i want to travel to japan essay

Essay Service Examples Geography Japan

Essay on Why I Want to Visit Japan

Proper editing and formatting
Free revision, title page, and bibliography
Flexible prices and money-back guarantee

Our writers will provide you with an essay sample written from scratch: any topic, any deadline, any instructions.

Cite this paper

Join our 150k of happy users

Get original paper written according to your instructions
Save time for what matters most

Fair Use Policy

EduBirdie considers academic integrity to be the essential part of the learning process and does not support any violation of the academic standards. Should you have any questions regarding our Fair Use Policy or become aware of any violations, please do not hesitate to contact us via [email protected].

We are here 24/7 to write your paper in as fast as 3 hours.

Provide your email, and we'll send you this sample!

By providing your email, you agree to our Terms & Conditions and Privacy Policy .

Say goodbye to copy-pasting!

Get custom-crafted papers for you.

Enter your email, and we'll promptly send you the full essay. No need to copy piece by piece. It's in your inbox!

Essays About Japan: Top 5 Examples and 5 Prompts

Japan is a beautiful country famous for its lush landscape, delicious food, and well-mannered people. Here are some examples of essays about Japan.

A developed country in Asia known as the “land of the rising sun,” Japan has become a hot commodity for tourism and business. Japan is truly a sight to behold, from its beautiful cherry blossoms, efficient public transportation system, and delicious food.

Japan’s rich history has allowed it to develop into one of the most advanced nations in the world, and its technology is renowned worldwide. Moreover, its people are known for their discipline, hard work, and resilience, even in the face of severe natural disasters. Japan is, without a doubt, a country worth visiting.

If you want to write essays about Japan, here are our best essay examples and writing prompts to help you begin.

1. What Japan Taught Me About Life by Beth Louise

2. japan experience: reflection on japanese culture by rayan elhafiz abdalla, 3. what i learned about design from travel in japan by teo yu siang.

4. The best time to visit Japan by Pat Kay

5. A Day Trip To Kobe by David Swanson

5 prompts for essays about japan, 1. what does japan mean to you , 2. misogyny in japanese society, 3. why visit japan, 4. japan’s history, 5. living in japan: what’s it like.

IMAGE	PRODUCT
	Grammarly
	ProWritingAid

“In fact, there’s so much to see and do that it feels like a lifetime of exploring would never uncover all that’s on offer. It’s also a bright, buzzing lesson in living fast; just wandering around in the crowds is a massive adrenaline rush, and Monday nights are as mental as Fridays. But despite the intensity of a city so large, people are calm and quiet. It’s the most magical juxtaposition. Everything is moving at light-speed, but with such efficiency and thoughtfulness, that it feels like a well-oiled, intuitive machine, powering a ride that you never want to get off.”

In her essay, Louise writes about her experience traveling to Tokyo, Japan. She compares it to a machine, with all the people in the city playing their part. She is amazed by the people’s focus, discipline, manners, and sense of purpose, and she can better appreciate life’s simplicity. She is mesmerized by Japan and recommends booking a trip to Tokyo as soon as possible.

You might also like these essays about being yourself and essays about college .

“People were very friendly, they will greet you even if they don’t know you. One shocking incident that I will not forgot, is when the cashier was trying to help me put all my coin money in my wallet with me. In America I am not used to having someone put my money inside my wallet, that is really invading personal space. However, I learned that in Japan it seems normal to just drop off someone’s coins in their wallet.”

Similar to Louise, Abdalla reflects on new things he discovered about Japan and its people during his time there. These range from trivial things such as the “Pokemon Go” rollout in the country to the Japanese’ sense of honor and discipline. He recounts an experience in which the cashier was helping him put his change into his wallet, something he is not used to back home. He provides excellent, although short, insight into Japan, its culture, and its people.

“Everything around us is designed: from the smartphones we use every day to the tactile paving on a walkway. But it’s often hard to examine the designed environment around us with eyes as fresh as a tourist’s. So if you’ve made it to the end of this post, I’ve got a challenge for you: The next time you take a walk outside, try to become aware of the thousands of design decisions around you. What works, and what can be improved?”

Siang writes about the edge that Japanese cities and society in general have because they are well-designed. He cites innovations such as fast, automated cash register machines and aid for the visually impaired and recalls lessons such as the importance of accessibility when designing something.

4. The best time to visit Japan by Pat Kay

“When people ask me “When is the best time to visit Japan?”, I usually reply with “anytime”. Japan is always a good idea, at any time of year. It’s truly an all-year-round destination that provides vastly varied experiences throughout its distinct 4 seasons. Whether you’re a traveller who loves snow, or one who thrives in humidity; a traveller who wants to see beautiful nature changes, or wants to be thrown into crowds; whatever your style of travel, there’s a season and a time for that.”

Kay describes the weather and activities during the different seasons in Japan, giving readers an idea of when they would prefer to visit. Japan ranges from the ethereal but chaotic cherry blossom season to the calm, frigid snow season; however, each year’s season has its own charm. Kay’s essay gives good insight into the best times to visit Japan.

“When planning a visit to Kobe, consider the fact that the city has been completely rebuilt since 1995, following the great Hanshin earthquake that leveled much of the city. Except for a few memorials, you likely won’t be aware of the destruction at all. Instead, what you will discover is a cosmopolitan port city where foreign influences intermingle, museums are dedicated to sake, and a conveniently compact and walkable quarter showcases a robust nightlife scene that has featured jazz on the menu for nearly a century. Oh, and, of course, there is the beef.”

In this short write-up, Swanson lists the best things to do in Kobe, Japan, a place best known for its top-quality beef. However, there are many things to do in the city besides eating beef, such as viewing historical buildings, going to the hot springs, and visiting the botanical gardens. However, Swanson notes that eating is an integral part of a trip to Kobe, and one should not miss out on trying the beef.

In your essay, you can write about the country’s significance to you. For example, are you from there, or do you have Japanese ancestry? Have you visited? Write about your connection to the country and why this connection exists in the first place. If Japan has a special place in your heart, this essay topic is for you.

When editing for grammar, we also recommend taking the time to improve the readability score of a piece of writing before publishing or submitting

With all its glory and excellence, Japan is less evolved in gender equality. So how are women treated in Japan? First, delve into research about the treatment of women in Japanese society, and show how the culture differs from modern western gender equality ideologies. Then, discuss why Japan is behind in encouraging women’s equal rights. Make sure to cite research, statistics, and interviews to support your point.

This topic is straightforward; whether you have been or not, try to persuade others to visit the country. Include highlights that others should visit and suggestions for places others can visit. If Japan was a bad experience for you, go the other way: why should you not visit Japan?

Japan has a dark history surrounding its role in World War II. In your essay, briefly explain these events and research their effects on Japan after the war. How did the war change Japan- for better or for worse? Elaborate on the impact and, as always, include references to strengthen your arguments. This is quite a broad topic, so you can focus on one element of Japanese society: values, city planning, relationships with tourists, race, inequality, and gender equality.

Based on reading articles and sample essays as well as any experiences in Japan, list the advantages and disadvantages of living in Japan and conclude whether it would be ideal for moving to Japan or not. Use anecdotes from travel writers or people who live in Japan to show why living in japan is enjoyable or not so enjoyable. Pick a stance for a compelling argumentative essay.

If you are interested in learning more, check out our essay writing tips !

If you’re stuck picking your next essay topic, check out our guide on how to write an essay about diversity .

How to Write the JET Program Statement of Purpose Essay The most pivotal part of the JET Program application explained

May 25, 2015 • words written by Michael Richey • Art by Aya Francisco

Viewing under The Tofugu JET Program Guide

In our guide to applying for the JET Program , we skipped over the section about the JET Program Statement of Purpose essay (or SoP). It counts for the majority of your JET application score. To get some of you questions about the Statement of Purpose answered quickly, check out our video:

The SoP is not a cover letter. It's a two page story that separates you from other applicants. In the U.S. it must be maximum of two pages on standard paper, written in 12 point Arial or Times New Roman font, double spaced with 1 inch margins all around, and have your last name with the page number in the upper right.

The JET Program has two main goals:

English education
Internationalization

It's important to keep this in mind when writing about your skills and abilities. How does your story match these goals? More importantly, how can you make your story interesting enough to land you a JET Program interview ?

Let's look at this piece by piece and break down the official prompt on the JET Program website. There are four points, all beginning with "Applicants should take this opportunity to reflect on:"

1. "Why you wish to go to Japan and participate in the JET Program and why you are interested in the position for which you are applying (ALT or CIR)."

Read this question as: "What's so special about Japan?"

JET wants to know why you want to live in Japan, as opposed to Spain or Russia? Why do you want to teach English to Japanese children, rather than practice medicine? You can do anything with your life, so what is motivating you to choose this path? In a way, your answer to this question is the heart of your SoP, and all other answers should extend out from it. This is all about your motivation.

Connect this motivation to a personal story or event in your life. No one gains an interest in Japan out of nowhere. Something sparked it. Whether it be a relative who told you stories of their life in Japan, a Japanese book you read , or even anime, include it in your SoP.

The key to successfully using the motivational component in your essay is that you expand on it. This is why " anime " is an acceptable motivational component, though some claim you shouldn't mention anime under any circumstances. If you write, "I want to go to Japan because I like anime," you're not likely to be chosen. The same goes for "I want to live in Japan because my uncle lived there." These are equally weak because they simply state the motivation.

However, "I want to teach in Japan because I watched anime growing up, which sparked my curiosity about where it came from, leading me to a love of Japanese culture…" is much stronger. The focus isn't anime, but rather your thought process and the actions you took after that initial spark. Start with your motivation, but focus on your action. Portray yourself as a proactive and curious person.

All this said, the motivational component is much less important than the others we'll cover. JET knows you want to live in Japan and, though the why is relevant, it matters much less to the decision makers than what you can offer. Give this some thought, but don't spend the whole two pages talking about your motivation. Mention it briefly in the intro and conclusion and that should be enough.

2. "What effect you hope to have on the Japanese community and internationally as a result of your participation in the JET Program."

Read this question as: "What can you offer Japan?"

JET's two goals are English education and internationalization. Though the SoP isn't a cover letter, the JET Program is still a job. JET wants to know what you plan to do in that role. The answer isn't so much "I want to be remembered by my students for all time" but rather, what will you do that's worth remembering? Again, focus on actions rather than ideas.

How will you engage students in a meaningful way? How will you cultivate relationships? Remember that the JET job doesn't end when school ends. Internationalization is your job 24/7. So what does this look like in the larger community? What past experiences are directly applicable to the JET ALT job? Your ideas for the position or experiences don't have to be "right". They simply show you're thinking and ready to jump into the role.

Since you're focusing on actions in this essay, verbs will be your best friend. Power verbs will do even better. "Create," "design," and "produce" are better than "make." "Achieve," "accomplish," and "resolve" are better than "do."

"I want to create and implement original lesson plans" is better than "I want to make lesson plans." "My desire is to build student trust and become a familiar presence in a Japanese school," is better than "I want to talk to students after class."

Furthermore, the more concrete examples you can give the better. "I want to start an English club after school" is better than "I want to make an impact."

Many JETs join clubs at their schools and do volunteer work in the community. They use their skills and interests to do things for people in Japan. If you play guitar, you could play for the school assembly. If you're a soccer wizard, you could join the soccer club. Even if your interests are more insular, like manga, you could start a manga club, which takes more initiative than joining a pre-existing club.

3. "What applicable experiences, professional skills, relevant interests and personal qualities you have, and how you feel these will be useful to you as an ALT or CIR."

Read this question as: "Back up all your big talk with some facts."

When writing your grand plan to teach English like a wizard, back up those plans with some evidence.

The key here is to show that you've done social, interactive things before. JET wants to make sure they are sending people who aren't afraid to dive in and interact with people different than themselves. If you once made food for nursing home residents, mention that as something you'd like to do again. If you led groups of kids at a summer camp, cite it as precedent of your future leading of children to safety. Heck, if you've been a teacher before, that's great proof that you can teach in Japan.

The tricky part with this component is you don't want to restate your application line by line. The person reading your SoP will have read the application. If your Statement of Purpose simply lists all the greatness that is already in your app, it will seem boring. Make sure to explain why your past achievements will make you a great JET. Use them to back up your claims of future JET glory. They are proof that you are historically someone who easily interacts and gets involved with other people.

As with the previous prompt, power verbs are going to be your friend. Check out this list for some ideas. Be careful not to overuse power verbs. You don't want your writing to sound unnatural or forced. Use just enough to avoid writing, "I did…I did…I did…"

4. "What you hope to gain, both personally and professionally, from your JET experience if you are selected and how participation will assist you in your future goals."

Read this question as: "How will you promote Japan after JET?"

This is a trick question. JET is certainly happy about what you'll gain from living in Japan, but is also interested in how you will promote Japan in the future. The entire program was founded with the goal of increasing "soft power," and the current prime minister has made this a primary goal of his administration. This is tied to the "internationalization" goal of JET, and why the E in JET stands for "exchange." You come to Japan to help Japan understand other countries, then you go home to help everyone there understand Japan.

Therefore, it is imperative that you include something of your plans to promote Japan after JET. If you can tie this into your professional career , that's great. If not, you can still talk about how you'll maintain your Japan connection outside of your professional life. This can include things like, joining a local Japan-[your home country] Society, visiting schools to teach them about Japanese culture, or performing in a taiko group.

Extra Tips for the JET Program Statement of Purpose Essay

Don't be afraid to inject some emotion. Certainly don't go overboard but a little exposition about your feelings toward to opportunity of living in Japan can help. Again, this isn't a cover letter and JET only wants to send people who really have a desire to go. So, a few sentences revealing your longing to live in Japan are okay.

Proofread, proofread, proofread! Then proofread again. Don't rely on spell check to find typos. Be sure to print out the document and go through it with a red pen, reading it several times over. Your brain does a better job of catching mistakes on paper than it does on a computer screen. After you've made corrections, print out your SoP and give it to a few people you know for proofreading. Nothing beats a second or third set of eyes.

As you read and re-read your SoP, ask yourself, "does this essay tell people who I am?" All the things I mentioned above are great, but they won't do you any good if the essay doesn't paint an intriguing picture. You can do this with some personal stories, your writing style or "voice", and simply stating your goals and achievements.

If you find a Statement of Purpose example on JET Program forums of blogs, beware using it as a model. The essay should tell the unique story of you and have your voice. See how well the writer answered their questions, but make sure to keep your SoP true to you.

State Your Purpose on Purpose

Give yourself enough time to write. The Statement of Purpose essay makes or breaks an application. You'll definitely want to have space to put it down, come back, and rewrite. And rewrite. And rewrite. It has to be the ultimate JET Program essay.

Put in the effort, highlight your best qualities, connect yourself to the role, and be honest about yourself and what you want. Think about giving more than getting and you're more likely to get. There are plenty of candidates writing forced, robotic SoPs. Designing a compelling and memorable image of yourself will set you apart and make you more likely to get an interview .

This essay won't be easy. But once you get your invitation to interview, you'll be glad you worked so hard. Good luck, JET hopefuls, and happy writing!

20 Reasons Why You Should Visit Japan

Japan is the most amazing tourist destination and it offers many unique experiences that you cannot find in any other part of the world. The culture of this country is an interesting blend of Eastern traditions and Western modernity that can be seen everywhere. Japan is one of the oldest civilizations and has a beautiful and diverse history. The stunning, diverse scenery with mountains and breathtaking views, which are much appreciated by the Japanese, offers so many different experiences that attract tourists from all corners of the world. In this article, we give you our best reasons why you should make a trip to this amazing country at least once in your lifetime.

1. Pristine natural scenery

2. mount fuji , 4. incredible food, 5. beautiful temples, shrines, and zen gardens, 6. friendly people, 7. efficient public transportation, 8. thrilling experiences , 9. festivals/matsuri, 10. clean country, 11. shopper’s paradise, 12. weird stuff, 13. sakura (cherry blossoms), 15. onsen & sento , 16. unesco world heritage sites, 17. japanese castles , 18. sumo & sport events, 19. traditional arts and crafts, 20. unique accommodation, japan wonder travel tours , other articles you might like.

The first reason to visit is obviously the natural beauty of the country. Even though many people think of Japan as a highly modern country with flashy neon lights and advanced technology, shopping malls and high-end stores, there are many ways in which Japan is a nature lover’s paradise as well!

As soon as you travel outside of the big and modern cities you will discover that the country is home to some of the best natural scenery in the world . From the wilderness in Hokkaido to the white pristine beaches of Okinawa , Japan’s nature is incredibly diverse. The rugged mountains, rocky coastlines, pristine white beaches, bamboo forests and some of the world’s most beautiful waterfalls are just some of the natural beauty to be enjoyed all year round.

Mount Fuji is famous all over the world as a place to visit during any season of the year. But the majestic Fujisan is not ‘just a mountain’ as it takes a very special, sacred place in the Japanese culture. Since the 7th century it has been a sacred site for Shintoism, the indigenous religion of Japan . Japanese people have always held Mount Fuji close to their heart and Mount Fuji is displayed in many artistic outings, including (ancient) pottery, calligraphy, ukiyo-e paintings and woodblock prints.

Climbing Mount Fuji is at the top of many people’s bucket list and an estimated 400,000 people climb the volcano each year. The climbing season of the highest peak (3,776 m) in Japan lasts from early July to early September. Though, even if you are not keen on making your way to the summit, Mount Fuji is a sight to behold .

▼Book our tour to the 5th station of Mt. Fuji!

Japan is amongst the safest countries in the world , with an extremely low crime rate. This is something the Japanese are, understandably, quite proud of. Japanese people often leave their doors unlocked, children are perfectly safe traveling on the subway by themselves, and visitors are able to walk around the cities at night without having to worry. Japan’s low crime rate is partly due to the cultural belief in Japan where they always prioritize the common good above their own needs. You will likely come across some situations that you might think of as dangerous or stupid behaviour, but are perfectly normal in Japan. Japan is so safe, you can fall asleep on the train in Tokyo, the world’s biggest city, and wake up with your wallet and phone still in your possession. Or even on the street, you might see some salaryman passed out after 1 or 2 drinks too many but they won’t be robbed of their valuables. When you do forget something in a restaurant or on the train, always try to go back, it is highly likely that someone kept it for you or brought it to the police!

Even though Japanese cuisine is available around the world, the country attracts millions of tourists every year just to experience authentic Japanese food . Some of the usual experiences are the sushi conveyor belt and sake bars and don’t forget to try some fresh sushi at Tsukiji Fish Market or the delicious street food like takoyaki in Osaka.

For many visitors, a trip to Japan provides the opportunity to indulge in some authentic Kaiseki food. Kaiseki is a traditional form of cuisine that has evolved over a period of thousands of years, using ingredients that are hardly found in any other part of the world. Any random, shady looking place makes the best sushi, ramen or tempura. Even the konbini food is tasty and freshly prepared on a daily basis. Tokyo has more Michelin stars than any other city in the world , with also the most three-star restaurants (12) in the world! Add to it a variety of traditional Japanese drinks and you have an experience of a lifetime waiting for you!

Are you hoping to try all the best food in Japan but don’t know where to start? Don’t worry, you can book a fun and delicious food and drink tour with us! We will assure that you will hit all the best spots that you would never normally stumble upon.

There are an estimated 80,000 temples and shrines in Japan of all sizes and some are over 1,000 years old! The Buddhist temples and zen gardens are incredibly beautiful and if you enter them you really can experience how peaceful and magical these places actually are.

Inari Shrines are the most familiar Shinto shrines to Japanese people and they are also known as “o-inari-san”. Thousands of them are spread all over the country. One of the most important Inari Shrine is Fushimi Inari in Kyoto, which is dedicated to Inari, the Shinto god of rice. It is famous for its thousands of vermilion Torii gates and definitely something you have to see with your own eyes.

Even if you are not visiting Kyoto, you will have the opportunity to visit shrines with rows of torii gates throughout the country , even in the centre of Tokyo!

When you’re visiting Japan you will quickly find out that Japanese behavior is completely different to how people behave in Western countries. People in japan have the attitude to bother the people in their environment as little as possible. You will notice it as soon as you enter the train because it is amazing how silent it is in the train! Everyone is as respectful as possible and also incredibly helpful. If you have a question or seem to be confused about something you will always find someone who can help you! The language barrier is difficult at times, but Japanese people will always try to help you. It is difficult to describe a feeling like this with words so you should definitely experience on your own.

Recommended article: Why You Should Learn Japanese

The public transportation network in Japan is simply amazing . Especially when you are in the bigger cities, the system is just incredible. With trains or metro’s departing every few minutes (during the day) it is amazing how fast you can commute from one part of the city to another part within a short period of time.

The famous shinkansen, also known as the bullet train, takes you to all parts of the country. The extensive high-speed train network in Japan, connecting Hokkaido, Honshu and Kyushu, is extremely reliable with frequent departures throughout the day. The Tokaido Shinkansen line, connecting Tokyo, Osaka and Kyoto, is Japan’s busiest and most popular line with 370 departures each day! As a tourist it is definitely the most convenient, reliable, fastest way of discovering Japan . The best part for international tourists is that they can purchase a Japan Rail Pass that will give them unlimited travel for a designated period of time throughout the country!

Adventure tourism is not something that one would associate with Japan, but the truth is that you can find many exciting experiences in this country. Whether it is snowboarding or skiing in Hokkaido or Nagano , or cycling along the Seto Inland Sea , catching a glimpse of Mount Fuji from the rollercoasters of FujiQ Highlands or sand-boarding in Japan’s desert of Tottori , the options for thrill-seekers are endless.

With about 75% of Japan covered in mountainous landscape you can embark on some amazing multi-day hikes or walk the steps of ancient pilgrimage routes like the Kumano Kodo Trail or the Shikoku 88 Temples Pilgrimage and witness the perfect mixture of nature and culture. At many tourist spots like Arashiyama or Asakusa you can also actively explore the area while riding a traditional Japanese rickshaw.

At any time of the year, Japan hosts a number of events and matsuri for anyone to enjoy . Matsuri are traditional Japanese events where often floats, called mikoshi, are carried around between temples and shrines. They often take place in the summer and attract thousands or even millions of visitors with their energetic atmosphere, and amazing street food activities for everyone to enjoy.

In wintertime you will find some unique and great festivals too, like the Kamakura snow hut festivals that are held around the country. There are also several illumination festivals with spectacular light shows and decorations, some only over the Christmas period where others last well into spring. Another world famous festival is Sapporo’s Snow Festival that attracts millions of visitors each year with spectacular ice sculptures and cozy winter scenes.

Something that you will soon notice after your arrival; Japan is extremely clean ! Even in the metropole of Tokyo you will not often see trash laying around, no cigarette butts on the curbs and streets smell nice. The lack of garbage bins available in the cities might make you wonder how is this even possible? The answer is simple, Japanese people respect their surroundings, clean up after themselves and take their trash home. A cultural principle that is highly valued in the Japanese society is mottainai , which can be freely translated as nothing goes to waste. When something is broken, it is not immediately replaced but often repaired and re-used.

Shopping is another reason why you should visit Japan, more so for the local brands than for the international ones. Tokyo and other major cities have world-class shopping centers as well as traditional markets where you can shop for local handicrafts and souvenirs. Often cities, small or big, have their own local shopping street.

These shopping streets full of small stalls and local vendors are known as a Shotengai. If you are travelling to Tokyo, then you should visit the popular areas in Harajuku, Ginza and Akihabara. If you go to Osaka, Umeda and Shinsaibashi are also popular shopping destinations. For gaming and anime lovers, shopping in Tokyo will be an unforgettable experience, Nakano would be the best destination for you .

Square watermelons, washing toilets that blow-dry and play music, plastic food menus, cartoon versions and mascottes of everything, maid cafe etc, Japan has all kinds of unique things.

Walk around in Harajuku to experience the famous Japanese kawaii culture , it is literally everywhere! Cute girls, kawaii food, mascottes, the kawaiiness in Japan knows no limits! Another unique popular culture is Japan’s otaku or geek culture. Otaku refers to pop culture fans who are obsessed with manga or anime. Best places to experience some of Japan’s otaku culture are Akihabara and Nakano in Tokyo.

No visit to Japan in spring is complete without sakura. For two weeks, everyone and everything in the spirit of the beautiful flowers. Everyone wants to see this million dollar view and hanami (blossom viewing parties) are everywhere. Japan is very passionate about picnicking under the cherry trees in full blossom.

Sakura presents the arrival of spring, a time for renewal and optimism and because of the short blooming season (about two weeks), the cherry blossoms also symbolize the transience of life, a major theme in Buddhism. During the sakura season you will see limited edition sakura (flavoured) treats and souvenirs everywhere.

One of the biggest contributors to Japan’s famous anime culture is the Ghibli movies. Have you ever seen My Neighbor Totoro or Spirited Away? They are some of the world’s most famous anime movies produced by the renowned Studio Ghibli, the animation and art producer founded by Hayao Miyazaki. In Tokyo, you can visit the Ghibli Museum , home to drawings of Studio Ghibli movies, models of how animations are made, and a small theater showing a special short film. Also, Japan opened the Ghibli-themed park in Aichi prefecture in 2022. A must visit if you are a Ghibli fan! If you want something extra, you may want to visit some of the locations which were used in Ghibli movies !

