Japan FAQs

Thinking of travelling to Japan?

From ancient temples and tranquil gardens to neon-lit cities and high-speed trains, Japan offers a captivating mix of tradition and modernity. Whether you’re planning your first visit or returning to explore further, our FAQs answer the most common questions about travelling to Japan from the UK.

If you’re still deciding where to go, take a look at our Japan holidays.

Before You Go

Q: Do I need a visa to travel to Japan from the UK?

A: No. British citizens can enter Japan for up to 90 days without a visa for tourism. You’ll need a valid passport with at least six months’ validity from your date of return. You may be asked to show proof of onward travel and accommodation on arrival. For the latest entry information, visit the Japan Ministry of Foreign Affairs website.

Q: What vaccinations do I need for Japan?

A: No specific vaccinations are required for Japan. However, it’s a good idea to make sure your routine UK vaccinations are up to date. For the most current guidance, visit TravelHealthPro

or consult your GP or a travel health clinic before travelling.

Q: What should I pack for a holiday in Japan?

A: Temperatures in Japan vary considerably depending on when and where you visit, so it’s best to pack a range of clothing suitable for both warm and cooler weather. In spring and autumn, daytime temperatures are usually in the mid-teens to low 20s, while nights can be much cooler, sometimes dropping close to single figures. In the Japanese Alps, early spring and late autumn can bring sub-zero temperatures and even snow. Summer (June to August) is very hot and humid, so light, breathable clothing is essential, along with a sun hat and sunscreen. Rain is possible throughout the year and can be heavy, so a lightweight waterproof jacket or umbrella is recommended. Comfortable walking shoes are important as sightseeing often involves a lot of walking, and slip-on shoes are useful for places where you need to remove footwear, such as temples and traditional inns.

Electricity in Japan is 100V, compared with the UK’s 230V, so some appliances may not work correctly. Most phones, laptops, cameras and tablets will charge fine with a simple adapter plug, but always check your device’s voltage rating before travelling. High-powered appliances such as hairdryers and straighteners may require a transformer, although many hotels provide suitable alternatives. There are two plug types in Japan: Type A (two flat pins) and Type B (two flat pins with a round earth pin).

We recommend carrying a photocopy of your passport and bringing any prescription medication you may need from the UK, as foreign medicines can be difficult to obtain. A small umbrella, refillable water bottle and lightweight day bag can also be useful.

Practical Information

Q: What’s the weather like in Japan?

A: Japan’s weather varies from region to region. Spring (March–May) and autumn (September–November) are considered the best times to visit, with mild temperatures and clear skies. Summer is hot and humid, while winter is dry and cold, especially in the north. Rainfall peaks during June and early July.

Q: What should I know about local customs and etiquette?

A: The Japanese are famously polite and welcoming, which is one of the most enjoyable parts of visiting the country. While no one expects visitors to know every custom, understanding a few basics goes a long way. When using chopsticks, avoid pointing or waving them, spearing food, or leaving them standing upright in rice. When paying, money is rarely handed directly to the cashier, instead, place your cash or card on the small tray provided, and your change will be returned the same way. It’s also common to remove your shoes before entering temples, ryokans and some restaurants, so slip-on shoes and neat socks are useful. Bowing is the typical form of greeting and a way to show thanks, though handshakes are also accepted when meeting non-Japanese visitors. You’ll often see staff in hotels, shops and restaurants bow as a gesture of respect.

Tattoos are becoming more accepted in Japan, particularly among younger people and in large cities, but they can still be sensitive in certain situations. In traditional settings such as onsens, swimming pools and gyms, tattoos are sometimes associated with organised crime and may not be permitted. It’s advisable to check ahead or cover tattoos with plasters or a sleeve if required.

Q: What Is the time difference?

A: Japan is GMT + 9hrs.

Q: Isn’t Japan really expensive?

A: Getting to Japan is expensive, especially during cherry blossom season and autumn, and accommodation can be expensive, particularly at these times. However, day-to-day costs are often comparable to, or cheaper than, those in Europe or North America, and many travellers return pleasantly surprised by how affordable Japan can be. Food in particular can be surprisingly good value, and it is possible to enjoy a delicious meal for under £10, although fancier restaurants can be very expensive. Public transport is also extensive and good value for money, and crossing Tokyo by subway can cost less than £2. However, private vehicles and taxis are expensive, as are guide services.

