Japan

Weaving together tradition and technology

Guide to Japan

Basic Information

Japan is truly a remarkable country that has managed to blend progress and tradition in a way that few others have achieved. It's a place where cutting-edge, high-tech megacities coexist harmoniously with deeply traditional provinces, featuring picturesque houses built in the same manner as centuries ago. Japan's uniqueness extends to its art, numerous museums, and breathtaking vistas. Whether you're interested in seaside resorts, exploring its distinctive cuisine, or seeking a wide range of vacation opportunities, Japan offers an enchanting mix of modernity and tradition that appeals to a broad spectrum of travelers.

Photos of Japan

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Capital

Tokio

Language

Japanese

Currency

Japanese yen

Time zone

GMT +9

Population

126 040 000

Territory

377 944

Dishes worth trying:

Sushi — only in Japan they are made from raw fish of different varieties. There are about 200 kinds of sushi in total.

Moti — rice flour patties with various fillings. A favorite snack of the Japanese.

Udon — the most common noodles, which the Japanese also use in all sorts of ways.

Tempura — small pieces of fish baked in a batter of liquid batter.

Watch the sunrise from Mt. Fuji.
Interact with the ASIMO robot at the Miraikan Museum in Tokyo.
Buy electronics on Akihabara.
See Tokyo from the 52nd floor from the windows of the New York Bar.
Bathe in the Onsen thermal baths.
Spend the night in a capsule hotel.
Climb the Tokyo TV Tower.

Tips

In Japan, it is not customary to smoke in public places, offices, railroad stations and platforms, or in homes and cars without the owner's permission.

You must not step in shoes on straw tatami mats.

Japanese should not make eye contact and gesticulate actively, it is perceived as an act of aggression.

Learn more

Sights

Japan is a country filled with a plethora of sights and attractions, ensuring that no matter how many times you visit, you'll always discover something new. From ancient temples nestled deep within lush forests to breathtaking gardens and parks, numerous museums, art galleries, and theaters, Japan offers an endless array of experiences waiting to be explored. Let tripmydream guide you through an overview of the country's main attractions, ensuring you make the most of your visit to this captivating nation.

Mount Fuji

The sacred mountain of the Japanese. The snow from the summit does not melt all summer long, giving us the opportunity to admire the white glow of its slopes.

Inuyama Castle

One of the oldest castles in Japan is located near the city of Nagoya. The castle holds the title of Japan's national treasure.

International Manga Museum

Opened in 2006, this entertaining museum dedicated to the world-famous Japanese comic books is located in Kyoto.

Tours to Japan

Japan, known as the Land of the Rising Sun, offers travelers a perfect package that combines ultra-modern buildings, rich traditional culture, and its renowned cuisine. These elements can be emphasized in various ways, making any tour you choose a unique and fulfilling experience.

Exploring Japan's traditions goes beyond visiting ancient temples, castles, and museums; it can also include immersive experiences like multi-hour tea ceremonies. Many tourists aim to time their visits during the blooming of sakura (cherry blossoms) or hydrangea seasons, when Japan's famous gardens transform into enchanting fairylands. Travelers can opt for stays in sanatoriums near hot springs or hotels along the picturesque coastlines.

However, it's important to understand that trips to Japan can come at a significant cost due to the distance and the need for flights with transfers. Prices can sometimes reach up to $5,000 USD, depending on the city and the duration of your stay. There are more budget-friendly options available, particularly in cities like Tokyo and Osaka, where you can travel for around $1,300 USD for six to nine days. Combining destinations can also provide economical choices, such as a five-day trip to Tokyo and Hong Kong for $1,200 USD.

For potential savings, consider looking for last-minute hot deals shortly before your departure. Keep in mind that you'll need a valid visa to Japan to take advantage of these offers.

Where to go to Japan?

Japan offers an extensive range of options for a fulfilling vacation. You can enjoy picturesque seaside resorts with activities like surfing and kiting, or head to the country's numerous ski resorts that attract snow and speed enthusiasts every winter. Additionally, Japan boasts a wealth of excursion opportunities, making it a challenge to decide where to begin exploring. Let tripmydream assist you in selecting your ideal destinations and experiences in Japan, ensuring you make the most of your visit to this diverse and captivating country.

Tokyo

Kamakura

When to go to Japan

Japan enjoys a relatively mild climate, making it a year-round travel destination with no distinct low season. Tourists visit the island nation consistently throughout the year. In the winter, you can enjoy skiing at one of the local resorts, while the summer offers opportunities for sunbathing on the coast. Japan's renowned thermal resorts, famous worldwide, are accessible year-round, as are the country's numerous attractions. tripmydream can assist you in determining the best time to travel to Japan based on your preferences and interests.

Japan in spring

Spring in Japan is warm and sunny, a good time to explore the country - the heat is still out and the air is clear. It is also the time when the cherry blossoms bloom. For the Japanese themselves it is a sacred time, for everyone else it is an opportunity to admire the marvelous beauty of blossoming trees.

Japan in summer

Summers in Japan are very humid, with the rainy season lasting from June to August. The weather is very hot, with temperatures hovering around +30-40°C. A comfortable stay at this time is possible only on the coast, at one of the seaside resorts in Japan.

Japan in the fall

The weather in Japan in the fall is warm and calm, so it's a great time to tour and walk around the area. In the fall, chrysanthemums bloom and maple leaves turn red, which is just as popular as the cherry blossom time.

Japan in winter

The weather in Japan in winter is very varied. It ranges from almost summer-like warmth in the south to snowy and cold winters in the north on the island of Hokkaido. So there is plenty of room for skiing enthusiasts in winter.

Climate and weather in to Japan by months

Usefulness

tripmydream has prepared a selection of useful facts to help you feel more confident about traveling in Japan.

Visa to Japan

To get a visa to Japan is very difficult, the inhabitants of the country are very vigilant about those who want to enter their territory.

Customs & Tax Free

Customs regulations in Japan. What you can and cannot bring into the country.

Customs regulations

Travel by car

Renting a car in Japan comes with a lot of complications and it is better to avoid it.

Lease terms and traffic rules

Phrasebook for tourists

Japanese is a very complex language, and it is almost impossible for a tourist to reproduce it. But it is still worth learning a few phrases in Japanese that will help you when traveling.

Learn phrases

Public transport and prices

Japan's transportation system is very clear and well-oiled. But in order to understand it, it is better to familiarize yourself with the information we have prepared in advance.

Transportation

Events

If you want to time your trip to coincide with one of the Japanese holidays, it's worth familiarizing yourself with the calendar of events we've prepared for you.

Holidays and Events