Free JAPAN Travel Guide: All You Need To Know
1. Travel Planning
🛂 Visa
Visa Requirements
Some foreigners entering must have a valid visa. If you are not sure if you are from a country that needs to obtain a visa before traveling to Japan, you may check it using the website below ⬇️
🗓 Best Time to Visit Japan
Japan experiences four distinct seasons: Spring, Summer, Autumn, and Winter. Each season offers unique experiences, so understanding the climate can help you plan your visit and optimize your travel budget.
🌸 SPRING (March to May)
Spring is one of the most popular seasons to visit Japan, thanks to the breathtaking cherry blossoms that blanket the country. The weather is mild and pleasant, making it ideal for sightseeing and participating in cherry blossom festivals (usually first to second week of April). However, keep in mind that this is also a busy tourist season, so early planning is essential.
🌞 SUMMER (June to August)
Summer in Japan is hot and humid, with temperatures often exceeding 30°C. This season is also known for its vibrant festivals and fireworks displays. However, July brings the rainy season, so pack accordingly. The heat can be intense, but it's a great time to explore Japan's beautiful beaches and attend summer events.
🍂 AUTUMN (September to November)
Autumn is a favorite among travelers, as the weather cools down and the landscapes transform into a sea of vibrant red, orange, and yellow hues. It’s an ideal time for hiking, visiting temples, and taking in Japan’s stunning natural scenery. The pleasant weather and beautiful foliage make this one of the best times to visit (usually last week of November to first week of December).
❄️ WINTER (December to February)
Winter in Japan is cold, with temperatures dropping below freezing in some regions. However, it's a fantastic season for those who love snow sports. Head to Hokkaido or the Japanese Alps for world-class skiing and snowboarding. Don't miss out on the winter illuminations and hot springs (onsen) that are especially inviting during the chilly months. Be sure to pack warm clothing, as some areas can get very cold.
🗺 Japan Itinerary
Once you already have a visa and have decided which month to visit, next thing to do is to draft your travel itinerary. Even if you want a spontaneous travel to Japan, it would still help and might save you some travel funds if you plan your itinerary in advance.
Understanding Japan’s Prefectures
Japan is divided into 47 prefectures, each with its own unique characteristics. These prefectures are grouped into regions that offer diverse landscapes, cultures, and attractions. Here’s a basic overview:
📍 HOKKAIDO: Known for its stunning natural beauty, including mountains, lakes, and hot springs. Popular for skiing in winter and flower viewing in spring.
📍 TOHOKU: Famous for its rural landscapes, hot springs, and traditional festivals. It’s less crowded and offers a glimpse into Japan’s more serene side.
📍 KANTO: Home to Tokyo, this region is Japan’s most populous and includes major cities and attractions. It’s a blend of modernity and tradition.
📍 CHUBU: Features a variety of landscapes, from mountains and highlands to coastal areas. Nagoya and the Japanese Alps are key highlights.
📍 KANSAI: Includes Osaka, Kyoto, and Kobe. This region is known for its rich history, culture, and vibrant city life.
📍 CHUGOKU: Home to Hiroshima and Okayama, this region offers historical sites, scenic beauty, and a slower pace of life.
📍 SHIKOKU: Known for its pilgrimage routes, beautiful coastlines, and traditional crafts. It’s a quieter, more rural part of Japan.
📍 KYUSHU: Famous for its active volcanoes, hot springs, and unique regional culture. Fukuoka and Nagasaki are key cities in this region.
Must-Visit Cities for First-Time Travelers
For those visiting Japan for the first time, Tokyo, Osaka, and Kyoto are top destinations:
✅ Tokyo: The bustling capital city and a global metropolis known for its skyscrapers, shopping districts, and diverse neighborhoods. This city blends cutting-edge technology with traditional culture. Tokyo highlights include:
🗻 Special Mention: Mt. Fuji
If you are visiting Tokyo, you can also do a day trip to see the majestic Mt. Fuji, the tallest peak in Japan.
