As part of our website, we have an active Facebook community with over 700,000 members. It’s a place to share your love for Japan, find useful tips for your next trip and ask questions.
To avoid the group from getting the same questions over and over again, I’ve put together this handy FAQ. Having been running the group since the start of 2022, I’ve seen a lot of similar questions and problems travellers struggle with, so hopefully this will give you some clearance.
If the answers below don’t clear everything up, or you have any additional questions, feel free to post your questions in the group. I will get to you as soon as possible, along with thousands of other helpful Japan enthusiasts.
Happy travelling!
Join the Japan Travel Facebook Group here
FAQ Overview
Generally, Spring (end of March – beginning of May) and Autumn (October – November) are the best times to visit Japan. In Spring, you’ll be able to enjoy the cherry blossoms, while in Autumn, the autumn foliage will be just as beautiful. Autumn does tend to be a bit cheaper and less busy compared to Spring, so that’s worth keeping in mind.
Golden Week usually falls at the end of April/start of May and is a very busy period, which is also best to avoid.
Obviously, if you’re travelling to Japan for other reasons, like going skiing, different months may work better. Keep in mind that Summers in Japan are very hot and humid, and are best avoided.
Japan is a large country, so weather and temperatures vary greatly depending on where you’re planning to visit. To get a good idea of the weather during the month you’re planning to visit, use a website such as Accu Weather. On this site, you can type in the destination and even check the average temperatures, rainfall and sun hours per month.
Before bringing medication to Japan with you, please check if you’re allowed to take your type of medication with you. Some medication is banned in Japan, including some ADHD meds (such as Adderall and Dexedrine).
For most medications, however, you’re allowed to bring a personal supply. Usually, this is a one-month supply for prescription medicine and a two-month supply for non-prescription medicine. If you want to bring more, you have to apply for a Yunyu Kakunin-sho – you may need to show this certificate at customs.
For more information on how to apply for a Yunyu Kakunin-sho or to check what medications you’re allowed to bring (and how much), check the following websites (https://en.japantravel.com/guide/bringing-medicines-into-japan/ & https://www.mhlw.go.jp/english/policy/health-medical/pharmaceuticals/01.html) AND/OR check with your embassy.
This completely depends on how many other planes are landing around the same time, what day and time you arrive, so it’s hard to predict. Normally, you can get through security within 30 minutes – 2 hours.
No, you should never wear a bathing suit in an onsen. Even if you rent out a private bath, bathing suits are not allowed.
No, public WiFi isn’t widely available in Japan. But even when it is available, you should always be wary when using free public WiFi without a proper VPN. Getting a Pocket WiFi or eSIM when travelling in Japan is a cheap solution to having access to the Internet at all times – it’s a MUST, especially when using Google Maps and Google Translate to make your way around Japan.
Both Pocket WiFi and eSIMs are great solutions to gain Internet access in Japan. Which one is better depends on your personal preferences. An individual might find an eSIM more cost-effective, but if you’re travelling as a family, paying for one Pocket WiFi could save you money.
We do! You can use the following codes for a discount on Pocket WiFi:
Downloading Google Maps and adding your Suica card to your phone wallet is essential. Check out our full guide with the best apps for travelling in Japan for some more useful downloads.
The best way to get started planning a trip to Japan is to figure out your list of absolute must-do’s while you’re there. You can start by checking out our list of the best things to do in Japan and our Japan itineraries. You can copy our itineraries for free.
We also have guides for the big cities on accommodation that take into account options for different types of travellers (solo, couple, family), budget, and also location to public transport.
Once you’re at the point where you know what cities you want to visit and how long you want to spend in each one, the rest of it pretty much takes care of itself! But feel free to always ask anything in our Facebook Group you might be worried about! We’re here to help.
We highly recommend planning your own trip and using our group and website as a resource to make it happen! It might feel a bit scary at first, but you will save so much money (or be able to spend a bit more on the things you’d REALLY love to do to make it special) by booking everything yourself. We’ve seen people save thousands of pounds by avoiding travel agencies!
To start, I suggest taking a look at our itineraries and “things to do in Japan” guide as inspiration. You can compare it to the list you’ve already made of things you’d like to do. You can use and copy our itineraries for free and use our accommodation guides to book the right hotels for your trip without overpaying.
