20 Helpful Things to Know When Travelling to Japan

If you’re planning a trip to Japan, there are several things to know when travelling to Japan that will make your experience smoother and more enjoyable. Having travelled to Japan four times, I’m still learning tips I wish I had known on my first visit. These insights could have saved me time and money, and allowed me to experience even more of what Japan has to offer. In this post, I’ll share everything you need to know — from the best places to visit, to booking tips for tours and activities, plus practical advice to make your Japan adventure unforgettable.

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20 Things To Know Before Your Trip to Japan

Visa

Japan travel requirements are constantly changing over the years and it’s always important to check if you need a visa to enter the country. From April 2023, tourists from these 69 countries are exempted from obtaining a visa before a trip to Japan. Visitors from these countries can stay in Japan for up to 90 days under the visa waiver agreement (with some exceptions). For more information about entering, leaving, and staying in Japan refer to this website.

Book Attractions in Advance

This might seem obvious, but you’d be surprised how often it’s overlooked. Popular attractions in Japan can get extremely crowded very quickly. Some of the most in-demand destinations include Universal Studios Japan, Tokyo DisneySea, Tokyo Disneyland, and Shibuya Sky. Many travelers assume they can simply buy tickets at the entrance, but in reality, this is often impossible or highly time-consuming due to both domestic tourism and international visitors. To save time and avoid disappointment, it’s best to book tickets in advance whenever possible.

Recommended Bookings for Attractions

Make Restaurant Reservations in Advance

If you’re a foodie planning to visit Japan, booking tables 1 to 3 months in advance is highly recommended, especially for Michelin-starred restaurants or highly popular spots. Doing so helps you avoid long waits—or worse, missing out entirely.

Many Japanese restaurants prefer reservations to be made through restaurant booking services, hotel concierges, or regular Japanese patrons. This is because last-minute cancellations or no-shows can significantly affect small establishments, some of which may only seat 10–20 guests at a time.

Tips for Overcoming Language Barriers

1. Visit in person: You can try reserving a table by visiting the restaurant a day or two before your desired date. If you’re concerned about language, use a translation app like Papago to help communicate your request. This works best during quieter periods, such as before dinner or early evening. However, some restaurants may decline reservations from unknown patrons.
2. Hotel concierge: A concierge at a mid-range or luxury hotel can help make reservations, bridge the language gap, and communicate your preferences clearly to the restaurant. Make sure you’re speaking to the concierge specifically, not just the front desk staff.
3. Online booking services: Many restaurants now have websites with reservation options. Always check cancellation policies carefully before booking, as some places have strict no-show fees. Popular services include TableCheck and OpenTable Japan .

Save Money on Transportation

Save money on transport by purchasing a train pass in advance for your travel across Japan. Many transport operators offer discounted fares and special passes exclusively for foreign tourists. Before buying a pass, plan which cities you’ll be visiting to choose the most suitable option. For trips longer than a week, a JR Pass is usually worth it. You can use a JR Pass calculator to estimate if the pass will save you money compared to buying individual tickets.

Popular Japan Passes to Consider

Tohoku Area

The JR East Tohoku Area Pass provides unlimited travel on Shinkansen and other trains, from Tokyo to Japan’s northeastern region of Tohoku, for five consecutive days. If you plan on visiting Matsushima, Yamadera, and Ginzan Onsen, this pass is the perfect option to explore these local attractions.

Osaka or Kyoto Area

The Kansai Wide Area Excursion Pass offers unlimited rides on JR West lines for three consecutive days for express trains or Shinkansen. This pass for example allows you to explore sights including Himeji Castle, Kinosaki Onsen, and Universal Studios Japan.

The Kansan Thru Pass provides unlimited travel around Kyoto and Osaka for 2 or 3 days. It covers more than 30 private buses and train lines, including Hankyu, Keihan, Kyoto Municipal Subway, Osaka Metro lines, and many of the major sightseeing areas. An additional benefit is that it offers discounts for about 350 tourist facilities around the Kansai region.

Tokyo Area

The Tokyo Subway Pass is perfect for travelling around Tokyo on the Toei Subway and Tokyo Metro lines for 1 to 3 days. This is a great alternative or additional that can complement the Japan Rail Pass. For example, you can use the Tokyo Subway Pass for unlimited travel for 24, 48, or 72 hours at a discount in Tokyo. This means you don’t need to use the JR Pass and Tokyo and you can save it for travelling to and within other cities outside of Tokyo.

Kyushu Area

The JR Kyushu Rail Pass provides unlimited travel around Japan’s southwestern island of Kyushu for 3 or 5 days.

