Japan is one of the most uniquely exciting countries to visit in the world, from the gorgeous views at Mt. Fuji, to the wonder and beaty of the cherry blossoms, and the fun-filled adventures that can heal the soul of every anime and Disney lover out there.
There’s a wide range of things to do in Japan and places to see, but which ones should be on top of your list? Planning everything can be tough, but we got you covered!
When is the best time to go to Japan?
Japan has a variety of weather conditions, perfect for any traveler in any season but we highly recommend visiting in the Spring from March to May to see the cherry blossoms in full bloom or during the winter months from December to February to see the snow-capped Mt. Fuji in all its glory.
You can also try visiting in the summer, from June to September for awesome local festivals (matsuri) from Aomori to Tokushima. Other than cultural festivals, this is the time when Japan’s famous music festivals like Fuji Rock Festival in July and Summer Sonic in August are held. While these are the best times to visit Japan, there are also not-so-ideal times to go like during Golden Week.
Golden Week & other worst times to visit Japan
Golden Week is something to definitely look forward to (if you're a local), but for first-timers, it can mean squeezed subways and sold-out tickets. Think of it as Japan's super-vacation, best enjoyed from afar (or by booking way, way ahead). Golden Week typically happens from the end of April to early May, this is when locals look forward to a string of consecutive non-working holidays, so you can expect popular spots to be more filled than usual.
No matter what season you choose, Japan has much to offer first-time visitors all year round.
What is the best way to get around in Japan?
Japan's rail system is famous for its efficiency and convenience. Not only does it connect you to famous spots around major cities, but its bullet train systems can also connect you to awesome tourist attractions all across the country.
The Japan Rail Pass is a cost-effective option that gives visitors seamless access to nearly all of the country’s extensive transportation networks.
With the JR Pass, you get access to a wide range of benefits, including:
- Unlimited access to certain bullet train lines, Rapid trains, Local trains, Limited Express trains, Express trains, and some buses in the Bus Rapid Transit (BRT) network.
- Available airport transfers for express trains like Narita Airport’s Narita Express, Haneda Airport’s Monorail, and Kansai International Airport’s Haruka Limited Express.
- Free worldwide delivery for the Exchange Voucher.
Klook Tip: Make sure to book your JR Pass at least two weeks before your flight, so you can get your Exchange Voucher in time. You can read more about it with our JR Pass Guide.
If you enjoy biking, you'll be happy to hear that another popular mode of transportation in Japan is by bicycle. Many cities have bike rental services available to give you more time, freedom, and fresh air to sightsee. If you’re worried about safety, Japan is known for its well-maintained and safe bike paths, you'll even see a number of locals biking with their children in an attached seat!
Tokyo destinations for first-time Japan travelers
You might be overwhelmed with the many things to see and do in Japan but don't be! For starters, you should visit Tokyo, the country's capital and a must-visit for many first-timers like yourself. Tokyo offers a thrilling introduction to the country, a bustling metropolis that's packed with endless activities, from delicious food to unique cultural experiences.
Here are a couple of ideas for places to go and things to do to add to your Japan itinerary:
Immersive Fort Tokyo
For a first-timer in Japan, you're super lucky cause you can check out the newly opened, as of writing, Immersive Fort Tokyo for an exciting and unique theme park experience! The complex has up to 12 impressive and interactive indoor attractions and features attractions such as a virtual reality roller coaster, escape rooms, and even haunted houses. It's the perfect place for thrill-seekers looking to get their adrenaline pumping for their first time in Japan.
Venus Fort Mall in Odaiba is now home to Immersive Fort Tokyo
How to Get There:
- By the Yurikamome Line: Take the Yruikamome line and reach Shimabashi Station, you can use the Unlimited Tokyo Subway Ticket. Once you reach Shimbashi Station, purchase a separate or stand-alone ticket to be able to get on the Yurikamome to Daiba Station (as of writing, it will only cost you JPY 330).
