Japan Travel Guide
Experience the perfect blend of ancient traditions and cutting-edge modernity. From Tokyo's neon-lit streets to Kyoto's serene temples, Japan offers unforgettable experiences for every traveler. Discover the Land of the Rising Sun with MileAway.
Quick Facts
Visa-Free Travel (90 days)
Citizens of 68 countries can visit Japan without a visa for tourism.
- • No advance application required
- • Passport valid for duration of stay
- • Return/onward ticket required
- • Sufficient funds for your stay
Entry Process
Simple immigration process at major airports.
- • Immigration card filled on plane
- • Fingerprints and photo taken
- • Customs declaration if required
- • Tourist stamp valid for 90 days
MileAway Tip: Japan offers some of the easiest entry procedures in Asia. Most Western passport holders can enter visa-free and start exploring immediately!
Top Destinations
Must See:
- Senso-ji Temple
- Shibuya Crossing
- Tsukiji Market
- Tokyo Skytree
Must See:
- Fushimi Inari
- Kiyomizu-dera
- Bamboo Grove
- Gion District
Must See:
- Osaka Castle
- Dotonbori
- Universal Studios
- Kuromon Market
Must See:
- Fuji Five Lakes
- Chureito Pagoda
- Hakone
- Climbing Season
Must See:
- Peace Memorial Park
- Miyajima Island
- Itsukushima Shrine
- Okonomiyaki
Must See:
- Todai-ji Temple
- Nara Deer Park
- Kasuga Taisha
- Kofuku-ji
MileAway Achievements
Visit your first country (Japan)
💡 Perfect introduction to Asian travel and culture
Explore the diversity of Asia starting with Japan
💡 Combine with other Asian countries for regional achievements
Visit Japan during cherry blossom season
💡 Plan for late March to early May, book accommodations early
Visit multiple traditional temples and shrines
💡 Easy to achieve in Kyoto, Nara, or any major Japanese city
Cultural Insights & Tips
- Bow when greeting people - slight nod is sufficient for tourists
- Remove shoes when entering homes, temples, and some restaurants
- Don't eat while walking or on trains (except shinkansen)
- Be quiet on public transportation and avoid phone calls
- Learn basic phrases: arigatou gozaimasu (thank you), sumimasen (excuse me)
- Many young people speak some English, especially in cities
- Download Google Translate app with camera function
- Point at menu items or use picture menus when available
- Japan is largely cash-based - withdraw from 7-Eleven ATMs
- IC cards (Suica, Pasmo) work for trains and many purchases
- Credit cards accepted at major hotels and department stores
- No tipping culture - it can be considered rude
- JR Pass offers unlimited travel on JR trains for 7-21 days
- Reserve seats on shinkansen (bullet trains) for comfort
- Local trains and subways are efficient and punctual
- Download Hyperdia app for train route planning
Budget Planning
When to Visit Japan
Pros:
- • Cherry blossoms
- • Perfect weather
- • Many festivals
Cons:
- • Crowds
- • Higher prices
- • Booked accommodations
Pros:
- • Summer festivals
- • Long days
- • Beach activities
Cons:
- • Very hot & humid
- • Rainy season (June-July)
- • Typhoons possible
Pros:
- • Beautiful fall colors
- • Comfortable weather
- • Clear skies
Cons:
- • Popular season
- • Higher prices in November
Pros:
- • Fewer crowds
- • Lower prices
- • Winter illuminations
Cons:
- • Cold weather
- • Shorter days
- • Some attractions closed
JR Pass
Unlimited travel on JR trains, including most shinkansen (bullet trains).
- • 7 days: ¥29,650 (~$270)
- • 14 days: ¥47,250 (~$430)
- • 21 days: ¥60,450 (~$550)
- • Must be purchased before arriving in Japan
IC Cards
Rechargeable cards for local trains, subways, buses, and purchases.
- • Suica (Tokyo area) or Pasmo cards
- • Work on most transport nationwide
- • Can be used at convenience stores
- • ¥500 deposit, refundable when returning
MileAway Tip: The JR Pass pays for itself if you take just one Tokyo-Kyoto round trip. Perfect for first-time visitors exploring multiple cities!
Ready to Discover Japan?
Download MileAway to automatically track your travels across Japan and unlock achievements as you explore this fascinating country. Join travelers earning badges from Tokyo to Kyoto!