Things To Know Before Going To Japan: A First Timers Guide In 2025

Whoever told you planning a Japan trip is simple, was clearly winging it or had a travel agent. And let’s be honest, not everyone engages a travel planner for their trip anymore.

If you’re anything like me, you like planning your own trips and want to create the ultimate itinerary to suit your wishes and budget so you know exactly where you’re going each day.

And when it comes to Japan, it’s honestly overwhelming. It’s time-consuming, and there’s so much to do that it’s hard to know where to start.

And because we’ve already been through the headache of trying to plan ourselves, we’re sharing our step-by-step process to booking Japan so you don’t miss out on anything important.

If you’re looking for more in-depth travel tips, be sure to check out our Stress Free Guide to Japan for everything you need to know about planning your dream trip.

Looking for the most important things to know before going to Japan?

From timing your first visit to Japan down to our step-by-step process for planning your trip, we’ve covered everything to help make your experience stress-free and unforgettable.

Now let’s get stuck in!

Step 1: Choose Your Base Cities

Focus on key cities like Tokyo, Kyoto, and Osaka. If you want to experience rural Japan (HIGHLY recommended), swap one of these cities out for a more out-of-the-way location. Think Kanazawa, Shirakawago, or Takayama.

However, if this is your first trip to Japan, we highly recommend basing yourself in one of the key cities mentioned above. That way you can plan some of the most amazing day trips without having to relocate or figure out the complicated Shinkansen (more on that later – we promise to help simplify the process!).

Step 2: Choose the Best Location to Base Yourself

Always stay near a subway station for easy transport! That way, you can get to and from main attractions and day trips without paying extra for taxis.

We highly recommend basing yourself within walking distance of these below lines:

• Tokyo: Stay near the Ginza Line, Marunouchi Line, or JR Yamanote Line.
• Kyoto: Stay near the Karasuma Line or Kyoto Station.
• Osaka: Stay near the Midosuji Line, Chūō Line, or Tanimachi Line.
• Kanazawa: Stay near Kanazawa Station for easy access to The Loop Bus.

Step 3: Consider at Least One Unique Stay

Airbnb’s and Ryokans are perfect for an authentic experience. Koyasan is famous for temple stays, but you can also find them in Tokyo, Kyoto, and Nagano.

Short on time? Here’s a list of some of the best Airbnb’s, Ryokans and temple stays in these key areas:

Tokyo:

• A traditional Machiya-style Airbnb in Asakusa with tatami floors and a garden.
• Ryokan Kamogawa Asakusa – A cozy, traditional stay near Senso-ji Temple.
• Cyashitsu Ryokan Asakusa – A mix of capsule-style and ryokan-inspired private rooms with tea ceremonies available.

Kyoto:

• A beautifully restored townhouse Airbnb in Gion, close to temples and geisha districts.
• Kyoto Nanzenji Ryokan Yachiyo – A traditional ryokan surrounded by beautiful Japanese gardens, offering tatami rooms, kaiseki dining, and a peaceful atmosphere near Nanzenji Temple.
• Ryokan Sanga – A unique temple stay offering meditation sessions in English.

Nagano & Koyasan:

• A cozy mountain cabin Airbnb near the snow monkeys of Jigokudani.
• Eko-in Temple Stay (Koyasan) – Experience Buddhist monk life with morning prayers and vegetarian meals (the pick of the bunch and highly sought after, you’ll need to book this one a few months in advance).
• Jizokan Matsuya Ryokan – A cozy, family-run ryokan in Nagano, just steps from Zenkoji Temple, offering traditional tatami rooms and warm hospitality.

Step 4: Plan Your Day Trips

Day trips are a game-changer when it comes to maximising your Japan itinerary. Planning them out in advance will help you decide how many nights to spend in each city and give you the chance to experience even more of Japan’s diverse landscapes, history, and culture.

