There's great news for travellers: one of our favourite countries is finally opening up to tourists this October and to celebrate this much-anticipated announcement, we've rounded up the best places to visit in Japan.
The Asian hotspot has revealed that from 11 October, following two and a half years of its borders being closed due to Covid-19, all restrictions on foreign visitors will be lifted. This means British travellers can enter independently as they did before the pandemic, without a visa or the need to join a tour. And there's no daily cap on visitors, either. It is not yet known whether travellers will need to show proof of three Covid-19 vaccine doses or a negative test result (check the Foreign Office website for updates).
Whether you've been before or have always dreamed of going, there's plenty to see and do in Japan - from staring at the bright lights of Tokyo to finding peace in the scenic Japanese Alps.
If you're planning ahead for Japan's sell-out cruises, which take you to multiple destinations, you'll want to check out Good Housekeeping's incredible March 2024 sailing during the cherry blossom season. There are also fantastic land tours that take in highlights, from Kyoto to Hiroshima, such as our 10-day March 2023 holiday.
For any traveller who has always dreamed of visiting Japan, now is the time to get planning and to help inspire your next trip, we've rounded up the best places to visit in Japan this year, in 2023 or even in 2024.
Check out our favourite Japanese destinations below and visit the Japan National Tourism Organization website for more ideas on places to go.
1
Tokyo
Yongyuan Dai
The first stop for many foreign tourists is Japan's vibrant capital and it's not hard to see why. The world’s most populous metropolis, Tokyo offers tradition and innovation, and unlimited opportunities to eat, shop and explore.
Located on Tokyo Bay in the Kanto region of Honshu, Tokyo is known for its fashion and shopping, from the trendy shopping districts of Harajuku and Shibuya, to the luxury flagships of Ginza. Want to know where to go? Shinjuku is a thriving business district; a mix of gleaming skyscrapers and atmospheric back streets with tiny bars. Asakusa is the heart of Tokyo’s downtown, with ancient temples and traditional stores.
Tokyo is a foodie's paradise too, with more Michelin-starred restaurants than any other city in the world, along with hundreds of cheap and delicious ramen shops. You'll want to explore Tokyo's dizzying array of restaurant and dining options, from theme cafes to haute cuisine.
2
Japanese Alps
MIXAGetty Images
The Japanese Alps are a series of spectacular mountain ranges in central Honshu, which are perfect for those who wish to escape the buzz of the country's most popular cities. Think thick pine forests, snow-tipped peaks and teal rivers. Only two hours from Tokyo, this natural paradise offers an excellent place to explore rural Japan.
The Alps are just the place for climbers, skiers, hikers and nature fans. Yamanaka Onsen is set in the mountainous area of Kaga Onsen, situated along a beautiful gorge and boasts traditional crafts, as well as wellness with its Yamanaka lacquerware (which has a 400-year history in the region). You can discover the contemplative heart of Zen Buddhism's Soto sect at Eiheiji (pictured), a massive temple complex just outside the city of Fukui. Built by the Buddhist monk Dogen (1200-1253), it has over 70 buildings set amid cedars in the mountains.
Meanwhile, the city of Kanazawa offers rich cultural heritage and a history of artistic innovation and excellence. One of the most important centres for culture and art during the Edo period, it remains a superb place for art lovers and culture enthusiasts.
KANAZAWA HOTELS
3
Kyoto
Peter AdamsGetty Images
Ancient temples, traditional teahouses and peaceful gardens - Kyoto is all about exploring historic Japan. A city of nearly 2,000 temples and shrines, it's Japan's spiritual heart and a true embodiment of Old Japan. Beyond the futuristic Kyoto Station, modern shopping complexes and sleek luxury hotels lie a city with celebrated centuries-old wonders, breathtaking temples and serene Zen gardens.
Kyoto effortlessly blends the past and present and is a must-see destination for history buffs, art lovers and outdoor enthusiasts.
While here, you'll want to visit the grand temples, shrines, palaces and gardens in and around the city. Be sure to dine on delicious multi-course kaiseki cuisine and stay in refined traditional ryokan, too.
4
Hiroshima
ThananGetty Images
The vibrant city of Hiroshima has a complicated history, great food and friendly locals. While it's probably most famous for being devastated by a nuclear attack during World War II, Hiroshima as a city promotes peace and understanding.
Every year on 6 August, a memorial service is held to commemorate the victims of the 1945 attack. Thousands write messages of peace on paper lanterns that are lit at sunset to float down the river past the iconic remains of the Atomic Bomb Dome.
