Japan Travel Guide 2026: Everything You Need to Know Before You Go

Why Visit Japan in 2026?

Japan is experiencing a remarkable renaissance as a travel destination in 2026. The country has fully reopened to independent travellers, tourism infrastructure has been modernised with new digital ticketing systems, and the government has introduced streamlined visa processing that makes entry simpler than ever before. Whether you dream of cherry blossoms in Kyoto, ramen-crawling through Tokyo's backstreets, or soaking in an onsen overlooking a snow-capped volcano, Japan delivers on every expectation — and then surpasses them.

Beyond the iconic sights, 2026 brings fresh reasons to visit: the continued expansion of the Hokuriku Shinkansen to Tsuruga, new UNESCO World Heritage designations, and a renewed focus on sustainable tourism that encourages visitors to explore lesser-known regions. This guide distils everything you need to plan a seamless, unforgettable Japan journey.

Best Time to Visit Japan

Japan is rewarding in every season, but choosing the right window depends on your priorities.

Spring (March to May)

Cherry blossom season (late March to mid-April) is the most celebrated time to visit. Sakura fronts sweep northward from Kyushu to Hokkaido over roughly six weeks, meaning you can chase blooms across multiple regions in a single trip. Temperatures are mild (10–18 °C), crowds are enthusiastic but manageable outside Golden Week, and the scenery is simply extraordinary. Golden Week (late April to early May) is a national holiday cluster — domestic travel surges, so book accommodation months in advance and expect higher prices.

Autumn (October to November)

Many Japan veterans argue autumn rivals spring. Koyo (autumn foliage) paints temple gardens and mountain valleys in fiery reds and golds from mid-October through late November. Weather is crisp and clear, perfect for hiking and cycling. This is arguably the best season for photography.

Summer (June to August)

Summer brings matsuri (festival) season — fireworks, bon-odori dancing, and neighbourhood street food stalls. The trade-off is heat and humidity (regularly 30–38 °C) and the rainy season (tsuyu) in June–July. Hokkaido offers a cool refuge, and the Alps are spectacular for hikers.

Winter (December to February)

Winter is Japan's best-kept secret for travellers on a budget. Crowds are thinner, ryokan rates drop, and ski resorts in Niseko, Hakuba, and Furano offer world-class powder. Christmas illuminations and New Year shrine visits (hatsumode) are magical cultural experiences.

Visa and Entry Requirements in 2026

Japan's entry process has been significantly streamlined. Here is what you need to know before you fly.

Visa-Exempt Countries

Citizens of over 68 countries — including the United States, United Kingdom, Canada, Australia, most EU nations, and many Asian neighbours — can enter Japan visa-free for stays of up to 90 days (or 15 days for some nationalities) for tourism and business purposes. Always verify the current agreement for your passport at the Japanese Ministry of Foreign Affairs website, as bilateral arrangements can change.

Visit Japan Web (Digital Entry)

Japan's Visit Japan Web portal allows you to pre-register your passport, quarantine status (if applicable), and customs declaration before arrival. Completing this step online saves significant time at immigration kiosks. Registration is free and takes around 15 minutes. Bring your confirmation QR code on your phone.

Travel Insurance

Japan does not mandate travel insurance at the border, but it is strongly recommended. Medical costs for foreigners without insurance can be extremely high. Ensure your policy covers emergency evacuation, hospitalisation, and trip cancellation. Many credit cards offer basic travel insurance — check the fine print before relying on it.

Passport Validity

Your passport should be valid for the entire duration of your stay. Japan does not require six months of remaining validity beyond your departure date (unlike many other countries), but carry a passport with at least three months of validity to avoid any complications.

JR Pass: 2026 Update and How to Use It

The Japan Rail Pass (JR Pass) is a network-wide rail pass exclusively for foreign tourists visiting Japan. In 2026, following significant price revisions introduced in 2023, the pass remains excellent value for multi-city itineraries but requires more careful calculation for shorter trips.

Current Prices (2026)

• 7-day Ordinary Pass: approximately ¥50,000 (adult)
• 14-day Ordinary Pass: approximately ¥80,000 (adult)
• 21-day Ordinary Pass: approximately ¥100,000 (adult)
• Green Car (First Class) passes are available at a premium of roughly 30%

Is the JR Pass Worth It?

