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Japan’s Best Off-The-Beaten-Path Places

If you’re the type of traveler who seeks out unique, non-touristy places, this short list of our favorite off-the-beaten-path Japan destinations is for you.

Most people who visit Japan focus on more well-known places, like Tokyo and Kyoto — and with good reason. You’ll find the modern and ancient capitals in our sample trips , along with other renowned destinations, because they’re truly worthwhile.

But to complement your travels to what might be considered “essential” destinations, it’s also worth getting off the beaten track to spend time in areas of Japan that fewer travelers visit.

It’s also a good way to minimize exposure to crowds. Particularly during peak seasons , it’s normal for iconic places to attract lots of visitors. Yet even at popular times of year, you can almost feel like you have the beauty of Japan to yourself by venturing to more remote parts of the country.

So to help you plan the most unique trip possible, we’re pleased to present a selection of the best off-the-beaten-path places in Japan. (If you’re looking for even more inspiration, see our comprehensive guide to Japan’s best destinations ).

Originally written in 2014, this post was updated and republished on August 28, 2020.

Notes About Travel in Rural Japan

Traveling through the Japanese countryside is ultimately easier than many travelers imagine. Here are a few key things you should know, which are generally applicable to the destinations featured below (and rural Japan on the whole).

• Expect to stay in ryokans (Japanese-style inns) at least some of the time. Even in less-visited regions most cities have hotels, but in very remote areas there may only be Japanese-style options.
• Trains in Japan are wonderful and the country has a comprehensive rail network, but in off-the-beaten-track areas it’s often easiest to explore by car (some travelers enjoy driving, while others prefer to have a private driver).
• It’s safe to say you’re likely to encounter fewer English speakers in more rural parts of Japan. Read more on what you should know about the Japanese language .

Without further ado, we present our favorite off-the-beaten-path areas of Japan (not listed in order of preference – we love them all!):

Located in the southwest of Japan, Kyushu is a perennial favorite among Japanese people and Japan enthusiasts for its food, natural scenery, and onsen (hot springs). It’s also the birthplace of shochu , Japan’s most popular distilled liquor.

For most visitors, the gateway to Kyushu is the city of Fukuoka. From Tokyo, Kyoto, and Osaka, it’s a straight shot by shinkansen (bullet train) to Hakata Station.

For some travelers, the easy domestic flight to Fukuoka Airport may make the most sense – and Fukuoka Airport also serves many international flights from throughout Asia.

Below are some of our favorite places and experiences in Kyushu.

Highlights of Kyushu, Japan

• Kyushu’s largest city, Fukuoka , is perhaps Japan’s most “livable” large city, with friendly people, pleasant weather, a dynamic arts scene, and amazing cuisine. The food in Fukuoka (also known as Hakata) is a major draw for culinary travelers: the city is known for its yatai street stalls, tonkotsu ramen, and much more.
• Beppu is Kyushu’s most famous onsen destination, but for a less “gaudy” experience try the more laid-back town of Yufuin , or the hot springs village of Kurokawa Onsen .
• The city of Nagasaki is worth visiting for its history (both during the Edo Period, and WWII), its charm, and its eclectic cuisine.
• For travelers interested in traditional and modern craft, Saga Prefecture is a must, with highlights including Arita , Imari , and Karatsu .
• Mount Aso is one of Japan’s most impressive volcanoes, and don’t miss the chance to enjoy a picturesque boat ride through the majestic Takachiho Gorge .
• The best place to experience Kyushu’s natural wonders is on the remote island of Yakushima , a few hours’ ferry ride (or short flight) from Kagoshima , Kyushu’s southernmost city. Yakushima is a dream for nature lovers, with ancient forests, hikes to waterfalls, and more.

Located in northern Japan (just south of Hokkaido), the Tohoku region is by far one of our favorite of Japan’s lesser-visited areas. Thanks to its relatively out-of-the-way location, most travelers end up missing it. This is unfortunate for them, but good news for you if you’re looking for an authentic off-the-beaten-track experience.

Tohoku is a large region including various distinct prefectures (Akita, Aomori, Fukushima, Iwate, Miyagi, and Yamagata), and there is no single “best” way to explore it all.

A common route for people visiting Tohoku is to travel from Tokyo to the city of Sendai by shinkansen , and from here continue to explore the region by train and/or car (if you skipped ahead, see above for Notes About Travel in Rural Japan ).

Below are some of our favorite places and experiences in Tohoku.

Highlights of Tohoku, Japan

• Tohoku’s largest city, Sendai , is a convenient gateway to many of the region’s rural highlights, and is worth a stop in its own right – especially if you love Japanese food . Sendai has a vibrant culinary and nightlife scene, with great izakayas and local sake .
• Long famed in Japan as one of the country’s most scenic destinations, Matsushima Bay is a lovely place to hike or just enjoy the views. The nearby port town of Shiogama is an excellent place to enjoy fresh sushi.
• Like Kyushu, the Tohoku region has too many wonderful onsen to name. Visit the quintessential hot springs town of Ginzan Onsen (said to have inspired Ghibli ), or venture to the remote Nyuto Onsen for an unforgettable rustic onsen experience.
• The Sanriku Coast is remarkable not only for its scenery and traditional towns, but also for its resilience following the tragic tsunami of 2011.
• For history lovers, the cities of Kakunodate (most famous for its samurai district) and Hirosaki (most famous for its castle) are highly worth visiting.
• One of Japan’s most spiritual areas, Dewa Sanzan (the Three Mountains of Dewa) is a traditional pilgrimage destination, with beautiful scenery, historic shrines, and great hiking options. (While not in Tohoku, read about Mount Koya , another spiritual destination in Japan.)
• The entire Hachimantai region is a nature-lover’s dream, with Lake Tazawa (Tazawako), mountain hikes galore, and a wealth of natural hot springs (including Nyuto Onsen mentioned above).

Tohoku is too large and its regions too varied to succinctly summarize, but hopefully this piques your interest in this often overlooked part of Japan.

Even among this collection of Japan’s hidden gems, Shikoku stands out for its beauty and remote feel. If you’re looking for an isolated yet stunning slice of the Japanese countryside, Shikoku is a fantastic destination to consider.

Why visit Shikoku? Beautiful nature, peaceful villages, art islands, wonderful local food (including Japan’s best udon), hot springs, and a rich traditional culture including matsuri such as the lively Awa Odori.

Most travelers enter Shikoku via the cities of Takamatsu or Tokushima, and the ideal entry point will depend on your first destination.

It is possible to explore some of Shikoku by rail, but — echoing the Notes above — a rental car or private driver is likely your best option, as transport links within the island are relatively limited. (If your main destination is the art island of Naoshima, a car is not as essential.)

Below are some of our favorite places and experiences in Shikoku.

Highlights of Shikoku, Japan

• Actually just off the coast of Shikoku, Japan’s famous “art island” of Naoshima is a major draw for travelers interested in art and architecture (see our introduction to Naoshima ). A short ferry trip away is the lesser-visited island of Teshima , home to the awe-inspiring Teshima Art Museum .
• Perhaps Shikoku’s most important gateway, the city of Takamatsu is worth exploring. You could spend hours at Ritsurin Koen, a spacious and elegant garden, and make sure to sample the local udon at one of the city’s many specialty shops.
• Kotohira is a small, charming town featuring the island’s best-known shrine, Konpira-san (also known as Kotohira-gu), as well as a magnificent old kabuki theater, Kanamaru-za.
• The lively city of Matsuyama is full of history and flavor, and home to one of Japan’s oldest hot springs destinations, Dogo Onsen , along with the original preserved Matsuyama Castle (Matsuyama-jo).
• To get away from it all, venture to the Iya Valley deep in Shikoku’s hard-to-reach interior, where you’ll find striking landscapes, delightful old-fashioned accommodations, hiking and rafting, as well as hot springs and waterfalls.
• The Shikoku Pilgrimage (Shikoku Henro ) is one of Japan’s most important pilgrimages (another, though not on Shikoku, is the Kumano Kodo ), and includes 88 Buddhist temples located throughout the island. Most visitors choose to pay a visit to a small selection of the temples.
• Located just east of Teshima (see above), the island of Shodoshima is known for its traditional soy sauce production as well as its Mediterranean climate and bountiful olive groves.
• The charming town of Uchiko is an attractive detour for travelers who enjoy picturesque old streets and little old-fashioned shops.
• The laid-back city of Kochi , on Shikoku’s southern coast, feels about as far from the mainland as possible. Like Matsuyama (mentioned above), the city boasts an original castle, along with temples, famed local cuisine, and beaches nearby.

4. Hokkaido

Hokkaido, Japan’s northernmost island, is no “secret,” and in fact is quite well-known especially thanks to its incredible skiing and snowboarding. But beyond its famous winter highlights most travelers don’t realize how much Hokkaido has to offer — and what an appealing summer destination it is.

When most of Japan is dealing with the intense heat and humidity of summer, Hokkaido is irresistibly pleasant, making it an ideal time to explore the island. It also has a beautiful if brief autumn before the long, snow-filled winter begins.

Unlike most of Japan, Hokkaido is renowned for its wide-open spaces, and it’s a great destination for travelers interested in the outdoors, adventure sports, and wildlife.

Perhaps even more importantly — at least for many of our travelers — Hokkaido is an extraordinary culinary destination, worth visiting for its seafood (and some of Japan’s best sushi and sashimi), produce, dairy (including outrageously good cheese), and even bread and pastries (the island is home to some amazing bakeries).

For most travelers, the easiest way to get to Hokkaido is by domestic flight. There are plenty of daily flights from throughout Japan to the Sapporo area’s New Chitose Airport (which also serves a number of international destinations).

Another option for travelers with a bit more time is the Hokkaido Shinkansen. You can get from Tokyo to the southern Hokkaido city of Hakodate in just a few hours.

(In line with the Notes above, once in Hokkaido a car may be your best bet for exploring the island, depending on your itinerary.)

Below are some of our favorite places and experiences in Hokkaido.

