Japan Travel Guide: Complete Travel Information for Japan
Japan is one of Asia’s most rewarding and accessible travel destinations, combining historic temples and shrines, advanced cities, efficient rail travel, mountain scenery, world-class food, seasonal festivals, pop culture and a deep tradition of hospitality. It suits city breaks, family holidays, food travel, hiking, skiing, cultural itineraries and longer independent journeys.
The capital is Tokyo. The official currency is the Japanese yen (JPY). Japan uses Japan Standard Time, UTC+9, throughout the year and does not observe daylight saving time.
1. Entry Requirements & Documents
Passport and visa requirements
Entry requirements for Japan depend on nationality, passport type, travel purpose and intended length of stay. Citizens of many countries can enter for short tourist visits without obtaining a visa in advance, while others must apply for a visa before departure.
- Travel with a passport valid for the entire intended stay; six months of remaining validity is advisable.
- Check whether your nationality is eligible for visa-free short-term entry.
- Visitors requiring a visa should apply through the relevant Embassy or Consulate-General of Japan before travel.
- Immigration officers may ask for evidence of a return or onward ticket, accommodation and sufficient funds.
- Tourist entry does not permit paid employment in Japan.
- Overstaying can result in detention, fines, deportation and future entry restrictions.
Official visa information: Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Japan: Visa Information.
Visit Japan Web
Visit Japan Web is the official online service that allows travellers to register immigration, customs and quarantine-related information before arrival. It can help speed up procedures at airports by creating QR codes for immigration and customs declarations.
- Visit Japan Web is optional for many travellers but highly useful for a smoother arrival process.
- Register passport information, flight details and accommodation information before travel.
- Complete customs declarations through the official platform where applicable.
- Use only the official government service and avoid unofficial sites that charge unnecessary fees.
Official Visit Japan Web: Visit Japan Web.
Useful travel documents
- Passport and visa where required.
- Visit Japan Web QR codes if you choose to use the service.
- Return or onward travel ticket.
- Accommodation reservations or Japanese contact address.
- Travel health-insurance certificate.
- International driving permit if planning to drive.
- Prescription documents for medication.
- Digital and printed copies of passport, insurance, bookings and emergency contacts.
Customs and medication
Japan has strict rules on controlled drugs, stimulants, cannabis products, certain prescription medicines and medication containing ingredients that may be legal elsewhere. Do not assume that medication permitted in your home country is automatically permitted in Japan.
- Check Japanese rules before carrying prescription medication, ADHD medication, narcotic painkillers or medical devices.
- Some medicines require a “Yakkan Shoumei” import certificate or other prior approval.
- Bring medication in original packaging with a doctor’s letter and prescription.
- Do not bring cannabis, CBD products or related substances without verifying legality through official sources.
- Declare restricted goods and follow customs instructions.
Official customs information: Japan Customs.
2. Health, Vaccinations & Insurance
Health preparation
Japan has excellent hospitals, medical technology and public hygiene standards. However, medical treatment can be expensive for visitors without insurance, and English-language support may be limited outside international clinics and major cities.
- Ensure routine vaccinations are up to date before departure.
- Consult a travel clinic if you have medical conditions, require specialist medication or plan remote hiking.
- Carry prescription medication in original packaging with written medical documentation.
- Pack a basic medical kit, including pain relief, plasters, digestive medication and seasonal allergy treatment.
- Bring masks if desired for crowded transport, clinics or seasonal respiratory illness periods.
Travel health insurance
Comprehensive travel health insurance is strongly recommended. Choose cover for emergency treatment, hospitalisation, medical evacuation, repatriation, personal liability, trip interruption and planned activities such as skiing, hiking, diving or cycling.
- Check whether your policy covers treatment at private or international clinics.
- Confirm evacuation cover for mountain areas, remote islands and winter-sports destinations.
- Carry your insurer’s emergency assistance number offline.
- Do not rely solely on basic credit-card insurance without checking medical limits and exclusions.