Here are some of the best day trips from Tokyo, Kyoto, and Osaka:

From Tokyo

If you’re based in Tokyo, these day trips offer a mix of nature, history, and adventure:

• Hakone – Famous for its hot springs, the Hakone Open-Air Museum, and iconic views of Mount Fuji from Lake Ashi. The Hakone Free Pass makes transport super easy.

• Mt. Fuji (Fuji Five Lakes) – Head to Lake Kawaguchi for the best reflections of Fuji, plus scenic cafes and boat rides. Chureito Pagoda is a must for that postcard-perfect view. We’ve got the perfect guide for first-timers planning a day trip to Mount Fuji in our post, Epic Day Trip From Tokyo to Mount Fuji: Perfect For First Timers.

• Nagano – Home to the famous snow monkeys at Jigokudani Monkey Park and the stunning Zenkoji Temple. If you’re visiting in winter, combine it with skiing in Nozawa Onsen or Shiga Kogen.

• Nikko – Known for the extravagant Toshogu Shrine, one of Japan’s most beautiful. Also, check out Kegon Falls and Lake Chuzenji for incredible autumn colors.

Kamakura – Home to the Great Buddha (Daibutsu), beautiful hiking trails, and charming temples. It’s a smaller, coastal Kyoto with a relaxed vibe.

From Kyoto

Kyoto is the heart of Japan’s traditional culture, but its surroundings are packed with history and natural beauty too:

• Nara – Visit the friendly bowing deer in Nara Park and see the giant Buddha at Todai-ji Temple, one of Japan’s most significant cultural sites.

• Osaka – Just a quick train ride away, Osaka offers incredible food streets like Dotonbori, the majestic Osaka Castle, and Universal Studios Japan if you’re into theme parks.

• Himeji – A must for history lovers. Himeji Castle is Japan’s most spectacular feudal castle and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It’s especially stunning during cherry blossom season.

From Osaka

Osaka is an excellent base for exploring even more of Japan’s Kansai region:

• Kyoto – If you’re staying in Osaka but want a taste of Kyoto’s temples and shrines, you can visit Fushimi Inari Shrine, Arashiyama Bamboo Forest, and Kinkaku-ji (Golden Pavilion) in a day.

• Nara – Another easy day trip, perfect for feeding the deer and exploring Japan’s ancient capital.

• Kobe – Known for its world-famous Kobe beef and picturesque Harborland district. If you’re into sake, check out the Nada Sake Brewery District for tastings.

• Koyasan – A unique experience! This sacred mountain is home to ancient temples, where you can stay overnight in a shukubo (temple lodging) and experience a traditional Buddhist monk’s lifestyle. But if you’re short on time, click on the link below for a great day trip idea!

If you’re looking for more must-see spots in each city, be sure to check out our Best Places To Visit In Japan For First Timers for more ideas on where to go.

How Many Days Should You Spend in Each City?

Use these day trips to decide how long to stay in each location:

• If you want to explore all of Tokyo’s day trips, consider staying at least 5–6 days.
• Kyoto is best with 4+ days if you want to visit Nara, Osaka, and Himeji.
• Osaka can be done in 2–3 days, but if you’re adding Kobe or Koyasan, extend it a bit.

Step 5: Book Your Experiences in Advance

Japan is packed with incredible experiences, but the most popular ones sell out fast, sometimes weeks or even months ahead!

We absolutely found this out the hard way. We missed out on a Shibuya Sky sunset spot during winter (not even the busiest time of year). We snagged a day time spot but we were severely disappointed we missed sunset.

To avoid disappointment, book your must-do activities before you arrive. This is especially important for attractions with limited daily entries, seasonal events, and Michelin-starred restaurants (some require reservations six months in advance!).