✅ Osaka: Known for its vibrant nightlife, street food, and friendly atmosphere. This city is often called Japan’s kitchen due to its culinary delights. Osaka's key attractions include:
✅ Kyoto: Famous for its historic temples, traditional tea houses, and beautiful gardens. This city offers a deep dive into Japan’s traditional culture and history. Kyoto's notable sites include:
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DIY JAPAN ITINERARIES
Make sure to subscribe to my Thatch account and save this FREE Japan Travel Guide so you will be notified as soon as my detailed and ready-made Japan itineraries are published:
📍TOKYO 5-DAY DIY Itinerary
📍OSAKA DIY Itinerary
📍KYOTO DIY Itinerary
📍FUKUOKA DIY Itinerary
📍10-DAY Tokyo + Mt. Fuji + Hakone + Kamakura +Enoshima Itinerary
📍10-DAY Osaka + Kyoto + Nara + Kobe Itinerary
Custom Itinerary
I can even custom your itinerary so you don't have to do it yourself ⬇️
🏨 Accommodations in Japan
To save time searching, I listed some of the highly-rated (8+) accommodations that you can book in the most-visited places in Japan.
TOKYO
Less than $100 per night
$100 to $200 per night
OSAKA
Less than $100 per night
More than $200 per night
KYOTO
Less than $100 per night
More than $200 per night
MT. FUJI
Less than $100 per night
More than $200 per night
🗣️ Language
When visiting Japan, knowing a few basic Japanese phrases can greatly enhance your experience and help you connect with the locals. Here are some essential expressions:
Thank You
Japanese: ありがとうございます
Pronunciation: Arigatou gozaimasu
Usage: Used to express gratitude in a formal and polite manner.
Yes
Japanese: はい
Pronunciation: Hai
Usage: An affirmative response.
No
Japanese: いいえ
Pronunciation: Iie
Usage: A negative response.
How Much is This?
Japanese: これはいくらですか？
Pronunciation: Kore wa ikura desu ka?
Usage: Asking for the price of an item.
Where is the Bathroom?
Japanese: トイレはどこですか？
Pronunciation: Toire wa doko desu ka?
Usage: Asking for the location of the bathroom.
Sorry
Japanese: ごめんなさい
Pronunciation: Gomennasai
Usage: Apologizing for a mistake or inconvenience in a casual setting.
💵 Japan Money
Japanese Yen (JPY)
When traveling to Japan, it's important to be familiar with the local currency. The official currency of Japan is the Japanese Yen (¥). Here are some key details to help you get started:
Coins: ¥1, ¥5, ¥10, ¥50, ¥100, ¥500
Banknotes: ¥1,000, ¥2,000, ¥5,000, ¥10,000
📋 Must-Have Items in Japan
👗 Appropriate Clothing
Japan experiences four distinct seasons, so packing the right clothing is crucial. Winter temperatures can drop to below freezing, so pack warm layers, especially if you're visiting regions like Hokkaido. In summer, the heat and humidity can be intense, so opt for lightweight, breathable fabrics. Remember, you can always buy stylish clothes in Japan, so don’t overpack!
👟 Comfortable Shoes
🔌 Travel Adapter
Japan uses 100 volts with two flat, parallel prongs (Type A). If your devices use a different plug type or voltage, make sure to bring a travel adapter. You can purchase one before your trip, or find them easily at airports, electronic stores, or convenience stores in Japan.
🔋 Power Bank
💳 Transportation Card
IC Card (Suica/Pasmo/ICOCA) Japan’s IC cards, like Suica and Pasmo, are essential for getting around. They can be used on trains, buses, and even for small purchases at convenience stores and vending machines. You can purchase an IC card at any major train station and top it up as needed.
If you have an iPhone, you can conveniently add a new Suica, PASMO, or ICOCA card on your iPhone or Apple Watch, or you can transfer your physical card to your device. When you add your first Suica, PASMO, or ICOCA card, Express Mode is automatically turned on for that card, which allows you to pay for transit rides and make purchases with just a tap.
To use a Suica, PASMO, or ICOCA card with Apple Pay, you need:
✔️An iPhone 8 or iPhone 8 Plus or later, or an Apple Watch Series 3 or later with the latest version of iOS or watchOS.
✔️You can also use a Suica card on an iPhone 7, iPhone 7 Plus, or Apple Watch Series 2 that was purchased in Japan.
