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The Rough Guide to Jamaica 3 (Rough Guide Travel Guides) Paperback – December 29, 2003

There is a newer edition of this item:.

• Print length 480 pages
• Language English
• Publisher Rough Guides
• Publication date December 29, 2003
• ISBN-10 1843531119
• ISBN-13 978-1843531111
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• Publisher ‏ : ‎ Rough Guides; 3rd edition (December 29, 2003)
• Language ‏ : ‎ English
• Paperback ‏ : ‎ 480 pages
• ISBN-10 ‏ : ‎ 1843531119
• ISBN-13 ‏ : ‎ 978-1843531111
• Item Weight ‏ : ‎ 15.1 ounces

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Jamaica Travel Guide

Last Updated: August 30, 2023

With its laid-back pace, stunning beaches, rugged mountains, lush rainforests, picturesque waterfalls, and lively music scene, it’s easy to see why Jamaica is one of the most popular destinations in the Caribbean .

The third-largest island in the region, Jamaica has more churches per square mile and more rum bars per capita than anywhere else on the planet.

Unsurprisingly, the island attracts a wide crowd and has plenty to offer travelers of all stripes. Whether you’re looking to relax, splash out, or party, Jamaica has you covered.

Although it’s easy to lounge away most of your time on the beach, try to experience the local music scene and Rastafarian culture while you’re here. It’s what gives the island its iconic flair.

This Jamaica travel guide has all the practical information you need to help you plan your visit, save money, and make the most out of your time in this island paradise!

Table of Contents

• Things to See and Do
• Typical Costs
• Suggested Budget
• Money-Saving Tips
• Where to Stay
• How to Get Around
• How to Stay Safe
• Best Places to Book Your Trip
• Related Blogs on Jamaica

Top 5 Things to See and Do in Jamaica

1. Cliff jump at Rick’s Cafe

Rick’s Cafe was founded in Negril 1974 by Richard Hershman and is now in the list of Top 10 Bars in the World. This restaurant and bar overlooking the ocean is a popular place for locals and visitors alike with spectacular sunsets and cliff jumping. It’s about 35 feet to the water, so if the height is too much for you, you can just relax and enjoy the view with a drink.

2. Go on a rum tour

Rum, made from fermenting and distilling sugarcane, is one of Jamaica’s biggest exports. If you’re a rum aficionado, this is your chance to get up close with the production and tasting process. Tour Appleton Estate in St. Elizabeth, voted one of the best in the Caribbean, which has been producing rum since 1749 (they produce 10 million liters of rum each year). It’s located in the beautiful Nassau Valley and offers the chance to learn how rum is produced (samples included). Worthy Park and Hampden Estate also offer rum tours.

3. Hang out at the beach

Jamaica is rich with soft, powdery beaches. In Montego Bay, head to Doctor’s Cave Beach on Jamaica’s Hip Strip, one of the country’s finest and most popular beaches with miles of impeccably white sand and sparkling waters that are said to have healing properties. It’s also a great place for snorkeling. If you want something more secluded, choose Cornwall Beach with its chill vibes, lounge chairs, and sunset beach parties on Sundays. In Negril, Seven Mile Beach has a history of pirates and stunning turquoise perfect water with something for everyone including water sports, snorkeling, diving, and more. You can even rent jet skis or kayaks and explore on your own or go horseback riding on the beach. There are many eateries and restaurants for incredible seafood and places to take in the sunset. And past the overpriced hub around Margaritaville, you’ll find quieter stretches of pristine sand.

4. Lose yourself in the clouds

The Blue and John Crow Mountains National Park lies to the east of the island and covers over 100,00 acres. It’s a UNESCO World Heritage Site and home to many rare and endangered mammals, amphibians, and bird species. The Blue Mountains here are the longest mountain range in Jamaica and offer incredibly lush scenery of 1,300 flowering plants and 530 fern species. It’s a great place to bird watch and hike the Holywell Nature Walks that take you through the rare tropical Cloud Forest. A short drive from Kingston, this park offers hiking, biking, and coffee plantation tours.

5. Explore Montego Bay

Montego Bay is the third largest city in Jamaica and the top place for tourist bars, international restaurants, beautiful beaches, and epic parties. There are tons of things to do here, from chilling and floating down the Martha Brae River on a bamboo raft, doing eco-adventure tours to the Rockspring Caves, or visiting the 18th-century Rose Hall Great House Georgian mansion. There is the famous Luminous Lagoon, one of the most popular bioluminescent bays in the world that offers a rare chance to see glowing blue waters at night. If you’re a foodie, there are several Jamaican food tours where you can taste delicious jerk chicken and other local favorites.

Other Things to See and Do in Jamaica

1. raft the rio grande.

For a unique look at the landscape, head to the Port Antonio area and take a guided trip down the Rio Grande River on a bamboo raft. This is one of the best ways to see the many caves, waterfalls, and crystal springs that are tucked away throughout the island. A three-hour rafting trip costs 15,500 JMD per person with Rio Grande Rafting Tour.

2. Go snorkeling

On Jamaica’s northern coast, you’ll find a wide array of sea life. Here you can go snorkeling and see coral, stingrays, lionfish, barracuda, and more. Ocho Rios is another exciting place to snorkel, with plentiful scorpionfish, lettuce sea slugs, and nurse sharks. Guided trips start around 5,300 JMD.

3. Explore the Green Grotto

Over 1,000 caves dot the Jamaican landscape. Green Grotto Caves on the north coast is probably the most famous. The caves are made of limestone and the tides have etched the walls with the green algae that have given the cave its name. As you move through the cave, you’ll walk through a forest of stalactites and stalagmites. Fun fact: Spaniards hid here in the 17th century when the English invaded Jamaica. Entry is 3,050 JMD per person.

4. Tour the Sun Valley Plantation

Visit the Sun Valley Plantation in Ocho Rios to learn about the island’s history, from the slave trade to the present day, as well as what life was like living on a plantation growing coffee, bananas, and tropical fruits. It’s an immersive experience, where you’ll get to meet the owners and the hardworking staff. The tour takes 90 minutes and includes samples of the plantation’s tasty fruits. This tour doesn’t gloss over the hard facts that this plantation once used slaves for profit. Tours cost 8,600-12,000 JMD.

5. Explore Kingston

The capital of Jamaica, Kingston, is a rough-and-tumble kind of place. It’s worth a visit for a day or two. Check out some of the important landmarks, like Devon House, built in the Jamaican Georgian style typical of the plantation homes built by colonists during the slave trade. It’s 1,775 JMD to visit and admission includes a snack or beverage of your choice. Also, don’t miss King’s House (the official residence of the Governor-General), the Prime Minister’s house, and the Bob Marley Museum. While you’re here, be sure to head out and listen to some live reggae at the Dub Club, visit the National Gallery of Jamaica, go shopping at the Coronation Market, and chill out in Emancipation Park.

6. Climb the Dunn’s River Falls

Located in Ocho Rios, these falls cascade over plateaus 600 feet above the ground. You can actually climb up them if you’re feeling adventurous or just walk the trail that follows the river and go for a swim in one of the many azure pools at the base of the falls. Entrance is 3,800 JMD. If you enjoy adrenaline activities, you can also zipline here.