- By the Rinkai Line: The Rinkai Line offers a direct route from Shinjuku or Shibuya to Odaiba, where Immersive Fort Tokyo is. From Shinjuku Station or Shibuya Station, you can take the JR Saikyo Line that goes to the Rinkai Line then get off at Tokyo-Teleport Station (as of writing, a one-way ride will cost you JPY 510-520). If you have the JR TOKYO Wide Pass, this route is included!
teamLab Planets Tokyo
Spend a day immersed in the extraordinary world of digital art at teamLab Planets Tokyo. This one-of-a-kind museum for digital arts offers sensory experiences and imaginative landscapes across four sprawling exhibitions.
From a giant crystal chandelier made of 1.8 million LED lights to a digital waterfall you can walk through, teamLab Planets Tokyo will take your breath away as teamLab invites you into a unique art realm, emphasizing exploration and discovery.
How to Get There:
teamLab Planets in Tokyo is next to Shin-Toyosu Station, which is just about a 10-minute walk from Toyosu Fish Market.
Japan's Gardens & Leisurely Walks
Photo credit: Josh Wilburne (@joshwilburne) on Unsplash
After the immersive experience, you can take a stroll through the beautiful parks and gardens of Japan, such as Shinjuku Gyoen National Garden or Yoyogi Park. Japan's gardens are peaceful oases in the city and are perfect for relaxation and reflection. You can also grab a bite to eat at one of the countless restaurants in the area, serving a variety of traditional and modern Japanese cuisine.
Tokyo Disney
If you’re a big fan of Disney, then Tokyo Disney is definitely one of the best places for you to visit. With two Disney theme parks - Tokyo Disneyland and DisneySea - all in one spot, alongside hotels, shops, restaurants, and more, this resort offers a wide range of wonderful experiences for Disney lovers of all ages to enjoy.
Some of the top things to do at Tokyo Disneyland include rides likes:
- Space Mountain
- The Haunted Mansion
- It’s a Small World
- Splash Mountain
- Tokyo Disneyland’s Electrical Parade Dreamlights
Meanwhile, some of the most exciting attractions at Tokyo DisneySea include:
- Aquatopia
- Nemo & Friends’ SeaRider
- 20,000 Leagues Under the Sea
- DisneySea’s Transit Steamer Line
You can also download the Tokyo Disney Resort app to map out your trip and make advanced reservations for restaurants and other park experiences.
How to Get There:
- By Train: Take the JR Keiyo Line or Musashino Line to Maihama Station. Tokyo Disneyland and Tokyo DisneySea are just a short walk from the station.
- By Bus: Various bus routes connect Tokyo Disney Resort with neighboring areas. Look for buses heading to Maihama Station.
Tokyo's Historic Landmarks
More than just modern sights, Japan also boasts a rich history and culture. Make sure to visit the many historic landmarks, temples, and castles scattered across the city.
Take a trip to the Imperial Palace in Chiyoda and witness the grandeur of Japan’s imperial family. Or visit the iconic Sensoji Temple in Asakusa, one of Tokyo’s oldest Buddhist temples steeped in tradition and beauty.
How to Get There:
- By Train: Take the Tokyo Metro or Toei Subway to Otemachi Station. From there, it's a short walk to the Imperial Palace.
- By Bus: Several bus routes serve the area around the Imperial Palace. Look for buses heading to the Imperial Palace East Gardens or Nijubashi Bridge.
There are also iconic destinations such as Meiji Shrine, the traditional Asakusa district with its towering Sensoji Temple, and the sprawling Ueno Park.
How to Get There:
- By Train: Take the JR Yamanote Line or Tokyo Metro to Harajuku Station. From there, it's a short walk to Meiji Shrine.
- By Bus: Several bus routes serve the area around Meiji Shrine. Look for buses heading to Meiji Jingu.
Where to Stay in Tokyo
Photo Credit: Freeman Zhou on Unsplash
First-timers to the country will also love Tokyo for its colorful neighborhoods that boast both modern, futuristic feels and traditional Old Japan vibes.
