Japan travel guide: trip costs, safety and exchange rates

April to May and October to November are the two best windows, and October scores highest on our data. Skip mid-July through August, when the big cities are at or above 30°C (86°F) with high humidity. Hokkaido is the exception: its own peak is deep winter.

Population

123,050,000 Statistics Bureau · 2025 Census

International visitors

42,683,600 (2025) +15.8% YoY JNTO · Last updated: 2026

Annual visitors per resident

0.35× Annual international visitors divided by the population

Currency

Japanese Yen (JPY)

Language

Japanese, limited English outside major areas

Tap water

Safe to drink nationwide

Time zone

GMT+9 (JST)

Power plug

Type A / B, 100V

Dialing code

+81

Driving side

left

Tipping

Tipping is not customary in Japan and can be considered impolite or cause confusion. Service is included in the price.

Internet

Fast and reliable across the country with strong 4G and 5G in cities, though coverage may be inconsistent on smaller, remote islands.

Emergency

110 (police), 119 (ambulance and fire)

• Typhoon season on the south and Pacific coasts

  Jun to Oct · most storms in Aug and Sep

  Typhoons reach Japan most often in August and September, and Okinawa and Kyushu take the most hits. A direct pass usually costs a day or two: flights and ferries are canceled, and JR often announces a planned suspension of Shinkansen and local trains the day before the storm arrives. Hokkaido is rarely hit. If your trip is short and tightly booked, keep August and September for the north, or leave a spare day in the plan.

• Golden Week and Obon fill every train

  29 Apr to 5 May · Obon in mid-Aug

  Golden Week packs four national holidays into one week, and Obon in mid-August is when much of the country goes back to the family home. Shinkansen reserved seats sell out, expressways back up for tens of kilometers, and hotel prices in Kyoto, Hakone and the beach towns jump. Tokyo itself goes quiet, which is the one upside. Book trains and rooms early if you can't avoid these weeks.

• Cherry blossom week is the busiest of the year

  Late Mar to early Apr · later further north

  Peak bloom lasts about a week in each city, and the forecast of when it moves north is national news. Kyoto's temples, the Philosopher's Path and the big Tokyo parks are shoulder to shoulder, and hotels book out months ahead at their highest prices. We think the blossom is worth it once, but if crowds ruin a place for you, come in mid-May or late October instead, when the weather is as good and the temples are calmer.

• Narita International Airport (NRT)

  60 km east of Tokyo

  The Narita Express is the most comfortable option, especially with a Japan Rail Pass. The Keisei Skyliner is faster to Ueno/Nippori for transfers. The Airport Bus is a budget-friendly choice, but traffic can be unpredictable.

  • JR Narita Express (N'EX): 60 min, ¥3140
  • Keisei Skyliner: 40 min, ¥2580
  • Airport Bus TYO-NRT: 100 min, ¥1500
  • Taxi: 60-90 min, ¥30000

• Haneda Airport (HND)

  20 km south of Tokyo

  Haneda is much closer to central Tokyo than Narita, making train options very efficient. Both the Keikyu Line and Tokyo Monorail offer quick connections to major JR lines. Taxis are expensive, especially with late-night surcharges.

  • Keikyu Line: 13 min, ¥410
  • Tokyo Monorail: 20 min, ¥520
  • Limousine Bus: 40-55 min, ¥1200
  • Taxi: 16 min, ¥8500-11000

• Kansai International Airport (KIX)

  50 km southwest of Osaka

  The JR Haruka is best if you have a Japan Rail Pass. The Nankai Rapi:t is the fastest to Namba. Limousine buses are convenient for direct hotel drops, but traffic can extend travel times.

  • JR Limited Express Haruka: 55 min, ¥2540
  • Nankai Limited Express Rapi:t: 40 min, ¥1490
  • JR Kansai Airport Rapid Service: 65-70 min, ¥1190
  • Airport Limousine Bus: 60 min, ¥1800
  • Taxi: 60 min, ¥15000-20000

• Chubu Centrair International Airport (NGO)

  40 km south of Nagoya

  The Meitetsu μ Sky is the quickest way into Nagoya, with comfortable reserved seating. The regular Meitetsu Limited Express is a good budget alternative. Taxis are very expensive, so consider them only for late-night arrivals or large groups.