During a visit, be sure to check out the Peace Park and Atomic Bomb Dome. You should also taste Hiroshima's version of okomiyaki, a local delicacy. Another highlight is going to nearby Miyajima for the deer and picturesque floating shrine.
HIROSHIMA HOTELS
5
Tohoku
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Japan's Tohoku region is home to unspoiled rural landscapes and historical treasures. This northeastern wilderness is a huge region encompassing six rural prefectures that boast custom and heritage. The devastating earthquake and tsunami that struck in 2011 brought out the resilient nature of Tohoku's people, and local passion and pride are putting the area back on its feet.
There's a lot to be proud of - dramatic landscapes, history-rich sites, craft sake and a host of outdoor activities like rafting, hiking and skiing.
During a trip to the region, you can enjoy the explosive sound, colour and drama of the Aomori Nebuta Festival in summer. Or wander the temples, gardens and archeological sites of World Heritage-listed Hiraizumi in Iwate.
Don't miss an adventure along Hachinohe's section of the Michinoku Coastal Trail and foodies will want to taste the sweet cherries of Yamagata and the juicy peaches of Fukushima.
TOHOKU HOTELS
6
Shikoku
Hào Si Xu Hè / EyeEmGetty Images
Shikoku might be the smallest of Japan's four main islands, but there are plenty of natural and culture sites to explore. Traditionally remote, Shikoku is now easy to access from Honshu.
The island offers picturesque coastline on the glittering Seto Inland Sea, legendary udon noodles and picture-perfect onsen. Its stunning Iya Valley, Pacific coastline and free-flowing rivers are best explored on hiking, kayaking and surfboarding adventures.
While here, you can sample the famous udon noodles of Kagawa, take the first steps of the 88 Temple Pilgrimage at temple number one, Ryozenji, in Tokushima, and relax in the hot waters of Dogo Onsen.
SHIKOKU HOTELS
7
Hokkaido
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Hokkaido is a popular destination for skiing and snowboarding in winter, thanks to top resorts like Niseko, Rusutsu and Furano. Sapporo, its main city, is also famous for beer, ramen and the annual Sapporo Snow Festival. It's not all about winter fun here, though.
Hokkaido’s mild summers also provide relief from Japan’s humidity, and offer ideal conditions for hiking and exploring the many national parks. Much of Hokkaido is wild and unspoiled, with hot springs and volcanic lakes, so you're never too far from nature.
While here, explore the culture and traditions of the indigenous Ainu people at Lake Akan, and journey to the Shiretoko Peninsula to see free-roaming brown bears, foxes and deer. Visiting in the summer? Enjoy the rolling hills of Furano's lavender farms. Foodies will love dining on fresh seafood including succulent crab, salmon and fresh sushi in Hokkaido, too.
HOKKAIDO HOTELS
FAQs
Is Japan Open for tourist this 2022? ›
As of September 26 2022, Japan's border is open to international tourists so long as they have had at least three COVID-19 vaccinations or undergo a PCR test prior to travel, agree to follow COVID protocols including social distancing and wearing face masks in confined spaces and book their travel package – including ...
Is Japan reopening by May 2022? ›Japan finally reopened its borders to independent foreign travelers and reintroduced visa-free entry from October 11, 2022. Read about coronavirus manners in Japan.
Can you visit Japan right now? ›Individual tourists may visit Japan starting October 11, 2022, subject to vaccine or testing requirements as further described in the U.S. Embassy's “Information for U.S. Citizens Traveling to Japan” webpage. Tourists with U.S. passports no longer need a visa to stay up to three months.
Is Japan safe for tourism? ›Japan has a low crime rate. Petty theft can happen, like bag snatching at popular tourist attractions. There's a risk of crime in bars and nightclubs. Crimes include overcharging, credit card fraud, drink spiking and assault.
What is the best month to go to Japan? ›The best time to visit Japan is during spring (March to May) and fall (September to November). This is when Japan is at its most vibrant, with delicate cherry blossom or bright red leaves adding contrast to the scenery. Remember, it can also be very crowded at this time.
Do US citizens need a visa for Japan? ›Visa Free Travel for U.S. Citizen Tourists
Beginning October 11, 2022, individual tourists may visit Japan. At that time, tourists with U.S. passports will no longer need visas for short-term visits (up to three months).
