Question 1

What meal plan is included in this Japan package?

Accepted Answer

The package includes daily breakfast at your hotels, along with 5 Indian lunches and 7 Indian dinners throughout the duration of your trip.

Question 2

Are airport transfers provided?

Accepted Answer

Yes, the package includes all necessary airport transfers using a shared coach service.

Question 3

Which cities are covered in this 7-night Japan itinerary?

Accepted Answer

Your trip includes 2 nights in Tokyo, 2 nights in Kyoto, and 3 nights in Osaka, featuring guided tours and excursions in each region.

Question 4

How will we travel between Japanese cities?

Accepted Answer

You will travel between Tokyo and the Kyoto/Osaka area using the Shinkansen bullet train.

Question 5

What is not included in the package?

Accepted Answer

The package does not include travel insurance, personal expenses, or any meals not explicitly mentioned in the itinerary. Additionally, a 2 percent TCS applies.

Question 6

Is this trip suitable for families and cultural explorers?

Accepted Answer

Yes, this itinerary is designed for those interested in a mix of modern urban life, high-tech art, and traditional Japanese landmarks such as temples and shrines.

Question 7

Do Indian passport holders need a visa to visit Japan?

Accepted Answer

Yes, Indian passport holders require a visa to visit Japan. There is no visa-on-arrival facility. Since April 2024, Indian residents can apply for a short-term tourist e-Visa through VFS Global, which allows receipt of a digital visa issuance notice displayed on a smartphone at the airport. The visa fee for Indian nationals is 500 INR plus VFS service charges. Processing typically takes approximately one week. Applications can be submitted up to three months before travel. For the most current requirements, check the official Japan Embassy website at in.emb-japan.go.jp.

Question 8

What is the best time to visit Japan?

Accepted Answer

Japan has four distinct seasons, each offering unique experiences. Spring (late March to May) is famous for cherry blossom (sakura) season, which is beautiful but extremely busy and expensive. Autumn (September to November) is widely considered the best season for first-time visitors, offering comfortable temperatures, stunning red and gold foliage (koyo), and somewhat fewer crowds than spring. Summer (June to August) is hot and humid, with a rainy season (tsuyu) in June and July, but is ideal for festivals (matsuri) and mountain hiking. Winter (December to February) is ideal for skiing in Hokkaido and Nagano, and for visiting hot spring resorts (onsen).

Question 9

What currency is used in Japan and how do I handle payments?

Accepted Answer

The Japanese Yen (JPY) is the official currency. Japan remains significantly cash-oriented compared to other developed countries, and carrying Yen is essential for local restaurants, smaller shops, shrines, temples, vending machines, and rural areas. In major cities, Visa and Mastercard are increasingly accepted at hotels, department stores, and convenience stores. The most reliable ATMs for international cards are at 7-Eleven (Seven Bank), Japan Post Bank, and major Japanese banks. Prepaid IC cards such as Suica or Pasmo can be used for public transport and at many convenience stores and chain restaurants.

Question 10

What is the JR Pass and is it worth buying?

Accepted Answer

The Japan Rail Pass (JR Pass) allows unlimited travel on most Japan Railways (JR) trains, including Shinkansen (bullet trains), for a fixed period. Following a significant price increase in October 2023, the current standard adult prices are 50,000 JPY for 7 days, 80,000 JPY for 14 days, and 100,000 JPY for 21 days. The pass is best value for travelers making multiple long-distance Shinkansen journeys, such as the Tokyo to Kyoto to Hiroshima to Fukuoka route. For those staying in one region or making fewer intercity trips, individual ticket purchases or regional passes may be more economical. The pass must be purchased outside Japan through the official site at japanrailpass.net.

Question 11

How do I get around within cities in Japan?

Accepted Answer

Japan's urban public transport is world-class, punctual, and comprehensive. Major cities including Tokyo, Osaka, and Kyoto are served by extensive metro, subway, and bus networks. A Suica or Pasmo IC card is the most convenient way to pay for all public transport and can be loaded with cash at any station. Taxis are available everywhere but are expensive. Ride-hailing apps Uber and GO operate in Japan but are not as dominant as in other countries due to the strong public transport network. Bullet trains (Shinkansen) efficiently connect major cities across the country.