Highlights of Hokkaido, Japan

• If you’re visiting for the nature, you may be tempted to skip Sapporo , the island’s largest city. But if you’re here for the food, you’ll want to spend some time eating your way around this lively city. Along with its cuisine, Sapporo also has a smattering of interesting art and architecture, and in winter plays host to the famous Snow Festival (Yuki Matsuri).
• Home to what some skiers and snowboarders believe to be the world’s best powder, Niseko is Japan’s most famous ski resort (and also home to a dynamic culinary scene). Among too many to list, other winter resorts in Hokkaido include Rusutsu , Furano , Kiroro , Tomamu , and Asahikawa .
• Noboribetsu Onsen is one of the best places to enjoy an exquisite ryokan stay, with beautiful natural surroundings and splendid meals featuring local and seasonal ingredients.
• The UNESCO World Heritage Shiretoko National Park stands out even on this list as one of Japan’s most remote areas, home to some of the country’s most pristine wilderness and wonderful wildlife viewing opportunities.
• Biratori is a small town rich in indigenous Ainu culture and home to the Biratori Nibutani Ainu Culture Museum.
• If you take the shinkansen from Tokyo, you’ll end up in Hakodate , renowned for its seafood and morning market, and its small historical districts.
• Along with skiing in winter, Furano is a popular destination for its lavender fields in summer, and the idyllic Biei nearby is also home to vibrant flower fields.
• Another top winter destination, Asahikawa , is also one of Hokkaido’s best hiking areas in summer, with easy access to the impressive Daisetsuzan National Park .
• Yoichi , where you’ll find the Nikka Whisky Yoichi Distillery, is an important destination for whisky lovers. On the way or as a detour, the port town of Otaru has a small historical district (and excellent seafood).
• On Hokkaido’s eastern coast, Abashiri is home to the Museum of Northern Peoples, and the Moyoro Shell Mound Museum.
• Wildlife enthusiasts also flock to Kushiro Shitsugen National Park for a chance to witness endangered Japanese cranes.
• Last but certainly not least, Hokkaido is home to a wealth of pristine lakes, from Shiretoko (mentioned above) to Lake Akan , Lake Toya , Lake Kussharo , Lake Shikotsu , Lake Onuma , and Lake Mashu .

Most people have heard of Okinawa (like Hokkaido, its existence is no secret), but few travelers realize just how beautiful it is. Because of this, we consider Okinawa to be one of Japan’s most underrated destinations.

Imagine a more laid-back, subtropical version of Japan, and you can begin to picture what makes Okinawa so appealing. With lovely beaches and jungles, the scenery is spectacular; you’ll find world-class scuba diving and marine life; and the weather is fantastic year-round (though note that it does get cool at times of year).

Okinawa’s islands are full of picture-perfect beaches, but we typically recommend Okinawa most for travelers who are interested in a combination of stunning landscapes, activity, and local culture. The rich and fascinating Ryukyu culture lives on in many aspects of life throughout the islands, including in Okinawa’s food , lively music, and distinctive architecture.

One reason many travelers skip Okinawa is its distance from mainland Japan, though this shouldn’t stop you. There are convenient flights from major Japanese cities to Okinawa (there are also some international flights).

Most travelers fly into Naha Airport on Okinawa’s main island, or New Ishigaki Airport on the island of Ishigaki in Okinawa’s far-flung Yaeyama Islands. Flights to the larger Naha are more frequent, but you may want to skip Naha and the main island if you’re opting for an off-the-beaten-path adventure in the Yaeyama Islands.

Once in Okinawa, expect to travel by ferry for shorter island-hopping excursions, and inter-island flight for longer trips (for example, from Ishigaki to Naha).

Below are some of our favorite places and experiences in Okinawa.

Highlights of Okinawa, Japan

• We love Okinawa on the whole, but if you only visit one area consider the secluded paradise of the Yaeyama Islands , which are actually located closer to Taiwan than mainland Japan. The Yaeyama Islands include Ishigaki, Iriomote, and Taketomi (more on these below), as well as Yonaguni (particularly famous for its scuba diving), Kohama, and Hateruma.
• Begin your Yaeyama Islands adventure in the small city of Ishigaki . Some travelers choose to stay on Ishigaki and use it as a convenient base for island-hopping around the local islands. Ishigaki itself is famous for the scenic Kabira Bay, and is also full of places to enjoy Okinawan food and music (the sound of the sanshin is intoxicating). You can also hike, bike, snorkel, and dive.
• From Ishigaki, the nearest island is tiny Taketomi , which has pretty beaches, and a quaint and beautifully-preserved historical town center.
• Another wonderful island within easy reach of Ishigaki is the lush, jungly island of Iriomote , which offers great hiking, waterfalls, canoeing and kayaking, SUP, and more.
• Located between the Yaeyama Islands and Okinawa’s main island is Miyako Island (Miyako-jima), another off-the-beaten-path gem, known for its great beaches and marine activities.
• Okinawa (the main island, Okinawa Honto) is a major draw for tourists thanks to its convenience and plethora of resorts. While we still tend to recommend more out-of-the-way islands, it can be a good option for families. Its main city of Naha offers plenty to do, including the colorful Makishi Market and the unique Shuri Castle. Most of the resorts are further north, where the Churaumi Aquarium is also located.
• Near the main island you’ll also find the Kerama Islands National Park , with a quieter atmosphere and — you guessed it — great beaches!

Looking for more inspiration?

We hope our guide to Japan’s best off-the-beaten-path destinations helps you as you plan your Japan trip! For more inspiration, see our 25 Japan experiences to add to your bucket list .

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Great experience!

Great team that responds promptly at any time of the day with any problems. We were happy with all the bookings made by Tourist Japan. It was a great agenda put together for 9 days in Japan, we thoroughly enjoyed, thank you.

Date of experience : June 13, 2024

Overall the trip to Japan was amazing…

Overall the trip to Japan was amazing and support was also awesome. I am planning to try out their other packages in upcoming years.

Date of experience : June 10, 2024

Reply from Tourist Japan

Dear Harikumar, thank you for your kind words! We're thrilled to hear that you had an amazing trip to Japan and appreciated our support. We look forward to welcoming you on our other packages in the future.

We enjoyed our stay at Park Hotel

We enjoyed our stay at Park Hotel. Close to metro - 3 stops to the city, good breakfast, comfortable room. Bar and sitting area downstairs. Very helpful staff with local restaurant bookings etc.

Date of experience : May 26, 2024

Dear Geoff, thank you so much for your kind words towards our hotel selection for your package. We look forward to receiving you soon again!

Unable to contact them

I am in Japan unable to find the tour guide. I am at the location since an hour and haven't seen the tour guide yet. There is no way to contact the company. I tried their 7 day a week phone and it is sending me straight to voicemail. There is not other way to contact them except by email, which I am waiting for them to respond since 45 mins. Only book this if you wanna feel stuck in Japan. I mean literally no way to contact them.

Date of experience : April 07, 2024

Dear Nega, We deeply regret the inconvenience you've faced and apologize for any frustration caused. Rest assured, we've received and replied to your emails, and our team is actively working to address your concerns. However, due to an unforeseen operational issue today, our response may have been delayed. This is not typical of our service, and we're committed to resolving the situation promptly. Please continue to check your email for updates, and we appreciate your patience and understanding. Tourist Japan

Great Team of Tour Guides

Our driver Lin and Eugene our tour guide were amazing ambassadors for Japan. Very knowledgeable about Japan not just Fuji-Sahn. Beautiful and scenic places visited that I would not have found. Thank you so much.

Date of experience : May 04, 2024

Dear Dawn, We're thrilled to hear that Lin and Eugene provided you with an amazing experience! It's wonderful to know that they served as fantastic ambassadors for Japan, sharing their knowledge and showcasing beautiful and scenic places beyond just Fuji-Sahn. Thank you for your kind words, and we're delighted to have been a part of your journey. Warm regards, Tourist Japan

The Tour Guide Ms Aki is superb

The Tour Guide Ms Aki, was really good in introducing us to the history and culture of the spots that we visited. This trip is highly recommended for 1st time visitor to Tokyo

Date of experience : May 11, 2024

Dear Michael, thank you for your glowing review of Ms. Aki! We're thrilled to hear that she provided you with an excellent introduction to the history and culture of the spots you visited. It's fantastic that you found the trip highly recommended, especially for first-time visitors to Tokyo. We appreciate your recommendation!

Nice hotel close to bus stop

Nice hotel close to bus stop. Twenty minute walk from Kyoto station rooms very small (typical in Japan) but clean and comfortable. Great breakfast Friendly and helpful staff. Close to numerous temples.

Date of experience : April 24, 2024

Thank you Kevin for your review! We're glad to hear that you found the hotel to be conveniently located. It's wonderful that the staff were friendly and helpful.

Best day in Japan yet!!

Best day in Japan yet!!! We saw and did and ate things I could not have found on my own without a tour company. Absolutely amazing!

Date of experience : May 23, 2024

Dear Tamara, thank you so much for your kind words!

We took the Best of Tokyo food tour…

We took the Best of Tokyo food tour Overall the tour was good but included too much walking for us and we were exhausted by the end of the day

Date of experience : February 12, 2023

Thank you John for joining us on our Best of Tokyo food tour. We're glad to hear that you found the overall experience good. We apologize if the amount of walking left you feeling exhausted. Your feedback is valuable to us, and we'll take it into consideration to improve future tours. We hope to have the opportunity to welcome you back for a more comfortable and enjoyable experience.

The tour was great

The tour was great. My 1st visit to Japan. Everyday we had a set itinerary. Visit places that I never been before. All the places we visit were close to train station or bus.

Date of experience : April 16, 2024

Dear Raymond, thank you for sharing your experience! We're thrilled to hear that your first visit to Japan was great and that you enjoyed the itinerary. It's wonderful that all the places you visited were conveniently located near train stations or bus stops. We hope to welcome you back on another tour soon!

I am very happy that I took one of the…

I am very happy that I took one of the Tokyo Tours with Tourist Japan. Being a first time international traveler I was very anxious but Tourist Japan was very helpful. I booked a 5 day culture tour with them so I didn’t have to worry about what sites to visit and where to go. I am very impressed with the service as the tour took care of everything. I would highly recommend you check out their tours because I think the service was phenomenal.

Date of experience : January 13, 2024

Thrilled to hear you had a positive experience with our Tokyo Tour, Joyce! We understand the excitement and anxiety of first-time international travel, and we're glad we could make it stress-free for you. Your recommendation means a lot, and we hope to welcome you on another adventure in the future. Safe travels!

We only had a few days in Tokyo and…

We only had a few days in Tokyo and wanted to see as many sights as possible so we booked a day tour. It was a great choice because we got to visit many sites like the shrine and the imperial palace. Definitely worth checking out. Price was reasonable and the guides were quite knowledgeable.

Date of experience : January 15, 2024

Dear Emma, Our brief stay in Tokyo was made unforgettable by your excellent day tour recommendation. Visiting key sights like the shrine and the imperial palace made the most of our limited time. The reasonable price and knowledgeable guides enhanced the experience. Definitely worth checking out. Thanks for contributing to our memorable Tokyo trip!

The Best of Tokyo food tour offered by…

The Best of Tokyo food tour offered by Tourist Japan was a mixed experience for us. While we appreciated the opportunity to sample a wide array of delicious dishes, the extensive walking involved left us feeling exhausted by the end of the day. The tour could benefit from better pacing to accommodate travelers of all fitness levels. However, the food selections were top-notch, showcasing the diverse flavors of Tokyo's culinary landscape.

Date of experience : February 28, 2023

Dear Darryl, Thank you for sharing your feedback on the Best of Tokyo food tour with us. We're glad to hear that you enjoyed sampling the delicious dishes that showcase Tokyo's culinary diversity. We appreciate your comments regarding the pacing and will take them into consideration to enhance the experience for travelers of all fitness levels in the future.

