A trip to Japan can be a life-changing experience. The country boasts a rich culture and uniquely blends its ancient traditions with modernity. It boasts stunning landmarks, vibrant neon-lit cities, and tranquil temples to explore. There are also breathtaking hidden gems in the rural areas to discover. However, if your trip is not planned correctly, you will face challenges that create an unpleasant experience. You can avoid these mishaps by taking certain precautionary measures. When travelling to a new country, it is crucial to understand local customs, travel logistics, and must-visit spots. This will ensure that your trip is fulfilling. Here is some important expert-recommended advice to help your Japan visit go smoothly.
Planning Your Trip to Japan
1. Choosing the Best Time to Visit
When travelling anywhere, it is important to know the best time to visit. Depending on your reason for visiting, you may want to visit during the festive seasons or the calmer ones. In Japan, you can witness the famous cherry blossoms in spring (March to May), the beautiful foliage in autumn (September to November), the festival season that may be hot and humid in summer (June to August), and cold outdoor activities like skiing and relaxing in hot springs in winter (December to February).
2. Itinerary Planning
There are many places to explore in Japan, from bustling cities to beautiful rural communities. You can visit popular places like Tokyo, Kyoto, and Osaka. The country’s efficient transportation system makes exploring cities easy to do. You can also go to lesser-visited areas, including Kanazawa, Takayama, or Yakushima, that offer amazing experiences and fewer crowds.
3. Getting a Japan Rail Pass (JR Pass)
You can make exploring areas easier by getting a Japan Rail Pass, which allows you to travel as many times as you want on JR trains. This pass will be more cost-effective if you plan on visiting many cities. However, if you will be mainly in one city, you can utilise local transportation passes that are more affordable.
4. Budgeting for Japan
Japan caters to travellers on a budget, allowing them to enjoy the country while spending less. Travellers with a small budget can take advantage of the convenience stores, as they offer delicious and affordable meals. They can also stay at capsule hotels and hostels, which offer affordable accommodations, and explore places like temples and parks that are free or inexpensive.
Pre-Departure Essentials
5. Understanding Japanese Etiquette
It is crucial to show respect and politeness in Japan. Proper etiquette is extremely important in this country, as it is a huge part of the Japanese culture. Understanding Japanese etiquette will make your trip go wonderfully. Always remember to bow when greeting someone, never enter homes with shoes or certain restaurants, and do not speak loudly on public transport. You can also ensure your interactions with locals go smoothly by practising Japanese phrases. Some of the basic ones include “Arigato” (thank you) and “Sumimasen” (excuse me).
Experiencing Japanese Culture
11. Staying in a Ryokan
If you are interested in delving deep into the Japanese tradition, you can skip modern hotels and stay in a ryokan. This traditional inn offers an authentic Japanese experience, making it the perfect end to a busy day of explorations. In this inn, you will see tatami mat floors and futon bedding. You can also expect elaborate kaiseki meals that will intrigue your tastebuds.
12. Enjoying an Onsen
While you may not be able to indulge in all the Japanese customs and experience the entirety of its culture in one visit, especially if it is short, you must visit an onsen. The Japanese culture cherishes public baths. When visiting an onsen, you should ensure that you take a shower before and wash thoroughly. Afterwards, you can enjoy the communal hot spring. Some facilities may have strict rules against tattoos, so it is important to check before going.
