Japan Travel Guide

Seven days covers Tokyo, Mount Fuji or Hakone, Kyoto, Osaka and Nara at a fast but workable pace. Ten to fourteen days is more comfortable and allows Hiroshima. Three days is tight and works for Tokyo only.

Japan is generally considered a very safe destination, with low violent-crime risk. Plan for crowds, late-summer typhoons and winter snow in the north, follow local transport and earthquake guidance, and learn the basic etiquette for trains, temples and hot springs.

Japan uses the yen (JPY). Cards are widely accepted, but small restaurants, shrines, rural transport and lockers may need cash and coins. Check the current yen-rupee rate before you travel, because it changes and affects your costs.

Basic English is often available in airports, hotels and transport hubs in major tourist areas. Outside them, signage and conversation in English can be limited, so a translation app and a few Japanese phrases help.

Japan is on UTC+9 with no daylight saving time. India is on UTC+5:30, so Japan is three and a half hours ahead of India all year. Check flight times against local time when planning arrivals.

Yes. Indian ordinary-passport holders generally need a visa before travel, and visa on arrival is not generally available. Confirm the current checklist with the Embassy of Japan in India or its authorised centre before you book.

March to May and October to November are the most comfortable. Late March and early April are popular for cherry blossoms, and November for autumn foliage. Both are busy, so book hotels early. January and June are often cheaper.

Tokyo, Kyoto, Osaka and either Mount Fuji and Hakone or Nara make the most practical combination. Hiroshima and Hokkaido can be added with more time, but Hokkaido does not suit a first trip under seven days.