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Japan Travel Blog
Japan Travel Pros aims to keep you in the know about Japan travel news, destination spotlights, air & hotel deals, local experiences & much more
Mt. Fuji Obsession: WTF (Why Travel Fuji)
Mt. Fuji is pretty cool. But it’s also shy… and maybe a little overhyped. So why the obsession? We’ll answer that question – and help you enjoy your trip to Japan!
Traveling to Japan in Golden Week (& Other Holidays)
What’s it like to travel during Golden Week, Obon or New Year's — the three biggest holiday periods in Japan? Should traveling during a Japanese holiday be a deal-breaker? Click through to find out…
Japan Travel First Timer Tip: Read the Room
“There’s one lesson I wish I’d truly understood before I ever set foot in Japan. It’s not about taking your shoes off at the genkan or navigating the train system (though, yes, do those things too). It’s…”
Top 10 Unique Osaka Souvenirs
Forget the mass-produced trinkets you can find anywhere. We're here to guide you to the real gems – the Osaka souvenirs that truly capture the flavor & spirit of this fantastic city.
Visit Japan Web – Arrive in Japan Smoothly
Here’s a starter pack about what you need to know when it comes to entering Japan, including how to save time at the airport by using a free tool called Visit Japan Web — and why we recommend it.
What’s Missing from Your Japan Travel Itinerary?
The standard itinerary of Japan’s iconic highlights skips a lot of what makes this country so endlessly fascinating. Find out why you should mix it up and slow things down.
Japan Travel Photography Etiquette
In Japan – where respect, privacy, trust and harmony mean a lot – photographing people without their consent can seriously ruffle feathers and even lead to legal problems. Find out how & why.
How to Pace Your Japan Travel Itinerary
Planning a trip to Japan can feel like standing at a sushi conveyor belt — everything looks good, and you want to grab it all. But trying to do too much in too little time? This sets up pitfalls that you don’t deserve.
Driving in Japan: Good for Travelers?
The driving experience in Japan can be very different, and requires adapting to a whole new set of rules, infrastructure & cultural norms. If you’re asking the question, “Should I drive in Japan?” We’ve got answers!
Yen Fluctuations & Japan Travel: Yay or Nay?
With the global markets in a state of turbulence, it's natural to wonder what these shifts might mean for your upcoming travels. Will Japan become more expensive? Will your plans need to change?
First Trip to Japan: What You Really Need to Know
This guide isn’t a "Top 10 Places to Visit in Japan." It’s designed to help you actually do the trip — without the overwhelm, the second-guessing or the common pitfalls that first-time travelers run into.
Why Work with a Japan Travel Specialist
Planning a trip to Japan can feel overwhelming. Find out how working with a a Japan travel specialist makes your trip smoother, richer & more personalized.
Is Ichiran Ramen on Your Japan Travel Itinerary?
Among the hundreds of Michelin-starred restaurants in Japan, many specialize in ramen. Ichiran is not one of those restaurants. How does Ichiran stack up to local ramen shops in Japan? Find out!
Etiquette: How to Travel Japan Respectfully
Etiquette in Japan isn't about following a strict set of rules. It's about being aware, being respectful and being open to new experiences... that turn a good trip into an unforgettable one.
Luggage Delivery & Baggage Forwarding in Japan
Travel light! But if you can’t, a useful servicein Japan is luggage delivery, also known as baggage forwarding (takkyubin/対面便). It lets you send bags ahead to the next hotel. Find out more.
Japan Travel Update - Q2 2025
As we step into the second quarter of 2025, Japan's travel scene continues to evolve, offering both exciting opportunities and new challenges for visitors. Check out our rundown of the latest developments shaping the experience of traveling to Japan.
Japan Travel as Seen Through Fresh Eyes
When you work in travel and tourism, you get to experience the world through their eyes. It keeps travel fresh for us, even in a country we know deeply. Some might call it “living vicariously” – though we see it as a way to keep our own sense of wonder alive.
Japan Travel: Hotel As Base? Or Move Around More?
When planning a trip to Japan, one of the biggest logistical decisions travelers face is whether to stay in one or two hotels as a “home base” or to move around and stay in different locations throughout the trip.
The Complete Guide to Restaurant Reservations in Japan
Restaurant booking in Japan has become increasingly essential – even for many mid-range and casual dining spots. Get everything you need to know about Japan restaurant reservations, from why it’s necessary to how to book successfully.
Planning Adventure & Outdoor Travel in Japan
With rugged mountain trails, intricate coastal routes, a vast array of topography and climate variation, Japan offers a ton of fun adventures that go far beyond typical tourist experiences
Talk to Us About Your Japan Trip
Want to make the most of your Japan self-guided tour? Let’s have a chat! We’ll answer your questions and let you know how we can help make your Japan travel dreams come true.