Here are some top experiences to book early in each major city:

Tokyo

Tokyo offers everything from cutting-edge digital art to nostalgic anime experiences. These top attractions often sell out fast, so book as soon as possible:

TOP TIP: Use our Klook code for a 10% discount at checkout: KLOOKGABTK

• Shibuya Sky – One of the best observation decks in Tokyo, offering a breathtaking panoramic view of the famous Shibuya Crossing. Best visited at sunset.
• TeamLab Borderless – A mesmerising digital art museum with interactive light installations. An absolute must!
• TeamLab Planets Tokyo – Another an incredible immersive art museum where you walk through interactive exhibits that blend technology, nature, and art. It’s like stepping into a whole new world
• Ghibli Museum – Perfect for Studio Ghibli fans, this museum offers an enchanting look into the world of Hayao Miyazaki. Tickets release on the 10th of each month and sell out within minutes. Set your alarm!
• Mario Kart Street Tour (Maricar) – Drive through the streets of Tokyo in a go-kart dressed as your favorite video game character! Note: You’ll need an international driving permit (IDP) to participate.

Kyoto

Kyoto is famous for its traditional culture, and these experiences will immerse you in its timeless beauty:

• Gion Kimono Yukata Rental & Photo Shoot – Walk through Kyoto’s historic streets in a beautiful kimono. It’s a popular activity, so book in advance, especially during cherry blossom season.
• Tea Ceremony – Experience a traditional Japanese tea ceremony in a historic Kyoto teahouse. It’s a peaceful and cultural must-do.
• Sagano Romantic Train – A scenic railway journey through the Arashiyama Bamboo Forest and along the Hozugawa River. Tickets sell out fast in autumn due to the stunning fall foliage.

Osaka

Osaka is known for its fun, interactive experiences. These top picks often have long queues or limited tickets, so early booking is key:

• Universal Studios Japan (USJ) – Home to Super Nintendo World, The Wizarding World of Harry Potter, and thrilling rides. Express Passes sell out weeks in advance, so book early!
• TeamLab Botanical Garden – A stunning nighttime art installation at Nagai Botanical Garden, where digital lights blend with nature.
• Cup Noodles Museum – Design your own instant noodle cup and learn about the history of ramen. It’s a fun hands-on experience, especially for foodies!

Other Experiences to Consider Booking in Advance

If you’re looking for something extra special, consider reserving:

• Sumo Tournament Tickets (Tokyo, Osaka, Fukuoka, Nagoya) – These only happen six times a year, so plan accordingly!
• Michelin-Starred Restaurants – Famous spots like Sukiyabashi Jiro (Tokyo) or Gion Kikunoi (Kyoto) require reservations months ahead.
• Ryokan Stays & Onsen Resorts – Traditional inns with private onsen baths, like Hakone Gora Kadan, often book out early.

Pro Tip: Use Trusted Booking Platforms

For seamless reservations, check Klook, KKday, and official websites for tickets, passes, and guided experiences. Booking in advance ensures you won’t waste time queueing or risk missing out on the best Japan has to offer!

TOP TIP: We ALWAYS use Klook for our Japan travels. All your bookings get saved in one handy place on the app, so you can keep track of everything with ease.

Plus, they offer a smooth, paperless experience, just show your phone when you arrive, and you’re good to go!

Whether it’s tickets for major attractions, transportation passes, or even guided tours, Klook makes everything easier.

And the best part? You can get 10% off your bookings with our exclusive discount code: KLOOKGABTK.

It’s our little way of making your trip more affordable and stress-free!

Looking for a comprehensive guide to Japan? Check out our Best Travel Guide To Japan.

Step 6: Map Out Your Main Destinations

Now that you have your hotels, day trips, and experiences planned out, it’s time to get organised with your map.

Use Google Maps to pin all of your main destinations. By grouping nearby attractions together, you can create a smoother, more efficient route each day, making it easier to navigate your way around.

This is especially helpful in a city as busy as Tokyo or Kyoto, where distances can sometimes be deceiving.

Plus, by downloading your maps in advance, you’ll have access to them offline, so you won’t have to rely on WiFi or mobile data.

It’s a simple but effective way to stay on track and maximise your time exploring, without wasting any of it getting lost!

Don’t want to create your own? We’ve done the hard work for you!

Head to our Stress Free Guide to Japan for Google Maps pins to more than 180 destinations, experiences, day trips, and hotels.