7. Birdwatch at Cockpit Country

Jamaica has 150 resident species of birds, with 29 of those species being endemic to the island. Just southeast of Montego Bay lies Cockpit Country, an area rife with nearly 110 of these species. Keep an eye out for Black-billed Parrots, endangered Jamaican Blackbirds, and Blue Mountain Vireos. The area itself is lush and scenic, with sinkholes of dissolved limestone and lots of rivers.

8. Swim the Blue Hole

Blue Hole is one of the less touristy swimming spots on the island. Admission costs 3,800 JMD while a tour that includes hiking to a mini waterfall, cliff jumping, a rope swing, swimming in some blue lagoons, and plenty of stunning scenery costs 7,600 JMD. For an extra fee, you can also go river tubing or bamboo rafting. Just be aware that there’s not anywhere you can store your bags, so if you don’t have in a car to keep your belongings, bring a waterproof bag you can keep your stuff in while you swim. )

9. Take a day trip to Portland

This area is off the tourist trail and a nice alternative to the crowds on the coast. Here, you’ll be rewarded with peaceful beaches, endless natural beauty, and friendly locals who aren’t afraid to chat you up. While you’re here, visit the Blue Lagoon, see Somerset Falls, and sample plenty of jerk chicken in the town of Boston.

10. Visit the Bob Marley Museum

Bob Marley, one of Jamaica’s most famous artists, is often blaring in the background all around the country. Visit his house on Hope Road in Kingston where he lived and worked between 1975-1981. You’ll learn about his life, with glimpses into his recording studio and bedroom. Admission is 3,800 JMD or book a combo “One Love” tour for 6,095 JMD that includes Bob Marley’s “Making of the Music” tour.

For information about other Caribbean destinations, check out these guides:

• British Virgin Islands
• Saint Lucia

Jamaica Travel Costs

Hostel prices – A bed in a 4-6-bed dorm in touristy places like Montego Bay costs about 3,500-3,800 JMD per night. They start from 2,200 JMD in places like Port Antonio. A private room with a shared bathroom costs about 6,500 JMD per night and a room with a private bathroom is around 7,400 JMD. Free Wi-Fi is standard and most hostels also have self-catering facilities.

For those traveling with a tent, there are a few campsites in Jamaica. You can get a plot for a two-person tent without electricity for as little as 300 JMD per night.

Budget hotel prices – Budget two- and three-star hotels start at 6,150 JMD per night in less touristy areas like Port Antonio but are closer to 8,000 JMD near beach resort areas. Expect basic amenities like free Wi-Fi, TV, and occasionally free breakfast.

Airbnb is available everywhere in Jamaica. For a private room, expect to pay from 5,700 JMD per night, while an entire home/apartment averages closer to 10,000-12,000 JMD per night.

Food – Jamaican cuisine is influenced by a mix of Caribbean, African, and European flavors, owing to the numerous countries that have occupied the island over the years. Seafood and tropical fruits are super common here, and popular dishes include goat curry, patties (a savory turnover), saltfish (dried and salted cod), and dumplings.

A casual lunch at an inexpensive restaurant costs around 800 JMD. You’ll find stewed chicken or beef on most menus for about 450 JMD, and jerk chicken is about the same price.

A combo meal at McDonald’s costs about 1000 JMD while a large pizza costs about 2,200 JMD. If you want to splash out, a three-course meal at a mid-range restaurant costs around 3,500 JMD with drinks.

Beer is around 400 JMD, and a latte/cappuccino is around 480 JMD. Bottled water is closer to 115 JMD.

If you plan on cooking your own food, expect to pay 7,000 JMD per week for groceries. That includes basic staples like pasta, rice, seasonal produce, and some meat or seafood.

Backpacking Jamaica Suggested Budgets

If you’re backpacking Jamaica, my suggested budget is around 7,000 JMD per day. This assumes you’re staying in a hostel, cooking all your meals, limiting your drinking, taking the bus to get around, and doing mostly free activities like lounging on the beach and swimming. If you plan on drinking, add an extra 500-1,500 JMD to your daily budget.

On a mid-range budget of 17,000 JMD per day, you can stay in an Airbnb, eat out for a few meals, enjoy a few drinks, take the occasional taxi to get around, and do some paid activities like rafting or snorkeling.

On a “luxury” budget of 34,000 JMD or more per day, you can stay in a hotel, eat out for all your meals, drink more, rent a car to get around, and do whatever tours and activities you want. This is just the ground floor for luxury though. The sky is the limit!

You can use the chart below to get some idea of how much you need to budget daily, depending on your travel style. Keep in mind these are daily averages – some days you spend more, some days you spend less (you might spend less every day). We just want to give you a general idea of how to make your budget. Prices are in JMD.

Jamaica Travel Guide: Money-Saving Tips

Although Jamaica is a holiday destination, there’s more to the island than the resorts. Once you step out of the resort bubble, you’ll really lower your costs (and experience a more local version of the country). Here are some ways you can save money in Jamaica:

• Shop around for tours – If you’re going snorkeling, shop around for the best price as equipment and tours can vary widely even along one beach front.
• Avoid spring break – If you visit during the American spring break season in March or April, you’ll pay 25% or more for everything.
• Enjoy nature – Relax on the beach, go for a hike, or take in a sunset. Jamaica’s natural beauty is breathtaking and free, so drink it in!
• Pay in Jamaican dollars – When possible, pay for anything in Jamaican dollars. You’ll often get a better exchange rate.
• Look for deals and discounts – Visit Jamaica has a whole section on their website (visitjamaica.com/travel-deals) dedicated to travel discounts, deals, and bundles. Some are meh, but sometimes there are sizeable discounts on hotels.
• Shop for souvenirs at supermarkets – If you want to purchase souvenirs like coffee, jerk seasoning, or hot sauce, go to a supermarket like Quality Traders rather than a souvenir kiosk.
• Stay with a local – There are a few Couchsurfing hosts in Jamaica so use the app to find free accommodation during your visit. You’ll save money and get to connect with a local who can share their insider tips and advice with you.
• Bring a water bottle – The tap water here is generally safe to drink so bring a reusable water bottle to save money and reduce your plastic use. LifeStraw is my go-to brand as their bottles have built-in filters to ensure your water is always clean and safe.

Where to Stay in Jamaica

Jamaica has a fair number of hostels and budget accommodations. Here are my suggested places to stay:

• MoBay Kotch (Montego Bay)
• Five Gables (Montego Bay)
• Raggamuffin Hostel & Coffee Bar (Kingston)
• Jay’s Guest House (Blue Mountains)

How to Get Around Jamaica

Public transportation – Jamaica has an extensive transportation network of buses and minibusses that link almost all the villages and towns — and they’re very affordable. There is often no set timetable though so buses leave when they’re full. For that reason, make sure you’re flexible when taking the bus. Buses and minibusses charge around 150-170 JMD.

Taxi – Taxis have a 225 JMD starting fare and charge 725 JMD per kilometer. While affordable, they add up fast so use them sparingly.