When asked about their favourite thing in Japan, many people will (amongst others) answer onsen. Taking an onsen, a hot spring filled with mineral-rich spring water heated by geothermal forces that contains several minerals beneficial to the body, is a must-try activity for tourists as it is completely different from taking a bath in other countries around the world. It is also a big part of the Japanese culture and the ultimate activity to relax after a day filled with discovering the nature and culture of Japan. There are several written and unwritten rules to respect when taking an onsen, a ritual that dates back to at least the 8th century. Famous onsen destinations are Kusatsu Onsen, Hakone Onsen and Beppu Onsen .

Sento are communal bath houses where people pay for their entrance. These bath houses were traditionally used by households that did not have their own bath and could be found in big cities and small villages. Today, the number of sento is decreasing as the number of houses with bathing facilities is increasing.

By now you should know Japan is home to some of the world’s most picturesque places, a rich culture and a long history. Indeed, Japan is home to no less than 23 UNESCO World Heritage Sites ; 19 Cultural Heritage Sites and 4 Natural Heritage Sites. Ranging from historically important shrines like Itsukushima Shinto Shrine on Miyajima to unique natural ecological treasures like Mount Fuji or Shiretoko National Park.

In the history of Japan, a large number of castles were built, many of which were destroyed during the many battles or natural disasters like earthquakes. But there are some beautiful castles in Japan that still exist and can be visited, some of which are also designated UNESCO sites. A total number of 12 original castles , meaning they have a castle tower (or main keep) that was built during the Edo period or earlier, are located around the country.

Another type of unique cultural event are the Grand Sumo Tournaments that take place at each odd-numbered month and last for two weeks. Sumo is Japan’s national sport, but not just a sport. In act, sumo is full of shinto rituals and watching a sumo match with a guide will help you to understand this ancient sport even better. Watching a sumo game is definitely an experience you should have at least once in your life!

Grand sumo tournament ring entering ceremony

Baseball is Japan’s most popular sport, first introduced in 1872 by an American college professor. Whether you are a baseball fan or not, watching a baseball game will be an exciting experience for anyone ! It is good fun to join the Japanese baseball spectators and cheer on the teams. The games usually start from 2pm or 6pm and last for about 3.5 hrs.

Craft in Japan has a long history and has played an important role in the Japanese culture. From the more famous ones such as knives, pottery, kimono, yukata, and tatami, to lesser-known ones such as kokeshi dolls, fireworks, kendama, origami, daruma dolls , Woodblock Prints , Nambu Ironware, and rounded and folding fans, there is a large list of traditional japanese crafts. Each region has its own local specialties. Some of the craft and art is more valuable in price since they are handmade by professional craftsmen but all make for a great souvenir to take home ! There are many places that offer craft and art experiences like pottery workshops and tea ceremonies.

Purchase your own beautiful Japanese crafts here!

Japan is home to a large number of Western-style hotels, but something that you should not miss out on is staying at the traditional Japanese ryokan. A ryokan is a type of Japanese inn that has been around since the 8th century. It often features tatami-floor rooms, onsen, and other public areas where visitors wear yukata, the traditional more casual kimono. Often an overnight stay comes with a delicious, large, Japanese dinner and breakfast made from seasonal and locally produced products. Staying at a ryokan is a great place to enjoy onsen (privately) and experience some of the traditional elements of Japanese culture.

If you are interested in experiencing the simple and traditional lifestyle of Buddhist monks, temple lodging known as shukubo is an excellent option. Shukubo literally means “sleeping with the monks” and besides a great night’s rest and delicious shojin-ryori, the Buddhist vegan cuisine, you can join the monks for morning prayers.

Originating in Osaka, capsule hotels have made their advance in Japan. These hotels, usually found in the larger cities, originally targeted individuals looking for a cheaper alternative for single nights stay. Recently there are also more luxurious alternatives of the pod hotel that are more comfortable, though not as cheap as you might think.

These are just 20 reasons why you should visit Japan, but the list is endless. We haven’t even talked about the beautiful autumn colors, the cute deers, animal cafes, and love hotels amongst other things. Nowhere else on earth will you find a country like Japan, with its unique blend of long standing traditions and modern rituals, century old buildings and peaceful gardens sandwiched between the city’s modern highrises. Incredible fresh food, domestic drinks, sake and local specialties that you can get from any hole in the wall spot. Friendly people that will go out of their way to make you comfortable and require as much as a simple thank you. Reliable and punctual public transportation in a country that is among the safest in the world. The list of reasons for you to come to Japan is simply endless. Conclusion: plan your trip to Japan as soon as possible, you are in for a treat!

Japan Wonder Travel is a travel agency that offers guided tours throughout Japan. From private walking tours to delicious Food and Drink tours, we can help you organize the best tours just for you! If you want to explore Japan and learn more about the history and backstories of each area you are visiting, our knowledgeable and friendly English speaking guides will happily take you to the best spots! In addition, we can provide you with any assistance you may need for your upcoming trip to Japan, so please feel free to contact us if yu have any questions or need some help!

▶ Tokyo Tsukiji Fish Market Food and Drink Tour Explore the most lively and popular fish market in Tokyo and try some of the local’s favorite street foods and sake with one of our friendly and knowledgeable English speaking guides!

▶ Tokyo 1–Day Highlights Private Walking Tour (8 Hours) There’s no better way to explore an area than taking a tour with a knowledgeable local guide. You will have the chance to learn about the history and interesting background stories of Tokyo, as well as discover some hidden gems which can be hard to do without a guide.

▶ Mt. Fuji Day Trip Bus Tour from Tokyo Experience the breathtaking views of Mt. Fuji by visiting the highlights of the area on our guided sightseeing bus tour! Departing from Shinjuku in central Tokyo, you can travel comfortably to all of the best spots in the area by bus.

Kimono Rental is Available at Popular Tourist Attractions in Japan! Discover Japan with a traditional Kimono from Kimono Rental Wargo! Explore cities or join festivals effortlessly starting from just ¥3,300. Our shops are conveniently located in Tokyo, Kyoto, Osaka, Kawagoe, and Kanazawa. Elevate your adventures with the elegance of the kimono and create unforgettable memories in Japan!

These are just 20 reasons why you should visit Japan, but the list is endless. We haven’t even talked about the beautiful autumn colors, the cute deers, animal cafes, and love hotels amongst other things. Nowhere else on earth you will find a country like Japan, the unique blend of long standing traditions and modern rituals, century old buildings and peaceful gardens sandwiched between the city’s present-time highrise. Incredible fresh food, domestic drinks, sake and local specialties that you can get from any hole in the wall place. Friendly people that will go out of their way to make you comfortable and require as much as a simple thank you. Reliable and punctual public transportation in a country that is among the safest in the world. The list of reasons for you to come to Japan is simply endless. Conclusion: plan your trip to Japan as soon as possible, you are in for a treat!

Happy traveling!

Stay informed of the best travel tips to Japan, the most exciting things to do and see, and the top experiences to have with the Japan Wonder Travel Newsletter. Every week we will introduce you to our latest content.

Popular destinations
Hidden places in Japan
Tours and workshop
Food and drink in Japan
Itinerary in Japan
Places to visit in Tokyo
Food and drink in Tokyo
Seasonal events
Tours & workshops
Tokyo This Week
Day trip from Tokyo
Itinerary in Tokyo
Places to visit in Kyoto
Food and drink in Kyoto
Itinerary in Kyoto
Day trip from Kyoto
Travel tips
Accommodation
Cultural tips
Transportation
Tokyo Tours
Kyoto Tours
Kimono Rental
Fukushima Tours
Mount Fuji Tours
Tour Package
Travel Concierge Service
Media Kit（English/日本語)

29 Convincing Reasons To Visit Japan

If I were forced to pick a favorite country to travel to, Japan would have to be it. We often think about the idea as every person we talk to asks about our favorite country, and I try to convey quickly all the reasons to visit Japan.

Not that it is a secret, but I’ve noted numerous times on this travel blog that I love to travel to Japan. This explains why I plan to return to the Land of the Rising Sun year. I’m not alone. Countless friends, videos, documentaries, articles, and others genuinely feel the joys of traveling in Japan.

Why is Japan such a great place to visit, and why visit Japan at all? What draws me back from spending all my savings on sushi and sake? Here are just a few of the fantastic reasons to visit Japan.

Why Visit Japan?

1. respectful people.

Number one, when questioned, “why visit Japan?” is for the people! The Japanese are well known for being extremely polite. After traveling to 80+ countries , I can honestly say that the Japanese are among the most courteous people in the world.

While most Japanese do not have strong English skills, they still welcome foreigners in their land. It’s common for them to provide help and exhibit compassion towards visitors.

I’ve had numerous instances of Japanese coming up to me to practice their English and assist in any way they can. I’ll never forget when I had a local man in Tokyo run up to me at the train station and ask if he could accompany me to dinner to be helpful and converse.

The thought of a Japanese individual being rude, aggressive, or violent is rare as it is against their cultural norms and society. If they don’t seem the friendliest, it’s likely they cannot understand you and don’t want to be embarrassed for their inability to help you as it is considered rude. This will likely only be the case in rural parts of Japan and with older people. Just show them a smile and say a few words of Japanese – it goes a long way!

2. The Food

Ever since I was in high school and tried sushi for the first time, I fell in love with Japanese food , at least what I thought was Japanese food. On my first trip to Japan, I set out to find and eat at every sushi restaurant possible. Then I realized there is so much more to Japanese food than sushi! My next find would be Ramen.

Ramen is now a favorite of mine, and it’s a Japanese staple known for being cheap that locals always eat. Personally, there is nothing better than a hot bowl of ramen on a cold winter day in Japan.

The famous noodle soup dish usually has noodles, tomago, moyashi, seaweed, and pork in the world’s most delicious broth. Each region and even city has its style of ramen, and they come in a wide variety of styles such as Shoyu, Shio, and Miso.

Don’t let the food end with ramen and sushi because there is so much more depth. Japanese food is varied; there are many classic dishes and styles like yakitori, okonomiyaki, Japanese curry, tempura, bento, yakiniku, miso, udon, soba, and donburi.

What makes Japanese food so special is attention to detail food is made with care while highlighting beautiful ingredients. There is no haphazard canned or overcooked food here; it’s almost all beautiful and fresh.

3. The Service

Another reason why I love to travel to Japan is for the fantastic service! Although tipping pretty much does not exist in Japan, the service is some of the best in the world. Every sushi, udon, ramen, Izakaya restaurant has top-notch service, and it’s not because they expect you to tip them, but because Japan is a service-oriented country.

If you tip and leave a few Yen on your table, it will likely result in your waiter running after you to give it back. It’s considered an insult to leave a tip throughout most of Japan, so enjoy getting top-notch service without paying extra.

4. The Sushi Trains

While sushi is probably a unique and expensive meal out where you live, you can find it for an affordable price in Japan. Of course, there are costly world-class options, but almost every decent-sized town and city in Japan has a conveyor belt sushi.

Conveyor belt sushi is a quick and cheap meal in Japan. Sushi is made and sent out onto a train like a conveyor belt rotating around the restaurant. Guests can grab what they please, and then at the end of the meal, the waitress will come to tally up the plates to give a total for the meal.

The plates are different colored, and the higher grade sushi goes on more expensive dishes, all color-coded. Typically you can get two pieces of nigiri for ¥100 to ¥200, and then the prices go up depending on the fish cut.

You can easily walk out of a sushi conveyor belt meal feeling stuffed with high-quality fish for under ¥1500. That’s the price of mediocre sushi in the United States!

5. The Sake

This is one of the best reasons to visit Japan! Sake is alcoholic Japanese rice wine. It is delicious, and if you have never had it, I urge you to order a carafe, or tokkuri , next time you see it on a menu.

Sake is Japan’s national beverage and is often served on special occasions in the tokkuri, a small porcelain bottle, and then poured and sipped from a sakazuki. You can either have sake chilled, warm, or room temperature.

Generally speaking, cheap sake is warmed to mask the taste, while fine sakes are slightly chilled to savor the flavor. An average sake is very affordable in Japan and can be enjoyed at any meal you have out.

We love to have it at an Izakaya (Japanese pub). You can also find it in the liquor section at the grocery store and get yourself a whole bottle for between 800 and 2000 yen. Don’t bother picking out the best one by reading the labels; it’s virtually impossible unless you speak Japanese. My best advice is to pick the prettiest bottle and go from there, or you could always test out your language skills and ask someone!

Don’t forget to bring some home!

6. The Free Green Tea!

I’ve never visited any Japanese sushi restaurant and have not been offered complimentary green tea, and I love it. My favorite is the DIY sushi conveyor belt restaurants that provide green tea powder in front of you, with your own cup and a hot water dispenser at your seat. Drink as much as you want. In case you missed it – Green tea has significant health benefits like improved brain function, fat loss, and a lower cancer risk.

7. The Matcha

Matcha is a finely ground powder from green tea leaves. The finished product is a bright green powder commonly used in traditional Japanese tea ceremonies and in many other food items in Japan. It’s delicious and can be drunk with milk or water – hot or iced. Matcha is slightly sweet, vegetal, and nutty – great to have with sushi, poke bowls, or other sweets.

While matcha is a premium product usually served at hip cafes and vegan restaurants outside of Japan, you can find it everywhere in the country. Matcha ice cream, matcha soba noodles, matcha pancakes, and matcha candy are a huge craze.

There are also many health benefits of Matcha too. It’s packed with antioxidants, boosts your metabolism, enhances mood, burns calories, and calms the mind. Oh, and it’s green and tastes good. Win-win-win!

8. Japanese Toilets

I’m not sure there is anything better in this world than a Japanese toilet. Yes, I just referred to a toilet as the best thing in the world, and you likely will, too, the first time you sit on a warm Japanese toilet seat. Don’t worry. A Japanese toilet is nothing short of hygienic.

They are almost fully automated, so you don’t have to do anything – not even wipe. I’ve yet to sit on a toilet in Japan that isn’t heated – which feels lovely on a cold winter day.

It doesn’t stop at the heated seats; they have a spray function for your rear and front side for the ladies, along with an air dryer. Also, they often come with sound effects, so no one will hear you doing your business.

I know it may not sound like much; even writing this, I realize that I am raving about a freaking toilet, but wait until your first time on one, then circle back with me.

9. The Tidiness

The Japanese take cleanliness very seriously, and this is apparent everywhere. I just mentioned how to clean going number two could be, but toilets aside, Japan is a spotless place.

Good luck finding many trash cans on the streets, but that doesn’t mean you’ll find a lick of trash anywhere. The Japanese people are mindful of their impact on others and are always expected to pick up after themselves.

Hotel rooms? Spotless. Public bathrooms? Actually pleasant in Japan! Bus drivers, police officers, train conductors – all wearing gloves. If one is sick, one is expected to wear a face mask out of respect for others. And don’t forget to take a ride in a taxi cab in Japan – it will be the cleanest you’ve ever taken a journey in.

10. The Geisha

There’s a preconceived notion that g eisha are prostitutes, which cannot be farther from the truth. A geisha is a highly skilled and trained professional artist. She is a female entertainer performing different forms of Japanese art and performances.

Hiring a geisha for a private event is not cheap and is typically done at an ochaya (tea house) or a ryōte (Japanese restaurant) . Prices usually start at ¥50,000 and up for a geisha or maiko (apprentice).

If hiring a geisha is not in your budget, see if you can spot them around the city. Gion, in Kyoto , is the traditional geisha district in Japan, and it is here that you stand the best chance of seeing one going to or from an appointment.

I was lucky enough to be in Kyoto during the Setsubun Festival (the day before the beginning of Spring) and could see a few geiko and maiko, which is how I snapped some of these photos. On my last visit to Kyoto, we booked a dinner at Enchanted time with Maiko.

11. The Internet

This may not matter to everyone, but as someone who works online, the internet is one of the best reasons to visit Japan. The Asia Pacific region has some of the fastest internet connections in the world, and this rings true in Japan. Most of the places we stayed in Japan had at least 100 Mbps download speeds!

I’ve never had that kind of internet anywhere in the world unless I am at my home paying for fiber. Japan has you covered if you must stay connected and get work done.

12. The Kotatsu Tables

Leave it to the Japanese to invent the next greatest thing in the world (after their toilet, of course). I’m not talking about Nintendo or Sony, but a kotatsu table. A kotatsu table is a low table with a blanket/futon over it and a heater running under the blanket. It will keep you warm and cozy for hours on end, and in the wintertime, you will never want to leave this table.

I’ve yet to see a kotatsu table outside of Japan, although I have tried to make my own makeshift one at home (not nearly as good). If you see a kotatsu table somewhere when you are in Japan, grab a bottle of sake, a good book, and enjoy its warmth.

13. Tatami Mats

So why visit Japan? Have I not convinced you yet? If I haven’t, here’s another reason – a tatami mat! A tatami mat is a specific type of flooring used in Japanese rooms. It’s traditionally made using rice straw to form the core. You can find tatami mats in many Japanese homes and traditional Japanese inns (ryokans.) When you see them in your accommodation, you’ll find that a roll-out bed will be on the floor, and you will sleep right on the tatami mats.

If you are heading to Japan, I highly recommend seeking at least one Japanese ryokan to stay at during your trip. Not only do they look cool, but they’ve also played a role in Japanese culture since the eighth century!

14. The Culture

The Japanese have a very proud and unique culture, especially compared to Western Nations, and only closely related to China. It’s interesting to witness this different culture firsthand with a visit to Japan.

Japanese culture has changed drastically over all its periods. From the food to the clothing, performing arts, language, religion, and even written text, it’s easy to get mesmerized by Japanese culture.

I would try to explain more, but honestly, Japan is not one of those places you can’t understand from a blog, movies, or books. You need to go there to witness the day-to-day life of the area and breathe in the beautiful Japanese air for yourself.

15. The History

The Land of the Rising Sun has some pretty interesting history. It’s all fascinating from early Japan, ninjas, and samurais during feudal Japan, the Edo Period, and to WWII and post-war Japan.

You’ll see parts of its history, especially the more modern history, like sobering reminders of the destruction of war and humanity at the bombing sites of Hiroshima and Nagasaki on any trip.

16. The Nature

I bet you know that Japan is one of the world’s most populated countries. But did you also know that the forest still covers over 67% of Japan’s total land area? With such a high population, it’s hard to believe that Japan is one of the most forested countries on this planet.

It’s got mountains, volcanoes, breathtaking coastlines, caves, rivers, bays, and forests filled with brown bears, Japanese deer, monkeys, and beautiful wildlife. While over 126 million people live in Japan, most of them live on Honshu and in densely within city boundaries.

The Japanese live in harmony with nature. Since ancient times nature has been the beating heart of many tales and thousands of artworks. Nature is a symbol of enchantment, peace, and mystery. It is all traced back to the Shinto religion, which believes in the many spirits, kami , that exist in nature.

While the cities of Tokyo, Kyoto, and Sapporo are charming to visit, the countryside and rural areas keep drawing me back. You’ll have no trouble taking in nature when you travel to Japan.

17. The Kawaii

Sure, Japan may be the culprit of the Hello Kitty fad, but Japan has so much more adorableness. “Kawaii ‘ is the culture of cuteness in Japan, and it can be found everywhere. Remember Tamagotchi? Pikachu? TOTORO? Those were all a product of Japan.

Our last visit was around Christmas. The hot holiday commodity? A robot dog to love you. It was super adorable, and I almost wanted one (until I saw the ¥200,000 price tag).

That’s just one example, visit Japan, and you’ll see what I’m talking about. How about “Hello Kitty Lane” in the Chitose airport or the fact that almost every town, city, large business, sports team, school, region, or even laxative company has its own mascot in Japan ? That last one is true…

18. The Pricing

One of the chief complaints I hear about traveling in Japan is how expensive it is to travel . Outside of transport, I find Japan quite reasonable. I’m not going to say it’s similar to Thailand, South Africa, or Nicaragua, but I would put it on par with places like Canada, Austria, or Italy. Still cheaper than countries like the U.K., Nordic Countries, or the United States.

Hotels and accommodation options are always a mixed bag. You can find reasonable ones, stay in hostels or capsule pod hotels. Or if you find yourself traveling during the high season, in resort towns like Niseko , or enjoying the more beautiful things in life, you will, of course, see higher prices.

I find excellent value in Japan (and the most critical part) is the food. One can easily have a nice Japanese meal out for under ¥2000. Remember the conveyor belt sushi that I mentioned? The best part is that you never have to think about an additional tip add-on, as it is considered rude to leave a tip in Japan.

19. It’s Safe!

Japan is one of the safest countries in the world. On a Global Peace Index , they rank number nine out of all the countries in the world. That is quite impressive given their colossal population size of 126 million people. Canada is the only country that ranks higher than them and is “close” in the population at 35 million people.

It’s one of the best countries to travel to for solo female travelers as people are respectful, and the chances of being hurt by violent crime are meager. Fewer than one person is murdered for every 100,000 in the population, compared to 4.8 for the United States and 44.7 in Belize. Japan has strict gun laws, a stable society, low inequality, and high levels of education.

Unlike many other parts of the world, or even my own home country, I feel safe in Japan walking alone at night as a solo traveler, and I have never felt preying male eyes on me. For the most part, everyone here minds their own business!

20. The Vending Machines!

The sheer amount of vending machines in Japan is impossible to ignore. I think I read somewhere that there are over 5 million vending machines in Japan, and you can get almost anything from them. Of course, there are regular things like Coca-Cola and shrimp crackers, but then there are books, batteries, bras, umbrellas, bottles of sake, heck, in some places, it’s even how you order your dinner.

There are several reasons Japan has so many vending machines. For one, it’s a cash-based society – perfect for vending machines. The labor cost is also exceptionally high, so you eliminate the need for a sales clerk with a vending machine. Japan is one of the safest countries in the world, and the thought of vandalizing a vending machine is almost unthinkable.

People are also busy here – Japan is a workaholic country. Why go into a 7-11 when you can hit up a vending machine. Vending machines offer competitive prices for basic products. So, don’t skip going to a vending machine in Japan, although it will be hard to avoid one!

21. The Seasons

There truly is no wrong time to visit Japan. The country has four incredible seasons, each being beautiful in its own way. Late spring (March to May) and late autumn (September to November) are generally considered the best times to visit Japan. That’s when you can find clear skies and mild temperatures.

For winter lovers and snowboarders , it’s best to visit the northern regions and mountains between December and March. If you want to chase the cherry blossoms, the trees start to blossom in the warmer south in late March and will begin to fall from the trees after two weeks. This makes places like Kyoto a wonderland in April and early May.

During the fall months, you’ll see the leaves change, and everything turns brilliant colors. Then summer is always a favorite time to travel, and while you have long summer days, you may feel the humidity.

Our goal is to return twice a year. Always in the winter, because Japan has magical snowfalls and tourism is down, and then once again during the other seasons.

22. The Temples

It’s almost impossible to know how many temples and shrines are in Japan , but the fact that Kyoto alone has over 2,000 should tell you something – you’ll be hard-pressed not to see a Japanese temple.

Taking time to properly explore and see some of these awe-inspiring temples while visiting Japan is a must. They are all so different and beautiful in their unique way.

Some of these temples are over 1000 years old and obviously should be treated with respect and humility. My favorites are Senso-Ji, Kotoku-In Temple, and Kotoku-In Temple.

23. The Powder

Over the past ten years, the small town of Niseko in Hokkaido has risen to international fame in the ski world . This part of Japan receives epic snow dumps making it a powder paradise.

Although the slopes at Niseko are mellower than those in the Swiss Alps or North America, the snow is some kind of dry white magical fluff. To sweeten the deal, the snow doesn’t seem to stop falling on the ground between the months of December and March.

But it’s not just Niseko; it’s all over Hokkaido! We found great powdery goodness in the small town of Furano, and ski resorts like Kurodake and Rusutsu Resort are significant highlights for any skier or snowboarder.

You’re not limited to Hokkaido, though, as the awe-inspiring Japanese Alps also receive plenty of snowfall on the island of Honshu at resorts like Hakuba and Nozawa Onsen.

If you are a diehard ski-bum, you better add Japan to your list of bucket list destinations — it is epic!

24. The Transport

Japan has the world’s best transport system. Especially around the big cities like Osaka , Tokyo, and Kyoto. Getting around is rarely an issue with an efficient rail network, which is the best way to get around Japan.

While transportation is typically expensive, I purchased a JR pass when I first traveled to Japan. A JR Pass is only available to foreigners and essentially works like a Eurail pass in Europe. A pass is purchased for a set amount of time or rides, depending on your needs and destinations. It’s best for those who want to hit more than two or three destinations in Japan, but you will have to do your research to see what is best for you.

I had a two-week unlimited rail pass and traveled rapidly to places like Kyoto, Nara, Hiroshima, Miyajima, Naoshima, and so many more cities and towns. Well worth the investment. The most reliable way to check train fares and times is on Hyperdia .