A round-trip Shinkansen ticket between Tokyo and Kyoto costs around ¥28,000. If your itinerary includes Tokyo–Kyoto–Hiroshima–Osaka (or similar long-distance hops), the 7-day pass pays for itself quickly. Use the Hyperdia or Japan Transit Planner app to tot up your planned Shinkansen fares before purchasing.

What the JR Pass Covers

• All JR Shinkansen (except Nozomi and Mizuho express services on the Tokaido/Sanyo lines)
• JR local and express trains nationwide
• JR buses and most JR ferry services
• Tokyo Monorail and some subway lines in regional cities

Purchasing and Activation

Buy your JR Pass before arriving in Japan through the official JR Pass website, authorised travel agencies, or major online retailers. Since 2023 you can also purchase at major Japanese airports and JR ticket offices, but overseas prices may differ. Activate the pass at a JR Ticket Office (Midori-no-Madoguchi) on the first day you wish to use it — not necessarily the day of arrival.

Budget Breakdown: How Much Does Japan Cost?

Japan has a reputation for being expensive, but savvy travellers can explore comfortably at a range of budgets. Here is a realistic daily spending guide for 2026 based on current exchange rates and costs.

Budget Traveller (¥8,000 to ¥14,000/day)

• Accommodation: Hostel dorm or budget guesthouse (¥3,000 – ¥5,000)
• Food: Convenience store meals, gyudon chains, ramen shops (¥1,500 – ¥3,000)
• Transport: Day pass for city metro or IC card (¥700 – ¥1,500)
• Activities: Free temples, parks, and markets (¥500 – ¥2,000)

Mid-Range Traveller (¥15,000 to ¥30,000/day)

• Accommodation: Business hotel or mid-range ryokan (¥8,000 – ¥15,000)
• Food: Sit-down sushi, izakaya dinners, cafe lunches (¥3,000 – ¥6,000)
• Transport: JR Pass amortised daily plus city transport (¥2,000 – ¥4,000)
• Activities: Museum entry fees, tea ceremonies, day trips (¥2,000 – ¥5,000)

Luxury Traveller (¥50,000+/day)

• Accommodation: Upscale ryokan with kaiseki dinner included (¥25,000 – ¥80,000+)
• Food: Omakase sushi, Michelin-starred kaiseki (¥15,000 – ¥40,000 per meal)
• Transport: Private transfers, Green Car Shinkansen
• Activities: Private cultural experiences, sake brewery tours, guided hikes

Money-saving tip: Japan is largely a cash society. Withdraw yen at 7-Eleven, Japan Post, or AEON ATMs, which reliably accept foreign cards with low fees. Avoid airport currency exchange booths, which charge high spreads.

Japan Itineraries: 7, 14, and 21 Days

7-Day Classic Japan Itinerary

• Days 1 to 3: Tokyo — Explore Shinjuku, Shibuya crossing, Senso-ji Temple in Asakusa, TeamLab digital art, and the Robot Restaurant. Day-trip to Nikko or Kamakura (Giant Buddha).
• Day 4: Hakone — Soak in an onsen with views of Mt Fuji, ride the Hakone Ropeway, and visit the Open-Air Museum.
• Days 5 to 6: Kyoto — Fushimi Inari Shrine at dawn, Arashiyama bamboo grove, Kinkaku-ji (Golden Pavilion), Nishiki Market, Gion district evening stroll.
• Day 7: Osaka — Dotonbori neon canal, Osaka Castle, takoyaki and okonomiyaki food crawl before your flight home.

14-Day Japan Deep Dive

Extend the 7-day classic and add:

• Days 8 to 9: Hiroshima and Miyajima — The Peace Memorial Museum is a profound and essential experience. Take the ferry to Miyajima to see the iconic floating torii gate of Itsukushima Shrine.
• Days 10 to 11: Nara and Osaka continued — Todai-ji Temple with its giant bronze Buddha and the friendly deer of Nara Park. Return to Osaka for Universal Studios Japan or Shinsekai street food.
• Days 12 to 13: Kanazawa — Known as "little Kyoto," Kanazawa offers Kenroku-en garden (one of Japan's top three), a beautifully preserved geisha district, and outstanding fresh seafood at Omicho Market.
• Day 14: Return to Tokyo — Hokuriku Shinkansen through dramatic mountain scenery brings you back to Tokyo for your flight.