UPDATE: The Japanese government announced on May 26, 2022, that Japan will reopen for tourists visiting on packaged tours starting June 10, 2022. Here's a quick breakdown of the details: Only tourists on packaged tours are allowed from June 10.
Can US citizens travel to Japan? ›Situation Summary. Japan is open! Visa-free, independent travel is now possible for most nationalities. Covid vaccine proof will NOT be required for travelers from “blue” countries.
When did Japan open to the world? ›On July 8, 1853, American Commodore Matthew Perry led his four ships into the harbor at Tokyo Bay, seeking to re-establish for the first time in over 200 years regular trade and discourse between Japan and the western world.
Which countries can enter Japan without visa? ›| Country | Country | Country |
|---|---|---|
| Denmark* | Dominican Republic | El Salvador |
| Estonia* | Finland* | France* |
| Germany* | Guatemala | Greece* |
| Honduras | Hong Kong^^ | Hungary* |
How long does it take to get a visa to Japan? ›
The time required from visa application to visa issuance is 5 working days from the day following the date of receipt of the application, provided that there is no particular problem with the content of application. It may take lesser time depending on the Embassy/Consulate General and the purpose of visit.
Is Japan an expensive country? ›Every year, more and more tourists take Japan as their destination of choice, but Japan is certainly not a cheap place to visit, especially compared to the rest of Asia. In fact, it is one of the most expensive Asian countries , but this doesn't need to discourage you! Prices are high, but so is the quality of service.
Is Japan safer than America? ›What is the safest country? Japan or USA? Japan is safer than the United States, Canada and Europe. The highest murder rate is in El Salvador: 64.4 per 100,000 people.
Is it safe to walk alone at night in Japan? ›Crime. Although Japan is considered a very safe destination for tourists, you should still use your common sense to avoid trouble. We recommend a few simple precautions to keep you safe on your travels: Avoid going out by yourself at night to quiet or unlit areas, especially when you don't know your way around.
Why is crime in Japan so low? ›The cultural explanation is simplistic. Explaining low crime with culture is to say that collectivist traits like group-orientation, inclination towards harmony, and high self-control are why the Japanese do not murder, assault, and steal from each other as much as others in different countries.
How many days in Japan is enough? ›Ten days is enough for a first timer, but you could easily stretch this itinerary to two weeks in Japan if you have a few extra days, or skip one or two places if you only have a week there.
How much money does it cost to take a trip to Japan? ›The average price of a 7-day trip to Japan is $1,659 for a solo traveler, $2,690 for a couple, and $1,913 for a family of 4. Japan hotels range from $62 to $304 per night with an average of $105, while most vacation rentals will cost $140 to $520 per night for the entire home.
What month is the cheapest to fly to Japan? ›High season is considered to be June and July. The cheapest month to fly to Japan is November. Enter your preferred departure airport and travel dates into the search form above to unlock the latest Japan flight deals.
Is it rude to leave food on your plate in Japan? ›Don't leave food behind. It's considered bad manners to leave even grains of rice behind, so be sure to clean your plate! If there are some foods you cannot eat, ask to have them left out of the dish. Do use the opposite end of chopsticks to pick up food from a shared dish.
Can you move to Japan without a job? ›Keep in mind that U.S. citizens cannot work without a work visa; it's against the law. So unless you're planning to live off of your savings, you'll want to talk to your closest Japanese embassy about getting a work visa and making sure you're good to go for employment.
How much bank balance is required for Japan visa? ›
Stayed in Japan for 8 days, at least 50,000 balance in bank certificate. Applied for 15 days max – at least Php 70,000 available balance.
Is Japan open to independent tourists? ›What are the latest Japan travel restrictions? Following Japan's decision last month to drop pre-departure testing, the Japanese government is now allowing travellers to visit Japan without booking a guided tour or using a travel agency. In other words, a free-roaming backpacking trip around Japan is now on the cards!
How can I get Japan visa? ›- Contact the Japanese Embassy/Consulate to make an appointment for the submission of the application. ...
- Gather the required documents for a Japan visa (see them below)
- Submit the documents at the Embassy/Consulate or the travel agency.
- Wait for the visa to be processed.
You must have a valid passport and an onward/return ticket for tourist/business "visa free" stays of up to 90 days. Your passport must be valid for the entire time you are staying in Japan. You cannot work on a 90-day "visa free" entry.
