Japan Travel Guide

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Transportation

Japan is a large and diverse country with many types of transportation options. As a result, there are various ways to get around Japan, from the famous bullet trains to the efficient subway systems. Each form of transportation has its advantages and disadvantages, so let’s look at the different options and how they can help you make the most of your trip.

The different transportation options in Japan include:

  • Bullet trains
  • Subway systems
  • Buses
  • Taxis
  • Rental cars
  • Ferries

Types of Transportation Available

Japan is a large country with many islands, and as such, multiple types of transportation are available for visitors to navigate the cities and countryside. Therefore, whether you plan to stay in one city or explore various regions, there is a broad range of options for you to choose from.

Public transportation is widely used in Japan and includes trains, trams, cable cars, and buses. Water taxis are also available on many rivers and lakes, while ferries can be used to visit islands around the mainland.

Railways: Japan has an extensive railway network that connects most major cities. The major train lines include the shinkansen (bullet train), which covers long distances quickly; express trains that are slightly slower than bullet trains but make fewer stops along the way, local trains, which use slower conventional tracks or make more stops along the route and regional lines which link smaller cities with larger ones.

Buses: Buses provide access to many places not accessible by railroad tracks or where train service may not be frequent enough; this includes areas with less population density, like remote rural locations and remote Alpine villages. They are also helpful when traveling around metropolitan areas outside peak hours as they can be cheaper than a train.

Taxis: Taxis are generally safe in Japan though users should always hire registered cabs with clear identification signs at stations or designated taxi stands (commonly seen outside convenience stores). Taxis are useful when traveling at night or early morning when other public transportation options may not be available; they usually carry four people comfortably, but larger 6-seat vehicles may also be found in limited locations.

Ferries: Ferries provide regular services between mainland Japan and several smaller islands too far from the coastal ports for bridge connections. It can prove convenient for those wishing to travel between different points on each island, as ferry routes make it possible to avoid unnecessary backtracking.

Cost of Transportation

Whether you are traveling in Japan for business or pleasure, transportation costs can quickly add up. Fortunately, Japan has an extensive and efficient network of trains, buses, and other modes of transport that offer convenience and affordability. By taking some time to plan out your route before traveling in Japan, you can reduce your overall transportation costs significantly.

Trains are the most well-known form of public transport in Japan, but there are various other options, such as local buses, ferries, taxis, and more. Each type has its benefits and drawbacks; for instance, trains generally offer more comfortable seating with frequent stops but may be slower than flying or taking a bus. Local buses will often get you to your destination quicker than the train but don’t feature the same comfort or have an extensive network, so they may not be suitable if you have a long journey ahead of you. The cost of train tickets can vary significantly depending on where you’re going but generally range from 500-1000 yen per trip.

Ferries are fantastic if you plan on visiting islands off the mainland, such as Hokkaido or Okinawa, as they provide a quick way to travel between different locations without taking a plane or bus ride. However, prices vary depending on the type of ferry you choose (high-speed or regular) and location, so check fares before committing to any one route.

Taxis are another option available for travel in Japan; fares start from around 700 yen per km traveled and increase according to distance traveled (and waiting time), with airport fees also factored into the cost if applicable. Hence, it’s best to enquire about rates when booking a trip ahead of time. Taxi fares are generally more expensive than train fares but can be quicker if your destination is located nearby; plus, they offer added benefits like door-to-door service, which makes them very convenient for short trips within cities that aren’t serviced by trains/buses/ferries, etc.

Accommodation

Finding the right accommodation in Japan can make or break your trip. Whether it’s a luxury ryokan in a quiet mountain town or a capsule hotel in a bustling city, there is something to be found for everyone. While the options available to travelers in Japan may seem daunting, you should consider a few things before booking.

In this section, we’ll discuss the different types of accommodation available in Japan, their pros and cons, and provide advice on where to stay.

Types of Accommodation Available

When traveling to Japan, there are a variety of accommodation options that you can choose from. All your accommodation needs can be met, from traditional Japanese inns (ryokan), capsule hotels, and luxury resorts to no-frills hotels and hostels.