✔️ICOCA only: An iPhone 8 or iPhone 8 Plus or later with iOS 16 or later. Or, an Apple Watch Series 3 or later with watchOS 8.7.1 or later.
Your Suica, PASMO, or ICOCA card added to the Wallet app.*
📶 Sim Card or Pocket Wi-Fi
Stay connected while traveling in Japan with a local SIM card or pocket Wi-Fi. Although Japan offers free Wi-Fi in some public places, it's better to have your own. A SIM card or pocket Wi-Fi ensures you have access to maps, translation apps, and social media wherever you go. For solo travelers or those who prefer not to carry extra devices, consider getting an eSIM, which can be activated as soon as you land in Japan. Here are some of your options if you want to conveniently book them online.
UNLIMITED DATA SIM CARD ONLY
POCKET WIFI
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💡PRO TIPS:
✨ Get up to 5% OFF when you use the is Klook discount code: 𝗞𝗢𝗥𝗘𝗔𝗙𝗜𝗟𝗘𝗦𝗞𝗟𝗢𝗢𝗞
✨ When traveling solo or don't want to bring a pocket WiFi, just get an eSIM if your phone supports it. You can also use your eSIM as soon as your plane lands in Korea. Here are your options:
JAPAN 4G eSIM
AIRALO
You may also opt to download the Airalo app and get $3 OFF your first purchase when you use the code: KOREAF9362
📲 Must-have Mobile Apps in Japan
Transportation Apps
✅ Uber Taxi: Although not as widespread as in other countries, Uber still operates in major cities like Tokyo and Osaka. You can use your existing account to request rides with ease.
Translation Apps
✅ Papago: Similar to Google Translate, Papago is popular among travelers for its user-friendly interface and fairly accurate translations. It’s especially useful for scanning and translating text in real time.
Weather Apps
🌦️ Weather Forecast App: Know the weather to plan your trips. Prepare for rain in summer and cold in winter. If you already have a pre-installed weather app in your phone, no need to download a separate one as you can already check the weather forecast there.
Travel Essentials, Tours & Attractions
✅ Thatch: Download Thatch and subscribe to my account for easily accessible travel guides and itineraries with interactive maps and lots of pro travel tips.
✅ Klook: Another app that I highly recommend is Klook. You can book tours, attractions and other travel essentials with discounts all over the world. Get up to 5% OFF when you use the code: 𝗞𝗢𝗥𝗘𝗔𝗙𝗜𝗟𝗘𝗦𝗞𝗟𝗢𝗢𝗞
🙇 Travel Etiquette in Japan
General Etiquette
👟 Remove your shoes when entering any home, traditional inn (ryokan), or temple. You may be provided with indoor slippers to wear instead.
🙇♂️ Greet others with a bow—the deeper the bow, the more respect you're showing.
👐 Use both hands when giving or receiving items, especially gifts or business cards, as a sign of respect.
💸 Tipping is not customary in Japan. Instead, exceptional service is simply expected and appreciated.
Dining Etiquette
👵 Wait for the eldest at the table to start eating before you begin. It’s also common to say "Itadakimasu" (いただきます) before starting your meal as a form of thanks.
🍚 Never leave your chopsticks standing upright in your rice bowl; this resembles a funeral ritual.
🚶♀️Eating while walking can be considered as impolite as Japanese people tend not to eat or drink as they walk
Mass Transportation Etiquette
🚉 Refrain from sitting in seats reserved for pregnant women, the elderly, or disabled individuals, even if they are vacant.
🤫 Avoid speaking loudly or talking on the phone while on public transportation like the subway or bus.
🧍♀️Stand on the left side of the escalator in Tokyo, but on the right side in Osaka, to allow people in a hurry to pass by. This is a small but important difference depending on the region you are in.
Conversation Etiquette
☝️ Avoid pointing at people.
🗣️ Wait for the person to finish speaking before responding
🙏 Always be respectful and enjoy your time!