Natural disasters and health preparedness
Japan is affected by earthquakes, typhoons, heavy rain, flooding, landslides, volcanic activity and winter storms. Download local alert apps, follow official instructions, and know your accommodation’s evacuation procedures.
Japan’s official tourism authorities provide emergency support and disaster information for visitors: Japan Visitor Hotline – JNTO.
3. Safety & Travel Advisories
General safety
Japan is generally one of the safest countries for travellers. Violent crime is uncommon, public transport is safe and cities are well organised. Standard precautions are still sensible in nightlife areas, crowded stations, festivals and tourist districts.
- Keep passports, cash, cards and devices secure in crowded areas.
- Do not leave bags unattended in trains, cafés, stations or public places.
- Use official taxis, public transport and reputable hotels.
- Be careful in nightlife districts, especially with drink offers, expensive bar scams and unlicensed venues.
- Follow local rules, queue etiquette and transport safety procedures.
- Carry your accommodation address written in Japanese, especially outside major cities.
Natural-disaster safety
Natural hazards are among the most significant travel risks in Japan. Earthquakes can happen without warning, while typhoons and heavy rain can disrupt transport, flights, ferries, hiking routes and regional travel.
- In an earthquake, drop, cover and hold on; follow instructions from staff and local authorities.
- Check tsunami evacuation routes when staying near the coast.
- Monitor typhoon forecasts before domestic flights, ferry trips and mountain travel.
- Do not enter closed hiking trails, volcanic zones or flood-prone rivers.
- Follow hotel, rail operator and government announcements during emergencies.
Local laws and etiquette
- Japan has strict laws on drugs and cannabis-related products.
- Do not carry or use illegal substances, even if they are legal in your home country.
- Smoking is restricted in many public places; use designated smoking areas.
- Do not eat or drink on local trains where this is considered inappropriate.
- Do not speak loudly on phones on public transport.
- Remove shoes when requested in homes, temples, traditional inns and some restaurants.
- Ask before photographing people, private property, geisha or performers.
Official travel advice
4. Emergency & Important Numbers
Main emergency numbers
- Police emergency: 110
- Ambulance and fire service: 119
- Japan Coast Guard: 118
- Japan Visitor Hotline: 050-3816-2787
- Japan Visitor Hotline from overseas: +81-50-3816-2787
- Tokyo Metropolitan Police English helpline: +81-3-3501-0110
- Police lost-property information: 0570-550-142
- Police general information: +81-3-3503-8484
Call 110 to report crime, danger, assault, suspicious activity or a traffic accident requiring police. Call 119 for an ambulance, serious illness, injury, fire or rescue situation. Both numbers are free and available 24 hours a day.
The Japan National Tourism Organization operates the Japan Visitor Hotline 24 hours a day, 365 days a year. It provides tourist information and assistance with accidents, illness, disasters and other emergencies in English, Chinese, Korean and Japanese.
Official JNTO hotline: Japan Visitor Hotline.
Official emergency guidance: JNTO: What to Do in an Emergency.
Useful Japanese emergency phrases
- Ambulance, please: Kyūkyū desu.
- Fire: Kaji desu.
- Police: Keisatsu onegaishimasu.
- I need help: Tasukete kudasai.
- I am at: Watashi wa ... ni imasu.
- My hotel is: Hoteru wa ... desu.
Emergency planning checklist
- Save 110, 119, 118, the JNTO hotline and your embassy contacts.
- Carry your hotel address and phone number in Japanese.
- Download offline maps and disaster-alert applications.
- Know the nearest evacuation route if staying near the coast or in a volcanic region.
- Follow rail, hotel, airline and government announcements during earthquakes, typhoons or flooding.
- Contact your insurer immediately after a serious medical event, accident or cancellation.
5. Embassies & Consulates
Consular assistance
Japan hosts many embassies and consulates, mainly in Tokyo and Osaka. Contact your responsible embassy or consulate if you lose your passport, are arrested, become seriously ill, experience a major accident or need emergency travel documents.
