Best Travel Guide for Japan
Hello, in today's blog we are going to share with you Best Travel Guide for Japan to know everything before the trip. Japan is one of the most amazing, beautiful and friendliest countries in the world. From bustling Tokyo and zen-like Kyoto to laid-back Okinawa and wintry Hokkaido, Japan is a high-tech world mixed with the courtesy and respect of its past. It was a lifetime dream to go there and when I finally did it all my expectations were met. The selection and organization of this wonderful trip took a lot of time as it was difficult to gather all the information. That's why I put together this complete Japan travel guide for you. On this page everything about traveling in Japan. The different means of transport, travel tips, sights, budget examples and much more!
Why Travel to Japan?
Japan has great food, amazing temples, zen gardens, beautiful national parks and a rich historical culture. It is a unique place and although it is a relatively expensive country to visit, there are many ways to enjoy this country while still keeping it affordable. Looking back, Japan on a budget is a lot easier than I previously thought. It is possible to travel Japan on a budget!
Backpacking or traveling around Japan is not as expensive or difficult as you think. Everyone here is super friendly and helpful and if you are smart with your money and activities, you can visit Japan on a low budget too. Best Travel Guide for Japan help you plan an affordable trip to the country so you can see more, eat more and spend less - whether you're traveling across the country or just wanting to take a short break and save money!
Top Places of Japan You Should Explore : Ultimate Guide for Japan Traveler
Japan, a land of rich culture and history, is a country that has something for everyone. Whether you're interested in exploring the country's many temples and shrines, taking in the natural beauty of Mount Fuji, or enjoying the vibrant nightlife of Tokyo, there's no shortage of things to see and do in Japan.
When it comes to planning your trip, there are a few things to keep in mind. First, Japan is a large country with a lot to see and do. As such, it's important to have a general idea of what you want to see and do before you start planning your trip. This will help ensure that you don't miss anything important.
Second, Japan is divided into several distinct regions, each with its own unique attractions. When deciding where to go in Japan, be sure to consider which region(s) interest you the most. third, while Japan is generally a safe country to travel to, there are certain areas that are best avoided. In particular, crime rates are relatively high in some urban areas such as Tokyo and Osaka. Finally, keep in mind that Japan is an expensive country to visit. While there are ways to save money (such as staying in hostels or Couchsurfing), budget travelers should expect to spend more here than they would in other Asian countries.
With these things in mind, let's take a look at some of the best places to visit in Japan:
- Explore Tokyo
- Climb Mount Fuji
- A day trip to Kyoto
- Visit Hiroshima and the Bomb Memorial
- Explore Sapporo and the surrounding area More must-sees in Japan
- Pamper yourself at Maika
- Visit Heian Shrine
- Wander around Nikko
- Visit Tsukiji/Toyosu Fish Market
- Spend a day in the Gion district
- Explore Osaka : Tempozan Giant Ferris Wheel Ride
- Relax in Ueno Park
- Kokyo Imperial Palace
- Visit the island of Miyajima
- Visit the Bitchu Matsuyama castle
- Go on a pilgrimage
- Learn to meditate
- Stay in a ryokan
- Book the Beppu "Jigoku Meguri" Hells Tour
- Enjoy an onsen
- Explore Daisetsuzan National Park
- Relax in Okinawa
- Arashiyama Iwatayama Monkey Park
Explore Tokyo
Tokyo is a city that cannot be missed in any travel guide about Japan. Tokyo is one of the strangest and most unique places on earth. A gigantic city full of shrines, palaces, temples, cherries, hip clubs, bars, people and fashion shops - Tokyo is a futuristic city. Take your time to explore this city, you need at least three days and even 5 to 7 days is best!
Climb Mount Fuji
Climb Mount Fuji is 3776 meter high mountain is located near Tokyo and is a worthwhile climb. During the day it is often covered with fog and clouds, so trekking starts early in the morning or even at night. The lack of sleep is worth the stunning sunrise. Please note that the climbing season is short, from early July to mid-September.
A day trip to Kyoto
Kyoto , the city of beautiful temples and Japanese gardens, is one of the top tourist destinations in Japan. It retains much of the traditional Japanese lifestyle and is a good complement to fast-paced and high-tech Tokyo. By far my favorite place in the country, see as many temples as you can and don't miss the epic bamboo forest!