Bus – Coach buses can get you to and from most of Jamaica’s touristy destinations. Knutsford Express is one of the most popular buses, with a two-hour trip between Kingston and Ocho Rios costing about 2,850 JMD. A four-hour trip from Kingston to Montego Bay is about 3,800 JMD.

You can also take minibuses (“coasters”) everywhere. Licensed minibusses have a PPV license plate (public passenger vehicle) or a JUTA sticker (Jamaica Union of Travelers Association) and are exclusively used by tourists. They tend to leave on a pre-set schedule.

Scooter – You can rent a scooter or motorcycle from various places around Montego Bay, Negril, and Ocho Rios for about 4,500-9,200 JMD per day, with motorcycles being on the higher end. Remember to always wear a helmet!

Bicycle – The roads here aren’t the safest for cycling, but if you want to rent a bike, rentals start around 2,000 JMD per day.

Car rental – Car rentals can be found for around 4,500- 6,000 JMD per day for a multi-day rental. Renters need to be 21 and have an International Driving Permit (IDP). For the best car rental prices, use Discover Cars .

When to Go to Jamaica

Jamaica has pleasant weather year-round, with temperatures ranging from the mid-20s°C (70s°F) to 30s°C (high 80s°F).

January to March is the peak season for the island, with prices spiking all over the place. This is when the island is at its liveliest.

To beat the crowds, avoid popular breaks like Christmas, Easter, and Spring Break. Otherwise, you’ll be shoulder-to-shoulder with tourists at most resorts and beaches. Prices are much higher too.

Personally, I think October to mid-December is the best time to visit if you want to take advantage of the high temperatures in the shoulder season. Hotel and flight deals are usually the best during this time and the crowds are a little thinner.

How to Stay Safe in Jamaica

Jamaica is a relatively safe place to backpack and travel but crime does happen here, especially at night and around the party areas of the country. Petty theft is very common so keep an eye out for pickpocketing. Never leave your valuables unattended while at the beach.

When out and about, do not flash around any cash or valuables. Keep them at your hotel in a safety deposit box whenever possible. This is especially true in touristy areas like Montego Bay, Ocho Rios, and Negril. Keep your hotel/accommodation doors and windows locked at all times as break-ins can occur.

Kingston is, unfortunately, no stranger to violent crime and gang activity. If you want to explore Kingston, do not go out alone at night.

LGBTQ travelers should practice caution here. Homophobia is rampant and there are laws against same-sex relations.

Solo female travelers should generally feel safe here, however, the standard precautions apply (never leave your drink unattended at the bar, never walk home alone intoxicated, etc.).

If you’re worried about getting scammed, you can read about common travel scams to avoid here.

If you experience an emergency, dial 110 for an ambulance or the fire department. Dial 119 for police.

My biggest piece of advice is to purchase good travel insurance. Travel insurance protects you against illness, injury, theft, and cancellations. It’s comprehensive protection in case anything goes wrong. I never go on a trip without it as I’ve had to use it many times in the past.

Jamaica Travel Guide: The Best Booking Resources

These are my favorite companies to use when I travel. They consistently have the best deals, offer world-class customer service and great value, and overall, are better than their competitors. They are the companies I use the most and are always the starting point in my search for travel deals.

• Skyscanner – Skyscanner is my favorite flight search engine. They search small websites and budget airlines that larger search sites tend to miss. They are hands down the number one place to start.
• Hostelworld – This is the best hostel accommodation site out there with the largest inventory, best search interface, and widest availability.
• Booking.com – The best all around booking site that constantly provides the cheapest and lowest rates. They have the widest selection of budget accommodation. In all my tests, they’ve always had the cheapest rates out of all the booking websites.
• Get Your Guide – Get Your Guide is a huge online marketplace for tours and excursions. They have tons of tour options available in cities all around the world, including everything from cooking classes, walking tours, street art lessons, and more!
• SafetyWing – Safety Wing offers convenient and affordable plans tailored to digital nomads and long-term travelers. They have cheap monthly plans, great customer service, and an easy-to-use claims process that makes it perfect for those on the road.
• LifeStraw – My go-to company for reusable water bottles with built-in filters so you can ensure your drinking water is always clean and safe.
• Unbound Merino – They make lightweight, durable, easy-to-clean travel clothing.
• Top Travel Credit Cards – Points are the best way to cut down travel expenses. Here’s my favorite point earning credit cards so you can get free travel!

Jamaica Travel Guide: Related Articles

Want more info? Check out all the articles I’ve written on backpacking/traveling the Caribbean and continue planning your trip:

9 Ways to Explore the Caribbean Sustainably

My 16 Favorite Things to Do in the Virgin Islands

Bermuda: The Impossible Budget Destination? Maybe Not!

How to Save (and Not Save) Money in the Virgin Islands

I Didn’t Like Curaçao (But I Didn’t Hate it Either)

The Best Places on Costa Rica’s Caribbean Coast

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Enter your email and get planning cheatsheets including a step by step checklist, packing list, tips cheat sheet, and more so you can plan like a pro!

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The Rough Guide to Jamaica

This practical travel guide to Jamaica features detailed factual travel tips and points-of-interest structured lists of all iconic must-see sights as well as some off-the-beaten-track treasures. Our itinerary suggestions and expert author picks of things to see and do will make it a perfect companion both, ahead of your trip and on the ground. This Jamaica guide book is packed full of details on how to get there and around, pre-departure information and top time-saving tips, including a visual list of things not to miss. Our colour-coded maps make Jamaica easier to navigate while you're there. This guide book to Jamaica has been fully updated post-COVID-19 and it comes with a free eBook. The Rough Guide to JAMAICA covers:   Kingston, Ocho Rios, Montego Bay, Negril, The Blue Mountains, Port Royal, Cockpit Country, Port Antonio, Treasure Beach, Portland, Bluefields Bay. Inside this Jamaica travel guide you'll find: RECOMMENDATIONS FOR EVERY TYPE OF TRAVELLER Experiences selected for every kind of trip to Jamaica, from off-the-beaten-track adventures in Blue Mountains to family activities in child-friendly places, like Montego Bay or chilled-out breaks in popular tourist areas, like Kingston. PRACTICAL TRAVEL TIPS Essential pre-departure information including Jamaica entry requirements, getting around, health information, travelling with children, sports and outdoor activities, food and drink, festivals, culture and etiquette, shopping, tips for travellers with disabilities and more. TIME-SAVING ITINERARIES Includes carefully planned routes covering the best of Jamaica, which give a taste of the richness and diversity of the destination, and have been created for different time frames or types of trip. DETAILED REGIONAL COVERAGE Clear structure within each sightseeing chapter of this Jamaica travel guide includes regional highlights, brief history, detailed sights and places ordered geographically, recommended restaurants, hotels, bars, clubs and major shops or entertainment options. INSIGHTS INTO GETTING AROUND LIKE A LOCAL Tips on how to beat the crowds, save time and money and find the best local spots for sampling the local music scene, enjoying laidback beach days and scenic hikes. HIGHLIGHTS OF THINGS NOT TO MISS Rough Guides' rundown of Kingston, Negril, Portland and St Thomas's best sights and top experiences helps to make the most of each trip to Jamaica, even in a short time. HONEST AND INDEPENDENT REVIEWS Written   by Rough Guides' expert authors  with a trademark blend of humour, honesty and expertise, this Jamaica guide book will help you find the best places, matching different needs. BACKGROUND INFORMATION Comprehensive 'Contexts' chapter of this travel guide to Jamaica features fascinating insights into Jamaica, with coverage of history, religion, ethnic groups, environment, wildlife and books, plus a handy language section and glossary. FABULOUS FULL COLOUR PHOTOGRAPHY Features inspirational colour photography, including the stunning Dunn's River Falls and the spectacular Blue Mountains. COLOUR-CODED MAPPING Practical full-colour maps, with clearly numbered, colour-coded keys for quick orientation in Port Royal, Port Antonio and many more locations in Jamaica, reduce the need to go online. USER-FRIENDLY LAYOUT With helpful icons, and organised by neighbourhood to help you pick the best spots to spend your time. FREE EBOOK Free eBook download with every purchase of this guide book to Jamaica allows you to access all of the content from your phone or tablet, for on-the-road exploration.

