Visa-free for 90 days. 10–11 hours from Sydney. One of the world's great countries. Everything you need to plan the perfect Japan trip from Australia.
Japan's capital — the world's greatest city for variety. Shibuya, Shinjuku, Asakusa, Akihabara. 4–5 nights minimum.
Japan's cultural heartland — 1,600+ temples and shrines, geisha districts, ryokan stays, bamboo groves. 3 nights.
Giant bronze Buddha, freely roaming deer, atmospheric shrines. Perfect day trip from Kyoto (45 min by train).
Japan's food capital — Dotonbori, takoyaki, kushikatsu, better ramen than Tokyo (controversial but true). 2–3 nights.
The Peace Memorial Museum is one of the world's most moving experiences. Day trip from Osaka or Kyoto.
Mt Fuji views, ryokan with outdoor onsen, the Hakone Open Air Museum. Day trip or overnight from Tokyo.
The Japan Rail Pass allows unlimited travel on most JR Shinkansen (bullet trains) for 7, 14 or 21 days. A 14-day pass costs approximately AUD $650 and pays for itself if you're doing significant bullet train travel.
Japan is more affordable than its reputation suggests — the weak yen makes it genuinely good value for Australians right now. Ramen: AUD $12–18. Sushi conveyor: AUD $1–2 per plate. Convenience store meal: AUD $5–8.
Japan's most famous season. Extraordinary beauty but significant crowds. Book accommodation 6+ months ahead.
Our top pick for first-time visitors. Maple and ginkgo colour rivals the cherry blossoms. Perfect temperatures.
World-class skiing in Hokkaido, onsen culture at its best, fewer crowds. Cheaper flights and accommodation.
Hot and humid but home to Japan's spectacular festival season. Tokyo summer atmosphere is memorable.
Regional styles — Sapporo miso, Tokyo shoyu, Hakata tonkotsu. AUD $12–18.
Conveyor belt chains (AUD $1–2/plate) to premium counter sushi (AUD $30–80+).
Lightly battered seafood and vegetables, best eaten fresh. AUD $15–40.
Grilled chicken skewers in izakayas (Japanese pubs). With beer: AUD $20–40.
7-Eleven, Lawson, FamilyMart — genuinely good hot food. Full meal for AUD $5–8.
Japan's haute cuisine — multi-course tasting menu. AUD $80–500+/person.