Japan

A string of islands located on the eastern edge of Asia; Japan is a thriving destination with something to offer every type of traveler. Japan is a nation known for both its rich cultural history and cutting-edge technology. Unique cuisine, modern engineering marvels like Japan’s famous ‘bullet’ train, and important historical landmarks are all meant to be consumed while enjoying a sweeping backdrop of hot springs, volcanoes, coastal plains and vast forests. With thousands of islands providing homes to its 126+ million inhabitants Japan is 377,835 square kilometers of unique landscapes, bustling cities and beautiful mountain ranges.

Whether you’re a thrill seeker looking to experience the wonder of Mt. Fuji, a foodie just dying to experience the vibrant food scene in Osaka, a Zen enthusiast looking to experience Kyoto’s peaceful serenity or a history buff wanting to dive headfirst into local history, culture and tradition Japan has something for you. Not a history fan? More interested in what lies ahead than what’s in the rearview mirror? No problem! We can’t forget Japan’s exciting technology scene, from modern tech to anime that you just can’t help but love there is sure to be something that piques your interest.

Planning the perfect trip in a location as rich in travel opportunities as Japan can be overwhelming but our Travel Consultants here at Expedia Cruises are waiting to help you find the perfect vacation. We’ve even put together an easy to browse list of some of our favourite tours offered by trusted suppliers to give you your dream vacation with peace of mind that absolutely every detail is taken care of! Not a fan of land-based tours? No problem! Enjoy our list of cruises that bring the wonders of Japan to life in a unique way.

Know before you go

Spring (March–May): The most popular time, known for the sakura (cherry blossom) season, starting in March and lasting through April, with temperatures becoming comfortable. Late April to early May is also great for seeing other flowers like wisteria.
Autumn (September–November): Often considered the best time, as the weather is dry and mild. October and November offer stunning autumn leaves (koyo) and comfortable temperatures for walking.
Summer (June–August): Hot, humid, and rainy (rainy season is early June to mid-July), but great for festivals and fireworks.
Winter (December–February): Cold but sunny, perfect for skiing in the north or visiting Onsens (hot springs) with fewer crowds.

The currency accepted in Japan is Japanese Yen. Cash is typically the best way to pay for things, but electronic payment methods (such as debit or credit cards) are becoming more commonly accepted.

When landing at the airport, it is a good idea to get a travel card (IC Card) such as SuICa, as they can be pre-loaded with money and make payments with ease for public transportation and vending machines.

Note: Tipping and haggling are not practiced in Japan — what you see is what you pay.

The public transportation is very reliable, with amazing options with trains, buses, and trams. Ubers and Lyfts do not exist in the same way as in North America; taxis are available, however, they can be expensive as they are very professional luxury, and the drivers dress accordingly. They have an app for that as well (go/TAXI app). When a taxi arrives, the driver will open the door for you from the driver’s seat, don’t try and force it open yourself, same when you reach your destination.

On all public transit, but especially on the trains, the silence is powerful; the Japanese do not speak or make noise so as not to disturb other people.

Google Maps is an excellent way to navigate the country, including public transportation. It will tell you the trains you can take to reach your destination, including the platform they will leave from next. If you close the app, and re-open it however, you may notice the train number has changed. This is because the app will assume you need a few minutes to reach the platform and will give a later train to allow you time to get there. You can tap on the train or bus number, and a list of other buses that will also take you where you want to go will appear, allowing you to re-select the current one. Japan transit planner app as well as Tokyo subway navigation, are other apps available that can help you navigate the transit systems.

Shinkansen SmartEX is the official way to book tickets from your mobile device for the Shinkansen (bullet trains). Tickets can also be purchased from the kiosks at the stations. If you are planning to do a lot of travel via Shinkansen, consider ordering a JR rail pass before you leave. This could be a very in-depth consideration, as the cost may not be as efficient as purchasing individual tickets, and will depend entirely on your itinerary.

They are a one stop shop for almost everything. Although they are not all the same, 7-Eleven is amazing, as well as Family Mart. They often have ready to eat meals and snacks, as well as hot foods at the counter. They can be a useful place for sending mail, Amazon Japan often can deliver packages to them for pick-up, as well as access to photocopiers or ATMs if you need to take out local currency. It is seen as impolite to eat while walking or on public transit (except the Shinkansen, which is treated more in line to a flight).

100 yen shops are amazing (Daiso is a common and popular chain), Don Quijote is another great store for finding a variety of things from food, to electronics, to clothing and household and travel goods. You may want to pick up a small hand towel or washcloth as more often than not there is no means of drying your hands in public washrooms (electric hand blow dryers are starting to become more common though).

Accommodations can range from single person sleeper pods, to one or two bed business hotels, from traditional to modern, Japan has something for everyone's budget. Most if not all accommodations offer a seamless self-check-in or out kiosk that will have multiple languages, primarily Japanese and English. As well there is always someone close by to assist.

One of the most incredible experiences is the traditional onsen baths. Places like Hakone, which is considered a resort town, is a favorite among both locals and tourists. However, many hotels offer both a public and a private option. There is nothing more relaxing after a long day than a hot bath often with volcanic mineral water and a cold drink or frozen treat. You will never think of an ordinary bath the same way again, the same can be said after the use of a bidet.