Japan Travel Guide

Places

When you visit Japan, you can’t miss Tokyo, a vibrant metropolis with stunning skyscrapers and lively nightlife. In Kyoto, immerse yourself in the rich Japanese culture by exploring over 1,000 temples and shrines, while in Hiroshima, reflect on history at the Peace Memorial Park.

In Osaka, enjoy delicious street food and the lively atmosphere of Dotonbori. Mount Fuji offers unparalleled panoramic views, while Nara charms with its deer parks and Buddhist temples. In Hakone, relax in natural hot springs and admire Mount Fuji. Finally, on Miyajima Island, don’t miss the iconic red torii gate at Itsukushima Shrine, one of Japan’s most emblematic sights.

Accomodation

In Japan, you’ll find a variety of accommodations to suit all tastes and budgets, including traditional ryokans, luxury hotels, family-run minshukus, affordable capsule hotels, hostels, cosy guesthouses, and business hotels.

Ryokans are Japanese establishments that offer a unique lodging experience, centered around Japanese hospitality and cultural traditions. These accommodations are characterized by rooms with tatami mats and futons for sleeping, as well as kaiseki meals (multi-course Japanese meals) and hot spring baths, known as onsen. Ryokans provide guests with an immersion into Japanese culture, offering a relaxing and authentic stay.

Transportation

In Japan, the main means of transportation include the efficient railway system, with the famous bullet trains (shinkansen) standing out, connecting major cities across the country at high speed. In big cities like Tokyo, Osaka, and Kyoto, the subway is a fast and convenient option, while buses are an alternative for more remote areas. Taxis are available nationwide but are more expensive than public transportation.

Public transportation is widely accessible through prepaid loading cards such as Suica, Pasmo , and Icoca, which can be used on trains, subways, buses, and even some ferry lines. iPhone users can have digital versions of these cards in Apple Wallet, facilitating access to public transportation and can be used as a payment method in some stores, offering an integrated travel experience.

For foreign tourists, the JR Pass offers unlimited travel on Japan Railways (JR) trains for 7, 14, or 21 consecutive days, making it an economical option for exploring the country. However, it’s important to note that the JR Pass is not valid for all trains, including some bullet trains and private express trains, and must be purchased outside of Japan and sent by mail.

Flights

The main international airports in Tokyo are Narita International Airport (NRT) and Haneda International Airport (HND). Narita is the largest international airport in Japan and is located approximately 60 kilometers east of Tokyo, while Haneda is closer to the city centre, about 14 kilometers south of Tokyo. Both airports offer a wide range of international flights to destinations around the world.

However, flying to or from Osaka or another major city may also make sense for your trip, depending on your itinerary and the destinations you plan to visit in Japan. For example, Kansai International Airport (KIX) in Osaka is the main international airport in the western region of Japan and offers a number of direct international flights to destinations in Asia, Europe, and North America.

Additionally, Chubu Centrair International Airport (NGO) in Nagoya and Kansai International Itami Airport (ITM) in Osaka are also convenient options for both international and domestic flights within Japan.

Mobile Data

For those visiting Japan, ensuring access to the internet is essential for navigation, communication, and using online services during the stay. There are two main options for obtaining mobile data: prepaid SIM cards from local carriers and eSIMs.

Prepaid SIM cards offer a fixed amount of data for a set period and can be purchased at electronics stores, carrier kiosks, or airports, easily activated by inserting the card into your phone. On the other hand, eSIM is an emerging technology that allows you to purchase and activate mobile data instantly online, without the need for a physical card.

MobiMatter allows you to acquire your card easily and compare eSIMs from multiple operators. Compatible with some smartphones, this option offers additional convenience by eliminating the search and swapping of physical SIM cards.

Payments

In Japan, payment methods are varied, but it’s important to be aware of the available options and potential associated fees. Using an international fee-free card, such as Revolut or Curve, can be advantageous as many establishments accept international credit and debit cards.

When using ATMs (automated teller machines) in Japan, it’s important to be aware that some machines charge a usage fee, and not all accept international cards. It’s recommended to check in advance which ATMs accept international cards and have lower or no fees. Typically, convenience stores in Japan, such as 7-Eleven, Lawson, and FamilyMart, have ATMs that accept international cards and can be a convenient option for withdrawing money.

Travel Insurance

A travel insurance is highly recommended when visiting Japan to ensure financial coverage in case of medical emergencies, trip cancellations, and lost luggage. With potentially high medical costs and unforeseen events such as natural disasters, having insurance provides peace of mind and protection during your stay.

Heymondo offers travel insurance with coverage in Japan and includes AirHelp in case you experience flight issues.

Activities

Japan is full of activities to do and places to explore. In a highly developed digital society, the internet is one of the best ways to discover and book activities. From visiting ancient temples and participating in tea ceremonies to exploring the vibrant urban life of Tokyo and experiencing delicious Japanese cuisine, there is something for every taste in the country. With the convenience of online bookings, you can easily plan your trip and make the most of all the experiences Japan has to offer.