Traveling to Japan: The Ultimate Guide
Tourism to Japan is increasing – rapidly. From 2023 to 2024, the country saw a 47% increase in visitors, and this increase was noticed worldwide as headlines about overcrowding and troublesome tourist behavior have impacted travelers.
The influx of travelers to Japan highlights its draw…blending history and modernity in stunning ways and fascinating foreigners with cultural customs that bust open Western "norms".
And of course, iconic experiences and sights like the blooming cherry blossoms and Mount Fuji have delighted Instagram-inspired travelers for years now. While those images certainly capture the beauty of the country, there's a much deeper, more personal side of Japan waiting for those who are open to it.
For travelers who want to visit Japan in a respectful way, their trip should not just be about ticking off must-see sights on the typical tourist trail. This is especially important given recent measures to protect beloved landmarks like Mt. Fuji, where conservation efforts now include designated viewing areas, climbing fees, and advanced reservations for certain trails during climbing season.
As a travel advisor and recent Japan visitor, I believe that a memorable trip to Japan is about approaching the experience with an openness to learn. Whether it's connecting with the Zen tranquility of a temple, exploring the arts through immersive experiences, or savoring every bite of a seasonal kaiseki meal…Japan has a lot to teach.
Essential Details for Traveling to Japan
If you’re planning a trip to Japan, chances are that cherry blossoms, sushi, and kimonos are somewhere on your itinerary. But before you dive into bustling city life or tranquil temples, here are some essential tips to know:
Best Time to Visit Japan
Spring (March–April) – Cherry blossoms are breathtaking, but expect peak crowds and higher prices
Summer (June–August) – Hot, humid, and full of lively festivals like Gion Matsuri in Kyoto
Autumn (September–November) – Stunning fall foliage, mild temperatures, and fewer tourists
Winter (December–February) – Ideal for skiing in Hokkaido's world-class powder snow, soaking in onsen, and exploring cities with fewer crowds
Getting Around
Trains – The Shinkansen (bullet train) is the fastest way to travel between cities, and relatively easy to do.
Subways & IC Cards – Grab an IC card (Suica, Pasmo) for effortless travel on subways and buses. You can add this to your Apple wallet prior to the trip, add money on the go, and also use the same Suica card at many convenience stores. It’s so effortless!! For some trains, the Klook app is super helpful. You can book there directly and they give you a QR code to pick up tickets at a machine. Doesn’t work for ALL trains, but most.
Taxis & Rideshares – Expensive but convenient. The easiest way to book taxis is with the Go Taxi app. You simply put in the destination address, payment is handled in the app…no struggling to communicate with your driver or pronounce things! You can also hire a private car service with English-speaking drivers.
Helicopter Transfers – For the ultimate convenience and spectacular views, arrange helicopter transfers between major destinations, offering both efficiency and unforgettable aerial perspectives.
Language & Etiquette
English signage is common, but basic Japanese helps – Learning konnichiwa (hello) and arigato gozaimasu (thank you) goes a long way
Respect is key – Bowing is a polite greeting, shoes must be removed in certain places, and speaking loudly on public transport is a no-go
Payment options have evolved – While cash was once king, Japan has rapidly expanded digital payment options since the pandemic, especially in tourist areas
A Journey Through Japan's History & Culture
There's something profoundly moving about watching a tea master spend 45 minutes preparing a single cup of matcha (this isn’t Starbucks, after all!), a slow-paced ritual that the fast-paced Western world can learn from. Every movement honed over decades, each detail intentional. This is Japan: where everyday rituals become art.
Japan's cultural heritage stretches back over two millennia, shaped by influences from across Asia yet refined into something distinctly its own. The imperial dynasty, dating to 660 BCE, is reflected in the castles, temples, and shrines that still stand today. In Kyoto—the former imperial capital spared much of World War II's destruction—you'll find over 1,600 Buddhist temples and 400 Shinto shrines, each a quiet testament to Japan's spiritual depth.
At the heart of Japanese culture lies the concept of wa (harmony), which permeates everything from architectural design to daily interactions. The philosophy of wabi-sabi—finding beauty in imperfection and impermanence—shapes both traditional and modern aesthetics. Whether it's a perfectly imperfect ceramic bowl repaired with golden seams of kintsugi or a meticulously raked Zen rock garden, Japan teaches us to appreciate life's fleeting moments.
For travelers eager to immerse themselves, the opportunities are endless:
Experience omotenashi hospitality at a premium ryokan like Hoshinoya Kyoto or Gora Kadan in Hakone, where intuitive service anticipates your needs before they're expressed, sliding shoji doors open onto private gardens, and natural hot spring baths invite deep relaxation.
Join a private morning zazen meditation at a Zen temple before opening hours, where the silence is as instructive as the practice itself, guided by the temple's head monk.
Take an exclusive calligraphy class with a master practitioner in their private studio, learning how a single brushstroke can hold meaning far beyond the ink.