We’re always happy to take a look at your planned itinerary if you post it in our Facebook Group. However, please have a rough plan when you post it. To get started, take a look at our pre-planned itineraries for first-time visitors – they’re free to copy and include day-to-day plans, walking routes, accommodation recommendations and more.
Obviously, this will differ depending on the person and your spending habits, but a good rule of thumb is to count around 10.000 yen per person per day.
The Japan Rail Pass (JR Pass) can be a great money saver, as it allows you to take unlimited train rides on the JR lines in Japan. However, the prices of these passes have increased significantly in October 2023. Since the price increase, most people travelling to Japan will be better off buying individual train tickets or regional passes instead of the JR Pass.
The best way to figure out whether or not the pass is worth it for your trip is by using a JR Pass Calculator. Simply add your itinerary to this calculator and it will add up the prices of individual tickets to show you whether or not the pass could save you money.
If the JR Pass isn’t a good idea for your trip, you could buy individual tickets for the Shinkansen instead. The easiest way to do so is to buy them from the train station in Japan on the day of your journey. You can do so at the ticket machine, which has English options, or at the ticket desk with a member of staff.
If you want to pre-book tickets, however, you can use websites like Klook or SmartEX to buy your tickets in advance. This usually isn’t necessary (unless you’re travelling during peak times like Golden Week).
Yes, you can take most luggage on the Shinkansen with you. However, oversized bags may require a reservation.
Bags that are between 161 and 250 cm (when adding up the length, width and height) require a reservation, which you can do at the station, the JR office or online. Simply let the member of staff know you’d like to bring a large bag with you, or select the “seat with an oversized baggage area” when booking online.
Bags that exceed 250 cm (when adding up the length, width and height), are not allowed to be brought on the Shinkansen with you. You can find more information about this on the official JR website.
Suica, PASMO and ICOCA are all different types of IC cards. These are rechargeable cards used to pay for public transport, including metros, busses and trains. You use them to tap in and out at the stations and it will automatically take the correct fare.
They can also be used for vending machines and some stores (including convenience stores).
These are virtually the same, just with a different name. The name will differ depending on where you buy the pass – in Tokyo, you’ll find Suica and Pasmo, for example. It doesn’t matter which one you get, as you’ll be able to use them throughout Japan (apart from Okinawa).
Every traveller will need their own Suica card, you can’t share them. Children need their own child Suica, which has different fees than the regular one. More information can be found through this link.
If you’re using iPhone, you don’t need to download an app. You can simply add the Suica (or PASMO etc) to your Apple Wallet as a transport card. You don’t need a physical card for this, and you can top the digital card up straight through your other cards in your Apple Wallet. Unfortunately, this is not an option on other phones yet.
We have comprehensive guides on the best areas in most major Japanese cities, along with our favourite hotel and ryokan picks. Before asking the Facebook Group, take a look at the guides below (we regularly update them!):
If you’re booking your own trip (without a travel agency), you can use the following sites to safely book your hotels:
There are other trustworthy websites, of course, but the ones mentioned above are the ones I use. You can also consider checking out an Airbnb in Japan, which could be a good option if you’re staying somewhere for a longer period.
It’s important to book your hotels in advance. However, keep in mind that some hotels in Japan don’t open up reservations until 3–6 months before the dates.
Similarly to hotels, Airbnbs are required by law to get this information. It’s a legal requirement. At hotels, you’ll have to show your passport at check-in for a copy. As some Airbnbs are self check-in, you’ll have to provide this information online beforehand.
To avoid the group from getting the same questions over and over again, I’ve put together this handy FAQ. Having been running the group since the start of 2022, I’ve seen a lot of similar questions and problems travellers struggle with, so hopefully this will give you some clearance.
If the answers below don’t clear everything up, or you have any additional questions, feel free to post your questions in the group. I will get to you as soon as possible, along with thousands of other helpful Japan enthusiasts.
Happy travelling!
Join the Japan Travel Facebook Group here
FAQ Overview
- Transportation in Japan
- Do I need a Japan Rail Pass? Is it worth it for my trip?
- How to book Shinkansen (Bullet Train) tickets?
- Can I take my luggage with me on the Shinkansen?
- What is Suica/PASMO/ICOCA/IC card?
- Which IC card is better? Suica, Pasmo or ICOCA?
- Can I use one Suica card for my family or do we all need one each?
- My Suica app is in Japanese, how do I change it?
General Japan Travel Questions
What’s the best time to visit Japan?
