Japan travel question library

Find the answer for the moment you are in.

Start before booking, continue through arrival and reopen the recovery guides when something does not go to plan. Every answer links to current official information.

200 detailed guidesLatest review November 10, 2026
Traveler navigating a large Japanese railway station
Question library · Before and during Japan
01

Understand Japanese festival culture

Discover the history, meaning and regional traditions behind the spectacle.

02

New practical travel guides

Prepare for hotel taxes, foreign-card ATM withdrawals, luggage storage, food allergies, driving documents, check-in, charging, transit cards and airport transfers.

197
eSIM calls & SMS · Before departureJapan eSIM Calls and SMS: Phone Numbers, 110/119 and Backups

Check whether a Japan travel eSIM includes calls, SMS or a number, keep your home line safely, and prepare public-phone backups for 110 and 119.

196
IC card refunds · Before departureRefund Suica or PASMO in Japan: Balance, Deposit and Airport Plan

Learn where to refund a regular Suica or PASMO, how the ¥220 fee and ¥500 deposit work, and why Welcome Suica and mobile cards need a different departure plan.

195
Mobile IC cards · When something goes wrongPhone Battery Dead in Japan? Mobile Suica Gate Recovery

Learn when Mobile Suica may still work on a low-battery iPhone, why Android and Apple Watch differ, and how to exit a station if your phone dies after entry.

194
Airport security · Before departureLiquids on Japan Domestic Flights: Drinks, Cosmetics and Medicine

Learn when Japan's domestic flights do not use the international 100 ml rule, the limits for toiletries, medicine and alcohol, and what changes on an international connection.

193
Carry-on baggage · Before departureJapan Domestic Flight Carry-On Limits: JAL, ANA, Peach and Jetstar

Compare current cabin-bag size, weight and item limits for JAL, ANA, Peach and Jetstar Japan, then fix an overweight bag before the airport.

192
Medical help · When something goes wrongSick or Injured in Japan? Clinics, Insurance and Medical Bills

What to do if you become sick or injured in Japan: call 119 in an emergency, find a suitable clinic, contact travel insurance and handle medical bills.

191
Domestic flights · Before departureHow Early for a Domestic Flight in Japan? Check-In and Gate Deadlines

Plan when to reach a Japanese airport for a domestic flight, with current JAL, ANA, Peach and Jetstar Japan check-in, bag-drop and gate deadlines.

190
Shinkansen recovery · When something goes wrongMissed Your Shinkansen in Japan? Tickets, SmartEX and Recovery

Missed a Shinkansen? Check what to do with a paper reserved ticket, SmartEX booking, Hayatoku fare, all-reserved train or Japan Rail Pass.

189
Hotel luggage · Before bookingHotel Luggage Storage in Japan: Before Check-In and After Check-Out

Find out whether a Japanese hotel will hold bags before check-in or after checkout, what to confirm, what may be refused, and which storage fallback to use.

188
Family rail travel · Before bookingJapan Train Fares for Children: Ages, IC Cards and Reserved Seats

Work out child train fares in Japan, know when a toddler needs a ticket, buy a child IC card, and avoid reserved-seat and SmartEX gate problems.

187
Family travel · Before departureJapan With a Stroller: Trains, Elevators, Buses and Shinkansen

Use a stroller in Japan with confidence: find step-free routes, board trains and buses safely, reserve Shinkansen storage, and plan a carrier fallback.

186
Taxis & ride-hailing · During your tripJapan Taxis: How to Hail, Use Apps, Pay and Meet Your Driver

Use taxis in Japan with confidence: choose a stand, street hail or app, confirm the pickup pin, understand fares and fees, pay safely, and recover lost items.

185
Hotel check-in · Before arrivalLate Check-In at Japanese Hotels: Midnight and No-Show Rules

Running late for a hotel in Japan? Learn when to contact the property, what to confirm for arrival after midnight, and how to avoid a no-show cancellation.

184
Documents & emergencies · When something goes wrongLost Your Passport in Japan? Police, Embassy and Flight Steps

Replace a lost or stolen passport in Japan: search the last location, report it to police, contact your embassy, protect accounts and change travel safely.

183
Flight baggage · Before departurePower Banks on Flights to Japan: Carry-on, Wh Limits and 2026 Rules

Pack a power bank for Japan correctly: carry-on only, two-device limit, Wh calculation, Japanese airline rules, connections and refusal fallbacks.

182
Customs & quarantine · Before departureCan You Bring Food Into Japan? Meat, Fruit and Quarantine Rules

Check food before packing for Japan: meat, fruit, plants, snacks, certificates, airport quarantine steps, declaration rules and safe fallbacks.

181
Restaurant reservations · Before bookingHow to Book Restaurants in Japan Without a Japanese Phone Number

Reserve restaurants in Japan with an overseas number: choose an official booking route, confirm the table, fix card errors and avoid duplicate or no-show fees.

180
eSIM & connectivity · Before departureHow to Set Up a Japan Travel eSIM Without Roaming Surprises

Install and test a Japan travel eSIM without losing your home line: check compatibility, choose the data SIM, control roaming and keep a recovery plan for arrival.

