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Picture of Japan

Travel Guide for
Japan

Japan

Temperate, four distinct seasons

Introduction

Japan is an island nation in East Asia, blending ancient traditions with ultra-modern cities. During mid-October, the weather is pleasantly cool—perfect for exploring bustling Tokyo or Kyoto’s temples with friends. Autumn foliage starts to appear, painting parks and gardens in vivid reds and golds.

Japan’s rich history is visible in its castles, shrines, and tea ceremonies, while its culture shines through delicious street food and lively festivals. With affordable guesthouses, convenient trains, and countless sights from neon nightlife to peaceful hot springs, it’s the perfect spot for a fun and memorable group adventure.

Customized for these preferences:

Travel StyleTravelling with friends

Dates11-19 October 2025

BudgetAverage budget

AccommodationHotel

Interests and Activities:

outdoor adventuresnightlife and entertainmentsightseeing and toursarts and culturefestivals and events

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Picture of Japan

Key Facts

Location

East Asia

Currency

Japanese Yen (JPY)

Religion

Shinto and Buddhism

Population

125,416,877

Language

Japanese

Electricity

100V, 50/60Hz, Type A/B

Time zone

UTCJST (UTC+9)

Country code

+81

Internet access

High-speed, widely available, affordable

Climate

Temperate, four distinct seasons

Language:

Japanese

  • hello

    こんにちは (kon-nee-chee-wah)
  • goodbye

    さようなら (sa-yo-na-ra)
  • yes

    はい (hai)
  • no

    いいえ (ee-eh)
  • how much

    これはいくらですか? (ko-re wa i-ku-ra des ka)
  • please

    お願いします (oh-neh-gai-shee-mahs)
  • thank you

    ありがとうございます (ah-ree-gah-toh goh-zai-mahs)
  • excuse me

    すみません (soo-mee-mah-sen)

Map

Logistics

The easiest way to get to Japan is by flying—international flights arrive at major airports like Tokyo’s Narita and Haneda, or Osaka’s Kansai International. Popular airlines often offer competitive prices, especially if booked early. Traveling with friends can help share costs, so consider group fare deals.

Once in Japan, cities are connected by efficient trains, such as the Shinkansen (bullet train), which is ideal for group travel. Regional buses and ferries also link popular spots, offering budget-friendly options. In mid-October, weather is mild with occasional rain, but typhoons are uncommon, so expect comfortable travel conditions overall.

No special visas are needed for tourists from many countries (up to 90 days). Always check the latest entry requirements and book accommodations in advance during this busy autumn season.

Weather

Japan enjoys four distinct seasons, ranging from chilly, snowy winters to hot, humid summers. Spring and autumn are mild and especially scenic, with cherry blossoms in April and colorful foliage peaking in November. The country’s climate varies—northern Hokkaido is cooler, while southern Okinawa stays subtropical.

From October 11 to October 19, you’ll likely experience pleasant autumn weather with comfortable temperatures and less humidity. Occasional rain showers or the tail end of typhoon season may bring brief bouts of wind or rain, but extreme weather is uncommon by mid-October. This period is perfect for outdoor adventures, vibrant festivals, sightseeing tours, and exploring Japan’s arts and nightlife.

Food & Drink

Japanese cuisine delights with sushi, ramen, tempura, okonomiyaki, and street snacks like takoyaki. Don’t miss vibrant izakayas (pubs) for shared plates and sake. Enjoy matcha desserts at quirky cafes and try konbini stores for quick, tasty bites.

Affordable gems include Ichiran for ramen, Sushiro for conveyor-belt sushi, and Tsukiji Outer Market for fresh seafood. In Osaka, Dotonbori’s neon-lit streets offer endless local treats, while Kyoto’s Nishiki Market serves up seasonal bites. Bars in Shinjuku’s Golden Gai are perfect for a fun night with friends.

Tipping isn’t practiced; attentive service is expected and included. Many eateries cater to dietary needs, but language barriers are common—pointing at menus or using translation apps helps. Enjoy local, seasonal specialties—each region offers unique flavors celebrating Japan’s culture.

