Japan Rail Pass Now - Japan Travel Guide

table of contents 

Country Overview 3 

- Overview 4 

- 5 Reasons You’ll Love Travelling to Japan 8 

- Map of Japan 10 

Top 20 Experiences 11 

General Information 16 

- Accommodation 17 

- Basics 20 

- Costs and Budgets 24 

- Cultural Tips and Courtesy 27 

- Japanese Phrases While Travelling 29 

- Luggage and Luggage Services 34 

- Transportation + Guide to Japanese IC cards 35 

- How to Travel by Train 41 

- What to Pack 44 

- Internet and Mobile Advice 46 

Travel Guides: 48 

- Tokyo Travel Guide 49 

- Kyoto Travel Guide 58 

- Osaka Travel Guide 66 

- Yokohama Travel Guide 69 

- Hiroshima Travel Guide 72 

- Nara Travel Guide 76 

- Takayama Travel Guide 79 

- Fukuoka Travel Guide 82 

- Kobe Travel Guide 85 

- Nagoya Travel Guide 88 

- Kamakura Travel Guide 91 

- Sendai Travel Guide 94 

- Sapporo Travel Guide 97 

- Okinawa Travel Guide 100 

- Nikko Travel Guide 102 

- Nagano Travel Guide 105 

- Nagasaki Travel Guide 107 

- Hakone Travel Guide 109 

- Kagoshima Travel Guide 112 

- Kanazawa Travel Guide 114 

Sample Itineraries 117 

- 7 Day Pass – Japan Essentials Itinerary 118 

- 7 Day Pass – Basic Itinerary 121 

- 7 Day Pass – Autumn Country Itinerary 124 

- 7 Day Pass – Cherry Blossoms Delights Itinerary 128 

- 7 Day Pass – Travel with Kids Itinerary 132 

- 14 Day Pass – East to South Itinerary 135 

- 14 Day Pass – Off The Beaten Track Itinerary 139 

- 14 Day Pass – Honeymoon Itinerary 144 

- 14 Day Pass – Cherry Blossom Best of the West Itinerary 149 

- 14 Day Pass – Active Itinerary 154 

- 14 Day Pass - Summer Adventure Itinerary 158 

- 14 Day Pass – Winter Explorer Itinerary 163 

- 21 Day Pass – Discover Japan by Rail Itinerary 168 

Experiences 175 

- Amusement Parks 176 

- Castles 179 

- Cherry Blossom 181 

- Festivals 184 

- Food and Drinks + 7 Snacks to Try 187 

- Gardens 192 

- Historical Sites 195 

- Manga and Anime 198 

- Museums 200 

- Nightlife 203 

- Onsen 205 

- Shopping + Must Buy Souvenirs 208 

- Shrines 211 

- Skiing 213 

- Snow 215 

- Temples 217 

Learn 220 

- Brief History of Japan 221 

- Bullet Train & History 223 

- Climate 228 

- Culture 230 

- Geography 235 

- People 237 

- Religion 239 

- Sports 242 

- The Geisha 244 

- Traditional Accommodation 246 

2 - Japan Travel Guide

Country 

Overview 


Overview 

Japan is an archipelago of nearly 7000 islands nestled in the Pacific Ocean in Northeast Asia. It has an area of 380,000 square kilometres, 

making it roughly the same size as Germany, and its population is about 127 million. 

It’s one of the world’s top tourist destinations, consistently drawing several million visitors from across the globe each year to see its 

attractions and experience its culture. There’s something for everyone. It has an abundance of ancient shrines temples and castles, along 

with world-class ski resorts, a vibrant shopping and nightlife scene, enticing and delectable cuisine, and many other fun and exciting 

attractions. 

Culture 

The Japanese culture dates back two thousand years and is rich and diverse. Today, it is a mixture of those traditions and other Japanese, 

Chinese, Korean, and Western influences accumulated over time. The political, economic, and social changes that Japan has undergone during 

its ancient, classical, medieval, and modern periods has helped mould its contemporary culture. Japanese people are known for being polite, 

friendly, and hardworking. 

Japan has revolutionised aspects of modern living. It is globally acclaimed for its: 

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Highly efficient transportation network (particularly the Shinkansen); 

Unwavering music, film, and entertainment industry (kabuki, bunraku, anime); 


Overview 

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Sports (sumo, baseball, martial arts); 

Mouth-watering cuisine; 

Important contributions to arts and literature (poetry, manga, essays, novels), as well as science and technology (automotive, robotics, 

aeronautics, electronics). 

Popular Cities 

Tokyo 

Tokyo is the capital of Japan, and the most populous city in the world. In the early 1500s, it was a small castle town known as Edo and served 

as the seat of the Tokugawa Ieyasu feudal government. It was given the name Tokyo in the late 1800s. Today, it is world-renowned for its vast 

selection of temples and shrines, entertainment venues, dining spots and shopping districts that lure millions of global tourists every year. 

Highlights: 

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Tokyo Imperial Palace – the official residence of the Imperial Family 

Akihabara – the anime, manga, and electronics district 

Tokyo Skytree – a 634-metre high tower with observation decks 

Asakusa – a traditional district where the Senso-ji Temple is located 

Ueno Park – containing a zoo and several museums 

Shibuya – a lively district in the heart of Tokyo 

Shinjuku Gyoen – a park that features picturesque cherry blossoms and autumn leaves along with seats for relaxing and taking 

in the view 

Ghibli Museum – for fans of Hayao Miyazaki and Studio Ghibli films 

Tokyo Disneyland and DisneySea – Disney-themed parks for the young-at-heart 


Overview 

Kyoto 

With a population of almost 1.5 million, Kyoto is Japan’s seventh largest city and among the most highly-rated destinations in the country. 

Between 794 and 1868, it was designated as the country’s capital city and the Emperor’s official residence. Today, it’s home to many World 

Heritage-listed temples and shrines that attract crowds of locals and international tourists all year round. 

Highlights: 

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Kyoto Imperial Palace – the past residence of the Imperial Family 

Nijo Castle – the old residence of the shogun in Kyoto 

Kiyomizu-dera – a World Heritage-listed temple known for its huge wooden terrace 

Ginkaku-ji – a Zen temple that is also known as the “Silver Pavilion” 

Philosopher’s Path – a two-kilometre long stone path along a canal that is lined by Japanese trees 

Fushimi Inari Shrine – a very important Japanese Shinto shrine, best known for its thousands of torii gates 

Kinkaku-ji – a Zen temple that is also called the “Golden Pavilion” 

Arashiyama – a district located in the outskirts of western Kyoto that is known for its bamboo groves 

Tenryu-ji Temple – a World Heritage site that is recognised as Kyoto’s top Zen temple 

Osaka 

Considered to be one of Japan’s most important metropolitan areas, Osaka has been the centre of the Kansai region’s economy for several 

centuries. It is currently Japan’s third largest city, with a population of more than 2.5 million people. It has a lot to offer including shopping, 

entertainment, cuisine, arts, sports, media, and culture. It’s home to some of Japan’s best stores, arcades, theatres, stadiums, restaurants, bars 

and historical attractions. 

Highlights: 

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Osaka Castle – an almost 500-year-old castle that is now a museum 

Shitenno-ji Temple – the first state-built temple and one of Japan’s oldest 

Umeda Sky Building – a skyscraper known for its “Floating Garden Observatory” 

Namba – a bustling shopping, entertainment and dining district in downtown Osaka 


Overview 

Seasonal Attractions 

Winter – December to February 

Winter time in Japan sees many tourists heading to ski and snowboard on the slopes of Hokkaido and Nagano. There’s a variety of highly-rated 

ski resorts offering fun and thrilling snow adventures, as well as breathtaking views of the snow-capped alps. Winter is also festival time in the 

region, with the Sapporo Snow Festival and Otaru Snow Light Path Festival among the highlights in February. 

In other parts of the country, illumination displays like the Sendai Pageant of Starlight (December), the Hiroshima Dreamnation (November to 

January), the Kobe Luminarie (December) and Osaka Festival of Light (December to January) are also highly anticipated. 

Spring – March to May 

In Japanese culture, cherry blossoms (or sakura) symbolise life and honour. The blooming of the cherry blossom trees is a highlight of spring, 

with both locals and tourists organising trips to the finest sakura viewing spots to enjoy the mesmerising white and pink flowers. 

Many parks in Japan are home to thousands of different types of cherry trees and they are very popular from late April to early May. If you’re 

planning to visit Japan in spring, make sure to check forecasts for the peak cherry blossom bloom times to make the most of your trip. 

Summer – June to August 

Even though summer in Japan is quite hot and humid, tourists still flock to the country for many different exciting activities and events during 

these warmer months. There are fireworks displays almost every night to ward off negative energy, along with music and dance festivals, and 

cultural events held in many Japanese cities. 

For instance, the Tokyo region holds the Summer Purification Rites in Kanagawa in June, and both the International Fireworks Display in Yokohama 

and the Sumida River Fireworks Festival in July. In Kansai, the Gion Festival, the Tenjin Festival, and the Sumiyoshi Festival are all great 

events to attend in July. Other notable celebrations to see include the Kanto Festival in Akita in August and the Awa Odori Folk Dance Festival 

in Tokushima in July and September. 

Autumn – September to November 

September, October, and November are the peak tourist months in Japan and the viewing of its colourful autumn leaves is a popular activity. 

There are numerous spots to take in the spectacular autumn foliage, especially in areas close to the mountains, as well as in castle gardens, 

parks and temples. 


5 Reasons You’ll Love 

travelling to Japan 

Home to ancient shrines and temples, rugged mountainous landscapes and pulsing high-tech cities, Japan has long lured visitors for its 

fascinating culture and intoxicating cuisine. It offers unique travel experiences no matter the season and for those who are yet to visit, here are 

just five reasons why you’ll fall in love with Japan. 

1. Magnificent World Heritage Sites 

With a rich history that stretches back thousands of years, Japan is littered with ancient temples, castles and shrines. An outstanding collection 

remains today, preserved as UNESCO World Heritage Sites. Wander the impressive hilltop castle of Himeji and Kyoto’s 17th-century Nijō 

Castle and pay your respects at the Zen Buddhist temples of Kinkaku-ji and Ginkaku-ji. Then discover Japan’s rich religion of Shinto at the 

shrines of Itsukushima and Futarasan Jinja. 

2. Friendly locals 

Although there are more than 127 million people on Japan’s islands, they have developed a reputation for discipline and orderliness. This is 

evident in the neat queues formed in rush hour lines at subway stations, the cleanliness in the streets and the efficiency with which businesses 

are conducted in day-to-day life. Their courtesy, manners and humble conduct make them immediately approachable, and despite language 

barriers, they are always ready to assist travellers in need of directions. 

3. Enticing cuisine 

Japanese cuisine has been exported throughout the world in sushi bars and teppanyaki restaurants, but it’s only when you visit the country 

that its cultural significance can truly be grasped. From traditional kaiseki hospitality in ryokan inns to dining at an izakaya gastropub, food is 

an integral part of what it means to be Japanese. Grab a steaming bowl of soba noodles in the mountainous north, feast on takoyaki octopus 

balls along the coast or sample sweet melon pan buns, all washed down with traditional Japanese sake or sencha tea. 


5 Reasons You’ll Love 

travelling to Japan 

4. Efficient transportation 

Japanese efficiency is most apparent in its transportation system, with the Shinkansen bullet train whisking commuters between cities in 

record-breaking time. There’s an extensive network of railways connecting the country north to south and east to west which makes travel a 

breeze, as well as buses venturing into the more rural regions. Add to that underground subways and metro lines within its packed cities and 

travellers will have no trouble accessing all the country’s attractions. 

5. Cutting-edge technology 

Japan has embraced technology like no other country on earth, with vending machines dispensing everything from bananas to umbrellas and 

high-tech toilets with heated seats and your choice of music. They are also leading the way in robotics, with robotic pets and partners making 

their mark on domestic life. So for gadget gurus and those interested in how life might look in the future, Japan offers an intriguing example. 


Map of Japan 


Top 20 Experiences 



With its evocative historical sights, fascinating culture and magnificent landscapes, Japan has countless experiences and activities to offer visitors. 

For an unforgettable adventure in the “Land of the Rising Sun”, the following are just 20 of the many things that you can do. 

Photograph Mount Fuji 

With its snow-capped volcanic cone towering 3,776 metres 

over Honshu Island, Mount Fuji has become an icon of Japan 

and one of its most photographed landmarks. It’s the country’s 

tallest mountain and a sacred pilgrimage site for many Japanese, 

with hikes to its summit in summer providing breathtaking 

panoramas. 

Explore Historic Castles 

Japan is scattered with historic castles, including the centuriesold 

feudal castles at Inuyama and Matsue, as well as the Edo 

Period Hikone Castle. While the famous Osaka Castle and 

beautiful Kanazawa Castle have undergone reconstruction, 

those at Matsumoto, Himeji and Bitchu Matsuyama have 

remarkably survived the test of time. 

Taste Japanese Cuisine 

From sampling its street food to dining at izakaya pubs and 

Michelin-star restaurants, Japanese cuisine is one of the 

world’s most enticing. Experience the multi-course gastronomy 

of traditional kaiseki cuisine, feast on steaming bowls of ramen 

in a noodle bar or restaurant and discover the mouthwatering 

array of sushi that is on offer. 

Ride the Shinkansen 

Whisking commuters across the country in record-breaking 

time, the Shinkansen “bullet train” is the fastest and most 

convenient mode of transport between Japan’s major cities. It 

allows visitors to experience more than ever during their Japan 

getaway, with the journey between Tokyo and Osaka now 

taking less than four hours. 

Witness Kyoto’s UNESCO World Heritage Sites 

Once serving as the capital of Japan, Kyoto’s atmospheric streets are home to 17 UNESCO 

World Heritage Sites. Visit the temples of Kiyomizu-dera, Ginkaku-ji and Kinkaku-ji, 

wander the ancient fortifications of Nijo Castle and witness the beautiful Shinto shrines 

of Kamigami-jinja and Ujigami-jinja. 



Spend the Night in a Buddhist Temple 

Gain a unique insight into Japanese Buddhism by spending 

the night at a temple, living alongside monks as they go about 

their day-to-day lives. Sleep in a traditional Japanese room with 

tatami flooring and sliding doors, participate in tea ceremonies 

and communal vegetarian dining, then wake early for prayers 

and morning chants. 

Experience the Cherry Blossoms and 

Autumn Leaves 

Japan’s distinct seasons usher in vibrant cherry blossom displays 

and richly coloured autumn leaves which provide a magnificent 

setting for sightseeing. Join a hanami picnic beneath the sakura 

trees during spring or wander Kyoto’s ancient temples and 

palaces while the orange-yellow kinmokusei are in fragrant 

bloom. 

Relax in an Onsen 

The volcanic geology of Japan has given rise to atmospheric hot 

spring towns known as onsen which have long been revered 

for their therapeutic waters. Onsen towns and their traditional 

ryokan inns can be visited throughout the year, although 

they’re particularly alluring during the winter months when the 

surrounding landscapes are blanketed in snow. 

Watch Sumo Wrestling 

Steeped in ancient tradition, sumo wrestling is Japan’s national 

sport and the only country where it is practiced professionally. 

You can witness its powerful rikishi (wrestlers) in action at sumo 

tournaments across the country (most famously at Tokyo’s 

Ryogoku Kokugikan stadium) or visit a sumo stable in the 

Ryogoku district for an insight into their regimented lifestyle. 

Discover Fascinating Museums 

Whether you want to delve into Japan’s ancient history, learn about its obsession with 

baseball or the unique manga and anime culture, there are a range of outstanding 

museums to visit across the country. You can marvel at both modern and contemporary 

Japanese art, witness ancient weaponry and tools, or gain a better understanding of 

samurai’s evolution or the trains and railway network at these world-class institutions. 



Go Shopping 

Shop ’til you drop in Tokyo and Osaka’s large-scale shopping 

malls, designer boutiques and quintessential Japanese 

department stores. There’s everything from cutting-edge 

fashion to state-of-the-art technology and one-of-a-kind 

Japanese souvenirs on offer. 

Sightsee in a Kimono 

Experience the sights of Japan in a beautifully designed 

traditional kimono or yukata, with rental stores in Kyoto 

and Tokyo’s Asakusa district particularly popular. It’s also a 

captivating way to explore the “Little Edo” town of Kawagoe, 

just a short train ride from the capital, with styling, makeup and 

photographic packages all available. 

Hike Fushimi Inari-taisha 

Famed for the hundreds of vermilion torii gates which straddle 

its mountain trails, Fushimi Inari-taisha is an ancient Shinto 

shrine in Kyoto. It’s located on sacred Mount Inari, with the 

two-hour hike leading past countless mini-shrines and statues 

dedicated to Inari’s messenger, the fox. 

Visit the Peace Parks 

Pay your respects at the Peace Parks of Hiroshima and 

Nagasaki which were both devastated by atomic bomb attacks 

during World War II. Memorials and museums remember these 

tragic events and their victims, while architecturally-designed 

monuments advocate for world peace. 

Experience a Game of Japanese Baseball 

Experience the high energy of a Japanese baseball game in the country’s world-class 

professional league, featuring players who are respected on the international stage. You can 

grab a ticket at the ballpark on game day (with seats in the ōendan “cheering sections” the 

liveliest) but be careful as tickets tend to sell out on weekends, holidays and during playoffs. 



Relax on Idyllic Beaches 

Escape the bustle of the big cities to go island hopping across 

the archipelago, with idyllic white sandy beaches where you 

can surf, swim, snorkel or just soak up the scenery. Head south 

to the island of Okinawa which are renowned for their scuba 

diving. 

Hit the Slopes 

From the northern island to the Japanese Alps of Honshu, there 

are more than 500 ski resorts scattered across the country. 

Japan has made a name amongst “powder-hounds” for its 

world-class snowboarding and skiing slopes, with Nagano and 

Hokkaido being particularly popular for their majestic alps. 

Cruise Through Drift Ice 

Hokkaido’s Sea of Okhotsk coast stretches from Wakkanai to 

the Shiretoko Peninsula and has become famous for its winter 

drift ice. You can experience walking on these solid blocks of ice 

in -6°C weather or jump aboard a sightseeing boat in Abashiri 

Port to immerse yourself in this unique natural phenomenon. 

Celebrate at Japan’s Festivals 

Known as matsuri, festivals and national holidays are celebrated 

throughout the year to highlight Japan’s cultural history or 

honour religious deities. Coincide your visit with Kyoto’s Gion 

Matsuri to witness its elaborate parades and floats, rug up for 

Sapporo’s Yuki Matsuri (“Snow Festival”) or experience the 

music and dance of Shikoku’s Awa Dori. 

Sample Sake 

Created by the fermentation of rice, yeast, koji mould and water, sake is Japan’s national 

alcoholic beverage. This centuries-old tradition can be witnessed in distilleries across the 

country, sampled in restaurants and izakaya pubs, or even bought at local supermarkets. 


General 

Information 


Accommodation: 

Finding a place to stay on your trip to Japan should be easy. There are many different types of accommodation for a wide range of tourists. 

Whether you are in a big city or a quiet rural town there will be various options for different budgets. 

Capsule Hotel – ©JNTO 

Machiya Inn – ©JNTO 

Hotels 

Types of accommodation 

Many hotels in Japan feature Western style rooms and facilities. They are generally costlier than the other accommodation types, and are 

frequently found in the major cities around the country. 

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Price range: from 10,000 yen to 50,000 yen per room per night 

Facilities: private rooms, beds (single, double, queen, king), private bathrooms, room service, tour assistance, concierge, airport 

transfer, currency exchange 

Guesthouses 

Japanese guesthouses are usually operated by Japanese families, and they are a good accommodation option for tourists who want to 

experience some traditional Japanese hospitality. Also known as bed and breakfasts, or minshuku, they are often found in tourist towns known 

for their ski resorts and hot springs or onsen. 

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Price range: between 5,000 yen and 10,000 yen per person per night 

Facilities and amenities: rooms with tatami floors, a futon, a television, a tea set, towels, homemade breakfast and dinner (included 

in cost), shared bathrooms 



Ryokan 

In onsen towns, ryokan are a common type of accommodation available for travellers. They feature traditional Japanese-themed lodging, with 

futon beds, tatami floors, baths, and food. 

A one-night stay commonly costs from 15,000 yen to 30,000 yen per person. 

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Price range: between 6,000 yen and 40,000 yen per person 

Facilities and amenities: Japanese-style rooms, Japanese baths, homemade breakfast and dinner 

Backpacker hostels 

Backpacker hostels are known to offer the lowest rates among the many accommodation options found in Japan. In addition to being budgetfriendly, 

they offer a chance for travellers to meet and interact with their other fellow adventurers and make new friends. 

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Price range: between 1,500 yen and 5,000 yen per person 

Facilities and amenities: a bed or a futon in a shared room or dormitory, shared bathroom, common kitchen, locker 

Capsule hotels 

Capsule hotels are called such because they have capsule-like rooms for guests, providing just enough space for an individual. They are popular 

among travellers who are looking for accommodation for only one or two nights. 

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Price range: between 3,000 yen and 5,000 yen 

Facilities and amenities: a television per capsule, coin lockers, shared bathroom 

Manga cafes (or internet cafes) 

Manga cafes are open 24 hours, so if you stay out late and miss the last train, you just need to search for one close to a major train station and 

spend your time there until morning. They generally offer two kinds of seats, an open booth (a desk with a computer and chair) and a private, 

partitioned cubicle with a desk, a computer, and a reclining chair or futon. 

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Price range: from 1,500 yen to 2,500 yen per night 

Facilities and amenities: manga library, free WiFi, vending machines, television, console and computer games, blankets, chargers 

Temple stay 

Spending a night or two at a temple is a must-do for any foreigner visiting Japan. In various Japanese cities, such as Koyasan, Nagano, Dewa 

Sanzan, Mount Mitake, and Kyoto, there are a number of Buddhist temples that offer lodgings, also known as shukubo, to visitors going on a 

pilgrimage or touring the area. 

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Price range: from 3,000 yen to 20,000 yen per person per night 

Facilities and amenities: Japanese-style rooms with sliding doors and tatami floors, shared baths, Buddhist monks’ vegetarian meals 

(called shojin ryori), tea service, morning prayers 

Kuramae Dormitory – ©JNTO 

Niseko Hotel – ©JNTO 



Reservation and bookings 

The easiest way to book accommodation in Japan is online through websites such as Hostelworld, Japanican, Agoda, Booking.com, and 

JapaneseGuestHouses.com. 

By using these booking and reservation sites, you will be able to find a wide variety of options for lodgings, factoring in your budget, preferred 

vicinity, room type, and other things. Oftentimes, you may be able to snag discounted rates and promotions, especially if you book early or 

reserve dates during off-peak seasons. 

Alternatively, you can search for the accommodation’s official websites and make a booking there. Sometimes, booking directly with the hotel 

can be less of a hassle and may be even cheaper. 

Payment 

There are two common ways to pay for accommodation: 

Credit card 

Usually, when booking online, you will need a valid credit card to complete the transaction, and the full amount of your stay is immediately 

charged to your card. But, there are times when your credit card is only used as a guarantee, no charge is made, and you just pay the hotel the 

full amount directly when you get to Japan. 

Cash 

Other times, particularly when you directly book with the hotel, you just have to provide them your personal and travel information and they 

will hold your reservation. You need only pay them in full once you arrive on your check-in date. 


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Visa Information 

Australians who wish to go to Japan for tourism purposes only need a valid Australian passport to enter the country. Your passport will allow 

you to stay in Japan for up to ninety days. 

Those who wish to work in Japan must obtain a work visa before entering the country. You have to be sponsored by a Japan-based employer 

who will process your Certificate of Eligibility for a Japanese work visa to be issued by a Japanese Consulate in Australia. 

Language 

Even if you have zero knowledge of the Japanese language, travelling around the country is possible and not as difficult as you might think. 

In the major tourist cities such as Tokyo, Osaka, and Kyoto, English signs are available in the most popular attractions and destinations — train 

and bus stations, museums, temples and more. Malls, shops, convenience stores and other establishments also generally have translations 

attached to some of their products. Many restaurants and eateries even offer English menus for their English-speaking customers. 

These places also usually employ staff who know at least basic English, as they deal with non-Japanese speakers around the clock. 

The language challenge comes when visiting smaller, less ‘touristy’ rural towns. If you plan on visiting these places, try to learn some common 

Japanese phrases before you go or bring a Japanese phrasebook so you can communicate with the locals if you need directions or want to 

order food. 

Timezone 

Japan’s standard time zone is Japan Standard Time (JST), which is equivalent to UTC+9 hours. This is the same or similar to all Australian 

standard time zones. This time zone is constant all year round, as Japan does not have daylight saving at any time of year. Here are Australia’s 

standard time zones (i.e. non-daylight saving times) for comparison: 

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Australian Western Time Zone – UTC+8 hours 

Australian Central Time Zone – UTC+9 hours 30 minutes 

Australian Eastern Time Zone – UTC+10 hours 


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Money 

The Japanese currency is called yen, written as 円 , and with a currency symbol ¥. 

You can buy Japanese yen from foreign exchange services in Australia (or your country of origin) or when you arrive in Japan. You can also 

withdraw money using your foreign ATM card from certain ATMs in Japan. The safest option is to use the ATMs located in post offices or 

7-Eleven stores. These ATMs allow you to use credit or debit cards and also offer an English menu. 7-Eleven offers 24-hour availability, while 

post offices have more limited opening hours. 

Cash is still the most widely accepted method of payment in Japan, so make sure you have enough on hand, especially when visiting museums, 

restaurants, shops, and other sights. 

Coins are essential when purchasing something from the numerous vending machines in the country, as well as when using most storage 

lockers. Buses also typically only accept coins or small denominations for fare. 

Credit and debit cards are not very commonly accepted, but over the last few years there has been an increase in the number of hotels, 

restaurants and malls in the major cities that accept these payment methods. 

Electricity 

Japanese electrical outlets are 100 volts, which is different to Australia’s standard 240 volts. Their sockets are also 2-flat-pin, similar to North 

American sockets, rather than the 3-pin plugs common in Australia. 

While most electronics from other regions will work when used in Japan, some equipment may require an adapter, a transformer, or a conversion 

plug to function properly and not get damaged. Fortunately, these supplemental devices can easily be purchased in any electronics shop in 

Japan, so don’t panic if you forget to bring one with you. 

Health and Safety 

Japan is a progressive and modern country that has first-rate hygiene and sanitation standards. Its tap water is drinkable. International visitors 

don’t require any special vaccinations or immunisations. The country’s medical system is extensive and very reliable, and there are hospitals and 

clinics with English-speaking staff that can provide the necessary care. However, treatment may be expensive, especially for tourists travelling 

without health insurance. 

It’s probably one of the safest countries in the world, being generally free of petty crime. Pick-pocketing and mugging are almost non-existent. 

Walking at night is generally not considered dangerous, however, it’s still advised to travel with caution at all times. 

When it comes to natural disasters such as typhoons (cyclones), tsunamis, volcanic activities and earthquakes, check out the Japan 

Meteorological Agency’s website for the latest information and news in English. 

Finally, always have your passport with you, whether you’re sightseeing or just having dinner at a nearby izakaya (pub). Keep photocopies of 

your passport and other travel documents in your luggage, hostel locker or some other separate place in case of an emergency. 

Australian Embassy 

The Australian Embassy in Japan is in Tokyo (Address: 2-1-14 Mita, Minato-ku, Tokyo 108-8361; Telephone: 03-5232-4111). It’s open Monday 

to Friday, from 9am to 12:30am and from 1:30pm to 5:00pm, except on public holidays. 

Visit the official Embassy website, http://australia.or.jp/en, for their holiday calendar and more consular information. 


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Emergencies 

Japan has nationwide emergency telephone numbers to call in case of emergencies. For incidents requiring police assistance, the number to 

dial is 110, while for fire and ambulance, it’s 119. 

For travel emergencies, get in touch with the Australian Embassy as soon as you can. 

Weather 

The Japanese weather varies immensely from its southern to northern regions. The southernmost islands and areas usually experience mild 

conditions, while the northernmost zones tend to have mild summers but much colder winters. 

Fukuoka 

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Spring: 11 – 24°C, cool and dry 

Summer: 19 – 32°C, rainy 

Autumn: 10 – 28°C, with potential typhoons (cyclones) in September 

Winter: 3 – 14°C, dry and sunny 

Osaka 

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Spring: 11 – 24°C, mild weather with few rainy days 

SSummer: 20 – 33°C, rainy season 

Autumn: 15 – 29°C, warm but less humid than summer 

Winter: 3 – 13°C, short days and almost zero rain 

Tokyo 

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Spring: 2 – 17°C, clear skies and occasional rain 

Summer: at least 30°C, very humid and rainy, especially in July 

Autumn: 13 – 26°C, less humid, few rainy days 

Winter: -1 – 9°C, dry and chilly 

Sapporo 

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Spring: 3 – 17°C, with very low chances of rain 

Summer: 12 – 26°C, very hot and humid, with potential for some typhoons (cyclones) in August 

Autumn: 7 – 22°C, with few rainy days 

Winter: -8 – -1°C, with occasional rain 


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Travel Insurance 

Purchasing travel insurance for your trip to Japan is important if you have either a personal or regional emergency during your trip. In particular, 

healthcare for foreign tourists is not very affordable in Japan, so having travel insurance can potentially save you a lot of money and trouble. 

When buying travel insurance, make sure that: 

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It’s valid for use in Japan. 

It includes cancellation coverage for plane tickets, hotel reservations and other bookings. 

It covers damaged, stolen, or lost luggage. 

It includes full medical and evacuation expenses, such as for outpatient treatment, hospitalisation, ambulance and evacuation to 

Australia, if needed. 


Costs and Budgets 

The cost of travelling to Japan varies per person, and is dependent on several factors such as airfare, accommodation, transportation, food, 

entrance fees to attractions, and other miscellaneous expenses. 

Airfare 

When visiting Japan, plane tickets usually eat up the biggest portion of most people’s travel budget. 

A regular-priced return ticket from Sydney to Tokyo may cost anything from A$1,000 (83,000 yen) to A$2,000 (166,000 yen) during the offpeak 

seasons, and from $2,000 (166,000 yen) upwards during peak seasons. 

Look out for sale fares from airlines where you could get a fare from around $600. Also, book several months ahead and consider travelling 

off-peak (which has the additional advantage of fewer crowds at attractions you may wish to visit). 

Accommodation 

There is a wide selection of accommodation available for tourists in Japan. There are traditional, Japanese-themed lodgings, and Western 

types. Their rates vary from 1,000 yen per bed for one night to 50,000 yen or more per room. 

Hostels/Dormitories 

Hostels and dormitories generally offer the cheapest rates among all types of accommodation. They are perfect for travellers who are on a 

tight budget and do not mind sharing a room and bathroom with several other people. They are found in many major Japanese cities and their 

prices range between 1,000 yen and 5,000 yen per person per night. 

Business hotels 

Business hotels are also plentiful around Japan and they fall into the medium-cost accommodation category. They generally charge around 

5,000 yen to 10,000 yen for a single room for one night’s stay, and between 7,000 yen and 15,000 yen for a double room. 

Ryokan 

For those looking for Japanese-style accommodation, ryokan are highly recommended. These inns are quite common throughout Japan, most 

especially in the onsen or hot spring towns. Their rooms have tatami flooring and futon beds, and the place has Japanese-style baths. They also 

typically serve Japanese cuisine for breakfast and dinner. 

A one-night stay can cost from 15,000 yen to 30,000 yen per person. 



Temple lodgings 

One option that is popular with foreigners in Japan is to stay at least one night at a temple. 

Mount Koya, located in Koyasan, is a well-known temple district that offers about 50 options for temple lodgings that cost anywhere between 

3,000 yen and 20,000 yen per person per night. While the price is on the expensive side for accommodation, the accompanying experience of 

living a monk’s lifestyle, participating in morning prayers and eating monks’ food, is well worth the extra cost. 

Capsules 

Capsule hotels are for any traveller purely needing a place to spend the night. They offer small capsule rooms equipped with a television, coin 

lockers, and shared bathrooms. A one-night stay can cost between 3,000 yen and 5,000 yen. 

Manga cafes 

Manga cafes are 24-hour establishments where people can read manga or surf the net in individual booths with seats. They charge only 

about 1,500 yen to 3,000 yen per person and, because they are quite cheap, many make these places an option for short-term, overnight 

accommodation. 

Western hotels 

There are several Western-style hotels in Japan, and they offer facilities and amenities similar to that of 4-star and 5-star hotels found in the 

West. Their prices range from 20,000 yen to 50,000 yen (or even more) per room for one night. 

Apartments 

For tourists staying in Japan for an extended period of time, there are apartments that offer weekly or monthly rental. Some of these places 

are furnished with the basic appliances and furniture, and they are ideal for foreigners staying in just one city for that entire time period. One 

month’s rent for a small studio apartment may come to more than 40,000 yen. 

Trains 

Local Public Transportation 

Trains are probably the most cost effective way of getting around Japan. In the major cities, such as Tokyo and Osaka, metro train services are 

extensive and efficient, and you can easily go from one tourist attraction to another via their interconnected lines. 

Buses 

Buses are also a popular mode of transportation around Japan, especially when travelling within the smaller cities, as they provide better access 

to tourist spots. In addition, there are also buses that provide intercity services (highway buses) and overnight travel services (overnight buses). 

Bicycles 

Bicycles are commonly used throughout Japan, and they are a great option for travellers who wish to save money on fares for trains and buses. 

They also enable you to explore a city or town more thoroughly. 

In the country’s top tourist destinations, there are bike racks and bike shops where you can hire a bike. Many hotels and hostels also provide 

free use of bicycles to their guests. 

Passes 

Look into purchasing rail or bus passes to save money while in Japan. 

Japan Railways offer Japan Rail Passes for unlimited use of the Shinkansen and other JR-operated trains and buses within a particular time period, 

and many Japanese cities have one-day bus or metro passes available for unlimited rides on the local buses and metro lines at discounted prices. 



Food 

While in Japan, trying out the local cuisine is always a must-do as Japanese foods are highly-rated by most visitors. Enjoying these unique and 

delicious dishes does not always require you to break your budget. 

Convenience stores 

Convenience stores are a lifesaver for budget travellers. There is one at almost every corner throughout the country, and they sell a wide selection 

of cheap Japanese food such as rice balls, bread, bento (lunch boxes), ramen, sandwiches, beverages, and more. A day’s worth of food from 

convenience stores can cost as little as 1,000 yen to 3,000 yen. 

Coffee shops, food stalls, and fast foods 

There are numerous food kiosks, stalls and fast foods found at train stations all over the country, and they are good places to have a quick 

meal of ramen or curry rice or to purchase food before you catch your train. Total cost of food purchased from these establishments may fall 

between 1,500 yen and 5,000 yen per day. 

High-end restaurants 

If money is not an issue, there are many fine dining restaurants in Japan that prepare top quality local cuisine — from sushi to ramen to Kobe 

beef. These places usually require reservations, and one full meal may cost at least 2,000 yen per person. 

Sightseeing 

Many of Japan’s tourist attractions can be accessed free of charge, particularly some of its temples, shrines, museums, parks, and gardens, so 

if you want to keep your expenses to a minimum, make sure to research these before you head out. 

Temples, shrines, and castles 

Entrance fees to temples, shrines, and castles generally cost between 100 yen and 1,000 yen, and these usually give you full access to the sites. 

Museums 

Museum fees range from 500 yen to 3,000 yen per person, depending on the exhibitions on display or if there are special events being held 

when you visit. 

Theme parks 

Theme parks in the country are quite expensive, especially the big ones — Disney and Universal Studios — which can cost up to 13,000 yen 

including the express passes. 


Cultural Tips and Courtesy 

The Japanese are known to be very well-mannered people, so before you go to Japan, it is important that you know how to behave in certain 

situations in order to not appear rude or discourteous. 

Greeting people 

Bowing is how Japanese people greet each other. It can be a subtle head nod or a full bow that requires bending at the waist. Usually, a head 

nod is enough for greeting friends and casual acquaintances, while the deep bow is frequently used for formal situations to show utmost 

respect. 

Entering a Japanese home 

The Japanese do not wear their shoes inside their homes. Once they enter the house, they leave their outdoor footwear by the entrance area 

(known as genkan), arrange their shoes so as the front or toe caps are facing the door, and put on slippers that are only for indoor use. 

Eating 

At restaurants, customers are usually provided with wet towels for cleaning their hands before the meal. If there are no wet towels available, 

simply wash your hands with soap and water. 

Once food has been served, whether at a restaurant or at home, everyone at the table utters “itadakimasu”, a phrase that means “I humbly 

receive”, which works similarly to “Bon appétit”. 

To eat food from a small bowl, pick up the bowl and raise it up to about mouth level so that getting the food from the bowl to your mouth is 

much easier. 

Properly hold your chopsticks by placing your fingers near the ends. If you are not using them, put them down on the tray or on top of the bowl, 

parallel to each other. Do not stick them vertically into the food. 


Cultural Tips and Courtesy 

Avoid burping, loud munching, blowing your nose, and making other audible noises while eating. 

Once you are done, return all the bowls, plates, lids, and others to the same positions as when they were served to you, and end the meal by 

expressing gratitude for the food and the people who prepared it by saying “gochisosama deshita”. 

Visiting temples and shrines 

It is important to remain quiet when visiting shrines and temples so as to not disturb the other people around you, especially those who are 

praying. Do not talk loudly. Do not smoke. Do not eat. Before taking any pictures, ask if photography is permitted. Always read the signs around. 


Japanese Phrases 

While Travelling 

Getting around Japan without knowing any Japanese is doable, but learning some basic Japanese phrases will help you get by much more 

easily. Here are examples of common Japanese words and phrases that you may use during your travel: 

Greetings 

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Hello [Konnichiwa] 

Hi [Yo] To be used with close friends only 

Welcome [Youkoso] 

How are you? [O-genki desu ka?] 

Good morning [Ohayou gozaimasu] 

Good afternoon [Kon’nichiwa] 

Good evening [Konbanwa] 

Good night [Oyasumi] 

Goodbye! (informal) [Ja ne!] Ja ne is informal, more like ‘see you’. 

Goodbye! (formal) [Sayounara ]is ‘good bye’ in a formal way. 

See you tomorrow! [Mata ashitane!] 

What is your name? [Anatano namae wa nan desu ka?] 

My name is ___ [Watashi no namae wa ___ desu] 

Congratulations! [Omedetou!] 

Happy birthday! [Tanjoubi omedetou!] 

Good luck!/Do your best! [Ganbatte!] 




Courtesy 

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Yes [Hai] 

No [Iie] 

Please [Onegai shimasu] 

Sorry [Sumimasen] This is the sorry you use when bumping into people, rather than a heartfelt apology. 

Thank you [Arigatou gozaimasu] 

You’re welcome [Doo itashimashite] 

I do not speak Japanese [Nihongo ga hanasemasen] 

I do not understand [Wakarimasen] 

Are you okay? [Daijobu desu ka?] 

Yes, I am okay [Hai, daijobu desu] 

Numbers and Counting 

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1 [ichi] 

2 [ni] 

3 [san] 

4 [shi, yon] 

5 [go] 

6 [roku] 

7 [shichi, nana] 

8 [hachi] 

9 [kyuu, ku] 

10 [juu] 

For numbers between 10 and 20, let’s say 11, simply say the Japanese for “10” and “1” together, i.e. “juu ichi.” So, 

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12 [juu ni] 

13 [juu san] 

14 [juu yon] 

For 20, 30, 40, up until 99, the numbers are translated as multiples of ten and ones. 

For instance, 20 is equal to two 10s, so it is “ni juu” in Japanese. 30 is three 10s, so it is “san juu.” 40 is four 10s, so it is “yon juu.” 50 is five 10s, 

so it is “go juu.” 

For 21, because it is two 10s and 1, it is “ni juu ichi.” 35 is three 10s and 5, so it is “san juu go.” 99 is nine 10s and 9, so it is “kyu juu kyu.” 

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100 [hyaku] 

1000 [sen] 




Ordering Food 

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Meat [Niku] 

Beef [Gyuniku] 

Pork [Butaniku] 

Chicken [Toriniku] 

Fish [Sakana] 

Cooked rice [Gohan] 

Vegetables [Yasai] 

Fruit [Kudamono] 

Soup [Supu] 

Dessert [Dezato] 

Bread [Pan] 

Beer [Biru] 

Water [Mizu] 

Milk [Gyunyu] 

Tea [O-cha] 

Coffe e [Kohi] 

Wine [Wain] 

I would like to make a reservation. [Yoyaku o shitai n-desu ga.] 

I would like some water, please. [O-mizu o kudasai.] 

Do you have an English menu? [Eigo no menyuu ga arimasu ka?] 

Where is the bathroom? [o-toire wa doko desu ka?] 

Can I have the bill, please? [Okanjou o onegai shimasu.] 

Thank you for the food. [Gochisousama deshita.] 

Transportation and Directions 

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Train [Densha] 

Bus [Basu] 

Bicycle [Jitensha] 

Car [Kuruma] 

Taxi [Takushi] 

Bullet train [Shinkansen] 




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Transfer [Norikae] 

Platform number [Ban sen] 

Pardon me/Excuse me [Sumimasen.] 

Can you help me? [Tasukete itadakemasu ka?] 

Do you speak English? [Eigo o hanashimasu ka?] 

Where is the subway? [Chikatetsu wa doko desu ka?] 

Where is the train station? [Eki wa doko desu ka?] 

Where is the bus/train to ___? [ ___ yuki no basu/densha wa doko desu ka?] 

How long does it take to walk there? [Aruite dorekurai kakari masu ka?] 

What time does the train leave? [Densha wa Nanji ni shuppatsu shimasuka?] 

What time do we arrive? [Nanji ni tsukimasu ka?] 

How much does it cost to go to ___? [___ made wa ikura desu ka?] 

Where can I buy a ticket? [Kippu wa doko de kaemasu ka?] 

Does this train/bus stop at ___? [Kono densha/basu wa ___ ni tomarimasu ka?] 

Where can I find the tourist information office? [Kanko annai jyo wa doko desu ka?] 

Where can I exchange money? [Gaika ryogae wa doko de dekimasu ka?] 

Shopping 

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Cash [Genkin] 

Credit card [Kurejitto kado] 

Money [Okane] 

Price [Genka] 

Small [Chisai] 

Large/big [Okii] 

Clothes [Irui] 

Shirt [Shatsu] 

Dress [Doresu] 

Suit [Sutsu] 

Pants [Zubon] 

Jeans [Jinzu] 

Blouse [Burausu] 

Jacket [Jaketto] 




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Sweater [Seta] 

Shoe [Kutsu] 

Jewelry [Ho-u-shoku hin] 

Kimono [Kimono] 

Food [Shoku hin] 

How much? [Ikura?] 

Where is the fitting room? [Shichakushitsu wa doko desu ka?] 

May I try it on? [Kite mite mo ii desu ka?] 

I will have this one. [Kore o kudasai.] 

Do you have ____? [____ wa arimasu ka?] 

I am just looking. [Miteiru dake desu.] 

Can I return it? [Henpin suru koto ga dekimasu ka?] 


Luggage and Luggage 

Services 

Having to carry around a large suitcase during your trip to Japan is quite a hassle. Fortunately, there are various luggage service options 

available to anyone wanting to travel around Japan without carrying all this extra weight. 

Takuhaibin 

If you arrive in Japan with more than a few bags or suitcases with you, you might want to consider using the services of the Takuhaibin, a 

luggage forwarding service that will send your belongings to your hotel anywhere in the country, typically within the next 24 hours. 

Upon arriving at any airport in Japan, look for a Takuhaibin counter and provide the necessary information to forward your things to your 

accommodation. The cost may fall anywhere from 1,500 yen to 3,000 yen for regular-sized packages that are less than 10 kg, and from 2,000 

yen to 4,000 yen for suitcases no heavier than 25 kg. 

Lockers 

There are numerous lockers in Japan’s airports, train stations, bus stations, and tourist attractions that can hold various sizes of bags and 

luggage. These are perfect for travellers carrying one or two pieces of luggage and wishing to leave them for a number of hours while they 

explore. 

There are three general sizes of lockers around Japan — small, medium, and large. 

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Small – 35 cm x 34 cm x 57 cm (Fee: 300 yen) 

Medium – 57 cm x 34 cm x 57 cm (Fee: 400 yen) 

Large – at least 117 cm x 34 cm x 57 cm (Fee: 500 yen – 1,000 yen) 

To use the lockers, you will need to insert the exact amount (in 100 yen coin denominations) into the slot and take the key. 

If you need to leave your luggage in the locker overnight, you will have to pay an extra 300 yen once you come back to pick it up the next day. 

Luggage Storage Counters 

If you cannot find an empty locker at an airport or train station, look for luggage storage counters. These places are manned, and they accept 

and keep larger pieces of luggage that don’t fit in a locker. They charge somewhere between 500 yen and 1,000 yen for each item per day. 

Usually, luggage storage counters at airports hold luggage over multiple days, while those at train stations only offer one-day storage. 


Transportation + Guide 

to Japanese IC Cards 

Getting around in Japan is very easy, thanks to its highly efficient, modern transportation network of airplanes, trains, buses and ferries. 

Airplanes 

There are several airlines that offer domestic flights in Japan, such as: 

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All Nippon Airways (ANA Group) 

Japan Airlines (JAL) 

Peach Aviation 

Vanilla Air 

Jetstar Japan 

Fuji Dream Airlines 

Spring Airlines Japan 

These airlines fly in and out of Japan’s major airports, such as Haneda and Narita Airports in Tokyo, Kansai Airport in Osaka, Central Japan 

Airport in Nagoya, Fukuoka Airport, Shin-Chitose Airport in Sapporo and Naha Airport in Okinawa. 

The airline industry in Japan has become competitive in recent years, with domestic airfare promotions and discounts frequently offered. This 

sometimes makes planes an affordable travel alternative to the Shinkansen (bullet train network). 

Shinkansen 

The Shinkansen (bullet train network) is the fastest transport for intercity travel. It has been around for many decades now and continues to 

be a popular choice among both local and international tourists who are looking for a fast, efficient, and reasonably-priced way to explore the 

country. 

Today, there are multiple Shinkansen lines in Japan, extending from Kagoshima in the south to Hakodate in the north. The network is run by 

Japan Railways (JR). 




All Shinkansen trains have both ordinary cars(which have regular-sized seats and foot space) and more spacious and comfortable green cars 

(which have larger seats and more foot space). They also have the following features: 

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Reserved and non-reserved cars (except for the Kagayaki, Komachi, Hayate, and Hayabusa trains, which all require reservations) 

Smoking and non-smoking areas 

Restrooms 

Vending machines 

When purchasing a Shinkansen ticket, you pay for a base fare and for a seat reservation separately. You can buy tickets from any JR ticket 

machine or the JR ticket office at any JR station. 

Japan Rail Pass 

If you’re travelling to multiple cities, it might be cost effective to buy a Japan Rail Pass instead of individual tickets every time. 

A Japan Rail (JR) Pass is valid for use on both the Shinkansen (except on Mizuho and Nozomi trains) and JR-operated trains and buses all over 

Japan. You can use the JR Pass in both Economy and Green class as often as you want within three specified time periods, as follows: 

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7-day JR Pass 



Trains 

Travelling by train is a convenient way to see the sights of Japan as all the big metropolises and other ‘touristy’ cities have reliable and extensive 

railway networks. 

There are several train companies that operate in the country: 

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Japan Railways (nationwide) 

Keisei (Kanto region) 

Odakyu (Kanto region) 

Tokyu (Kanto region) 

Tobu (Kanto region) 

Keiyu (Kanto region) 

Seibu (Kanto region) 

Nishitetsu (Kyushu region) 

Nankai (Kinki region) 

Hankyu (Kinki region) 

Keihan (Kinki region) 




Buses 

Buses in Japan offer services for both short (within a city) and long distance (between cities) travel. 

Local buses 

In many of the big cities, buses are commuters’ second choice to trains for transport. 

To board a bus, simply look for its designated bus stop and get on through the door at the back. If you have an IC card (a rechargeable transport 

card in Japan), you just tap it onto the sensor when you enter the bus . If you don’t have an IC card, take a ticket from a box-like machine by 

the door as it will be used to determine how much you have to pay for your fare before you get off. 

Just like in Australia, once your destination approaches, press a button on the wall to alert the bus driver that your stop is coming up next. If 

you have an IC card, tap it onto the sensor next to the driver when you get off. If you don’t have an IC card, have the exact change ready to pay 

your fare and drop both it and your ticket into the machine next to the driver. 

Highway buses 

Highway buses are a cheaper alternative to trains for commuters who don’t mind a longer travel period going from one city or region to another. 

