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ULTIMATE TRAVEL GUIDE

Traveling to Japan with EF Ultimate Break

Japan’s unmatched year-round

  • Culture shock in the best way: It’s the kind of place that rewires your brain. One minute you’re bowing at a 1,000-year-old temple, the next you’re in a seven-story arcade. It’s one big hub of contradictions—ancient and futuristic, quiet and chaotic, traditional and quirky.
  • Bucket list heavyweight champ: From Mount Fuji’s perfect silhouette to deer that bow back at you in Nara, Japan delivers moments you didn’t know belonged on your list until you’re living them.
  • Worth every yen: Convenience store meals rival restaurants, temples are free or cheap, and public transport is extremely affordable (and efficient).
  • First-timer friendly: Japan is great for first time travelers because it’s efficient. Trains run on time, vending machines are on every corner, there’s zero pressure to tip, and it’s incredibly safe.
  • Every season delivers: Spring brings cherry blossoms that break the internet. Fall delivers red maple leaves that rival any sunset. Winter means ski slopes and hot springs, and summer brings festivals, fireworks, and beach days.

Language

Japanese is the official language, and while English signage exists in major cities, learning a few key phrases will unlock smiles, better service, and a deeper Japanese cultural experience. Don’t stress about perfect pronunciation—effort goes a long way.

Hello: Konnichiwa

Thank you: Arigatou gozaimasu

Yes/No: Hai/Iie

Excuse me: Sumimasen (also used to get attention or apologize)

I'm sorry: Gomen nasai

Goodbye: Sayonara (formal)/Mata ne (casual)

Delicious: Oishii

Cheers: Kanpai

How much?: Ikura desu ka?

I don’t understand: Wakarimasen

Where is the bathroom?: Toire wa doko desu ka?

Please (when asking): Onegaishimasu

Currency & tipping culture

Japan uses the Japanese Yen (¥), and while the country is becoming more card-friendly, cash still rules for smaller restaurants, street vendors, and traditional spots. The good news? Tipping in Japan restaurants isn’t just unnecessary—it can actually be considered rude.

  • Banknotes: ¥1,000, ¥2,000 (rare), ¥5,000, ¥10,000. Coins: ¥1, ¥5, ¥10, ¥50, ¥100, ¥500.
  • Credit cards are accepted at hotels, major restaurants, and chain stores, but carry cash for ramen shops, temples, and local markets. Convenience stores (conbini) have ATMs that accept international cards.
  • Exchange rates fluctuate, so check current rates before you go. Airport exchanges are convenient but may have higher fees.

Tipping guidelines:

  • Restaurants, taxis, and hotels: No tipping. Seriously. Exceptional service is the standard, and leaving money can confuse or offend staff.

  • Tour guides: Not expected, but if you had an amazing experience, a small gift from your home country is appreciated more than cash.

  • General rule: If you want to show gratitude, say “arigatou gozaimasu” with a bow. That’s the currency of respect in Japan.

Transportation

Japan’s transportation network is famously efficient, punctual, and easy to navigate once you get the hang of it. Trains run on time (down to the minute), stations have English signage, and getting around feels like part of the adventure.

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PUBLIC TRANSPORT

Japan’s subway and train system is highly efficient. Get a Suica or Pasmo rechargeable transit card for trains, buses, and even some vending machines.

WALKING

Many neighborhoods—especially Kyoto, Harajuku, and Shibuya—are best explored on foot. Expect to hit 20,000+ steps a day, so pack comfortable shoes.

TAXIS AND RIDE-SHARING

Taxis are clean, safe, and everywhere, but $$$. Whereas, Uber is cheaper but only works in major cities.

SHINKANSEN (BULLET TRAIN)

A Japan MUST. Tokyo to Kyoto takes about 2.5 hours, and if you sit on the right side you can see Mount Fuji.

BUSES

Long-distance buses are budget-friendly for overnight trips. Local buses in Kyoto are essential for reaching temples outside the city center.

DOMESTIC FLIGHTS

Quick and affordable for longer distances, like Tokyo to Hokkaido or Okinawa. Pro tip: skip the plane and take the train for Tokyo to Kyoto or Osaka.

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Japan's iconic destinations

From the organized chaos of Tokyo to the serene temples of Kyoto, Japan’s cities each have their own personality.

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Tokyo

The beating heart of modern Japan, where neon-lit streets meet quiet shrines and every neighborhood feels like a different world.

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Kyoto

Japan’s cultural soul, where over 2,000 temples and shrines preserve centuries of history. Wander temples, experience a traditional tea ceremony, and stroll bamboo forests.

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Osaka

Known as “Japan’s kitchen,” Osaka is where you go to eat, laugh, and let loose. Gorge your way through Dotonbori’s neon chaos, street food heaven, and lively entertainment district.

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Nara

A peaceful day trip from Kyoto or Osaka, famous for Nara deer park where over 1,000 sacred deer roam freely and bow for snacks.

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Hakone

A mountain town perfect for onsen (hot springs), views of Mount Fuji, and a break from city life. From cable cars to volcanic valleys, this spot offers some serious zen.

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Mount Fuji

Japan’s most famous mountain and an UNESCO World Heritage site. Whether you’re doing a day trip or hiking to the summit (July–September only), it’s a bucket-list moment.

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Traveler photos from Japan

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Japan travel reviews

Our travelers love visiting Japan, and they aren’t afraid to tell us.

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Our top trips to Japan

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