Generally, Spring (end of March – beginning of May) and Autumn (October – November) are the best times to visit Japan. In Spring, you’ll be able to enjoy the cherry blossoms, while in Autumn, the autumn foliage will be just as beautiful. Autumn does tend to be a bit cheaper and less busy compared to Spring, so that’s worth keeping in mind.
Golden Week usually falls at the end of April/start of May and is a very busy period, which is also best to avoid.
Obviously, if you’re travelling to Japan for other reasons, like going skiing, different months may work better. Keep in mind that Summers in Japan are very hot and humid, and are best avoided.
What’s the weather like in X month? What should I wear?
Japan is a large country, so weather and temperatures vary greatly depending on where you’re planning to visit. To get a good idea of the weather during the month you’re planning to visit, use a website such as Accu Weather. On this site, you can type in the destination and even check the average temperatures, rainfall and sun hours per month.
Can I bring X medication to Japan with me?
Before bringing medication to Japan with you, please check if you’re allowed to take your type of medication with you. Some medication is banned in Japan, including some ADHD meds (such as Adderall and Dexedrine).
For most medications, however, you’re allowed to bring a personal supply. Usually, this is a one-month supply for prescription medicine and a two-month supply for non-prescription medicine. If you want to bring more, you have to apply for a Yunyu Kakunin-sho – you may need to show this certificate at customs.
For more information on how to apply for a Yunyu Kakunin-sho or to check what medications you’re allowed to bring (and how much), check the following websites (https://en.japantravel.com/guide/bringing-medicines-into-japan/ & https://www.mhlw.go.jp/english/policy/health-medical/pharmaceuticals/01.html) AND/OR check with your embassy.
How long is the immigration line at x airport?
This completely depends on how many other planes are landing around the same time, what day and time you arrive, so it’s hard to predict. Normally, you can get through security within 30 minutes – 2 hours.
Can I wear a bathing suit in an onsen?
No, you should never wear a bathing suit in an onsen. Even if you rent out a private bath, bathing suits are not allowed.
Phone and Internet Access in Japan
Can you rely on public WiFi in Japan?
No, public WiFi isn’t widely available in Japan. But even when it is available, you should always be wary when using free public WiFi without a proper VPN. Getting a Pocket WiFi or eSIM when travelling in Japan is a cheap solution to having access to the Internet at all times – it’s a MUST, especially when using Google Maps and Google Translate to make your way around Japan.
Is Pocket WiFi or an eSIM better in Japan?
Both Pocket WiFi and eSIMs are great solutions to gain Internet access in Japan. Which one is better depends on your personal preferences. An individual might find an eSIM more cost-effective, but if you’re travelling as a family, paying for one Pocket WiFi could save you money.
Do you have a discount for Pocket WiFi or eSIM?
We do! You can use the following codes for a discount on Pocket WiFi:
What essential apps do I need to download before travelling to Japan?
Downloading Google Maps and adding your Suica card to your phone wallet is essential. Check out our full guide with the best apps for travelling in Japan for some more useful downloads.
Planning Your Trip & Japan Itinerary
How do I start planning a trip to Japan?
The best way to get started planning a trip to Japan is to figure out your list of absolute must-do’s while you’re there. You can start by checking out our list of the best things to do in Japan and our Japan itineraries. You can copy our itineraries for free.
We also have guides for the big cities on accommodation that take into account options for different types of travellers (solo, couple, family), budget, and also location to public transport.
Once you’re at the point where you know what cities you want to visit and how long you want to spend in each one, the rest of it pretty much takes care of itself! But feel free to always ask anything in our Facebook Group you might be worried about! We’re here to help.
Should I use a travel agency or plan my own Japan trip?
We highly recommend planning your own trip and using our group and website as a resource to make it happen! It might feel a bit scary at first, but you will save so much money (or be able to spend a bit more on the things you’d REALLY love to do to make it special) by booking everything yourself. We’ve seen people save thousands of pounds by avoiding travel agencies!
To start, I suggest taking a look at our itineraries and “things to do in Japan” guide as inspiration. You can compare it to the list you’ve already made of things you’d like to do. You can use and copy our itineraries for free and use our accommodation guides to book the right hotels for your trip without overpaying.
I need help with my itinerary
We’re always happy to take a look at your planned itinerary if you post it in our Facebook Group. However, please have a rough plan when you post it. To get started, take a look at our pre-planned itineraries for first-time visitors – they’re free to copy and include day-to-day plans, walking routes, accommodation recommendations and more.
