BE INSPIRED TO UNCOVER JAPAN
Japan, home to the biggest metropolitan region in the world, has so much to offer beyond the neon-tinted streets of Tokyo.
Get up close to Mt Fuji in Kawaguchiko, participate in Momijigari in Autumn, and meet the bowing deer of Nara - all possibilities in this eclectic destination.
Japan is one of the fastest-growing hotspots for travellers, so be sure to explore some off-the-beaten-path locales for a deeper look at what makes the Asian archipelago so adored.
JAPAN travel guides
THE ESSENTIALS
Continent | Asia
Language | Japanese
Currency | Japanese Yen (¥)
Tips | Tips are not required
TRAVEL PLANNING ESSENTIALS
Trying to figure out if the JR pass is worth getting in 2024? This guide helps you figure out if it’s the best value for you and alternatives to consider.
Planning a two-week trip to Japan but not sure how much to budget? This guide provides a breakdown of costs and tips for saving on your travels.
Travelling to Japan for the first time? Here are 19 things you need to know before visiting Japan to make your trip easier and avoid any cultural faux pas.
ITINERARIES
Explore Kanazawa in 2 days, from historic geiko districts and samurai streets, to stunning gardens and some of Japan’s freshest seafood and local cuisine.
Follow in the footsteps of samurai and merchants on this ancient route between Kyoto and Edo. Plan your three-day Nakasendo Trail itinerary with this detailed guide covering historic post towns, scenic hikes, where to stay, and essential hiking tips.
This is the perfect 3-day itinerary to experience the best of Osaka. From foodie hotspots to cultural and historical sites, I take you through a guided route in the energetic city in Kansai.
This 10-day Japan itinerary lets you explore small towns, nature spots, and avoid the crowds with an alternative to the typical Golden Route.
Discover the best of Osaka in an easy day trip. Blending culture, history, and food, you can visit Dotonbori, Osaka Castle and more with this one-day Osaka itinerary.
Plan the perfect 5 days in Tokyo with this itinerary designed for first-time visitors to Japan’s capital - from the neon streets of Shinjuku to historic Asakusa.
If you’re looking for ideas on how to spend five days in Kyoto, this itinerary covers the best of the historic sights and must-visit attractions across the city.
Wondering how to spend two days in Hiroshima? This 2-day Hiroshima itinerary covers the most important historical monuments and a day trip to Miyajima Island.
Discover what makes Miyajima Island one of the best day trips from Hiroshima. This guide has everything you need to know, from how to get there to things to do.
ACCOMMODATION GUIDES
Take the confusion out of where to stay in Tokyo with this comprehensive guide to the best areas and hotels in Japan’s capital with recommendations.
Take the guesswork out of where to stay in Osaka with this guide to the best areas and hotel recommendations based on first-hand experience in Osaka.
Discover the best areas to stay in Kanazawa, from Kanazawa Station to Omicho Market, Korinbo, and Higashi Chaya, with tips on which area suits you best.
Explore BYAKU Narai in Narai-juku, Nagano – a restored Edo-era ryokan with elegant rooms, gourmet Japanese cuisine, and authentic cultural charm.
Take the hassle out of finding where to stay in Tsumago and Nagiso while you explore this region of the Kiso Valley. Whether you’re hiking part of the Nakasendo Way or just looking to experience time in rural Japan, this guide helps you plan your Nagiso and Tsumago accommodation.
Make planning your Nakasendo Way experience easy with this guide on where to stay in Magome, Japan. From traditional guest houses to modern ryokans, take the stress out of finding your perfect Magame Juku accommodation.
Wondering where to stay in Hiroshima? This guide to the best hotels in Hiroshima will help you find the most convenient, comfortable, and practical stays across the city.
PACKING GUIDES
This Japan spring packing guide covers what to bring, what to leave at home, and helps you plan what to wear in spring in Japan with ease!
Wondering what to wear in Japan in winter? This packing list has everything you need for popular winter destinations in Japan including Tokyo, Kyoto, and Hokkaido.
TOKYO
Take the confusion out of where to stay in Tokyo with this comprehensive guide to the best areas and hotels in Japan’s capital with recommendations.
Wondering whether teamLab Borderless or Planets is better? Compare location, experience, art style, and more to choose the perfect immersive exhibit in Tokyo.
