- Decide when to go to Japan
Japan is truly a year-round destination. Each season brings its own spectacle, from cherry blossoms in spring and festivals in summer, to beautiful foliage in autumn and spectacular skiing in winter. Every time you visit, you will find something you will enjoy. The best time of year to visit Japan depends on your climate and demographic preferences, as well as your favorite experiences.
Where to go: The best places in Japan
Japan offers a remarkable number of places to choose from and an incredible number of things to do in each of them.
If you're looking for inspiration, check out our sample two weekend trips and more of Japan's unique and immersive travel examples. 3. A unique Japanese experience
Visiting Japan is an opportunity to have a unique and unforgettable experience. In fact there are many that fit into one trip.
You'll find inspiration in some of our best recommended experiences below. For more ideas, check out our article on 25 Japan Experiences to Add to Your Bucket List.4. Venture outside the big city
When we think of Japan, the first places that come to mind are probably the big cities of Tokyo, Kyoto and Osaka. These are amazing places to visit, but that's not all the city has to offer. To understand Japan better, try to find out some of the other places that are not so good, especially if it is not your first trip. Not only will you escape the crowds, but you'll also experience some of Japan's true and memorable culture.
- Spend a night in a Ryokan
A ryokan is a traditional Japanese inn, and we strongly recommend staying a night or two at a time during your trip. A ryokan is very different from ordinary hotels and is a quintessential Japanese experience. The majority are located in the countryside, providing ample opportunities to relax, recharge and enjoy the best of Japanese hospitality. In a small room with tatami mats, yukata robes, kaiseki cuisine, an onsen bath and futon bedding, you'll have an experience like no other!
To get the full view, take a tour of the ryokan. 6. Get a good rest in the onsen
Japan's hot spring resorts offer the ultimate in fun and relaxation. Whether you choose a historic indoor bathhouse or an outdoor hideaway surrounded by natural beauty, they offer a unique cultural experience that you won't find anywhere else.We have more information about the onsen experience and ryokan tourism mentioned above, but here are some tips to keep in mind:
Wash thoroughly before entering the onsen itself, to keep the sparkling water clean. Keep towels, toiletries, and clothes (everything but yourself!) out of the water.
Don't stay in hot water for too long if you don't know it - and be careful when you get out. High temperatures can cause headaches.
. Most high-end ryokan have private bathrooms attached to rooms, while others offer rentals by the hour. Stay in a Buddhist temple
For more escape from everyday life, a spiritual retreat at a Buddhist temple is the ideal solution.
Visitors can experience Buddhist life by staying in a shukubo (temple residence), where you can participate in morning prayers, meditation classes, and traditional Buddhist vegetarian meals. Some stays will also allow you to engage in activities around the temple in the form of active meditation.
One of the best places to see temple life is the mysterious Mount Koya. Home to more than 100 Buddhist temples and the otherworldly Okunoin Cemetery, it is one of Japan's holiest places and the perfect place to immerse yourself in Zen.One of the best places to see temple life is the mysterious Mount Koya. Home to more than 100 Buddhist temples and the otherworldly Okunoin Cemetery, it is one of Japan's holiest places and the perfect place to immerse yourself in Zen. 8. Go to a Matsuri (festival)
Japanese Matsuri (festivals) are very exciting. Rich in tradition and full of color and energy, they reflect the city at its most vibrant and alive.
Going to a festival during your trip will be an unforgettable experience: the opportunity to taste good food, seasonal street food, witnessing a unique culture, and immersing yourself in an important part of life the Japanese people.Our list of the best festivals in Japan is a good place to start. Enjoy a football match or a sumo tournament
To get a taste of different aspects of Japanese culture, consider attending a sporting event like baseball or sumo, even if you're not a sports fan. The Sumo Tournament is an all-day event steeped in tradition and held only six times a year. If you can't attend the tournament, you also have the option of attending a sumo show or morning practice. All the details you need can be found in our guide to sumo in Japan.
Baseball is a modern sport. A Japanese version of an American classic, the games are warm and friendly, with enthusiastic fans singing and clapping in unison almost non-stop from the start. to the head. Players often have their own personal fighting game and each team has a special program that includes props such as balloons and small umbrellas. Games take place several days a week during the season, and tickets can be purchased online, at the stadium or in convenience stores.
ten. Go for a walk in the forest
This may seem surprising, but Japan is about 68% forest and 73% mountain, making it easy to escape the noise and heat of the city to spend quality time in nature. . So grab your walking shoes and bento box and go!
In almost every city, you will find beautiful roads that are easily accessible. From rugged mountain peaks – including the iconic Fuji-san – to beautiful beaches, there's something for all levels and interests. Plus, it's a great way to burn calories from all the delicious food you'll be eating!
Departure: prepare for your visit to Japan
Then it's time to prepare for your trip! Here are some key things to consider before you leave home, from essentials like passport and money to packing tips and more.
- Check passport and visa
An important part of any trip abroad!
Your passport must be valid for at least six months from the end of your visit, and two or four blank visa pages are recommended.
Regarding the visa, you may not need one: citizens of these countries can enter Japan without a tourist visa, usually for 90 days. Always check with the Japanese Embassy for the latest information before you travel.
We recommend that you take out comprehensive travel insurance for your trip, to cover the unexpected. 12. Learn some important phrases in Japanese Remember to inform your bank and credit/debit card provider that you will be abroad to ensure that you can use your card while you are away. If you're not sure how much yen to bring, check out our article: Is Japan too expensive?
- Fireworks
Traveling around Japan is much easier if you only have a small bag or carry-on bag, especially if you are visiting different places.
Can't drive? Continue to the Baggage Transfer section below.
Most trains have very little space for luggage, and even on the shinkansen there is no guarantee that you will find room for a large suitcase. In addition, train stations are often overcrowded, making it difficult to travel by train with large bags. You may even find yourself dragging your bags up the stairs if you can't find the elevator or escalator. If possible, limit yourself to
backpacks and rolling wallets - and remember to leave room for souvenirs, because Japan is truly a shopping paradise! Don't forget the important things!
We've already mentioned passports, yen, and weather-appropriate clothing, but there are other important things you don't want to forget:
Few towels and hand sanitizers: Some public toilets in Japan do not have soap, hand towels, or dryers.
Travel adapter: Most Japanese electrical outlets are 2-prong "Type A" (100 volts, 50-60 Hz), so if your device has a different type of adapter, make sure you have one.
Telegram and Whatsapp