Overview

Japan is a country where every moment feels like an adventure, blending centuries-old traditions with cutting-edge innovation. From the peaceful beauty of ancient temples and cherry blossoms to the buzzing energy of Tokyo’s neon streets, Japan offers something for everyone. Whether you’re savoring sushi in the heart of Osaka, hiking the majestic Mount Fuji, or immersing yourself in the unique culture, Japan is a place that captivates and surprises you at every turn. Ready to explore a world where the past meets the future?

• Capital: Tokyo

• Visa Requirement: Sticker Visa, 7-10 working days

• Best Time to Visit/Weather: March to May (cherry blossom season); September to November (autumn colors)

• Currency & INR Equivalent: Japanese Yen (JPY); 1 JPY ≈ 0.60 INR (check for latest exchange rates)

• Time Difference from India: Japan is 3.5 hours ahead of India

• Language Spoken: Japanese, with English widely understood in major cities

• Flights from India: Direct Flights- Air India, Japan Airways, Nippon Airways; Indirect Flight – Vietnam Airlines, Malaysian Airline, Singapore Airline

• Major Tourist Cities:  Tokyo, Kyoto, Nara, Osaka, Mount Fuji

Tokyo

• City Famous For: Futuristic skyline, technology, pop culture

• Best Locations to Stay: Shibuya, Shinjuku, Ginza, Roppongi

• Top Attractions: Tokyo Tower, Meiji Shrine, Shinjuku Gyoen National Garden, Exploring vibrant neighborhoods, visiting robot restaurants, shopping in Harajuku

• Ideal Nights Required: 3-4 nights

• Hidden Gems: Odaiba, Shitamachi Tanabata Museum, Golden Gai

Kyoto

• City Famous For: Ancient temples, traditional tea houses, cherry blossoms

• Best Locations to Stay: Gion, Higashiyama, Arashiyama

• Top Attractions: Fushimi Inari Shrine, Kinkaku-ji (Golden Pavilion), Arashiyama Bamboo Grove, Tea ceremonies, visiting Zen gardens, walking through bamboo forests

• Ideal Nights Required: 2-3 nights

• Hidden Gems: Nanzen-ji Temple, Philosopher’s Path, Kiyomizu-dera at sunrise

Nara

• City Famous For: Historic temples, free-roaming deer, ancient culture

• Best Locations to Stay: Nara Park area, Naramachi, Kintetsu-Nara Station vicinity

• Top Attractions: Todai-ji Temple, Nara Park, Kasuga Taisha Shrine, Isuien Garden, Feeding the friendly deer in Nara Park, admiring the Great Buddha, strolling through Naramachi’s traditional streets

• Ideal Nights Required: 1-2 nights

• Hidden Gems: Yoshiki-en Garden, Mount Wakakusa, Horyu-ji Temple

Osaka

• City Famous For: Street food, nightlife, and shopping

• Best Locations to Stay: Namba, Umeda, Dotonbori, Osaka Castle area

• Top Attractions: Osaka Castle, Dotonbori, Universal Studios Japan, enjoying views from the Umeda Sky Building, exploring Shinsekai district

• Ideal Nights Required: 2 nights

• Hidden Gems: Kuromon Ichiba Market, Hozenji Yokocho alley, Minoh Park

Mount Fuji

• City Famous For: Iconic peak, nature, and serenity

• Best Locations to Stay: Kawaguchiko, Hakone, Fujiyoshida

• Top Attractions: Climbing or viewing Mount Fuji, soaking in hot springs with mountain views, enjoying boat rides on Lake Kawaguchi

• Ideal Nights Required: 2 nights

• Hidden Gems: Iyashi no Sato (traditional village), Shiraito Falls, Aokigahara Forest

Insider Tips

• Get a Japan Rail Pass: If you’re travelling between cities, a JR Pass can save you money. It must be purchased before arriving in Japan.

• Be Mindful of Etiquette: Bow to greet, avoid loud conversations on trains, and always line up in an orderly manner for transportation or services.

• Quiet on Trains: Talking on phones is considered rude on public transport. Keep your conversations quiet and respectful.

Most Instagrammable Spots

• Fushimi Inari Shrine (Kyoto): Thousands of red torii gates

• Mount Fuji : Iconic snow-capped peak, especially in the spring and autumn

• Shibuya Crossing (Tokyo): The world’s busiest pedestrian crossing, an iconic Tokyo experience

• Arashiyama Bamboo Grove (Kyoto): Lush bamboo forest providing a serene photo backdrop