Japan Travel Guide 2025

October 17, 2025 6 min read.

Japan is an archipelago located in East Asia, a beautiful country full of history and culture, made up of more than 6,800 islands, with Honshu, Hokkaido, Kyushu, and Shikoku being the main ones. Japan is famous for blending ancient tradition with technological modernity, offering breathtaking landscapes, vibrant cities, and a fascinating culture.

Tokyo, its cosmopolitan capital, is a must-see destination for lovers of technology and big cities. The Japanese capital is known for its skyscrapers, thousands of LED screens in its center, and for being a gastronomic paradise: it has more Michelin-starred restaurants than any other city in the world.

In Tokyo you can enjoy numerous temples, museums, shopping streets, and restaurants for all tastes and budgets. Beyond the world’s most prestigious restaurants, local food is another of the country’s main attractions. So, during your trip to Japan, don’t miss the chance to explore its local markets and try the authentic dishes that Japanese people enjoy in their daily lives.

Another must-visit city is Kyoto. This temple-filled city was once the capital of Japan and is located on the country’s most important island, about 350 kilometers from Tokyo. Kyoto is quieter and more traditional, allowing you to experience the best of both worlds.

What to do in Japan

Japan offers a wide variety of experiences, from ancient temples to futuristic cities. Some must-see places and activities include:

Tokyo: skyscrapers, neon-lit districts like Shibuya and Shinjuku, and historic temples such as Senso-ji in Asakusa.

Kyoto: home to more than 2,000 temples and shrines, zen gardens, and the famous Gion district.
Osaka: known for its food culture, Osaka Castle, and the lively Dotonbori district.

Hiroshima y Miyajima: with the Peace Memorial Park and the floating Itsukushima Shrine.
Japanese Alps: villages such as Shirakawa-go and Takayama, showcasing traditional architecture in snowy landscapes.
Mount Fuji: Japan’s most iconic mountain, ideal for excursions and panoramic views.

Where to See Cherry Blossoms in Japan

Cherry blossom season (sakura) is one of Japan’s most celebrated natural spectacles. It usually takes place between late March and April, though timing varies by region.

Some of the best places are:

Ueno Park (Tokyo): home to over a thousand cherry trees.
Kyoto – Philosopher’s Path: a scenic walk lined with blossoms and temples.
Osaka – Osaka Castle: rsurrounded by gardens with breathtaking views.
Hokkaido – Hakodate and Sapporo: blossoms arrive later, in May, perfect for off-season travelers.

Tip: Always check the sakura forecast before your trip, since blooming dates shift every year.

Japanese Gastronomy

Japanese cuisine is recognized by UNESCO as Intangible Cultural Heritage and is one of the country’s greatest attractions.

Must-try dishes:

Sushi y sashimi: fresh fish prepared in its purest form.
Ramen: hearty noodle soup with regional variations.

Okonomiyaki: a savory pancake, popular in Osaka.
Takoyaki: fried dough balls filled with octopus, also from Osaka.
Tempura: seafood and vegetables fried in a light, crisp batter.

Kaiseki: multi-course haute cuisine, carefully crafted and beautifully presented.

When to Visit Japan

Spring (March–May): peak season for cherry blossoms; pleasant weather.
Summer (June–August): fireworks festivals (hanabi) but hot and humid.
Autumn (September–November): stunning foliage (momiji) with vibrant colors.
Winter (December–February): cold but perfect for skiing in Hokkaido or the Japanese Alps.

Visa and practical information

Visa: Citizens from many countries in Europe, North America, and Oceania can enter Japan visa-free for up to 90 days. Always check requirements before traveling.
Currency: Japanese yen (JPY). €1 ≈ 160 JPY / $1 ≈ 150 JPY (subject to change). Cards are widely accepted, though cash is still common.
Time Zone: UTC+9.
Language: Japanese. English is not as widespread as in Europe, but tourist areas usually have bilingual signage.
Transport: the railway network is world-class. The Japan Rail Pass is highly recommended for multi-city trips.

Connectivity: excellent. Free Wi-Fi is common in airports and stations. Local SIM cards or portable Wi-Fi devices are convenient for travelers.

The Language in Japan

The official language is Japanese. While English may be limited outside major cities, in hotels, airports, stations, and most tourist areas you’ll find English-speaking staff and clear signage. Japanese people are also famously polite and helpful, making communication easier even with language barriers.

Some travel agencies offer guided tours and travel packages to Japan in English, so you can enjoy Japan’s highlights with professional explanations and assistance throughout your journey.

How to travel to Japan

Japan is well connected internationally through major airports such as Narita (Tokyo), Haneda (Tokyo), Kansai (Osaka), and Chubu (Nagoya).

From Europe: vuelos directos desde Londres, París, Ámsterdam, Frankfurt, Madrid y Roma (12–14 horas).
From North America: conexiones desde Nueva York, Los Ángeles, San Francisco, Dallas, Toronto y Vancouver (10–13 horas).
From Oceania: flights from Sydney, Melbourne, or Auckland to Tokyo or Osaka (8–10 hours).
From other regions: travelers often connect via Europe, the U.S., or the Middle East (e.g., Dubai, Doha, Istanbul).

Travel tips:

Book flights well in advance for spring and autumn.
Consider flying into Tokyo and out of Osaka (or vice versa) to maximize your route.
Check baggage rules on Asian airlines, as restrictions can be stricter.

Conclusion

Japan is a destination that fascinates with its blend of ancient tradition and modern life. From Kyoto’s serene temples to Tokyo’s futuristic vibe, along with natural wonders, festivals, and world-class cuisine, every part of the country offers unforgettable experiences.

Although the journey can be long, the reward is extraordinary: discovering a rich culture, exquisite food, and warm hospitality. Whether you want to admire cherry blossoms in spring, ski in winter, or explore Japan’s vibrant cities, this country has something for every traveler.

With English-language tours and travel packages, it’s easier than ever to enjoy Japan stress-free. Traveling to Japan is not just a holiday, it’s a life-changing adventure you’ll remember forever.