21-Day Grand Japan Tour

The full Japan experience adds Hokkaido and the deep south:

• Days 1 to 7: Follow the 7-day classic itinerary above.
• Days 8 to 11: Hokkaido — Fly or take the Shinkansen to Sapporo. Explore Odori Park, visit the Sapporo Beer Museum, day-trip to Noboribetsu hot springs or the stunning Shikotsu-Toya National Park.
• Days 12 to 14: Hiroshima, Miyajima, and Onomichi — Add the charming harbour town of Onomichi with its cat-alley slopes and scenic cycling route along the Shimanami Kaido to Shikoku island.
• Days 15 to 17: Kyushu — Fukuoka's famous Hakata ramen, Nagasaki's poignant history and Chinatown, and the steaming volcanic landscapes around Beppu onsen town.
• Days 18 to 19: Kagoshima and Yakushima — Witness the perpetually erupting Sakurajima volcano from the city waterfront, then take a ferry to ancient cedar forests of Yakushima island — the inspiration for Studio Ghibli's Princess Mononoke.
• Days 20 to 21: Return via Osaka or Tokyo — Shinkansen north for a final city fix before departure.

Tokyo: Neighbourhood by Neighbourhood

Tokyo is a city of distinct villages stitched together into a world-class megalopolis. Each neighbourhood has its own personality.

Shinjuku

The pulsating heart of modern Tokyo. Kabukicho's neon entertainment district, the serene Shinjuku Gyoen national garden, the towering Metropolitan Government Building (free observation deck), and the labyrinthine Golden Gai bar alley — all within walking distance. Pro tip: Visit Omoide Yokocho (Memory Lane) for grilled yakitori skewers in smoky, atmospheric lantern-lit alley stalls.

Shibuya and Harajuku

Shibuya Crossing is the world's busiest pedestrian crossing and a must-see spectacle, best viewed from the Starbucks or Mag's Park rooftop above. Walk up Takeshita Street in Harajuku for colourful street fashion and the famous rainbow cotton candy. Meiji Jingu Shrine offers a calming forest retreat amid the urban buzz.

Asakusa

Old Tokyo lives on in Asakusa. Senso-ji Temple blazes with lanterns and incense smoke at all hours. Nakamise shopping street sells traditional snacks and souvenirs. Hire a rickshaw (jinrikisha) for a guided tour of the district's hidden backstreets.

Akihabara

Electric Town is the global capital of anime, manga, retro gaming, and consumer electronics. Even non-enthusiasts will be dazzled by the sheer scale of multi-storey arcades, figure shops, and maid cafes.

Yanaka

One of the few neighbourhoods that survived the 1923 earthquake and WWII bombing largely intact, Yanaka feels like stepping back into Meiji-era Tokyo. Independent craft shops, cemetery walks, and excellent coffee in converted shophouses.

Kyoto: Temples, Traditions, and Hidden Gems

Kyoto served as Japan's imperial capital for over a millennium and remains the spiritual and cultural heart of the country. With seventeen UNESCO World Heritage Sites within city limits, choosing where to focus your time is the key challenge.

Eastern Higashiyama

The preserved machiya (townhouse) streetscapes of Ninenzaka and Sannenzaka lead up to Kiyomizudera Temple, perched dramatically on a forested hillside. Arrive before 8 am to avoid tour groups. Continue to Kodaiji Temple and the Gion geisha district — if you are lucky, you may spot a maiko (apprentice geisha) hurrying to an appointment at dusk.

Arashiyama

The bamboo grove is iconic for good reason, though it is best experienced at opening time (5 am in summer). Nearby Tenryu-ji's moss garden is a masterpiece of contemplative design. Rent a bicycle and cycle along the Oi River to Jojakko-ji Temple for a more peaceful experience than the tourist trail.

Northern Kyoto: Kurama and Kibune

Escape Kyoto's crowds by heading north to Kurama village, reached by the charming Eizan Electric Railway. Hike the mountain trail between Kurama and Kibune, famous for its summer kawadoko (riverside dining platforms) where restaurants serve meals inches above a rushing mountain stream.

Fushimi Inari

Thousands of vermilion torii gates snake up a forested mountain in one of Japan's most photographed landscapes. The summit hike takes about two hours return; the upper paths are dramatically quieter than the crowded lower section. Visit at sunrise or after 5 pm when most tourists have left.

Osaka: Japan's Kitchen and Entertainment Capital

Osaka operates by its own rules. The people are famously friendlier and louder than reserved Tokyoites, the food is richer and more indulgent, and the nightlife runs later. Osakans take personal pride in their city's culinary reputation — kuidaore (eating yourself into bankruptcy) is a local aspiration, not a warning.