Question 12

What are the main cultural etiquette rules in Japan?

Accepted Answer

Japan has specific social customs that travelers should respect. Tipping is not customary and can cause confusion or offence; excellent service is considered standard. Remove shoes before entering homes, traditional ryokan inns, and many restaurants. Do not stick chopsticks vertically into rice or pass food chopstick to chopstick, as both gestures are associated with funeral rites. Speak quietly on public transport and avoid making phone calls on trains. Tattoos may restrict access to some onsen bathhouses and gyms. Queue orderly; line-jumping is considered very rude.

Question 13

What are the must-see destinations in Japan?

Accepted Answer

Top destinations for first-time visitors include Tokyo (Shibuya crossing, Senso-ji temple in Asakusa, Shinjuku, teamLab digital art museums, and the Tokyo Skytree), Kyoto (Fushimi Inari Shrine, Arashiyama bamboo grove, Kinkaku-ji golden pavilion, geisha districts of Gion), Osaka (Dotonbori street food, Osaka Castle, Universal Studios Japan), Hiroshima and Miyajima Island (Peace Memorial, floating torii gate), Nara (friendly free-roaming deer and Todai-ji temple), and Hokkaido (Sapporo, lavender fields, skiing, and seafood).

Question 14

What is Japanese food like, and what must I try?

Accepted Answer

Japanese cuisine (washoku) is a UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage renowned for its precision, seasonal ingredients, and presentation. Must-try dishes include sushi and sashimi (raw fish over vinegared rice or served alone), ramen (regional noodle soups from Sapporo's miso ramen to Hakata's tonkotsu), tempura (lightly battered and fried seafood and vegetables), takoyaki (Osaka-style octopus balls), yakitori (grilled chicken skewers), tonkatsu (breaded pork cutlet), and matcha-based desserts. Convenience stores (konbini) such as 7-Eleven and Lawson also sell remarkably high-quality prepared meals and snacks.

Question 15

What is the internet and connectivity situation in Japan?

Accepted Answer

Japan has excellent mobile connectivity with widespread 4G and growing 5G coverage across cities and major tourist routes. Pocket Wi-Fi rental devices, available for collection at airports, are popular for travelers needing to connect multiple devices. eSIMs from providers such as Airalo, Ubigi, and Holafly are convenient alternatives that can be activated before departure. Major hotels provide Wi-Fi. Note that VoIP restrictions do not apply in Japan; all internet calling apps work freely.

Question 16

What is the onsen (hot spring) culture in Japan?

Accepted Answer

Onsen are natural geothermal hot spring baths that are an integral part of Japanese culture. Most ryokan (traditional inns) include private or communal onsen facilities. Rules to observe: you must shower and wash thoroughly before entering the bath; swimwear is not permitted in traditional onsen (you enter the water without clothing); guests with tattoos are frequently refused entry at traditional bathhouses. Private onsen rooms (kashikiri-buro) are an option for tattooed visitors at some ryokan.

Question 17

What is a ryokan and how does it differ from a regular hotel?

Accepted Answer

A ryokan is a traditional Japanese inn providing an immersive cultural experience. Guests sleep on futon mattresses on tatami mat floors, wear yukata (cotton robes) provided by the inn, and dine on elaborate multi-course kaiseki meals served in private rooms. Most ryokan include access to communal or private onsen hot springs. Shoes are removed at the entrance and indoor slippers are worn. Ryokan range from affordable family guesthouses to ultra-luxury five-star experiences. Booking in advance is essential, particularly during cherry blossom and autumn foliage seasons.

Question 18

Is Japan expensive to visit?

Accepted Answer

Japan can suit multiple budget levels, though it has become relatively more expensive for international visitors following the weakening of the Yen against major currencies. Budget travelers using hostels, convenience store meals, and public transport can manage on approximately 6,000 to 9,000 JPY (around USD 40 to 60) per day. Mid-range travelers spending in restaurants and business hotels typically spend 15,000 to 25,000 JPY per day. Luxury ryokan and fine dining kaiseki meals represent the high end. The JR Pass and IC transport cards make getting around efficient and cost-controlled.

Question 19

Do I need travel insurance for Japan?