In Japan, there are several highway bus companies, including: 

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Japan Railways (nationwide) 

Willer Express (nationwide) 

Fujikyu Bus (travel to and from Fuji Five Lakes) 

Alpico Express Bus (travel to and from Nagano) 

Meitetsu Bus (travel to and from Nagoya) 

Usually, reservations are required by phone online, or via travel agents for these buses, especially during holidays and peak seasons. However, 

during low seasons, it‘s possible to purchase tickets at the bus stations minutes before departure. 

Ferries 

Because Japan is an archipelago, travelling by ferry from one of its islands to another is a common way to get around. Even though Japan’s 

major islands — Shikoku, Kyushu, Hokkaido, and Honshu — are linked by numerous airports, railways, tunnels and bridges, there are smaller 

islands (e.g. Okinawa and the Daito Islands) that can only be accessed by ferries. 

These ferries also carry cargo and smaller vehicles as well as people. They can be small (accommodating about 50 passengers and a few cars) 

or large. The larger ferries usually travel longer distances and have more facilities, such as common rooms with tatami mats, a dormitory with 

beds, private rooms with 2 to 4 beds, restaurants and public baths. 

Rental Cars 

In the more rural parts of Japan, public transport may be less efficient compared to Tokyo, Osaka and other urban areas. That’s why many 

tourists rent a car instead for convenience. 

To rent a car in Japan, you need to be at least 18 years old and possess an International Driving Permit (IDP) which you must obtain in Australia 

before going to Japan. 




Once you’re in Japan, you can rent a car from any of the country’s car rental companies, including Toyota Rentacar, Orix Rentacar, Times Car 

Rental, Ekiren, Nissan Rentacar and Nippon Rentacar. Each company has multiple offices around the country (at airports, train stations, etc.) 

and offers a wide selection of vehicles, from RVs to buses and vans to sedans. All are equipped with GPS technology. 

Generally, daily (24 hour) car rental fees range from 5,000 yen for a compact car to 20,000 yen for large vans. 

Bicycles 

Bicycles are quite commonly used by Japanese people. They are a cheap and healthy alternative transport option for getting around locally. 

For tourists, bike rentals are available at various sights and attractions. Many actually prefer this to taking the bus or train as it’s less expensive 

and provides a better opportunity to explore the hidden gems of a particular place. 

Rental fees range between 100 and 300 yen per hour, or around 1,000 yen for an entire day. 


GUIDE TO JAPANESE IC CARDS 

For a smoother and more convenient bus, train and subway experience in Japan, equip yourself with a prepaid IC card. You can pay your public 

transportation fares by simply tapping the IC card on a card reader as you enter and exit buses or train and subway stations. 

What are the Different Kinds of Prepaid IC Cards? 

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Suica – Offered by JR East and valid on all Japan Rail trains in the Greater Tokyo, Sendai and Niigata regions, and non-Japan Rail 

lines, such as the Tokyo Metro Subway and other private railway lines, in Tokyo. The Suica can also be used for certain transportation 

systems in the Sendai and Niigata, Hokkaido, Tokai, West Japan and Kyushu areas. 

Pasmo – Works on the same buses, trains and subways as Suica (both JR and non-JR) and the two are basically interchangeable. 

Icoca – Offered by JR West and valid on all JR trains servicing the Greater Osaka, Hiroshima and Okayama areas. 

Kitaca – Offered by JR Hokkaido for all Japan Rail trains and non-JR trams, buses and subways in the Greater Sapporo area. 

Toica – Offered by JR Central and valid on all JR train lines that run in the Greater Nagoya region and select parts of Shizuoka Prefecture. 

Manaca – Can be used for travel on non-JR and non-Kintetsu bus, subway and train lines in Nagoya. 

Sugoca – Offered by JR Kyushu and valid on all JR-operated trains in the Nagasaki, Oita, Kagoshima, Kumamoto and Greater Fukuoka 

regions. 

Hayakaken – Valid on the Fukuoka Subway lines in Fukuoka City. 

Nimoca – Works on all Nishitetsu buses and trains that service the Greater Fukuoka region and some other cities on Kyushu Island. 

Where Can You Buy Prepaid IC Cards? 

Prepaid IC cards are available at the manned ticket counters and the automatic ticket machines at railway and train stations. Upon purchase, 

an amount of 2,000 yen (which includes a 500 yen refundable deposit) is typically charged onto it. 

How Do You Use a Prepaid IC Card? 

At railway stations, simply touch your prepaid IC card onto the card reader on the automatic ticket gates to enter. Then, once you arrive at your 

destination, touch it again onto the reader to exit the station. 

When riding a bus, tap the card onto the reader when you enter and when you exit the bus. The card readers are usually placed by the rear 

doors and next to the bus driver. 

How Do You Recharge Prepaid IC Cards? 

You can add credits to your IC card by recharging it at a special recharging machine found at train and subway stations around the country. 

Whatever IC card you have, you can top it up at any machine, regardless of the issuing company or place of purchase. So, if you bought your 

Suica in Tokyo, it is possible to put more credit on it at a recharging machine at a Fukuoka or Osaka train station. 


GUIDE TO JAPANESE IC CARDS 

Are There Other Uses For the Prepaid IC Cards? 

In addition to paying for your public transportation fares, your IC card can also be used to pay for purchases at some shops, vending machines, 

convenience stores and storage facilities in Japan. This is pretty common at and around the major railway stations in the biggest Japanese cities. 

Do Prepaid IC Cards Expire? 

Prepaid IC cards will only become invalid if they have not been used in ten years. So, keep yours when you return home, ready for your next 

trip to Japan! 


How to Travel by Train 

Japan is world renowned for its highly efficient railway system. Most of the country is covered by extensive rail networks, with train lines 

operated by various companies that enable fast and convenient intracity and intercity travels. 

Japan Railways 

Japan Railways (JR) runs a significant percentage of Japan’s commuter rail networks and almost all the intercity train services. It comprises 

six companies that operate in different regions across the country, Hokkaido Railway Company, East Japan Railway Company, Central Japan 

Railway Company, West Japan Railway Company, Shikoku Railway Company and Kyushu Railway Company. 

There is at least one JR Station in most Japanese cities and in large urban and touristy areas, such as Tokyo, Osaka, Kyoto and Nagoya, these 

train stations have more to offer. For instance, Shinjuku Station, Kyoto Station and Nagoya Station are all mall-like complexes with luxury 

hotels, shopping malls, cinemas, restaurants, bars, cafes etc. within their multi-storey buildings. 

Metro and subway stations 

Many Japanese cities have rail systems that are operated by privately-owned companies, in addition to JR. As an example, in Tokyo there are 

two subway systems running: The Toei Subway and the Tokyo Metro. 

Bear in mind that not every train station serves all railway lines in a city. At Shinjuku Station there are several JR lines, two Toei Subway lines 

and a Tokyo Metro line, but at Asakusa Station, only the Tobu, Toei Subway and Tokyo Metro networks operate. 

How to buy a JR ticket 

There are ticket vending machines (with an English language option) close to the JR ticket gates. To verify the fare to your destination, examine 

the map above the machines. Once you have determined how much to pay, select the correct amount on the screen, insert bills or coins into 

the slot, and wait for your ticket and/or change. 

If you made a mistake and bought the wrong ticket, you can settle the difference once you get to your destination through the fare adjustment 

machines found near the ticket gates. 

If you plan on doing extensive travel around the country, it is recommended to buy a Japan Rail Pass. 



How to buy a subway or metro ticket 

The process for buying tickets for the metro or subway is the same as the one for JR: look for the vending machines beside the ticket gates, 

determine your fare by studying the map above the machines, push the correct button on the screen, and insert your money. If you buy the 

wrong ticket, you can use the fare adjustment machines once you arrive at your destination. 

Using an IC card 

Purchasing tickets every time you take the train can be time consuming, so consider getting yourself an IC card. 

In Japan, there are different kinds of IC cards available, including the Pasmo and the Suica (which you can buy in Tokyo), the PiTaPa and the 

Icoca (Osaka), and the Manaca and the Toica (Nagoya). However, most of these IC cards can be used interchangeably wherever you are in 

Japan. This means that if you buy an Icoca card in Osaka, you can use it for train travel even in Tokyo, Hiroshima, Nagasaki, Kagoshima, and 

several other cities. 

These IC cards are available at ticket vending machines, manned ticket counters and convenience stores. They can be topped up through the 

vending machines that accept charge amounts in increments of 1,000 yen. Insert your IC card into the designated slot, choose the “charge” 

option, and insert your money. 

Train transfers 

To transfer from one JR line to another JR line, look for the signs (which can be found on the walls or hanging from the station ceiling) that 

indicate where you should go. Usually, you will not need to exit the ticket gates to be able to do this. However, if transferring from a metro 

or subway line to a JR line (and vice versa), you need to exit the ticket gates and find the correct ticket gates to the next platform. Remember, 

always look for and read the signs around the station to avoid getting lost and getting on the wrong train. 

Different kinds of trains 

The different rail networks have different kinds of trains that are categorised according to how quickly they can take you to your destination. 

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Local – Stops at all the stations so your trip takes longer, but the tickets are cheap 

Rapid – Skips a number of stations and a ticket costs a bit more than a local train ticket 

Express – A ticket costs more than a rapid train fare because it is faster, as it bypasses many of the stations 

Limited express – The most expensive ticket but fastest option as it only stops at the major stations 

Train etiquette 

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Do not make loud noises while on the train. Refrain from talking on your phone and use headphones if you really want to listen to 

music during your commute. Talk in hushed tones among your companions. 

During rush hour, some train lines have women-only cars that are marked by large pink signs on the platforms. If you are a man and 

make the mistake of boarding a women-only car, you may be fined, scolded or get dirty looks. 



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Avoid eating. Candies or mints are fine, but consuming a burger or sandwich while the car is packed is considered rude. 

Do not occupy the seats reserved for the elderly, handicapped and pregnant women. These seats are labelled and are usually found 

in the corners. 

While waiting for your train, make sure to wait behind the yellow lines on the platforms. Once your train arrives, do not run 

straight into the car as soon as the doors open. Wait for the arriving passengers to disembark. Patiently form a line and wait 

for your turn to enter. 

Apps to help you navigate the Japanese rail network 

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Hyperdia – provides departure and arrival times of the Shinkansen/subway/metro/buses/planes, ticket prices, transfer information, 

travel times etc. 

Tokyo Subway Navigation for Tourists – offers information on navigating the Tokyo Metro and Toei Subway lines 


What to Pack 

The type of clothing, footwear and other things to bring with you to Japan largely depends on the time of the year you are visiting. The 

following are suggested luggage checklists for what to pack for each of the four Japanese seasons: 

Winter (December, January, February) 

Winter temperatures in Japan can dip to below zero degrees Celsius, particularly in the Hokkaido region, so ensure you take enough warm 

clothes to keep comfortable throughout your trip. 

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Thermal innerwear 

Fleece jacket 

Winter/ski jacket 

Waterproof coat/windbreaker 

Waterproof, insulated long pants 

Beanie 

Scarf 

Gloves 

Wool socks 

Snow boots 

Spring (March, April, May) 

In spring time, the weather is a bit less chilly, averaging between 5 and 10 degrees Celsius, just the perfect temperature to spend extended 

time outdoors enjoying the cherry blossoms. 

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Thermal base layer 

Fleece jacket 

Thick, waterproof coat 

Thick long pants, such as jeans 

Scarf 

Beanie 

Gloves 

Wool socks 

Regular closed footwear, such as sneakers 


What to Pack 

Summer (June, July, August) 

Japanese summers are known to be extremely hot and humid, with average daily temperatures of more than 30 degrees, so clothing made from 

light and airy materials is recommended. 

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Cotton t-shirt 

Cotton shorts or pants 

Denim jeans 

Cotton socks 

Hat or cap 

Umbrella 

Sunscreen 

Autumn (September, October, November) 

The start of the autumn season can still be a bit hot and humid during the day, so pack a number of sweaters and jackets that you can layer 

once the temperature becomes cooler later in the day. 

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Light long-sleeved tops 

Sweater 

Light jacket 

Coat 

Sneakers or boots 

Cotton socks 

Scarf 

Other essentials, no matter the time of year 

In addition to these, other essentials that you should include are: 

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Medicines – for headaches, diarrhoea, colds, constipation, and other common illnesses 

Towel – some accommodation options charge extra for towels 

Deodorant – to keep you smelling fresh throughout the day 

Earplugs – for noise cancellation while sleeping on the plane, train, or at your shared dormitory hostel room 

Japanese phrasebook – for basic Japanese greetings and phrases 

Smartphone, tablet, laptop, camera – for taking photos, internet use, communication etc. 

Chargers – for all your electronics 

Underwear 

Soap, shampoo, toothpaste and other toiletries are available in convenience stores around the country. 


Internet and Mobile Advice 

Having internet connectivity while exploring Japan is fairly easy as there are several options available for tourists to gain access to the web 

while travelling. 

Free WiFi 

Most hotels, hostels, inns, and other accommodation all over Japan provide free WiFi services to their guests, 24 hours a day. Many of them 

even have desktop computers and laptops for guest use. 

When outside, there are train stations and establishments that offer free WiFi. You simply have to look for a “Free WiFi” sign and ask an 

employee or staff member for the password to get connected. 

Paid WiFi 

Paid WiFi services are more commonly found around Japan, in comparison to free WiFi, and they are offered by different companies such as: 

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Docomo 

Softbank 

Wi2 

To gain access, you need to register an account and pay a fee. Some offer 24-hour access that may cost between 500 yen and 800 yen, oneweek 

access for about 1,000 yen, and three-week access for 1,500 yen. 

SIM cards 

If you wish to use your own smartphone or tablets for internet use, you can purchase or rent a SIM card once you arrive in Japan. These 

SIM cards are available at airports, train stations, and other stores. They can also be ordered online before you head to Japan and have them 

delivered to your hotel. 


What to Pack 

Smartphones for rent 

There are Japanese telecommunications companies that offer rental smartphones to foreigners who want internet connection throughout 

their stay. These phones come in Android and iPhone models, and they can be rented online for delivery to your accommodation, or at some 

airports. They can be used as your personal internet source or as a hotspot if you are travelling with other people. 

USB modems 

If you have a laptop with you, consider renting a USB modem to be able to connect to the internet. USB modems are generally cheaper, and 

they are much easier and more convenient as they do not need to be charged every few hours. However, they can only be connected to one 

laptop at a time. 

International roaming 

Before you fly to Japan, check with your local carrier if their internet data service can work in Japan and what the costs of international roaming 

are for your trip. This method tends to be quite expensive, so make sure you don’t get caught out with a huge bill on your return to Australia. 


Travel 

Guides 


Tokyo Travel Guide 

Overview 

As Japan’s capital city, Tokyo is a magnet for tourists. It has a vast array of historical, cultural and modern attractions to offer visitors any time 

of the year. 

When To Go 

The best time to go to Tokyo depends on what you want to see and do. All year round, 

it has tons of sights to see and activities you can take part in. 

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In spring (March – May), visitors to Tokyo gather in the city’s public parks and 

gardens (such as Ueno Park, Shinjuku Gyoen, Sumida Park, Inokashira Park, 

and Yoyogi Park) to get the best seats for cherry blossom viewing. 

In summer (June – August), despite temperatures going over 30 degrees and 

the humidity reaching uncomfortable levels, locals and international tourists 

flock to the many festivals held in the city, such as the Asakusa Samba Carnival, 

the Harajuku Omotesando Genki Matsuri Super Yosakoi, and Fukugawa 

Hachiman Matsuri. 

During autumn (September – November), crowds gather in Tokyo’s parks to 

enjoy the beauty of the autumn foliage. 

In winter (December – February), the city holds a number of illumination 

or Christmas light events throughout the holidays. Going to an onsen (hot 

spring) in nearby towns is also popular with tourists who want to escape the 

cold. 

Imperial Palace moat during the spring season 

Tokyo cityscape with the Skytree 



Things To See 

Top Attractions 

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Tokyo Disney Resort –This resort includes both Tokyo Disneyland and DisneySea, two themed parks with many attractions and rides 

that can be enjoyed by adults and children alike. Tokyo Disney Resort can be reached by JR Maihama Station. Go to where the magic is! 

Tokyo Skytree – The tallest structure in Japan, Skytree is a 634-metre high tower that offers a restaurant, cafe and observation decks 

with fantastic views over Tokyo. 

Tokyo Imperial Palace – Located in the middle of Tokyo, surrounded by moats and stone walls is the official residence of the Imperial 

Family. The Palace also features beautiful gardens. 

Tsukiji Fish Market – An early morning visit to Tsukiji Fish Market is popular with international tourists to Japan. With more than 

2,000 tons of fish and other marine products handled each day, the wholesale market is always busy – its stalls crowded with curious 

onlookers and its restaurants filled with visitors craving fresh, authentic Japanese seafood. It also offers other produce, such as fruit 

and vegetables. 

Tokyo Tower – One of Japan’s most important landmarks, the 333-metre high 

Tokyo Tower is the tallest, self-supported steel tower in the world. It was completed 

in 1958 and has served as the symbol for the country’s rise as a global 

economic power after the World War II. It has a 150-metre high observatory that 

can be accessed by either stairs or an elevator. It provides fantastic views of the 

metropolis. 

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Tokyo Metropolitan Government Building – For panoramic views of Tokyo, visit 

the observation decks of the Tokyo Metropolitan Government Building. They are 

200 metres above the ground and access is free. On clear days, the decks provide 

scenic views of Mount Fuji, Tokyo Tower, Tokyo Dome and the Tokyo Skytree. 

The building is about a 10-minute walk from Shinjuku Station’s west exit. 

Sensoji Temple 

Shrines and Temples 

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Meiji Shrine – One of Tokyo’s top shrines, Meiji Shrine is a Shinto shrine situated 

in a spacious, forested area between Shinjuku and Shibuya, just a few minutes’ 

walk from Harajuku Station. 

Senso-ji Temple – A popular ancient Buddhist temple in the Asakusa district. 

Fukagawa Fudō-dō – A temple located in the historic Fukugawa neighbourhood 

of Tokyo’s Koto ward, Fukugawa Fudo-do is a short train ride from Tokyo Station. 

Built in the early 18th century for the deity Fudomyo, the temple contains a gigantic 

wooden statue and around 10,000 miniature statues of the god. 

Shinjuku Gyoen 

Museums 

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Tokyo National Museum – Japan’s oldest and largest national art museum that is home to more than 110,000 artefacts. 

Ghibli Museum – A must-visit for fans of Studio Ghibli’s films. 

Edo-Tokyo Museum – Features a diverse collection of pieces and artefacts from several centuries of Tokyo’s eventful history. 

Parks 

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Ueno Park – Situated in central Tokyo just a stone’s throw away from Ueno Station, Ueno Park is a spacious public park that features 

several historical buildings (Kanei-ji Temple, Kiyomizu Kannon-doTemple, Benten-do Temple and the Tosho-gu Shrine), as well as educational 

and recreational facilities (Tokyo National Museum, National Science Museum, Tokyo Metropolitan Art Museum, National 

Museum of Western Art and Ueno Zoo). 



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Yoyogi Koen – A large city park that features well-landscaped gardens, ponds and recreational areas. It welcomes crowds of people in 

the spring during cherry blossom viewing season. 

Shinjuku Gyoen – A popular place for cherry blossom and autumn leaves’ viewing. 

Imperial Palace East Gardens – Found in the Imperial Palace complex, these Gardens are gorgeously landscaped and surrounded by 

huge castle moats and ruins of the foundations of the historic Edo Castle tower. 

Shopping 

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Ginza – The best place to go for upscale clothing, electronics and a wide variety of other goods. 

Harajuku – Home to the Takeshita Dori and Omotesando streets, known for their diverse selection of fashionable, trendy and high-end 

stores. 

Ikebukuro – A bustling shopping and entertainment district best known for its numerous department stores and shops that cater to 

fans of electronics and gadgets. 

Where To Explore 

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Asakusa – A district in Tokyo where you can experience its old town, historic feel. 

It’s home to the 7th century Buddhist temple, Senso-ji. 

Akihabara – A lively area in central Tokyo most popularly known for its manga, 

anime and electronic goods. 

Shibuya – Home to the world-renowned Shibuya Crossing, this district is a 

culture and fashion hub for the young people of Japan. 

Shinjuku – With the busiest railway station in the world, Shinjuku is a busy 

shopping, entertainment and business district. There you’ll find many malls, 

restaurants, skyscrapers, museums, parks, and the Tokyo Metropolitan 

Government Building. 

Roppongi Hills – Founded in 2003, Roppongi Hills is Tokyo’s most modern 

district. Highlights include a 238-metre high building known as the Mori Tower, 

the Mori Garden, the TV Asahi Headquarters and a wide selection of shopping 

and dining spots. It also has numerous apartments, an art museum, a hotel and 

an observation deck, among many other modern establishments and facilities. 

Mt Fuji – Located just outside Tokyo, this is one of Japan’s most popular natural 

wonders. Mt Fuji is a 3,776-metre high active volcano found between the 

Shizuoka and Yamanashi Prefectures. It attracts swarms of tourists all year round, 

especially during July and August in summer when it’s open for climbing. Mt Fuji 

is also known for the Fuji Five Lakes and its numerous hot spring resorts. 

Shibuya Crossing 

Shibuya – ©JNTO 

Getting Around 

The Tokyo transport network consists of many subway, train and bus lines that are operated by different companies such as Japan Rail, Toei 

Subways, Tokyo Metro, Tobu Railway, Keio Railway, and Odakyu Railway. 

You can use the Japan Rail Pass on the JR Yamanote (a loop line), as well as on the JR Chūō and JR Keihin-Tōhoku lines. 


Where to Stay in Tokyo 

Tokyo is one of the biggest and most populous cities in the world, and it welcomes millions of tourists from all over the world every year. 

Being composed of 23 wards, several towns, villages and cities, selecting accommodation for your first trip can be tricky. Here are the best 

neighbourhoods to stay in: 

Shinjuku 

Known for its excellent shopping and entertainment options, Shinjuku is frequently recommended 

to first-timers who are wondering where to book their accommodation in 

Tokyo. Whether you are a budget traveller looking for a low-cost bed in a shared dormitory 

or a couple wanting to splurge on a luxury suite, Shinjuku has lots to offer. It is home 

to the busiest railway station in the world, the Shinjuku Station, which runs numerous 

subway and train lines and sees over two million commuters on a daily basis. Moreover, 

it has a bus terminal, called the Busta Shinjuku, which serves various bus lines that take 

passengers to different parts of the country. 

Transportation Access 

The following are the different train lines that serve Shinjuku Station: 

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JR – Yamanote Line, Chuo Main Line, Chuo Rapid Line, Chuo Sobu Line, Shonan 

Shinjuku Line, Saikyo Line 

Odakyu – Odawara Line 

Keio – Keio Line, Keio New Line 

Tokyo Metro – Marunouchi Line 

Toei Subway – Toei Shinjuku Line, Toei Oedo Line 

Attractions Nearby 

Many of Tokyo’s most famous tourist attractions are located close to Shinjuku Station. 

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Shinjuku Gyoen, a large and beautiful park that becomes crowded in spring and autumn with visitors wanting to view its magnificent 

cherry blossoms and autumn foliage, is a 10-minute walk from Shinjuku Station’s New South Exit. 

The Tokyo Metropolitan Government Office, with observation decks that provide (free of charge) panoramic views of the metropolitan 

area and Mount Fuji on clear days, is just a 10-minute walk from Shinjuku Station’s West Exit. 

For modern architecture fans, Shinjuku’s Skyscraper District, situated west of Shinjuku Station, is a must-visit as it has an abundance 

of tall, towering buildings that house shops, malls, restaurants, hotels and other facilities. 



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Known as the largest and most vibrant red light district in Japan, Kabukicho is a few minutes’ walk from Shinjuku Station. It is where 

you can find a wide selection of entertainment including bars, restaurants, eateries, pachinko parlours, love hotels and night clubs that 

are open up until the wee hours of the morning. 

If you love shopping, there are large malls and department stores around Shinjuku Station, such as Isetan, Odakyu and Takashimaya, 

which have multiple floors of shopping spaces and offer a wide selection of items including clothing, footwear, traditional Japanese arts 

and crafts, bags, high-end designer brands and electronics. 

Ginza 

Known for being the upmarket area of Tokyo, Ginza is home to expensive dining places, five-star hotels, high-end boutiques and malls, and 

posh art galleries. It has two centrally located railway stations, the Ginza Station and the JR Yurakucho Station. 


The following train lines serve the Ginza area: 

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Ginza Station – Tokyo Metro Ginza Line, Tokyo Metro Marunouchi Line, Tokyo Metro Hibiya Line 

JR Yurakucho Station – JR Keihin Tohoku Line, JR Yamanote Line, Tokyo Metro Yurakucho Line 


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If you wish to see kabuki, the Kabukiza Theater in Ginza runs plays almost daily. Ticket prices range from 4,000 yen to 22,000 yen, and 

bookings need to be made in advance. 

Found under JR Yurakucho Station, the Yurakucho Gado-shita dining district features dozens of dining options that range from small 

izakaya, beer halls and yakitori places, to fine dining spots and French wine bars. 

Multi-storey department stores, such as Matsuya, Tokyu Plaza Ginza and Marronnier Gate, not only offer excellent spots to shop for 

quality clothing, footwear, bags and other fashion items, they also have excellent restaurants and eateries that serve local and foreign 

cuisine. 

Shibuya 

Whether day or night, Shibuya is one of Tokyo’s liveliest and busiest wards. Every day, visitors flock to this part of the city to shop, dine, party 

and sightsee. Compared to the other districts, Shibuya caters more to young people, with many department stores and shops featuring youth 

culture and fashion. 


The following train and subway lines serve Shibuya Station: 

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JR – Saikyo Line, Shonan Shinjuku Line, Yamanote Line 

Tokyo Metro – Ginza Line, Hanzomon Line, Fukutoshin Line 

Keio – Keio Inoshikara Line 

Tokyu – Tokyu Den-en-toshi Line, Tokyu Toyoko Line 


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The famous Shibuya Crossing is a large intersection located right outside Shibuya Station. It is surrounded by towering buildings decorated 

with gigantic billboards and video screens that look fantastic at night. 

A statue of the beloved Akita dog, Hachiko, stands at one corner of the intersection, a few minutes’ from Shibuya Station’s Hachiko 

Exit. Every day, it is surrounded by a swarm of people wanting to take photos of and with it. 



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For Japanese youth fashion trends, Koen Dori and Center Gai are home to many boutiques, shops and department stores that showcase 

the hottest and latest craze in terms of clothing, footwear and accessories. 

Tokyo Station 

Tokyo Station is one of the biggest railway stations in Japan. As it serves many Shinkansen lines, JR Lines (including the JR Yamanote Line) and 

subway lines, it can be extremely convenient to stay nearby while in Tokyo. It is also located at the heart of an important Japanese business 

district composed of many high-rises and skyscrapers. 


The following train and subway lines serve Tokyo Station: 

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JR – Tokaido Shinkansen, Tohoku Shinkansen, Yamagata Shinkansen, Akita Shinkansen, Joetsu Shinkansen, Hokuriku Shinkansen, Hokkaido 

Shinkansen, Tokaido Main Line, Ueno–Tokyo Line, Keihin-Tohoku Line, Yamanote Line, Chūō Main Line, Sōbu Main Line, Narita 

Express, Yokosuka Line, Keiyo Line 

Tokyo Metro – Marunouchi Line 


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The Tokyo Imperial Palace and Imperial East Gardens are about a five-minute walk from Tokyo Station. It is the site where the former 

Edo Castle stood, and is currently the official residence of the Japanese Imperial Family. It is a popular sightseeing spot, especially during 

the peak cherry blossom and autumn foliage seasons, due to its spacious and well-maintained gardens, which feature moats and 

various species of plants and trees. 

Looking for a good place to eat any time of the day is very easy, as Tokyo Station has countless of small and large restaurants and 

eateries that offer not only authentic Japanese cuisine but also some international dishes. Kitte, Marunouchi Oazo, Nakadori Avenue, 

Tokyo Building Tokia, and Marunouchi Brick Square are just a few examples of places that not only have exemplary dining options but 

also shopping boutiques and shops. 

Some notable architectural structures in the neighbourhood are the Tokyo International Forum, which holds exhibitions, conventions 

and concerts; and the Marunouchi Building, a 37-storey building that stands 180 metres tall. 

Yamanote Line 

The JR Yamanote Line runs on a loop around central Tokyo and offers easy access to many of the city’s famous sightseeing spots. Therefore, 

booking accommodation close to any of its major stops is highly recommended. Below are some of the most ideally located Yamanote Line 

stops and examples of popular attractions found nearby: 

● Shibuya – Hachiko Statue, Shibuya Crossing 

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Shinjuku – Tokyo Metropolitan Government Building, Shinjuku Gyoen 

Tokyo – Tokyo Imperial Palace, Imperial Palace East Gardens 

Shimbashi – Tsukiji Fish Market, Hama Rikyu Gardens, Shiodome Shiosite 

Ikebukuro – Sunshine City, Namja Town, J-World Tokyo 

Ueno – Ueno Park, Ueno Zoo 

Harajuku – Meiji Shrine, Takeshita Dori, Omotesando 

Yoyogi – Yoyogi Park, Meiji Shrine 

Akihabara – Akihabara Electric Town, maid cafes, manga and anime shops, electronic stores, etc. 

Hamamatsucho – Tokyo Tower, Zojoji Temple 

Ebisu – Yebisu Garden Place 


Best Side Trips from Tokyo 

Escape the fast-paced streets and bustling lifestyle of Tokyo on a day trip to its nearby towns and cities. From the Edo Period streets of Kawagoe 

to the museums and hot springs of Kawaguchiko, here are five popular side trips from Tokyo. 

Kamakura 

Famed for its towering bronze statue of Amida Buddha, Kamakura is an old city on Sagami 

Bay in Kanagawa prefecture and located less than one hour south of Tokyo. It’s home 

to ancient Shinto shrines and Zen Buddhist temples, including Hōkoku-ji, Kenchō-ji and 

Hasadera with its massive wooden statue of Kannon, as well as good surf and swimming 

spots at its picturesque white sandy beaches. 

Yokohama 

One of the first Japanese ports that opened to foreign trade in the mid-19th century, 

Yokohama is a vibrant city to the south of Tokyo and home to the country’s largest Chinatown. 

Wander the traditional Japanese gardens and architecture of Sankei-en, get up 

close to marine life at the Hakkeijima Sea Paradise and learn about what goes into making 

the perfect bowl of noodles at the Ramen Museum. 

Nikko 

Nestled in the mountains to the north of Tokyo, Nikko is renowned for its 17th century 

Toshogu Shrine which was designed as a lavish mausoleum for the founder of the 

Towugawa Shogunate, Ieyasu. With a travel time of less than two hours, you can explore 

its scenic hiking trails which lead to graceful family shrines witness its gilded Yomeimon 

Gate and visit Nikko’s ancient Buddhist temple complex of Rinnō-ji and the 8th-century Futarasan Shrine. 

Kawaguchiko 

The most easily accessible of the Fuji Five Lakes, a little under two hours by bus, travelling from Shinjuku or Tokyo Station, Kawaguchiko offers 

outstanding views of Mount Fuji along its shores and from the Kachi Kachi Ropeway. You can indulge at the hot spring baths of Kaiun no yu and 

Tensui Kawaguchiko, explore the gardens and instruments of the Kawaguchiko Music Forest, witness Japanese artworks at the Kawaguchiko 

Museum of Art and marvel at the exquisite kimonos of the Kubota Itchiku Museum. 

Kawagoe 

Affectionately known as “Little Edo” for its atmospheric streets lined with old clay warehouses and kurazukuru merchant homes, Kawagoe is 

situated around 30 minutes by train from Tokyo. Wander its Warehouse District and aptly-named Candy Alley, visit the only surviving remains 

of the Kawagoe Castle at Honmaru Goten and witness the 540 Gohyaku Rakan statues at Kitain Temple. 


How to Navigate Tokyo’s 

Train System 

The train is the fastest way to get around when travelling within a city in Japan. In a large metropolis like Tokyo, several train lines are in operation 

and navigating your way may be confusing, especially for foreigners. Below is a guide that covers the most important aspects of train 

commuting within Tokyo. 

Railway companies 

There are several railway companies that operate in Tokyo: 

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Japan Railways – The Yamanote Line, Keihin-Tohoku Line, Chuo-Sobu Line (Local), Chuo Line (Rapid), and the Saikyo Line 

Toei Subway – The Asakusa Line, Mita Line, Shinjuku Line and the Oedo Line 

Tokyo Metro – The Ginza Line, Marunouchi Line, Hibiya Line, Tozai Line, Chiyoda Line, Yurakucho Line, Hanzomon Line, Namboku Line 

and the Fukutoshin Line 


How to Navigate Tokyo’s 

Train System 

Tickets 

Single tickets 

You can purchase single-ride tickets from the vending machines found at all railway stations, paying in cash with either bills or coins. Fares 

depend on the distance travelled, so ensure you correctly select your destination on the screen. Many machines have an English language option, 

so using them shouldn’t be too problematic. If you accidentally buy the wrong ticket, you can use the fare adjustment machine once you 

arrive at your destination station and settle the difference. 

IC (rechargeable transport) cards 

For the ultimate in convenience, save time by buying an IC card the first time you travel and top it up with enough funds to last your entire 

Japanese trip. That way, you won’t even need to use the ticket vending machines or calculate your fare. As long as it has sufficient funds, you 

only need to tap the IC card on the card scanners at the ticket gates each time you enter and exit. 

You can purchase either a Suica (which you can buy from the Japan Railways’ ticket vending machines) or a Pasmo (which you can get from 

the vending machines at Tokyo Metro stations) for use in and around Tokyo. You can also use them for other transactions, such as making 

purchases from convenience stores, paying for storage lockers and travelling on city buses. 

Unlimited day passes 

If you plan to make extensive use of the train while in Tokyo, it might be more economical to utilise the one-day unlimited-ride passes that the 

train companies offer, such as the: 

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Common 1-day ticket – valid on both the Toei and Tokyo Metro Lines, costing 1,000 yen; 

Tokyo Metro 1-day open ticket – valid for use on all Tokyo Metro Lines, costing 710 yen; 

Tokyo Combination ticket – valid on all JR trains, subway lines, and Toei buses in Tokyo, costing 1,580 yen. 

Stations 

Train stations all over Tokyo have English signs to help you find the correct platforms to board your train. Each one has both automated ticket 

gates (where you insert your single ticket or tap your IC cards) and manned gates (where you show either your JR Pass or other types of pass 

to a station staff, who can also help with fare adjustment issues). The process is the same when exiting the platforms once you get to your 

destination. 

Reminders 

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The Japanese queue while waiting for the train. They also let the people arriving disembark before trying to board the train themselves. 

Some commuter trains have cars reserved for women only, and these are marked in pink on the platforms. 

In the majority of cars, corner seats are for the elderly, pregnant women and handicapped passengers. 

Refrain from talking on your phone when on board. If with a group, avoid laughing or talking out loud. 

Train stations in Tokyo have lockers, so you can leave your luggage there while you go sightseeing. 


Kyoto Travel Guide 

Overview 

A former capital city of Japan, Kyoto played an essential part in the history of the country, being the official residence of the emperor for more 

than one thousand years, from 794 to 1868. 

Today, it is world-renowned for its many well-preserved shrines, temples, and other important historical landmarks that receive millions of 

tourists from around the world every year. 

When To Go 

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Springtime from March to May is peak tourist season in Kyoto as it is when 

the cherry trees reach their full bloom. During this period, expect dense 

crowds in the city’s parks and gardens as people want to get the best seats to 

view the cherry blossoms. 

During summertime, from June to August, the city offers a number of festivals 

that are worth watching, such as the Gion Matsuri and the Gozan Fire 

Festival. 

In autumn (October to November), temples and shrine complexes, such as 

the Kiyomizu-dera and Tofukuji, get throngs of people who want to enjoy the 

beautiful colours of the autumn leaves. 

Wintertime (December – February) in Kyoto is dry and mildly cold, with an 

average temperature of 10 degrees Celsius. It is generally an off-season for 

tourism so it is the best time to go for travellers who want to avoid long 

queues and crowds. 

Arashiyama Bamboo Grove 

Yasaka Pagoda and Sannen Zaka Street 



Things To See 

See the Kyoto Imperial Palace 

The past residence of the Imperial Family when the emperor and capital were located in Kyoto. It is located in Kyoto Imperial Park in the centre 

of the city and is a great recreational space. 

Visit the UNESCO World Heritage Sites 

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Kinkaku-ji Temple – An ancient Zen Buddhist temple that is also called the 

“Golden Pavilion” 

Kiyomizu-dera Temple – A 7th century Buddhist temple located in eastern Kyoto 

Ginkaku-ji Temple – A 500-year-old Zen temple also known as the “Temple of the 

Silver Pavilion” 

Nijo Castle – A castle built during the Tokugawa shogunate to serve as residence 

of the Tokugawa leaders in Kyoto 

Other UNESCO World Heritage Sites that are must-visits if you are staying for a longer 

time in Kyoto are the Tenryu-ji, Ryoan-ji, Saiho-ji, To-ji, Ninna-ji, Nishi-Hongan-ji, Enryaku-ji, 

Shimogamo-jinja, Daigo-ji, Byodo-in, Kozan-ji, Kamigamo-jinja, and Ujigami-jinja. 

Kyoto Station – ©JNTO 

Have a look around Kyoto Station 

If you have time to spare before a train trip, or even make spare time because below 

Kyoto Station is the Porta Underground Shopping Mall and Cube Shopping Mall. Full of 

restaurants, cafes, souvenir shops, fashion and accessories, underground Kyoto Station 

is definitely worth exploring. 

Enjoy fresh seafood and other local dishes at Nishiki Market 

Nishiki Market – ©JNTO 

A long, narrow shopping street lined with restaurants and shops on both sides, Nishiki Market is dubbed “Kyoto’s Kitchen”. It is a dynamic and 

vibrant market that offers fresh fish and other seafood, fruits and vegetables, and local cuisines and delicacies. 

See Fushimi Inari-taisha Shrine 

Renowned for its thousands of torii gates that form hiking trails leading to the summit of sacred Mt Inari, the Fushimi Inari-taisha Shrine is 

a Shinto shrine found in Kyoto. A round trip hike, which takes you through the woods and past a number of smaller shrines and observation 

decks, takes approximately two to three hours. 


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Arashiyama – A popular tourist district situated in western Kyoto, home to many temples, restaurants, a river, the famous Bamboo Path 

and even the Iwatayama Monkey Park 

Philosopher’s Path – A two-kilometre long stone path along a canal in northern Kyoto that stretches from the Ginkaku-ji Temple area 

to the Nanzen-ji neighbourhood and is a popular cherry blossom viewing spot 

Gion – Known as the city’s geisha district, with an abundance of restaurants, teahouses, shops, and old merchant houses 



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Downtown Kyoto – Comprised of the Kyoto Station, Kyoto Tower, and surrounding attractions, including the Kyoto International 

Manga Museum, several temples, shrines, malls, and restaurants 

Kawaramachi – Teramachi and Shin-Kyogoku Shopping Arcades, which branch off Shijo Street around the Kawaramachi intersection, 

are great spots for souvenir shopping. They are also packed with clothing shops and restaurants that are a little bit cheaper than the 

surrounding high class department stores. 

Pontocho – Lined with restaurants that serve a diverse range of traditional and modern Japanese dishes and foreign cuisine, Pontocho 

is a narrow alleyway and popular dining spot in Kyoto. Starting at 5 pm, visitors flock to this part of the city to enjoy sumptuous meals 

while enjoying the fantastic views of the nearby Kamogawa River and its surroundings. 


Kyoto’s transportation network consists of many railway lines, two subway lines, and a highly-reliable bus network. Because a lot of the train 

and subway stations are not located at convenient distances from each other for transfer, buses, as well as bicycles, are quite popularly used. 


How to get around Kyoto 

Kyoto is Japan’s seventh largest city, and one of the country’s most popular tourist destinations. Home to many of Japan’s best historical 

and cultural treasures, such as centuries-old buildings, world heritage temples and shrines, and well-preserved traditional districts, it attracts 

swarms of visitors all year round. 

Before heading to Kyoto, it is recommended that you familiarise yourself with how the city’s transportation system works so you can easily 

travel from one tourist spot to another. Here is some basic information on getting around Kyoto: 

Buses 

Kyoto has an efficient bus network that reaches more attractions than the subway or train. At Kyoto Station, there are bus stops that serve different 

lines operated by various companies. If travelling within the central part of the city, the green Kyoto City Bus buses are the best option, 

while the red Kyoto Bus buses are best for travel to the outskirts. 

How to ride the bus 

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Once the bus arrives at the bus stop, walk to the rear door of the bus to enter. 

The next stop is displayed on the monitor usually placed at the front of the bus and/or is announced. 

If your stop is coming up next, push the button. 

Before disembarking through the bus’ front door, pay exact fare by dropping your coins into the payment box beside the driver. If you 

do not have the exact amount, you can exchange your bills and coins using the change machine attached to the payment box. 

If using a one-day bus pass, make sure to insert the pass into the machine beside the driver to get the validity date printed before disembarking. 

On your next ride, simply show your pass with the printed date to the driver as you exit the bus. 

If you have an IC card, just tap your card onto the card reader when you enter the bus and when you get off. 

Train and Subway 

In Kyoto there are several JR Lines, private railway lines, and two subway lines. 

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The JR Tokaido Shinkansen, JR Sagano, and JR Nara lines all stop at Kyoto Station and give easy access to some popular attractions in 

the city, such as Arashiyama (via the JR Sagano Line) and Fushimi Inari Taisha (via the JR Nara Line) and other cities. 

The Karasuma Subway Line runs from southern Kyoto to northern Kyoto along Karasuma Street; and the Tozai Subway Line runs from 

eastern Kyoto to western Kyoto. 

Private railways, such as the Hankyu Railway and Keifuku Railway, go to Arashiyama. 



How to ride the train and subway 

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All train and subway stations have automatic ticket machines (with English language option and fare guides nearby). Fares for adults 

range from 210 yen to 350 yen, and for kids from 110 yen to 180 yen, depending on your destination. 

Insert your ticket into the ticket gate slot and remember to retrieve it as you will need it once you arrive at your destination. If you have 

an IC card, simply tap the card onto the card reader on the ticket gate to be able to enter. If you have a sightseeing pass, insert it into 

the same slot where single tickets go and do not forget to retrieve it as you pass through the gate. 

Walk to the platforms and wait for your train. The stations should have signs and/or monitors to indicate the correct platform for your 

train. 

Once you reach your destination, exit the train and head towards the automatic ticket gates. If you have a ticket, insert it into the ticket 

gate slot to pass through. If you have an IC card, touch your card onto the card reader and go through the gate. For a sightseeing pass, insert 

it into the slot and be sure to retrieve it once you pass through the gate. 

Additional information on IC cards 

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If you need to top up your IC card, you can do so up to 20,000 yen at a re-charging machine at any station. 

Some major IC cards, such as Suica and Pasmo, can be used in all Kyoto bus, train and subway lines. They cannot be used for Shinkansen 

travel or many highway and airport buses. 

IC cards can also be used to pay for purchases at certain convenience stores and vending machines, and for use of storage lockers at 

some stations. 

Taxis 

A typical taxi in Kyoto can seat a maximum of four passengers (excluding the driver), and the bigger ones can accommodate up to five. The 

starting fare costs about 650 yen and includes the first two kilometres travel, then adds 80 yen for every additional 300 to 400 metres. It is the 

best way to travel if you are travelling with lots of luggage, with small children or the elderly, or with three or more people in a group. It is also 

recommended for those who prefer comfort and convenience, and want to avoid extended walking or crowded trains and buses. 

Bicycles 

The city of Kyoto sits on predominantly flat terrain, making cycling easy and fun. All over the city, there are bicycle rental companies that rent 

out bikes for 1,000 yen to 2,000 yen for a whole day’s use. Some hotels and hostels even offer their guests free bikes to use to be able to 

better explore the different attractions. 

Cycling is more enjoyable outside of downtown Kyoto (particularly around the Kyoto Station area), far from the crowded busy roads and sidewalks. 

Usually, attractions and spots located in the outskirts have well-maintained cycling lanes that allow a smooth ride. Just be sure to check 

a map to know how far it is from one site to another, so that you can prepare for it and not end up overly exhausted. For instance, travelling 

from Kyoto Station to Arashiyama, which is about a 10-kilometre ride, may take about an hour or two, so you might want to bring water and 

wear the right kind of clothes. 

Special Kyoto Bus and Subway Passes 

If you expect to use the buses and trains within Kyoto several times within a single day, it might be economical to purchase one of the following 

bus and subway passes: 

● Kyoto One-Day Bus Pass – This pass allows you to enjoy unlimited rides on the Kyoto City Bus and Kyoto Bus for one day. It costs 500 

yen for adults and 250 yen for children. 



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Kyoto City Subway One-Day Pass – This pass gives you unlimited rides on all both Kyoto City Subway lines, Tozai and Karasuma, within 

a day. It costs 600 yen for adults and 300 yen for children. 

Kyoto Sightseeing Pass – This pass is valid on all Kyoto City Subway lines and the majority of Kyoto Bus routes. It is available as a oneday 

pass, which costs 1,200 yen for adults and 600 yen for children, and as a two-day pass, which costs 2,000 yen for adults and 1,000 

yen for children. 

These passes can be purchased at Kyoto Station or any bus and train/subway ticket office in the city. 


Immerse Yourself in 

Kyoto Culture 

Kyoto is famed for its World Heritage-listed temples and shrines, but this historic city is also brimming with culture and a great 

destination to experience some authentic Japanese traditions. Here are just seven ways to discover Kyoto’s cultural heritage and get 

hands-on making your own works of art. 

1. Explore the streets as a maiko 

Originating in Kyoto during the Edo Period, maiko are apprentice geiko as they learn to dance traditional kyomai dances, play the shamisen and 

speak the local dialect. What better way to explore the streets of Kyoto then dressed in this traditional costume, with numerous studios which 

will style you with a kimono, nihongami wig and typical makeup, before capturing you as a maiko during a photo shoot. 

2. Discover Kyoto’s traditional crafts 

Renowned for producing some of Japan’s most beautiful arts and crafts, Kyoto boasts intricately designed porcelain and ceramics, high-quality 

kimono, Shinto crowns, masks and signature Kiyomizu pottery. Visit the Kyoto Museum of Traditional Crafts to learn about the diverse range 

of handicrafts made in the city, then purchase your own souvenirs at the Kyoto Handicraft Centre and Nishijin Textile Centre. 

3. Create your own pottery 

After discovering Kyoto’s 2,000-year-old pottery tradition, why not learn how to make your own at one of the city’s pottery workshops. 

Practice sculpting and molding earthenware using long-established techniques, led by English-speaking teachers who will assist you in making 

beautiful bowls, cups and pots. 

4. Learn the art of a green tea ceremony 

Steeped in tradition, the Japanese green tea ceremony has strong links to Zen Buddhism and is considered an art form that symbolises 

spirituality. Visit the Centre of Kyoto’s traditional arts in Gion to learn all aspects of the choreographed ritual of making and serving the perfect 

cup of Japanese green tea. 



5. Calligraphy class 

Even if you don’t speak Japanese, you can learn how to write its characters with flair during a traditional calligraphy class. Master the 

fundamentals of different brush strokes as you learn about the history and development of Kanji characters while creating your own piece of 

beautiful artwork. 

6. Dine with a maiko in Gion 

Head to Kyoto’s geisha district in Gion whose streets are lined with traditional wooden machiya merchant houses and restaurants serving 

Kyoto-style kaiseki ryori (Japanese haute cuisine). After building up a healthy appetite, dine with a maiko (geiko apprentice) to learn about their 

way of life and role in Japanese cultural history. 

7. Express your creativity through ikebana (Flower arrangement) 

Originating in the 7th century through the creation of floral offerings for altars, ikebana is the art of flower arrangement. Over the years 

ikebana has developed into an art and a discipline that fuses humanity and nature together. Ikebana is more than just placing flowers in a vase, 

it is an expression on one’s creativity through the combination of colours, lines, and shapes. 


Osaka Travel Guide 

Overview 

Osaka is one of Japan’s most important cities. It has played the biggest role in the economic and political affairs of the Kansai region for several 

hundred years. 

Back in the 1500s, it served as the location for legendary samurai warrior Toyotomi Hideyoshi’s castle. Today, it’s a lively and bustling metropolis 

that has become one of the country’s most popular tourist destinations. 

When To Go 

● Spring (March – May) is a great time to visit Osaka because it’s when the 

cherry and plum blossoms appear, making the city look colourful and alive. 