Useful embassy and consular links
- Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Japan
- U.S. Embassy and Consulates in Japan
- British Embassy Tokyo
- Embassy of Germany in Tokyo
- Austrian Embassy Tokyo
- Australian Embassy Japan
- Canada: Embassies and Consulates Abroad
United States Embassy contact
- U.S. Embassy Tokyo: +81-3-3224-5000
- Address: 1-10-5 Akasaka, Minato-ku, Tokyo 107-8420
Always confirm current office hours, emergency contacts, addresses and appointment rules directly through the embassy website before travel.
6. Background on Japan & Society
Country overview
Japan is an island nation in East Asia made up of four main islands—Honshu, Hokkaido, Kyushu and Shikoku—plus thousands of smaller islands. It is known for advanced technology, efficient infrastructure, traditional arts, Buddhism, Shinto, cuisine, design, anime, manga, gaming, manufacturing and seasonal landscapes.
Japan’s geography includes densely populated cities, volcanoes, mountains, forests, beaches, hot springs and ski areas. Mount Fuji is its best-known natural landmark. Tokyo is the political and economic centre, while Kyoto, Osaka, Hiroshima, Nara, Sapporo, Fukuoka and Okinawa offer distinctive regional cultures.
Society, religion and culture
- Official language: Japanese.
- Writing systems: Kanji, Hiragana and Katakana.
- Religion: Shinto and Buddhism are deeply connected to cultural traditions; Christianity and other faiths are also present.
- Culture: Japan combines historic court, samurai, merchant, rural and regional traditions with advanced modern urban culture.
- Hospitality: Omotenashi refers to attentive Japanese hospitality and service culture.
Etiquette and behaviour
- Bow slightly when greeting or thanking someone; a nod is usually sufficient for visitors.
- Remove shoes when requested in homes, temples, ryokan and selected restaurants.
- Queue patiently and allow passengers to leave trains before boarding.
- Keep noise low on public transport and avoid phone calls in train carriages.
- Do not tip in ordinary restaurants, taxis or shops; tipping is not customary.
- Use both hands when giving or receiving business cards, gifts or money in formal situations.
- Do not place chopsticks upright in rice, as this resembles funeral ritual practice.
7. Climate, Weather & Clothing
Climate
Japan has substantial regional and seasonal variation. Hokkaido has cold snowy winters, central Japan has four distinct seasons, southern Kyushu is warmer, and Okinawa has a subtropical climate. Spring and autumn are popular for comfortable temperatures and seasonal scenery.
Best time to visit
- Spring, March to May: Cherry blossoms, mild weather and high demand for accommodation.
- Summer, June to August: Hot and humid in much of Japan, with rainy season in many regions and festivals throughout the country.
- Autumn, September to November: Comfortable temperatures and autumn foliage, ideal for cities and hiking.
- Winter, December to February: Skiing, snow festivals, hot springs and clear weather in many areas.
Regional weather notes
- Tokyo, Kyoto and Osaka: Hot humid summers, cool winters and pleasant spring or autumn weather.
- Hokkaido: Long snowy winters and cooler summers.
- Okinawa: Subtropical climate with warm weather and typhoon risk.
- Mount Fuji and Japanese Alps: Alpine conditions, snow and rapid weather changes at altitude.
- Typhoon season: Generally affects parts of Japan from summer into autumn.
Clothing recommendations
- Spring and autumn: layers, comfortable walking shoes and a light rain jacket.
- Summer: breathable clothing, umbrella, sun protection and a water bottle.
- Winter: insulated coat, gloves, hat and non-slip shoes in colder regions.
- Hiking: sturdy shoes, weatherproof layers and sufficient water.
- Temples, shrines and formal restaurants: clean, modest clothing is appropriate.
8. Language & Communication
Language
- Official language: Japanese.
- English: Common at major airports, international hotels, key train stations and tourist attractions, but less widely spoken in smaller towns and local businesses.
