Japan mixes neon cities, quiet temples, hot springs and some of the best food anywhere. Trains run on time, cities are safe and signs are easy to follow, which makes it one of the easiest big trips to plan on your own.
Quick facts
- Getting there: most long-haul flights land in Tokyo (Haneda or Narita) or Osaka (Kansai).
- Best months: late March to May for cherry blossom and mild weather, and October to November for autumn colour.
- Time needed: 10 to 14 days for Tokyo, Kyoto and Osaka with a day or two to spare.
- Currency: Japanese yen (JPY).
A simple first route
- Tokyo (4 to 5 nights): Shibuya, Asakusa, food markets and a day trip to Nikko or Kamakura.
- Kyoto (3 nights): temples, old streets and tea houses. Go early to avoid crowds.
- Osaka (2 nights): street food and nightlife, and an easy base for Nara.
Money-saving tips
- Check whether a rail pass really saves money on your route. For a simple Tokyo to Kyoto to Osaka trip, single tickets can be cheaper.
- Use a rechargeable transport card for local trains and buses.
- Book hotels with free cancellation, and look at business hotels, which are small but clean and good value.
- Eat set lunches, which cost far less than dinner.
- Get mobile data before you land so maps and translation work from the airport.
Prices, schedules and entry rules change. Always confirm with airlines, hotels and official sources before booking.