Discover the wonders of Japan
Plan a thoughtful Japan trip with practical guides, cultural context and a free day-by-day itinerary builder. Independent, ad-free and written by one traveller.
Free, no sign-up. Over 150 guides, checked against official sources and updated regularly.
Start here in five steps
The quickest path from "should we go?" to a day-by-day plan.
Six ways into Japan
Whether you are planning a first trip, chasing the seasons or simply curious, pick a path.
Destinations
Cities, regions and rural gems, from neon Tokyo to quiet mountain villages.
Wonders
The 100 Wonders of Japan: landmarks, landscapes and marvels, each with its story.
Experiences
Food, onsen, festivals, ryokan stays and the moments you will talk about for years.
Plan Your Trip
Itineraries, budgets, trains, money and etiquette, all in plain language.
Seasons
Cherry blossoms, autumn leaves, snow festivals and summer fireworks, month by month.
Culture and History
History, religion, language and customs, explained clearly for curious minds.
Fushimi Inari Taisha
About 10,000 vermilion torii gates climbing a sacred mountain.
Latest guides
Arashiyama Bamboo Grove: How to See Kyoto's Green Cathedral at Its Best
When to visit the Arashiyama Bamboo Grove to dodge the crowds, how to get there from Kyoto Station, and what else to see nearby in a perfect Arashiyama day.
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Fushimi Inari Taisha: Kyoto's Mountain of 10,000 Torii Gates
How to see Kyoto's most famous shrine at its best: when to go, how far to hike, what the gates and foxes mean, and how to beat the crowds.
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Itsukushima Shrine and the Floating Torii of Miyajima
Everything you need to see Miyajima's famous floating torii: high and low tides, the ferry and visitor tax, the friendly deer, and how to plan a day trip from Hiroshima.
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Japanese Etiquette: 30 Dos and Don'ts for Travellers
The essential manners for visiting Japan, from shoes and chopsticks to trains, temples, onsen and tipping, explained simply so you can travel with confidence.
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Japan: Worth It or Overrated? Honest Verdicts on 26 Famous Sights
Honest verdicts on 26 famous Japan sights and experiences, from Shibuya Crossing and Fushimi Inari to Tokyo Skytree, the Arashiyama bamboo grove and the JR Pass: what to do, what to time carefully and what to skip.
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Japan Honeymoon Itinerary: 10 Romantic Nights in Tokyo, Hakone, Kyoto and Miyajima
A 10-night Japan honeymoon itinerary: Tokyo, a Hakone ryokan with a private onsen, Kyoto, Miyajima and Osaka, with romantic dinners, best months, booking tips and budget.
Read the guide →A breathtaking view. The kind of scenery this whole site is about.