The city is huge; it comprises 23 Special Wards, 26 cities, five towns, and eight villages. The Special Wards (or tokubetsu-ku in Japanese) are similar to boroughs in New York, and you’ll probably spend most of your time here since major tourist areas and central business districts are within their borders.
Staying within the city center is always a good idea for international visitors, so here’s a rundown of some of Tokyo’s most popular districts:
1. Shinjuku
At the heart of Tokyo lies Shinjuku, a lively area with plenty of shopping, dining, and entertainment options. With its neon signages and towering glass buildings, it almost looks straight out of a cyberpunk film. Home to the world’s busiest train station, it is well-connected via public transportation to other districts in Tokyo and beyond. If you love a thriving nightlife scene and proximity to transport, Shinjuku is the place for you.
2. Shibuya
Shibuya is another popular place to stay in Tokyo because of how close it is to popular spots like the iconic Shibuya Crossing and mega shopping center Shibuya 109. Plus, you’ll be near Shibuya Station, which easily connects you to other major spots in the city.
3. Akihabara
Photo Credit: James Butterly on Unsplash
Also known as Akiba, Akihabara is a haven for Japanese pop culture lovers — especially if you’re into anime, manga, and games. There are also plenty of stores that sell tech gadgets and other electronics! If you’re looking for a place to stay that’s less than an hour away from Shibuya, Shinjuku, and Ginza, Akihabara is a place well worth considering.
4. Ginza
Home to the world’s biggest luxury brands, Ginza is an upscale district known for its premier shopping options. If you’re looking to shop ‘til you drop on designer goods, this is a great place to start. The best part? Ginza is just one stop away from Tokyo Station! Since it’s still within the city center, other major locations are easily accessible from here.
Worth-It Destinations Outside Tokyo, Japan
While Tokyo sights can already fill up your itinerary, there are also many other beautiful and culturally rich cities to explore in Japan like Mt. Fuji, Kyoto, and Osaka.
Day Trip to Mt. Fuji
If you have an additional day to explore, you can go on a relaxing day trip to Mt. Fuji — a must-visit destination for any visitor. Located just two hours from Tokyo, this iconic mountain stands at over 12,000 feet and offers breathtaking views from its summit, and is a majestic view on its own. If you have even more time, you could try glamping! You can read more about it in our 3D2N Tokyo to Mount Fuji Itinerary.
🏕️Glamping near Mt. Fuji
+ all come with car rentals
There are many tours and experiences where they'll take you to see the towering Mt. Fuji up close or from a stunning vantage point, there are also many picturesque spots in the surrounding area. If you want a more relaxing experience, take a trip to the hot springs of nearby Hakone for a relaxing soak with stunning views of Mt. Fuji in the background.
As Mount Fuji is a natural landmark, there is no specific time when it is open or contact information available. But there are multiple Mt. Fuji trips, so you just have to choose which one suits you best:
Kyoto temples and shrines
Consider taking a day trip or overnight trip to Kyoto, the former capital of Japan known for its stunning temples and traditional Japanese gardens.
You can easily take a bullet train to Kyoto and explore all the temples and shrines in this historic city. Get lost amid the orange gates of the Fushimi Inari Shrine, the manicured gardens of the Kinkakuji Golden Pavilion, and the UNESCO World Heritage site at Kiyomizu-dera Temple.
Nara Park
Photo Credit: Jekaterina Berkovich on Adobe Stock
The polite and adorable deer at Nara Park is a treat for any first-time tourist in Tokyo. Nara Park is a vast, scenic park home to over 1,200 wild deer that roam freely around the area.
These friendly creatures are considered sacred by locals and visitors alike, making them an important part of Japan’s cultural heritage.
Visitors can purchase special crackers to feed the deer or take photos as they explore the beautiful temples and shrines within the park grounds. With its peaceful atmosphere and stunning natural scenery, Nara Park is a must-visit for anyone looking for a unique and memorable experience in Tokyo.