A picture of Sushi

Sushi

Sushi is a famous Japanese dish consisting of vinegared rice topped with various ingredients, such as fresh fish,...

A picture of Ramen

Ramen

Ramen is a beloved noodle soup dish in Japan, featuring Chinese-style wheat noodles served in a flavorful broth,...

A picture of Tempura

Tempura

Tempura is a delicious Japanese dish consisting of lightly battered and deep-fried seafood and vegetables. The batter is...

A picture of Gyoza

Gyoza

Gyoza are savory Japanese dumplings filled with a mixture of ground meat, vegetables, and seasonings. They are typically...

A picture of Yakitori

Yakitori

Yakitori refers to skewered and grilled chicken, popularly enjoyed as a casual and flavorful food. The bite-sized pieces...

Accommodation

For a fun, comfortable stay with friends, consider booking hotels in vibrant neighborhoods: Shinjuku (Tokyo) for nightlife and convenience, or Namba (Osaka) for food and entertainment. In Kyoto, search near Gion for classic charm. Top-rated options like Hotel Gracery Shinjuku and Cross Hotel Osaka offer modern rooms and great locations.

Hotels.com is your best choice for deals and user reviews on accommodations across Japan. Since October is peak autumn foliage season, booking early ensures better rates and availability. Look for triple or twin rooms—these are common in Japan’s business and mid-range hotels, making them perfect for groups and budget-conscious travelers.

Itinerary

Ease into Japan by exploring Tokyo's vibrant neighborhoods, sampling street food, and soaking in the city’s unique energy with friends.

Shibuya Scramble Crossing & Center Gai Stroll

Kick off your Tokyo journey by visiting the iconic Shibuya Scramble Crossing and strolling through lively Center Gai. This dynamic area offers neon lights, trendy shops, and excellent people-watching. Grab snacks from nearby street vendors as you soak up the city’s youthful energy.

Harajuku Takeshita Street Food Adventure

Dive into Tokyo’s quirky fashion district by walking down Takeshita Street in Harajuku. Sample colorful crepes, karaage (fried chicken), and sweet potato sticks from street stalls. Keep an eye out for unique street fashion and cool photo spots!

Private Tokyo Tour with a Local, Custom Highlights & Hidden Gems

Private Tokyo Tour with a Local, Custom Highlights & Hidden Gems

INSTANT
Free Cancellation

This experience is designed around you — not a fixed route or a highlights checklist. Before your time together, your local host learns what you’re curious about, what you’ve already seen, and how you like to explore a city. From there, you shape the experience together and adjust as you go. Rather than rushing between sights, the focus is on understanding Tokyo through neighborhoods, everyday places, and conversation. You may spend time in well-known areas or quieter local streets, but the emphasis is always on context, insight, and moving at a pace that suits you. This experience works best for travelers who value flexibility, local perspective, and depth over trying to see everything in one day.

4.9 (1185 reviews)

From $95 USD

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Experiences

Hospitality & Tourism Internship in Japan
internships

Hospitality & Tourism Internship in Japan

Minimum 1 week

Japan

$920/week

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Community Agriculture in Japan
volunteering

Community Agriculture in Japan

Minimum 1 week

Japan

$920/week

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English Teaching in Japan
teaching

English Teaching in Japan

Minimum 1 week

Japan

$920/week

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Attractions

4.9 (56 reviews)
Nagasaki Half-Day Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide

Nagasaki Half-Day Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide

INSTANT
Free Cancellation

Explore Nagasaki with a government-licensed and experienced English-speaking guide! Your guide will help you efficiently enjoy a full-day walking tour of Nagasaki and introduce both modern and traditional sides of this dynamic and ancient Japanese city. Your guide will pick you up in the morning at your hotel in Nagasaki and take you to visit Nagasaki's famous sites. Along with atomic bombing of Nagasaki during WWII, this city's history features many prominent events. You can learn about this and other interesting aspects during this Half-day walking tour accompanied by your private guide. Note*1: You cannot visit all the sites on the itinerary. You must choose at maximum 3 sites to visit and inform your guide of your choices. Note*2: The National Government Licensed Guide Interpreter certification is issued by the Japanese government requires a good knowledge and understanding of Japanese culture and history.

