Practical Info for Japan
Everything you need to plan a smooth, connected, and worry-free trip to Japan — insurance, connectivity, airport transfers, and visa basics.
Travel Insurance
Japan has excellent healthcare, but medical costs for visitors can be high and aren't covered by Japan's national insurance. A travel insurance policy covering medical expenses, trip interruption, and baggage is strongly recommended for every trip.
SafetyWing — Nomad Travel Insurance
Medical insurance designed for travelers and remote workers, with coverage in Japan. Plans are flexible — pay for the days you need.
World Nomads — Travel Insurance
Trusted adventure travel insurance covering medical expenses, cancellation, and activities across Japan — easy to buy while on the road.
Stay Connected
Free Wi-Fi is common in cities but spotty in rural areas. An eSIM gives you data from the moment you land — no physical SIM or pick-up required.
Japan eSIM — Stay Connected
Airalo Japan eSIM from $4.50. Activate before you land — instant data across all major Japanese cities and regions.
Airport Transfers
Skip the train after a long flight — pre-book a private, fixed-price transfer from Narita, Haneda, or Kansai with an English-speaking driver.
Japan Airport Transfer — Fixed Price
Private airport transfers from Narita, Haneda, or Kansai. No haggling, English-speaking drivers.
Is the JR Pass worth it?
Pick the trains you plan to ride and see whether a nationwide JR Pass costs less than buying those tickets separately.
🧮 JR Pass Calculator
Select the routes you plan to take and see if the JR Pass saves you money.
Total Route Cost
¥0
JR-Covered Cost
¥0
JR Pass Price
¥50,000
💡 Individual tickets are ¥50,000 cheaper
Consider regional passes or buying individual tickets for this route.
Note: Prices are approximate and may vary. The JR Pass does NOT cover Nozomi/Mizuho Shinkansen, private railways, or subway lines.
Plan your daily budget
Estimate what a day in Japan costs at your travel style — from hostel dorms and konbini meals to ryokan stays and omakase dinners.
💰 Japan Budget Calculator
Customize your trip and see exactly how much Japan will cost you.
Daily Budget
¥12,143
Per Person
¥85,001
USD Equivalent
~$567
EUR Equivalent
~€515
💡 Money-Saving Tips
- • Eat at konbini for breakfast (¥300-500) instead of restaurants
- • Walk short distances instead of taking the metro
- • Visit free temples and shrines instead of paid attractions
- • Buy snacks at Don Quijote instead of convenience stores
- • Use day passes for multiple metro rides
Visa Basics
Citizens of over 60 countries and regions — including the US, Canada, UK, Australia, EU member states, and most of Southeast Asia — can enter Japan visa-free for tourism for up to 90 days (check your nationality for the exact allowance).
Requirements can change, so always confirm with the Japanese Ministry of Foreign Affairs or your nearest Japanese embassy before traveling.
Japan plans an online entry authorization (JESTA) for visa-exempt visitors, due to start by March 2029. It is not live yet, so there is nothing to apply for today — check the Immigration Services Agency of Japan before you travel.