Japan is one of the most popular destinations among my clients - and it’s incredibly popular among travelers overall.

When Japan reopened to tourists one year ago, there was an immediate rush to book trips - so much so that many of my partners stopped accepting requests as they couldn’t keep up with the demand.

While things have settled down somewhat, there is still a lot of interest in Japan so if you are thinking about planning a trip for 2024, best to do so soon! Japan is popular because it appeals to so many types of travelers. Whether you are interested in art, shopping, culture, music, history, or nature, there is something for everyone.

When To Visit

The most popular times to visit Japan are the Cherry Blossom season and Golden Week (end of April into early May - a peak time for domestic tourists). The best time to see cherry blossoms in Tokyo and Kyoto is late March to early April, though this totally depends on the weather. This also is the high season in Japan - expect more tourists and higher prices. High season in Japan goes until May and then returns from September to November (fall colors in Japan are not to be missed and peak mid-October into November). Shoulder season is a great time to go anywhere, and in Japan that will be June to August and December (lines up nicely with school breaks in the US). The summer is usually the rainy season and can be hot in the cities, but you will have far fewer crowds. Winter is low season and a nice time to visit if you’re interested in snow sports or cold weather retreats at the onsen (hot springs).

An optimal time to visit Japan is September or October (so start planning for Fall 2024 now) - you’ll have mild weather and fewer crowds.

Where to Go

For a first time visit to Japan, you’ll most likely want to visit Tokyo and Kyoto. Other destinations can be added based on your interests and how much time you have. There are also day trips available from Tokyo and Kyoto if you don’t want to move around too much but want to experience more during your time in Japan (and depending on how much time you have).

Osaka is great for foodies and those really wanting to dive into the food culture of Japan. Of course, you can have incredible food all over the country, but Osaka is known for its food (and nightlife).
Hakone is ideal if you’re looking for a respite from the big city and a bit of nature. It’s a beautiful national park area about 50 miles west of Tokyo and just south of Mount Fuji. Stay in a traditional ryokan and experience the onsen culture. This area is full of small villages connected by local transport so can be easy to get around. There are outdoor sculpture galleries, lakes, hot springs, and of course Mount Fuji. From Hakone you have one of the best chances of getting a view of Mount Fuji from the various viewpoints to be found throughout the area, inlcuding on a boat ride in Lake Ashi.
Okinawa is somewhat isolated from the rest of Japan - there’s a unique history here that is separate from that of mainland Japan so you’ll get a totally different experience when you visit. There are amazing beaches and a more tropical vibe than you’ll find elsewhere in Japan.

Know Before You Go

Don’t jaywalk. Everyone waits for the light to change before crossing the street.
Japanese people are very accommodating and won’t say no to a request. Keep this in mind when you are asking for things as Japanese people may feel obligated to help you.
There are no trash cans on the street or in public places across Japan. It’s recommended that you carry your trash with you so bring a small plastic bag that you can carry around.
Bring a reusable tote bag as many stores don’t offer bags or will charge for them.
Take the metro - the cards can be used across the country, not just in one city. We used the Suica card which can be purchased on your phone with Apple Wallet.
ATMs at 7-11 are best for foreigners to use.

Tokyo

One of the largest cities in the world with 12 million inhabitants, expect a vibrant and exciting stay while in Tokyo. The street level detail is what makes Tokyo such an incredibly interesting place to explore and at every turn you will be met with an array of sights, sounds and smells. Though it’s large, you can use Tokyo’s excellent public transport system to get around and explore - whether on your own or with a guide. Tokyo is made up of districts each with their own distinctive flavor and atmosphere and taking public transport will allow you to see a lot in a short period of time.

Asakusa: the old town area is a chance to experience a little of what Tokyo was like before the economic boom of the 1970s and 80s.
The Ginza district in the very center of the city is a shopper's paradise with endless boutiques and department stores interspersed with some of the city's finest restaurants and European style cafes.
Shibuya is Tokyo at its most fun and youthful, attracting a lively mix of students and young professionals to its bars, restaurants, manga shops and all night clubs.
Shinjuku has soaring skyscrapers to the west and endless neon lights to the east in one of the city's premiere entertainment areas. Shinjuku is what many people think of when they imagine Tokyo and as such is a must see.
In the center of the city, close to the iconic Tokyo Tower is Roppongi, the after-hours playground of the city's expat community, teeming with clubs and bars and restaurants.

We can arrange guided tours of these areas, visits to Tokyo’s unique museums such as the teamLab Planets exhibit, or a private walk through the famous Tsukiji Fish Market. Our partners can also provide food tours or tips & recommendations for the best places to try Tokyo's cuisine.

And because I love a hotel bar: If you're feeling like a late night out, head to the Park Hyatt's New York Bar for some cocktails, incredible views, and tunes from world-renowned jazz artists. Located on the 52nd floor, the restaurant offers panoramic views of the Tokyo skyline. This is the perfect way to experience Tokyo; and it was immortalized by Sofia Coppola's masterpiece 'Lost in Translation' . We also recommend the hotel bar at the Ritz-Carlton Tokyo for cocktails and amazing views of the city.

Kyoto

Kyoto is one of the most culturally rich cities in Asia. Home to 17 UNESCO World Heritage sites, over 1,600 Buddhist temples and 400 Shinto shrines, this ancient city showcases the heart and soul of traditional Japan. Kyoto has a tremendous amount to offer whether you wish to discover some of the smaller temples and shrines dotted around the city or stroll through the bustling Nishiki market.

On first glance however, visitors will see that like any large Japanese city, grid-like Kyoto has its fair share of neon and concrete. But the discerning eye will soon pick out Kyoto’s treasures: sacred shrines tucked in among shopping arcades, time-honored teahouses nestling among modern businesses and mysterious geisha scuttling down backstreets among the tourists and souvenirs. One of the best ways to explore is with a local guide who can help you navigate the city and find those hidden gems and unique spots that most tourists can’t find on their own.

We can also arrange a private walking tour for you to learn about Kyoto’s famous geisha culture. As you make your way through the narrow lanes and hidden alleys around the city, your guide will explain the history, traditions and culture of the geisha world. This is a fantastic way for you to get an inside look at one of Japan's best known, yet least understood, traditional professions.

From Kyoto, you’ll probably want to take a day trip to Nara to see the famous Nara Park, known for its sacred deer (which you can feed), exquisite gardens and historic shrines. There are forests and museums to explore while you’re there, making this a great getaway from the city. But be warned - those deer like snacks and aren’t afraid to get in your face!

Planning Your First Trip to Japan