Japan is a magnificent country where ancient traditions seamlessly blend with modern life, creating a culture unlike any other. If you’ve always dreamed of exploring this destination but aren’t sure where to begin, this complete Japan guide is for you. It covers everything you need to plan your trip—from must-visit cities and unforgettable experiences to accommodation options, travel tips and hacks.

Flights to Japan from India

Japan Airlines and Air India operate non-stop flights from New Delhi to Haneda Airport in Tokyo, offering a convenient and time-saving option. You can also fly direct to Narita Airport from Bangalore with Japan Airlines. Budget travellers can consider flying with VietJet, which offers competitive return fares starting from just ?35,685 (including a layover, usually in Vietnam). While not direct, it's a great option for those looking to save on airfare. Both Haneda and Narita airports are well-connected to central Tokyo via trains and airport limousine buses, making arrival and onward travel smooth and hassle-free.

Things You Should Know Before Travelling to Japan

Indians can now apply for e-visa through Japan Visa Application Centres (VFS Global) and takes only 4 working days to be processed. You’ll still submit your application in person, but the visa is now issued electronically instead of as a sticker in your passport.

The local currency is JPY (Japanese Yen), with the exchange rate approximately:

1 JPY = 0.60 INR
1 USD = 143.01 JPY

Make sure to carry cash as credit or debit cards may not be accepted in rural Japan or older family-run businesses However, restaurants and convenience stores in cities like Tokyo generally accept international cards. When making a payment, place your cash or card in the small tray at the register instead of handing it directly to the cashier.

For getting around, Japan Rail Pass is the best option to see the country on a budget, allowing unlimited travel on Japan’s efficient rail network, including bullet trains.

Pack light as large luggage can be inconvenient, especially on public transport. Some shinkansen (high-speed trains) requires you to reserve space for oversized bags which is free if done in advance but get penalty if you don’t.

Buy a data-heavy sim or e-sim at the airport to stay connected as smartphones are a must for navigating the tricky address system of Japan.

Lastly, be prepared to carry your waste as public garbage bins are rare, so you need to dispose it at your accommodation or the place you bought the item.

Best Time to Visit Japan

Japan is a year-round destination with each season offering something unique for travellers. Spring is sakura (cherry blossom) season transforming the country into a breathtaking sea of pink. It is also the busiest and most expensive time to visit. Autumn brings in the surreal koyo (fall foliage) season, painting landscapes in vivid reds and golds. Summer opens the window to summit Mt. Fuji — available for just two months each year. And in winter, skiers and snowboarders flock to Japan for some of the finest powder snow in the world. No matter when you go, Japan offers an unforgettable experience and a trip of a lifetime.

What to Do in Japan

Discover the ancient Japan in Kyoto’s timeless beauty

Kyoto, home to over 2,000 temples, offers a peek into Japan’s cultural heart. Deep dive into its history by vising the ceremonial teahouses and beautiful gardens. Highlights include the shimmering gold pavilion of Kinkaku-ji, reflected in its tranquil pond, and the contemplative rock formations of Ryoan-ji’s Zen Garden. Traditional gardens here hold centuries of Buddhist and imperial influence and has minimalist design to allow space for meditation and quiet reflection. Stroll through manicured landscapes, where even a weathered bridge or carefully placed stone holds meaning. For a peaceful visit, arrive early on a weekday to avoid crowds. As night falls, wander lantern-lit alleys in Gion, Kyoto’s historic geisha district, where wooden teahouses and 17th-century restaurants keep ancient traditions alive.

Experience the magic of Mt Fuji

Just outside the Tokyo city, Mt Fuji seems to appear almost everywhere you look. More than just Japan’s tallest mountain, it’s a symbol of beauty and spirit. Climbing it is a serious challenge, once taken by Shinto pilgrims. If you’d rather admire it from afar, take a day trip to Hakone or the Fuji Five Lakes. Whether you spot it through autumn leaves, cherry blossoms, beside a quiet shrine, or even from a convenience store window, Mt Fuji always leaves a lasting impression as it rises above the landscape.