But be ready for dense crowds at all the blossom viewing sites, such as the 

Nagai, Yodogawa and Osaka Castle Parks. 

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Even though the start of summer (June – August) is rainy season, Osaka still 

remains a vibrant place to be. It holds a number of fun festivals, particularly 

the Tenjin Matsuri, which is highlighted by a river parade and fireworks display. 

During autumn (September – November), the city’s maple and ginkgo trees 

turn red, orange, and yellow, transforming Osaka into a wonderland. 

In winter (December – February), Christmas illuminations all over Osaka 

attract both local and international tourists. 

Osaka Aquarium – ©JNTO 

Doutonbori – ©JNTO 



Things To See 


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Osaka Castle – One of Japan’s most notable landmarks, the Osaka Castle is a 16th century structure built by iconic samurai, general 

and warrior, Toyotomi Hideyoshi. It covers about six hectares of land, with several gates and landscaped gardens, and it’s currently open 

to the public as a museum. 

Universal Studios Osaka – Universal Studios Japan currently has 8 themed 

sections with many different rides, attractions, shows, restaurants and cafes. 

Enjoy a fun-filled day that you won’t forget! 

Osaka Aquarium – Situated by the Bay, Osaka Aquarium (or Kaiyukan) showcases 

a diverse selection of marine life. It’s home to 27 tanks featuring a whale shark, 

manta rays, seals, sea lions, penguins, iguanas, dolphins, jellyfish, turtles, lobsters 

and fish. 

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Kuchu Teien Observatory – Also known as the Floating Garden Observatory, the 

Kuchu Teien Observatory in Osaka is one of the tallest modern buildings in the 

city and offers a 360-degree view of the surroundings. It has an open-air rooftop 

that provides an excellent spot for sunset viewing, along with its many shops and 

recreational facilities. 

Drum bridge from sumiyoshi grand shrine 

Shrines and temples 

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Sumiyoshi Taisha – One of the oldest shrines in Japan, the Sumiyoshi Taisha 

was built in the 3rd century and features a distinct architectural style called the 

Sumiyoshi-zukuri. Its known for its straight roofs, its entrances built under the 

gable and fenced enclosure. 

Shitenno-ji Temple – A Buddhist temple founded in 593, Shitenno-ji is among the 

oldest temples in the country. Its spacious complex features gardens, courtyards, 

shrines, a five-storey pagoda and the Main Hall. 

Shitennoji Temple 

Shopping 

Osaka’s shopping scene is among the country’s best. You’ll find many upscale and high-end malls and boutiques, as well as shopping arcades, 

discount stores and thrift shops. 

In the Umeda and Namba areas there is a long, covered shopping street called Shinsaibashi Suji, featuring various brand name stores and shops. 

It’s 600 metres long and extends to Dotombori. From there, the shopping street actually continues further, but is called the Ebisubashi Suji. 


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Namba – Known for its vibrant atmosphere, Namba is a top entertainment district in Osaka. It’s dubbed Osaka’s southern city centre 

and it also offers numerous shopping and dining options. It’s where you can find Amerikamura, Den Den Town, Dotonbori, Shinsaibashi 

and the Namba Parks. 

Umeda – Known as Osaka’s northern city centre, Umeda is a lively business district with an abundant choice of hotels, restaurants, 

department stores and entertainment facilities. It’s where the Grand Front Osaka, Umeda Sky Building, Kitashinchi District, and the 

Hankyu Entertainment Park are located. 




Travelling around Osaka is quite easy. It’s well served by several JR West local train lines, different subway lines run by various private rail 

companies (such as Nankai, Hankyu, Keihan, Kintetsu, and Hanshin Railways) and city buses. 


Yokohama Travel Guide 

Overview 

The second largest city in Japan, Yokohama is a popular tourist destination best known for its large Chinatown, port, and preserved Western 

buildings built in the mid-1800s, when Edo Period Japan was finally opened to international trade. 

Only about a 30-minute train ride from Tokyo, it is one of the country’s most expat-friendly metropolises. 

When To Go 

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In springtime (March – May) and autumn (September – November), the 

average temperature in Yokohama is around 16 degrees Celsius, just right to 

enjoy various outdoor activities, such as cherry blossom and autumn foliage 

viewing. 

During summer (June – August), the city experiences high temperatures and 

humidity, so bring hats and umbrellas, wear light clothing, and keep yourself 

hydrated. 

In the winter (December – February), there are still plenty of tourist activities 

but the crowds are thinner. 

Aerial view at Minato Mirai waterfront district. 

Hakkeijima Sea Paradise – ©JNTO 



Things To See 

Visit the Hakkeijima Sea Paradise 

Built on a small nearby island, the Hakkejima Sea Paradise is a theme park that houses a big aquarium that is home to sea lions, polar bears, 

giant turtles, dolphins, whale sharks, and several other marine creatures. It also consists of many rides suitable for both children and adults. 

Learn the history of instant ramen at the Cup Noodles 

Museum 

The Cup Noodles Museum is an interactive museum that educates its guests on the 

history of instant ramen noodles. It offers the opportunity to try various noodle mixes by 

allowing visitors to make their own flavours, and also learn how instant ramen products 

are made and packaged. 

Get a taste of local beer at the Kirin Beer Village 

Founded in the city of Yokohama, the Kirin Brewery Company is one of the top beer 

brewers in the country, offering free tours to the public who want to learn everything 

about the history and production of beer, as well as take part in some free tasting! 

Kwan Tai Temple in Chinatown 

Take a stroll at Yamashita Park 

With a great view of the bay, Yamashita Park is a wide, open space that spans a length of 

750 metres of the port area. It is where the Yokohama Marine Tower and Hikara Maru are 

found. It also consists of several statues and monuments. 

Chill out at Sankeien Garden 

Minato Mirai 21 Of Yamashita Park 

Featuring several historic structures from other parts of the country, Sankeien Garden is a unique traditional Japanese style garden. In addition 

to its beautiful flower gardens, hiking trails, rivers and a pond, it showcases many tea houses, a well-preserved daimyo residence, and the 

three-storey pagoda and main hall of the old Tomyoji Temple from Kyoto. 

Check out the Yokohama Red Brick Warehouse 

Composed of two large red brick buildings built about a century ago, the Yokohama Red Brick Warehouse today is a multi-purpose space that 

hosts a variety of events including concerts and theatre performances, and is home to shops that offer brick goods and other products, and 

several restaurants and cafes. 


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Chinatown – Yokohama’s Chinatown is the largest in the country, and its streets are lined with numerous Chinese restaurants and 

shops. It hosts various Chinese festivals and holidays, such as the Chinese New Year, when it is decorated with bright and colourful 

lanterns and other ornaments. 

Minato Mirai – Translated as “harbour of the future”, this urban district by the sea is considered Yokohama’s centre. It is home to many 

skyscrapers, such as the Landmark Tower, and hotels, museums, shopping centres, and other business establishments. 

Yamate – Yamate is a historical part of Yokohama and it served as the primary residential area of the Westerners that lived in the city in 

the past. Today, it is still largely a residential district, with international schools, churches, parks, and well-kept Western-style buildings. 



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Motomachi – Situated just west of Yamate is the Motomachi shopping street, an area that offers a wide selection of shops and 

boutiques, restaurants, and cafes, which are housed in buildings that have a mix of Japanese and Western architecture. It is 500 metres 

long and is open to pedestrians on Saturdays, Sundays, and national holidays. 

Sakuragicho – A three-minute train ride from Yokohama Station takes you to Sakuragicho, a beautiful area facing Yokohama Harbour. 

From Sakuragicho station you can easily access Kamonyama Park, famous for its cherry blossoms, the Yokohama Bay Bridge, which spans the 

Port of Yokohama and Yokohama Cosmo World amusement park. 

Mitsui Outlet Park Yokohama Bayside Shop – An outlet shopping mall with approximately 85 major brand shops and restaurants facing 

the ocean. Approximately a 10-minute walk from Torihama Station. 


There are two major railway stations in Yokohama: the Shin-Yokohama Station and the Yokohama Station. There is also a subway line, a tourist 

loop bus network, and boat services (for travels between Yamashita Park, Minato Mirai, and Yokohama Bay Quarter). 


Hiroshima Travel Guide 

Overview 

Hiroshima is a large city on the island of Honshu, it is known around the world for being the site where the first atomic bomb was dropped 

during World War II. The majority of the city was destroyed and tens of thousands of people lost their lives. The World Heritage-listed Genbaku 

Dome (A-Bomb Dome) was the only building left standing and still stands today. 

Hiroshima has since been rebuilt and today is one of the country’s most visited cities, welcoming several hundred thousand international 

tourists every year. 

When To Go 

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Spring (March – May) in Hiroshima is a season filled with activities, particularly 

cherry blossom viewing in various spots and the Hiroshima Flower Festival 

during the Golden Week of Japanese public holidays in late April/early May. 

Despite the high temperature and humidity, summer (June – August) in 

Hiroshima is celebrated with a number of events and festivals, such as the 

annual Hiroshima Peace Memorial Ceremony, the Peace Message Lantern 

Floating Ceremony and the Mihara Yassa Festival. 

Autumn (September – November) in Hiroshima is a time of many events and 

festivities, such as the harvesting of different crops, fruit-picking events, 

autumn leaves’ viewing and the Saijyo Sake Festival. 

In winter (December – February) illumination events are held throughout the 

holidays. 

Hiroshima Castle 

Memorial Park in Hiroshima 


Hiroshima Travel Guide 

Things To See 


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Hiroshima Castle – Also known as the Carp Castle, the Hiroshima Castle is a fivestorey 

fixture located in the city centre. It was constructed in 1589 and has a vast 

garden and moat. 

Mazda Museum – Hiroshima is where the headquarters of the Mazda Motor 

Corporation is located. The city’s economy is largely reliant on the company. 

Visitors who want to learn how Mazda produces its cars should book a guided 

tour at the museum via email or phone (check the Mazda website for more details 

on how to make a reservation). The tour also explains the history of Mazda, as 

well as the different technologies and car models it’s developed over the years 

since it was founded in 1920. 

Miyajima – ©JNTO 

Parks 

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Peace Memorial Park – A prominent landmark of Hiroshima, the Peace Memorial 

Park covers a vast area and includes the Peace Memorial Museum, the A-Bomb 

Dome, and the Children’s Peace Monument, featuring thousands of handmade 

paper cranes, landscaped gardens, and several other statues and monuments. 

Shukkein Garden – The Shukkein Garden consists of numerous mini-gardens 

that depict mountains, valleys, rainforests and other landscapes. It’s about four 

hundred years old, and also includes a pond and some tea houses with fantastic 

views of the beautiful gardens. 

Atomic Bomb Dome 

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Hijiyama-Koen – Just outside the city centre you’ll find the Hijiyama-Koen Park. Its picturesque ponds and paths are usually full 

of runners, walkers, families and visitors. It’s well worth taking a stroll through this park to reach the Hiroshima City Museum of 

Contemporary Art to visit there as well. 


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Hondori Street – Located downtown, Hondori Street is a covered pedestrian path that is lined with many restaurants and stores on 

both sides. It stretches about 500 metres to the east, beginning around the Peace Memorial Park area. 

Okonomi-mura – Towards the end of Hondori Street you’ll find the Okonomi-mura, or the Okonomiyaki Village. It’s an area where you 

can find many restaurants and diners that prepare all sorts of okonomiyaki, a type of Japanese food made by pan frying batter and 

cabbage, topped with vegetables and other ingredients. 

Miyajima – While not in Hiroshima city itself, a side trip to Miyajima is a must for everyone already in the area. It’s an island that can be 

reached by train, boat and ferry from downtown Hiroshima in less than an hour. Among its top attractions are the Itsukushima Shrine, 

Senjokaku and Mount Misen (a World Heritage site that’s believed to be the island where the gods dwell). 


Hiroshima is served by eight tram lines (the largest tram network in Japan), a JR tourist loop bus and several local buses. Walking is also an 

option to see more of the city up close. 


Guide to Miyajima Using Your 

Japan Rail Pass 

Miyajima is one of Japan’s most popular tourist destinations because of its many amazing scenic spots, particularly Itsukushima 

Shrine and its large, orange tori gate that seem to float on water during a high tide. 

How to access Miyajima with a JR Pass 

Hiroshima provides quick and convenient access to Miyajima Island. With your Japan Rail Pass, you can go to Miyajima without having to pay 

extra fees. 

1. If you are coming from Tokyo, Osaka, Kyoto, or some other distant city, take a Shinkansen to Hiroshima Station. Travel from Tokyo takes 

about five hours, while the trip from Osaka or Kyoto takes about two and half hours. 

2. From Hiroshima Station, take a JR Sanyo Line train going to Miyajimaguchi Station. The trip takes about 30 minutes. 

3. Exit Miyajimaguchi Station and follow the signs that point to the ferry port nearby. It should only take about three minutes to walk there. 

4. At the ferry terminal, show your JR Pass to staff, and wait in line for the next JR Ferry. They operate every 15 minutes. Check out this site: 

http://jr-miyajimaferry.co.jp/timetable/ for the JR Ferry timetable. 

5. The cruise is quite short, so you should arrive at the Miyajima ferry terminal in about 10 minutes. 

What to see in Miyajima 

Miyajima is home to several attractions that could take an entire day or even two to explore thoroughly. And, because they are situated close 

to each other, exploring on foot is the best way to go. 

Itsukushima Shrine 

About a 10-minute walk from the Miyajima Ferry Terminal, Itsukushima Shrine is a centuries-old Shinto Shrine with a huge torii gate, both of 

which appear to float in the sea during a high tide. The shrine is comprised of a main hall, a prayer hall, a theatre stage, and numerous buildings 



supported by sturdy pillars and linked together by boardwalks above the water. At low tide it is possible to walk to the large torii gate and place 

a coin into a gap or crack in the gate’s legs to make a wish. 

Daisho-in Temple 

An important temple of Shingon Buddhism, Diasho-in is a temple sitting at the base of Miyajima’s Mount Misen, about a five-minute walk from 

Itsukushima Shrine. It has several halls that hold a wide variety of statues and religious items dating back to its beginnings. The grounds contain 

many other buildings, a variety of plants and trees, and a hiking trail to the top of Mount Misen that takes about an hour and a half to climb. 

Senjokaku 

Also known as Hokoku Shrine, Senjokaku is a spacious building that was built in the 1580s on a small hill, a short walk from Itsukushima Shrine. 

It was founded by Toyotomi Hideyoshi as a place in which he could chant Buddhist sutras dedicated to fallen soldiers, but was not finished 

before his death. When Tokugawa Ieyasu subsequently took power over the land, he failed to complete the work, so up to this day it remains 

an incomplete structure without a proper entrance or ceilings. 

Mount Misen 

Miyajima’s highest peak is Mount Misen. Standing 500 metres above sea level, it offers picturesque views of the island and Seto Inland Sea. It 

can be reached via three hiking trails: the Momijidani Course, which is the steepest but shortest trail through the woods; the Daisho-in Course, 

which has the gentlest incline and provides fantastic views; and the Omoto Course, which takes you through a forest of gigantic hundredyear-old 

fir trees. 

Other attractions to see and things to do 

If you have more time to spend in Miyajima, you can add the following activities to your itinerary: 

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Try on a kimono or yukata 

Ride a hand-pulled rickshaw 

Learn how to make local arts and crafts 

Visit the Miyajima Aquarium 

Tour the Miyajima Museum of Historical and Folklore Materials 


Nara Travel Guide 

Overview 

Located in the Kansai region, Nara is a major historical city of Japan. It is home to the UNESCO World Heritage Site known as the “Historic 

Monuments of Ancient Nara” which includes several temples and landmarks. 

When To Go 

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In springtime (March – May), Nara welcomes many tourists who want to have 

the best seats to enjoy the peak of the cherry blossom season. 

During the summer months (June – August), Nara’s temperature and humidity 

rise, but its many tourist destinations still attract throngs of people. 

In autumn (September – November), Nara also offers a grand opportunity to 

witness the beauty of the autumn foliage in its many parks and gardens. 

● In winter (December – February), the average temperature is around 10 

degrees Celsius, and fewer crowds come to the city during this time. 

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From 1-14 March, Nara holds a series of events at Todaiji Temple called 

Omizutori. Omizutori holds many events but the most famous event is 

otaimatsu where, just after sunset on every night from 1-14 March, giant 

torches from 6 to 8 metres high are carried up to Nigatsudo’s balcony and 

held over the crowd. When the crowd is showered with the burning embers 

from the torches it is thought to grant them with a safe year. 

Kofuku-ji Temple 



Things To See 

Explore the World Heritage sites of Nara 

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Todai-ji – A prominent landmark of the city of Nara, Todai-ji is one of Japan’s most important temples. It houses a 15-metre tall bronze 

Buddha statue. 

Kofuku-ji – Established more than 1,300 years ago, Kofuku-ji is a Buddhist temple 

that is home to many different National Treasures, including the East Golden Hall, 

a three-storey pagoda, a five-storey pagoda, and North Octagonal Hall. 

Kasuga Shrine – Nara’s most prominent shrine, Kasuga Taisha served as the 

Fujiwara clan’s tutelary shrine during the majority of the Nara and Heian Periods. 

The complex consists of many auxiliary shrines, gardens, and other relics. 

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Yakushi-ji – A 7th century temple known for the symmetric design of its complex. 

It has gone through many fires and been renovated several times through the 

years. 

Toshodai-ji – Founded in 759 by a Chinese priest named Ganjin, Toshodai-ji 

is a temple that honours the contributions of its founder to the beginnings of 

Buddhism in Japan. 

Heijo Palace – When Nara was capital of Japan during the Nara Period in the 8th 

century, the city was called Heijo-kyo and the palace became its centrepiece. 

Todaiji Temple 

Meet the deer at Nara Park 

Situated in the city centre, Nara Park includes several of Nara’s popular landmarks and 

attractions, such as the Nara National Museum, Kofuku-ji, Kasuga Shrine, and Todai-ji. It 

serves as the home of hundreds of deer that wander freely in the area. In Shintoism, deer 

are believed to be messengers sent by the gods. 

Isuien Garden 

People who visit the park may feed the deer but are advised to be careful as some of these animals can be aggressive if hungry. 

Visit the city’s gardens 

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Isuien Garden – Literally meaning “garden founded on water”, Isuien Garden consists of many ponds, a wide variety of plants and trees 

in its two main gardens, a nearby museum, and some tea houses. Its front garden was created in the 17th century, while the rear garden 

was established in 1899. 

Yoshikien Garden – Situated next to the Yoshikigawa River, Yoshikien Garden is open to foreign tourists for free. It boasts of three 

uniquely designed gardens — tea ceremony garden, moss garden, and pond garden — all of which feature outstanding Japanese 

gardening styles and techniques. 

Observe the Stone Buddha of Ataya 

One of the must-see Buddhist attractions if visiting Nara, the Stone Buddha of Ataya is the largest in the world. Also worth seeing is the large 

bronze Buddha statue housed in Todaiji Temple’s main hall. 

Learn at the Nara National Museum 

About a 15-minute walk from Nara Station, the Nara National Museum in Nara Park is a century-old art museum that showcases Japanese 

Buddhist collections such as paintings, Buddhist statues, scrolls and religious items. 




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Naramachi – Formerly a merchant district, Naramichi currently features numerous preserved warehouses and buildings that have been 

transformed into museums, cafes, shops, boutiques and restaurants. 

Mount Wakakusayama – The location of Nara’s popular annual festival known as Wakakusa Yamayaki, Mount Wakakusayama is 

situated on the east of Nara Park. The grasses at its foot are set ablaze annually on the fourth Saturday of January, at night, followed 

by a fireworks display. 


From the JR Nara station, many of the city’s attractions, particularly the ones in Nara Park, are only a 20-minute walk away. Alternatively, you 

may take Nara’s subway (operated by Kintetsu railways) or ride the buses (run by Nara Kotsu). 


Takayama Travel Guide 

Overview 

Located in the mountainous region of Hida in the Gifu Prefecture, Takayama (also frequently called Hida-Takayama), is a town that is known 

for its traditional Japanese atmosphere. Its old Japanese houses have been well-preserved, and its rural lifestyle is primarily kept intact, even 

with the changing of times. 

When To Go 

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Spring (March – May) and autumn (September – November) see the most 

activities in Takayama, as the city observes one of Japan’s liveliest festivals, 

the Takayama Festival, during these times of the year. These seasons also 

welcome throngs of tourists who want to enjoy the cherry blossoms and 

autumn leaves. 

In the summer (June – August), various outdoor activities, such as biking, 

hiking, picnicking, and shopping at flea markets are quite popular. 

In winter (December – February), the city experiences long, cold and dark 

days, but the weather is clear so sightseeing is still pleasant. 

Room with the Garden View 

Takayama Maturi – ©JNTO 



Things To See 

Attend the Takayama Festival 

Considered to be one of the top three best Japanese festivals (the other two are Chichibu 

Yomatsuri and Gion Matsuri), Takayama Festival is an event observed in the city twice a 

year — in autumn and in spring. 

In autumn, the festival is celebrated on 9-10 October at the Hachiman Shrine, while the 

spring event is held on 14-15 April at the Hie Shrine. 

During the festivities, several floats are displayed all over the town. A Karakuri show 

(which is a performance of mechanical dolls that dance and move) and a mikoshi 

procession (an event where a portable shrine is paraded around the city at the beginning 

and conclusion of the feast to honour the Shinto deity) are also held. 

Check out the morning markets 

Takayama Village 

There are two morning markets that open in Takayama every day. The first one is the 

Jinya-mae Market, which starts at 6:30 in the morning, operates until noon and is located 

near the Takayama Jinya. The second is the Miyagawa Market, found in the city’s old 

town district. Both sell fresh farm produce, local arts and crafts, and snacks. 

Complete the Higashiyama walking course 

The walk along the Higashiyama trail takes visitors through the city’s temple town, 

suburbs, forest, hill, and Takayama Castle’s former site. It covers a total distance of about 

3.5 kilometres and takes about one to two hours to complete. 

Evening in Takayama 

Visit the Matsuri no Mori 

Translated as “Festival Forest”, the Matsuri no Mori is a museum dedicated to exhibits that show Takayama’s traditions and customs. It houses 

life-sized replicas of floats that are similar to those you see during the Takayama Festival, large taiko drums, and other artefacts. 

Tour the Takayama Jinya 

The Takayama Jinya used to be the location of the office of the Tokugawa Shogunate officials in the region. Today, the complex is a museum 

that features traditional Japanese interior — tatami floors, sliding doors, etc. It is made up of several conference rooms, offices, and guest 

rooms. 

Go on a side trip from Takayama 

Check out Shirakawa-go – A UNESCO world heritage site famous for traditional gassho-zukuri farmhouses, some that are over 250 years old. 

Day trip to the Shinhotaka Ropeway 

About a two-hour bus ride from Takayama, the Shinhotaka Ropeway offers an exciting experience and an exhilarating ride up the Hotake 

Mountain Range. Passengers are taken up more than 1,000 metres in double decker gondola cars to the upper station where they can dine, 

shop, and take in the spectacular natural scenery of the Okuhida Region and its surroundings. 




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Hida Folk Village – With more than 30 traditional homes comprising its open air museum, the Hida Folk Village is a must-see for those 

who love traditional Japanese interior design and architecture. 

Old Town – With houses, streets, and buildings dating back from the Edo Period, Takayama’s Old Town is a perfect destination for 

tourists looking to experience how life was in the olden times. Some of the area’s businesses, such as sake breweries, coffee shops, 

and stores, have been around for many hundreds of years, and they continue to operate daily, usually from around 9 in the morning to 

5 in the afternoon. 


There are two tourist buses that operate in Takayama — the Sarubobo Bus and the Machinami Bus. Because most of the city’s landmarks and 

attractions are situated adjacent to each other, walking is also a popular means of getting around. 


Fukuoka Travel Guide 

Overview 

The largest city on the island of Kyushu, Fukuoka is a densely populated metropolis located close to mainland Asia. For several centuries now, 

it has served as a key harbour town of Japan and used to be the entry point of Mongol conquerors in the 1200s. 

Today, Fukuoka is among the liveliest cities in the south and attracts tourists from around the world throughout the year. 

When To Go 

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Spring (March – May) in Fukuoka is prime cherry blossom viewing time at the 

different city parks. 

The highlight of Fukuoka’s summer (June – August) is the Gion Yamakasa, but 

going to the beach and drinking cold beer are also favourite activities for both 

locals and tourists. 

In autumn (September – November), the city observes the Hojoe or Hojoya 

festival and also celebrates the turning colours of the leaves, with viewings 

in various spots. 

During the winter (December – February), the city becomes a bright and 

colourful place as Christmas decorations and lanterns are put up in malls, 

stations, and other public spaces. 

Seaside Momochi 

Gion Yamakasa – ©JNTO 



Things To See 

Attend the Gion Yamakasa 

To get a feel of the customs and traditions of Fukuoka, planning your trip to coincide with 

the Hakata Gion Yamakasa is a must. This festival is an annual celebration held in early 

July, and it features a float racing contest, where the different Hakata neighbourhoods 

design their own floats and race five kilometres through the city centre. 

Explore the Fukuoka Castle Ruins 

Constructed in the early 1600s, the Fukuoka Castle served as the residence of the 

ruling Kuroda clan, headed by Kuroda Nagamasa. Because in many minds it represented 

feudalism in Kyushu, there were many attempts to tear the castle down after the Meiji 

Restoration. 

Gardens in Fukuoka 

Today, the complex consists of wall ruins, some turrets, guard towers, and gates. It is 

mainly a park that offers walking trails and fantastic viewing spots from which to see 

cherry blossoms or autumn leaves at the right times of year. 

Relax at the parks 

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Ohori Park – Centrally located, Ohori Park is a public park that offers walking 

and running trails, a pond, beautifully landscaped gardens, and a pavilion over 

the water. 

Uminonakamichi Seaside Park – A great place for a family outing, the 

Uminonakamichi Seaside Park lies close to the bay, with a small amusement park, 

a zoo, a water park, flower gardens, picnic spaces, and playgrounds. 

Eat at Yatai (food stalls) – ©JNTO 

Visit the Shofukuji Temple 

The first ever Zen temple built in Japan, the Shofukuki was constructed in 1195 and was home to Zen Buddhism’s Rinzai sect. The complex 

consists of the main temple, several smaller wooden buildings, gardens, gates, and a small pond. 

Eat at Yatai (food stalls) 

Yatai, or open air food stalls, are recognised as one of the trademarks of Fukuoka. Each stall can seat about six to eight people, and offers a 

wide selection of local cuisine, such as ramen, yakitori, and oden, as well as different beverages. 

At 6 pm, these food stands start to operate, and they quickly fill up with people. Seeing long lines outside each stall is common, as everyone 

waits to get seated. 

Yatai are usually open Mondays to Saturdays, except when the weather is really bad. 




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Seaside Momochi – Located on the bayside area of Hakata, Seaside Momochi is a modern district that offers many entertainment 

options, including museums, beaches, shopping malls, and restaurants. 

Canal City – A vast entertainment, shopping and dining complex, Canal City is home to more than 200 cafes, shops and restaurants. 

It also has hotels, cinemas, a theatre, and a canal. It is best known for its Ramen Stadium, a floor with several ramen restaurants that 

serve delicious varieties of ramen. 

Tenjin Underground City – An underground shopping mall that is easily accessible from Tenjin Subway Station, Fukuoka Airport and 

Hakata Station, Tenjin Underground City features stores and shops lining its European-style corridors. You can find a wide selection of 

affordable and high-end clothes, bags, shoes and accessories, as well as local crafts. The 600-metre long shopping street is the largest 

of its kind on Kyushu Island. 


Fukuoka has three subway lines that connect the different parts of the city. It also has a bus service that covers the tourist loop. 


Kobe Travel Guide 

Overview 

The largest city on the island of Kyushu, Fukuoka is a densely populated metropolis located close to mainland Asia. For several centuries now, 

it has served as a key harbour town of Japan and used to be the entry point of Mongol conquerors in the 1200s. 

Hyogo Prefecture’s capital, Kobe, is among the top ten largest cities in Japan. It is sandwiched between the mountains of Rokko and the sea. 

For several hundred years, Kobe has played an important role in Japan, being one of the first ports to welcome international trade in the 1800s. 

Today, the city is highly urbanised, with many high-rise buildings and structures. 

When To Go 

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In spring (March – May) and autumn (September – November), Kobe offers 

many spots to get the best views of cherry blossoms and autumn leaves. 

During summer (June – August), various outdoor activities are popular, such 

as hiking Mount Rokko and firefly watching at the Arimagawa River. 

Once winter comes (December – February), the average temperature dips to 

about five degrees Celsius, but the city remains vibrant as buildings and parks 

are decorated with bright and colourful lights. 

Kobe port skyline 

Cooking Kobe beef steak 



Things To See 

Eat Kobe beef 

Kobe beef is considered a luxury delicacy in Japan. It comes from high quality cattle and 

can be served in different ways: shabu shabu, sukiyaki, steak, and others. It is available in 

many restaurants around the city. 

Soak in a hot spring at Arima Onsen 

Located on the other side of Mount Rokko, Arima Onsen is a popular hot spring town that 

offers top notch therapeutic natural waters. It is a great choice for a weekend or one-day 

getaway, just to relax and unwind. 

Experience the view from above through the Shin-Kobe 

Ropeway 

Cable Cars 

Starting from the Shin-Kobe area, the Shin-Kobe Ropeway takes passengers over the 

Rokko mountains, providing breathtaking views of the mountain slopes, forest, and 

metropolis. Once at the top station, visitors can check out the souvenir shop, café, 

restaurant, and nearby garden. 

See Sorakuen Garden 

A traditional Japanese Garden that used to be owned by the former mayor of Kobe and 

was opened to the public in 1941. A beautiful garden to visit away from hustle and bustle 

of Kobe. 

Suma Temple 

Check out the Nunobiki Herb Garden 

Occupying 40 acres of land, the Nunobiki Herb Garden in Kobe is home to more than 200 varieties of herbs and flowering plants that add 

colour and life to this part of Mount Rokko any time of the year. It has gift shops, cafes and restaurants where you can enjoy the wide array of 

pleasant aromas and flavours made using the garden’s special herbs. 

Visit the Kobe City Hall Observation Deck 

Kobe City Hall’s 24th floor is an observation deck that is open to the public free of charge. It offers amazing views of Mount Rokko and the city 

and, at night, it is the perfect place to enjoy the illuminated harbour area and Kobe skyline. 




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Kobe Harborland – Situated along the city’s waterfront area, Kobe Harborland is home to many shops, stores, cafes, diners and 

restaurants. It is where Canal Garden and Mosaic, the two biggest shopping areas in the city, are found. It also has an amusement park. 

Kitano – At the foot of Mount Rokko lies a district that used to serve as the residential area of the foreign diplomats and merchants who 

chose to live in Kobe during the foreign trade activities in the second half of the 1800s. Today, visitors can explore these old preserved 

houses to see the interior layouts and designs. Some of the most notable are England House, France House (Yokan Nagaya), Italian 

House (Platon Decorative Arts Museum), Ben’s House, Yamate Hachibankan, and Former Chinese Consulate. 

Chinatown – Recognised as Kansai’s central Chinese community, Kobe’s Chinatown, or Nankinmanchi, is where the Chinese merchants 

in the late 1800s chose to settle to be close to the Kobe Port area. It was named after Nanjing, which used to be a capital of China. 

Today, it is home to several shopping establishments, food stands, and restaurants that offer Chinese goods and dishes. 

Meriken Park – With a nice waterfront view, Meriken Park is a popular destination for both locals and foreigners looking for a spot 

to chill and relax. Its green, grassy lawns, gardens, and courtyards provide a refreshing atmosphere in the middle of the city. Also, it is 

where you can find the Kobe Maritime Museum, Kawasaki Good Times World, and Kobe Port Tower. 


The city of Kobe consists of many railways, including the Japan Railways and a number of subway lines. It has a loop bus that serves visitors 

looking for a convenient way to travel from one tourist attraction to another. Because most of Kobe’s tourist destinations are not that distant 

from each other, walking is also quite popular. 


Nagoya Travel Guide 

Overview 

The fourth most populated Japanese city, Nagoya is a principal metropolis that started out as a castle town during the Edo Period, and is now 

one of the country’s busiest urban hubs. 

It is home to one of the most important ports in Japan and is also the headquarters of automobile manufacturing giant, Toyota Motor 

Corporation. 

When To Go 

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Thousands of cherry blossom trees are found in Nagoya, so the city becomes 

a gorgeous scene of white and pink when springtime comes (March – May). 

During the summer (June – August), the city experiences hot and humid 

weather, so indoor activities such as visiting museums are recommended. 

In autumn (September – November), autumn leaves viewing is a popular 

activity among locals and tourists, so be ready for crowds in parks and other 

viewing spots. 

In winter (December – February), much of the city is colourfully illuminated. 

To celebrate the Chinese New Year, it becomes even brighter, with lots of red 

and yellow lanterns and decorations everywhere. 

Osu Kannon 

Atsuta-jingu Shrine 



Things To See 

Visit Nagoya Castle 

Built in the early 1600s, Nagoya Castle served as one of the seats of the Tokugawa 

clan during the Edo Period. Most of it, including the main palace and castle keep, were 

destroyed during the war in 1945, and had to be rebuilt. 

Nowadays, the palace’s entrance, main hall, and other rooms have been completely 

reconstructed and are open to visitors. 

Tour the Tokugawa Art Museum 

The Tokugawa Art Museum used to be the residence of the Owari during the Tokugawa 

Period. Today, it is home to a wide collection of samurai swords, armour, noh costumes and 

masks, scrolls, maps, utensils, poems, and other treasures. Outside, there is a traditional 

Japanese garden with a pond. The complex also consists of many walking trails, bridges, 

rest houses, and a tea house. 

Nagoya Castle 

Check out the museums 

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Nagoya City Science Museum – With a large, prominent silver globe on its 

façade, the Nagoya City Museum stands out among all the landmarks of the city. 

It consists of seven storeys that house a variety of temporary and permanent 

exhibits, such as “Deep Freezing Lab”, “Electric Discharge Lab” and “Tornado Lab”. 

Toyota Museums – There are three Toyota Museums in Nagoya — the Kainkan 

Nagoya Tower 

Museum, which is the meeting place for the Toyota plant tour; the Toyota 

Automobile Museum, which showcases many American and European car models 

from the 1800s up to the 1960s; and the Toyota Techno Museum, which offers 

a look at the beginnings of the Toyota company, from being a manufacturer of textile machinery to one of the world’s leading car 

producers. 

Visit the popular temples and shrines 

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Atsuta Shrine – An important Shinto shrine, Atsuta Shrine is dedicated to Amaterasu, the Sun Goddess, and it is where the Kusanagi, an 

element of sacred imperial regalia (also known as the Three Sacred Treasures of Japan), is kept. It is surrounded by lush park grounds, 

with a restaurant that serves the local specialty, kishimen noodles. 

Osu Kannon Temple – Centrally located in Nagoya, Osu Kannon is a Buddhist temple that holds many national properties and treasures, 

such as the oldest copy of the Kojiki. It is next to a shopping arcade that has many restaurants and shops. 

Take a stroll in Tokugawa Garden 

Nagoya’s Tokugawa Garden is a large Japanese-style landscape garden that has several walking trails, rest houses, bridges and a central pond. 

It is a popular destination in the city in spring when its peonies and irises are in full bloom, as well as in autumn when the leaves have turned 

to a beautiful mix of oranges, reds and yellows. 




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Nagoya Port Area – Nagoya Port is one of the largest in Japan. It is where you can find the Port of Nagoya Public Aquarium, the Fuji 

Icebreaker, Sea Train Land Amusement Park, and Fuji Antarctic Museum. 

Sakae – Only two kilometres away from Nagoya Station lies the city’s downtown area called Sakae. It has a diverse selection of malls 

and stores, such as Oasis 21, and restaurants. 

Osu Shopping Street – Located next to the Osu Kannon Buddhist Temple in Nagoya, the Osu Shopping Street is a busy shopping arcade 

boasting more than 400 boutiques, shops, cafes and restaurants. It is frequently described as Nagoya’s own Akihabara because many 

stores offer anime, electronics, J-pop and cosplay products. 


There are six subway lines and numerous bus lines that run in Nagoya. For tourists, there is a loop bus service that connects the city’s top 

tourist destinations. 


Kamakura Travel Guide 

Overview 

Less than an hour’s travel from Tokyo, the city of Kamakura is situated on the coast, and has various tourist destinations and attractions on 

offer. It is dubbed as the “Kyoto” of the east because of the many shrines, temples and other cultural and historical landmarks it has. And, 

because it is close to the water, it has many beaches that become packed with people once summertime begins. 

When To Go 

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Spring (March – May) in Kamakura is a great time to take advantage of the 

numerous cherry blossom viewing spots and the weather is very pleasant 

During summer (June – August), the beaches of the city come alive, as visitors 

from other cities and countries come by to have fun under the sun 

In autumn (September – November), the leaves begin to change colour in 

September, so parks and gardens welcome crowds who want to enjoy the 

beauty of the foliage 

In winter (December – February), temperature ranges from 3 to 16 degrees 

Celsius, and the weather is generally dry and sunny. The city’s tourist 

attractions are not so crowded at this time, so it is a good season for those 

who are not keen on fighting through crowds or enduring long queues. 

View of the city and beach 

Gardens 



Things To See 

Visit the Great Buddha statue 

The Kamakura Daibutsu, or the Great Buddha of Kamakura, is an enormous Amida 

Buddha statue that is made of bronze. At over 13 metres high, this statue is the second 

tallest of its kind in the country (the tallest is the Buddha at Todai-ji Temple in Nara) and 

watches over the Kotokuin Temple grounds. 

Check out the temples 

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Hasedera Temple – Known for its statue of the Jodo sect’s Goddess of Mercy, 

Kannon, the Hasedera Temple sits on a hill and has ponds and a nice garden. 

Hokokuji Temple – A Zen Buddhist temple of the Rinzai Sect, the Hokokuji is a 

small temple with a thick bamboo forest behind its main hall. 

Kenchoji Temple – The oldest and ranked number one among the five great Zen 

temples of Kamakura, Kenchoji was founded in 1253. It consists of many subtemples 

and temple buildings. 

Engakuji Temple – Recognised as the second greatest Zen temple of Kamakura, 

the Engakuji houses a wooden Shaka Buddha statue, a large bell, and a lush 

garden that is a popular autumn foliage viewing spot. 

Meigetsuin Temple – Founded in 1160, the Meigetsuin is a Rinzai Sect Zen 

temple with a distinct circular window offering a view of the garden at the back. 

Jomyoji Temple – Ranked number five among Kamakura’s five great Zen temples, 

the Jomyoji used to be a vast complex with many pagodas and seven buildings. 

But due to fire, it now only has the main hall, main gate, warehouse, and reception hall. 

Surugaoka Hachiman Shrine 

Moss Stairs 

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Ankokuronji Temple – A Buddhist Nichiren sect temple, the Ankokuronji is situated in a wooded area on a hill, offering a fantastic view 

of Kamakura. Be warned – it is a bit of hike to get there but the view makes it all worthwhile. 

Hike 

Kamakura is bordered by ocean and a hilly area cloaked with dense forest. Visitors may choose among three types of trail to hike through the 

woods, depending on the time you have available and your energy levels: 

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Gionyama Hiking Course – takes around 30 minutes to complete 

Daibutsu Hiking Course – takes between 60 and 90 minutes to complete 

Tenen Hiking Course – takes between 60 and 90 minutes to complete 

Go to the beach 

The beaches of Kamakura boast fine sand, so they are quite a popular one-day or weekend getaway destination for tourists looking to escape 

the adjacent busy cities of Yokohama and Tokyo in the summer. Swimming, surfing, and sunbathing are popular activities. 




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Enoshima – An island just a short train ride away from Kamakura, Enoshima is a destination that has numerous attractions to offer 

tourists. It has an observation tower, park, shrine and the Iwaya Caves. 

Komachi-dori – This street is lined with over 250 restaurants, cafes, Japanese-style sweet cafes, boutiques and shops for souvenirs and 

shops that represent the ancient city. It is great to explore this street and the little side streets that branch off from it. 


Kamakura has an electric railway service that connects the three main tourist areas of the city. It also has city buses that stop at the top 

attractions. And, because it is not that big, renting a bike or walking to explore the town is a feasible option. 


Sendai Travel Guide 

Overview 

Home to about 1 million people, Sendai is Tohoku region’s largest city. It is old, even by local standards, and was founded in 1600 by one of the 

most powerful feudal lords of Japan, Date Masamune. Several historical attractions are mostly related to the Masamune clan. 

When To Go 

The best time to go to Sendai depends on what you want to see and do. All year 

round, the city has tons of sights to see and activities to take part in. 

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Winters (December – February) in Sendai are cool but dry, with temperatures 

ranging between 0 and 5 degrees, and about half the season experiencing 

snowy days, with snowfalls of between 15 and 30 cm. 

Its summer season (June – August) is quite warm, with day temperatures 

hitting around 25 to 30 degrees, and it sees a lot of rain, especially in the 

months of June and July, but very rarely experiences typhoons. 

Spring (March – May) and autumn (September – November) offer pleasant 

days, with temperatures between 10 and 20 degrees, perfect for sakura and 

autumn leaves viewing. 

Osaki Hachimangu shrine 

Slope car at Funaoka Castle Ruin Park 



Things To See 

Visit the Zuihoden Mausoleum 

The resting place of Date Masamune, one of the Japanese Edo Period’s most influential 

feudal lords, Zuihoden is a mausoleum that showcases stunning, detailed and intricate 

designs and woodwork, tucked into a forested area of the city. In addition to Masamune’s 

tomb, other Date clan members are also entombed there, including his son Tadamune 

and grandson Tsunamune. 

Attend the Tanabata Matsuri 

The Tanabata Festivals are observed all over Japan, but Sendai’s Tanabata Matsuri is 

the most popular and among the most well-attended of them all. Also called the “Star 

Festival”, the event is held in the first week of August (6th to 8th) and involves several 

displays of large, long, brightly-coloured streamers put up at various shopping arcades 

around the city. 

Surugaoka Hachiman Shrine 

Relax at Akiu Falls 

Considered to be one of the 100 best waterfalls in Japan, Akiu Falls is a majestic, 

55-metre high natural wonder that is tucked into an untouched part of Sendai, in Miyagi 

Prefecture’s Northern Honshu region. Getting there takes about thirty to forty-five 

minutes on foot, climbing up several steep staircases and passing through a serene and 

picturesque wooded area. 

Moss Stairs 

Explore the Aoba Castle site 

Feudal lord Date Masamune’s castle fort, the Aoba Castle, was constructed in 1600 and suffered a number of disasters through the decades (a 

huge fire in 1882, a bombing in 1945), leaving just a guard tower and some remnants of its outer walls. 

A statue of Masamune on a horse overlooking the city of Sendai, and a museum that features some artefacts of the castle’s history are also 

found on the site. 

Visit the Osaki Hachimangu Shrine 

Dedicated to the Shinto god of war, Hachiman, the Osaki Hachimangu Shrine was built in 1607 in accordance with Date Masamune’s orders. 

It has been restored in recent years, and consists of a main building with a main hall and an offering hall. 

Check out the Rinnoji Temple 

Built in 1441 by Date Mochimune, the Rinnoji Temple serves as the family temple of the powerful Date clan. It has a main hall, a pagoda and a 

Japanese garden, which features several walking paths, a pond and beautiful and colourful flowers, trees and shrubs. 




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Sendai Downtown – Because of the many trees in its public parks and spaces, Sendai has earned the nickname, “The City of Trees”. 

The downtown area has an abundance of greenery, even inside the Ichibancho Arcade, which is a covered shopping area made up of 

numerous boutiques, shops, restaurants, stalls and markets that sell a wide selection of goods, from cheap local products to expensive 

tech gadgets and designer clothing. 

Sendai Station – Sendai Station is Sendai’s major railway station. It services several Shinkansen, JR and subway lines. Featuring many 

restaurants and specialty shops, it is a good place to shop for souvenirs or grab a quick bite of some Japanese food before you depart 

for your next destination. It also has a walkway right by the exit that provides easy access to the large department stores, malls, 

restaurants and other establishments nearby. 

Also in the area is the Asaichi, which is a small produce market that offers a multitude of stalls of fresh flowers, plants and local foods. 


Sendai has regular city buses and two subway lines. For tourists, the most convenient way to visit all the tourist attractions in the city is via 

the Loople Sendai, which is a special tourist bus service that stops at all the major sightseeing sites. A one-day Loople pass can be purchased 

at the Sendai bus station for 620 yen. 


Sapporo Travel Guide 

Overview 

Sapporo is the capital and largest city of Hokkaido Prefecture, and the fifth largest metropolis of Japan. It first gained worldwide recognition 

for hosting the Olympic Winter Games in 1972 and, today, it is known for its beer, ramen, ski resorts and the annual Sapporo Snow Festival. 

When To Go 

The best time to go to Sapporo depends on what you want to see and do. All year 


● 

Summertime (June – August) in Sapporo welcomes visitors to a climate that 

is warm but comfortable, as the region is not humid at this time of the year, 

unlike the rest of the country. 

● During the spring (March – May) and autumn seasons (September – 

November), average temperatures are between 5 and 15 degrees, just right 

for various outdoor activities such as viewing cherry blossoms and autumn 

foliage. 

Sapporo 

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In the winter (December – February), the city experiences very cold days and 

nights, with heavy snowfall. Temperatures may range from -10 degrees to 5 

degrees, and average snowfall is between 100 cm and 200 cm, with snowy 

days occurring almost the entire season. 

Snow Festival – ©JNTO 



Things To See 

Attend the Sapporo Snow Festival 

Every February, Sapporo holds the Sapporo Yuki Matsuri, or Sapporo Snow Festival, 

which is one of the most famous and well attended festivals in Japan. First held in 1950, it 

features different statues and sculptures made from snow and ice, displayed at different 

sites around the city for one whole week. 

Take a Sapporo Beer Museum tour 

For beer enthusiasts, taking a tour of the Sapporo Beer Museum is a must as this part of 

the country is known as the place where Japanese beer originated. First brewed in 1877, 

Sapporo Beer is one of the first beer brands in Japan and has now found its way to other 

parts of the globe. 

Nijyoichiba – ©JNTO 

A tour of the museum includes an overview of the history and process of brewing beer, 

as well as beer tastings. Guests can also enjoy some local cuisine paired with beer at the 

museum restaurant. 

Go Skiing or Snowboarding 

In and around Sapporo, there are many ski resorts that have wide, sloping hills with fine, 

white, powdered snow, perfect for skiing and other snow activities. One of the most 

notable is the Sapporo Teine Ski Resort, which served as one of the venues of the Winter 

Olympics in 1972. 

Cityscape and Odori Park 

Visit the Nijo Market 

Sapporo also boasts of a wide array of produce, with homegrown fresh fruits and vegetables being sold at its central market, Nijo Market. From 

as early as 7 am, shops and stalls in the public market begin to open, with some restaurants offering a breakfast menu of freshly caught seafood, 

such as salmon eggs and sea urchin on rice, which is known as the uni ikura donburi. 

Enjoy the views at the Mt Okura Observatory or JR Tower Observatory T38 

Sitting atop a hill that is accessible via a chair lift, the Mt Okura Observatory in Sapporo offers overlooking views of the valley below and the 

city. The area was the venue for the 90-metre ski jump contests during the 1972 Winter Olympics, and is still used for selected ski jump events 

up to the current day. 

At a height of 160 metres, the JR Tower Observation Deck T38 is an observatory that gives spectacular panoramic views of central Sapporo, 

Mt Teine, Ishikari Bay and more. Going at night is highly recommended to enjoy the stunning illuminated Sapporo skyline. 

Have a picnic at Odori Park 

For one week every February, Odori Park is the primary site of the annual Sapporo Snow Festival. It houses a wide variety of snow and ice 

sculptures that attract over two million tourists from all over the world. The rest of the year, the park offers a great spot to relax and view the 

cherry blossoms (spring), lush green trees and plants (summer), and gorgeous autumn foliage (autumn). 

Hike to the top of Mt Moiwa 

Hiking up to the summit of Mt Moiwa is a popular activity for tourists wanting to enjoy fantastic views of Sapporo. The trail winds through 

a lush forest where you can find beautiful trees and plants, and might run across interesting wildlife. Located in the southwestern part of 

Sapporo, it provides the best sunset views in the city. It also has ropeway and cable car facilities for those who are not keen on hiking. 




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Historic Village – With several dozen old, traditional buildings that date back to the Meiji and Taisho Eras, the Historic Village of 

Hokkaido is an open air museum that shows the history and progress of Hokkaido’s people, culture, architecture and lifestyle from 

more than 20,000 years ago up to the present. 