While the extensive walking involved…

While the extensive walking involved was a bit challenging, it was well worth it to sample the diverse flavors of Tokyo's food scene. The tour provided a comprehensive overview of the city's culinary landscape, allowing us to indulge in everything from traditional sushi to modern fusion cuisine.

Date of experience : March 06, 2024

We're happy to hear that you found the extensive walking worthwhile to sample Tokyo's diverse food scene! Our goal is to provide a comprehensive overview of the city's culinary landscape, allowing you to indulge in a variety of flavors, from traditional sushi to modern fusion cuisine. Thank you for joining us!

Best way to experience Tokyo and Kyoto

Tourist Japan’s package for Tokyo and Kyoto was great. We were able to experience many things for the first time and got to really absorb the culture. Would book them again for other tours in the future next time I’m in Japan.

We're thrilled to hear that you enjoyed our Tokyo and Kyoto package Sumaiy, experiencing many new things and immersing yourself in the culture. Thank you for your positive feedback! We look forward to welcoming you again on future tours when you're back in Japan. Safe travels!

Tokyo tours

Last week I've done a few tours in Tokyo with Tourist Japan. I've had an amazing experience with them! Very organized, informative and an amazing guide. Would definitely recommend them!

Date of experience : January 02, 2024

Thank you so much for taking the time to share your positive experience with our Tokyo tours! We're thrilled to hear that everything was organized to your satisfaction, the information provided was valuable, and your guide made the experience memorable. Your recommendation means a lot to us, and we look forward to welcoming you back on another adventure in the future.

We took the Osaka food tour

We took the Osaka food tour, it was a very special and wonderful experience but the weather was very bad and made it difficult to follow the guide and listen to his explanations

Date of experience : February 13, 2023

Thank you William for sharing your experience on our Osaka food tour. We're glad to hear that you found it special and wonderful despite the challenging weather conditions. We appreciate your feedback and will take it into consideration to ensure better tour experiences in the future. We hope to welcome you back under better weather conditions for an even more enjoyable adventure.

The culinary delights of Osaka were…

The culinary delights of Osaka were nothing short of spectacular, and we appreciated the opportunity to explore the city's vibrant food scene. Despite the rain, Tourist Japan delivered a memorable tour that we will cherish for years to come.

Dear Hiram, we're thrilled to hear that you enjoyed the culinary delights of Osaka despite the rain! It's fantastic that you appreciated the opportunity to explore the vibrant food scene with us. Thank you for your kind words.

Mike made this tour unforgettable and…

Mike made this tour unforgettable and enjoyable and we hope to see him on other tours we take with the company

Date of experience : February 14, 2023

Dear Ryan, we're thrilled to hear that Mike made your tour unforgettable and enjoyable! We'll be sure to pass along your kind words to him. We hope to have the pleasure of welcoming you back on other tours with our company, and we'll do our best to ensure more memorable experiences.

all arrangement was very good

Date of experience : May 02, 2024

Dear Sadasivan, thank you for your feedback! We're pleased to hear that all the arrangements met your expectations. We appreciate your review and hope to assist you again in the future!

The Cost of Travel in Japan: My 2024 Budget Breakdown

It took me six years to get to Japan.

I didn’t think I could afford it.

Every time I seriously looked into visiting, I would wince at the high cost of the train passes, read about how the hotels were super-expensive, and then fly to Vietnam instead. Or Taiwan. Or even Australia. Japan was simply too expensive for a budget traveller, so I decided to save it for when I was rich.

With that not happening any time soon, I decided to blow my money anyway, because I wanted to go and the gushing blog posts from travel writer friends had convinced me it would be worth the splurge.

Imagine my surprise, then, when I discovered that it really wasn’t that expensive.

I arrived in Japan fully expecting it to be the priciest country I’ve ever been to, but I discovered it’s more on a par with Western Europe or North America, and cheaper than Australia. It was way more affordable than Namibia , where my daily expenses came to $132, and way, way, way more affordable than the Democratic Republic of the Congo , where I averaged, um, $550 a day.

Anyway!  This is about the cost of travel in Japan rather than my poor financial decisions, so let’s get started!

My 16-Day Japan Itinerary

Here’s a brief rundown of where I visited over my 16 days in the country — I think I managed to put together the perfect itinerary for first-time travellers to Japan .

Tokyo:  4 nights Hakone: 1 night Yudanaka: 1 night Kanazawa: 2 nights Takayama: 1 night Kyoto: 3 nights Hiroshima: 1 night Osaka: 3 nights

What’s Included in this Post

This budget breakdown covers how much I spent on accommodation, transportation, activities, food, and whichever miscellaneous items popped up while I was in country.

I’ve not included my flights into and out of Japan because this is going to vary significantly based on where you’ll be arriving from. In case you’re interested, though, I paid $320  for a return flight from Rome to Tokyo, which I scored through browsing my favourite site for flight bargains,  Secret Flying . 

The amounts in this guide are listed in Japanese Yen and U.S. dollars, simply because the vast majority of my readers are from the U.S. And finally, these are the three rules I always abide by on this site:

• I do not accept sponsored trips, so everything listed in this post is something I personally paid for with my own money
• I travel anonymously to ensure my experiences accurately reflect what yours will be. I don’t want special treatment!
• Every single word of this article was written by me, based on all of my own experiences. I strictly do not use AI to compose my guides.

Okay — let’s get started with my expenses.

The Cheapest Accommodation Options in Japan

Like practically every country in the world, prices in Japan have increased post-pandemic.

In 2024, you’ll be paying a little more for everything than you would have done a few years ago — in fact, prices almost doubled between my first trip in 2017 and today! — however costs are still on a par with most Western countries. Travel in Japan shouldn’t be too devastating to your travel budget.

I’ll start on the lower end of the spectrum. If you’re willing to put in the time and effort, it’s possible to avoid paying for accommodation entirely.

Couchsurfing  exists in Japan and allows you to stay with a local for free , usually sleeping on their sofa and enjoying a local’s insight into life in their country. Yeah, it’s not the most comfortable of living situations, but if your budget’s tight, it’s worth sending out a few requests to hosts to see if anything comes of it. You can browse through the 300,000+ Japanese hosts on  the Couchsurfing site — just be sure to read the references of anybody you choose to stay with.

Housesitting  is a more upmarket option, aimed at mid-range and luxury travellers. Housesitting involves taking care of somebody’s house for free while they’re away, often (but not always) looking after their pets, too. It’s best for long-term travellers or retirees, as you can’t pick and choose dates and destinations, so you’ll need to have a lot of flexibility as to where you go and at what time of year. If you  do  have that freedom, though, it’s a wonderful way to cut down your travel expenses, soak up some home comforts, and live like a local for a while.  Trusted Housesitters  is the main site for getting started with housesitting, as they have the highest number of listings.

Finally, when it comes to free accommodation, you could take a look at  WorldPackers in Japan , where you’ll be able to volunteer for locals in exchange for food and board. There are some seriously cool options available on the site right now, from helping harvest honey for a bee farm in the countryside to lending a hand in the garden of a Buddhist temple. Readers of this site get a $10 discount for WorldPackers with the promo code  neverendingfootsteps .

If you’re not looking to travel for free and just want a clean and comfortable room to sleep in, there are plenty of great budget options, too.

And then we have  hostels . In Japan, you’ll come across hostels all over the country, finding them on tiny islands, large cities, and even within the national parks. They’re one of your best options for saving money.

Hostels in Japan  are on a par with the rest of major cities in East Asia, and you can expect to spend  $25 a night for a dorm bed  for a well-reviewed hostel, with the price increasing slightly to around  $45 a night  for the absolute best of the best.

When it comes to private rooms in hostels, you’ll be looking at  $50 a night  for a clean, basic room in a good location, so if you’re travelling with friends or with your partner, you may find it cheaper to grab some privacy over settling for two beds in a dorm room.  $90 a night  will get you an exceptionally well-reviewed private room in a hostel.

I use  HostelWorld  to find the cheapest hostels, as they tend to have the greatest number of listings at the lowest prices.

And then there are hotels, which I’m going to jump into next.

The Cost of Accommodation in Japan

There are so many different types of accommodation in Japan! I attempted to experience as many as possible while I was in the country.

I stayed in a capsule hotel, prioritised hunting down a ryokan, slept on a tatami mat floor, stayed in family-run guesthouses, and checked out some pretty cool hostels. While I did attempt to save money by staying in some cheaper places, I was also happy to splurge on extremely well-rated rooms, too.

As always with these budget breakdowns, I like to share the prices of where I personally stayed, along with a description of the property and whether I’d recommend choosing it, too — hopefully this helps make your trip planning easier!

I visited Japan with my partner, Dave, and we travelled on a mid-range budget; searching out good value accommodation that was highly-rated and in a central location. We prioritised locally-run properties that weren’t too flashy or fancy; for us, a cosy vibe, unique furnishings, and welcoming staff are far more important than the generic decor of a hotel chain.

(Oh and just a quick note: hotels do charge different prices across a range of dates, depending on how busy a certain travel period is going to be. Because of this, it’s hard to be super accurate in the costs that I list. To get to the quoted prices below, though, I looked at the rates across the next six months and took the average: it could be slightly cheaper or more expensive, depending on when you’re visiting.)

Tokyo: $135 a night Odds are, you’re probably going to kick off your Japan adventures in Tokyo, and if so, it only makes sense to really throw yourself into the local experience. That’s why we decided to stay at this lovely onsen-ryokan in Shinjuku. (Whenever readers ask me which neighbourhood to choose in Tokyo, I always recommend Shinjuku or Shibuya.) The reason why I loved this specific property, though, is because it’s a ryokan (traditional Japanese Inn) that also has an onsen (hot pool). It’s a great way to jump immediately into all things Japanese.

And it was wonderful; my favourite hotel in the country. The rooms were small and cosy and felt super-traditional and calming. The views over Tokyo at night from the window were incredible. And the rooftop onsen? With free popsicles afterwards? So good. It’s located in a quieter neighbourhood, but still only a 10-minute walk to the subway. I really recommend this one!

Hakone: $80 a night In Hakone, we opted for a private room in a lovely guesthouse , with a tatami mat floor to sleep on and a private onsen on-site. The photo of the tatami mat room above is of our room here. It ended up being another one of our favourite stays in Japan! The staff were lovely and there was a restaurant/bar that served up fantastic pizzas. It had a cosy and chilled-out atmosphere, with great food and wine, and lots of blankets to snuggle up with as we ate. It was also worth staying here just to experience the private onsen — we got to go in as a couple!