179
Highway buses · Before bookingHow to Book Highway and Night Buses in Japan

Book a Japan highway or night bus without a terminal mistake: compare official sellers, confirm the exact stop, ticket, luggage and cancellation rules, and keep a missed-bus fallback.

178
Shinkansen tickets · Before boardingCan You Use Suica on the Shinkansen? IC Card Rules Explained

Use Suica on Japan's Shinkansen without a gate mistake: compare SmartEX, JR East Shinkansen e-tickets, Touch de Go, paper tickets and recovery steps.

177
Accommodation costs · Before bookingJapan Hotel Taxes: Tokyo, Kyoto and Osaka Rates Explained

Budget Japan accommodation tax correctly: current Tokyo, Kyoto and Osaka rates, per-person calculations, prepaid-booking checks and onsen-tax fallbacks.

176
Cash & ATMs · On arrivalJapan ATM Guide for Foreign Cards: Fees, Limits and Fallbacks

Withdraw yen in Japan with a foreign card: compare Seven Bank, Japan Post Bank and E-net fees, limits, currency choices and decline fallbacks.

175
Luggage storage · During your tripCoin Lockers in Japan: Sizes, Payment and Full-Locker Fallbacks

Use Japanese station coin lockers without guessing: check access hours, size and payment, save the receipt, and switch to staffed storage or delivery when lockers are full.

174
Food allergies · Before departureFood Allergies in Japan: How to Order Safely and Read Labels

Understand Japan's packaged-food allergen labels, restaurant limits, the official allergy communication sheet, cross-contact questions and emergency fallback.

173
Driving & rental cars · Before bookingCan I Drive in Japan With a Foreign Licence? IDP and Rental-Car Rules

Check whether your licence, international driving permit or Japanese translation is valid in Japan, what to bring to the rental counter and what to do if the car cannot be released.

172
Hotel check-in · Before arrivalDo Japanese Hotels Need Your Passport? Check-In Rules Explained

Learn when a hotel in Japan asks to see and copy your passport, what foreign residents should prepare, how self-check-in works and what to do if a passport is lost.

171
Charging & adapters · Before departureJapan Power Plugs: Do You Need an Adapter or Voltage Converter?

Check Japan’s plug shape, 100V supply and charger labels before packing. A practical guide for phones, laptops, cameras and hair appliances.

168
IC card planning · Before departureSuica or Welcome Suica Mobile? How to Choose a Japan Transit Card

Compare regular Suica, the 28-day Welcome Suica card and the 180-day Welcome Suica Mobile app, with cash top-ups and route limits explained.

169
Luggage delivery · Before departureLuggage Forwarding in Japan: Hotel-to-Hotel and Airport Delivery

Plan suitcase delivery in Japan with hotel acceptance checks, airport deadlines, same-day limits and a practical overnight packing list.

170
Kansai airport transfer · On arrivalKansai Airport to Osaka or Kyoto: Nankai, HARUKA or JR Rapid?

Choose a KIX train by your hotel station: compare Nankai for Namba, JR for Osaka and Kyoto, ticket requirements and a late-arrival backup.

03

Latest travel update

Newly published, date-specific guidance for a trip happening now.

175
Osaka fireworks · October 17 · During your tripYodogawa Fireworks 2026: Osaka Tickets, Time & Access

Plan Osaka’s Yodogawa Fireworks on October 17, 2026: 7–8 p.m. schedule, ticket prices, viewing areas, Juso access and the Umeda riverbank closure.

167
October 26–November 4 · Tokyo · Before bookingTokyo International Film Festival 2026: Tickets, Prices and Venues

Plan the 39th Tokyo International Film Festival with October 17 ticket-sale times, 2026 prices, QR entry, venues, access and sellout rules.

166
October 18 · Fukuoka · Before departureNishitetsu Train Festival 2026: Depot Access, Tickets and Timetable

Plan Nishitetsu Train Festival on October 18, 2026 with confirmed hours, Chikushi Station access, free shuttle, reservation status and same-day capacity limits.

165
November 3 · Hakone · Before departureHakone Daimyo Procession 2026: Route, Times and Access

Plan Hakone's 2026 Daimyo Procession with the Nov. 3 schedule, changed route, Hakone-Yumoto access, road closures, shuttle suspension and ticket caveats.

164
October 24–November 9 · Nara · Before bookingShosoin Exhibition 2026: Timed Tickets, Hours and Access

Plan the 78th Shosoin Exhibition in Nara with timed-ticket prices, sellout rules, late entry, opening hours, English audio and station access.

163
Red kochia now · Ibaraki · Travel nowHitachi Seaside Park Kochia 2026: Red Peak, Tickets and Access

See red kochia at Hitachi Seaside Park in 2026 with the official peak update, seasonal admission, opening hours, Katsuta buses, parking limits and crowd plan.

162
October 22 in Kyoto · Before departureKurama Fire Festival 2026: Last Train, Access and Safety

Plan Kurama Fire Festival 2026 with official times, Eizan Railway crowd limits, the 23:24 last train, road closure, access, costs and fire safety.