- Translation: Translation apps, offline maps and Japanese address cards are very useful.
Useful Japanese phrases
- Hello: Konnichiwa
- Thank you: Arigatō gozaimasu
- Please: Onegaishimasu
- Yes: Hai
- No: Iie
- Excuse me: Sumimasen
- How much is this? Ikura desu ka?
- Where is the station? Eki wa doko desu ka?
- Do you speak English? Eigo o hanasemasu ka?
- Thank you for the meal: Gochisōsama deshita
Internet, SIM cards and mobile data
Japan has excellent mobile coverage and high-speed internet in cities. Tourist SIM cards, eSIMs, portable Wi-Fi devices and airport rental options are widely available. Data access is especially useful for maps, rail schedules, restaurant translation and cashless payments.
- Purchase a tourist SIM or eSIM before travel, online or at major airports.
- Portable Wi-Fi can be useful for families or groups with multiple devices.
- Free Wi-Fi is common in hotels, airports, convenience stores and selected transport hubs.
- Download offline maps and rail apps before rural or mountain travel.
- Bring a power bank for long sightseeing and train days.
9. Voltage & Plug Types
Electricity in Japan
- Voltage: 100 V.
- Frequency: 50 Hz in eastern Japan, including Tokyo; 60 Hz in western Japan, including Osaka and Kyoto.
- Plug type: Type A, with two flat parallel pins.
Adapter and converter advice
Travellers from the United States and Canada can usually use Type A plugs directly, but should check voltage compatibility. Travellers from Germany, Austria, Switzerland, the United Kingdom, Australia and most other countries will need a Type A plug adapter.
Japan’s 100 V supply is lower than the 220–240 V supply used in much of Europe and Australia. Most modern phone, laptop and camera chargers support 100–240 V, but appliances such as hairdryers, straighteners and electric shavers may require a voltage converter or a Japan-compatible version.
10. Money & Finances
Currency
Japan’s official currency is the Japanese yen (JPY), shown as ¥. Japan has become increasingly card-friendly, but cash remains important, especially in smaller shops, traditional inns, rural areas, temples, local markets and some restaurants.
Check current exchange rates: XE Currency Converter for JPY.
Payments and cash
- Cards are widely accepted in hotels, department stores, chain restaurants and many attractions.
- Visa and Mastercard are widely used; American Express and JCB are accepted in many larger businesses.
- Cash is still useful for small restaurants, markets, local buses, temples and rural accommodation.
- International cards often work at 7-Eleven ATMs and Japan Post Bank ATMs.
- Contactless cards, mobile wallets and QR payments are increasingly common in cities.
IC cards
IC cards such as Suica, Pasmo and ICOCA are useful for local trains, subways, buses, convenience stores, vending machines and selected restaurants. Availability and purchasing conditions can vary, so check current visitor options before arrival.
Price level
Japan can be moderately expensive, especially in Tokyo, Kyoto, ski resorts and during cherry blossom or autumn foliage seasons. Local food, convenience-store meals, public transport and business hotels can offer excellent value.
Tipping culture
Tipping is generally not expected in Japan. Restaurant, taxi and hotel prices normally include service. Leaving cash on a table can cause confusion. Exceptional private guides may accept a gratuity if offered discreetly in an envelope, but it is not required.
11. Transport & Arrival
Main airports
- Tokyo Haneda Airport (HND): Closest major airport to central Tokyo.
- Tokyo Narita International Airport (NRT): Major international airport serving Tokyo.
- Kansai International Airport (KIX): Main airport for Osaka, Kyoto and the Kansai region.
- Chubu Centrair International Airport (NGO): Gateway to Nagoya and central Japan.
- New Chitose Airport (CTS): Main airport for Sapporo and Hokkaido.
- Fukuoka Airport (FUK): Major gateway to Kyushu.
- Naha Airport (OKA): Main gateway to Okinawa.