Yudanaka: $105 per night In Yudanaka, we opted for a stay in a wonderful little ryokan ; this one was even more traditional than the one in Tokyo! Often, ryokans can be super-expensive in Japan — as much as $500 a night for the experience — so I was thrilled to have stumbled across a more budget option in Yudanaka. It was run by an adorable Japanese couple and their house came with a private onsen, return transport to see  the snow monkeys , and one of the most extravagant meals of my life. A kaiseki is a multi-course (like, 20 courses) meal that will see you eating roughly a week’s worth of food in a single night, sampling fresh, local-to-the-region Japanese cuisine. It was phenomenal, and I loved having no idea what anything was. It even included homemade plum wine, which was so good! I highly recommend the experience (although strongly advise you not to add breakfast to your booking — we were still so full that we couldn’t eat any of it!)

Kanazawa: $65 per night Kanazawa is home to some seriously cool accommodation! We had a hard time choosing where to stay because every property looked so cosy and inviting. In the end, we settled on this minimalist, modern set-up — it was great value for money relative to most other places we stayed in Japan, especially when you consider it’s only been open a year. It’s in a great location, right outside Omicho Market, where you’ll sample the best sushi of your life. Also within walking distance is Kanazawa Castle and Kenroku-en Garden, so you’re really staying in the heart of it all. I recommend signing up for the traditional Japanese breakfast, as you’ll likely not have had anything else like it before! There’s also an onsen and laundry facilities (always appreciated mid-trip!), and the staff were so sweet and kind.

Takayama: $76 per night In Takayama, we stayed in a small, locally-run guesthouse  in the centre of town. It felt like particularly good value for Japan, as it was one of the few places we stayed that you could describe as spacious! It even had a kitchen and washing machine. The beds were comfortable and the hotel was within walking distance of everywhere, including the train station. It was quiet, the staff were lovely, and overall, it made for a comfortable stay!

Kyoto: $84 a night In Kyoto, we stayed in a cosy hotel in the heart of town — we loved this place so much in 2017 that when we returned to Japan this year, we knew we’d have to stay there again! The property was in a fantastic location for exploring Kyoto and the bathrooms were nicer than anywhere else we stayed. It’s one of the top-rated guesthouses in the city — while also being one of the cheapest — so when you take that into consideration, I’m convinced you won’t find anywhere better to stay in Kyoto.

Hiroshima: $40 per bed In Hiroshima, we opted for a capsule-style hostel because I didn’t want to leave the country without trying one — you can see a photo of the “capsule” at the top of this section. Fortunately, we found ourselves in a room with only two other people staying there, so our capsule room with 20-odd beds was light on snorers. The owner of this place was ridiculously lovely and it was within walking distance of all of the monuments and activities. Really great bathrooms, a fun common area, and a cheap price: surprisingly, I would have stayed another night!

Osaka: $108 a night I rounded off my time in Japan with a little bit of a treat, opting for this four-star hotel that offered a ton of freebies. It’s all about the onsen here — it’s open all day and is simply beautiful. After you’ve finished your daily bathe, there’s free ice cream to eat, free comics to read, massage chairs to relax in, and even free ramen to slurp on. Yes, really! It was in a great location for Osaka — just a couple of blocks from the nearest metro station. The decor was calming and traditional; the perfect way to say goodbye to Japan.

In total, I spent an average of $97 per day on accommodation over my 16 days in Japan.

The Cost of Transportation in Japan

Okay, so let’s talk about transportation now. And specifically transportation post-2024.

It used to be the case that practically every visitor to Japan would invest in a JR pass (a train pass that grants you unlimited rides over a certain time period). After all, the best way to explore this country is by train, and by buying said rail pass, you’d be saving a significant amount of money on your trip — especially if you were taking a similar route to my one. A JR Pass pre-October 2023 would have saved me a whopping $175 over buying individual train tickets.

Seems like a no brainer, right?

In October 2023, the Japan Rail Pass skyrocketed in price. No exaggeration here: prices increased by an incredible 70% .

What a baffling decision.

What that means is that it’s not such a clear-cut decision anymore. The Japan Rail Pass still holds some benefits: If you’re a first-time visitor to Japan and don’t feel too confident about buying multiple single-journey train tickets, the pass will make it a lot easier: you just show it at any station and get on a train. You won’t need to worry about any extra charges and will have the flexibility to take train-based day trips whenever you want.

For most travellers, however, the value proposition is simply no longer there. For example, my recent 16-day itinerary (Tokyo – Hakone – Tokyo – Nagano – Kanazawa – Takayama – Kyoto – Nara – Kyoto – Hiroshima – Osaka) cost me 50,000 Yen ( $350 ) with single tickets. However, a 14 day rail pass is priced at 80,000 Yen ( $530 )!

Alas, the Japan Rail Pass is no longer something I recommend — unless you’re going to be taking enormous, lengthy rail journeys (like across the whole country) in a short period of time. Alternatively, if you do want that added sense of security and ease by not having to juggle a dozen train ticket bookings, you may find the extra price worth it.

So with all that being said: you’re most likely going to be using the JR West website to book your single train tickets online. This covers the entirety of Japan that’s west of Tokyo (all of the places I visited were west) and allows you to book your train tickets all in one place — and then you can reserve a seat on said train one month before its departure date. Honestly, it’s pretty easy to use, book, and reserve — and being able to do it all online means you can get everything sorted before you step foot in the country.

Let’s take a look at the some of the prices that a typical train journey in Japan costs — in this case I’ll use my itinerary mentioned above to plot out the costs:

Tokyo – Hakone: 2,500 Yen ( $17 ) Hakone – Tokyo: 2,500 Yen ( $17 ) Tokyo – Nagano: 7,500 Yen ( $50 ) Nagano – Kanazawa: 8,500 Yen ( $57 ) Kanazawa – Takayama: 5,000 Yen ( $33 ) Takayama – Kyoto: 9,000 Yen ( $60 ) Kyoto – Nara: 700 Yen ( $5 ) Nara – Kyoto: 700 Yen ( $5 ) Kyoto – Hiroshima: 10,500 Yen ( $70 ) Hiroshima – Osaka: 10,000 Yen ( $67 )

So if you were to replicate my Japan route exactly, you would end up spending $381 on rail tickets. It sounds like a lot of money but I do want to stress that the trains in Japan are some of the best in the world. They’re spotless, comfortable, modern, and lightning-fast. You will feel like you’re travelling in luxury.

If you’re not down to spend hundreds of dollars on trains, then the buses are going to be your best option. They’re cheaper, slower, less comfortable, often run overnight, and are complicated to book. The best sites I’ve found for booking long-distance buses is Willer Express and Japan Bus Online — but even they don’t run buses for several of the routes I took on my trip.

I thought it would be a good idea to share the cost of buses for the trip I took, so that you can compare them to the train and see how much money you could save.

Tokyo – Hakone: 2,250 Yen ( $15 ) Hakone – Tokyo: 1,800 Yen ( $12 ) Tokyo – Nagano: 2,200 Yen ( $15 ) Nagano – Kanazawa: No bus for this route Kanazawa – Takayama: 3,300 Yen ( $22 ) Takayama – Kyoto: 3,800 Yen ( $25 ) Kyoto – Nara: No bus for this route Nara – Kyoto: No bus for this route Kyoto – Hiroshima: 4,300 Yen ( $29 ) Hiroshima – Osaka: 4,000 Yen ( $27 )

As you can, see prices are generally around half what they are for the trains. You’d be looking at paying $212 in total for taking the bus, with three trains replacing the routes where I couldn’t find any existing buses.

We’ve covered the main ways to get in between the destinations, so now it’s time to take a look at how much you could spend on transportation within the cities.

Fortunately, this was where I found Japan to be really affordable. I love to explore cities on foot and I found many of the places I visited to be surprisingly walkable. In total, I spent $6 on the metro in Tokyo, $7 on the metro in Osaka, and $2 on the metro in Kyoto! Everywhere else, I just walked.

A reasonably big expense was our Hakone Free Pass (spoiler: not free), although this was more of a combined transportation and activity cost. At a cost of 6,100 Yen, or $41 , It provides you with unlimited transport around Hakone (where you’ll find Mount Fuji), and discounted entrance to all the attractions in town. If you’re going to Hakone, this will save you money because it covers everything you’ll definitely do there.

The Cost of Food in Japan

If you love Japanese food but have yet to travel to its homeland, you have such a treat in store for you. The food in this country is phenomenal; packed full of flavour and surprisingly inexpensive. It’s true: eating out is the easiest way for you to cut costs in Japan.

In fact, the vast majority of my meals in this country came to less than ¥1000 ($6.50) .

I’ll start first by breaking down the typical costs that you can expect to spend on the most well-known of Japanese dishes. Then, I’ll cover what you’ll be likely to eat for breakfast, lunch, and dinner, along with the costs associated with each of these meals. Finally, I’ll round out the section off by sharing some of my favourite food experiences in the country and describe which options are worth a splurge and which ones you can happily skip.

You can’t think of Japan without picturing sushi, so that feels like the most logical place to start. If you eat fish, this is going to be such a revelation for you! The sushi and sashimi in Japan is better than any I’ve had in the world and it was here that I finally understood how raw fish could ever be described as buttery.

To combine your sushi/sashimi-eating with a cultural experience, head to Tsukiji Outer Market in Tokyo or Omicho Market in Kanazawa. For a bowl filled with a selection of sashimi, like in my photo above, you’ll pay between ¥1,800 and ¥4,000 , depending on the size and quality of the fish. That’s the equivalent of $12-$25 .

Slurping on a steaming bowl of ramen is my personal definition of a true travel joy, so I opted for this cheap and cheerful dish most evenings as a way to save money. Note: the ramen in Japan is incredible , so don’t interpret my frugality as a hardship. Once you’ve tried the ramen here, I’d be surprised if you didn’t immediately start planning a return visit.

One of my favourite aspects of ordering ramen in Japan is how you’re given the option to customise the dish to your own tastes. It’s not uncommon to be handed a small slip of paper where you’ll get to mark down all of your preferences. Do you want your broth to be rich or light? Your noodles to be firm or soft? Added spiciness or none at all? Extra spring onion? A hard- or soft-boiled egg? Most options come out to ¥1000 ($6.50) for a bowl of pork ramen.

Speaking of cheap and delicious food options, I highly recommend sampling a couple of versions of okonomiyaki while you’re in town. This savoury pancake dish is so delicious, extremely filling, and inexpensive at just ¥1000 ($6.50) – ¥1500 ($10) . The cities of Osaka and Hiroshima each offer up their very own version of okonomiyaki and strong opinions are held by many over which is best! If you’ll be heading to both destinations, make sure you try one of each and let me know which is your favourite.

A dish that I tried for the first time while I was in Japan was Japanese curry and what a wonderful experience that turned out to be! In comparison to Indian curries, I found the Japanese version to be richer, sweeter, and less creamy, with plenty of umami vibes. Once more, you can expect to pay ¥1000 ($6.50) for a plate of katsu (pork cutlet) curry.

One of the most delightful aspects of my Japanese eating experiences was sampling all of the different snacks in the country.

