A ryokan stay offers insight into Japanese hospitality traditions while providing a relaxing and unique cultural experience. The key to enjoying ryokan life lies in understanding what to expect and embracing the prescribed daily rhythm. While the cost may exceed standard hotels, it’s a stay unlike any other, and one you’re likely to remember fondly for many years to come.

When it comes to learning the language of the country to which you’re traveling, a little bit really does go a long way. In this essential travel Japanese language guide, we focus on what you'll actually use, what you'll actually remember & what will actually help you during your time in Japan.

Some travelers thrive on spontaneity, relishing the excitement of last-minute decisions and unexpected discoveries. Others find peace of mind in having every detail meticulously planned, ensuring a smooth and stress-free journey.

Today's travelers to Japan often find themselves racing from one "iconic" spot to another, more focused on capturing the perfect social media shot than actually experiencing the moment. This approach is all wrong. It’s exhausting. And it's fundamentally flawed. Find out how to experience Japan your way!

Just as Rick Steves transformed how Americans travel in Europe through his philosophy of thoughtful tourism, cultural immersion and authentic experiences, his approach to travel contains valuable wisdom that applies beautifully to exploring Japan. We’ll show you how.

On the horizon, snow-topped and symmetrical, looking almost too perfect to be real, Mt. Fuji (aka “Fuji-san) pulls in hikers from across the globe each summer. We’ve got lots of great tips and advice for your climb of Mount Fuji!

In this comprehensive guide to planning your Japan adventure, we’ll give a rundown on everything from must-see destinations to the intricacies of transportation and cultural differences. We'll take a closer look into the nuances of seasonal travel, explore the broad accommodation options available, and discuss why working with travel planning professionals can significantly enhance your Japan trip.

When it comes to Japan travel, the FOMO factor is real. It's human nature to feel like we're missing out on something: and that's doubled down when content creators and influencers are fueling the fire. But you don't have to feel that FOMO dread. On the contrary, you're going to be traveling to one of the best destinations in the world: Japan. You can't go wrong here!

Japan travel has some idiosyncrasies, to be sure, and they can occasionally be frustrating. Add to that the necessity or desire to stay connected these days, and you’re probably wondering what’s the best way to travel in Japan in terms of using the right tech. We’ve got you!

Spring in Japan brings an annual spectacle that fills social media feeds worldwide: cherry blossoms. Yet spring offers so much more for visitors to Japan than just sakura (though those Japanese cherry blossoms sure are nice). In this edition of the Japan Travel Pros blog, we sort through the buzz and talk about what spring in Japan actually means for travelers.

Happy new year from all of us here at Japan Travel Pros! We hope that 2024 has been a year of joy and success for you, and we wish you and yours all the best of health, happiness, prosperity and great travels ahead in 2025!!!

Just a few thoughts in this edition of the blog, if you’ll indulge us, on the year that was 2024.

Each region of Japan proudly maintains its own culinary heritage, specialties and food culture. Japan's food culture runs impossibly deep, with centuries-old recipes and techniques passed down through generations, each area fiercely protecting its local culinary prowess and proud heritage.

What’s the latest on the Japan travel scene? Why should you double down on those Japan travel plans for 2025? And what’s the magic sauce that’s going to make this all happen? There’s no ‘right’ way or ‘wrong’ way, but arming yourself with the best information and making the best plan will help elevate your 2025 Japan trip from ‘how?’ to “Wow!”

If you're planning a trip to Japan from Europe, Africa, the Middle East or the Americas, you'll be crossing a whole bunch of time zones, and your body clockwill notice. While jet lag isn't exactly the most exciting topic when planning your Japan adventure, understanding how to handle it can make a significant difference in your travel experience.

Planning to visit Osaka or Kyoto during 2025? So are millions of others — the World Expo is coming to town! We can expect some additional effect on a region that’s already experiencing overtourism. This will be something to watch out for in Kyoto, in particular, though Osaka will certainly see added burden during the six months of Expo 2025.

Got vacation time coming up? Thinking about visiting Japan for a quick trip… like 5, 6 or 7 days? Wondering where to go, what to do and how to squeeze it all in?

Truth be told, your best itinerary for this upcoming trip might not even be in Japan!

“But wait,” you’re saying, “I want to go to Japan!”

Hear me out.

Japan offers a lot of great unique souvenirs for you to take home – far beyond the typical keychain or postcard. We take a look at some of the standards, as well as a quick trip across Japan's regions, to show the most memorable keepsakes and gifts you’ll want to look for.

I hope you’ll visit Japan. I hope you’ll give it the time it deserves – balancing that, of course, with the reality of time limitations due to work, school, etc. And I hope you’ll see & experience both the major sights of Japan as well as the hidden gems and off-the-beaten path experiences. If we can help you with that, I’ll consider it an honor and a privilege.

We discuss the various accessibility challenges and highlights that a traveler to Japan could encounter, showing how preparation and awareness are your best allies in navigating accessibility for travel in Japan.

Japan’s popularity is well-earned. It's a fascinating country with so much to offer. But it can get pretty crowded, especially in the popular tourist spots. Understanding the crowds and knowing what to expect will help you enjoy your trip without feeling overwhelmed or disappointed.