Witness sumo wrestlers in action at one of the 6 major Grand Sumo Tournaments that take place each year. These are extremely local events, not geared around tourism, offering a rare glimpse into this ancient sport and a true immersion into the culture. Your trip would need to be planned around a tournament date.
Enjoy a private geisha dinner in Kyoto's Gion district, where a maiko (apprentice geisha) and geiko perform traditional dances and engage in conversation about their rigorous training and artistic traditions.
Japan invites travelers not just to observe its traditions, but to step inside them—each moment an opportunity to experience history, artistry, and culture in its purest form.
At Undiscovered Sunsets, we believe that luxury travel means opening doors that would otherwise remain closed, creating moments of genuine cultural connection rather than surface-level observation. When you plan your trip through an agency like ours, you are partaking in our carefully nurtured relationships with people on the ground, access to opportunities and experiences that you won’t find on Tripadvisor, and insights that only travel professionals spend time researching. Learn more about our services and what to expect from working with our team.
A Culinary Journey Through Japan
Chances are that almost any traveler thinks about food when they think about Japan. While sushi and ramen may have conquered global menus, prepare yourself to explore a culinary scene unlike most in the world.
No matter where you go in Japan, regional specialties are highlights to explore. In Hokkaido, steaming bowls of miso ramen warm against the northern chill, while in Fukuoka, rich, pork-based tonkotsu ramen draws devoted fans. Coastal cities like Kanazawa serve up seafood bowls (kaisendon), and the bustling streets of Osaka tempt with golden-fried tako-yaki. In Kyoto, a multi-course kaiseki meal becomes a celebration of the season, each dish plated like a work of art.
Explore a variety of Japanese dining experiences that will elevate your trip:
Omakase experiences at three-Michelin-starred sushi counters like Sushi Saito or Sukiyabashi Jiro
Private kaiseki dinners at Kyoto institutions like Kitcho or Kikunoi, where seasonal ingredients are transformed into edible art served in historic settings
Exclusive sake tastings with master brewers in centuries-old kura (breweries)
What makes Japanese cuisine truly extraordinary?
Many regions have their own signature ramen, from Hokkaido's hearty miso to Tokyo's delicate shoyu and Fukuoka's creamy tonkotsu
Kaiseki dining isn't just a meal—it's a meticulously plated experience unique to Japan’s history and tradition
Osaka's street food will change your life (because until you've had takoyaki fresh off the grill, have you really lived?)
Even the convenience store food is next-level—yes, we're serious. Japan's egg sandwiches and onigiri have a cult following for a reason, or try the FamiChicki chicken strips at Family Mart! Actually so good.
To take it beyond eating, and truly experiencing:
Try a private hands-on sushi-making workshop with a master chef, learning techniques passed down through generations (book with your travel planner!)
Embark on a guided sake journey through Niigata (famed for its rice and water quality) or Kyoto's historic Fushimi district with a certified sake sommelier
Discover shojin ryori, the plant-based Buddhist cuisine served in temples, where balance and simplicity create something truly special, with a private meal prepared by temple monks
In Japan, food isn't just sustenance—it's a window into the culture, a way to connect, and an experience that lingers long after the last bite.
Japan's Natural Wonders & Outdoor Adventures
Did you know that Japan has its own Alps? Many travelers think about the neon-lit streets of Tokyo and stunning Mount Fuji views, but Japan has natural beauties that make round out any itinerary.
Where nature meets luxury:
Private treks along the ancient Kumano Kodo pilgrimage trails with expert guides, where moss-covered stone paths lead to centuries-old shrines and hidden waterfalls
Exclusive ski experiences in Hokkaido, home to some of the lightest, fluffiest powder snow in the world, with private instructors, helicopter skiing access to untouched runs, and chalets featuring personal chefs and in-suite onsen baths
VIP climbs of Mount Fuji during the official season (July-September), with private guides and overnight stays in premium mountain huts that offer considerably more comfort than standard accommodations (plan ahead for this, as you’ll need permits!)
Chartered diving expeditions to the turquoise waters of Okinawa, where vibrant coral reefs and tropical marine life rival some of the best diving spots on the planet
For those seeking serene natural experiences:
Rotenburo (outdoor onsen) soaks at historic hot springs where you can soak in steaming waters as snowflakes melt around you
Visits to the towering bamboo groves of Arashiyama, where solitude is accentuated by the sounds of nature’s symphony
If arranging these types of experiences seems daunting, you’re not far off. And that’s where travel experts like us step in, as we have vetted industry connections with guides and tours on the ground. Plus, we handle the planning of every large and small detail to make your trip stress-free and personalized.
Creative Japan: Where Tradition and Imagination Collide
Japan's creative energy is woven into its arts, music, and architecture—both historic and cutting-edge. The country has long been a global leader in design, from the refined minimalism of traditional Japanese aesthetics to the bold experimentation of contemporary art and architecture. Ancient temples and shrines stand alongside striking modern structures by world-renowned architects like Tadao Ando and Kengo Kuma. Meanwhile, Japan's influence in film, animation, and music has shaped global pop culture, with anime, J-pop, and experimental theater captivating audiences worldwide.
