Japan

Japan, or Nihon, is located in the Pacific Ocean, east of the Korean Peninsula and China.

Japan consists of four main islands—Honshu, Hokkaido, Kyushu, and Shikoku—and numerous smaller islands. The country has a population of about 126 million people, and Tokyo, its capital, is one of the world’s most dynamic and densely populated cities.

Japan operates on Japan Standard Time (JST), which is UTC+9 and does not observe daylight saving time.

Japanese cuisine is celebrated worldwide for its fresh ingredients, subtle flavours, and artistic presentation. Dishes like sushi, sashimi, ramen, and tempura offer a wide array of tastes and textures. Street food, such as takoyaki (octopus balls) and yakitori (grilled chicken skewers), provides a quick and delicious way to enjoy local flavours.

Each region of Japan has its specialities. For instance, Osaka is famous for okonomiyaki (a savoury pancake), while Hokkaido is known for its fresh seafood and dairy products. In the colder months, nabe (hot pot) dishes, such as sukiyaki and shabu-shabu, are popular choices for warming up.

Japan also has a burgeoning wine industry, particularly in areas like Yamanashi Prefecture, which is known for its Koshu wine. However, the most traditional alcoholic beverage in Japan is sake (rice wine), which is enjoyed either hot or cold, depending on the season. Shochu, a distilled spirit made from barley, sweet potatoes, or rice, is also widely consumed.

Japan’s diverse geography makes it a fantastic destination for outdoor activities. Hiking is a favourite pastime, with trails ranging from easy walks to challenging climbs. Mount Fuji, Japan’s highest peak, is a popular climbing destination, especially during the official climbing season in July and August. The Japanese Alps, with their rugged terrain and scenic beauty, offer some of the best hiking in the country.

Japan is home to world-class ski resorts for winter sports enthusiasts, particularly in Hokkaido and the Nagano Prefecture, which hosted the 1998 Winter Olympics. Resorts like Niseko, Furano, and Hakuba are renowned for their powdery snow and excellent facilities for skiing and snowboarding.

Water activities are also popular, especially in Okinawa, where the warm waters are perfect for snorkelling, diving, and swimming. The coral reefs in this region are among the most beautiful in the world, teeming with vibrant marine life. For a more relaxed experience, Japan’s numerous hot springs, or onsen, provide a soothing way to unwind amidst beautiful natural settings.

Japan is a country of majestic beauty. It is home to several national parks and UNESCO World Heritage sites, which showcase its rich biodiversity and scenic landscapes.

The iconic Mount Fuji, located near Tokyo, is not only a popular climbing destination but also a symbol of Japan’s natural beauty. The surrounding Fuji Five Lakes region offers breathtaking views and opportunities for boating, fishing, and hiking.

The southern islands, such as Okinawa, boast tropical climates and lush jungles. The Iriomote-Ishigaki National Park offers mangrove forests, coral reefs, and rare species like the Iriomote wildcat. The island of Yakushima, with its ancient cedar trees and rugged coastline, is a UNESCO World Heritage site known for its misty forests and unique ecosystems.

Japan’s festivals, or matsuri, mirror the country’s rich cultural heritage and traditions. Hanami, or cherry blossom viewing, is one of the most popular events celebrated nationwide in spring when cherry blossoms bloom. People gather in parks for picnics under the cherry trees, enjoying the fleeting beauty of the blossoms.

Gion Matsuri in Kyoto is one of Japan’s most famous festivals, held in July. It features elaborate floats, traditional music, and dance performances, drawing visitors worldwide. Winter brings unique events like the Sapporo Snow Festival in Hokkaido, where giant snow and ice sculptures are displayed, attracting visitors to this snowy wonderland. The New Year’s celebration, known as Shogatsu, is another significant event, marked by temple visits, special meals, and various traditional activities.

The WHO recommends that travellers to Japan should be up to date with vaccines for hepatitis A, polio, Japanese encephalitis, rabies, hepatitis B, influenza, COVID-19, pneumonia, meningitis, chickenpox, shingles, Tdap (tetanus, diphtheria and pertussis) and measles, mumps and rubella (MMR). You should have comprehensive travel insurance that covers medical expenses, as medical care can be costly for visitors.

The weather can be hot and humid in summer, particularly in urban areas, so it's important to stay hydrated and protect yourself from the sun. In winter, temperatures can drop significantly, especially in the northern regions and mountainous areas, so appropriate warm clothing is necessary.