How do you become a citizen in Japan? ›The person must have been domiciled in Japan for five years or more consecutively and must have had a valid status of residence throughout the prescribed period of time. The person must be 20 years of age or more, and of full capacity to act according to the law of his/her home country.
How do I get a visa for Japan in 2022? ›- Hold a valid passport with at least 6 months remaining and 2 blank pages.
- A completed visa application form.
- Provide a recent color passport photo and a certified copy of your birth certificate.
- If married, submit a marriage certificate (if issued within the last year.
Following Japan's decision last month to drop pre-departure testing, the Japanese government is now allowing travellers to visit Japan without booking a guided tour.
What is Japan's real name? ›Historians say the Japanese called their country Yamato in its early history, and they began using Nippon around the seventh century. Nippon and Nihon are used interchangeably as the country's name.
What is special about Japan? ›Japan is known worldwide for its traditional arts, including tea ceremonies, calligraphy and flower arranging. The country has a legacy of distinctive gardens, sculpture and poetry. Japan is home to more than a dozen UNESCO World Heritage sites and is the birthplace of sushi, one of its most famous culinary exports.
What is Japan famous for? ›Japan is famous for natural sights like cherry blossoms and Mount Fuji, cutting-edge technology like Japanese cars and bullet trains, wacky inventions like karaoke and vending machines, cultural values like politeness and punctuality, popular anime and manga, and mouth-watering food like ramen and sushi.
Can I stay in Japan for a year? ›
Most statuses of residence allow you to stay in Japan for a period between three months and five years. If you wish to stay longer, you must apply for an extension at an immigration bureau inside Japan before the expiry date of your current residence permission.
How long can you stay in Japan with a visa? ›If you will be staying longer than 90 days with an appropriate visa, you must register your address with your residence's municipal office and obtain a Resident Card (“Zairyu Card”) from regional immigration offices.
Can I visit family in Japan? ›1) Inviting Family Members to Japan. Family members can visit Japan on a Temporary Visitor Visa if they will stay in Japan for less than 3 months. If their passport is issued by a country or region that has a Visa Exemption arrangement with Japan, they do not have to obtain a temporary visitor visa beforehand.
How can I permanently move to Japan? ›- You have been living in Japan for a sufficient period of time. ...
- You display good conduct. ...
- You can support yourself financially. ...
- You have paid Income Tax and other contributions in Japan.
| Type of Visa | Fees | |
|---|---|---|
| Single Entry Visa | $28 | |
| Double and Multiple Entry Visa | $56 | |
| Transit Visa (Including Double-Entry Transit) | $6 | |
| Indian Passport Holder | Single, Double, and Multiple Entry Visa | $8 |
...
Hardest countries to get a visa
- China.
- Russia.
- Saudi Arabia.
- Bhutan.
- Pakistan.
- Nigeria.
- Turkmenistan.
- Iran.
A.
The average monthly salary for employees in Japan can range from approximately 130,000 JPY (1,128 USD) to 2,300,000 JPY (19,963 USD). Note: The upper range of salaries is the highest average and not the maximum salary Japanese people earn.
Dinner: 2000 yen (about US$18) should do you on the more budget conscious end. Open your wallet wide for big beef or luxo sushi. To sum it all up, when formulating a budget for one day of meals in Japan, the average traveler can set aside about 4,000 yen to 5,000 yen a day without alcohol.
How much is a meal in Japan? ›| Meal in a cheap restaurant | 900 JPY (560-1,300) |
|---|---|
| Meal for 2 People, Mid-range Restaurant, Three-course | 4,900 JPY (3,000-9,000) |
| McMeal at McDonalds (or Equivalent Combo Meal) | 700 JPY (600-800) |
| Domestic Beer (0.5 liter draught) | 450 JPY (250-800) |
| Imported Beer (0.33 liter bottle) | 545 JPY (300-900) |
The most frequently occurring crime in the nation has continued to be theft, making up more than 70 percent of the recorded cases.
What's the safest country in the world? ›
Iceland. According to the Global Peace Index, Iceland is the safest country in the world for the 14th year in a row. Iceland is a Nordic nation with a relatively small population of 340,000.
Do Japanese police carry guns? ›Major universities have rifle clubs, and Japanese police are armed, but gun ownership rights have been a distant issue for decades. Even police rarely resort to firing their pistols.
Is Japan safe for girls? ›In regards to serious offenses such as rape and murder, Japan can be considered an extremely safe country with low crime rates.
