Japan, with its diverse landscapes, rich culture, and vibrant history, offers a unique travel experience that captivates visitors. This guide provides essential information and tips to help you prepare for your 10-12 day tour of Japan, ensuring a smooth and enjoyable journey.

Tour Overview

This 10-12 day tour of Japan covers key destinations including Tokyo, Kyoto, Osaka, Hiroshima, and Nara. Each location offers unique experiences, from vibrant urban life and cultural immersion to natural beauty and historical exploration.

Travel Preparation

Visas and Documentation: Ensure you have a valid passport. Citizens of many countries, including the EU, USA, Canada, and Australia, do not require a visa for short stays. Check the specific visa requirements for your country before travel.

Health and Safety: Japan has excellent healthcare facilities. No specific vaccinations are required, but it’s recommended to have routine vaccinations up to date. Travel insurance is advisable.

Currency and Banking: The Japanese Yen (JPY) is the official currency. ATMs are widely available, and credit cards are accepted almost everywhere. It’s advisable to carry some cash for smaller purchases and in remote areas.

Packing Essentials: Pack comfortable clothing and walking shoes. Depending on the season, bring light clothing for summer or warm layers for winter. A good quality rain jacket, a hat, sunglasses, and sunscreen are essential. Don’t forget your camera to capture Japan’s stunning landscapes and cultural sites.

Cultural Etiquette

Dress Code: Dress modestly and respectfully, especially when visiting religious sites. In general, casual and comfortable attire is suitable for most occasions.

Respect for Traditions: Greet people with a polite “Konnichiwa” (hello) and use “Arigatou” (thank you) to show appreciation. Always remove your shoes before entering someone’s home or a traditional inn. Respect local customs and traditions, especially in religious and rural areas.

Language: Japanese is the official language, but English is widely spoken in tourist areas. Learning a few basic Japanese phrases can be appreciated by locals.

Food and Drink: Japanese cuisine is renowned for its fresh and flavorful dishes. Must-try foods include sushi, ramen, tempura, and takoyaki. Japanese green tea and sake are popular beverages. Tap water is safe to drink in most areas, but bottled water is available.

Transportation

Flights: Narita and Haneda International Airports in Tokyo are the main international gateways. Domestic flights connect major cities and tourist destinations.

Road Travel: Renting a car is not common for tourists due to Japan’s excellent public transport system. Trains, buses, and taxis are reliable and widely available.

Public Transport: Japan has an extensive and efficient public transport network, including trains, subways, and buses. The Japan Rail Pass offers unlimited travel on JR trains and is a cost-effective option for tourists.

Tour Highlights

Tokyo: Explore Shibuya Crossing, Meiji Shrine, Tokyo Tower, Asakusa district, Senso-ji Temple, and Ginza district. Take a day trip to Nikko.

Kyoto: Visit Fushimi Inari Shrine, Kiyomizu-dera Temple, Kinkaku-ji, Ryoan-ji Temple, Arashiyama Bamboo Grove, and Gion district. Take a day trip to Nara.

Osaka: Discover Osaka Castle, Umeda Sky Building, and Dotonbori district. Take a day trip to Hiroshima and Miyajima Island.

Hakone: Enjoy a boat cruise on Lake Ashi, ride the Hakone Ropeway, and relax in an onsen.