Step into samurai history in Himeji and Tsuwano

Feel the spirit of the samurai in Himeji, home to Japan’s most iconic castle. Himeji-jo, with its white walls and towering keep, offers a glimpse into 16th-century Japan. Wander through cherry blossom-lined paths (if you visit in April) and explore the castle’s maze-like grounds and royal quarters.

In contrast, Tsuwano is a quiet mountain town and keeps samurai life alive through preserved residences and old streets. Climb to a hillside shrine through rows of vermilion torii gates, then stroll past sake shops and peaceful canals filled with golden carp. With its slow pace and rich charm, Tsuwano is like stepping into a living Japanese folktale—without the crowds.

Soothe your senses in Japan’s onsen hot springs

Let your worries melt away in a steaming onsen—Japan’s natural hot springs, heated by volcanic energy. With a history spanning over 3,000 years, soaking in an onsen is one of the most peaceful and authentic Japanese experiences. Whether tucked in a quiet mountain town or located in a traditional ryokan (inn), these hot baths offer deep relaxation surrounded by fresh air and scenic views.

Popular onsen towns like Kusatsu and Beppu offer a range of options, from luxurious retreats to budget-friendly public bathhouses. For a lighter experience, enjoy a free outdoor foot bath in town.

Tip: You’ll need to wash thoroughly before entering the bath, and it's normal to get completely naked in the onsen (though modesty towels may be allowed in some places). Embrace the moment—it’s rejuvenating from head to toe.

Enjoy authentic Japanese food like a local

Japan is a food lover’s dream. From grilled yakitori chicken skewers to sizzling okonomiyaki pancakes, delicious dishes are found everywhere. In Osaka and Fukuoka, try yummy street food from yatai (moveable) stalls. For a fun night out, visit an izakaya—a mix of bar and restaurant—where you can enjoy dishes like hotpot, grilled fish, or sashimi.

Love sushi? Try a kaiten-zushi (conveyor belt sushi) place like Numazuko in Tokyo. Kids and adults alike enjoy modern snacks like fluffy pancakes, omurice (omelet rice), and sweet strawberry sando sandwiches. Many small restaurants specialise in just one dish and serve it like udon, soba, kara-age, or katsu-curry. Tip: Order a teishoku (set meal) in a restaurant for a full experience with rice, miso soup, and more—all in one tray!

Experience the dreamy digital art world at teamLab Planets, Tokyo

teamLab Planets isn’t just a museum—it’s a full-body, digital dream. Walk barefoot through water, where koi fish react to your steps, or explore glowing rooms filled with shifting flowers and light. Every surface moves and changes around you.

If you’re travelling with family, make sure to check out Tokyo’s fun spots like Pokémon or Nintendo cafés, Tokyo Character Street, or you can even go on a day trip to Tokyo Disneyland or DisneySea—all easy to reach from the city.

Discover anime heaven in Tokyo's Akihabara and Den Den Town

Tokyo’s Akihabara and Osaka’s Den Den Town are dreamlands for anime and manga lovers. From manga shops and vintage games to life-sized figurines and collectible gashapon machines, these colourful districts celebrate every corner of otaku culture. Even non-fans will enjoy the electric energy and playful creativity on display.

In Akihabara, it’s common to see costumed fans and themed cafes—especially maid cafes—where staff greet you like a character from a fantasy world. You’ll also find everything from retro consoles to the latest tech.

Tip: For a gentler, more whimsical experience, the Ghibli Museum in west Tokyo is the perfect stop.

Reflect and find peace in reborn Hiroshima

Hiroshima is a modern, vibrant city with leafy boulevards and delicious okonomiyaki spots—but it also holds a powerful message of peace. The Peace Memorial Park stands as a moving reminder of the atomic bombing and the hope that followed.

Visit the Peace Memorial Museum for a deeply emotional experience, then pause at the Children’s Peace Monument, surrounded by paper cranes from around the world. These colourful origami birds, symbols of hope and healing, turn grief into a quiet but powerful wish: that peace endures.

Where to Go in Japan - Recommended Japan itinerary

We would recommend spending at least 10 days in Japan if you’re visiting for the first time to experience the best of what this country has to offer. This gives you the chance to explore Tokyo and also visit other top cities like Osaka, Kyoto, and Nara. You can stay in Tokyo and take easy day trips to scenic spots like Mount Fuji or Hakone.

