Should I learn Japanese before going?

Not necessary. Learn basic phrases like 'arigatou gozaimasu' (thank you) and 'sumimasen' (excuse me), but Google Translate's camera function handles menus and signs. Many signs in tourist areas have English.

How much cash should I bring?

Bring $500-600 in cash and plan to withdraw more from 7-Eleven ATMs (they accept foreign cards). Many restaurants and shops are still cash-only, especially smaller places.

Is 2 weeks enough time?

Yes, 2 weeks gives you a solid introduction to Japan's main highlights without feeling rushed. You'll see the major cities and get day trips to iconic spots. You can always come back for regions like Hokkaido or Kyushu.

What if I want to include other cities?

Replace some Tokyo or Osaka days with Nikko (from Tokyo) or Takayama (between Tokyo and Kyoto). Don't try to add more than one extra city or you'll spend too much time traveling.

How to Plan a 2-Week Japan Itinerary for First-Time Visitors

Split your 2 weeks between Tokyo (4-5 days), Kyoto (3-4 days), and Osaka (2-3 days), with day trips to Mount Fuji, Nara, and Hiroshima. Book a 14-day JR Pass for $435, fly into Tokyo and out of Osaka, and plan around seasons—avoid Golden Week and Obon unless you book 6 months ahead.

Choose your travel dates carefully. Avoid Golden Week (April 29-May 5), Obon (mid-August), and New Year (Dec 29-Jan 3) unless you book accommodations 6+ months ahead and expect crowds. Best times: March-May for cherry blossoms, September-November for fall colors, December-February for winter illuminations and fewer tourists.
Book flights into Tokyo, out of Osaka. Fly into Narita or Haneda Airport in Tokyo, depart from Kansai Airport in Osaka. This saves you a 3-hour backtrack and costs the same as round-trip Tokyo tickets. Book flights 2-3 months ahead for best prices.
Get your 14-day JR Pass before you go. Order a 14-day JR Pass for $435 from an authorized dealer 4-6 weeks before travel. This covers all JR trains including most shinkansen routes. Pick it up at the airport when you arrive—you'll need your exchange voucher and passport.
Plan your base cities and timeline. Tokyo: 4-5 days (arrive Day 1, explore Days 2-5). Kyoto: 3-4 days (Days 6-9). Osaka: 2-3 days plus departure buffer (Days 10-14). This gives you time for day trips without constantly packing and unpacking.
Book accommodations in central neighborhoods. Tokyo: Shibuya, Shinjuku, or Ginza for easy train access. Kyoto: Near Kyoto Station or Gion district. Osaka: Namba or Umeda areas. Book 2-3 months ahead, especially for business hotels under $100/night which fill up fast.
Schedule your major day trips. From Tokyo: Mount Fuji area (Day 3 or 4). From Kyoto: Nara (half-day, Day 7 or 8). From Osaka: Hiroshima (full day, Day 11 or 12). Book these early in your itinerary when you're less tired.
Download essential apps before you go. Google Translate (camera function works offline), Hyperdia for train schedules, Google Maps works well in Japan. Download offline maps for your phone in case of spotty connection.
Plan around meal times and closures. Many restaurants close between 2-5 PM and on random weekdays. Temples typically close at 5 PM. Department stores close at 8 PM. Plan temple visits for mornings, shopping for afternoons, and have backup dinner plans.

Should I learn Japanese before going?: Not necessary. Learn basic phrases like 'arigatou gozaimasu' (thank you) and 'sumimasen' (excuse me), but Google Translate's camera function handles menus and signs. Many signs in tourist areas have English.
How much cash should I bring?: Bring $500-600 in cash and plan to withdraw more from 7-Eleven ATMs (they accept foreign cards). Many restaurants and shops are still cash-only, especially smaller places.
Is 2 weeks enough time?: Yes, 2 weeks gives you a solid introduction to Japan's main highlights without feeling rushed. You'll see the major cities and get day trips to iconic spots. You can always come back for regions like Hokkaido or Kyushu.
What if I want to include other cities?: Replace some Tokyo or Osaka days with Nikko (from Tokyo) or Takayama (between Tokyo and Kyoto). Don't try to add more than one extra city or you'll spend too much time traveling.