Japan

Japan is one of our favourite countries in the world—it truly is like nowhere else. We love the quirkiness, the efficiency, the ease of travel, the ultra-polite people, and the amazing food (yes, even for vegetarians!). 

We’ve visited Japan four times (and will be returning!). Below you can read all our tips including our recommended places to visit in Japan, the best things to do in Japan, two week itinerary, tips for planning a trip, vegetarian survival guide, and lots more useful advice.

Don’t miss our detailed guides to the best things to do in Kyoto and Tokyo—the top two destinations in Japan and both very different.

We highly recommend purchasing a Japan Rail Pass to save money on the bullet trains. Read our post on whether a Japan Rail Pass is worth it for everything you need to know. 

Orchids in the Floating Flower Garden at TeamLab Planets in Tokyo.

TeamLab Planets Review: Is It Worth It?

Our review of this digital art museum in Tokyo plus tips on visiting.

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2 November, 2024
Eikando Temple pond in Kyoto in autumn

Kyoto in Autumn: 10 Stunning Fall Foliage Spots

Our favourite temples and gardens to visit in Kyoto in autumn plus when to expect peak foliage.

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1 November, 2024
Garden view suite at Ryokan Yachiyo, one of the top places to stay in Kyoto Japan.

Where to Stay in Kyoto: Recommended Hotels and Areas

Wondering where to stay in Kyoto? Here are our favourite areas and hotels in this beautiful city.

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11 August, 2024
Mossy garden, pond and red maple trees at Saihoji aka Kokedera or Kyoto Moss Temple.

Visiting Saihoji, the Stunning Kyoto Moss Temple

Tips for visiting our favourite temple garden in Kyoto.

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25 July, 2024
The mosaic central staircase at Ghibli's Grand Warehouse in Ghibli Park Japan.

Ghibli Park Review: Ultimate Guide to Tickets, Attractions and More

Our guide to the best attractions and top tips for Ghibli Park in Nagoya Japan.

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22 July, 2024
Review of Monk Kyoto Restaurant. Monk kitchen with soup bowls decorated with autumn leaves.

Monk Kyoto Review: How To Get a Reservation & Is It Worth It?

Top tips for booking Monk Restaurant, one of the hardest reservations to get in Kyoto.

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6 July, 2024
Zesty vegan ramen at Kyoto Engine Ramen

20 Best Vegan and Vegetarian Restaurants in Kyoto

Our updated guide to the best vegetarian and vegan food in Kyoto, Japan.

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2 November, 2024
Hogwarts Castle reflected in the lake at The Wizarding World of Harry Potter at Universal Studios Japan in Osaka

14 Best Universal Studios Japan Rides for Adults

Our updated guide to the best rides and top tips for Universal Studios Japan in Osaka.

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22 July, 2024
A guide to whether a Japan rail pass is worth it.

Is a Japan Rail Pass Worth It? (2024 Update After Cost Increase)

Our updated guide with everything you need to know about using a Japan Rail Pass and if it's worth it after the price increase.

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23 January, 2024
Kinkakuji, the Golden temple Kyoto, one of the best places to visit in Japan.

16 Unmissable Places to Visit in Japan in 2024

Our favourite places in weird and wonderful Japan.

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2 November, 2024

Planning a Trip to Japan: DOs & DON’Ts (2024)

Our best tips to help you plan an amazing trip to Japan.

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2 November, 2024
20 books about Japan to read before you visit

20 Fascinating Books About Japan to Read Before You Visit

Learn about Japan before you visit with these novels, memoirs and non-fiction books.

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17 January, 2024