🚨 Emergency Contact Numbers
🧯Fire and Emergency: 119
👮🏻♂️Police: 110
🚑 Emergency Advisory Service for non-Emergency Inquiries: #7119
ℹ️ JNTO TIC (Tourist Information Center): +81 3 3201 3331
2. Arrival
🛃 Immigration Clearance
Japan's immigration procedures are streamlined to make your entry into the country as efficient as possible. Here’s what you need to know:
1️⃣ Secure Your Individual QR Code
All travelers to Japan must obtain an individual QR code prior to arrival. This QR code is a crucial part of the Visit Japan Web system, designed to fast-track you through quarantine, immigration, and customs procedures.
2️⃣ How to Get Your QR Code
To get your QR code, you need to register your details on the Visit Japan Web's official website. The process is straightforward and user-friendly ⬇️
3️⃣ Using Your QR Code Upon Arrival
Upon your arrival in Japan, you’ll be required to present your assigned QR code at various checkpoints including quarantine, immigration, and customs. This can be done by simply displaying the QR code on your phone or presenting a printed version.
Additional Tips:
✓Make sure to complete the registration and obtain your QR code well in advance of your trip to avoid any last-minute hassles.
✓Keep your QR code easily accessible upon arrival to ensure a swift and smooth experience through Japan's entry procedures.
🛜 WiFi/Internet
If you have already pre-booked your sim card/eSIM/pocket WiFi, via Klook (see Must-Have Items section for the links), you can conveniently claim them as soon as you exit the arrival gate.
UNLIMITED DATA SIM CARD ONLY
POCKET WIFI
🔁 Currency Exchange in Japan
✈️ Airport
Japanese airports like Narita, Haneda, and Kansai have multiple currency exchange counters and bank branches. These are convenient spots to get your yen right after landing. The operating hours typically range from early morning until late at night, but it’s good to check specific hours if you’re arriving late. Note that while airport currency exchange services are convenient, the exchange rates may be less favorable than in other locations.
🏧 Global ATMs
Japan is equipped with numerous global ATMs that accept international cards, including MasterCard and Visa. You can find these ATMs at airports, convenience stores (like 7-Eleven, Lawson, and FamilyMart), and major tourist areas. The convenience store ATMs usually offer better availability and are easy to locate using apps like Google Maps. Fees vary depending on your bank and card issuer, so it's worth checking beforehand. Make sure your account has enough funds to cover the withdrawal and any associated fees.
💰 Money Changers
Money changers are available in major cities and tourist areas such as Shinjuku, Shibuya, and Asakusa in Tokyo; Dotonbori and Namba in Osaka; and the central areas of Kyoto. Some of these locations offer competitive rates compared to airports. However, the process might require your passport, so always carry it with you when exchanging money. Look for reliable and established money changers for the best rates, and avoid exchanging large sums at less reputable locations. There are also Money Changer machines located in major tourist areas.
💡PRO TIPS:
✨ Estimate Your Cash Needs: It's smart to calculate how much cash you'll need during your stay, including a buffer. Withdrawing this amount from an ATM at the airport is convenient and often comes with lower fees than using multiple currency exchanges.
✨ Use Cards Wisely: In Japan, cards are widely accepted in most urban areas, especially for large purchases like hotel stays and dining at restaurants. This allows you to save your cash for smaller transactions at local shops, markets, and rural areas where cards might not be accepted.
✨ Have Enough Cash for Public Transportation: Always keep enough cash handy for transportation needs, including topping up your IC card (like Suica or Pasmo).
🛄 Luggage Services
1️⃣ Luggage Delivery Services
Japan offers excellent luggage delivery services which can transport your luggage from the airport to your hotel or even between hotels. Companies like Yamato Transport (Kuroneko Yamato) and JAL ABC provide reliable services that can be booked online or at airport counters. These services are convenient, especially if you’re planning to travel around Japan without lugging your bags everywhere.
These luggage services are essential especially when you are traveling to different prefectures in just one trip to Japan. You can also conveniently book these services via Klook.
2️⃣ Luggage Storage at Airports
Major airports such as Narita, Haneda, Kansai, and Chubu Centrair have 24/7 luggage storage facilities. This is ideal if you have a long layover or arrive early and want to explore the city without your bags. Prices depend on the size and duration of storage.