Street snacks like takoyaki were  ¥500 ($4.50) . We splurged on our kaiseki experience at our guesthouse in Yudanaka and paid ¥4000 ($36) for our food extravaganza. It’s a budget option compared to many other kaisekis, which can easily come to $100 for the experience, but still our most expensive meal. Another splurge was on sushi in Kanazawa, which I paid  ¥2000 ($18) for.

Whether you’re on a budget or ready to splurge, it’s essentially impossible to eat badly in Japan. If you’re on a really tight budget, you can even get surprisingly decent food from 7-Eleven !

My total cost of food in Japan averaged out to $23.20 per day.

The Cost of Activities and Entrance Fees in Japan

Activities and entrance fees in Japan were very reasonably priced, and I never found myself outraged over the cost of anything. You’ll typically pay less than $5 to enter most temples, museums, and gardens.

Here’s how I spread my cash around:

Entrance fee for the hedgehog cafe in Tokyo: $13/1400¥ Entrance to the Snow Monkey Park : $7/800¥ Entrance to Kenroku-en gardens in Kanazawa: $3/310¥ Entry to the Golden Pavilion in Kyoto: $3/300¥ Entry to Ryoan-ji zen garden in Kyoto: $5/500¥ Ticket for the Hiroshima Peace Memorial: $2/200¥

My total cost of activities in Japan averaged out to $2 a day.

Miscellaneous Expenses in Japan

A local SIM card: $14

I mentioned above that I was able to buy a local SIM card when I purchased my rail pass. If you aren’t going to be using a rail pass in Japan, I recommend taking a look at Airalo instead. Airalo is a company that sells local e-SIM cards for travellers. What that means is that you can buy a virtual SIM card online before you arrive in Japan, and then as soon as you land in the country, can switch on your data and start using it.

It’s worked flawlessly for me and I’ll never go back to physical SIM cards. It’s just so easy! You’ll pay  $6 for 1 GB of data  or $14 for 3 GB for Japan and can also top-up through the Airalo app.

If you’re going down the Airalo route, just make sure your phone is e-SIM compatible first (all recent iPhones and many Androids are).

Insight Guides guidebook to Japan: $10 

My sister bought me  this guidebook as a gift before I left for Japan and at first I was like, Insight Guides? Meh. I wish she’d got me the Lonely Planet instead. Then when I opened it up and started reading, I swiftly discovered that Insight Guides are my new favourite guidebook company. It was so, so useful!

What I love about Insight is that their books focus heavily on the history and culture of Japan, with big, beautiful pictures, tons of information about local customs, food, and how to travel responsibly and respectfully. I recommend picking up a copy before your trip to Japan, but not taking it to the country with you — they’re big and heavy, so this is one for inspiration, planning, and education. 

Luggage storage at Snow Monkey Park near Yudanaka: ¥500 ($4.50)

We had our backpacks with us when we visited the snow monkeys, so utilised the on-site storage facility while we hiked up the mountain in the snow. You can also hire snow shoes and winter gear if you’re unprepared for the climb, but I was fine in my totally impractical sneakers. 

Travel insurance for 16 days in Japan: $60

If you’ve read any other posts on Never Ending Footsteps, you’ll know that I’m a great believer in travelling with travel insurance. I’ve seen far too many Go Fund Me campaigns from destitute backpackers that are unexpectedly stranded in a foreign country after a scooter accident/being attacked/breaking a leg with no way of getting home or paying for their healthcare. These costs can quickly land you with a six-figure bill to pay at the end of it.

In short, if you can’t afford travel insurance, you can’t afford to travel.

Travel insurance  will cover you if your flight is cancelled and you need to book a new one, if your luggage gets lost and you need to replace your belongings, if you suddenly get struck down by appendicitis and have to be hospitalised, or discover a family member has died and you need to get home immediately. If you fall seriously ill, your insurance will cover the costs to fly you home to receive medical treatment.

I use  SafetyWing  as my travel insurance provider, and recommend them for trips to the Japan. Firstly, they’re one of the few companies out there who will actually cover you if you contract COVID-19. On top of that, they provide worldwide coverage, don’t require you to have a return ticket, and even allow you to buy coverage after you’ve left home. If you’re on a long-term trip, you can pay monthly instead of up-front, and can cancel at any time. Finally, they’re more affordable than the competition, and have a clear, easy-to-understand pricing structure, which is always appreciated.

With SafetyWing, you’ll pay  $1.50 a day  for travel insurance.

How I Track My Expenses While I Travel

Every time I share my expenses, you guys always want to know how on earth I manage to keep track of so many details from my travels!

Because Never Ending Footsteps is my company, the vast majority of my travel expenses are business expenses. I therefore studiously record everything I spend everywhere I go. I take photos of every receipt I receive and use Xero accounting software to record these expenses. In cases where I can’t get a receipt, I’ll take a photo of the price list and my ticket or food, or something as evidence.

Once a week, I then sit down and spend an hour or so uploading my receipts to Xero and making note of every penny I spent in each country I visit. It makes writing these posts super easy!

How Much Does it Cost to Travel in Japan?

It’s time to tally up all of my expenses to see my total travel costs!

Accommodation:  $97 per day Transportation:  $27 per day Food:  $23 per day Activities/Entrance Fees:  $2 per day Miscellaneous:  $2 per day

Average amount spent in Japan: $151 a day!

I don’t know about you, but given Japan’s pricey reputation, I’m fairly impressed with the amount I spent in the country, especially as I included quite a few splurges in there.

How about you? How expensive were you expecting a trip to Japan to be?

Related Articles on Japan 🇯🇵 What’s it Like to Travel in Japan? 🏯 How to Spend Two Weeks in Japan: An Itinerary for First-Time Visitors 🍣 15 Weird and Wonderful Things to Eat in Japan 🎌 23 Incredible Things to Do in Osaka, Japan 🗼 21 Spectacular Things to Do in Tokyo, Japan 😎 Hipster Harajuku: The Coolest Neighbourhood in Tokyo 🦔 Should You Go to a Hedgehog Cafe? My Experience in Japan 🐒 Why Seeing the Snow Monkeys in Japan Sucked

Lauren Juliff

Lauren Juliff is a published author and travel expert who founded Never Ending Footsteps in 2011. She has spent over 12 years travelling the world, sharing in-depth advice from more than 100 countries across six continents. Lauren's travel advice has been featured in publications like the BBC, Wall Street Journal, USA Today, and Cosmopolitan, and her work is read by 200,000 readers each month. Her travel memoir can be found in bookstores across the planet.

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106 comments.

Wow! that’s amazing. I especially got fascinated seeing the capsule hotel…must have been a unique experience.

It was surprisingly cosy! I would totally stay in one again.

Thank you so much for your information. We will go to Japan in October 2023 for 1 month. Have paid fully for 16 days. Using your guides to budget the remaining 2 weeks. Thanks again.

This is great! Do you think it would be much more expensive in summer or any of the peak holiday seasons? I’m going over July this year and wondering if the prices change much with the seasons.

Wow! That’s quite an eye-opener! I’ve wanted to visit Japan for years, and this has certainly nudged me a little closer, as I assumed it was expensive too. The costs seem much better than I found in Amsterdam this spring! (my boyfriend still gets a thousand-yard stare when I mention how much we paid for drinks in one bar.)

Yay! Yeah, it really did feel about the same price as Western Europe, if not cheaper. The transportation is more expensive, but the food was cheaper in Japan.

This is super awesome! I, too, was under the impression that Japan was a super expensive place to visit! Good to know that you can save so much on accommodation and activities! Are you going to be posting about food in Japan? My knowledge of what to eat there is very minimal…

Yes! I published a guide to my favourite things to eat in the country last week: https://www.neverendingfootsteps.com/best-food-japan/

Ditto for here in New Zealand Lauren. All said it would be expensive. But we house sat – rent-free – and saw that food and travel are on par or cheaper than New Jersey. We also saw that virtually all things are cheaper than folks said. Methinks many labeling Japan and NZ as expensive as can be are used to paying $1 for lunch in Chiang Mai LOL. Budget folks see all Western lands as expensive. Granted I am from NJ; living by NYC makes for a high cost of living. But not bad at all, living in these lands.

Yeah, definitely true. I know that when I wrote off Japan as being too expensive, it was in the early days of my travels, when I could only afford to live in Southeast Asia!

Loving the posts about Japan so far. Do you have many more articles planned? I’ve a trip booked in November and this has been the most useful of the blogs so far for help in planning – thank you. Although I’ve had to cut the hedgehog cafe off my plans after reading your article as I hadn’t quite considered the ethics enough!

Yes! So many. I’ll probably post another half a dozen or more over the next few weeks :-)

I always assumed Japan to be very expensive. Thanks to your blog I don’t anymore. Cheers!

This is all very useful info! I’m impressed with your budgeting skills. Awesome, Thanks for sharing this!

Ha! Thank you :-) It comes naturally (finally) after seven years of doing this.

Great article. I’m planning a visit for early 2025 to go with my grandson … was the budget breakdown for one person or a couple … because you mentioned going with your partner?

The accommodation prices are the total cost of the room (rather than just my share), while the transportation, food, and activities are all my share of the costs.

Fantastic article. Love your budget posts because you never leave anything out.

I try not to! Thanks so much :-)

Beautiful photos, Japan look amazing and thank you for sharing your budget tips as well. :)

No problem! :-)

Thank you so much for this! I’m going to Japan in September and I’ve been worrying about my budget. This has definitely put my mind at rest!

Yay! Happy to hear that :-)

I’m so happy that you have posted so much lately, you’re my favourite travel blog and I check this page a lot more often now that the pace of the posts has increased :)

Thank you! :-) I’m aiming to stick to a three-times-a-week posting schedule now that I have a base and more time to dedicate to writing.

This is so much cheaper than I expected. Do you have any idea about prices for solo travellers though? Would I have to pay for a double room most of the time (apart from dorm beds of course)?

No, lots of hotels and guesthouses have single rooms, so you wouldn’t need to pay out for two people very often, if at all.

Thanks, that’s good to know!

Very useful breakdown that would be very helpful for first-timers to Japan.

Just to share, one of my own major expenditure in JP is … vending machine contribution! I simply can’t resist them and can end up buying seven times a day. “P

Yes! I couldn’t believe how many vending machines there were in the country, as well as the variety of things you could buy from them.

Hello! This is a very timely article for me to read as I’m actually going to visit Japan for a week on September. I really love Japan’s culture and their people. There are a lot of places that I want to visit and a lot of things I want to do but I am on a strict budget. Hopefully, your article would be able to help me fix my budgeting for my trip to Japan.

I hope so! I really didn’t find it horrendously expensive, so I think you’ll be surprised by how much you can do there for free.

I love your budget posts because they give me such a good idea of how much I can expect to spend in places around the world. Are you thinking of doing them for everywhere you visit?

That’s my plan! I’m slowly working my way through my records and adding more and more to the site.

