Japan

Things to Consider Before You Visit

  • Best time: March–May (cherry blossom) and September–November (fall colors)
  • Currency: Japanese Yen (JPY)
  • Japanese is official; English spoken in tourist areas
  • Respect local etiquette and customs
  • Public transport is highly efficient
  • Seasonal crowds at famous landmarks

Top Attractions

  • Kyoto; temples, gardens, and traditional tea houses
  • Tokyo; romantic city spots, Shibuya, and Odaiba
  • Mount Fuji; hiking and photography
  • Nara; historic temples and parks
  • Hokkaido; hot springs, skiing, and lakes
  • Osaka; river cruises and food tours
  • Arashiyama Bamboo Grove; scenic strolls
  • Hiroshima Peace Park; reflection and history
  • Okinawa; beaches and resorts
  • Kanazawa; romantic samurai districts and gardens