It’s important to note that Japanese trains leave on the dot of their scheduled time. Don’t believe me? Read this article . To be Japanese is to be punctual. If you are not punctual, you will 100% miss your train.

Also – Japan is where you can ride the famous Shinkansen train – or “ bullet train ” – which is an experience as the train rockets across the country. Note that not all trains in Japan are Shinkansen trains.

25. The Efficiency

I’ve never been in a more efficiently run country than Japan. I’ve already touched on the transport and being on time, but there are many other aspects where I think, “ Why can’t the United States operate like this – it makes so much sense. ” Pay any visit to Japan, and you’ll see how a disciplined and rule-based society operates.

26. The Rules

Japan has a lot of “rules” that may seem strange or strict to the average Western traveler. I put rules in quotations because, while many times, they are not laws or set standards, it is advisable to respect all the social norms and customs.

Things I always notice as soon as I am in Japan are:

Be on time. It is very disrespectful to be late in Japan.
On an escalator, there is a side for walking and a side for standing. This is the same in many other places, but it is socially enforced in Japan.
Don’t hesitate to bow. Men bow with their hands to their sides. Women bow with their hands together in front.
Present business cards with two hands.
Never stick your chopsticks in a rice bowl, as that is how rice is offered to the dead.
Never wear your shoes inside. Slippers will be offered and are for indoor wear.
It is considered impolite to leave a tip.
Respect the elderly.
Don’t litter. You are expected to clean up after yourself and take care of your own trash and the mess you create.
Always wash before you enter an onsen. Always.
Avoid speaking loud or causing a scene in public.
Do not point your finger at anyone.

I could probably make a whole post about Japan’s cultural norms and expectations, but the best thing to do is go and experience it all for yourself and adapt. If you do break a rule, it’s okay. The Japanese understand that you are a foreigner and may not know their rules.

27. The Onsens and Sentos

Visiting a Japanese Onsen should be at the top of the things to do in Japan ! An onsen is a Japanese hot spring where visitors are separated by sex and can soak naked in the warm water, usually outside. It’s incredibly relaxing, especially during the winter, and a unique cultural experience. As Japan is a volcanically active country, thousands of onsens are scattered throughout.

Don’t be shy! Everyone in an onsen is naked, and no one cares. You may not wear a bathing suit inside an onsen, and some traditional onsens even ban tattoos, so check if you have tattoos. Onsens are separated by sex, and you must wash your body before entering. And many times, you will also wash afterward to remove the minerals.

28. The Convenience Stores

If you find yourself in a pickle and it’s too late or too early to score some food at a restaurant – never fear! Convenience stores can be found on almost every block in Japan. Lawsons, 7-11, and Family Mart are the three main ones you will see, but a few others are also around.

Convenience stores in Japan are unlike other convenience stores around the world. You can get anything you want at them, including ready-made Japanese meals like Udon and Tempura. You can also find sake, plum wine, whisky, iced coffee, pastries, matcha balls, and pornographic magazines. 😝

29. The Strangeness

In the end, one of my favorite reasons to visit Japan is its strangeness. Japan is a peculiar and unique place to visit (in a good way!). I often say that there is the whole world, and then there is Japan.

It’s the result of the island being so shut off from the rest of the world until recently. Japan is one of the only countries in the world that a Western Nation has never controlled. It has a long history of independence and is far away from just about anywhere besides China, Korea, and a few other Asian nations.

You can go there and almost feel like you are in another world. Japan has things like maid cafes, seven-story arcade shops, robot cafes, cat cafes, a bunny island, a fox island, toilet only slippers, more vending machines than people, and just endless amounts of different gadgets and business ideas. I don’t think it’s possible to ever get bored in Japan.

Hopefully, this list answers your question of why visit Japan! It’s an amazing destination with so much to offer!

Getting around japan.

Transportation in Japan could be your number one expense, depending on how much you plan to bop around the country.

Rail travel in Japan is simply expensive. The faster the train, the higher the ticket price, especially if you’re traveling on the famous Shinkansen (bullet train).

You can lower your cost significantly by buying a Japan Rail Pass – only offered to visitors of Japan. The JR Pass is something you will typically want to think about purchasing before your trip, and you can pick it up once you arrive at a JR station. From there (depending on your type of pass), you can travel Japan freely on JR trains. They have different types of passes according to where you’ll be and the length of your trip.

The first time I visited Japan, I wanted to see as much as possible, so I bought a 14 day JR Pass for less than $400 and traveled around Japan every two to three days.

The second time I visited, I was only in Hokkaido doing minimal travel as it was a ski trip, so I decided to pay for my train travel outright.

The third time I visited, I also declined a JR Pass as I was doing minimal travel, but after spending ¥12000 on one round-trip train journey from Osaka-Shingu, I think I would have been better off with a designated rail pass.

When planning your trip to Japan, you should consider where you visit and the distances you’ll cover. Long distances may require high-speed trains and will generally cost more than a short one-hour journey.

If you are traveling to one region of Japan, it may or may not be worth it for you to purchase a rail pass before. If you want some spontaneity in your Japan travels, a rail pass is a way to go.

We’ve also found that MOST (but not all) buses and subway rides in Japan charge you by distance covered. It is not a flat fare.

Most importantly, keep your bus, train, or subway ticket on you throughout your journey. You will need it to exit the station.

A few examples of our transportation costs:

Furano to Niseko Ski Resort Resort Liner Bus : ¥5500
Kyoto city bus: ¥210
Kyoto-Nara train : ¥490
Osaka city subway ticket: ¥200-350
Osaka-Singu Rapid Rail Service: ¥7000
14 day JR Pass: ¥46,432
Shingu-Yinomine Onsen Bus: ¥1500

Car Rental in Japan

If you want to explore Japan on your own terms, sometimes a car rental can be a good option. Car rentals can be had for as little as $40 a day.

Remember that you need an International Drivers Permit to rent a car in Japan. Unlike many countries that let you rent a car off just your license (as long as it uses the Latin language), in Japan, you need to go the extra mile.

An IDP is different from your regular license and must be certified beforehand in your home country. For Americans, this can easily be done at AAA for $20.

No car rental company will rent to you in Japan unless you have one, so make sure it’s done before you attempt to pick up your rental.

How to Save Money in Japan

Take Public Transport

You may think that the trains in Japan are expensive, but they are nothing compared to the price of taxis in Japan. If you step into a taxi, be prepared for a costly fare.

No – the Japanese are not trying to rip you off; that’s just the fare for traveling via taxi in Japan. It’s also important to note that public transport stops around midnight in most cities, even in Tokyo. If your flight lands late at night, it’s best to plan how you get to your accommodation.

Stay in Guesthouses

If you don’t want to stay in a hostel, the next best thing is a Japanese-run guesthouse. I found them to be a great value and almost always busy. Yes, most hotels in Japan have crazy small rooms. We book a lot of our accommodation on Airbnb. You can see our top Airbnb tips if it’s your first time booking.

Cook Your Own Food

If your accommodation has a kitchen, it’s best to use it. We saved a ton of money this way in the expensive resort town of Niseko and made our own meals every night.

The grocery store provides great value, especially on Japanese food like noodles, rice, and vegetables. You can even find food to cook with at the convenience stores.

Check out the ¥100 shops

A ¥100 shop is equivalent to an American dollar store. You can find almost anything at them, so it’s always worth it to scope some out!

Eat your fresh fruits and vegetable before you get to Japan

Fresh fruits like strawberries, blueberries, and even oranges are pretty expensive in Japan, so try to avoid them if you’re on a budget. I found a lot of vegetables besides mushrooms and a few leafy greens to be higher than average as well.

Frequent Convenience Stores

You can get almost anything you want at Lawsons, 7-11, and Family Mart. They are open around the clock and have things like pastries, coffee, pre-made meals, toiletries, and sake.

How Much Does it Cost to Travel in Japan?

So how much Japan spending money per day should you have? Besides the pre-trip expenses like airfare, luggage, and any Japan packing list items you’ll want to buy I believe you can get by in Japan for ¥7000-10,000 a day.

Actually, to prove this, I tracked all our expenses for one day out in Osaka. We were not frugal but not lavish in our spending either. We ate what we wanted to eat, did what we wanted, and had a fantastic time!

Breakfast Pastry: ¥230
Train to city: ¥210
Coffee: ¥420
Okonomiyaki lunch: ¥1030
Pinball: ¥200
New Clothes: ¥2600
Soft Ice cream : ¥440
Coffee : ¥550
Train to Osaka Castle: ¥230
Osaka Castle: Free
Train to dinner : ¥180
Ramen with beer: ¥1235
Accommodation: ¥4000/pppn
TOTAL: ¥11,325

Now you definitely could do it a lot cheaper than this or for much more. Many things on the above list are superfluous, but I like coffee, ice cream, a beer with my meal, and the occasional shopping spree.

When I first traveled to Japan for the first time, I was on a backpacker budget. I visited there in February (off season), spent my nights in hostels, ate basic meals from 7-11, and only indulged in a few cheap excursions – but for the most part, stuck to the free temples and just walked around and enjoyed the view. I had a fantastic time on less than the ¥6000 a day.

You can travel cheaply through Japan if you are determined. At the same time, if it’s your one big trip to Japan, I don’t think you should be afraid to spend money on food and experiences you can’t get back home.

Japan Travel Planning Resources

Packing Guide—Check out our Japan Packing List to help you pack your bags and ensure you leave nothing at home.
Protect Your Trip — We don’t travel without travel insurance , nor should you. You never know what can happen while traveling, so it’s best to be prepared. HeyMondo provides excellent short-term and long-term travel insurance plans.
Travel Adapter – Find a good adapter to keep your electronics charged. Otherwise, you may be paying for a cheap one once you land. Purchase one here.
Book an Experience – See all the best experiences and tours in Japan here.
Get a Japan Rail Pass (Buy Here) – They make traveling around Japan much easier and cheaper.
Travel Shoes – Allbirds are the ultimate travel shoe . They are sustainable and last forever while looking good.

About Natasha Alden

Natasha is the co-founder of The World Pursuit. She is an expert in travel, budgeting, and finding unique experiences. She loves to be outside, hiking in the mountains, playing in the snow on her snowboard, and biking. She has been traveling for over 10 years, across 7 continents, experiencing unique cultures, new food, and meeting fantastic people. She strives to make travel planning and traveling easier for all. Her advice about international travel, outdoor sports, and African safari has been featured on Lonely Planet , Business Insider , and Reader’s Digest . Learn more about Natasha Alden on The World Pursuit About Us Page .

17 Things to Know BEFORE Hiking the Kumano Kodo Pilgrimage Trail

If you’re considering hiking Japan’s Kumano Kodo trail, you are in for a real adventure. Deep in the Kii Peninsula, you can easily find yourself lost at another time. The…

What to Wear in Japan? The ULTIMATE Japan Packing List

We receive many questions from readers about what to pack for their trip to Japan. So, we set out to help our readers determine what to wear. After traveling around…

30 UNIQUE Things to Do in Osaka, Japan

Japan’s third-largest city is Osaka. The city is huge, with a population of over 2.5 million, and is bustling with plenty of things to see in Osaka. It isn’t always…

31 Fun Facts About Japan You Should Know

After some interesting facts about Japan? Japan is a land of amazing culture, delicious food, unique sights, and plenty of history, but did you know that the name “Japan” is…

Itineraries
Tours and Activities
Travel Guides
Best of Japan

JRailPass.com » Japan Travel Blog » Why travel to Japan? 20 best reasons to visit it

Why travel to Japan? 20 best reasons to visit it

June 15, 2022

A Shinkansen In the Tokaido Shinkansen Line passing near Mount fuji

There are a endless number of reasons to visit Japan , as the country has something to entice almost every kind of traveler.

Whether you’re dying to explore Japanese history and culture at the variety of UNESCO World Heritage Sites in the country, indulge in diverse Japanese cuisine, or experience a ride on the lighting-fast Shinkansen trains, a trip to Japanese promises adventure around every corner.

From the chance to visit some of the many impressive temples and castles around the country, to the opportunity to take a dip in an Onsen hot spring, below you’ll find the 20 best reasons why you should visit Japan .

It’s easy to get around on public transportation

Japan has one of the most efficient and reliable public transport systems in the world, with a wide range of travel options including bus, train, and subway services across the country.

One of the best ways to get between cities is to ride the Shinkansen bullet trains , which can reach a speed of up to 300 km/h and boast a range of luxury services onboard. The most cost-efficient way to travel by Shinkansen is to buy a JR Pass online before traveling to Japan.

Book your Japan Rail Pass now

Japan is very clean

The Japanese really pride themselves on their cleanliness , and upon first arrival in the country you may be surprised by how sparkling clean the streets are.

Hotels and restaurants tend to be absolutely spotless , filled with pleasant smells, and regularly and efficiently cleaned. One downside is that there tends to be a total absence of trash cans in public spaces. However, you can just follow the Japanese example and carry garbage with you until you find a place to get rid of it later on.

Japanese people are polite and friendly

The Japanese have a worldwide reputation for being uncommonly polite, friendly, and welcoming. Although the language barrier may prove a challenge at times, people in Japan usually try to be as helpful as possible if you ask anything of them.

It’s a good idea to brush up on Japanese etiquette tips before traveling: locals will appreciate your efforts to respect local customs!

The incredible natural landscapes

Although Japan is perhaps best known internationally for its technologically advanced cities, the majority of the country is actually taken up by a vast expanse of forested hills and mountains , and there is lots of nature to explore.

One of the most obvious beauty spots to visit is the iconic Mount Fuji , but you shouldn’t rule out a visit to lesser known natural gems such as the Arashiyama bamboo forest or the Ritsurin landscape gardens on Shikoku Island .

The large number of UNESCO sites

Japan boasts a total of 21 World Heritage Sites , including 17 cultural monuments and 4 natural landscapes, and there are currently 8 more sites pending UNESCO classification.

Toshogu shrine is a UNESCO World Heritage Site

Travelers interested in Japanese history should definitely pay a visit to the Hiroshima Peace Memorial , which commemorates the victims of the 1945 atomic bomb, as well as Shirakawago and Gokayama , historic villages which feature unique thatched-roof dwellings.

The majestic temples in Japan

There are number of stunning historic temples and shrines in almost every town and city in Japan, while larger cultural centers can have up to 1,000 temples within their municipality.

One of the most impressive temples in Japan is the Byodoin Buddhist temple in Uji, a UNESCO World Heritage Site that dates back over a thousand years. The Toji temple in Kyoto , which boasts the tallest wooden pagoda in Japan and an extensive garden full of cherry trees, is also well worth visiting.

The unique castles

Visitors to Japan can dig deep into the country’s history by exploring the elegant architecture and fascinating family legacies of Japanese castles.

Primarily serving as the homes for local feudal lords and their family during the Sengoku period of Japanese history, the castles in Japan are defined by their elegant façades and interiors, as well as extensive defensive features.

Some of the most impressive castles in Japan include the well-preserved Hikone castle , which dates back to 1622, and the castle in Himeji .

The spectacular cherry blossom season

Japan is one of the best places in the world to view the spring cherry blossom and attend a Cherry blossom festival.

Once the cherry blossom season peaks in April , locals and visitors alike flock to Japanese parks and gardens to engage in hanami (picnics beneath the cherry trees). Some of the best places to experience the blooming flowers include Hirosaki Castle Park and Shinjuku Gyoen, located in the heart of Tokyo.

The exciting summer festivals

If you’re visiting Japan during the summer months, you should plan to experience some of the colourful Matsuri festivals which take place all over the country.

Obon festival: floating lanterns (toro nagashi)

These traditional celebrations pay tribute to legendary historical events and different deities connected to an individual shrine in the towns where they take place. Many Matsuri festivals feature processions of enormous floats , colorful parades, and spectacular fireworks shows.

Christmas in Japan is magical

Spending in Christmas in Japan is worth the effort just to experience the range of extravagant winter illuminations that saturate the city streets during the festive period.

Those planning to spend winter in Japan are also advised to visit the Sapporo snow festival in Hokkaido, where you can see a range of incredible ice sculptures , many based on well-known pop culture characters.

The world-class powder snow

Winter sports enthusiasts shouldn’t miss the chance to go snowboarding and skiing in Japan at one of the many resorts across the country, as Japanese powder snow is considered some of the best in the world.

Many of the best ski resorts in Japan are located on the northernmost island of Hokkaido, such as Furano, Rusutsu, and Niseko, as well as in the Japanese Alps on Honshu.

The chance to bathe in a natural hot spring

Onsens are Japanese hot spring baths filled with mineral-rich spring water heated by geothermal forces , somewhat like a natural Jacuzzi.

Onsen baths have been present all over Japan since at least the 8th Century , when the belief that hot springs had curative and rejuvenating powers was at its height. Taking a bath in an onsen is an incredibly relaxing experience , and popular with both Japanese locals and tourists.

The superb Japanese cuisine

Food is incredibly important in Japanese culture , and while in the country you’ll be able to sample a huge range of the many delicious dishes that make up Japanese cuisine.

From worldwide favorites like sushi and ramen , to Sukiyaki (beef hot pot) and Yakiniku (Japanese barbeque), there are an endless number of dishes in Japan guaranteed to make your mouth water.

Japan is also the country with the most 3-star Michelin restaurants in the world , and there are are also a number of Matsuri food and drink festivals you can experience during your trip.

The fantastic architecture

You’ll be able to take in some incredible modern architecture while in the major Japanese cities, such as the Tokyo Skytree , the tallest building in the capital.

You can also find some exquisite examples of traditional Japanese architecture all over the country, such as the majestic Ise shrines on the Shima Peninsula.

The advanced technology

From futuristic capsule hotels with complimentary tablets, to high-tech public toilets , advanced technology is in full display in every corner of Japan’s cities.

If you feel like getting an inside look at technological advancements in Japan, pay a visit to the permanent robotics exhibitions at Miraikan – The National Museum of Emerging Science and Innovation in Tokyo’s Odaiba district .

Japan is a Mecca for manga and anime lovers

If you first fell in love with Japan through manga and anime , you’re bound to be in heaven during a visit to Tokyo, which boasts a number of anime-themed experiences .

Visit J-World Tokyo , an indoor amusement park based around popular manga characters, the One Piece Tower, or the Pokémon Mega Center Tokyo , a huge store which offers a range of Pokémon merchandise exclusive to Japan.

It’s the home of Studio Ghibli

Fans of classic Japanese animation films like Princess Mononoke (1997) and Spirited Away (2001) shouldn’t miss the chance to see some of celebrated director Hayao Miyazaki’s creations at the Studio Ghibli museum in Mitaka .

Children can play on a huge replica of the Catbus from My Neighbor Totoro (1988) and watch animated shorts exclusive to the museum. There is also an ever-changing range of exhibitions exploring Ghibli’s creative process.

Japan is the birthplace of karaoke

If you love belting out your favorite songs, whether in front of a small group of friends or a crowd of random strangers, then you’ll want to take advantage of the huge karaoke culture while in Japan.

You might not be aware that Karaoke actually originated in Japan and continues to be incredibly popular: there are currently around 100,000 karaoke boxes and bars across the country.

The fashion

Fashion lovers arriving in Japan should head directly to Tokyo’s most stylish area , Harajuku , where most of the biggest Japanese trendsetters set up shop.

Those more interested in traditional Japanese fashion may want to pay a visit to Kyoto and try on one of the elegant kimonos or yukatas the city is famous for.

Japan is very safe

Japan is considered to be one of the safest countries in the world, and has one of the lowest global crime rates .

Japanese people often leave their doors unlocked, children are perfectly safe traveling on the subway by themselves , and visitors are able to walk around the cities at night without having to worry.

Nevertheless,as when traveling to any foreign destination, visitors to Japan should still exercise caution in crowded places and use common sense.

Related tours & activities.

Privacy Policy
Work with us

Who are we?
Personal Blog
New South Wales
Northern Territory
Western Australia
Philippines
The Netherlands
Accommodation
Budget Travel
Couples Travel
Ethical Travel
Solo Travel
Travel Books
Travel Gift Guides
Travel Gadgets and Packing Tips

30 Reasons to visit Japan – Why you should visit Japan once in your life

Our starting point in Japan was the awesome city of Osaka. Even though it's not the most popular tourist destination in Japan, we absolutely loved it here. We actually spent most of our time in Japan in Osaka - twelve whole days! It's a city with lots of activities, great restaurants and of course amazing hotels. In this article we will share our tips on things to do in Osaka. This includes cultural activities, fun days out exploring, visiting the best spots and we have a great hotel recommendation for you. We know this won't be the only article we will be sharing about Osaka, since we have so much to share!

Are you still not sure why you should visit Japan at least once in your life? In this post you can find 30 reasons to visit Japan! It’s one of our favourite destinations in Asia. Probably because it has the perfect mix of culture, history and modern comfort. And lets not forget the amazing food they have! Japan is a unique country, and even though you might have an image of how it will be, this beautiful country will definitely still surprise you!

Below you can read 30 reasons why you should visit Japan. If you’ve been persuaded already, be sure to check our other articles of Japan and keep your eyes peeled for more on this blog!

30 Reasons to visit Japan at least once in your life

1. japan has some of the most beautiful places.

A Day Trip to Mount Fuji from Tokyo, Things to do in Japan, Things to do at Mount Fuji, Lake Kawaguchiko, Chureito Pagoda, Mountain, Fuji-San, Japan, Japanese mountain, Biggest mountain in Japan, dag trip naar Mount Fuji

Japan offers a lot of beautiful places. There are a lot of popular and unique, of the beaten track destinations that you should include in your itinerary. This means there is so much to explore and there really is something for anybody! From nature, such as beautiful blue ponds, waterfalls and bamboo forests to culture, with amazing temples and shrines.

3. There is a lot of history to discover in Japan

The ancient Japanese culture is really interesting, and it has been around for thousands of years. Even now the culture and heritage is very prominent in the country. During your visit in Japan you can learn a lot about the history by visiting castles, temples, shrines and more. Especially Kyoto is a perfect destination if you want to experience the ancient Japanese culture.

4. There are countless of beautiful temples and shrines in Japan

Japan offers countless of beautiful Buddhist temples and Shinto shrines throughout the country. The above photo was taken at the Fushimi Inari shrine and is a gorgeous spot in Kyoto. But also in Osaka, Tokyo, Mount Fuji and almost every city and town in Japan you can find temples and shrines that are worth a visit.

5. Japan is also very modern

Like I’ve mentioned before, Japan is a perfect mix culture, history and modern comfort. There are skyscrapers, modern restaurants and everything else you can come across in the modern world. But, Japan does have it’s own unique, modern style and can’t be compared with any other modern country.

6. It’s very easy to travel around Japan

When you're at Lake Kawaguchiko, you can travel around by bus or train. We took the train to Shimoyoshida Station. From here you can walk to Arakura Sengen Shrine and there you'll find the Chureito Pagoda

The public transport in Japan is very efficient! It’s so easy to travel from one destination to another in this country. In just a few days time you can see a lot! Plus, the trains in Japan are super punctual. It’s almost not possible for them to have a delay.

7. Japan is a super clean country

Everything in Japan is super, super clean. You’ll never find any litter on the streets anywhere for that matter. Every hotel and accommodation we stayed at always smelled rosy clean and every restaurant table is efficiently cleaned before we sit down.

8. Everything is so kawaii in Japan

How can everything in Japan be so freakin’ cute?! You’ll be surprised to see the biggest companies having advertising with the most cute characters. It’s just part of the Japanese culture that everything should be adorable. If you’re a sucker for kawaii, then you just have to visit Japan!

9. Japan has some of the most amazing food

Japan has more amazing food than only ramen or sushi! For instance, try the Okonomiyaki pancakes, made with cabbage and topped with a variety of options. This can be anything from meat to seafood! Other food to try in Japan are Soba noodles, Yakiniku barbecue, Tempura, Sukiyaki, Yakitori and much, much more…

10. Eat all the Matcha in Japan!

One thing we absolutely love is matcha-flavoured sweets. And in Japan you can really eat anything in matcha flavour: chocolate, cookies, ice-cream and even in burgers. For those of you that don’t know: matcha is green tea, made from the finest tea leafs. The leafs are steamed, dried and made into a powder. It’s super healthy and delicious!

11. The KitKats in Japan come in countless of flavours

Lets keep talking about food a bit longer… Because, well, I love food and Japan is an excellent place for foodies. KitKats are available in all kinds of flavours in Japan. Strawberry, pear, citrus golden blend, cinnamon cookie, strawberry cheesecake, wasabi and many more! Yes, also matcha! Really try out some of those crazy flavours!

12. It’s easier to stick to your budget in Japan than you would think!

Arashiyama Bamboo Grove was a lot smaller than we thought, but we still really enjoyed it. You can take some excellent photos here

We expected Japan to be very expensive and compared to most Asian countries, it is. Luckily, we still found that Japan can easily be explored on a budget! Of course, it really depends what your budget is… But we managed with a budget of approximately 30 euros per person a day. For accomodation, we stayed in an Airbnb, mostly ate a lot of ramen (and even sushi!) and still did a lot of activities. Many touristic attractions in Japan are free!

