Ultimate Japan Travel Guide
Destinations
Best time to go
The best time to visit Japan depends on your interests and preferred activities:
Spring (March to May): Cherry blossoms bloom, and mild temperatures make it ideal for sightseeing.
Summer (June to August): Warm weather with occasional rain showers, perfect for festivals and outdoor activities.
Autumn (September to November): Vibrant foliage, comfortable temperatures, and fewer crowds.
Winter (December to February): Skiing and snowboarding in Hokkaido and the Japanese Alps, as well as enjoying hot springs (onsen).
Average Temperature By Month
January: 5°C (41°F)
February: 6°C (43°F)
March: 9°C (48°F)
April: 14°C (57°F)
May: 19°C (66°F)
June: 22°C (72°F)
July: 26°C (79°F)
August: 27°C (81°F)
September: 24°C (75°F)
October: 19°C (66°F)
November: 13°C (55°F)
December: 8°C (46°F)
What To Expect
Time Zone:
Japan Standard Time (JST) - UTC+9
Currency:
The official currency of Japan is the Japanese Yen (JPY). Credit cards are widely accepted in major cities and tourist areas, but it's advisable to carry cash for smaller establishments and rural areas.
Language:
Japanese is the official language, but English is commonly spoken in tourist areas, hotels, and restaurants.
Airport:
Japan has several international airports, with the main ones being: Narita International Airport (NRT) in Tokyo. Haneda Airport (HND) in Tokyo (closer to the city center). Kansai International Airport (KIX) in Osaka. Chubu Centrair International Airport (NGO) in Nagoya.
How To Get Around
Trains: Japan has an extensive and efficient railway network, including the famous Shinkansen (bullet trains), which connect major cities like Tokyo, Osaka, Kyoto, and Hiroshima.
Subways: Tokyo, Osaka, and other major cities have well-developed subway systems for convenient local travel.
Buses: Buses are available for traveling to destinations not accessible by train, especially in rural areas.
Taxis: Taxis are readily available but can be expensive compared to public transportation.
Renting a Car: While public transportation is excellent, renting a car can be convenient for exploring rural areas and regions with limited train access, such as Hokkaido and Okinawa.
Average Temperature By Month:
January: 5°C (41°F)
February: 6°C (43°F)
March: 9°C (48°F)
April: 14°C (57°F)
May: 19°C (66°F)
June: 22°C (72°F)
July: 26°C (79°F)
August: 27°C (81°F)
September: 24°C (75°F)
October: 19°C (66°F)
November: 13°C (55°F)
December: 8°C (46°F)
Plugs:
Japan uses Type A and Type B electrical plugs, with a standard voltage of 100V and a frequency of 50Hz or 60Hz.
VPN:
Using a VPN is advisable, especially when accessing public Wi-Fi networks, to ensure secure internet browsing and protect your personal information.
Safety:
Japan is known for being one of the safest countries in the world for travelers. However, it's essential to exercise standard precautions, such as safeguarding belongings and staying aware of your surroundings, particularly in crowded areas and tourist spots.
Credit Cards and Banks
Credit Cards:
Credit card acceptance in Japan is widespread, especially in urban areas, tourist destinations, hotels, restaurants, and larger shops. Visa and MasterCard are the most commonly accepted cards, followed by American Express and JCB (Japan Credit Bureau). Contactless payments, including Apple Pay and Google Pay, are also becoming increasingly common.
Debit Cards:
Debit cards are less commonly used in Japan compared to credit cards, but major international debit card networks like Visa and MasterCard are accepted at many ATMs and some stores. However, it’s advisable to confirm with your bank whether your debit card will work in Japan and to inform them of your travel plans in advance.
ATMs:
ATMs are widely available in cities and towns throughout Japan, including in convenience stores, post offices, and banks. Most ATMs accept international cards, allowing you to withdraw Japanese Yen (JPY). However, it’s recommended to use ATMs located inside banks or major shopping centers for security. Some ATMs may have limited operating hours or may not be accessible 24/7.
Currency Exchange:
The official currency of Japan is the Japanese Yen (JPY). It’s recommended to exchange your currency to Japanese Yen upon arrival in Japan. You can exchange major foreign currencies at banks, currency exchange booths, and some hotels. US dollars and euros are widely accepted for exchange, but it’s advisable to carry Japanese Yen for convenience.