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This title is a part of Rough Guides Main Series

Practical travel guides series covering countries, cities and regions, with detailed factual travel tips, perfect for independent, long-stay, backpacking and budget-conscious travellers seeking comprehensive travel information and off-the-beaten track experiences

Extensive practical travel information including getting there, getting around, climate information, safety tips, accommodation explanations, food & drink advice and shopping essentials 

Curated author picks with destination highlights at the beginning of each guide

Ready-made itineraries covering every corner of the destination

Colour-coded places chapters with detailed coverage of places and sights, presented in a points-of-interest structure 

Extensive recommendations for accommodation, restaurants, shops and leisure activities for all budgets

Colour-coded detailed maps with marked-up key sights 

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The best ways to travel around in Jamaica

Apr 20, 2024 • 5 min read

Explore Jamaica with our guide to the island's transportation © Debbie Ann Powell / Shutterstock

There are so many natural and cultural treasures dotted all over the island of Jamaica that it's no wonder visitors continue to come back years after their first trip.

Whether you want to bounce from beach to beach in search of your perfect stretch of sand or learn more about Jamaica's rich history, every corner of this Caribbean jewel has something new to offer.

So how do you make your way around to find them all? Luckily, there are numerous ways to travel the beautiful island of Jamaica, from buses and cabs to hiring your own wheels. Here’s are our top transportation tips.

Public transport is made up of buses, route taxis and motorbikes

Jamaica’s public transport system consists of a network of buses and cabs that link towns large and small across the island.  JUTC bus is the national bus system that is found in the major cities of Kingston and Montego Bay . Coaster buses form the wider bus network in Jamaica, often filling gaps where JUTC buses don’t go.

There is, however, no set timetable or schedule for when they arrive – you just have to embrace island time and wait for the next departure (on average, you can expect to catch a bus or taxi within 15 to 20 minutes). Most major towns have designated bus parks or transport centers. 

There are two types of cabs or taxis in Jamaica: charter taxis and route taxis. Route taxis run like buses and are the much cheaper of the two, with a fare only slightly higher than the bus. 

Operated by taxi companies, chartered cabs are more expensive. You call ahead to book (charter) a cab, with the fare set by the company before your ride arrives.

In some towns, including Negril , motorbikes are a popular form of public transport. They act like route taxis and take passengers to and from specific points around the town.

Ready to go to Jamaica? Here are the top island experiences

Carry cash to pay public transport fares

There is usually a conductor on the buses who collects fares from each passenger. Either wait for the conductor to request all fares in cash at once, or pay just before you exit at your stop. You can pay with cash or purchase a top-up transport card at various spots islandwide.

If you take a taxi, whether a charter cab or a route taxi, you pay your fare at the end of your journey in cash.

Public transport in Jamaica is relatively safe and affordable

Remember to always board public transport at main bus parks or terminals, be careful at night and make sure you have cash in small denominations rather than larger bills.

For route taxis, avoid taking empty cars. Solo women travelers may also want to avoid cars when men are the only other passengers.

Uber is available in limited cities

Uber does operate in Jamaica, but it’s not as widespread as in many other countries. Drivers are concentrated in cities like Kingston and Montego Bay. Keep in mind that where there is Uber coverage, it’s certain there will be a (cheaper) bus or taxi option. 

Driving is the best way to get around in Jamaica

While you don’t need a car to travel around Jamaica thanks to public transport options, your own ride will be far more convenient and comfortable for visiting the island's best places . Roads are well-connected and easily navigated by car.

All major towns have paved roads, albeit with varying degrees of potholes. Any foreign visitor should remember two essential tenets of driving here – everyone drives on the left, and motorists (especially taxi and bus drivers) are more aggressive on the road than you may be used to and use a “defensive” driving style.

Most reputable car rental companies offer unlimited mileage, but unfortunately, prices in Jamaica are among the highest in the Caribbean. You’ll find both established local companies like Island Car Rentals alongside international players like Hertz and Avis at the airport.

Private buses and drivers are available to hire

If you don’t want to take the wheel yourself, you can charter a car and driver for your trip (best arranged through your accommodation). Another option is the Knutsford Express , an extremely popular and affordable private bus service that connects major towns and tourist spots across the island.

Be inspired to hit the road in Jamaica with our guide to the island's top driving routes

Even a short walk may not be worth taking

Jamaica is not a particularly walkable country, with major towns or points of interest quite spread out. For example, the 35-minute walk from Liguanea to Half Way Tree in Kingston is challenging in the blazing Caribbean heat, with security concerns to factor in when walking at night.

Public transportation is not accessible in Jamaica

While many hotels, parks, cruise ports and buildings across the country can accommodate wheelchair-users and people with mobility issues, there are, unfortunately, few accessibility options related to transportation. The best option is usually pre-booking a charter taxi or a private tour to get around the island.

On public transportation, accessibility is extremely limited, with buses unable to accommodate passengers in wheelchairs. Even if you’re able to get on the bus, there are almost no designated areas for your wheelchair.

The rapid speed at which route taxis load and unload with passengers makes it very challenging for persons with accessibility needs.

Some charter taxi companies, however, can provide accessible options; mention your specific requirements when you arrange the ride to ensure they send an appropriate vehicle.

Additionally, some private tours provide accessible transport options, with tourist attractions around the island welcoming visitors with accessibility needs to varying degrees.

This article was first published Oct 29, 2022 and updated Apr 20, 2024.

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My wife and I had a wonderful time in Japan, we love the people and the places we visit, but all of this would not have been possible without the great job...

Anyone who’s ever eaten sushi, read manga, or sipped sake may feel they know something about this slinky archipelago of some 6800 volcanic islands. And yet, from the moment of arrival in Japan, it’s almost as if you’ve touched down on another planet.

Where to go in Japan

Outdoor activities in japan, earthquake safety procedures, loving the machine, travel ideas for japan, created by local experts.

13 days  / from 3535 USD

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Small Group Tour: Highlights of Japan

Exciting small-group tour with monthly departures. Immerse in Japanese culture, challenge a pro in a sumo suit, wander Arashiyama's bamboo groves in Kyoto, and relish a kaiseki feast with Maiko entertainment - all included in this fascinating small group tour.