We’ve got everything you need to make your trip seamless and stress-free.

TOP TIP: We have a discount code for that too! Use JAPAN at check out for 10% off our Stress Free Guide to Japan. Oh! We also offer personalised itineraries!

Step 7: How to Book Train Travel in Japan (The Most Confusing Part!)

I know train travel in Japan is daunting, but I promise you, once you get the hang of it, it’s actually fun (did I honestly just say that?). Let’s do this (together)!

Step 1: Sort Your Transport

• You can book Shinkansen tickets 30 days in advance. Do this ASAP.
• The JR Pass is great for long-distance travel (multiple cities), but if you’re staying in 1-3 cities, buying individual tickets through Klook can save you stacks of money. We opted for this over the JR Pass and saved ourselves $500.
• Use our discount code for 10% off: KLOOKGABTK

Want to know which pass is right for you? Our Is a JR Pass Worth It? How To Avoid Costly Mistakes post breaks down the options and helps you avoid any costly mistakes!

Step 2: Get Your Local Metro Passes

• Download the Welcome Suica Mobile app (newly released and now available for iPhones) and load it with money. Tap and go on local metros, buses, and even at convenience stores.

Step 3: Buy Your Airport Limousine Ticket

• The Airport Limousine is by far the easiest way we’ve found to get to and from Haneda or Narita airport in Tokyo. It even drops you right at the front door of major hotels in the city (a list can be found in the highlighted link above). Buy in advance from Klook and have the QR code ready to go on arrival!
• Psst! Remember our discount code at checkout: KLOOKGABTK

Step 4: Order a Wise Card

• If you don’t have one already, you’re missing out. The Wise Card lets you spend in multiple currencies without hidden fees. We’ve used this all over the world and it’s saved us stacks of money on our transactions. Order one online and it’ll arrive in the mail within a few days.

Step 5: Purchase an eSIM

While Japan offers portable 4G WiFi rentals, an eSIM is a much more convenient and hassle-free option.

With an eSIM, you can skip the need for a physical device and easily stay connected right from your phone.

Airalo offers fantastic coverage throughout Japan, ensuring you have reliable internet wherever you go.

TOP TIP: Use discount code TAMRA10 or TAMRA15 to get 10-15% off your eSIM purchase, making it an even better deal for your trip!

Heading to Japan in winter? We’ve created The Perfect Japan Winter Itinerary For An Epic Trip!

Things I Wish I Knew Before Going to Japan For the First Time

Now that you’ve got the essentials covered for planning your Japan trip, let’s dive into some key things you’ll want to know before you go. From the best time to visit to where to stay, this section will help you fine-tune your plans for a perfect experience.

Best Time to Visit Japan

Japan is stunning year-round, but the best seasons to visit are:

• Spring (March-May): Cherry blossoms, but also crowds.
• Autumn (September-November): Gorgeous red and orange foliage.
• Winter (December-February): Perfect for skiing and seeing snow monkeys (our absolute favourite time of year).
• Summer (June-August): Hot, humid, but great for festivals.

TOP TIP: Avoid Golden Week (late April – early May) unless you love crowds and inflated prices!

Book Accommodation in Advance

Accommodation in Japan can fill up quickly, particularly in popular cities like Tokyo and Kyoto.

To ensure you get the best options and rates, it’s a good idea to book at least 3-6 months ahead, especially if you’re traveling during peak seasons like cherry blossom time or New Year.

Japan is known for its efficient and clean hotels, but some areas can be more competitive than others, so securing your spot early is key.

Plus, with so much to see and do, you don’t want to be stressing over finding a place last minute when you arrive.

Tips For Travelling To Japan: Where to Stay
Tokyo

Shinjuku, Shibuya, and Asakusa are popular areas to stay. Shinjuku and Shibuya offer vibrant, bustling neighbourhoods, great for nightlife, shopping, and entertainment. Asakusa is ideal for budget travellers, with its historical charm and proximity to the iconic Senso-ji Temple.

