Do I need a visa to visit Japan?

Citizens of 68 countries can visit Japan visa-free for short stays (typically 90 days). Check the Japanese Ministry of Foreign Affairs website for your country's specific requirements.

Should I buy a Japan Rail Pass?

If you're planning to travel between cities (e.g., Tokyo to Kyoto), a 7-day JR Pass can save significant money. For Tokyo-only trips, it's usually not worth it.

Is it rude to tip in Japan?

Yes, tipping is not customary in Japan and can even be considered rude. Excellent service is the standard and is included in the price.

Can I use credit cards in Japan?

Major cities accept cards widely, but cash is still important. Many smaller restaurants, temples, and rural areas are cash-only. Withdraw yen from 7-Eleven ATMs.

First-Time Japan Travel Guide | Detour

Before You Go

Visa Requirements

Many nationalities can enter Japan visa-free for stays up to 90 days. You'll need a valid passport with at least 6 months validity. Check current requirements before booking.

When to Visit

Spring (March-May): Cherry blossom season. Most popular but magical.
Summer (June-August): Hot and humid. Festival season. Rainy season in June.
Fall (September-November): Beautiful autumn foliage. Comfortable temperatures.
Winter (December-February): Cold but clear. Great for skiing and hot springs.

What to Pack

Japan is a fashion-conscious country where people dress neatly. Pack comfortable walking shoes (you'll walk a lot), layers for variable weather, and slip-on shoes (you'll remove them frequently at temples and restaurants).

Money & Budget

Cash Is Still King

While credit cards are increasingly accepted, Japan remains a cash-heavy society. ATMs at 7-Eleven and Japan Post accept international cards. Withdraw yen upon arrival.

Budget Tiers

Budget ($80-120/day): Hostels, convenience store meals, free attractions
Mid-range ($150-250/day): Business hotels, restaurant meals, some paid attractions
Comfort ($300+/day): Ryokans, omakase dining, private tours

Getting Around

Japan Rail (JR) Pass

The JR Pass offers unlimited travel on most JR trains, including the Shinkansen (bullet train). Purchase online before your trip and activate upon arrival.

IC Cards

Suica or Pasmo cards work across all public transit nationwide. Load them at any station and tap to ride.

Domestic Flights

Budget airlines like Peach and Jetstar offer cheap flights between major cities. Sometimes cheaper than the Shinkansen for longer routes.

Cultural Etiquette

Shoes off: Remove shoes when entering homes, some restaurants, and all temples
Quiet trains: Don't talk on the phone or play audio on public transport
Queuing: The Japanese queue orderly — never cut in line
Bowing: A slight bow is the standard greeting
Chopstick rules: Never stick chopsticks upright in rice or pass food chopstick-to-chopstick
Trash: There are few public trash cans — carry your trash with you
Onsen etiquette: Wash thoroughly before entering the communal bath; no swimsuits

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Not having enough cash on hand
Trying to see too many cities in too few days
Skipping smaller cities and rural areas
Not learning basic Japanese phrases (even just "arigatou" goes a long way)
Visiting only the tourist trail — the best experiences are often off the beaten path

First-Time Japan Travel Guide