Planning to visit Japan? Here are some things you need to know before flying to the Land of the Rising Sun. From new travel requirements to how to get there and places you can visit, we list them down for you for easy reference.

Japan’s major international gateways include Tokyo’s Haneda (HND) and Narita (NRT) airports, Osaka’s Kansai International Airport (KIX), and Sapporo’s New Chitose Airport (CTS). Haneda, located closer to Tokyo’s city centre, is perfect for quick access to areas like Shinjuku and Shibuya. Narita, slightly farther out, offers efficient connections through the Narita Express and airport buses. Kansai Airport is ideal for exploring Osaka, Kyoto, and Nara, while New Chitose is the entry point for Hokkaido’s ski resorts and stunning nature. All these airports provide reliable transport options like trains and buses for easy access to your destination.

When planning your trip, booking your flights a few months in advance is key, especially if travelling during peak seasons such as March to May (spring) and September to November (autumn). Direct flights to Japan are available with airlines like Japan Airlines, All Nippon Airways, Singapore Airlines, and United Airlines, offering convenient options from various global hubs.

Travellers heading to Japan can expect modern airport facilities, including shopping, dining, and helpful amenities like luggage forwarding. Whether you start in Tokyo, Osaka, or Sapporo, Japan’s well-connected transport systems ensure a smooth journey from the airport to your chosen adventure.

The best time to visit Japan is during spring (March to May) and autumn (September to Spring in Japan is synonymous with cherry blossoms, making it one of the most picturesque times to visit. Cities like Tokyo, Kyoto, and Osaka transform as parks and streets are adorned with pink and white flowers.

Popular spots such as Ueno Park and Arashiyama draw crowds for hanami (flower-viewing picnics), creating a lively yet serene ambience. Temperatures are mild, making it perfect for outdoor adventures. Just keep in mind that this season attracts both local and international tourists, so it’s best to plan early if you want to secure your preferred accommodations and activities.

Autumn in Japan offers equally stunning scenery, with red, orange, and yellow leaves blanketing mountains, temples, and parks. Destinations like Nikko, Kyoto’s Kiyomizu-dera, and Hokkaido’s Daisetsuzan National Park are famous for their breathtaking autumn foliage. The cooler temperatures and clear skies are ideal for exploring Japan’s cultural and natural wonders. Similar to spring, autumn is a peak travel season, so it’s good to avoid weekends or popular festivals if you prefer a quieter experience.

While spring and autumn are stunning, they coincide with Japan’s busiest holidays, like Golden Week (late April to early May) and Obon (mid-August). During these times, locals often travel domestically, making transport and accommodations harder to secure. For fewer crowds and better availability, consider visiting just before or after these holidays. If you’re looking for a unique alternative, winter (December to February) offers magical snowy landscapes, and summer (June to August) brings lively festivals, though it’s a warmer and more humid season.

Japan is a country of endless discoveries, so it's no wonder that it's now on many people's bucket lists. Check out these areas to explore!

Tokyo is a destination that offers everything, from family-friendly spots, zen places, and public transports, all are accessible for international visitors. From exploring the historic Senso-ji Temple in Asakusa to shopping in the tech-savvy Akihabara district, the city is a treasure trove of experiences. Don’t miss the iconic Tokyo Skytree, where panoramic views of the city await, or head to Shibuya to witness the world's busiest crossing.

For a slice of local culture, visit the Tsukiji Outer Market for fresh sushi or enjoy the tranquillity of Meiji Shrine, set in a lush forested area. Tokyo's public transport makes it easy to navigate, and each neighbourhood has its own unique charm, from the trendy streets of Harajuku to the upscale vibes of Ginza. If you stay here for more than three days, you can also consider to buy JR Pass to explore the city more efficient and cheaper!

Hakone is a go-to spot for nature lovers and those seeking relaxation. Just a short train ride from Tokyo, this mountainous area is known for its hot springs, art museums, and stunning views of Mount Fuji. Take a ride on the Hakone Ropeway for a bird’s-eye view and its steaming sulphur vents.