We found the transport in Japan to be the most expensive. We eventually decided to travel by train and always looked for the most affordable train ticket.

13. There is definitely a weird, but cool, side to Japan

To us Japan was a bit weird at times. We can’t ignore the fact that it’s a bit different than, let’s say, Western Europe. All those big blown up signs and other 3D models in the streets, maid cafes and grown ups in game halls. But all this actually makes Japan so cool!

14. Japan offers the most beautiful cherry blossoms

Yoshinoyama, Nara, Japan in spring season.

One of the most popular times to visit Japan is during spring. This is, of course, because of the amazing pink cherry blossoms that cover the streets. But not only the trees start to blossom when spring approaches, everything else in Japan turns into “sakura” mode. Think fake cherry blossom flowers in stores, cherry blossom drinks and even food.

15. You can enjoy nature in Japan

Although Japan has big, heavily urbanised cities such as Tokyo, Kyoto and Osaka, there is also a lot of nature to explore. In fact, two thirds of Japan is actually covered by forested mountains and hills ! But in Japan you also have waterfalls, volcanoes, mountains and more.

16. It’s possible to visit the incredible Mount Fuji

One of our favourite places in Japan is Mount Fuji. It’s such an iconic landmark and an Cultural Site on the UNESCO’s World Heritage List. It’s possible to enjoy the beauty of Mount Fuji from different places, and you can also climb Mount Fuji.

17. Japan has some of the most amazing architecture

Are you a sucker for architecture? Well, in Japan you can find beautiful architecture. Especially the traditional Japanese style is unique and very aesthetically pleasing. You’ll definitely enjoy the castles, temples and shrines.

18. You can encounter beautiful wildlife

Nara is perfect for taking photos. The deer can be super sweet but also quite dangerous and aggressive.

In Nara Park you can find deer roaming the streets freely and in the forest of Jigokudani valley you can find the Snow Monkeys. But there is a lot more wild life in Japan, such as tanuki (sort of raccoon), wild boars, squirrels and more!

19. In Japan you can feel like a kid in Disney World

The last time I felt the same way as in Japan was when I was a little kid in Disney World. Not only are there toys everywhere, just walking around on the streets you won’t know where to look! There is something to see anywhere. One day we were walking around in Osaka and suddenly saw people driving around in Mario Kart cars on the streets. Adult people feeling like kids again!

20. Japan is perfect if you’re an anime lover…

Book your ticket to Japan right now if you’re an anime fan. Japan is the birthplace of anime, manga and video games. Some of the best places to enjoy anime in Japan are the Tokyo Anime Center, Akihabara, J-World Tokyo and Pokémon Mega Center Tokyo.

21. … And if you still love toys, no matter what age

Don’t be embarrassed.. Just buy that Pokémon toy, no matter what age you are. Like I said before, Japan makes you feel like a kid again. Enjoy it!

23. Have some karaoke fun in Japan!

The fun doesn’t stop at toys and game arcades, you can also have karaoke fun in Japan! Karaoke actually originated in Japan and is enjoyed by people of all ages in the country.

24. Japanese fashion is trendsetting

The fashion in Japan is really better than the clothes in this photo, I promise.

Of course the traditional clothing in Japan is absolutely beautiful. Just think of the details of the Geisha outfit or all the beautiful fabrics they use for kimono’s. But in Japanese big cities, such as Tokyo, there is a lot of trendsetting fashion. In areas such as Harajuku or Shibuya you can see many locals walking around in great styles.

25. You can try on a kimono and other Japanese traditional clothing

This photo is taken at the Chureito Pagoda, while we were walking back. The beautiful flower were still in bloom. Check out our Mount Fuji day trip itinerary below

Dress up as a geisha or buy your own kimono or yukata. One of the best places to dress up in Japanese traditional clothing is Kyoto. You rent a beautiful kimono and walk around in the city.

26. Experience the most busy intersection in the world at Shibuya

The Shibuya District from above and you can see the busy Shibuya intersection

Shibuya Crossing in Tokyo is a very cool, exciting place. It’s actually claimed to be one of the busiest intersection in the world. It’s really cool to see thousand people crossing the streets at once.

27. There are many themed restaurants in Japan

There are very adorable themed restaurants in Japan, such as Pompompurin Café that you can see on the photo above. In addition, there are themed restaurants that are a bit weird or crazy. For instance, the Robot restaurant in Tokyo or Kawaii Monster Café Harajuku (cute and crazy!).

28. There are 21 World Heritage Sites in Japan

Himeji, Japan at Himeji Castle in spring season.

There are 21 World Heritage Sites in Japan, with 17 cultural sites and four natural sites. Plus, there are actually eight more sites that might become World Heritage Sites. The photo above is of the gorgeous Himeji castle that is also a World Heritage Site.

29. In Japan there are vending machines for anything

Japan has the highest density of vending machines in the whole world. The country has about 5.52 million vending machines! And you can get almost anything from them: coffee, tea, candy, soup, hot food, and much more.

30. It’s probably one of the most awesome countries in the world

This list can go on and on. There is so much to see, so much to do and it’s such a unique country. Trust me, Japan really should be on your list!

That were 30 reasons why you should visit Japan at least once in your life! Have you ever been to Japan? Let us know in the comments!

Follow our adventures!

Why Should You Visit Japan?

Japan offers a unique and exciting experience to visitors. It is a country full of history, culture, and beauty that you won’t find anywhere else in the world. From ancient temples and shrines to modern cities filled with skyscrapers – Japan has something for everyone. Whether you’re an art enthusiast looking to explore the wide array of museums or a foodie wanting to sample all kinds of delicious cuisine, Japan has it all! The people are friendly and welcoming as well, making this destination ideal for anyone who wants to have an unforgettable trip. With its unique blend of old-world charm and modern amenities, there’s no doubt that visiting Japan should be on your travel bucket list! Here are some reasons why: Firstly, Japan is home to some of the most beautiful natural scenery in the world. From towering mountains covered in snow year round to serene lakes surrounded by lush greenery – you will never run out of breathtaking sights during your stay here. Plus with so many national parks scattered around the country – it makes exploring these areas easy! There’s also plenty of beaches along the coastlines where you can relax while soaking up some sun or take part in water sports like surfing or snorkeling.

If you’ve ever been curious about visiting Japan, let us be the first to tell you that it is an amazing place! With its unique culture, breathtaking natural beauty, and remarkable food scene – there’s no shortage of reasons why you should visit Japan. Here are just a few of them: 1. Explore Japanese Culture: From traditional festivals like the Gion Matsuri in Kyoto to modern-day marvels such as Tokyo’s Robot Restaurant and Osaka’s Universal Studios Japan park – there’s something for everyone when it comes to experiencing Japanese culture. Whether you want to try on a kimono or take part in a tea ceremony with a Geisha master – the possibilities are endless! 2. Unique Cuisine: Sushi lovers rejoice; this country has some of the freshest seafood available anywhere in the world! But if raw fish isn’t your thing, don’t worry – there is still plenty more delicious cuisine available in Japan. From ramen noodles to okonomiyaki pancakes – these dishes will tantalize your taste buds and have you begging for more. 3. Enjoy Natural Beauty: If city life isn’t really up your alley then rest assured that Japan has plenty of outdoor activities waiting for you too! Take a hike through one of its many mountain ranges or go snorkeling off Okinawa Island – whichever way you choose to explore Mother Nature here; she won’t disappoint! 4 .

10 Reasons Why You Should Visit Japan

If you’ve ever wanted to visit a place that is both exotic and familiar, then Japan should be at the top of your list. With its unique culture, stunning landscape and delicious cuisine, Japan offers so much for travelers. Here are 10 reasons why you should plan a trip to this fascinating country: 1. Incredible Food – From sushi and ramen to tempura and yakitori, Japanese cuisine is renowned around the world for its deliciousness. Eating out in Japan can be an unforgettable experience as there are so many different dishes to try! You won’t want to miss out on trying all the amazing food available here. 2. Beautiful Landscape – Whether it’s cherry blossoms blooming in spring or snow-capped mountains during wintertime, Japan has some of the most beautiful natural scenery in the world. The breathtaking views will make you never want to leave! 3. Rich Culture & History – Japan has been home to various cultures over thousands of years which makes it such a unique destination for visitors who want learn about history first-hand. . There’s plenty of temples and shrines that provide insight into how people lived centuries ago too! 4. Shopping Galore – If shopping is your thing then Tokyo is definitely worth visiting as it’s filled with department stores selling everything from electronics gadgets right through designer fashion items – something truly special awaits everyone here! 5 .

Why You Should Visit Japan Essay

If you’re looking for a unique and unforgettable travel experience, look no further than Japan. From ancient temples to modern neon-lit cities, the Land of the Rising Sun offers something for everyone. In addition to its rich cultural heritage and stunning natural beauty, there are plenty of reasons why you should visit Japan. First off, Japan is home to some incredible historical sites that will take your breath away. You can explore breathtaking shrines like Kiyomizu-dera Temple in Kyoto or Kamakura’s iconic Great Buddha statue. Plus, if you have an interest in samurai culture then be sure to check out Himeji Castle which is one of the few remaining castles from this era still standing today! With so many incredible sights on offer it’s easy to understand why people flock from around the world just to get a glimpse into Japan’s past. Not only does Japan boast impressive historical attractions but also has amazing modern marvels too! Head over Tokyo and explore Akihabara district where technology reigns supreme with all kinds of gadgets available at every turn! Or visit Osaka’s Universal Studios which is packed full of thrilling rides and entertainment fit for any age group. No matter what kind of adventure you seek in life, chances are high that you’ll find it here in Japan! Finally, food lovers rejoice as Japanese cuisine is renowned across the globe!

Reasons Not to Go to Japan

If you’re considering a trip to Japan, there are some important factors to consider before taking the plunge. While Japan is an incredibly beautiful and fascinating destination with much to offer, it also has its downsides that should be taken into account when making your travel plans. Here are just a few reasons why you may not want to go to Japan: 1. Cost: Visiting Japan can be expensive due to the high cost of living in the country. Accommodation prices tend to skyrocket during peak season, while food and transportation expenses can add up quickly as well. This makes it difficult for budget travelers looking for an affordable vacation spot. 2. Language Barrier: English is not widely spoken in Japan and most signs are written in Japanese, which could make navigating around tricky if you don’t know at least basic phrases or words in the language yourself. If this is going to be an issue for you then it might be best to stick with somewhere more accessible like Europe where English tends to be more common than other languages. 3. Cultural Etiquette: Japanese culture has very strict rules about etiquette that must always be adhered too – from bowing when meeting someone new, removing shoes indoors and being sure not talk too loudly on public transportations or streets- so visitors need take extra care if they don’t want offend anyone unintentionally!

5 Reasons to Visit Japan

Japan is one of the most unique and fascinating countries in the world, with a rich culture and history, beautiful landscapes, and delicious cuisine. If you’re looking for an unforgettable experience that combines all these things, then Japan should be at the top of your list. Here are five reasons why Japan should be your next travel destination: 1. World-Class Cuisine – Japanese food is renowned for its high quality ingredients, precise preparation techniques, and exquisite flavors. From sushi to ramen to tempura dishes, there’s something for everyone! Plus, many restaurants offer vegetarian options as well as traditional Japanese fare. 2. Rich Culture & History – From ancient shrines to modern cities like Tokyo or Osaka, Japan has been home to many empires over the centuries. Exploring this incredible country allows you to learn about its past while appreciating its present beauty and diversity. 3. Unique Landscapes – With towering mountain ranges in the north and lush forests in the south (not to mention plenty of beaches!), there’s no shortage of spectacular scenery across Japan’s four main islands: Honshu , Hokkaido , Kyushu , Shikoku . Whether you want an active outdoor adventure or a peaceful nature escape – it can all be found here!

I Have Always Wanted to Visit Japan

If you are like me, and have always wanted to visit Japan, then you know that this destination offers a wealth of cultural experiences. As the birthplace of some of the world’s most iconic cuisine, fashion trends, art forms, and entertainment venues, there is no doubt that a holiday in Japan will leave an unforgettable impression on any traveler. From its stunning natural beauty to its vibrant cities and rich history, there is so much to explore in Japan. Begin your Japanese adventure by visiting Tokyo – one of the largest metropolises in the world offering stunning cityscapes amidst bustling streets filled with neon lights and modern architecture. Take time to stroll around Harajuku or Akihabara for unique shopping opportunities or head over to Ueno Park for cherry blossom viewing during springtime. Be sure not too miss out on trying traditional dishes such as sushi and tempura while visiting Tokyo! After spending some days exploring Tokyo’s attractions, don’t forget about other major cities like Kyoto which houses impressive temples such as Kiyomizu-dera Temple or Osaka where amazing food can be found at Dōtonbori district – all perfect for sightseeing! A trip to Hiroshima should also be included in your itinerary; here you will find many monuments dedicated to peace accompanied by breathtaking views along Miyajima island nearby.

Credit: www.chaptertravel.com

What is Special About Japan?

Japan is a truly unique nation with a rich cultural history and many interesting features that set it apart from the rest of the world. From its beautiful traditional architecture to its fascinating cuisine, Japan has something special for everyone. Here are some of the reasons why Japan is so special. First, Japan’s culture is incredibly diverse and vibrant. The country boasts an ancient tradition of art, literature, music and theater that dates back centuries; these forms of expression continue to be cultivated today through festivals, exhibitions and performances throughout the year. Additionally, there are numerous religious practices in Japan such as Shintoism and Buddhism which contribute to its spiritual atmosphere. In addition to this religious diversity, modern day Japanese society is also very inclusive; gender roles are much less rigid than other countries making it possible for both men and women to pursue their professional dreams without fear or discrimination based on their sex or beliefs. Second, Japan has some incredible natural wonders. From majestic volcanoes like Mt Fuji to breathtaking beaches along its coastline – there’s no shortage of awe-inspiring landscapes in this country! Not only does it offer picturesque views but also plenty of opportunities for outdoor activities ranging from skiing down snowy slopes in Hokkaido during wintertime all the way up camping outdoors under starry skies at night during summer months in Okinawa! Thirdly, Japanese cuisine deserves special mention because few other nations have dishes as delicious or varied as those found here!

Why Should You Visit Tokyo Japan?

If you’re looking for an exciting and unique travel experience, then Tokyo should be at the top of your list. There are so many reasons why a visit to Tokyo is worth it – from its modern culture and vibrant nightlife to its ancient temples, shrines, and gardens. Here are just some of the reasons why you should visit Tokyo: The Culture: From traditional customs like tea ceremonies and kabuki theater to cutting-edge fashion trends, there’s something for everyone in Tokyo. The city has a rich cultural heritage that can be experienced through festivals, museums, galleries, shopping districts and more. It’s also one of the most diverse cities in the world with people from all over coming together to make this amazing metropolis their home. The Food & Drink Scene: If you love food (who doesn’t?), then you’ll adore eating your way around Tokyo! From Michelin-starred restaurants serving up exquisite cuisine to street stands selling delicious snacks like takoyaki or okonomiyaki – there’s something here for every palate. And don’t forget about Japan’s famous sake bars where visitors can sample different varieties of rice wine while learning about Japanese brewing traditions. The Shopping Variety: Whether you’re looking for high-end designer brands or quirky vintage finds – Tokyo has it all!

10 Reason Why You Must Visit Japan

If you’re looking for an incredible travel destination, Japan should be at the top of your list. From its ancient cultural traditions to modern-day comforts, there’s something for everyone in this vibrant country. With centuries-old temples and shrines, pristine beaches, delicious cuisine and bustling cities full of shopping and entertainment options, Japan has it all! Plus with a fascinating history spanning many dynasties, exploring this unique culture is sure to leave you feeling inspired. Whether you’re interested in outdoor activities or prefer relaxing indoors, Japan offers plenty of exciting experiences that will make your trip unforgettable. So why not consider booking a visit to beautiful Japan? You won’t regret it!

Izumi Kenta

Hi, I’m Izumi Kenta from Japan. By profession, I worked as a tourist guide and interpreter in Japan. Besides this profession, I’m a hobbyist blogger. I love to talk about different things about Japan and share them with a wider audience who wants to know about my country. To share my thoughts, I’ve created this site Visitjapan and brought some Japanese travel enthusiasts and tourists worldwide to share their experiences.

2 thoughts on “ Why Should You Visit Japan? ”

Rather useful phrase

I consider, that you are not right. Write to me in PM, we will discuss.

Why I Love Japan | Five Reasons Why You Need to Visit

April 22, 2021
Travel Tips

The famed Chureito Pagoda and the ever-majestic Mt. Fuji during winter

One day while I was on the Gram, someone asked me out of the blue why I spend such a staggering amount of money traveling around Japan and promoting my content. This person was a fellow creator here in Tokyo, so I was initially taken aback by their sudden query. I mean, isn’t it blatantly obvious why I am so inescapably addicted to this amazing country? If anything, I am the one who is puzzled why someone wouldn’t want to throw all of their disposable income at exploring Japan. Honestly, what the hell else would I do with it? Let it sit in the bank?

Alas, I guess not everyone out there has drunk as much of the #LoveJapan Kool-Aid as I have yet. While Japan indeed ranks high on travelers’ lists of destinations when this global pandemic is finally over, I don’t think many realize just how special this country really is. I won’t go as far as fully indoctrinating you into the cult ; however, I do want to provide you, the reader, with five reasons why I will forever be head over heels in love with exploring a different side of Japan.

So, without further ado…

Reason One: Endless Discovery

The torii gate tunnel of Motonosumi Inari Shrine in Yamaguchi Prefecture

It’s not exactly a well-kept secret that the official slogan for the Japan National Tourism Organization (or JNTO for short) is “endless discovery.” That said, I don’t think many tourists realize exactly how apt of a catchphrase this really is. Put simply, my bucket list for places that I want to visit in Japan is now so long that I would require multiple lifetimes to complete it. Hell, one could live for over a century and never even scratch the surface of Tokyo, let alone the rest of Japan.

Though comparatively only the size of the state of California, Japan is chock full of attractions and hidden gems. In stark contrast to the excruciatingly humdrum suburban sprawl of North America, just about anywhere in Japan has the potential to intrigue overseas visitors. In fact, throughout all my travels across the vast Japanese countryside, I cannot recall a single trip that left me unmoved. All things considered, you’d really need to try your hardest to have a bad time here in Japan!

Reason Two: Logistics

A bullet train bound for Kyoto on the Tokdaido Nozomi Line

Speaking of traversing the country, the second reason why I love traveling in Japan is the country’s amazing transportation network. As someone who has never (and likely will never) drive an automobile, the ability to get from one end of Japan to the other in a matter of hours is a godsend. Every weekend, I board a bullet train bound for some remote destination , and before I know it, I’m there. What’s more, I can even bang out some work while en route.

Of course, no talk about public transportation in Japan would be complete without acknowledging the fact that everything arrives on schedule. This fact alone puts Japan in a class of its own when it comes to travel logistics. Given that one will often have to make additional connections to reach their final destination, it really is a blessing to know exactly when you’ll arrive at a station. Moreover, the fact that trains and buses actually come on time means that you can more easily plan your adventures.

Reason Three: Narrative

Nara Prefecture’s Horyu-ji temple complex which is the oldest wooden building in the world

While I’ll concede that Japan isn’t the only country in the world to have a culture that is many millennia old, its ancient legacy is yet another thing I absolutely love about this place. In short, I am a huge proponent of the power of historical narratives when it comes to bringing a site to life. In this regard, few other options for tourists can hold a candle to the likes of Japan. No matter where you wander here, you’re bound to find all sorts of unique historical and cultural rabbit holes to dive down. Though I am certainly a sucker for the minutiae, even first-time visitors to Japan can appreciate the simplified stories.

One other amazing aspect of Japan is that much of its rich culture and history still remains in tangible forms. From the oldest wooden buildings in the world at the Horyu-ji temple complex , to the unbroken tradition of rebuilding Ise Jingu every two decades, lasting examples of Japan’s long cultural pedigree can be found throughout the nation. Many of these structures predate most of the modern nations in the world like my country of origin, the United States. While I may be alone in feeling this way, I’ve found that coming face-to-face with these historical masterpieces really puts the newness of our modern world into perspective.

Reason Four: Safety

Tokyo’s busy Shinjuku area at dusk as people cross the road

I almost need not say this, but Japan is one of the safest countries in the world . In fact, I just took a quick bathroom break while writing this piece and left my laptop and cellphone unattended on the table. Nowhere else in the world would I feel comfortable doing this. Likewise, outside of the rather infrequent absconding with fellow content creators like Cheeserland and Bunny Tokyo , I almost always travel alone. Despite flying solo all the time, I have never once felt uncomfortable during my numerous adventures.

Now, I do recognize that my experience may be somewhat tinted by the fact that I am a Caucasian male (and a rather tall one at that) but by and large, the Japanese are kind and honest souls so you really need not worry. While you should always keep your wits about you just in case, especially if you’re out late partying , Japan is incredibly safe in comparison to just about anywhere else on the planet.

Reason Five: Nature

A tree in Japan during the autumn months

People regularly ask me when’s the best time to visit Japan. Oftentimes, my answer is “YES!” You see, there really is no wrong time to visit Japan . Though the spring cherry blossoms may be Japan’s most well-known seasonal allure, the truth is that there’s something to see at all times of the year. The following are just a few of my favorites…

Spring While the cherry blossoms hog all of the attention, springtime is also when the azaleas and nemophila are in season. Be sure to check out Nezu Shrine in Tokyo for the former and Hitachi Seaside Park in Ibaraki for the latter!
Rainy Season Though it’s usually a low season for tourism, the period between spring and summer is a time when you can have the attractions to yourself. What’s more, this is also a great time to see Kamakura’s hydrangeas!
Summer While the dog days of summer are undoubtedly a hot and humid time , this is also when many of the major festivals take place. Additionally, a lot of students and office workers also have time off during this time of year.
Autumn Though no longer a well-kept secret, the fall months in Japan are some of the most beautiful. Though these may be fighting words, I’m of the mind that the autumn foliage can easily rival the cherry blossoms.
Winter Especially on the Sea of Japan side of the archipelago, wintertime in Japan is a celebration of all things snow. If you’re a diehard fan of skiing or snowboarding, you really need to experience Japan during winter!

By the way, in case you’re wondering, my personal favorite time of the year is autumn (the shot above should give it away though). There is just little in this world that can compare to the majesty of Japan when the leaves come ablaze with yellow and crimson hues!

Bonus Reason: Food

Some Japanese wagyu beef in a sukiyaki hot pot along with other veggies

Allow me to end this essay with one final reason why Japan is the best country to visit on the planet. Though I am basically an anti-foodie who doesn’t really value culinary experiences and tends to eat only one meal per day, I do acknowledge that Japan has one of the best gourmet cultures out there.

If you like stuffing your gullet with an endless variety of succulent and savory treats, then Japan is one country that you need to visit time and time again. From plebeian ramen grub to exquisite dining options, Japan is a cornucopia of delectable delights.

Until next time travelers…

Subscribe to My Newsletter

Donny Kimball

I'm a travel writer and freelance digital marketer who blogs about the sides of Japan that you can't find in the mainstream media.

Essay on My Trip To Japan

Students are often asked to write an essay on My Trip To Japan in their schools and colleges. And if you’re also looking for the same, we have created 100-word, 250-word, and 500-word essays on the topic.

Let’s take a look…

100 Words Essay on My Trip To Japan

My journey to japan.

I was thrilled to visit Japan, a country of islands. My family and I flew on a plane for many hours. When we landed, everything looked different and new.

Exploring Tokyo

Tokyo, the big city where we stayed, was busy and bright. We saw tall buildings and many people. I loved the trains that moved very fast.

Japanese Food

Japanese food was tasty. We ate sushi, which is rice and fish, and tried noodles called ramen. The flavors were amazing and different from home.

Beautiful Places

We visited beautiful gardens with lots of flowers and trees. The colors were so pretty. We also saw a huge mountain called Mount Fuji.

Cultural Fun

Goodbye japan.

Saying goodbye to Japan was sad. I made great memories and hope to go back one day. Japan is a special place that I will always remember.

250 Words Essay on My Trip To Japan

Last year, I visited Japan, a country of beautiful cherry blossoms and modern cities. It was a dream trip, and I got to see many amazing places.

Arriving in Tokyo

My adventure started in Tokyo, the capital city. It’s a very busy place with tall buildings and bright lights. I saw the famous Tokyo Tower and walked across the busy Shibuya Crossing. It was exciting to see so many people and cars moving in all directions.

Exploring Kyoto

Next, I took a train to Kyoto, known for its old temples and traditions. I visited the Kinkaku-ji Temple, which is covered in gold leaf and looks like it’s shining. I also dressed up in a kimono, which is a traditional Japanese outfit, and walked around the old streets. It felt like I was in a different time.

Japanese food was delicious. I tried sushi, which is raw fish on rice, and ramen, a type of noodle soup. Everything was very tasty, and the chefs were very skilled at making it.

My Thoughts

My trip to Japan was unforgettable. I learned a lot about Japanese culture and saw many beautiful places. I hope to go back one day and see even more of this wonderful country.

