Major Cities & Urban Destinations
2026 Travel Advisory
Japan remains one of the world's most accessible destinations in 2026. The favorable exchange rate makes travel more affordable than ever, with hotels, transportation, and attractions offering excellent value. Book accommodations 3-6 months ahead for cherry blossom season (late March-early April) as Tokyo and Kyoto hotels double in price and sell out quickly.
Tokyo: The Electric Capital
Tokyo Skytree & Observation Decks
At 634 meters, Japan's tallest structure offers breathtaking 360-degree views from two observation decks (350m and 450m). Entry: ¥2,300 ($16) for Tembo Deck, ¥3,400 ($24) combo ticket.
Book online for 10-15% discount. Best visited early morning or sunset. The shopping complex Solamachi at the base offers dining and souvenirs.
teamLab Planets & Borderless (NEW 2025)
teamLab Planets in Toyosu expanded in January 2025 with three new attractions: Athletic Forest, Catching Forest, and Future Park. Entry: ¥3,800 ($27) adults. teamLab Borderless relocated to larger Azabudai Hills facility in 2024 with entirely new installations. Entry: ¥4,200 ($29) adults.
Reserve time slots online weeks in advance—these digital art museums are Tokyo's hottest attractions. Plan 2-3 hours per location.
Sensoji Temple & Asakusa
Tokyo's oldest temple (founded 645 AD) remains FREE to enter. The Nakamise shopping street leading to the temple sells traditional crafts and snacks (¥500-3,000). Visit before 8 AM to avoid crowds and capture serene photos.
Nearby kimono rental shops offer full-day rentals for ¥3,000-8,000. Perfect for photos in traditional attire against historic architecture.
Shibuya & Harajuku Districts
Experience Shibuya Crossing (busiest intersection worldwide), Shibuya Sky observation deck (¥2,200/$15), and Hachiko statue. Shibuya offers youth culture, shopping, and nightlife energy.
Adjacent Harajuku features Takeshita Street for trendy fashion, crepes, and Meiji Shrine—a peaceful forest shrine offering FREE entry amid urban chaos.
Akihabara Electric Town
Otaku paradise for anime, manga, electronics, and gaming. Multi-story arcades, maid cafes (¥2,000-4,000 per visit), and duty-free electronics shopping. Yodobashi Camera and Don Quijote offer tax-free purchases over ¥5,000.
Retro game shops sell vintage Nintendo, PlayStation classics. Evening illuminations create cyberpunk atmosphere perfect for photography.
Tokyo Nightlife & Entertainment
Experience Tokyo's legendary nightlife from rooftop bars in Shibuya to hidden speakeasies in Golden Gai. The city transforms after dark with neon-lit districts, karaoke boxes, and late-night ramen stands creating an electric atmosphere.
For insider tips on the best local spots and hidden gems, check out this comprehensive Tokyo nightlife guide with local secrets covering everything from craft cocktail bars to underground music venues.
Tokyo Neighborhoods
Ginza: Luxury shopping, art galleries, fine dining. Shinjuku: Skyscraper views, Golden Gai bar alleys, nightlife. Odaiba: Waterfront entertainment, teamLab, shopping malls. Yanaka: Old Tokyo atmosphere, temples, traditional shops.
Each neighborhood offers distinct character—allocate full days to explore properly rather than rushing between areas.
Kyoto: Ancient Capital of Culture
Fushimi Inari Shrine
Famous for 10,000+ vermillion torii gates creating tunnels up the mountain. FREE entry, open 24/7. The full summit hike takes 2-3 hours, but even 30 minutes offers incredible photo opportunities.
Visit early morning (before 8 AM) or evening to avoid tour groups. The atmospheric evening illumination and quieter trails create magical experiences.
Kinkaku-ji (Golden Pavilion)
Three-story pavilion covered in gold leaf overlooking reflection pond. Entry: ¥500 ($3.50). One of Japan's most photographed sites, especially stunning in morning light or autumn foliage.
Cannot enter the pavilion itself, but the gardens and viewing paths offer multiple perspectives of this UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Arashiyama Bamboo Grove
Walk through towering bamboo forest creating ethereal green-filtered light. FREE access. Nearly trails lead to Tenryu-ji Temple (¥500 entry) and scenic Togetsukyo Bridge over Katsura River.
