A first-timer's guide to Japan

Author: Aimee White - SEO Copywriter at Explore Worldwide
Date Published: 15 May 2024

Our ultimate Japan trip advice? Attend a festival to really get beneath the surface of the country and immerse yourself in local culture: 

Spring: The best month to see cherry blossoms in Japan is between late March to April. There are endless places across the country to enjoy sakura (cherry blossom), but some of the prettiest spots include Hirosaki Castle Park in Aomori Prefecture, Ueno Park in Tokyo and the Philosopher's Walk in Kyoto.

Summer: One of Japan's most famous festivals, Gion Matsuri dominates Kyoto in July. Revellers flock to the city centre to watch the parades and join the street parties. Its main parade, Yamaboko Junko, takes place on one day in July, and is so spectacular that it's UNESCO listed. 

Autumn: Taking place in southern Osaka Prefecture, Kishiwada Danjiri Matsuri is one of the biggest and best autumn festivals in Japan. Danjiris (carved wooden structures) are paraded through the frenetic streets, with each float representing each town in Kishiwada. This lively festival takes place in mid-September and isn't to be missed.

Winter: Located in the far north of Japan, Sapporo Snow Festival is spread across three sites in the city. Each site displays huge snow sculptures and impressive ice carvings, as well as the chance to go snow rafting, plus ice bars and food courts. This free festival takes place in early February every year.

At Explore, our affordable Japan tours specialise in seeing the highlights and getting off the beaten track, which is best with a tour guide. But if you're travelling independently, check out our tips and advice for solo travellers in Japan:

Crime and safety: Japan is one of the safest countries in the world. With low crime rates, most solo travellers feel safe in Japan. As with any new destination, always pay attention to your surroundings and stay vigilant.

Accommodation: Capsule hotels are pod-like bunkbeds which provide affordable privacy. One of the best (and most convenient) is Nine Hours Capsule Hotel, located inside Narita Airport. There's also plenty of sociable hostels that organise group activities and offer shared and private rooms.

Restaurants: Many establishments have single-seat or single-booth dining options. It's common to order your meal from a machine, hand the ticket to the chef before enjoying your meal in uninterrupted bliss. 

If you're looking to travel solo, our Japan holidays are the perfect place to start. Meet like-minded people and fellow independent travellers on our small group tours, while we take care of all the arrangements.

We think you'll love: Bonding over sushi, sake and sweets

An abundance of historic sites, tranquil gardens and once-in-a-lifetime experiences: Japan is an excellent destination for older travellers. Here are our tips and advice:

Discounts: Older travellers (over 65s or 70s) can enjoy free admission or discounts to many attractions in Japan, as well as discounted domestic airfares. Just remember to bring your passport with you to claim.

Time: The distance between train and metro platforms can be huge (and busy), especially in Tokyo; allow enough time to navigate it. For shorter distances, you may be better off taking a taxi or walking instead. Travel in high-speed comfort on the shinkansen to see more of the country. 

Accessibility: Japan can be a very accessible country, with many wheelchair-friendly spaces. However, some busier cities and rural areas may not be as well set up than others, so research before you travel. It's standard practice for people to give up their seats on public transport for older people in Japan. 

Almost all of our Japan holiday tours have a moderate trip pace, combining exciting travel experiences with plenty of time to unwind. With all of the plans already seen to, you can sit back, relax, and make the most of your time in Japan.

We think you'll love: Exploring Kyoto's Buddhist temples

Thanks to its mix of conventional and unconventional attractions, Japan is one of the best countries for family travel. Japan family holiday packages offer a plethora of activities and experiences suitable for all ages. Here are our tips for travelling as a family in Japan:

Entertainment: Immerse yourself at the Ghibli Museum, spend a wild couple of days at theme parks and embrace the birthplace of Nintendo, Hello Kitty, manga and anime with a host of entertainment options to suit kids and big kids alike.

Outdoor places: Japan's natural attractions offer the perfect blend of play and rest. Kids can feed the wild deer in Nara, wander through the magical Arashiyama Bamboo Forest and learn about a key part of Japanese history at Koka Ninja Village. 

Food: Order individual or shared dishes from restaurants. There's plenty of global places for a taste of back home, too. There are thousands of convenience stores (konbini), which are great places to pick up fun snacks and easy-to-cook meals if you're after a night in. Remember that eating in public places is a big no-no in Japan!

Travelling during the school holidays isn't an issue, as Japan is a year-round destination. Some months are busier than others - especially between March and May during cherry blossom season. Japan sees fewer crowds between June and August when the climate is hotter and wetter, while you can expect crisper, cold days between December and February.

We think you'll love: Treating the family to an Asia trip of a lifetime