Add some of the following arts-centric experiences to your Japan itinerary:
Visit the Miho Museum near Kyoto, Tadao Ando's masterpiece built into a mountainside
Museums like the Nezu Museum in Tokyo or Mori Art Museum in Minato City
The Art Islands of the Seto Inland Sea – Contemporary works by artists like Yayoi Kusama and James Turrell blend seamlessly with traditional Japanese architecture
Kanazawa's Gold Leaf Workshops – Try your hand at this centuries-old craft in the city where 99% of Japan's gold leaf is produced, with private lessons from master craftspeople
The Studio Ghibli Museum – A whimsical journey into the world of Japan's most beloved animated films (book in advance!)
teamLab Borderless & teamLab Planets – Step into mesmerizing, ever-shifting digital art installations
Arita's Porcelain Studios – Discover the birthplace of Japanese porcelain and watch artisans at work in studios dating back over 400 years
Japan for Every Type of Traveler
Japan For Solo Adventurers
Japan is one of the safest and most welcoming destinations for solo travelers. The country's renowned efficiency makes navigating major cities like Tokyo, Kyoto, and Osaka a breeze. Public transportation is fairly easy to master, with some English signs on the subway (and push comes to shove, very kind people who will direct your way).
For solo luxury travelers, we suggest arranging some of the following (we work with solo travelers all the time, so make your trip less “lonely” but still solo by trusting travel experts to arrange your adventure):
Private guides who provide cultural context while respecting your independence
Chef's counter reservations at exclusive restaurants where dining alone is embraced
Exclusive experiences like private tea ceremonies or craft workshops where you can engage directly with Japanese masters
Premium ryokan stays where solo travelers receive the same exceptional service as larger parties
Whether you're wandering through quiet temples or dining at a cozy ramen shop, Japan's culture encourages peaceful reflection and personal exploration. Plus, the warmth of the people makes it a joy to travel alone; locals are always willing to help, and solo diners are a common sight in Japan's many eateries.
Japan For Families
Japan's culture places great value on family, and the country offers a plethora of activities that cater to every age group. Of course you can experience the unique flare of Tokyo Disneyland and DisneySea!
Outside of Disney, interactive museums like the Miraikan Science Museum in Tokyo are just as engaging, where children can experience earthquake simulations, or explore teamLab Borderless in Odaiba—a mind-bending digital art museum that sparks creativity in visitors of all ages.
Japan is also famous for its quirky animal cafes (think hedgehogs, owls, or penguins) and themed robot restaurants that offer unforgettable dining experiences that will create lasting memories for kids of all ages. There are also beautiful parks and gardens, such as Shinjuku Gyoen and Ueno Park, that offer plenty of space for kids to run around and blow off some energy.
Japan For Couples
Japan is one of those non-traditional but oh-so-amazing places to build memories as a couple, whether it is on a honeymoon, anniversary trip, pre-kids adventure…
Infuse your trip with experiences and activities that ignite your interests as well as fill your purposes for the trip:
Looking for relaxation and private moments for connection? Try a garden tea ceremony where you can learn the delicate art of preparing matcha. Stay at a traditional ryokan (Japanese inn) and relax in private hot spring baths, enjoy kaiseki meals, and enjoy serene landscapes.
Want to build memories with unique experiences? Take a private boat ride along the Sumida River, go on a food tour (or a few!), and enjoy the lights of the city with night walks in various neighborhoods (check with your travel guide on which to explore).
Fill your home with souvenirs or ‘skills’ picked up in Japan, like cooking knives. Or take a sushi-making class and re-live memories of your trip at home.
At Undiscovered Sunsets, we believe luxury travel in Japan means creating experiences that resonate deeply and personally—moments of perfect harmony where you find yourself completely present, experiencing something authentic that stays with you long after you return home. Through our carefully cultivated relationships and deep knowledge of Japanese culture, we open doors that would otherwise remain closed, revealing a Japan that few visitors ever truly discover.
Ready to begin planning your luxury journey to Japan? Let's create an itinerary that goes beyond the ordinary to reveal the extraordinary in this fascinating destination.
Undiscovered Sunsets was a long time in the making, even if I myself didn’t realize it. During my time at the University of Northern Iowa, I studied abroad in New Zealand. Upon graduating, I bought a one-way ticket to France, lived with a French family and studied with classmates from Turkey, China, Russia, Germany, Italy, and everywhere in between. In 2010 I began teaching English as a foreign language. This job quickly took me to China, where English teachers were in high demand and within three years, I began working in a 5-star hotel, speaking Mandarin throughout most of my day. In total, I lived abroad for 7 years.
I consider Undiscovered Sunsets to be the perfect mélange of my personal experience traveling the world and my professional experience working in the hospitality industry.
I look forward to designing your next adventure!
