Dreaming of a new adventure and intrigued by Japan?
This fascinating country, blending ancient traditions with modernity, is a must-visit destination for travelers seeking a change of scenery.
If you're still undecided, let us highlight the key reasons why you should visit Japan, as well as a few challenges to anticipate for a successful first trip.
What are the main attractions of Japan?
A Unique and Ancient Culture
Japan offers a complete cultural immersion, especially if you're not familiar with Asia. The country strikes a balance between ancient traditions and modern life. It's not uncommon to see a Buddhist or Shinto temple nestled between ultra-modern buildings in Tôkyô.
While these temples are often seen as tourist attractions, they are places of daily life for the Japanese, who regularly visit them to pray and meditate.
Visiting shrines like Fushimi-Inari in Kyôto or Meiji-jingû in Tôkyô allows you to dive into a culture steeped in spirituality and respect for tradition.
Bustling Cities and Wild Nature
Tôkyô is a vibrant metropolis with towering skyscrapers and massive shopping centers. Trendy districts like Shibuya, famous for its bustling crossing, or Akihabara, a paradise for tech and geek culture fans, are not to be missed.
But if nature is more your thing, Japan will also captivate you. Once you leave the big cities, you'll find stunning landscapes often influenced by Shintoism, which views nature as sacred.
Mountains, forests, and coasts offer postcard-worthy views. Hiking enthusiasts will love places like the Japanese Alps or Yakushima Island, a UNESCO World Heritage site known for its ancient forests.
A Rich and Varied Gastronomy
Japanese cuisine, regarded as one of the best in the world, is an explosion of flavors. Forget the typical sushi; Japanese food goes far beyond that.
In every street, you'll find ramen (noodles), donburi bowls (rice topped with meat or fish), yakitori (grilled skewers), or local specialties like Ôsaka’s okonomiyaki. Enjoy these dishes in izakayas, the Japanese version of tapas bars.
If you have a sweet tooth, Japan won’t disappoint with its wagashi (traditional sweets), dorayaki (cakes filled with sweet red bean paste), and many other treats.
Traveling solo in Japan is also easy, thanks to the many restaurants with individual seating options.
Hospitality and Safety: A Perfect Country for Solo Travelers
Japan is known as one of the safest countries in the world. Fun fact: we once forgot a backpack with a laptop on the Tôkyô subway, and found it the next day at the lost and found!
This safe atmosphere makes Japan an ideal destination for solo travelers, including women. There are even hotels and train cars reserved specifically for women.
The Japanese are also known for their hospitality. If you get lost, don’t hesitate to ask for help. Even if the language barrier can be an issue, their kindness and willingness to assist will make every interaction pleasant.
Finally, the onsen—hot springs found throughout the country—will offer you a well-deserved rest after your days of exploring.
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What Challenges Can Travelers Face?
The Language Barrier
Although more and more Japanese people speak English, the language remains a challenge no matter where you are in the country.
Japanese writing systems, based on kanji, hiragana, and katakana, can be overwhelming for non-speakers. Fortunately, translation apps like Google Translate are very helpful in overcoming these linguistic challenges.
Moreover, most tourist sites and public transportation now have signs in English, and nearly all restaurants offer English menus.
Customs and Etiquette
Japan has strict social rules that can sometimes surprise Western travelers. For instance, it’s considered rude to eat while walking down the street or talk on the phone in public transportation.
Another deeply ingrained principle in Japanese society is that the group takes precedence over the individual, which is reflected in many daily customs. For example, if you visit an onsen (public bath), it’s mandatory to wash before entering the water.
Respecting these rules will help maintain a positive rapport with the locals. The Japanese don’t expect foreigners to perfectly follow every custom, but they will always appreciate your efforts to conform to local norms.
When to Visit Japan? Weather and the Best Seasons for Travel
It’s essential to choose the right season for your trip to fully enjoy your time in Japan. Here are some tips to help plan your visit based on weather conditions and tourist crowds.
Seasons to Avoid
Summer (June to August): The weather is hot and very humid, which can be tough for those not used to it. However, this period is also when traditional festivals (matsuri) take place, such as the famous Gion Matsuri in Kyôto or fireworks in Tôkyô.
Winter (December to February): Temperatures can be harsh, especially in the north. But if you love skiing, the resorts in the Japanese Alps or Hokkaidô are perfect. During this period, the weather is milder in the southern parts of the country (Kyûshû island or the tropical islands of Okinawa).
Ideal Seasons
Spring (March to May): The cherry blossom season (sakura) is undoubtedly one of the most magical times to visit Japan. Parks are painted in pink, and the Japanese celebrate this bloom with picnics under the trees, a tradition called hanami. Be aware, though, that this season draws large crowds of tourists.
Autumn (September to November): Less crowded than spring, autumn offers breathtaking scenery with red maple leaves and yellow ginkgo trees. It’s an ideal time to explore Japan in a more peaceful setting. Fall is our favorite season to visit Japan.
How to Prepare for Your Trip to Japan
Have you decided to go? Here are the essentials to know for preparing your trip:
- Visa: For citizens of many European countries, no visa is required for a tourist stay of less than 90 days. A valid passport is enough.
- Plane Tickets: Book your round-trip flight in advance to get the best prices. The main international entry points are Tôkyô’s airports (Narita and Haneda) and Ôsaka’s Kansai Airport.
- Accommodation: Booking at least your first night is mandatory for entry into Japan. Check out our selection of affordable hotels with public baths.
- Payment Methods: European bank cards work at Japanese ATMs. An IC Card (electronic payment card) will make it easier to pay for transportation and small shops.
- Internet Access: Purchase a SIM card or a pocket Wi-Fi device to stay connected throughout your trip. It’ll come in handy for translation and route-finding.
With all this information in hand, it’s time to pack your bags and let yourself be enchanted by the magic of Japan! Whether you’re drawn to its dynamic cities or peaceful shrines, this unforgettable experience will leave you with lasting memories.