Visit Hiroshima and the Bomb Memorial
A Japan travel guide tip: Visit the Bomb Memorial and learn about one of the most controversial events in human history: the atomic bombing of Hiroshima. It's a tragic past, but seeing the city thrive gives you hope for the future.
Explore Sapporo and the surrounding area
This city is the gateway to the northern island of Hokkaido in Japan and is known for its surrounding mountains, thermal baths and ski resorts. Very popular in winter for its winter games, be sure to visit our near by Otaru for uni, squid and famous seafood!
Pamper yourself at Maika
For the ladies, the Gion district also offers apprentice geisha treatments. You can get full makeup and dress in a formal kimono. Post photos make great keepsakes—and you can even have stickers made. This is probably the most entertaining way to learn about the ancient geisha tradition.
Visit Heian Shrine
Heian Shrine is a popular tourist attraction, so get there early. The garden is filled with beautiful cherry blossom trees, also called sakura. It's a nice place to take some photos. The shrine is free, but entry to the nearby garden costs 600 yen. If you want to see the flowering trees, then be there in mid-April.
Wander around Nikko
A bit off the beaten path and therefore extra fun - there are great temples and shrines dotted around the forests, and the forests themselves are great for hiking and meditation. Nikko is worth a day or two of your time!
Visit Tsukiji/Toyosu Fish Market
Tsukiji/Toyosu Fish market in Tokyo starts early at 4am and you can watch the frantic buying and selling at the largest tuna market in the world. Eat freshly caught sushi for breakfast and marvel at the crazy atmosphere. There's nothing else like it in the world, so this is a must-see when you visit Japan! In 2018, the Inner Fish Market moved to Toyosu and is now known as Toyosu Fish Market, but the Outer Market (where you can find groceries and shops) is still there.
Spend a day in the Gion district
Also known as the Geisha Quarters † You can easily spend a day here. The area is full of fascinating architecture and if you're lucky you might see a geisha (a traditional professional entertainer). It's wonderful to just walk around here.
Explore Osaka : Tempozan Giant Ferris Wheel Ride
Walk around Osaka, taste the culture and enjoy everything you see around you. Tempozan Giant Ferris Wheel ride takes 17 minutes, is located in Osaka, and offers great views of Osaka Bay and the surrounding area. Between 1997 and 1999 it was the tallest Ferris wheel in the world. It is also located next to one of the largest aquariums in the world, the Osaka Aquarium Kaiyukan.
Relax in Ueno Park
Ueno Park is a great place to spend the day and free. Bring your camera as this is a perfect spot to capture the many cherry blossom trees, and include lunch to save extra money.
Kokyo Imperial Palace
Visit the Kokyo Imperial Palace , home of the Emperor of Japan and a perfect opportunity to learn about the history and culture of Japan. Although you cannot go inside, the surrounding grounds and park are beautiful and you can see the changing of the guard.
Visit the island of Miyajima
Make sure you visit this "Sanctuary Island" for all of its natural beauty. A day trip can easily be made with the many hiking trails nearby. A one-way ticket (including the ferry) there costs about 180 JPY (2 euros). Make sure you climb Mount Misen - it's a great workout and the views are stunning!
Visit the Bitchu Matsuyama castle
The entrance fee to this old castle is 300 JPY (3 Euro) and it is worth it. Convince yourself of the only original preserved castle in Japan. It is also the tallest castle in the country, standing 430 meters above sea level.
Go on a pilgrimage
The 88 Temple Pilgrimage is an ancient pilgrimage route that circles the island of Shikoku . The route is over 1,200 kilometers long and can take between 30 and 60 days. Of course, you can also just visit a few temples and not go all the way!
Learn to meditate
There are many temples and monasteries in Japan that host daily meditations, some even providing accommodation and allowing tourists to experience monastic life. It is truly an eye-opening experience. Are you stressed or just want to relax? Try it!
Stay in a ryokan
A ryokan is a traditional Japanese bed and breakfast typically found in the more scenic regions of the country. With their tatami floors and cozy interiors, ryokans offer an intimate and uniquely Japanese experience. Meals are usually included, as are the traditional Japanese bathrobes and slippers that you'll wear throughout your stay.
Book the Beppu "Jigoku Meguri" Hells Tour
Also known as Jigoku - it is a collection of natural geothermal hot springs in Beppu. Each pool is like an amusement park with a unique theme. Purchasing a voucher gives access to almost all pools. You can't go in the water but this is great Great place to walk around and take photos.