Visit early morning before 9 AM for peaceful experience. The nearby Sagano Scenic Railway offers gorgeous mountain views in autumn and spring.
teamLab Biovortex (NEW 2025)
Japan's largest teamLab facility (10,000 sq meters) opened October 2025 in Kyoto. Features experimental digital art including massless sculptures and interactive light works. Entry: ¥4,000 ($28). Book advance time slots.
Combined with NIWA by NAKED immersive tearoom and Entertainment Hub Kyoto, these new attractions position Kyoto as digital art destination rivaling Tokyo.
Kiyomizu-dera Temple
Historic wooden temple (780 AD) famous for veranda jutting from hillside without nails. Entry: ¥400 ($2.80). Panoramic Kyoto views, especially spectacular during cherry blossom and autumn seasons with evening illuminations.
The Otowa Waterfall below offers three streams for wishes: longevity, academic success, or love fortune—drink from one stream only.
Gion & Geisha District
Historic geisha quarter with preserved machiya townhouses. Stroll Hanamikoji Street and Pontocho Alley for traditional atmosphere. Respectfully photograph architecture—never harass geisha/maiko.
Tea ceremony experiences at traditional tea houses: ¥2,000-5,000. Evening Gion Corner cultural shows feature traditional arts: ¥3,150 ($22).
Osaka: Japan's Kitchen
Osaka Castle
Iconic 5-story castle (rebuilt 1931) with modern museum inside detailing samurai history. Entry: ¥600 ($4.20). Observation deck offers city views. The surrounding park features 4 km jogging trail, perfect for cherry blossoms.
Skip elevator—the 8 floors of exhibits require climbing. Best photographed from across the moat during morning golden hour.
Dotonbori Food District
Neon-lit entertainment district famous for street food: takoyaki (octopus balls), okonomiyaki (savory pancakes), kushikatsu (fried skewers). Budget ¥2,000-4,000 for food tour sampling multiple vendors.
The Glico Running Man sign is Osaka's most iconic photo spot. Evening visits offer the best atmosphere with illuminated signs reflecting in canal waters.
Kuromon Ichiba Market
Indoor 600-meter market nicknamed "Osaka's Kitchen" with 150+ vendors selling fresh seafood, produce, and prepared foods. Sample uni (sea urchin), wagyu beef skewers, fresh sushi for ¥500-2,000 per item.
Open 9 AM-6 PM (most vendors). Arrive hungry and graze through the morning—many stalls cook orders fresh before you.
Universal Studios Japan
Major theme park featuring Super Nintendo World, Harry Potter attractions, and Japanese-exclusive experiences. Entry: ¥8,900-10,900 ($62-76) depending on season. Express Passes (¥10,000-30,000) recommended for peak periods.
Super Nintendo World requires timed entry tickets—arrive at park opening to secure slots. Book park tickets online in advance for guaranteed entry.
Hiroshima & Miyajima
Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park
Poignant memorial to 1945 atomic bombing. FREE park access. Peace Memorial Museum entry: ¥200 ($1.40) offers powerful exhibits on the bombing and its aftermath. The A-Bomb Dome (Genbaku Dome) remains as UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Allocate 2-3 hours for museum and memorial grounds. Audio guides available in multiple languages. Deeply moving experience emphasizing peace advocacy.
Itsukushima Shrine (Miyajima Island)
Famous "floating" torii gate in the sea—appears to float during high tide, accessible on foot during low tide. Ferry from Hiroshima: ¥360 ($2.50) each way, 10-minute crossing. Shrine entry: ¥300 ($2.10).
Check tide schedules online—both high and low tides offer unique photo opportunities. Wild deer roam the island freely. Stay overnight at ryokan for peaceful morning/evening atmosphere after day-trippers leave.
Nara: Ancient Capital & Sacred Deer
Nara Park & Sacred Deer
FREE park access where 1,400+ wild sika deer roam freely among visitors. Deer crackers (shika senbei): ¥200. The deer have learned to bow for treats—a charming interaction. Remember: wild animals can be aggressive when food is involved.
Easy day trip from Kyoto (45 minutes) or Osaka (50 minutes). Combine with Todai-ji Temple and other historical sites for full-day exploration.
Todai-ji Temple
Houses the world's largest bronze Buddha statue (Daibutsu) at 15 meters tall. Entry: ¥600 ($4.20). The massive wooden hall is architectural marvel surviving centuries. Walk through the pillar with hole—legend says it brings enlightenment.
Visit morning hours for softer light filtering through the temple. The surrounding park offers serene walks away from the main temple crowds.