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Japan highlights: Tokyo to Osaka

From Tokyo to Osaka, this Japan trip features fantastic experiences. View a sumo session, visit ancient temples, and climb the Tokyo Skytree tower. Explore the resort town of Hakone in Mt Fuji’s shadow, savor a tea ceremony in Kyoto, and see cherry blossoms, in season, to complete a wonderful trip.

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Self-Guided Adventure Tour in Japan

Immerse yourself in the breathtaking natural beauty, history, enchanting culture and warmhearted people of Japan, with our self-guided tour of Japan. Walk-through a bamboo forest, see how sake is made, join Samurai lesson, go bar-hopping in Tokyo and Osaka and extend your journey to Hiroshima

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Culinary tour across Japan

This trip takes you from Tokyo to Kyoto, where you will experience authentic Japanese foods, visit morning markets in the local cities, learn how to make Japanese food and enjoy a unique stay at a monastery. A once in a lifetime experience.

Prepare to be pleasantly disorientated as you negotiate this fascinating land where ancient gods, customs and craftsmanship are mixed with cutting edge, modern technology, futuristic fashions and up-to-the-second style. As our round-up of unbelievable facts about Japan reveals, it's a place of surprises and contrast.

High-speed trains whisk you from one end of the country to another with awe-inspiring punctuality. In the suburbs of a sprawling metropolis, you can catch sight of a farmer tending his paddy field, then turn the corner and find yourself next to a neon-festooned (video) games parlour. One day you could be picking through fashions in a boutique designed by an award-winning architect, the next relaxing in an outdoor hot-spring pool, watching cherry blossom or snowflakes fall, depending on the season.

Few other countries have, in the space of a few generations, experienced so much or made such an impact. Industrialized at lightning speed in the late nineteenth century, Japan shed its feudal trappings to become the most powerful and outwardly aggressive country in Asia in a matter of decades. After defeat in World War II, it transformed itself from atom-bomb victim to economic giant, the envy of the world. Having weathered a decade-long recession from the mid-1990s, Japan is now relishing its “soft power” as the world’s pre-eminent purveyor of pop culture, with the visual mediums of anime and manga leading the way.

In the cities you’ll first be struck by the mass of people. These hyperactive metropolises are the place to catch the latest trend, the hippest fashions and must-have gadgets before they hit the rest of the world. It’s not all about modernity, however: Tokyo , Kyoto, Ōsaka and Kanazawa, for example, also provide the best opportunities to view traditional performance arts, such as kabuki and nō plays, as well as a wealth of Japanese visual arts in major museums. Outside the cities there’s a vast range of travel options, from the UNESCO World Heritage-listed Shiretoko National Park in Hokkaidō to the balmy subtropical islands of Okinawa, and you’ll seldom have to go far to catch sight of a lofty castle, ancient temple or shrine, or locals celebrating at a colourful street festival.

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In common with all developed countries, Japan is not a cheap place to travel in or to, but there’s no reason why it should be wildly expensive either. Some of the most atmospheric and traditionally Japanese places to stay and eat are often those that are the best value. There’s been significant price-cutting in some areas in recent years, particularly airline tickets, which now rival the famed bargain rail passes as a means to get to far-flung corners of the country.

It’s not all perfect, however. The Japanese are experts at focusing on detail (the exquisite wrapping of gifts and the tantalizing presentation of food are just two examples) but often miss the broader picture. Rampant development and sometimes appalling pollution are difficult to square with a country also renowned for cleanliness and appreciation of nature. Part of the problem is that natural cataclysms, such as earthquakes and typhoons, regularly hit Japan, so few people expect things to last for long anyway. There’s no denying either the pernicious impact of mass tourism, with ranks of gift shops, ugly hotels and crowds often ruining potentially idyllic spots.

And yet, time and again, Japan redeems itself with unexpectedly beautiful landscapes, charmingly courteous people, and its tangible sense of history and cherished traditions. Few will be able to resist the chance to get to grips with its mysterious yet tantalising culture that blurs the traditional boundaries between East and West – Japan is unique, neither wholly one nor the other.

Two weeks is the minimum needed to skim the surface of what Japan can offer. The capital, Tokyo, and the former imperial city and thriving cultural centre of Kyoto, will be top of most visitors’ lists of where to go, and deservedly so, but you could avoid the cities entirely and head to the mountains or smaller islands to discover an alternative side of the country, away from the most heavily beaten tourist tracks.

It would be easy enough to spend two weeks just in Tokyo. The metropolis is home to some of the world’s most ambitious architecture, stylish shops and internationally celebrated restaurants and bars – as well as glimpses of traditional Japan at scores of temples, shrines and imperial gardens. Consider also taking in a couple of the city’s surrounding attractions, in particular the historic towns of Nikkō, home to the amazing Tōshō-gū shrine complex, and Kamakura, with its giant Buddha statue and tranquil woodland walks.

Northern Honshū sees surprisingly few overseas visitors, but its sleepy villages and relaxed cities deserve to be better known. The Golden Hall of Hiraizumi more than justifies the journey, and can be easily combined with the islet-sprinkled Matsushima Bay or rural Tōno. The region is also known for its vibrant summer festivals, notably those at Sendai, Aomori, Hirosaki and Akita, and for its sacred mountains, including Dewa-sanzan, home to a sect of ascetic mountain priests, and the eerie, remote wastelands of Osore-zan.

Further north, across the Tsugaru Straits, Hokkaidō is Japan’s final frontier, with many national parks including the outstanding Daisetsu-zan National Park, offering excellent hiking trails over mountain peaks and through soaring rock gorges. The lovely far northern islands of Rebun-tō and Rishiri-tō are ideal summer escapes. Hokkaidō’s most historic city is Hakodate, with its late nineteenth-century wooden houses and churches built by expat traders, while its modern capital, Sapporo, is home to the raging nightlife centre of Suskino and the original Sapporo Brewery. Winter is a fantastic time to visit and catch Sapporo’s amazing Snow Festival and go skiing at some of Japan’s top resorts including Niseko.

Skiing, mountaineering and soaking in hot springs are part of the culture of Central Honshū, an area dominated by the magnificent Japan Alps. Both the old castle town of Matsumoto, and Nagano, with its atmospheric temple of pilgrimage, Zenkō-ji, can be used as a starting point for exploring the region. Highlights include the tiny mountain resort of Kamikōchi and the immaculately preserved Edo-era villages of Tsumago and Magome, linked by a short hike along the remains of a 300-year-old stone-paved road. Takayama deservedly draws many visitors to its handsome streets lined with merchant houses and temples, built by generations of skilled carpenters. In the remote neighbouring valleys you’ll find the rare thatched houses of Ogimachi, Suganuma and Ainokura, remnants of a fast-disappearing rural Japan.

