πΈ Why Visit Japan?
Japan offers a unique blend of ancient traditions and cutting-edge modernity. From serene temples to neon-lit streets, world-class cuisine to stunning natural beauty β Japan captivates every traveler.
πΌ Tokyo
Japan's Vibrant Capital
Top Attractions
- Senso-ji Temple, Asakusa
- Shibuya Crossing
- Tokyo Imperial Palace
- Ginza Shopping District
- Meiji Shrine
Best Food
- Sushi at Tsukiji Outer Market
- Ramen in Shinjuku
- Wagyu Beef in Ginza
π― Osaka
Japan's Kitchen & Culture Hub
Top Attractions
- Osaka Castle
- Fushimi Inari Shrine
- Tsutenkaku Tower
- Osaka Aquarium
- Dotonbori Nightlife
Best Food
- Takoyaki (Octopus Balls)
- Okonomiyaki
- Kushikatsu
π― Kyoto
Ancient Capital & Temple City
Top Attractions
- Fushimi Inari (10,000 Gates)
- Kinkaku-ji (Golden Pavilion)
- Arashiyama Bamboo Grove
- Kiyomizu-dera Temple
- Traditional Geisha District
Best Experiences
- Philosopher's Path Walk
- Traditional Kaiseki Cuisine
- Kimono Rental & Photos
βοΈ Hokkaido
Nature Paradise & Gourmet Haven
Top Attractions
- Niseko Ski Resort
- Shikotsu-Toya National Park
- Furano Flower Fields
- Sapporo Beer Museum
- Jozankei Hot Springs
Best Food
- Fresh Seafood & Sashimi
- Hokkaido Dairy Products
- Genghis Khan Lamb BBQ
π Essential Travel Tips
βοΈ Getting There
IT Group Travel offers direct flights to Tokyo (Narita/Haneda) and Osaka (Kansai) from major US cities including New York, Los Angeles, San Francisco, Seattle, and Chicago. Business class upgrades available for a more comfortable journey.
- Flight Time: ~10-13 hours from West Coast, ~14-15 hours from East Coast
- Major Airports: Narita (NRT), Haneda (HND), Kansai (KIX)
- Time Zone: JST (UTC+9), 13-14 hours ahead of US Eastern
π Visa Information
US citizens can visit Japan for up to 90 days without a visa. For longer stays or business purposes, a visa is required. We can assist with visa applications and documentation.
π΄ Currency & Payment
Japanese Yen (JPY). Credit cards are widely accepted in cities, but cash is preferred in rural areas and small establishments. We recommend carrying some cash for temples, markets, and rural areas.
π Transportation
Japan has an excellent rail system. We recommend:
- Japan Rail Pass: Unlimited travel on JR lines for 7/14/21 days
- IC Card: rechargeable card for easy metro/bus payments
- Shinkansen: Bullet trains connecting major cities at up to 320 km/h
π¨ Accommodation
Japan offers accommodations for every budget:
- Luxury: Four Seasons, Park Hyatt, Aman Tokyo
- Traditional: Ryokan (Japanese inn) with tatami rooms and onsen
- Business: Granbell, Vessel Hotels (modern, great value)
- Budget: Capsule hotels, business hotels like Toyoko Inn
π± Useful Apps
- Google Maps: Most reliable for navigation in Japan
- Japan Travel: NAVITIME app for train routes and schedules
- PayPay: Most widely accepted mobile payment
- Google Translate: Essential for reading menus and signs
π Japanese Cuisine Guide
Japanese food is one of the world's greatest cuisines. Here's what you must try:
- π£ Sushi & Sashimi: Tsukiji (Tokyo), Kyubey (Tokyo), Kura (Osaka)
- π Ramen: Ichiran (Fukuoka style), Ippudo, Tokyo Ramen Street
- π₯© Wagyu Beef: Kobe, Miyazaki, Hida β try at high-end restaurants in Ginza or Kobe
- π± Kaiseki: Traditional multi-course haute cuisine β book at ryokan or kaiseki restaurants
- π₯ Osaka Street Food: Takoyaki, Okonomiyaki, Kushikatsu in Dotonbori
- π¦ Matcha & Wagashi: Traditional green tea sweets in Kyoto
π― Sample Itineraries
7-Day Classic Japan
- Day 1-2: Tokyo β Shibuya, Meiji Shrine, Tsukiji, Tokyo Tower
- Day 3: Day trip to Kamakura (Great Buddha)
- Day 4: Hakone (Mt. Fuji views, onsen)
- Day 5: Kyoto β Fushimi Inari, Kiyomizu-dera
- Day 6: Kyoto β Arashiyama, Geisha District + Osaka Dotonbori
- Day 7: Osaka Castle, Shinsekai, depart
14-Day Comprehensive Tour
Add Hokkaido (Sapporo, Niseko), Hiroshima/Miyajima, Kanazawa, Nagano (snow monkeys), and extend time in each city.