Ryokan is a traditional Japanese inn that offers overnight stays with rustic charm and cultural experiences. Customarily these inns feature shared bathrooms and onsens – a hot spring bath area. However, most ryokans also offer guests a communal atmosphere with private rooms complete with common areas, tatami floors, futon beds, and rice paper walls.

Capsule hotels in Japan are popular among travelers looking for a budget-friendly place to stay for one night or more during their trip. Guests check-in at the counter before entering dormitory-style hallways separated by gender – each containing multiple rows of tiny capsules lined up side by side for the guests to sleep in.

Other alternatives include:

  • Resort hotels offer plenty of pampering services and fitness areas so you can have an all-encompassing vacation experience.
  • Western-style business hotels provide comfortable but basic lodging.
  • Backpacker’s guesthouses offer dormitories or shared rooms for budget-conscious travelers.
  • Internet cafe hotel combos provide 24-hour access to high-speed internet plus entertainment areas such as darts and karaoke so guests can rest when they want.
  • High-end city hotels where the luxury accommodations come with price tags accordingly.
  • Extended-stay apartments are perfect if you plan to stay longer than just a few days in Japan.

Cost of Accommodation

Regarding accommodation in Japan, prices can vary significantly depending on the type of room and amenities you select. Generally speaking, a single person may spend anywhere from 4,000 to 10,000 yen per night for budget-style accommodations in Japan. However, a single person could pay upwards of 20,000 yen per night or more for expensive or exclusive hotels and resorts.

In addition to the traditional accommodation options listed above, such as hotels and resorts, there are some unique alternatives that you can consider as well.

  • Ryokans are traditional Japanese inns that offer visitors an authentic experience, complete with tatami mat floors and futons for beds. Ryokan rates usually start around 8,000 yen per night for one person.
  • Capsule hotels resemble futuristic dormitories with dozens of tiny compartments where visitors can sleep cheaply. These tiny rooms are often outfitted with basic amenities such as a TV and cell phone charger. Still, it’s advisable to bring a blanket if you plan to stay overnight at a capsule hotel, as most establishments do not provide bedding. On average, capsule hotels charge about 2,500 yen for an overnight stay.
  • For those looking for an even more unique way to experience Japan’s culture, there are “micro-hotels” popping up around the country that offer guests the chance to stay in tiny houses suspended up high in trees or on stilts over ponds and gardens. These places come equipped with all sorts of modern amenities, such as mini kitchens and bathrooms, while still offering breathtaking views of the surrounding nature spots they are set in. Prices vary depending on size and amenities but generally start around 8 – 10k yen per night for one person’s boarding expenses only (note: gratuities are excluded).

Food

Japan offers a gastronomical adventure like no other. Whether you are craving sushi, tempura, ramen, or yakitori, you will find it in one of the many restaurants or street food stalls around the country. From traditional Japanese dishes to modern fusion cuisine, Japan has something for every palate. Read on to find out more about the amazing Japanese food offerings.

Popular Japanese Dishes

Japanese cuisine is known for its health benefits and dynamic flavors. From home-style comfort food to high-end options, Japan offers a range of dishes for each taste and budget. Here are some of the most popular dishes found in Japanese cuisine:

