Japan travel guide 2026
Prices, flights, hotels, visa and when to go, from Around the World
The JR Pass only pays off if you do at least a Tokyo–Kyoto–Tokyo loop in a week; otherwise buy single tickets. Plenty of places are still cash only, 7-Eleven ATMs take foreign cards, and you can forward your suitcase to the next hotel (takkyubin) cheaply.

Everything we have on Japan, in one place
- Japan visaDo you need a visa, how long you can stay, how to apply
- Japan weatherWhen to visit, month-by-month temperature and rain
- Public holidays in JapanWhen sites and offices close, and how it hits prices
- Currency & payments100 JPY = 1.929 ₪
- Japan language & phrasebookJapanese — key phrases with transliteration
Every service in Japan — in one place
Pick a service and compare every leading provider. Links are affiliate links — the price is the same for you.
Check flight prices to Japan, every airline at once.
Compare & book in Japan
Rates in Japan shift daily. See what your night costs now.
Tickets for attractions in Japan, booking ahead skips the queue.
Land in Japan already connected, pick an eSIM before you fly.
Cities in Japan
A separate guide for every city — prices, transport, what to see.
FukuokaCity guide · JapanCity guide ›
HiroshimaCity guide · JapanCity guide ›
KamakuraCity guide · JapanCity guide ›
KobeCity guide · JapanCity guide ›
KyotoCity guide · JapanCity guide ›
NagoyaCity guide · JapanCity guide ›
NaraCity guide · JapanCity guide ›
Okinawa (Naha)City guide · JapanCity guide ›
OsakaCity guide · JapanCity guide ›
SapporoCity guide · JapanCity guide ›
TokyoCity guide · JapanCity guide ›
YokohamaCity guide · JapanCity guide ›When is the best time to visit Japan
Right now in Japan: 19°, Clear sky
- January4°52 mm
- February4°65 mm
- March8°107 mm
- April13°109 mm
- May18°126 mmBest
- June21°184 mm
- July25°168 mm
- August26°148 mmBest
- September23°218 mm
- October17°148 mmBest
- November11°101 mm
- December6°67 mm
Monthly average temperature and rain in Japan (1991–2020 climate, Open-Meteo).
Before you land in Japan
- Power & plugs100V / 50Hz, socket type A, B. Lower voltage than Europe — dual-voltage devices (phone, laptop, camera) are fine; a hair dryer or travel iron only if it's rated 100–240V. get a universal adapter →
- Tap waterTap water is safe to drink countrywide. If the taste bothers you, a filter jug or just letting it run helps.
- Emergency numbersPolice: 110 · Ambulance: 119 Also save your embassy's emergency line.
Reviews — trips to Japan
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Answers to your questions
What is the best time to visit Japan?
The best time depends on your interests: spring for cherry blossoms, autumn for foliage, winter for skiing, or summer for festivals. Each season has pros and cons.
Do I need a visa to visit Japan?
Visa requirements vary by nationality. Many passports allow visa-free stays up to 90 days, but check your country’s rules before traveling.
How many days should I spend in Japan?
A short trip of 3-4 days covers a single city like Tokyo. One week allows multiple regions, while 10-14 days or more lets you explore beyond major cities.
Is Japan safe for tourists?
Yes, Japan is one of the safest countries with low crime rates and excellent public services.
Can I use credit cards everywhere?
Credit cards are accepted in most urban shops and restaurants but carry cash for rural areas and small vendors.
How do I get around Japan?
The Shinkansen bullet train is the fastest for intercity travel. Cities have extensive metro systems, and buses cover rural areas.
Are there vegetarian or vegan food options?
Options exist but can be limited; plan ahead and learn key phrases about dietary needs.
How expensive is a typical flight or hotel?
Prices vary widely by season and booking time; comparing prices through Around the World helps find competitive options.
About this page
Written and checked by the Around the World team. We compare prices across the major providers, cross-check official sources, and update when something changes. We have no stake in any one provider — links are affiliate links, and the price is the same for you.