Must-Eat Foods in Osaka

• Takoyaki: Golf ball-sized octopus fritters cooked in special dimpled iron pans. Wanaka and Aizuya in Namba are legendary.
• Okonomiyaki: Savoury pancakes loaded with cabbage, pork, prawn, and bonito flakes. Try the Hiroshima-style (layered, not mixed) alongside the Osaka-style at Mizuno in Dotonbori.
• Kushikatsu: Breaded and deep-fried skewers of everything imaginable. Shinsekai is the historic home of kushikatsu — and the strict no double-dipping rule.
• Fugu: Puffer fish sashimi, a winter delicacy. Only licensed restaurants can serve it. The thrill-to-flavor ratio is largely psychological, but the experience is memorable.

Beyond the Food

Osaka Castle's keep dates from 1931 (rebuilt after WWII bombings) but the surrounding park and moat are magnificent. Universal Studios Japan is among the best theme park executions globally — the Wizarding World of Harry Potter and Nintendo World are exceptional. The Osaka Amazing Pass bundles unlimited metro rides with free entry to 40+ attractions.

Hiroshima and Miyajima: History and Beauty

No itinerary of Japan is complete without Hiroshima. The Peace Memorial Museum documents August 6, 1945 with unflinching honesty — it is among the most important museums in the world. Give yourself at least three hours and prepare to be deeply moved. The A-Bomb Dome (Genbaku Dome) — the only building left standing near the hypocenter — is preserved as a UNESCO World Heritage monument and a permanent reminder of nuclear devastation.

A 30-minute ferry from Miyajimaguchi brings you to Miyajima Island, home to the floating torii gate of Itsukushima Shrine. The gate appears to float during high tide — check tide tables in advance. The island is home to friendly deer (smaller and gentler than Nara's), maple leaf (momiji) manju sweets, and excellent hiking trails up Mt Misen for panoramic views of the Seto Inland Sea.

Hokkaido: Japan's Wild North

Japan's northernmost main island is a universe apart from the urban south. Hokkaido is defined by dramatic landscapes — volcanic calderas, lavender fields (July peak in Furano), vast dairy farms, and some of the world's best powder snow. Its food culture centres on fresh seafood (Sapporo's Nijo Market is legendary for sea urchin and crab), dairy products, miso ramen, and Genghis Khan (jingisukan) lamb barbecue.

When to Visit Hokkaido

• Winter (January to March): World-class skiing at Niseko, Rusutsu, and Furano. The Sapporo Snow Festival (early February) draws millions for its enormous ice sculptures.
• Summer (June to August): Escape Japan's mainland heat. Furano's lavender fields bloom in July. Hiking in Daisetsuzan National Park — Japan's largest — is spectacular.
• Autumn (September to October): Earlier and more vivid foliage than the mainland. Shiretoko Peninsula (UNESCO World Heritage) turns flame red.

Getting Around Japan: Transportation Guide

Japan's transportation network is the envy of the world — punctual, comprehensive, and easy to navigate even without Japanese language skills.

Shinkansen (Bullet Train)

Japan's Shinkansen network now reaches over 3,000 km of track. The fastest Nozomi services (Tokyo–Osaka in 2h 15min) are not covered by the JR Pass, but the slightly slower Hikari services are and take only 15 minutes longer. Always reserve seats in advance during peak travel periods — standing on a Shinkansen with heavy luggage is genuinely uncomfortable.

IC Cards: Suica and Pasmo

Purchase a Suica (JR East) or Pasmo IC card at airport vending machines. Tap in and out of virtually every train, metro, and bus system in Japan. They also work at convenience stores, vending machines, taxis, and many restaurants. Load ¥5,000–¥10,000 initially — they are rechargeable at any station machine. Since 2023, Suica is available on iPhone and Apple Watch for residents; physical cards remain the easiest option for visitors.

City Metro Systems

Tokyo's metro (Tokyo Metro and Toei Subway) is extensive but navigable with Google Maps or the Citymapper app. Day passes offer good value for heavy users. Kyoto relies more on buses and the Kyoto Municipal Subway — buy a Kyoto Bus and Subway day pass from tourist information centres.

