🇯🇵Japan

About Japan

Japan is an island country in East Asia, with Tokyo as its capital. Its four main islands and many smaller ones stretch from subarctic Hokkaido to subtropical Okinawa, so climate and scenery vary greatly by region. Tokyo combines dense neighbourhoods, museums and transport hubs; Kyoto is known for temples, gardens and traditional districts; Osaka has a strong food and nightlife culture. Outside the major cities, travellers can visit the Japanese Alps, national parks, hot-spring towns and coastal islands. Rail is the backbone of most itineraries, with shinkansen services linking major regions and local lines reaching smaller destinations. Cherry blossom in spring and autumn foliage are popular, but each season has different attractions: summer festivals and hiking, winter skiing and snow scenery. Many attractions have timed entry or reservation systems, and some rural areas require advance planning. Check official tourism and transport information for opening hours, rail passes and local etiquette before travelling.

Japan at a Glance

When to Visit Japan

High Season (Late March-early April cherry blossom, mid-November-early December autumn foliage, late July-August summer): Two peak windows bookend the year. Cherry blossom season (late March to early April, varies by region) sees hotel rates surge 50-100% and popular viewing spots packed. Autumn foliage (mid-November to early December) is similarly popular but slightly less crowded. Summer (July-August) is hot and humid (30-35 C) but coincides with Obon holidays and summer festivals. Shoulder Season (April after cherry blossoms, May, early June, October): Excellent weather (15-25 C), manageable crowds, and normal pricing. May and October are considered the sweet spot for most regions: comfortable walking temperatures, fewer tourists, and seasonal food highlights. Early June has some rain (tsuyu / plum rain) in southern and central Japan. Low Season (January-February, mid-June to mid-July, December before Christmas): Winter (Jan-Feb) is cold (5-12 C in most cities, heavy snow in Hokkaido and mountain areas) but has the lowest prices, uncrowded temples, and is ideal for skiing and hot springs. Mid-June to mid-July is the rainy season (tsuyu) - humid and wet, but the cheapest time to visit cities.

Visa Policy for Japan

Entry rules for Japan depend on your passport. We track visa-free stays, e-visas and visa-on-arrival rules for US & Canadian, EU & UK, Chinese, and Australian & Japanese passports — with official sources and last-verified dates.

Visa policies are subject to official sources. Please verify with the embassy/consulate before travel.

Travel Budget for Japan

Budget: $60-100/day (capsule hotel or hostel dorm 3,000-6,000 JPY, convenience store and ramen shops 2,000-3,000 JPY, subway/JR local trains 1,000-1,500 JPY, free temples + 1 paid attraction 1,000-2,000 JPY) Mid-Range: $150-280/day (3-star business hotel or budget ryokan 8,000-15,000 JPY, casual dining and izakaya 4,000-7,000 JPY, JR pass or regional rail 3,000-6,000 JPY, attractions and experiences 2,000-5,000 JPY) Luxury: $350-700+/day (4-5 star hotel or premium ryokan with onsen 20,000-45,000 JPY, kaiseki or fine dining 8,000-20,000 JPY, private car or first-class rail 8,000-15,000 JPY, exclusive experiences 5,000-15,000 JPY) Per person per day in USD, excluding international flights. Tokyo and Osaka are the most expensive; rural areas and smaller cities can be 20-30% cheaper. A JR Pass can save significant money on multi-city itineraries if booked in advance.

Prices are per person per day in USD, excluding international flights.

Must-Visit Attractions

Travel Guides for Japan

Other Countries in Asia

Frequently Asked Questions about Japan