Are there large predators in Japan? ›Japan's largest wild mammal comes in two colors: the Ussuri (or Ezo) brown bear and the Asian black bear. Native to Hokkaido, the Ussuri brown bear is considered the most ferocious of the pair.
How many murders a year in Japan? ›The police in Japan recorded 874 murder cases in 2021.
Is it expensive to live in Japan? ›Living in Japan is about three times as expensive as living in the US. Living costs in the main cities are significantly higher than in the more rural side. Japan is in the top 10 of the most expensive countries to live in.
Is abortion legal in Japan? ›Abortions in Japan are available according to the conditions of the Maternal Protection Law, and up to 21 weeks and 6 days of pregnancy (in other words, within 21 weeks and 6 days after the start of the last menstrual period). After 22 weeks, abortions cannot be conducted in Japan unless it is medically necessary.
Is Japan Open June 2022? ›UPDATE: The Japanese government announced on May 26, 2022, that Japan will reopen for tourists visiting on packaged tours starting June 10, 2022. Here's a quick breakdown of the details: Only tourists on packaged tours are allowed from June 10.
How can I travel to Japan from Philippines 2022? ›- Passport with at least six months' validity.
- Valid Japan tourist visa.
- Negative RT-PCR test result taken within 72 hours before departure and uploaded here. ...
- Health insurance with COVID-19 coverage.
Absolutely! Students were welcomed back into Japan as of fall 2022. If you plan to study in Japan, you must be fully vaccinated against COVID and follow current entry requirements.
When did Japan open its borders to the West? ›
On July 8, 1853, American Commodore Matthew Perry led his four ships into the harbor at Tokyo Bay, seeking to re-establish for the first time in over 200 years regular trade and discourse between Japan and the western world.
Can US citizens travel to Japan? ›Situation Summary. Japan is open! Visa-free, independent travel is now possible for most nationalities. Covid vaccine proof will NOT be required for travelers from “blue” countries.
Is Japan open to independent tourists? ›What are the latest Japan travel restrictions? Following Japan's decision last month to drop pre-departure testing, the Japanese government is now allowing travellers to visit Japan without booking a guided tour or using a travel agency. In other words, a free-roaming backpacking trip around Japan is now on the cards!
How can I get Japan visa? ›- Contact the Japanese Embassy/Consulate to make an appointment for the submission of the application. ...
- Gather the required documents for a Japan visa (see them below)
- Submit the documents at the Embassy/Consulate or the travel agency.
- Wait for the visa to be processed.
Stayed in Japan for 8 days, at least 50,000 balance in bank certificate. Applied for 15 days max – at least Php 70,000 available balance.
How much is a 10 day trip to Japan? ›...
How much does it cost to go to Japan for 2 weeks?
| P1,200 〜 | TOTAL | |
|---|---|---|
| 1. TOURIST VISA MULITIPLE VISA | (max 90 days) | 1,200.00 |
| 1,500.00 | ||
| 2. VISITING FRIENDS/RELATIVES (beyond 3rd) | (max 90 days) | 2,000.00 |
| 3. VISITING RELATIVES - up to 3rd | (max 90 days) | 2,000.00 |
Q: Is there an age limit for getting a student visa? There's no strict limit but if you're middle-aged or older (over 30 years old) your reason for studying Japanese and your school history will be more carefully evaluated.
Can you visit Japan without a tour group? ›Following Japan's decision last month to drop pre-departure testing, the Japanese government is now allowing travellers to visit Japan without booking a guided tour.
Do you need a visa to go to school in Japan? ›A student visa is official permission by a foreign government to live and study in that country. All U.S. passport holders studying in Japan for more than 90 days must obtain a student visa prior to departure.
What is Japan's real name? ›
Historians say the Japanese called their country Yamato in its early history, and they began using Nippon around the seventh century. Nippon and Nihon are used interchangeably as the country's name.
What is the best place to visit in Japan? ›- Tokyo. Best for contemporary culture. ...
- Kyoto. Best for traditional experiences. ...
- Naoshima. Best for architecture. ...
- Mt Fuji. Best for views and pilgrimages. ...
- Hiroshima. Best for being reflective. ...
- Yakushima. Best for forest bathing. ...
- Koya-san. Best for exploring temples. ...
- Okinawa and the Southern Islands.
Growing commerce between America and China, the presence of American whalers in waters off Japan, and the increasing monopolization of potential coaling stations by European colonial powers in Asia were all contributing factors in the decision by President Fillmore to dispatch an expedition to Japan.