Renting a Car

Driving in Japan is surprisingly enjoyable outside major cities. Roads are excellent, signage is bilingual, and traffic discipline is impeccable. An International Driving Permit (IDP) from your home country is required. Renting a car unlocks rural Hokkaido, the Izu Peninsula, and the Japanese Alps in ways public transport cannot match.

Accommodation: Where to Stay in Japan

Ryokan (Traditional Inn)

Staying in a ryokan is a quintessential Japan experience. Expect tatami mat floors, futon bedding, yukata cotton robes, communal onsen baths, and multi-course kaiseki dinners served in your room. Prices range from ¥8,000 per person (simple country ryokan) to ¥80,000+ (luxury onsen resort). Book months ahead for famous properties in Hakone, Kyoto, and Nikko.

Business Hotels

Japan's business hotel chains — Toyoko Inn, Dormy Inn, APA Hotel, Super Hotel — offer exceptional value. Rooms are compact but immaculate, staff are helpful, and many include free breakfast. Budget ¥7,000–¥12,000 per room per night in most cities.

Capsule Hotels

Modern capsule hotels like First Cabin and Nadeshiko Hotel are a fun, affordable option (¥3,000–¥6,000/night). Each pod includes a mattress, reading light, power outlets, and a privacy curtain. Shared bathrooms are spotless. Women-only floors are standard at reputable establishments.

Hostels and Guesthouses

Japan's hostel scene has blossomed. Dorm beds in well-run Tokyo hostels start at ¥2,500/night. Many offer private rooms with shared bathrooms at competitive rates. Look for properties in Asakusa (Tokyo), Gion (Kyoto), and Namba (Osaka) for the best local atmosphere.

Food Guide: Eating Your Way Through Japan

Japanese cuisine is extraordinarily diverse — the country holds more Michelin stars than any other nation. Eating well on any budget is one of Japan's great gifts to the visitor.

Convenience Store Culture

Do not underestimate 7-Eleven, Lawson, and FamilyMart. Japanese convenience stores stock fresh onigiri (rice balls, ¥120–180), hot nikuman steamed buns, excellent sandwiches, hot noodle soups, quality coffee, and fresh fruit. A perfectly adequate convenience store meal costs ¥500–¥800. The seasonal limited-edition items are genuinely exciting.

Regional Ramen Styles

• Sapporo: Rich miso broth, corn, butter, and thick wavy noodles
• Hakata (Fukuoka): Tonkotsu (pork bone) milky white broth, thin straight noodles, unlimited free kaedama (noodle refills)
• Tokyo: Shoyu (soy) based clear broth, medium noodles, classic toppings
• Kyoto: Light chicken-based broth with white miso, unique to the old capital

Sushi Etiquette

At kaiten-zushi (conveyor belt sushi) restaurants like Sushiro and Kura Sushi, excellent sushi costs ¥100–¥200 per plate — an outstanding value meal. For omakase sushi, trust the chef completely: sit at the counter, eat each piece immediately as served (not with chopsticks — use your fingers), and pace yourself through 15–20 courses. Reservations for top sushi restaurants must be made weeks or months in advance, often via a hotel concierge.

Dietary Restrictions

Japan can be challenging for vegetarians and vegans, as dashi (fish stock) is a base ingredient in many apparently vegetarian dishes. Buddhist temple cuisine (shojin ryori) is entirely plant-based and exquisite. Apps like HappyCow and restaurant cards printed in Japanese explaining your dietary needs (available from tourist information) are invaluable tools.

Japanese Etiquette and Cultural Tips

Japan's social codes are refined and, once understood, deeply respectful of everyone's comfort. Visitors who follow basic etiquette are warmly appreciated.

Essential Rules

• Remove shoes when entering homes, ryokan rooms, some restaurants, and traditional buildings. Slippers are provided — look for the transition line at the entrance.
• No eating while walking. Stand to the side at stalls if eating street food, or find a bench.
• No phone calls on trains. Put your phone on silent and step to the vestibule between carriages to make calls. Talking loudly on public transport is considered very rude.
• Queuing is sacred. Always form orderly queues at marked positions on train platforms and at shop entrances.
• Tipping is not practised and can cause embarrassment. Excellent service is the standard, not a reason for extra payment.
• Tattoos are still prohibited at many onsen. Look for tattoo-friendly facilities if you have visible tattoos, or rent a private bath (kashikiri-buro).
• Both hands when giving or receiving anything important — business cards, gifts, payment. This shows respect.

