Travel landscape in Japan
Japan flagRoutaya · Country guide

Travel guide to Japan

Japan is a captivating archipelago blending ancient traditions, stunning natural landscapes, and modern cities. From Tokyo to Kyoto, explore rich culture and warm hospitality.

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Information is provided as a travel-planning aid. Confirm entry, health and safety requirements with official authorities before departure.

Quick facts

Official languages
Japanese
Time zones
UTC+9 (Japan Standard Time)
Electrical outlets
100 V, Type A plugs (two flat pins)
Climate
Climate ranges from cold in the north (Hokkaido) to subtropical in the south (Okinawa), with four distinct seasons.

Health

Medical facilities are modern with quality hospitals in major cities. Emergency number is 119.

Travel health advice

  • Purchase travel insurance covering medical care.
  • Tap water is generally safe to drink.
  • Carry any personal medications needed.

Recommended vaccines: Diphtheria-Tetanus-Polio; Hepatitis A; Seasonal Flu

Required vaccines:

Money

Currency: Japanese Yen (JPY)

Exchange rates vary; check rates before currency exchange.

Credit cards accepted in large cities; ATMs available in convenience stores like 7-Eleven and banks.

Safety

Japan is one of the safest countries globally with low crime rates. Use common sense especially in crowded tourist areas.

  • Keep personal belongings secure.
  • Avoid isolated areas at night.
  • Follow instructions during natural disasters.

Areas to check before travel: No significant risky regions; stay updated on seasonal typhoon warnings.

Regions

Hokkaido — travel guide
Region

Hokkaido

Northern region known for natural landscapes, skiing resorts, and national parks.

Tohoku — travel guide
Region

Tohoku

Northeastern area famous for mountains, hot springs, and traditional festivals.

Kanto — travel guide
Region

Kanto

Region surrounding Tokyo, the economic and cultural hub.

Kansai — travel guide
Region

Kansai

Historic area housing Kyoto, Osaka, and Nara, rich in cultural heritage.

Chubu — travel guide
Region

Chubu

Central zone with mountainous landscapes and the notable city of Nagoya.

Kyushu & Okinawa — travel guide
Region

Kyushu & Okinawa

Southern region with a milder climate, active volcanoes, and tropical islands.

Cities

Tokyo — city guide
City guide

Tokyo

Ultra-modern capital mixing skyscrapers, temples, and vibrant nightlife.

  • Tokyo Tower
  • Senso-ji Temple in Asakusa
  • Shibuya District
  • Imperial Palace
  • Tokyo National Museum
Kyoto — city guide
City guide

Kyoto

Former imperial capital known for historic temples and zen gardens.

  • Kinkaku-ji (Golden Pavilion)
  • Fushimi Inari Shrine
  • Arashiyama Bamboo Grove
  • Nijo Castle
  • Gion District
Osaka — city guide
City guide

Osaka

Lively city famous for cuisine and its castle.

  • Osaka Castle
  • Dotonbori
  • Kaiyukan Aquarium
  • Universal Studios Japan
  • Kuromon Market
Nara — city guide
City guide

Nara

Historic city with many temples and roaming deer in parks.

  • Nara Park
  • Todai-ji Temple
  • Nara National Museum
  • Kasuga Taisha Shrine
Sapporo — city guide
City guide

Sapporo

Capital of Hokkaido, known for its Snow Festival and beer.

  • Snow Festival
  • Odori Park
  • TV Tower
  • Nijo Fish Market
Hiroshima — city guide
City guide

Hiroshima

City known for history and Peace Memorial Park.

  • Peace Memorial Park
  • Peace Memorial Museum
  • Miyajima Island
  • Hiroshima Castle
Fukuoka — city guide
City guide

Fukuoka

Dynamic southern city known for festivals and local cuisine.

  • Kushida Shrine
  • Fukuoka Tower
  • Fukuoka City Museum
  • Nakasu District

Highlights

Mount Fuji — travel guide
Must-see

Mount Fuji

Emblematic volcano offering hiking and breathtaking views.

Nikko National Park — travel guide
Must-see

Nikko National Park

UNESCO site featuring historic shrines and mountainous landscapes.

Miyajima Island — travel guide
Must-see

Miyajima Island

Famous for Itsukushima floating shrine.

Kegon Falls — travel guide
Must-see

Kegon Falls

Impressive waterfall near Lake Chuzenji.

Kenroku-en Garden — travel guide
Must-see

Kenroku-en Garden

One of Japan’s three most beautiful gardens, located in Kanazawa.

Gion District in Kyoto — travel guide
Must-see

Gion District in Kyoto

Traditional geisha area with tea houses.

Nature & other places

Daisetsuzan National Park — travel guide
National Park

Daisetsuzan National Park

Largest national park in Japan, offering mountain hikes and hot springs.

Arashiyama Bamboo Grove — travel guide
Forest

Arashiyama Bamboo Grove

Picturesque site with towering bamboo stalks in Kyoto.

Lake Ashi — travel guide
Lake

Lake Ashi

Crater lake famous for views of Mount Fuji.

Okinawa Islands — travel guide
Archipelago

Okinawa Islands

Tropical archipelago with paradise beaches and coral reefs.

Mount Takao — travel guide
Mountain

Mount Takao

Mountain near Tokyo accessible for easy hiking.

Kurobe Gorge — travel guide
Gorge

Kurobe Gorge

Spectacular valley with a scenic tourist train ride.

Travel conditions can change. Always consult official government travel advice and health authorities shortly before your trip.

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