161
October 24–November 1 in Tokyo · Before departureTokyo Grand Tea Ceremony 2026: Tickets, English Sessions and Access

Plan Tokyo Grand Tea Ceremony 2026 with same-day ¥800 tickets, English sessions, Koganei and Hama-rikyu access, garden admission and weather checks.

160
October 16–18 in Sasebo · Before departureYOSAKOI Sasebo Festival 2026: Times and Access

Plan YOSAKOI Sasebo Festival on October 16–18, 2026 with official hours, free admission, Sasebo access, parking limits and unannounced details.

159
November 2–3 in Kagoshima · Before departureKagoshima Ohara Festival 2026: Dance, Trams and Access

Plan Kagoshima's 75th Ohara Festival on November 2–3 with official hours, the 1.48km Tenmonkan route, spectator access, tram fares and current unknowns.

158
October 17–18 in Yamagata · Before departureSekikawa Shinaori Festival 2026: Weaving, Access and Parking

Plan the 36th Sekikawa Shinaori Festival in rural Tsuruoka with 2026 hours, free entry, weaving demonstrations, Atsumi-Onsen Station access, parking and rain guidance.

157
October 17–18 in Shimane · Before departureMatsue Dogyoretsu 2026: Drums, Route and Access

Plan Matsue's 2026 Dogyoretsu drum parade with October 17–18 times, the castle-to-Tenmangu route, free viewing, road closures and station access.

156
October 17–18 in Okayama · Before departureBizen Ware Festival 2026: Pottery, Trains and Parking

Plan the 42nd Bizen Ware Festival in Imbe on October 17–18, 2026 with free entry, 20% pottery discounts, JR access, parking reservations and crowd guidance.

155
October 11–November 30 in Gifu · Before departureMino Washi Akari Art 2026: Nights, Trains and Shuttle

Plan the 2026 Mino Washi Akari Art Exhibition with October–November dates, 17:00–21:00 lights, free viewing, Mino-shi Station access and the October 17 shuttle.

153
Ended October 7 in Matsuyama · During your tripMatsuyama Autumn Festival 2026: Dogo Mikoshi and Access

Plan Matsuyama Autumn Festival in Dogo Onsen on October 5–7, 2026 with the confirmed dates, early-morning mikoshi ritual, free viewing, tram access, weather caveats and safe crowd decisions.

149
October 17 in Hiroshima · Before departureOnomichi Lantern Festival 2026: Temples, Ropeway and Access

Plan Onomichi Lantern Festival 2026 with its October 17 hours, 14 temples, station access, late ropeway, fares, weather rule and route advice.

148
Completed October 9–11 · Chiba · Before departureSawara Grand Festival Autumn 2026: Floats, Trains and Access

Plan Sawara Grand Festival Autumn 2026 with the 14-float schedule, Sawara Station access, special train, parking shuttle, rain policy and bus diversions.

147
October 24 in Tokyo · Before bookingTokyo Bay Grand Fireworks 2026: Tickets, Venues and Trains

Plan Tokyo Bay Grand Fireworks 2026 with official ticket prices, venue stations, sellout rules, road closures and the no-free-viewing warning.

146
Completed October 10–11 · Tochigi · Before departureKanuma Autumn Festival 2026: Floats, Seats and Access

Plan Kanuma Autumn Festival 2026 with official dates, 27 carved floats, paid-seat deadlines, station access, schedule limits and traffic checks.

145
Completed October 9–11 · Mie · Before departureTsu Festival 2026: Parade, Yosakoi and Access Guide

Plan Tsu Festival 2026 with official dates, parade and eve times, 13 venues, Tsu-Shimmachi access, shuttle fares, rain rules and traffic checks.

04

Seasonal decisions

Dated changes that can alter reservations, safety and the day plan.

154
Ended October 4 in Yokohama · During your tripYokohama Oktoberfest 2026: Tickets, Payment and Access

Visit Yokohama Oktoberfest 2026 with confirmed final-weekend hours, ¥500 entry, reserved-seat prices, cashless and cash-only rules, station access and rain guidance.

150
Ended October 4 in Kobe · During your tripKobe Autumn Festival 2026: Drone Shows, Stages and Access

Plan KOBE AUTUMN FESTIVAL 2026 with free admission, October 3–4 stage times, drone shows, Sannomiya access, road closures and rain rules.

144
Completed October 10–11 · Hiroshima · Before departureSaijo Sake Festival 2026: Tasting Tickets, Trains and Access

Plan Saijo Sake Festival 2026 with official hours, timed tasting tickets, sold-out seats, same-day sales, JR access, parking, shuttle and rain guidance.

143
November 7 in Ibaraki · Before bookingTsuchiura Fireworks 2026: Resale Tickets, Trains and Exit Plan

Plan Tsuchiura Fireworks 2026 with the November 7 schedule, official resale dates, paid-seat prices, Tsuchiura Station shuttle, parking lottery and weather rules.