Rail travel and Shinkansen
Japan’s rail network is one of the world’s most efficient. The Shinkansen bullet-train network connects Tokyo, Kyoto, Osaka, Hiroshima, Fukuoka, Kanazawa, Nagano, Sendai, Hokkaido and other major regions.
- Use train apps, station English signage and seat reservations for long-distance travel.
- Reserve seats early during Golden Week, Obon, New Year and peak cherry blossom or autumn foliage periods.
- Check whether a Japan Rail Pass provides value for your exact itinerary before purchase.
- Regional rail passes may be better value than the national pass for some routes.
Official rail-pass information: JAPAN RAIL PASS Official Website.
Official railway information: JR East.
Urban public transport
- Tokyo: Extensive JR, Tokyo Metro and Toei subway systems.
- Osaka: Osaka Metro, JR lines and private railways.
- Kyoto: Buses, subway and rail lines; buses can be crowded at major attractions.
- Hiroshima: Streetcars, buses and ferries to Miyajima.
- Sapporo: Subway, trams and buses.
Useful transport apps and services
- Jorudan Japan Transit Planner
- Japan Travel by NAVITIME
- Google Maps: Japan
- JNTO Trip Planning Information
Taxis and ride-hailing
Taxis in Japan are safe, regulated and reliable, but can be expensive. Ride-hailing services are available in selected cities, but public transport is usually faster and more economical.
Taxi doors often open and close automatically. Do not force them. Keep the destination address in Japanese or show it on a map to the driver.
12. Accommodation & Practical On-Site Information
Accommodation types
- Luxury hotels: Available in Tokyo, Kyoto, Osaka, Hokkaido, Okinawa and major resort areas.
- Business hotels: Compact, efficient hotels found near stations across Japan.
- Ryokan: Traditional Japanese inns, often with tatami rooms, futons, communal baths and set meals.
- Minshuku: Family-run Japanese guesthouses, particularly in rural regions.
- Capsule hotels: Compact urban accommodation, often best for solo travellers and short stays.
- Hostels: Available in major cities, ski towns and backpacker destinations.
- Temple lodgings: Available in selected temple towns such as Mount Koya.
Recommended areas to stay
- Tokyo – Shinjuku: Transport hub, shopping, nightlife and broad hotel choice.
- Tokyo – Shibuya: Youth culture, shopping, restaurants and nightlife.
- Tokyo – Asakusa: Traditional atmosphere, temples and budget-friendly options.
- Tokyo – Tokyo Station: Central location and convenient for Shinkansen travel.
- Kyoto – Gion and Higashiyama: Historic streets, temples and traditional atmosphere.
- Kyoto – Kyoto Station: Best for transport connections and day trips.
- Osaka – Namba and Dotonbori: Food, nightlife and shopping.
- Osaka – Umeda: Major station, business hotels and long-distance transport.
Opening hours and shopping
- Convenience stores are widespread and usually open 24 hours.
- Department stores and malls often open from late morning to evening.
- Restaurants may close between lunch and dinner service.
- Many museums, temples and attractions have regular closing days.
- Shops, hotels and transport can be busy during Golden Week, Obon and New Year.
- Tax-free shopping may be available for eligible visitors; bring your passport when purchasing.
Shopping districts
- Tokyo – Ginza: Luxury brands, department stores and design.
- Tokyo – Akihabara: Electronics, anime, manga, gaming and pop culture.
- Tokyo – Harajuku: Youth fashion, street culture and boutiques.
- Osaka – Shinsaibashi: Shopping, fashion and restaurants.
- Kyoto – Nishiki Market: Food, crafts and local products.
- Sapporo – Tanukikoji: Covered shopping arcade and local shopping.
13. Food, Drink & Cuisine
Japanese food culture
Japan’s cuisine is regionally diverse, seasonal and internationally respected. Food ranges from refined kaiseki dining and sushi counters to ramen shops, convenience-store meals, izakaya pubs, local markets and street-food stalls.
