JAPAN

Everyone's favorite Asian country to visit - here you can find something for everyone. From great food to great entertainment to great nature sites, Japan leaves you wanting more with each visit.

First-timers typically visit Tokyo and the Osaka/Kyoto area. Here, you will have plenty for a first visit for 7-14 days; you can expand to areas such as Mount Fuji, Himeji Castle, or the Wakayama area.

WHEN IS THE BEST TIME TO TRAVEL TO JAPAN? Spring and Fall offer the most beautiful seasons - cherry blossoms (Sakura) in the Spring and fall foliage in the Fall. It also offers the most temperate weather. Expect high prices and high crowds if you're going this season.

HOW DO I GET AROUND? Public transportation is extremely easy in Japan. For the most part, it is very safe and a country with low crime rates. However, remain vigilant on trains and late at night. You can rent a car if you want to go to the more rural areas or have young children (so it's easier to coordinate everything), but you really don't need it to travel to Japan.

WHAT FOODS SHOULD I TRY? Everyone knows the classics: sushi, ramen, udon. But try the specialty meats from Kobe. Tofu omakase is an odd specialty that's superb. If you're into the cocktail scene, Japan has amazing speakeasies in their major cities.

Travel Pass Options

When thinking about Japan, you NEED to know about transportation and railway passes BEFORE you go - there are quite a few options to get around and different railways!

Cherry Blossom Tips

Things you need to know about chasing the Cherry Blossom (Sakura) in Japan, PLUS read about the top 3 places in each city (Tokyo, Osaka, Kyoto) to find them!

7-day Itinerary Japan

First-time in Japan? Start with the 3 main tourist areas - Tokyo, Osaka, and Kyoto (7 days IS possible, 10 days to do it more relaxed!)