto, the former imperial capital, is packed with historic temples and traditional neighbourhoods. Nearby Nara is famous for its temples and free-roaming, bowing deer, making it an easy and rewarding day trip.

Must-see and do: Fushimi Inari Shrine, Kinkaku-ji (Golden Pavilion), Arashiyama Bamboo Grove, Gion district, Kiyomizu-dera, Nara Park and Todai-ji.

Osaka

A bold, friendly city known for its food (takoyaki, okonomiyaki), nightlife, and sense of humour. Osaka is less formal than Tokyo and proudly obsessed with eating well.

Must-see and do: Dotonbori and its neon signs, Osaka Castle, Kuromon Ichiba Market, Shinsekai, Umeda Sky Building.

Hiroshima

A city of peace, resilience, and reflection, rebuilt into a modern and welcoming place with a powerful history.

Must-see and do: Peace Memorial Park, Atomic Bomb Dome, Hiroshima Peace Memorial Museum. Miyajima Island, famous for Itsukushima Shrine and its floating torii gate is a nearby daytrip.

Hakone / Mount Fuji

A scenic escape from Tokyo known for hot springs, lakes, and classic views of Mount Fuji.

Must-see and do: Hakone Open-Air Museum, Lake Ashi boat cruise, Hakone Ropeway, Owakudani volcanic valley. Great for Ryokan stays, onsen bathing, and Fuji views (weather dependent).

Hokkaido

Japan’s northern island, defined by wide open spaces, dramatic seasons, and outstanding food.

Must-see and do: Sapporo (especially the Snow Festival), Furano and Biei flower fields, Niseko skiing, Otaru canal. Great for skiing, snow festivals, seafood, hiking, and escaping crowds.

Himeji

A compact historic city home to Japan’s finest surviving feudal castle. Great as a half-day visit from Osaka, Kyoto, or Hiroshima via Shinkansen.

Must-see and do: Himeji Castle (a UNESCO World Heritage Site).

Kanazawa & Takayama

Two beautifully preserved historic towns offering a quieter, more traditional experience.

Kanazawa – Must-see and do: Kenrokuen Garden, Kanazawa Castle, Nagamachi Samurai District, Omicho Market.

Takayama – Must-see and do: Sanmachi Suji old town, Takayama Jinya, morning markets.

Getting There

Japan is extremely well connected by air. Tokyo is the main gateway, served by Narita (NRT) and Haneda (HND) airports, both of which are easily accessible from the city by rail. Osaka’s Kansai International Airport (KIX) is another major hub.

Japan Airlines (JAL) and ANA are the national carriers, and Japan is also served by many international airlines, including British Airways, Air France, and Qantas from their respective hubs.

Getting Around Japan

Japan’s transport system is one of the best in the world: clean, punctual, and remarkably easy to use once you understand it.

Japan Rail Pass (JR Pass)

One of the most common ways to explore is with a Japan Pass. The Japan Rail Pass allows unlimited travel on JR trains, including most Shinkansen, for 7, 14, or 21 days. Regional versions are also available. It is best suited to long-distance travel across multiple cities. Prices increased significantly in 2023, meaning it is no longer automatically good value, and it’s worth using an online rail pass calculator before buying. As of 2026, a 7-day national pass costs roughly £240–£260, with longer passes increasing accordingly.

There are a wide variety of places to buy including Trainline, Klook, Get Your Gudie and the UK Japanese Tourist agency.

Urban Transport

Urban public transport is excellent. Trains and subways are frequent, signage is clear, and English is widely used in stations and on ticket machines. Navigation apps make independent travel straightforward even for first-time visitors.

Hiring a Car

If you are sticking to major tourist cities, public transport will be more than sufficient. However, if venturing into rural areas, mountains, or remote regions, hiring a car can be useful.

Driving in large cities is not recommended due to traffic, expensive parking, and slower journey times compared to public transport. Many rental companies require an International Driving Permit (IDP), so check and obtain one before travelling.

Japan drives on the left, roads are excellent, and driving standards are high. The country has a network of toll expressways, generally charged based on distance and paid electronically. Most, but not all, road signs are bilingual.

Practical Essentials: What You Need to Know

Money & Payments

Japan uses the yen for all transactions, and it is very unlikely you’ll find anywhere accepting foreign currency. Japan is still surprisingly cash-oriented, although card payments are now widely accepted, particularly in cities.

When paying with cash, you’ll often see a small plastic tray on the counter. Place the cash or card in the tray rather than handing it directly to staff; change will be returned the same way.

ATMs are widely available, particularly at 7-Eleven, Lawson, and Japan Post.

Apps to Download Before You Go

• Google Maps: Excellent for navigation and transport

• Google Translate: Use camera mode for menus and signs

• Japan Travel by Navitime: Detailed train routing

• Suica / Pasmo apps: If using a compatible phone

• HyperDia (or alternatives): Train schedules and costs

Travel Adapters & Power

Japan uses a Type A plug (same as the US) with a voltage of 100V. Most electronics are fine, but hairdryers may struggle. No voltage converter is usually needed for phones and laptops. Many modern hotels also provide USB charging.

Internet & Connectivity

Japan has four main mobile network operators: NTT Docomo, KDDI, SoftBank, and Rakuten Mobile. While they sell local SIMs and eSIMs directly, many travellers find it easier to use third-party providers.

Free Wi-Fi is available but inconsistent, particularly outside cities, so don’t rely on it entirely and use it safely.

