Japan
Japan is a country where ancient traditions meet cutting-edge modernity. This travel guide to Japan offers everything you need to know to explore its rich culture, fascinating history, and stunning natural beauty. From the neon-lit cityscapes of Tokyo to the serene temples of Kyoto, every moment in Japan is filled with wonder.
Discover Japan
As you journey through Japan, you’ll experience a unique fusion of the past and future. Tokyo dazzles with skyscrapers, bustling markets, and tech-forward experiences. In contrast, cities like Kyoto and Nara preserve centuries-old traditions, where quiet Zen gardens and sacred temples offer peace and reflection.
Japan’s culinary scene is a delight for food lovers—enjoy world-famous sushi, hearty bowls of ramen, crispy tempura, and more. Whether you’re soaking in a natural onsen, watching cherry blossoms bloom, or participating in a traditional tea ceremony, Japan’s cultural experiences are deeply enriching.
Best things to see and do in Japan
- Tokyo: Visit Shibuya Crossing, Tokyo Skytree, and explore diverse neighborhoods like Shinjuku and Akihabara.
- Kyoto: Discover Fushimi Inari Shrine, Kinkaku-ji (Golden Pavilion), and Gion’s geisha district.
- Mount Fuji: Hike or admire Japan’s iconic peak from lakes like Kawaguchiko.
- Hokkaido: Enjoy winter sports in Niseko, hot springs, and vibrant flower fields in summer.
- Okinawa: Relax on tropical beaches, explore coral reefs, and learn about Ryukyu culture.
- Nara: Visit Todai-ji Temple and meet the friendly deer roaming Nara Park.
- Hiroshima: Reflect at the Peace Memorial Park and explore nearby Miyajima Island.
Travel tips for visiting Japan
- Transport: Use the Japan Rail Pass for efficient travel across regions via Shinkansen (bullet trains).
- Etiquette: Bow as a greeting, remove shoes when entering homes and certain restaurants, and avoid speaking loudly in public transport.
- Cash & Cards: While Japan is becoming more card-friendly, many places still prefer cash—ATMs at convenience stores are reliable.
- Language: Basic English is spoken in tourist areas, but learning a few Japanese phrases goes a long way.
- Seasonal travel: Visit during cherry blossom season (March–April) or autumn foliage (October–November) for breathtaking views.
Why choose Japan for your next trip
From ancient shrines and samurai castles to cutting-edge fashion and futuristic tech, Japan offers a truly unique travel experience. It’s a destination where every region has its own flavour—literally and culturally. Whether you’re a nature enthusiast, history buff, foodie, or tech lover, Japan has something for everyone.
With a reputation for safety, cleanliness, and exceptional hospitality, Japan is one of the best travel destinations in Asia. This travel guide to Japan is your key to unlocking unforgettable memories, whether you’re wandering Kyoto’s bamboo forests or exploring Osaka’s street food scene.
Start planning your adventure today and let Japan surprise and inspire you at every turn.
Know before you go
CAPITAL: Tokyo
LANGUAGE: Japanese
COUNTRY CODE: JP
ELECTRICITY: 100V, 50Hz
To power any electrical item an international adapter or a two pin plug is required
POPULATION: 126.4 million
CURRENCY: Japanese Yen
DIALLING CODE: +81
TIME ZONE:
GMT/UTC +8 (WT)
GMT/UTC +9
Safety advice for Japan
Most visits to Japan are trouble-free. Crime levels are low. It is generally safe to walk about at night and to travel on public transport, but you should maintain the same level of vigilance as you would at home and take sensible precautions.
Tokyo’s entertainment districts, like Roppongi and Kabuki-Cho (near Shinjuku station), are considered higher risk areas for crime, in particular at night. There are reports of foreign nationals being targeted for drink-spiking, credit card fraud, extortion, robbery, assault and sexual assault in clubs and bars.
Reports of inappropriate touching or ‘chikan’ of female passengers on commuter trains are fairly common. The police advise that you shout at the perpetrator to attract attention and ask a fellow passenger to call the train staff.
Although there’s no recent history of terrorism in the country, attacks can’t be ruled out. You should be aware of the global risk of indiscriminate terrorist attacks, which could be in public areas, including those frequented by foreigners.
Information provided by the UK Foreign and Commonwealth Office www.fco.gov.uk 
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