Moerenuma Park – A public park on the outskirts of the city, Moerenuma Park consists of vast areas of green hills with numerous manmade 

structures such as the Hidamari, a pyramid-shaped building; the Sea Fountain; Moere Beach, an artificially-made bathing area; 

and Mount Moere, a man-made hill that offers fantastic views of the park and its surroundings. 

Susukino – For the ultimate nightlife experience in Sapporo, visit Susukino, a large entertainment hub packed with numerous pachinko 

parlours, bars, karaoke shops, restaurants and nightclubs. It also has a narrow alley called the Ramen Yokocho, which is home to ramen 

shops that serve the city’s favourite ramen dish. Every February, it hosts the Sapporo Snow Festival ice sculpture competition. 


Sapporo has a tram line, several buses and three subway lines, providing fast and easy connections between the different attractions in the 

city. To avoid having to buy a ticket for every ride, visitors can purchase a one-day subway pass for use on all three subway lines, or a prepaid 

IC card (Kitaca or Sapica) that is valid for all modes of transportation. 


Okinawa Travel Guide 

Overview 

The southernmost prefecture of Japan, Okinawa is made up of three groups of islands: Okinawa Shoto includes the main Okinawa Island, also 

known as Okinawa Honto; Miyako Islands comprises Miyako Island itself and the small islands around it; and Yaeyama Islands, which consists 

of Ishigaki Island and some nearby isles. It is a popular destination for swimming, scuba diving, snorkelling and other water activities, and its 

capital city is Naha, which is found on the main island of Okinawa Honto. 

When To Go 

The best time to go to Okinawa depends on what you want to see and do. All year 


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During the summer (June – August), temperatures can go above 30 degrees 

and the days are quite hot and humid. It is advised to apply sunblock, wear a 

hat, and use a sunshade or umbrella. 

In autumn (September – November), the days are still warm, but expect 

typhoons coming in one after the other, particularly towards the end of 

August until the end of September. 

In spring (March – May), the weather is sunny and pleasant, with temperatures 

in the low 20s. However, in May, rainy days may become frequent, so always 

take an umbrella. 

Sea, shore, seascape. 

● In the winter months (December – February), temperatures fall between 15 

and 20 degrees, so have a sweater or jacket ready. 

Shuri Castle 


Okinawa Travel Guide 

Things To See 

Go to the beaches 

Some of the best beaches in Japan are found in Okinawa, so checking them out is a top 

priority if visiting this part of the country. The fine sand beaches are fringed with palm 

trees and offer a variety of activities, including diving, snorkelling and other water sports. 

See the Churaumi Aquarium 

Considered by many to be the best aquarium in Japan, the Churaumi Aquarium in 

Okinawa Honto is a popular attraction that houses a diverse collection of marine life, 

including manta rays, whale sharks, bull sharks, tiger sharks, manatees and sea turtles. 

Go to the War Memorials 

Churaumi Aquarium – ©JNTO 

Okinawa Honto saw one of the bloodiest fights towards the conclusion of World War II, 

with around 200,000 people killed, and it is now where a Peace Memorial Park in honour 

of the victims stands. The complex consists of many monuments, museums and statues 

that remember the fallen and commemorate the tragedy. 

Visit the different castles on the islands 

During the reign of the Ryukyu Kingdom in Okinawa, several castles were constructed 

across the region. Today, one of them still stands (the Shuri Castle in Naha) while many 

others have been mostly destroyed (Nakagusuku Castle Ruins, Zakimi Castle Ruins, 

Katsuren Castle Ruins, Nakijin Castle Ruins). All of these are UNESCO World Heritage Sites. 

Sunayama beach in Miyakojima 

Explore Okinawa World 

To learn about the culture of Okinawa, visit Okinawa World, a theme park known for its large natural cave, which is about 5 kilometres long and 

features stalagmite and stalactite formations; a snake museum, which has displays of numerous snakes and a snake show; and a craft village, 

which offers hands-on workshops on dyeing, pottery, weaving, paper making and other activities. 


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Kumejima – A small island in the Okinawa Shoto group, Kumejima provides great spots for diving and snorkelling. Its most notable 

attraction is the 7-kilometre long sand bar known as Hatenohama Beach, which has fine, sparkling white sand. 

Miyako Islands – With thriving coral reefs, Miyako Islands offers a variety of top notch snorkelling and diving spots and has many rental 

shops and facilities available for different water activities. It is also a good spot for relaxing while watching beautiful sunsets. 

Yayaema Islands – With many pristine, white sand beaches, Yayaema Islands is a famous destination for swimming, sunbathing, diving 

and snorkelling. In addition, it has the well-preserved Ryukyu Village, which provides a good insight to the local culture and traditional 

lifestyle. 


There are several ferry and boat services that link the many islands of Okinawa, and there are also buses and rental cars available for travelling 

within the main island. 


Nikko Travel Guide 

Overview 

A city situated in the northern part of Kanto, in Tochigi Prefecture, Nikko serves as the gateway to the Nikko National Park, which is best known 

for its beautiful and unique mausoleum and shrine of Tokugawa Ieyasu. In addition, it is also home to many hot springs and is surrounded by 

mountains and forests, offering amazing natural scenery. 

When To Go 

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In winter (December – February), Nikko experiences a lot of snow and its daily 

temperatures, averaging between -5 and 0 degrees, are much lower than the 

rest of Honshu because it sits at a higher altitude. 

In summer (June – August), the city is cool (with temperatures remaining 

below 20 degrees) but wet, especially in August when the precipitation levels 

are at their highest for the year. 

In spring time (March – May), the weather is cool and not very rainy, so 

hanging out at the best cherry blossom viewing spots is a popular activity. 

In autumn (September – November), particularly at the beginning of the 

season, expect some rainy days while you enjoy the autumn foliage. 

Akechidaira Observatory 

Toshogu Shrine 



Things To See 

Go to the Toshogu Shrine 

The site of the resting place of the powerful leader of the Tokugawa Shogunate, Tokugawa 

Ieyasu, the Toshogu Shrine is an important landmark in the city of Nikko. It is a vast shrine 

complex in the forest and is made up of several buildings. Its structures, such as a fivestorey 

pagoda, storehouses and gates, are lavishly decorated, with designs and carvings 

that can only be seen at this site. Three of the most famous of these unique carvings are 

the Sozonozo Elephants, the Nemurineko and the monkeys. 

Take a ride at Edo Wonderland (Nikko Edomura) 

A small theme park that depicts life in Japan during the Edo Period, Edo Wonderland 

comprises traditional, Edo-style shops, museums and restaurants, with park staff and 

employees dressed in Edo Era costumes. Visitors can also rent costumes for a fee to 

more fully experience life during the 1600s to 1800s; wearing traditional Japanese attire 

while touring the park’s attractions. Other facilities available are souvenir shops that sell 

toy weapons, teapots and woodblock prints; a live show theatre; and wax museums that 

feature torture and prison scenes from the battle years. 

Benevolent Kings at Nio-mon Gate of Taiyuinbyo 

See Taiyuinbyo 

Taiyuinbyo is the resting place of Tokugawa Iemitsu, grandson of Ieyasu and third shogun 

of the Tokugawa Shogunate. Just like Toshogu Shrine, it is adorned by intricate designs 

and styles. Its architecture and layout are a fusion of Shinto and Buddhist influences, with 

walking paths that lead to the different gates, towers, halls and the mausoleum. 

Yudaki Falls 

Visit the Rinnoji Temple 

Considered to be the most important temple in Nikko, the Rinnoji Temple is an ancient Buddhist structure founded by a monk named Shodo 

Shonin, who brought Buddhism to the city back in the 8th century. Its main building is known as the Sanbutsudo and is where large, goldcoated, 

wooden statues of the three mountain deities of Nikko are kept (Bato-Kannon, Senju-Kannon, and Amida). 

Explore the Futarasan Shrine 

Just a few minutes’ walk from Toshogu is the Futarasan Shrine, which is a shrine founded by the same Buddhist monk who brought Buddhism 

to the city (Shodo Shonin). It is a structure that honours the deities of the most sacred mountains of Nikko — Mount Taro, Mount Nyoho and 

Mount Nantai. 

Learn at Tamozawa Imperial Villa Memorial Park 

Featuring architectural styles and designs from the Edo Period and modern Meiji Era, Tamozawa Imperial Villa Memorial Park consists of the 

Tamozawa Imperial Villa, a large, old wooden building with 106 rooms, and a well-maintained Japanese style landscape garden that is famous 

for its autumn colours. 




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Kanmangafuchi Abyss – A gorge formed after the eruption of Mount Nantai, the Kanmangafuchi Abyss offers a riverside walking trail 

that is a few hundred metres in length, lined by 70 stone Jizo statues. 

Yumoto Onsen – A hot spring town within the Nikko National Park vicinity, Yumoto offers many lovely hiking trails around Lake Yunoko, 

ryokan and open air hot spring baths. In the middle of October, the town transforms into a mesmerising paradise of autumn colours, 

with its dense and thriving forests of different species of trees. 


Bus services link the various attractions around Nikko. A one-way ticket for travel within central Nikko costs 310 yen, and a one-day bus pass 

costs 500 yen. For visitors going to farther destinations from the city centre, such as Yumoto Onsen, a one-way ticket costs 1,150 yen and a 

2-day pass is 3,000 yen. 


Nagano Travel Guide 

Overview 

The capital city of Nagano Prefecture on the island of Honshu, Nagano is a popular tourist city that welcomes about a million local and foreign 

tourists every year. It has temples, shrines and many ski resorts in the vicinity. In 1998, it hosted the Winter Olympics and many of the facilities 

and structures used then are still standing. 

When To Go 

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During winter (December – February), Nagano becomes one of the most 

visited spots for skiing and other snow activities for people in Tokyo and the 

surrounding areas. It experiences heavy snowfall, a total of about 2.6 metres 

for the entire season, but with temperatures generally from -5 to 5 degrees, 

it is not as cold and gloomy as other parts of the country. 

● In the summer months (June – August), the city is cooler and less humid than 

Tokyo. Temperatures may range from 20 to 25 degrees. 


November), Nagano’s average temperatures of between 10 and 15 degrees 

make it a great destination for those looking for good spots from which to 

view the cherry blossoms and autumn leaves. 

Hotaka mountains 

Jigokudani Monkey Park 


Nagano Travel Guide 

Things To See 

Visit the Zenkoji Temple 

Considered to be one of the most important temples in Japan, Zenkoji is a 7th century 

Buddhist temple that houses a Buddha statue, the first to arrive in Japan, that was 

brought to the country in the 6th century. A symbol of the city’s evolution into a temple 

town, Zenkojit features beautifully crafted statues of Bodhisattva, Buddha and Rakan. 

The temple complex includes several gates and a museum, and the streets leading to it 

are lined with shops and stalls that sell souvenirs and local products. 

Go to the Togakushi Shrine 

Located in the northwest mountainous part of the city, Togakushi Shrine is an important 

shrine that is linked to a Japanese myth about the Sun Goddess. It is made up of three 

shrines: lower, middle and upper, and visitors have to hike up the trails through the forest 

to get from the lower to the upper shrine. 

Zenkoji Temple 

Check out the Olympic Facilities 

Many of the Olympic facilities built for the 1998 Winter Games in Nagano still survive 

today and are used as venues for sports and concert events. They boast unique 

architectural styles that never fail to pique the interest of visitors. Some notable ones 

are the M-Wave (home to the Nagano Olympic Museum), Olympic Stadium (a park with 

a gym and a pool), Big Hat (hosts ice hockey games), and White Ring (a venue for various 

sports activities). 

Azusa River in Kamikochi, Nagano. 

Tour the Togakure Ninpo Museum 

To learn of the ninja history and culture of Nagano, a visit to the Togakure Ninpo Museum is a must. It features weapons and tools used by 

the Togakure Ninja, and photos and other artifacts that show the different ninja techniques for infiltration and battle. It also has a Ninja House 

which contains several secret passages, doors and other contraptions. 


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Kids Ninja Village – For families travelling to Nagano, the Kids Ninja Village is a highly recommended attraction that your kids will surely 

love. It is a ninja-themed amusement park where children can have fun in the jungle gyms, obstacle courses and other facilities and play 

make believe that they are being trained to become ninja. 

Yamanouchi – About an hour away from central Nagano, Yamanouchi is a municipality best known for its Monkey Park. It is also home 

to Shiga Kogen, the country’s largest ski resort, and many hot spring towns. 


Nagano is served by a number of train companies, including some local JR lines and private railways such as the Nagano Electric Railway and 

Shinano Railway. It also has several bus lines that offer connections to the different attractions. 


Nagasaki Travel Guide 

Overview 

The capital of Nagasaki Prefecture, located on the island of Kyushu, Nagasaki is a port city that has held a major role in Japan’s trade relations 

with various countries for several centuries now. It was one of the few ports that were kept open during the country’s period of isolation. 

Today, it is mostly remembered for being one of two Japanese cities devastated by an atomic bomb during World War II. 

When To Go 

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Nagasaki experiences mild, dry and sunny winters (December – February), 

with temperatures ranging between 7 and 13 degrees. 

In the summer (June – August), especially in June and July, it experiences a lot 

of rain and tends to be warm and humid. Temperatures peak in August, when 

they can spike up to the high 30s. 


November), daily average temperatures are in the low 20s, so viewing cherry 

blossoms and autumn foliage, and various other outdoor activities, are quite 

popular. 

Nagasaki Peace Monument 

Nagasaki Lantern Festival 


Nagasaki Travel Guide 

Things To See 

Visit the Nagasaki Peace Park 

Built to commemorate the atomic bombing of the city during World War II, the Nagasaki 

Peace Park is home to several memorials and monuments that remember the destruction 

and victims of the tragedy. Its most notable attractions are the large Peace Statue, the 

Hypocenter Park (where a marked area of the epicentre of the explosion can be found) 

and the Nagasaki Atomic Bomb Museum. 

Go to Gunkanjima 

A 50-minute boat ride from Nagasaki Port, Gunkanjima is a tiny, abandoned island (150 

metres wide and 480 metres long) that used to be a coal mine up until 1974. A guided 

tour to the island is available daily, and lets guests see the deteriorated remains of 

buildings and other facilities. 

Confucius Shrine 

Stroll around the Glover Garden 

Home to mansions of Western merchants who settled in Japan in the late 1800s, 

Glover Garden is an open air exhibition of houses and residences that feature Western 

architecture with a touch of Japanese influence. It has a spacious garden that offers 

panoramic views of the city and surroundings. 

Check out the city’s religious buildings and structures 

Glover garden 

Nagasaki is home to the Koshi-byo, a Confucius Shrine built in 1893 by the city’s Chinese 

residents; the Kofukuji, a Buddhist temple built in 1620 at the foot of a hill; and the Oura 

Tenshudo, a Catholic Church constructed in 1864 and the oldest surviving Christian place of worship in Japan. 

Attend the Nagasaki Kunchi 

The Nagasaki Kunchi Festival is an annual event that is held 7-9 October in Nagasaki. Observed by the city for about four centuries now, it is a unique 

festival that fuses Dutch and Chinese influences throughout Nagasaki’s history. It is highlighted by large floats and dragon dance performances. 


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Chinatown – The oldest Chinatown in Japan, Nagasaki Chinatown, or Shinchi Chinatown, was founded in the 17th century by Chinese 

merchants. Today, its many restaurants and eateries offer a wide selection of noodle dishes, particularly sara udon and champon, and 

attract local and foreign tourists all year round. 

Dejima – Built in 1636 for the Portuguese people living in Nagasaki, Dejima is an historic area that features remnants of old walls, gates, 

residences and warehouses. 

Mount Inasa – Standing at 333 metres high, Mount Inasa is located close to central Nagasaki and offers stunning views of the city at 

night. Its summit and observatory can be reached by car, bus or ropeway. 


Nagasaki has four tram lines that link all of its main sightseeing attractions. A ride costs 120 yen, and a one-day pass is also available for 500 yen. 

Many of Nagasaki’s top attractions are located close to each other, so walking is also a good and healthy way of exploring the city. 


Hakone Travel Guide 

Overview 

Hakone is a town within the Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park, located in the mountainous portion of Kanagawa Prefecture. It has several tourist 

sites to offer, including many top notch hot spring resorts, stunning natural scenery and fantastic views of Mt Fuji. 

When To Go 

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Winter (December – February) is the driest season in Hakone and temperature 

is somewhere between -5 and 10 degrees, so it is a good time to visit and 

explore the town. 

The autumn months (September – November) tend to see a lot of rain, with 

September being the wettest, so make sure to take raincoats and umbrellas 

when going to autumn leaves viewing spots. 

In summer (June – August), average temperatures are in the low 20s, so it is 

relatively cool compared to other Japanese cities. However, it can be quite 

rainy throughout the season. 

In spring (March – May), the weather is cool and pleasant, and visiting sakura 

viewing spots is a popular activity. 

Red Torii Gate and Lake Ashinoko 

Torii gate in Hakone 



Things To See 

Ride the Hakone Tozan Railway 

The Hakone Tozan Railway is the oldest mountain railway in Japan. It takes passengers on 

a scenic route surrounded by dense and thriving forests, going through and over tunnels 

and bridges from Hakone-Yumoto station to Gora station. During the summer months, it 

offers great views of the hydrangeas blooming along the rail tracks. 

Relax at a Hakone Hot Spring 

For many centuries now, Hakone has been a top onsen resort, with dozens of hot springs 

to offer tourists. Its most popular onsen is Yumoto, which boasts a long and rich history 

and excellent natural hot spring water in its many inns, ryokan and bath houses. 

Visit Lake Ashinoko 

Cherry Blossoms at Odawara Castle 

Formed after Mount Hakone’s eruption 3,000 years ago, Lake Ashinoko sits in the caldera 

of the volcano and offers breathtaking views of Mt Fuji and the surrounding areas. Visitors 

may partake in various activities, including a hike around the lake or a sightseeing boat 

tour from one end of the lake to the other. 

Go to Odawara Castle 

Constructed in the mid 1400s, Odawara Castle is an old Japanese castle that used to 

serve as the base of the Hojo Clan during the Warring States Era. Its main castle keep 

is comprised of four floors that house a wide selection of swords, armour, artefacts and 

pieces from the castle’s long and colourful history. Its castle complex also contains the 

Odawara Castle Historical Museum and a vast garden where masses of cherry trees, 

plum trees and a variety of flowering plants grow and thrive. 

Hakone Hot Spring – ©JNTO 

Explore the Hakone Shrine 

Located at the foot of Mt Hakone, close to Lake Ashi, the Hakone Shrine is tucked away in the lush forest of the mountains. Its tall, prominent 

gates open on to staircases adorned with lanterns, leading the way up to the main shrine. 

Experience the Hakone Open Air Museum 

The Hakone Open Air Museum presents sculptures and exhibitions installed outdoors, so as to be surrounded with breathtaking views of 

the natural scenery. It also features artworks by known artists, such as Pablo Picasso, in its indoor hall. Other facilities available are children’s 

recreational areas, an outdoor foot bath, cafes and shops. 




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Owakudani – Found around the volcanic crater, Owakudani is an area that is home to hot springs, hot rivers and sulphurous fumes. It 

can be reached by following a short hiking trail after taking the Hakone Ropeway. It is a great spot from which to enjoy good views of 

Mt Fuji and the panoramic scenery. 

Gotemba Outlet Mall – For your shopping needs, Hakone’s Gotemba Premium Outlets, found at the base of Mt Fuji, offers more than 

200 stores, boutiques and restaurants that sell international and local products. 


To explore Hakone, visitors have several transportation options to choose from — trains, buses, ropeways, cruise boats and cable-cars. For 

unlimited use of all of these, it is best to purchase the Hakone Free Pass, which is available as a 2-day (5,140 yen) or 3-day (5,640 yen) pass. 


Kagoshima Travel Guide 

Overview 

Situated on the southwestern tip of the island of Kyushu, Kagoshima is the largest city and capital of Kagoshima Prefecture. It earned the 

nickname “Naples of the Eastern World” because of its location on the bay, humid subtropical climate, and presence of an active volcano, 

Sakurajima, which last erupted on 5 February 2016 and continues to emit large volumes of volcanic ash. 

When To Go 

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Summertime (June – August) in Kagoshima is warm, with daily temperatures 

in the high 20s. The months of June and July are the wettest of the year, so 

remember to take raincoats and umbrellas when sightseeing. 

In autumn (September – November), it slowly becomes cooler (with 

temperatures between 10 and 20 degrees), and rainy days become less 

frequent. 

In winter (December – February), Kagoshima is cool (day temperatures are 

between 5 and 10 degrees) and dry (precipitation of less than 100 mm). 

During spring (March – May), the weather is still pleasant (average day 

temperatures of around 15 degrees) with a few rainy days here and there. 

Dynamic Ogawa waterfall 

Japanese landscape 


Kagoshima Travel Guide 

Things To See 

Visit the Senganen Garden 

The Senganen Garden is a Japanese-style garden that was built in 1658 by the powerful 

feudal family, Shimazu, during the Edo Period. It features a bamboo grove, shrines, 

streams, ponds and borrowed sceneries of Kagoshima Bay and Sakurajima. In the middle 

of the garden complex stands the Iso Residence, which served as the Shimazu Clan’s main 

residence after the feudal period. 

Go to the Kagoshima Aquarium 

Inaugurated in 1997, the Kagoshima Aquarium is a seven-storey building situated adjacent 

to the Kagoshima Port. It offers a variety of attractions, including the large Kuroshio Tank, 

which serves as home to several schools of fish, a massive whale shark and rays. It also 

has exhibition areas dedicated to mangroves, coral reefs, sea otters and other marine life. 

Tenmonkan – ©JNTO 

Tour the Reimeikan Museum 

For information on Kagoshima’s culture and history, a tour of the Reimeikan Museum is 

a must as it houses a wide collection of exhibits that tell the region’s story, starting from 

ancient times and continuing to the present. It stands on the former Kagoshima Castle 

site, with portions of the stone walls and moats still surviving. 

Sakurajima Volcano 


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Shiroyama Park – Found in central Kagoshima, Shiroyama Park is built on Mount Shiroyama and offers amazing views of the downtown 

area, Sakurajima and Kagoshima Bay. It can be reached by taking the City View Bus from Kagoshima Chuo Station to Shiroyama 

Observatory. 

Sakurajima – The most important landmark of Kagoshima, Sakurajima is an active volcano that constantly discharges smoke and 

produces small eruptions several times a day. At a height of 1,117 metres, it is the most prominent symbol of the city and is a popular 

tourist attraction. Around the volcano there are hiking trails (Nagisa Lava Trail), onsen (Magma Onsen), foot baths (Nagisa Park Foot 

Bath), observation points (Arimura, Yunohira, and Kurokami), and a dinosaur park. 

Kagoshima Fish Market – Located in central Kagoshima, the Kagoshima Fish Market is a smaller version of the Tsukiji Market of Tokyo. 

It is home to many shops and stalls that sell a wide selection of fresh local produce. Its operating hours start very early in the morning 

and its atmosphere becomes more vibrant and bustling throughout the day. Guided tours are available for those who want to learn 

about the market’s history and feast on a sushi breakfast at the market’s specialty restaurants. 


Kagoshima is served by two tram lines, trains and buses. For easy access to the city’s top attractions, the City View Buses provide fast and 

direct connections to the most popular spots, starting at Kagoshima Chuo Station. A one-way bus ticket costs 190 yen, and a one-day bus pass 

costs 600 yen. 


Kanazawa Travel Guide 

Overview 

Kanazawa is located on the island of Honshu and is the capital of Ishikawa Prefecture. In terms of wealth and size, it used to be the seat of 

the second most influential and powerful feudal family, the Maeda, and is home to several cultural and historical landmarks that compare in 

significance to those in Tokyo and Kyoto. 

When To Go 

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In autumn (September – November), Kanazawa tends to be rainy, with 

precipitation at its highest for the year. Average daily temperatures are below 

10 degrees. 

In winter (December – February), temperatures fall below 5 degrees and rain 

is frequent. Expect snow about 10 to 20 days per month. 

Once spring kicks in (March – May), the weather becomes more pleasant, 

with daily temperatures ranging from 10 to 17 degrees, excellent for sakura 

viewing and other outdoor activities. 

During the summer months (June – August), the city is hot and humid, 

with daily temperatures of between 22 and 30 degrees. Rain is particularly 

prevalent in July. 

Samurai District 

Snow crab in the market 



Things To See 

Walk around the Kenrokuen Garden 

Considered to be one of the top three landscape gardens in Japan, along with Korakuen 

in Okayama and Kairakuen in Mito, Kenrokuen Garden is a large, spacious garden built 

centuries ago by the Maeda clan. It is home to many beautiful and colourful flowering 

trees, such as plums, cherries and maples, which provide the garden with a variety 

stunning looks at different times of the year. 

Go to the Ninjadera 

Also known as the Myoryuji Temple, the Ninjadera is a temple constructed by the Maeda 

clan during the Edo Period. It has several defensive features, such as secret rooms, long 

and maze-like corridors, hidden tunnels, trap rooms, and disguised military outposts. Its 

complex escape network allowed everyone in the castle to effectively defend themselves 

or escape when the castle came under attack. 

Kenrokuen 

Visit the Seisonkaku Villa 

A samurai mansion built by a former Maeda leader as a gift for his mother, the Seisonkaku 

Villa boasts an elegant style that features unique and intricate work on the roof, doors 

and walls, and the interiors are adorned with tatami flooring. 

Explore the Kanazawa Castle 

Kanazawa castle 

The Kanazawa Castle served as the seat of the ruling Maeda family during the feudal times of the Edo Period. Through the centuries, it has 

suffered a number of tragedies, including several fires that led to its destruction. It has been restored in recent years and its castle grounds are 

open to the public. 


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Nagamachi Samurai District – Home to old and restored samurai residences, the Nagamachi District offers a peek into the lifestyle and 

culture of the past. Many of the houses and buildings, such as the Nomura-ke, are now museums displaying various samurai artefacts 

and are open to the public. 

Nishi Chaya District – For tourists looking to learn more about Kanazawa’s history and culture, the Nishi Chaya District has a museum 

called the Nishi Chaya Shiryokan which offers free tours (in Japanese) of the area. It also has some cafes, shops and restaurants where 

visitors are entertained by song and dance performances by geisha. 

Omicho Market – The biggest fresh produce market in Kanazawa for centuries now, Omicho Market is a bustling district made up of 

hundreds of stalls and shops that sell local produce, seafood, flowers and other products. It has many restaurants that serve the city’s 

specialty dish: rice bowl with freshly-caught seafood toppings. 

Higashichaya Old Town – The largest old town tea district in Kanazawa, Higashichaya Old Town has streets lined with traditionalstyle 

buildings and cafes and shops (such as the Hakuza Gold Leaf Store) that offer a wide selection of tea products; a museum (the 

Shima Teahouse) that showcases musical instruments, clothes and other objects used by geisha; and tea houses (such as the Kaikaro 

Teahouse) where you can be part of a traditional tea ceremony. 




The city of Kanazawa is served by several bus companies that provide easy access to its many landmarks and attractions. For tourists, the 

Kanazawa Loop Bus is highly recommended as it covers several of the most important sightseeing spots. A one-day bus pass that costs 500 

yen gives you an unlimited number of rides on all the buses (loop bus and regular bus). 


Sample 

Itineraries 


Shibuya Crossing 

7 DAY PASS - JAPAN ESSENTIALS ITINERARY 

Having a 7-day Japan Rail Pass offers convenience and flexibility when it comes to travelling around Japan via the Shinkansen and JR trains. 

Here’s a 7-day sample itinerary to help you make the most of your time if you’re thinking of getting this pass for your next trip to Japan. 

Day 1: Narita Airport to Tokyo 

From Narita Airport, go to Tokyo via the Narita Express, which is fully covered by the Japan Rail Pass. After you passing through immigration 

and customs, look for the Japan Rail Ticket Centre (there is one in Terminal 1 and another in Terminal 2). There you’ll be able to swap over your 

Exchange Order voucher for the actual JR Pass. Activate your pass that day and secure a seat reservation on the Narita Express. The travel time 

between the airport and central Tokyo is about 1 hour. 

Day 2: Tokyo 

Downtown Tokyo can be accessed via the JR Network (the Yamanote, Keihin Tohoku and Chuo Lines). You’ll find a vast array of historical and 

modern attractions, including: the Imperial Palace East Gardens (a large, spacious public park within the inner Palace grounds); Koishikawa 

Korakuen (recognised as one of the best and oldest Japanese gardens); and Tokyo Dome (an entertainment complex that consists of an 

amusement park, several restaurants and shops, the Tokyo Dome baseball stadium, and more). 

And if you love shopping, Ginza (for high-end boutiques, department stores, restaurants, cafes and clubs) and Akihabara (for electronics and 

manga/anime merchandise) are just a few train stops away. 



Imperial Palace 

Ginza Street 

Day 3: Tokyo to Kawaguchiko 

The JR Pass can only cover a portion of your trip from Tokyo to Kawaguchiko, and that’s the leg from Shinjuku Station to Otsuki Station via the 

JR Chuo Line. The trip takes about 1 hour and 10 minutes. Then, at Otsuki Station, take the privately-operated Fujikyu Railway to Kawaguchiko 

Station. This trip takes about 1 hour and the fare costs around 1,500 yen. 

Kawaguchiko is known for its scenic views of Mt Fuji, especially when the weather is clear. It also has numerous other attractions, including 

museums (the Kubota Itchiku Museum, Kawaguchiko Museum of Art, Kawaguchiko Music Forest and Herb Hall); bath houses (the Tensui 

Kawaguchiko, Kaiun no Yu and Hotel Mifujien); and the Kachi Kachi Ropeway, which offers panoramic views of Mt Fuji, Lake Kawaguchiko and 

the surrounding areas. 

Day 4: Kawaguchiko to Kyoto 

To travel to Kyoto from Kawaguchiko, take the Fujikyu Railway Line back to Otsuki Station. Again, this part of the trip is not covered by the JR 

Pass, so be prepared to pay about 1,500 yen for the 1-hour journey. From Otsuki Station, use your JR Pass to take the Limited Express Kaiji 

train to Tokyo Station and then transfer to a Shinkansen headed to Kyoto. This leg takes about 4.5 hours. 

On your first day in Kyoto, some of the must-sees are the Kyoto Imperial Palace, Nijo Castle, Kyoto Tower and the International Manga 

Museum. All are conveniently located in the city centre. 

Mount Fuji 



Day 5: Kyoto 

With so many attractions on offer, you should allocate one entire day to explore the Arashiyama district of Kyoto in the west. It’s home to 

the famous Bamboo Groves, Togetsu-kyo Bridge, Monkey Park Iwatayama, Sagano Scenic Railway and several important temples (Tenryu-ji, 

Daikaku-ji, Jojjako-ji and Gio-ji). 

Monkey family playing in Arashiyama mountain 

Bamboo forest at Arashiyama 

Day 6: Kyoto 

Hiking up the Fushimi Inari Shrine at around 6 in the morning is a great experience to begin another day in Kyoto. A round trip takes about 2 

to 3 hours to complete. Then head to the Philosopher’s Path and visit the World Heritage-listed temples and shrines in the area (Ginkaku-ji, 

Kiyomizu-dera, Nanzen-ji, Kodai-ji, Heian and Eikan-do). 

Day 7: Kyoto to Tokyo 

To return to Tokyo, take a Shinkansen from Kyoto Station to Tokyo Station. The trip takes between 2 hours 30 minutes and 3 hours, and is 

covered by the JR Pass. 


7 DAY PASS – Basic Itinerary 

A 7-day Japan Rail Pass allows you unlimited rides on JR train lines across the country, as well as free seat reservations. To help you make the most of 

your Japan Rail Pass, here’s a suggested 7-day itinerary exploring some of Japan’s most iconic sights. 

Day 1: Narita Airport to Tokyo (spend 2 nights Tokyo) 

After arriving at Narita Airport, swap over your Exchange Order voucher at one of the JR East Travel Service offices which are located in Terminal 1 and 

Terminal 2 of the airport. Request that it be activated immediately so that you can use it to board the JR Narita Express for the one hour trip to Tokyo. 

Day 2: Tokyo 

Begin your day sightseeing in Tokyo with an early-morning visit to the lively Tsukiji Fish Market which can be reached along the JR Yamanote line to 

Shinbashi Station, followed by a 20-minute walk. Then continue on to the Imperial Palace which is accessed via the JR Yamanote and the JR Keihin- 

Tohoku Lines to Tokyo Station, from where it’s just a 10-minute walk. 

Spend the afternoon exploring the electronics and otaku district of Akihabara which is located just two stops from Tokyo Station or head to the 

neighbourhood of Ueno. Ueno Park is renowned for its Kaneji and Kiyomizu Kannon temples, the Shinto shrine of Toshogu, as well as the Tokyo National 

Museum, Tokyo Metropolitan Art Museum, National Science Museum and Ueno Zoo. 



Shibuya 

Shinjuku Park 

Day 3: Tokyo to Kyoto (spend 4 nights Kyoto) 

Use your JR Pass to take the Shinkansen (bullet train) from Tokyo Station to Kyoto Station, with the one-way journey taking around 2 hours and 40 

minutes. After arriving in Kyoto, explore the attractions immediately around the train station, including the Nijo Castle, Nishiki Market, Kyoto Manga 

Museum and Kyoto Aquarium. 

Day 4: Kyoto 

Begin the morning with a hike up to Fushimi Inari Shrine which is famed for the hundreds of torii gates along its mountainous walking trails. Then venture 

to Eastern Kyoto for the rest of the day where World Heritage-listed temples and shrines such as Kiyomizudera, Ginkaku-ji, Nanzen-ji, Kodai-ji and 

Eikando can be found. Alternatively, opt to visit Northern Kyoto which is home to the impressive temples of Kinkaku-ji, Ryoan-ji and Hieizan. 



Day 5: Kyoto – Day trip to Nara 

Use your Japan Rail Pass to board a JR Nara Local or Rapid Service train for the one hour journey to Nara. Visit the Todai-ji Temple in Nara Park and its 

15 metre high bronze Buddha statue of Daibutsu, explore the 8th century Kasuga Taisha shrine and wander the remains of the former imperial residence 

at Heijō Palace. 


Nara deer roam free in Nara Park 

Day 6: Kyoto – Day trip to Osaka 

From the historical streets of Kyoto, head to the bustling port city of Osaka which is a half hour ride on the JR network. Be entertained at Universal 

Studios or the famous Osaka Aquarium, explore the city’s heritage at Osaka Castle, Shitennō-ji Temple or Sumiyoshi Taisha shrine, visit the Museum of 

History and National Art Museum, or delve into the shopping paradise of Shinsaibashi, Namba, Den Den Town and Grand Front Osaka. 

Osaka bay at dusk 

Day 7: Kyoto to Narita Airport: 

On your final day in Japan, it’s time to return to Narita Airport by using your JR Pass to take a Shinkansen from Kyoto Station to Shinagawa Station. Here 

you can transfer to the Narita Express Line, with the entire journey taking around four hours. 


7 DAY PASS – Autumn Country Itinerary 

If visiting Japan in autumn, be sure to check out some of the country’s best spots for viewing the incredible autumn foliage. Below is a sample itinerary 

of the best Japanese autumn spots to visit if you have a 7-day Japan Rail Pass: 

Day 1: Narita Airport to Tokyo (Spend 2 nights in Tokyo) 

If arriving in Japan at Narita Airport, you can immediately swap over your Exchange Order voucher at any of the JR Ticket Offices found at the airport 

terminals. You can activate it the same day to reserve a seat on the Narita Express, taking you to central Tokyo in less than an hour. 

Day 2: Sightseeing in Tokyo 

Once in Tokyo, you can choose to explore as many of the following popular autumn spots as your time permits: 

In Tokyo 

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Rikugien – A beautiful, traditional Japanese landscape garden in Tokyo, Rikugien is home to a wide variety of trees that transform into an amazing 

sight once the autumn months kick in. From JR Yamanote Line’s Komagome Station, the garden’s main entrance is about a five to ten minute 

walk away. 



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Koishikawa Korakuen – Constructed during the Edo Period, Koishikawa Korakuen is one of the oldest and most gorgeous Japanese gardens. It 

has an extensive range of different species of plants and trees that turn the garden into a blanket of red and golden yellow leaves in autumn. Take 

the JR Chuo Line going to Iidabashi Station, and then walk ten minutes to the park’s entrance. 

Imperial Palace – Home of the Japanese Imperial Family, the Imperial Palace grounds cover a vast space populated by many different types of 

trees that are a sight to behold once their foliage changes colour during autumn. It is located about a 10-minute walk from Tokyo Station. 

Outside Tokyo 

There are also some highly recommended autumn foliage viewing spots that are just an hour or two’s travel from Tokyo by train, so why not take a daytrip 

to the following nearby cities: 

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Nikko – While Nikko is known by many for the Toshogu Shrine, it is also home to many autumn viewing spots, including the Yumoto Onsen, 

Senjogahara Marsh, Ryuzu Waterfall, and Lake Chuzenji. From Tokyo Station, take a Shinkansen to Utsunomiya Station and transfer to a JR Nikko 

Line train going to Nikko Station. The entire trip takes about one hour and forty minutes and is covered by your JR Pass. 

Kamakura – Also a popular day trip destination from Tokyo, Kamakura boasts of numerous autumn foliage viewing spots, especially around 

its historical temples and shrines. Some of the most popular are the Hasedera Temple, Kamakura-gu Shrine, Meigetsu-in Temple, and Engakuji 

Temple. From central Tokyo, take the JR Yokosuka Line (from Tokyo Station) or the JR Shonan Shinjuku Line (from Shinjuku Station) to Kamakura 

Station. The one-way journey takes about an hour. 

Koishikawa Korakuen 

Rikugien 

Day 3: Tokyo to Karuizawa (Spend 2 nights in Karuizawa) 

Karuizawa is a mountain resort which sits at the base of Mount Asama, an active volcano in Nagano Prefecture. At an altitude of about a thousand 

metres, it is an excellent destination for those who want to spend a cool and pleasant day or two during the hot and humid summer months. During 

autumn, it attracts flocks of tourists wanting to get the best views of the spectacular autumn foliage. 

From Tokyo Station, the Shinkansen ride to Karuizawa Station takes about an hour and twenty minutes. 

Day 4: Sightseeing in Karuizawa 

Spend an entire day in Karuizawa and visit the following autumn foliage viewing spots: 

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Kumoba Ike – An artificial pond surrounded by dense forests and several walking trails, Kumoba Ike is perfect for people who like to immerse 

themselves in nature. From Karuizawa Station, hop on the Town Loop Bus (Inner Route) and get off at the Roppontsuji stop. 



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Kyu Usui Toge Miharashidai – The Kyu Usui Toge Miharashidai, or Usui Pass Observation Platform, offers scenic views of the Gunma mountain 

range and Mount Asama, as well as the valley of red and yellow foliage below. Board the Karuizawa Aka Bus, which is a red tourist bus that links 

the Manpei Hotel and the Karuizawa Ginza to the observation platform. A one-way ticket costs 500 yen, while a return ticket is 800 yen. 

Karuizawa Autumn Festival – Observed between 2 October and 3 November, the Karuizawa Autumn Festival is one of the most important 

events in the region. During this time, you can enjoy different events and enjoy discounted rates at some museums and inns. Information about 

the festivities is available at the Tourist Information Office at the Karuizawa Station. 

Day 5: Karuizawa to Takayama (Spend 2 nights in Takayama) 

Next stop is Takayama, which is a city located in the mountainous region of Hida in Gifu Prefecture. 

From Karuizawa Station, board a Shinkansen going to Toyama Station, and then transfer to the Ltd Exp (Wide View) Hida Line to Takayama Station. The 

entire trip takes a little less than four hours, and is covered by the JR Pass. 

Kumobaike Lake at Japan Karuizawa 

Hida-Takayama 

Day 6: Sightseeing in Takayama 

Here are the must-see spots in Takayama: 

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Old Town – With many well-preserved Edo Period buildings and structures, Takayama’s Old Town is the best place to be for a glimpse of what life 

was like many centuries ago. It is only a ten-minute walk from Takayama Station. 

Shiroyama Park – Covering an area of about 60 acres, Shiroyama Park is a public park around the Takayama Castle ruins and is home to various 

trees, including more than a thousand Yoshino cherry trees. From Takayama Station, it takes twenty minutes to walk to the park. 

Higashiyama Temple area – The Higashiyama Temple area can be explored via the Higashiyama Walking Course, a 3.5 kilometre trail that passes 

by about a dozen shrines and temples, the old Takayama Castle ruins, traditional houses, and through a wooded area inhabited by interesting 

wildlife and various trees and plants. At a leisurely pace, you should be able to complete the round trip in about two hours. From Takayama 

Station, walk about 15 minutes to the Museum of History and Art, which is where the trail both begins and ends. 

Kitayama Park – Home to different types of trees that create beautiful red and yellow canopies in autumn, Kitayama Park is a popular viewing 

spot for great views of the stunning autumn foliage. It is located near the Festival Floats Exhibition Hall and the Miyagawa Market in the city’s 

Old Town area. 

Takayama Festival (Autumn) – Held from 9-10 October, the Autumn Festival in Takayama is celebrated every year in honour of the Hachiman 

Shrine. Its highlights include a procession around town, a karakuri performance, and a festival float display and exhibition. Hachiman Shrine is 

located a few minutes’ walk from the Old Town district. 



Day 7: Takayama to Tokyo 

To return to Tokyo, from Takayama Station take the Ltd Exp (Wide View) Hida Line to Nagoya Station and then transfer to a Shinkansen headed to Tokyo. 

The whole journey takes about four and a half hours and is fully covered by your JR Pass. 

Note: The timing of the appearance of the autumn foliage varies per region every year, so be sure to check the internet for autumn foliage forecasts and 

reports before your trip so you can plan accordingly. 


7 DAY PASS – Cherry Blossoms 

Delights Itinerary 

During Spring is an amazing time to visit Japan, as many of the country’s parks and gardens become a mesmerising sea of pink cherry blossoms. Here is 

a sample 7-day itinerary for Japan Rail Pass holders who plan to visit Japan during the sakura season: 

Day 1: Narita Airport to Tokyo (Spend 2 nights in Tokyo) 

Upon landing at Narita Airport, swap over your Exchange Order voucher at the Japan Rail Ticket Offices found at any of the terminals. Your Japan Rail 

Pass fully covers the following journey from Narita Airport to Tokyo: 

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JR Narita Express – This is the fastest and most convenient way. It requires a seat reservation, so be sure to make one (without any additional 

fees) when you exchange your JR Pass voucher. The one-way trip takes about an hour. 

JR Sobu Line – The journey takes about an hour and a half. 




Day 2: Sightseeing in and around Tokyo 

Spend your second day in Japan checking out some of the most popular cherry blossom viewing spots in and around Tokyo. 

Cherry Blossom Viewing Spots in Tokyo 

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Shinjuku Gyoen – Shinjuku Gyoen is a large, spacious public park in Tokyo that features a traditional Japanese landscape garden with ponds, 

bridges, islands, and a wide variety of shrubs, plants and trees. To get there using your JR Pass, take the Chuo/Sobu Line to Sendagaya Station. 

The park’s Sendagaya Gate is only a five-minute walk away. 

Chidorigafuchi – A moat found northwest of the Tokyo Imperial Palace, Chidorigafuchi is an Edo Period site that is home to almost 300 cherry 

trees that line its 700-metre long walking path. It is about a 20-minute walk from JR Iidabashi and JR Ichigaya Stations, which are along the JR 

Chuo and JR Chuo/Sobu lines. 

Koishikawa Korakuen – Considered one of the best and oldest traditional Japanese gardens, Koishikawa Korakuen is an Edo Period garden that 

features man-made hills, ponds, walking trails, and trees that recreate miniature versions of Japanese and Chinese natural scenery. Take a JR Chuo 

line train to Iidabashi Station, and walk about five to ten minutes. 

Cherry Blossom Viewing Spots Outside Tokyo 

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Yokohama Sankeien Garden – The Sankeien Garden in Yokohama is a large Japanese style garden that houses several historic buildings, teahouses, 

the three-storey pagoda and main hall of the old Tomyoji Temple of Kyoto, flowering plants, small rivers and a pond. From Tokyo, take the JR 

Keihin-Tohoku Line to Yokohama Station, and then transfer to the JR Negishi Line to Negishi Station. The garden is about a 30-minute walk away. 

Yokohama Ookagawa River – The Ookagawa River has a five-kilometre walking trail along its banks that is lined with cherry trees. To get there 

from Yokohama Station, take the JR Negishi Line to Sakuragicho Station. 

Yokohama Minato Mirai 21 – Minato Mirai 21 is an urban district found by the sea in central Yokohama. To access it using your JR Pass, board a 

JR Negishi Line train to Sakuragicho Station. 

Mt Fuji – Mt Fuji is Japan’s highest mountain, and is surrounded by many areas that offer fantastic sakura viewing spots, particularly the Fuji Five 

Lakes region. From Tokyo, take the JR Chuo Line to Kawaguchiko Station. Please note that transport around the Fuji Five Lakes area is via buses 

that are not covered by the JR Pass. 

Cherry Blossom Festivals 

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Bokutei Cherry Blossom Festival (31 March – 8 April) – This festival is held adjacent to the Sakurabashi Bridge in Sumida, where there is a 

1.3-kilometre line of bokutei sakura trees. Take the JR Utsunomiya, Takasaki, Keihin-Tohoku, Yamanote, or Joban Lines to Ueno Station. Then 

transfer to the Ginza Line going to Asakusa Station (not covered by the JR Pass, one-way cost is 170 yen). The site is only a five-minute walk away. 

Ueno Cherry Blossom Festival (20 March – 8 April) – This festival is held at Ueno Onshi Park, which is home to approximately 800 cherry trees. 

It is located about a two-minute walk from JR Ueno Station. 

Chidorigafuchi Imperial Palace 

Tokyo Sky Tree 




Day 3: Tokyo to Matsumoto (Spend 2 nights in Matsumoto) 

From Tokyo Station, take a Shinkansen to Nagano Station and then transfer to a Ltd Exp (Wide View) Shinano train to Matsumoto Station. The one-way 

trip takes about two hours and twenty minutes, and is fully covered by the JR Pass. 

Day 4: Sightseeing in Matsumoto 

Nagano Prefecture’s second largest city, Matsumoto is home to one of the most beautiful original castles of Japan, the Matsumoto Castle, and numerous 

incredible sakura viewing spots. 

Cherry Blossom Viewing Spots In Matsumoto 

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Takato Castle Ruins Park – Regarded as one of the three best cherry blossom viewing sites in the country, along with Yoshinoyama and Hirosaki 

Castle, the Takato Castle Ruins Park is home to around 1,500 sakura trees. From Matsumoto Station, take the JR Shinonoi/Chuo Line to Okaya 

Station, and then transfer to the JR Chuo Line (branch)/Iida Line to Inashi Station. From Inashi Station, take a 20-minute bus ride (one-way ticket 

costs 520 yen) to Takato Station, then walk about 10 minutes to the park. Only the train journeys are covered by the JR Pass. 

● Koboyama Koen – Found on a hill in the southern part of the city, Koboyama Koen is a park that overlooks the valley and is home to about 4,000 

cherry trees. From Matsumoto Station, board a JR Chuo Line train to Minami Matsumoto Station and walk about 30 minutes to the park. 

● 

Matsumoto Castle – The Matsumoto Castle grounds have around 300 cherry trees and are a great picnic spot from which to not only enjoy the 

beautiful sakura blooms but also the majestic castle. From Matsumoto Station, the castle is only a 15-minute walk away. 

Day 5: Matsumoto to Osaka (Spend 2 nights in Osaka) 

Train travel between Matsumoto and Osaka takes about four and a half hours. From Matsumoto Station, take the Ltd Exp (Wide View Shinano) Line to 

Nagoya Station, then transfer to a Shinkansen going to either Shin-Osaka Station (where you can take the JR Kyoto Line Local) or Kyoto Station (where 

you can take the JR Special Rapid Service Line) going to Osaka Station. The entire trip is fully covered by the JR Pass. 

Matsumoto Castle 

Osaka Castle 




Day 6: Sightseeing in and around Osaka 

Osaka and its surroundings offer top-notch cherry blossom viewing spots that attract crowds of locals and tourists during the peak cherry blossom 

season. 

Cherry Blossom Viewing Spots in Osaka 

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Kema Sakuranomiya Park – This park is located close to the Okawa River, which is lined by about 5,000 cherry trees. Take the JR Loop Line and 

disembark at Sakuranomiya Station. 

