Japan Travel Guide

Japan Travel Guide…

I really don’t even know where to begin with Japan. Between the incredible food, ancient history, technological advancements, and rich culture, there is bound to be something for everyone.

Japan has quickly become one of my favorite destinations and I am so excited to share my experience with you. On this page, you will find my top attractions, food, and must do’s for Tokyo, Kyoto, and Kobe. They are each separated into their own section, so if you are only looking for one specifically, just scroll down!

Here is my ultimate Japan Travel Guide!

BEST TIME TO VISIT

This all depends on what you plan to do and where you want to go. Keep in mind, this is all subject to which region of the country you visit and when.

Most Crowded month(s): late April – early May (also known as “Golden Week”)

Least Crowded month(s): January – March (winter months are the least-visited season)

Weather in Japan

Hottest month: August – 80 degrees Fahrenheit (26 degree Celsius)

Coldest month: January – 41 degrees Fahrenheit (5 degrees Celsius)

Rainiest month(s): June – September

Seasons in Japan

Winter: December – February

• Average temps of 35°F – 55°F (2°C – 13°C)
• Less crowded
• Great for snowboarding and Skiing

Spring: March – May

• Average temps of 40°F – 70°F (4°C – 21°C)
• Most crowded season
• Warm during the day, colder at night
• Cherry blossoms are in full bloom

Summer: June – August

• Average temps of 70°F – 90°F (21°C – 32°C)
• Rainiest Season
• Great for all outdoor activities (hiking, scuba diving, festivals)

Fall: September – November

• Average temps of 50°F – 80°F (10°C – 27°C)
• More rain in September because of typhoon season
• Amazing weather/temps
• Beautiful foliage throughout the country

WHAT TO EXPECT

Language: The national language around Japan is Japanese

Currency: The official currency is the Japanese Yen (JPY)

Credit Cards and ATMs: Credit cards are normally accepted in all major cities. If you plan on doing a lot of sightseeing, make sure to have cash on you thought because a lot of the box offices only take cash. If you need to withdrawal money, find the nearest 7-11, the ATMs in these convinces stores almost always take foreign cards.

Plugs/Outlets: Japan uses plug types A and B. I recommend buying a converter like this to use for your hair products and a adapter like this for everything else.

Safety: Japan is one of the safest countries in the entire world. With that being said, it is still important to be aware of your surroundings, especially in tourist areas.

TRANSPORATION

Japan Rail

With Japan bringing one of the most technologically advanced countries in the world, it makes sense that their transportation system is AMAZING!

If you plan on traveling around the country, I recommend purchasing a Japan Rail Pass. This pass is reserved for tourists only and comes with unlimited use for one, two or three weeks. I purchased the JR pass when I traveled from Kobe – Tokyo – Kyoto – Kobe and it was worth the money. If you just plan on staying in Tokyo and the surrounding cities, it may not be the best investment.

The JR pass can be purchased either in the country (with a passport) or online. I recommend purchasing the JR pass online before you leave your home country as it is cheaper. There are a couple of different websites but I used this one.

When you purchase your JR pass online, you will be sent a voucher in the mail within 2 weeks. Take this voucher with you and exchange in Japan at one of these stations:

If you decide to purchase in person, you can at any of the stations/ airports in bold above. Make sure you have your pass port with you or else you will not be eligible to purchase.

Tokyo Metro

If you are looking at staying in Tokyo, the metro system will become your best friend. If you want more information on this check out their website here, it’s probably better for you to read than it is for me to explain!!

TRAVEL GUIDES