Japan Travel Guide 2026: Destinations, Tips & Tours

Japan is a land where centuries-old tea ceremonies exist in the shadow of neon skyscrapers, and ancient alpine forests lead to high-tech cities. In 2026, the 'Land of the Rising Sun' is inviting travellers to look beyond the neon lights of Tokyo and explore the quiet beauty of the Japanese countryside—from the flower fields of Hokkaido to the hidden onsens of Tohoku. Whether you're here to visit the world's first PokéPark, find your zen in a Kyoto temple, or master the art of the perfect bowl of ramen, our guide is your essential companion. At Eventurus Asia, we help you navigate the high-speed rail and the hidden alleyways to discover a Japan that feels like a world of its own. Your adventure begins here.

Essential Japan Information

Icon of a passport with a globe symbol on the front cover.

VISA REQUIREMENTS

UK citizens 90 Days Visa Free

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BEST TIME TO VISIT

March–May & September–November

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CURRENCY

Japanese Yen. Cash is king, cards payments generally accepted in cities.

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INTERNET

eSIM or Portable Wifi

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GETTING AROUND

High-speed trains/Shinkansen. JR Pass.

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TIME ZONE

From UK Winter +8 hours

From UK Summer +7 hours

Top Japan Destinations

Japan Travel guide tokyo

The Electric Metropolis

Tokyo

A dizzying blend of futuristic neon and ancient shrines. From the world’s busiest crossing in Shibuya to the quiet, incense-filled courtyards of Senso-ji, Tokyo is a city that balances high-tech innovation with deep-seated tradition.

The Big Three

Japan Travel guide kyoto

Kyoto

Home to thousands of temples and serene Zen gardens, Kyoto is the Japan of your imagination. Wander through lantern-lit geisha districts or find peace among the golden pagodas and towering bamboo groves of this timeless city.

The Cultural Soul
Japan Travel guide osaka

Osaka

Lively, gritty, and famous for its "eat until you drop" philosophy, Osaka is a paradise for food lovers. Between the neon glow of Dotonbori and the friendly local atmosphere, it’s the best place to experience Japan’s vibrant street food scene.

The Nation's Kitchen
Japan Travel guide kanazawa

Kanazawa

This beautifully preserved jewel on the west coast offers a quieter, sophisticated alternative to Kyoto. Explore historic samurai quarters, gold-leaf workshops, and Kenrokuen—widely considered one of the most stunning landscape gardens in the country.

The Samurai City
Japan Travel guide takayama

Takayama

Tucked high in the Japanese Alps, this town is famous for its dark wooden merchant houses and traditional morning markets. It’s a peaceful mountain escape where you can enjoy world-class sake and the slow pace of rural life.

The Alpine Retreat
Japan Travel guide naoshima

A serene island in the Seto Inland Sea where world-class museums meet the ocean breeze. Dotted with iconic sculptures and underground galleries, it’s a unique sanctuary where contemporary art and nature exist in perfect harmony.

The Art Island

Naoshima

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