The three main airports for international flights are Tokyo (Narita - NRT and Haneda - HND), Osaka (Kansai - KIX), and Nagoya (Chubu Centrair - NGO). Multiple airlines offer direct flights to Tokyo and Osaka. We would recommend booking your flights online to get the best rates. If you need any help or advice please let us know.

Depending on your itinerary, you may use a combination of domestic flights, trains, buses, and potentially ferries to get around. Train travel is the most popular mode of transportation in Japan and the Japan Rail (JR) Pass can be an economical choice if you plan to travel extensively as it offers unlimited travel on most JR trains. It is possible to reach most regions in Japan via a domestic flight from Tokyo or Osaka.

For certain destinations or experiences, you may need to use road transfers. Ferries are also available for travelling to certain areas such as Miyajima Island.

From the moment that you land in Japan, you will be greeted and assisted to your onward connections. You will be looked after from that point on until you are transferred back to the airport in time for your departure flight.

Important vaccinations to consider include Hepatitis A & B, Japanese Encephalitis and Rabies. However,
please consult your physician and/or a travel clinic preferably 6 weeks before your departure. Vaccine requirements vary based on your country of origin, your travel itinerary and your previous vaccination history. It is best to consult with your physician or the CDC website for guidelines.

While most hotels have a first aid kit, we advise taking a basic one of your own as well as any prescriptions/medication you may need.

With regards to food and water, it is advised that you stick to bottled/ boiled water.

It’s advisable to familiarise yourself with the emergency numbers in Japan. The number for an ambulance or fire services is 119, and the police can be reached at 110.

Communication
Japan Country Code: +81

Calling overseas from Japan:
From a landline dial 010, followed by the country code, area code, and the phone number.
e.g., To call the USA: 010 1 [Area Code] [Phone Number]

When calling from a cell phone dial +, followed by the country code, area code, and the phone number.
e.g., To call the USA: +1 [Area Code] [Phone Number]

Cellphone service
There is excellent cellular coverage across most of Japan. However, remote areas, especially mountainous regions, may have limited service.

For travellers with an unlocked phone, purchasing a local SIM card is a practical option. You can buy them at airports and electronics stores. Major carriers include NTT Docomo, SoftBank, and AU. Passport identification is required for purchase. Another popular option is renting a pocket Wi-Fi device, which provides internet access on the go and can connect multiple devices.

Money
The currency in Japan is the Japanese Yen (JPY). Here are some tips on handling finances during your stay:
- You can exchange foreign currency into Yen at banks, post offices, and currency exchange bureaus at airports and major train stations. Rates at airports are generally reasonable. Ensure that any foreign currency notes (like USD or EUR) you bring for exchange are in good condition without damage, stains or heavy wear.
- ATMs are widely available in Japan, however, not all ATMs accept foreign cards, so look for ATMs with the ‘International’ sign. We advise checking with your bank regarding charges for international withdrawals.
- While credit cards are increasingly accepted, especially in cities and major tourist spots, Japan is still largely a cash-based society. Smaller establishments, rural areas, and traditional markets may only accept cash.

Gratuities
Tipping is not a common practice in Japan and can even be seen as impolite or embarrassing in some situations. Staff in restaurants, hotels, and taxis do not expect tips. Instead, they pride themselves on offering the best service without extra incentives. However, if you decide to tip, placing the money in a small envelope and handing it over discreetly is the most respectful way to do so.

Gratuity suggestions:
Guide: If your guide was exceptional, you might want to reward him or her. The amount is at your discretion, between 2000 and 5000 JPY for a full day. Small gifts from your city are also welcome instead of money.

Driver: Taxi drivers do not expect tips. Private car drivers will welcome discreetly handed tips. For a full day we suggest about 2000 JPY.

Porter: Porterage in Japan only exists at Superior and Deluxe hotels, not common in airports, and forbidden at train stations. The bell boy or girl at your hotel does not expect a tip, but will welcome a few hundred yen.

Tipping in restaurants: Tipping is not expected nor welcome in restaurants. Service charge is already included in the prices.

Geisha: If you have the luck to attend a private evening with a geisha or maiko, tips are greatly appreciated, especially for maiko (apprentice geisha) who do not receive a salary. Appropriate tips for maiko/geisha are 3,000-5,000 JPY or even a 10,000 JPY note. These should always come in an envelope and be passed on discreetly at the end of the evening. If you are participating in a shared dinner with geisha entertainment, tips aren’t necessary.

Insurance
It is a condition of booking that you carry the correct comprehensive travel and medical insurance to cover yourself, as well as any dependents/travelling companions for the duration of your trip. This insurance should include cover in respect of, but not limited to, the following eventualities:

Compulsory Insurance:
a. Emergency evacuation expenses
b. Medical expenses
c. Repatriation expenses

Recommended Insurance:
a. Cancellation or curtailment of trip
b. Damage/theft/loss of personal luggage, money and goods

As a general precaution, we recommend you make several copies of your travel-related documents (passport, traveller’s cheques, credit cards, itinerary, airline tickets, insurance cover, visas, etc). Leave one set at home, and bring another set with you, and place it in a location separate from your originals.

Many nationalities, including those from the United States, Canada, Australia, and most European countries, can enter Japan for short-term tourism stays (usually up to 90 days) without a visa.
However, some nationalities do require a visa to enter Japan. It is essential to check the specific requirements based on your nationality.

Your passport must be valid for the entirety of your stay in Japan. It's also recommended to have at least six months of validity beyond your planned date of departure.

Climate
Japan experiences a wide variation of climates, influenced by its geography stretching from the colder, northern regions of Hokkaido to the subtropical south in Okinawa. The country experiences four distinct seasons:
- Spring (March to May): Characterised by mild temperatures and cherry blossoms.
- Summer (June to August): Hot and humid, with the rainy season typically occurring in June and early July. Late summer is also typhoon season, particularly in southern and western Japan.
- Autumn (September to November): Marked by comfortable temperatures and vibrant fall colours.
- Winter (December to February): It is especially cold in the north and mountainous areas; Hokkaido and the Japanese Alps are popular for winter sports. Coastal areas tend to be milder.

Dress Code
Japan is a country where fashion varies widely by season and setting. In general, modest and neat clothing is appreciated. This is especially important when visiting temples or shrines, and covering shoulders and avoiding overly short skirts or shorts is recommended.

What to Pack
- Season-appropriate clothing: light, breathable clothes for summer; layers for spring and autumn; and warm, insulated clothing for winter.
- Comfortable shoes, suitable for extensive walking
- Sunscreen, sunglasses and a hat
- Toiletries: while most hotels provide basic amenities, it’s advisable to bring specific personal items.
- Portable Wi-Fi device or SIM card
- Camera Equipment, spare batteries, memory cards, chargers and adaptors: Japan uses Type A and B plugs, operating on 100V and 50/60 Hz AC.
- Basic first aid kit and any prescription medications

Luggage
Please check with your airlines for the specific luggage restrictions relevant to your flight schedule. Many international airlines have a baggage allowance of 20kgs or more per person and commercial airlines generally permit two (2) pieces of checked luggage. The carry-on bag must be of such dimensions and weight as set by the airlines.