ℹ️ Quick info
📅 When to go
Best period based on climate data · Open-Meteo
Spring (March–May) is ideal for cherry blossoms and mild temperatures. Autumn (October–November) brings gorgeous foliage. Avoid July and August: sweltering heat and the monsoon rains.
💶 Costs
🛡️ Safety
Exchange rates at the airport are unfavourable.
How to avoid it: Change only the bare minimum at the airport, then use Japan Post or 7-Eleven ATMs.
Some taxis outside tourist areas don't run the meter.
How to avoid it: Take only official taxis from the designated ranks. Confirm the fare before you set off.
Many restaurants and shops accept cash only.
How to avoid it: Always keep at least 10,000–15,000 yen in cash. Withdraw from 7-Eleven ATMs.
🚌 Transport
A must for intercity travel. Buy it before you leave home — it costs less that way.
Essential for metro and buses in the cities. Rechargeable everywhere.
Reliable but very pricey. Use them only at night or when carrying heavy bags.
Not widely available. Use local apps like GO or DiDi instead.
🧳 What to pack
- Comfortable shoes (you'll walk a lot)
- Socks without holes (you take your shoes off often)
- A light waterproof jacket
- A power bank (long days out)
- A Type A plug adapter
- Cash in Yen
- A face mask (local custom)
- A foldable umbrella
- Valid passport
- Check passport expiry (min. 6 months)
- Activate Revolut or a fee-free card
- Withdraw cash in Yen (7-Eleven ATMs are reliable)
- Buy an eSIM or local SIM before you leave
- Type A plug adapter
- Buy the JR Pass at home (cheaper)
- Activate travel health insurance
🎉 Seasonal highlights
Japan's most iconic moment. Tokyo, Kyoto and Nara turn pink. Book your accommodation months ahead: it's the busiest time of the year.
Parks and temples blaze with red, orange and gold. Nikko and Kyoto are spectacular. Less crowded than Sakura, and just as beautiful.
Enormous ice sculptures in Odori Park. If you go in February, pair it with skiing in Niseko — some of the best slopes in Asia.
Fireworks (Hanabi) and traditional dances. A unique atmosphere, but August is hot and humid: come prepared.
Ready to go?
Compare hotels, flights and activities for your next adventure.
Some links are affiliate links: if you book, Dora Travels earns a small commission at no extra cost to you.