500 Words Essay on My Trip To Japan

My exciting journey to japan.

Last summer, I had the chance to visit Japan, a beautiful country full of amazing sights and rich history. Japan is known for its mix of old traditions and new technology. This trip was like a dream come true for me because I had always wanted to see the cherry blossoms and experience the culture I had read so much about.

Arrival in Tokyo

Exploring japanese food.

Japanese food was a big part of my trip. I tried sushi, which is raw fish with rice, and it was delicious. I also had ramen, a type of noodle soup, which was very tasty and perfect after a long day of walking. The food was different from what I’m used to, but I loved trying new things.

Learning About History and Culture

In Kyoto, an old city in Japan, I saw beautiful temples and learned about the country’s history. I visited the Kinkaku-ji Temple, which is covered in gold leaf and shines brightly by the water. I felt like I was stepping back in time as I walked through the peaceful gardens and listened to the stories of samurai and ancient emperors.

Fun with Technology

Meeting new friends.

The people in Japan were very kind and polite. Even though I didn’t speak Japanese very well, they tried their best to help me whenever I needed directions or had questions. I made a few friends who showed me around and taught me some Japanese words. It was fun to learn a new language and make friends at the same time.

Beautiful Nature

Outside the cities, I saw the amazing nature of Japan. I went to Mount Fuji, a famous mountain that you can see on postcards. The view from the top was breathtaking. The air was fresh, and the sky was so clear that I could see for miles.

My Lasting Impression

My trip to Japan was an unforgettable experience. I saw so many new things, from the busy streets of Tokyo to the quiet beauty of the countryside. The mix of old and new, the delicious food, the friendly people, and the stunning nature made my trip special. Japan left a lasting impression on my heart, and I can’t wait to go back one day.

If you’re looking for more, here are essays on other interesting topics:

Apart from these, you can look at all the essays by clicking here .

What’s It Really Like to Travel Japan?

Adventurous Kate contains affiliate links. If you make a purchase through these links, I will earn a commission at no extra cost to you. Thanks!

How do I even begin to describe what it’s like to travel in Japan?

It is an experience . It surrounds you. Every moment of every day is filled with new discoveries and cultural difference and utter delights. I can’t describe it beyond that, but everyone who has been knows exactly what I’m talking about.

If there were a word to describe Japan as a whole, it would be reverent. This is a nation where every action displays a culture of deference, respect and obedience. It encompasses daily life.

Some examples?

Reverence of food. The food here is prepared and delivered with such deep respect and meticulous care, even in fast food joints. Anything else would be anti-Japanese. I didn’t have a single bad meal in Japan.

Reverence of manners. Japan has a longstanding reputation of politeness. One place where this was most evident was on trains. Whenever a conductor entered a car, he would enter and exit the car with an energetic yet crisp bow before attending to passengers.

Reverence of nature. Nature receives the utmost respect here, and you’ll often find that everything from architecture to food plays into an overall respect of the natural environment of Japan.

Reverence of rules. Japan is a rules-based culture. There are lots of written and unwritten rules – the Japanese wouldn’t dream of throwing recyclables in the trash, or acting rude to a stranger, or dressing like a slob. The list of taboos here is extensive.

Yes, most than anything else, it’s reverence that defines Japan. But beyond that, here are a few of the idiosyncrasies I noticed in the Land of the Rising Sun:

English is used for style, not function.

See English lettering somewhere? Chances are it’s not used for the purpose of communicating with non-Japanese speakers. Again and again, I noticed that English was used for little more than decoration.

On my first night in Tokyo, I was looking for a restaurant in a mall and I was delighted to find a pamphlet emblazoned with Mall Directory in ornate script. I opened it up…and it was all in Japanese. The English was just used for stylistic purposes.

Sex is overt — except when it’s not.

If there’s any neighborhood you must visit in Tokyo, make it Akihabara. I planned to check out the electronics stores, seeing the newest innovations years before they hit the western market.

Instead, I found myself in the center for otaku (super-geek) culture. Electronics stores held court next to porn shops, crammed with sex toys and hentai (anime porn) comic books. Arcades were filled with nipple-baring figurines in sexual poses as prizes. Throughout the neighborhood, girls dressed as sexy maids advertised their cafes.

Now — the strange thing is that actual sex is kept under lock and key. While seeing men reading porn on the subway is a common occurrence, you wouldn’t see a couple making out and borderline dry humping in Tokyo. You barely saw people even holding hands. As I mentioned in my geisha post , there are clear boundaries between actual, consensual, conventional, relationship-based sex and just about everything else.

It’s not as expensive as you think.

Japan has long held a reputation as being one of the most expensive countries in the world to visit, with Tokyo holding the crown as one of the world’s most expensive cities.

After my visit, I think that reputation is a bit undeserved . Two things in Japan are quite expensive: lodging and long-distance transportation. But beyond that, prices aren’t that bad. I’d compare them to prices in London, Paris or New York.

Food, in particular, can be done on the cheap. Almost all of our meals cost less than 1000 yen ($10). My splurge meals actually weren’t that painful – I had a seafood feast in Kyoto for 3500 yen each ($35), a Kobe beef lunch in Kobe for 2950 yen each ($29.50), and a selection of sushi at a nice sushi bar in the pricey Tokyo neighborhood of Ginza – plus sake – for about 2100 yen ($21).

Subway rides in Tokyo cost 100-200 yen each ($1-2). Vending machine beverages cost 80-200 yen ($0.80-2). I even bought a Kindle Paperwhite from a discount camera shop in Shibuya for 8200 yen ($82) when it currently retails on Amazon for $139 !

I found Japan to be much cheaper overall than Australia or Switzerland, countries where everything is expensive.

Food is theater.

One night in Kyoto, my new friends Michael from the Deep Kyoto blog and his girlfriend Miu took me out for a seafood feast at a fun, wild and cheap seafood restaurant called Asahi Suisan . Halfway through our meal, a badass fishmonger (and the most muscular Japanese guy I’ve ever seen) brought out an enormous bluefin tuna and butchered it with gusto to cheers throughout the restaurant and squeals from a table of nearby girls.

And while he did it, video played in the background of the same fishmonger on a reality show in Japan, competing for his region in the field of tuna butchering!

It was a fabulous night of entertainment and it was another side of seeing how reverent the Japanese are toward the preparation of food.

Everything is marvelously efficient.

One of the greatest performances was when my nozomi train to Kyoto pulled in. A fleet of women dressed in salmon uniforms, down to matching sneakers (!), entered the car and performed identical movements, taking out the trash bags and turning the seats around to face the other way, preparing them for the next influx of passengers.

In Japan, I would constantly think to myself, Oh. That makes sense . In the West, when presented with a more efficient solution, people would give reasons why not to implement it — that doing so would cost too much time or money that could be spent elsewhere. In Japan, they just do it, no questions asked.

The best-dressed women in the world live in Tokyo.

Sure, Italian and Parisian women dress beautifully, and London and New York women have a lot of style, but it’s nothing like the women in Tokyo. From perfectly tailored short dresses to their understated but highly functional designer flats, I gawked at the fashion in Tokyo.

Where to Stay in Tokyo: Best Areas and Accommodation

Kimonos are still very much worn.

I had the idea that Japanese women only wore kimonos for special occasions or times when traditional wear was best. Well, that’s not the case — I saw plenty of kimono-clad women (and men wearing the more plain yakuta ) throughout Tokyo and Kyoto!

In Kyoto, some temples allow women in for free if they’re wearing a kimono. That will actually save you a fair amount of cash, as most Kyoto temples charge around 400-600 yen ($4-6) entry. But in other cases, they’re simply what is worn for formalwear. I would love to get a formal kimono of my own someday.

Japan is HOT!

I thought August would be the perfect time to travel through Japan, with nice summer sunshine – no way, Jose! It gets unbearably hot with very high humidity. People in Kyoto actually walked around with towels around their necks to mop up their ever-dripping brows.

It’s too bad, because the heat put a damper on a lot of our sightseeing in Kyoto in particular, when I was visiting lots of outdoor temples.

While I was in Tokyo, the mercury actually hit 42 C (106 F), breaking records. People told me again and again that I was traveling at the worst time possible. My advice to you? Visit Japan in the spring or fall if you can.

Japanese toilets really are that amazing.

Believe it or not, those fancy Japanese toilets with all the push buttons aren’t only found in luxury establishments. You’ll even find fancy Japanese toilets at cheap ramen joints and Starbucks. Once you figure out which button performs the “rear cleansing”, you’ll never go back.

Incidentally, Japanese women take longer in the bathroom than anyone I’ve ever met.

These facts may or may not be related.

Cute rules.

You know all about Hello Kitty — but there’s so much cutesiness throughout Japan! Mascots for everything from companies to products often involve little furry cartoon characters holding hands and playing together. Cute little tunes, the kind you’d expect on a children’s show, play throughout Japan as well.

One might start thinking about the psychological implications of that – the Japanese work so hard that they enjoy their childhood wherever they can — but I just found it fun to bop along with the little animals.

Everyone is incredibly helpful.

Do you look lost? You won’t be for long. Japanese people are exceedingly helpful and even if they don’t speak English, they will drop everything to help you find your way.

I first noticed the exceptional level of helpfulness when I entered an electronics store. I asked about Kindles and the man replied that they didn’t have any, but another store might, and he’d be happy to give them a call and check.

This wasn’t another branch of their stores – this was a competitor. And he offered to call them for me. In the US, the most I would get from a salesperson would be, “You could try Best Buy.”

Japanese people love to photobomb.

Do they EVER love to photobomb!

But what is the single most shocking aspect of all?

You turn into a Japanese tourist.

Ah, Japanese tourists. The older ladies are decked out in visors and Keds, the teenagers with cameras worth thousands of dollars, the groups being led around by an umbrella. I squeezed through huge Japanese crowds on my way to class in Florence each morning, as they took up entire piazzas on their own.

And the Japanese tourists take pictures of absolutely everything .

Well. You know what I took pictures of in Japan? Toilets. Trash cans. Vending machines.

Yes, I became a Japanese tourist myself – because everything here really is so different and I couldn’t stop marveling at it all.

I get it now, Japanese tourists. I’m sorry I’ve made fun of you.

Japan is all-encompassing.

Even though Japan is on the pricier side, I consider it an extremely high value destination. Like Paris and New York, just walking down the street is a fascinating experience in Japan. Every moment, you will be stunned and amazed at the world that surrounds you.

Japan is delicious. Japan is kind. Japan is ridiculously clean. Japan is freaky and cute.

More than anywhere else I’ve been, I feel like Japan is the kind of destination that every traveler must experience at least once in his or her lifetime. I loved my two weeks there and I can’t wait to return.

Just one thing – don’t forget to buy travel insurance before you travel to Japan! I never travel without it and always use World Nomads.

What's it REALLY like to travel in Japan? | Adventurous Kate

38 Reasons Why I am Excited to Visit Japan

The busy streets lined with small shops in Japan

Next week, I’m going to Japan . I couldn’t be more excited. ( Note : Now that I’ve been, you can read about my experience here , here , here , here , and here .)

It’s my first real visit there. I say “real visit” because back in 2004, on my way home from Thailand , my friend and I stopped in Tokyo for a long layover.

After arriving at 6am, we left the airport, saw the imperial palace, realized Tokyo in January is a lot colder than Thailand in January, and camped out in a Starbucks until the sushi restaurants opened for lunch.

After eating a luxurious sushi meal, we went back to the airport.

I’ve always wanted to go back, and luckily, now I am. Next week, I’ll be heading on a two-week tour around Japan, and then I’ll be spending some extra time in the country to visit all the places not included in the tour.

I’m a huge Japanophile . Despite never really having been there, I’m obsessed with Japan — the food, culture, temples, technology, architecture. I love it all.

Whenever I get a house, Japanese art will play a predominant role in it. Out of all the trips I’ve taken in the last few years, I’m most excited about this one.

I’m giddy with excitement.

Let me count the ways:

1. Sushi – I love sushi so much, I would eat it for breakfast. Anyone who knows me knows about my sushi addiction. I suspect breakfast sushi will happen a few times. To go to the place that invented my favorite food is just so exciting!

2. Tokyo’s Ginza District – This is one of the city’s most upscale areas, and in fact is considered one of the most expensive city districts in the world. Ginza District dates to the late 19th century, when the area was rebuilt after a fire razed the entire area.

Today, the elegant streets are lined with designer shops, coffeehouses, boutiques, art galleries, fine dining restaurants, and nightclubs. On the weekends between 12pm-5pm, Chuo Dori (the main street) becomes a pedestrian-only zone.

I’m looking forward to this famous shopping/nightlife area and the maddening crowds that go with it.

The towering Mount Fuji reflected in the waters in Japan

3. Mt. Fuji – This 3776m (12,389 ft) tall, active volcano near Tokyo is the tallest mountain in Japan, as well as one of Japan’s Three Holy Mountains (along with Mount Tate and Mount Haku). It is one of Japan’s most recognizable symbols, and the hike is fairly accessible, making it a popular activity for tourists and Japanese citizens alike.

I’ve always wanted to climb this mountain and see the sunrise (traditionally, climbers stay in a mountain hut overnight so that they can arrive at the summit at dawn). The mountain is covered in snow for about 5 months of the year, meaning that the climbing season is short, from early in July to mid-September. While I won’t get to the climb the mountain this time, I’ll at least get to see it!

4. Bullet trains – As a lover of train travel ( they’re much more eco-friendly than flying ), I can’t wait to experience one of the most high-tech rides out there. The Shinkansen high-speed trains can reach speeds of 320 kilometers (200 miles) per hour, earning these trains the nickname “bullet trains.” The network has been growing since the first line opened in 1964, when it was the first passenger high-speed rail system. Now, the network has expanded to connect nearly the entire country from top to bottom.

The Japan Rail Pass is kind of pricey at about 32,000 JPY for a 7-day pass, but there are lots of cheaper ways to get around the country too.

5. Kyoto – Kyoto is full of Zen gardens and temples and looks to be one of the most picturesque places in all of Japan.

Kyoto was Japan’s capital from 794 until 1868, and today is considered Japan’s cultural capital. The city was spared bombing during World War II, meaning that Kyoto is one of the best preserved cities in the country, with 17 monuments designated as part of a collective UNESCO World Heritage Site. Some of the most famous sights include Fushimi Inari shrine, Nijo Castle, and Sento Palace.

While I won’t get to see all 2,000 temples and shrines on this visit, I’m going to try my hardest.

The remnants of a building bombed by a nucealr bomb in Hiroshima, Japan

6. Hiroshima – In August 1945, US forces dropped an atomic bomb on Hiroshima . Around 80,000 people (30% of the city’s population) were killed by the blast, another 70,000 were injured, and the entire city was more or less flattened. Understandably, this tragic event looms large here, and the Hiroshima Peace Park includes a museum, the Children’s Peace Monument dedicated to children who lost their lives in the bombing, and the Atomic Bomb Dome, a ruined building preserved in its post-bombed state.

As a history buff, how could I not see this city and pay my respects? I also want to see how different their perspective is on what happened. Every country teaches history from its own perspective. I’m sure we in the United States teach the event much different than they do. I really want to know what they think so I can expand my understanding of what happened.

7. Toyosu Market – This Tokyo fish market is the largest wholesale fish market in the world, and one of the largest global wholesale food markets in general. Open since 1932, Tsukiji Market was the original inner fish market. In 2018, this location closed and moved to a larger location in Toyosu, though the original outer market (where you can find food and shops) is still in place.

At the newer Toyosu Fish Market, visitors can watch the auction market from an upstairs viewing deck. As a sushi lover, I can’t wait to see one of the world’s busiest and largest fish markets, even if it means waking up at 4am (the famous tuna auctions take place between 5:30am-6:30am).

8. Tokyo subway – People always talk about surviving the Tube in London , but the subway in Tokyo is the real labyrinth.

This is the third-busiest subway system in the world (after Seoul and Shanghai), with an almost 9 million daily ridership. It gets so busy on certain lines that there are even people whose job it is to safely pack passengers into trains (these white-gloved, uniformed employees are known as oshiya , or passenger pushers).

Bring it on!

9. Osaka – Travelers mention this city a lot, and I want to find out why! The third-largest city in Japan and the country’s long-time financial center, Osaka has a cool 16th-century castle, fun nightlife, and a world-class food scene.

A mix of old and new, Osaka is home to national landmarks like Shitenno-ji, one of the oldest Buddhist temples in Japan (dating to the 6th century), as well as Abeno Harukas, the tallest skyscraper in the country (at 300 meters/984 feet tall). The Nishinomaru Gardens at Osaka Castle are also a popular place for viewing the stunning cherry blossoms in the spring.

10. Sushi – Did I mention I like sushi?

11. Zen Buddhism – When I was in college, I got into Buddhism. I studied Tibetan Buddhism, but I’m looking forward to learning more about the Zen tradition. This sect of Buddhism was introduced into Japan in the 11th century and appealed immediately to the Japanese samurai class. Zen Buddhism emphasizes a strong meditation practice, mindfulness, self-restraint, and reflecting on the nature of emptiness, attachment, and the interconnectedness of the world.

Today, around 67% of the Japanese population consider themselves Buddhists (though primarily practicing the Mahayana tradition, if practicing formally at all). The 13th-century Engaku-ji temple in Kamakura is one of the oldest and most important Zen Buddhist temple complexes in the country.

12. Tokyo Imperial Palace – This is the official residence of the Emperor of Japan. When the Emperor moved the capital from Kyoto to Tokyo in 1869, he took the 15th-century Edo Castle for his new palace and built the Imperial Palace on the castle grounds. Much of the castle and palace have been destroyed over the years, though the palace itself has been rebuilt in the same original style.

The public can only visit the inner palace grounds on a few days each year (on New Year’s and the Emperor’s Birthday), but I’m excited to wander the beautiful outer palace grounds and walk in the footsteps of Japanese royalty.

13. Hokkaido – Hokkaido is another name I keep hearing. It’s supposed to be one of the most beautiful (and least busy) regions in Japan, with large swaths of untouched wilderness full of mountains, natural hot springs, and volcanic lakes. Although its the second-largest Japanese island, Hokkaido is home to 6 national parks, including Daisetsuzan, which covers 568,000 acres, making it the largest national park in Japan.

Hokkaido’s largest city, Sapporo, is famous for its beer of the same name and the annual Sapporo Snow Festival, which attracts millions of visitors each year to see its hundreds of impressively carved snow and ice sculptures. Plus, the region is world-famous for its fresh seafood, including uni (sea urchin) so I have to eat it all!

14. Sake – Sake is Japan’s traditional alcohol, made from fermenting rice. Technically, the word “sake” in Japanese refers to all alcoholic beverages, while nihonshu is the Japanese word for what most Westerners call sake. There are many different varieties of sake, varying based on how much the rice is milled to remove its outer layers, if more alcohol is added, and if the sake is pasteurized or not. Depending on the type of sake, its served chilled, at room temperature, or heated.

I absolutely love sake and really want to learn about the different varieties and purities. I plan on taking a class. Is a sake class similar to a wine class here in the States?

15. Samurai – The samurai were the hereditary military/nobility caste of medieval and early-modern Japan. They rose to prominence in the 12th century (though their origins date to the 8th century) and essentially ruled the country until their abolition in the 1870s. The samurai lived their lives by bushido code, or the “way of the warrior,” which emphasized loyalty, integrity, self-discipline, and honor. They were not only very skilled warriors but highly educated and cultured, with high literacy rates.

Samurai might not be around anymore, but the Japanese are very proud of their warrior heritage, and there are many opportunities to learn about this unique aspect of their culture throughout the country. There is even a festival in the city of Kofu where over 1,500 people dress up in traditional samurai dress to have a parade and reenact one of the largest battles in Japanese history. There is also a samurai museum in Tokyo that I’ll be sure to check out!

16. Karaoke – Because nothing says I’m turning Japanese more than belting out some Lady Gaga with drunk Japanese businessmen! Karaoke (a word which means “empty orchestra” in Japanese) originated in Japan in the 1970s with the development of the karaoke machine. While it’s become incredibly popular around the world, there’s no place like Japan for experiencing the full extent of the karaoke phenomenon.

Unlike in the United States where karaoke is typically sung in front of the entire bar or restaurant, karaoke establishments in Japan consist of private rooms that you rent out with a group of friends. The former type does still exist in Japan though, and I’m hoping our tour ends up at a lot of karaoke bars. If not, I’ll go find some myself.

17. Pod hotels – First originating in 1979 as a response to the lack of space in dense Japanese cities, pod (or capsule) hotels offer guests a small sleeping pod instead of a full room. You just have enough room to lay down and that’s about it (imagine sleeping in a cozy tube). Luxurious? Hardly! But they are cheap and very Japanese. Count me in!

18. Japanese whisky – Japan has some of the world’s best whisky, and Japanese brands have earned the title “Best Whisky in the World” numerous times. Japanese whisky production started in 1870, with the country’s first distillery opening in 1924. The country is the third-largest whisky producer in the world (after Scotland and the U.S.), and the style is most similar to Scotch whisky than other varieties.

As someone who loves that stuff, I’m thrilled to be able to drink my way through the country’s best. All in the name of research, of course!

19. Sumo wrestling – Sumo has origins as far back as the 3rd century and is Japan’s national sport. It’s an incredibly popular pastime – I mean, what could be more entertaining than watching two enormous guys in thongs try to push each other out of a circle?

Sumo is believed to have its origins as a Shinto ritual dance, thanking the gods for a fruitful harvest. Between the 8th-12th centuries, sumo wrestlers began to perform for the Emperor, though the sport didn’t take its modern form until the 17th-19th centuries. The sport is still deeply rooted in tradition, with elaborate rituals leading up to the actual match that looks fascinating.

One of the most famous areas in Japan when it comes to sumo is the Ryogoku district in Tokyo. This area has been the center of the sumo world for centuries and is home to the Kokugikan National Sumo Stadium (which can hold over 11,000 people) and its Sumo Museum.

I’m not sure I’m visiting at the right time (national tournaments take place at specific times of the year), but I hope to see a show or at least visit a training stable (where wrestlers live and train) to learn more!

20. Castles – There are over 100 castles in Japan, and after seeing so many castles in Europe , I’d like to see how another part of the world does it.

Most Japanese castles are made of both wood and stone, and most surviving examples were first built in the 15th-17th centuries. Today, the 14th-century Himeji Castle is the most visited castle in Japan. It’s also the largest, with over 83 different buildings in the castle complex.

While many were destroyed in World War II, there is still plenty left to sate my curiosity. Other important castles include Matsumoto (known as the Crow Castle for its black exterior), Osaka, Tokyo, and Odawara!

A large traditional castle in Japan on a sunny day

21. Technology – Japan is one of the most technologically advanced countries in the world and I’m looking forward to getting a sneak peek of the future. Along with the Shinkansen (bullet trains), the country has brought many other innovations into the world, including their famous high-tech toilets and robots of all kinds (there is even a hotel staffed entirely by robots).

That’s not even to mention all the countless oddball, highly specific inventions, like air-conditioned shoes or chopstick-mounted fans for cooling off noodles. Tokyo’s Akihabara District is the country’s technology hub. You can buy absolutely any gadget that you can think of here!

22. Puppy cafés – Because space is so tight, few people have dogs at home. Naturally, Japan came up with a solution: cafes in which you can play with puppies. This I have to see! (There are lots of other animal cafes here too, such as cat, raccoon, and even owl and hedgehog cafes!)

Most cafes either have a cover charge or require a minimum drink/food order. Visits are usually timed and the best cafes have back rooms where animals can retreat when they’ve had enough playtime.

23. Cherry blossoms – I’ll be catching the tail end of cherry blossom season (mid-March through early-May), and there’s nothing I’m more excited about.

Cherry blossom season is so serious that there’s even a word in Japanese just for this practice: hanami . Once the sakura (cherry blossoms) appear, they last for 1-2 weeks, with northern, colder regions blooming later than warmer, southern regions. Some of the most famous spots are Mount Yoshino (home to 30,000 cherry trees), the Kyoto Botanical Gardens, and Lake Kawaguchiko (for views of cherry blossoms in front of Mount Fuji).

Sure, it’s the busiest time of year to visit, but from what I’ve heard, it’s worth it!

24. Sushi – OK, that last item was a lie. I’m most excited about the sushi.

25. Nagasaki – This was the second city on which the United States dropped an atomic bomb in August of 1945. 75,000 people were killed immediately, not to mention the thousands more in the following weeks and months. I want to learn how they teach about the event here, how the city survived, and see how it’s thriving today.

The Atomic Bomb Museum and Nagasaki Peace Park are both dedicated to telling the history of and memorializing the event. Nagasaki’s other main draw is Gunkanjima or “Battleship Island,” a unique and entirely abandoned mining island off the coast that’s been uninhabited since 1974 when the mines shut down.

