Japan’s weather, seasons, and cultural rhythm make it unlike many other destinations. Depending on which months you travel, the experience can vary wildly — from snowy landscapes and winter festivals, to the lush green of summer and the blazing color of autumn leaves. This guide breaks down what to expect by time of year, region, and traveler style — so you can pick the best window for you . Seasons, Weather & Regional Climatic Features Japan’s geography — stretching from sub

Navigating Japan without speaking Japanese can feel daunting, but a handful of key words and phrases can transform your journey into a seamless adventure. Fukuoka’s yatai stalls, Nara’s deer-filled parks, and Tokyo’s neon-lit streets welcome travelers with warm hospitality, and even basic Japanese opens doors to deeper connections. Whether you’re ordering ramen in Osaka or asking for directions in Kyoto, these essential phrases, rooted in polite Kansai and Kanto dialects, wil

The Japanese Yen: Currency Basics Japan’s official currency is the yen (円, pronounced en ) , with the international code JPY  and symbol ¥ . Travelers will quickly notice the kanji “円” used in shops, menus, and signage. Yen Denominations Coins:  1, 5, 10, 50, 100, 500 yen Banknotes:  1,000, 2,000, 5,000, and 10,000 yen Travel Tip:  The 2,000-yen note is rare and often a novelty item, mostly distributed in Okinawa. Japan redesigned its banknotes in 2024 with new portraits and