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Japan is well prepared for natural hazards, but earthquakes, tsunamis, typhoons, heavy rain, volcanic activity, and heavy snow are real risks. The useful question is not whether a disaster could ever happen. It is which hazard applies to your destination and dates—and what action to take if conditions change.Most vi...

This article is based on official information available as of August 2, 2026, 11:57 PM JST. Update note — August 7, 2026: This breaking news article is no longer being actively updated. For the latest travel and transportation information following the Kumamoto earthquake, please see our Japan Travel Updat...

What is the most practical way to get Japanese yen for a trip to Japan?For many travelers, using an international ATM with an overseas-issued debit card provides a flexible way to obtain yen as needed, provided that the card supports overseas withdrawals and its fees are reasonable.Currency exchange counters remain ...

Can you use an overseas-issued credit card everywhere in Japan?No. Cards work at many hotels, shops, restaurants, attractions, and transportation services, but acceptance still varies by business, terminal, card network, and issuer.This guide focuses on where cards usually work, how contactless and mobile payments f...

The Japan Rail Pass can still be useful, but it is no longer the default choice for every trip.Since the major price increase in 2023, many visitors—especially those staying in one city or region—spend less by using an IC card for local travel and buying long-distance tickets separately.This guide explains the curre...

Visit Japan Web is the Japanese government's online service for preparing immigration and customs information before entering Japan. Completing it before departure lets you check the details at your own pace and have the arrival QR code ready before you land.The service also includes optional tax-free shopping funct...

Should you bring cash to Japan, rely on credit cards, or use both?For most visitors, the simplest answer is to use a credit card for larger purchases, an IC card for local transportation and some everyday payments, and Japanese yen for cash-only situations and backup. No single payment method works everywhere.This g...

Planning your first trip to Japan and wondering when to go?The best time to visit Japan depends on the weather you prefer, the regions you want to explore, the experiences you value, and the pace you want for your trip.Spring brings flowers and comfortable walking conditions. Summer offers hydrangeas, beaches, festi...

Planning to visit Japan during the summer?Summer festivals offer a chance to experience Japan beyond sightseeing. Fireworks, traditional dances, food stalls, lanterns, and local celebrations bring communities together and create a lively atmosphere that is different from an ordinary day of travel.This guide explains...

Should you stay in 大阪 / Ōsaka / Osaka or 京都 / Kyōto / Kyoto on your first trip to Japan?The two cities are close enough to visit from each other, so the most useful question is not which one is “better.” It is which city you want to wake up in, return to after sightseeing, and use as your everyday base.For most ...