Facebook Linkedin Instagram
Enquiry Now

Frequently Asked Questions

Japan: Basic Information for Foreigners Traveling in Japan

Japan is a fascinating country blending ancient traditions with cutting-edge modernity. Traveller’s to Japan will find a highly organized, clean, and welcoming environment, but there are some cultural norms, tips, and practical information that can enhance your trip. Below is a detailed guide on what to know as a foreigner while traveling in Japan.

Entry Requirements:

Visa Requirements:
Japan has visa-exemption agreements with many countries, allowing short stays (usually 15 to 90 days) for tourism without a visa. However, check with the Japanese embassy for the specific rules for your country.

Passport:
Ensure your passport is valid for the duration of your stay. Japan typically does not require additional months of validity beyond your departure date.

Language:

Official Language:
Japanese is the official language, and while many signs (especially in tourist areas) are in English, conversational English is less common in rural areas.

Basic Phrases:
o Hello: "Konnichiwa"
o Thank you: "Arigatou gozaimasu"
o Excuse me/Sorry: "Sumimasen"
o Yes: "Hai"
o No: "Iie"
Communication Tips:
o Body language and gestures can be useful when communication is challenging.

Currency:

Japanese Yen (JPY):
The Japanese yen is the official currency, with coins in denominations of ¥1, ¥5, ¥10, ¥50, ¥100, and ¥500, and banknotes of ¥1,000, ¥2,000, ¥5,000, and ¥10,000.
Cash is King:
While credit cards are becoming more accepted, cash is still widely used, especially in rural areas, small restaurants, and traditional inns (ryokan). Always carry enough cash.
ATMs:
Foreign-friendly ATMs are widely available at 7-Eleven convenience stores, Japan Post offices, and major banks.

Day 04: Nagoya - Nagoya ~ Toyota Museum or Railway Park, Nagoya Castle

After breakfast, proceed to Nagoya industrial sightseeing tour
Reach Nagoya, Toyota Automobile Museum [** Advance reservation required/ subject to availability]
SCMaglev and Railway Park [** Admission fee included/ simulators cost excluded]
Stop for Lunch at local restaurant
Nagoya Castle - one of the largest castles in the world!
Dinner at preferred Restaurant - Restaurant TBA
After Dinner, transfer to hotel @2000 Hrs
Reach hotel and complete check in formalities
Overnight stay in Nagoya

Day 05: Nagoya/ Osaka - Nagoya to Osaka/ Enroute, Kyoto City Tour ~Nijo Castle, Tea ceremony, Ninja Experience

After Breakfast, check out and proceed to Kyoto
Pick up from Nagoya Hotel @1000 Hrs
This journey takes about 2 hours to cover 132 kms
Reach Kyoto and visit Nijo Castle
Nijō Castle, best-known castle due to its historical importance and UNESCO World Heritage status
Stop for Lunch at local restaurant
Experience Traditional Tea Ceremony
Ninja Experience in Osaka for Kids and Families - Experience Dressing up like a ninja Taking the ninja challenge similar to an escape room activity
Become a ninja for a day on this 1 hour ninja workshop and costume rental experience in Osaka. Receive a lesson on ninja fighting techniques, weaponry, and meditation from a professional instructor
Dinner at preferred Restaurant - Restaurant TBA
Reach hotel and complete check in formalities
Overnight stay at Hotel in Osaka

Day 06: Osaka - Osaka/ Awaji Island ~ Shikoku University & Kamikasu Zero Waste Center

After breakfast, we shall proceed to the Awaji Island
We will be visiting the Faculty of Business Management (Business & Communication)
Shikoku (Tokushima) University, founded in 1925, is an institution of higher education offering undergraduate and graduate courses
Interactive/ Discussion session, Discuss about work culture differences, Economic development, Environment Sustainable development, Future Business & Economic relations between India and Japan
Other Sessions/ Activities (** Requires preapproval/ permission): orientation & Career counselling session, University Tour, Attend live classes, Exchange meeting with Japanese students
Lunch at local restaurant inside the University
Further, we will be visiting Kamikasu Zero Waste Center
Japan's first "zero waste" declaration in 2003
Zero waste in Kamikatsu = a society that focuses on not generating waste, instead of how to treat waste
Return to Osaka
Dinner at preferred Restaurant - Restaurant TBA
Overnight stay at hotel in Osaka

Day 07: Osaka - Osaka City Tour ~Osaka Castle, Nishinomaru, Cup noodles, Dotonbori (Glico man)

After breakfast, proceed for Osaka city tour @1030 Hrs
Osaka Castle - the most famous landmarks in Japan (**Photo stop/ No Entrance)
Nishinomaru Garden, an open-space garden with spectacular views of Cherry Blossom
Stop for Lunch at local restaurant
Cup Noodles Museum Osaka Ikeda
Dotonbori District - hotspot for tourists. Filled with towering neon signs, clubs, bars & restaurants
Click a picture with the iconic Glico Man, shot from under Ebisubashi bridge, a famous Osaka picture spot
Dinner at local Indian restaurant @1900 Hrs
Reach hotel @2030 Hrs
Overnight stay at Hotel in Osaka

Day 08: Osaka - Free time till Check out or flight time

KIX airport, a modern engineering marvel, built entirely as an artificial island
Osaka city hotel to KIX/ ITM Airport private transfer
Flight: TBA

Summer

Summer in Japan, spanning from June to August, is characterized by hot and humid weather, with temperatures typically ranging from 25°C to 35°C (77°F to 95°F). The season begins with the tsuyu, or rainy season, starting in early June and lasting for about a month. This period brings heavy rains that are essential for agriculture, replenishing water supplies and nourishing rice fields. However, the intensity of the rain can lead to flooding and landslides, particularly in vulnerable areas.

As the rainy season ends in mid-July, Japan enters a hot and sultry summer, marked by sunny days and increased humidity. The combination of heat and humidity can create uncomfortable conditions, prompting the government to issue heat advisories to encourage residents to stay hydrated and avoid excessive outdoor activity during peak heat hours. Air conditioning becomes essential in homes, businesses, and public spaces to cope with the oppressive heat.
Summer is also a season filled with vibrant cultural festivals, known as matsuri. Events like the Gion Matsuri in Kyoto and the Nebuta Matsuri in Aomori showcase traditional dances, music, and elaborate floats. Fireworks displays (hanabi) are a quintessential part of summer, with local communities hosting shows that draw large crowds to parks and riversides.
Outdoor activities thrive during this season, with beach outings, hiking, and camping popular among locals. Coastal regions, especially in Okinawa, attract beachgoers looking to escape the heat. Seasonal foods, such as cold noodles and refreshing watermelon, become favorites during the summer months.
Overall, summer in Japan is a dynamic season filled with cultural vibrancy, outdoor activities, and a strong sense of community, despite the challenges posed by heat and humidity.

Autumn

Autumn in Japan, from September to November, is renowned for its breathtaking natural beauty, particularly the vibrant fall foliage. As the temperatures begin to cool, averaging between 10°C and 25°C (50°F to 77°F), the changing colors of leaves transform the landscapes into a spectacular palette of red, orange, and yellow. This season is marked by clear skies and comfortable weather, making it ideal for outdoor activities and sightseeing.

The phenomenon of koyo, or autumn leaves, draws tourists and locals alike to parks and mountains to witness the stunning displays. Famous spots for leaf viewing include Nikko, Arashiyama, and Shirakawa-go, where the contrast of traditional thatched-roof houses against the colorful foliage creates picturesque scenes. Many people partake in hiking trips to appreciate the natural beauty, as well as enjoy traditional autumn festivals that celebrate the harvest season.