Japan Travel Tips and Destination Guides

An orange Japanese shrine in water at dusk

Traveling to Japan? Start your planning here!

Japan is one of the most unique destinations in the world. The food, culture, and people are like no other place on earth. A visit to Japan will surprise and challenge you with experiences you won’t encounter anywhere else.

We lived in Fukuoka, a city of 1.5 million people, for more than 2 years, and had the great fortune to experience Japan as locals. We want to share our knowledge of this incredible country to help enrich your travels. We are sure you will love Japan as much as we did!

Prepare for Your Visit to Japan

Ensure that you make the most of your trip to Japan by doing as much research as possible before you go. Start with a few good travel guide books to plan your itinerary and learn about Japanese food and culture.

Here are 11 recommended books to help you plan your trip to Japan.

Japan Destinations

These are in-depth guides to some of our favorites places in Japan. They include all of the logistical details you need to plan your visit.

Link to article about visiting Hiroshima and Miyajima
Link to article about visiting Okinawa
Link to article about climbing Mt. Fuji

Travel in Japan

See the real Japan by staying in Japanese homes or apartments and exploring by car. Skip the hotels and venture off the beaten path to places that aren’t accessible by train! You will learn more about Japanese culture and experience places that most tourists don’t see.

Link to article about using Airbnb in Japan
Link to article about car rental in Japan

Japan for Military Travelers

Members of the U.S. military are fortunate that our benefits and privileges give us easy access to a country that many people only dream of visiting. With the option to fly to Japan for free and stay in very affordable – and sometimes even luxurious – military lodging throughout the country, a trip to Japan should be on every military traveler’s list!

Link to article about flying Space-A to Japan
Link to article about staying at the New Sanno Hotel
Link to article about places in Japan where military travelers can stay on a US military base