JAPAN

Japan is a country of contrasts—where ancient temples stand beside modern skyscrapers and where meticulous attention to detail defines every experience. As a Japanese-born traveler, I can tell you that politeness, cleanliness, and punctuality are at the heart of daily life. From the bustling energy of Tokyo to the peaceful zen of rural areas, expect efficient transportation, a deep respect for tradition, and a food culture that’s both diverse and delicious. Whether it’s navigating through the city or immersing yourself in cultural rituals, Japan promises a truly unique journey.

Language: Japanese is the national language and is spoken throughout Japan. While English signs are quite prevalent, it is not widely spoken outside of Tokyo or other major cities, thus it is highly recommended to brush up on some Japanese phrases before you go.

Currency: The Japanese Yen is the national currency. Hotels, major shops and many restaurants will accept credit cards but cash is still king just about everywhere else in Japan. Typically, $1 U.S. gets you about 140-160 Japanese Yen.

Climate: Japan experiences four distinct seasons (winter, spring, summer and fall), and ranges from subarctic to subtropical depending on the season. Summers are typically hot and humid, winters see snowfall (especially in the north) whereas spring and fall are more moderate temperature-wise but also experience seasonal monsoons. Our favorite time to visit Japan is Spring when the Cherry Blossoms are in full bloom.