Mount Fuji & Hakone Region
Best Time to See Mount Fuji
Winter months (November-February) offer clearest views with crisp air and snow-capped peak. Summer (July-September) is official climbing season but cloudy conditions obscure views. Hakone provides excellent Fuji vistas year-round, especially from Lake Ashi and Owakudani ropeway.
Mount Fuji Climbing
Official climbing season: early July to early September. Four main routes—Yoshida Trail most popular for beginners. Round-trip summit climb takes 10-12 hours. Mountain huts along routes (¥8,000-10,000 per night) require advance booking.
Bring proper gear: warm layers, headlamp, walking poles. Altitude sickness affects many climbers. Watching sunrise (Goraiko) from summit is iconic experience. Never attempt climbing outside official season—dangerous conditions.
Hakone Ropeway & Owakudani
Cable car journey over volcanic valley with steaming sulfur vents. Ropeway: ¥1,550 ($11) one-way. Owakudani station features black eggs (kuro-tamago) cooked in hot springs—eating one supposedly adds 7 years to your life. ¥500 for 5 eggs.
Clear days offer spectacular Mount Fuji views from ropeway. The volcanic landscape demonstrates Japan's geothermal power. Strong sulfur smell can be overwhelming for sensitive individuals.
Lake Ashi & Pirate Ships
Caldera lake formed 3,000 years ago offering Mount Fuji views across water. Sightseeing pirate ship cruises: ¥1,200 ($8.40) one-way. Hakone Shrine's iconic red torii gate stands in the water at lake edge—beautiful photo spot.
Combine with ropeway and mountain railway for circular "Hakone Loop" tour. Hakone Free Pass offers unlimited transport on all Hakone vehicles for 2-3 days.
Hakone Hot Springs
Dozens of ryokan and onsen hotels offering natural hot spring baths with Fuji views. Day-visit onsen: ¥1,000-2,500. Overnight ryokan stays: ¥15,000-50,000 per person including kaiseki dinner and breakfast.
Popular onsen towns: Hakone-Yumoto (gateway), Gora (art museums nearby), Sengokuhara (mountain location). Many onsen have tattoo restrictions—check policies before visiting.
Mount Kintoki Hiking
One of Japan's best Mount Fuji viewpoints with moderate 2-3 hour hike from Sengokuhara. Summit elevation: 1,212 meters. FREE trail access. The peak offers 360-degree views including Fuji, Lake Ashi, and Sagami Bay.
Trail associated with Kintaro legend (folk hero raised in mountains). Rest house at summit serves hot noodles. Best hiked in clear weather—check forecast before attempting.
Hakone Open-Air Museum
Outdoor sculpture park featuring works by Picasso, Henry Moore, and Japanese artists set against mountain backdrop. Entry: ¥1,600 ($11). The Picasso Pavilion houses extensive collection. Foot onsen bath provides relaxation.
Allow 2-3 hours to explore gardens and indoor galleries. Beautiful in any season, particularly stunning during autumn foliage or cherry blossoms.
Regional Destinations & Day Trips
Japanese Alps (Takayama & Kamikochi)
Mountain region offering alpine scenery, traditional villages, and hiking. Takayama features preserved Edo-period streets (FREE to explore) and morning markets. Kamikochi mountain resort (April-November): ¥2,100 bus from Takayama offers pristine hiking trails.
Shirakawa-go nearby features UNESCO thatched-roof gassho-zukuri farmhouses. Winter illuminations (January-February) create fairy-tale atmosphere requiring advance reservations.
Himeji Castle
Japan's best-preserved feudal castle, UNESCO World Heritage Site. Entry: ¥2,500 ($17.50) for international visitors (increased from ¥1,000 in 2026 tourism changes). The brilliant white exterior earned nickname "White Heron Castle."
Located 50 minutes from Osaka, 90 minutes from Kyoto via shinkansen. Arrive early to beat crowds—can't fully appreciate the castle when packed with tour groups. Adjacent Koko-en Garden offers peaceful contrast: ¥310 entry.
Kanazawa: Little Kyoto
Historic castle town with well-preserved samurai and geisha districts. Kenrokuen Garden (one of Japan's three best): ¥320 ($2.20). 21st Century Museum of Contemporary Art: ¥450. Less touristy than Kyoto but equally charming.
Accessible from Tokyo via Hokuriku Shinkansen (2.5 hours). Famous for gold leaf crafts, fresh seafood, and traditional arts. Excellent base for exploring Noto Peninsula's rugged coastline.