All Japan – Japan Rail Pass (JR Pass)

The JR Pass covers unlimited rides on JR train lines and most Shinkansen (bullet trains). Whilst the JR Pass doesn’t cover Nozomi Shinkansen – the fastest in the country. The JR Pass is a great option for travellers planning on travelling to different prefectures and cities across Japan. I recommend planning out your travel route across Japan in Google Maps to see the cost of the individual train trips to see if it is worth buying the JR Pass. There are also different durations of JR Passes to choose from including, 7, 14 to 21 days.

How can I order a Japan Rail Pass?

Make sure you order the Japan Rail Pass before you travel to Japan online. It will be posted to your home address and include an exchange voucher for you to exchange the JR Pass when you arrive in Japan. You do have the option of buying the JR pass in Japan however it will be more expensive. If you order your JR Pass through Klook you’ll receive instant confirmation and they’ll post it to your home address after payment is processed. They’ll also provide you with detailed instructions on how you use and access the JR pass in Japan.

Don’t just Rely on Trains

Did you know that you don’t have to rely on just trains to travel in Japan? Japan also has efficient and affordable buses that you can take to travel to different cities. For example, to cut costs you can try overnight buses for intercity travel to save money on accommodation overnight. Many of the bus companies in Japan can be booked online at kosokubus.com. After your payment is confirmed you’ll receive instant confirmation and a confirmation email. Just this confirmation email on your mobile to the driver. Alternatively, Klook offers overnight bus options if you’re travelling to and from the cities of Tokyo, Osaka, or Kyoto.

Night Bus from Tokyo to Osaka or Kyoto: Travel in an overnight bus to Osaka or Kyoto from Tokyo to save time and money on your trip.

Night Bus from Osaka to Tokyo: If you’re on a budget travel from Osaka to Tokyo in an overnight express bus rather than travelling via train.

There are a variety of overnight bus routes that can save you on a night’s accommodation in Japan. Another great thing about the buses in Japan is that they are cozy, clean, and quiet, with reclining seats and a pull-over head to block out light.

Don’t Overpack Your Itinerary & Visit Beyond the Golden Route

It’s easy to cram too much into a Japan trip, especially if you’re sticking to Tokyo, Kyoto, and Osaka—the Golden Route. One of the most overlooked things to know when travelling to Japan is to leave room for flexibility and explore beyond the main cities. Consider venturing to Kyushu, Hokkaido, or other less crowded regions. Planning your trip with a balance of popular sites and hidden gems will give you a richer experience. For a stress-free plan, download my three-week Japan travel itinerary to see how I organised my trip efficiently.

Stay Connected in Japan

One of the most important things to know when travelling to Japan is how to stay connected. Options include purchasing a local SIM card, using an eSIM, or renting a portable WiFi pocket. eSIMs are convenient for instant activation without swapping physical SIM cards, while portable WiFi devices allow multiple devices to connect at once—great for groups. Make sure to check coverage and data limits before choosing a plan, especially if you plan to explore rural areas. Staying connected will help you navigate, translate, and stay in touch with friends and family seamlessly.

Tax-Free Shopping in Japan

Another key tip for travellers is taking advantage of Japan’s tax-free shopping. Many department stores, electronics shops, and souvenir stores offer tax-free purchases for foreign visitors with a valid passport. Look for the “Tax-Free” signs at checkout and be aware that some stores require a minimum purchase amount. You can read about Japan’s tax exemption program here.

Whether or not you’re planning to shop in Japan it’s a good idea to always carry your passport so you can claim tax. This is one of the simple things to know when travelling to Japan that can save you money, especially if you’re shopping for electronics, cosmetics, or fashion.

Fill in Immigration Procedure Forms on Visit Japan

Before arriving in Japan, make sure to complete your immigration procedure forms accurately. These typically include the immigration card and customs declaration forms. Filling them out beforehand, when possible, speeds up your arrival process and ensures compliance with Japanese regulations. You’ll need to have information of your flight, passport and a valid email to register for the immigration procedure forms. This is one of the essential things to know when travelling to Japan for a smooth entry experience.

Research Your Dates

When planning a trip to Japan, it’s important to research your travel dates carefully to avoid peak crowds or inflated prices. Japan has a few high-season periods that draw both domestic and international tourists, so knowing these times can help you plan better.

Peak Travel Seasons in Japan

• Spring (March to May) – Known for cherry blossom season, spring offers mild weather and stunning sakura views. Popular spots fill up quickly, so expect larger crowds and higher prices.
• Autumn (September to November) – Famous for fall foliage, this season is another favourite for travellers seeking beautiful landscapes and pleasant temperatures.