142
October 23–25 in Saga · Before departureImari Ton-Ten-Ton Festival 2026: Dates, Access and Safety Guide

Plan Imari Ton-Ten-Ton Festival 2026 with confirmed dates, Imari Station access, the final Kawaotoshi river rite, free-viewing guidance and safety checks.

141
October 16–17 in Nikko · Before departureNikko Toshogu Autumn Grand Festival 2026: Yabusame and Samurai Procession

Plan Nikko Toshogu's October 2026 Autumn Grand Festival with official yabusame and samurai-procession times, free viewing, station access and crowd advice.

140
Ended September 27 · During your tripToyama Festival 2026: Yosakoi, Schedule and Traffic Guide

Plan Toyama Festival 2026 with the September 26–27 schedule, free events, Yosakoi, Owara folk song, Toyama Station access, rain rules and road closures.

139
Ended October 3 in Sapporo · During your tripSapporo Autumn Fest 2026: Food Areas, Hours and Access

Plan Sapporo Autumn Fest 2026 with its September 11–October 3 dates, seven Odori Park food areas, free entry, reservations, payments, rain rules and subway access.

138
Ended September 20 · During your tripYamagata Imoni Festival 2026: Bowl Tickets, Seats and Access

Plan Japan's Biggest Imoni Festival in Yamagata on September 20, 2026 with serving times, bowl tickets, paid seats, buses, shuttles and rain rules.

137
October 2026 in Ehime · Before departureSaijo Festival 2026: Danjiri, River Entry and Access

Plan Saijo Festival 2026 with all four shrine dates, Isono's river entry, train access, free viewing, crowds, parking and unannounced weather rules.

136
September–October 2026 in Shimane · Before departureMatsue Suitoro 2026: Lantern Nights, Shuttle Bus and Access

Plan Matsue Suitoro 2026 with the nine lantern-lighting nights, 18:00–21:00 hours, free shuttle times, Matsue Castle admission, traffic controls and weather checks.

135
Completed October 11 · Okinawa · Before departureNaha Great Tug-of-War 2026: Schedule, Access and Participation Guide

Plan Naha Great Tug-of-War on October 11, 2026 with the tentative parade and tug times, Kokusai-dori and Kumoji access, free participation, traffic, safety and weather checks.

134
Ended September 16 · 2026 event endedMorioka Autumn Festival 2026: Float Parades, Yabusame and Access

Plan Morioka Autumn Festival 2026 with the September 13–16 shrine program, eight floats, parade times, yabusame, access, road closures and unannounced weather rules.

133
Past event — September 12–13 · During your tripJozenji Streetjazz Festival 2026: Map, Times and Free Stages

Use Sendai's September 12–13 Jozenji Streetjazz Festival with free-stage hours, the live map, Mediatheque tickets, festival bus and road changes.

132
Upcoming Gifu event · Before bookingShirakawa-go Doburoku Festival 2026: Tour, Bus Times and Booking

Book the official Shirakawa-go Doburoku Festival experience on October 16, 2026 with the confirmed price, deadline, bus plan, rain rule and cancellation fees.

131
Upcoming Ehime event · Before bookingNiihama Taiko Festival 2026: Dates, Seats, Access and Safety

Plan Niihama Taiko Festival in Ehime on October 15–18, 2026 with the confirmed district dates, official paid-seat options, JR access, traffic caveats and safe viewing advice.

130
Upcoming Nagoya event · Before bookingNagoya Festival 2026: No Parade, Free Events and Access

Plan the 72nd Nagoya Festival on October 17–18, 2026 with the confirmed Hisaya Odori Park program, free Nagoya Castle entry, access and the crucial no-parade change.

129
Upcoming Okinawa event · Before bookingShurijo Castle Reconstruction Festival 2026: Dates, Parade and Access

Plan Naha's Shurijo Castle Reconstruction Festival on November 1–3, 2026 with the confirmed three-day program, Kokusai Street parade, access, fees and booking caveats.

128
Upcoming Saga event · Before bookingKaratsu Kunchi 2026: Floats, Schedule and Access

Plan Karatsu Kunchi on November 2–4, 2026 with the official three-day procession schedule, JR access, ticket status, safety rules and weather caveats.

127
Upcoming Fukushima event · Before bookingNihonmatsu Lantern Festival 2026: Dates, Access and Night Guide

Plan the Nihonmatsu Lantern Festival on October 3–5, 2026 with confirmed dates, JR access, the three-day float format, ticket status, weather caveats and crowd planning.

126
Ended October 15 · Himeji · Before departureNada Fighting Festival 2026: Dates, Access and Safety

Plan Himeji's Nada Fighting Festival on October 14–15, 2026 with confirmed dates, shrine access, event sequence, ticket status, rain caveats and crowd safety.

125
Completed October 10–11 · Shiga · Before departureOtsu Festival 2026: Floats, Tickets and Access

Plan Otsu Festival on October 10–11, 2026 with confirmed hours, 13 hikiyama floats, Kyoto access, paid-seat prices, rain rules and final checks.

