Wednesday, August 28, 2024 Japan has become a top destination for travelers, with an increasing number of visitors from the UK alone to the three iconic cities Tokyo, Kyoto and Osaka. According to Japan ’s National Tourism Office (JNTO), there was a nearly 50% (46%) rise in UK arrivals between January and March 2024 compared to the previous year. As one of the 189,600 lucky UK visitors this year, Japan is a truly spectacular destination.
This guide will help you explore Tokyo, Kyoto, and Osaka—Japan’s three iconic cities. Language : Google Translate is your best friend if you don’t speak Japanese. While many in tourism and hospitality speak English, some restaurants and cafes have menus only in Japanese, so a translation app is a must.
Transportation : Japan’s railway system is internationally acclaimed. To travel between cities, we recommend purchasing a JR Pass, which you can buy online and activate at a Shinkansen station upon arrival. For city metro travel, the Welcome Suica card (similar to an Oyster card) is a convenient option.
T okyo: The Heart of Japan Tokyo, the world’s most populous city, is a vibrant blend of fashion, art, food, business, and culture. Despite its size and bustling atmosphere, Tokyo is remarkably clean, with polite and helpful locals. Where to Stay : Affordable accommodation in Tokyo can be challenging to find, but the Moxy Tokyo Kinshicho offers a great base, close to the metro and featuring modern amenities.
Alternatively, the Pullman.