Specific High-Crowd Periods

• National Holidays & Long Weekends – Japanese locals often travel during Golden Week (late April to early May) or other long weekends, so flights, trains, and accommodations can be booked out well in advance.
• Obon (August) – A traditional holiday period when many people return to their hometowns or travel domestically. Expect busy transport hubs and higher hotel rates.
• New Year (Late December to Early January) – Many locals take this time off, and popular temples, shrines, and tourist attractions can get crowded.
• Cherry Blossom Season (March to May) – As mentioned, this is a highlight for spring visitors. Popular hanami (cherry blossom viewing) spots can be extremely busy, so booking accommodation early is essential.

Lesser-Crowded Months & Travel Tips

If you want to avoid the crowds and enjoy a more relaxed experience, consider travelling:

• June (early summer) – Before the peak holiday season, although it’s the start of the rainy season in some areas. I visited during Kyushu and Kyoto in summer and got to explore Japan with lesser crowds.
• Late November to early December – After autumn foliage season, when attractions are quieter and hotel rates drop.
• January to February – Winter can be cold, but it’s a quieter time for sightseeing and snow festivals.

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Luggage Services & Accessibility Features

Japan makes travel easier with luggage delivery services, also known as takuhaibin or yamato transport, which allow you to send your bags between airports, hotels, and train stations. This is especially useful if you’re moving between cities with public transport, as it lets you travel hands-free without hauling heavy suitcases on crowded trains or buses. Most major hotels can arrange luggage delivery for you, or you can drop off your bags at convenience stores like 7-Eleven, Lawson, or FamilyMart that partner with these services. You can even schedule same-day or next-day delivery depending on your route.

For smoother navigation during your trip, especially if you have mobility limitations or are travelling with large luggage, use the ‘wheelchair accessible‘ feature on Google Maps. These show step-free routes, elevators, ramps, and other accessible options to make your journey more comfortable. This is helpful when you’re in the station with luggage and you want to avoid the stairs.

Transportation Cards in Japan

Rechargeable IC cards such as Suica, Pasmo, or Icoca are essential tools for navigating Japan efficiently. These cards can be used on trains, buses, and even for small purchases at convenience stores, vending machines, and some cafes. They save time, reduce the hassle of buying individual tickets, and can even be refunded before you leave.

These cards are reloadable cards you can use on JR East trains, subway trains, select bus lines as well as make purchases at vending machines and select restaurants and stores. You can purchase a Suica card in advance online. Note that the card requires a 500 yen deposit but you can get this back if you return the card at the end of your trip.

Adding to Apple Wallet

If you have an iPhone or Apple Watch, you can add your IC card to Apple Wallet. This allows you to tap and pay directly with your device, eliminating the need to carry a physical card. It’s especially convenient for frequent city travel and quick stops at convenience stores.

Don’t Forget to Add Experiences

When planning your Japan itinerary, it’s easy to fill your days with sightseeing at the most famous temples, shrines, and city landmarks. But to truly experience Japan, make time for cultural activities and local experiences. Consider joining a tea ceremony, trying a traditional cooking class, attending a summer festival, or visiting a local onsen (hot spring). These experiences offer insight into Japanese culture and leave lasting memories that sightseeing alone can’t provide.

Even if you’re short on time, even one or two unique experiences in a week can make your trip feel more authentic and rewarding. Don’t be afraid to explore smaller towns or neighborhoods off the main tourist routes—they often offer some of the most memorable cultural experiences. Here are some of my personal recommendations for experiences to try:

• Tea Ceremonies: Immerse yourself in the art of Japanese tea in this tea ceremony and Japaneses sweet making experience. Discover traditional tea rituals and savour authentic matcha in a calm, serene environment.
  
• Cooking Classes: Join a hands-on class to learn how to make sushi, ramen, or wagashi (Japanese sweets). For instance, this Japanese sweets making class offers English-friendly lessons perfect for travellers.
  
• Kimono Experiences: Rent a kimono and wander through the streets, temples, or gardens for a truly immersive cultural experience.
  
• Local Markets: Visit bustling food markets like Nishiki Market in Kyoto or Kuromon Ichiba in Osaka to sample fresh street food and pick up unique, local souvenirs.

Booking Your Accommodation

Choosing the right place to stay in Japan can make or break your trip. If you’re moving between cities frequently, book a hotel or Airbnb close to a major train station. Japan involves a lot of walking, and being near transportation hubs helps reduce commute time between attractions and makes day trips easier.

For longer trips, check whether your accommodation has coin laundries or washing facilities—this allows you to pack lighter and wash clothes mid-trip. Many accommodations also offer luggage storage if you plan to move around before check-in or after check-out, which is extremely convenient when hopping between cities.

