Japan: Holiday Planning Guide

Travel to Japan: overview

Places and experiences in Japan

• Tokyo

  Shibuya, Asakusa's Senso-ji and Meiji Shrine.

• Kyoto

  Fushimi Inari, Kinkaku-ji and traditional Gion streets.

• Osaka

  Street food in Dotonbori and Osaka Castle.

• Nara

  Todai-ji temple and free-roaming deer.

• Mount Fuji and Hakone

  Mountain scenery, lakes and hot springs when weather permits.

Planning your Japan trip

• Cherry blossom and autumn are very popular, so plan early for those dates.
• The shinkansen links major cities quickly; compare rail passes with point-to-point tickets for your route.
• Trains and cities are efficient but busy, so pace your days.
• Entry and visa rules depend on your passport and change from time to time, so confirm the current requirements with the official source before you book.

Best time to visit Japan

Spring and autumn are the most popular.

Late March to April

Cherry blossom, with timing varying by year and city.

October to November

Autumn foliage and mild weather.

June to August

Hot and humid, with a rainy season in early summer.

December to February

Cold, with good skiing in northern regions.

Practical information

• The currency is the yen, and cash is still useful in many places.
• Follow etiquette such as quiet on public transport and removing shoes where asked.
• Learning a few basic phrases helps outside major cities.

This is general guidance. Seasons, entry rules and local conditions change, so please confirm details before you travel. We are happy to talk through your plans.

Japan travel questions