Enjoy an onsen
Natural hot springs are widespread throughout the country and can be found both indoors and outdoors. Each has different mineral compositions and are a great way to enjoy some traditional Japanese culture.
Explore Daisetsuzan National Park
If you're coming all the way to Hokkaido, be sure to spend some time exploring the Daisetsuzan National Park † The park offers numerous hiking trails and some of the most rugged and beautiful scenery in the whole country. It is off the beaten track so you will enjoy a rare peace and quiet.
Relax in Okinawa
If you want to escape the fast-paced life of Japan, go to Okinawa † Life here is considered the “Hawaii of Japan” and moves at a much slower pace. The climate is subtropical and there are many nearby islands to explore. Great to unwind after a hectic week of travel.
Arashiyama Iwatayama Monkey Park
If you are looking for a great walk in Kyoto, this is a hill that offers a bit of a challenge and an interesting attraction at the top. Besides the panoramic view of Kyoto, this is a great place to see wild monkeys and take fun souvenir photos. Admission for adults is 550 JPY (5 euros).
Japan Travel Expenses : Japan Travel Guide
Prices of accomodation in japan
Most hostels charge between 2,500 and 4,000 JPY (20-35 euros) per night for a dorm. Capsule hotels range from 3,000-5,500 JPY for a tiny room (it's really a pod, a tiny room to sleep in). If you're looking for privacy, expect to pay around JPY8,500 for a double room in a budget hotel. Accommodation prices in major cities are significantly higher than off-the-beaten-path travel (Okinawa, for example, is half the price of Tokyo).
A private apartment/house usually costs 8,800 JPY (75 Euro) or more. If you're looking for a more unique experience, consider staying at a ryokan, a traditional Japanese bed and breakfast. Although they are more expensive than a standard hotel, it will be a unique and unforgettable experience as you will sleep on tatami mats and enjoy a traditional breakfast.
Food Prices in Japan for Travelers: Japan Travel Guide for Food
There are many inexpensive restaurants in Japan, from ramen noodle shops to miso and soba noodles. These dishes cost between 250 and 1,250 JPY (2 to 11 euros). Grocery shopping will cost you 3,700-5,000 JPY (35-45 Euro) per week. Most meals in restaurants cost around 2,000 JPY (20 euros). Mid-range restaurants can cost around 4,350 JPY (40 EUR). Sushi trains cost between 125-620 JPY (1-6 Euro) each. Fast food costs about 800 JPY (7 euros).
You'll also find plenty of cheap meals and pre-packaged items at the 7-Eleven (which the locals actually eat!). Noodles, rice balls, tofu, and packaged sushi are all available for just a few hundred yen. If you are on a budget, 7-Eleven will be your favorite restaurant.
Japan Travel Guide for Transport
Transportation in Japan is incredibly expensive. Trains are the most convenient but also the most expensive way to travel. A train ticket from Osaka to Tokyo costs about 20,000 JPY (165 euros)! Most subway tickets for the city cost 125-250 JPY (1-2 Euro) one way. In most major cities, you can buy a day pass on certain trains and buses for around 24-600 JPY (800-5 Euros), which gives you unlimited travel for 7 hours. Intercity bus tickets cost around JPY 2,500. Consider buying a Japan Rail Pass if you travel a lot of trains. JR Passes come in 1, 2 or 3 week passes and give you unlimited travel on the JR lines. If you are planning a tour, this is the best way to save some money. If you're feeling adventurous, you can also hitchhike. Although there are hardly any Japanese hitchhikers, many are happy to take foreigners with them. It's a chance for them to practice their English and learn about a new culture, so don't be afraid to give them a thumbs up!
Japan Travel Guide for Activities
A nice extra tip for this Japan travel guide: Most temples and museums are free to enter, although some popular attractions cost around 1,250 JPY (10 euros). The temples in Kyoto can cost up to 620 JPY (5 euros). Many of the city's parks are free, so use them whenever possible and spend the day there. You can also buy city or temple passes that are valid for one day.
Travel Budget guide for Japan : Daily Budget for Japan
Want to know how much Japan will cost you? Our guide helps you determine the daily budget for your trip to Tokyo, Kyoto, Osaka and more.
Low Budget | 75 euros per day
Japan can be an expensive travel destination. When traveling through Japan, you should expect a minimum budget of 8,000-9,000 JPY (65-75 euros) per day. This is a recommended budget, assuming you're mostly staying in a dorm (or through couchsurfing), cooking some of your meals, eating cheap street food, or shopping at donburi shops. You visit free museums and temples and use local transport. Keep in mind that your budget is probably closer to 75-85 euros per day if you take the bullet train.