A huge crowd of people crossing the street in busy Tokyo, Japan

26. Crowds – I’ve seen crowds in Southeast Asia , but Japan takes it to a whole new level.

Japan is one of the most densely populated countries in the world, and Tokyo is the most densely populated city in the world, with 6,150 people per square kilometer. Railway lines regularly run at 140% capacity, and Shibuya Crossing in Tokyo, the busiest crosswalk in the world, sees an estimated 3,000 people crossing the street at every red light cycle.

I’m kind of oddly excited to be packed like a sardine.

27. Lake Ashi – Hot springs? Picturesque view of Mt. Fuji? Sold!

Ashinoko Lake, or Lake Ashi for short, formed in the crater left by the eruption of Mount Hakone over 3,000 years ago. The lake has many hiking trails, an aerial tramway, traditional Japanese inns, and the famous 8th-century Hakone Shrine, a Shinto shrine that was once popular with traveling samurai.

Lake Ashi is a stop on my tour, and I’m excited!

28. Hiking – Japan is supposed to have beautiful pine forests and scenic hiking trails (especially up north in Hokkaido).

While Mount Fuji and Mount Takao (right outside Tokyo) are the most well-known places for hiking, there are many other cool trails all over the country, like the Kawazu Seven Waterfalls with its 7 corresponding hot springs, or the many ancient pilgrimage routes connecting different shrines.

Yakushima Island, a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve, is one of the best-preserved temperate rainforests in the world, with trees that are thousands of years old. With so much to explore, I’m excited to escape the urban sprawl and stretch my legs!

29. Politeness – The Japanese are uber-polite, respectful, and don’t take what isn’t theirs. There is a strong group culture in Japan, with the group bearing more importance than the individual. Because of this, there are many etiquette rules on how to behave in public.

These include common ones like picking up after yourself and speaking at a low volume in quiet spaces, but others as well, like never blowing your nose in public nor pouring your own drink (you’re supposed to pour others instead). There are also specific chopstick guidelines, like never pointing with your chopsticks and not leaving them straight up in your food.

I’m going to test out the politeness theory by leaving a wallet on the train and seeing if it gets returned to me.

30. Tai chi – I used to do Tai chi in college. This Chinese martial art was developed in the 20th century and is practiced for health and meditative benefits, rather than for combative purposes like other martial arts. Tai chi is intended to be practiced solo, and slowly, with a focus on the concept of yin and yang, or balance.

Waking up early to practice in a park is on my list of things to do in Japan. Sure, it’s not strictly Japanese, but it’s popular there and I’m sure I’ll be able to find it somewhere!

31. Hello Kitty – Created by the Japanese company Sanrio in 1974, Hello Kitty is the second-highest-grossing franchise of all time (the 1st is Pokémon, another Japanese creation). Hello Kitty is everywhere in Japan, with a Hello Kitty Theme Park that attracts 1.5 million visitors a year, the Sanrio World Store with an entire floor of Hello Kitty merchandise, and the Sanrio Café which sells food shaped like Hello Kitty and friends.

I can’t wait to experience some of this kitschy phenomenon in person.

32. Japanese fashion – The Japanese seem to dig everything retro and ’80s and then combine it with a mix of hipsterism. Japanese street fashion is known for being avant-garde and loud, with mix-matched prints, bright colors, and contrasting fabrics. The Harajuku neighborhood in Tokyo is the center of it all, and usually where new trends are born.

Japanese fashion confuses the hell out of me, but I can’t wait to see things like this:

Two girls in Japan illustrating the quirky Japanese fashion trends

33. Kabuki theater – Traditional Japanese theater sounds like a great cultural activity. Kabuki originated in the Edo Period (17th-19th centuries), and has been designated a UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage for its cultural significance. The dance performance is characterized by heavy make-up, elaborate costumes, wigs, and dynamic sets. Traditional music accompanies the performers to set the mood.

I’m excited to take in a performance and learn more!

34. Ramen – I want to sit in some back-alley, 100-yen ramen shop with my face over a warm, steaming bowl of delicious ramen noodles. While ramen originated in China, it’s become extremely popular in Japan. The Japanese have created an art form of ramen making, and there are countless varieties of noodle dish, with different toppings, types of noodles, and broths to choose from. Shoyu ramen, flavored with soy sauce, is the most popular and traditional style of ramen.

35. Square watermelon – This Japanese innovation was created in order to fit the large fruit more easily inside refrigerators without rolling around. The watermelons are grown inside transparent boxes, assuming this shape as they grow. Unfortunately, the square watermelons must be harvested while they’re unripe, rendering them ornamental rather than edible.

Because of their elaborate growth process, they’re also incredibly expensive Still, I’ve got to have a piece for the kitsch factor.

36. Anime – I don’t get the whole anime/manga culture. (Anime is any animated work, while manga refers to comics or graphic novels). Miyazaki films (like Princess Mononoke and Spirited Away) are great, but the culture beyond that is a mystery to me.

The epicenter of anime culture in Japan is the Akihabara district in Tokyo. Its many manga and anime shops, as well as themed cafes, make it a popular place for otaku (obsessive anime/manga fans) to hang out.

There’s also the Ghibli Museum dedicated to the works of famous Japanese animator Hayao Miyazaki, the Pokémon Center (and corresponding café), the Tokyo Anime Center, and huge statues of different popular anime characters all over the country.

Maybe going over there to some of these places will help me figure out why it’s so big.

37. Japanese toilets – A toilet that warms my butt, cleans itself, sprays water, has perfume dispensers, and plays music? Going to the bathroom never sounded so fun. In fact, Japan even has a toilet museum! (It’s in Tokyo )

These toilets (technically called “washlets”), the first model of which came out in 1980, have even earned a place in the Guinness World Record Book for the most sophisticated toilet in existence. The fanciest toilets cost thousands of dollars! And of course, since this is Japan, you can be sure that these toilets are getting new features added all the time.

38. Sushi – See a pattern here? I bet you can guess what food I’ll be eating the most during the next few weeks.

There’s a lot I am looking forward to doing in Japan , and with only about 2.5 weeks there, if I hope to tick off all 38 things on this list, I’ll be quite busy.

But since this will probably be my only trip to Japan for a while, I’m OK with that. It will be a good kind of busy.

Now, is it Sunday yet? I want to fly now.

Book Your Trip to Japan: Logistical Tips and Tricks

Book Your Flight Use Skyscanner to find a cheap flight. They are my favorite search engine because they search websites and airlines around the globe so you always know no stone is left unturned!

Book Your Accommodation You can book your hostel with Hostelworld as they have the biggest inventory and best deals. If you want to stay somewhere other than a hostel, use Booking.com as they consistently return the cheapest rates for guesthouses and cheap hotels.

Don’t Forget Travel Insurance Travel insurance will protect you against illness, injury, theft, and cancellations. It’s comprehensive protection in case anything goes wrong. I never go on a trip without it as I’ve had to use it many times in the past. My favorite companies that offer the best service and value are:

Safety Wing (for everyone below 70)
Insure My Trip (for those over 70)
Medjet (for additional repatriation coverage)

Looking for the Best Companies to Save Money With? Check out my resource page for the best companies to use when you travel. I list all the ones I use to save money when I’m on the road. They will save you money when you travel too.

Be sure to check out the Japan Rail Pass if you’ll be traveling around the country. It comes in 7-, 14-, and 21-day passes and can save you a ton of money!

Looking for more travel tips for Japan Be sure to visit out robust destination guide on Japan for even more planning tips!

Got a comment on this article? Join the conversation on Facebook , Instagram , or Twitter and share your thoughts!

Disclosure: Please note that some of the links above may be affiliate links, and at no additional cost to you, I earn a commission if you make a purchase. I recommend only products and companies I use and the income goes to keeping the site community supported and ad free.

A view overlooking Tokyo at night with Mount Fuji in the background

GET YOUR FREE TRAVEL STARTER KIT

Enter your email and get planning cheatsheets including a step by step checklist, packing list, tips cheat sheet, and more so you can plan like a pro!

6 Best Reasons Why Visit Japan: More Than Culture & Food

International travel can be quite costly, which is something to consider when asking yourself why visit Japan. However, once you find yourself walking through Japan's quaint streets, enjoying the thrills of its theme parks, savoring local cuisine, and immersing in its unique natural beauty, you'll realize it's all worth it.

If these highlights aren't enough to convince you, then read on. The following six reasons to visit Japan will surely impress you.

A Short Answer to Why Visit Japan

Why visit Japan? As an East Asian country far removed from Europe and America, Japan is mysterious and fascinating. Its culture, traditional or anime, and its cuisine, from sushi to yakitori, offer lasting appeal.

Not only that, colorful kimonos, centuries-old shrines, diverse malls, and the seasonal changes marked by cherry blossoms and maple leaves are best enjoyed in person.

Even better, customized travel plans are another reason why people visit Japan. No need to search and plan on your own - just show your needs and preferences, and a unique itinerary will be created for you. Not only can you visit more destinations and taste a wider variety of cuisines, but you can also avoid crowded places. Most importantly, the customized service includes professional guides throughout your trip, ensuring that language barriers won't hinder your experience.

1. Five Awesome Fun Things

The main goal of travel is to unwind. Therefore, the first reason to visit Japan is because there's so much fun to be had. This is also a great start for your what to do in Japan list.

1) Amazing Summer Festivals

In Japan, hundreds of summer festivals take place during the summer months.

Among the most famous are the Gion Festival in Kyoto and the Aomori Nebuta Festival in Aomori.

Additionally, Obon in August, which is a Buddhist celebration honoring ancestors, is also worth attending for prayers and blessings.

Every festival is a chance to join joyful parades, witness hundreds of people dressed in traditional costumes, eat special food, and take part in many different activities.

2) Relaxing Natural Hot Spring

With over 27,000 hot spring sources, Japan has made hot spring/onsen bathing a national pastime.

Some of the most renowned hot spring resorts include Hakone, Kusatsu, Beppu, and Arima. They are all rich in minerals beneficial to the body and also excellent locations to enjoy the stunning natural scenery.

3) Theme and Amusement Parks

Unlike some countries, theme amusement parks are also a major reason why visit Japan.

From the iconic Tokyo Disneyland and Universal Studios Japan to more niche attractions like Legoland Japan and Sanrio Puroland, there's an option to suit every interest.

They all offer a nostalgic escape with a theme park guide and are perfect for family outings.

Check out our 8-Day Essential Japan Family Trip with Disneyland

4) Shopping Paradise

If shopping is your thing, then you get a reason to visit Japan. From Tokyo's Ginza to Osaka's Shinsaibashi, you can find everything from fashion to electronics.

Plus, traditional crafts such as Kyoto kimonos, Nara lacquerware, and various handmade goods from across the country make wonderful keepsakes to bring a piece of Japan home.

5) Anime & Manga Attractions

You may not be familiar with the Shogunate or the Meiji Restoration. But if you have ever been touched by modern Japanese anime culture, visiting Akihabara to shop for merchandise and exploring One Piece Tower, Ghibli Park, and the Ghibli Museum are great to relive your youth.

2. Rich Japanese Cuisine

Another reason for visiting Japan can be its special local eating and drinking. If you're one of those travelers, let's dive into some of the most mouthwatering Japanese food .

1) Authentic Kaiseki Food

For a truly refined and traditional Japanese dining experience, don't miss kaiseki. Known for its exquisite presentation, artful use of seasonal ingredients, and delicate flavors, kaiseki is a culinary journey.

It is typically found in high-end restaurants in Japan, such as Kitcho. From appetizers to simmered dishes, grilled items, and desserts, each course is crafted like a work of art that delights both the eyes and the palate.

2) Diverse Sushi and Sashimi

Sushi and sashimi are renowned delicacies, and also reasons to visit Japan for global tourists.

Sushi, made with vinegared rice and fresh fish, comes in various forms such as nigiri and maki.

Sashimi, on the other hand, is thinly sliced raw fish, emphasizing knife skills.

Tokyo's Tsukiji Market and Osaka's Dotonbori are popular spots to enjoy a wide variety of sushi and sashimi, where seasoned chefs will tickle your taste buds with the freshest seafood.

3) Kyoto Nishiki Market Food Exploration

Japanese cuisine is also about the joy of discovery. This is a big reason why visit Japan for many people.

Kyoto's Nishiki Market , a vibrant market street, is the perfect place to start your culinary adventure. With over a hundred food stalls and shops, you can find not only sushi and sashimi, but also crispy tempura, handmade tofu, fragrant grilled eel, and takoyaki. Every bite offers a new and delightful surprise.

3) Osaka Food Hub

Osaka is a food lover's paradise. Under the neon lights of Dotonbori, you'll find street vendors selling delicious okonomiyaki everywhere.

In Shinsekai, try kushikatsu—crispy, deep-fried skewers that are perfect bite-sized treats. Shinsaibashi boasts the widest variety of snacks, from ramen to sushi.

And do not forget Tenjinbashi-suji Shopping Street, which is filled with both traditional and modern restaurants that will leave you spoilt for choice.

Travel Plans for First-timers and Families:

9-Day Japan Highlights Tour : Personalized tours to Japan's top spots, featuring curated itineraries, accommodations, and transportation. Enjoy the company of a knowledgeable local guide.
2-Week Japan Private Family Vacation : Perfect for families and groups! Enjoy a deep dive into Japanese culture, customs, and iconic landmarks. Our all-inclusive packages and dedicated guides take care of everything.

3. Fascinating Japanese Culture

Japan offers a unique cultural experience that can't be fully understood until you've seen it for yourself. This is also why you should visit Japan.

1) Watch Sumo Wrestling

Sumo originated 2,000 years ago and, nowadays, hardly anyone is unaware of this unique sport. Back in the day, sumo was seen as a dance to fight and drive away evil spirits, and today it is a fight of strength and intelligence between two athletes.

If you're interested in American boxing, Japanese sumo wrestling might make you feel connected as well. It is strongly recommended to watch a full day of a tournament, as this is a sport you won't find anywhere else. Match details and ticket information can be found on the English website of the Japan Sumo Association.

2) Wear Traditional Japanese Clothes

How can you visit Japan without trying on traditional Japanese clothing? Whether you're strolling through the historic streets of Kyoto or visiting Asakusa Temple in Tokyo, wearing a kimono or Haori allows you to immerse yourself in Japanese history and aesthetics.

And imagine interacting with adorable deer in Nara in a Japanese dress — it's an experience you won't forget!

3) Feel the Spirit of the Samurai Sword

The unique samurai sword culture adds another compelling reason to visit Japan. The Samurai Ninja Museum in Kyoto and the Samurai Museum in Tokyo showcase exquisite sword craftsmanship and history.

In Kamakura, you can even experience sword-making firsthand. It is a journey beyond a visual feast when admiring Japanese samurai swords.

4) Experience Ninja Culture

Beyond the samurai spirit, Japan's ninja culture is equally fascinating. You can similarly learn about its history at the Samurai Ninja Museum in Kyoto.

However, it is even more recommended to visit Edo Wonderland Nikko for a more immersive experience. Their live ninja shows and interactive games offer a thrilling and unforgettable adventure that far surpasses the static displays of museums.

5) Watch Noh and Kabuki Theatre

Theatre is an important part of many cultures, and the noh and kabuki theatre are widely popular in Japan. Watching one of these shows is a unique experience. You will be amazed by the colorful masks, showy dresses, and the amazing skills of the performers.

Noh and kabuki are both stylized, and tell traditional stories. Noh is calm and quiet; while kabuki aims to shock and entertain the spectator with gruesome stories and spectacular performances.

11-Day Traditional Japan Tour

A trip to Osaka, Hiroshima, Kyoto, and Tokyo brings you within reach of Japanese cuisine, sumo matches, ninja activities, and Nara deer feeding. Flexible dates and itineraries, along with a professional guide, make your trip hassle-free.

4. Unique Traditional Heritage

How about exploring traditional houses in Japan like shrines, temples, and castles when considering why visit Japan? Here are some highlights to help you decide if you're still hesitating.

1) Historic Temples And Shrines

Kyoto Kinkaku-ji Temple is famous for its exquisite gold leaf exterior and beautiful gardens; Fushimi Inari-taisha Shrine entices countless visitors with its maze of red torii gates.

Tokyo Senso-ji Temple boasts a magnificent Kaminarimon gate and the ancient Nakamise-dori shopping street.

Each shrine and temple in Japan carries a rich history and unique story. Here, you can not only pray for good fortune and participate in festivals but also share the joy of newlyweds if you're lucky enough.

2) Stunning Castles

Japan's castles, with their unique design distinct from Western counterparts, attract many visitors.

The famous Osaka Castle renowned for its majestic keep and surrounding cherry blossom gardens, is one of the best places to enjoy cherry blossoms now. It often hosts traditional and interactive performances, allowing you to immerse yourself in rich culture and history.

Beyond that, Himeji Castle, one of Japan's best-preserved ancient castles, is worth a visit. Its white exterior and intricate defensive structures are sure to impress.

3) Serene Gardens

Japanese gardens represent the effort of the artist to recreate the harmony Japanese people love in nature. This tradition originated during the 7th century, and since then many different styles have been developed, each one focusing on one or more different aspects of the creation of these beautiful gardens.

The gardens, designed following the principles of harmony, are decorated with ponds, streams of water, sand, rocks, lanterns, bridges, etc. Every element is important, and what you will have to do is just walk around and contemplate the beautiful surroundings.

Many of the best gardens are to be found in Kyoto, and they are mainly decorated following the Zen principles.

5. Impressive Natural Landscapes

The diverse geography and cultural backgrounds have created a wide variety of Japanese landscapes, which is one of the best reasons to visit Japan.

1) Cherry Blossom Seasons

Cherry blossoms can't be appreciated all year round, but when it's there, it's amazing. Every year, for about a month between March and April, all the Japanese cherries of the country will blossom, coloring the parks and the cities with a beautiful, soothing, relaxing pink.

The sight is so unique and charming that Japanese people have created a festival to celebrate it and a word to describe it: hanami. In Japanese, this indicates the traditional custom of appreciating the transient beauty of flowers. People will have picnics under the trees to fully appreciate this beauty as long as it lasts.

Click for a hassle-free cherry blossom viewing plan : 10-Day Japan Cherry Blossom Spring Mini-Group Tour .

2) Colorful Autumn Leaves

Japan's autumn scenery is nothing short of breathtaking.

Daisetsuzan National Park in Hokkaido is the first place in Japan to welcome autumn, with forests, mountains, and lakes painted in vibrant hues of red and yellow.

Even in bustling cities like Kyoto and Tokyo, you can witness stunning displays of maple and ginkgo leaves carpeting the streets.

Autumn is arguably the best time to visit Japan and the best reason to explain why you should visit Japan.

3) Hiking at Mount Fuji

Mount Fuji is ideal for hiking. Every summer, from July to September, Mount Fuji opens for climbing, allowing you to witness breathtaking sunrises and panoramic Mount Fuji and Fuji Five Lakes from the summit.

From afar, the mountain is truly stunning. Its shape is unmistakable, and it is one of the symbols of Japan.

Visibility would be good if hiking during colder seasons, early in the morning or late in the afternoon.

4) Skiing and Snowboarding

Japan offers exceptional skiing and snowboarding experiences in Hokkaido and Nagano regions. The latter, especially Hakuba Village, hosted the 1998 Winter Olympics.

Other reasons why visit Japan in winter include the Sapporo Snow Festival for its spectacular ice and snow sculptures, and Atami's Winter Fireworks Festival for a warm visual feast.

If you want more leisure, soak in an onsen with sushi and sake savored, or enjoy a hearty sukiyaki meal to celebrate Christmas in Japan.

Want to ski with the whole family in Japan? Click to tailormade your travel plan: How to Plan a Family Ski Holiday in Japan

Inspire Your Next Adventure in Japan with Asia Highlights

Overall, entertainment, cuisine, culture, historical sites, and natural scenery are rich and appealing in Japan, making plenty of reasons why visit Japan convictive.

Even better, Asia Highlights can be a reliable support to plan your perfect Japanese vacation. Regional services and customized itineraries for travel across Japan are within our scope of services, plus all-inclusive meals and accommodations, private transportation, and a dedicated guide. Feel free to contact us and get your Japan trip started.

Discover real reviews of Highlights Travel Family 's best-rated service across trusted platforms.

Get Inspired with Some Popular Itineraries

At Asia Highlights, we create your kind of journey — your dates, your destinations, at your pace. You can have any trip tailor made for your travel.

More Travel Ideas and Inspiration

Sign up to Our Newsletter

Be the first to receive exciting updates, exclusive promotions, and valuable travel tips from our team of experts.

Why Asia Highlights

Where Can We Take You Today?

Middle East
African Safari
Travel Agents
Loyalty Program
Privacy Policy

Address: Building 6, Chuangyi Business Park, 70 Qilidian Road, Guilin, Guangxi, 541004, China

A complete 7 day itinerary for Japan

Japan is a country I have long wanted to visit, with incredible mountain scenery, one of the world’s most chaotic & quirky cities (Tokyo), a long history of culture & tradition, and of course incredible cuisine with authentic sushi on offer everywhere you turn.

I have been asked many times over the past few years of blogging why I have not yet been to Japan, with the answer being that I was just waiting for a time that was right. This is a country I wanted to see as a whole over at least 2 weeks, instead of just flying in for a quick city trip to Tokyo or a ski trip in one of Japan’s famous ski resorts.

When I came across the Splendours of Japan Tour with Trafalgar (who I have travelled with previously in Peru ), it seemed like a great opportunity to take one of my parents overseas to visit Japan, as I knew either of them would appreciate the culture and history unlike anyone else I knew – so I booked my dad a plane ticket, told him to pack his bags, and we were off!

My Trip to Japan: Tokyo

Japan’s capital Tokyo is weird, wonderful, and at time completely whacky – but that is precisely what makes it such a sought after city for international visitors.

Our trip started in Tokyo as it is the main gateway to Japan and a great city to spend a few days discovering its many pockets – from the hustle and bustle of Shibuya & Shinjuku, over to the quiet peace and serenity of Japan’s public parks, and all the way through to Tokyo’s gaming district; Akihabara.

Be sure to allow yourself at least 3-5 days in this city as there is much to see and do – including tourist hot spots like the Mieji Shrine; Sensō-ji temple; Ueno Park for remarkable cherry blossom viewing in Spring; Harajuku for young fashion, nearby Omotesando for grown-up fashion, Tokyo Tower for impressive views at sunset, and if you have more time, day trips to Tokyo Disneyland, Disney Sea, or nearby Mt. Fuji.

For our Tokyo hotel we stayed at New Hotel Otani and I would highly recommend it, though for location I would have preferred to be position in Shibuya or Shinjuku.

Matsumoto Castle (En route to Takayama)

After 3 nights in Tokyo (I would suggest booking at least 1-2 more nights to allow time to see/do everything in Tokyo), we made our way by bus to Takayama via Matsumoto Castle – one of Japan’s most picturesque castle. Also known as crow’s castle due to its black exterior, this castle is entirely built of wood and as per Japanese tradition, built completely without nails (it pieces together like a jigsaw puzzle and can be entirely pulled apart and put back together).

There isn’t a great deal to see beyond the castle, so after a quick look inside and walk around the grounds, it was onwards to Takayama in the same day!

A Guide to Takayama Japan | World of Wanderlust

This gorgeous little city known as Takayama is the gateway to the Hida region. One day to explore this city is enough time to see most points of interest, though if time is on your side this would be a great town to slow down and spend a couple days immersed in Japanese culture and traditions.

Soft serve ice cream plays a big role in Takayama with many flavours available on the many street – don’t be afraid to try them all! There are also some great Izakaya restaurants here (casual Japanese food), offering a great chance to try regional food.

For our hotel in Takayama we stayed at the three-star Hida Plaza Hotel . I wouldn’t particularly recommend it and I believe Takayama is a great location to try a traditional Ryokan whilst in Japan.

A Quick Guide to Takayama

Gokoyama & Shirakawago

After two nights in Takayama, we made our way through countryside villages toward the busy city of Kanazawa – but as is often the case, today was all about the journey to get there.

En route we stopped at two traditional villages – characterised by thatched roofs and traditional wooden houses. These two villages are UNESCO World Heritage listed as they portray Japanese traditional in its truest form – so be sure to take plenty of photos!

Onwards we stopped at a Nomura House, a traditional samurai house where we learned the history of the local region, ongoing traditions and the history of the samurai.

Sadly I have only a couple of rainy, not-so-clear photos to show from our time in Kanazawa, as we experience rained for the two days we were though and thus mostly stayed indoors.

Should you be received in Kanazawa with sunshine, be sure to visit Kenroku-en, regarded as one of Japan’s three most beautiful gardens and just next door is Kanazawa castle, which is also worthy of a visit.

Kanazawa is a larger city (with multiple Starbucks and McDonalds if that gives any indication!), so I would recommend just one day to explore here, to allow for more time in the countryside or cities that have more to offer in terms of sightseeing and culture – like the next stop; Kyoto!

For our hotel in Kanazawa we stayed at the Kanazawa Tokyu Hotel , which I would highly recommend for both location & a fantastic buffet breakfast!

Fushimi Inari Taisha Kyoto | World of Wanderlust

Once the capital of Japan, Kyoto is as idyllic as one could ever imagine Japan to be. Although the charm of Kyoto lies beneath the bustling city that it is today, when you take the back streets you soon begin to discover the history, culture and traditions that live on in Japan to this day.