From $120 USD

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4.8 (92 reviews)
Sapporo Private Tour with a Local – Highlights & Hidden Gems

Sapporo Private Tour with a Local – Highlights & Hidden Gems

INSTANT
Free Cancellation

This isn’t a cookie-cutter sightseeing tour—it’s your own personalized journey through Sapporo. Whether you want to discover cultural treasures, taste regional specialties, or explore quiet corners of the city, your host will design a route that brings it all to life. Within 24 hours of booking, you’ll receive a short questionnaire to share your preferences. Based on your answers, we’ll match you with a like-minded local who will contact you directly to co-create your itinerary. Expect engaging conversation, flexible pacing, and a day that feels more like exploring with a friend than following a script.

From $97 USD

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4.9 (68 reviews)
Nagasaki Full-Day Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide

Nagasaki Full-Day Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide

INSTANT
Free Cancellation

Explore Nagasaki with a government-licensed and experienced English-speaking guide! Your guide will help you efficiently enjoy a full-day walking tour of Nagasaki and introduce both modern and traditional sides of this dynamic and ancient Japanese city. Your guide will meet you at your hotel in Nagasaki and take you to visit Nagasaki's famous sites. Along with atomic bombing of Nagasaki during WWII, this city's history features many prominent events. You can learn about this and other interesting aspects during this full-day walking tour accompanied by your private guide. Note*1: You cannot visit all the sites on the itinerary. You can choose up to 4 sites to visit. You must inform your guide of the sites you wish to visit. Note*2: The National Government Licensed Guide Interpreter certification is issued by the Japanese government requires a good knowledge and understanding of Japanese culture and history.

From $153 USD

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5.0 (13 reviews)
Kawagoe 4hr Private Tour with Licensed Guide (Kawagoe Dep)

Kawagoe 4hr Private Tour with Licensed Guide (Kawagoe Dep)

INSTANT
Free Cancellation

This value-packed trip with a government-licensed and experienced multilingual tour guide is a fantastic and efficient way to explore Kawagoe! Kawagoe was a prominent castle town in the Edo period and was known at that time as Ko-edo, or Little Edo (former name of Tokyo). About 30 minutes by train from central Tokyo, Kawagoe features many historical buildings, shrines and temples, and offers many regional food and drinks, as well as unique souvenir items. Let us know what you would like to experience and we will customize a four-hour tour that's best for you! Note*1: Please select your must-see spots from a list in the tour information to create your customized itinerary. Note*2: National Government Licensed Guide Interpreter certification is issued by the Japanese government requires a good knowledge and understanding of Japanese culture and history.

From $107 USD

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5.0 (13 reviews)
Snap Photo in New Tokyo

Snap Photo in New Tokyo

INSTANT
Free Cancellation

Let me introduce myself My name is Kei   I worked for a famous photo and video production company in Tokyo and experienced UNIQLO, LINE , 7-Eleven advertising, etc I am currently working as a freelancer on PR videos and snapshots of companies. Recently, Google Korea and Google Japan co-hosted event video in Japan, and Samsung hosted pop-up event video in Japan. The experience of winning the gold prize at a local wedding photo contest in Japan. The shooting style is to take a walk in the streets of Tokyo together. With the concept of "snapshot trip", I will be your dedicated Tokyo photographer in an atmosphere that makes you feel like you are traveling with your friend. Brought to you by a Japanese living in Tokyo, this service will take you from famous photo spots in Tokyo to hidden photo spots only locals know about There you can discover a new Tokyo, and a professional photographer will capture that moment only for you.     I'm looking forward to seeing you through the photos.

