Japan

When is the best time to visit Japan?

Cherry blossom season in late March to early April is the most popular window and it earns it completely. Sakura viewing (hanami) in parks across Tokyo and Kyoto is one of those genuine bucket list experiences that actually delivers. The catch is that accommodation books out months in advance and prices go up, so plan early. Autumn (October to November) is the quieter alternative: incredible foliage, cooler temperatures, and slightly less competition for ryokan beds. Winter works brilliantly if skiing in Niseko is on the agenda. Summer is hot and humid but festival season makes it worth considering.

Do I need a visa for Japan?

New Zealand and Australian passport holders get 90 days visa-free in Japan. That's enough for most trips. There's no application required, just show up with a valid passport and a return ticket. If you're planning to stay longer or work, that's a different conversation. Always check the latest entry requirements before you travel as these can change.

How much does it cost to travel in Japan?

More than South East Asia, less than people expect. Budget $100 to $150 a day for a backpacker-style trip: hostel dorm, convenience store breakfasts, ramen and sushi for meals, local transport. The Japan Rail Pass is a significant upfront cost but pays for itself quickly if you're moving between cities. Cherry blossom and autumn season push accommodation prices up significantly, so factor that in if your dates overlap. Where Japan surprises people is the food: eating incredibly well costs very little if you go where locals go.

Is Japan good for solo travel?

Japan is outstanding for solo travel, just in a different way to Thailand or Bali. You won't be meeting people at the hostel bar every night (though good hostels do exist and social ones are out there). What you get instead is a country that is genuinely safe, effortlessly navigable even without Japanese language skills, and so interesting at street level that being alone actually lets you pay proper attention. It's a solo trip in the best sense: you're fully present.

How long do I need in Japan?

Two weeks covers Tokyo, Kyoto, Osaka, and a day trip or two (Hiroshima, Hakone, Nara) without feeling rushed. Ten days is doable for the core three cities if you're efficient. Three weeks lets you add Hokkaido in winter, the Japanese Alps, or the slow train through rural Japan that most people skip and everyone who does it says was the highlight. Japan is one of those places where more time is always the right answer.

Is a Japan Rail Pass worth it?

If you're doing Tokyo, Kyoto, and Osaka, yes. A 7-day JR Pass covers the Shinkansen between those cities and pays for itself on the Tokyo-Kyoto leg alone. If you're adding Hiroshima, Hakone, or going further afield to Hokkaido, it becomes even better value. If you're staying in one city for most of your trip, it's probably not worth it and point-to-point tickets make more sense. Talk to our team and we'll help you work out what makes sense for your specific itinerary.

Can I combine Japan with South East Asia?

It's one of our favourite combinations. The contrast between Japan and somewhere like Thailand or Bali makes both feel even more vivid. Flights between Tokyo and Bangkok or Bali are frequent and often not expensive. A lot of people do South East Asia first and finish in Japan as the big finale, which is a very good call. Get in touch and we'll build something that works across both regions.