Anastasia Smith
Ranked among the world's most fascinating travel destinations, Japan attracts millions of visitors to its islands each year. Here are 8 things all vacationers heading to Japan should know before making their plans to visit the Land of the Rising Sun.
Although the spring season is the perfect time to holiday in Japan due to cherry blossom season, tourists must book hotels in Osaka, Japan and elsewhere ahead of time. As most accommodation hubs such as Travelodge Honmachi Osaka and others located in Osaka, Tokyo and prime cherry blossom spotting cities are reserved months in advance, it's crucial to make travel plans at least a year before the departure date. Those who wait until the last minute may find themselves without a convenient hotel during one of Japan' busiest tourist seasons.
Those who are heading to Japan for the first time must plan their holiday around the country's major travel destinations, Tokyo, Osaka and Kyoto. There's a reason why these cities have been Japan's best travel heartlands for centuries and the tourism infrastructure in place for visitors is also top-notch in these particular areas. Ideal for both high-end visitors and tourists on a budget, getting around, eating out and sightseeing are all a breeze if these are the 3 main locations on one's travel itinerary.
Tourists who have more time on their hands and a wish to discover some of Japan's lesser known travel hubs can always spend a few days in Hokkaido which is considered the best place in the country to engage in winter sports. Beach lovers, on the other hand, can travel to Kanazawa or the Okinawa and Shikoku islands.
Naoshima Island is a location that all art connoisseurs must explore during a trip to Japan. Underrated and relatively unknown to the travelling masses, the island showcases the work of local artist Yayoi Kusama with more than a hundred art installations dotting the landscape.
There's more to do in Japan that enjoying a shopping spree in Tokyo's trendy malls or dipping into each city's street food scene. Active travellers on the lookout for some outdoorsy adventures will find that Shimanami Kaido is a prime location for cycling tours while avid hikers can tackle the Kumano Kodo or Nakasendo Trails. Don't forget to unwind in Japan's famous onsen or hot spring spas while staying at a traditional ryokans is another rewarding experience tourists should not pass up.
With high-speed trains travelling to every nook and cranny of the islands that make up Japan, there's no better way to get around than via the local railway networks.
Some of the newest attractions open to visitors in 2024 include Nagoya's Studio Ghibli Theme Park and the Making of Harry Potter Experience by Warner Bros. Studios Japan.
Owing to the advantageous currency exchange rate for US dollars, travelling to Japan on holiday is more feasible than ever for tourists hailing from North America.