Typical dishes
- Sushi: Vinegared rice with seafood, vegetables or egg.
- Sashimi: Sliced raw fish or seafood.
- Ramen: Noodle soup with regional variations in broth, noodles and toppings.
- Udon and soba: Thick wheat noodles and buckwheat noodles served hot or cold.
- Tempura: Lightly battered and fried seafood or vegetables.
- Okonomiyaki: Savoury pancake, especially associated with Osaka and Hiroshima.
- Takoyaki: Octopus-filled batter balls, a popular Osaka street food.
- Katsu curry: Japanese curry with breaded cutlet and rice.
- Yakitori: Grilled chicken skewers often served in izakaya restaurants.
- Onigiri: Rice balls with varied fillings, widely available at convenience stores.
Drinks and sweets
- Green tea: Served hot or cold, including matcha.
- Sake: Japanese rice wine, served in many styles and temperatures.
- Japanese whisky and beer: Widely available in bars and restaurants.
- Ramune: Carbonated soft drink often sold at festivals.
- Mochi: Rice-cake sweet with varied fillings.
- Wagashi: Traditional Japanese sweets often served with tea.
Food hygiene and dietary needs
Japan has high food-hygiene standards. However, visitors with vegetarian, vegan, halal, kosher or allergy-related needs should plan carefully because fish stock, bonito flakes, pork, seafood and egg are common ingredients even in dishes that appear vegetarian.
- Tap water is safe to drink throughout Japan.
- Use translation apps or dietary cards to explain allergies and restrictions.
- Ask about dashi, fish stock, pork and seafood in soups, sauces and vegetable dishes.
- Choose restaurants with clear allergy information if you have severe reactions.
- Convenience stores provide useful meals and snacks for train journeys.
14. Time Zone & Public Holidays
Time zone
- Time zone: Japan Standard Time, UTC+9.
- Daylight saving time: Japan does not observe daylight saving time.
- Difference from Central Europe: Usually eight hours ahead of Germany, Austria and Switzerland in winter, and seven hours ahead during Central European Summer Time.
- Difference from the United Kingdom: Usually nine hours ahead in winter and eight hours ahead during British Summer Time.
Important public holidays
- New Year holidays: 1 to 3 January, with many businesses and attractions closed or reduced.
- Coming of Age Day: Second Monday in January.
- National Foundation Day: 11 February.
- Emperor’s Birthday: 23 February.
- Vernal Equinox Day: Date varies in March.
- Showa Day: 29 April.
- Constitution Memorial Day: 3 May.
- Greenery Day: 4 May.
- Children’s Day: 5 May.
- Marine Day: Third Monday in July.
- Mountain Day: 11 August.
- Respect for the Aged Day: Third Monday in September.
- Autumnal Equinox Day: Date varies in September.
- Sports Day: Second Monday in October.
- Culture Day: 3 November.
- Labour Thanksgiving Day: 23 November.
Busy travel periods
- Golden Week: Late April to early May; one of Japan’s busiest domestic travel periods.
- Obon: Usually mid-August; major domestic travel period linked to ancestral traditions.
- New Year: Late December to early January; transport and accommodation can be busy while some businesses close.
- Cherry blossom season: Usually spring; hotel prices and demand rise in popular cities.
- Autumn foliage season: Usually October to November; popular for Kyoto, Nikko and mountain regions.
15. Attractions & Highlights
Tokyo highlights
- Shibuya Crossing: Famous city crossing and centre of youth culture.
- Asakusa and Senso-ji Temple: Historic temple district with markets and traditional streets.
- Meiji Jingu: Shinto shrine set in forest near Harajuku.
- Tokyo Skytree: Observation tower with sweeping city views.
- Tokyo Tower: Classic city landmark and observation point.
- Akihabara: Electronics, anime, manga and gaming district.
- Ueno Park: Museums, zoo and cherry blossoms in spring.
- Tsukiji Outer Market: Food stalls, seafood and kitchen goods.