  • Sushi – This iconic Japanese dish comes in multiple forms and is made from thinly sliced pieces of raw fish, usually served over vinegared white rice. It can be enjoyed either as a single sushi piece or as a complete set with several pieces.
  • Tempura – This famous deep-fried seafood and vegetable dish originated in Portugal during the 16th century but has become a mainstay in Japanese cuisine. Tempura is often served with special dipping sauces or as part of various combination platters with other dishes like udon and soba noodles.
  • Ramen – Ramen noodle soup is one of Japan’s hearty favorites and comfort foods. Ramen comes in many varieties, but the most typical consist of pork broth or light fish broth combined with wheat noodles seasoned with soy sauce, miso, or salt. Toppings such as scallions, mushrooms, hard-boiled eggs, or seaweed are often served on top for flavor and garnish.
  • Yakitori – An izakaya favorite (a type of informal after-work pub), yakitori consists of charcoal-grilled chicken skewers cooked over bincho charcoal in yakitori shops throughout the country. Its ingredients usually include chicken thighs or breasts cut into small cubes and vegetables such as squash and mushrooms that create an array of flavors when seasoned correctly with salt or tare (a sweet/salty glazing sauce).
  • Okonomiyaki – This savory pancake dish is made from two different types of batter: egg-based okonomiyaki batter that adds texture to the finished dish; and doughier nagaimo yam powder which provides a unique savory flavor when grilled to perfection over bincho charcoal grills. Okonomiyaki often includes pork slices, squid chunks, and shrimp, resulting in an ultimate, savory pancake experience!

Cost of Food

The cost of food in Japan varies significantly depending on several factors, such as the location, type of cuisine, and the quality of ingredients. Generally speaking, eating in restaurants is more expensive than buying groceries or packaged meals from a convenience store. In Tokyo, it is standard for people to spend about 500-1000 yen for a meal at a restaurant in non-tourist areas; however, the price could be significantly higher depending on the quality and quantity of food served.

When dining in Tokyo, you can expect an average price range from traditional sushi restaurants ($10-$20 per dish) to ramen shops ($5-$10 per bowl). Of course, prices may vary slightly based on your location and budget. Remember that adding extra toppings or sides often also adds to your bill.

At grocery stores and convenience stores (konbinis), you can get pre-made bento boxes or other packaged meals ranging anywhere from 500 yen (convenience store) – 1,000 yen (stores like Seiyu). You may pay anywhere between 100-400 yen for snacks and drinks. Buying individual items is usually cheaper than buying a full meal at once.

On the whole, the cost of food in Japan can vary greatly depending on your diet, but it is worth noting that prices for eating out are generally lower here than in other major cities like New York or London. So if you’re looking for affordable eats in Japan – don’t worry! There are plenty of delicious options available, no matter your budget!

Attractions

When it comes to travel destinations, Japan is a great choice. From ancient shrines and castles to futuristic cities and ski slopes, Japan lacks attractions to explore. So feast on the majestic Mount Fuji, explore ancient temples and shrines or admire cherry blossoms in the spring. There are so many options to choose from, and they are all worth a visit.

Let’s take a look at some of the most popular attractions in Japan:

Popular Attractions

When visiting Japan, tourists often seek out the unique attractions that characterize the country. Whether it’s futuristic technology, traditional culture, or stunning architecture, Japan has something to offer every traveler. Here are some of the most popular attractions in Japan that travelers should not miss when visiting.

  • Mount Fuji: Mount Fuji is the tallest peak in Japan and one of its most iconic images. Located near Tokyo and easily accessible from major cities in the Kanto region like Yokohama or Kumagaya, mountain climbers can take to its slopes for a challenge and enjoy some of nature’s best scenery after their ascent.
  • Todaiji Temple: Constructed in 752 AD and located at a key point along the ancient capital Heian-kyo Road, Todaiji Temple is dedicated to Buddha and is considered one of Japan’s holiest sites. It’s full of exciting things to see, including several gardens and a 17-meter-tall bronze statue of Buddha sitting atop an alabaster lotus throne – considered one of Asia’s largest bronze statues after nearly 1,200 years!
  • Kyoto Imperial Palace: Originally built as part of an imperial villa during the Heian period (794-1185), Kyoto Imperial Palace is located at the center heart of modern-day Kyoto City – surrounded by rolling hills with beautiful views across town – and features numerous serene Zen gardens such as Ninomaru Garden which consist mainly of moss-covered stones representing miniscule landscapes from nature reinterpreted from Chinese paintings.
  • Hot springs: With over 3,000 hot springs around Japan, everyone is sure to find a perfect spa experience for them! From elaborately designed indoor Onsen to open-air pools overlooking picturesque valleys, traveling throughout Japan allows visitors to sample some of these natural hot baths from Hokkaido down through Kyushu Islands while sipping some refreshments while they relax their stress away!
  • Kabuki Theatre: Kabuki theatre was born during the Edo period (1603 – 1868) when a group gathered at Ichimura-za theatre in Edo (now Tokyo). Even today, Kabuki actors keep their art alive through a performance filled with humor and comedy elements that will surely leave the audience in awe!