  • Meitetsu μ Sky Limited Express: 28 min, ¥1230
  • Meitetsu Limited Express (ordinary seat): 35 min, ¥870
  • Centrair Limousine Bus: 88 min, ¥1200
  • Taxi: 40-50 min, ¥14500

• Ferry from South Korea

  Overnight and daytime services from Busan to Fukuoka, Shimonoseki, and Osaka

  The Busan-Fukuoka route is the most popular, with both overnight and daytime options. Booking in advance is recommended, especially for specific room types or during holidays. Note that the faster hydrofoil service from Busan to Fukuoka is currently suspended.

  • Busan-Fukuoka (Camellia Line, overnight): 9 hr, ¥4500
  • Busan-Fukuoka (Camellia Line, daytime): 6 hr, ¥2500
  • Busan-Shimonoseki (Kampu Ferry, overnight): 12 hr, fares vary
  • Busan-Osaka (Panstar Cruise, overnight): 18 hr, ¥14000

• Ferry from China

  Weekly passenger-cargo service from Shanghai to Osaka/Kobe

  This is a long journey, primarily a transport service rather than a cruise. The destination alternates weekly between Osaka and Kobe. You will need to arrange your visa beforehand.

  • Shanghai-Osaka/Kobe (Jian Zhen Hao): 45-47 hr, ¥20000-25000

Two things about money in Japan catch people out. It's more cash-reliant than a country this high-tech has any right to be, so you still need yen in your pocket, and most of its own bank ATMs won't touch a foreign card. Get those two right, add a Suica to your phone, and paying here is genuinely easy.

• Cash, cards and a Suica on your phone

  Cards work across konbini, hotels, department stores and chains, but small restaurants, shrines, ticket machines and rural spots are still cash-only, so carry some yen. The smartest thing you can do is put a Suica IC card on your phone: on an iPhone you add it to Apple Wallet, top it up with a foreign card, and tap for trains, vending machines and convenience stores.

• Find an ATM that takes your card

  Most Japanese bank ATMs reject foreign cards outright. The ones that reliably work are inside convenience stores: 7-Eleven (Seven Bank) and Japan Post lead, with English menus and 24/7 access at konbini. Our guide compares the fees, withdrawal limits and acceptance so you know exactly where to go.

Best option for most travelers: an eSIM you set up before you arrive. You'll be online the moment you land, with no airport line and no tourist pricing.

Prefer a local SIM?

Japan has extensive 4G LTE coverage nationwide, with 5G networks rapidly expanding in major cities. You can expect reliable speeds for essential travel needs like maps, ride-hailing, messaging, and even video streaming. While urban areas have strong signals, some remote or mountainous regions may experience weaker or dead zones.

• NTT Docomo

  As Japan's largest carrier, NTT Docomo offers the most extensive and reliable nationwide coverage, including many rural areas. Tourist data-only SIMs using their network, such as those from Sakura Mobile or Nippon SIM, often provide plans like 10GB for 33 days for around ¥2,980.

• au by KDDI

  au by KDDI is known for its high-speed data network and excellent urban coverage, with strong performance in rural areas as well. Prepaid SIM plans for tourists can include options like 25GB for 30 days for around ¥4,580.

• SoftBank

  SoftBank provides reliable coverage and fast speeds, particularly in major cities. Tourist data-only SIMs on the SoftBank network offer plans such as 10GB for 30 days for about ¥6,600.

• Rakuten Mobile

  Rakuten Mobile has gained popularity for its competitive pricing and good coverage in populated areas, utilizing a partner network (au) for wider reach. They offer budget-friendly prepaid SIMs with plans like 3GB for around ¥980.

Living in Japan is easier than becoming part of it. Work routes are open and you can own property freehold, but the language runs through everything and belonging now takes ten years.

Planning & moving around

• What is a good multi-city itinerary for a 10 to 14 day trip to Japan?