Banks:
Major banks in Japan include:
- Mizuho Bank: One of the largest banks in Japan, Mizuho Bank offers a wide range of banking services including savings accounts, loans, and foreign exchange.
- MUFG Bank (Mitsubishi UFJ Financial Group): Another prominent bank in Japan, MUFG Bank provides various banking products and services for individuals and businesses.
Traveler’s Checks:
Traveler’s checks are becoming less common worldwide, and their usage is limited in Japan. It’s recommended to carry cash or use credit/debit cards for transactions. However, some banks may still offer services for cashing traveler’s checks, albeit with a fee.
Tips for Banking in Japan:
- Notify your bank before traveling to Japan to inform them of your travel plans and avoid any issues with card usage abroad.
- Keep your PIN and card information secure, and be cautious when using ATMs, especially in secluded areas or at night.
- Familiarize yourself with the current exchange rate to ensure fair transactions when exchanging currency.
- Carry small denominations of Japanese Yen for smaller purchases, as change may be limited.
By understanding the banking system in Japan, you can ensure a smooth and hassle-free financial experience during your travels in the country.
Locations
TRAVEL FACTS
US State Dept Travel Advisory
The US Department of State currently recommends US citizens exercise normal precautions in Japan.
https://travel.state.gov/content/travel/en/traveladvisories/traveladvisories.html
Passport/Visa Requirements
For the latest passport and visa requirements for this country, please consult the U.S. State Department’s “Learn About Your Destination” search tool, available through the link below.
US Embassy/Consulate
[81] (03) 3224-5000; US Embassy in Tokyo, 1-10-5 Akasaka, Minato-ku, Tokyo 107-8420, Japan; TokyoACS@state.gov; https://jp.usembassy.gov/
LGBTQIA+ Travelers
Telephone Code
81
Local Emergency Phone
Ambulance: 119; Fire: 119; Police: 110
Vaccinations
The CDC and WHO recommend the following vaccinations for Japan: hepatitis A, hepatitis B, Japanese encephalitis, rabies, meningitis, polio, measles, mumps and rubella (MMR), Tdap (tetanus, diphtheria and pertussis), chickenpox, shingles, pneumonia, COVID-19, and influenza.
Climate
Varies from tropical in south to cool temperate in north
Currency (Code)
Yen (JPY)
Electricity/Voltage/Plug Type(s)
100 V / 50 Hz / plug types(s): A, B
Major Languages
Japanese
Major Religions
Shintoism, Buddhism, Christianity
Time Difference
UTC+9 (14 hours ahead of Washington, DC, during Standard Time)
Potable Water
Yes
International Driving Permit
required
Road Driving Side
Left
Tourist Destinations
Tokyo (includes Imperial Palace, Skytree, Mount Fuji, Disneyland); Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park; Historic Kyoto; Island Shrine of Itsukushima; Historic Nara; Himeji Castle; Nagasaki; Okinawa
Major Sports
Sumo wrestling, karate, judo
Cultural Practices
Taking off shoes when entering someone’s house; bowing 45 degrees to show respect; shaking hands in Japan is less widespread than in other countries; making the slurping sound when eating noodles.
Tipping Guidelines
Tipping is not expected by the majority of service workers.
Souvenirs
Silk kimonos, designer fashion and electronics, beauty products, bento boxes, art supplies, bamboo and paper wagasa umbrellas, printed tenugui cloth items, hand fans, tanuki statues; ceremonially dressed dolls, kites, and folk toys; maneki neko good fortune cat items
Traditional Cuisine
Sushi — small rolls of vinegar-flavored cold cooked rice typically served with a garnish of raw fish; Japanese curry — meat and vegetables in a simple curry sauce with Japanese spices and usually served on top of plain steamed rice
Please visit the following links to find further information about your desired destination.
World Health Organization (WHO) – To learn what vaccines and health precautions to take while visiting your destination.
US State Dept Travel Information – Overall information about foreign travel for US citizens.
To obtain an international driving permit (IDP). Only two organizations in the US issue IDPs:
American Automobile Association (AAA) and American Automobile Touring Alliance (AATA)
How to get help in an emergency?
Contact the nearest US embassy or consulate, or call one of these numbers:
from the US or Canada – 1-888-407-4747 or from Overseas – +1 202-501-4444
Central Intelligence Agency.
The World Factbook.
/the-world-factbook
(May 8, 2024)