Cost of Attractions

Touring the attractions of Japan can be a very rewarding experience. However, budgeting for the cost of attractions presents some difficulty as not every destination has official prices posted or readily available online. Prices also go up and down depending on the region and can change during different times of the year. For example, festivals or events may mean higher costs than normal or temporary discounts on certain packages to celebrate local culture and history.

Most common attractions (such as palaces and castles) will carry an entry fee, often with additional costs to access specific areas such as buildings or gardens. It is especially true for larger attractions such as Nijo Castle in Kyoto, where multiple buildings are open to visitors. Likewise, some museums have discounted fees for youth under certain ages or waivers for those living in Japan with ID documents, so make sure you look into any deals before your visit.

Furthermore, some regional attractions, such as swimming beaches, may require a parking permit exclusive to the area to access the site. In addition, some places have bathrooms and other amenities included within their general fee structure, while others will have charges extra for using them (such as convenience stores). Lastly, tickets purchased at ticket counters will often be more expensive than those bought online on tablets, so it pays to plan!

Shopping

If you’re looking for a great shopping experience in Japan, you’ve come to the right place. Japan has a wide variety of stores, from traditional markets to large department stores with all the latest fashion trends. In addition, you can find everything from the latest electronics to handmade crafts. There’s something for every budget and taste.

So, let’s take a look at some of the best shopping destinations in Japan:

Popular Japanese Souvenirs

When traveling to Japan, shopping is often part of the fun! Japanese souvenirs and gifts are well-known for their quality and creativity – from traditional souvenirs such as kimonos to cutting-edge tech gadgets, there is something for everyone. Here are some popular items you may want to pick up for friends and family back home:

  • Kimonos – Made from exquisite silks and linens, these antique items make the perfect souvenirs for your trip.
  • Tea sets – Quality tea sets in beautiful traditional designs are available at reasonably low prices in many stores across Japan.
  • Electronics – You can find the newest high-tech products here before they hit the markets elsewhere! Be sure to take advantage of any special offers in Japan.
  • Ceramicware – Japanese ceramicware is known for its unique patterns and colors, making it a great gift that stands out from the rest.
  • Stationery – Lovely paper goods such as notebooks, postcards, stickers, and origami kits can be found everywhere in Japan.
  • Japanese snacks – From regional biscuits and crackers to green tea-flavored sweet treats, you will find mouthwatering snacks all over the place!

Cost of Souvenirs

For travelers to Japan looking to purchase souvenirs, the cost of items can vary greatly depending on what they are. Prices will also vary by location- department stores in Tokyo typically have higher prices than rural areas or shops with their factories.

The following is a general guide to help you budget for souvenir shopping:

  • Shirts – A basic t-shirt from stores such as Uniqlo may range from 1000-4000 yen apiece. Shopping for designer brands such as Supreme or Bape could cost anywhere from 15000 yen and up per piece.
  • Traditional items – Ukiyo-e prints can range from 500 yen to over 10000 yen, depending on the size and painter. Maneki Neko (“lucky cat”) figures are commonly priced at 1000 yen apiece, with larger pieces ranging upwards of 10000 yen. Small wooden dolls may be 350-700 yen each, and large dolls could be 2000-5000 yen, depending on the craftsman.
  • Kitchen items – Teapots, sake cups, and chopsticks are all relatively affordable options that are easy to bring home; handmade ceramics start out around 1000 yen and go up in price based on size and quality of craftsmanship; glassware is typically around 2000-3000 per set/piece.
  • Snacks – Specialty snacks such as mochi usually come in packs that range from 300 – 1000 yen, while other cookies/sweets like wagashi (Japanese sweets), IMO yokan (sweet potato jelly) will be slightly more expensive with prices around 500 – 1200 per box/bag.

