Japan Travel Essentials

All you need to know to get started planning the perfect trip

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Taiyu-in Temple in Nikko, just north of Tokyo, is beautiful during the fall season

Best Time of Year to Visit Japan

The best times to visit Japan are spring (March to May) for cherry blossoms and fall (September to November) for vibrant fall foliage, both offering pleasant weather and stunning scenery. Spring's sakura season is iconic, but autumn often feels less crowded and just as striking, with fiery colors across temples, mountains, and gardens. Winter (December to February) appeals to skiers and onsen lovers, while summer (June to August) brings lively festivals and hiking opportunities despite the heat.

Essential Japan: Top 10 Things to Do & See

Crescent-shaped islands surrounded by deep blue sea, Japan has everything from Buddhist temples to great beaches. Home to both a robot restaurant and an ancient rainforest, it's beautiful, diverse, and never boring. Here are ten essential things to do in the Land of the Rising Sun.

Iriomote Island, Okinawa (© Yuri Awanohara)

Guide to Japan's Main Regions

Japan is roughly the size of California, with thousands of islands offering a huge variety of things to see and do. You can experience some of the world's best powder skiing in the north of the country or bask on tropical beaches in southern Okinawa. Top it off with its unique traditional culture and fabulous transportation system, and you're sure to have the trip of a lifetime.

Places Most People Miss (But Shouldn't) in Japan

Most visitors to Japan hit up Kyoto's temples, Tokyo's shopping streets, and Osaka's food scene—but there's much more to this country than what you'll find in its cities. Soak in natural hot springs, hike through primeval forest, and spot wildlife on a pristine chain of islands with these under-the-radar suggestions.

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