Okinawa Islands
Tropical archipelago with turquoise waters, coral reefs, and unique Ryukyu culture. Naha (capital) features Shuri Castle and vibrant markets. Beach resorts on surrounding islands offer snorkeling, diving, and water sports.
Different climate and culture from mainland Japan—subtropical weather year-round. Flights from Tokyo: 2.5 hours. Popular for beach holidays, particularly March-October. Book flights via Aviasales for best deals.
Nikko National Park
2 hours north of Tokyo featuring ornate Toshogu Shrine (UNESCO): ¥1,300 ($9). The shrine's elaborate gold decorations and famous "see no evil" monkeys attract visitors. Nearby waterfalls, Lake Chuzenji, and hiking trails offer natural beauty.
Ideal day trip from Tokyo or overnight stay. Autumn foliage (October-November) draws massive crowds—visit weekdays if possible. Hot spring resorts in surrounding areas provide relaxation after sightseeing.
Hokkaido (Northern Island)
Japan's northern frontier offering winter sports, national parks, and unique food culture. Sapporo hosts Snow Festival (February 4-11, 2026) with massive ice sculptures. Niseko and Hakuba offer world-class powder skiing December-March.
Summer (June-August) brings lavender fields in Furano, wildlife in Shiretoko National Park, and comfortable hiking weather. Hokkaido cuisine features fresh seafood, dairy products, and Sapporo ramen. Rent a car for exploring rural areas efficiently.
Sample Japan Itineraries
-
7-Day Golden Route (First-Timers)
Days 1-2: Tokyo (Shibuya, Asakusa, teamLab) → Day 3: Day trip to Hakone/Mt Fuji → Days 4-5: Kyoto (Fushimi Inari, Golden Pavilion, Arashiyama) → Day 6: Nara day trip → Day 7: Osaka (castle, Dotonbori) and departure. This itinerary covers Japan's essential highlights efficiently.
-
10-Day Complete Experience
Days 1-3: Tokyo comprehensive (multiple neighborhoods, museums, food tours) → Day 4: Hakone overnight (hot springs, Fuji views) → Days 5-7: Kyoto (temples, tea ceremony, day trips) → Day 8: Nara → Days 9-10: Osaka and Hiroshima (Peace Park, Miyajima). Allows deeper exploration without constant rushing.
-
14-Day Ultimate Japan
Days 1-3: Tokyo → Day 4: Nikko day trip → Days 5-6: Hakone/Fuji area → Days 7-9: Kyoto (with Nara, Osaka day trips) → Days 10-11: Hiroshima and Miyajima → Days 12-13: Takayama/Shirakawa-go → Day 14: Return Tokyo. Comprehensive coverage of major destinations plus mountain regions.
-
Off-the-Beaten-Path 10-Day
Days 1-2: Tokyo → Days 3-4: Kanazawa (Kenrokuen, samurai district) → Days 5-6: Takayama and Shirakawa-go → Day 7: Matsumoto Castle → Days 8-9: Ky usukaido cycling route or Naoshima art island → Day 10: Return via Osaka. Avoids overcrowded tourist circuits while maintaining cultural depth.
Itinerary Planning Tips 2026
Calculate if the JR Pass makes financial sense for your specific routes—since the October 2023 price increase to ¥50,000 ($350) for 7 days, individual tickets are often cheaper for standard Tokyo-Kyoto-Osaka trips. Use Trip.com to compare package deals combining flights and hotels. Don't pack too many destinations—quality time in fewer places beats rushed checkbox tourism. Allow flexibility for weather-dependent activities like Mount Fuji viewing and hiking.
Unique Experiences & Activities
Traditional Tea Ceremony
Authentic chanoyu experiences in Kyoto tea houses: ¥2,000-5,000 depending on formality and duration. Learn matcha preparation, Japanese etiquette, and zen philosophy underlying the ritual. Some include wagashi (traditional sweets) pairing.
Book through Viator for guided experiences with English explanation. Wear comfortable clothing—sitting seiza (kneeling) can be challenging for beginners.
Sushi-Making Classes
Hands-on workshops in Tokyo's Tsukiji area teaching nigiri, rolls, and knife skills. Classes: ¥8,000-15,000 including ingredients and lunch. Learn from professional chefs about seafood selection, rice preparation, and presentation aesthetics.
Take home recipes and techniques. Most classes include market tour for ingredient sourcing. Book well in advance—these fill quickly, especially during cherry blossom season.