124
Upcoming Kyoto event · Before bookingJidai Matsuri 2026: Tickets, Route and Access

Plan Kyoto's Jidai Matsuri on October 22, 2026 with the parade route, arrival times, September 8 ticket sale, seat prices and rain rules.

123
Upcoming Gifu event · Before bookingTakayama Autumn Festival 2026: Dates, Access and Rain Rules

Plan the Takayama Autumn Festival on October 9–10, 2026 with confirmed dates, shrine access, ticket guidance, weather rules and 2026 update checks.

122
Upcoming Saitama event · Before bookingKawagoe Festival 2026: Dates, Floats, Seats and Access

Plan Kawagoe Festival on October 17–18, 2026 with confirmed dates, 26 scheduled floats, Tokyo rail access, paid-seat prices and update checks.

121
Completed September 19–21 · Before departureAizu Festival 2026: Samurai Parade, Schedule and Access

Plan Aizu Festival 2026 in Fukushima with the September 19–21 schedule, samurai procession, free viewing, participation rules, access and traffic checks.

120
Past event in Fukuoka · Before departureHakozaki Shrine Hojoya 2026: Dates, Stalls and Access

Plan Fukuoka's Hakozaki Shrine Hojoya 2026 with the September 12–18 schedule, 500 stalls, subway access, crowds, traffic rules and rain checks.

119
Ended September 16 · 2026 event endedTsurugaoka Hachimangu Reitaisai 2026: Yabusame, Schedule and Access

Plan Kamakura's 2026 Tsurugaoka Hachimangu Reitaisai with the September 14–16 schedule, yabusame, procession, access, crowds and weather checks.

118
Upcoming Saga event · Before bookingSaga International Balloon Fiesta 2026: Schedule, Access and Weather Guide

Plan the 2026 Saga International Balloon Fiesta with official flight times, free admission, JR Balloon Saga access, night mooring, crowds and weather fallbacks.

117
Ended September 20 · During your tripKishiwada Danjiri Festival 2026: Dates, Access and Viewing Guide

Plan the September 2026 Kishiwada Danjiri Festival with official pulling times, Kishiwada and Haruki access, viewing-seat rules, traffic restrictions and weather checks.

116
Ended October 9 · During your tripNagasaki Kunchi 2026: Schedule, Tickets and Access

Plan Nagasaki Kunchi on October 7–9, 2026 with official venue times, ticket prices, tram access, free street viewing, rain changes and booking decisions.

115
Past event — September 12–13 · Before departureSetomono Festival 2026: Pottery Market, Fireworks and Access

Plan the 95th Setomono Festival in Seto, Aichi on September 12–13, 2026 with official market hours, fireworks, Owari-Seto access, fees, workshops, parking and weather guidance.

114
Completed 2026 event archive · Before bookingKatakai Festival 2026: Fireworks, Tickets and Access

Review the completed September 11–12 Katakai Festival 2026, including its fireworks program, four-shakudama, sold-out seating, access and weather rules.

113
Past Akita event · Before bookingKakunodate Festival 2026: Event Finished and Planning Record

The September 7–9, 2026 Kakunodate Festival has finished. Keep this official-source record for context and wait for a new organizer announcement before planning a future edition.

112
Past event archive · Before bookingOwara Kaze no Bon 2026: Event Ended — Archived Guide

Owara Kaze no Bon 2026 ended on September 3. Use this archive for the past schedule, tickets, access and official sources, then verify the next edition.

111
Past event archive · Before bookingOkinawa Zento Eisa Matsuri 2026: Event Ended — Archived Guide

Okinawa Zento Eisa Matsuri 2026 ended on September 6. Use this archive for the past schedule, tickets, access and official sources, then verify the next edition.

110
Upcoming festival · Before departureAzabu-Juban Noryo Festival 2026: Dates, Access and Crowd Guide

Plan the 60th Azabu-Juban Noryo Festival on August 22–23, 2026 with official hours, station access, food highlights, bus changes, crowd planning and same-day checks.

109
Completed September 17–21 · Before bookingTokyo Game Show 2026: Public Dates, Tickets and Access Guide

Plan Tokyo Game Show 2026 at Makuhari Messe with confirmed public dates, overseas tickets, sold-out pass status, station access, entry rules and creator guidance.

108
Finished Tokyo event · Before departureTokyo Koenji Awa Odori 2026: Event Finished — Archived Guide

The August 29–30 Tokyo Koenji Awa Odori 2026 has finished. This archive preserves the official schedule, access, viewing and traffic information.

107
Past event archive · Before bookingEarth Celebration 2026 on Sado Island: Event Ended — Archived Guide

Earth Celebration 2026 on Sado Island ended on August 23. Use this archive for the past schedule, tickets, ferry access and official sources, then verify the next edition.

106
Past 2026 event · Before departureYoshida Fire Festival 2026: Event Archive and Next-Date Checks

The August 26–27, 2026 Yoshida Fire Festival has ended. Use this archive for the past timetable and official sources, then verify the next edition before travel.