3️⃣ Coin Lockers at Train & Subway Stations
Japan is famous for its convenient coin lockers, available in nearly all train and subway stations, especially in big cities like Tokyo, Osaka, and Kyoto. These lockers are a secure option to store your luggage while you explore the area. Coin lockers come in various sizes, accommodating anything from small bags to large suitcases.
4️⃣ Hotel Luggage Storage
Most hotels in Japan are willing to hold your luggage before check-in or after check-out. This is a great option if your accommodation is near your first or last sightseeing stop. Always confirm this service with your hotel in advance.
3. Getting Around Japan
🚅 Getting to the city from airport
1️⃣ TRAIN - You can purchase your train tickets at the airport or book them in advance via Klook and use the discount code: KOREAFILESKLOOK to save on your travel fund. Then pick up your physical tickets as soon as you arrived. Here are some of your options:
Narita Express (N'EX): Connects Narita Airport to major Tokyo stations like Tokyo Station, Shinjuku, and Shibuya in about 60-90 minutes. Offers comfortable seating and free Wi-Fi.
The Keisei Skyliner is a top-of-the-range high-speed train that operates between Narita Airport and Ueno (downtown Tokyo), offering comfortable and efficient passenger service.
Kansai Airport Express "Haruka": Ideal for reaching Osaka, Kyoto, and Kobe, with direct service from Kansai International Airport to these cities.
2️⃣ PRIVATE TRANSFER
For a more personalized experience, you can book a private transfer from the airport to your accommodation.
4️⃣ LIMOUSINE BUS
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5️⃣ TAXIS
Taxis are available 24/7 at airports. They offer door-to-door service and can be convenient if you have a lot of luggage or arrive late at night. Fares can be high, especially from Narita Airport, so it's good to check the estimated fare before traveling. You can also use your Uber app.
🚍 Using Public Transportation
1️⃣ SUBWAY
Major cities like Tokyo, Osaka, and Kyoto have extensive and efficient subway systems. Tokyo Metro and Toei Subway lines cover a wide area. You can use a rechargeable IC card (Suica/Pasmo/ICOCA) for easy travel and transfers. Maps and signage are available in English.
2️⃣ BUS
City buses are a great way to explore local neighborhoods. Buses in cities like Tokyo and Osaka are well-connected and usually have English signage. Use an IC card for payment and convenience.
3️⃣ TAXI
Taxis are a convenient option for short distances or when traveling with luggage. You can use also apps like Uber for booking. Note that taxis in Japan are generally more expensive than public transportation.
4️⃣ SHINKANSEN (Japan Bullet Train)
For long-distance travel, the Shinkansen is the fastest option. It connects major cities across Japan. The JR Pass offers unlimited travel on JR trains, including Shinkansen, for a fixed period and can be a cost-effective option for tourists. You can purchase your tickets on site or book them online ⬇️
🎟️ Japan Passes
Japan offers several travel passes that can make your journey more convenient and cost-effective. These passes are designed for tourists and can save you money on transportation across various regions and services.
1️⃣ Japan Rail Pass (JR Pass)
The JR Pass is a popular choice for tourists who plan to travel extensively by train throughout Japan. It provides unlimited travel on JR trains, including the Shinkansen (with few exceptions), as well as JR buses and ferries. Types: Available in 7, 14, or 21-day options. There are also Green Car (first-class) versions for extra comfort.
2️⃣ Japan Regional Passes
Regional passes offer unlimited travel within specific areas of Japan. They are ideal for travelers focusing on a particular region. Examples are:
✅ Kansai Railway Pass: Covers transportation in the Kansai region (Osaka, Kyoto, Nara, Kobe) including private railways and buses.
✅ Hokkaido Rail Pass: Ideal for traveling within Hokkaido, covering JR trains, including limited express services.
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✅ Kyushu Rail Pass: For travel across Kyushu Island, including the Shinkansen and JR trains.
3️⃣ Tokyo Subway Pass
Offers unlimited travel on Tokyo’s metro and Toei subway lines. A great option if you plan to explore Tokyo extensively. Available for 24, 48, or 72 hours.
4️⃣ Osaka Amazing Pass
Provides unlimited travel on Osaka’s subway and bus systems, plus free or discounted entry to many of Osaka’s top attractions. Available for 1 or 2 days.
