Japan travel guides
Practical guides for first-time visitors. Every number links to an official page that we re-check, and every photo is credited.
Kamakura, Hakone or Nikko as a day trip from Tokyo: how to get there, what each is known for, and how to choose, using official tourism sources.
Photo: Andrea Schaffer from Sydney, Australia · CC BY 2.0
How to use a Japanese onsen: washing first, towel rules, nudity, tattoo policies and private baths, using the Japan National Tourism Organization's guidance.
Photo: RickardA · Public domain
How to choose where to stay in Kyoto: Kyoto Station, Shijo-Kawaramachi, Gion, Gosho or Arashiyama, using the official tourism guide.
Photo: lumoplank · CC0
How to work out whether the Japan Rail Pass pays off for your itinerary, using official prices and the rules on Nozomi trains.
Photo: RuinDig/Yuki Uchida · CC0
How to choose between an eSIM and a rented pocket WiFi router for Japan, with a simple decision path and the mistakes to avoid.
Photo: Blakegripling ph · CC0
Which Japan IC card to use, how to add one to your iPhone, and when a card is not enough. A practical guide for first-time visitors.
Photo: Mister0124 · CC BY-SA 4.0
A relaxed 7-day Japan itinerary for first-timers: three nights in Tokyo, three in Kyoto with a Nara day trip, then Osaka, with sourced travel times.
Photo: Balon Greyjoy · CC0
How to choose a Tokyo base for your first trip: Shinjuku, Asakusa, Tokyo Station or Shibuya, with the official facts and our own editorial view.
Photo: 康 复 (calvision) from Tokyo, Japan · CC0
