Japan is expected to be a trending travel destination in 2023, and here are some basic tips for those visiting the country for the first time.
When is the best time to visit Japan and why?
Most people visit Japan in March or April to enjoy the stunning cherry blossom season. However, another great option is to travel in May (early summer) or November (autumn).
During these months, the weather and temperature are stable, travel is more comfortable, and there are fewer crowds compared to cherry blossom season. If your goal is to admire and photograph Mount Fuji, the best time is between November and February, when the crisp winter air offers the clearest views of the mountain.
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Japan is organized and exceptionally clean
In Japan, people highly value order and punctuality. This means you’ll see passengers waiting patiently in line at train stations, stores, museums, and other public places. Trains depart and arrive with remarkable precision—often down to the exact minute.
Japanese people do not litter; they even carry their trash with them until they find the right place to dispose of it. At every World Cup, stories of Japanese fans cleaning stadiums after matches often make headlines.
Eating or drinking while walking on the street, or when entering shops, shrines, and tourist attractions, is also considered unusual. That said, visitors don’t need to worry too much—Japanese etiquette is not overly strict with tourists as long as you remain respectful.
A useful tip: wear comfortable shoes with socks, as many temples and traditional sites will ask you to remove your footwear.
Shopping made simple in Japan
Cash is still king in Japan, especially at small shops or rural restaurants.
Travelers should carry some yen to buy snacks, coffee, or souvenirs. In larger cities, restaurants, shops, and hotels usually accept credit cards.
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The best cities and destinations for first-time visitors
The Golden Route—Tokyo, Mount Fuji, Takayama, Kanazawa, Kyoto, Osaka, and Hiroshima—is famous and widely recommended as a “must-visit once in a lifetime” itinerary.
For a more local and less touristy experience, you can visit places like Kotohira or the Shimanami Kaido.
You might also explore unique cultural experiences such as the pottery village of Sumiyama or the Yamazoe tea farms, where you can meet friendly locals and enjoy authentic Japanese traditions in settings ranging from lush mountains to pristine coastlines.
What foods should you try in Japan?
Japan offers an incredible variety of delicious dishes, from traditional sushi, tempura, sukiyaki, yakitori skewers, okonomiyaki, soba, and udon noodles, to creative Western-influenced dishes known as “Yoshoku.”
Some must-try yoshoku specialties include omurice (fried rice with chicken and ketchup wrapped in an omelet), katsu curry (breaded pork cutlet with curry over rice), and naporitan (tomato-based spaghetti).
Seafood plays a central role in Japanese cuisine, with plenty of raw, grilled, steamed fish, and fish-based broths to savor.
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Visiting Japan offers a blend of tradition, culture, and modern living that leaves lasting impressions on travelers. Whether you are exploring bustling cities, admiring seasonal landscapes, or experiencing local customs and cuisine, each journey brings unique discoveries. With a bit of preparation and an open mind, your trip to Japan can be both smooth and rewarding.
