Japan for first-time visitors

Japan mixes neon cities, quiet temples, great food and very reliable transport. It can be done at many budget levels.

A classic first route

1. Tokyo: huge and varied. Try Senso-ji temple in Asakusa, the Shibuya crossing, Meiji Shrine, markets, and neighborhoods like Shinjuku and Harajuku.
2. Kyoto: temples, shrines and old streets. Fushimi Inari's red gates, Kiyomizu-dera, the Arashiyama bamboo grove and the Gion area are favorites. Go early to beat the crowds.
3. Osaka: known for street food and nightlife. Nara, with its friendly deer and giant Buddha, and Himeji Castle are easy day trips.
4. Optional extras: Hiroshima and the island of Miyajima, Hakone for Mount Fuji views, or Nikko.

When to go

• Spring (late March to April) for cherry blossoms, and autumn (November) for red leaves. Both are beautiful, busy and pricey.
• Golden Week (late April to early May) and mid-August are holiday periods with crowded trains and high prices.
• Winter is cold but quiet, with snow sports in the north and mountains. Summer is hot and humid.

Getting around

• Trains are punctual and clean. Use a maps app for routes and platforms.
• Get a rechargeable IC card, such as Suica, Pasmo or ICOCA, for trains, buses and many shops. Many phones can hold one.
• The Japan Rail Pass has become much more expensive. Add up your actual train trips and compare with individual tickets or regional passes. Often single tickets are cheaper.
• Night buses and budget airlines can save money on long distances.

Stay and eat for less

• Business hotels are small, spotless and affordable. Capsule hotels and hostels are cheaper still. Book a traditional ryokan inn for one special night.
• Convenience stores, called konbini, have surprisingly good food. Ramen shops, noodle counters, set lunches and standing sushi bars are cheap and tasty.
• Department store food halls often discount food in the evening.

Customs to know

• Tipping is not expected.
• Take off your shoes where asked, and keep quiet on trains.
• Wash before you enter a hot spring bath. Some do not allow visible tattoos, so check first.
• Carry some cash. Many small places do not take cards.

Before you go

Check the entry rules for your passport. Many travelers can visit for a short time without a visa, but rules differ. Tourists can often shop tax-free at larger stores by showing a passport. Get a local SIM or eSIM, or rent pocket Wi-Fi. See Use your phone abroad.