6 Expert Tips That Will Help You Nail Your Japan Itinerary
Japan is having a moment. With the Japanese yen at an all-time low and the country continuing to trend on platforms like TikTok and Instagram, it’s no surprise that Japan is getting an influx of travelers.
And you should absolutely go.
Beyond being “trendy,” Japan is also a cultural powerhouse. From the breathtaking landscapes and temples to the world-class culinary scene (sushi me, please!), Japan is an immersive experience that goes far beyond fleeting trends.
As a travel agency owner, I also believe that Japan is the perfect introduction to Asia. The country is known for its safety, cleanliness, and efficiency, making it a comfortable choice for travelers. I recently had the opportunity to return to Japan with The Connect Travel team, and it was nothing short of spectacular.
So, if Japan is on your must-visit list, here are 6 travel advisor-approved tips to help you nail your Japan itinerary:
TIMING IS EVERYTHING
For a first-time visitor, Japan is best experienced in spring or fall. In late spring, the weather is warm, and if you’re lucky, you can catch a glimpse of the beautiful cherry blossoms. (I can tell you, from personal experience, that cherry blossom season in Japan is an absolute dream.) In the fall, you will typically get good weather and colorful foliage.
While spring and fall are ideal times to visit Japan, it is also the time of year that attracts the largest crowds. You will want to plan accordingly.
PLAN AHEAD
As I mentioned above, demand for Japan is at an all-time high (and I don’t see that changing anytime soon). This is especially true if you hope to travel during peak season, as many of the premier hotels and attractions sell out well in advance.
For access to the best options, you will want to start the planning process no less than 8 months in advance. The earlier you start planning, the better.
TAKE IT SLOW
Japan is a country that deserves ample time to explore. If you are going to make the twelve plus hour journey from the United States, you should make the trip worth your while. A major city like Tokyo, for example, requires multiple days to even scratch the surface.
I typically recommend our clients stay for a minimum of two weeks, so they can get a taste of the different regions and take the country in at a more leisurely pace.
THINK OUTSIDE THE BOX
When I mention Japan, travelers are quick to picture the bright lights of Tokyo and Osaka or the traditional temples of Kyoto. While Tokyo, Osaka, and Kyoto are absolutely must-visit destinations, don’t overlook Japan’s lesser-known cities and towns.
During my most recent visit, we spent a number of days in the quaint city of Kanazawa, known locally as “Kyoto of the North,” and the town of Hakone, known for its hot springs resorts and epic views of Mount Fuji. The slim crowds and slow pace were a beautiful contrast to the hustle and bustle of some of your typical tourist hotspots.
So, in short, think outside of the box and dedicate some of your itinerary to lesser visited destinations like Kanazawa, Hakone, Nara, Kobe, or even a stop at Okinawa.
TRAVEL LIGHT
The high speed bullet trains make getting around Japan a breeze. The journey is even more enjoyable when you’re not having to haul around your heavy luggage. Thankfully, Japan offers an efficient and reliable luggage delivery service (known as takkyubin or takuhaibin) that allows you to send your bags from one location to the next.
During my most recent trip, for example, I would leave my luggage with the front desk staff before check out, and they would ship the luggage to my next hotel for a nominal fee.
The luggage delivery service allows you to travel light and makes for a much more comfortable journey.
USE A TRAVEL PRO
For many people, Japan is a once-in-a-lifetime kind of trip. Logistics can be complicated, and the trip can require a more significant travel investment. Instead of relying on anonymous reviews and leaving your trip to chance, partner with a certified travel advisor.
In general, the more complex and specific your travel goals are, the more you should consider partnering with a trusted travel professional. Japan is just one of the many destinations that our full service travel agency can book for your next trip.
THINGS TO KEEP IN MIND
Travel planning doesn’t have to be a complicated, time-consuming process. Our team of luxury travel advisors is here to help—if you want to work with our team, submitting a trip inquiry is the perfect place to start.
Want more travel tips? Be sure to join our traveler community on Instagram.
Your Connect,
Gabriella
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