Osaka Castle – Home to more than 4,000 sakura trees, the grounds of Osaka Castle provide a great spot from which to view the pink cherry 

blossoms and beautiful castle tower. The castle is located about a 20-minute walk from Osakajojoen Station, which is on the JR Osaka Loop Line. 

Osaka Mint Bureau – With more than 100 varieties of cherry trees, the Osaka Mint Bureau is open for a week in the middle of April every year 

for cherry blossom viewing. It is a 15-minute walk from JR Osaka Loop Line’s Sakuranomiya Station. 

Cherry Blossom Viewing Spot Outside Osaka 

If you have time for a quick trip beyond Osaka, check out the Philosopher’s Path in Kyoto for an amazing cherry blossom viewing experience. 

● 

Philosopher’s Path in Kyoto – The Philosopher’s Path is a two-kilometre stone path found in the northern portion of Higashiyama in Kyoto. It 

follows a canal that stretches from the Ginkakuji area to the Nanzenji neighbourhood, and is lined by several hundreds of different varieties of 

sakura trees. From Osaka Station, take the Tokaido-Sanyo Line to Kyoto Station. The one-way trip takes about 35 minutes and is covered by the 

JR Pass. Then, from Kyoto Station, hop on bus number 5, 17, or 100 for a 40-minute ride. This leg of the trip costs 230 yen and is not covered 

by the JR Pass. 

Day 7: Osaka to Tokyo 

To return to Tokyo, get on a JR Kyoto Line local train going to Shin-Osaka Station, where you can board a Shinkansen headed to Tokyo. The whole journey 

takes about three and a half hours and is fully covered by your JR Pass. 

Note: Peak cherry blossom season varies per region every year, so be sure to check the internet for cherry blossom forecasts and reports before your 

trip so you can plan accordingly. 


7 DAY PASS – Travel With 

Kids Itinerary 

Clean, safe and packed with family-friendly attractions, Japan is the perfect destination to travel with kids. This 7-day Japan Rail Pass itinerary is designed 

to help families explore some of the country’s most exciting sights together. 


Fly into Narita Airport where you can swap over your Exchange Order voucher at one of the JR East Travel Service offices which are located in Terminal 1 

and Terminal 2 of the airport. Request that it be activated immediately so that you can use it to board the JR Narita Express for the one hour trip to Tokyo. 

Day 2: Tokyo – Visit the Ghibli Museum 

Spend the day immersed in the animated world of Studio Ghibli at their museum in Mitaka, with films such as “Spirited Away”, “Grave of the Fireflies” and 

“Princess Mononoke” created by this talented team. There’s a life-size replica of the “Castle in the Sky” robot in the museum’s rooftop garden and a kids 

play area with a mini “Catbus” from “My Neighbor Totoro”, as well as an on-site cafe where you can have lunch. 




Tickets need to be purchased from one to four months before your preferred visit date. More information on purchasing tickets, as well as opening hours 

and current exhibitions is available at the Ghibli Museum’s official website at http://www.ghibli-museum.jp/en/ticket-information/. 

Studio Ghibli can be reached along the JR Chou Line to either Mitaka or Kichijoki Stations, from where it’s a 20-minute walk through Inokashira 

Park to the entrance. Alternatively, a shuttle bus is available from Mitaka Station to the museum (roundtrip ticket costs 320 yen, with children 

under 13 half price). 

Senso-ji temple 

Harajuku Park 

Day 3: Tokyo – Visit Disneyland or DisneySea 

No family trip to Japan would be complete without visiting the Tokyo Disney Resort which includes not only a Disneyland theme park but also the 

unique DisneySea. This water-themed park features seven different areas - the Arabian Coast, American Waterfront, Lost River Delta, Mermaid Lagoon, 

Mysterious Island, Mediterranean Harbour and Port Discovery - with countless rides, attractions and performances to check out. 

Tokyo Disneyland also has seven different areas to discover – World Bazaar, Tomorrowland, Toontown, Fantasyland, Critter Country, 

Westernland and Adventureland – with all your favourite Disney characters to meet. It’s possible to squeeze in both parks on the same day, 

although families with more time should plan to spend a whole day at each. For information on tickets, opening hours and help planning your 

visit, head to the official Tokyo Disney Resort website at http://www.tokyodisneyresort.jp/en/tdl/. 

You can reach Tokyo Disney Resort along the JR Keiyo Line from Tokyo Station, stopping at JR Maihama Station. From Maihama Station it is 

a 20 minute walk to the resorts or you can purchase a ticket for the Disney Resort monorail and save all your walking for inside the resorts. 

Day 4: Tokyo to Osaka – Visit Osaka Aquarium Kaiyukan (spend 3 nights Osaka) 

Jump aboard a Shinkansen “bullet train” from Tokyo Station to Shin-Osaka Station, then transfer to the JR Kyoto Line to Osaka. This bustling 

modern port is home to one of the world’s most impressive aquariums, the Osaka Aquarium Kaiyukan, which can be reached along the Chuo 

Line of the subway to Osakoko Station (not covered by the JR Pass). 

There are 15 huge tanks inhabited by a dazzling array of marine life from the Pacific Ocean’s “Ring of Fire”, including a whale shark within its 

9 metre deep central tank. Slowly descend its spiralling floors while being surrounded by sea turtles, dolphins, seals, rays and penguins, with 

exhibits that will enthrall all ages. 




Day 5: Osaka – Visit Universal Studios Japan 

On your second day in Osaka, head to the family-friendly theme park of Universal Studios Japan. There are eight different themed sections to explore - 

Amity Village, Jurassic Park, Hollywood, New York, San Francisco, The Wizarding World of Harry Potter, Waterworld, and Universal Wonderland – as well 

as rides and attractions from “Terminator 2”, “Spiderman” and “Back to the Future”. 

For information on ticket prices, opening hours and help planning your trip, visit Universal Studios Japan’s official website at https://www.usj.co.jp/e/. The 

theme park can be reached along either the JR Osaka Loop Line or the JR Yumesaki Line to Universal City Station. 

Osaka Aquarium – ©JNTO 

Deer in Nara 

Day 6: Osaka – Day trip to Nara 

There are many historical and cultural sites in Japan that are kid-friendly, particularly the ancient city of Nara, which became Japan’s first permanent 

capital in the early 8th century. 

Spend the day exploring Nara’s fascinating sites. Visit the Todai-ji Temple and its 15 metre high bronze Buddha statue of Daibutsu, relax in Nara Park 

where hundreds of deer roam freely, explore the traditional Japanese gardens at Yoshikien and Isuien, then learn about Edo Period merchant life in the 

Naramachi District. 

From Osaka Station, jump aboard the JR Yamatoji Line to Nara Station, from where it’s just a short walk to Nara Park and the Todai-ji Temple. 

Day 7: Osaka to Narita Airport 

On your final day in Japan, it’s time to return to Narita Airport by taking the JR Kyoto Line to Shin-Osaka Station, from where you can catch a Shinkansen 

“bullet train” to Shinagawa Station. Once there, find a JR ticket office and secure a seat reservation on the next Narita Express to the airport, with the 

entire journey taking around four hours. 


14 DAY PASS – East to 

South Itinerary 

If you’re spending two weeks in Japan, consider buying a 14-day Japan Rail Pass, especially if you’re planning to visit several cities that require multiple 

Shinkansen trips. Here’s a sample itinerary for you. 


On the day you arrive in Japan, swap over your Exchange Order voucher at the JR Ticket Service Centre at Narita Airport to get your JR Pass. Use your 

Pass to reserve a seat on the Narita Express to Tokyo. That trip will take about an hour. 

Day 2: Tokyo 

You can spend your first whole day in Tokyo by visiting some of its most popular districts. Use your JR Pass to access places that are easily reached via the 

JR lines. For example, spend an entire morning in Shinjuku (visiting Shinjuku Gyoen, Central Park and the Tokyo Metropolitan Government Building), the 

afternoon in Harajuku (where you’ll find Meiji Shrine, Yoyogi Park, Omotesando and Takeshita Dori), and the evening at the Tokyo Skytree. All of these 

attractions are about 5 to 20 minutes by foot from the closest JR train stations. 




Day 3: Tokyo 

If you’re a Disney fan, spending an entire day at Tokyo Disneyland and DisneySea is a must. The two theme parks are just a 16-minute train 

ride away from Tokyo Station via the JR Keiyo Line to Maihama Station. This is covered by your JR Pass. At Maihama Station, you can either 

transfer to the Disney Resort Monorail (which is not covered by your JR Pass; a single ticket costs 260 yen) to reach both parks, or you can 

walk for about 20 minutes. 

Day 4: Tokyo to Kyoto (spend 3 nights Kyoto) 

Home to some of the best historical sites in Japan, Kyoto is a popular tourist stop. It’s only a 2.5 hour Shinkansen ride from Tokyo Station to 

Kyoto Station and the trip is covered by your JR Pass. Once in Kyoto, you can start your explorations with a visit to the Kyoto Imperial Palace 

and Nijo Castle. Both are located in the city centre. 

Day 5: Kyoto 

For a full-day Kyoto itinerary, you can kick it off with an early morning visit to the Fushimi Inari Shrine (a round trip climb takes between 2 and 

3 hours). Then spend the rest of the day checking out the World Heritage-listed shrines and temples, such as the Ginkaku-ji (Silver Pavilion), 

Kinkaku-ji (Golden Pavilion), Kiyomizu-dera Temple, Ryoan-ji Temple, Tenryu-ji Temple, Ninna-ji Temple and the Daigo-ji Temple. 


Not too far from Kyoto is Nara, another ancient city with an abundance of historical landmarks. With your JR Pass, you can take the JR Nara Line from 

Kyoto to Nara and be there in just 1 hour. You can start your tour of the city with a visit to Nara Park, which is only a 20-minute walk from Nara Station. 

Many of the city’s main sites (such as the Todai-ji Temple, Nara National Museum, Kofuku-ji, and Kasuga Taisha) are found around the Park. 

To-ji Temple in Nara 

Stone lanterns in Kasuga-taisha shrine 




Day 7: Kyoto to Fukuoka (spend 2 nights Fukuoka) 

To explore further south, head to Fukuoka by taking a Shinkansen from Kyoto Station to Shin-Osaka Station. Then transfer to another Shinkansen to 

Hakata Station, which is the busiest and largest train station in the southernmost island of Kyushu. The entire trip takes 3.5 hours and is covered by your 

JR Pass. 

If you leave Kyoto in the morning, you’ll be in Hakata by mid-afternoon and have enough time to check out Canal City (a large entertainment and 

shopping complex), as well as to try the acclaimed local dish, Hakata ramen. 

Day 8: Fukuoka 

With a full day to spend in Fukuoka, you can spend a couple of hours in the morning at the Fukuoka Castle Ruins. 

Then head to Dazaifu, a small, quaint town that is home to various ancient shrines and temples, including the Dazaifu Tenman-gu Shrine, the Kanzeon-ji 

Temple and Komyozen-ji Temple. To get to Dazaifu from Hakata Station, take a JR Kagoshima Line train to JR Futsukaichi Station. The journey takes about 

20 minutes and is covered by your JR Pass. Then, take a 10-minute walk to the Nishitetsu Futsukaichi Station and get on a train to Dazaifu Station (this 

takes 5 minutes but is not covered by your JR Pass; a single ticket costs 150 yen). 

Day 9: Fukuoka to Kagoshima (spend 2 nights Kagoshima) 

Home to Sakurajima, a towering, active volcano, Kagoshima is the capital of the Kagoshima Prefecture and the most important city in the south-western 

part of the country. It has a number of attractions, like the Kagoshima Aquarium, the Reimeikan Museum and the Senganen Garden. All are in the city 

centre. 

From Hakata Station, take a Shinkansen to Kagoshima-Chuo Station and then transfer to the JR Nippo Line to Kagoshima Station. The one-way trip takes 

less than 2 hours and is covered by your JR Pass. 

Fukuoka city with Fukuoka tower 

Kagoshima at sunset 

Day 10: Kagoshima 

With an entire day to spend in Kagoshima, take your time exploring Sakurajima and its surroundings. There is a ferry port near JR Kagoshima Station 

where you can board a ferry for a 15-minute ride to Sakurajima (it’s not covered by your JR pass and a one-way ticket costs 160 yen). 




The island offers panoramic views of the volcano and the surrounding Bay, as well as a scenic hiking trail around the lava zone, a magma onsen (hot 

spring), a dinosaur park and a couple of observation decks. 

Day 11: Kagoshima to Hiroshima (spend 2 nights Hiroshima) 

To go from Kagoshima to Hiroshima, take the JR Nippo Line to Kagoshima-Chuo Station, and then transfer to a Shinkansen going to Hiroshima Station. 

The trip is about 3 hours long and is fully covered by your JR Pass. 

Once in Hiroshima, visit the Hiroshima Memorial Peace Park, Hiroshima Castle and the shopping arcade found in the downtown area. 

Day 12: Hiroshima – Day trip to Miyajima 

Less than 1 hour from Hiroshima by ferry (which is covered by your JR Pass), Miyajima is an island notable for a big torii gate that seems to float on 

water during high tide. If you get there in the morning, you can visit the Itsukushima Shrine, Daisho-in Temple and Senjokaku Shrine, and then spend the 

afternoon climbing to the peak of Mount Misen. 

Deer at Miyajima 

Hiroshima 

Day 13: Hiroshima to Osaka (spend 1 night Osaka) 

Use your JR Pass to take a 2-hour Shinkansen ride from Hiroshima to Osaka, Japan’s second biggest city. It has tons of tourist attractions on offer, from 

historical sites (like Osaka Castle, Shitenno-ji Temple and the Tenmangu Shrine) to entertainment and shopping destinations (such as Universal Studios, 

Grand Front Osaka, Umeda and Namba). 

Day 14: Osaka to Tokyo 

To return to Tokyo, take a Shinkansen from Shin-Osaka Station. The trip takes about 3 hours and is fully covered by your JR Pass. 


14 Day Pass – Off The Beaten 

Track Itinerary 

If you want spend your next trip to Japan discovering its hidden gems and treasures, here is a sample itinerary for a 14-day trip using a Japan Rail Pass: 


Travelling from Narita Airport to Tokyo is convenient and quick with the Narita Express. Fully covered by the Japan Rail Pass and requiring a seat 

reservation, the train can take you to central Tokyo in just an hour. You can swap over your Exchange Order voucher at the JR East Travel Service offices 

found at Terminal 1 and Terminal 2 at Narita Airport. 

Day 2: Tokyo 

Start your off-the-beaten-path adventure with a visit to Hanayashiki in Asakusa. The oldest amusement park in Japan, it is home to more than 20 rides 

and attractions, including the oldest roller coaster in the country. Take the JR Yamanote or Keihin Tohoku Line to Ueno Station and walk about 20 to 30 

minutes. 




In the afternoon, go to Kichijoji, a town located to the west of central Tokyo, known for its many shops, department stores, cafes, restaurants, manga 

cafes and the Inokashira Koen Park, a great cherry blossom viewing spot. Take the JR Chuo-Sobu Line from Tokyo Station to Kichijoji Station, which takes 

about half an hour. 

Day 3: Tokyo 

For a refreshing and relaxing activity while in Tokyo, hike through the quiet and serene Todoroki Valley in Setagaya ward. Board the JR Keihintohoku Line 

to Oimachi Station (covered by the JR Pass) and then transfer to the Tokyu-Oimachi Line to Todoroki Station (not covered by the JR Pass; fare costs 200 

yen). The whole one-way trip takes about 35 minutes. 

Cap the day off with a relaxing bath at a sento, which is a small public bath that offers only the basic amenities, a bathtub, and is the closest you can get 

to an authentic Japanese bath experience. There are several of these in Tokyo and one of the top rated ones is the Teikoku-yu, which is accessible via the 

JR Joban Line and is only a 10-minute walk from JR Mikawajima Station. 

Inokashira Park 

Ueno Park 

Day 4: Tokyo to Takayama (spend 2 nights Takayama) 

To get to Takayama from Tokyo Station, board a Shinkansen headed to Nagoya Station and then transfer to the Limited Express (Wide View) Hida line to 

Takayama Station. The entire trip is covered by the JR Pass and takes 4.5 hours. 

Upon arriving in Takayama, go straight to the Higashiyama Walking Course, which is a 3.5-kilometre walking trail that passes through Teramachi (the city’s 

temple town), Shiroyama Park, several shrines and temples and the site of Takayama Castle. 

Day 5: Takayama 

At 6:30 in the morning, Takayama’s two morning markets open for business, selling a variety of local farm produce, crafts and other products. Both are 

located only 10 minutes by foot from the JR Takayama Station. 

You can visit the Hida Folk Village next, with its more than 30 traditional houses constructed during the Edo Period. Also in the vicinity is the Hida 

Takayama Crafts Experience Center, a place where you can learn how to make ceramic glasses and cups, sarubobo dolls and other local handicrafts for 

souvenirs. 




Day 6: Takayama to Kanazawa (spend 1 night Kanazawa) 

Go to Kanazawa from Takayama by taking the Limited Express (Wide View) Hida train from Takayama Station to Toyama Station, and then a Shinkansen 

from Toyama Station to Kanazawa Station. The entire trip takes 2 hours and 20 minutes and is fully covered by the JR Pass. 

Once in Kanazawa, explore the perfectly-preserved samurai district of Nagamachi, which is home to the residence of the Nomura family, who held a top 

position during the Meiji Period. It also has a number of museums, shops and restaurants. 

Takayama 

Kanazawa Castle 

Day 7: Kanazawa to Kyoto (spend 3 nights Kyoto) 

Take the Limited Express Thunderbird train from Kanazawa Station to Kyoto. Fully covered by the JR Pass, the trip takes about 2 hours. 

Once in Kyoto, you have several options when it comes to off-the-beaten-path landmarks and attractions. You can tour northern Higashiyama in the 

morning (Konchi-in Temple, Murin-an Villa, Honen-in Temple and Kochi-in Temple) and southern Higashiyama in the afternoon (Entoku-in Temple, 

Ishibei-Koji and Shoren-in Temple). 


The JR Nara Line provides a direct link between Kyoto and Nara. Using your JR Pass, the trip only takes about 1 hour, so a single day will give 

you enough time to check out many of Nara’s important landmarks, such as Nara Park, Todaiji Temple, Horyuji Temple, National Museum and 

Heijo Palace. 

Day 9: Kyoto – Day trip to Arashiyama 

Take the JR Sagano Line at Kyoto Station to Sagaarashiyama Station. The Bamboo Forest is about 15 minutes away by foot. Other attractions in the 

area are the Tenryuji Temple, Togetsukyo Bridge and Okochi Sanso Villa. Also, take the Sagano Scenic Train tour to experience a seven-kilometre journey 

through the mountains, filled with breathtaking views of the lush forest and pleasant scenery. 




Koriyama Castle – Nara 

The bamboo groves of Arashiyama 

Day 10: Kyoto to Hiroshima (spend 2 nights Hiroshima) 

The Shinkansen trip from Kyoto to Hiroshima is about 2 hours long and fully covered by the JR Pass. It involves one transfer at Shin-Osaka 

Station. 

Once in central Hiroshima, you can easily access some less popular bombing-related sites (Honkawa Elementary School Peace Museum and Fukuromachi 

Elementary School Museum), scenic areas (Hiyajima Park) and art and manga attractions (Hiroshima City Manga Library and Hiroshima City 

Museum of Contemporary Art). 

Day 11: Hiroshima – Day trip to Miyajima 

A day trip frequently recommended to tourists in Hiroshima, Miyajima is home to the Itsukushima Shrine, best known for its large, floating torii gate. It 

also offers some scenic hiking trails, particularly to the top of Mount Misen. 

Take the JR Sanyo line from Hiroshima Station to Miyajimaguchi Station and then board the JR ferry at the ferry pier nearby. The entire trip is covered 

by the JR Pass and takes about 1 hour. 

Day 12: Hiroshima to Odawara (Hakone) (spend 1 night Hakone) 

Hakone’s hot springs are some of Japan’s finest, so many locals and foreigners flock to this city all year round. Furthermore, it is home to Odawara Castle, 

a 15th Century castle that offers historical exhibitions and a gorgeous garden of cherry blossom trees. 

From Hiroshima Station, take a Shinkansen to Shin-Osaka Station and then transfer to a different Shinkansen going to Odawara Station. The journey 

takes about 5 hours and 20 minutes. 

At Odawara Station, purchase a Hakone Free Pass (2-day pass costs 4,000 yen) for unlimited rides on all buses, cable cars, trains, ropeways and boats 

affiliated with Odakyu Railways in Hakone. With it, you can explore as much of the area as you want, including the Hakone Shrine, Hakone Hot Springs, 

Open Air Museum, Odawara Castle and Owakudani. 




The Atomic Dome – Hiroshima 

Odawara Castle 

Day 13: Odawara (Hakone) to Tokyo (spend 1 night Tokyo) 

Use your JR Pass to travel by Shinkansen from Odawara to Tokyo. It only takes 35 minutes, so you can squeeze a few more places into your 

itinerary once you are back in Tokyo. Why not spend the rest of day shopping for souvenirs, like those popular but hard-to-find Sukajan 

(Japanese Bomber Jackets), KitKat flavours or action figures in Harajuku, Akihabara, Ikebukuro and Nakano Broadway (all found around the JR 

Lines in Tokyo) 

Day 14: Tokyo to Narita Airport 

You can go back to Narita Airport by taking the Narita Express from Tokyo Station using your JR pass. 


Shirakawago 

14 DAY PASS – Honeymoon 

Itinerary 

For a unique and unforgettable honeymoon experience, why not go to Japan? The country offers a long list of amazing historical sites; cultural, dining 

and sightseeing opportunities, and newlyweds are guaranteed to make special, lasting memories. Below is a sample 14-day honeymoon itinerary using 

a Japan Rail Pass: 


From Narita Airport, you can take the Narita Express and travel to Tokyo in about an hour. You can get a seat reservation on the next train after you have 

swapped your Exchange Order voucher for the actual Japan Rail Pass at a JR Ticket Office at the airport. 

Day 2: Tokyo – Visit Disneyland or DisneySea 

Japan has two Disney-themed parks: 

● 

Disneyland – Modelled on Disneyland in California, it is composed of seven sections that feature attractions and rides based on popular 

Disney films such as Toy Story, Cinderella, Frozen and Pirates of the Caribbean, and characters including Mickey Mouse, Donald Duck 

and Snow White. 



Itinerary 

● 

DisneySea – This park is the only one of its kind in the world. It has seven different sea-themed sections that feature popular Disney movies and 

characters, including The Little Mermaid, Aladdin, and Indiana Jones. The parks are a few minutes’ walk from JR Maihama Station along the JR 

Keiyo Line. 

Day 3: Sightseeing in Tokyo – Tokyo Bay Night Cruise 

Tokyo at night is incredible, with all its billboards and skyscrapers illuminated, and a night cruise on Tokyo Bay is one of the best ways to 

appreciate it. 

With a range of night cruise services available, you will easily find one that fits your budget and preferences. There are cruises that include 

luxury dining options (Italian, French or other Western full course dinner menu) and cost between 8,000 yen and 25,000 yen. There are also 

those that offer a traditional Japanese experience on a Japanese-style boat with tatami floors, and serve a wide selection of authentic Japanese 

dishes. 

Check out the following popular Tokyo Bay Night Cruise Services for more information: 

● 

● 

● 

Symphony Cruise – https://www.symphony-cruise.co.jp/english/index.html 

Vingt Et Un – http://www.vantean.co.jp/english/ 

Tokyo Yakatabune Association – http://www.yakatabune-kumiai.jp/en/ 

Day 4: Tokyo to Hakone (spend 2 nights Hakone) 

For picturesque views of Mount Fuji, relaxing and therapeutic hot springs and amazing natural scenery, head to Hakone. 

From Tokyo Station, take a 35-minute Shinkansen to Odawara Station. Then, purchase a Hakone Free Pass (4,000 yen) for unlimited rides on 

cable cars, buses, ropeways, trains and boats in selected areas of Hakone. 

To fully enjoy your stay in Hakone, book a couple of nights at the Hakone Ginyu (http://www.hakoneginyu.co.jp/index.html), a luxury hotel that 

offers Japanese and Western style rooms with private onsen (a room for two people costs between 30,000 yen and 50,000 yen) and high-end 

facilities, such as a bar, lounge and spa. 

Sunset over Tokyo Bay 

Hakone Hot Spring – ©JNTO 



Itinerary 

Day 5: Explore Hakone 

There are many things to do in Hakone. For museum enthusiasts, there is the Open Air Museum, which features large sculptures and installations 

scattered outdoors on the well-manicured lawns and paintings of world-renowned artists such as Picasso. For those who enjoy exploring nature, the 

area around Lake Ashinoko has several walking trails surrounded by different kinds of plants and trees, with stunning views of the lake and Mount Fuji. 

The Hakone Tozan Railway, the Hakone Ropeway, and the Sightseeing Cruise are also recommended to discover more of Hakone’s hidden natural gems, 

and these are all covered by your Hakone Free Pass. 

Day 6: Hakone to Kyoto (spend 4 nights Kyoto) 

Next stop is Kyoto, which is about a two-hour Shinkansen ride from Odawara Station. 

For a few days’ stay in Kyoto, treat yourselves with another luxury hotel experience, this time at the Ritz-Carlton (http://www.ritzcarlton.com/en/hotels/ 

japan/kyoto). Located in the downtown area, this five-star hotel offers Western and Japanese style rooms, with premium facilities and amenities, and 

easy access to the city’s must-see attractions. A two-person suite costs between 53,000 yen and 75,000 yen. 

Day 7: Explore Kyoto 

The Arashiyama district has plenty of attractions to keep you busy for a day. Located in the outskirts of western Kyoto, it is home to old houses and 

buildings, ancient shrines and temples, and fantastic views of the river and the mountains. 

● 

● 

Arashiyama Bamboo Grove – The Arashiyama Bamboo Grove is a great place to take some beautiful, romantic photos. However, you need to be 

there early in the morning to avoid the crowds. 

Sagano Romantic Train – The Sagano Romantic Train is a seven-kilometre train ride from Arashiyama to Kameoka, along the Hozu River. It runs 

at about 25 kilometres per hour, so you can comfortably take in all the amazing scenery. 


While in Kyoto as newlyweds, you should definitely try the Kyoto Wedding Program. It offers couples on their honeymoon or celebrating their anniversary 

the opportunity to wear traditional Japanese groom and bridal costume, participate in a traditional ceremony, and learn about Japanese wedding customs 

and traditions. Cost is around 130,680 yen per couple. 

Uji, Kyoto 

Fushimi-inari shrine 



Itinerary 


For more incredible photos and unique experiences in Kyoto, check out the following spots: 

● 

● 

Fushimi Inari – One of the most important Shinto shrines in Kyoto, the Fushimi Inari Shrine is composed of thousands of torii that form a number 

of trails leading up to the peak of Mount Inari. If you start early in the morning, you can avoid the crowds and complete the climb up and down 

in about two hours. It is located a few minutes’ walk from JR Inari Station along the JR Nara Line. 

Higashiyama – With well-preserved wooden buildings, narrow lanes, traditional houses and shops, and ancient shrines and temples, Kyoto’s 

Higashiyama district is a great place for anyone looking to experience the traditional Kyoto lifestyle. From Kyoto Station, you can take a bus 

(number 100 or 206) or a train (Keihan Line, Hankyu Line, or Tozai Subway Line) to get to Higashiyama. 

Day 10: Kyoto to Naoshima Island (spend 2 nights Naoshima Island) 

Naoshima Island is home to many museums that showcase interesting and extraordinary sculptures, architecture and artworks. 

From Kyoto, take a Shinkansen to Okayama Station, transfer to the JR Seto-Ohashi Line to Chayamachi Station, and then take the JR Uno-Port Line to 

Uno Station. This part of the trip takes about two to three hours and is fully covered by the JR Pass. From Uno Station, take a ferry to Miyanoura Port, 

which is situated on the west coast of the island, and take a bus or rent a bike to get to your accommodation or destination. 

To get the most out of your stay on the island, try “minpaku”, a unique type of short-term accommodation option that offers you the chance to participate 

in different fishing or agricultural activities, depending on the line of work of your host. You might pick fruit or harvest vegetables on their farms, help 

whip up a traditional Japanese dish for dinner, or join fishermen on their fishing expeditions. More information is available on the official website 

(Japanese): http://www.teshima-web.jp/minpaku/list.html. 

Day 11: Explore Naoshima Island 

Here are the museums in Naoshima that you can visit: 

● 

● 

● 

● 

● 

Benesse House – This is a modern art museum and a resort hotel with overlooking views of the sea. 

Chichu Art Museum – Sitting on a hill, Chichu Art Museum features works by Claude Monet, Kames Turrel, Walter de Maria, and more. 

Art House Project – This area is composed of numerous abandoned buildings, homes and structures that have been transformed into art 

installations. 

Lee Ufan Museum – This museum contains works of Lee Ufan, a contemporary artist from Korea. 

Ando Museum – This is a museum designed by Japanese architect Ando Tadao and features his own artworks. 

Day 12: Naoshima Island to Takayama (spend 2 nights Takayama) 

To reach Takayama from Naoshima, take a ferry back to Uno in Okayama, and then get on the JR Uno-Port Line to Okayama Station. From Okayama 

Station, take a Shinkansen to Nagoya Station, and then transfer to the Ltd Exp (Wide View) Hida Line to Takayama Station. The entire train trip takes 

about six hours and is fully covered by the JR Pass. 

With a free shuttle bus service to and from JR Takayama Station, Hotel Associa (https://www.associa.com/english/tky/) is a highly recommended hotel 

for couples who want convenience and luxury while in Takayama. It offers both Western and Japanese style rooms, from 18,000 yen to 25,000 yen per 

night, with a wide array of high-end amenities and a restaurant bar that serves Western and Japanese dishes. 



Itinerary 

Naoshima Island 

Takayama town 

Day 13: Takayama – Day trip to Shirakawago 

Shirakawago is a UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its well-preserved gassho-zukuri houses. As it is only about a one-hour bus ride from Takayama, 

it is popular as a day trip. You can make bus reservations in advance on Japan Bus Online. 

Half a day in Shirakawago can be spent checking out the traditional gassho-zukuri farmhouses at the Gassho-zukuri Minkaen; the Shiroyama Viewpoint 

observation deck; and the Wada, Kanda and Nagase Houses, which are open to the public as museums. The town also has restaurants that offer 

traditional Japanese menus and gift shops for local products and crafts. 

Day 14: Takayama to Narita Airport 

Takayama is quite a long way from Narita Airport, so start early to ensure you catch your flight. Board a Ltd Exp (Wide View) Hida train to Nagoya Station, 

leaving Takayama Station before 7 in the morning. Then, transfer to a Shinkansen going to Shinagawa Station. From there, you can take the Narita 

Express to Narita Airport. The whole trip takes about six hours and is fully covered by your JR Pass. 


Yokohama 

14 DAY PASS - BEST OF THE WEST 

CHERRY BLOSSOMS ITINERARY 

Spending 14 days in Japan in spring will allow you to see a few of the best cherry blossom viewing spots in the western part of the country. 

Below is a 14-day sample itinerary using a Japan Rail Pass: 

Day 1: Narita Airport to Tokyo (Spend 3 nights Tokyo) 

Once you arrive at Narita Airport, look for the Japan Rail Pass Ticket Office to swap over your Exchange Order voucher and reserve a seat on 

the next Narita Express train to Tokyo. The trip takes about an hour. 


Tokyo has several sakura viewing sites that you can explore on your first day of sightseeing. 

● 

Shinjuku Gyoen – With hundreds of cherry blossom trees scattered all over its spacious lawns and gardens, Shinjuku Gyoen is one of 

the most popular cherry blossom viewing spots in the city. Take the JR Chuo/Sobu Line to JR Sendagaya Station, and walk about five 

minutes to the garden’s Sendagaya Gate. 




● 

● 

Chidorigafuchi – Here you can enjoy a relaxing boat ride on a moat while you take in the views of beautiful canopies of pink cherry 

blossoms. Located near the Tokyo Imperial Palace, Chidorigafuchi is a 20-minute walk from JR Ichigaya and JR Iidabashi Stations, which 

can be accessed via the JR Chuo/Sobu and JR Chuo Lines. 

Koishikawa Korakuen – A traditional Japanese garden built during the early Edo times, Koishikawa Korakuen is home to numerous 

weeping cherry trees that welcome you at the garden’s main gate. Take a JR Chuo Line train and alight at JR Iidabashi Station. From 

there, the garden is only a five to ten minute walk away. 

If you want to experience some fun spring events while in Japan, here are some celebrated cherry blossom festivals that you could check out: 

● 

● 

Bokutei Cherry Blossom Festival – Held along the banks of the Sumidagawa River, the Bokutei Cherry Blossom Festival features a onekilometre 

tunnel of sakura trees in full bloom. This annual event is usually observed around late March to early April. To get to the festival site, 

take a JR Yamanote, Keihin-Tohoku, Joban, Takasaki, or Utsunomiya Line train going to Ueno Station, and then transfer to a Ginza Line train 

headed to Asakusa Station (the Ueno to Asakusa stage of the journey is not covered by the JR Pass and it costs 170 yen for a one-way ticket). 

Ueno Cherry Blossom Festival – Held from late March to early April, the Ueno Cherry Blossom Festival at the Ueno Onshi Park offers 

an opportunity to view the stunning sakura blossoms both during the day and at night, when a thousand lanterns illuminate the park. 

From JR Ueno Station, the park is only a two-minute walk away. 


Outside Tokyo, there are also many highly recommended cherry blossom viewing spots that you can visit. 

● 

● 

● 

● 

● 

Yokohama Sankeien Garden – A spacious garden that features Japanese style landscaping and architecture, the Sankeien Garden 

contains many historic structures, such as the main hall and the three-storey pagoda of the old Tomyoji Temple that used to be in Kyoto. 

From Tokyo Station, board a JR Keihin-Tohoku Line train to Yokohama Station and then take the JR Negishi Line to Negishi Station. The 

walk to the garden takes about half an hour. 

Yokohama Ookagawa River – A popular activity in spring is strolling along the five-kilometre tunnel formed by dense blankets of cherry 

blossoms on the banks of the Yokohama Ookagawa River. The spot can be easily accessed by walking from JR Sakuragicho Station, 

which is on the JR Negishi Line. 

Yokohama Minato Mirai 21 – Even in the middle of a bustling urban area, Minato Mirai 21 has great cherry blossom viewing spots. The 

site is also located close to JR Sakuragicho Station. 

Mt Fuji – The northern base of the mountain is where you can find the famous Fuji Five Lakes, which all have amazing cherry blossom 

spots that tourists flock to in spring. Board a JR Chuo Line train going to Kawaguchiko Station and then use the tourist buses (not 

covered by the JR Pass) to travel around the area to explore the lakes. 

Kamakura – In addition to its many historical and cultural spots, Kamakura is also a popular destination for cherry blossom viewing. 

Some of its most popular sakura spots are the Tsurugaoka Hachimangu Shrine, Kamakura Daibutsu, and Genjiyama Park. From central 

Tokyo, you can reach Kamakura by taking the JR Yokosuka or JR Shonan Shinjuku Lines. The one-way trip takes less than an hour. 

Lake Kawaguchiko 

Yokohama 




Day 4: Tokyo to Kanazawa (Spend 1 night in Kanazawa) 

Kanazawa was home to the Maeda Family, the second most influential and powerful feudal lords during the Edo Period. Today, it is a very 

popular tourist destination as it offers a wide array of cultural and historical spots that date back from that eventful era. It also is home to 

several top-notch sakura viewing spots. 

From Tokyo Station, take a Shinkansen to Kanazawa Station. The one-way journey takes about three hours and is entirely covered by your JR Pass. 

To explore Kanazawa, it is recommended you purchase a one-day bus pass (500 yen) that will allow you unlimited rides to the city’s best cherry 

blossom spots and other attractions, including the following: 

● 

● 

● 

● 

Kenrokuen – Regarded as one of the three most beautiful landscape gardens of Japan, Kenrokuen is a spacious garden with a diverse 

collection of flowering trees, plants and shrubs. 

Kanazawa Castle’s Ishikawamon Gate – Both sides of Kanazawa Castle’s Ishikawamon Gate are lined with beautiful cherry trees that 

are a fantastic sight when in full bloom. 

Asanogawa Ohashi Bridge – With views of the Asanogawa River, a stroll along the Asanogawa Ohashi Bridge is popular during peak 

sakura season. This vantage point will allow you to enjoy scenery blanketed in pink cherry blossoms. 

Mt Utatsu – Mt Utatsu is home to a park with numerous cherry trees and offers overlooking views of Kanazawa and the surroundings. 

Day 5: Kanazawa to Kyoto (Spend 4 nights in Kyoto) 

A direct train linking the two cities of Kanazawa and Kyoto makes travel very convenient. From Kanazawa Station, take a Ltd Exp Thunderbird 

train to Kyoto Station. The whole trip takes a little over two hours and is fully covered by your JR Pass. 

Day 6: Sightseeing in Kyoto 

Purchase a city bus all-day pass at the Tourist Information Center at Kyoto Station to be able to access the following cherry blossom viewing spots: 

● 

● 

● 

Philosopher’s Path – Strolling the entire two-kilometre length of the Philosopher’s Path is quite popular during the sakura season, as 

the concrete walking trail is lined by gorgeous cherry trees from start to finish. 

Arashiyama – Located in Kyoto’s outskirts, Arashiyama is a busy yet uplifting district that has many varieties of cherry trees scattered 

all around. 

Maruyama Park – A public park that is known for its sakura parties, Maruyama Park is always crowded during the peak cherry blossom 

season, especially at night when it holds sakura illuminations. 

Toji Pagoda 

Kyoto cityscape 




Day 7: Sightseeing outside Kyoto 

Outside Kyoto, there are also some cherry blossom viewing spots that are worth visiting. 

● 

● 

● 

Kema Sakuranomiya Park (Osaka) – The Kema Sakuranomiya Park is a riverside park that has lush and rich natural scenery, with around 

five thousand cherry trees that look amazing during peak blooming season. From Kyoto Station, take the JR Special Rapid Service train 

to Osaka Station and then transfer to the Osaka Loop Line going to Sakuranomiya Station. The park is a few minutes’ walk away. 

Mount Yoshinoyama Park (Nara) – For many centuries now, Mount Yoshinoyama Park in Nara has been a highly-regarded cherry 

blossom viewing spot. It is covered by around 30,000 cherry trees of different varieties. The fastest way to get there from Kyoto is by 

taking the Kintetsu Ltd Exp to Kashiharajingumae Station, and then transferring to the Tourism Ltd Exp Blue Symphony Line to Yoshino 

Station. From there, get on a shuttle bus to Naka Senbon Park. If you want to go deeper into the sea of cherry trees, there is a mini bus 

route to the Oku Senbon area. The whole trip takes about three hours and is not covered by the JR Pass. 

Nara Park (Nara) – To enjoy both freely roaming deer and beautiful pink cherry blossoms, visit Nara Park, which is about a 20-minute 

leisurely walk from JR Nara Station. From Kyoto Station, take the JR Nara Line Rapid Service to Nara Station; the trip takes about 

three-quarters of an hour. 

Day 8: Sightseeing outside Kyoto 

A daytrip to Himeji is a must to see the world-renowned castle and experience the city’s local cherry blossom viewing culture. 

● 

Himeji Castle – Widely regarded as the most beautiful surviving castle of feudal times, Himeji Castle is a national heritage site that is 

also a popular spot for cherry blossom viewing. From Kyoto Station, Himeji Station is only a 45-minute Shinkansen ride away. Then, 

from Himeji Station, walk about 15 to 20 minutes to reach the castle. 

Day 9: Kyoto to Hiroshima (Spend 2 nights in Hiroshima) 

Hiroshima has some sakura viewing spots that will take your breath away, particularly the Hiroshima Castle complex. 

● 

Hiroshima Castle – A castle town constructed towards the end of the 16th century, Hiroshima Castle used to be the home of powerful 

Western Japan feudal leader Mori Terumoto. It consists of a five-storey main keep, a moat, and a large garden that is home to numerous 

cherry trees. From Kyoto Station, take a Shinkansen to Hiroshima Station. Then, hop on tram line 1, 2 or 6 (not covered by the JR Pass, 

one-way ticket costs 160 yen) to Kamiyacho-higashi or Kamiyacho-nishi stop. 

Hiroshima Castle 

Miyajima island 




Day 10: Sightseeing outside Hiroshima 

Not too far from Hiroshima is the island of Miyajima, which is also an excellent place to experience cherry blossoms in peak bloom. 

● 

Miyajima – Famous for its large, seemingly floating torii, Miyajima has approximately 1,300 cherry trees scattered around Itsukushima 

Shrine and its hiking trails. From Hiroshima Station, board a train on the JR Sanyo Line going to Miyiajimaguchi Station, which is a short 

walk from the pier for ferries to Miyajima Island. Both the train and ferry are covered by the JR Pass. 

Day 11: Hiroshima to Hakone (Spend 2 nights in Hakone) 

Next city on the itinerary is Hakone, which is about a four and a half hour train trip from Hiroshima. 

From Hiroshima Station, take a Shinkansen to Shin-Osaka Station and then transfer to another Shinkansen to Odawara Station. This part of the 

journey is fully covered by the JR Pass. Then, at Odawara Station, buy a Hakone Free Pass that costs 4,000 yen (valid for 2 days) to get unlimited 

use of certain buses, cable cars, trains, boats and ropeways within the Hakone area. 

Day 12: Sightseeing in Hakone 

There are many cherry blossom viewing spots around Hakone, such as: 

● 

● 

● 

● 

Hakone-en, located on Lake Ashinoko’s eastern shore 

Gora Park 

Hakone Detached Palace, found on Lake Ashinoko’s southern shore 

Hayakawa Riverbank, particularly at Miyagino 

Day 13: Hakone to Tokyo 

To go back to Tokyo, use your Hakone Free Pass to travel from Hakone to Odawara. Then, from Odawara Station, have your JR Pass ready to 

take a 35-minute ride to Tokyo. 

Spend the rest of the day checking out the Tokyo sakura viewing spots that you missed during your first couple of days! 


Reserve a seat on the Narita Express at a JR Ticket Office at Tokyo Station or one of the other major JR train stations in Tokyo. The journey to 

the airport should take less than an hour. 

Note: Peak cherry blossom season varies per region every year, so be sure to check the internet for cherry blossom forecasts and reports so 

you can plan your trip accordingly. 


Happoike Pond – Hakuba Valley 

14 DAY PASS – ACTIVE ITINERARY 

Japan has many places that cater to travellers who are into sports and outdoor activities. With a 14-day JR Pass, you can satisfy your pursuit 

of excitement and adrenaline rushes with the following sample itinerary: 


Once you arrive at Narita Airport, you can swap over your Exchange Order voucher for the actual Japan Rail Pass at a JR Ticket Office. Don’t 

forget to reserve your seat on the next Narita Express train headed to Tokyo. The one-way ride takes about an hour. 

Day 2: Tokyo – Daytrip to Mount Takao 

Mount Takao offers a number of hiking trails (with varying levels of difficulty) through the mountain’s wooded areas, passing by a temple, a 

museum, observation spots, a waterfall, a suspension bridge, and more. The most popular trail for beginners, the Omotesando Trail, takes about 

two to three hours to complete. 

Using your JR Pass to get to Mount Takao, you can go as far as Takao Station. Then, you need to transfer to the Keio Line to Takaosanguchi 

Station (one-way ticket costs 130 yen). The one-way trip takes about 45 minutes. 



Day 3: Tokyo – Cycling Tour 

To save on transportation costs and give your heart, lungs and muscles some great exercise, tour Tokyo by bike. There are hotels and hostels 

that offer their guests free bikes to use, and there are also rental companies that rent their bikes out for about 2,000 yen for three hours of use. 

You can spend the whole day checking out Tokyo’s historical and cultural sites, starting in Asakusa, where you can find the Sensoji Temple. 

Then, head to the Imperial Palace and explore the Imperial East Gardens and surroundings. Having built up an appetite, stop at the Tsukiji 

Fish Market next for a hearty lunch of fresh seafood and other local specialties. In the afternoon, roam around Akihabara and shop for video 

games, manga, action figures and electronic gadgets. After a couple of hours, go to Ueno and visit the Ueno Zoo and some of the museums 

there. Take a short break at Ueno Park before heading out to cycle along the Sumida River and enjoy the beautifully illuminated Tokyo metro 

skyline at night. 

Day 4: Tokyo – Canyoning and Sightseeing 

On your fourth day in Japan, spend the morning canyoning in Okutama, which is a town tucked in the mountains, about a two-hour train ride 

from Tokyo. It is an excellent destination for canyoning, as it has steep cliffs and canyons, rivers and lakes. 

In the afternoon, you can go back to Tokyo for more sightseeing, particularly in Odaiba, known for its entertainment and shopping establishments, 

or in Ryogoku, to watch a sumo match and learn about the sport’s history and traditions by visiting some sumo museums. 

Mount Takao 

Lake Okutama 

Day 5: Tokyo to Hakuba (Spend 3 nights Hakuba) 

About four to five hours by train from Tokyo, Hakuba is a town in Nagano Prefecture that is popular for its ski resorts. 

From Tokyo Station, take a Shinkansen to Itoigawa Station, where you must transfer to the JR Oito Line headed to Minami-Otari Station. Then, 

take the Ltd Exp Azusa Line to Hakuba Station. 

Day 6: Hakuba – Outdoor Activities 

Whatever the time of year, Hakuba always has a range of outdoor activities to offer its guests. 

In winter, it becomes covered in fine powdery snow, making it an excellent place to ski and snowboard. It also is home to many onsen. The 

rest of the year, it offers great spots for everyone to enjoy various outdoor activities such as mountain biking, para-sailing, para-gliding, hot air 

ballooning and canyoning. 



Day 7: Hakuba – Outdoor Activities 

With one more day in Hakuba, you can enjoy other fun outdoor activities such as white water rafting, canoeing, kayaking, mountain trekking, 

mountaineering, rock climbing, camping, hiking, onsen retreats, fishing, wakeboarding and windsurfing. 

Day 8: Hakuba to Kamikochi (Spend 2 nights Kamikochi) 

Another famous resort located in Nagano Prefecture, Kamikochi is home to spectacular scenery of the majestic mountains and thriving forests 

in the Northern Japan Alps. 

From Hakuba, Kamikochi can be accessed via Matsumoto. Take the Ltd Exp Azusa Line from Hakuba Station to Matsumoto Station, and then 

hop on the Matsumoto Electric Railway to Shin-Shimashima Station (not covered by the JR Pass), where you must catch a bus to Kamikochi. 

The whole one-way journey takes about three hours. 

Hakuba Valley 

Kamikochi – Nagano 

Day 9: Explore Kamikochi 

Kamikochi is a part of the Chubu Sangaku National Park, which contains lots of interesting wildlife, plants and trees, and has many hiking trails 

that follow the Azusa River. You might run into some monkeys, birds, or even a bear. Many of its attractions, such as Taisho Pond, Tashiro Pond, 

Takezawa Marsh, Myojin Pond, and Kappa Bridge get quite busy during the autumn foliage viewing season and the summer holidays. 

Day 10: Kamikochi to Gunma (Minakami) (Spend 4 nights Gunma) 

A hot spring resort in the mountains of northern Gunma Prefecture, Minakami offers high quality baths and outdoor sports options. 

Travel between Kamikochi and Minakami takes about five and a half hours via Matsumoto. From Matsumoto Station, take the Ltd Exp (Wide 

View) Shinano Line to Nagano Station, and then transfer to a Shinkansen to Takasaki Station, where you have to catch a JR Joestu Line train 

to Minakami Station. 

Day 11: Explore Mount Tanigawa 

Located on the border of Niigata and Gunma Prefectures, Mount Tanigawa is a rugged 2,000-metre high mountain in northern Minakami. 

It is popular among climbers and hikers who want to challenge themselves with rough terrains and steep slopes. It also has easier trails for 

beginners and casual hikers. It is open for hiking from July to November, when the trails are not covered with snow. In winter, it operates the 

Tanigawa Ropeway, which takes guests to the Tanigawadake Tenjindaira Ski Resort, located about halfway up the mountain. 



Mount Tanigawa 

Rafting in Gunma – ©JNTO 

Day 12: Minakami – Outdoor Activities 

There are several companies that offer outdoor activity tours in Minakami. In winter, they welcome new and experienced skiers and 

snowboarders and, during the rest of the year, they offer whitewater rafting, canyoning, mountain biking, hiking and bungee jumping tours for 

about 4,000 yen to 9,000 yen for a half-day activity and around 10,000 yen to 15,000 yen for a full-day. 

Day 13: Daytrip to Takumi no Sato 

Takumi no Sato is a small village surrounded by rice fields, fruit orchards, and the mountains of Minakami. It offers a range of arts and crafts 

workshops where you can make your own soba, lacquer and washi paper, and learn skills such as bamboo weaving, glass etching, indigo dyeing, 

and painting. 