Day 1 to 3: Tokyo

Start your trip with a few days in Tokyo to shake off jet lag and settle into the rhythm of Japan. This massive city is a vibrant mix of tradition and innovation, where towering skyscrapers meet neon lights and bustling streets. Start in Asakusa, home to the historic Senso-ji Temple, then stroll through Ueno Park or explore the tech shops of Akihabara. For a taste of modern Tokyo, head to the famous Shibuya Crossing, discover bold street fashion in Harajuku, and find calm at the Meiji Shrine. Shinjuku is known for its city views and lively laneways filled with food and nightlife.

Day 4: Hakone or Mount Fuji (Lake Kawaguchi)

Hakone is unlike any other place in Japan and a must-visit. You can either go for a day trip from Tokyo or choose to spend a night which we highly recommend. It offers a magical escape into Japan’s scenic side, with views of Mt Fuji, peaceful lakes, and steaming hot springs. Sail across Lake Ashi on a pirate ship, soak in a traditional onsen, or ride a cable car over volcanic valleys. When you’re here, don’t miss trying the famous black eggs!

Day 5 and 6: Kyoto

Take a shinkansen (bullet train) from Tokyo to Kyoto in just 2.5 hours. Spend a few days exploring this culturally rich city, known for its ancient temples, traditional teahouses, and stunning Zen gardens. Don’t miss the golden Kinkaku-ji, walk through the red torii gates of Fushimi Inari Shrine, or catch glimpses of geisha in Gion. You can also consider staying four nights in Kyoto and using your JR Pass for easy day trips to nearby Nara (1 hour) and Osaka (20 minutes).

Day 7: Nara

Nara is home to the majestic Daibutsu , one of the world’s largest bronze Buddha statues and the scenic Nara Park with friendly deer roaming around freely. With a history that predates even Kyoto but with fewer crowds, Nara remains one of the country’s most culturally rich places to visit that’s perfect for a short stay.

Day 8 & 9: Osaka

This vibrant city was once the hub of Japan’s merchant class and still wears that legacy with pride. Unlike the formality found in Kyoto or Tokyo, Osaka embraces a more relaxed vibe. Locals are famously friendly, often joking with strangers, and the atmosphere feels bold and energetic. It is also Japan’s street food capital. Head to Dotonbori for neon lights, canal views, and unforgettable eats.

Day 10: Hiroshima and Miyajima Island  

Take a day to explore Hiroshima and nearby Miyajima. Start with the moving Hiroshima Peace Memorial Museum and Park, a powerful tribute to resilience after the 1945 atomic bombing. Today, Hiroshima is a thriving cosmopolitan city.

From Hiroshima, it is also possible to visit the Miyajima Island, home to the iconic “floating” torii gate at Itsukushima Shrine. Explore scenic trails, serene temples, and try the island’s specialty—fresh oysters, served grilled, fried, or raw. On your way back to Tokyo, consider a stop in Himeji to see Japan’s finest original samurai-era castle.

Where to Stay in Japan

Dormy Inn Premium Shibuya, Tokyo: Just a 5-minute walk from Meiji Jingumae Subway Station, this modern hotel provides comfortable rooms with free Wi-Fi, a flat-screen TV, fridge, electric kettle, and private bathroom with toiletries. It’s only 10-minute walk to Yoyogi Park, Takeshita Street, Shibuya Station, and Harajuku Station so ideal for exploring central Tokyo. Guests can unwind in the large public bath, do laundry onsite, and enjoy extras like DVD rentals.

 
Sakura Terrace, Kyoto: A stylish hotel just a 6-minute walk from Kyoto Station’s Hachijo-Higashi Exit and steps from Kujo Subway Station, it offers modern cosy rooms with free Wi-Fi, air purifiers, fridges, and LCD TVs. Guests can relax in gender-specific saunas, enjoy a meal at the on-site restaurant, or sip a complimentary welcome drink at the bar. Popular sites like Kyoto Tower and Toji Temple are within walking distance, and buses to Gion, Kiyomizu-dera, and Kinkaku-ji stop nearby.