5️⃣ Hakone Free Pass
Ideal for exploring the Hakone area, including unlimited use of Hakone’s transportation network (trains, buses, boats, and cable cars) and discounted entry to local attractions. Available for 2 or 3 days.
6️⃣ JR East Pass
Provides unlimited travel on JR East trains, including the Shinkansen, in the eastern part of Japan, including Tokyo, Nikko, and the Tohoku region. Available for 5 days of travel within a 14-day period.
✨ Tips for Using Japan Passes
✅ Plan Ahead: Check your travel itinerary to determine which pass offers the best value and convenience for your needs.
✅ Purchase Online: Many passes can be purchased online before your trip, often with additional discounts. Book it via Klook and use Korea Files' discount code ot get up to 5% OFF: KOREAFILESKLOOK
✅ Validity: Always confirm the validity period and coverage of the pass to ensure it matches your travel plans.
✅ Reservations: For some passes, you might need to make seat reservations for certain trains, so plan accordingly.
4. Food
🍜 Must-Try Foods in Japan
☑ SUSHI (寿司)
Sushi is a world-famous Japanese dish featuring vinegared rice combined with various ingredients, including raw or cooked seafood, vegetables, and sometimes tropical fruits. Popular types include nigiri (hand-formed rice with topping), sashimi (sliced raw fish), and maki (rolled sushi).
☑ RAMEN (ラーメン)
A comforting noodle soup with rich broth, ramen comes in various styles, including shoyu (soy sauce), miso, shio (salt), and tonkotsu (pork bone). Each region in Japan has its own ramen specialty.
☑ TEMPURA (天ぷら)
Lightly battered and deep-fried seafood or vegetables, tempura is known for its crispy texture and delicate flavor.
☑ UDON (うどん)
Thick wheat noodles served in a variety of broths or stir-fried. Udon can be enjoyed hot or cold, with toppings like tempura, green onions, and tofu.
☑ TAKOYAKI (たこ焼き)
Popular street food, takoyaki are savory octopus-filled balls made from a batter of flour and dashi, cooked in a special mold and topped with takoyaki sauce and bonito flakes.
☑ OKONOMIYAKI (お好み焼き)
Savory Japanese pancake made with flour, eggs, shredded cabbage, and various ingredients like meat or seafood, grilled on a hot plate and topped with okonomiyaki sauce and bonito flakes.
☑ KATSU (カツ)
Breaded and deep-fried cutlets of pork (tonkatsu) or chicken (chicken katsu), typically served with shredded cabbage and a tangy katsu sauce.
☑ ONIGIRI (おにぎり)
Rice balls often filled with ingredients like pickled plums (umeboshi), salmon, or seaweed, and shaped into triangles or rounds. Convenient and popular as a snack or quick meal.
☑ SUKIYAKI (すき焼き)
A hot pot dish featuring thinly sliced beef cooked with vegetables, tofu, and noodles in a sweet and savory sauce made from soy sauce, sugar, and mirin.
☑ SHABU-SHABU (しゃぶしゃぶ)
A hot pot meal where thinly sliced meat and vegetables are quickly cooked in a pot of boiling water or broth, then dipped in sauces and enjoyed with rice or noodles.
☑ YAKITORI (焼き鳥)
Skewered and grilled chicken pieces, often seasoned with salt or a sweet soy-based sauce. Commonly served at izakayas (Japanese pubs) and street food stalls.
☑ MATCHA DESSERTS (抹茶デザート)
Desserts flavored with matcha (powdered green tea) include matcha ice cream, matcha cakes, and matcha-flavored mochi. Known for their unique taste and vibrant green color.
5. Japan Shopping Guide
Shopping in Japan offers an exciting mix of traditional and modern experiences, from high-end fashion and electronics to unique souvenirs and local treats. Whether you're exploring vibrant shopping districts or seeking out the latest trends, Japan's diverse shopping scene has something for everyone.
🛍️ Shopping Places in Japan
TOKYO
OSAKA
KYOTO
Special Mention: DON QUIJOTE (all throughout Japan)
♻️ Thrift Shopping in Japan
These are the thrift shops that you can easily checkout in Japan using Google Map. I suggest that you read the review first before paying a visit.