The official currency of Japan is the Japanese yen (JPY).

Japan uses a 100 V voltage with a frequency of 50 Hz in the eastern regions (including Tokyo) and 60 Hz in the western regions (including Osaka). The standard plug type is Type A, which has two flat parallel pins, similar to the plugs used in North America.

Japan boasts one of the most efficient and reliable transportation networks in the world. The Shinkansen, or bullet train, provides high-speed rail services connecting major cities like Tokyo, Kyoto, Osaka, and Hiroshima. For tourists, the Japan Rail Pass offers an economical way to travel around the country, allowing unlimited travel on JR trains for a set period.

Public transportation is excellent within cities, with extensive subway and bus networks in Tokyo, Osaka, and Kyoto. These systems are known for their punctuality, cleanliness, and ease of use. Taxis are widely available but can be more expensive, especially for long distances.

For short trips, IC cards like Suica and Pasmo can be used for convenient travel on trains, buses, and even some taxis. Car rentals are also an option, particularly for exploring rural areas or when public transport is less accessible. However, driving in Japan requires an international driving permit, and parking can be costly in cities.

Japanese is the official language of Japan, and while English is taught in schools and understood in tourist areas, proficiency varies.

Learning a few basic Japanese phrases can enhance your travel experience. Simple greetings like Konnichiwa, hello, Arigato, thank you, and Sumimasen, excuse me can go a long way in daily interactions. Japanese people are generally accommodating and often go out of their way to assist tourists, even with a language barrier.

• Politeness and good manners are highly valued in Japan. Bowing is a common form of greeting and a way to show respect. Shoes should be removed when entering homes, traditional inns, and certain temples or restaurants.

• When dining, use chopsticks correctly and avoid pointing them or using them to pass food directly from one person to another, as this resembles a funeral ritual.

• It is customary to say Itadakimasu before eating, meaning "I humbly receive," and Gochisosama deshita after finishing, expressing gratitude for the meal.

• Speaking quietly on public transport and refraining from eating or drinking while walking are considered polite.

• Spring (March to May): Spring in Japan offers mild temperatures and the beauty of cherry blossoms, which bloom from late March to early April. It is an ideal time for sightseeing, outdoor activities, and enjoying seasonal festivals. However, this season attracts many tourists, so expect large crowds, particularly in major cities and popular parks.
  

• Summer (June to August): Summer is hot and humid, with a rainy season from June to early July. Despite the heat, it is a great time for festivals, beach trips, and mountain hikes. Late summer may bring typhoons, especially in coastal areas, so travellers should be prepared for potential weather disruptions.

• Autumn (September to November): Autumn offers pleasantly cool weather and beautiful autumn foliage, making it perfect for hiking, visiting temples, and exploring gardens. This season is generally less crowded than spring, providing a more peaceful experience for travellers seeking quiet and scenic beauty.

• Winter (December to February): Winter in Japan is cold, with snowfall in northern regions and mountainous areas. It is the best season for skiing, snowboarding, and enjoying hot springs. The festive atmosphere during New Year’s celebrations and city illuminations adds extra charm to the colder months.

Travel costs in Japan can vary based on your preferences and travel style. Budget travellers can expect to spend around ¥7,000-¥10,000 (approximately $50-$75) per day, which includes hostel accommodation, meals at local eateries, and public transportation. For mid-range travellers, costs may range from ¥15,000-¥25,000 (approximately $110-$180) per day, covering comfortable hotels, dining at mid-range restaurants, and sightseeing activities.

Luxury travellers can expect to spend ¥30,000 or more (approximately $220+) per day for upscale accommodation, fine dining, and private tours or experiences. Entrance fees to temples, museums, and attractions typically range from ¥300 to ¥1,500. Purchasing passes, such as the Japan Rail Pass or regional passes, can help save on transportation costs.

• Tech enthusiasts should consider visiting Tokyo’s high-tech districts, such as Shibuya and Akihabara, for gadget shopping, anime, and video games.

• Nature lovers should consider a visit to Mount Fuji or the Japanese Alps for hiking, while Hokkaido offers excellent skiing and snowboarding in winter. Okinawa and its surrounding islands provide a tropical escape with beautiful beaches and a distinct cultural heritage.

• Take part in a traditional tea ceremony in a historic Kyoto teahouse and use some free time to marvel at the beautiful temples around the city

• Visit the Golden Pavilion Kinkaku-ji and the serene Ryoan-ji rock garden.

• Visit the Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park and Museum for a sobering look at history.