Hey, thanks so much! :-)

I’ve planed to visit Japan next year, Thank you for sharing your budget, I’ll try to not exceed 100$/day, following your information on this post.

Have a fantastic trip, Ingrid! :-)

Which month you visited Japan? I am thinking for Cherry blossom (April 2019) and everything is coming up too expensive. Are those above for cherry blossom season you visited?

Ah yeah, unfortunately, the cherry blossom season is the most expensive time of year to visit Japan. I was there in December, so prices will be higher than the ones mentioned in this post. I’ll add that detail to my post now!

I was under the impression that Japan was a super expensive place to visit! Good to know that you can save so much on accommodation and activities! This article includes all the places you can visit in Japan and their expenses. It is very educative and it can be improved by providing expenses in INR. Thank you for posting this useful information.

Thank you! I usually just price these articles in the local currency and USD, which is where the vast majority of my readers are located. If I started including currencies for everyone, the post would quickly get ridiculous :-)

Seems a dumb question, but I’m assuming all the values are in USD, is it correct?

Yep! I write at the start of the post: “The amounts in this guide are listed in Japanese Yen and U.S. dollars, simply because the vast majority of my readers are from the U.S.”

That is a very good breakdown cost analysis there. i am planning to go to japan as well with my wife. and planning to stay for 10 days only. 4 in tokyo 3 in kyoto and 3 in osaka. i like to idea of 100 aud / day it’s a good target to keep but i guess the expense on buying cloths and souvenir would be uncontrollable though i heard things in japanese is not that dear if you know where to shop and avoid tourist trap. i didn’t see you mention buying internet data in advance ? or i missed it somewhere. i guess the expense for a couple will be double up. but i guess 3000 aud for 2 people is unavoidable.

amazing detailed guide

You’re welcome!

I’m so glad I found your website! I love the detail and photos. I just booked a trip to Japan with my boyfriend for this upcoming October, and your site will be very helpful. Question: do most hostels and accommodations that you experienced have you sleeping solo? I’m wondering if I should expect to sleep in a separate area than my partner for most of the trip…

Hi Lauren, Thanks for such a detailed description of your time in Japan! I’m going to Japan October this year with my wife and my major concern is how you managed to book sleeping pods for you and your boyfriend as almost all accommodations are either “male only” or “female only” from the options I’ve seen so far. Did you have to get separate beds for those nights?

Yeah, the capsule hotel-style accommodation is all single beds. You can see in my photo in this post that there’s not much room for anybody else!

My wife and I are heading to Japan in mid May and I plan to use your itinerary.

Would it be possible for you to write something about the travel logistics if you can remember them – ie to get from Tokyo to Mt Fuji we booked the following train, leaving at…from the following platform which took X hours and arrived at Mt Fuji at. We then bought our day pass from….and ……..

This would be really helpful to me and other independent travellers – from where did you buy your JR pass and how did you book your individual train rides?

Cheers Paul

Oh, man. That would take me hours and hours to put together and I’m sure times and platforms change so it would be impossible for me to keep the information up-to-date and accurate.

I recommend downloading the mobile app Hyperdia — you can plan your train travel out using that. Just enter in your destinations and it will tell you which train to take and from which platform. Super easy to use! :-)

The site I used to buy the JR Pass is this one . I booked the other train tickets in person at the stations when I arrived — there weren’t many that weren’t covered by the rail pass. Just the small regional ones to get to and from Yudanaka, I think.

Hello Lauren, I love the details in your blog. Your expenses were for 1 or 2 people?

I cover that at the start of the blog post: “And finally, these are the expenses I paid while travelling with my boyfriend. That means that accommodation prices (with the exception of the dorm bed in Hiroshima) have been halved to indicate my share.”

Great super helpful article. THANK YOU!

Hi Lauren, Thanks so much for this article, it is so helpful!!! on which dates did you fly to japan? what dates are you recommending on?

I spent the first two weeks of December in Japan. I’d recommend looking at May or September as the best months to travel there.

Hi Lauren I’d love your advice. I’m traveling with my 22yr old daughter to celebrate her graduation and my birthday. I booked the first two nights a hotel in Tokyo and then figured we would VRBO or Airbnb but after reading your post it looks like things have changed. I love the idea of the capsule hotels and the standard tatami mat rooms look enchanting. So how do I search for either? We’d like to experience both for the trip. oh by the way, I’m a traveler too, let me know where in the world are you now. Perhaps we can meet up and collaborate, I do video production, just got back from Colorado and am going to Cancun in June.looking forward to hearing back from you, Peace and Love always, “L” oh let’s connect on IG

Just book them through Booking.com — no need to go to any specific site. I’m in Bristol, in the UK. I actually don’t have an Instagram account — it wasn’t doing good things for my mental health, so I deleted it :-)

G’day Lauren,

Loved your detailed description of your travels through Japan. However; I’m not so brave as you travelling around on my own, especially with the language problem. I am a single traveler from Bangalore, India and would love to spend 7-8 days in Japan, with my journey starting and ending in Tokyo, reasonably priced hotels or local hostels, but preferably single accommodation, if possible. (willing to pay extra).

I love train travel and Japan is one of the best places to do that..your take on that would be appreciated. If you feel, I meet your requirements, would love to get an itinerary and costing for my 7-8 day stay in Japan.

Hello! I am really curious on how you got a 14 days pass JR for only 420$, from where I am from (Canada) it is 567!

If you click the link in the post, you can buy it through there. It’s currently listed for 414 USD.

$95/day seems cheaper than what I had expected – is that a tight budget? What can you do more with $150/day? I’d prefer to spend that extra on living in nice hotels + do more activities. Does that seem possible with $150/day?

No, not really. It was a mid-range budget and all of the hotels we stayed in were nice — I made zero effort to stick to a tight budget.

Hope you’re well. I’m wondering if you still advise from not booking Airbnb for Tokyo? Thanks.

Until moments ago, I had always assumed Japan to be too expensive to even consider. Never thought the cost of activities and entrance fees would be so cheap. This is an encouraging article, thanks, Lauren!

Really remarkable post, Lauren. Extremely thorough and helpful. I’m looking to plan a trip to Japan soon and stumbled across your blog. As you clearly hoped from city-to-city, (this may be a silly question) what did you do with your luggage on a day-to-day basis?

Thanks for any insight.

Oh, just left it in my hotels. If I spent less than a full day somewhere, it was visited as a day trip, so I didn’t take my luggage with me. And then whenever I arrived somewhere, I’d time my arrival with the check-in time of the hotel, drop my bags first, then head out exploring.

great article! As I have said in the past you always put out great stuff that’s very valuable information.

I just came across your website when searching for trips for Japan for my son. I have to say I am really so happy and want to thank you so much for the information. My eldest son has been taking Japan as a language course for the last 3 years and was looking forward to trying to get into the high school Japan trip in end of july beginning of August 2020. He also wanted to go to TUJ(Temple University Japan).

However, because of the olympics the high school Japan trip has been canceled for 2020. Unfortunately, he will be a senior next year so the 2021 high school program will not be available for him. Plus going to olympics are so expensive. If you can give me any advice, I would greatly appreciate. Thank you so much in advance for your time!!!

What advice do you need? About what?

Hi Lauren, I really liked you post and I think is really helpful. When exactly did you go in Japan? We have to change our plans for next February (previous planned for Philippines but to risky for my wife pregnancy) and we consider to go in Japan instead. So, do you think it is good idea travelling in Japan in February? Thank you and advance.

I went during the first half of December. As long as you keep in mind that it’ll be pretty cold (5-10 celsius), I think it’s a great time of year, as it won’t be as crowded as peak season.

is it favorable to use credit card or cash is much preferred? thanks

Hi. Thank you for the information! I am so inspired to go to Japan now. My mom who was from Japan, always told me it’s too expensive to go back and visit. I am now 56 and it has been my lifelong dream to go. My husband and I will go with backpacks like we did when we were younger and before having kids. Is October a good time to go? I read September can be humid. I want to follow your itinerary for the most part. My mom lived in Kanazawa. My heart is full right now and my eyes are misty. Thank you for making my dream a little bit closer.

Hey Lauren!

Thank you so much for the information. I actually got invited on a delegation to go to Japan this evening and am trying to get the average cost to travel in the country. Obviously, your trip was on a very impressive budget. I have two questions, 1. Based on the $95/day over the course of your 16-day trip, would it be right to say that (flight included) you only paid ~$1,600 for your entire trip? 2. Would you say for a trip including cultural experiences, transportation and stays in nice hotels for a week, a grand total of $3,700 is reasonable?

In advance, I appreciate your advice on this!

Hi Lauren, Are you able to name all the accomodations you stayed with? I would like to visit Japan next year on a very tight budget. Thanks.

Yes, they’re already linked in the post along with the reviews of them under the accommodation section.

Hi Lauren. I’m debating spending 5 nights in Osaka and doing day trips to kyoto, nara and himeji castle. (I have hotel points where i can stay at osaka). Based on your experience – is that ok? or is better to stay 2 nights in Osaka and 3 nights in kyoto. There is a lot of different opinions online, thought id ask you if you think i’d be missing out on anything if staying in osaka. The one plus is i can save some money if using points and also staying in 1 location for 5 nights vs packing and moving to another location. Thanks so much for your posts!

Hey i found this really helpful but I’ve been planning to visit japan for a while and have hopes of going after i graduate high school. With some research i found that the JR pass isn’t needed if you’re just staying in one city. How much do you think i would spend on transportation for 2 weeks in Tokyo? Will it come out to more than what you spent or less?

Definitely less! You can walk to a lot of places, but otherwise the metro won’t cost much at all — a dollar or two per trip.

Would you be able to give recommendations for food places in Kyoto that are affordable.

Hi Lauren. Came across your site on a Google search for budget travel. It convinced e that a trip to Japan is affordable. Never have done international travel and would like your advice on a couple of things. 1. What is the best way to pack? Do I have to just use a back pack? 2. Can I use a credit card or should cash be used? 3. Can I get cell phone coverage in Japan.

Thanks, you site is great!

1) I prefer to travel with a backpack, but you’ll do okay with a suitcase, too. I personally find backpacks easier for navigating train stations, as you don’t have to drag it up and down stairs, etc. It doesn’t really matter either way, though. Depending on how long you’ll be staying there, I usually pack for a week no matter how long my trip is, then do laundry once a week.

2) Japan is mostly cash-based, so plan for lots of trips to the ATM. I didn’t find many places that accepted cards, although I also wasn’t looking very hard either.

3) Yep, you can pick up a local SIM card at the airport when you arrive. I bought mine through the rail pass company I link to in this blog post, but you can also just buy one when you arrive. Super easy to do and they’ll get it set up for you in the shop, too.