From Minakami Station, take a bus to Jomo Kogen Station and then transfer to another bus going to the Takumi no Sato stop. The total cost 

one-way is about 1,500 yen and takes approximately 45 minutes. 

Day 14: Minakami Station to Narita Airport 

The trip back to Narita Airport from Minakami takes about four hours. From Minakami Station, board a JR Joetsu Line train to Echigo-Yuzawa 

Station, where you must transfer to a Shinkansen going to Tokyo Station. At Tokyo Station, find a JR Ticket Office to get a seat reservation on 

the next Narita Express train to take you to the airport. 


14 Day Pass - Summer 

adventure Itinerary 

The heat and humidity should not stop you from visiting Japan in the summer, as it is one of the best times to visit the country. In addition to 

the numerous sights and attractions, some of the most vibrant festivals are held in the months of July, August and September. Here is a sample 

Japan Rail Pass itinerary for a 14-day trip to Japan: 

Day 1 - Narita Airport to Tokyo (Spend 2 nights) 

There are Japan Rail Ticket Offices at Narita Airport where you can swap your Exchange Order voucher for the actual JR Pass. Fill out a form 

and present your passport to the staff for verification. Once your pass is ready, reserve a seat on the next Narita Express to take you to central 

Tokyo. The train ride should not take longer than an hour. 

Day 2 – Sightseeing in Tokyo 

Tokyo is a large city that boasts an abundance of sites and attractions that appeal to people of all ages. 




Some of the most popular destinations recommended for first-time visitors are Asakusa, a district with the old Edo atmosphere and home to 

the city’s most renowned shrine, the Senso-ji Temple; the Imperial Palace, located in Marunouchi district and serving as home to the Japanese 

Imperial Family; Ueno Park, the largest green area in Tokyo and home to temples, museums, a zoo, and an aquarium; Meiji JIngu, a century-old 

shrine surrounded by a dense evergreen forest; and Tokyo Skytree and Tokyo Metropolitan Government Building for picturesque views of the city. 

For those who prefer a destination that is far from the hustle and bustle of a metropolis, taking a detour to climb Mt Fuji is a good option. 

With your JR Pass, take the JR Shonan-Shinjuku Line at Shinjuku Station to Kozu Station, where you need to transfer to the JR Gotemba Line 

to reach Gotemba Station. The whole train journey takes about two hours. 

Many people use the Subashiri 5th Station as their starting point to climb Mt Fuji. To get there, you need to take a one-hour bus ride from 

Gotemba Station (one-way ticket costs 1,540 yen and round trip costs 2,060 yen). 

The climb can be completed in five to eight hours, so doing this as a day trip is possible. However, staying overnight in one of the mountain 

huts is recommended for those who want to take it slow and easy. Make use of luggage forwarding services known as takuhaiban, which are 

delivery services you can find at the major airports, hotels and convenience stores, to enable your heavy bags to be forwarded to your next 

hotel while you are completing the climb. 

Day 3 – Tokyo to Shirahama (Spend 3 nights) 

Next stop is Shirahama, which is a renowned onsen resort located about a hundred kilometres from Osaka. 

To get there from Subashiri 5th Station, get on the bus that will take you back to Gotemba Station. Have your JR Pass ready to be able to board 

a JR Gotemba Line train headed to Mishima Station. From there, transfer to a Shinkansen going to Osaka Station, and then make another 

transfer, this time to the Ltd Exp Kuroshio Line to Shirahama Station. Because this one-way journey takes a total of eight hours, you should 

consider leaving Mt Fuji early in the morning. 

Sumida fireworks – Tokyo 

Shirahama 

Day 4 – Explore Shirahama Beach 

The Japanese love going to the beach in the summer. Shirahama Beach is a 500-metre span of fine white sand where you can easily spend a day 

relaxing in the sun, snorkeling, swimming, surfing, and indulging in other water activities. Consider splurging on a hotel that is a few minutes’ 

walk from the water and offers scenic views of the sea. 




Day 5 – Explore Shirahama 

There is also a variety of non-beach activities to keep you busy while in Shirahama. 

For instance, the area has an abundance of stunning landscapes and rock formations, such as Engetsu Island and the Senjioki. It is also home 

to two amusement parks, Adventure World and Energy Land, and several museums, such as the Kishu Museum, the Onsen Shiryokan, and the 

Minakata Kumagusu Museum. Most importantly, it offers a unique hot spring experience through its two onsen by the beach, the Shirasuna 

and the Sakinoyu, both of which have large outdoor baths that provide a relaxing soak in high quality hot spring waters while enjoying 

unobstructed views of the sea. 

Day 6 – Shirahama to Kyoto (Spend 3 nights) 

Kyoto’s Gion Matsuri is Japan’s most famous festival so consider scheduling your trip to Japan in July, as the event is held over the whole 

month. 

From Shirahama Station, take the Ltd Exp Kuroshio 22 line to Shin-Osaka Station, and then transfer to the JR Special Rapid Service line to 

Kyoto Station. The trip is fully covered by your JR Pass and takes about three hours. 

Throughout the Gion Matsuri festival month, there are various events all over Kyoto’s Gion district, at Yasaka shrine, and the surroundings. 

There are processions and parades of beautifully adorned floats, food and snack stands set up on streets, and more. 

Gion – Kyoto 

Daigo-ji temple 

Day 7 – Explore Kyoto, day trip to Nara 

On your second day in Kyoto, you can spend the morning in the city and then head out to Nara in the afternoon. 

Start your day in Kyoto at around six in the morning to climb Fushima Inari Taisha, a mesmerising Shinto Shrine comprised of thousands of 

orange torii gates that lead you through a dense forest to the main shrine at the top of Mount Inari. The round trip takes about two to three 

hours. Spend a few hours at the base to check out the food stalls and markets. 

Around lunchtime, walk back to JR Inari Station and take the JR Nara Line Local to Nara Station. The journey takes about an hour and ten 

minutes. 




Nara is one of Japan’s oldest cities and the country’s first permanent capital back in 710. Among its top attractions are the Todaiji Temple, 

an 8th century Buddhist temple that houses a large bronze Buddha statue; the Horyuji Temple, which contains the oldest surviving wooden 

structures in the world; the Heijo Palace, which served as the emperor’s official residence in the 8th century Nara Period; and Nara Park, a large 

park that is about a 20-minute walk from Nara Station and is home to hundreds of deer. 

Day 8 – Kyoto to Fukuoka (Spend 3 nights Fukuoka) 

After spending a few days in Kyoto, head south to Fukuoka and get acquainted with one of Kyushu’s largest and most historic cities. 

Catch a Shinkansen at Kyoto Station headed to Shin-Kobe Station, and then take another Shinkansen to Hakata Station. The entire trip takes 

about three hours and is fully covered by your JR Pass. 

Day 9 – Enjoy Fukuoka 

Upon arriving at Fukuoka’s Hakata Station, you can start your adventure right away. In addition to its temples, shrines and other historical 

attractions, Fukuoka offers many fun and enjoyable spots for people who like to eat and shop. Even after the sun sets, the city remains vibrant 

and full of energy, with its beer gardens and night markets. 

From late in the afternoon and into the night, Fukuoka beer gardens serve some of the best quality beer you will ever taste. You can try Asahi, 

Kirin and other locally made beers at some of the city’s most popular beer spots, such as the Asahi Beer Garden, Centrahaza Hakata Beer 

Garden, Barbecue Garden, Shibafu Beer Garden, Sushi-ko Sky Garden, and Horror House Tenkugofu. These establishments often offer all-youcan-eat-and-drink 

specials. 

For locally-made products, handmade crafts, food and snacks, and other goods, the Fukuoka Night Market, located by the river and close to 

Canal City, is the place to be. Aside from the wide selection of merchandise for sale, it also has stalls that offer fortune telling and massage 

services. It has a number of small eateries where you can feast on tasty ramen, pastries, and drinks, too. 

Also, if visiting in the first half of July, do not miss the Hakata Gion Yakamasa, a unique Japanese festival highlighted by large kazariyama floats 

displayed all over the city and by a race during which small kakiyama floats are carried by locals trying to outrun each other through a course 

of both narrow and broad lanes near Kushida Shrine. 

Day 10 – Camping on Nokonoshima Island (Spend 1 night Nokonoshima Island) 

Nokonoshima Island is an excellent destination for those looking for nature sightseeing and adventure. It has a very spacious green park that sits 

on 15 hectares of land, surrounded by waters, and far from the hustle and bustle of the city. It is best known for its colourful seasonal flowers, 

most particularly daffodils, rape blossoms, livingstone daisies, poppies, azaleas, marigolds, hydrangeas, sunflowers, cosmos and dahlias. It also 

offers facilities for ceramic-making and painting, sports, a playground, and a mini zoo. 

At certain times of the year, the park is illuminated and looks incredibly magical. If you happen to visit on those days, consider camping for one 

night at the island park’s cottages, with overlooking views of Hakata Bay and the fields of flowers. 

From Fukuoka, the island is about a 20-minute subway ride, a 15-minute bus ride, and a 10-minute ferry ride away. Take the Fukuoka City 

Subway Kuko Line going to Meinohama Station, and then walk to the Meinohama-eki Kitaguchi Bus Stop to catch a bus to the Noko Tosenba 

Bus Stop (Ferry Terminal). The journey is not covered by your JR Pass. 




Day 11 – Fukuoka to Nagoya (stay 2 nights) 

Nagoya, in Aichi Prefecture, is a large and populous city that is home to many historical and cultural structures such as Nagoya Castle, Korankei, 

Atsuta Shrine and Osu Kannon Temple. It is also where the Toyota headquarters are located, and is home to several Toyota-related museums. 

From Hakata Station, take a Shinkansen to Shin-Osaka Station and then transfer to another Shinkansen going to Nagoya Station. The one-way 

trip is fully covered by your JR Pass and takes about four and a half hours. 

Once in Nagoya, purchase a one-day sightseeing bus pass for convenient access to the city’s top tourist attractions as well as discounted 

entry rates. 

Fukuoka 

Port of Nagoya 

Day 12 – Nagoya 

Sumo is the national sport of Japan and, every July, Nagoya hosts one of the six grand sumo tournaments. It has a history that dates back to 

the ancient times, when the sport was used as a form of entertainment for the Shinto gods. Today, it is considered a professional sport that 

showcases the most skilled and trained wrestlers in the country. 

In 2017, the event will be held on 9–23 July at the Aichi Prefectural Gymnasium. Information on purchasing tickets etc. is available on http:// 

www.sumo.or.jp/. 

Day 13 – Nagoya to Tokyo (Spend 1 night Tokyo) 

To return to Tokyo, take a Shinkansen from Nagoya Station to Tokyo Station. The trip takes about two hours and is covered by your JR Pass. 

If you happen to be in Tokyo in late July, check out the Shinjuku Eisa Matsuri Festival, first held in 2002. A celebration that honours the spirits 

of Japanese ancestors, the event features a procession of dancers, musicians and bands, singers, and other entertainers dressed in colourful 

garb, moving to the lively beats of the drums. In 2017, it will be held on 29 July, from 12 noon to 8 pm, around Shinjuku Station’s 


If catching your flight back home from Narita Airport, get a seat reservation on the Narita Express at a JR Ticket Office in Tokyo and be at the 

designated platform not a minute later than the time printed on your seat reservation ticket. The trip is covered by your JR Pass and should 

take less than an hour. 


14 DAY PASS - WINTER EXPLORER 

ITINERARY 

A two-week trip to Japan during winter can be one of the most memorable times of your life. The snow-covered landscapes in some parts of 

the country look enchanting and there are several vibrant festivals held at this time of the year. Below is a 14-day Japan Rail Pass itinerary to 

help you plan your trip: 

Day 1 – Narita Airport to Tokyo (Spend 2 nights Tokyo) 

Once you are at Narita Airport, head straight to a JR Ticket Office to swap over your Exchange Order voucher for the actual JR Pass and get a 

seat reservation on the next Narita Express train to take you to downtown Tokyo. 

Day 2 – Explore Tokyo 

Some of the top-rated attractions in Tokyo are easily accessed via the JR lines. To make the most from your pass, choose to check out sites that 

are located not too far from JR Stations. 



ITINERARY 

As an example, you can take a JR train to Shibuya Station, which is along the JR Yamanote Line, to see the Hachiko Statue and the Shibuya 

Crossing, which are both right outside the station. Explore the numerous malls, specialist shops and department stores in the area. About 

a 20-minute walk away is Harajuku, which is the next stop along the Yamanote Line and where you can find the Meiji Jingu shrine and the 

popular shopping streets of Takeshita-dori and Omotesando. Shopping there can keep you busy for the entire day! 

You can also go to Ueno Station and visit Ueno Park, Ueno Zoo, museums (National Science Museum, Tokyo National Museum, Tokyo 

Metropolitan Art Museum, Shitamachi Museum, National Museum of Western Art), and temples and shrines (Toshogu Shrine, Kaneiji Temple, 

Kiyomizu Kannon Temple, Bentendo). 

Less than a 20-minute walk from Shinjuku Station, you can find Shinjuku Gyoen, one of the best parks in the city; the Tokyo Government 

Building, which offers scenic views of the city via its free-of-charge observation decks; and Golden Gai, Kabukicho, among others, for bars, 

clubs and nightlife. 

If you (or the kids) are big fans of Disney parks, Disneyland and DisneySea are easily accessible via the JR Keiyo Line. Both parks are about a 

20-minute train ride from Tokyo Station. 

For otaku culture, the districts of Akihabara, Ikebukuro, and Nakano Broadway are a short walk from their respective JR Stations and have a 

wide selection of shops and stores that specialise in manga, video games, cosplay costumes, electronic goods, and more. 

Day 3 – Tokyo to Sapporo (Spend 3 nights Sapporo) 

The fifth largest city in Japan and the capital of the Hokkaido region, Sapporo is a popular winter destination. This is especially true during the 

Sapporo Snow Festival, a week-long colourful and vibrant annual event held every February. It attracts around two million tourists from around 

the world, drawn to the amazing, intricately crafted, large statues and sculptures made of snow and ice. 

Sapporo is quite a long way from Tokyo, and train travel takes about eight hours. Using your JR Pass, you can take a Shinkansen from Tokyo 

Station to Shin-Hakodate-Hokuto Station, and then transfer to the Ltd Exp Super Hokuto line to reach Sapporo Station. 

Ueno park snow – Tokyo 

Sapporo in Winter 

Day 4 – Explore Sapporo 

The Sapporo Snow Festival is held on three different sites across the city --- Odori, Susukino and Tsu Dome. 



ITINERARY 

The festival’s primary site is located in Odori Park in the city centre, and showcases snow sculptures of varying sizes, with some as high as 15 

metres and as wide as 25 metres. The Susukino Site in the city’s main entertainment district is home to approximately one hundred statues and 

sculptures, while the Tsu Dome Site, near the downtown area, also has several snow sculptures, and even has snow rafting and snow slides. 

Day 5 – Explore Sapporo 

There is more to Sapporo than the snow festival. 

It has an open air museum, called the Historic Village of Hokkaido, which contains dozens of Meiji and Taisho Era buildings that made up the 

region’s town, fishing village, mountain village, and farm village back in the day. Sapporo Beer, which is one of Japan’s oldest and most famous 

beers, originated in Hokkaido, and its story and progress throughout the years are laid out at the Sapporo Beer Museum. Destinations for 

souvenir and food shopping include the Sapporo Factory, the Nijo Market, and the Curb Market. There is also a nearby ski resort, called Teine 

Ski Resort, where you can enjoy skiing, sledding and tubing and see some of the ski facilities used during the Sapporo Winter Olympics in 1972. 

Day 6 – Sapporo to Asahikawa (Spend 3 nights Asahikawa) 

Asahikawa is Hokkaido’s second largest city and it observes its own snow festival every year, the Asahikawa Winter Festival. During the 

festivities, gigantic snow and ice sculptures of castles, fortresses, animals, cartoon characters, and more are displayed across the city. 

From Sapporo, it is about an hour and a half train ride away. With your JR Pass, board one of the following trains: the Ltd Exp Lilac, the Ltd Exp 

Soya, or the Ltd Exp Okhotsk line at Sapporo Station to reach Asahikawa Station. 

Mount Tanigawa 

Day 7 – Explore Asahikawa 

There are two festival sites to visit during the Asahikawa Winter Festival. 

The Asahibashi Site, which is found by the river near Asahibashi Bridge, offers snow slides, horse sleigh rides, snowmobile rides, and an ice bar in 

addition to the statues and sculptures. It also is the venue for the event’s opening and closing ceremonies that typically involve a fireworks display. 

The other festival site is called the Heiwa Dori, which is a kilometre-long pedestrian street that starts right outside Asahikawa Station and 

extends to the Asahibashi Site area. It contains about 50 snow sculptures that are part of an ice sculpture contest. 



ITINERARY 

Day 8 – Explore Asahikawa 

With another full day to do some more sightseeing in Asahikawa, why not visit the Asahiyama Zoo? With its diverse collection of animals, 

including eagles, wolves, deer, penguins, giraffes, apes, big cats, seals, lesser pandas, leopards and polar bears, it is a must-visit if you love 

nature or if you are travelling with kids. 

Also, do not forget to try Asahikawa ramen, which you can find in restaurants throughout the city, most particularly at the Asahikawa Ramen Village. 

It is made with shoyu based broth, ramen noodles that are hard, wavy, and thin, and topped with pork, eggs, bamboo shoots, and green onions. 

Day 9 – Asahikawa to Lake Shikaribetsu Kotan (Spend 3 nights Lake Shikaribetsu Kotan) 

A freshwater lake considered to be the highest in Hokkaido at 800 metres, Lake Shikaribetsu is a scenic destination that is surrounded by 

imposing mountain ranges. During the winter, when the lake freezes over, the area observes a festival called Shikaribetsu Kotan, which features 

a snow and ice village consisting of igloo-like houses. 

To get there from Asahikawa Station, take the Ltd Exp Lilac line to Sapporo Station and then transfer to the Ltd Exp Super Ozoro line going to 

Obihiro Station. This part of the journey is covered by your JR Pass and takes four and a half hours. At Obihiro Station, look for the route bus 

that goes to the lakeside. The ride takes about an hour and forty minutes. 

Day 10 – Explore Lake Shikaribetsu Kotan 

Spend a day checking out the snow buildings and houses built on the frozen lake. You can actually enter and see the walls and foundations of these 

structures up close, with their pillars, interior design, ceilings, and so on. The exhibition takes place every year from mid-January up until the end of March. 

Day 11 – Explore Lake Shikaribetsu Kotan 

There is an outdoor bath with hot, high quality onsen waters by the banks of the lake, so take a dip to relax and calm your tired and sore 

muscles, while enjoying the gorgeous views of the virgin forests and snowcapped mountains. 

Day 12 – Lake Shikaribetsu Kotan to Morioka (Spend 2 nights Morioka) 

Iwate Prefecture’s capital city, Morioka, is a beautiful city encircled by mountains and features several rivers. 

From Lake Shikaribetsu Kotan, take the bus back to Obihiro Station. From there, with your JR Pass, catch the Ltd Exp Super Tokachi line to 

Minami-Chitose Station, and then transfer to the Ltd Exp Super Hokuto line to get to Shin-Hakodate-Hokuto Station. At Shin-Hakodate- 

Hokuto Station, catch a Shinkansen headed to Morioka Station. The whole journey takes about ten hours. 

Night view of Morioka 

Iwate Snow Festival 



ITINERARY 

Day 13 – Explore Morioka 

The Iwate Snow Festival is an annual winter festival held in early February at Koiwai Farm, at the base of Mt Iwate in Morioka. During the 

celebration, large and small snow sculptures are set up, horse sleigh rides and sledding facilities are available, and food and drink kiosks and 

shops are open throughout the city. It also features kamakura, which are igloo-like snow structures, where visitors can get a taste of the local 

cuisine accompanied by sake. Onsen are also popular at this time of the year, and staying at least one night is recommended so you can enjoy 

the fireworks displays and illuminations that are usually part of the evening festivities. 

Day 14 – Morioka to Narita Airport 

To return to Tokyo to catch your flight back home, take a Shinkansen from Morioka Station to Tokyo Station. Use your JR Pass to get a seat 

reservation on the next Narita Express headed to Narita Airport at a JR Ticket Office at Tokyo Station. The entire trip takes about three and a 

half to four hours. 


21 Day Pass – Discover Japan 

by Rail Itinerary 

A 21-day Japan Rail Pass can save you money if you intend doing most of your travelling via the Shinkansen and JR network trains on your next 

trip to Japan. Purchase one before you leave and consider using this sample 21-day itinerary: 


After passing through customs at Narita Airport, look for the JR Ticket Service Center (there is one at Terminal 1 and another at Terminal 2) and 

swap over your Exchange Order voucher. Activate the Pass right away so that you can use it to reserve a seat on the Narita Express to Tokyo. 

Day 2: Tokyo 

With a JR Pass, you can use the JR Yamanote, JR Chuo, JR Saikyo, and JR Shonan-Shinjuku Lines to go to Shinjuku Station. 




In Shinjuku, you can find the Tokyo Metropolitan Government Building (it has an observation deck that offers panoramic views of the city), 

parks (Shinjuku Gyoen and Central Park), department stores (Isetan, Odakyu, Keio, Takashimaya, Lumine and Mylord), and electronic stores 

(Bic, Yodabashi Camera and Yamada Denki). 

At night, the district is vibrant and alive, with many bars, restaurants, pachinko parlours and other establishments in its Kabukicho, Golden Gai 

and Omoide Yokocho areas open until midnight. 

Day 3: Tokyo 

In the morning, visit the Meiji Shrine and Yoyogi Park in Harajuku (along the Yamanote Line) and spend the afternoon immersing yourself in the 

otaku culture in Akihabara and Ikebukuro (both also along the Yamanote Line). 

In the evening, go to Odaiba (Rainbow Bridge, Gundam Statue, DiverCity Tokyo Plaza and Aquacity). You can use your JR Pass on the Yamanote 

and Keihin Tohoku Lines up to Shimbashi Station, and then transfer to the Yurikamome Line to reach Daiba Station (not covered by the Pass; 

single ticket costs 320 yen). 

Sensoji-ji Temple in Asakusa 

Akihabara 

Day 4: Tokyo to Kyoto (Spend 3 nights Kyoto) 

Depart Tokyo at around 8 am to get to Kyoto before 11 am (the trip is covered by the JR Pass). Spend the rest of the day at Kyoto Aquarium 

and Kyoto Tower. 

Day 5: Kyoto 

In the morning, check out Fushimi Inari Shrine and Nijo Castle. Afterwards, visit the temples of Eastern Kyoto (Ginkakuji, Kiyomizudera, Kodaiji, 

Nanzenji and Eikando) and Northern Kyoto (Ninnaji, Kinkakuji, Ryoanki, Sanzenin and Manshuin). 




Famous Golden Pavilion Kinkaku-ji 

Toji Pagoda 

Day 6: Kyoto – Day trip to Arashiyama 

With your JR Pass, take a 20-minute train ride on the JR Sagano Line from Kyoto Station to Sagaarashiyama Station. 

Some of Arashiyama’s top attractions are the Bamboo Groves, Monkey Park, Togetsukyo Bridge and Tenryuji Temple. Take the Saga Scenic 

Railway tour and enjoy the gorgeous natural scenery of the area. 

Day 7: Kyoto to Fukuoka (Spend 2 nights Fukuoka) 

About 3.5 hours away by Shinkansen (covered by your Pass), Fukuoka is popular for its spectacular Gion Yamakasa festival. Visit the Fukuoka 

Castle Ruins and eat the widely-revered Hakata ramen at one of the many ramen shops at Canal City. 

Japanese Garden – Kyoto 

Fukuoka Ohori Park 

Day 8: Fukuoka 

Enjoy the beautiful landscapes and gardens, as well as the great views of the water at Uminonakamichi Park. Check out the Shofukuji Temple, 

which is the first Zen temple in Japan, and relax at the Momochi Seaside Park. At night, try the various local cuisines served at Yatai, or food stalls. 




Day 9: Fukuoka to Kagoshima (Spend 2 nights Kagoshima) 

From Hakata Station in Fukuoka, take a Shinkansen to Kagoshima-Chuo Station and transfer to the JR Nippo Line to Kagoshima Station. The 

trip is covered by the JR Pass and takes about 2.5 hours. 

Visit the Kagoshima Aquarium and Shiroyama Park. 

Fukuoka 

Kagoshima 

Day 10: Kagoshima 

Board a ferry early in the morning for a day trip to Sakurajima. The port is 15 minutes by foot from Kagoshima Station and a single ticket for 

the 15-minute journey costs 160 yen (not covered by the JR Pass). 

There are many activities to do and things to see in Sakurajima, including hiking (Nagisa Lava Trail), enjoying a foot bath (Nagisa Park Foot Bath), 

relaxing in onsen (Magma Onsen), and taking advantage of the views from the observation decks (Yunohira, Arimura and Kurokami). 

Day 11: Kagoshima to Hiroshima (Spend 2 nights Hiroshima) 

The fastest way to get to Hiroshima is by taking the Limited Express Kirishima Line from Kagoshima Station to Kagoshima-Chuo Station, and 

then a Shinkansen to Hiroshima Station. The journey takes about 3 hours and is fully covered by the JR Pass. 

Once in Hiroshima, explore the downtown area and have fun shopping at the numerous boutiques and shops in the Hondori arcade. Also, do 

not forget to try the Hiroshima Style Okonomiyaki, which is served in several restaurants along Hondori Street and Aioi Street. 

Day 12: Hiroshima 

Buy a 1-day tram pass (600 yen) to get easy and convenient access to the city’s top attractions, including the Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park, 

Hiroshima Castle, Shukkein Garden and Mazda Museum. 




Day 13: Hiroshima to Osaka via Himeji (Spend 1 night Osaka) 

Next city stop is Osaka, but you can stop in Himeji for a few hours along the way. 

Using your JR Pass, take a Shinkansen from Hiroshima to Okayama Station, and then transfer to another Shinkansen to Himeji Station. The 

Himeji Castle and Kokoen Garden are only 1 kilometre from the train station, so you can complete the tour in 3 hours. 

In the afternoon, take a Shinkansen to Shin-Osaka Station and transfer to the JR Kyoto Line to Osaka Station. The trip is just a little over an 

hour long. 

Once in Osaka, you can do a quick tour of the Osaka Castle, Namba and Umeda. 

Day 14: Osaka to Takayama (Spend 2 nights Takayama) 

From Osaka, you can catch the Limited Express (Wide View) Hida train, which takes you to Takayama, without needing to transfer trains, in 

about 4.5 hours (covered by the Pass). 

Spend the rest of the day exploring the Old Town district, which is home to old sake breweries, museums and heritage houses. 

Shitennoji Temple – Osaka 

Night view of Osaka 




Day 15: Takayama 

Start the day with a pleasant hike on the 3.5-kilometre Higashiyama Walking Course, which takes you through a wooded area with shrines, 

temples and castle ruins along the way. 

Then head to the Hida Folk Village to see the beautiful, traditional huts, gassho-zukuri houses and other old (but well-preserved) World 

Heritage buildings. 

Day 16: Takayama to Sendai (Spend 1 night Sendai) 

From Takayama Station, take the Limited Express (Wide View) Hida line to Toyama Station, where you need to transfer to a Shinkansen to 

Omiya Station. Then board another Shinkansen to reach Sendai Station. The entire journey takes between 5 and 6 hours and is fully covered 

by the JR Pass. 

Some of Sendai’s must-visit attractions are the Zuihoden Mausoleum (Date family’s mausoleum), Aoba Castle, Rinnoji Temple, Osaki Hachimangu 

and Ichibancho Arcade. 

Day 17: Sendai to Hakodate (Spend 1 night Hakodate) 

From Sendai Station, take the JR Hokkaido Line to Shin-Hakodate-Hokuto Station (takes about 3.5 hours), and then transfer to the Hakodate 

Liner to Hakodate Station (takes 20 minutes). The entire trip is covered by the Pass. 

Take the Hakodateyama Ropeway tour (not covered by the JR Pass; round trip costs 1,200 yen) to enjoy magnificent views of the city and the 

surroundings, especially at night. At the summit, you can also find a café, restaurant and souvenir shops. 

Shiroishi river – Sendai 

Hakodate 

Day 18: Hakodate to Sapporo (Spend 2 nights Sapporo) 

From Hakodate, Sapporo is less than 4 hours away by train. Use your JR Pass to get on the Limited Express Super Hokuto line to Sapporo Station. 

Visit the Shiroi Koibito Park, a theme park run by local chocolate company Ishiya, and learn how to make chocolates, cookies and other sweet 

treats. Then head to the Sapporo Beer Museum to discover the origins and history of Sapporo Beer, and participate in beer tastings! 




Day 19: Sapporo 

Visit Odori Park, Botanic Garden and Historic Village of Hokkaido (an open air museum consisting of several dozen ancient buildings that tell 

the history of the region). At night, have fun in Susukino, with its many bars, karaoke shops, restaurants and pachinko parlours. 

Sapporo at night 

Sapporo Clock Tower 

Day 20: Sapporo to Tokyo (Spend 1 night Tokyo) 

From Sapporo Station, take the Limited Express Super Hokuto train to Shin-Hakodate-Hokuto Station and then transfer to a Shinkansen to 

Tokyo Station. The entire trip is covered by the JR Pass and takes about 8.5 hours. 

Spend your remaining time in Tokyo wandering the lively district of Shibuya, where you can find numerous shops and department stores, night 

clubs, bars, game centres, love hotels and other establishments. Center Gai and Koen Dori are two popular busy zones in the area. 


Take the Narita Express from Tokyo Station to Narita Airport. The 1-hour trip is covered by your JR Pass. 


Experiences 


Fuji-Q Highland – ©JNTO 

Amusement Parks 

Thousands of visitors flock to Japan’s popular amusement and theme parks on a daily basis. Their fun and exciting attractions include 

rollercoasters, ferris wheels, water/train rides and carnival game booths. 

Here are some of the best. 

Universal Studios 

Universal Studios Japan in Osaka was the first Universal Studios theme park in Asia, launched in 2001. It’s huge, spanning an entire hectare 

adjacent to the Osaka Bay area. 

There are eight themed sections — Amity Village, Hollywood, Jurassic Park, New York, San Francisco, The Wizarding World of Harry Potter, 

Universal Wonderland and Waterworld. There are numerous rides suitable for children, adults or both. 

Tokyo Disneyland 

Tokyo Disneyland was the first Disney branded theme park built outside of the United States. Its layout is similar to California Disneyland 

and it has seven themed sections — Adventureland, Critter Country, Fantasyland, Tomorrowland, Toon Town, Westernland and World Bazaar. 

You’ll find thrill rides like the Space Mountain, but also kid-friendly attractions such as It’s a Small World and Buzz Lightyear’s Astroblasters. 

There’s also many souvenir shops and restaurants. 

Tokyo DisneySea 

Next to Tokyo Disneyland is another Disney theme park, DisneySea. Its seven themed sections — American Waterfront, Arabian Coast, Lost 

River Delta, Mediterranean Harbor, Mermaid Lagoon, Mysterious Island and Port Discovery — are home to many rides, shops and restaurants 

that appeal to visitors of all ages. It tends to attract an older demographic because it serves alcohol in its restaurants and cafes. It also has 

Disney hotel accommodation. 

Edo Wonderland 

If you’re not looking for a typical amusement park with all those heart-pumping rides, games and facilities, Edo Wonderland could be for you. 

It’s a history theme park, depicting life in a small Japanese town during the Edo period from 1603 to 1868. 



Its houses, buildings and streets all feature Edo period styles and designs to capture the old town feel. Staff also dressed in costumes from the 

era and perform live sword fighting, martial arts and magic shows. 

Edo Wonderland – ©JNTO 

Edo Wonderland – ©JNTO 

Tobu World Square 

This is another theme park with a difference. Tobu World Square showcases miniature versions of some of the world’s best historical and 

cultural landmarks, including World Heritage sites and other well-known attractions. 

Tobu World Square Entry – ©JNTO 

Tobu World Square – ©JNTO 

Fuji-Q Highland 

Situated in the Fuji Five Lakes area, Fuji-Q Highland is a top-rated amusement park in Japan with numerous adrenaline-rushing roller coaster 

and anime-themed rides. Its four largest roller coasters are: 

● 

● 

● 

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Takabisha – the world’s steepest roller coaster with a 121-degree angle drop; 

Eejanaika –with rotating seats within each car; 

Dodonpa – the world record holder for fastest rollercoaster acceleration; 

Fujiyama – the main attraction and once the speediest and tallest roller coaster in the world. 



The park also has rides for children in the Hamutaro, Loony Toons, Kaiketsu Zorori, and GeGeGe no Kitaro-themed areas. 



Nagashima Resort 

Considered to be one of Japan’s top holiday destinations, Nagashima Resort is a large entertainment complex built on an elongated island. As 

well as its amusement park, it also has a water park, shopping mall and a flower park. 

A huge rollercoaster called the Steel Dragon 2000 is the most popular attraction, extending throughout the length of the Resort (about 2.5 

kilometres). There’s also numerous outdoor and indoor baths, saunas, Jacuzzis, massage services, shops and restaurants. 

Nagashima Resort – ©JNTO 

Nagashima Resort – ©JNTO 


Castles 

Castles are among the most visited attractions in Japan. There are hundreds of them all over the country, with many of the ancient structures 

having undergone restoration and renovation through the years for historic preservation. 

History 

The construction of castles in Japan started as early as the 7th century, when they were built for defensive purposes. They served as fortresses 

where lords, rulers and noble families could live safely when beset by invaders and rival clans. 

In the 1400s and 1500s, the rise in the number of castle towns happened quickly, as wars spread across the country. The feudal lords ordered 

the building of larger fortifications and hired samurai warriors to protect them against their enemies. 

During the Meiji Restoration period, several of these castles were intentionally destroyed by local people wishing to expunge the reminder of 

the terrors of feudalism, while others were damaged due to wars. In the past decades, many of them have been reconstructed and are now 

open to the public as museums. 

Kumamoto Castle 

Matsuyama Castle 

Common Features 

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Tenshukaku – The main castle tower or castle keep. It can be three, five, seven, or more storeys high. It served as the official command 

headquarters and residence of the daimyo. 

Goten – Also called the palace, it housed the offices of the daimyo’s staff and subordinates. In some cases, it was also used as the 

official residence of the daimyo. 

Yagura – These guard towers are found at wall corners and have clear views of the surroundings. In addition to being watchtowers, they 

were also used as astronomy towers and water towers. 


Castles 

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Stone walls – Castle fortresses are surrounded by thick stone walls as effective defensive measures. 

Moat – A key feature in any fortification as it provided an additional obstacle to enemies and attackers. They were made by rerouting 

streams from the mountains. 

Mon – Japanese castles consist of several gates that are strategically positioned to maximise defense. They are usually made of large, 

heavy timbers. 

Himeji Castle 


Top Japanese Castles 


Recognised as one of Japan’s dozen original castles, Matsumoto Castle is a 16th century castle built on a plain in the city of Matsumoto in 

Nagano. It is best known for its distinct black colour, moat, and vast castle grounds that are home to many sakura trees, a perfect spot for 

cherry blossom viewing. 

Himeji Castle 

With a sophisticated white façade, the Himeji Castle is one of the country’s most popular tourist attractions. It was built in 1346 and has been 

well-preserved through the years. Exploring the castle complex requires a bit of a hike as it covers a large area and consists of many gates and 

paths going up a hill. 

Kumamoto Castle 

Constructed in the 1600s, the Kumamoto Castle is one of Japan’s most impressive and stunning treasures. It has been renovated a number of 

times after being destroyed and burnt down. Today, its gardens grow hundreds of sakura and other trees, making it a popular cherry blossom 

and autumn foliage viewing spot. 

Matsuyama Castle 

Also classified as an original castle, the Matsuyama Castle was built in the early 1600s and served as the residence of the Matsudaira clan. Its 

original castle tower, standing five storeys high, was struck by lightning and has been rebuilt to the current three storeys. 

Matsue Castle 

Finished in 1611, the Matsue Castle is built on top of a hill, with thick stone walls and a moat. Today, not only can people enter the main castle 

tower for a tour, but they can also get on a small boat for a cruise around the moat. 


Cherry Blossom 

Springtime in Japan is a high-volume tourist season as people from all over the world travel to the country to view the blossoming of the sakura. 

Every year, various places around the country are filled with crowds for a few weeks in April and May, as this seasonal event reaches its peak. 

To fully enjoy the sakura experience, be sure to check out the cherry blossom forecast for each region and plan a trip to the following top-rated 

cherry blossom viewing spots in different parts of the country. 

Hokkaido 

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Matsumae Park – With many thousands of sakura trees growing around Matsumae Castle, the Matsumae Park becomes a sight to 

behold once the cherry trees bloom in spring. 

Goryokaku Fort – A Western-style fortress built during the Edo Period, the Goryokaku Fort occupies a large area that is home to many 

hundreds of cherry trees. 

Sendai 

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Tsutsujigaoka Park – Centrally located in the city of Sendai, Tsutsujigaoka Park is home to a number of sakura tree varieties, including 

the weeping forms and Somei Yoshino. 

Mikamine Park – With several hundred cherry trees, Mikamine Park is a large, spacious public park that is a popular hangout and venue 

for hanami parties. 

Red Pagoda with Mt Fuji 

Himeji Castle 



Nagano 

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Matsumoto Castle – Located in the city of Matsumoto in Nagano Prefecture, the Matsumoto Castle grounds contain approximately 

300 thriving sakura trees that look magical once the spring season kicks in. 

Takato Castle Ruins – Found in Ina City in Nagano Prefecture, the Takato Castle Ruins area has a garden that grows an array of cherry 

tree varieties, making it a highly recommended cherry blossom spot not only in the region but in the entire country. 

Tokyo 

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Ueno Park – A very popular spot for cherry blossom viewing, Ueno Park is located in Tokyo and gets extremely crowded during the 

peak dates of the sakura blossoming. 

Yoyogi Park – Ideal for picnics with family and friends, the vast area of Yoyogi Park is home to more than 600 cherry trees. 

Shinjuku Gyoen – With over a thousand cherry trees of different varieties, Shinjuku Gyoen is a large park that offers fantastic cherry 

blossom viewing opportunities. 

Day Trip: Kawaguchiko – You can make your way to Kawaguchiko from Tokyo to catch a sight of the Cherry Blossoms on the Northern 

and eastern shores of Lake Kawaguchiko. 

Himeji Castle 


Yokohama 

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Mitsuike Koen – Declared as one of the top 100 cherry blossom spots in Japan, Mitsuike Park consists of three ponds that are 

surrounded by more than a thousand sakura trees. 

Sankeien Garden – A Japanese landscape garden that features a pond at the centre, numerous historical structures, and plenty of 

cherry trees, the Sankeien Garden is a famous hanami spot in Yokohama. 

Osaka 

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Osaka Castle – The Osaka Castle grounds contain more than 4,000 cherry trees that look magnificent when in full bloom. 

Kema Sakuranomiya Park – Located along the Okawa River, the Kema Sakuranomiya Park provides a long line of gorgeous sakura trees 

in full bloom in spring. 



Osaka Castle 

Hiroshima 

Kyoto 

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Philosopher’s Path – About two kilometres long, the Philosopher’s Path is a good spot to enjoy a stroll under the canopy of cherry trees 

in peak blossom. 

Arashiyama – Situated in the western outskirts of Kyoto, Arashiyama features plenty of sakura trees at the foot of its mountain ranges, 

close to the Togetsukyo Bridge. 

Fukuoka 

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Fukuoka Castle – With a thousand sakura trees growing in Maizuru Park in the Fukuoka Castle ruins area, the Fukuoka Castle offers a 

splendid view of the event, as well as plenty of space for picnics and get-togethers. 

Nishi Park – Regarded as one of the top 100 cherry blossom viewing spots in Japan, Nishi Park sits on a hillside, with more than one 

thousand beautiful, full-grown cherry trees. 

Philosopher’s Walk – Kyoto 


Awa Odori Dance – ©JNTO 

Festivals 

Just like everywhere else in the world, Japan observes a long list of festivals all year round, and some are several centuries-old traditional 

festivities that were introduced by the Chinese many, many years ago. A lot of these celebrations are to honour a deity or to commemorate a 

specific historical event, usually held every year, and may last for one day or even as long as a month. 

Hakata Gion Yamakasa Festival – ©JNTO 

Awa Odori Dance – ©JNTO 

Spring 

● 

Aoi Matsuri – Observed in the city of Kyoto, Aoi Matsuri is one of Kyoto’s three most famous festivals (along with the Gion and Jidai 

festivals). It involves a parade comprised of more than 500 people wearing Heian Period aristocratic costumes. The procession is held 

on 15 May every year with the parade beginning at the Kyoto Imperial Palace and concluding at the Kamo Shrines. 

● Takayama Matsuri – The city of Takayama in Gifu Prefecture observes the Takayama Matsuri twice each year, on 14-15 April and 9-10 

October. The April festival is to celebrate the Hie Shrine in the southern part of Takayama’s old town and the October festival is to 

celebrate the Hachiman Shrine in the Northern part of Takayama’s old town. The festivals include large floats that have been lavishly 

decorated and are paraded around town. 

● 

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Sanja Matsuri – Considered to be one of the three biggest festivals of Tokyo, the Sanja Matsuri is held on the third weekend of May 

in the Asakusa district. Portable shrines, or mikoshi, are elaborately adorned and carried through the streets. The Shinto gods in the 

parade are said to bring good fortune for the local businesses and residents. 

Kanda Matsuri – Observed on a weekend in the month of May on odd numbered years (e.g. May 2017, May 2019), the Kanda Matsuri 

consists of a one-day procession around downtown Tokyo and mikoshi parades through the streets. 


Festivals 

Takayama Spring Festival – ©JNTO 

Hakata Gion Yamakasa Festival – ©JNTO 

Summer 

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Gion Matsuri – This festival of Yasaka Shrine is observed every July and is highlighted by a parade of floats at least 20-metres tall. The 

Gion Matsuri in Kyoto is one of the top three Japanese festivals. 

Hakata Gion Yamakasa – Held in Hakata in Fukuoka every 1-15 July, the Hakata Gion Yamakasa is an exciting festival that includes a 

festival float race in the morning of the final day of celebrations. 

Kanto Matsuri – Held from 3-6 August, Kanto Matsuri takes place in Akita City. It features parades of more than 200 performers 

balancing bamboo poles on different parts of their body, with each pole holding as many as 46 lanterns. It is conducted every night for 

four days. 

Awa Dori – Dubbed as the most popular dancing festival in the country, Awa Odori is an event held 12-15 August, right smack in the 

obon season. It features a procession that includes dancers dressed in various traditional costumes performing different traditional 

Japanese dances. 

Tenjin Matsuri – A top three Japanese festival, the Tenjin Matsuri is observed every 25 July in the city of Osaka. Tenjin Matsuri is the 

festival of the Tenmangu Shrine, honoring its deity Sugawara Michisane, the deity of scholarship. It consists of a major procession held 

around the city, as well as a river parade of boats and a fireworks show. 

Gion Matsuri Festival – ©JNTO 

Akita Kanto Festival – ©JNTO 


Festivals 

Autumn 

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Jidai Matsuri – To commemorate Kyoto’s time as the capital of Japan, the Jidai Matsuri is observed every 22 October through a 

procession that starts at the Kyoto Imperial Palace and ends at the Heian Shrine. The parade consists of participants dressed in 

costumes from almost every period of Japanese History because Jidai Matsuri means Festival of the Ages. 

Nagasaki Kunchi – Every 7-9 October, the city of Nagasaki celebrates the Nagasaki Kunchi, where ship-like floats and dragons are 

paraded and displayed around the city. 

Winter 

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Chichibu Yomatsuri – Recognised as one of Japan’s most beautiful festivals, Chichibu Yomatsuri is held every 2-3 December and is 

highlighted by a parade of floats decorated with colourful and bright lanterns on the final night of the festivities. 

Yokote Kamakura Festival – Held in Yokote in Akita Prefecture every 15-16 February, the Yokote Kamakura Festival features several 

hundreds of kamakura, or snow houses that look like igloos, constructed at different locations around the city. The snow houses each 

have a snow altar dedicated to the water deity, where people can pray for plentiful water. Between 6pm and 9pm, visitors can enter 

the snow houses where they will be offered rice cakes and warm sweet rice wine to drink. In return you can make an offer to the water 

deity at the altar. 

Sapporo Snow Festival – Also known as Sapporo Yuki Matsuri, this event is held over seven days in early February. During this time, 

different ice and snow statues and sculptures are displayed in various locations in the city. Some sculptures are more than 25 metres 

wide and 15 metres high, and some are even used as a stage for concerts. 

Sapporo Snow Festival – ©JNTO 

Yokote Kamakura Festival – ©JNTO 


Food and Drinks + 7 

Snacks to Try 

Japanese cuisine is world-renowned for its diverse collection of mouth-watering and scrumptious dishes. In different regions of the country 

you can enjoy a wide variety of local specialties made from only the best quality ingredients. 

If you’re travelling to Japan, here are some of the best Japanese foods and beverages that should be on your must-try list. 

Food 

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Sushi – Probably the Japanese food most loved by foreigners, sushi is made by preserving pickled fish in vinegar. It’s available in 

varieties such as gunkan (dried seaweed, sushi rice and seafood), nigiri (rice balls topped with shellfish, fish, tuna, octopus and other 

seafood) and norimaki (rice wrapped in dried seaweed). 

Ramen – Introduced to Japan by the Chinese, ramen is a popular and affordable noodle dish. It’s made up of noodles, soup and toppings 

(meat, seafood and vegetables). Some of the most popular ramen varieties are the shoyu (ramen soup with soy sauce), miso (ramen 

soup with miso or soybean paste) and tonkotsu (ramen soup with pork broth). 

Japanese curry – Typically served with steamed rice, Japanese curry (or curry rice) is a very popular dish all over the country. Its 

ingredients include meat (usually beef, chicken or pork), potatoes, onions, carrots and, of course curry. It’s not really spicy like an Indian 

curry, and easy to eat. 

Yakiniku – Yakiniku are prepared by grilling bite-sized pieces of meat (beef, pork, chicken and seafood), vegetables (mushrooms, carrots, 

onions, eggplants and cabbage) and other ingredients on a grill built into the tables in restaurants. 

Udon – A type of noodle made of wheat flour, udon is one of the most widely available noodle dishes in Japan. It can be prepared either 

hot or cold. Some of its most popular udon varieties are the zara, tanuki, kake and tempura. 

Tonkatsu Pork cutlet 

Yakiniku 



Snacks to Try 

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Okonomiyaki – A pancake-like dish made by frying batter and cabbage on a pan, okonomiyaki is very common around the country, 

especially in Osaka and Hiroshima. It can be stuffed with shrimp, kimchi, pork, octopus and other ingredients, and topped with 

vegetables, wasabi, cheese and other condiments. 

Tonkatsu – Prepared by deep frying breadcrumbed pork, tonkatsu is a common dish in restaurants throughout Japan. It can be served 

in a variety of ways, such as in a set meal (with rice, pickles, cabbage and miso soup), in a curry (with Japanese curry and rice) or in 

katsudon (a rice bowl topped with onions and eggs). 

Tofu – A common sight in many Japanese dishes, tofu is a protein-rich food that consists of curdled soy milk shaped into blocks. One 

popular tofu dish is hiyayakko, which is fresh tofu with soy sauce, green onions, ginger and bonito flakes as garnish. Tofu is also often 

used as an ingredient in soups, hot pots and noodle dishes. 

Sushi rolls 

Japanese barbecue chicken 

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Soba – Soba is a staple Japanese noodle food made from buckwheat. It can be served either hot or cold with meat, seafood and 

vegetables, topped with soy sauce or other dipping sauces. The most stripped down type of cold soba is called mori, which consists of 

just noodles and dipping sauce made of mirin, water and soup stock. 

Yakitori – An inexpensive Japanese food that is frequently enjoyed with beer, yakitori is bite-sized chicken pieces, skewered, and grilled 

over charcoal. The most popular varieties include negima (chicken thigh), torikawa (chicken skin) and reba (chicken liver). 

Tempura – Made by deep frying battered vegetables and seafood, tempura is a traditional Japanese dish that is widely available. It can 

be a main dish, a topping (for soba, udon, or rice bowls), or a side dish. The most famous varieties are ebi (prawn/shrimp), sakana (fish), 

nasu (eggplant), kinoko (mushrooms) and satsumaimo (sweet potato). 