📍 2ND STREET
📍 BOOK OFF
📍 MODE OFF
📍 TREFAC STYLE
I'll be updating this Japan guide with my favorite thrift shops around Tokyo, Osaka, Kyoto and Fukuoka soon!
🎁 Must-Buy Souvenir & Other Goods in Japan
☑ Cosmetics and Skincare Products
Japanese beauty products are renowned for their quality and innovation. Popular brands include Shiseido, SK-II, and DHC. You can find these products at department stores, specialty stores, and drugstores.
☑ Japanese Snacks: Pocky, Kit-Kat, Alfort, Kinoko no Yama, Jagariko, Melty Kiss and other Meiji chocolate goods, Royce' Chocolate
☑ Matcha Products
Japan is famous for its high-quality matcha (green tea). Consider picking up matcha-flavored sweets, tea, or even cooking ingredients.
☑ Japanese Ceramics and Pottery
From delicate porcelain to rustic earthenware, Japanese ceramics are beautifully crafted and make for memorable souvenirs. Look for items such as tea sets, bowls, and plates.
☑ Traditional Japanese Souvenirs
Kimonos: Traditional Japanese garments, often available in both authentic and souvenir versions.
Furoshiki: Versatile wrapping cloths used for gift wrapping and carrying items.
Maneki-neko: The iconic "lucky cat" figurine, believed to bring good fortune.
☑ Electronics Japan is known for its cutting-edge technology. You can find the latest gadgets, cameras, and gaming consoles, often with features not available elsewhere.
☑ Anime and Manga Merchandise
For anime and manga fans, Japan offers a wide array of collectibles, including figures, posters, and books. Akihabara in Tokyo and Nipponbashi in Osaka are prime spots for such items.
6. Other Experiences to Try in Japan
Do you want to make your first trip to Japan more memorable? Then try these activities and get up to 5% off (max of 5x use) when you use the discount code: KOREAFILESKLOOK on Klook!
TOKYO
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OSAKA
KYOTO
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7. Departure
🔄 Tax Refund
Shopping in Japan? You can save money with the tax-free shopping program! Stores offering tax refunds display a “Tax-Free” sign, and you can get a 10% refund on eligible purchases (8% consumption tax + 2% handling fee waived in some cases).
Who Can Get a Tax Refund?
✔️ Non-residents (tourists staying less than 6 months)
✔️ Must show your passport at purchase
Minimum Purchase Requirement
🛍️ General Goods (electronics, clothing, souvenirs, etc.) – Spend 5,000 JPY+ (before tax) in one store per day
🧴 Consumables (food, cosmetics, drinks, etc.) – Spend 5,000–500,000 JPY (before tax) in one store per day (sealed for export)
How to Get Your Refund
1️⃣ Buy tax-free at the counter or request a refund at a designated tax-free counter in the store.
2️⃣ Show your passport with visa and arrival stamp (visa-free tourists don’t need extra documents).
3️⃣ Some stores deduct tax at checkout, while others require you to pay first, then claim a refund at the airport.
📌 TIP: Keep your tax-free receipt attached to your passport—you may need to show it when leaving Japan!
🛄 Luggage Services
See previous Lugggage Services section under Travel Planning.
✈️ Off to Airport for Departure
See previous Getting Around section for transportation options.
Notes:
✅ All information are updated as of December 2024 and I will try to update this as needed. But you may still verify some information from official Japan tourism websites.
✅ This detailed beginner's guide to Japan will always be for FREE! But you can support me and my work by:
1️⃣ Booking through my affiliate links: Hotels via Booking.com and Travel Essentials via Klook. I may earn a commission at no additional cost to you if you book through these links. You can also use my Klook discount code for Klook activities in other countries.
2️⃣ Leaving a tip (scroll down).
3️⃣ Availing any of paid products and services that I offer:
4️⃣ Subscribing to my Thatch account, sharing my travel itineraries and guides here in Thatch or your social media/travel group chats. You can also message, tag or or mention @koreafiles on Instagram if you get to use any of my contents here.
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