105
Finished Akita event · Before bookingOmagari Fireworks 2026: Event Finished — Archived Travel Guide

The August 29 Omagari Fireworks 2026 date has passed. Review the archived schedule, tickets, JR access and rules, and wait for the next official edition.

100
Upcoming tradition · Before departureNagasaki Shoro Nagashi 2026: Time, Route and Safety Guide

Plan Nagasaki's August 15 Spirit Boat Procession with official 2026 hours, traffic controls, firecracker safety, transport checks and respectful viewing guidance.

99
Upcoming festival · Before departureGujo Odori 2026: All-Night Dance, Access and Transport

Plan Gujo Odori's August 13–16 all-night dances with official times, nightly venues, transport, parking, rain rules and a safe overnight return plan.

98
Upcoming festival · Before departureSanuki Takamatsu Festival 2026: Fireworks, Tickets and Access

Plan the August 12–14 Sanuki Takamatsu Festival with official fireworks times, free and paid viewing, ticket prices, station access, rain rules and transport cautions.

97
Upcoming festival · Before departureKochi Yosakoi Festival 2026: Schedule, Tickets and Access

Plan Kochi Yosakoi from August 9–12, 2026, with the official daily schedule, Otesuji ticket prices, station access, rain rules and fireworks distinction.

96
Upcoming ceremony · Before departureKyoto Gozan Okuribi 2026: Times, Viewing and Access

Plan Kyoto Gozan Okuribi on August 16, 2026, with official lighting times, viewing precautions, access decisions, weather checks and a broadcast fallback.

95
Upcoming festival · Before bookingTokushima Awa Odori 2026: Dates, Tickets and Access

Plan Tokushima Awa Odori from August 11–15, 2026, with official performance times, paid and free venues, ticket prices, station access and day-of checks.

19
Seasonal travel · Before departureJapan in August 2026: Obon Crowds, Nozomi Reservations and Heat

The dates and decisions that matter for August 2026 travel: reserved-only Nozomi trains, Obon demand, Mountain Day, heat alerts and disruption checks.

05

Earthquakes & disaster safety

Immediate action, tsunami evacuation, emergency Wi-Fi, alerts, shelters, transport and communication.

85
Earthquake safety · When something goes wrongWhat to Do If an Earthquake Happens During Your Japan Trip

The immediate actions to take during strong shaking, after it stops and when you are near the coast.

86
Earthquake basics · Before departureAre Earthquakes Common in Japan?

Why Japan experiences frequent earthquakes, what travelers usually feel and how magnitude differs from local intensity.

87
Emergency connectivity · When something goes wrong00000JAPAN: Free Emergency Wi-Fi After a Disaster

How Japan's emergency Wi-Fi works, when it appears, how to connect and what not to send over an open network.

88
Emergency alerts · Before departureEarthquake Alerts on Your Phone in Japan

What an Earthquake Early Warning can and cannot do, and how foreign travelers can receive multilingual disaster information.

89
Tsunami safety · When something goes wrongWhat to Do If a Tsunami Warning Is Issued During Your Japan Trip

When to leave the coast, where to go and why you must not return after the first wave.

90
Evacuation · When something goes wrongHow to Find an Evacuation Shelter After an Earthquake in Japan

How travelers should distinguish immediate safety, evacuation sites and shelters without assuming every public building is open.

91
Transport disruption · When something goes wrongTrains, Flights and Roads After an Earthquake in Japan

Why services stop for inspection, what to do onboard and how to decide whether to wait, reroute or stay where you are.

92
Emergency communication · When something goes wrongHow to Contact Family After an Earthquake in Japan

A low-bandwidth communication plan using short messages, Disaster Emergency Message Dial 171 and official visitor support.

93
Disaster preparation · Before departureHow to Prepare for Earthquakes Before a Japan Trip

A compact traveler checklist for alerts, accommodation, medication, power, meeting points and offline information.

94
Earthquake history · Before departureMajor Earthquakes in Modern Japanese History

A traveler-focused timeline of major earthquakes and the different secondary hazards they revealed.

06

Plan & enter Japan

Rules, documents and arrival preparation.

07

Connect & leave the airport

Phone setup, offline preparation and late-arrival recovery.

08

Move around Japan

Stations, tickets, IC cards and luggage.

09
Navigation · During your tripHow to Navigate Large Train Stations in Japan

A decision method for lines, gates, platforms, transfers and the correct station exit.

10
Rail travel · Before departureWhich Train Ticket Do I Need in Japan?

How to separate local fares, reserved seats, Shinkansen tickets and rail passes.

99
Rail travel · Before bookingJapan Rail Pass Guide 2026: Prices, Rules and How It Works

Learn Japan Rail Pass prices, eligibility, covered trains, purchase methods and who should buy the nationwide JR Pass in 2026.

100
Rail value · Before bookingIs the Japan Rail Pass Worth It in 2026?

See when the Japan Rail Pass is worth it in 2026, with route examples, break-even prices and alternatives for Tokyo, Kyoto, Osaka and beyond.

101
Rail planning · Before bookingJapan Rail Pass Calculator: How Many Trips Make It Worth It?

Calculate whether a 7-, 14- or 21-day Japan Rail Pass is worth it using covered fares, pass dates, supplements and a practical worksheet.