Shabu shabu – Shabu shabu is a dish made of thin slices of pork or beef boiled in water and mixed with vegetables, spices, and other 

ingredients. It’s frequently served with a bowl of steamed rice or noodles and dipped in sauces, particularly goma or ponzu. 

Ramen Noodles 

Hinase Kakioko – ©JNTO 



Snacks to Try 

Drinks 

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Tea –Tea is Japan’s most popular drink and has played a significant role in its history and culture. It’s believed to have been introduced 

to Japan by the Chinese in the 8th century. Popular tea varieties in the country include green, roasted green, black, jasmine and 

oolongcha. 

Sake – A perfect companion for any Japanese dish, sake is an alcoholic beverage made from fermenting rice. It’s been a staple drink in 

Japan for several centuries and is available in many restaurants and supermarkets all over the country. 

Beer – As Japan’s most popular alcoholic beverage, beer is pretty much available everywhere — convenience stores, supermarkets, 

restaurants and vending machines. The country is home to four major beer brewing companies: Sapporo, Kirin, Suntory and Asahi. 

Japanese plum wine – An alcoholic beverage known as umeshu, it’s made from ume plums (that are still unripe and green), sugar and 

shochu (Japanese distilled alcohol). It takes about a year to make and is a sweet drink best served on the rocks. The most popular 

umeshu brand is Choya. 

Green Tea Matcha 

Sake 


7 Japanese Snacks That 

everyone Should Try 

The following are some common and popular Japanese snacks that you can enjoy while visiting Japan: 

Melonpan 

A type of bread made by adding lemon to enriched dough, melonpan is a traditional Japanese snack that resembles a cantaloupe. It is available 

in other flavours, including chocolate, maple, caramel, and custard, and is also popular in other countries, such as China and Taiwan. 

Dorayaki 

Prepared by sandwiching together two pancakes with sweet azuki red bean paste filling in the middle, dorayaki is a sweet Japanese snack that 

is best consumed while still hot. It can also be served by adding other ingredients, such as Nutella and whipped cream. 

Dango 

A year-round favourite Japanese snack, dango is made from rice flour rolled into small balls and skewered, and then boiled in water. Once 

cooked, it is seasoned or topped with different ingredients, such as anko or red bean paste, chestnut paste, and syrup. 

Manju 

A type of steamed bun that is a bit sticky in texture and is typically filled with red bean paste, manju is a common traditional confection in 

Japan. It also comes in several varieties with different types of filling, such as green tea, orange, and maple. 

Anpan 

A sweet bread roll, usually with red bean paste filling, anpan is believed to have first been produced in 1875 by a samurai who took on the role 

of a baker after losing his job. Through the years, it became more and more loved by locals as it has the familiar sweet flavour of anko or red 

bean paste, which is a traditional Japanese ingredient usually used to sweeten food. Anpan is best consumed with tea. 


7 Japanese Snacks That 

everyone Should Try 

Senbei 

Japan’s version of rice crackers, senbei is a flavoursome snack that is prepared by either baking or grilling sweet rice flour dough (mixed with 

a number of ingredients) over charcoal. It can be seasoned with mirin, soy sauce, and other flavouring sauces to produce a burst of different 

flavours. 

Pocky 

First made available in stores in 1966, Pocky is a popular Japanese snack made of biscuit sticks coated with chocolate. It is widely sold in 

supermarkets and food stores all over the country, and has also garnered recognition in neighbouring Asian countries like Taiwan, South Korea, 

China, Philippines, Singapore, Vietnam and Malaysia. It also comes in other flavours, such as almond, strawberry, grape, banana, melon, azuki 

bean, tangerine, and Kobe wine. 


Gardens 

Japan boasts many gardens that showcase the creativity and ingenuity of its people. For more than a thousand years, these gardens have 

featured styles and designs that continually evolved as the years passed by. Today, a lot of these ancient gardens still survive and welcome 

both locals and tourists all year round. 

History 

Some of the earliest Japanese gardens were built for religious purposes. In many Shinto shrines around the country, the buildings in the 

complex typically have gardens right next to them, with streams or ponds nearby. Also, upper classes, such as the rulers, lords, and noble 

families, built gardens in their properties for entertainment and recreational reasons. 

Adachi Museum of Art Garden 

Zen garden of the Tenryu-ji temple 

Styles 

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Courtyard gardens – These were common during the Heian Period. Palaces back then had big private, interior courtyards that were 

around 10 square metres in area and consisted of a number of plants, a water basin, a stone lantern, and some stepping stones. 

Dry rock gardens – These rose to popularity in Japan around the 1300s after Buddhist monk Muso Soseki built them at five Kyoto 

monasteries. They consist of gravel or white sand (instead of water), rocks arranged in patterns, and a few small plants and moss. 

Hermitage gardens – These were typically built by retired officials and samurai who wanted to focus on meditation or a simple life. They 

were usually found deep in the woods and were home to various plants and a small pond. 

Paradise gardens – These were created to depict the Pure Land or Paradise scene in which the Buddha was seen seated on a platform 

surrounded by a lotus pond. They feature a small island, which has the Buddha hall, in the middle of a lake, with a bridge that links it 

to the shore. 


Gardens 

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Pond gardens – With a style that originated in China, pond gardens consisted of a large main building, a big lake, several small islands, 

and a garden. Guests could ride a small boat and cruise in the lake to jump from one island to another. 

Promenade gardens – These arose during the Tokugawa Era at the homes of lords and noble clans. These occupied large areas of land 

and included a lake, several paths for strolling, different trees and plants, and fences. 

Tea gardens – Built to serve as the venue for Japanese tea ceremonies around the 14th to 17th century, tea gardens welcome visitors 

in an outer garden that has a gate that leads to a path to the inner garden where they cleanse their mouths and hands before entering 

the teahouse. The entire area is surrounded only by green plants and trees to resemble the woods. 

Koishikawa Korakuen 

Shinjuku Gyoen national garden 

Top Japanese Gardens 

Adachi Museum of Art Garden 

Founded in 1980, this garden showcases some unique garden art and design. Also, the museum is home to more than a thousand art pieces, 

ceramics, and other exhibits. It is located about an hour’s train ride from Matsue. 

Byodoin 

Located in Uji, the Byodoin Temple’s garden is recognised as the best example of the Paradise or Pure Land garden style. 

Katsura Imperial Villa 

Found in western Kyoto, the Katsura Imperial Villa garden is great for strolling. However, guests who would like to visit are required to make 

reservations in advance. 

Kenrokuen 

Consisting of several large gardens, mini-gardens, ponds, hills, streams, tea houses, and pavilions, Kenrokuen is arguably one of the three most 

gorgeous and impressive landscape gardens in Japan. It is located in Kanazawa and is a popular cherry blossom and autumn leaves viewing spot. 


Gardens 

Ryoanji 

Best visited early in the morning or late in the afternoon to avoid crowds, Ryoanji Temple’s rock garden is the country’s most famous and 

revered rock garden. It sees several hundred local and foreign visitors a day. 

Ryoanji 

Kenrokuen 


Historical Sites 

Many of Japan’s centuries-old structures and landmarks remain alive and busy up to the present day, and a lot of them offer tourists a fantastic 

learning experience, focusing on how life was back in the early days. 

Old Towns 

Otaru 

A city facing Ishikari Bay, Otaru is a popular tourist destination in the Hokkaido region, best known for its old, traditional atmosphere. With its 

cobbled streets, oil lamps, and stone and brick buildings, it exudes a nostalgic vibe reminiscent of the past centuries, when the city was newly 

established. 

Kakunodate 

A small, peaceful town surrounded by mountains, Kakunodate is an old castle town developed at the start of the 17thcentury. It is among 

Akita’s most popular destinations because of its samurai residences, all located on one street and now open to the public as museums. It also 

has museums, temples, and the Hinokinai River that is lined in part with cherry trees, a great spot for cherry blossom viewing. 

Kawagoe 

A flourishing castle town back in the 1600s, Kawagoe is a city in Saitama that has been declared an important national district for its many 

historical houses and buildings. Dubbed as “Little Edo”, its architectural style and layout is similar to that of a small-scale Edo. One of its most 

significant landmarks is the bell tower right at the centre of the town. 

Kiso Valley 

Situated close the Kiso-gawa River in Nagano, Kiso Valley is a rural area that offers an abundance of natural scenery. It is found at the foot of 

Mount Ontake-san and is a great destination for hiking and other outdoor activities. The town consists of many sloping cobblestone roads and 

stone-paved paths with stone houses and buildings on both sides. 

Takayama 

Located in the Hida region of Gifu prefecture, Takayama is a city in the mountains. It is an old town filled with narrow streets that contain 

traditional buildings, shops and sake breweries. Some of the old merchant homes are also open to the public. 



Ogimachi Village 

Located in the Shirakawa-go region of Gife, Ogimachi Village is the largest village in the mountains of this area. Ogimachi successfully preserves 

traditional gassho-zukuri farm houses and there is also an adjacent open-air museum. Many people travel from Takayama to Ogimachi Village 

to experience an overnight stay in one of the farm houses. 


Kawagoe 

Landmarks 

Goryokaku Fort 

A Western-style fort that is the oldest in Japan, the Goryakaku Fort is an historical landmark in Hakodate City in Hokkaido. It was created 

in 1866 as the location of Hakodate’s government administration offices, handling international trade and port affairs. It is named after its 

pentagram shape. 

Imperial Palace 

Established during the Edo Period to house the Shogunate, the Imperial Palace is a large complex that consists of the Edo Castle, East Garden, 

Outer Garden, and Kitanomaru Park. Nowadays, it is a popular destination in autumn and spring for foliage and cherry blossom viewing. 


Built in 743, the Todaiji Temple is an important Japanese treasure that houses the largest wooden building in the world, the Daibutsuden or the 

Big Buddha Hall, where a gigantic, 15-metre tall Daibutsu bronze statue sits. 

Kawagoe – ©JNTO 

Mountain at Takayama village 



Ruins 

Yoshinogari Remains 

In the northeastern portion of Saga lie the Yoshinogari Remains, an area spread across hills and believed to have existed back in the 3rd century 

B.C. The archaeological site contains over 2,000 tombs, with pot coffins and other objects. The unearthed settlement also includes several 

watchtowers, high-floor storehouses, and pit dwellings that have been restored and opened to the public. 

Sannai-Maruyama Ruins 

A village believed to have existed around 4,000 to 5,000 years ago, the Sannai-Maruyama Ruins are located in Aomori City. This archeological 

find covers a wide area, with numerous buildings, pillars, warehouses, and other structures. It has an exhibition room that features earthenware, 

ornaments, craftworks, and other objects that have been unearthed through the years. 

Yamanobe Road 

According to Japanese history, the Yamanobe Road in the Nara Basin area is the oldest road in the country as it is referred to in an ancient, 

8th century book called “Nihon Shoki” or “The Chronicles of Japan”. It is 15 kilometres long, connecting Nara and Sakurai, and passes by many 

temples, shrines, burial mounds, roadside fruit stands, shops, and houses. 


Manga and Anime 

Manga 

Manga are Japanese comics that come in various genres such as comedy, sports, history, drama, action, adventure, romance, horror, fantasy 

and science fiction. They are a form of entertainment that started in the late 1800s and have gained popularity through the decades. 

In Japan, reading manga transcends age and gender and it is common to see adults in business suits, commuting on the subways or trains, 

reading manga to pass the time. 

During recent years, the manga following outside of Japan has expanded significantly and, to cater to fans around the world, many popular 

manga have been translated into English, French, Spanish and other languages. 

Kyoto Manga Museum – ©JNTO 

Kyoto Manga Museum – ©JNTO 

Anime 

Usually, when a manga series garners a huge following, it is adapted into an anime or a Japanese cartoon series. Some notable examples are 

Sailor Moon, One Piece, Dragonball, and Pokemon. 

Events 

There are several manga and anime events held in Japan every year. These may be special exhibitions, manga fairs, cosplay conventions, 

musicals and plays, and many more. Three of the biggest are: 

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Comiket – Held twice a year (in August and December) at Tokyo Big Sight in Tokyo, this is the largest event for self-published works in 

Japan. 


Manga and Anime 

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AnimeJapan – Launched in 2014, this is an anime and manga fair also held at Tokyo Big Sight. 

Jump Festa – Inaugurated in 1999 and sponsored by Jump creators, Shueisha, this event has become a yearly tradition for the manga 

and anime loving crowd. Over the last five years, it has been held at the Makuhari Messe in Tokyo. 

Attractions 

J-World Tokyo – An indoor theme park at the Sunshine City Plaza in Ikebukuro, J-World Tokyo has rides and games based on popular Jump 

manga series such as One Piece, Gintama, Kuroko no Basuke, and Haikyuu. 

One Piece Tower – Based on the long-running and well-loved manga, One Piece, the One Piece Tower is located inside the Foot Town building 

at the Tokyo Tower. 

Gundam Front Tokyo – Highlighted by a life-sized Gundam in front of the building, the Gundam Front Tokyo in Odaiba has numerous Gundamthemed 

attractions and sells a range of Gundam merchandise. 

Ghibli Museum – A museum dedicated to Studio Ghibli’s films, the Ghibli Museum features exhibits and attractions based on characters from 

Spirited Away, Castle in the Sky, My Neighbor Totoro, and their other works. 

Kyoto International Manga Museum – Inaugurated in 2006, the Kyoto International Manga Museum is home to a wide collection of Japan’s 

best manga series, from several decades ago up to the present. It consists of four levels, all of which contains shelves and shelves of manga, 

and an outdoor garden where people can hang out and read. 

Shopping 

Akihabara – Originally known for its wide array of electronic shops, Akihabara has become the country’s otaku hub in the last few years. In 

addition to stores that sell various types of gadgets, it also has maid cafes, and several stores and establishments that offer manga and anime 

merchandise. 

Ikebukuro – One of the busiest districts in Tokyo, Ikebukuro provides a large selection of shopping, dining and entertainment options. It is 

home to many anime and manga related shops such as Mandarake and Animate, and has also become a popular destination for manga and 

anime fans. 

Nakano Broadway – Located close to Nakano Station, Nakano Broadway is a large shopping complex that caters to manga and anime enthusiasts. 

It is the place to go if looking for action figures, video games, game consoles, manga, cosplay materials, or other similar merchandise. 

Akihabara – ©JNTO 


Museums 

Japan is home to numerous museums focusing on a wide array of subject matter, whether it is history, art, science, or something more specific 

or specialised, like manga and anime, food, or transportation. 

21st Century Museum of Contemporary Art – ©JNTO 

Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park – ©JNTO 

Culture and History 

Edo-Tokyo Museum 

Located in the Ryogoku district of Tokyo, the Edo-Tokyo Museum houses a diverse collection of historical artefacts that show the lifestyle, 

culture, architecture, and economic and political situations of the past. It has life-sized displays of traditional vehicles and buildings, and 

miniature models of towns. 

Tokyo National Museum 

The oldest national museum of Japan, the Tokyo National Museum was founded in 1972. It boasts more than 110,000 archaeological, art, 

and other historical pieces that date back many centuries. It consists of six buildings that contain special exhibits and is located in Ueno Park. 

Hiroshima Peace Memorial Museum 

Located at the Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park complex, the Peace Memorial Museum comprises two buildings that are home to a variety 

of items collected from the nuclear attack during World War II, such as personal belongings of victims, photographs, and building wall ruins. 


Museums 

Tokyo National Museum – ©JNTO 


Traditional Art 

Nara National Museum 

The Nara National Museum houses a large collection of Buddhism-related pieces — paintings, statues, scrolls and religious materials. Located 

in the Nara Park grounds, it was founded in 1889 and regularly hosts temporary exhibitions, the most notable being the annual Todaiji Temple’s 

Treasures Exhibition, held every autumn. 

Kubota Itchiku Art Museum 

Built alongside Lake Kawaguchiko, the Kubota Itchiku Museum is a unique museum dedicated to artist Kubota Itchiku, who helped revitalise 

the art and process of Tsujigahana silk dyeing of kimono about 500 years ago. It features a wide selection of elaborately designed kimono that 

depict various themes, including seasons, nature and the universe. 

Contemporary Art 

Mori Art Museum 

Founded by real estate developer Minoru Mori, the Mori Art Museum is housed on the 53rd floor of a 54 storey-high skyscraper in the 

Roppongi Hills district in Tokyo. It is a venue for many temporary exhibits by local and foreign contemporary artists. 

Chichu Art Museum 

With a fantastic view of the Naoshima coast, the Chichu Art Museum sits on a hillside and showcases works by international artists such as the 

famous Water Lilies by Claude Monet, Open Sky by James Turrell, and Time/Timeless/No Time by Walter De Maria. 

Naoshima Island is dubbed as an art island, with not only the Chichu Art Museum but also Benesse House and the Art House project where art 

is scattered around a small part of town. Naoshima is also used as a main venue for the Setouchi Triennale art festival. 


Museums 

21st Century Museum of Contemporary Art 

Founded in 2004 in Kanazawa, the 21st Century Museum of Contemporary Art features some of Japan’s and the world’s highly respected 

contemporary artists. Some of its acclaimed exhibits are Blue Planet Sky by James Turrell and Swimming Pool by Leandro Erlich. 

Sapporo Beer Museum – 

Iga-ryu Ninja Museum – ©JNTO 


Nightlife 

Many major cities in Japan remain vibrant and alive late at night and even up until the early morning, as young people and professionals looking 

for some fun and enjoyment after a long day go to bars and clubs to unwind. 

Nightlife Options 

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Clubs – These places are usually packed with locals and foreigners, dancing to the beat of the latest hot tunes booming from the large 

sound systems as flashing strobe lights fill the vast dance floor. Among the many clubs found in Japan, Womb is probably the most 

recognised name, known for its electric atmosphere and for being featured in the 2006 film Babel. 

Bars – These places offer a wide selection of drinks (both alcoholic and non-alcoholic) and food, and often have a live band playing on 

stage. They usually have a gaming area where customers can play pool and other games, and have many couches, stools, and seats and 

tables available. 

Karaoke – Japanese karaoke establishments are composed of several private rooms equipped with microphones and karaoke players, 

which contain a long list of Japanese, English, and other songs. They also serve food and drinks and typically rent out their rooms by 

the hour. 

Izakaya – If you’re after just a casual night with close friends, Japan has many Izakayas where you can experience a Japanese style of 

bar, drinking while sitting on tatami mats and dining from low tables, or there are western styles with chairs and tables. 

Dotombori 

Tokyo Bridge at night – ©JNTO 


Nightlife 

Top Japanese Nightlife Districts 

Roppongi – Home to a multitude of dance clubs, bars, strip clubs and restaurants, Roppongi is a popular nightlife destination for foreigners in 

Tokyo. During the day, it looks like any ordinary Japanese neighbourhood, but it comes alive once night falls. 

Shinjuku – With many restaurants, cafes, bars and clubs, Shinjuku is also a top nightlife option in Tokyo. It is known for its LGBT-friendly 

atmosphere, with numerous establishments that cater to the group. 

Shibuya – Whether it is day or night, Shibuya is one of the busiest districts in Tokyo. It has many nightlife opportunities that appeal to the 

young crowd. 

Dotombori – A street located in Osaka, Dotombori is famous for its diverse selection of places to spend the late hours of the night. Hundreds 

of Japanese and foreigners flock to this area of Osaka to enjoy drinks, music, food and other activities. 

Gion – Unlike the typical nightlife districts of Tokyo and other cities, Kyoto has a unique experience to offer — cultural shows. In its Gion 

district, the evenings come alive with many maiko and geisha performances, kabuki, puppet shows, tea ceremonies, storytelling activities, 

comedy routines, bunraku, noh, and other culturally-related spectacles. 

Tokyo at night – ©JNTO 



Onsen 

Onsen (or natural hot springs) are found throughout Japan and are the perfect place to go for a day or weekend getaway. They provide many 

health benefits and are popular destination with both locals and tourists. Onsen contain minerals that help relax your mind, muscles and entire 

body. 

There are various kinds of onsen — outdoors, indoors, mixed, and gender-separated. Some are found in ryokan (traditional Japanese style 

accommodation), while others are separate public bath houses. 

Beppu Jigoku Meguri – ©JNTO 

Hakone Onsen – ©JNTO 

Onsen Etiquette 

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Remove all your clothes and thoroughly wash your whole body with soap and water in the designated area before going into the hot 

spring. 

When you’re ready to get into the water, take a modesty towel and use it to cover your private parts if you feel self-conscious. 

Otherwise, just walk normally and be careful of slippery surfaces. 

Don’t jump or dive into the water. Slowly ease yourself into it. 

Once you’re in the water, place your modesty towel on your head or set it aside on a rock. It’s considered rude to soak the towel in the 

water or wring it out. 

Try to stay in a particular area of the onsen and respect other people’s space. Don’t move around too much or swim. 

Once you’re done, get out of the water slowly and dry yourself with your towel before dressing in the designated room. 


Onsen 

Time To Relax 

Beppu Onsen Mudbath 

Top Japanese Onsen 

Hokkaido 

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Noboribetsu Onsen – The most popular onsen resort in the Hokkaido region, Noboribetsu Onsen is known for its top quality spring 

water. There are numerous hotels and inns (ryokan) with hot spring baths, as well as a public bath house right in the town centre. 

Toyako Onsen – At the foot of Mount Usu lies the Toyako Onsen Resort, which is a hot spring town on the shore of Lake Toya. It’s home 

to many luxury hotels that offer private accommodation with hot spring baths. 

Beppu Onsen Mudbath 

Noboribetsu Onsen – ©JNTO 

Kanto 

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Manza Onsen – Located on Mount Shirane in Gunma Prefecture, Manza Onsen is a popular resort town that has numerous ryokan and 

hotels offering hot spring baths — either outdoors or indoors. 

Kusatsu Onsen – Home to Japan’s biggest and best natural flow of onsen water, Kusatsu boasts very acidic waters containing large 

amounts of sulphur. It has many ryokan and public baths, with the Sainokawara Rotemburo, Otakinoyu and Gozanoyu being some of 

the most popular. 

Hakone Onsen – Located about 1.5 hours from Tokyo in the Ashigarashimo District in the Kanagawa Prefecture, Hakone’s most famous 

hot springs are in the Yumoto area, near Odawara. Yumoto has a long onsen history and high quality water in its numerous baths and 

inns. You can also find many more hot springs scattered throughout Hakone. 


Onsen 

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Kinosaki Onsen – Located close to the Sea of Japan in the northern part of the Hyogo Prefecture, Kinosaki is a small, peaceful town 

that is regarded as one of the best in the Kansai Region. It has an old-fashioned atmosphere and offers many public baths and ryokan. 

Arima Onsen – Found in the city of Kobe, Arima is famous for its old town feel, with wooden buildings and houses lining its narrow, 

stone-paved streets. Its hot springs are known for their high quality thermal waters and often welcome lots of visitors, especially on 

weekends and holidays. 

Kinosaki Onsen – ©JNTO 

Kusatsu Onsen – ©JNTO 

Kyushu 

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Beppu Onsen – With its wide variety of ryokan and public hot spring baths, Beppu is among Japan’s best hot spring towns. In addition 

to traditional hot water baths, it also offers mud, steam, and heated sand baths. 

Kurokawa Onsen – One of Kyushu’s best, Kurokawa Onsen is surrounded by a lush and thriving natural environment. There are many 

outdoor and nature activities on offer there, in addition to top quality hot spring bath houses. 

Beppu Myoban Spa Yu-no Sato – ©JNTO 

Beppu Takegawara Onsen – ©JNTO 


Shopping & Must Buy Souvenirs 

Japan has a deserved reputation as a world-class shopping destination, with a staggering array of boutiques, shops and sprawling malls to 

discover. From the latest gadgets to designer fashions and a few quirkier items, there’s a huge variety of products you can purchase on your 

next holiday. 

Quick Guide 

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Most major department stores, shops and malls are open daily from 10 in the morning to 8 at night. Smaller establishments may have 

shorter (or altered) opening hours and may be closed on weekends or holidays. 

When you enter a store or shopping mall, expect to be greeted with the call of “irasshaimase”, which means “welcome” and “please 

come in”. This is all part of Japanese hospitality and politeness and you aren’t expected or required to respond. 

Cash is still the most accepted mode of payment across Japan, although many of the larger malls and shops will also accept credit cards. 

Ginza 

Namba Marui Dept. Store 

Types of Stores Found in Japan 

Shopping malls – Found in most of Japan’s major cities, shopping malls usually occupy an entire building (or more), with multiple storeys packed 

with fashion retailers, shoe stores, electronics shops, home wares and beauty salons. Many also have cinema complexes and gaming arcades, 

as well as numerous restaurants, cafes and food courts. 

Shopping arcades – Shopping arcades are usually covered streets found in medium to large sized cities and lined with a range of shops, restaurants 

and other business establishments. Some of the longest shopping arcades in Japan can be found in the cities of Takamatsu, Sendai and Osaka. 

Convenience stores – Also called konbini, convenience stores can be found on almost every street corner in Japan, with more than 40,000 

in total nationwide. They are usually open 24/7 and sell a range of food products, including snacks, drinks and bento, as well as some basic 

household products. They will often also have ATMs and ticket machines where you can purchase concert, event and museum tickets. 


Shopping & Must Buy Souvenirs 

Electronics shops – Japan has a number of large, multi-storey electronics chain stores where you can find everything you might need for your 

camera, computer, phone or appliances. Look for Bic Camera, Yamada Denki and Yodobashi Camera which all offer a diverse selection of 

gadgets and electronic goods. 

Flea markets – Often seen on streets outside temples and shrines, flea markets specialise in local handicrafts, artworks, jewellery and antiques. 

Many also include a small number of food stalls where you can grab a snack on-the-go. 

Osu Shopping Street – ©JNTO 

Harajyuku – ©JNTO 

Top Japanese Shopping Destinations 

Ginza 

Renowned for its high-end boutiques and luxury designer stores, Ginza is one of Tokyo’s most famous shopping areas, particularly for those 

looking to purchase big-name brand clothing, shoes and apparel. 

Shinjuku 

Featuring large-scale shopping malls and electronics stores, Shinjuku is perhaps Tokyo’s most famous shopping and entertainment district. It’s 

also home to the world’s busiest train station, Shinjuku Station, and one of the last remaining geisha districts in Tokyo at Kagurazaka. 

Harajuku 

Tokyo’s Harajuku district is wildly popular with Japanese youth, particularly along the narrow street of Takeshita Dori which is lined with trendy 

fashion boutiques, fast food outlets and crepe stands. Just to the south is the tree-lined avenue of Omotesando which is often referred to as 

Tokyo’s Champs-Elysees for its international brand labels and upmarket dining establishments. 

Namba 

Marked by a cluster of large department stores, Namba is located in the south of Osaka and features one of Japan’s most popular shopping 

arcades, Shinsaibashi Suji. This covered street stretches around 600 metres in length and is lined with designer boutiques, big-name brand 

stores, restaurants and cafes. 

Umeda 

Aside from being a bustling transportation hub, Umeda is home to a number of large department stores and underground shopping malls. 

Hanshin, Daimaru, Mitsukoshi-Isetan and Hankyu all have their headquarters here, while HEP features more than 300 shops and restaurants, 

as well as its own Ferris wheel. 


7 Must-Buy Japanese Souvenirs 

Thinking about taking home something special for yourself, friends or family? Here are seven of the best Japanese souvenirs to remember 

your trip by. 

1. Yukata 

Yukata are traditional, lightweight garments made from cotton or synthetic material and often referred to as a “summer kimono”. They can be 

worn by both men and women and come in a wide variety of styles, designs and colours to choose from. 

2. Foldable fans 

Believed to have been invented in Japan sometime between the 6th and 9th centuries, hand-held, foldable fans are made of fabric or paper 

which is attached to a wooden or bamboo frame. They were traditionally used as an accessory by Shinto priests, emperors and geisha, with 

both plain and printed designs available. 

3. Omamori 

Often seen at Shinto shrines and temples across Japan, omamori are amulet charms believed to bring protection or good luck to their owner. 

They are often made of wood or paper with prayers printed on them and enclosed in a layer of silk. 

4. Origami set 

While you can purchase origami across Japan, why not master the art of folding paper with your own origami set. There is a wide selection of 

colours and prints to choose from, allowing you to practice different folding techniques to create beautiful works of art. 

5. Kendama 

Consisting of a spike, ball and two cups, kendama is a traditional Japanese game with similarities to the Hispanic balero or boliche. It originated 

in the late 18th century but remains popular to this day, with national competitions held for all ages across the country. 

6. Sake 

Made from fermented rice, sake has long been used in religious ceremonies and court festivals throughout Japan and remains a favoured 

alcoholic drink amongst both locals and visitors. There are distilleries scattered across the country where you can sample different blends and 

purchase unique sake, with regional variations in the methods and ingredients used. 

7. Sweets 

From candies to cakes, pastries and chocolates, the Japanese definitely have a sweet tooth and there is a huge range to sample and take home 

as souvenirs. Look for matcha tea flavoured sweets for something truly Japanese! 


Shrines 

Built for the purpose of enshrining Shinto spirits and other kami, shrines are religious structures that are found in plenty around Japan. They 

are used for the storage of sacred objects, not for worship, and can be small, such as roadside miniature shrines and matsuri portable shrines; 

or large, such as those that occupy an entire hill, with streams and forests, and consist of a main shrine and a number of mini shrines. Shinto 

shrines vary in design, architecture and layout. 

The two most popular Shinto shrine styles found in Japan are: 

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Nagare-zukuri 

With a distinctive gabled roof that is quite asymmetrical, the nagare-zukuri style is the number one most common shrine style in the country. 

Its roof extends farther outwards on one side, forming a porch-like main entrance. Its layout features an elevated central area, a verandah, and 

a small room right by the entrance. 

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Kasuga-zukuri 

This style is known for its very small building, usually only about 2 metres wide and 2 metres long, and a roof that is adorned with logs and 

billets that curve upward and are wrapped in cypress bark. Generally, shrines of this style are painted white (plank walls) and vermillion 

(foundation and support structures). 

Nikko Toshogu Shrine 


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Torii – The Shinto gate. 

Toro – The decorative stone lanterns found all over the complex. 

Stone stairs – These lead to the main hall of the shrine and to the other small shrines. 


Shrines 

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Temizuya/Chozuya –The purification trough where visitors can cleanse their mouths and hands. 

Shamusho – The shrine’s administration office. 

Komainu – The “lion dog” statues that guard the shrines. 

Honden – The main hall where the kami are enshrined. 

Haiden – The hall of worship. 

Omikuji – Small slips of paper with fortune predictions written on them, such as “daikyo” (great bad luck) or “daikichi” (great good luck). 

Ema – Wooden plates where visitors can write their desires, prayers and wishes. 

Fushimiinari Taisha Shrine & Temple 

Yasukuni Shinto shrine 

Top Japanese Shrines 

Ise Shrines 

Ise City is home to two of Japan’s most notable shrines, the Geku (or Outer Shrine) and the Naiku (or Inner Shrine). The former is the 

enshrinement location of Toyouke Omikami, Shintoism’s guardian of housing, clothing and food and the latter enshrines Amaterasu Omikami, 

Shintoism’s most respected deity. 

Itsukushima Shrine 

Found in Miyajima, Itsukushima Shrine is a many-centuries old structure that is one of Japan’s most important historical and cultural landmarks. 

It is a UNESCO World Heritage Site that is world-renowned for its torii that appear to “float” in the sea during high tide. Its complex houses a 

main hall, a prayer hall, a theatre stage, and several other buildings. 

Toshogu Shrine 

The location of Tokugawa Ieyasu’s tomb, Toshogu Shrine is a large complex in the forest that contains a scattering of numerous beautifully 

adorned buildings. This top destination in Nikko also consists of a five-storey pagoda and several gates. 

Fushimi Inari 

The Fushimi Inari is among Kyoto’s most popular tourist destinations. It is a Shinto Shrine that is well-known for its several thousands of torii 

that create a trail up to Mount Inari, a climb that takes about an hour to complete. 

Yudono-san Shrine 

Situated in a valley on the Yudono-san Mountain in Yamagata Prefecture, the Yudono-san Shrine is considered to be a very sacred place by the 

locals in the area. Visitors who go there may take the bus and walk about 200 metres to the shrine entrance. They must then cleanse their feet 

before entering the shrine, and are not allowed to take photographs. 


Skiing 

With many world-class ski resorts, Japan is one of the top destinations in the world during winter. It is home to several majestic mountain 

ranges that transform into spectacular skiing and snowboarding spots from December to April. 

Overview of Ski Resorts 

There are numerous ski resorts found all over Japan, from the southern island of Kyushu to the northern region of Hokkaido. These places are 

equipped with the necessary equipment and facilities to ensure the safety of all their guests. In addition to skiing and snowboarding, they also 

have areas for snow scooter riding, snow biking, and other activities. 

The costs at ski resorts vary. Rental of all your skiing or snowboarding gear may cost over 3,000 yen for poles, boots and skis. In some cases, 

prices may be as high as 5,000 yen just for a ski jacket, pair of pants, goggles and gloves. 

Many Japanese ski resorts offer passes guests may purchase for convenience instead of paying for items individually. They may have season 

passes, half-day passes, overnight passes, and multi-day passes at a discounted rate. The more popular resorts may cost an individual about 

5,000 yen for a one-day pass. Some even have travel packages that cover transportation to and from a particular point, accommodation, and 

equipment rental. 

Hakuba Ski Resort – ©JNTO 

Zao Ski Resort – ©JNTO 

Top Japanese Ski Resorts 

Niseko 

With its fine, white, powdered snow, there is no doubt why Niseko is considered to be the best ski resort in Japan. It is particularly popular 

among foreigners who want to experience skiing in the magnificent Japanese alps of the Hokkaido region. It is home to numerous ski trails, 

and also offers other snow activities such as snowboarding, sledding and snow biking. 


Skiing 

Zao Ski Resort 

Located in Yamagata Prefecture, the Zao Ski Resort boasts top quality skiing areas. Also, it is known for its ice trees, which look like snow 

monsters, towering and imposing. 

Nozawa Ski Resort 

Even though it is one of the oldest ski resorts in Japan, the Nozawa Ski Resort remains a top skiing destination. Founded in 1924, it boasts 

modern and up-to-date equipment that rivals the newer ski resorts in other parts of the country. One of its best features is its 39-degree incline 

that every diehard lover of snow sports will appreciate. 

Furano Ski Area 

Also located in Hokkaido, the Furano Ski Area is a vibrant and lively ski destination during winter. It offers a wide array of snow activities for 

everyone, such as dog sledding, snow rafting, parasailing and snowmobiling. It also has a Family Snowland, an attraction where families with 

young children can spend quality time together. 

Zao Ski Resort – ©JNTO 

Snow Fields 

Shiga Kogen Resort 

Consisting of 21 ski resort areas, the Shiga Kogen Resort is the largest skiing destination in Japan. It is situated in the mountains of Nagano 

Prefecture and was the venue for some of the snow competition events during the Nagano Winter Olympics back in 1998. In addition to its 

excellent ski trails, it is also home to some of the best onsen in the country. 

Hakuba 

Home to many large ski resorts, Hakuba is a popular skiing destination located in Nagano Prefecture. Because it is situated in the Northern 

Alps, it offers high quality ski slopes and areas. It first became internationally recognised when it hosted various events, such as the Nordic and 

alpine competitions, during the 1998 Winter Olympics in Nagano. 

Rusutsu 

Rusutsu is a huge area for ski lovers and has three mountains with plenty of trials. There is a hotel complex which is linked by monorail. There 

is plenty of other attractions when you’re off the slops so make sure you check it out. 

Appi Kogen 

One of Tohoku region’s best skiing destinations, Appi Kogen lies in the Appi Highlands, with amazing terrain that is perfect for snowboarding, 

skiing and a wide variety of snow activities. 


Snow 

Japan experiences winter from December up until March. In this span of time, many places around the country are covered in white, powdery 

snow, particularly the mountainous regions of Hokkaido and Honshu. These areas are usually home to ski resorts that become packed with 

tourists looking to spend their winter holidays skiing and participating in other winter activities. 

Skiing 

Japan has several ski resorts that range from small, single-lift slopes to large, luxury ones with five-star hotels and more. Most of the top-rated 

resorts are found in the northern part of the country, where the cities and towns are surrounded by extensive towering mountain ranges. 

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Niseko – Located in Hokkaido, Niseko is probably the most popular ski resort town in the country, with a wide selection of snow 

activities available for tourists from all over the world. 

Yuzawa – Found in Niigata Prefecture, Yuzawa is home to more than 20 ski resorts that offer various snow sport opportunities. It also 

boasts hot springs, parks and other attractions. 

Hakuba – Hakuba’s Happoone resort was the venue of the downhill events at the Winter Olympics in Nagano in 1998, and the town 

continues to be a popular destination for snowboarding and skiing. 

Shiga Koen – With a ski area that is considered to be the largest in Japan, Shiga Kogen, located in Yamanouchi, is made up of more than 

20 resorts with several ski courses. 

Hakuba Ski Resort – ©JNTO 

Niseko Village – ©JNTO 

Onsen 

Dipping in hot spring water during the cold winter months is a great way to relax, so onsen towns around Japan are included in many tourists’ 

itineraries. 

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Nyuto Onsen – Situated in the mountainous region of eastern Akita, Nyuto Onsen is home to numerous old and traditional hot spring 

baths, including open air baths that give stunning views of the snow-covered surroundings. 


Snow 

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Manza Onsen – Sitting high on Mount Shirane, Manza Onsen boasts sulphuric thermal waters. It is a great place to go to if you want to 

try dipping in an outdoor bath surrounded by snow. 

Kusatsu Onsen – With an endless supply of top quality natural hot spring water, Kusatsu Onsen in Gunma Prefecture is a long-time, 

highly recommended onsen resort town in the country. 

Otaru Snow Light Path 

Kusatsu 

Festivals 

Winter in Japan also sees a number of fun and exciting snow festivals that attract thousands of tourists despite the chilly weather. 

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Sapporo Snow Festival – Held in early February of each year, the Sapporo Snow Festival is a one-week event that showcases impressive 

ice and snow sculptures. 

Otaru Snow Light Path – A 10-day event hosted by the city of Otaru, the Otaru Snow Light Path is a festival that transforms the town 

into a winter wonderland — with bright lanterns and snow statues all over the city. 

Tokamachi Snow Festival – A three-day February festival held in Tokamachi, the Tokamachi Snow Festival features snow sculptures and 

statues, a winter market, snow slides and other outdoor snow activities for everyone. 

Asahikawa Winter Festival – Known for creating the largest snow sculpture in the country during winter, the Asahikawa Winter Festival 

is observed in early February of each year. 

Sapporo Snow Festival – ©JNTO 

Shirakawago village 

Attractions 

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Shirakawa-go – A UNESCO World Heritage Site that sits in the mountainous rural area of Gifu Prefecture, Shirakawa-go consists of 

numerous old, traditional, uniquely-designed farmhouses that look even more splendid and picturesque in the midst of a winter snowscape. 

Tateyama Kurobo Alpine Route – This attraction opens only in spring and allows visitors to traverse a long corridor between 20-metre 

high snow walls. It is located in Toyama and Nagano and is best visited towards the end of April. 


Temples 

There are hundreds of temples scattered all over Japan. These places of worship are dedicated to Buddhism, a religion and dharma that was 

introduced to the country about fifteen centuries ago. 

Japanese Buddhist temples generally fall under four 

primary types of styles: 

Daibutsuyo 

A style that was developed sometime between the late 12th century and early 13th century, Daibutsuyo exudes grandeur and majesty. Two 

good examples of this style are the Jodo-ji’s Amida Hall and Todai-ji’s Nandaimon. 

Zenshuyo 

Created by the Zen sect of Buddhism, Zenshuyo is a style that utilises panelled doors, earthen floors, curved roofing materials and cusped 

windows. 

Wayo 

Developed during the country’s Heian Period, Wayo is influenced by contemporary Chinese design. It places importance on the use of plain 

materials such as natural timber, and favours simplicity through minimal use of ornaments and decorations. 

Setchuyo 

With the Kakurin-ji’s main hall as its best example, Setchuyo is a style that is an amalgamation of the first three styles mentioned. 

Kiyomizu-dera Temple 

Ginkaku-ji 


Temples 


Temples in the country vary in size, layout, design and other features, but the following are some elements that are commonly found in the 

majority of them: 

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Butsuden – Translated as Hall of Buddha, this is the temple’s main hall, where the Buddha statue is enshrined. 

Hatto – Translated as Dharma Hall, this is a separate structure in a temple complex that serves as a lecture building for Buddhism 

scriptures delivered by the chief priest. 

Honbo – The official residence of the temple’s head priest. 

So-do – Also called the monk hall, it is a building where monks can practice zazen, eat, sleep, and do various other activities related to 

zazen. 

Karesansui – Usually found in Zen temples, this is a Japanese rock garden that is also featured in other sects’ temples. 

Mon – General term for a temple gate that can be prefixed with the gate’s position (omotemon: front gate), a deity’s name (Niomon: 

named after Nio), or its design (karamon: a type of temple gate with an arched style roof) to refer to a specific gate in a temple complex. 

Stupa – Also known as “–to” or pagoda, this is a structure that is usually comprised of two, three, five, or more storeys. It is where relics, 

scriptures, and other temple treasures are kept and preserved. 

Shoro – A temple’s belltower. 

Nara temple 

Kinkakuji Temple (The Golden Pavilion) 

Top Japanese Temples 


Probably the most popular attraction of the city of Nara, Todaiji is an 8th century temple that is considered to be one of Japan’s most important 

temples. It is best known for being home to the largest wooden building in the world — the Daibutsuden, or the temple’s main hall. It also is 

where one of the largest bronze Buddha statues in Japan is enshrined. 

Kiyomizudera Temple 

Built on a forested, hilly area in the eastern portion of Kyoto in 780, the Kiyomizudera is a UNESCO World Heritage Site that offers scenic 

views of the nature, with maple and cherry trees that provide amazing colours during spring and autumn. 


Temples 

Ginkakuji Temple 

Situated on the mountains along eastern Kyoto, Ginkakuji, also known as the Silver Pavillion, consists of a vast complex that has a dry sand 

garden, a moss garden, a few temple buildings, small ponds and bridges, and a number of walking trails. 

Kinkakuji Temple 

Also called the Golden Pavilion, the Kinkakuji possesses a unique architectural style, with its two topmost floors having gold-leaf roofs. It 

overlooks a large pond and has a spacious temple grounds with several statues, pathways and a teahouse. 

Kyomizudera 

Todaiji 


Learn 


Brief History of Japan 

The long history of Japan, which is believed to have begun as far back as the prehistoric era, can be divided into four periods — prehistoric and 

ancient, classical, medieval, and modern. 

Prehistoric and Ancient Period (35,000 BC – 538 AD) 

The prehistoric and ancient era of Japan covers the time up until 538 AD, including the Paleolithic (from 35,000 BC to 14,000 BC), Jomon (from 

14,000 BC to 300 BC), Yayoi (from 300 BC to 250 AD), and Kofun (from 250 to 538) periods. 

The earliest human beings to live in the Japanese archipelago existed during the Stone Age, specifically in the Paleolithic period. They are 

believed to have developed skills that enabled them to make tools from stone. 

Eventually, they built the foundation of the Jomon culture, which is one of the world’s oldest societies, known for their hunting and gathering 

practices. In addition to tool-making, they also started shaping pottery with a rope pattern design using wet clay and creating jewellery from 

shells, stones, bones, antlers, and other materials. 

By the start of 300 BC, rice farming and metallurgy of iron and bronze arose. This period, which lasted until 250 AD, is referred to as Yayoi 

(meaning “new life”) in reference to an area in Tokyo where artefacts from this era were unearthed. 

The years 250 to 538 witnessed the earliest documented history of Japan. This period is known as Kofun, and it saw the introduction of 

Shintoism and the rise of the Imperial House of Japan. 

Classical Period (538 – 1185) 

The Classical Period opened with a big leap in the political, social, and artistic aspects of the Japanese society, including the fruition of the 

Yamato rule and the beginnings of Buddhism in Japan. This formative stage is known as the Asuka period. 

When the Nara period started in 710, the number of Japanese villages that practiced agriculture and followed Shintoism started to increase. 

Meanwhile, the nobles and elite adopted much of the Chinese culture, specifically fashion, writing and Buddhism. 

Closing out the Classical Japanese era is the Heian period, which started in 794 and ended in 1185, and saw the peak of Taoism, Buddhism, 

poetry, literature and art in Japanese society. 


Brief History of Japan 

Medieval Period (1185 – 1600) 

The Medieval era in Japanese history lasted for more than four centuries. It consisted of the: 

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Kamakura period, the initial years of which saw the governance of Minamoto no Yoritomo, Kamakura’s first shogun, along with the rise 

of the samurai warriors, caste system and feudalism; 

Muromachi or Ashikaga period, which covered the time of the Ashikaga or Muromachi rule (headed by their first shogun, Ashikaga 

Takauji) up until the early years of the Sengoku or Warring States period from 1465 to 1573, when the last shogun, Ashikaga Yoshiaka 

was cast out of Kyoto by daimyo Oda Nobunaga; and 

Azuchi-Momoyama period, which covered the ruling years of Oda Nobunaga and Toyotomi Hideyoshi (1573 to 1600) and laid the 

foundations to the formation of the Tokugawa shogunate. 

Modern Period (1600 – current) 

The establishment of the Tokugawa shogunate signified the commencement of Japan’s modern period, which featured improvements in the 

overall social, political and economic stability of the country. With Tokugawa Ieyasu holding the reins, Japan became self-sustaining, utilising 

its resources to the maximum. 

In 1868, during the Boshin War, the Tokugawa shogunate fell and was replaced by the Meiji Empire, led by Emperor Meiji. During this time, 

Japan switched from a society that was isolated and under feudal rule into a modern one that was characterised by significant transformations 

in its economic, political, military, social and international affairs. It ended when Emperor Meiji died in 1912. 

Emperor Taisho took over the throne and was in power for 14 years, a time that was dubbed the “Taisho democracy” because of the ascent of 

the democratic parties into political power. 

Emperor Taisho’s death from a heart attack in 1926 brought in the Showa period, which shifted the Japanese political system into ultranationalism, 

fascism and totalitarianism. Japan was among the many nations badly impacted by the Great Depression in the 1930s. Led by 

Emperor Showa, the country became a presence on the global scene, taking part in the Second Sino-Japanese War (1937-1945) and the 

Second World War (1939-1945). 

After it was defeated in World War II, Japan was occupied by foreign rule for seven years. It underwent major restructuring in its economy and 

politics, particularly from being governed by an Emperor to being a democratic, constitutional monarchy. 

From 1989 up to the present, Japan is in the Heisei period, with Emperor Akihito on the throne. Through the years, the country has experienced 

huge leaps in economic progress and has gained much international recognition of its popular culture (manga, anime, video games), tourist 

landmarks, culture, food and history. 


Bullet Train & History 

Japan’s major cities are connected by a network of high speed trains known as Shinkansen. The network operated by Japan Railways (JR) has 

been progressively developed on the main islands of Honshu, Kyushu and Hokkaido since the 1960s. It provides a stark example of cutting 

edge Japanese technology, connecting the bustling capital city of Tokyo with cities extending as far as Aomori in the north and Kagoshima in 

the south. 

Shinkansen trains currently transport a staggering 150 million passengers per year. Riding on one is an essential part of the tourist experience 

when visiting Japan. These trains can travel up to 320 kilometres per hour. To put that speed into perspective, if we had Shinkansen trains in 

Australia they’d be able to travel between Sydney and Melbourne in under three hours! 

Incredibly, for most of their journey, Shinkansen trains don’t make contact with the track. Instead, they hover 10 centimetres above the track 

as they are propelled through the air by electrically-charged magnets on either side of the line. 

Besides their incredible speed, they have a great reputation for: 

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Consistently departing and arriving on time; 

Comfort (there’s plenty of room with their reversible seating arrangements); 

Quiet and efficient operation; 

Cleanliness; 

Safety (they have one of the best safety records in the world!) 

Foreign tourists can also take advantage of great savings, comfortable and convenient travel with the Japan Rail Pass. 

The Network 

The Shinkansen network has multiple rail lines: 

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Tokaido (the most popular line that links Tokyo, Nagoya, Kyoto and Osaka: the stretch between Tokyo and Kyoto provides spectacular 

views of the iconic Mt Fuji) 

Sanyo (linking Osaka, Hiroshima and Fukuoka) 

Kyushu (linking Fukuoka and Kagoshima) 

Tohoku (linking Tokyo, Sendai, Morioka and Aomori) 

Joetsu (linking Tokyo and Niigata) 

Hokuriku (linking Tokyo and Kanazawa) 

Hokkaido (linking Aomori and Hakodate) 



In addition, several additional lines are planned over the coming decades. One magnetic line between Tokyo and Nagoya that is scheduled for 

completion by 2027 will enable Shinkansen trains to travel at speeds up to 500 kilometres per hour. 

