Reference photo coming soon
Ancient tradition and futuristic tech side by side. Safe, clean and punctual, with a cuisine you will love.
If you like this destination, also see Thailand or Bali (Indonesia).
History and customs of Japan
During the Edo period (1603–1868) Japan was almost closed to the outside world, which shaped traditions like tea, kabuki and the samurai.
After the Edo period came the Meiji era (1868), when Japan opened up and modernised at great speed. After World War II it rebuilt itself into one of the world’s largest economies.
In 2011 an earthquake and tsunami hit Tohoku and caused the Fukushima accident. Tokyo hosted the Olympics in 2021, and the country faces an ageing population.
People bow slightly to greet, tipping is not customary and eating while walking is frowned upon. You take off your shoes before entering homes and some restaurants.
Typical food in Japan
Sushi began as a way to preserve fish in fermented rice and became street fast food in the Edo period. Ramen came from China and each region now has its own style.
- Sushi and sashimi
- Ramen
- Takoyaki – street food
What to eat in each city of Japan
- Tokyo – sushi at Toyosu market
- Kyoto – kaiseki, seasonal haute cuisine
- Osaka – okonomiyaki and takoyaki
Regional dishes in Japan
- Hokkaido – miso ramen and seafood
- Hiroshima – layered okonomiyaki
- Kyoto – yudofu and pickles
- Okinawa – goya champuru
Iconic places in Japan
In Kyoto, Fushimi Inari with its thousands of red torii gates and the golden Kinkaku-ji pavilion are essential. In Tokyo, Senso-ji temple and the Shibuya crossing.
Nara, a short trip from Kyoto, has a huge bronze Buddha and free-roaming deer in its park. Hiroshima and Miyajima island, with its torii gate in the water, complete a classic western route.
1. Tokyo – neon and unique districts
2. Kyoto – temples and geisha
3. Osaka – food capital
4. Mount Fuji – the country’s icon, best seen from Lake Kawaguchi
5. Nikko – gilded shrines among forests
Seasons: when to go and when to avoid Japan
✅ Best time. Mar–Apr and Oct–Nov: cherry blossoms and red leaves with mild weather, though crowded.
⚠️ Worst time. Jun–Jul (rainy season) and August (humid heat, typhoons): less pleasant but cheaper.
How much does it cost to travel to Japan
| Item | Average price |
|---|---|
| ✈️ Return flight | |
| Hotel per night · Budget | $97 |
| Hotel per night · Mid-range | $119 |
| Hotel per night · High-end | $275 |
| Restaurant meal (per person) | $9–$28 |
| Street food (per person) | $2–$7 |
Approximate, indicative prices (estimate, Oct 2026). They change with dates and availability: always check before booking. Hotel: Tokyo Shoko Research, FY2025 (budget hotels ¥14,463 and major chains ¥17,818 per room, about €88 and €108). The high-end figure is our own estimate. Flights: estimates for Europe-based trips; for other cities use the link.