Japan Travel Planner

Where is Japan?

  1. Approximate Population of Japan: 126,226,568


Hotels in Tokyo


Tokyo is the capital of Japan

Tokyo has an approximate population of around 14,043,239 people and you can typically expect to pay around £3.34p for an equivalent pint of lager or beer.

About Tokyo in Japan: The metropolis is a complex, fascinating blend of modern and ancient, from neon-lit skyscrapers to beautiful ancient temples. The elegant Meiji shrine sits high among trees, the grand imperial palace is an imposing structure surrounded by lush gardens, and the renowned Imperial palace lies in a garden. The city's numerous museums provide displays ranging from classical Art to contemporary art, from Japanese wood crafts to modern digital art. The city's numerous parks provide a pleasant respite from the hustle of city life.

A stay secluded in the Imperial City or in one of the gardens around the outskirts of Tokyo is an ideal retreat for those interested in ancient Japanese arts, culture and geology. The Imperial Palace Museum is one such place where you can spend a week simply looking at some of the masterpieces created by the Japanese royalty. Staying secluded will give you the opportunity to attend special events and tours hosted by the Japanese government and Tokyo locals. If you are interested in these kinds of events, you have to book your Tokyo apartment first, before you can go in to participate.

There is a great deal of chance to meet like-minded people when you live in an apartment in Tokyo. This is because every week there is a scheduled "cultural fair" where artists, musicians and other entertainers come to showcase their stuff. You can participate in various activities and events organized by the organizers and fellow participants, ranging from antique shows to food tasting events to poetry reading sessions to children's programs. With every week that you stay secluded in a Tokyo apartment for at least one week, you have the opportunity to make sure that you meet new people and expand your social network.

What vaccinations do I need before travelling to Japan

Up to date information for vaccinations before you travel to Japan are available from the NHS Fit for Travel website.

Is it safe to travel to Japan

For up to date information around safety and security in Japan read the Foreign & Commonwealth Office latest information for Japan.

Japan Flights


Best time to visit Japan?

Late spring (March to May) and late autumn (September to November) are generally the best times to visit Japan, when there is little rainfall, skies are clear, and temperatures are mild.

Festivals in Japan

Festivals in Japan are often filled with vibrant colors and exciting activities. Some are very serene, while others are vibrant and noisy. All are great ways to experience the culture of Japan. There are many different festivals to choose from. A list of the best ones follows. A few of these festivals are listed below: (In order of popularity:) Tenjin Matsuri, in Osaka: This is one of the country's three largest cultural celebrations. There are actors dressed as gods, performances of traditional dance and music, and more. These events are a joy for all ages and are a great time to sample some Japanese street food!

The Awa Odori festival is a unique event in Japan. This celebration of the spirit of the deceased is characterized by colorful, dynamic dance and singing. It is a competition of spirit, with participants wearing traditional costumes and performing chants. During the festival, families will light paper lanterns and let them float down rivers, where they will eventually be released. The Awa Odori festival has been held in the Koenji district of Tokyo since 1950. Over one million people visit this event each year. The area is known for its vintage shops and great restaurants.

Danjiri Matsuri - This is a harvest festival celebrated in Kishiwada, South Osaka. This is the largest danjiri matsuri in Japan and is one of the most popular celebrations of autumn. This festival involves a parade of colorful floats, which are decorated with carved motifs and adorned with flowers. It is the wildest party in Osaka, and the crowds are truly wild during the festival.

Tanabata Matsuri - This is one of the three most famous festivals in Japan and is celebrated every summer. This festival commemorates the deity of scholarship, Sugawara Michizane. It is one of the three most important festivals in the country, and is a must for any visitor to the city. During this festival, thousands of men dress in traditional loincloths, known as fundoshi, and battle to catch a sacred stick called shingi. The man who catches the shingi is considered a lucky man.

There are many festivals in Japan that are popular during summer. Traditionally, matsuri celebrate the Gods of different shrines. The most famous festival is the Gion Matsuri, which takes place every August at the Hie Shrine. It is a month-long festival that features floats, elaborately decorated streets, and grand procession of floats. It has been designated as an Intangible Cultural Heritage by UNESCO in 2009.

Several events in the summer in Japan take place during summer. The most popular of these is the Senso-ji temple festival. It celebrates the three founders of the temple, which is in the Asakusa district. The Temple is the oldest Buddhist temple in Tokyo. It dates back to the year 645 and 628, and is the largest in the world. When in Tokyo, you can attend the Obon festival in September.

Japan Trips & Guided Tours


Japan Tourist Attractions

Do I need a Visa?

If you have a 'British Citizen' or 'British National (Overseas)' passport, you can enter Japan as a visitor for up to 90 days without a visa. You may need to provide evidence of a return or onward ticket.Visas aren't issued after arrival in Japan.

See which forms you may need for entry into Japan.

What currency do i need for Japan?

The official currency of Japan is the Japanese Yen (JPY). If you're looking to transfer or spend money in Japan you can grab amazing Japanese Yen deals via Wise.com (GBP to JPY).

What wildlife live in Japan?

The Ussuri brown bear is found in Hokkaidō where it plays an important role in the culture of the Ainu people. The Asian black bear inhabits mountainous areas in Honshū, Kyūshū and Shikoku. Smaller carnivores include the red fox, raccoon dog and Japanese marten.

What is the traditional food of Japan?

Japanese food? The traditional cuisine of Japan is Washoku is based on rice with miso soup and other dishes; there is an emphasis on seasonal ingredients.

What Languages are spoken in Japan?

In addition to the Japanese language, Ryukyuan languages are spoken in Okinawa and parts of Kagoshima in the Ryukyu Islands. Along with Japanese, these languages are part of the Japonic language family, but they are separate languages. You can learn some basic Japanese before you travel to Japan and really impress the locals!

How much do you tip in Japan?

The currency in Japan is the Japanese Yen (Tipping is not customary in Japan. In fact, it can be considered rude and insulting in many situations. Most Japanese restaurants require customers to pay for their meals at the front register, rather than leave money with the waiter or waitress.).

Car Hire

Japan Map

Disclosure: This content is reader-supported. We may receive a small commission from affiliate links you follow from this Japan travel guide.

Flight Search

Useful Numbers

Emergency Numbers

  • Police: 110
  • Ambulance: 119
  • Fire: 119
  • UK Embassy: +81 3-5211-1100

    Visa

    Time Difference

    What is the time difference?

    The GMT time difference is 9 hours

    Useful Electronics

    Electronics to buy before you travel

    Travel Apps

    What is the best travel app for Japan?

    Travel Insurance

    Travel Insurance

    Learn Japanese

    How can i learn Japanese?

    Learn some Japanese before your trip to Japan


    Japan Guidebook

    Best Japan guidebook?

    Stay informed before during and after your trip to Japan by buying a guidebook.


    Events