From $104 USD

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4.8 (88 reviews)
Kyoto Private 6 hour Tour: English Speaking Driver Only, No Guide

Kyoto Private 6 hour Tour: English Speaking Driver Only, No Guide

INSTANT
Free Cancellation

The ideal pick for time-tight travelers that want to enjoy Kyoto. Avoid the potential confusion of Kyoto’s subway and bus systems; travel comfortably in a private vehicle instead! On this tour, some of the destinations you can choose to visit include the glittering Golden Temple, the architectural masterpiece that is Kiyomizu temple in the Gion Geisha district, and Arashiyama with its towering bamboo forest. You will have the freedom to explore each area on your own as the driver waits to accompany you safely to your next destination. We hope to see you in Kyoto soon! Tour details may change depending on your meeting point. This tour does not include a private guide. Please book one of our guided tours if you need a guide.

From $395 USD

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4.0 (32 reviews)
Full-Day Private Tour to Discover The Best of Tokyo

Full-Day Private Tour to Discover The Best of Tokyo

INSTANT
Free Cancellation

Discover the beautiful Tokyo in a luxury transport with bilingual driver who knows this city and its history. Explore wonderful city of Tokyo, you can customize tour which suits your interest and needs. This tour includes most popular tourist attractions in Japan. You will visit Senso-Ji Temple, Tokyo Sky Tree, Tsukiji Fish Market, Ginza Shopping district, Toyosu Pier, Akihabara Electric Town, Soto Kanda and much more. Tokyo offers a seemingly unlimited choice of shopping, entertainment, culture and dining to its visitors. The city’s history can be appreciated in districts such as Asakusa and in many excellent museums, historic temples and gardens. If you are in the city don’t miss the chance to discover beautiful Tokyo.

From $425 USD

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4.7 (7 reviews)
Kawagoe 6hr Private Tour with Licensed Guide (Tokyo/Kawagoe dep)

Kawagoe 6hr Private Tour with Licensed Guide (Tokyo/Kawagoe dep)

INSTANT
Free Cancellation

This value-packed trip with a government-licensed and experienced English-speaking tour guide is a fantastic and efficient way to explore Kawagoe! Kawagoe was a prominent castle town in the Edo period and was known at that time as Ko-edo, or Little Edo (former name of Tokyo). About 30 minutes by train from central Tokyo, Kawagoe features many historical buildings, shrines and temples, and offers many regional food and drinks, as well as unique souvenir items. Let us know what you would like to experience and we will customize a six-hour tour that's best for you! Note*: Please select your must-see spots from a list in the tour information to create your customized itinerary.

From $153 USD

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5.0 (128 reviews)
Easy Japanese Speaking Experience and Meet Locals in Shibuya

Easy Japanese Speaking Experience and Meet Locals in Shibuya

INSTANT
Free Cancellation

At language exchange events, you can meet 4 to 5 different people each time you change seats, including local Japanese people and foreigners living in Japan. Get local information from all over Japan to make your trip more enjoyable and smooth. You can also make local Japanese friends and exchange contact information at events. A language exchange event will be an unforgettable experience during your trip to Japan. The participating members are very friendly Japanese locals. For this reason, many event participants form groups with like-minded members and sometimes spontaneously go out for drinks after the event. There is no need to think about mastering Japanese through the event. It would be great if you could learn some useful Japanese phrases and try using them with Japanese people during your travels. Or you can use it as an opportunity to output the Japanese you have learned. Starting 19:30 〜 closing 21:30 Reception English & Japanese 15 minutes each x 3 round

From $53 USD

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3.0 (1 reviews)
Bon Dance Izakaya in Shinjuku Tokyo

Bon Dance Izakaya in Shinjuku Tokyo

INSTANT_THEN_MANUAL
Free Cancellation

This themed restaurant offers an authentic Japanese dining experience with a menu inspired by traditional Edo cuisine. Adding to the charm, the restaurant features a lively Bon Odori performance, creating a festive and unforgettable atmosphere. Bon odori is a traditional dance which has existed in Japan for centuries. It originated as a way to honor ancestors during the Obon festival, a summer tradition in Japan. At this izakaya, you can enjoy the lively atmosphere of Bon odori all year round! Izakaya Dinner Course and Bon Dance 11,000yem every Tuesday, Wednesday, and Thursday. Dinner time is 19:00 to 20:30 for 90 minutes. Bon Odori Time is 19:30 to 20:00 for 30 minutes.

From $72 USD

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