FAQ about Holidays in Japan

• When is the best time to travel to Japan?

  Japan is a very seasonal destination with each time of year bringing a range of highlights to different parts of the country. For example, during the months of January (in the south) and May (in the north), cherry blossom season occurs; the blossoms are in full bloom and sweep across the nation, blanketing each area in a soft pink colour. In the autumn months, October to December, another seasonal phenomenon occurs, the autumn leaves. Warm tones of red, orange and gold ginkgo and maple leaves sweep across the country, creating a warm and cosy atmosphere. Throughout other times of the year you’ll find varied climates; the north can experience very cold temperatures with snow in destinations like Sapporo, whereas the south will have you wandering in the warmth of the sun in places like Osaka. Read more about when to visit Japan

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• What costs can I expect to pay locally?

  Japan is actually very comparable to Australia when it comes to costs. In main cities like Tokyo, you may find it is a little more expensive than in the quieter, more rural areas. Restaurants and bars may be slightly more costly but not extortionate. If you head outside of the cities, you’ll find that prices are lower for things like food, drink and shopping. However, Japan as a whole is definitely budget friendly.

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• How easy is it to travel around Japan? Is there a language barrier?

  It can be quite unnerving travelling to a new country even if you have visited Asia before, but Japan is a very welcoming place, making it easy to travel around. No matter what part of the country you are visiting, we will always ensure that you have every detail you’ll need to make your way from place to place. If you’ve never travelled to Japan before, the language barrier may be a little daunting, however, this is never a major problem. Often, signs are displayed in the Roman alphabet and the locals are always happy to help if needed.

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• Do I need a guide?

  Japan is the ultimate destination for exploration, be that independently or with a guide. If you like having an expert at your side for the duration of your trip, we would highly recommend having a guide for your tour. They’ll be able to take you to the iconic sights as well as the hidden gems with no troubles as well as share their passion, culture and love for their country. A guide will also be able to communicate with you throughout your trip, whether that be to talk about the history of a place or to suggest a great restaurant! Japan can of course be done independently but we would still recommend a guide or local to be on hand to point you in the right direction or help recommend where to go, but apart from this, you’re good to go on your own discovery!

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• Where should I visit?

  Japan offers an abundance of incredible culture, sights, cuisine and history with every turn displaying something new. Whether you fancy a bustling city break or a relaxing rural experience, Japan has it all. If it is your first time travelling to Japan, we can recommend taking the ‘Golden Route’. Covering all of the iconic places from Mt Fuji in Tokyo to the Golden Pavilion in Kyoto, the Golden Route is perfect for first time travellers. However, if you’d like to head off on a more in depth adventure, we can recommend journeying to more off the beaten track destinations, for example Takayama and Shirakawago.

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• Do I need a visa?

  Visas are not required for Australian passport holders for entry into Japan for stays of up to 90 days.

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• What food can I expect?

  Japanese cuisine is delicious, colourful and healthy. Meals are usually served with a bowl of rice and a bowl of miso soup and consist usually of fish, pickled vegetables and meat. Japan’s other main staple is noodles, most famous being Udon and Soba. Our schedule of meals is designed so that you can experience the local dishes, their individual flavours as well as the different ways they are prepared and cooked throughout Japan. Food is an important element of Japanese culture. It is a time for families and friends to come together and much of family life revolves around the dinner table. Most food is eaten with chopsticks so best get practicing as cutlery is not always available at restaurants. Breakfasts are western/buffet style at your hotel.

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