Tips and Advice

Traveling to Japan can be a fun and unique experience. With its unique culture, stunning scenery, amazing architecture, and many attractions, it’s no surprise that Japan is a popular destination.

There are a few tips and advice that can help make your trip to Japan smooth and successful. To help, here are some tips and advice on planning your trip to Japan:

  • Research the area you plan to visit.
  • Plan your itinerary.
  • Book your accommodations ahead of time.
  • Learn some basic Japanese phrases.
  • Be aware of cultural differences.
  • Learn about the local cuisine.
  • Be prepared for unexpected weather.
  • Be aware of the cost of living.
  • Be aware of cultural taboos.
  • Be prepared for long lines.

Useful Tips for Travelers

Traveling to Japan is a unique experience, and there are a few helpful tips that can make your trip even more enjoyable. Awareness of cultural etiquette and customs can help prevent misunderstandings and ensure you get the most out of your trip. Here are some handy tips to keep in mind when traveling to Japan:

  • Be respectful of local customs: When traveling in Japan, ensure respect for the local culture by adhering to proper etiquette. For example, some places may require visitors to take off their shoes before entering. It is also important to be mindful of noise levels as people speak softly in Japanese society.
  • Get acquainted with Japanese currency: Before arriving in Japan, it is important to know the Japanese yen (JPY) local currency. All prices should normally be listed in yen, so travelers need to understand exchange rates and how wallets work so they can plan their spending accordingly.
  • Learn a few key phrases: To get around Japan more easily, consider learning some basic Japanese phrases such as “hello” (ohayou gozaimasu), “goodbye” (sayonara), and “thank you” (arigatou gozaimasu). They will help you navigate conversations with locals and ensure that your travels are smooth sailing.
  • Invest in a public transportation pass: Having an IC card such as JR Pass or Pasmo makes public transportation much more convenient when exploring cities like Tokyo or Kyoto as it allows visitors unlimited access to all trains, subways, and buses for a set amount of time at discounted rates.
  • Pack appropriately: Japan can have both mild winter days and periods of snowfall throughout the year, so travelers should bring warm clothing like sweaters and coats along with comfortable walking shoes since they may be visiting various tourist spots throughout their stay.

Safety Advice

When planning your trip to Japan, it is important to take safety precautions. Though Japan is known as one of the safest countries in the world, it is still sensible to exercise caution and familiarize yourself with certain safety tips.

Before you leave on your journey, have a conversation with your travel companions about what procedures will be followed in the case of an emergency. Additionally, be sure that you have updated medical information available for each member of your party and a valid Form 1082 for any stay lasting more than 90 days.

It’s a good idea to research the crime rate at the places you visit and be aware of any particular risks associated with those areas. Common-sense measures such as not publicizing or flaunting expensive items should always be practiced. Always try to travel in well-lit areas at night and avoid looking vulnerable by keeping bags close and wallets out of sight while walking around. Be mindful that some areas are prone to pickpocketing and street crime, especially late at night in crowded areas or popular tourist spots like market streets or shopping districts.

It is also recommended that travelers in Japan carry extra copies of their passport information along with contact information for embassies or consulates located across the country. Having medical insurance records using English names can also come in handy during certain emergencies where hospitals may need assistance from interpreters who only understand English names and numbers.

Other helpful safety tips include:

  • carrying an emergency phone number list along with wallet-sized cards containing basic Japanese phrases like “please help me”;
  • leaving detailed travel information with friends or family members back home;
  • Allowing children independent access to an authority figure if they ever become lost;
  • Taking extra precautions when visiting rural regions which are largely unfamiliar;
  • And making sure not to display large amounts of cash while paying in stores or restaurants – Japanese people prefer paying electronically by credit card or stored value cards instead.