Onsen Etiquette

Wash thoroughly at the shower stations before entering the communal bath — this is non-negotiable. Hair must be tied up or covered. Small towels may be placed on your head but never in the water. Silence or very quiet conversation is the norm. The experience is deeply relaxing once you understand the ritual.

Language Tips and Useful Phrases

English signage has improved dramatically across Japan, particularly in cities and tourist areas. Station signs are bilingual, menus increasingly have pictures or English translations, and translation apps have become remarkably capable. That said, a handful of Japanese phrases will earn enormous goodwill.

Essential Japanese Phrases

• Sumimasen — Excuse me or Sorry (indispensable for getting attention politely)
• Arigatou gozaimasu — Thank you very much
• Kudasai — Please (appended to requests: "Mizu kudasai" means "Water, please")
• Eigo wa hanasemasu ka? — Do you speak English?
• Ikura desu ka? — How much is it?
• Doko desu ka? — Where is it?
• Wakarimasen — I don't understand

Translation Tools

Google Translate's camera mode can read Japanese menus and signage in real time — download the Japanese language pack for offline use before departing. DeepL offers more nuanced translations for longer texts. Many restaurants now have QR code menus with English toggle options.

Money-Saving Hacks for Japan 2026

Japan can be budget-friendly with the right strategies. Here are the most effective ways to reduce costs without sacrificing experience.

Food Savings

• Eat lunch at restaurants rather than dinner — many upscale spots offer identical cuisine at 40–60% of dinner prices during lunch service.
• Look for teishoku (set meal) lunch specials, which include a main dish, rice, miso soup, and fermented side dishes for ¥800–¥1,200.
• Supermarket basement food halls (depachika) slash prices on prepared meals and sushi by 30–50% after 6 pm.
• Standing ramen, soba, and udon bars (tachigui) serve excellent food for ¥400–¥700.

Transport Savings

• The JR Pass is only worth buying if your long-distance travel costs exceed the pass price — calculate carefully.
• Highway buses (Willer Express, JR Bus) connect major cities at 30–50% of Shinkansen fares. Night buses save on accommodation.
• City metro day passes frequently offer better value than individual IC card taps for heavy sightseeing days.
• Many tourist attractions offer free or discounted entry on specific days — research in advance.

Accommodation Savings

• Stay slightly outside city centres and use efficient metro systems — a 15-minute commute can halve your accommodation budget.
• Book ryokan on weeknights rather than weekends for significantly lower rates.
• Longer stays (3 or more nights) often unlock negotiated rates at guesthouses and smaller hotels.

Activity Savings

• Many of Japan's most celebrated experiences are free: shrines, temples (exterior), castle parks, public gardens, and festivals.
• City attraction passes (Osaka Amazing Pass, Tokyo Subway 24-hour Pass) bundle entry fees for significant savings.
• The Visit Japan Campaign occasionally offers cashback rewards for foreign tourists via registered payment — check the official Japan Tourism Agency website for current promotions.

Final Planning Checklist

Use this checklist to ensure you have covered every essential before departure:

• Flights: Book 3–6 months in advance for best fares. Tokyo (Narita/Haneda), Osaka (Kansai), and Fukuoka are main entry hubs. Consider open-jaw tickets (fly into one city, out of another) to avoid backtracking.
• JR Pass: Purchase before departure if your itinerary justifies the cost. Activate on arrival.
• Accommodation: Reserve popular ryokan and capsule hotels well in advance, especially for cherry blossom season and Golden Week.
• Pocket Wi-Fi or SIM: Essential for navigation and translation. Pre-order pocket Wi-Fi for collection at the airport, or purchase a prepaid SIM from vending machines at major airports.
• IC Card: Pick up a Suica or Pasmo card at airport vending machines immediately on arrival.
• Cash: Withdraw yen from 7-Eleven ATMs. Carry ¥20,000–¥30,000 as a baseline, especially for rural areas.
• Visit Japan Web: Pre-register your passport and customs declaration for faster immigration processing.
• Travel Insurance: Purchase comprehensive cover including medical evacuation before departure.
• Download: Google Translate (Japanese offline pack), Google Maps offline maps for Japan, HyperDia or Japan Travel for train planning, and your airline's app.

Japan rewards preparation but also forgives improvisation — the country is safe, navigable, and extraordinarily welcoming to curious visitors. Whether this is your first visit or your tenth, Japan invariably leaves you counting down the days until you return. Ittekimasu — go, and come back safely.