Short on time? Here’s a great list of some great hotels:

Shinjuku: Hilton Tokyo Hotel – A luxurious stay with luxury amenities, and stunning Shinjuku views. It’s perfectly located near Tochomae Subway Station, the Tokyo Metropolitan Government Building, Shinjuku Station and Kabukicho.

Shibuya: lyf Shibuya Tokyo – Great comfortable rooms and great amenities, just a short walk from Shibuya Station and nearby attractions like Shibuya Scramble Crossing. Enjoy easy access to key spots and a fitness centre, shared kitchen, and free WiFi.

Asakusa: Hotel Residence Asakusa by unito – An affordable hotel with comfortable rooms with great amenities, just a short walk from Shibuya Station and key attractions like Shibuya Scramble Crossing. Enjoy a fitness centre, shared kitchen, and free WiFi during your stay.

Kyoto

Stay near Shimogyo Ward if you want to be within walking distance (or a short train/taxi ride) of top sites like Pontocho Alley and Yasaka Pagoda. Gion is another great choice, giving you a taste of the city’s traditional culture and beautiful teahouses. Asakusa is also high on many travelers’ lists due to its close proximity to Tokyo Skytree, Ueno Park, and direct access to major train lines,

Short on time? Here’s a list of a few hotels we highly recommend:

Shimogyo Ward: Umeyu no yado by YADORU KYOTO HANARE – Perfectly positioned in central Kyoto and within walking distance of Sanjusangen-do Temple, Gion Shijo Station, and Kyoto Station. Easy access to public transport and key sightseeing spots.

Gion District: Hotel Grand Bach Kyoto Select – Located a 5-minute walk from Kawaramachi Station and 10 minutes from Shijo Station, Hotel Grand Bach Kyoto Select, you’ll have Kyoto Station, Kiyomizu-dera Temple, and Nijo Castle all within easy reach.

Asakusa: Ryokan Kamogawa Asakusa – Just steps from Kaminarimon Gate and Sensoji Temple, this is a traditional Japanese stay in the heart of Tokyo’s historic district, with Asakusa Subway Station and Tobu Train Station both within a 5-minute walk.

Osaka

Namba, Umeda and Kita are fantastic options for first time travellers heading to Osaka. Namba is a hotspot for food and nightlife, Umeda offers shopping, great restaurants, and easy access to nearby attractions, while Minami (including Dotonbori and Shinsaibashi) buzzes with entertainment, street food, and vibrant local culture.

Need help deciding? Here’s a great list of some great hotels:

Namba: Hiyori Hotel Osaka Namba Station – Located 200 meters from Nankai Namba Station, you’ll have easy access to top Osaka attractions like Dotonbori, Kuromon Market, and Tsutenkaku.

Umeda: Villa Fontaine Grand Osaka Umeda – Just steps from major landmarks like Umeda Station, Taiyū-ji Temple, and Hankyu Men’s Osaka. you’ll have easy access to shopping, dining, and transport.

Minami: Hotel Hillarys – This hotel is a 6-minute walk from Namba Station and is right near Tsutenkaku, Shitennoji Temple, and the lively Nippombashi area.

Top Tips For Travelling To Japan: Remember to book sooner rather than later!

Our Top Tips For Travelling In Japan

Whether you’re wondering if you need travel insurance for Japan, still not sure exactly how much to budget for your trip, or even trying to figure out Japanese etiquette and cultural norms, we’ve got you!

Japan can feel a bit overwhelming at first, but trust me, once you get the hang of it, you’ll love every minute.

Here’s all our top tips for travelling to Japan to make sure you have a smooth, stress-free adventure.

Best Travel Insurance for Japan Trip

When traveling to Japan, it’s crucial to have the right travel insurance to cover any unexpected situations, from flight cancellations to medical emergencies.

We highly recommend World Nomads. They offer comprehensive coverage for things like medical expenses, trip cancellations, lost luggage, and emergency evacuation.

Their policies are designed for travellers, and they cover a wide range of activities, including hiking, skiing, and other adventure sports.