Average Budget | 100 euros per day
With a more moderate budget of JPY12,000 per day, you can stay in nicer lodging and private rooms, eat more generously, enjoy more drinks, visit more attractions, and generally just have a little more breathing space during your stay. to travel.
High Budget | 200 euros per day
For 22,568 JPY (200 euros) per day, you can stay in traditional Japanese accommodation or hotels, eat in a very nice restaurant every day, spend in some really luxurious places, have drinks as many times as you like, take tours, fly and im Generally you can afford whatever you want when you visit Japan! If you stay in international hotels I would add another 50-100 euros per day to your budget.
Budget tips for Japan
Although the above prices may seem like a lot, there are many ways to reduce your expenses and save money in Japan. You can save big in practically every category. If you can't find cheap accommodation, eat the delicious cheap food that the workers of Japan eat. If you bought a rail pass, make up for it by staying in cheaper accommodation or eating cheaply. Do what works for you! However, our Best Travel Guide to Japan wouldn't be complete without these handy money-saving tips, so be sure to read them and apply them whenever possible.
Visit Attractions for Free
With countless museums, shrines, temples, historic districts and parks, Japan is full of opportunities to immerse yourself in its culture. Many of the country's parks and museums are free.
Buy a JR Rail Pass
Japan's bullet trains are ridiculously expensive, with one-way tickets costing hundreds of dollars. If you plan to travel around the country a lot, buy the JR rail pass which gives you unlimited rail travel and can save you big bucks. It is available in 7, 14 and 21 day passes. Remember that it can only be bought out of the country so plan ahead and buy from the JR Pass before you go!
take the bus
buses are a much cheaper option than trains. They cost a fraction of the price but last a lot longer. For example, the two-hour bullet train ride from Tokyo to Osaka becomes a ten-hour bus ride. You can get an unlimited Japan Rail Pass for 10 JPY for 255 consecutive days of travel, but it's a lot more expensive than using the bus. In short, if you have time, take the bus.
Shopping in the 100 yen (1 euro) stores
There are many 100 yen stores in Japan with menus, groceries, bottled water, toiletries and household items. Shop names vary by region, so ask at your hotel/hostel reception for the closest one.
Eat at 7-11
7-Eleven, Family Mart, and other convenience stores have many preset meals (including sandwiches, soups, fruit, and more traditional Japanese options) for 125-370 JPY ($1-3), which is a great value Pose option for lunch. In addition, supermarkets also have many menus at comparable prices.
cook your food
hostels have kitchens where you can cook. Combine this with shopping at the 100 yen stores and your grocery costs in Japan will be drastically reduced. Eat curry, ramen and donburi – these are the three foods that I essentially subsisted on during my three-week trip to Japan. Curry bowls were as cheap as 370 JPY (3 euros) per plate. Donburi, bowls of meat and rice, cost around 500-620 JPY ($5-6). Ramen never costs more than 870 JPY (8 euros). Here are the best ways to eat cheap, filling meals in Japan.
Work for your room
You can often work for your room at hostels in Japan. They will clean for a few hours in the morning and they will give you free accommodation as long as they let you stay. This is a great way to save money if you plan to stay in the same area for a while.
Couchsurfing
By using hospitality sites like Couchsurfing, which allow you to stay with the locals, not only do you get free accommodation, you can also interact and learn about local life.
Shop for groceries in the evening
After 8pm supermarkets give a discount on their fresh groceries because they have to (legally) dispose of them. If you buy your groceries after 8:50 p.m., you can save up to XNUMX% on almost everything fresh.
Hitchhiking
Japan is one of the safest countries in the world and many locals are curious enough to pick up foreign visitors. Hitchhiking isn't really practiced by the locals, so you'll quickly stand out as a tourist and increase your chances of finding a ride.
Moving in Japan
Getting around Japan is of course part of the Best Travel Guide for Japan. Getting around Japan is incredibly easy, although usually not cheap. But there are ways to save money.
Metro
Most subway tickets in the city cost 100-200 JPY (1-2 Euro) one way. (The price varies by distance and can often be higher.) Fares were typically around JPY220 to get around Tokyo, but less for shorter distances. In most major cities, you can buy a day pass for around 24 JPY (800 euros), which gives you unlimited travel for 7 hours.