Be sure to wander through Gion, Kyoto’s most renowned Geisha district and an absolute mecca for green tea (matcha) lovers! Here green tea comes in any and all forms – ice cream, parfaits, frappes, hot lattes and more!

Kyoto is also home to the famous Fushimi Inari Taira – an incredible shrine of thousands of red torii gates that line the 4 kilometre stretch to the sacred Mt. Inari. Nature lovers will enjoy the bamboo groves, whilst those looking for a city escape can always make a quick trip to Osaka – just a 30 minute express train ride away!

For our hotel in Kyoto we stayed at the Hotel Nikko Princess which I would highly recommend due to the large rooms, amazing service (particularly from the concierge), great location and a great breakfast buffet.

A Quick Guide to Kyoto

Although Osaka wasn’t on our itinerary for the tour, we had an extended stay at the end in Kyoto, which allowed for a spontaneous trip to nearby Osaka (30 minutes by express train from Kyoto). The trip happened completely by chance, as we were sat in our hotel room making a plan for the following two days, deciding when would be best to visit each location for less crowds, particularly as it was a public holiday that day. All of a sudden we made the decision to head out of Kyoto to nearby Osaka and experience the hustle and bustle of now my absolute favourite city in Japan.

My favourite areas to explore in Osaka were Shinsekai and Dotonbori. Shinsekai felt like a time warp as you quite literally step back in time to a Japan that time forgot, but of course with the added colour and livelihood of the 21st Century! Dotonbori is the main tourist thoroughfare in Osaka which is also home to the best street food in Osaka (and some of the best in Japan), whilst allowing plenty of opportunities to spend some cash.

A Quick Guide to Osaka

World of Wanderlust experience the Splendours of Japan Tour as a guest, however my opinions and oodles of photos are all my own!

Brooke Saward founded World of Wanderlust as a place to share inspiration from her travels and to inspire others to see our world. She now divides her time between adventures abroad and adventures in the kitchen, with a particular weakness for French pastries.

Find me on: Twitter | Instagram | Facebook

*early next year

Hi Brooke! I love your Japan travel blog! Planning to go there early next week. Btw, may I ask what camera do you use? Your photos are fantastic!

Great post, japan is so calming even though i haven’t been there by reading your post i feels like i was also there. hope i can visit there soon and try alot of ramen, thankyou!

Great blog! Thanks for sharing informative and complete japan itinerary.

Japan always make me dream…and you made that too with your post and pictures!! I really can’t wait for restrictions to go away, the first place i’m gonna visit are Gokoyama e Shirakawago for sure!

Los Angeles

Plan a trip

First trip solo

Packing guide

20 Best Places for Solo Female Travel

Travel after a break up

20 Places in your 20’s

WAYS TO TRAVEL

Solo travel

Adventure travel

Luxury travel

Learn a language

Become a blogger

No category

Essay on Why I Want to Visit Japan

Add this document to collection(s)

You can add this document to your study collection(s)

Add this document to saved

You can add this document to your saved list

Suggest us how to improve StudyLib

(For complaints, use another form )

Input it if you want to receive answer

An official website of the United States government

Official websites use .gov A .gov website belongs to an official government organization in the United States.

Secure .gov websites use HTTPS A lock ( Lock A locked padlock ) or https:// means you’ve safely connected to the .gov website. Share sensitive information only on official, secure websites.

U.S. Embassy & Consulates in Japan

Welcome to Japan

The U.S. Embassy and consulates in Japan are pleased to welcome U.S. citizen visitors back to Japan!

We encourage you to follow us on X ( @ACSTokyo ) and Facebook ( @ACSTokyo ). Travelers should also consider enrolling in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program.

U.S. military members and family with SOFA status should contact their chain of command directly for guidance and adhere to the processes described in the Foreign Clearance Guide.

Visa Free Travel for U.S. Citizen Tourists

Currently, tourists with U.S. passports do not need visas for short-term visits (up to three months).

Because travel regulations and restrictions are complex and are subject to change with little notice, the U.S. Embassy strongly urges any U.S. citizens considering travel to Japan to carefully review the information available from the Government of Japan. Travelers who are unsure of their eligibility to travel to Japan should contact the nearest Japanese embassy or consulate for additional information.

Effective as of midnight April 29, 2023 (Japan time), all travelers arriving in Japan will no longer need to present proof of vaccination or a negative Covid-19 test certificate. For more info: https://www.mhlw.go.jp/stf/covid-19/bordercontrol.html.

Military travelers arriving in Japan under the Status of Forces Agreement should consult with their chain of command to ensure they understand any applicable requirements prior to beginning travel.

The U.S. Embassy’s ability to intervene on behalf of travelers denied boarding at their point of embarkation or denied entry upon arrival to Japan is extremely limited, and those travelers denied entry at Japanese ports of entry will likely be immediately reboarded on flights back to the United States.

Please note travel and entry requirements are subject to frequent change. For more information and the most recent guidance, please reach out to Japanese embassy or consulate closest to your location: https://www.mofa.go.jp/about/emb_cons/over/index.html

Travelers entering Japan may use the Electronic Customs Declaration Gates (e-Gates) for customs clearance, which reduces human-to-human contact. Travelers may wish to learn more about the program before arriving in Japan. Please see the  Japan Customs website   for details.

Know Before You Go: Prohibited Substances

Many common medications and over-the-counter drugs in the United States are illegal in Japan, regardless of whether you have a valid U.S. prescription. If you bring it with you, you risk arrest and detention by Japanese authorities. It is your responsibility to ensure you understand what substances are prohibited. The U.S. Embassy and consulates in Japan do not maintain a comprehensive list of prohibited medications or substances. Comprehensive information is available only from the Japanese government and is subject to change without notice. Please check Japan’s Ministry of Health, Labor, and Welfare  (MHLW) website , including the FAQ , or email  [email protected] before traveling to Japan.

Travelers who need to bring more than the MLHW’s approved quantity of medication or medical devices should obtain a “Yunyu Kakunin-sho” (importation certificate) prior to traveling and present it with the prescription to a customs officer upon arrival in Japan. Certificate approval by the Japanese government may take several weeks to process and should be received before bringing the medication or medical devices to Japan.

All travelers entering Japan with a prescription medication, including medication that is not restricted in Japan, should consider bringing a copy of their doctor’s prescription as well as a letter stating the purpose of the drug.

For more information about bringing medicines into Japan and how to obtain a “Yunyu Kakunin-sho” certificate, please visit  the website of the Ministry of Health, Labor and Welfare  and email  [email protected] .

When you make your email inquiry to  [email protected] , please include the following information:

The drug’s active ingredients
The name of the medicine
The dosage and quantity
Your e-mail address

Passport/Carrying Identification

Make sure you carry your passport at all times during your trip to Japan. It is a legal requirement and local police may ask to check your identification. Your passport should be valid for the duration of your stay. If you plan to travel to other countries during your trip, be sure to check the passport validity and visa requirements of each country.

Lost or Stolen Passports

The Embassy is ready to help U.S. citizens replace passports that are lost or stolen. We will work with you to replace your passport as expeditiously as possible. Our ability to issue passports outside of our business hours is extremely limited. More information can be found here .

Emergencies in Japan

Ensuring the safety and security of U.S. citizens overseas is the Department of State’s top priority. U.S. citizens needing urgent assistance should contact us by using our Online Navigator or phone (03-3224-5000). If you need after-hours assistance in an emergency, please call 03-3224-5000 and ask to speak with the Embassy’s duty officer.

Emergency Contact Information for U.S. citizens
Emergency Preparedness for U.S. citizens in Japan
Sources of Help, including counseling services

Medical Assistance in Japan

Medical Assistance
Japan National Tourism Organization’s Official Guide for when you are feeling ill.
Travel Insurance

Additional Useful Information:

The Embassy has compiled lists of resources that may have the answer you’re looking for.

Driving in Japan
Importing or Bringing Medication into Japan for Personal Use
Legal Assistance
A-Z Index of Topics

Natural Disasters

Japan is a seismically active country with frequent earthquakes, typhoons , and other natural disasters. In some cases, earthquakes can lead to tsunamis . In the event of a disaster during your travel, authorities will provide guidance on what to do in the immediate aftermath. In some cases, an alarm may sound just before an earthquake or other disaster strikes the area. The Japanese government pushes safety alerts to users via several apps, including at least one that provides English language information: the Japan National Tourism Organization’s Safety Tips app.

The Tokyo Metropolitan Government has a Disaster Prevention Information website with information on how to respond to a natural disaster in the area.

More information can be found on our website .

Visas to Japan and Immigration Information

Visas for U.S. citizens hoping to travel, study or work in Japan are controlled by the Japanese government. While the Japanese Government is the ultimate authority on visa matters, we include some general information on visas for U.S. citizens to aid in your planning. U.S. citizens without a work visa cannot work in Japan. Please check here for detailed information.

The Immigration Services Agency of Japan has established Information Centers and One-Stop Consultation Centers to handle telephone, in-person and e-mail inquiries in Japanese and foreign languages. Contact information for Centers in different prefectures is listed here .

COVID-19 in Japan

Currently, there are no COVID-19 testing, proof of vaccination, or quarantine requirements to travel to Japan. However, we strongly recommend all U.S. citizens carefully review the information on Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MOFA) website , which provides official guidance.

X (@ACSTokyo)
Facebook (@ACSTokyo)

The information above is general information provided to the embassy by the relevant local authorities and is subject to change at any time with little or no notice. The U.S. Embassy assumes no liability for inaccuracies in the information above. U.S. citizens wishing to obtain any further or more tailored information must contact the relevant local authority.

The latest Department of State travel updates and guidance on travel.state.gov .

Smart Traveler Enrollment Program The Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) is a free service to allow U.S. citizens and nationals traveling and living abroad to enroll their trip with the nearest U.S. Embassy or Consulate. Enroll Now
Looking for the nearest embassy or consulate? Visit the official list of embassies, consulates, and diplomatic missions from the U.S. Department of State. Find the nearest Embassy or Consulate
Coronavirus.gov A portal for public information that is curated by the Coronavirus (COVID-19) Task Force at the White House, working in conjunction with CDC, HHS and other agency stakeholders. Visit Coronavirus.gov .

Have an emergency?

Contact your nearest embassy or call 1-888-407-4747 (U.S./Canada) or +1-202-501-4444 (overseas)
Contact the nearest Embassy or Consulate
Enroll for Alerts

Centers for Disease Control and Prevention The Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-19) landing page on CDC.gov is the latest public health and safety information from CDC and for the overarching medical and health provider community on COVID-19. Visit CDC Covid-19 Page

Visit the official list of embassies, consulates, and diplomatic missions from the U.S. Department of State.

The Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) is a free service to allow U.S. citizens and nationals traveling and living abroad to enroll their trip with the nearest U.S. Embassy or Consulate. Enroll Now

Use up to three keywords instead of using a full sentence for the best search results.

product warranty

free shipping offer

Would you help us improve our website

Note: This feature is strictly for feedback about your experience using the website. All other questions and feedback will be disregarded. Thank you for your understanding. You are visiting a website that just underwent a redesign. Please take a few moments to provide us with your valuable feedback.

Note: This feature is strictly for feedback about your experience using the website.

Please take a few moments to provide us with your valuable feedback. Note: This feature is strictly for feedback about your experience using the website. All other questions and feedback will be disregarded.

* Please see our Contact Us page for more information on how to reach us.

Thank you for sharing your feedback!

Please call your nearest Consulate or Embassy:

Application
Requirements

Entry Travel Documents for Japan

Japan continues to grow in popularity as a tourist destination. An increasing number of people flock there every year to witness the ancient culture, modern cities, and the stunning natural scenery.

Many nationalities can enter Japan with just a passport though others need to obtain a visa . The visa requirements for Japan depend on the traveler’s nationality, their reason for visiting, and the length of time they wish to stay.

What are the Necessary Travel Documents for Japan?

All travelers to Japan need a passport which is valid for the duration of their stay and the majority need a visa. Citizens from 68 Japan visa exempt countries including the US, Canada, the EU, Australia, and New Zealand do not need to obtain a visa.

Regardless of whether visitors need a visa, they may have to present proof of sufficient financial means to cover their stay and return or onward travel tickets. All travelers are photographed and have to provide their fingerprints on arrival. Some people are randomly selected for short interviews.

The new electronic Japan tourist visa from 2020

In Spring 2021 , the Japanese Government will introduce a new electronic Japan tourist visa . Chinese tourists will be the first eligible nationality but it will eventually be available for numerous nationalities.

Getting Emergency Travel Documents in Japan

Losing a passport or having one stolen abroad is a very stressful and inconvenient experience. If this happens to you in Japan you need to file a police report and then go to your country’s embassy or consulate to get an emergency passport . You will not be able to leave Japan without one.

Several documents are required to get an emergency passport . The exact documentation differs from embassy to embassy but basically includes the following:

Certificate of loss issued by the police station
Passport photo
Identification
Emergency visa fee

Latest news about Japan Entry Visas

How to Work in Japan Legally: Japanese Work Visas Eligibility

How to Work in Japan Legally: Japanese Work Visas and Eligibility

Traveling to Japan by Boat and Ferry

Travel Restrictions to Enter Japan

Search Please fill out this field.
Manage Your Subscription
Give a Gift Subscription
Newsletters
Sweepstakes
Destinations

The Best, Worst, and Most Affordable Times to Visit Japan

Whether you want to see the cherry blossoms or avoid the crowds, here's when to plan your next trip to Japan.

Frank Lukasseck / Getty Images

Suppose you're interested in shrine-hopping in Kyoto, seeing the cherry blossoms in bloom across Japan, or simply gazing at the country's stunning fall foliage. In that case, you'll want to plan your trip carefully, since the best time to visit Japan depends entirely on what you want to do there. To avoid the crowds, arrive during the less popular rainy season from June to mid-July or during the winter when prices tend to be lower. Head to Tokyo Disney Resort in spring and fall for fewer visitors and decent weather, or follow the seasonal nature of ingredients and menus around Japan for the perfect foodie vacation.

Here's a look at the country's main tourist seasons:

High Season: Mid-March to mid-May and September to mid-November
Shoulder Seasons: Late May to August and late November to December
Low Season: January to early March

Whether you want a snowy getaway in Hokkaido, a beach vacation in Okinawa, or a photography trip to capture the city lights of Tokyo, these are the best times to plan your dream trip to Japan.

Best Times to Visit for Smaller Crowds

Visitors from all over the world come to Japan to admire the cherry blossoms, so it should come as no surprise that Sakura season (late March to April) marks the busiest time for tourism. Domestic travelers also take advantage of Golden Week, a series of four national holidays in Japan, from April 29 to May 5. You'll want to avoid visiting the country during that time unless you meticulously plan ahead, as trains, hotels, and sightseeing spots can often be overcrowded or sold out entirely. Stunning foliage tends to draw crowds in autumn, especially when the leaves reach their colorful peak, typically from mid-November to early December.

If you're looking to avoid the crowds, visit during the rainy season, which usually begins in June and lasts until mid-July. Though this period tends to be humid and drizzly, it's one of the best times to enjoy popular tourist attractions without the masses. Japan also tends to be quieter between January and March, making it a perfect time to pair sightseeing with snow sports — and relaxing soaks at the nearest onsen (hot spring).

Best Times to Visit for Good Weather

Japan, while not an especially large country, is surprisingly varied when it comes to weather. Frigid winters at the northernmost tip of Hokkaido make the subtropical islands of southern Okinawa seem worlds away. The rainy season runs from early June to mid-July throughout most of the country — Tokyo included — except in Okinawa where showers begin in early May. In Hokkaido, summertime brings mild temperatures and blue skies.

If you aren't hitting the ski slopes, March to May and September to November are generally considered the best times to visit Japan for pleasant weather. That's when travelers can find the iconic cherry blossoms, or, in the fall, vivid autumnal leaves. During these two seasons, rainfall is minimal, skies are clear, and temperatures are mild, ranging from 40 to 70 degrees Fahrenheit most days, depending on where you are.

For those who are not averse to heat and humidity, summer brings a different tempo to Japan. It's the perfect time of year for exploring nature — ideally, somewhere cool up a mountain or as far north as possible. The lusciously cooler climes of Hokkaido are heaven in the summer, with rainbow-bright flower fields and opportunities for countless outdoor activities, from hiking to horseback riding.

In the winter, the northernmost prefecture of Hokkaido is undeniably the best place to ski or snowboard. That said, some areas outside Tokyo, such as Niigata, are only a Shinkansen (bullet train) ride away and boast great alpine resorts. Those who prefer the warmer weather would be better off flying south to Okinawa during the winter for a more subtropical climate.

Best Times to Visit for Lower Prices

Japan has a reputation for being a pricey destination, but there are times of year when it's less expensive to visit. During the low season between January and early March, you may be able to find flight and hotel deals. Prices tend to spike during the holiday season, especially around the New Year, so it's best to avoid coming at the beginning of January if you're trying to save money.

Costs rise again in late March and April for the peak cherry blossom season and remain high throughout the spring and summer, except for the brief rainy season from June to mid-July (mentioned above). For your best bet of scoring reasonably priced accommodations while also enjoying mild weather, aim to visit in September or October.

Best Times to Visit Tokyo Disney Resort

Fuà Guido / AGF / Universal Images Group / Getty Images

Spring and autumn are generally the best, most temperate times of the year to visit Tokyo Disney Resort . It's worth avoiding weekends and national holidays, especially Golden Week, one of the busiest periods at the theme park. Extreme heat in July and August can make it difficult to enjoy outdoor attractions. On the other hand, the temperatures rarely exceed 50 degrees Fahrenheit in January and February, making those months less popular.

The period from mid-September through the beginning of December offers a combination of pleasant weather, thinner crowds, and seasonal entertainment. Spooky decorations and fall-themed events can be enjoyed in the weeks leading up to Halloween. Starting in November, the theme park celebrates the holiday season with special programming, including magical parades, characters in festive costumes, and heart-warming decorations that help offset the chill in the air.

Best Time to Visit for Cherry Blossoms

Steven Han / Getty Images

If you're hoping to time your trip with the height of cherry blossom season, bear in mind that the peak bloom dates vary each year depending on the weather. The cherry blossom front , meticulously studied and broadcasted across the country, edges its way up, starting at the southernmost tip of Japan as early as January.

The best times to see the cherry blossoms in Kyoto, Tokyo, and the surrounding regions are often from the last week of March to the first week of April. And for more northerly cities such as Sapporo, don't expect to see any pink at least until May.

Best Times to Visit for Food Lovers

While Japan is a great foodie destination year-round, it's important to take the time of year into account, as many specialties are only available seasonally. If you have a favorite Japanese cuisine or ingredient, it's worth finding out when to visit to avoid missing out completely.

Popular summertime treats include light, cool sōmen noodles, kakigōri shaved ice, and delicious unagi (eel); autumn is heaven for matsutake mushrooms, sweet potatoes, and sanma (Pacific saury); winter is all about warming nabe hot pots, citrus fruits, and kaki (persimmon); and spring goes hand in hand with sea bream, takenoko (bamboo shoots), and sakura mochi rice cakes.

Worst Times to Visit Japan

While there's no bad time to visit Japan, some months are worse than others, depending on your travel preferences. If pleasant weather is a priority, avoid the rainy season, which typically runs from early June to mid-July throughout Japan (except in Okinawa, where it begins in May). This period is often preceded by extreme heat and humidity, with cities such as Tokyo and Kyoto being especially unbearable during the peak summer months of July and August. Also be aware that Japan's typhoon season happens from May to October, with the greatest risk being in August and September. Though these storms rarely make landfall, it's something to be aware of, just in case.

Those looking to save money and avoid crowds should steer clear of Golden Week, which runs from the end of April to the beginning of May. That's when domestic travelers tend to take their holidays, so you can expect to see higher prices, less availability at hotels, and larger crowds.

or with email

The Guide to Traveling Japan Like a Pro

Updated September 17, 2023

Planning your Japanese adventure but don’t know where to start? With information on everything from budgeting to itineraries to what to pack, the 10 tips in this Japan guide will help you travel the country like a pro.

Tip #1: Get familiar with Japan’s geography

Japan's geography is important for your Japan guide for travel

Since Japan is made up of 4 major islands—Hokkaido, Kyushu, Honshu, and Shikoku—and over 6,000 smaller islands, you’ll never encounter a shortage of things to do. Realistically, with a two-week Japan itinerary, you can cover about a quarter of Japan’s best places to go. Most travelers stick to central Japan (near Tokyo's must-dos and Kyoto's awesome attractions) because many highlights are within a 1-2 hour train ride. To get further off the beaten path, you can fly from Tokyo to northern Hokkaido or southern Okinawa in a little over an hour.

Tip #2: Pack light—we’re talking backpack and suitcase

Packing light is important for your Japan guide for travel

When traveling to Japan, you’ll encounter some tight spaces and lots of stairs, particularly on the trains and subways in Japan’s popular cities. Rather than lugging around a huge suitcase, try to pack as minimally as possible—that way, you can buy plenty of cool Japanese souvenirs and bring home some weird Japanese food. We recommend bringing a light duffel bag that fits in your suitcase, so you don’t run out of packing space on the way home.

Tip #3: Tell your credit and debit card companies you’ll be abroad

Call your credit and debit card companies to let them know you’re traveling to Japan, so they don’t freeze your card or account for suspicious activity. Make sure to ask about exchange rates and whether your card can be used at Japan’s ATMs. Also, some of Japan’s must-dos only accept cash, so be careful not to be overly dependent on your cards. That said, a lot of Japanese people now use phones to pay—and you can even use apps like Uber in Japan.

Tip #4: Add plenty of variety to your itinerary

Adding variety to your itinerary is important for your Japan guide for travel

Variety is the spice of life (and travel!). Some helpful Japan travel tips can help you decide where to go and when, but we’d recommend getting in touch with some Japanese locals—they can tell you how to avoid the crowds and find you some amazing off-the-beaten-path places to visit.

Pro tip: Try planning your trip seasonally—some of the best times to visit Japan are when the spring cherry blossoms are blooming or when the fall foliage is at its height.

Tip #5: Decide which tours to take in advance

Many popular things to do in Japan require reservations in advance. Tickets for hotspots like the Toyota Kaikan Museum or the Studio Ghibli Museum are in very high demand, so it’s essential to book your spot weeks in advance.

Tip #6: Get a local’s perspective on popular attractions

Getting a local's perspective is important for your Japan guide for travel

Want to know which of Japan’s must-dos live up to the hype? When it comes to travel, time is precious, and getting a local’s insider advice on where to go and what to do often proves invaluable. Japan’s popular points of interest (think Tokyo, Kyoto, and Osaka) are home to thousands of awesome things to do, so there’s no time to waste in deciphering the tourist traps from the authentic sites.

Activities in Tokyo

Activities in Kyoto

Activities in Osaka

Tip #7: Read up on Japanese customs beforehand

Learning Japanese customs is important for your Japan guide for travel

Japanese culture has thousands of years of tradition behind it—and while there’s no need to learn absolutely everything at once, it never hurts to know Japanese etiquette essentials. Restaurants, onsens, and temples are the main places where etiquette comes in handy, particularly when it comes to bowing, using chopsticks, and respecting sacred spaces. Showing interest in Japanese culture is also a fantastic way to travel like a local.

Tip #8: Stay in one-of-a-kind lodgings

Japan’s cities have most major hotel chains found in the US, but there’s no need to limit yourself to the same-old same-old. Since Japan’s hospitality is world-famous, don’t miss Japan’s unique accommodations like capsule hotels, youth hostels, and temple lodgings (shukubō). These spots also tend to be much more affordable than run-of-the-mill accommodations.

Tip #9: Chart out a reasonable budget in advance

Every traveler is different, so it makes sense that everyone’s budget should be tailored to individual needs and preferences. If you’re doing a budget trip to Japan, expect to spend $100 per day (covering lodging, food, rail passes, and attractions). Getting to Japan tends to be the priciest part, but some airlines offer discounted flights to Japan for as low as $500. Japan’s luxury travel is also world-renowned—and bigger budgets bring more access to Japan’s epic highlights.

Tip #10: Have questions and please ask

Language differences can be tricky when traveling to Japan, but don’t be disheartened—many Japanese people know the basics of English and love to interact with native English speakers. That being said, feel free to ask as many questions as possible! Your phone works in Japan so translation is a breeze, and showing interest in someone else’s culture and history is a great way to make friends—exactly what going to Japan is all about.

Select Account Type

Sign-up with

Almost there!

Find booking.

Promotional Title

How should we contact you?

Thank you! We'll get back to you as soon as possible!

Click to register and track your question !

If you would like to follow up with us:

+1 (855) 782-3006

Forgot your password?

Enter your email address below and we'll send you a reset link:

Tokyo can be overrated, according to someone who's been to Japan 11 times. Here are 3 lesser-known gems to visit instead.