How much spending money do I need for shopping, food and activities?
Obviously, this will differ depending on the person and your spending habits, but a good rule of thumb is to count around 10.000 yen per person per day.
Transportation in Japan
Do I need a Japan Rail Pass? Is it worth it for my trip?
The Japan Rail Pass (JR Pass) can be a great money saver, as it allows you to take unlimited train rides on the JR lines in Japan. However, the prices of these passes have increased significantly in October 2023. Since the price increase, most people travelling to Japan will be better off buying individual train tickets or regional passes instead of the JR Pass.
The best way to figure out whether or not the pass is worth it for your trip is by using a JR Pass Calculator. Simply add your itinerary to this calculator and it will add up the prices of individual tickets to show you whether or not the pass could save you money.
How to book Shinkansen (Bullet Train) tickets?
If the JR Pass isn’t a good idea for your trip, you could buy individual tickets for the Shinkansen instead. The easiest way to do so is to buy them from the train station in Japan on the day of your journey. You can do so at the ticket machine, which has English options, or at the ticket desk with a member of staff.
If you want to pre-book tickets, however, you can use websites like Klook or SmartEX to buy your tickets in advance. This usually isn’t necessary (unless you’re travelling during peak times like Golden Week).
Can I take my luggage with me on the Shinkansen?
Yes, you can take most luggage on the Shinkansen with you. However, oversized bags may require a reservation.
Bags that are between 161 and 250 cm (when adding up the length, width and height) require a reservation, which you can do at the station, the JR office or online. Simply let the member of staff know you’d like to bring a large bag with you, or select the “seat with an oversized baggage area” when booking online.
Bags that exceed 250 cm (when adding up the length, width and height), are not allowed to be brought on the Shinkansen with you. You can find more information about this on the official JR website.
What is Suica/PASMO/ICOCA/IC card?
Suica, PASMO and ICOCA are all different types of IC cards. These are rechargeable cards used to pay for public transport, including metros, busses and trains. You use them to tap in and out at the stations and it will automatically take the correct fare.
They can also be used for vending machines and some stores (including convenience stores).
Which IC card is better? Suica, Pasmo or ICOCA?
These are virtually the same, just with a different name. The name will differ depending on where you buy the pass – in Tokyo, you’ll find Suica and Pasmo, for example. It doesn’t matter which one you get, as you’ll be able to use them throughout Japan (apart from Okinawa).
Can I use one Suica card for my family or do we all need one each?
Every traveller will need their own Suica card, you can’t share them. Children need their own child Suica, which has different fees than the regular one. More information can be found through this link.
My Suica app is in Japanese, how do I change it?
If you’re using iPhone, you don’t need to download an app. You can simply add the Suica (or PASMO etc) to your Apple Wallet as a transport card. You don’t need a physical card for this, and you can top the digital card up straight through your other cards in your Apple Wallet. Unfortunately, this is not an option on other phones yet.
Accommodation/Hotels in Japan
I’m looking for hotels in x city, any recommendations?
We have comprehensive guides on the best areas in most major Japanese cities, along with our favourite hotel and ryokan picks. Before asking the Facebook Group, take a look at the guides below (we regularly update them!):
- Where to stay in Tokyo
- Where to stay in Kyoto
- Where to stay in Osaka
- Where to stay in Nara
- Where to stay in Hakone
- Best Mount Fuji hotels (with private onsen)
- Best ryokans in Nikko
- Best ryokans in Tokyo.
What websites are legit/safe for booking hotels in Japan?
If you’re booking your own trip (without a travel agency), you can use the following sites to safely book your hotels:
- Booking.com
- Hotels.com
- Agoda.com
- Expedia.com.
There are other trustworthy websites, of course, but the ones mentioned above are the ones I use. You can also consider checking out an Airbnb in Japan, which could be a good option if you’re staying somewhere for a longer period.
How far in advance should I book my hotels?
It’s important to book your hotels in advance. However, keep in mind that some hotels in Japan don’t open up reservations until 3–6 months before the dates.
My Airbnb is asking for a picture/copy of my passport /upload guest information, is this normal?
Similarly to hotels, Airbnbs are required by law to get this information. It’s a legal requirement. At hotels, you’ll have to show your passport at check-in for a copy. As some Airbnbs are self check-in, you’ll have to provide this information online beforehand.