On the Sea of Japan coast, the historic city of Kanazawa is home to Kenroku-en, one of Japan’s best gardens, and the stunning 21st Century Museum of Contemporary Art, Kanazawa. Nagoya, on the heavily industrialized southern coast, is a more manageable city than Tokyo or Ōsaka, and has much to recommend it, including the fine Tokugawa Art Museum and many great places to eat. The efficient new airport nearby also makes the city a good alternative entry point. From Nagoya it’s a short hop to the pretty castle towns of Inuyama and Gifu, which holds summer displays of the ancient skill of ukai, or cormorant fishing.

South of the Japan Alps, the Kansai plains are scattered with ancient temples, shrines and the remnants of imperial cities. Kyoto, custodian of Japan’s traditional culture, is home to its most refined cuisine, classy ryokan, glorious gardens, and magnificent temples and palaces. Nearby Nara is a more manageable size but no slouch when it comes to venerable monuments, notably the great bronze Buddha of Tōdai-ji and Hōryū-ji’s unrivalled collection of early Japanese statuary. The surrounding region contains a number of still-thriving religious foundations, such as the highly atmospheric temples of Hiei-zan and Kōya-san, the revered Shinto shrine Ise-jingū, and the beautiful countryside pilgrimage routes of the UNESCO World Heritage-listed Kumano region.

Not all of Kansai is so rarefied, though. The slightly unconventional metropolis of Ōsaka has an easy-going atmosphere and boisterous nightlife, plus several interesting sights. Further west, the port of Kōbe offers a gentler cosmopolitan atmosphere, while Himeji is home to Japan’s most fabulous castle, as well as some impressive modern gardens and buildings.

For obvious reasons Hiroshima is the most visited location in Western Honshū. On the way there, pause at Okayama to stroll around one of Japan’s top three gardens, Kōraku-en, and the appealingly preserved Edo-era town of Kurashiki. The beauty of the Inland Sea, dotted with thousands of islands, is best appreciated from the idyllic fishing village of Tomonoura, the port of Onomichi and the relaxed islands of Nao-shima, Ikuchi-jima and Miya-jima.

Crossing to the San-in coast, the castle town of Hagi retains some handsome samurai houses and atmospheric temples, only surpassed by even more enchanting Tsuwano, further inland. One of Japan’s most venerable shrines, Izumo Taisha, lies roughly midway along the coast, near the lake- and seaside city of Matsue, home to the region’s only original castle.

Location for Japan’s most famous pilgrimage, a walking tour around 88 Buddhist temples, Shikoku also offers dramatic scenery in the Iya valley and along its rugged coastline. Its largest city, Matsuyama, has an imperious castle and the splendidly ornate Dōgo Onsen Honkan – one of Japan’s best hot springs. There’s also the lovely garden Ritsurin-kōen in Takamatsu and the ancient Shinto shrine at Kotohira.

The southernmost of Japan’s four main islands, Kyūshū is probably best known for Nagasaki, an attractive and cosmopolitan city that has overcome its terrible war-time history. Hikers and onsen enthusiasts should head up into the central highlands, where Aso-san’s smouldering peak dominates the world’s largest volcanic crater, or to the more southerly meadows of Ebino Kōgen. So much hot water gushes out of the ground in Beppu, on the east coast, that it’s known as Japan’s hot-spring capital. Fukuoka, on the other hand, takes pride in its innovative modern architecture and an exceptionally lively entertainment district.

Okinawa comprises more than a hundred islands stretching in a great arc from southern Kyūshū to within sight of Taiwan. An independent kingdom until the early seventeenth century, traces of the island’s distinctive, separate culture still survive. The beautifully reconstructed former royal palace dominates the capital city, Naha, but the best of the region lies on its remoter islands. This is where you’ll find Japan’s most stunning white-sand beaches and its best diving, particularly around the subtropical islands of Ishigaki and Iriomote.

Discover more places in Japan

• Kansai Travel Guide
• Kyūshū Travel Guide
• Northern Honshū Travel Guide
• Okinawa Travel Guide
• Shikoku Travel Guide
• Western Honshū Travel Guide

Big believers in team spirit, the Japanese embrace many sports with almost religious fervour. Baseball is actually more popular than the home-grown sumo, and hot on the heels of both sports is soccer. Martial arts, such as aikido, judo and karate, all traditionally associated with Japan, have a much lower profile than you might expect. Tokyo, with its many dōjō (practise halls), is the best place in the country in which to view or learn these ancient sports. Tokyo’s TICs have a full list of dōjō that allow visitors to watch practise sessions for free.

Popular outdoor activities include skiing, hiking and mountain climbing. The Tokyo-based International Adventurers Club (IAC) and Outdoor Club Japan , and the International Outdoor Club (IOC) in the Kansai region provide informal opportunities to explore the countryside in the company of like-minded people. The bilingual bimonthly magazine Outdoor Japan is also a mine of useful information.

Baseball first came to Japan in the 1870s, but it wasn’t until 1934 that the first professional teams were formed. Now Japan is yakyū (baseball) crazy, and if you’re in the country from April to the end of October during the baseball season, think about watching a professional match. Even if you’re not a fan, the buzzing atmosphere and audience enthusiasm can be infectious.

In addition to the two professional leagues, Central and Pacific, each with six teams, there’s the equally (if not more) popular All-Japan High School Baseball Championship. You might be able to catch one of the local play-offs before the main tournament, which is held each summer at Kōshien Stadium near Ōsaka.

In the professional leagues, the teams are sponsored by big businesses, a fact immediately apparent from their names, such as the Yakult (a food company) Swallows and Yomiuri (a newspaper conglomerate) Giants. The victors from the Central and Pacific leagues go on to battle it out for the supreme title in the seven-match Japan Series every autumn. Tickets for all games are available from the stadia or at advance ticket booths. They start at ¥1500 and go on sale on the Friday two weeks prior to a game. For more information on Japan’s pro-baseball leagues, check out the official professional league site , and the fan-site Baseball Guru .

There’s something fascinating about Japan’s national sport sumo, even though the titanic clashes between the enormous, near-naked wrestlers can be blindingly brief. The age-old pomp and ceremony that surrounds sumo – from the design of the dohyō (the ring in which bouts take place) to the wrestler’s slicked-back topknot – give the sport a gravitas completely absent from Western wrestling. The sport’s aura is enhanced by the majestic size of the wrestlers themselves: the average weight is 136kg, but they can be much larger – Konishiki, one of the sumo stars of the 1990s, for example, weighed 272kg.

At the start of a bout, the two rikishi (wrestlers) wade into the ring, wearing only mawashi aprons, which are essentially giant jockstraps. Salt is tossed to purify the ring, and then the rikishi hunker down and indulge in the time-honoured ritual of psyching each other out with menacing stares. When ready, each rikishi attempts to throw his opponent to the ground or out of the ring using one or more of 82 legitimate techniques. The first to touch the ground with any part of his body other than his feet, or to step out of the dohyō, loses.

Despite their formidable girth, top rikishi enjoy the media status of supermodels, their social calendars being documented obsessively by the media. When not fighting in tournaments, groups of rikishi live and train together at their heya (stables), the youngest wrestlers acting pretty much as the menial slaves of their older, more experienced, colleagues. If you make an advance appointment, it’s possible to visit some heya to observe the early-morning practise sessions; contact the Tokyo TICs for details. For all you could want to know and more on the current scene, plus how to buy tickets, check out the official website of sumo’s governing body, Nihon Sumo Kyōkai.