Grace Cheng, a 22-year-old travel blogger based in the US, has visited Japan 11 times.
Cheng has a soft spot for cultural activities and authentic Japanese cuisine.
While Cheng says Tokyo is a must-visit, she prefers three other cities in Japan.

Japan is fast becoming a popular bucket-list destination among US travelers.

Online travel agency Hopper said users researching trips to Asia so far this year searched specifically for Japan almost a third of the time.

Trips to Japan are also more budget-friendly for Americans nowadays with the dominance of the US dollar. As of July 26, $1 buys 154.03 yen.

Grace Cheng, a 22-year-old travel blogger based in New York City, isn't surprised Japan is so popular. Since visiting Japan for the first time in 2017, she's gone an additional 10 times.

"It grew on me," Cheng said. "Now, since I actually have more understanding of culture and different aspects of traveling, I can say it's my favorite."

Cheng has plenty of advice for first-time visitors, including mistakes to avoid . But her wisdom also extends to which Japanese cities to prioritize.

Even though Tokyo, the capital, is a must-visit for a seven- to 10-day trip, Cheng prefers these three cities and encourages travelers to include them in their itineraries.

Kyoto, Cheng's favorite city in Japan, is a cultural mecca.

Cheng has a particular soft spot for Kyoto, which was the capital of Japan for over a thousand years until 1868, when Tokyo took its place.

Though often thought of as a natural second city to visit alongside Tokyo, Kyoto is Cheng's undisputed No. 1 Japanese city.

The old city is lined with small walkable roads, has many temples, and boasts a riverbank lined with small houses and shops. One of Kyoto's famous features is the Gion district, a historic neighborhood dotted with ochaya, or teahouses, run by traditional female entertainers known as geisha.

Even though it is also a tourist hot spot, Cheng said Kyoto feels more serene than Tokyo. It's not surprising, considering the current Japanese capital's population dwarfs the former. The latest UN data , from 2022, estimates Kyoto's population is just over 1.46 million, a fraction of Tokyo's 9.73 million.

"I know a lot of people love Tokyo, and I do as well, but I think Tokyo is kind of overrated, and I feel Kyoto has more in a cultural sense," Cheng said. "It has the teahouses, it has the Gion district, all the temples, the shrines."

"It's just a lot calmer and peaceful," she said, adding that the city's qualities exemplify "Japanese culture."

Sapporo is often overlooked, but Cheng said it has the warmest locals and is home to one of her favorite Japanese dishes.

People "often overlook" Hokkaido in the north of Japan, but it's "so beautiful" and "different" to anywhere else in the country, Cheng said.

Hokkaido's capital, Sapporo, is about a 90-minute flight from Tokyo. It's best known for its eponymous locally brewed beer and its powdery ski slopes — though Cheng prefers it to Tokyo for its cuisine, cheaper prices, and welcoming locals.

"In general, Japanese are very friendly, and they're very polite and respectful," she said. "But I feel like up there, it's just a completely different sense of friendliness. They just go out of their way, and you can definitely tell if someone is from Tokyo or the north."

One of the dishes she'd recommend to anyone going to Sapporo is "soup curry," a warm curry powder- and garam masala-spiced broth with chicken and fried vegetables.

"That was something that was recommended to me, and I just fell in love with it," Cheng said.

For foodies, Cheng said there's nowhere better to visit in Japan than Osaka.

Osaka, often nicknamed "Japan's Kitchen," is another city Cheng prefers over Tokyo.

Located just over three hours away from the capital via the Shinkansen , or bullet train, the city is famed for its street food and bustling produce markets.

"Whenever I go there, my sole mission is to eat," Cheng said. One of the most popular delicacies in Osaka is takoyaki, fried dough balls containing octopus slathered in sauces and topped with scallions and bonito flakes, Cheng said. Another dish Cheng makes sure to grab every time she's in Osaka is tonkatsu, or fried pork cutlet, at a restaurant called Tonkatsu Daiki. She said it's made to "perfection" and served with a side of all-you-can-eat shredded cabbage.

"There's usually a line out the door," she said. The tiny restaurant is run by one chef who "cooks everything on the spot," so Cheng recommends visitors arrive 30 minutes before it opens at lunch to improve their chances of grabbing a bite.

As much as Cheng says Tokyo is "overrated," she still thinks all first-time tourists to Japan should go.

Even though Tokyo is not one of Cheng's top three favorite cities in Japan, she wouldn't dissuade tourists from going.

"I'm just saying, for Tokyo, it's a bit overrated," she said. "If people want to actually experience more of Japan, then I would say go to the other cities."

When Cheng does visit Tokyo, she always stays in Ginza, a neighborhood in the center of town known for boulevards lined with designer stores and luxury hotels, as well as smaller streets with boutiques, cafés, and sushi bars.

For the "younger crowd" and those keen on sampling Tokyo's bustling nightlife, Cheng recommends staying in Shinjuku, a slightly more affordable district.

"Ginza and Shinjuku are the main options that people always debate over," Cheng said. "But I love Ginza because it's so clean, and it's very accessible."

Ultimately, Tokyo is a versatile city, she said.

"If you're looking for serenity, if you're looking for nightlife, it has something for everyone," she said.

Tokyo is also well-connected to other lesser-known travel destinations.

Some travelers don't have enough vacation time to traverse the country.

For them, Cheng recommends day trips using Tokyo as a base.

She said Kamakura, a coastal city in the Kanagawa prefecture less than an hour away from Tokyo by train, is worth checking out for a change of scenery.

Many Tokyo locals flock to Kamakura during the warmer seasons for its beaches and seaside restaurants. It's also known for its large Buddha statue.

"It can just be done on a day trip, and you have the ocean right there," she said.

Tourists can also take a short train ride from Kamakura to nearby Enoshima, a small island connected to the mainland that has shrines, parks, and caves, Cheng added.

Another plus? "You have really good food there, too," she said.

Main content

Election 2024
Entertainment
Newsletters
Photography
AP Buyline Personal Finance
AP Buyline Shopping
Press Releases
Israel-Hamas War
Russia-Ukraine War
Global elections
Asia Pacific
Latin America
Middle East
Delegate Tracker
AP & Elections
2024 Paris Olympic Games
Auto Racing
Movie reviews
Book reviews
Financial Markets
Business Highlights
Financial wellness
Artificial Intelligence
Social Media

A powerful quake hits off Japan’s coast, causing minor injuries but prompting new concerns

A tsunami warning was triggered after a powerful earthquake struck off Japan’s southern coast. The Japan Meteorological Agency said the quake registered magnitude 7.1 and was centered in waters off the eastern coast of Japan’s southern main island of Kyushu at a depth of about 30 kilometers (18.6 miles).

People take shelter outside building following an earthquake in Miyazaki, western Japan, Thursday, Aug. 8, 2024.(Kyodo News via AP)

Copy Link copied

Visitors to the Peace Park crouch as an earthquake alert was issued in Nagasaki, western Japan, Thursday, Aug. 8, 2024.(Kyodo News via AP)

Police stand outside a damaged building following an earthquake in Miyazaki, western Japan, Thursday, Aug. 8, 2024.(Kyodo News via AP)

TOKYO (AP) — A powerful earthquake struck off southern Japan on Thursday, causing mostly minor injuries but raising the level of concern over possible major quakes stemming from an undersea trough east of the coast.

Officials said nine people were injured on Japan’s southern main island of Kyushu, but the injuries were mostly minor, there were no reports of serious damage and tsunami advisories for the quake were later lifted.

However, the quake prompted seismologists to hold an emergency meeting in which they reassessed and raised the level of risk of major quakes associated with the Nankai Trough east of southern Japan.

The Japan Meteorological Agency said that Thursday’s quake registered magnitude 7.1 and was centered in waters off the eastern coast of Kyushu at a depth of about 30 kilometers (about 19 miles) below sea surface.

The quake most strongly shook Nichinan city and nearby areas in Miyazaki prefecture on Kyushu island.

The agency said tsunami waves of up to 50 centimeters (1.6 feet) were detected along parts of Kyushu’s southern coast and the nearby island of Shikoku about a half hour after the quake struck. Tsunami advisories were issued, but lifted for most areas three hours later, and for all remaining coastlines five and a half hours later.

Seismologists at the agency held an emergency meeting to analyze whether the quake had affected the nearby Nankai Trough, the source of past devastating earthquakes. They later issued an assessment that the potential for a future quake in the area from Kyushu to central Japan is higher than previously predicted. The agency said it will continue to closely watch movements of plates near the Nankai Trough.

That does not mean there’s an imminent danger of a big quake in the near future, but they urged residents on the coasts along the trough — which spans about 500 kilometers (310 miles) — to review their quake preparedness, University of Tokyo seismologist Naoshi Hirata, a member of an expert panel, told a joint news conference with JMA officials.

There is a 70-80% chance of a magnitude 8 or 9 quake stemming from the Nankai Trough within the next 30 years, Hirata said, adding that Thursday’s quake raises that probability even while the timing or exact location cannot be predicted. He urged residents to keep their caution levels high for a week for the time being.

Prime Minister Fumio Kishida told reporters that the government crisis management team was to step up disaster preparedness, and called on residents to pay close attention to information from the authorities in case of another big one and never to spread disinformation.

The Fire and Disaster Management Agency said nine people were injured, most of them slightly when falling down or hit by objects in Thursday’s quake in Miyazaki and neighboring Kagoshima.

Chief Cabinet Secretary Yoshimasa Hayashi said officials were assessing possible injuries or serious damage, though none were immediately reported. He urged residents of the affected region to stay away from the coastline.

JMA Seismology Department official Shigeki Aoki warned that strong aftershocks could occur for about a week.

Japan’s NHK public television said windows were broken at the Miyazaki airport near the epicenter. The airport’s runway was temporarily closed for safety checks.

Kyushu “shinkansen” super-express trains returned to normal operations after temporary safety checks, but a number of local train lines in the quake-hit areas were to be suspended through Friday, according to Kyushu Railway Co.

NHK showed dozens of people gathering at a designated hilltop evacuation area.

In Osaki in neighboring Kagoshima prefecture, concrete walls collapsed and a wooden house was damaged, but no injuries were reported.

The Nuclear Regulation Authority said all 12 nuclear reactors, including three that are currently operating, on Kyushu and Shikoku remained safe.

Earthquakes in areas with nuclear power plants have been a major concern since a massive earthquake and tsunami in March 2011 triggered the Fukushima nuclear disaster.

Japan sits on the Pacific “Ring of Fire,” a line of seismic faults encircling the Pacific Ocean, and is one of the world’s most earthquake-prone countries.

An earthquake on Jan. 1 in Japan’s north-central region of Noto left more than 240 people dead.

Share full article

Supported by

The ‘Orgasm Gap’ Isn’t Going Away for Straight Women

A new study suggests they still have fewer orgasms during sex than men do, even with age and experience.

An illustration of two people hugging. One person has purple and orange stars and wavy lines across their body. The other person does not have the stars and wavy lines across their body.

By Catherine Pearson

Sex researchers and therapists have long known that women in heterosexual relationships tend to have fewer orgasms than men do. A large new study suggests that this “orgasm gap” persists — and does not improve with age.

The Numbers

The research, published recently in the journal Sexual Medicine, found that across all ages, men of all sexual orientations reported higher orgasm rates during sex — from 70 to 85 percent — compared with 46 to 58 percent for women. Lesbian and bisexual women between ages 35 and 49 reported higher orgasm rates than their heterosexual counterparts.

The analysis included data from eight Singles in America surveys, which are funded and conducted by Match.com annually in collaboration with The Kinsey Institute, the sexuality and relationships research program at Indiana University. The sample included more than 24,000 single Americans between the ages of 18 and 100.

Researchers were especially interested in the question of whether orgasm rates vary by age. Amanda Gesselman, a research scientist with the Kinsey Institute and lead author on the study, said she thought the team might find evidence that the orgasm gap narrows as women develop confidence and learn what they like (and, perhaps, their partners develop skills to help pleasure them).

However, while older gay and bisexual men and lesbian women did have higher orgasm rates, “we really didn’t see evidence of closing the orgasm gap overall,” she said, adding that she hopes future studies will explore the age-orgasm connection further.

“We really, as a society, sort of prioritize men’s pleasure and undervalue women’s sexual pleasure,” Dr. Gesselman said. “And I think that contributes to consistent disparities.”

The Limitations

Emily Nagoski, a sex educator and author of the book “Come Together” — who did not work on the new study — said a limitation of the study was that the survey asked: “When having sexual intercourse in general, what percentage of the time do you usually have an orgasm?” But it did not provide a more specific definition of what “sexual intercourse” means.

Research shows the majority of women require some form of clitoral stimulation in order to orgasm. So if straight women defined “sexual intercourse” as vaginal penetration alone, it makes sense that there was a significant gap in orgasm rates, she said.

A more revealing question might be, “What percentage of the sex you have do you like?” Dr. Nagoski said. “Orgasm is not the measure of a sexual encounter. Pleasure is the measure of a sexual encounter.”

We are having trouble retrieving the article content.

Please enable JavaScript in your browser settings.

Thank you for your patience while we verify access. If you are in Reader mode please exit and log into your Times account, or subscribe for all of The Times.

Thank you for your patience while we verify access.

Already a subscriber? Log in .

Want all of The Times? Subscribe .

Independence Day of India, 15 August 2024: History, Significance, Facts and all you need to know

The history of Indian independence

IMAGES

My First Trip to Japan
Introduction To Japan Tourism Essay Example
My trip to japan essay
⇉Japan Is a Beautiful Place to Visit Essay Example
Tourism In Japan: History and Today's Situation Free Essay Example
My trip to japan essay

COMMENTS

Essay on Why I Want to Visit Japan
Essay on Why I Want to Visit Japan. This essay sample was donated by a student to help the academic community. Papers provided by EduBirdie writers usually outdo students' samples. Japan is a fascinating and beautiful country in East Asia. Japan has lots of different traditions, festivals, landforms, and tourist attractions.
Essays About Japan: Top 5 Examples And 5 Prompts
Kay's essay gives good insight into the best times to visit Japan. 5. A Day Trip To Kobe by David Swanson. "When planning a visit to Kobe, consider the fact that the city has been completely rebuilt since 1995, following the great Hanshin earthquake that leveled much of the city.
How to Write the JET Program Statement of Purpose Essay
In the U.S. it must be maximum of two pages on standard paper, written in 12 point Arial or Times New Roman font, double spaced with 1 inch margins all around, and have your last name with the page number in the upper right. The JET Program has two main goals: English education. Internationalization.
20 Reasons Why You Should Visit Japan
11. Shopper's paradise. Shopping is another reason why you should visit Japan, more so for the local brands than for the international ones. Tokyo and other major cities have world-class shopping centers as well as traditional markets where you can shop for local handicrafts and souvenirs.
29 Convincing Reasons To Visit Japan
Bus drivers, police officers, train conductors - all wearing gloves. If one is sick, one is expected to wear a face mask out of respect for others. And don't forget to take a ride in a taxi cab in Japan - it will be the cleanest you've ever taken a journey in. 10. The Geisha.
Why Travel to Japan? 20 Best Reasons to Visit it
The spectacular cherry blossom season. Japan is one of the best places in the world to view the spring cherry blossom and attend a Cherry blossom festival. Once the cherry blossom season peaks in April, locals and visitors alike flock to Japanese parks and gardens to engage in hanami (picnics beneath the cherry trees).
Why you should visit Japan once in your life
30 Reasons to visit Japan at least once in your life. 1. Japan has some of the most beautiful places. Japan offers a lot of beautiful places. There are a lot of popular and unique, of the beaten track destinations that you should include in your itinerary. This means there is so much to explore and there really is something for anybody!
Sample Essay on Japan: Practical Guide to Follow
Let's Practice to Write Your Essay about Japan. Practice 1. Practice 2. Practice 3. Conclusion. Japan is a place of dreams both both the admirers of the ancient countryside lifestyle and the "camp" of city-lovers. No wonder this country is among those topics students choose for the essays about traveling.
Why Should You Visit Japan?
With its unique culture, stunning landscape and delicious cuisine, Japan offers so much for travelers. Here are 10 reasons why you should plan a trip to this fascinating country: 1. Incredible Food - From sushi and ramen to tempura and yakitori, Japanese cuisine is renowned around the world for its deliciousness.
Why I Love Japan
Reason Two: Logistics. Speaking of traversing the country, the second reason why I love traveling in Japan is the country's amazing transportation network. As someone who has never (and likely will never) drive an automobile, the ability to get from one end of Japan to the other in a matter of hours is a godsend.
Essay on My Trip To Japan
Goodbye Japan. Saying goodbye to Japan was sad. I made great memories and hope to go back one day. Japan is a special place that I will always remember. 250 Words Essay on My Trip To Japan My Journey to Japan. Last year, I visited Japan, a country of beautiful cherry blossoms and modern cities. It was a dream trip, and I got to see many amazing ...
What's It Really Like to Travel Japan?
I didn't have a single bad meal in Japan. Reverence of manners. Japan has a longstanding reputation of politeness. One place where this was most evident was on trains. Whenever a conductor entered a car, he would enter and exit the car with an energetic yet crisp bow before attending to passengers. Reverence of nature.
Why visit Japan: Reasons to visit Japan next
Japan is an ultra-modern country with a unique transport system that makes travelling across the country as easy as pie. Ease of travel comes so natural in Japan, thanks to the superfast and reliable shinkansen (bullet train). We do recommend a JR Pass, so you can travel to more than one destination in the country.
An Eye-Opening Experience: What I Learned from Traveling to Japan
The only time you need to pay for physical tickets is when using the Japan Rail (JR). Don't bother going to buy them at the ticket machines, especially if you want to pay with a card. Just ...
38 Reasons Why I am Excited to Visit Japan
As a sushi lover, I can't wait to see one of the world's busiest and largest fish markets, even if it means waking up at 4am (the famous tuna auctions take place between 5:30am-6:30am). 8. Tokyo subway - People always talk about surviving the Tube in London, but the subway in Tokyo is the real labyrinth.
6 Best Reasons Why Visit Japan: More Than Culture & Food
2) Diverse Sushi and Sashimi. Sashimi and Sushi. Sushi and sashimi are renowned delicacies, and also reasons to visit Japan for global tourists. Sushi, made with vinegared rice and fresh fish, comes in various forms such as nigiri and maki. Sashimi, on the other hand, is thinly sliced raw fish, emphasizing knife skills.
Persuasive Essay Travel To Japan
If you travel to Japan you also get to learn their cultures, religion, customs, and ways of life. Japan is very religious and formal. Going to Japan can teach you manners and politeness. They respect their elders very much. Wisdom in their community or family is very highly valued. Japanese people often bow when saying "konichiwa" (hello).
A complete 7 day itinerary for Japan
JAPAN. A complete 7 day itinerary for Japan. Japan is a country I have long wanted to visit, with incredible mountain scenery, one of the world's most chaotic & quirky cities (Tokyo), a long history of culture & tradition, and of course incredible cuisine with authentic sushi on offer everywhere you turn. I have been asked many times over the ...
Essay on Why I Want to Visit Japan
Essay on Why I Want to Visit Japan Japan is a fascinating and beautiful country in East Asia. Japan has lots of different traditions, festivals, landforms, and tourist attractions. Japan is a unique country with its beautiful landscape, people; it is lovely events and contrasting culture compared to Australia.
Here's Why You Should Visit Japan Immediately
2) Japan is the cleanest country in the world. Japan has a strong culture of cleanliness, and its cities are extremely well looked after. Public spaces including streets, train or subway stations, and restrooms are very clean. You will find that many workers, particularly drivers, wear white gloves. Like, white white.
Information for U.S. citizens traveling to Japan
If you need after-hours assistance in an emergency, please call 03-3224-5000 and ask to speak with the Embassy's duty officer. Emergency Contact Information for U.S. citizens. Emergency Preparedness for U.S. citizens in Japan. Sources of Help, including counseling services. Medical Assistance in Japan.
Why I Want To Visit Japan
Because Japan is related to animation, I want to visit Japan. Out of all of Japan cities, I want to visit Osaka the most. I do not know much about Osaka; I know about Osaka's spring season which becomes a really beautiful place with cherry blossoms. Also, I know that Universal Studio Japan located in Osaka.
What are the required entry travel documents for Japan?
Certificate of loss issued by the police station. Passport photo. Identification. Emergency visa fee. < Prev Next >. Many nationalities can enter Japan with just a passport though others need to obtain a visa. The visa requirements for Japan depend on the traveler's nationality.
Best Times to Visit Japan
Whether you want a snowy getaway in Hokkaido, a beach vacation in Okinawa, or a photography trip to capture the city lights of Tokyo, these are the best times to plan your dream trip to Japan ...
The Guide to Traveling Japan Like a Pro
Japan's luxury travel is also world-renowned—and bigger budgets bring more access to Japan's epic highlights. Tip #10: Have questions and please ask Language differences can be tricky when traveling to Japan, but don't be disheartened—many Japanese people know the basics of English and love to interact with native English speakers.
Tokyo can be overrated, according to someone who's been to Japan 11
Grace Cheng, a 22-year-old travel blogger based in the US, has visited Japan 11 times. Cheng has a soft spot for cultural activities and authentic Japanese cuisine. While Cheng says Tokyo is a ...
Japan picked as No. 1 country travelers wish to revisit: survey
Japan was chosen by international travelers as the country they most wish to revisit due to its food, culture and natural landscapes, according to a recent survey by Japanese ad agency Dentsu Inc. ... Asked what respondents looked for in their visit to Japan, 28.6 percent cited the diverse food scene, while 27.9 percent were drawn to the ...
Powerful quake hits off Japan's coast, prompting new concerns
A tsunami warning was triggered after a powerful earthquake struck off Japan's southern coast. The Japan Meteorological Agency said the quake registered magnitude 7.1 and was centered in waters off the eastern coast of Japan's southern main island of Kyushu at a depth of about 30 kilometers (18.6 miles).
The 'Orgasm Gap' Isn't Going Away for Straight Women
The News. Sex researchers and therapists have long known that women in heterosexual relationships tend to have fewer orgasms than men do. A large new study suggests that this "orgasm gap ...
Independence Day of India, 15 August 2024: History, Significance, Facts
Independence Day Essay Independence Day of India, 15 August 2024: History, Significance, Facts and all you need to know TOI Lifestyle Desk / etimes.in / Aug 13, 2024, 13:17 IST

Essay on Why I Want to Visit Japan

Cite this paper

Related articles

Most popular essays

Join our 150k of happy users

Essays About Japan: Top 5 Examples and 5 Prompts

1. What Japan Taught Me About Life by Beth Louise

5. A Day Trip To Kobe by David Swanson

4. The best time to visit Japan by Pat Kay

How to Write the JET Program Statement of Purpose Essay The most pivotal part of the JET Program application explained

1. "Why you wish to go to Japan and participate in the JET Program and why you are interested in the position for which you are applying (ALT or CIR)."

2. "What effect you hope to have on the Japanese community and internationally as a result of your participation in the JET Program."

3. "What applicable experiences, professional skills, relevant interests and personal qualities you have, and how you feel these will be useful to you as an ALT or CIR."

4. "What you hope to gain, both personally and professionally, from your JET experience if you are selected and how participation will assist you in your future goals."

Extra Tips for the JET Program Statement of Purpose Essay

State Your Purpose on Purpose

20 Reasons Why You Should Visit Japan

1. Pristine natural scenery

29 Convincing Reasons To Visit Japan

Why Visit Japan?

2. The Food

3. The Service

4. The Sushi Trains

5. The Sake

6. The Free Green Tea!

7. The Matcha

8. Japanese Toilets

9. The Tidiness

10. The Geisha

11. The Internet

12. The Kotatsu Tables

13. Tatami Mats

14. The Culture

15. The History

16. The Nature

17. The Kawaii

18. The Pricing

19. It’s Safe!

20. The Vending Machines!

21. The Seasons

22. The Temples

23. The Powder

24. The Transport

25. The Efficiency

26. The Rules

27. The Onsens and Sentos

28. The Convenience Stores

29. The Strangeness

Hopefully, this list answers your question of why visit Japan! It’s an amazing destination with so much to offer!

A few examples of our transportation costs:

Car Rental in Japan

How to Save Money in Japan

Take Public Transport

Stay in Guesthouses

Cook Your Own Food

Check out the ¥100 shops

Eat your fresh fruits and vegetable before you get to Japan

Frequent Convenience Stores

How Much Does it Cost to Travel in Japan?

Japan Travel Planning Resources

About Natasha Alden

Leave a Comment

17 Things to Know BEFORE Hiking the Kumano Kodo Pilgrimage Trail

What to Wear in Japan? The ULTIMATE Japan Packing List

30 UNIQUE Things to Do in Osaka, Japan

31 Fun Facts About Japan You Should Know

Why travel to Japan? 20 best reasons to visit it

It’s easy to get around on public transportation

Japan is very clean

Japanese people are polite and friendly

The incredible natural landscapes

The large number of UNESCO sites

The majestic temples in Japan

The unique castles

The spectacular cherry blossom season

The exciting summer festivals

Christmas in Japan is magical

The world-class powder snow

The chance to bathe in a natural hot spring

The superb Japanese cuisine