THE ULTIMATE GUIDE TO JAPAN

Updated: Jul 3, 2023

Japan is highly developed nation however has kept its traditions. You will find shrines, gardens and temples everywhere amongst skyscrapers in the large cities. Japan is one of the safest countries in the world. It is also on top with technological developments and of course well known for its culture and food. Distinct fashion is another staple. Japanese people are extremely polite, helpful and often curious to interact with foreigners. You will definitely feel welcomed in the country during your travels.

Why Japan? For culture and Mt.Fuji as well as Japanese cuisine
Top Things to see - Tokyo, Mt.Fuji, Osaka, Kyoto, Nara. Many temples and shrines
Best time to visit - Spring or Autumn. Cherry Blossom season is in March. Mt. Fuji can be hiked in July and August
Safety - Japan is very safe
Costs - Japan is somewhere middle price range

I have been to Japan three times (twice in Tokyo and once in Osaka). I have composed an ultimate guide with top tips, important information to help you throughout your travels and top sights to see. I also strongly recommend to immerse yourself in feasting on Japanese cuisine.

FOOD

Japanese food is well known worldwide. Food hygiene level is extremely high so do not worry about feasting on raw meat/fish. Rice, noodles and soy is widely used in Japan.

Some of the most popular dishes include:

Sushi, sashimi
Ramen
Tempura
Takoyaki (grilled octopus)
Okonomiyaki (savoury pancake)
Crepes with icecrean for desert
Matcha tea

TRANSPORTATION

Airport Transport

Tokyo is served by two major airports Narita and Haneida. Both are connected to Tokyo with metro transport system and are very easy to get to.

Using Metro in Tokyo

Metro is the most convenient and cheaperst way to het around in Tokyo. All signs and information is both in Japanese and English. You can buy Single Journey Tickets or buy IC refillable multi trip card (Suica) that can also be used in convenience stores. Single journey prices are usually displayed on the ticket machines or you can buy a ticket for a set fare and once you leave the station go to a ‘Fare Adjustment ticket machine’ where the machine will tell you how much was the exact price for the journey. You will either get a refund or will have to pay the difference. Easiest way to save time is to buy a few cheapest fare tickets and then adjust them when exiting the station. Tickets can be only bough using cash. There are ATMs available everywhere in the city to withdraw cash.

Trains across Japan

Tokyo is well connected with other major cities in Japan with train. There are slow trains and fast trains (bullet trains) that are bit more expensive. You can visit Mt. Fuji, Osaka, Kyoto, Kamakura and other places in Japan by using train. Shinkansen (bullet) is one of the fastest trains in the world and is part of JR card.

Tokyo - Kamakura £7 one way
Tokyo - Osaka 2h 27m £79 one way
Tokyo - Mt. Fuji 2h £20 one way
Tokyo - Kyoto 2h 10m £76 one way
Osaka - Kyoto 15min £3
Osaka - Nara 50min £5

Top tip: You can also buy unlimited Japan Rail (JR) Pass for 7 days for £200.

USEFUL INFORMATION

Cards are widely accepted in Tokyo and major cities except for metro where you will need cash. In more rural areas you will need cash
It is useful to download offline translation app for Japanese. Some locals speak English but in general many people do not
Tax is not included in the price (same as in the USA)
Japan uses the same plus as USA
Japanese people usually use both hands when give or receive (e.g. items or cash). They also bow when thanking. Using feet to kick things is considered rude.
Most restaurants and cafes will provide you with only chopsticks
Tipping is considered rude in Japan
Public restrooms are available at all metro stations free of charge
Best time to visit Japan is either spring or autumn. For cherry blossom season March is the best. Winter is the bedt season for Mt. Fuji unless you want to hike it. You can do it in July and August.

7 day Itinerary

DAY 1 | Arrive in Tokyo, evening in Shibuya

DAY 2 | Shinjuku, Gyoen, Meiji Jingu, Harajuku, Roppongi, Tokyo Tower

DAY 3 | Taukiji Fish Market, Ginza, Sensoji, Imperial Palace

DAY 4 | Kamakura

DAY 5 | Fuji day trip

DAY 6 | Train to Osaka 2.5 hrs

DAY 7 | Osaka

DAY 8 | Day in Kyoto

DAY 9 | Day in Nara

DAY 10 | Return to Tokyo

Top sights to see in Tokyo:

Sinjuku area - robot shop, bars, cafes
Kabukicho red district
Gyoen National Garden
Shibuya - for the famous Scramble crossing
Harajuku -another traditional area filled with shops and animal cafes
Meiji Jingu - temple in the forest
Sensoji - Buddhist Temple
Ginza - for shopping
Roppongi Hills
Tokyo Tower
The Imperial Palace
Tsukiji Outer Fish Market - largest fish market in the world, famous for its early hours Tuna auction