Japan Tourism

Best Time To Visit Japan

The best time to visit Japan is during the shoulder seasons: Spring (March to May) and Autumn (September to November). With temperatures ranging from 2°C to 24°C, these months offer mild, pleasant weather, making outdoor exploration comfortable. 

Peak seasons in Japan are considered to be spring, between March and May, and Autumn, from September to November.

Shoulder Season: Summer is not a busy time in Japan. However, high temperatures and humidity, accompanied by rain, can hinder your sightseeing plans.

Low Season: Winter, between December and February, sees the lowest visitor turnout in Japan. 

How To Reach Japan

By Air: Air travel is the best and most convenient method of reaching Japan. Some of the major airports in Japan include Tokyo's Narita Airport and Haneda Airport, as well as Osaka's Kansai Airport.

By Sea: Apart from flying, waterways are the only way to get into Japan from outside. Reaching Japan via sea is significantly slower compared to flights. However, it is a unique experience and can make for a fun time with family, especially if you have never been on a ship or ferry before.

From Taiwan, a weekly ferry service operates on Mondays between Taiwan and Japan. This ferry will take you to Ishigaki or Miyako in around 16 to 19 hours.

From China: At least three ferry services are operating between China and Japan. A weekly ferry service connects Shanghai to Osaka and Kobe, with the destination alternating every week.

From South Korea: If starting from South Korea, the Busan-Shimoneski ferry is a great and affordable option. The Camellia Line runs between Busan and Fukuoka and takes about 3 hours to reach Japan.

By Rail or Road: There is no way of reaching Japan from any other country via road or train. However, Japan enjoys extensive internal connectivity by rail and road.

Getting Around In Japan

Japan is well-connected internally, and getting around is easy once you figure out the best routes for your itinerary. Japan’s trains are renowned for their efficiency and punctuality. The bus services in Japan are equally efficient and cheaper than the trains, but they take longer to get around. The Japanese Shinkansen (Bullet Train) is another excellent way of travelling. Being some of the fastest trains in the world, a Shinkansen can complete a 10-hour journey in 2 hours.

Renting a car is another option. But rentals are expensive, and parking might be a hassle. Taxis in Japan operate within cities but are a costly option compared to the excellent train and bus services.

Tip: One of the best and most efficient ways to travel in Japan is also the JR Pass, a travel pass for foreign tourists in Japan. This pass offers unlimited travel on most JR trains, including Shinkansen, and some JR buses and ferries. This pass comes in 7-day, 14-day, and 21-day options and allows for freedom of exploration at a discounted rate.

Places To Visit in Japan

Mount Fuji: Japan’s tallest and most iconic mountain, Mount Fuji is a symbol of natural beauty and spiritual significance. It’s popular for climbing in summer and offers stunning views from surrounding lakes year-round. Photographers and hikers alike flock here for its perfect symmetry and sunrise scenes.

Tokyo Tower: Inspired by the Eiffel Tower, Tokyo Tower offers panoramic views of the city from its observation decks. It’s stunning at night when illuminated. Located in central Tokyo, it’s a great spot to start exploring the city’s modern side.

Kyoto Monument Cluster: This UNESCO World Heritage site comprises 17 temples, shrines, and gardens, showcasing traditional Japanese architecture and Zen culture. Highlights include Kinkaku-ji (Golden Pavilion) and Ryoan-ji’s rock garden. It’s a must-see for history lovers and cultural explorers.

Himeji Castle: Known as the "White Heron Castle," Himeji Castle is Japan’s most well-preserved samurai fortress. With its elegant design and complex defence system, it offers a glimpse into feudal Japan. The cherry blossom season here is exceptionally breathtaking.

Itsukushima Shrine: Famous for its “floating” torii gate, this Shinto shrine on Miyajima Island seems to hover above the sea during high tide. It’s a serene and scenic spot that blends spirituality and nature. Accessible by ferry from Hiroshima, it’s a peaceful day trip.

Essential Tips for Tourists

Consider a Japan Rail Pass: To make travel between cities easier, a Japan Rail Pass can save you money and time.

Learn basic Japanese Phrases: Some basic Japanese phrases that you can learn are:

Konnichiwa: Hello

Sayonara: Goodbye

Arigatou: Thank You

Sumimasen: Excuse me/I'm Sorry

Hai: Yes

Lie: No

Kudasai: Please

Ikura desu ka?: How much? 

Eigo hanashimasu ka?: Do you speak English? 

Pack Light: This can make travel between cities more convenient, especially with the use of services like Takkyubin.

Bring Cash: Many small shops and restaurants, especially in rural areas, may not accept credit cards. 

Stay Connected with Wi-Fi or eSIM: This will make it easier to navigate and access information while travelling. 

Be Aware of Trash Disposal Practices: Public trash cans are scarce in Japan, so consider bringing a bag to carry your trash with you until you find a designated disposal area. 

Be Mindful of Japanese Etiquette: This includes removing shoes when entering homes and some businesses, not tipping, and being aware of train etiquette.