Navigation

Getting around is very easy, with excellent signage, especially in cities. Japanese addresses can be confusing, as they are often based on blocks rather than street names, but Google Maps and similar apps work extremely well if you get lost.

Language

English proficiency is limited overall, although it is better in tourist areas and hotels. Japanese people are incredibly helpful, and learning a few basic phrases, even just hello and thank you, is highly appreciated.

Planning Your Itinerary

How Long Do You Need?

For most visitors, Japan is a long-haul destination, so it’s worth making the trip worthwhile. A typical visit lasts two to three weeks, depending on pace and interests.

7 days: Tokyo + Kyoto (via Shinkansen)
10–14 days: Tokyo, Kyoto, Osaka, Hiroshima, day trips
3+ weeks: Add rural regions, Hokkaido, Kyushu, or Okinawa

Accommodation Types

Hotels

Western-style hotels are reliable, clean, and efficient, though rooms are often smaller than in Europe or North America. Business hotels (such as APA, Toyoko Inn, or Super Hotel) offer excellent value in central locations.

Ryokan

Traditional Japanese inns with tatami mats, futon bedding, and often on-site hot springs (onsen). Many include elaborate multi-course kaiseki dinners and breakfasts. Ryokan are a highlight of any trip and well worth experiencing at least once.

Capsule Hotels

A uniquely Japanese experience and fun for a night, particularly in cities. However, they offer limited space, minimal privacy, and are not ideal for longer stays or large luggage.

Apartments

Serviced apartments and short-term rentals are available but more regulated than in Europe. Expect stricter check-in rules and higher costs in popular areas.

Organised tours

Japan is an easy and safe country to explore independently, but organised tours can suit travellers who prefer structure, convenience, or a deeper cultural context.

Popular UK-based operators include:

Wendy Wu Tours – Well-established group tours with strong itineraries
Trailfinders – Excellent for customised trips and flights
Abercrombie & Kent – High-end, luxury-focused experiences

There are also many Japan-based companies offering small-group or private tours once you arrive.

Where to Get Reliable Information

Official & Practical Resources

Japan National Tourism Organisation (JNTO): Official destination guides and seasonal information
Japan Guide: One of the best independent resources for attractions, transport, and cultural tips
Navitime & JR websites: Route planning and rail information

Inspiration & Planning Tools

Travel blogs focused on Japan itineraries
YouTube channels for food, transport, and neighbourhood guides
Reddit (r/JapanTravel) for up-to-date traveller experiences

Etiquette & Culture (“Japan-isms”)

Japan is one of the politest and cleanest societies you are ever likely to visit. It is steeped in culture and tradition, with a strong emphasis on respect.

Public transport is quiet, and phone calls are considered rude. Trains run to the minute, so holding doors open is unacceptable. Eating while walking is frowned upon, bins are scarce, and you are expected to carry your rubbish with you.

Politeness manifests in many ways. People bow rather than shake hands, shoes are removed in homes and some temples and restaurants, and queuing is strictly observed. When paying, use the cash tray rather than handing money directly. Tipping is not practiced and can cause confusion.

Onsens, or hot spring baths, are a popular experience. They are nude, with no swimsuits allowed. If you are uncomfortable, book a private onsen. In rural areas, signage may not be in English, so double-check before entering as they are usually single-sex.

Food & Dining

Many people think Japanese food is just sushi, which couldn’t be further from the truth. The variety of dishes is enormous, from ramen and tempura to okonomiyaki and yakitori. Fish is common, as is beef, though Kobe and Wagyu can be very expensive. Vegetarians may find dining more challenging, as fish stock is widely used.

Ordering tips

Many casual restaurants use vending machines: buy a ticket, hand it to staff, and your meal will appear
Picture menus are common, and many restaurants display realistic plastic models of dishes
Pointing is perfectly acceptable

Convenience Stores

Japanese convenience stores (7-Eleven, Lawson, FamilyMart) are elite-tier. Food quality is high, with fresh meals, snacks, and excellent coffee. Many have microwaves and seating areas.

Large train stations often contain entire food halls with a wide variety of affordable, high-quality restaurants.

Allergies

If you have allergies or dietary restrictions, carry a translated allergy card explaining them clearly in Japanese.

Safety & Health

Japan is very safe, with extremely low levels of serious crime. As with anywhere, basic precautions apply.

Japan is prone to natural disasters including earthquakes, tsunamis, and typhoons. The country is well prepared, and the risk to travellers is low, but pay attention to instructions in hotels and public buildings.

Bring all essential medication with you. Japan’s healthcare system is modern and efficient, but language barriers can make medical issues more challenging.

Where to get help

Most countries have an embassy in Tokyo and consulates in other cities.

The UK has an Embassy in Tokyo and a Consulate-General in Osaka, which can assist with emergency travel documents or serious situations involving illness, injury, crime, or death.

British Embassy
〒102-8381
TokyoNo 1 Ichiban-cho, Chiyoda-ku
Japan

Public access is by appointment only via the UK government website.

British Consulate in Osaka
〒541 – 0059
Osaka3-5-1 Bakuro-machi, Chuo-ku
Japan

As with the Embassy in Tokyo it is by appointment only via the UK government website.

Final Thoughts

Japan rewards thoughtful planning but is also incredibly forgiving once you arrive. Even with limited Japanese language skills, you’ll find the country safe, organised, and welcoming. Whether you’re chasing cherry blossoms, neon-lit cityscapes, or quiet mountain temples, Japan offers depth and variety unlike anywhere else.

Plan well, stay curious, and leave space for the unexpected – some of Japan’s best moments are the ones you don’t plan at all.