  For a first-timer, a classic 10 to 14-day trip should focus on the Tokyo-Kyoto-Osaka golden route, with a side trip. Start with 4-5 days in Tokyo to hit the major districts like Shibuya, Shinjuku, and Asakusa, then take the Shinkansen to Kyoto for 3-4 days to explore temples and traditional culture. From Kyoto, do a day trip to Nara for the deer park and Todai-ji Temple, and spend 2-3 days in Osaka for its food scene and Dotonbori. If time allows, add a night in Hakone for Mount Fuji views and an onsen ryokan experience, or visit Hiroshima and Miyajima for a poignant historical interlude.

• How do you travel between cities in Japan?

  Intercity travel in Japan is dominated by the Shinkansen (bullet train), which is incredibly efficient and reliable, connecting major cities like Tokyo, Kyoto, and Osaka at high speed. Domestic flights are a viable option for longer distances, such as to Hokkaido or Okinawa, with major carriers like JAL and ANA offering extensive networks. Long-distance buses are a cheaper alternative, especially for overnight journeys, but they are significantly slower. Driving is generally not recommended for tourists due to excellent public transport, high tolls, and complex road systems, though an International Driving Permit is required if you insist.

• How reliable are domestic flights in Japan, and which airline should I use?

  Domestic flights in Japan are exceptionally reliable, operating with punctuality that rivals the train system, even in challenging weather. Japan Airlines (JAL) and All Nippon Airways (ANA) are the two main carriers, both offering excellent service, though ANA often edges out JAL slightly on customer satisfaction and cabin comfort. Budget airlines like Peach Aviation and Jetstar Japan also operate, providing cheaper options for those willing to sacrifice some amenities. Always book well in advance for the best prices, especially during peak travel seasons.

• Do I need an International Driving Permit for Japan?

  Yes, you absolutely need an International Driving Permit (IDP) to drive in Japan. Your home country's driver's license is not sufficient on its own. The IDP must be issued under the 1949 Geneva Convention and obtained in your home country before you travel. Without one, you will not be able to rent a car or legally drive, and attempting to do so could lead to serious legal trouble.

• How much does Japan change between regions?

  Japan changes a lot between regions, and there is far more to it than the Tokyo-Kyoto corridor. Tokyo and Osaka are dense, modern metropolises, while Kyoto retains a more traditional, historical feel. Hokkaido in the north is known for its vast natural landscapes, harsh winters, and distinct cuisine, feeling almost like a different country. Kyushu in the south has a warmer climate, volcanic activity, and a more relaxed pace, and cities like Fukuoka are easy places to live. Tohoku, north of Tokyo, is often overlooked but provides a blend of winter sports, historic castle towns, and a deeper dive into rural Japanese life.

• Is English widely spoken in Japan?

  English is not as widely spoken in Japan as many first-time visitors expect, especially outside major international hotels and tourist hubs. You will find more English speakers in Tokyo, Kyoto, and Osaka, particularly in department stores, train stations, and popular attractions. However, venture into smaller towns or local eateries, and communication can become a significant barrier. Google Translate and other translation apps are essential tools, as is learning a few basic Japanese phrases like 'arigato' (thank you) and 'sumimasen' (excuse me).

Safety & medical

• Are there any regions or areas of Japan I should avoid entirely?

  No, there are no regions or areas of Japan that you should avoid entirely due to safety concerns. Japan is one of the safest countries in the world, with extremely low crime rates. While some nightlife districts in major cities, like Shinjuku's Kabukicho in Tokyo or Dotonbori in Osaka, can have pushy touts or inflated prices, they are not inherently dangerous or 'no-go' zones. General awareness of common tourist scams, as outlined in the 'Scams' section, is sufficient.

• What natural hazards should I plan around in Japan?

  Japan is prone to several natural hazards, primarily earthquakes, tsunamis, and typhoons. Earthquakes can occur at any time, so familiarize yourself with earthquake safety procedures (drop, cover, hold on) and note emergency exits in buildings. Tsunamis are a risk along coastal areas following major offshore earthquakes, with warning systems in place. Typhoons typically occur between May and October, bringing heavy rain, strong winds, and potential travel disruptions; monitor weather forecasts if traveling during these months. Volcanic activity also occurs in specific regions like Kyushu or Hakone, but these areas are generally well-monitored, and warnings are issued when necessary.