If budget allows, consider hotels with easy access to convenience stores or supermarkets, as these are handy for snacks, drinks, and last-minute essentials.

Packing for Japan

Packing light is key when travelling in Japan. Bring versatile clothing you can wear on rotation and wash along the way, either in coin laundries or at your accommodation. Japan’s showers often have water filters, and you don’t need to bring your full collection of haircare or skincare products. Often hotels and airbnbs are supplied with skincare and haircare products for you to use.

If you plan to shop while in Japan, pack some extra space or bring vacuum-sealed bags to compress items. Essentials to bring include a universal power adapter, portable charger, and comfortable walking shoes—forget the aesthetic shoes, as Japan involves a lot of walking and stair climbing.

Other helpful items include a small daypack for daily outings, a universal power adaptor, reusable water bottle, and a lightweight rain jacket or umbrella, depending on the season.

Be Aware of Japanese Etiquette

Understanding local etiquette will make your trip smoother and more enjoyable. For instance, Japan doesn’t have many public trash bins, except near convenience stores, vending machines, and train stations. You’ll need to carry your trash with you until you find the appropriate place to dispose of it.

Also, tipping is not part of Japanese culture and can even be seen as rude in some settings. Excellent service is expected as a standard, so instead of tipping, you can show appreciation by saying “arigatou gozaimasu” (thank you).

Other etiquette tips include:

• Remove shoes when entering someone’s home, certain temples, and traditional accommodations like ryokans.
• Respect quietness in public spaces, especially trains and temples.
• Queue patiently for trains, buses, and attractions—lines are organised and orderly.

Being mindful of these customs will help you enjoy Japan respectfully and avoid misunderstandings.

Language Barrier

The language barrier in Japan can vary depending on where you travel. In major cities, you’ll generally find English on signs, menus, and transport information, making it relatively easy to get around. However, in older establishments or more rural areas, English may be limited, and you might encounter some communication challenges.

Don’t worry too much—translation apps can be a lifesaver. I personally recommend Papago (available on the (App Store or Google Play) over Google Translate, as it tends to be more accurate. One of its best features is photo translation: you can import an existing image or take a photo directly in the app, which is especially handy for reading menus at cafés or restaurants.

Money

The currency in Japan is the Japanese Yen (JPY), and it’s a good idea to have cash on hand before you arrive. While major cities and many tourist spots accept cards, cash is essential for local stores, ticket machines, smaller eateries, and older restaurants. If you’re planning to visit rural areas, card acceptance can be very limited.

For the best exchange rates, use ATMs located in convenience stores such as Lawson, 7-Eleven, and Family Mart. These machines typically accept international cards and have consistent rates. Alternatively, using a Wise card can make spending abroad easier and cheaper, allowing you to pay in local currency with minimal fees.

Navigation

For easy navigation use Google Maps and make sure to download the offline maps for Japan. By downloading it for offline use you don’t have to rely on data which makes it handy when you can’t get a stable connection. Google Maps also makes it easy to navigate by showing you directions and public transport routes for the bus and train. It also shows the exact train lines, the cost for each trip, the platforms, and the travel time.

Construction Works

One often-overlooked tip for traveling to Japan is to check whether any attractions on your list are undergoing construction or repairs. For instance, when I visited Hakone, I didn’t realise the iconic Torii gate was under construction due to typhoon damage. To avoid disappointment, make sure to check this website or local announcements for updates on construction at any major attractions so you can plan your visit accordingly.

Frequently Asked Questions About Japan Travel

Is Japan safe for solo female travellers?

Absolutely! I have personally found Japan as one of the safest countries to travel as a solo female traveler. Here are a few reasons why:

1. Accommodation: In Japan, there are female-only accommodations including female-only floors are regular hotels and budget-friendly capsule hotels. Additionally, on subways, there are female-only cars if you’re worried about traveling on the trains.
2. Ease of Getting Around: Getting around Japan is easy and relatively affordable compared to Western countries. The high-speed trains can get you from different ends of the country and to different cities within short timeframes.
3. People: The locals in Japan are some of the nicest people I’ve encountered on my travels. If you’re looking a bit lost don’t be surprised if a local will offer to help you with directions. This one time I was a bit confused about finding the correct train platform and a lovely local helped direct me after seeing me looking a bit lost.

When is the best time to visit Japan?

