Can I extend my 90-day tourist visa?

Extensions are possible but rare and not guaranteed. You need compelling reasons like medical emergency or natural disaster. Don't count on getting one.

Is it cheaper to stay in one place or move around?

Moving around costs more due to transport and booking fees, but staying in one place for months isn't really tourism. Most long-term travelers find 1-2 weeks per location works well.

How much Japanese do I need to know?

None required, but basic phrases help enormously. Download Google Translate with camera function - it can translate signs in real time.

Should I rent an apartment for long stays?

Monthly apartments require significant deposits and paperwork. Stick with hotels, hostels, or short-term rentals unless staying 2+ months in one city.

How to Plan Long-Term Travel in Japan

Long-term Japan travel requires a tourist visa (90 days max), budget of $80-120 per day, and careful timing around seasons. Book accommodation in advance for popular periods, learn basic Japanese phrases, and plan your route around JR Pass validity if staying 2-3 weeks.

Decide your duration and visa strategy. Most travelers get 90 days visa-free. If you want longer, you'll need a different visa type. Plan your trip length around this 90-day limit - many people do 6-8 weeks to leave buffer time.
Choose your seasons carefully. Cherry blossom season (late March-early May) and autumn leaves (October-November) are beautiful but crowded and expensive. Consider winter (December-February) for fewer crowds and better deals, or summer if you can handle humidity.
Map out your regions. Don't try to see everything. Choose 3-4 regions max for a 6-8 week trip. Popular combinations: Tokyo area + Kansai (Kyoto/Osaka) + one other region like Hiroshima or northern Japan.
Book your first week of accommodation. Book your first 7-10 days in advance, especially if arriving during peak seasons. After that, you can book as you go - Japan has excellent last-minute accommodation options.
Get a JR Pass if staying 2+ weeks. The 21-day JR Pass costs $438 and pays for itself with just a few long-distance trips. Buy it before you arrive - you cannot purchase it in Japan.
Learn essential Japanese phrases. Download a translation app and learn: arigatou gozaimasu (thank you), sumimasen (excuse me), eigo o hanashimasu ka (do you speak English), and how to say you don't speak Japanese.
Set up money access. Japan is still largely cash-based. Get a debit card with no foreign transaction fees. 7-Eleven ATMs accept foreign cards and are everywhere.

Can I extend my 90-day tourist visa?: Extensions are possible but rare and not guaranteed. You need compelling reasons like medical emergency or natural disaster. Don't count on getting one.
Is it cheaper to stay in one place or move around?: Moving around costs more due to transport and booking fees, but staying in one place for months isn't really tourism. Most long-term travelers find 1-2 weeks per location works well.
How much Japanese do I need to know?: None required, but basic phrases help enormously. Download Google Translate with camera function - it can translate signs in real time.
Should I rent an apartment for long stays?: Monthly apartments require significant deposits and paperwork. Stick with hotels, hostels, or short-term rentals unless staying 2+ months in one city.