102
Rail booking · Before departureHow to Buy the Japan Rail Pass in 2026

How to buy, collect and reserve seats with the Japan Rail Pass in 2026, including eligibility, online purchase and agency price changes.

103
Rail coverage · Before departureJapan Rail Pass: What Trains Can You Use?

Check which Shinkansen, JR trains, buses and ferries the Japan Rail Pass covers, plus Nozomi, subway, private railway and baggage rules.

104
Rail itinerary · Before bookingBest Japan Rail Pass Itineraries: 7, 14 and 21 Days

Compare 7-, 14- and 21-day Japan Rail Pass itinerary patterns, including routes that save money and classic routes that usually do not.

11
Train trouble · When something goes wrongMy IC Card Will Not Work at the Gate

What to do when a Japanese transport IC card is rejected, has an incomplete journey or is not accepted.

15
Luggage · Before departureTraveling With Large Luggage in Japan

How to check train restrictions, forwarding timing, lockers and a bag-plan fallback.

09

Pay, book & keep working

Card payments, ATM withdrawals, cash, reservations and remote-work backups.

010

Japanese manners

Respectful, practical steps for sacred places, shared spaces, photography and shopping.

20
Japanese manners · During your tripHow to Visit a Shinto Shrine in Japan: Etiquette Step by Step

A clear first-time visitor guide to torii gates, purification, offerings, two bows, two claps, photography and shrine-specific exceptions.

21
Japanese manners · During your tripHow to Visit a Buddhist Temple in Japan: Etiquette and Shrine Differences

A first-time visitor guide to temple gates, purification, incense, silent prayer, shoes, photography and the customs that differ from Shinto shrines.

22
Japanese manners · During your tripTorii Gate Etiquette in Japan: How to Enter and Leave a Shrine

A practical guide to bowing, walking beside the center, keeping the entrance clear, leaving the shrine and recognizing when local directions override the common form.

23
Japanese manners · During your tripHow to Use a Chozuya at Japanese Shrines: Purification Step by Step

A practical guide to the shrine water pavilion: which hand to rinse first, how to rinse the mouth, what not to touch and when to follow a different posted method.

24
Japanese manners · During your tripHow Much Money Should You Offer at a Japanese Shrine?

The practical answer on saisen offerings, the ¥5 custom, admission fees, cashless assumptions and how to pray when you have no coin.

25
Japanese manners · During your tripHow to Read and Handle Omikuji in Japan

How to draw a Japanese fortune slip, understand the result, use English versions and decide whether to keep it or tie it at the shrine or temple.

26
Japanese manners · During your tripHow to Collect Goshuin in Japan: Books, Etiquette and Fees

How to request a goshuin at a Japanese shrine or temple, use a goshuincho, pay the current offering and handle handwritten or separate-sheet versions respectfully.

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Japanese manners · During your tripPhotography Rules at Shrines and Temples in Japan

How to check no-photo and no-flash areas, photograph buildings without disturbing worship, ask people for consent and handle tripods, video and commercial shoots.

28
Japanese manners · During your tripTrain Etiquette in Japan: A Practical Guide

How to queue, board, use your phone, handle bags, offer priority seats and avoid common mistakes on Japanese commuter and long-distance trains.

29
Japanese manners · During your tripCan You Make Phone Calls on Japanese Trains?

Why voice calls are avoided in Japanese train cars, where a call may be possible on a Shinkansen and what to do when a call is urgent.

30
Japanese manners · During your tripHow Priority Seats Work on Trains in Japan

Who Japanese train priority seats are for, whether anyone may sit there, how to offer or request a seat and why need is not always visible.

31
Japanese manners · During your tripWhich Side Should You Stand On an Escalator in Japan?

Why left in Tokyo and right in Osaka are habits rather than the safest rule, and how to use station escalators with luggage, children and mobility needs.

32
Japanese manners · During your tripHow to Queue for Trains in Japan

How to find the correct platform line, wait safely, let passengers exit first and board without blocking doors or tactile paving.

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Japanese manners · During your tripCan You Eat and Drink on the Shinkansen?

When food and drinks are allowed on Japanese bullet trains, what to buy before boarding and how to manage trays, smells, waste and seat reclining.

34
Japanese manners · During your tripWhere to Put Luggage on Japanese Trains

Where backpacks, carry-ons and large suitcases belong on subways, local trains, limited expresses and Shinkansen services, including oversized-baggage reservations.

35
Japanese manners · During your tripBus Etiquette and Boarding Rules in Japan

How to identify front- or rear-door boarding, use an IC card or numbered ticket, request a stop, pay the fare and ride city and rural buses safely.

36
Japanese manners · During your tripDo You Need to Tip in Japan?

When not to tip at Japanese restaurants, how service and seating charges differ from a gratuity, where to pay, and how to thank the staff.

37
Japanese manners · During your tripWhat Itadakimasu and Gochisousama Mean

What to say before and after a meal in Japan, what the phrases express, when travelers can use them, and why neither is a literal English translation.