Make sure to compare different providers and read the fine print, as some policies may offer more comprehensive coverage for specific travel needs. Don’t leave home without it, peace of mind is worth the investment.

Cash Is King

Japan loves cash. Many small restaurants and shrines don’t accept cards. Bring yen or withdraw from 7-Eleven ATMs.

No Tipping Culture

Tipping isn’t a thing in Japan. If you try, they’ll politely refuse.

Learn Basic Japanese Phrases

A few simple phrases go a long way:

• “Arigatou gozaimasu” (Thank you)
• “Sumimasen” (Excuse me/Sorry)
• “Eigo wakarimasu ka?” (Do you understand English?)

Train Etiquette is Serious

• No loud talking on the train.
• Don’t eat on commuter trains (Shinkansen is fine!).
• Stand in line and don’t push.

Now that you’re all set with travel tips, make sure you’re ready for Japan’s winter with our Essential Clothes For Winter In Japan: Your Ultimate Checklist.

Subways & Buses Don’t Run 24/7

Unlike some major cities around the world, Japan’s subway and bus systems don’t operate around the clock. Most trains stop running by midnight, so if you miss the last train, you’re going to need a backup plan. Taxis are available, but they can be quite pricey, especially during late hours.

Japanese Etiquette & Cultural Norms

Always wait in line. Whether for trains, elevators, or food stalls, jumping ahead is a huge no-no. We even noticed locals queuing for traffic lights in the main cities!

Japanese society places a strong emphasis on order and respect for others, and queuing is an important part of that. You’ll often find well-marked lines at stations and even at vending machines, so be sure to follow them.

Shoes Off Indoors

In traditional accommodations, temples, and some restaurants, you’ll need to take your shoes off. If they provide slippers, use them! This is especially important in places like ryokan inns and certain cultural spots where cleanliness is key.

It’s also polite to remove your shoes when entering someone’s home or even certain shops. If you forget or feel unsure, just follow the lead of others around you. Locals will often do this without a second thought.

Quiet in Public Spaces

No loud phone calls on trains, and keep voices down in public. Japanese culture values peace and respect for others, so be mindful of your surroundings.

If you need to make a call, step outside or to a designated area. Even in restaurants or cafes, it’s courteous to keep conversations at a reasonable volume to maintain a calm atmosphere.

Mask-Wearing is Common

It’s totally normal to wear a mask if you’re feeling unwell or during flu season. In fact, you’ll see it everywhere, especially on public transport or in busy areas.

Don’t feel weird about wearing one either, it’s actually seen as a sign of respect for others. Just go with the flow and keep some on hand just in case!

Eating & Drinking in Japan

Don’t Eat While Walking. This is something we struggled with, it’s considered bad manners to eat while you’re on the move, so be sure to finish your food before heading off.

Oh, another thing! There are barely any trash cans or bins on the streets in Japan. So, remember to take a backpack or small plastic bag with you to carry your trash back to your hotel.

Slurping is Encouraged

Loudly slurping your ramen? That’s a sign you love it! Get stuck in and ENJOY!

Convenience Stores are a Lifesaver

7-Eleven, Lawson, and FamilyMart aren’t just for snacks, they have surprisingly tasty and affordable meals too!

From bento boxes to fresh sushi, you can grab something quick and delicious, and honestly, it’s always better than you’d expect! Plus, if you want it warm, just ask the staff to heat it up in the microwave for you.

Japanese Toilets: What to Expect

Get ready for a toilet experience like no other! Many public restrooms in Japan come with heated seats, bidets, and even relaxing music to make your bathroom break feel more like a spa visit.

It might take a minute to figure out all the buttons, but trust me, it’s worth the little learning curve! You’ll miss them when you go home!

BYO Hand Towel & Sanitizer

In some public toilets, you might find that soap or paper towels are a no-show. It’s a good idea to carry a small hand towel, tissues or hand sanitiser with you, just in case. Better to be prepared than caught off guard!

Safety & Emergency Tips

Crime rates are super low, and it’s one of the safest places you can travel to.

