Japan provides travelers with unparalleled experiences and breathtaking panoramas, from sampling delectable cuisine in Osaka to gazing upon historic temples in Kyoto – you will never run out of opportunities!
Here are a few helpful tips to make planning your trip an effortless endeavor, from booking hotels to exploring with a JR Pass. These useful hints will ensure your Asian adventure will be a successful one!
Plan Ahead
There’s plenty of advice online for planning a trip to Japan, but much of it tends to focus on what should be done rather than what shouldn’t. No matter your level of experience or if this is your first trip there, knowing what not to do can save time and prevent mistakes that will ruin your holiday experience.
One of the key mistakes travelers make when planning a visit is not setting aside enough time for food and hiking – both are essential activities and should not be skipped over. From gourmet dining in Tokyo and traditional sweets and desserts in smaller towns to breathtaking mountain peaks like Fuji-san or scenic riverside walks there’s sure to be a hike that suits every level of experience and skill! To learn more, visit the site below:
Get a JR Pass
Japan Rail Passes offer the best way to save money on train travel in Japan, so purchasing one before arriving is highly recommended.
A JR Pass is an all-access pass to Japan’s public transportation system, including its famed bullet trains. Owning such a pass can save time and money while making planning your trip much simpler.
Klook offers JR Passes up to three months before your planned visit, however for optimal use they should be purchased prior to traveling – ideally several days ahead as it takes several days for it to reach you through mail delivery from Klook.
Once you’ve purchased your JR Pass, make sure that all the shinkansen trains that you plan to ride during your trip have seats reserved in advance for them – either through ticket counters at most stations or online – because these trains tend to fill quickly.
Consider Weather
Spring weather (March to May) is typically pleasant, with temperatures rising and flowers starting to bloom across the nation the iconic Japanese cherry trees reaching their peak bloom in mid-March and moving north throughout April. It is an unforgettable sight as spring unfolds before our eyes!
Summer brings with it hot and humid conditions in Japan, with the early part of summer (June-August) often marked by typhoon season. Mountains offer cooler environments as well as great hiking opportunities.
Autumn (September to November) is an ideal time to experience Japan’s stunning fall foliage, as the temperatures remain mild yet its vibrant colors provide stunning visuals. Tourists flock to Japan during this season; thus be prepared for increased crowds and higher accommodation prices.
Winter (December-February) is an excellent time for skiing and snow activities in Tokyo, with excellent conditions underfoot and festive illuminations making for an atmospheric setting. This season allows visitors to indulge in hot-pot dining as well as sip on some warm sake!
Get a Rental Car
Traveling Japan without renting a car could mean missing out on some of its greatest sites. When considering 2024 Japan Group Travel, know that while public transit such as subway and train can help get around within Tokyo and other metropolitan areas. However, for accessing remote locations within mountains, islands, and countryside that make up most of Japan you will require a rental car.
Driving in Japan is generally safe, with low rates of traffic accidents being among the lowest worldwide. Still, drivers should always remain aware and follow speed limits to remain safe on the road. Parking is generally available in urban areas (though in smaller cities you may have to pay or use an Uber-like app); most rural ryokans will offer parking facilities.
Renting a car in Japan will require that you present a valid International Driving Permit, driver’s license from your home country and a major credit card, along with any terms and conditions stipulated by the rental-car company in its contract. Most car rental agencies in Japan can accommodate child seat needs as most provide online booking platforms that allow parents to reserve seats ahead of time – ready to be picked up when you arrive!