Is the Japan Rail Pass worth it?

Since the 2023 price increase, it is usually cheaper to buy individual tickets unless you are traveling long distances every single day.

Do I need to tip in restaurants?

No. Tipping is not practiced in Japan and can be seen as confusing or rude.

Use 7-Eleven or Lawson ATMs. They accept most international debit cards and are the most reliable way to get cash.

Planning a Two-Week Japan Trip for Two

Spend your first 5 days in Tokyo, 4 days in Kyoto with a day trip to Nara, 2 days in Osaka, and 3 days in Hiroshima or the Hakone mountains. Purchase a 14-day JR Pass only if your total regional travel exceeds 50,000 JPY; otherwise, buy individual Shinkansen tickets via the SmartEX app.

Map out your 'Golden Route' loop. Fly into Tokyo (NRT or HND) and out of Osaka (KIX) to save a full day of backtracking. You will cover the essential Tokyo-Kyoto-Osaka corridor effectively in 14 days.
Book your JR Pass or point-to-point tickets. Use the JR Fare Calculator website to check if a 14-day pass is worth it. Since the price hike, most travelers are better off buying individual tickets for the Shinkansen using the SmartEX app.
Reserve pocket Wi-Fi or eSIMs. Don't rely on hotel Wi-Fi. Order a pocket Wi-Fi device to pick up at the airport or buy an Airalo eSIM before you land. You will need constant GPS for train navigation.
Make dining reservations. If you want to visit popular sushi spots or high-end Kaiseki dinners, book through TableCheck or Omakase.in at least 4 weeks out.

Is the Japan Rail Pass worth it?: Since the 2023 price increase, it is usually cheaper to buy individual tickets unless you are traveling long distances every single day.
Do I need to tip in restaurants?: No. Tipping is not practiced in Japan and can be seen as confusing or rude.
How do I get money?: Use 7-Eleven or Lawson ATMs. They accept most international debit cards and are the most reliable way to get cash.