Should I learn Japanese before going?

Not necessary but helpful. Download Google Translate with camera function. Learn basic phrases: arigatou gozaimasu (thank you), sumimasen (excuse me), eigo ga wakarimasu ka (do you speak English). Most signs in Tokyo have English.

How much cash should I carry?

Japan is still very cash-based. Carry $200-300 USD equivalent in yen at all times. Get cash from 7-Eleven ATMs - they work with foreign cards and are everywhere. Many restaurants and smaller shops only take cash.

Is the JR Pass worth it for 2 weeks?

Yes, absolutely. Tokyo to Kyoto costs $120 each way without the pass. Add local JR trains and you'll save $300-400 minimum. The 14-day pass pays for itself with just a few long-distance trips.

Can I see Mount Fuji climbing season?

Climbing season is July-early September only. Outside this window, you can view Fuji from Hakone, Lake Kawaguchi, or on clear days from Tokyo. The mountain is often cloudy - don't make it your only plan.

How far ahead should I book accommodation?

Book immediately, especially for Kyoto and if traveling March-May (cherry blossom season). Good hotels fill up 2-3 months ahead. Budget options fill up 1 month ahead. Don't wait.

How to plan 2 weeks in Japan

Two weeks in Japan gives you time to see Tokyo, Kyoto, Osaka, and one additional region like Mount Fuji or Hiroshima. Book your JR Pass before arrival, reserve accommodation early (especially in Kyoto), and plan a mix of cities, temples, and cultural experiences. Expect to spend $150-200 per day including accommodation.

Get your JR Pass sorted first. Order a 14-day JR Pass online before you travel ($438). This covers all JR trains including most shinkansen. You'll pick it up at the airport. Without it, Tokyo to Kyoto alone costs $120 each way.
Book accommodation immediately. Japan fills up fast. Book Tokyo (4-5 nights), Kyoto (4-5 nights), and your third destination (3-4 nights) now. Capsule hotels run $40-60, business hotels $80-120, ryokans $150-300. Shibuya or Shinjuku work well for Tokyo base.
Plan your route geographically. Fly into Tokyo, train to Kyoto/Osaka, then either north to Mount Fuji/Hakone or south to Hiroshima/Miyajima. This minimizes backtracking. Don't try to see everything - three regions maximum for 14 days.
Reserve key experiences now. Book teamLab Borderless or Planets tickets online (sells out weeks ahead). Reserve one kaiseki dinner in Kyoto. Book Universal Studios Japan tickets if you're going to Osaka. Everything else you can do walk-up.
Download essential apps. Get Google Translate with camera function, Hyperdia for train times, and Google Maps (works offline). Download a pocket WiFi rental confirmation or buy a SIM card that ships to your hotel.
Plan your daily rhythm. Start early (temples open at 6 AM with no crowds), eat lunch by 12 PM, have afternoon plans, and book dinner reservations. Many restaurants close between 3-5 PM. Convenience stores stay open 24/7 for backup food.

Should I learn Japanese before going?: Not necessary but helpful. Download Google Translate with camera function. Learn basic phrases: arigatou gozaimasu (thank you), sumimasen (excuse me), eigo ga wakarimasu ka (do you speak English). Most signs in Tokyo have English.
How much cash should I carry?: Japan is still very cash-based. Carry $200-300 USD equivalent in yen at all times. Get cash from 7-Eleven ATMs - they work with foreign cards and are everywhere. Many restaurants and smaller shops only take cash.
Is the JR Pass worth it for 2 weeks?: Yes, absolutely. Tokyo to Kyoto costs $120 each way without the pass. Add local JR trains and you'll save $300-400 minimum. The 14-day pass pays for itself with just a few long-distance trips.
Can I see Mount Fuji climbing season?: Climbing season is July-early September only. Outside this window, you can view Fuji from Hakone, Lake Kawaguchi, or on clear days from Tokyo. The mountain is often cloudy - don't make it your only plan.
How far ahead should I book accommodation?: Book immediately, especially for Kyoto and if traveling March-May (cherry blossom season). Good hotels fill up 2-3 months ahead. Budget options fill up 1 month ahead. Don't wait.