Accepted Answer

Japan does not require travel insurance for entry, but it is very strongly recommended. Medical treatment in Japan is world-class but expensive for uninsured visitors. Japan is also located in one of the world's most seismically active zones, and a comprehensive policy covering natural disasters, trip cancellation, and medical evacuation is advisable.

Question 20

What should I do during cherry blossom season?

Accepted Answer

Cherry blossom (sakura) season is Japan's most celebrated natural event, typically occurring late March to mid-April depending on location and annual weather conditions. The Japan Meteorological Corporation and Japan Meteorological Agency publish annual sakura forecasts. Top viewing spots include Ueno Park and Shinjuku Gyoen in Tokyo, Maruyama Park in Kyoto, Hirosaki Castle in Aomori, and Philosopher's Path in Kyoto. Book flights, accommodation, and the JR Pass at least three to four months in advance as this is the country's peak tourist season.

Question 21

Is tap water safe to drink in Japan?

Accepted Answer

Yes, tap water in Japan is completely safe to drink everywhere, including Tokyo, Kyoto, Osaka, and rural mountain areas. Japan has some of the strictest municipal water quality standards in the world. Tap water is crisp, clean, and served complimentary with ice at virtually all restaurants and cafes.

Question 22

What are the emergency numbers in Japan?

Accepted Answer

In Japan, dial 110 for Police (crime, traffic accidents) and 119 for Fire and Ambulance (medical emergencies). For emergencies at sea, dial 118. The Japan National Tourism Organization (JNTO) operates the Japan Visitor Hotline 24/7 in English, Chinese, and Korean at 0570-000-911 for tourist advice, medical assistance, and disaster support.

Question 23

How does tax-free shopping work in Japan?

Accepted Answer

Foreign tourists in Japan on temporary visitor status can shop consumption-tax-free (saving 10 percent) at participating department stores, electronics shops (like Bic Camera and Yodobashi), and drugstores on purchases of 5,000 JPY or more on the same day. Present your original passport at checkout. Starting late 2026, Japan is transitioning to an airport digital refund model through Visit Japan Web.

Question 24

What are the luggage size rules on the Shinkansen bullet train?

Accepted Answer

On Tokaido, Sanyo, and Kyushu Shinkansen lines, luggage with total dimensions (length + width + height) between 160 cm and 250 cm requires an advance reservation for a Seat with an Oversized Baggage Area. This reservation is free when booking your train ticket. Bags exceeding 250 cm are prohibited on bullet trains and must be shipped via luggage forwarding services like Yamato Transport (Takkyubin).

Question 25

What electrical plug and voltage are used in Japan?

Accepted Answer

Japan uses Type A two-pin unpolarized flat plugs operating at 100 volts (50 Hz in Tokyo and eastern Japan; 60 Hz in Osaka and western Japan). Outlets rarely feature grounding holes for Type B three-pin plugs. Most dual-voltage phone and laptop chargers (100 to 240V) work seamlessly with a basic two-pin adapter, but high-wattage heating appliances like curling irons need a voltage converter.

Question 26

Can I drive in Japan with an International Driving Permit (IDP)?

Accepted Answer

Yes, tourists can drive in Japan provided they carry an International Driving Permit issued under the 1949 Geneva Convention, alongside their domestic driver license. Driving is on the left side of the road. Japan enforces strict road rules, zero tolerance for drink driving, and mandatory seatbelts for all passengers. Public transport is so comprehensive that renting a car is only recommended for exploring rural areas like Hokkaido, Okinawa, or the Japanese Alps.

7N Japan: Cherry Blossom Special | With Flights Ex Mumbai / Ex Delhi / Ex Bangalore

Gallery

Where you'll stay

Mercure Tokyo Haneda Airport

Keio Prelia Hotel Kyoto Karasuma Gojo

THE LIVELY OSAKA HONMACHI

Overview

Discover Japan During Cherry Blossom Season

Comprehensive Itinerary and Activities

Comfortable Accommodations and Inclusions

Day-by-day itinerary

Kyoto Cultural Highlights (Group Departure Special)

Nara Half Day & Osaka Half Day City (Group Tour Special)

Amanohashidate, Ine Bay And Miyama Village Full Day Tour

Highlights

Inclusions & policies

Frequently asked questions