Traveling to Japan from the US: What You Need to Know

Looking to travel to Japan from the US?

You’re not alone!

Not only are a lot of Americans traveling to Japan these days, you’re talking to (well reading the words of) someone who traveled here back in the day and liked it so much I decided to move to Japan. Well, that’s a fun but long story for another time.

Japan is a great travel destination. I probably don’t have to sell on that since you’re already reading this.

And if you’re feeling overwhelmed by the information available or aren’t sure where to start, well, we started this business to help folks like you!

But before we get to that, let’s start off with some information about Japan that will help in setting your goals and getting your Japan travel planning started in the right direction.

Practical Matters: Traveling to Japan from the USA

If you’re traveling to Japan from the US, you’re in for an incredible adventure.

Amazing cities, a beautiful countryside, massive depth of culture & history, and some of the best food on the planet. 

1. Flying to Japan from the US: Best Routes & Airlines

Most travelers flying to Japan from the US land in Tokyo (Narita or Haneda) or Osaka (Kansai Airport). Direct flights are available from major US cities, including:

• Los Angeles (LAX) → Tokyo (HND/NRT) (ANA, JAL, United, American, Delta, Zipair, Singapore)

• San Francisco Bay Area (SFO & SJC) → Tokyo (HND/NRT) (United, JAL, ANA, Zipair)

• New York (JFK & EWR)→ Tokyo (HND/NRT) (ANA, JAL, American, United)

• Chicago (ORD) → Tokyo (HND/NRT) (ANA, JAL, United)

• Dallas (DFW) → Tokyo (HND/NRT) (American Airlines, JAL)

• Seattle (SEA) → Tokyo (HND/NRT) (Delta, ANA)

Flights typically take 11-14 hours depending on departure city. If you’re flying into Osaka (KIX), your options are more limited, but JAL, United, and other carriers offer direct flights.

Pro Tip: Haneda airport (HND) is closer to central Tokyo than Narita (NRT), so if you have the option, pick Haneda for an easier arrival.

2. Do You Need a Visa to Travel to Japan from the US?

The short answer is: Always check with the Japanese embassy or consulate for the latest official information from Japan’s immigration authorities. Having said that, at the time of this article’s publication, US passport holders did not need a visa for trips under 90 days. Just make sure:

• Your passport is valid for the entire duration of your stay (or beyond in some cases)

• You complete Japan’s  pre-arrival registration to speed up immigration.

3. When Is the Best Time to Travel to Japan from the US?

Japan is a year-round destination, and it’s getting more and more popular. There’s never a “bad” time, and there’s no such thing as “perfect” – but if you ask us, these are the best times to visit are:

Spring (March-May): Cherry blossom season – crowds, but worth it (and nice weather).
Fall (November-December): Gorgeous autumn foliage, pleasant weather
Winter (December-February): Snow in the mountains (and occasionally on the plain), hot springs and ski season in Hokkaido.
Summer (June-September): Festivals, fireworks, but also hot and humid (except for Hokkaido) and a rainy season for about 6 weeks too.

Flight Deals Tip: Airfare is typically cheaper in winter (except New Year’s) and late summer (August-September).

4. Essential Travel Tips for Americans Visiting Japan

• Cash vs. Card: Japan is still a cash-heavy society. Major cities accept cards, but small restaurants and rural areas often prefer cash. Bring a debit card (hopefully one with low or no fees).

• Transportation: The Japan Rail Pass used to be a no-brainer for tourists, but after the price hike, it only makes sense if you’re doing multiple long-distance train rides in a short span (sometimes regional rail passes can pay off)

• Connectivity: Get a SIM card or portable WiFi before you land. Japan has some free WiFi, but it’s not always reliable. Otherwise, use your existing mobile provider (to stay connected by text/phone on your number) but check with them about roaming fees.

• Cultural Etiquette: Learn a few basics, such as: removing shoes indoors, being mindful of train/public etiquette (it’s super quiet in Japan!) and no tipping. 

With the Basics Down, What’s Next in Planning a Trip to Japan from the USA?

With all that housekeeping out of the way, what's next for planning a great trip to Japan?

Well, one of the most common things we hear from folks in the US and around the world really is that Japan travel seems so “overwhelming” to plan.

Japan travel has changed a lot over a short period of time, relatively speaking, going from a time when there was very little information about Japan travel (because there was very little Japan travel in genera)l; to nowadays where there is so much information that it all feels like too much. 

With all of the content creators and influencers on Instagram, YouTube and TikTok doing what they do (telling you that you “must” do this or “have to” go there etc), a lot of folks are simultaneously convinced that traveling to Japan is a great idea, but that planning a Japan trip seems pretty daunting. 

That’s where we come in. 

That’s the cornerstone of the entire mission of Japan Travel Pros. Our goal is to help people, possibly just like yourself, who want to come visit Japan but just aren't sure where to start getting it all planned and organized and put into action. 

For a lot of people, for example, people who have traveled to Europe and elsewhere in the world previously, booking the travel isn't the problem, but deciding where to go and what to do is the dilemma.

At Japan Travel Pros, we take the stress out of planning by embarking with you on a collaborative process to plan, develop and imp;ement a Japan travel itinerary that's bound to give you a fantastic journey in this amazing travel destination. 

By the time you’re on the flight to Japan (and usually well before then), you’ll have the confidence and peace of mind, knowing that you’ve got the foundation of a solid Japan travel itinerary in place.

Want to find out more about how it works?

Why not book a free consultation with Japan Travel Pros?! Use the handy calendar tool below and schedule a time to speak with us about how to make your Japan trip memorable and special.