Hakone’s ryokans (traditional inns) are also an ideal place to unwind, often featuring private onsen baths. You can make your itinerary by yourself to visit this area or join some tour!

Never heard about this one, right? The Tohoku region, located in northern Honshu, is a lesser-explored paradise with dramatic landscapes and cultural hidden gems. The region is home to hot springs, castles, and traditional festivals like The Kizuna Festival.

One must-visit spot is the the onsen hotels, laid-back inns with hot spring baths. For history lovers, Hirosaki Castle is a must, particularly during the cherry blossom season when the grounds are blanketed in pink.

Kyoto is a city that feels like stepping back in time, with its countless temples, traditional wooden buildings, and gardens. One of the highlights is the Arashiyama Bamboo Grove, a surreal pathway surrounded by towering bamboo stalks. The Fushimi Inari Shrine, with its iconic red torii gates winding up the mountainside, is another must-see.

Kyoto is also a hub for tea culture, and a visit to a tea house for a matcha experience is highly recommended. Each season brings something unique to Kyoto. Spring covers the city in cherry blossoms, autumn offers vivid foliage, and winter blankets its temples in snow.

Kyushu, Japan's third largest island, offers an intriguing blend of cultural heritage, natural beauty and culinary delights. Located in southwestern Honshu, the island is rich in history as an early center of Japanese civilization. You can start your day by visiting Munakata Taisha, famous for its golden roof and as one of the OG Japan’s and most sacred shrines. Meanwhile, Takeo Onsen offers the perfect opportunity to relax in mineral-rich hot springs with over 1,300 years of history.

While you are here, you can also hop off to Fukuoka. Tonkotsu ramen, the island’s most famous dish, originated in the Hakata district of Fukuoka, and Ikkousha Fukuoka is the place to savour this creamy delight. It’s a must-try for any food lover. Beyond the ramen, Fukuoka also offers attractions like Ohori Park and Canal City Hakata, so make sure to add them to your itinerary!

Nestled in Wakayama Prefecture, Koya-san is a peaceful mountain town steeped in history and spirituality. Founded over 1,200 years ago by Kobo Daishi, this UNESCO World Heritage Site is the centre of Shingon Buddhism and offers you a unique glimpse into Japan’s religious traditions. The area is surrounded by eight peaks, creating a calm setting for its impressive temples, shrines, and forested paths.

Exploring Koya-san is easy, as the main attractions are close enough to navigate on foot, with buses connecting key sites for added convenience. Kongobu-ji Temple, the head temple of Shingon Buddhism, stands out with its exquisite rock garden and painted sliding doors. The sacred Okunoin Cemetery, one of Japan’s largest, is another highlight. Lined with towering cedar trees and thousands of ancient gravestones, it leads to the mausoleum of Kobo Daishi. For a closer connection to the area’s spiritual essence, many temples offer overnight stays, where you can experience meditation, morning prayers, and traditional vegetarian meals.

Famed for its fabulous hot springs, Kinosaki has been a popular onsen town since the eighth century. The town is set along a scenic canal, where visitors can stroll in yukata (traditional robes) and enjoy the picturesque atmosphere enhanced by quaint bridges and willow trees.

Set just inland from the Sea of Japan, its numerous bathhouses and traditional inns lie in the Kansai region of south-central Honshu. Here, you can enjoy local delicacies and warm hospitality all at once. Plus, Kinosaki Onsen is conveniently located just 2.5 hours by train from Kyoto and 3 hours by train from Osaka.

There you go! 7 must-visit places in Japan! Now, get ready to explore the wonders of Japan! From booking your flights to arranging accommodation and exciting travel activities, Traveloka has you covered. Discover great deals on flights to Tokyo, Osaka, and other top destinations.

Browse Traveloka for a wide range of hotels, from traditional ryokan to modern stays, ensuring comfort and convenience. Plan your adventures with Traveloka’s travel activities, offering easy access to must-visit attractions like Koya-san, Kyoto, and more. Save more and travel smarter with Traveloka, your gateway to an incredible Japanese adventure!