This 10-day Japan itinerary lets you explore small towns, nature spots, and avoid the crowds with an alternative to the typical Golden Route.
Plan the perfect 5 days in Tokyo with this itinerary designed for first-time visitors to Japan’s capital - from the neon streets of Shinjuku to historic Asakusa.
Japan is a country unlike any other. A melting pot of ancient culture and tradition meets new-age technology and modernity. From the frenetic pace of Shinjuku’s neon-tinted laneways to the quiet of the sacred shrines, Japan is a country of contrasts. Here are 35 photos to inspire you to visit Tokyo, the world’s most populous metropolis.
KANSAI
Take the guesswork out of where to stay in Osaka with this guide to the best areas and hotel recommendations based on first-hand experience in Osaka.
Feeling confused about whether you should visit Kyoto or Kanazawa? Both offer exceptional cultural and artistic heritage, with impressively preserved historic districts. This guide helps you determine which is the right choice for you.
Kyoto in November is a spectacular time of year to visit. Favourable weather, stunning fall foliage, and plenty of celebrations make this the perfect time to visit.
Wondering whether Osaka is worth visiting on your Japan itinerary? This guide breaks down the highlights and drawbacks to help you decide if it’s the right stop for your trip.
This is the perfect 3-day itinerary to experience the best of Osaka. From foodie hotspots to cultural and historical sites, I take you through a guided route in the energetic city in Kansai.
Wondering what to do in Arashiyama after the bamboo grove? These are the best things to do in Arashiyama - from river boat cruises to converted sento cafes and breathtaking zen gardens.
Whether you want specialty coffee in Osaka or a cup of handpour, my guide to the best coffee shops in Osaka makes it easy to find the best places for your caffeine fix.
Discover the best of Osaka in an easy day trip. Blending culture, history, and food, you can visit Dotonbori, Osaka Castle and more with this one-day Osaka itinerary.
If you’re looking for ideas on how to spend five days in Kyoto, this itinerary covers the best of the historic sights and must-visit attractions across the city.
HIROSHIMA
Wondering how to spend two days in Hiroshima? This 2-day Hiroshima itinerary covers the most important historical monuments and a day trip to Miyajima Island.
Wondering where to stay in Hiroshima? This guide to the best hotels in Hiroshima will help you find the most convenient, comfortable, and practical stays across the city.
Trying to decide whether you should stay in Miyajima or Hiroshima? This guide helps you choose the best place to stay, with recommendations for both destinations.
Planned a visit to Itsukushima and wondering what to do? Discover the best things to do on Miyajima Island from spiritual shrine visits to hiking to Mount Misen.
Discover what makes Miyajima Island one of the best day trips from Hiroshima. This guide has everything you need to know, from how to get there to things to do.
NAGANO AND THE CENTRAL ALPS
Take the hassle out of finding where to stay in Tsumago and Nagiso while you explore this region of the Kiso Valley. Whether you’re hiking part of the Nakasendo Way or just looking to experience time in rural Japan, this guide helps you plan your Nagiso and Tsumago accommodation.
Make planning your Nakasendo Way experience easy with this guide on where to stay in Magome, Japan. From traditional guest houses to modern ryokans, take the stress out of finding your perfect Magame Juku accommodation.
Discover the Magome to Tsumago trail on the historic Nakasendo Way. Explore post towns, tea houses, mountain views, and Edo-era history in Japan’s Kiso Valley.
Follow in the footsteps of samurai and merchants on this ancient route between Kyoto and Edo. Plan your three-day Nakasendo Trail itinerary with this detailed guide covering historic post towns, scenic hikes, where to stay, and essential hiking tips.
Everything you need to know about visiting Togakushi Shrine in winter, including how to get there, what to see, the climate, what to wear, and useful tips to make the most of your visit.
This 10-day Japan itinerary lets you explore small towns, nature spots, and avoid the crowds with an alternative to the typical Golden Route.
Everything you need to know to plan your visit to see Japan’s snow monkeys in the hot springs. Read the guide to make the most of your day trip.
Looking for the best way to stay connected while in Japan? This guide helps determine whether an eSIM, SIM card, or pocket wifi is best for you.