A variety of Shinkansen train types operate on each existing line, ranging from express services that bypass various stations to those that stop 

at each station. 

Shinkansen Travel Time Between Popular Destinations 

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Tokyo to Kyoto: 2 hours, 49 minutes 

Tokyo to Shin-Osaka: 2 hours, 33 minutes 

Tokyo to Akita: 3 hours, 50 minutes 

Shin-Osaka to Hiroshima: 1 hour, 40 minutes 

Hiroshima to Hakata: 1 hour, 8 minutes 

Hakata to Kagoshima: 1 hour, 17 minutes 

Seat Categories 

Most Shinkansen trains offer two seat classes in separate cars, with some also offering a third class. These classes are: 

1) Ordinary 

These are regular seats and usually arranged in rows of 3×2. The size and foot space varies between Shinkansen trains, but they are generally 

comfortable. They provide considerably more foot space than economy seats on planes. Ordinary seats can also be reclined and they have 

foldout tables and pockets for magazines like on a plane, as well as open overhead shelves that can store small and medium-sized bags or 

suitcases. 

There’s also usually enough space for two or three large suitcases behind the last row of seats in each Shinkansen Car. Each passenger is 

allowed to bring up to two pieces of luggage weighing less than 30 kilograms and not measuring more than 2 and a half metres combined in 

terms of height, width and depth. 

2) Green Car 

Green Car is similar to business class on planes and is arranged in rows of 2×2. Seats are more spacious and comfortable than those in Ordinary 

class, and they have all of the other features of Ordinary Class. Depending on the type of Shinkansen service, they may also have a foot rest, 

reading light, radio, electrical outlet and a seat warmer. Green Cars are also less crowded than Ordinary Cars. 

3) Gran 

This is comparable to first class on planes. It’s available on the Tohoku, Hokuriku and Hokkaido Shinkansen trains. Gran class seats are the most 

spacious available, and passengers in them are entitled to additional amenities and services to those provided with both Green or Ordinary Cars. 

Reserved and Non-Reserved Seating + How to make Seat Reservations 

Most Shinkansen trains offer both reserved (shiteiseki) and non-reserved (jiyūseki) seating. However, a few services on the Tohoku, Hokkaido 

and Hokuriku Shinkansen lines only offer reserved seating. Bilingual signs on the Shinkansen trains and at station platforms indicate whether 

reserved and/or non-reserved seatings options are available. 



All Green Car and Gran seats must be reserved in advance, along with any special needs seating (e.g. passengers with wheelchairs). You can use 

your Japan Rail Pass to reserve seats for no additional charge. If you don’t have a Pass, you’ll be charged a booking fee of a few hundred yen, 

depending on which line you’re travelling on and how far you’re going. 

You can reserve a Shinkansen seat up to a month in advance via a JR ticket office. Doing this gives you the peace of mind that you’ll be able 

to travel in comfort when you want to. At peak travel times to popular destinations, seats can often be booked out several days in advance. To 

reserve seats, you need to provide: 

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Your departure and destination stations; 

The date of your travel; 

The time of your Shinkansen service; 

The seat class you require e.g. Ordinary, Green Car or Gran (For non JR Pass holders – If you have a pass you class is already decided). 

You can also reserve a seat moments before your departure at a station ticket counter (midori no madoguchi), provided seats are still available. 

If you don’t speak Japanese, it’s recommended that you write your seat reservation details down on a piece of paper and hand it to the ticket 

officer to avoid confusion. Vending machines are also an option for Shinkansen seat reservations, but be aware that you can’t use your Japan 

Rail Pass at vending machines. 

Fares and Ticketing 

A Shinkansen fare can be made up of several fees: 

1) A base fare (jōshaken): This amount depends on how far you’re travelling. The greater the distance, the higher your base fare. You pay this 

amount whether you’re travelling on a Shinkansen train or an ordinary local train. 

2) Shinkansen limited express supplement (tokkyūken): This is an additional charge for using a Shinkansen instead of a local train. Again, the 

greater the distance, the greater the fare. 

3) Seat reservation fee: The seat reservation fee depends on whether it’s low season, regular season, or high season. It ranges from 320, 520 

and 720 yen depending on the time of year. An additional supplement fee of 100-620 yen is applied for reserved seats on Nozomi, Mizuho, 

Hayabusa and Komachi trains. It’s usually combined with the express supplement into single ticket. 

4) Green car fee: This is an additional fee you’ll pay for Green Car or Gran seating. 

Depending on the Shinkansen service, passengers who don’t have the convenience a Japan Rail Pass may receive two tickets (the base fare 

and the supplement), or these may be combined into a single ticket. If you’re riding on multiple Shinkansen trains to get to your destination, a 

separate ticket may be required for each train (again, this is only if you don’t already have a Japan Rail Pass). 

Boarding Shinkansen Trains 

Regular Shinkansen ticket holders must queue and pass through automatic gates. Signs and announcements on Japanese platforms are bilingual 

(Japanese and English). Japan Rail Pass holders don’t use automatic ticket gates. Instead, they simply show their Pass to staff at manned gates. 

You then will make your way to the Shinkansen platforms to board one of these trains. They are often in a separate part of the station or on a 

different level, but they may also be parallel to the regular train lines. 

Virtually all Japanese stations have escalators or elevators if required. There is easy Shinkansen platform and train access for passengers in 

wheelchairs and mothers with strollers. 



Displays on each Shinkansen platform will indicate upcoming Shinkansen arrivals and routes. Other signs painted on the platform indicate car 

door locations, numbers and seat classes (i.e. Ordinary, Green Car or Gran). It’s customary in Japan to line up in an orderly queue to board trains, 

especially for non-reserved seats. Reserved Shinkansen seats are numbered and lettered similarly to airline seats. 

Riding on Shinkansen Trains 

Just like on public transport in Australia, there are manners you should observe when riding Shinkansen trains in Japan: 

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Keep your voice down when you’re having a conversation; 

Turn your phone to silent mode; 

Have consideration for the person behind you when reclining your seat; 

Don’t block aisles with your luggage. 

Small food carts with a variety of snacks, drinks and boxed meals (bento) pass along the aisles at regular intervals on most Shinkansen 

trains. Some also have drink vending machines. Wi-Fi is available on the newest Shinkansen trains between Tokyo and Shin-Osaka and will 

progressively become available on others. However, you need to buy a subscription or a 1-day pass before you board the train to be able to 

access this Wi-Fi. 

Multiple toilet and wash room facilities are available on all Shinkansen trains, with some being gender-specific. Most toilets are Western style 

and many modern Shinkansen trains also have disabled toilet facilities. 

Smoking is not allowed on most Shinkansen trains, although a few older models allow smoking in small designated areas. 


History of the Bullet Train 

Japan is world-renowned for its efficient public transportation system that connects the major cities in the country. Known as the Shinkansen, 

or bullet train, it is a highly-advanced technological accomplishment that has greatly influenced and impacted Japan’s culture, economy, 

business, and society. 

The Early Days of the Shinkansen 

A high-speed intercity train network that currently consists of more than 2,600 kilometres of rail lines, the Shinkansen was first launched more 

than 50 years ago. Its inaugural segment, the Tokaido Shinkansen, started operation on October 1, 1964, shortly before the opening of the 

Tokyo Olympics. 

A trip between Tokyo and Osaka used to take six hours and 40 minutes via the old Limited Express trains, but it was cut down to just three 

hours and 10 minutes with the Tokaido Shinkansen. Because of this significant development, day trips to and from the two big cities became 

more frequent since. 

The Shinkansen’s success continued as traffic demand increased through the next couple of years. By July 13, 1967, two months before its 

third anniversary, it had already serviced 100 million passengers. And, in 1976, it reached the one billion passenger mark. By 1992, it became 

the busiest bullet train line in the world, averaging 23,000 passengers in an hour per direction. 

Expansion and Development 

Due to the public’s affirmative response to the Shinkansen, an extensive rail network that extended to the west, to Okayama, Fukuoka, and 

Hiroshima was built and finished in 1975. 

Shinkansen networks that link the islands of Kyushu and Honshu to a number of large urban areas were also established. 

Over the years, more lines, including the Sanyo Shinkansen, Joetsu Shinkansen, Chuo Shinkansen, and Tohoku Shinkansen, and train models, 

such as the 100 Series, 300 Series, 500 Series, and 700 Series, have been introduced to meet the constant increase in the volume of commuters 

in the country’s major metropolises. 

Present Day 

In the past ten years, the Shinkansen has transported more than 10 billion commuters, averaging about 150 million passengers per year. In 

Tokyo and Osaka alone, as many as 26 16-car trains, with a capacity of 1,300 seats each, operate in both directions every hour. 

The fastest bullet train currently operating in Japan is the Nozomi, which covers the Shin-Osaka to Hakata route and runs on the Tokaido/ 

Sanyo Shinkansen lines at speeds of up to 300 kilometres per hour. 


Climate 

The climate in Japan varies depending on the region. Although the entire country experiences the four seasons — winter, spring, summer and 

autumn — some parts may be warmer or colder or more humid than others at certain times of the year. 

Overview 

There are two things that affect the climate of Japan: the two primary ocean currents that surround the country and the proximity to mainland 

Asia. 

The Kuroshio Current, also called the Japan Current or Black Current, carries tropical waters northwards in the western portion of the North 

Pacific Ocean. 

Meanwhile, the Oyashio Current, also called the Okhotsk Current or Parent Current, is an ocean current characterised by cold waters flowing 

southwards from the Arctic Sea. These two currents meet at the 36º north latitude point, an area known to have an abundance of fish and 

other marine life. 

The Japanese archipelago is divided into six distinct climatic zones. From south to north, they are the 

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Ryukyu Islands – The climate in this part of Japan varies from that of a tropical rainforest with a very hot summer and warm winter 

months in the south, to subtropical with high humidity in the northern areas. Its rainy season includes typhoons. 

Pacific Ocean – This portion of Japan experiences hot and humid summers with high precipitation, especially in the northern regions. 

During winter, temperatures are mild and the days are quite sunny. 

Seto Inland Sea – Because of the high mountains that surround it, blocking the southeast seasonal winds, this region enjoys nice 

weather for much of the year. 

Central Highland – This region consists of some inland areas of the country, where temperatures may vary dramatically throughout the 

year. Also, because of the effect known as rain shadowing, its precipitation levels are lower in comparison to the coastal areas. 

Sea of Japan – The northwest seasonal winds produce large volumes of snowfall during the winter in this part of Japan. During the 

summer, it is extremely hot with only a few rainy days. 

Hokkaido – The northernmost island of Japan, Hokkaido’s climate features cool summer months and long, dark, cold winters. 


Climate 

Monthly Temperature Averages in Some Major Japanese Cities (all temperatures ºC) 

Fukuoka Osaka Tokyo Sapporo 

Min. Max. Min. Max. Min. Max. Min. Max. 

WINTER 

December 5 13 5 12 5 12 -4 2 

January 3 10 3 9 2 10 -8 -1 

February 4 11 3 9 2 10 -7 0 

SPRING 

March 6 14 5 13 5 13 -4 4 

April 11 19 11 20 11 18 3 11 

May 15 24 15 24 15 23 8 17 

SUMMER 

June 19 27 20 27 19 25 12 21 

July 24 31 24 31 23 29 17 25 

August 25 32 25 33 24 31 19 26 

AUTUMN 

September 21 28 21 29 21 27 14 22 

October 15 23 15 23 15 22 7 16 

November 10 18 10 17 10 17 1 8 

(Data from Japan Meteorological Agency) 

Wet Weather and Typhoons 

In Japan, the rainy season begins in early June and ends around halfway through July in most regions, while it starts in May in the Okinawa 

Islands. Only Hokkaido, Japan’s northernmost island, remains reasonably unaffected. 

However, the rainy season in Japan does not automatically mean daily downpours. During this period, the amount of rainfall may vary from a 

light sprinkle to a heavy shower, and rainy days may occur only a few times a week. 

Generally, the rainy season is a low tourist season in Japan. Various attractions and sights have fewer crowds, so travellers who are averse to 

masses of people should consider going to the country during this time. 

With the appropriate gear, such as waterproof coats, boots and umbrellas, exploring the shrines, temples, parks, and gardens in the rain can be 

a unique experience as these sites can be stunningly picturesque in this type of weather. 


Culture 

Japan has a multi-faceted culture that has evolved through the centuries, starting from the prehistoric period of thousands of years ago up to 

the present modern era that has welcomed some outsider influences, such as from its neighbouring Asian countries, the Americas, and Europe. 

Arts 

Composed of a wide array of media and styles, Japanese art is a rich and vibrant aspect of the Japanese culture. 

Calligraphy 

This is a traditional writing style that features smooth, flowing brush strokes to produce text, such as stories, poems, phrases or just one 

character. It utilises special types of brushes, inksticks, inkstones and Mulberry paper. 

Painting 

Painting is one of the oldest and most highly regarded art forms in Japan. Its origins trace back to ancient times, with geometric, botanical, and 

other designs having been discovered on unearthed stones and graves dating back to the Jomon and Yayoi Periods. 

Through the centuries, other painting styles have also flourished, including religious murals and panels, ink paintings, indigenous art, and 

European-influenced pieces. 

Sculpture 

The art of Japanese sculpting began in primitive times, when clay was used to make earthenware pottery that was shaped into animals, people, 

deities and other beings. 

When Buddhism was introduced to the country, large statues made of bronze and other metals became common at temples. Examples include 

Todai-ji Temple’s Nio Guardian and Horyuji’s Kongorikishi Guardian Deity. 

Today, contemporary sculpture uses a combination of wood, paper, bamboo and other materials. 

Ikebana 

Also called “kado”, which means “the way of flowers”, ikebana is the art of Japanese flower arrangement. It is an art form that requires discipline 

in the creation of a display that exudes a seamless joining of humanity and nature. 


Culture 

With the use of various techniques and the application of minimalism, variously coloured flowers are assembled, with their leaves and stalks 

carefully placed to produce graceful and natural shapes and lines. 

Manga 

Manga are Japanese comics that tell stories on a broad array of topics — science fiction, comedy, suspense and thriller, action, romance, horror, 

and more. 

The earliest documentation of the use of the term was towards the end of the 1700s, when a picturebook by Santo Kyoden called “Shiji no 

yukikai” was published. Since then, more works have been published, targeting both male and female, young and old. 

In the last 20 years, manga have gained recognition outside Japan and have been translated into various foreign languages to accommodate 

their international readers. 

Once a manga series establishes a strong fan base, it may be made into an anime series, such as Naoko Takeuchi’s “Sailor Moon”, Akira 

Toriyama’s “Dragon Ball”, Masashi Kishimoto’s “Naruto” and Eiichiro Oda’s “One Piece”. 

Samurai and Ninja 

Samurai were high-ranking warriors in Japan during the Edo Period. They lived in accordance with the bushido (or the way of the warrior), which 

emphasised respect, ethics, self-discipline and loyalty. Weapons used included samurai swords, yumi (or longbows), pole weapons, cannons, 

tanegashima (or Japanese matchlocks), staffs, clubs and chains. They also wore a special kind of armour consisting of iron-plates. 

Some well-known samurai in Japanese history are Miyamoto Musashi, Oda Nobunaga, Toyotomi Hideyoshi, Takeda Shingen, Date Masamune, 

Tokugawa Ieyasu and Uesugi Kenshin. 

Today, many samurai districts around the country remain and are popular tourist attractions, including those in Usuki and Kakunodate. 

Ninja, on the other hand, were covert warriors who specialised in infiltration, espionage, guerrilla warfare, assassination and sabotage. They 

lived during feudal Japan and were primarily trained in effective espionage and disguise techniques, as well as various survival skills. Contrary 

to the way they are portrayed in popular media, ninja did not wear all-black costumes. Instead, they dressed just like any civilian so as to be 

able to blend in and not draw attention. Their weapons included star discs, knives, darts, spikes and swords. 

Iga and Koga are the two most famous ninja clans in Japanese history, and both are located in Mie Prefecture. Nowadays, there are a variety 

of ninja-related attractions in the regional villages where people can tour their old but well-preserved ninja houses, watch a demonstration of 

ninja techniques, and explore museums that feature many kinds of ninja weapons, clothes, and other artefacts. 

Some popular ninja in Japanese history are Hattori Hanzo, Kato Danzo, Fuma Kotaro, Momochi Sandayu, Ishikawa Goemon, Mochizuki 

Chiyome and Fujibayashi Nagato. 

Music Types 

Traditional 

Traditional Japanese music come in two forms: the gagaku (orchestral court music) and the shomyo (Buddhist chanting), both of which 

originated during the Nara and Heian periods. They were played using traditional musical instruments, such as the biwa (a type of stringed 

instrument), taiko (a type of drum), fue (flute) and shamisen (a three-stringed instrument). 


Culture 

Western-Influenced 

During the Meiji Restoration, the arrival of Westerners in Japan introduced Western music to the country. Classical music became popular, and 

it led to the emergence of several symphony bands and orchestras. Jazz also became a hit in the 1930s and many Japanese musicians in this 

genre, such as Dan, Sadao Watanabe and June, achieved international fame. 

Pop Music 

Japanese popular music, also referred to as J-pop, is a genre that encompasses mainstream music from the 1960s up to the present, including: 

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Disco 

Club 

Rock 

Alternative 

Heavy Metal 

Reggae 

Hip hop 

Anime theme songs 

Electronic game theme songs 

Kimono 

Kimono is Japan’s distinctive traditional clothing. It literally means “something one wears”. It used to refer to any type of clothing that is worn, 

but its meaning changed through time, and it now only refers to that specific full-length piece of clothing that is commonly worn on special 

events and occasions today. 

Available in a wide array of colours, sizes and designs, kimono can be worn by men, women and children. They usually come in vibrant colours 

with flowery designs during the springtime and with autumn patterns during the fall. For winter, kimono made from heavy material and flannel 

are worn. 

When wearing kimono, tabi (ankle-high sock) and geta (wooden sandals) are also worn. 

Architecture 

Japan has fascinating traditional and contemporary architecture. 

Shrines and temples, dating back several centuries, feature unique and intricate designs that are a mixture of both native Japanese creativity 

and imported influences from China and other Asian countries. 

Old houses and buildings showcase wooden posts, lintels, curved roofs, tatami floors, bamboo blinds and rooms with minimalistic interiors 

divided by thin, sliding walls, containing barely any large furniture. 

In the past century, exposure to Western society had a flow-on effect on Japanese architecture. Many newly constructed houses and buildings 

have adapted Westernised style with the use of bricks, concrete and other materials. Interior spaces have also started to be filled with more 

furniture, with desks, tables, chairs, and other pieces being incorporated in the designs. 


Culture 

Nowadays, traditional and modern Japanese architecture coexist harmoniously, and it is quite common to see Japanese cities and towns that 

have areas with high-rises and skyscrapers located next to an old district, complete with cobblestone roads and several-hundred-year-old 

houses. 

Cuisine 

Japanese cuisine comprises a diverse selection of foods and drinks, such as the following: 

Traditional Dishes 

Rice – This is the Japanese staple food. It can be steamed or fried and is frequently consumed with meat, fish and vegetables. 

Miso soup – This is made of miso paste and stock, known as dashi. It can be prepared many different ways and can be mixed with other 

ingredients such as fish, tofu, carrots, mushrooms, potatoes or meat. 

Noodles – Considered a good substitute for rice, noodles are a common Japanese food. They come in different types, with soba, udon and 

ramen being the most popular. They can be eaten plain or with toppings and other ingredients such as egg, vegetables, meat and seafood. 

Sushi – This is rice mixed or topped with different ingredients. Some of the most popular varieties are the nigiri-zushi (a block of rice with 

toppings of vegetables, meat or seafood), maki-zushi (rice and other ingredients are rolled and wrapped in a sheet of seaweed), and chirashizushi 

(sushi rice with fresh vegetables and seafood as toppings). 

Tonkatsu – A type of deep-fried dish featuring a crumbed pork cutlet. Its origins date back to the 19th century and it can be served as a 

standalone, with rice and soup, or as a sandwich filling. 

Yakiniku – Translated as “grilled meat”, this Japanese cuisine covers a wide selection that includes grilled pork, beef, chicken, seafood and 

vegetables. 

Sweets – The Japanese have some of the tastiest desserts and sweets. Wagashi, which typically consists of mocha and red bean paste, is a 

traditional sweet that is frequently served with tea. Other common Japanese sweets are the melonpan (melon bread), anmitsu (agar jelly cubes 

mixed with red bean paste and fruits), anpan (sweet roll stuffed with red bean paste), chinsuko (biscuits made of flour and lard) and castellan 

(Japanese sponge cake). 

Beverages 

Tea – There are many kinds of Japanese tea but the most popular is the Japanese green tea, which is extracted from the Camellia sinensis leaves 

and served during tea ceremonies. Other types include the genmaicha (green tea with roasted brown rice), hojicha (green tea that is charcoal 

roasted), matcha (powdered green tea) and mugicha (barley tea). 

Shochu – Made from rice, buckwheat, sweet potato or barley, shochu is a distilled spirit that originated in Kyushu. It may contain between 25% 

to 35% alcohol by volume, which is more than sake and wine but lower than vodka and whiskey. 

Sake – Produced by an intensive rice fermentation process, sake is widely available in Japan and is commonly consumed with almost all types 

of Japanese and international cuisines. 

Beer – Japan is home to several large breweries and microbreweries, so the popularity of beer in the country remains at a high point. Lager 

beers with low levels of alcohol are the most commonly consumed and are often partnered with a variety of Japanese dishes. 


Culture 

Festivals 

Most Japanese festivals are religiously influenced, particularly by Shintoism and Buddhism. Throughout the country, almost every single shrine 

has its own annual festivities to honour deities and spirits. 

Examples of well-known religious festivals in Japan are the Kanda Matsuri, held in Tokyo every May and highlighted by a procession of several 

mikoshi (or portable shrines) around central Tokyo, and the Tenjin Matsuri, held in Osaka every July and featuring a grand procession through 

the streets and the river. 

Furthermore, there are also events that celebrate other aspects of Japan such as its seasons and historical events, like the Sapporo Snow 

Festival every February, which is probably the most popular winter event in the country. It consists of exhibitions of spectacular ice and snow 

statues around the city. 


Geography 

Japan is an archipelagic nation comprising several thousands of islands that lie in the Pacific Ocean, east of the continent of Asia. It is found 

between 24º- 46º North and 123º- 146º East. 

Islands 

Japan’s territory consists of 6,852 islands, only 430 of which are inhabited. Its major islands, which are also the largest area-wise, are Hokkaido 

(the largest and northernmost island), Honshu (the mainland), Kyushu (the third largest) and Shikoku (the fourth largest). 

Area 

With a total territorial area of 377,915 square kilometres, Japan’s size is similar to Germany, or the state of California in the United States. Its 

land area is 364,485 square kilometres, while its waters occupy a further 13,430 square kilometres. 

Climate 

Japan’s climate from north to south varies greatly. While the entire country experiences the four seasons — winter, spring, summer and autumn 

— its regions differ significantly in regard to temperature and humidity levels throughout the year. 

Most of Japan has temperate and subtropical climate, which brings extremely hot and humid summers and mild winters. There is also a rainy 

season, which occurs during the summer and sees a number of typhoons in some parts of the country. 

In Hokkaido, the northernmost island of Japan, and in the regions along the Sea of Japan, the summers are mild and winters tend to be quite 

cold, with heavy amounts of snowfall. 

Terrain 

Approximately 73% of Japan is mountainous, with some areas having small deposits of iron, oil, coal and other minerals. The remainder is plains, 

where growing crops is a common practice, and intermontane basins, where a large portion of the population resides. 

Waters 

Japan is home to several bodies of water. The Pacific Ocean is on its eastern coast, where many harbours and ports exist, while the Seto Inland Sea links 

the Sea of Japan and the Pacific Ocean and separates the Kyushu, Shikoku, and Honshu islands. Rivers are relatively short and are generally less than 

300 kilometres in length. The longest river is the Shinano River, located between the Nagano and Niigata Prefectures, which is just 367 kilometres long. 

Lake Biwa, found in northeastern Kyoto, is the biggest freshwater lake in the country. Hot springs or onsen are also scattered over the different regions. 


Geography 

Volcanoes, Earthquakes, and Natural Disasters 

Japan lies in the Ring of Fire, a vaguely horseshoe shaped area around much of the Pacific Ocean. This is an area that experiences high levels 

of volcanic eruptions and earthquakes due to continuous plate movements, volcanic belts, volcanic arcs and ocean trenches. As a result, 10% 

of the active volcanoes in the world today are located in Japan. 

Among the 40 active volcanoes and 148 dormant volcanoes in the country, Mount Fuji, an active volcano and the highest peak in the country, 

is the most popular. 

Other active volcanoes in Japan are the: 

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Sakurajima – Located close to Kagoshima in southwestern Kyushu, it is a stratovolcano that experiences several small eruptions every 

year. 

Mount Asama – Found in Honshu, its most notable eruption was in 1783 when it caused so much devastation that Japan was left in 

famine for almost five years. 

Population 

The 2015 census showed Japan’s population stood at around 127.1 million, with Tokyo ranked as the most populous city with around 9 million 

people and Yokohama a distant second with almost 4 million. 

Here are the other cities that made it to the top dozen most populated Japanese cities list as of 2015: 

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Osaka – 2.70 million 

Nagoya – 2.30 million 

Sapporo – 1.95 million 

Fukuoka – 1.54 million 

Kobe – 1.54 million 

Kawasaki – 1.48 million 

Kyoto – 1.48 million 

Saitama – 1.27 million 

Hiroshima – 1.19 million 

Sendai – 1.08 million 

Regions 

Japan consists of eight traditional regions: 

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Hokkaido – the northernmost region with a population of 5.5 million and Sapporo as its largest metropolis 

Tohoku – located in northern Honshu, it has a population of 9.3 million and has Sendai as its largest city 

Kanto – has a population of 42.6 million and its largest city is Tokyo 

Chubu – located in central Honshu, it has a population of 21.7 million, with Nagoya as its largest city 

Kansai/Kinki – with 22.8 million people, it consists of Osaka (its largest city) and Japan’s former capital city Kyoto 

Chugoku – is populated by 7.6 million people and its largest city is Hiroshima 

Shikoku – is an island that is inhabited by 4 million people and has Matsuyama as its largest metropolis 

Kyushu – consisting of Northern Kyushu, Southern Kyushu, and Okinawa, its total population is around 14.6 million and its largest city 

is Fukuoka 


People 

People who are native to Japan belong to the ethnic group known as the Japanese. Approximately 98.5% of Japan’s inhabitants are Japanese, 

while around 130 million people outside the country are descendants of Japanese. 

Origins 

The most highly-regarded origin theory of the Japanese people is that they are descendants of the Jomon (people from the prehistoric era — 

12,000 BC to 300 BC — who were indigenous to Japan) and Yayoi (people who immigrated to Japan during the Iron Age era: 300 BC – 300 AD). 

However, historians and scholars remain divided on this subject and the origins of both Jomon and Yayoi are still being disputed. 

Language 

Japanese people speak Nihongo (Japanese language), which is the country’s national language. It belongs to the East Asian languages group, 

in the Japanese-Ryukyuan or Japonic language family. 

Writing 

During ancient times, around the 5th century, Japanese used the Classical Chinese writing system. However, as hundreds of years passed by, 

they developed their own writing and have evolved to the present system that utilises a combination of kanji, katakana and hiragana. 

● Kanji – a writing system consisting of Chinese characters. It is made up of several tens of thousands of characters, but only about 3,000 

are commonly used in the country. 

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Katakana – a syllabary type of writing system that features short strokes with sharp corners and considered to be the easiest among 

the Japanese writing systems. It consists of 48 characters. 

Hiragana – also a syllabary type of writing system and is frequently used for native Japanese words that have no kanji representations. 

It is composed of 46 modern characters. 

Religion 

Japanese people mostly belong to one of the top two religions in Japan, the Shinto and Buddhist religions. Approximately 84-96% of the 

population claim to believe in the teachings of both and use these for different purposes, including in the establishment of their traditions, 

customs, ideologies, morals and other activities. 

The rest of the population practices Christianity, Taoism, and other minority religions. 


People 

Arts and Literature 

Japanese people have an admirable track record when it comes to their arts and literature, which have become well-known even outside of 

their own country. 

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Haiku – a form of poetry that is characterised by three lines, with the first and third line containing five syllables and the second line 

having seven syllables. Japan’s most popular haiku master is Matsuo Basho, who lived from 1644 to 1694 and is regarded as Japan’s 

“saint of poetry”. 

Japanese calligraphy – a form of artistic writing that employs similar techniques and principles (clerical script, regular script, seal script, 

cursive and semi-cursive) as Chinese calligraphy. It uses four basic tools — brush, inkstick, Mulberry paper, and inkstone — and may also 

include supplementary tools such as a cloth, seal or paper weight. 

Dotaku – these are decorated Japanese bells made from bronze, usually lavishly decorated with animals, insects and other natural 

elements. They were first produced around 2 BC as ornaments for various rituals to attract bountiful harvests, but are also believed to 

have been used as a device to warn against invaders. 

Japanese sculptures – the first sculptures by the Japanese people were created using clay. They were made for religious purposes, 

typically to produce representations of Shinto and Buddhist deities. Through the years, sculptures made from wood, bronze, and other 

materials have also appeared. Some of the best still survive and can be found in various temples all over the country, such as at the 

Todai-ji and Horyuji temples. 


Religion 

Japan is home to many religions, with Shintoism and Buddhism being the two most widely practiced. Religion provides a code of conduct and 

morals that the people apply to their lives for social and cultural harmony. 

Compared to Westerners, the Japanese do not really see religion as something that has to be preached or is to be considered as a doctrine. 

They do not say prayers at public events, such as government meetings or school ceremonies, and most of them do not even regularly go to 

shrines and temples for worship. 

Most Japanese attend religious ceremonies, such as weddings, funerals, birth, New Year’s, and matsuri, but they look at religion as more of a 

personal matter that is not a common topic for day-to-day discussion. 

Shinto 

A religion that is as old as the Japanese culture, Shinto is the indigenous religion of the country and people of Japan. It was not founded by 

anyone, nor is it based on holy scriptures. It came about with the establishment of local traditions and customs from several centuries ago. 

Shinto deities are known as “kami” and are essences or spirits that are believed to take the form of trees, rocks, wind, mountains, rain, fertility, 

and other concepts that play significant roles in our lives. When people die, they are said to transform into kami, and those that left important 

contributions to the society are enshrined. Shinto’s most important god is the Sun Goddess Amaterasu. 

Approximately 80% of the Japanese population practice Shintoism, making it the country’s largest religion. 

Top Shinto Shrines In Japan 

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Ise Jingu – Located in Ise City, it is the most sacred Shinto shrine in Japan dedicated to Amaterasu Omikami, the Sun Goddess. 

Meiji Jingu – Located in the Harajuku district of Tokyo, it is dedicated to Emperor Meiji and Empress Shoken. 

Fushimi Inari-taisha – Found in Kyoto, it was built to honour the Shinto god of rice, Inari. 

Toshogu Shrine – This serves as the final resting place of shogun Tokugawa Ieyasu of the Tokugawa Shogunate, and is located in Nikko. 

Itsukushima Shrine – Famous for its large floating torii, this shrine was constructed in honour of the three daughters of the Shinto god 

of the sea and storms, Susano-o no Mikoto, who was also the brother of Shinto sun goddess Amaterasu. 

Buddhism 

Introduced to Japan between 538 and 552 by the Baekje from Korea, Buddhism is Japan’s second most practiced religion. It consists of several 

branches, including the Mahayana, which is the original one to arrive in the country. 


Religion 

When Buddhism found its way to Japan, Shinto was already widely practiced throughout the country. Despite that, it still got a warm reception 

from the ruling class and was declared the country’s new state religion. 

In the beginning, the commoners had difficulty adjusting to Buddhism due to its unfamiliar and complex teachings. They also had minor issues 

with it as it clashed with their native religion Shinto. Fortunately, as time passed, both religions eventually found the common ground to thrive 

alongside each other. 

Buddhist Schools in Japan 

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Nara Schools – Introduced to Japan between the 7th and 8th centuries, the Nara Schools consist of six schools — Jojitsu, Hosso, 

Sanron, Kegon, Risshu, and Kusha-shu. 

Esoteric – Came about in the 9th century, the Esoteric Schools are made up of the Shingon Buddhism and the Tendai or Tiantai. 

Kamakura Buddhism – Started between the 12th and 17th centuries, it has three primary groups, the Amida or Pure Land Schools 

(which are composed of the Jodo-shu, Jodo Shinshu, Ji-shu, and Yuzu-Nembutsu Schools), the Zen Schools (which include the Rinzai, 

Soto, Obaku, and Fuke Schools), and the Nicheren Buddhism School. 

Top Buddhist Temples In Japan 

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Kiyomizu-dera – Located in Kyoto 

Todaiji Temple – Found in Nara 

Okunoin Temple – Located in Mount Koya 

Ginkakuji – Built along the Higashiyama mountains in Kyoto 

Kinkakuji – Found in northern Kyoto 

Yamadera Temple – Situated on the mountains of Yamagata City 

Hasedera Temple – Located in the mountainous eastern Asuka region 

Kokedera – A UNESCO World Heritage temple in Kyoto 

Christianity 

Comprising less than 1% of the Japanese population, Christianity is a minor religion in Japan. It consists of several denominations, including: 

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Roman Catholicism – With approximately 510,000 followers, Catholicism in Japan consists of 16 dioceses that all operate under the 

Pope in Vatican City. 

Orthodox Christianity – Introduced to Japan in the 1800s, the Orthodox Church in the country has about 30,000 followers. 

Protestantism – Constituting only 0.4 % of the Japanese population (or about 510,000 people), Protestantism was brought to Japan in 

the 1800s by missionaries from the United States. 

The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints (LDS) – Comprising of more than 120,000 members, the LDS Church was founded in 

Japan in 1901 by American missionaries. 

Top Christian Churches In Japan 

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Oura Church – Built in the mid-1800s, this is a Western-style Catholic Church in Nagasaki 

Holy Resurrection Cathedral – Located in Chiyoda in Tokyo, this is the main Orthodox Church in Japan 

Fukuoka Japan Temple – An LDS Church situated in Fukuoka and serves almost 8,000 members from the region 


Religion 

Other Minority Religions 

Confucianism 

Confucianism was brought to Japan by the Chinese during the Edo period. It teaches people to value morality, consideration, loyalty and 

humanity. Some Confucianism-related structures in Japan are the Nagasaki Confucius Shrine in Nagasaki and the Yushima Seido in Kanda, 

Tokyo. 

Hinduism 

There are very few Hindus in Japan, only around 4,000 of them, and the majority are found in Kobe and around the Kansai area. Despite being 

a minor religion in the country, Hinduism has influenced a number of Japan’s traditions and beliefs, particularly the Daisho-in Temple’s “Seven 

Gods of Fortune”, four of which are based on Hindu gods. 

Jainism 

Even though it shares many similarities to Buddhism, Jainism is not as widely practiced in Japan. It has three temples in the country, and its 

most important and famous temple is the Kobe Jain Temple in the city of Kobe. 


Sports 

Sports are a big part of the Japanese culture. Even hundreds of years ago, the people practiced a number of sports for recreational and 

enjoyment purposes. 

The following are the most popular traditional and modern sports in Japan: 

Sumo 

A full-contact, combative sport that originated several hundred years ago as a ritual to please the Shinto gods, sumo wrestling is the national 

sport of Japan. 

Sumo wrestling rules are quite simple: two wrestlers fight in a ring (4.55 metres in diameter) and the one left standing inside the ring, without 

allowing any part of his body to touch the outside of the ring, wins. These bouts usually last for only one round, just a matter of seconds. The 

winner is declared by a referee or judge. 

The professional sumo wrestling scene in Japan is governed by the Japan Sumo Association. Every year, there are six 15-day tournaments held: 

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Tokyo – January, May, September 

Osaka – March 

Nagoya – July 

Fukuoka – November 

There are also regular sumo matches held in different cities, particularly in the Ryogoku district of Tokyo, which is known for its sumo stables, 

a place where wrestlers train, sleep, eat, and do other day-to-day activities. 

Baseball 

Introduced to Japan by American expatriate Horace Wilson in 1872, baseball is Japan’s most beloved sport. It is very commonly played by 

elementary school children through to adults, who treat it as an enjoyable hobby and pastime. 

In Japan, there are various baseball tournaments held every year in both the amateur and professional levels. 

Junior and senior high schools all over the country participate in a series of tournaments to get the chance to represent their respective 

prefectures in national tournaments held at the Hanshin Koshien Stadium every March (Spring Koshien) and August (Summer Koshien). These 

events are so popular that local television networks air several matches, from the qualifying rounds to the finals. 


Sports 

The professional baseball league in the country, called the Nippon Professional Baseball or NPB, was established in 1936 and, because of its 

rapid growth, it was divided into two different circuits in 1950 — the Central League (consisting of six established clubs) and the Pacific League 

(consisting of six new clubs). The two teams that win their respective leagues face each other in the finals, known as the Japan Series. 

Football (Soccer) 

Football arrived in Japan during the Meiji Period when advisors from the West, hired by Japan’s government, introduced their sports to the 

locals, including baseball and basketball. 

In 1917, the Tokyo Shukyu-dan was established and became the first football club in Japan. A couple of decades later, the Japanese national 

football team was formed and has become one of the top football clubs in the world, clinching tickets to the FIFA World Cup tournaments in 

1998, 2002, 2006, 2010 and 2014. 

In addition to FIFA, the Japanese national football team has also competed in other international tournaments, such as the Copa America, East 

Asian Football Championship, and Confederations Cup. It achieved its highest world ranking ever in February 1998 when it placed 9th. 

Basketball 

Basketball in Japan has had its ups and downs through the years, but a revival in the last two decades has made it one of the most followed 

sports in the country — thanks to Takuya Kawamura and Yuta Tabuse, two highly respected Japanese basketball players who helped bring Japan 

to the international stage; and to mangaka Takehiko Inoue, creator of the all-time bestselling manga “Slam Dunk”, for spreading the love and 

passion for this sport through his masterpiece. 

Japan’s first professional league was called the Japan Basketball League, which was made up of two divisions: the Super League or Division 

1 and the Japan League or Division 2. In 2012, the JBL teams joined the National Basketball League or NBL, a new professional league 

established by the Japan Basketball Association, which resulted in the dissolution of the JBL. 

Today, there are 12 teams that make up the NBL and they play a total of 55 games each in the regular season. 

Japan also has a men’s national basketball team that is one of the best in Asia, qualifying for the FIBA Asia Championship 25 out of 26 times 

and winning the event twice. In 2006, Japan hosted the FIBA World Championship, where it finished in 17th place. 

Martial Arts 

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Aikido – One of the less rough martial arts, aikido is a sport that is popular among females and older people. It believes in the principle 

that fighting is a means of protecting one’s self without causing severe harm and injuries to the attacker. It is a great sport for physical 

and mental fitness. 

Karate – A popular martial art even outside Japan, karate is a practical type of sport that only needs one’s hands and fists for combat. 

Kenjutsu – Referring to all forms of Japanese swordsmanship during the pre-Meiji Era, kenjutsu came from the samurai warriors during 

Japan’s feudal times. It is translated as “the technique or method of the sword”. 

Kendo – Japan’s own version of fencing, kendo is a martial art that came from kenjutsu, the samurai’s most important and essential 

martial art. In a kendo match, the participants wear a special kind of protective gear and use bamboo swords to hit the other’s hand, 

chest, or head. 

Judo – Created in Japan in 1882, judo is a combative type of martial art that uses three basic techniques — striking, grappling, and 

throwing. It is an excellent sport to learn for self-defence. Its creator, Kano Jigoro, started a school called Kodokan that still operates to 

this day and is regarded as the best institute for Judo learning and mastery. 

Jujutsu – A close combat type of martial art, jujutsu is a sport that aims to defeat an opponent carrying a weapon with the use of no 

weapon at all, or just a small one. It employs various grappling techniques, such as striking, biting, kicking, holds, trapping, throwing 

and gouging. 


The Geisha 

Geisha, also known as geigi or geiko, are female Japanese entertainers who work as performers during gatherings, events, and other special 

occasions. They sing, dance, or engage their guests in conversations and games to make them enjoy their experience. 

Geisha Training Process 

Traditionally, training to become a geisha started at four years of age. It involved learning how to play different traditional instruments (such as 

the drums, shakuhachi and shamisen), calligraphy, games and traditional songs. Young geisha were also taught various dances featuring stylised 

gestures and movements to tell a story, and instructed in how to choose and wear kimono, as well as how to carry themselves and interact 

with clients. 

Today, girls who wish to become geisha are required to attend school, at least graduate from middle school, and be older than 15 years of age 

before they are allowed to decide for themselves if this is the career path they really want to take. 

Geisha Districts 

Kyoto, a former capital of Japan, is still known for its thriving geisha districts. These places, which are known as hanamachi, were built before 

and during the Edo period and are popular for their geisha restaurants, teahouses, and other establishments. 

Gion 

Consisting of five geiko communities Gion is Japan’s most popular geisha district. It has been named a national historical preservation district, 

and its streets and buildings have been restored to maintain its traditional Kyoto atmosphere. 

Every year, there are public performances held in Gion, including the Miyako Dori, or “Dances of the Old Capital”, which is held during 

the entire month of April, during the peak of cherry blossoms season. These events have always been well-attended by visitors from other 

Japanese cities and countries in the world. 

Kamishichiken 

Located in the northwest portion of Kyoto, Kamishichiken is Kyoto’s oldest geisha district. Its name literally translates to “Seven Upper Houses”, 

in reference to its seven teahouses constructed with the use of leftover materials and equipment from the Kitano Shrine restoration project 

during the Muromachi Period, about 500 years ago. 

Every year, on 25 February, the Kitano Tenmanu-gu in Kamishichiken holds the Plum Blossom Festival, an event where geisha and maiko serve 

tea and wagashi to around 3,000 guests in an open-air tea ceremony. 


The Geisha 

Also during April, the district observes another annual event known as the Kitano Odori, which features the Kitano Kabuki, a type of Kyo-mai 

dance that showcases the Hanayagi-ryu style. 

Miyagawacho 

Known for its three-ring trademark, a symbol that represents the harmony and unification of its three important aspects — townspeople, 

shrines and temples, and teahouses, Miyagawacho is a historical spot in Kyoto, situated near the Kamo River. 

In the past, geisha gathered in Miyagawacho to perform at its numerous theatres located along the river banks. Today, the district is filled with 

teahouses and theatres that offer kabuki and various entertainment spectacles. 

Pontocho 

With many well-preserved buildings and architecture, Pontocho is another important historical geisha district of Kyoto. It is popular for its 

many traditional teahouses, geiko houses, and theatres. 

Pontocho’s cobbled streets are lined with traditional lamp posts, lit by lanterns, with bars, eateries, restaurants, brothels, and other establishments 

operating into the late hours of the night. 

Tourism 

Tourists who want to experience the geisha culture may take part in the following activities: 

Geiko dinners – These are generally expensive and are booked through travel agents and top rated hotels. A full geiko dinner package, in which 

a geiko hostess will serve you your meals and converse with you, may cost up to 80,000 yen. 

Dress up as a geiko – Tourists may avail themselves of a geiko studio service in Kyoto and be costumed and have their faces made up as a geiko. 

They can then walk around the old district and have their photos taken. This may cost about 10,000 yen. 


Traditional Accommodation 

For travellers to Japan, there are many options available when it comes to accommodation. All over the country, there are several kinds of 

lodgings that can offer anyone a memorable experience that is unique and authentic to Japan’s traditions and culture. 

Ryokan 

A ryokan is a type of inn that was popularised during the Edo Period as a place for spending a night or two when travelling from one city to 

another via the main thoroughfares. Today, there are numerous surviving ryokan that are several hundred years old and still operate as guest 

houses. 

Accommodation Features 

Rooms in ryokan vary in style, layout, design, size, and furniture. Usually, a room can accommodate between two and four people, and has 

sliding doors and tatami floors, with a single, small, low table placed in the middle of the room. Some ryokan rooms may include a small sitting 

room, a balcony, or a porch area that is separated by a sliding door. 

Bedding 

The typical bedding in ryokan rooms are futons laid on the tatami flooring. The ryokan also provide comforters and pillows. When not in use, 

these Japanese mattresses and other bedding are kept in a closet by the ryokan employees in the morning when you leave your room. At night, 

when you are ready for bed, you simply take everything out and lay them on the floor. 

Bathroom 

Some ryokan rooms have private bathrooms with Western-style sinks and toilets, while others, specifically the older or cheaper ones, only 

offer shared bathrooms, sinks, and toilets. Some even provide complimentary toiletries, such as soap, toothbrushes and towels, and yukata for 

use while at the ryokan. 

Food 

The majority of ryokan include breakfast and dinner in the room prices. They serve traditional Japanese foods (called kaiseki) which typically 

consist of steamed rice, grilled fish, miso soup, eggs, vegetables, tofu, and tea. They serve the meals at a particular time so as to keep the dishes 

fresh and at the right temperature for maximum enjoyment, and they request their guests to provide their preferred meal times. Usually, they 

serve the food in the rooms, but some also have common dining areas. There are ryokan that serve Western cuisine, as well. 



Reservations 

The most convenient way to book a ryokan room is through online reservation sites. These websites have long lists of ryokan options all over 

Japan, and they offer good rates and deals, somewhere between 15,000 and 25,000 yen per person a night. Some of the highly recommended 

ryokan reservation websites are Japanese Guesthouses, Rakuten Travel and Japanican. 

Shukubo 

Staying overnight at a shukubo, or Buddhist Temple, is on the bucket list of many travellers to Japan. This is not surprising as this type of 

traditional accommodation offers an exceptional journey, an opportunity to experience the simple yet interesting day-to-day lives of Buddhist 

monks. 

In Japan, there are various cities and regions that have shukubo lodgings, but the most popular is Koyasan. Home to over 50 Buddhist temples, 

Koyasan welcomes throngs of pilgrims and tourists all year round who want to share in this unique experience. 


Similar to ryokan, temple rooms are traditional Japanese spaces that have tatami flooring and sliding doors. They also vary in design and size, 

and can accommodate two, four, or even more people. They generally have one low table and a number of floor seat cushions. 

Bedding 

Shukubo provide futons, comforters, and Japanese-style pillows to their guests. This bedding is laid out directly on the tatami floors when it is 

time to sleep, and are kept in a closet in the room during the day. 

Bathroom 

Most shukubo offer shared washrooms for all their guests. However, there are also the more expensive and luxurious ones that provide private 

bathrooms with complimentary amenities, such as washcloths, toothbrushes, and soap. 

Food 

When booking a shukubo, the price includes meals for breakfast and dinner. The staff serve breakfast at around 7 in the morning, after the 6am 

prayer ceremonies, and dinner is usually at 6 in the evening. The menu consists of vegetarian food, such as koyadofu or freeze dried tofu, yuba 

or tofu skin, and konnyaku or devils tongue jelly, which make up the monks’ traditional diet. 

Other Amenities 

Many Buddhist temples are located in large complexes that have several gardens, treasure halls, and baths, which guests can visit and explore 

during their stay. 

Reservations 

To make a reservation at a shukubo, which may cost between 3,000 and 20,000 yen a night per individual, you may check out the following 

websites: Japanese Guest Houses, Japanican, and Shukubo.net, all of which have lists of temple lodgings in Koyasan and other Japanese 

regions. 



Minshuku 

Japan’s own version of bed and breakfasts, minshuku are old Japanese houses that have been transformed into lodgings and are run by local 

families. They are commonly seen in the rural areas, such as in hot spring towns, mountains, countrysides, seasides and ski resorts. 


Most minshuku have fewer and smaller rooms compared to ryokan and shukubo, but they also feature tatami floors, sliding doors, and closets 

for futon and luggage storage. 

Bedding 

Upon check in, guests may find the mattresses, comforters, and pillows stored in their room’s closet. They just have to set all the bedding out 

on the floor at night for sleeping. When leaving to sightsee in the morning, they may put their bedding back in the closet or let the staff do it. 

Bathroom 

Shared bathrooms and toilets are the norm at minshuku. This style of accommodation also has Japanese baths which guests can use throughout 

the duration of their stay. 

Food 

Food may or may not be included in the price of booking a room at a minshuku. Those that provide breakfast and dinner generally have 

common dining rooms where all guests who have elected to include meals to their reservations may eat at particular times of the day. They 

typically serve Japanese and local specialties. 

Reservations 

Japanese Guest Houses offers an English reservation service for guests wanting to book at minshuku. 


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