Planning a trip to Japan is exciting, but a bit of preparation will save you time, money, and stress once you land. Here’s everything that actually matters before going.

Visit Japan Web lets you register your immigration and customs information online so you can use QR codes instead of filling paper forms at the airport.

When to do it
As soon as you have your flight details
Ideally 1 to 2 weeks before departure

Good to know
You can edit your information later if plans change.

There’s no single “best” season. It depends on what you want to experience.

Avoid if possible : Golden Week (late April to early May). Trains and hotels are packed and prices rise.

Best seasons by vibe

Autumn (September to November) :Mild weather, autumn foliage, fewer crowds

Winter (December to February) : Snow, onsen, winter festivals, cold but magical

Spring (March to May) : Cherry blossoms, festivals, beautiful scenery, very crowded

Summer (June to August) : Hot and humid, but lively, fireworks, festivals, rural Japan shines

Some attractions must be booked early.

Book ahead :

• Ghibli Museum

• TeamLab

• Disney

• Universal Studios Japan

• Popular ryokan

• Shows and limited experiences

High-end food : Kaiseki, omakase, chef-counter sushi usually require reservations
Many open bookings 30 to 60 days in advance and sell out fast

GetYourGuide : One of the easiest ways to find the best activities in Japan is through GetYourGuide. You can filter by city, see real traveler reviews, and book instantly, from food tours to day trips and cultural experiences.

I’ve also collected my favorite activities in Japan in one place, so you don’t have to search for hours. You’ll find them all here

DISCOUNT CODE : TABIMAWARI5

KLOOK Popular in Asia for activities, transport passes, and tickets.

WABUNKA - Luxe experience

• Wabunka is an online platform dedicated to offering exclusive, private tours and expert-led experiences that immerse travelers in Japan’s rich cultural heritage. From guided visits to UNESCO World Heritage sites to hands-on workshops with master artisans, Wabunka provides a curated selection of activities designed to offer authentic insights into Japanese traditions.

Purikura :Cute photo booths with filters and decorations, found in game centers

Goshuin : Calligraphy stamps collected at temples and shrines in a goshuin-cho book

Omikuji :Paper fortunes drawn at shrines and temples

Station stamps : Free collectible stamps found in train stations and some stores

Avoid juggling notes, screenshots, and dozens of tabs.

Use one planning tool to keep everything together : Holicay

• Dates

• Accommodation

• Activities

• Maps

You can use my templates here.

Saving spots from social media
Roamy can extract locations directly from Instagram or TikTok and place them on a map, which helps you see what’s realistic in one day.

Apps

Google Maps works perfectly in Japan
Japan Travel by Navitime is also very reliable

IC Cards

If you have an iPhone, you can add a Suica card directly to Apple Wallet
Otherwise, buy one when you arrive

Train passes

You don’t automatically need a JR Pass
Always check a JR Pass calculator
Regional passes are often cheaper and more logical, check al of them here.

Renting a car

Useful in rural areas such as Kyushu, Shikoku, the Japanese Alps, Hokkaido
Check whether you need an International Driving Permit or a license

Pocket Wi-Fi or eSIM ?

Pocket Wi-Fi

• Good for groups

• Extra device to carry and charge

eSIM

• Easier

• Cheaper

• No device

• Works instantly

Many travelers prefer eSIM for convenience. And I do prefer it too.

Some providers :

• YESIM

• HOLAFLY (HOLAFLY 5% CODE : TABIMAWARI)

• UBIGI

• SAILY

• DRIMSIM

• AIRALO

• SAKURA

Essentials

• Passport and copies

• Credit card and some cash

• Phone and charging cable

• Comfortable walking shoes

• Small backpack or tote

Seasonal clothing

• Spring (March to May)

• Light jacket

• Layers

• Comfortable sneakers

Summer (June to September)

• Breathable clothes

• Sunscreen

• Cap

• Small towel

• Deodorant

Autumn (October to November)

• Light coat

• Layers

• Scarf

Winter (December to February)

• Warm coat

• Heattech layers

• Gloves

Nice to have

• Portable charger

• Compact umbrella

• Minimal toiletries

Good to know : Everything is easy to buy in Japan, so don’t overpack.