
Japan Travel Guide: What to Know Before You Go
Plan your first trip to Japan with practical advice on when to visit, where to go, how long to stay, transportation, budgeting, food, etiquette, and itinerary planning.
Travel guides, itineraries, transportation advice, and practical planning information for visiting Japan.

Plan your first trip to Japan with practical advice on when to visit, where to go, how long to stay, transportation, budgeting, food, etiquette, and itinerary planning.

Discover the best coastal destinations in Japan, from Okinawa and the Izu Peninsula to seaside towns, islands, beaches and scenic coastal regions.

Explore Japanese culture and customs with practical advice on etiquette, temples, trains, onsen, dining, seasonal traditions and everyday life.

Discover what to eat in Japan with a practical guide to regional specialties, sushi, ramen, izakaya dining, markets, etiquette and everyday food culture.

Compare Suica, PASMO and ICOCA for travel in Japan, including where each card works, visitor versions, Shinkansen use, recharging and which one to buy.

Is the Japan Rail Pass worth it in 2026? Compare current pass prices with individual Shinkansen fares for Tokyo, Kyoto, Osaka, Hiroshima and Fukuoka.

Plan your first trip to Japan with this 10-day Tokyo, Kyoto and Osaka itinerary, including Shinkansen tips, where to stay and practical planning advice.