Japan

Airports

Tokyo, Osaka, Nagoya, Okinawa, Fukuoka

Visa

Travelers from North America (US and Canada), the EU, and the UK don't need a visa. Check your country here

Currency

1,000 JPY ≈ $6.5 / €6 / £5

Cash

Advisable to carry

Languages

Japanese

Plugs

Type A and B/ 100V

When to go

Best months to visit

Sping

Worst months to visit

July to October

Weather by month

°C °F

Getting around

Uber

Tokyo, Kyoto, Kanagawa Prefecture (Yokohama) Aichi Prefecture (Nagoya)

Car rental

Recommended

Public transportation

Urban Areas:
Major cities like Tokyo, Osaka, and Kyoto have extensive subway and train networks, complemented by buses. Prepaid cards like Suica and Pasmo allow seamless travel across trains, buses, and even convenience stores.
Local trains and subways are clean, safe, and run with clockwork precision, making them the most convenient way to get around cities.
Intercity Travel:
Japan’s Shinkansen (bullet trains) are world-famous, offering high-speed connections between major cities. The Japan Rail Pass is a cost-effective option for tourists traveling extensively between cities.
Regular trains and long-distance buses, like those operated by Willer Express, provide budget-friendly alternatives.
Rural Areas:
Smaller towns and villages are often connected by local trains or buses, but schedules may be infrequent. Renting a car is recommended for more remote destinations.
Ferries:
Japan’s islands are connected by ferries, such as those to Miyajima or Hokkaido.

Safety tips

Respect Local Etiquette: Japanese culture values politeness and order. Avoid loud conversations on public transport, and queue respectfully at train platforms and bus stops.
Be Cautious with Weather Events: Japan experiences typhoons between June and October, and earthquakes can happen anytime. Familiarize yourself with emergency procedures and monitor local alerts via apps like Japan Official Travel App.
Mind Pedestrian Rules: In busy areas, jaywalking is frowned upon, and crossing at designated crosswalks is expected.
Cash Awareness: Japan is a cash-reliant country, but ATMs may not always accept foreign cards. Plan withdrawals at banks or convenience stores like 7-Eleven.
Health Precautions: Carry hand sanitizer and a mask, as hygiene is highly emphasized. Masks are commonly worn, especially in crowded or indoor spaces.
Emergency Numbers: Dial 110 for police and 119 for fire or medical emergencies. Most major stations and tourist areas also have multilingual assistance.

Learn more

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November 26, 2024