That said, it’s always a good idea to keep an eye on your belongings, especially in crowded spots like train stations or busy streets. Stay alert, but don’t stress, you’re in a pretty secure place! Japan is hands down one of the safest countries we’ve ever visited!

Earthquake Awareness

Japan is prone to earthquakes, so it’s important to be aware of the evacuation signs and listen carefully to any emergency announcements. Don’t panic if it happens, just calmly follow the safety instructions.

We got hit by a 5.0 magnitude earthquake in Kyoto, soon after the one in Kanazawa, and it was definitely a wake-up call.

It wasn’t too intense, but it’s always good to be prepared. Apps like Yurekuru Call are great for real-time earthquake alerts, and Japan Shelter Finder helps you locate safe shelters nearby.

Fun Experiences to Try

Japan is full of quirky and unforgettable experiences. In fact, it’s jam packed full of bucketlist things to do!

While it’s physical impossible to get through every one of them in one trip (believe we tried!), here’s a list of the must-try things that will make your trip even more memorable:

• Onsen (Hot Springs): A relaxing experience, but be aware of tattoo restrictions, some onsen may not allow visible tattoos, so it’s always best to check in advance or find tattoo-friendly ones.
• Capsule Hotels: A unique and budget-friendly way to sleep in Japan. They’re compact but surprisingly comfortable, perfect for a quick overnight stay. It’s a fun experience that gives you a taste of Japan’s efficiency and innovation! Like this one in Tokyo.
• Themed Cafes: From cats and pigs to robots and maids, Japan has themed cafes for just about every interest. They’re a lot of fun, so be sure to check them out if you want something completely out of the ordinary.

These experiences will give you a deeper taste of Japan’s fascinating and fun side, so don’t miss them!

FAQ’s

Here are a few more essential tips when travelling to Japan, from budgeting correctly to the most common (and not so obvious) do’s and don’t’s.

Is $5,000 AUD enough for a trip to Japan?

Yes, but it depends on your travel style. Budget travellers can make it work for 2 weeks, while mid-range travellers might need more for shopping and experiences.

What to do before going to Japan from Australia?

• Check your passport validity (at least 6 months left).
• No visa required for short stays.
• Book major experiences in advance.
• Get a Suica card or local transport pass.

What are the do’s and don’ts in Japan?

• Don’t talk loudly on trains.
• Don’t tip (it’s not a thing in Japan!).
• Don’t eat while walking.
• Don’t enter an onsen without washing first.

How much AUD do I need for 2 weeks in Japan?

Budget: $3,500 AUD | Mid-range: $5,000 AUD | Luxury: $8,000+ AUD.

Is Japan expensive for Australian tourists?

It’s cheaper than Australia for food but transport and accommodation add up fast. Budget wisely!

What do Australians need to enter Japan?

• No visa for stays under 90 days.
• Health insurance (recommended).

Can you wear short shorts in Japan?

Yes, but avoid showing too much skin in temples and shrines.

What vaccines do you need to go to Japan?

• Routine vaccines (MMR, Tetanus, Hep A & B) are recommended.
• No mandatory vaccines required for entry.

Need more Japan travel tips? Follow @global.and.beyond.travel for expert hacks!

Wrapping Up Things To Know Before Going To Japan

Planning your trip to Japan doesn’t have to be overwhelming, especially when you know what to expect.

From booking accommodations and experiencing the local culture to understanding Japan’s transportation system and etiquette, a little preparation goes a long way.

By taking the time to map out your destinations, plan day trips, and book your must-see experiences, you’ll set yourself up for an unforgettable adventure.

For a comprehensive, stress-free trip to Japan, check out our Stress-Free Guide to Japan, packed with over 180 destinations, experiences, day trips, and hotels. It’s your ultimate travel companion to help you navigate Japan with ease!

And don’t forget to pack accordingly, especially if you’re traveling during the winter. Our Essential Clothes For Winter In Japan: Your Ultimate Checklist can help ensure you stay warm and comfortable.