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 add Japan visits from photo location metadata and unlock achievements as you explore the country.