Do I need to speak Japanese?

No, but learn basic phrases like arigatou gozaimasu (thank you) and sumimasen (excuse me). Major tourist areas have English signs. Download Google Translate with camera function for menus and signs.

How much cash should I bring?

Japan is still very cash-based. Bring $500-800 in cash and withdraw more from 7-Eleven ATMs (they accept foreign cards). Many restaurants and shops don't take credit cards.

Is the JR Pass worth it?

Yes for first-time visitors doing Tokyo-Kyoto-Osaka. One Tokyo-Kyoto round trip costs $240, so the 14-day pass ($438) pays for itself quickly if you're moving between cities.

What if I'm traveling during cherry blossom season?

Book everything 3-4 months ahead. Crowds are intense but worth it. Peak bloom in Tokyo is usually late March to early April, Kyoto is about 5 days later.

Never tip in Japan. It's considered rude. Excellent service is expected and included in the price.

How to Plan Your First Trip to Japan

Plan 10-14 days covering Tokyo (4-5 days), Kyoto (3-4 days), and one other destination like Osaka or Hiroshima. Book flights 2-3 months ahead, get a 14-day JR Pass, and reserve accommodations early. Budget $150-200 per day including transport, food, and lodging.

Pick your season and book flights. Choose March-May for cherry blossoms or October-November for fall colors. Book flights 2-3 months ahead. Tokyo (NRT/HND) has more flight options than Osaka (KIX). Expect $800-1500 from North America, $400-800 from Europe.
Get your JR Pass before you go. Buy a 14-day JR Pass online for $438. You must purchase before arrival. This covers bullet trains between cities and most local trains. Pick it up at the airport when you land.
Plan your route: Tokyo-Kyoto plus one. First-timers should do Tokyo (4-5 days), Kyoto (3-4 days), plus Osaka (2-3 days) for food or Hiroshima (2 days) for history. This uses your JR Pass efficiently and covers Japan's main experiences.
Book accommodations early. Reserve hotels 1-2 months ahead, especially for cherry blossom season. Budget hotels: $60-80/night. Mid-range: $100-150/night. Try one ryokan (traditional inn) in Kyoto for $200-300/night including dinner.
Download essential apps. Get Google Translate (works with camera for signs), Hyperdia (train schedules), and Google Maps. Download offline Tokyo and Kyoto maps before you go.
Plan 2-3 big experiences per city. Don't overschedule. In Tokyo: Senso-ji Temple, Shibuya Crossing, Tsukiji Outer Market. In Kyoto: Fushimi Inari Shrine, Arashiyama Bamboo Grove, Gion district. Book any special experiences like sumo or kabuki tickets online.

Do I need to speak Japanese?: No, but learn basic phrases like arigatou gozaimasu (thank you) and sumimasen (excuse me). Major tourist areas have English signs. Download Google Translate with camera function for menus and signs.
How much cash should I bring?: Japan is still very cash-based. Bring $500-800 in cash and withdraw more from 7-Eleven ATMs (they accept foreign cards). Many restaurants and shops don't take credit cards.
Is the JR Pass worth it?: Yes for first-time visitors doing Tokyo-Kyoto-Osaka. One Tokyo-Kyoto round trip costs $240, so the 14-day pass ($438) pays for itself quickly if you're moving between cities.
What if I'm traveling during cherry blossom season?: Book everything 3-4 months ahead. Crowds are intense but worth it. Peak bloom in Tokyo is usually late March to early April, Kyoto is about 5 days later.
Should I tip?: Never tip in Japan. It's considered rude. Excellent service is expected and included in the price.