Japan | Your Ultimate Guide

Japan | Your Ultimate Guide

A Land of Tradition, Tech, and Unforgettable Travel

Japan offers the perfect mix of ancient temples, futuristic cities, and natural beauty—from neon-lit Tokyo to snow-capped Mt. Fuji. Whether it’s your first trip or a return visit, there’s always something new to discover. Here’s your go-to guide for navigating Japan, especially handy for Aussie travellers.

Must-Visit Attractions

Tokyo
Start in the capital where ancient shrines meet high-tech buzz. Wander through Meiji Shrine, shop up a storm in Harajuku and Shibuya, and try a late-night ramen bar. Don’t miss the view from the Tokyo Skytree or a sushi breakfast at Toyosu Market.

Kyoto
Catch the shinkansen (bullet train) to Kyoto, Japan’s cultural heart. Explore centuries-old temples like Kinkaku-ji (Golden Pavilion), walk the famous Arashiyama Bamboo Grove, and maybe spot a geisha in Gion.

Osaka
Big flavours and even bigger personality. Osaka is all about the food—try takoyaki (octopus balls), okonomiyaki (savoury pancakes), and explore the vibrant Dotonbori area. Also home to Universal Studios Japan.

Nara
An easy day trip from Kyoto or Osaka, Nara is full of charm—and deer! Visit Todai-ji temple, home to the world’s largest bronze Buddha, and don’t forget to bring crackers for the friendly locals (the deer, that is).

Hakone
Want a view of Mt. Fuji? Hakone offers onsens, lakes, and scenic rides on cable cars and pirate ships. Stay in a traditional ryokan and soak in an onsen for the full Japanese experience.

Hiroshima & Miyajima
Take a moment at the Peace Memorial Park in Hiroshima, then hop on a ferry to Miyajima Island to see the iconic floating torii gate. A meaningful stop that’s both beautiful and reflective.

Tourist Traps to Avoid

Overpriced Souvenirs
Shops near big tourist landmarks often charge more. For authentic, affordable gifts, try Don Quijote, Daiso, or local shopping arcades.

Taxis
Taxis are clean but pricey. Stick to trains or grab a prepaid IC card (like Suica or Pasmo) to easily tap on and off public transport.

Theme Parks During Holidays
Planning Disney or Universal? Avoid Japanese public holidays like Golden Week or Obon—lines can get hectic.

Where to Eat

Tokyo:

  • Ichiran Ramen: Solo booths and rich tonkotsu broth. Iconic.

  • Sushi Dai (Toyosu Market): Top-tier sushi. Arrive early—queues form before dawn.

Kyoto:

  • Nishiki Market: Street food heaven—try matcha treats and mochi.

  • Gion Kappa: Traditional set meals in the heart of old Kyoto.

Osaka:

  • Mizuno: Delicious okonomiyaki in Dotonbori.

  • Kuromon Market: Taste wagyu beef skewers, grilled scallops, and more.

Hiroshima:

  • Okonomimura: Floors of Hiroshima-style okonomiyaki.

  • Nagata-ya: Popular with locals and tourists alike.

Tips for Aussies

Visa Requirements (for Australians)
Good news—Aussie passport holders can enter Japan visa-free for up to 90 days. Just make sure your passport is valid and you have a return ticket handy.

Travel Insurance
Medical care in Japan is excellent but pricey. Get comprehensive travel insurance before you go.

Cash is King
Japan is still very much a cash-based society. Cards are accepted in major stores and hotels, but you’ll need yen for small eateries, shrines, and vending machines. Use ATMs at 7-Eleven, FamilyMart, or Japan Post.

Transport
Grab a Japan Rail Pass if you're doing multi-city travel—it’s worth it. Buy it before you leave Australia. For city trips, grab a Suica or Pasmo card for trains and buses.

Tipping
No need to tip—it’s not part of Japanese culture and may even cause confusion.

Language
English is understood in tourist areas, but not everywhere. Download Google Translate or learn a few basics like:

  • Konnichiwa (hello)

  • Arigatou gozaimasu (thank you)

  • Sumimasen (excuse me / sorry)

Best eSIM for Aussies in Japan

Roamsim: Perfect for Aussie travellers. Stay connected with high-speed data across Japan—great for maps, translations, and bookings on the go. Choose the Japan eSIM for local coverage, or the Asia Pack if you’re visiting nearby countries too. 

Emergency Numbers

  • Police: 110

  • Ambulance/Fire: 119

Currency

  • Japanese Yen (JPY)

  • 100 yen is roughly AUD $1.

  • ATMs are in most convenience stores, and currency exchange is easy at major airports.

Best Time to Visit

  • Spring (March–May): Cherry blossoms and mild weather.

  • Autumn (September–November): Stunning red leaves and comfortable temperatures.

  • Avoid: Golden Week (late April–early May) and New Year’s, when travel is hectic and prices spike.

Local Etiquette

  • Shoes Off Indoors: Especially in homes, temples, and traditional accommodations.

  • Quiet Please: Public transport is a time for silence or scrolling—not talking on the phone.

  • Queueing: Aussies are pretty good at lining up—Japan takes it to the next level. Always queue.

Traffic & Getting Around

  • Trains: The best way to get around. On time, clean, and efficient.

  • Driving: They drive on the left like Australia, but signage can be tricky in rural areas.

  • Bikes: Widely used. Rent one in places like Kyoto or Nara for a fun way to explore.

Japan is full of wow moments—from slurping ramen in Tokyo to meditating in a moss-covered temple. With Roamsim keeping you connected, you can enjoy the journey, stress-free.

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