Top 11 Travel Tips for Japan
Japan is a place that effortlessly blends tradition with the modern, and each visit feels like a new adventure. From quiet moments at ancient shrines to the vibrant pulse of city life, there's something here for everyone. Whether you’re heading to Japan for the first time or you’ve been before, I’ve pulled together my top travel tips to help you make the most of your trip. These are little gems I’ve picked up along the way—hopefully, they’ll inspire your journey!
1. Download the PASMO App: Essential for easily navigating trains and buses.
2. Use Google Translate: A must-have for communication, as English is not widely spoken and many menus and signs are only in Japanese.
3. Planning Restaurant Visits:
- Book in Advance: Many restaurants in Japan are small and fill up quickly. If there's a place you're eager to try, make sure to book 1-4 weeks ahead. Reservations are often managed through third-party websites, so direct booking isn't always possible.
- Try jpneazy for Reservations: If you can’t book online, jpneazy can help by calling the restaurant on your behalf for a small commission.
- BUT Don’t Over-plan: While reservations are helpful, some of the best meals we found were at small, unplanned izakayas. The food in Japan is exceptional everywhere, so don’t feel pressured to only visit popular spots you see online.
4. Avoid Summer Travel if possible (June-August): Japan’s summer can be extremely hot, with temperatures often reaching 35-38°C. If you plan to explore and walk a lot, this heat can be overwhelming. We went in August (didn’t research Japan weather before booking) and it was unbelievably hot, and although we had a fabulous time I wish it wasn’t so hot, maybe that’s just me though? Consider visiting in spring for cherry blossoms (though it’s the busiest season) or in autumn for cooler weather and fewer crowds.
5. Walk as Much as Possible: Initially, the heat and humidity had us relying on trains and taxis, once acclimatised, walking is the best way to explore each city. You’ll discover hidden neighbourhoods, shops, restaurants, and parks. Wear comfortable shoes—expect to walk up to 25,000 steps a day!
6. Pack Light, Shop Big: I think Japan offers some of the best shopping in the world, it’s endless, so pack light to leave room for your finds. With tax-free shopping, it’s a win-win! Japan is known for great denim, so treat yourself to a pair of jeans—I recommend Japan Blue.
7. Stay in a Traditional Ryokan: For an authentic Japanese experience, stay in a ryokan. Ryokans are known for their hospitality and for offering a unique experience of Japanese culture. You'll sleep on futons, enjoy a traditional Japanese breakfast and dinner (which may not be ideal for picky eaters), and experience an onsen spa (a natural hot spring). Our Ryokan was located in Hakone, but they’re found all over Japan.
8. Start Early at Shrines and Temples: To avoid crowds and beat the heat (especially in summer), start your day early when visiting shrines and temples. This will enhance your experience and allow you to enjoy these sites in a more peaceful setting.
9. Drink Lots of Sake. We found that places never offered the same sake twice; they always encouraged trying new varieties, which we loved. Never tried one we didn’t like. Even if you’re not a big wine drinker, sake is light and refreshing so indulge while in Japan!
10. Explore Japanese Convenience Stores: They’re incredible! Found on almost every street corner and open 24/7, they’re perfect for grabbing supplies or food at any hour. The fresh food is surprisingly delicious—especially the sandwiches + crème brûlée in the freezer section of 7 Eleven. Plus, many stores offer services like ATMs, photocopying, printing, ticket sales, rubbish bins (hard to find in Japan!) and more, making them a one-stop shop for your everyday travel needs. We found ourselves visiting them multiple times a day!
11. Follow the Locals on Social Media: I discovered many fantastic recommendations for food, neighbourhoods, culture, bars, and shopping from @foodfeels and @benrich_. For more Japan travel tips, be sure to check out their Instagram highlights and websites, including Ben Richards' blog -https://www.benrichards.co/blog.
- WHERE WE STAYED -
TOKYO - 4 Nights
We stayed in Ginza and really enjoyed it, but we often found ourselves heading over to the Shibuya and Shinjuku areas during the day and night. Next time, we’d probably stay closer to those neighbourhoods for convenience. They have a vibrant energy and are more central to the places we enjoyed. Areas we would look at staying next time were
Highlights: We discovered a fantastic bar in Ginza called Bar Penguin, had an unforgettable meal at Sushi M, and loved the yakitori at Fuku.
Lowlights: Tokyo is so vast that it can feel overwhelming on your first visit—you barely scratch the surface. But that just means there’s always a reason to return!
HAKONE - 2 Nights
In Hakone, we stayed in a ryokan, a traditional Japanese inn that offers an authentic cultural experience. Our stay included sleeping on tatami mats, soaking in communal baths, and enjoying traditional Japanese meals. It was a wonderful way to fully immerse ourselves in Japanese culture.
KYOTO - 4 Nights
We stayed in Gion, Kyoto's most famous geisha district, located between Yasaka Shrine and the Kamo River. Gion is full of charm, with its many shops, restaurants, and teahouses. I recommend staying in this area. It’s also close to the newer part of the city, where we did most of our dining and shopping.
Dining Highlights: Our favourite meals were at Charcoal Fire Izakaya Julia, a Wagyu specialty spot, and Shishikura, both small izakayas we stumbled upon. We also enjoyed an amazing dinner at the restaurant in the Park Hyatt Kyoto and a beautiful lunch at a 150-year-old teahouse located behind the Park Hyatt. All four places are highly recommended!
OSAKA - 3 Nights
Osaka is a charming and relaxed city, best known for its food, fun, and nightlife. It felt more laid-back, and the locals were incredibly friendly.
Don’t Miss:
- The neon lights of Dotonbori Bridge and Osaka’s Minami area.
- Exploring Osaka Castle Park.
Safe travels,
Annabelle x