Q. Do people speak English?

A: English is not widely spoken in Japan, although many people in hotels, airports, train stations and tourist areas know some basic phrases. Signs, menus and transport information in major cities are often displayed in both Japanese and English, making it relatively easy to get around. In more rural areas, English is less common, but Japanese people are generally very polite and will do their best to help. Translation apps such as Google Translate can also be useful for reading menus or communicating when needed.

Q: What is the tipping culture in Japan?

A: Tipping is not customary in Japan, but if you are satisfied with the service given, you may wish to show some appreciation. This is completely at your discretion, and no specific tipping levels are suggested.

Health and Safety

Q: Is Japan safe to travel to?

A: Yes. Japan is one of the safest countries in the world for visitors. Crime rates are extremely low, and public transport and streets are safe, even at night. As with anywhere, keep an eye on personal belongings and follow your guide’s advice. Llama Travel works only with trusted hotels and local partners to ensure your comfort and security.

Q: What happens if I get ill while in Japan?

A: Medical facilities in Japan are excellent, and English-speaking doctors are available in most major cities. If you feel unwell, contact your guide or hotel staff, who can help arrange assistance. You’ll need to pay for treatment upfront, so make sure you have comprehensive travel insurance covering medical care and repatriation.

Connectivity and Communication

Q: What are the options for mobile data and SIM cards?

A: Staying connected in Japan is easy. Wi-Fi is available in most hotels and public spaces, and portable Wi-Fi routers (Pocket Wi-Fi) are common and can be pre-booked. eSIMs such as Airalo and Nomad also work well. Local SIM cards can be purchased at airports or convenience stores, and you’ll need your passport for registration.

Onsens

Q: What are Onsens?

A: Onsens are traditional Japanese hot-spring baths, enjoyed for centuries as places of relaxation, bathing and calm. They form an important part of Japanese culture and are often set in scenic locations like mountains or forested regions. They offer a chance to unwind after sightseeing and to experience a genuine local tradition.

Q: What’s the Onsen Code?

A: To enjoy an onsen respectfully:

• Wash thoroughly in the shower area before entering the bath, this keeps the water clean for everyone.
• Bathing is typically without swimwear, in gender-segregated facilities. A small towel may accompany you for modesty but it should not go in the water.
• Keep hair out of the water (tie back long hair) and avoid letting the towel touch the bath.
• Avoid loud talk, running or splashing, onsens are very much about quiet relaxation.
• Be aware that tattoos may restrict access in some public baths due to traditional associations, check ahead or cover tattoos if needed.

Click here to learn more how to onsen (like a local!).

Getting Around

Q: How do I get around in Japan?

A: Japan’s public transport system is among the best in the world. The high-speed Shinkansen (bullet trains) link major cities quickly, smoothly and with impressive punctuality, while local trains and metro networks are clean, reliable and easy to navigate. Buses are a convenient way to reach smaller towns and rural areas, and domestic flights connect the main islands efficiently for longer journeys.

Train stations, especially in big cities like Tokyo and Osaka, can be very large and busy, so expect a fair amount of walking and allow extra time for transfers. Fortunately, signs, announcements and ticket machines in major cities are usually in both Japanese and English, making it straightforward for visitors to find their way.

On Llama Travel holidays, all your transport is pre-arranged (including tickets, transfers and luggage forwarding between hotels), so getting around is effortless. In the cities, sightseeing is usually done on foot or by public transport, allowing you to experience Japan’s daily life up close.

Q: How should I manage my luggage when travelling in Japan

A: Luggage space on Japan’s trains is quite limited, so it’s a good idea to travel with smaller cases or soft bags where possible. Overhead racks can hold medium-sized bags, but large suitcases can be difficult to store. To make travel easier, Japan offers a very efficient luggage forwarding service, where your main bags are sent ahead to your next hotel for a small fee. This means you can move between destinations comfortably with just an overnight bag. Your guide or hotel staff can easily help arrange this service.

Food and Drink

Q: What’s the food like in Japan?

A: Japanese cuisine is a real highlight of visiting the country, fresh, beautifully presented and full of delicate flavours. Meals are often centred around rice, noodles, vegetables and fish, with an emphasis on balance and seasonality.

Each region offers its own specialities: try fresh sushi and tempura in Tokyo, kaiseki (multi-course dining) and matcha sweets in Kyoto, and okonomiyaki (savoury pancakes) or oysters in Hiroshima. Even a simple bento box on the train is carefully prepared and delicious.

Vegetarian options are increasingly available, although fish stock (dashi) is common in many dishes, so it’s best to ask your guide or restaurant staff. Western food and bakeries are also easy to find in larger cities in Japan.