The best time to visit Japan depends on your personal preferences and circumstances! For example, what is your budget, and what are your interests and preferences for traveling in Japan? What do you want to see in Japan? Would you prefer to experience the country during spring to see the cherry blossoms and warm weather? Or would you prefer to explore Japan during autumn and see the fall foliage? You’ll also need to consider whether the times you want to travel in Japan are peak travel season because the crowds are likely to be high and the prices for flights and accommodations will be elevated. I have personally been to Japan in the summer and winter and had both wonderful times that offer different experiences for exploring the country.

Weather

The most important tip when planning your trip to Japan is to check the weather in the certain area(s) of Japan you’ll be visiting. The weather in Japan changes a lot from area to area and you can get caught off guard if you don’t research and pack appropriate clothing. For example, during summer, Japan can be unbearably humid and hot. You’ll also need to consider the weather events that each season brings and how they may impact any activities or attractions you intend to visit. For example, during the summer, will you be experiencing high rains or typhoons? You’ll need to pack accordingly for these weather events.

Japan’s Seasons

Japan is a great destination to visit all year round and whenever you do visit you’ll get to experience a profound appreciation of its seasonal activities. Below are some highlights of Japan’s seasons throughout the year.

• Spring is well-known for its cherry blossom season and you can expect large crowds from both the locals and foreign tourists.
• Summer is one of the most festive times of the year and is perfect for visitors wanting to hike the mountains or explore the coastal areas of Japan.
• Autumn is another popular and magical time of the year to visit. With its stunning fall foliage and pleasant temperatures.
• Winter is a great time to try the delicious seafood, hot springs as well as snow sports including snowboarding and skiing. I’ve personally been to Japan twice during the winter and I’ve found it was generally less crowded compared to the other seasons. One of the great drawcards of visiting in winter is that you’ll have the highest chance of seeing Mount Fuji due to its crisp air. If you want live updates on Mt Fuji you can check on this website which streams a live camera feed of Mt Fuji from different locations in Japan.

Should I book a local tour in Japan?

This depends on your travel style, booking a local tour offers both pros and cons. I personally love the flexibility and freedom of traveling independently by myself and I don’t mind researching and navigating a place by myself. However, I have done a few local tours in situations where I want to experience the local culture in ways that I wouldn’t be able to organize independently. For example, in Japan booking authentic cooking classes, food tours, bicycle rides or tea ceremonies are cultural activities to try for your trip to Japan. I also love supporting the local economies in the places that I’m visiting.

Recommendations for Local Tours

Local Cooking Classes: Learn how to make authentic local Japanese cuisine at a cooking class in Japan. Try making dishes such as Sushi, Takoyaki, Okonomiyaki, Soba, and more!

Tea Ceremony: Add a traditional tea ceremony experience to your Japan itinerary in Tokyo, Kyoto or Oita.

Food Tours: If you’re a foodie you might want to consider a local food tour throughout the streets of Japan from the local street food or hidden local eateries only a local can show you.

Photo Shoot: If you’re looking to bring some personal souvenirs why not try a photo shoot in Tokyo with a local photographer?

Where Should I Stay in Japan?

I recommend booking your stays on boo Booking.com to find the best deals and many of the hotels offer free cancellations in case your plans change. If you’re traveling on a budget in Japan you should check out hotels on HostelWorld or AirBnB is also another great option to find more local and affordable stays.

Some of my favourite places in Japan are:

• Hotel Chinzanso Tokyo: Beautiful hotel is designed in a traditional Japanese garden with its own pagoda.
• Mt Fuji Hostel (Budget): This hostel in Fujikawaguchiko offers a stunning view of Mt Fuji and offers different room options depending on your budget.
• Mt Fuji Hotel: Experience stunning views of Mount Fuji and Lake Kawaguchi as well as an onsen during your Japan trip.
• Nine Hours Tokyo: Add staying at a capsule hotel to your travel bucket list. If you’re a solo female traveler you can also find a Womens Only Nine Hours branch in Tokyo.

How Long Should I Stay in Japan?

The length of your stay in Japan really depends on your budget, interests, and travel style. Having visited four times myself, I’d recommend first-time travellers spend at least two weeks to fully experience the main cities of Tokyo, Kyoto, and Osaka. If you’re shorter on time, 10 days is enough to hop between the key highlights. But if your schedule and budget allow, three weeks is ideal — giving you the chance to see both the iconic cities and lesser-travelled regions. For fewer crowds and breathtaking scenery, consider exploring Kyushu, a region that often flies under the radar. To save time planning, you can download my detailed three-week Japan itinerary here.

Conclusion

I hope you found this post helpful and that it inspires you for your trip to Japan. Let me know if you have any questions or tips to add in the comment below. If you found this Japan post helpful, make sure to save it or share it.

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