A short history of sumo

Accounts of sumo bouts (basho) are related in Japan’s oldest annals of history dating back around 2000 years when it was a Shinto rite connected with praying for a good harvest. By the Edo period, sumo had developed into a spectator sport, and really hit its stride in the post-World War II period when basho started to be televised. The old religious trappings remain, though: the gyōji (referee) wears robes similar to those of a Shinto priest and above the dohyō hangs a thatched roof like those found at shrines.

Sumo players are ranked according to the number of wins they have had, the top-ranking wrestler being called the yokozuna, and the next rank down ōzeki. In a neat reversal of Japan’s appropriation of baseball and export of professional players to the US league, several of sumo’s most revered stars of recent years were born abroad, including Konishiki (aka the “dump truck”) and Akebono, who both hail from Hawaii, Musashimaru from American Samoa and Asashoryu, the first Mongolian-born fighter to reach the rank of yokozuna.

Even though he is one of the most successful yokuzuna ever, Asashoryu battled with sumo’s strict code of conduct throughout his career and was forced into early retirement in 2010 after punching a man outside a Tokyo nightclub. This and other un-sumo-like behaviour, such as wrestlers being found in possession of pot and being involved in illegal gambling, has tarnished the sport, the popularity of which has plummeted over recent years, particularly among young Japanese. The sport‘s saviour may just be its current crop of overseas stars such as the Estonian-born ōzeki Baruto and the Bulgarian Kotooshu who was the first European-born wrestler to win the Emperor’s Cup in 2008. Tall and relatively light for a sumo player, the ōzeki has been dubbed the David Beckham of sumo.

The annual sumo tournaments

The must-see annual sumo tournaments are held at the following locations, always starting on the Sunday closest to the tenth of the month and lasting for two weeks: Kokugikan Hall in Tokyo (Jan, May & Sept); Ōsaka Furitsu Taiiku Kaikan in Ōsaka (March); Aichi-ken Taiiku-kan in Nagoya (July); and the Fukuoka Kokusai Centre, Fukuoka (Nov).

Despite sumo’s declining popularity, it’s still difficult to book the prime ringside seats (around ¥45,000 for four seats in a tatami mat block) but quite feasible to bag reserved seats in the balconies (starting around ¥3200 for a Western-style seat). The cheapest unreserved seats (¥2800) go on sale on the door on the day of the tournament at 9am. To be assured of a ticket you’ll need to line up well before that, especially towards the end of a basho. Matches start at 10am for the lower-ranked wrestlers and at this time of day it’s OK to sneak into any vacant ringside seats to watch the action close up; when the rightful owners turn up, just return to your own seat. The sumo superstars come on around 4pm and tournaments finish at around 6pm.

Full details in English about ticket sales can be found on the sumo association’s website . If you can’t get a ticket, note that NHK televises each basho daily from 3.30pm, and you can tune in to FEN on 810 KHz for a simultaneous English commentary.

Soccer was introduced to Japan in 1873 by an Englishman, Lieutenant Commander Douglas of the Royal Navy, but it wasn’t until Japan’s first professional soccer league, the J-League , was launched in 1993 that the sport captured the public’s imagination. Following on from the success of the 2002 World Cup, hosted jointly by Japan and Korea, the sport is now a huge crowd puller.

Games are played between March and October, with a break in August. Sixteen clubs play in the top J1 league, twelve in the J2, and all participate in the JL Yamazaki Nabisco Cup. There is a host of other cups and contests including the JOMO Cup, in which fans pick their dream teams from among all the J-League players.

Half-sport, half-religion, aikido translates as “the way of harmonious spirit” and blends elements of judo, karate and kendo into a form of non-body-contact self-defence. It’s one of the newer martial arts, having only been created in Japan in the twentieth century, and, as a rule, is performed without weapons. For a painfully enlightening and humorous take on the rigours of aikido training, read Robert Twigger’s Angry White Pyjamas.

To find out more about the sport, head to the International Aikido Federation , 17-18 Wakamatsuchō, Shinjuku-ku (合気会).

Probably the martial art most closely associated with Japan, judo is a self-defence technique that developed out of the Edo-era fighting schools of Jūjutsu. All judo activities in Japan are controlled by the All-Japan Judo Federation , at the Kōdōkan Dōjō, 1-16-30 Kasuga, Bunkyō-ku (講道館), reached from either Kasuga or Kōrakuen subway stations in Tokyo. The dōjō holds classes most evenings (Mon–Fri 5–8pm, Sat 5–7.30pm), and there’s also a hostel here where you can stay if you have an introduction from an authorized judo body or an approved Japanese sponsor. Judo is also taught at the Nippon Budōkan Budō Gakuen , 2-3 Kitanomaru-kōen, Chiyoda-ku (日本武道館), near Kudanshita subway station in Tokyo.

Karate has its roots in China and was only introduced into Japan via the southern islands of Okinawa in 1922. Since then the sport has developed many different styles, several with governing bodies and federations based in Tokyo. The Japan Karate Association , 2-23-15 Koraku, Bunkyō-ku (日本空手協会), is the world’s largest karate association teaching the Shokotan tradition. You can apply to train or watch classes here, but it’s best to call or email first. The closest subway stations are Iidabashi and Kōrakuen.

The umbrella organization, Japan Karatedō Federation , 6F, 2 Nippon Zaidan Building, 1-11-2 Toranomon, Minato-ku, Tokyo, can advise on the main styles of karate and the best place to see practise sessions or take lessons. The closest subway station is Toranomon.

Meaning “the way of the sword”, kendo is Japanese fencing using either a long bamboo weapon, the shinai, or a lethal metal katana blade. This martial art has the longest pedigree in Japan, dating from the Muromachi period (1392–1573). It developed as a sport during the Edo period and is now watched over by the All-Japan Kendo Federation , Nippon Budōkan, 2-3 Kitanomaru-kōen, Chiyoda-ku, Tokyo (全日本剣道連盟), near Kudanshita subway station. Practise sessions are not generally open to the public, but you might be fortunate enough to catch the All-Japan Championships held in Tokyo each autumn at the Budōkan.

Skiing and snowboarding

Japan is a ski and snowboard paradise; even on the shortest trip to the country it’s easy to arrange a day-trip to the slopes since many major resorts on Honshū are within a couple of hours’ train ride of Tokyo, Nagoya or Ōsaka. Serious skiers will want to head to the northern island of Hokkaidō, which has some of the country’s best ski resorts.

The cost of a ski trip needn’t be too expensive. Lift passes are typically ¥4000 per day, or less if you ski for several days in a row; equipment rental averages around ¥4000 for the skis, boots and poles per day, while accommodation at a family-run minshuku compares favourably to that of many European and American resorts.

Transport to the slopes is fast and efficient; at one resort ( Gala Yuzawa in Niigata) you can step straight off the Shinkansen onto the ski lifts. Ski maps and signs are often in English, and you’re sure to find some English-speakers and, at the major resorts, gaijin staff, if you run into difficulties.