• Do I need travel insurance for Japan?

  Travel insurance is a non-negotiable for Japan, especially given the high cost of medical care for foreigners. While Japan is incredibly safe, unexpected events like a sudden illness, an accident requiring hospitalization, or even a missed flight due to a typhoon can quickly become financially ruinous without coverage. Ensure your policy covers emergency medical treatment, potential evacuation back to your home country, and trip interruption or cancellation, as these are the most common and expensive issues travelers face.

  Read our travel insurance guide →

Laws & local norms

• What are the drug laws in Japan?

  Japan has extremely strict drug laws, among the harshest in the world, with zero tolerance for any illicit substances. Possession of even small amounts of cannabis, including CBD products with THC, can lead to immediate arrest, lengthy detention without bail, and severe prison sentences, followed by deportation and a permanent ban from the country. Do not assume that cannabis or CBD products legal in your home country are permissible here; they are not. Penalties for harder drugs like cocaine, ecstasy, or methamphetamine are even more severe, often resulting in multi-year prison terms.

• Can I vape in Japan?

  Vaping is a grey area in Japan, but generally, it is legally permissible to use e-cigarettes that do not contain nicotine, as nicotine-containing e-liquids are classified as pharmaceutical products and are illegal to sell or import without a license. However, heated tobacco products like IQOS are widely available and treated similarly to traditional cigarettes, meaning they are restricted to designated smoking areas. Public vaping is often frowned upon and subject to the same rules as smoking, so stick to designated smoking zones to avoid issues.

• What is the dress code for temples and shrines in Japan?

  There is no strict legal dress code for temples and shrines in Japan, unlike some other countries, but respectful attire is always appreciated. You will not be turned away for wearing shorts or a tank top, but it is considered polite to dress modestly, especially when entering main halls or engaging in prayer. Removing your shoes before entering certain areas is a common requirement, so wear footwear that is easy to slip on and off. Avoid overly revealing clothing out of respect for the sacred space.

• Is Japan LGBTQ+ friendly?

  Japan's LGBTQ+ friendliness is a mix of legal tolerance and social conservatism. While same-sex sexual activity is legal and major cities like Tokyo and Osaka have visible gay districts (Shinjuku Ni-chome in Tokyo is particularly well-known), same-sex marriage is not nationally recognized. Public displays of affection between same-sex couples might draw stares, especially outside of these specific areas, due to prevailing social norms. While generally safe, overt hostility is rare, but discretion is often practiced by local LGBTQ+ individuals.

Money & costs

• Is Japan expensive?

  It costs more than South Korea and less than Singapore for a room. Compared with Korea, a taxi ride costs more than twice as much and a hostel bed nearly double, while a 3-star hotel and a local meal cost a little more. The Costs in Japan section on this page lists each price with its source.

• Do you tip in Japan?

  No. Tipping is not part of the culture, and staff may run after you to return the money. Upscale hotels and ryokan (traditional inns) add a service charge to the bill instead.

Families & kids

• Is Japan a good place to travel with kids?

  Japan is a surprisingly excellent place to travel with kids, largely due to its safety, cleanliness, and efficient public transport. Japanese society is generally very welcoming of children, and you will find dedicated facilities like clean restrooms with changing tables and kid-friendly menus in many restaurants. The biggest friction points are the sheer crowds in popular areas, which can be overwhelming for small children, and the prevalence of stairs in older train stations, making stroller navigation a workout. Despite these, the overall experience is manageable and rewarding for families.

Pets

• What are the requirements for bringing pets into Japan?

  Bringing pets into Japan is a complex and lengthy process that requires significant advance planning, often six months to a year. Dogs and cats need to be microchipped, have two rabies vaccinations, and undergo a rabies antibody test with a specific waiting period. They also require health certificates from a government-approved veterinarian in your home country. Even with all paperwork in order, a quarantine period of up to 12 hours is standard, but if any requirements are missed, it can extend to 180 days at an animal quarantine station, which is costly and stressful for the pet. It is genuinely difficult and not recommended for short leisure trips.