In the Land of the Rising Sun, you'll find courteous locals, the best sushi on earth, and breathtaking scenery. But before you book your flight, take some time to learn about the customs, the language, things to do, and the best places to visit in Japan, because this island nation has so much to offer.
Related: Read more about our top travel destinations around the world.
When to Visit Japan
The country's climate creates a uniquely split travel season. Summer and winter are considered "off-peak" travel times, while spring and fall are considered good times to visit Japan.
Japan sees its best weather and largest crowds in spring and fall. The famous cherry blossom season takes place in spring, but fall is also beautiful, with cooler temps, leaves changing colors, and plenty of outdoor activities.
Pro Tip: If visiting during peak times, book your accommodations well in advance.
Winters tend to be cold, with snowy mountains good for skiing and snowboarding, fewer tourists, cheaper accommodations, and more restaurant availability. It’s also a great time to visit the Japanese hot springs (onsens).
Summers are hot and the high humidity makes it feel even hotter. Still, there are plenty of activities available – including climbing Mt. Fuji, which is only open from May to September.
No matter the time of year, returning to the USA can be a breeze if you have Global Entry clearance.
Essential Japan Travel Tips
International travel always has unknowns. If it’s your first time, read up on traveling abroad. Here are a few important Japanese travel tips:
- Language: Learn some Japanese. Your effort will delight locals and vendors. Google Translate can help with the rest.
- Transportation: The train system in Japan is considered the best in the world. The bullet trains whisk you across the country at 200mph, and localized trains and subways cover most cities. Cabs and buses are available for more remote travel.
- Cash vs. Card: Mastercard is accepted by most merchants, but many small shops are cash-only. Use the ATM at 7-Eleven stores; they usually don’t add fees.
- Courtesy: Japanese culture is deeply rooted in courtesy. Politeness and cleanliness are highly valued traits when visiting.
Must-See Destinations in Japan
Japan stretches over 2,300 miles and contains many amazing places, including endless things to do in Tokyo, the country’s capital and the largest city in the world.
A mix of modern and traditional, Tokyo has so much to offer that you could spend your entire vacation in this city. Time it right, and you can even catch a sumo tournament.
Kyoto was the capital of Japan for over 1,000 years. Steeped in history, culture, and natural beauty, this city will immerse you in art and gardens. Seeking authenticity? Try staying in a Ryokan – a traditional Japanese inn. Hakone, situated in the Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park along Lake Ashinoko, offers some of the best views of Mt. Fuji and is known for its Onsen hot springs.
Packing Essentials When Traveling to Japan
- Plan for the weather. Japan doesn’t have wild fluctuations, but you don’t want to get caught in the rain or snow without proper attire.
- Wear and bring comfortable, supportive shoes that are good for walking and easy to take off when you enter a place that requires it.
- Pack light. Bringing luggage on bullet trains can be as tricky as on an airplane; keep it as compact as possible for less hassle. Choose clothes that can be mixed and matched to create new outfits.
Planning where to go in Japan starts with what you want to do there. From the mountains to the sea, small villages to Tokyo with its 37 million residents, there truly is something for everyone.
