This guide isn’t a "Top 10 Places to Visit in Japan." It’s designed to help you actually do the trip — without the overwhelm, the second-guessing or the common pitfalls that first-time travelers run into.

Planning a trip to Japan can feel overwhelming. Find out how working with a a Japan travel specialist makes your trip smoother, richer & more personalized.

Among the hundreds of Michelin-starred restaurants in Japan, many specialize in ramen. Ichiran is not one of those restaurants. How does Ichiran stack up to local ramen shops in Japan? Find out!

Etiquette in Japan isn't about following a strict set of rules. It's about being aware, being respectful and being open to new experiences... that turn a good trip into an unforgettable one.

Travel light! But if you can’t, a useful servicein Japan is luggage delivery, also known as baggage forwarding (takkyubin/対面便). It lets you send bags ahead to the next hotel. Find out more.

As we step into the second quarter of 2025, Japan's travel scene continues to evolve, offering both exciting opportunities and new challenges for visitors. Check out our rundown of the latest developments shaping the experience of traveling to Japan.

When you work in travel and tourism, you get to experience the world through their eyes. It keeps travel fresh for us, even in a country we know deeply. Some might call it “living vicariously” – though we see it as a way to keep our own sense of wonder alive.

When planning a trip to Japan, one of the biggest logistical decisions travelers face is whether to stay in one or two hotels as a “home base” or to move around and stay in different locations throughout the trip. 

Restaurant booking in Japan has become increasingly essential – even for many mid-range and casual dining spots. Get everything you need to know about Japan restaurant reservations, from why it’s necessary to how to book successfully.

With rugged mountain trails, intricate coastal routes, a vast array of topography and climate variation, Japan offers a ton of fun adventures that go far beyond typical tourist experiences

Right next to Tokyo is Japan's second-largest city: Yokohama. It offers a refreshing counterpoint to Tokyo's frenetic energy. If you’re looking to get a day trip from Tokyo, or better yet stay here a night or more, you’ll be rewarded by visiting a major Japanese city that’s got its own distinct character.

If you’re traveling to Japan from the US, you’re in for an incredible adventure. Amazing cities, a beautiful countryside, massive depth of culture & history, and great eats! Find out how to make the most of your Japan trip.

Japan’s UNESCO World Heritage Sites span centuries of history & showcase its depth of cultural relevance. Including these sites into a cultural tour of Japan makes for a great journey, ensuring you experience the most historically & culturally significant aspects of Japan.

If you’re visiting Japan (particularly the Tokyo region) and want some relaxation and natural beauty during your Japan journeys, Hakone onsens are calling you. They provide a counterbalance to the urban energy of Tokyo, and a great oasis on an active itinerary (often featured along the way to Kyoto, Osaka and further afield.

While Japan is known for its world-class hospitality and efficient service, accommodation choices can significantly impact your overall experience. We break down the pros and cons of both hotels and Airbnb in Japan to help you make an informed decision.

We’ve put together this no-nonsense guide to cut through the hype and reveal the top attractions in Tokyo worth your precious vacation days, while steering you clear of the disappointments that might otherwise eat up your precious time.

Many of Japan’s regional trains are about more than getting from point A to point B. In fact, Japan’s got some of the most scenic and memorable train routes in the world.  From luxury trains in southern Japan to Pokemon trains in the north, with a whole lot of rail adventures in between. Find out more!

Want an early check-in for your hotel in Japan? Even when rooms are available, many Japanese hotels will insist on sticking to the official check-in time. Find out about the odds & ways of getting that hotel early check-in (or late check-out) when traveling in Japan.

There’s never a bad time to visit Japan. But some spots on the travel calendar definitely present more challenges than others. Find out more bout certain seasonal factors that could impact your experience in this fascinating land.

If you’re visiting Japan and want to get off the Golden Route (Tokyo/Kyoto/Osaka), Nagasaki is a great place to include in your itinerary. Discover why Nagasaki is about much more than its tragic history, and why you should visit.