Trains
The bullet train is great, comfortable and super fast, but not cheap. Single tickets can cost hundreds of euros. The best way to reduce your train costs is to buy a Japan Rail (JR) pass . The pass is essential for traveling in Japan.
These passes cost 29,110 JPY (236 EUR) for 7 days, 46,390 JPY (375 EUR) for 14 days and 59,350 JPY (480 EUR) for 21 days. In addition, these JR trains also serve the closer city area and can therefore be used in the inner city. I also used my pass to travel around Kyoto and Tokyo instead of buying subway tickets.
So even if you don't travel around Japan much, buying a pass is better than buying individual tickets. Even if the high price of the pass is a deterrent, it's often a good idea to buy it because it still saves money in the end.
Buses
Buses are a cheaper alternative to the bullet train system in Japan, but they take longer. For example, the two-hour bullet train ride from Tokyo to Osaka becomes a ten-hour bus ride. The price of this chair is 4,500 JPY (40 euros), but at some point you have to think about how much your time is worth. Bus passes are also available, which allow unlimited travel and start at JPY10,000 for three non-consecutive days of travel. You can book your bus trips on these two websites:
In general, prices are comparable to bullet train tickets. I only recommend plane tickets if you are traveling between the islands and have to cover large distances. On any other journey, the bullet train is actually a favorite.
Best Travel Time For Japan
Temperature and weather vary drastically in Japan, meaning it's always a good time to visit different parts of the country, just at different times. Although most of Japan has four seasons (including snowy, cold winters in northern Japan), Okinawa and the southern islands are warm all year round. It gets cold in Tokyo, but it generally doesn't snow.
Japan also gets a lot of rain and humidity, especially in the summer months from mid-June to mid-July. It gets a little drier in August before picking up again in September. Then, of course, typhoons threaten. The typhoon season lasts from May to October. Japan is well equipped to deal with all types of typhoons, but make sure you get travel insurance in advance!
The driest months in Japan are from December to February, but expect rain all year round. Packing an umbrella or raincoat is essential. There's no such thing as a bad time to travel - winter is great for skiing or snowboarding, spring is known for its cherry blossoms, summer is packed with festivals and fall has vibrant fall colors and pleasant temperatures. The cherry blossoms are definitely the most beautiful in the high season (from mid-March to mid-April). Be prepared for large crowds during this time.
Security in Japan
A topic that we include in every travel guide, including the Best Travel Guide for Japan. However, Japan is a notoriously safe country. If there's one safe country in the world to visit, it's Japan. In Japan, you never really have to worry about safety, even late at night in the big cities.
As a solo female traveler, you must watch out for lewd behavior. Some female travelers have reported inappropriate behavior, such as B. Men asking personal questions or yelling at them, and extraordinary groping on trains. Most rail companies now have women-only trains during rush hour - you'll see pink signs indicating where women should board. The emergency number for Japan is 110, or you can call the Japan hotline at 0570-000-911.
Always trust your instincts. If a taxi driver seems dodgy, hail the taxi and get out. If your hotel is dirtier than you thought, get out of there. You have every right to remove yourself from the situation. Make copies of your personal documents, including your passport and ID card. Forward your itinerary to loved ones so they know where you are and when.
The most important advice I can give is to get good travel insurance. Travel insurance protects you against illness, injury, theft and cancellations. It's total protection in case something goes wrong. I never travel without it as I have had to use it many times in the past.
Packing list for Japan
Of course, Best Travel Guide for Japan also includes a packing list. Seasoned travelers will recognize this packing list, for beginners it may seem little! But trust us, after years of backpacking and traveling the world, this is what you need. The rest you will not wear or use!
Dresses
- 1 pair of long pants (not jeans, heavy, stiff and absolutely not rainproof)
- 1 shorts
- 1 bathing suit or swimming trunks
- 1 sarong (for women)
- 1 leggings (for women)
- 6 shirts
- 1 long sleeve shirt
- 1 pair of flip flops
- 1 pair of sneakers
- 8 pairs of socks (I always lose half)
- 7 boxer shorts or panties
Other
- 1 toothbrush
- 1 tube of toothpaste
- 1 razor
- 1 small bottle of shampoo
- 1 Showerblock solid shower gel
- 1 microfiber cloth
- deodorant Small medical kit (safety is important!!!)
- Antibacterial Gel Headphones
- A key or combination lock
- Zipper pouch (prevents things from leaking or exploding)
- Packing cubes
- Universal charger / adapter Water bottle