Sumo Tournament & Stable Visit
Grand tournaments held in Tokyo (January, May, September), Osaka (March), Nagoya (July), and Fukuoka (November). Tickets: ¥2,500-14,800 depending on seats. Morning stable visits (free but require booking) let you watch training sessions and wrestler interactions.
Tournament tickets sell out quickly—purchase through official channels months ahead. Arrive early to watch lower-division matches and soak in the atmosphere.
Onsen Hot Spring Bathing
Public baths (sento): ¥400-800. Hotel onsen: ¥1,000-2,500 day-use. Ryokan overnight: ¥15,000-50,000 including meals. Must bathe nude in gender-separated facilities—wash thoroughly before entering communal bath. Many onsen prohibit tattoos.
Famous onsen towns: Hakone, Beppu, Kusatsu, Kinosaki. Outdoor rotenburo offer views of nature, mountains, or sea while soaking. Ultimate relaxation after days of sightseeing and walking.
Cherry Blossom Viewing (Hanami)
Late March to early April depending on region. FREE park access for viewing. Tokyo: Ueno Park, Sumida Park, Meguro River. Kyoto: Philosopher's Path, Maruyama Park. Peak bloom lasts only 5-7 days—time visits carefully using forecast websites.
Join locals for hanami picnics under trees with bento boxes and sake. Evening illuminations (yozakura) create magical atmosphere. Hotels triple prices during peak weeks—book 6+ months ahead or visit shoulder dates. For detailed timing predictions, optimal viewing locations, and photography tips, this expert Tokyo cherry blossom guide provides insider knowledge on avoiding crowds while capturing perfect sakura moments.
Cultural Performances
Kabuki theater in Tokyo: ¥4,000-20,000 depending on seats. Single-act tickets available for shorter introduction: ¥1,000-2,000. Traditional arts like Noh theater, bunraku puppet shows, and taiko drumming performances offer insights into Japanese performing arts.
English audio guides available at major venues. Gion Corner in Kyoto offers 60-minute sampler of various arts: ¥3,150. Check schedules and book popular performances weeks in advance.
Travel Tips for 2026
-
Best Time to Visit
Spring (March-May) for cherry blossoms and pleasant weather. Autumn (September-November) for fall foliage and comfortable temperatures. Winter (December-February) for skiing, clear Fuji views, and fewer crowds. Summer (June-August) brings heat, humidity, and rainy season but also festivals.
-
Getting Around
Japan's train system is world-class. IC cards (Suica, Pasmo, Icoca) work nationwide for trains, subways, convenience stores. Shinkansen connects major cities in 2.5 hours Tokyo-Kyoto. Calculate if JR Pass (¥50,000/7-days) saves money for your specific itinerary—often individual tickets are cheaper post-2023 price increase.
-
Accommodation Strategy
Book 3-6 months ahead for cherry blossom and autumn foliage seasons. Mix hotel styles: business hotels (¥6,000-10,000/night) for cities, ryokan for special experiences, capsule hotels for budget nights. Booking.com offers widest selection with free cancellation on most properties.
-
Daily Budget 2026
Budget: ¥8,000-12,000 ($55-85) - hostels, konbini meals, free attractions. Mid-range: ¥15,000-25,000 ($105-175) - business hotels, restaurants, paid sights. Luxury: ¥30,000+ ($210+) - quality hotels, fine dining, private experiences. Favorable exchange rates make Japan better value than previous years.
-
Connectivity
eSIM data plans from YesSim or other providers: $10-30 for 1-2 weeks unlimited data. Activate before departure. Free WiFi available at most hotels, cafes, stations. Download offline maps and translation apps before arrival.
-
Money Matters
Japan remains largely cash-based. Carry ¥20,000-40,000 cash. 7-Eleven and post office ATMs accept international cards reliably. Credit cards accepted at hotels, department stores, chains but many small businesses remain cash-only. No tipping culture—service charges included.
-
Language & Communication
English limited outside major tourist areas. Learn basic phrases: "arigatou" (thank you), "sumimasen" (excuse me). Google Translate camera function excellent for menus and signs. Most stations and attractions have English signage. Japanese appreciate any language effort—even poor pronunciation receives warm reception.
-
Cultural Etiquette Essentials
Remove shoes when entering homes, traditional restaurants, temples. Bow when greeting. Quiet on public transport—no phone calls. Don't eat while walking. Learn chopstick etiquette (never stick upright in rice). Tattoos may restrict onsen access. Photography permission required at some temples.