Love your posts! have been browsing but when I stumbled upon your page found it really helpful! Planning for Japan and Singapore so finding both blogs is perfect timing :) We are still not sure if the JRpass will help us- when we did calculation for the main routes we are going it resulted not worth it, however then not sure if we will require any additional rails/trains in between these. Tokyo>Hakone>Kyoto> Osaka without returning back… your input will be appreciated :) P.S. Feel free to visit the island of Malta, my home country

Wooow !! This is amazing , My wife and I have been planning to visit japan and we always had a misconception that Japan is expensive to visit .. This is a great blog .. So the overall cost including your flight tickets and local travel in japan would cost around 2500 $ per person ?

This was so incredibly helpful! Normally I don’t find myself reading entire articles but yours was so informational and in depth. Thank you so much for helping me get an idea of how much I would roughly spend!

Ah, no problem! Thanks for reading, and I’m glad you found it useful :-)

I super love this article Lauren! I thoroughly enjoyed it. When all is well and my country allows us to travel again, this is going to be on my top 3 places to visit (the 1st 2 will be diving spots as I’m a freediver). I made sure to bookmark this page for reference. Again, thank you for writing this. One question though, when you say $ do you mean USD?

Yep, USD! “The amounts in this guide are listed in Japanese Yen and U.S. dollars, simply because the vast majority of my readers are from the U.S.”

How much did you spend on transportation in Tokyo? I mean if you hadn’t had the JR Pass? How much did you save in Tokyo by having the pass?

Oh, I didn’t activate the pass when I was in Tokyo — I activated it on the day I left — so that was my total expenses without using it.

Hi Lauren! I just read your post. My boyfriend and I are backpackers and we are planning our next trip to Japan. I wanted to ask you when did you go there? (what time of the year). Because we can only take time off during winter time (dec-jan) and I don’t know if that’s a good time of year to go. We are from Denver and snow doesn’t bother us but we also want to enjoy it.

Thanks in advance! Love your blog

I was there in December! There’s fewer crowds then, which makes it a great time to go! As an added bonus you get to enjoy all of the cosy onsens in the snow :-)

Even in these unprecedented times, I feel as if I have already traveled to Japan! I loved every minute of the information you gave me. This place is definitely next on my list, of course! It can be months or a year from now.

It appears you’re still getting traffic in the comments here (excellent) so I thought I would ask a broad question. Wife and I are thinking to take our 6 and 9 year old to Japan for about 11 days. Any destinations you might leave off your itinerary given a bit less time and traveling with kids?

Fantastic! I’ve never seen any article about travelling to japan so specific and detailed before!! It sure will help me prepare for my own first&solo trip! thank you so much

Great post, but the prices are wildly outdated now. Your $30/night hotels in 2018 are going for around $220/night in 2023. Insane!

Hi CS, what time of year are you looking to visit? I’ve had a quick check and every hotel I link to still displays roughly the correct prices (a couple were out by about $10-20 a night, but nothing like $190!). If you’re looking at going in May, for example, Hakone Tent prices their rooms at $176 a night, but then offers rooms at a price of $73 a night a month later in June, so the time of year can affect the pricing. I’ll make a note to mention this in a future update to the post.

I visited in the low season, in December, so the prices I paid were lower than they might be at a more popular time of year.

This is amazing on every level. Thank you! only issue is prices for accomodations double during sakura season so what can I do

Thank you Lauren, for this insightful and complete post.

Out of curiosity, do you know what was the average USD/YEN exchange rate when this trip took place?

Kind Regards,

I update the prices in this article every two months so the exchange rate used in the post is recent

How recent was your travel to Japan and what exact dates were you there? I’m planning to take my family of 4 there in 2025 and would like to schedule it during cherry blossom season. I heard prices usually go up during this time so I was wondering if your trip happened during peak or off-peak season.

I was there in December. Prices do increase a lot during cherry blossom season, unfortunately — that’s the most expensive time to visit.

very good post for budget travellers. thanks for sharing.

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Tokyo (����, Tōkyō) is Japan's capital and the world's most populous metropolis. It is also one of Japan's 47 prefectures , consisting of 23 central city wards and multiple cities, towns and villages west of the city center. The Izu and Ogasawara Islands are also part of Tokyo.

Prior to 1868, Tokyo was known as Edo. Previously a small castle town , Edo became Japan's political center in 1603 when Tokugawa Ieyasu established his feudal government there. A few decades later, Edo had grown into one of the world's largest cities. With the Meiji Restoration of 1868, the emperor and capital moved from Kyoto to Edo, which was renamed Tokyo ("Eastern Capital"). Large parts of Tokyo were destroyed in the Great Kanto Earthquake of 1923 and the air raids of 1945.

Today, Tokyo offers a seemingly unlimited choice of shopping , entertainment, culture and dining to its visitors. The city's history can be appreciated in districts such as Asakusa and in many excellent museums , historic temples and gardens . Contrary to common perception, Tokyo also offers a number of attractive green spaces in the city center and within relatively short train rides at its outskirts.

Top attractions in Tokyo

Tokyo by interest

Getting there and around

Itinerary ideas.

• Tranquil Meiji Shrine
• Urban exploring in Shibuya
• Shopping in Shinjuku and youth culture in Harajuku

• Ancient Sensoji Temple
• Cruise down the Sumida River
• Shopping in modern Odaiba

• Exploring Shinjuku's busy streets
• Relaxing in Shinjuku Gyoen
• Taking in the skyscraper district

• Exploring Asakusa area

• Serene Imperial East Gardens
• Lively Ginza shopping district

• Old-fashioned post town
• Artsy Tennozu Isle
• Waterfront walk

Questions? Ask in our forum .

Links and Resources

Tokyo metropolitan government, hotels around tokyo, tokyo hotel guide.

How to choose the best places to stay in Tokyo

Experiences around Tokyo

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What Reddit Says About Travel to Japan

ViaHero October 21, 2018

It's no secret that Japan is home to a lot of "oddities" for those not familiar with the culture. Read on for the best of Japan's most culture-shocking elements, as gleaned from Reddit. Afterward, feel free to message us with any questions you have about all things Japan.

Want to make the most out of your trip? Tap into our network of local travel planners— Heroes —who build unique, locally-curated trip plans, designed just for you.  Get started .

Let's just hit the ground running on this one...

1. You can get dumplings the size of a child (5.6 pounds)

Source: WTF Japan subreddit

2. KitKats are popular in Japan because the popular Japanese phrase "Kittokatsu," which means "You will surely win," sounds like KitKat,  and parents started giving them to kids as an encouragement treat 

3. Park entrances have automatic doors

4. Manmade Meteor shower planned for Tokyo 2020 Olympics?

Source: City-Cost

5. Parents give their kids to sumo wrestlers to make them cry? 

6. It is encouraged to nap while at work 

Source: Telegraph

7. Toilets are fancy... to say the least. 

8. Speaking of toilets, there is an entire museum devoted to them.

Source: Viralnova

9. Train rides are never dull 

Source: Imgur

10. You can order horse sashimi

Source: RocketNews24

11. Vending machines for everything... including bras 

Source: Kotaku

12. Wendys serves burgers with foie gras and truffles

Source: LA Times

13. Reality TV doesn't look like "The Bachelor"  

14. Samara from "the Ring" plays baseball, apparently 

15. Don't go to Japan without having seen this video...

Looking for more weird Japan? Check out these subreddits: 

• Otaku 

More questions on Japan? Our Japanese locals can answer them! Or, just message us directly. And before your trip, make sure to check out:

• Connect With a Local to Plan Your Trip
• Japan Travel Tips
• Off the Beaten Path in Japan
• Japanese Visa Requirements
• The Perfect 2 Weeks in Japan

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10 Must-Know Travel Tips for Japan According to Reddit Users

By knbbs-sharer.

Traveling to Japan can be an unforgettable experience, filled with beautiful sights, delicious food, and fascinating culture. However, navigating a foreign country can also be challenging, especially if you don’t speak the language or understand the local customs.

To help you prepare for your trip to Japan, we’ve compiled a list of 10 must-know travel tips recommended by Reddit users who have previously visited the country.

1. Learn Basic Japanese Phrases

While many Japanese people do speak English, not everyone will be fluent, especially outside of major cities. Learning a few basic Japanese phrases can make a difference in your interactions with locals. Common phrases to know include “hello” (konnichiwa), “thank you” (arigatou gozaimasu), and “excuse me” (sumimasen).

2. Purchase a Suica or Pasmo Card

If you plan on using public transportation, a Suica or Pasmo card can be a convenient way to pay for fares. These reloadable cards can be used on trains, buses, and subways throughout Japan, including in Tokyo.

3. Use a Pocket Wi-Fi or SIM Card

Staying connected while traveling is important, especially if you need to search for directions or communicate with others. Consider renting a pocket Wi-Fi or purchasing a SIM card to have access to the internet while on the go.

4. Respect Japanese Culture

Japan has a rich and unique culture that should be treated with respect. This includes removing your shoes before entering homes, temples, and some restaurants, avoiding public displays of affection, and being mindful of noise levels in public spaces.

5. Follow the Rules of Onsen

Onsen, or hot springs, are a popular attraction in Japan. However, it’s important to understand and follow the rules, such as washing before entering the bath and not bringing towels or bathing suits into the water.

6. Be Prepared for Cash-Only Transactions

While many places do accept credit cards, it’s still common for smaller establishments to only accept cash. Be sure to have enough yen on hand, especially when traveling outside of major cities.

7. Purchase a Japan Rail Pass

If you plan on traveling between multiple cities in Japan, a Japan Rail Pass can be a cost-effective option. This pass allows for unlimited travel on JR trains and some buses for a set period of time.

8. Try Local Cuisine

Japan is known for its incredible food, and trying local cuisine is a must-do when visiting the country. From sushi to ramen to takoyaki, there’s something for everyone to try.

9. Respect Personal Space

Japan has a different concept of personal space compared to other countries. It’s important to be mindful of personal space on public transportation and in other crowded places to avoid inadvertently causing discomfort to others.

10. Be Prepared for Weather Changes

Weather in Japan can vary greatly depending on the season and location. Be sure to check the forecast ahead of time and pack accordingly for the specific time of year. Additionally, consider bringing an umbrella or other rain gear, as sudden rain showers can occur.

In conclusion, following these 10 travel tips recommended by Reddit users can help make your trip to Japan a more enjoyable and smooth experience. Remember to respect Japanese culture, try local cuisine, and be prepared for any weather changes. With a little planning and preparation, your trip to Japan is sure to be unforgettable.

(Note: Do you have knowledge or insights to share? Unlock new opportunities and expand your reach by joining our authors team. Click Registration to join us and share your expertise with our readers.)

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• How Reddit users are using apps to make their Japan travel experience seamless
• 10 Reddit Travel Tips You Need to Follow on Your Next Adventure
• Top 10 Japan Travel Tips Recommended By Reddit Users
• Reddit’s Best Insider Travel Tips for Exploring Japan

Hi, I'm Happy Sharer and I love sharing interesting and useful knowledge with others. I have a passion for learning and enjoy explaining complex concepts in a simple way.

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Best places to visit in japan.

