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Japan Travel Guide

Find out more about the Land of the Rising Sun with our travel tips on where to go, what to do, how to get there and how to carry your travel money.

Top Places to Visit in Japan

Made up of an archipelago of 6,852 islands, Japan is known for its juxtaposition of ancient traditions with modern technology and subcultures. Japan’s popularity as a holiday destination has seen staggering growth, and for good reason.

From ancient temples and sumo wrestlers to robot bars and harajuku style, Japan has something for everyone.

Tokyo

Tokyo

The world’s largest metropolis; Tokyo's 14 unique districts offer a selection of shopping, clubs, dining, bars and entertainment options - ranging from traditional to the more outrageous!

Kyoto

Kyoto

Japan's cultural hub known for its temples, shrines, and geishas. Spared from bombing during WW2 due to its historical and cultural significance, the city’s small laneways are an ode to the Japan of folklore.

Osaka

Osaka

Japan's second-largest city, nicknamed “Tenka no Daidokoro” or “The Nation’s Kitchen”, is a food-lovers paradise. Whilst many flock there for the food, its cheap accommodation and historic sites make it a must.



Sapporo

Sapporo

Nestled between mountains, the city is home to Sapporo beer and the famous Sapporo Snow Festival. This Japanese city makes the perfect stop-over on your way to hitting the Hokkaido ski slopes.

Okinawa

Okinawa

Comprised of over 150 islands, and known for its warm climate, tropical beaches, and coral reefs, Okinawa is the perfect spot for an island getaway; or why not sample distinct Okinawan cuisine and experience trekking in lush tropical jungles.

Izu Peninsula

Izu Peninsula

Renowned for its majestic coastline, popular beaches, and hot springs, the Izu peninsula region lies approximately 100kms from Tokyo making it a great getaway when visiting the city. What’s more, Mount Fuji can be seen from the western coast of the Izu Peninsula!



Transportation in Japan - Getting Around

Travelling by Air in Japan

Travelling Japan by plane is both fast and efficient. Whilst not the cheapest travel option, Japanese airports and airlines are known for their great customer service and comfort. All major cities in Japan can be reached by plane, including many smaller cities and towns. Major airlines include JAL, and ANA Group (All Nippon Airways).

Train Travel in Japan

Train is by far the easiest and most popular way to get around Japan. Rail services in Japan are typically fast, frequent, and comfortable. Japan Railways offer rail passes (JR Passes) which provide excellent value for money for tourists looking to travel in between cities.

Consider Japan’s IC cards (includes Suica, Pasmo and Icoca) which are prepaid smart travel cards enabling you to travel via most public transport (metro, trains, buses, monorail) in Japan. This type of travel card is reloadable if you run low on funds and remains valid for up to 10 years. If you have children, they offer children’s Suica cards directly in Japan.

Buses in Japan

Cheaper than trains, travelling by bus in Japan is a great way to keep transportation costs down on your holiday. Bus travel is an option for both inner city travel in larger cities like Tokyo, and inter-city regional travel between towns. Bus passes can be purchased for up to 7 days of travel, but keep in mind that your journey will take longer when compared to taking a flight or train. Japan’s Suica, their transport travel card can be a convenient way to get around within the city on most public transport.

Things to Do in Japan - Not to Miss Experiences

Get Lost in the Sagano Bamboo Forest, Kyoto

Get Lost in the Sagano Bamboo Forest, Kyoto

Kyoto’s Sagano Bamboo forest is located on the outskirts of Kyoto. This forest is known for its enchanting, other-worldly - and instagrammable - atmosphere!

Harajuku, Tokyo

See Harajuku Style First Hand, Harajuku, Tokyo

Explore the buzzing streets of this district and see Japanese youth culture at its peak. Snap a selfie with a Harajuku girl, shop till you drop, or simply sit at a trendy café and people watch.

Mt Fuji, Honshu

Trek Mt Fuji, Honshu

See this iconic Japanese volcano from a viewing deck in Tokyo, take a leisurely stroll around it at the Fuji Five Lake, or even trek to the summit.



Onsen at the Snow, Nozawa Onsen Ski Resort

Experience an Onsen at the Snow, Nozawa Onsen Ski Resort

Treat yourself to a relaxing onsen - or hot spring bath - after a day hitting the snow on the Japanese ski slopes. Nothing better than the warmth of an onsen after a day out in the cold!

Immerse Yourself in Sumo

Immerse Yourself in Sumo, Locations across Japan

Witnessing the ancient sport of sumo wrestling in action is a once in a lifetime experience. Official basho (sumo tournaments) happen around 6 times a year in locations all over Japan.

Universal Studios™, Osaka

Take the Kids - or Reignite Your Inner Child - at Universal Studios™, Osaka

Explore life with dinosaurs at Jurassic Park, take a walk down Hollywood Boulevard, or let the Wizarding World of Harry Potter cast a spell on you – all at the first Universal Studios to be built in Asia!!

When is the Best Time to Visit Japan?

Japan has four distinct seasons each with its own customs and festivals, making it a great year-round destination. There are pros and cons to visiting Japan in each season, and deciding when to go depends on the type of holiday you’re after.

Japanese Currency

The official currency of Japan is known as the Japanese yen, which is abbreviated to JP¥. Adopted by the Meiji government in 1871, the yen comes in both coins and banknotes. Denominations of yen include 1000, 2,000, 5,000 and 10,000 yen notes. As is common in many Asian countries, large quantities of yen are counted in 10,000s.

Japan is predominantly a cash-based society, so ensuring you have some cash ready for your trip is essential.

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