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Japan

Travel Guide

The Land of the Rising Sun, of the secret world of the Geisha, of the mysterious Samurai, and then again of anime, technology and the bullet train. Japan is a fascinating land of contrasts, of day to day paradoxes that manage to baffle even the most well travelled among us. Travel to Japan, a place where the ancient and the futuristic seem to coexist in complete harmony - it will leave you in awe. 

Japan Travel

Japan

Rail Pass

From $3887-21 Days

There is simply no better way to get around Japan than on the world-famous Shinkansen 'bullet' trains, which wizz you effortlessly through Japan at speeds of up to 300km/h. Check out our Japan Rail Pass options, intended for international travelers!

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Japan Fast Facts

language

Languages Spoken

The official language spoken in Japan is Japanese, however you will also find minority languages such as Ainu

costs

Currency

Name: Japanese Yen
Code: JPY
Symbol: ¥
$1 NZD is approx 75¥

timezone

Time Zones

UTC + 09:00, which means Japan is 3 hours behind New Zealand.

Top tour picks

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A picture of two people in Japan holding umbrellas
One Life Japan
With this tour package, you will have the full Japan experience, visiting Tokyo, Hakone, Mt Fuji, Kyoto and Osaka. You will learn to make sushi true Japanese style, visit the most exotic temples, and take in the mix of futuristic and traditional culture of Japan. This 10 day epic journey across some of Japan's most iconic landmarks is sure to be the best 10 days you've ever had!
10 days
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Serengeti, Falls & Cape Town Adventure
Marvel at some of the world's highest sand dunes, float through the Okavango Delta, and meet the San Bushmen in the blazing Kalahari Desert on this epic overland adventure. Explore eight countries all in one 40-day trip, beginning in Kenya and moving down towards Africa's southernly tip. Our Landos (overland adventure vehicles) are an adventurous and inexpensive way to enjoy the region’s intriguing combination of wilderness and rural villages.
40 days from $5,109 | Save up to 30%
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Japan Travel
Authentic Japan Advenutre
Bask in the breathtaking natural beauty, amazing history, and unique culture of Japan on this unforgettable small group experience. You will be meditating in Buddhist temples, chilliing with snow monkeys and snapping away at the Matsumoto Castle. 
10 days from $2529 
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Japan Travel Costs

Beers

The typical cost of a beer in a restaurant in Japan will be between ¥500 – ¥600 (approx $7-$8.40), but if you're going to a convenience store to get one you're looking at a lower cost of ¥100 – ¥200 (approx $1.40-$2.80).

Meals

The cost of a meal in Japan can range from ¥800 – ¥3000 (approx $11.22-$42), with a bowl of ramen costing around ¥500 (approx $7). Top tip: if you're looking for a quick and inexpensive meal such as soba and domburi, keep your eyes peeled around large train stations

Taxi Ride

Looking to catch a cab? a normal taxi tariff starts at ¥300 (approx $4.20) depending on where you're going.

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Transport

One of the best things about Japan is its transportation, with the cost of an adult 1-day subway ticket costing around ¥800 (approx $11.22).

hostels

Hostels

Looking for a hostel in Japan? the average cost per night is around ¥3000 (approx $42).

hotels

Hotels

Japan has a range of accommodation to choose from, including both traditional rooms and Western style hotels, with the average cost of a night being around ¥2000 (approx $28)

When to Visit Japan

Japan has distinctly marked seasons with a more agreeable climate than other places in Oriental Asia. Although Hokkaido and the north can see freezing temperatures in the winter, the season also provides great ski conditions and hosts the amazing Sapporo Snow Festival. Spring is the most popular time to visit thanks to the beautiful cherry blossom that blooms across the country - accommodation books up way in advance for the blossom weeks (usually the beginning of April). The summer can be prone to rain storms and high humidity is typical - only Hokkaido escapes the brunt of it. Autumn is another popular time to visit, and the changing colours of the season make for great viewing of Japan's famous gardens.

JAPAN TOP PLACES TO VISIT

Getting Around Japan

Japan is famed for its amazing bullet trains, and the Japan Rail Pass is a brilliant way to get around the country. Alternatively there are some amazing tours of Japan, allowing you to have things taken care of for you. Want something extra special? Our Tailor Made team are here to help too.

Terms and conditions

Based on Auckland to Tokyo return flights with best availability. $1899 package is based on dorm share, ask us about options for twin/double/ single packages.Packages subject to Japan ski season and airline availability, limited seats available.