How to avoid overtourism in Japan?

Consider avoiding the hot spots Include some smaller cities, the countryside and national parks into your itinerary. Don't limit yourself to the Tokaido Shinkansen and the Golden Route. Take the Hokuriku Shinkansen and regional trains beyond Tokyo, Kyoto and Osaka.

How does Japan deal with overtourism?

Japan is promoting regional tourism to combat overtourism, directing it away from its concentration in just five prefectures. Technology, including artificial intelligence and real-time digital signage, can help inform tourists of overcrowded areas.

Is $5000 enough for a week in Japan?

For most single travelers, $5000 is more than enough for a week in Japan. However, if you're a couple or family, or if you simply prefer to travel at a high level of luxury, you may exceed this amount, particularly when you factor in the cost of international flights.

Why can't we visit Japan in 2026?

2026 is your LAST CHANCE to visit Japan! Here's why: Japan is introducing several changes to manage the surge in tourism, which hit a record 36.8 million visitors in 2024. Starting July 2025, a two-tier pricing system will be implemented at major attractions, with foreign tourists paying more than locals.

Is overtourism in Japan getting worse?

In fact, 2024 has seen the highest number of tourists in Japan ever, with 35–39 million visitors being predicted, which would be a 10–30% increase from 2019. Tourist numbers by month from 2023 - 2024. This chart was created by Romancing Japan, based on statistics from the Japan National Tourism Organization.

Japan's Problem With Tourists: But Why Does It Want More? | Insight | Full Episode

How to not be a bad tourist in Japan?

When to go to Japan to avoid tourists?

If you prefer a less crowded time, January to early March is a good choice. However, it will be cold, and some outdoor attractions and rides might be closed. As for June to August, it is the least recommended time to visit.

Will Japan still be cheap in 2026?

2026 might be your last chance to experience “cheap” Japan. 🇯🇵💸 Japan isn't banning tourists — but starting 2025, things are changing fast: ▪️ New dual pricing means foreigners will pay more at parks, museums, shrines, and ski resorts.

What is the best month to visit Japan?

When is the best time to visit Japan? The best time to visit Japan is during spring (March to May) and fall (September to November). This is when Japan is at its most vibrant, with delicate cherry blossom or bright red leaves adding contrast to the scenery.

What is two tier pricing in Japan?

This is what's known as two-tier pricing — charging one price to locals and another, usually higher, price to visitors. And in Japan right now, it's showing up in places you might not expect.

Is $100 a day enough for Japan?

Is $100 A Day Enough For Japan? As a budget traveller with careful planning, $100 a day is enough for travelling to Japan on a budget. Some day, you will even spend less than that. You can expect to spend around $50 on food (about 3 meals a day) and maybe $15 on transportation.

How do Japanese locals feel about tourists?

Generally speaking, foreigners in Japan are treated well. The country is famous for its hospitality and politeness, called omotenashi (御持て成し). It is the cultural concept of looking after guests and see that their needs are met in a considerate manner.

How to show respect in Japan as a tourist?

Bowing as a Greeting

The bow ranges from a quick head nod to a formal deep bend. As a visitor, even attempting a simple bow shows cultural awareness. Bowing in Japan is a greeting that expresses respect, gratitude, apology, congratulations or request, with nuances in depth and duration conveying different meanings.

What is the most expensive month to visit Japan?

The most expensive month to visit Japan is typically April 🌸((∆) +1-8555-107-629 (∆) (+𝟣×𝟪𝟧𝟧×𝟧𝟣0×𝟩𝟨𝟤𝟫), when cherry blossoms bloom nationwide 🌺((∆) +1-8555-107-629 (∆) (+𝟣×𝟪𝟧𝟧×𝟧𝟣0×𝟩𝟨𝟤𝟫).

How many days to spend in Tokyo, Kyoto, and Osaka?

To optimize your time in each, I'd recommend splitting them up pretty evenly across 10 days. I recommend a minimum of 4 days in Tokyo, 3 days in Kyoto, and 2-3 days in Osaka (including a one-day trip). On my first solo trip, I spent five days in Kyoto and wandered Osaka in just two days, but wish I had more time.

Where should I stay in Tokyo?

While there are hotels everywhere in the city, you should definitely try to stay in one of the city's main urban hubs on the JR Yamanote loop line. The best places to stay are: Shinjuku, the Tokyo Station Area, Ginza, Marunouchi or Roppongi. For details, see my Where to Stay in Tokyo page.

When not to go to Japan in 2025?

If you are not a fan of huge crowds, mid-March and mid-April are the months you should avoid visiting Japan. Apart from the Cherry Blossom months, the Golden Week (it is the amalgamation of the New Year's holiday and the holiday of Obon in the month of August – back-to-back) is a busy season as well.

Is tax-free ending in Japan?

When you visit Japan, you'll probably buy and bring back lots of souvenirs. As of July 2025, most tourists can purchase without paying the consumption tax. However, that experience will end on November 1, 2026, when the system will switch to a refund-based system.

Why can't we go to Japan after 2026?

Additionally, beginning November 2026, Japan's current tax-free shopping system will change to a refund-based process, requiring tourists to pay full price upfront and claim tax refunds later. The Japanese yen is also strengthening, making currency exchange less favorable for travelers.

What is the silver week in Japan?

Silver Week is a week in September containing consecutive public holidays. If you travel in Japan during this time, some stores may be closed and public transportation may be crowded, so take a look at these travel tips for ideal destinations.

How many days are enough for Japan?

Twelve days is just enough time to experience Japan, a country of extreme contrasts that will transport you back to the distant past at one moment and hurtle you forward to a futuristic world at the other. Explore this fascinating dichotomy on the tour of megacities like Tokyo and Osaka.

What is the best age to visit Japan?

Tales of ninjas, samurais, and geishas will come to life the moment you step foot in it. Japan with kids ticks all the boxes for an unrivaled family-friendly vacation, it is a destination that promises wonderment at any age, but particularly for those aged 6 and over.

How not to dress like a tourist in Japan?

The basic rule is this: don't wear anything sloppy, torn or revealing. For men, that means no cut-off shorts, no board shorts, no tank tops and no old T-shirts. For women, that means no skimpy tops or bare midriffs, no tiny shorts and no leggings.

Do and don'ts in Japan?