Sightseeing in Osaka
Photo Credit: @daiki442 on Instagram
After Kyoto and Nara, Osaka should be next on your itinerary. Begin your Osaka adventure by heading straight to the elegant and historic Osaka Castle.
The grounds of Osaka Castle are a beauty on its own, its vast area and attention to the finest details that you can see even from their street lamps, it's truly something you have to experience for yourself. If you're looking for even more gorgeous views to go to in Osaka, you can check out the Umeda Sky Building, one of Osaka’s tallest buildings.
Universal Studios Japan in Osaka
You can't forget Universal Studios Japan! From SUPER NINTENDO WORLD™ to Jurassic Park and more, you can enjoy a thrilling and busy adventure at this world-famous theme park.
You can explore familiar landscapes from these iconic games and even ride on exciting attractions like Mario Kart: Koopa's Challenge or Yoshi's Adventure. Don't forget to also try out interactive experiences like the Power Up Bands that allow you to collect coins and compete with other park guests.
Take a ride on the thrilling Jurassic Park – The Ride or enjoy a relaxing boat tour through the scenic landscape. You also shouldn't miss out on getting up close and personal with animatronic dinosaurs at the Raptor Encounter.
There are also a bunch of unique treats like a Minion-shaped steamed bun or Butterbeer from The Wizarding World of Harry Potter™ to cap off the day.
Travel in Japan with Ease
First-time travelers have so much to look forward to when it comes to exploring the whole of Japan. Remember these essential tips as you plan your adventure with Klook:
- Be specific about when you want to go. By finding the best time for your travel needs and being detailed about the duration of your trip, you’ll get to plan your activities without any worries about the weather or the local climate.
- Craft your Japan itinerary carefully. Once you know how long you intend to stay in the country, you can decide what activities to include in your detailed itinerary.
- Make the most out of awesome discounts and deals. Book all your tickets in advance to ensure the most rewarding deals and exciting travel experiences. You can book on Klook via the mobile app or website anywhere, any time, and with your preferred mode of payment and currency.
How to stay connected in Japan
If you’re wondering what your options are for WiFi access when in Japan, one of the most popular choices now is a Japan eSim. If you’ve never used an eSim before, they work exactly like a traditional SIM card — except you don’t have to swap a physical object in and out of your phone. You can easily activate them on your device or the Klook app even before you land in the country. The best part of all? You can skip insane international roaming charges and other hidden fees since they come in prepaid packages.
If your device is not eSim-compatible, you can check out physical SIM cards and pocket WiFi devices instead.
Frequently Asked Questions
How many days are enough for Japan?
To make the most of your long-haul flight, ideally, you'd want to spend at least more than a week! 2-3 weeks for a good overview to explore popular cities like Tokyo and Osaka, you'll even have time for day trips like Tokyo to Mt. Fuji or Osaka to Kyoto. 10-14 days if you want to dive deeper into regions beyond major cities, or more specific places you have in mind wherein you'd like to spend more time exploring.
Do I need a visa to travel to Japan?
For US citizens, they typically don't need a visa for stays under 90 days. You can double-check with the U.S. Embassy in Japan via their official website.
What documents do I need to enter Japan?
You'll need your valid passport with at least 6 months remaining validity and a return flight ticket.
Should I get a Japan Rail Pass?
Getting a Japan Rail Pass, or JR Pass, will depend on your itinerary. The JR Pass is cost-effective if you plan on going to several regions, several times (talk about an epic adventure!) but if you're mostly staying in Tokyo and want to have out of town trips here and there, you can instead opt for single-journey or point-to-point tickets.
Do I need to speak Japanese to travel in Japan?
While knowing some basic Japanese phrases is helpful, you can get by in most tourist areas with English. Many signs and menus are translated, and locals are generally patient with tourists.
What are some important cultural norms in Japan?
For Americans, please don't tip! Not only isn't it practiced but it can also be rude. Other cultural norms to take note of are understanding basic etiquette like bowing, taking off shoes indoors, and proper use of chopsticks is highly appreciated.
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