Japan Travel Guides

Traveling to Japan can be overwhelming with so much to discover throughout the country. Top cities to visit include the bustling and modern Tokyo compared to the traditional Kyoto. Cities like Osaka, Hiroshima, and Kanazawa are top places to visit as well.

I’m sharing tips for traveling to Japan from cities guides to what it’s like traveler as an English speaking foreigner in Japan (p.s. it’s harder than you might think!). And all the mistakes you want to avoid your first time in Japan.

To make the most of planning your trip to Japan, check out my digital and printable Japan travel guide to stay even more organized!

a black and white graphic of japan skyline, from the buildings of tokyo, to the old Japanese palaces and pagodas in Kyoto to the red torii gate, adding a pop of colour, and finally the larger than life snow capped mount fuji in the background with the moon behind it.

Japan Travel Guides

Japan Travel Guide

a view of Mount Fuji from a across a lake and buildings on the other side blocking the bottom of the volcano. There are clouds still blocking the mid section of the mountain, but you can still see the top of the volcano. It's summer time so there's no snow cap at the top. In the foreground, a hand pops in from the bottom left, holding a mini booklet japan travel guide. It says Japan, Tokyo, Kyoto, Osaka, Hiroshima & Kanazawa with a black and white skyline icon of japan on the bottom

Use it digitally on your phone to check off top attractions as you do them. Or print it out in one of three size formats.

17 pages including:

  • Japan at a Glance: with tips for travelling to Japan, iconic experiences, and cities to visit
  • Packing list for Japan
  • Two week itinerary map (graphic)
  • City checklists for: Kanazawa, Kyoto, Osaka, Hiroshima & Tokyo
  • Day trip ideas from Tokyo & Kyoto
  • Souvenirs to buy in Japan checklist!
  • Popular food to try in Japan checklist (with iconic food experiences, desserts & tea)
  • Additional notes, to write travel info or favourite memories you don’t want to forget!

Shop Japan Travel Planner on Etsy

My Hotel Recommendations Throughout Japan

Tokyo Hotels

I stayed at the Mitsui Garden Hotel Ginza Premier. I chose it because it was slightly larger than most hotels in Tokyo, and it was the same price. It isn’t in any major neighbourhood, but it was a quick walk to either the JR line or the subway.

Alternatively, if you’re looking at staying in one of the happening neighbourhoods, I had booked the Hotel Gracery in Shinjuku originally based on my cousins recommendation. You’re really in the heart of Shinjuku at this hotel.

See more Tokyo hotel options on Booking.

Kyoto Hotels

I stayed at the Rinn Gion Yasaka, in Gion of course. It was the perfect mix of modern and Japanese style hotel. The location was a hit or miss though. Being so close to Gion, we were able to enjoy it without any tourists in the mornings and evenings. But, staying in Gion also meant that we weren’t directly on a train or subway line. There were a few bus stops near our hotel though.

See more Kyoto Hotels on Booking.

Hiroshima Hotels

I knew we were going to be using the train quite a bit while we were in Hiroshima (to go to Miyajima), so opted to stay at the Sheraton Grand Hiroshima Hotel. If you manage to get a room on a higher floor, the view is spectacular. But even if you don’t, the convenience factor is worth it for a 2 minute walk to the train station. Or see more Hiroshima hotels on Booking.

Kanazawa Hotels

I stayed at Kanazawa Hotel Zoushi. It’s not in any of the main districts, but rather in the middle of Kanazawa Castle, Higashi Chaya district AND the train station, making it very convenient for everything. They also had wonderful customer service and hospitality, including some drinks and welcome food in your stay.

Traveling to Japan, especially in the summer, requires a few unusual must-haves. These are to survive the heat, and ,make it just a bit more bearable. For starters, pack a handheld mini fan and a sun umbrella to stay cool throughout the day. These are very popular in Japan too, so you’ll actually blend in with locals. But if the heat does get to you, you’ll want a quick dry towel – perfect for wiping away any sweat.

Otherwise, for day to day travel in Japan, your phone is your best friend. Download and install an e-sim for Japan before you leave. I use Airalo for every international trip, use my code MEGHAN4675 to save on your first purchase. And make sure your phone is always charged with an external battery.