Known as the Land of the Rising Sun, Japan's civilization dates as far back as 30,000 years. Today, the archipelago seamlessly blends its rich history with its ultra-modern present. And while its capital, Tokyo, is a must-visit for first timers, Japan has so much more to offer travelers of all types, from cherry blossoms to white sand beaches to soothing onsen (hot spring spas). U.S. News took into account cultural attractions, culinary options and accessibility (among other factors) to bring you the best places to visit in Japan. Have a favorite? Vote below to help decide next year's ranking.

Izu Peninsula

This metropolis is a feast for the senses. Neighborhoods like Ginza and Akihabara buzz with flashing lights and larger-than-life shopping, while Meiji Shrine and the Tokyo Imperial Palace give you a look into Japan's storied past. There are also a number of green spaces like Shinjuku Gyoen National Garden, which acts as a place to escape from the chaotic, concrete jungle. What's more, Tokyo is regularly regarded as a top foodie city thanks in part to its abundant Michelin-starred restaurants (the most you'll find in any city in the world), so come hungry.

Travelers most interested in Japan's history and traditions should head to Kyoto. Centrally located on the archipelago, Kyoto has long been considered the cultural capital of Japan. Here, you'll find more than 1,000 Buddhist temples and 400-plus Shinto shrines (you can't miss the Kiyomizu-dera Temple and Fushimi Inari Taisha), including a whopping 17 UNESCO World Heritage sites. You can also stroll through geisha districts like Gion and Miyagawacho, admire classic wooden architecture and visit traditional teahouses before checking out more modern attractions, such as the Kyoto Aquarium.

Nikko is the place to go to see lavish architecture surrounded by nature. Head to Nikko National Park, one of Japan's oldest national parks, to enjoy an up-close look at traditional structures situated alongside mountains, lakes, waterfalls and hot springs. The park is especially beautiful in fall when its trees display vivid shades of yellow, red and orange. The 103 Edo-era (1603–1868) temples and shrines in Nikko include world-renowned sites like Toshogu Shrine and Rinnoji Temple.

Situated about 35 miles southwest of Kyoto, this port city is worth a visit for its food alone. One of the city's most famous dishes, the tasty pancake-like okonomiyaki (which means "grilled as you like it" in Japanese), is made with batter, cabbage and your choice of meat and other toppings. After you've gotten your fill of the delectable local cuisine, explore the flashy Dotonbori neighborhood, check out the reconstructed 16th-century Osaka Castle or head to contemporary sights like Universal Studios Japan and the Osaka Aquarium Kaiyukan.

As Japan's second most populous city, Yokohama is often touted as a more approachable and more affordable alternative to Tokyo (located 22 miles northeast). As one of the country's first ports to open to international trade, Yokohama features unique culture fusions, including a sizable expat population, Western-style buildings in the Yamate area and the largest Chinatown in Japan (it has more businesses than residents). While here, visitors can explore Minato Mirai 21, the city's modern central district teeming with skyscrapers and shopping malls, and visit museums ranging from the Cup Noodles Museum to the Mitsubishi Minatomirai Industrial Museum.

More than 160 islands comprise Okinawa, a top destination for snorkeling and diving. The Japanese prefecture boasts proximity to multiple coral reefs teeming with fish, manta rays and hammerhead sharks that you can access from beautiful beaches like those found on Okinawa's Kerama Islands. These 20-plus islands are also ideal places to see migrating whales between January and March. Back on the main island, visitors will find one of the world's largest aquariums, several castle ruins and a museum that focuses on Okinawa's unique history and culture. And on the less developed Iriomote Island, adventurous travelers can hike to awe-inspiring waterfalls.

Spared from World War II air raids and the major natural disasters that have affected other Japanese cities, Kanazawa on the western coast is home to some of the country's best-preserved architecture from the Edo period. Sites like Kanazawa Castle, Seisonkaku Villa and Myoryuji temple are popular among visitors, as are the Higashi Chaya geisha district and Nagamachi Samurai District. Plus, no trip to Kanazawa would be complete without a visit to the resplendent Kenrokuen Garden. With its water features, bridges and a variety of flowering trees that add beauty to any season, Kenrokuen is often described as the perfect garden.

Nestled in the mountains of the Gifu prefecture, Takayama is ideal for visitors looking for a rural retreat with a dose of history. Start your visit with a rickshaw ride through the well-preserved old town, which features sake breweries, traditional residences and shops that date back to the feudal ages. Then, head to the Hida Folk Village, a former farming village with 30 gassho-style houses. When you've worked up an appetite, indulge in must-try local specialties including Hida beef and Takayama ramen. To further immerse yourself in Takayama culture, visit during the Takayama Festival, held for two days every spring and fall.

The country's tallest mountain and one of its most iconic landmarks is a popular destination for outdoor recreation. For centuries, Japanese artists and poets have been inspired by Mount Fuji's almost perfectly round form. The Fuji Five Lakes region at the foot of this UNESCO World Heritage Site makes a great base for the thousands of climbers who visit each year. Enjoy the area's museums and amusement park during the warmer months. Or, arrive in winter to soak in the onsen and ski Mount Fuji's slopes.

Located on Kyushu (Japan's third-largest island), Fukuoka offers travelers a mix of urban sprawl, sandy coastlines and ancient temples and shrines. Can't-miss sights include Tochoji Temple – home of the largest sitting wooden Buddha in Japan – and Nokonoshima Island, which features colorful flower fields and beautiful views of the surrounding bay. Fukuoka is also known for its incredible Hakata ramen, so be sure to try this tasty dish at one of the city's many food stalls. Plan your visit around one of Fukuoka's lively festivals, such as the Hakata Gion Yamakasa, which takes place throughout the first half of July.

Head to the smallest of Japan's four main islands if you're looking to get off the beaten path. Shikoku is best known for its 88 Temple Pilgrimage – a nearly 750-mile loop that covers sacred sites around the island. Whether you're trekking this path or creating your own, you'll encounter Shikoku's natural beauty (think: forest-covered mountains and an unspoiled coastline). Meanwhile, the city of Kochi features cheap eats and a well-preserved castle. If you're visiting in mid-August, add Shikoku's cultural pinnacle, Awa Odori, to your itinerary. One of the most famous festivals in Japan, this dance celebration in the city of Takushima is a must-do.

Mountainous Hakone is one of Japan's most popular hot spring destinations. Nestled within the Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park, the town features 17 different hot springs, plus a hot spring theme park with unique baths like one with coffee and another with mulled wine. After you've dried off, visit one of Hakone's art museums, such as the Hakone Open-Air Museum, the Okada Museum of Art or the Hakone Museum of Art. No Hakone vacation would be complete without enjoying spectacular views of Mount Fuji from Lake Ashinoko and the Komagatake Ropeway.

After an earthquake caused significant damage to the city in 1995, Kobe rebuilt itself into a thriving cosmopolitan city. You'll want to remember to bring your appetite when you visit. Kobe is famous for its namesake beef, as well as its sake. It's also considered one of Japan's most attractive cities, with sleek architecture and beautiful green spaces like Sorakuen Garden. For some of the city's best views – especially at sunset – go to the top of Mount Rokko or ride the Kobe Nunobiki Ropeway. End your evening exploring Nankinmachi (Kobe's compact Chinatown) or dining at one of Kobe Harborland's waterfront restaurants.

For many, Hiroshima brings up memories of war, as the city is where the world's first atomic bomb attack occurred in 1945. But today, Hiroshima is a city of peace, with the vast Peace Memorial Park as the center for monuments and memorials like the  the Children's Peace Monument and the UNESCO-certified Hiroshima Peace Memorial (Atomic Bomb Dome). It is also a city of great beauty. Travelers can take a scenic stroll through Shukkeien Garden, peruse the exhibits at the Hiroshima City Museum of Contemporary Art or visit Sandankyo Gorge to hike or boat past its beautiful waterfalls, caves and coves.

Tourists flock to the island of Miyajima (formally named Itsukushima) for its prime attraction: Itsukushima Shrine and its postcard-worthy torii gate. To see the shrine at its most picturesque, try to visit during high tide, when the gate appears to float on the water. Since the island is just a 30-minute ferry ride from Hiroshima, it makes for a great day trip. However, visitors may want to stay the night at a charming ryokan (Japanese-style inn) to experience Miyajima at its most serene and walk by the illuminated shrine at night.

An outdoor-lover's delight, Matsumoto is just 22 miles east of Kamikochi, an awe-inspiring valley in the Hotaka mountain range. But though it serves as a gateway to the Japanese Alps, this city in central Japan should not be skipped over. As the birthplace of contemporary artist Yayoi Kusama, known for polka dots and pumpkins, Matsumoto pays her tribute at the Matsumoto City Museum of Art. Meanwhile, those who prefer more ancient masterpieces can visit Matsumoto Castle, one of the oldest and grandest castles in the country.  

Japan's first permanent capital is famous for housing the Great Buddha, a nearly 50-foot-tall bronze statue of Buddha. You'll find this jaw-dropping national treasure in Nara's Todaiji temple, which is the one of the largest wooden buildings in the world. While on the temple grounds, explore the deer-filled Nara Park and the ornate Kasuga Taisha shrine. Also save time for visiting Yakushiji Temple, one of Japan's oldest temples that dates back to A.D. 730.

This peninsula situated 62 miles southwest of Tokyo makes a great getaway from the busy city. It is popular among locals and tourists alike thanks to its relaxing hot springs and stunning beaches. These, along with various museums and ryokans, can be found in cities like Atami and Shimoda on the Izu Peninsula's eastern coast. During spring visits, travelers will also want to check out Kawazu's vibrant pink blooms at the Kawazu Cherry Blossom Festival. Meanwhile, on the southern and western coasts, vacationers will find more rugged yet equally scenic coastlines, such as Cape Irozaki and Dogashima.

12 Day Tour of Japan

Japan by Train: The Grand Tour

Osaka to Tokyo, via historic cities and natural wonders, on Japan’s high-tech train network.

Starts at: Osaka

Ends at: Tokyo

Duration: 12 days

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Sustainable Travel Experiences in JAPAN

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Those visiting Japan can expect myriad beauty, whenever they arrive. An island nation of forests and mountains, it has abundant rainfall and seas that teem with marine life, nurturing a culture in which the Japanese coexist with the changing seasons and mother nature.

Venture outdoors, explore pristine ecosystems and sample wide-ranging eco-friendly accommodation. Enjoy locally sourced food and ancient hot springs that epitomize Japanese values and their respect for nature. Sample the living history of traditional towns. Take in the performing arts and traditional festivals that shape Japan’s culture. Or delve into the rich history of Japanese craftsmanship.  

Embracing sustainable travel in Japan brings you at one with the country. Gain matchless insights into cherished local customs through unbreakable bonds with nature. We hope these authentic experiences with the environment, culture and community will inspire a world of new travel ideas. A globally unrivalled choice of sustainable travel and a warm welcome awaits!

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