10 Day Japan Itinerary For First Timers
JapanExplore the ultimate 10-day Japan itinerary along the Golden Route, covering top destinations like Tokyo, Kyoto, and Osaka. Perfect…
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Explore Japan
This Japan travel guide will help you plan your next vacation.
Japan Quick Guide
- Currency: Japanese Yen (JPY)
- Language: Japanese
- Emergency Number: 110 (police), 119 (fire/ambulance)
- Tipping: Not customary, sometimes a small gesture for exceptional service
- Fun Fact #1: Japan has more Michelin-starred restaurants than any other country
- Fun Fact #2: Vending machines are everywhere, offering everything from drinks to fresh ramen
- Fun Fact #3: Traditional customs include removing shoes indoors and bowing as a greeting
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Where to Stay in Japan
Japan offers an incredible variety of accommodations, from traditional ryokans with tatami mats and onsen baths to ultra-modern hotels in Tokyo and Kyoto. Whether you prefer minimalist capsule hotels, bustling city centers, or tranquil countryside inns, there’s something to suit every traveler’s style and budget.
Start by planning out where you would like to visit and then search for accommodation in those areas. We use Booking.com for all our hotel stays, many hotels have pay later offers and you can build up your Genius level to get discounts on your stays.
Explore Japan’s Regions
Japanese Accommodations
How to Get Around Japan
Japan’s public transport is world-famous for punctuality and efficiency. The extensive rail network, including the high-speed Shinkansen (bullet trains), connects major cities and regions quickly and comfortably. Urban areas like Tokyo and Osaka offer comprehensive subway and bus systems.
For rural or mountainous regions, local buses and trains are available but less frequent. Rental cars are recommended for exploring remote areas such as Hokkaido’s countryside, the Japanese Alps, and Okinawa’s islands where public transport is limited. Japan also offers convenient prepaid IC cards (like Suica or Pasmo) for hassle-free travel on trains, buses, and even some taxis.
Japan Travel Tips
Must-Visit Places in Japan
- Tokyo – Bustling metropolis with historic temples, skyscrapers, vibrant shopping, and unique neighborhoods like Shibuya and Akihabara
- Kyoto – Ancient capital known for beautiful temples, traditional tea houses, and the iconic Arashiyama Bamboo Grove
- Osaka – Famous for street food, nightlife, and landmarks like Osaka Castle and Universal Studios Japan
- Nara – Home to giant Buddha statues and friendly roaming deer in Nara Park
- Hokkaido – Natural beauty, national parks, and excellent winter skiing
- Hakone – Hot springs and views of Mount Fuji
- Miyajima Island – Renowned for the floating torii gate and Itsukushima Shrine
Stay Connected
Don’t waste time hunting for SIM cards or stressing about roaming. With an eSIM, you can get connected as soon as you land and stay online wherever your adventures take you.
🔗 Check out our guide to the cheapest eSIMs for international travel.
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Japanese Food to Try
Japanese cuisine balances simplicity and elegance with fresh ingredients and seasonality. Here are some must-try dishes from various regions:
- Sushi & Sashimi – Nationwide: Fresh raw fish or seafood served with rice (sushi) or alone (sashimi). Tokyo and coastal cities are prime spots.
- Ramen – Nationwide: Noodle soup with regional variations (tonkotsu, miso, shoyu). Sapporo in Hokkaido is famous for miso ramen.
- Okonomiyaki – Osaka and Hiroshima: Savory pancakes filled with cabbage, meat, seafood, and topped with sauce and mayo.
- Kaiseki – Kyoto: Traditional multi-course haute cuisine showcasing seasonal ingredients and meticulous presentation.
- Takoyaki – Osaka: Octopus-filled fried batter balls, a popular street snack.
- Tempura – Nationwide: Lightly battered and deep-fried seafood or vegetables, best in Tokyo or Kyoto.
Top 5 Things To Bring On Every Trip
- Travel Insurance: Protect yourself against unforeseen events like trip cancellations, medical emergencies, or lost luggage.
- Power Bank: Keep your devices charged on the go, ensuring you stay connected and capture every moment.
- Universal Travel Adapter: A must-have for international travelers to plug in and power up devices in different countries.
- Reusable Water Bottle: Stay hydrated while reducing plastic waste; many destinations have refill stations available.
- Packing Cubes: Organize your luggage efficiently, making it easier to find items and maximize space.
Getting Around Japan
Our tips and tricks for how to navigate around Japan.
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