Top resorts can get very crowded, especially at weekends and holidays; if you don’t want to ski in rush-hour conditions, plan your trip for midweek. In addition, the runs are, on the whole, much shorter than in Europe and the US. Compensating factors, however, are fast ski lifts, beautiful scenery – especially in the Japan Alps – and the opportunity to soak in onsen hot springs at night.

Recommended for beginners is either Gala Yuzawa or Naeba , both reached in under two hours from Tokyo by Shinkansen. Nozawa Onsen also has good beginners’ runs, but its off-the-beaten-track location makes it a better bet for more experienced skiers. Appi Kōgen and Zaō in northern Honshū and Hakuba in Nagano are considered the Holy Trinity of Japanese ski resorts. Shiga Kōgen is another mammoth resort in Nagano. If you’re after the best powder-snow skiing without the crowds, head north to Hokkaidō, to the world-class resorts of Furano and Niseko. There are also many slopes easily accessible on a day-trip from Sapporo.

All the major travel agents offer ski packages, which are worth considering. Hakuba-based Ski Japan Holiday and Niseko-based SkiJapan.com both have plenty of experience setting up deals for the expat community. Youth hostels near ski areas also often have excellent-value packages, including accommodation, meals and lift passes, and can arrange competitive equipment rental.

The most current and comprehensive English-language guide to Japan’s ski resorts is Snow-search Japan with details of over seventy resorts.

Mountaineering and hiking

Until the twentieth century, few Japanese would have considered climbing one of their often sacred mountains for anything other than religious reasons. These days, prime highland beauty spots such as Kamikōchi are very popular with day hikers and serious mountaineers, so much so that they risk being overrun. In addition, there are scores of national parks and other protected areas, and exploring these and other picturesque parts of the countryside on foot is one of the great pleasures of a trip to Japan. Nevertheless, bear in mind that those areas close to cities can get very busy at weekends and holidays. If you can, go midweek or out of season when the trails are less crowded.

Hiking trails, especially in the national parks, are well marked. Campsites and mountain huts open during the climbing season, which runs from June to the end of August. The efficient train network means that even from sprawling conurbations like Tokyo you can be in beautiful countryside in just over an hour. Top hiking destinations from the capital include the lakes, mountains and rugged coastline of the Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park to the southwest and Nikkō to the north. Also west of the capital is the Chichibu-Tama National Park and the sacred mountain Takao-san, particularly lovely when the leaves change colour each autumn. The website outdoorjapan.com has useful ideas and information if you plan to go hiking or camping in Japan.

Rafting, canoeing and kayaking

All the snow that gets dumped on Japan’s mountains in winter eventually melts, swelling the country’s numerous rivers. Although the vast majority of these have been tamed by dams and concrete walls along the riverbanks, there are stretches that provide the ideal conditions for whitewater rafting, canoeing and kayaking. Prime spots for these activities are Minakami in Gunma-ken, Hakuba in Nagano-ken, the Iya Valley and Shimanto-gawa, both in Shikoku, and Niseko in Hokkaidō. A reputable firm to contact to find out more is Canyons .

One of Japan’s premier pro-golfing events is the Japan Open Golf Championship , held in October with a total prize fund of ¥200 million. If you fancy a round yourself, there are details of 2349 eighteen-hole or more courses at Golf in Japan . Course fees vary widely from ¥3000 at the cheapest places to over ¥40,000 for a round at the most exclusive links.

Beaches, surfing and diving

Given that Japan is an archipelago, you’d be forgiven for thinking that it would be blessed with some pleasant beaches. The truth is that industrialization has blighted much of the coastline and that many of the country’s beaches are covered with litter and/or polluted. The best beaches are those furthest away from the main island of Honshū, which means those on the islands of Okinawa, or the Izu and Ogasawara islands south of Tokyo.

Incredibly, Japan’s market for surf goods is the world’s largest, and when the surfers aren’t hauling their boards off to Hawaii and Australia, they can be found braving the waves at various home locations. Top spots include the southern coasts of Shikoku and Kyūshū. Closer to Tokyo, pros head for the rocky east Kujūkuri coast of the Chiba peninsula, while the beaches around Shōnan, near Kamakura, are fine for perfecting your style and hanging out with the trendiest surfers. A useful website is japansurf.com .

The best places to head for diving are Okinawa, around the island of Sado-ga-shima, near Niigata, and off the Izu Peninsula, close to Tokyo. Walruses may fancy braving ice-diving in the frozen far northern reaches of Hokkaidō. Check out divejapan.com for more information.

If you do have the misfortune to experience more than a minor rumble, follow the safety procedures listed below:

• Extinguish any fires and turn off electrical appliances.
• Open any doors leading out of the room you’re in, as they often get jammed shut, blocking your exit.
• Stay away from windows because of splintering glass. If you have time, draw the curtains to contain the glass.
• Don’t rush outside (many people are injured by falling masonry), but get under something solid, such as a ground-floor doorway, or a desk.
• If you are outside when the quake hits, head for the nearest park or other open space.
• If the earthquake occurs at night, make sure you’ve got a torch (all hotels, ryokan, etc provide flashlights in the rooms).
• When the tremors have died down, go to the nearest open space, taking your documents and other valuables with you. It’s also a good idea to take a cushion or pillow to protect your head against falling glass.
• Eventually, make your way to the designated neighbourhood emergency centre and get in touch with your embassy.

The thirtieth anniversary in 2009 of Mobile Suit Gundam, a hit anime franchise, served as the opportunity to construct an 18m tall, 35-tonne replica of one of its key robot characters on Tokyo’s Odaiba. During the two months RX-78-2 Gundam was on display it drew 4.15 million visitors. Crowds are also flocking to see another giant anime robot statue – Tetsujin 28 – built to commemorate Kōbe’s recovery from its 1995 earthquake (see Kobe Tetsujin Project). And it’s difficult to turn a corner without seeing an image of Tezuka Osamu’s Astro Boy, perhaps the most famous anime robot of all; his latest role is the official ambassador for Japan’s bid for the 2022 World Cup.

Japan’s love of humanistic robots goes back several centuries to the Edo era when much smaller karakuri ningyo (mechanized automata and puppets) were crafted to serve tea, or to decorate the portable shrines used in festivals: you can still see such dolls in action today on the floats used in festivals in Takayama and Furukawa among other places. These are the roots of a culture that continues to see robots as entertainment, life assistants and even friends. One robot called I-Fairy has officiated at a wedding while another, the robot seal Paro is being used for therapy in hospitals and elderly care homes.

This is just the tip of the coming robotic iceberg. As Timothy Hornyak points out in his fascinating book Loving the Machine , “more and more intelligent machines are expected to start working in Japanese society in areas such as healthcare as its population ages rapidly and its workforce shrinks.”

Travel advice for Japan

From travel safety to visa requirements, discover the best tips for traveling to Japan

• Culture and Etiquette in Japan
• Eating and drinking in Japan
• How to get to Japan
• Getting around Japan: Transportation Tips
• Shopping tips for Japan
• Travel Tips Japan for planning and on the go
• When's the best time to visit Japan?

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written by Rough Guides Editors

updated 08.04.2024

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