Q: Can I drink tap water in Japan?

A: Yes. Tap water in Japan is safe to drink everywhere. Bottled water is also widely available if you prefer.

Q: Can I drink alcohol in Japan?

A: Yes. Alcohol is legal and widely available. Popular drinks include sake (rice wine), beer, and shochu (a clear spirit).

What to See

Q: What are the highlights of Japan?

A: Japan combines rich traditions with modern life in a way few places do. In Tokyo, quiet temples and gardens sit alongside busy shopping streets and neon lights. Kanazawa offers elegant gardens and well-preserved historic districts, while Kyoto is known for its temples, shrines and old wooden houses. In Hiroshima, the Peace Memorial Park provides a moving insight into the city’s past, and nearby Miyajima Island is famous for its red torii gate standing in the water. These places give a good sense of Japan’s culture and variety.

Q: How many days do I need to explore Japan?

A: Around two weeks is ideal for a first visit to Japan. This allows enough time to explore the main highlights, such as Tokyo, Kanazawa, Kyoto, and Hiroshima, without feeling rushed.

Q:  Where should I go in Tokyo?

A: Tokyo is a fascinating mix of old and new. Visit the Meiji Shrine, a peaceful spot surrounded by forest, and explore Asakusa, home to Senso-ji Temple and its lively market streets. Modern districts such as Shibuya, Shinjuku and Ginza show the city’s fast-paced energy, with bright lights, shops and restaurants open late into the night. For a quieter side of the capital, stroll through Ueno Park, the Imperial Palace Gardens, or neighbourhoods such as Daikanyama and Nakameguro, known for their cafés, small galleries and riverside walks. Tokyo’s excellent transport system makes it easy to experience the different moods of the city, from traditional culture to contemporary urban life

Q: Where should I go in Hakone?

A: The mountain area of Hakone offers a peaceful escape from the city, with lakes, forests and hot springs. Take the cable car or ropeway for panoramic views of Lake Ashi, and on clear days you may even see Mount Fuji. Enjoy a boat cruise on the lake, visit the Hakone Open-Air Museum, or unwind in a traditional onsen (hot spring bath).

Q: Where should I go in Takayama?

A: Takayama sits in the Japanese Alps and is known for its beautifully preserved old town. Stroll along Sanmachi Suji, where traditional wooden merchant houses now hold small shops, sake breweries and cafés. Visit the Takayama Jinya, a historic government building, and browse the lively morning markets for local crafts and produce. The Festival Float Museum showcases the ornate floats used in the city’s famous festival, while the Hida Folk Village offers an open-air display of traditional thatched farmhouses. Nearby Shirakawa-go, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is home to picturesque gassho-style houses and makes a lovely excursion from Takayama. With its slower pace and traditional atmosphere, Takayama provides a glimpse of rural Japan.

Q: Where should I go in Kanazawa?

A: Kanazawa is famous for its blend of art, gardens and history. The highlight is Kenrokuen Garden, one of Japan’s most beautiful. Explore the Nagamachi samurai district with its preserved residences, and the Higashi Chaya area, where wooden teahouses recall the city’s geisha heritage. Omicho Market is the place to sample fresh seafood and regional dishes. Kanazawa is elegant, compact and easy to explore on foot.

Q: Where should I go in Kyoto?

A: Kyoto is the cultural heart of Japan, filled with beautiful temples, shrines and gardens. Don’t miss the Golden Pavilion (Kinkaku-ji), the Fushimi Inari Shrine with its long tunnels of red torii gates, or the Arashiyama Bamboo Grove. The old streets of Gion and Higashiyama are perfect for walking, with teahouses, craft shops and the chance to spot a geisha in traditional dress. Kyoto is also home to many other remarkable temples, including Kiyomizu-dera and Ryoan-ji, known for its Zen rock garden. A day trip to nearby Nara is well worth it to see the giant Buddha at Todai-ji Temple and the friendly deer roaming freely in Nara Park.

Q: Where should I go in Hiroshima?

A: Hiroshima is a modern, welcoming city with a powerful history. The Peace Memorial Park and Museum tell the story of 1945 and Japan’s commitment to peace. Nearby, the Atomic Bomb Dome stands as a symbol of resilience. A short ferry ride away is Miyajima Island, known for the famous floating torii gate at Itsukushima Shrine.

Still have questions about travelling to Japan?

Our team is happy to help. Call us on 020 7263 3000 or explore our Japan holidays to start planning your trip.