TRAVEL TO JAPAN
A country with so many highlights
From neon-lit cities to the sumo tradition, incredibly good street food and impressive nature. Japan has it all!
Neon & shrines: Ultimate blend of Japan’s past and present
Cities like Osaka and Tokyo give you a great impression of modern Japan: technological marvels, shopping streets, neon-lit buildings, and gigantic crowds. They are also the destinations where many people begin their tour of Japan.
When you visit Japan, it is of great importance to also experience the traditional side of the country. In Kyoto and Nara, two former capitals of Japan, you can immerse yourself in traditional Japanese culture and discover its beautiful cultural heritage, featuring numerous temples that have been—and still are—of great significance in the history of the Japanese people. Both cities are easily accessible by train (Japan Rail) from Osaka. If you would rather experience life in a Japanese temple, travel to Mount Koya and spend the night among the monks. Koyasan is the center of Shingon Buddhism and is home to more than a hundred temples.
Tokyo
What to do in Japan?
Food, samoerai and sumo, Japan has lots to offer.
Need help planning your trip to Japan?
Our travel experts can help you refine your ideas, pick the right destinations and plan your trip from start to finish.
Impressive nature of Japan
Japan is a beautiful country with many sights to see, even outside the cities. If you love nature, you can enjoy the many mountains, forests, lakes, and volcanoes the country has to offer. For instance, you can climb the famous Mount Fuji, or take a walk through the Arashiyama bamboo groves. Or how about a visit to the Jigokudani Monkey Park, where you can see wild snow monkeys bathing in the hot springs? Japan also boasts many beautiful islands, such as Okinawa, Hokkaido, and Yakushima, where you can go snorkeling, skiing, or admire ancient cedar trees. Japan is a land of contrasts and surprises, where there is always something new to discover.
Nature in Japan
Why choose KILROY for your next trip
30+ years of expertise
For more than three decades, we’ve helped travellers discover the world. Our specialist knowledge and trusted global partners help you explore with confidence.
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One dedicated travel expert who understands your plans, preferences, and goals. From first idea to journey home, they’ll guide you every step of the way.
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If the unexpected happens, emergency support is always within reach. Wherever you are and whenever you need us, a KILROY expert is ready to help you.
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The best trips don’t end when you get home. We create journeys filled with experiences, stories, and memories that stay with you long after the adventure ends.
Travel through Japan by train, campervan or a local guide
Exploring Japan in a campervan is an incredible experience. It allows you to immerse yourself in ancient culture, pristine nature, and delicious Japanese cuisine, all while enjoying the freedom to choose your own route and stop whenever you like. It is a comfortable, affordable way to discover the country and connect with the hospitality of the local people. If driving a campervan isn't for you, the Japan Rail Pass is an excellent alternative. Available for 7, 14, or 21 days, it offers unlimited travel across the country. Japan's public transport is world-class, and when combined with local bus and metro tickets in the cities, you can get anywhere quickly and affordably.
Another great option is traveling with a local guide, such as booking an organized tour. This is a perfect way to see a lot of the country in a short amount of time. Your guide will handle all the logistics—like booking train tickets, finding accommodation, and discovering authentic local eateries—while mapping out the best route past major sights. Plus, having an English- and Japanese-speaking guide is incredibly helpful in areas where only local dialects are spoken. You can also opt to join a group tour.
Train in Japan
Frequently asked questions
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Passport & Visa: Valid for the duration of your stay. Check the embassy website to see if you need to apply for a visa.
Visit Japan Web: Register your details on the Visit Japan Web portal before your trip. This generates QR codes to speed up immigration and customs clearance.
Proof of Travel & Funds: Have your accommodation address handy, and be prepared to show your return flight ticket or sufficient funds upon arrival.
Medication: Japan has strict biosecurity and pharmaceutical laws. Check in advance if your specific prescriptions or over-the-counter drugs are allowed into the country.
While the long-haul flight to Japan can be a major upfront expense, daily costs on the ground are surprisingly reasonable. From activities and attraction entry fees to dining out, the overall cost of living makes Japan an affordable destination once you arrive.
Book your plane tickets well in advance. For flights to Japan, the rule often applies: the earlier you book, the cheaper it is.
Choose budget accommodation, such as a hostel or a capsule hotel.
Take advantage of the Japan Rail Pass, a train pass that allows you to travel unlimitedly on most trains in Japan for a fixed price.
Eat at local restaurants, supermarkets, or convenience stores, where you can find delicious and affordable meals.
Visit free or cheap attractions, such as temples, parks, museums, and markets.
Plan your trip outside the peak season, such as during the cherry blossom season, when prices are higher and places are crowded.
Due to the vast shape of the country, Japan experiences many different types of weather. The weather, therefore, depends entirely on your destination. Generally, July and August are the summer months, with temperatures around 30 degrees Celsius and the highest chance of sunshine. If you can do without sun occasionally, then the best time to travel is from July through October. If you have always wanted to see the cherry blossoms, then the best time to travel is during the spring, from January through April.
As a first time visitor, there's a must see roundtrip everyone should experience. You can start in impressive Tokyo, visit Mount Fuji in Hakone, take the bullet train to traditional Kyoto and end your trip in modern Osaka. Can you travel more then 2 weeks? Add historic cities as Himeji and Hiroshima to the list or chose rural Nikko to make the list complete. Feeling adventurous? Go skiing in what might be the best powder snow in the world!