Kyoto, Nara and Kansai
- Fushimi Inari Taisha: Shrine famous for thousands of red torii gates.
- Kinkaku-ji: The Golden Pavilion.
- Kiyomizu-dera: Historic temple with panoramic views over Kyoto.
- Arashiyama: Bamboo grove, river scenery and temples.
- Gion: Historic geisha district and traditional streets.
- Nara Park: Deer park, Todaiji Temple and Great Buddha.
- Osaka Castle: Landmark castle and park.
- Dotonbori: Osaka food, nightlife and neon entertainment district.
Mount Fuji, mountains and nature
- Mount Fuji: Japan’s iconic volcano; climbing is seasonal and requires preparation.
- Hakone: Hot springs, lake views, museums and potential Mount Fuji scenery.
- Japanese Alps: Hiking, alpine routes, hot springs and winter sports.
- Nikko: Shrines, waterfalls and mountain scenery north of Tokyo.
- Shirakawa-go: Traditional gassho-zukuri farmhouses and UNESCO World Heritage landscape.
- Kumano Kodo: Historic pilgrimage trails in the Kii Peninsula.
Other major destinations
- Hiroshima: Peace Memorial Park, Atomic Bomb Dome and nearby Miyajima Island.
- Hokkaido: Sapporo, snow festivals, skiing, national parks and summer hiking.
- Okinawa: Beaches, coral reefs, diving and Ryukyu culture.
- Fukuoka: Food stalls, ramen, waterfront and gateway to Kyushu.
- Kanazawa: Kenrokuen Garden, samurai districts and traditional crafts.
- Naoshima: Contemporary art island in the Seto Inland Sea.
Official travel planning: Japan National Tourism Organization – Travel Japan.
16. Nightlife & Events
Nightlife
Japan has varied nightlife, from tiny izakaya pubs and jazz bars to karaoke rooms, nightclubs, live music venues, food alleys and late-night ramen shops. Tokyo, Osaka, Fukuoka, Sapporo and Nagoya offer the broadest choices.
- Tokyo – Shinjuku: Bars, restaurants, Golden Gai, Kabukicho and late-night entertainment.
- Tokyo – Shibuya: Clubs, music venues, youth culture and nightlife.
- Tokyo – Roppongi: International bars, clubs and nightlife; use caution with unsolicited invitations.
- Osaka – Dotonbori and Namba: Food, bars, comedy and nightlife.
- Kyoto – Pontocho: Traditional restaurants, bars and evening atmosphere.
- Fukuoka – Nakasu: Yatai food stalls, nightlife and riverfront entertainment.
Festivals and events
- Cherry blossom festivals: Spring hanami celebrations across the country.
- Gion Matsuri: Major Kyoto festival in July.
- Nebuta Matsuri: Aomori summer festival with illuminated floats.
- Awa Odori: Traditional dance festival in Tokushima.
- Sapporo Snow Festival: Winter snow and ice sculptures in Hokkaido.
- Tanabata: Star festival celebrated in several cities.
- Autumn foliage illuminations: Seasonal night events in temples, gardens and parks.
- Sumo tournaments: Grand tournaments take place in Tokyo, Osaka, Nagoya and Fukuoka.
Current events and seasonal information: JNTO Japan Travel Inspiration and Events.
17. Media & Further Links
Official tourism and government information
- Travel Japan – Japan National Tourism Organization
- Visit Japan Web
- Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Japan: Visa Information
- Japan Customs
- Japan Visitor Hotline
- JAPAN RAIL PASS Official Website
- Japan Meteorological Agency
Travel advisories
- UK travel advice for Japan
- United States travel information for Japan
- Australia travel advice for Japan
- Germany travel advice for Japan
- Austria travel information for Japan
Maps, images, video and news
- Google Maps: Japan
- Image Search: Japan Travel
- YouTube: Japan Travel Guide
- YouTube: Japanese Food Travel Guide
- Google News: Japan
Local and international media
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