Why visit
Japan balances neon-dense Tokyo, temple Kyoto, Osaka food alleys, Hiroshima peace memorials, and the rural snow country with remarkably punctual infrastructure. A two-week first trip writes itself.
Country · Asia
Japan
culturefoodcityhistorynature
At a glance
Location
36.0°, 138.0°
Coast
Has coastline
Country area
377,930 km²
145,920 mi²
Country population
123.3 million
326/km²
Subregion
Eastern Asia
Currency
Japanese yen (¥)
JPY
Dial
+81
Language
Japanese
Demonym
Japanese
Internet
.jp
UN
Member state
ISO code
JP / JPN
Where in the world
36.0° · 138.0°
Japan
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Did you know
- Japan has 6,852 islands: only 430 are inhabited.
- There are more vending machines per person in Japan (1 per 23 people) than anywhere else on earth.
- Mount Fuji last erupted in 1707: it is still classified as an active volcano.
- The Shinkansen (bullet train) has never had a fatal accident due to derailment or collision in over 60 years of operation.
Traveler notes
- JR Pass makes 5-city trips efficient
- Visa-free for most Western passports
- Cherry blossom late March–early April; autumn leaves mid-November
Plan checks
- Start research with the capital Tokyo, then compare two or three other regions.
- Check passport validity, visa rules, health requirements, and travel insurance for current conditions.
- Reserve top restaurants 2–4 weeks out and plan two standout meals per city.
- Check opening days. Major sites close on Mondays or Tuesdays in many countries.
Signature travel cities in Japan
Kyoto
Kyoto is 1,600 Buddhist temples, 400 Shinto shrines, Arashiyama bamboo, Gion's geisha district, and a food culture that defined Japanese cuisine.
Osaka
Osaka is Japan's food capital. Takoyaki, okonomiyaki, kushikatsu. And Dotonbori's neon at night. Plus Osaka Castle and an easy day-trip to Nara.
Hiroshima
Hiroshima is the Peace Memorial Park and Genbaku Dome, a rebuilt city with okonomiyaki variants, and the torii-in-water at Miyajima's Itsukushima Shrine.
Explore more
Frequently asked about Japan
What is the capital of Japan?
Tokyo is the capital of Japan.
What currency does Japan use?
Japan uses the Japanese yen (¥), ISO code JPY.
What languages are spoken in Japan?
The primary language is Japanese.
Is Japan landlocked?
No, Japan has a coastline.
What is the international calling code for Japan?
The calling code is +81.
When is the best time to visit Japan?
Mar–May (sakura), Oct–Nov (kōyō). Check current weather and local events before booking.
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