38
Japanese manners · During your tripEssential Chopstick Etiquette in Japan

How to hold, rest and share food with chopsticks in Japan, the gestures to avoid, and what to do when chopsticks are difficult to use.

39
Japanese manners · During your tripIs It Polite to Slurp Noodles in Japan?

Why slurping ramen, soba and udon is accepted in Japan, why visitors are not required to do it, and how to eat noodles without splashing or forcing the sound.

40
Japanese manners · During your tripWhat Is Otoshi at a Japanese Izakaya?

Why a small appetizer may arrive automatically at an izakaya, how it relates to a seating charge, what to ask before sitting, and how to handle allergies.

41
Japanese manners · During your tripIs Water Free at Restaurants in Japan?

When tap water or tea is complimentary in Japanese restaurants, how to request a refill, and when bottled, sparkling or menu-listed water may be charged.

42
Japanese manners · During your tripCan You Take Leftovers Home in Japan?

When a Japanese restaurant may allow leftovers to go, why permission is required, which foods may be refused, and how to carry and eat them safely.

43
Japanese manners · During your tripWhere Do You Pay at Restaurants in Japan?

How to tell whether a Japanese restaurant expects payment at the table or register, what to do with the bill slip, and how to ask when the process is unclear.

44
Japanese manners · During your tripHow to Use a Japanese Restaurant Ticket Machine

A step-by-step guide to choosing a meal, paying, collecting every ticket and handing the order to staff at a Japanese restaurant.

45
Japanese manners · During your tripConveyor Belt Sushi Etiquette in Japan

How to use circulating and direct-order sushi lanes, take plates hygienically, manage empty dishes, check allergens and complete the bill.

46
Japanese manners · During your tripHow to Use an Onsen in Japan

A first-time visitor’s step-by-step guide to entering a Japanese hot spring, washing before the bath, using towels correctly and leaving the shared space clean.

47
Japanese manners · During your tripWhy Swimsuits and Towels Are Not Allowed in Onsen Baths

Why traditional shared onsen are normally entered nude, why towels stay out of the water, and when swimsuit zones or approved bathing garments use different rules.

48
Japanese manners · Before bookingCan You Enter an Onsen With Tattoos in Japan?

How to check a Japanese onsen’s tattoo policy, understand cover-sheet limits and choose a tattoo-friendly, private or in-room bath without relying on assumptions.

49
Japanese manners · During your tripSento vs Onsen: What Is the Difference?

The practical difference between a Japanese sento public bath and onsen hot-spring water, including the important overlap, prices, amenities and signs to check.

50
Japanese manners · On arrivalWhere to Remove Your Shoes at a Ryokan

How to identify a ryokan’s shoe boundary, step through a genkan, use indoor and toilet slippers, protect tatami and request an accessible route.

51
Japanese manners · During your tripHow to Wear a Yukata Correctly

How to put on a ryokan yukata in the correct order, secure the sash, stay covered and check where the garment may be worn.

52
Japanese manners · During your tripTatami Room Etiquette in Japan

How to enter and use a Japanese tatami room without damaging the mats, including footwear, luggage, seating, alcoves, futons and accessibility.

53
Japanese manners · During your tripShould You Fold Your Futon at a Ryokan?

When ryokan staff prepare and clear futon bedding, when guests do it themselves, and what to do at checkout, during a multi-night stay or when privacy matters.

54
Japanese manners · During your tripWhy Japan Has So Few Trash Cans

Why public bins can be hard to find in Japan, where travelers can look, how to read disposal labels and what must never go in a vending-machine recycling box.

55
Japanese manners · During your tripIs It Rude to Eat While Walking in Japan?

When eating on the move is merely discouraged, when a market or venue prohibits it, and how to stop, eat and dispose of packaging without blocking or spilling on anyone.

56
Japanese manners · During your tripSmoking Rules and Smoking Areas in Japan

How Japan’s national indoor rules, local street-smoking ordinances and facility policies fit together, including smoking-room signs, heated tobacco, vaping and the age-20 boundary.

57
Japanese manners · During your tripNoise Etiquette in Public Places in Japan

How to choose an appropriate voice and device volume on Japanese transport, in residential areas, at religious sites, in accommodation and at lively venues without treating quietness as a universal ban.

58
Japanese manners · During your tripHow Queuing Works in Japan

How to identify the real queue at Japanese shops, restaurants, bus stops, elevators, taxi stands, airports and attractions when floor lines, name lists, numbered tickets, reservations or apps control the order.

59
Japanese manners · During your tripHow to Use a Japanese Toilet

A step-by-step guide to Western and squat toilets in Japan, including flush controls, washlet buttons, toilet paper, emergency calls, slippers and accessible facilities.

60
Japanese manners · During your tripJapanese Toilet Disposal Rules

What to flush or bin in a Japanese public toilet, with clear rules for toilet paper, sanitary products, wipes, diapers, sharps and special facilities.

61
Japanese manners · During your tripUmbrella Etiquette in Japan

How to carry, close, bag, store and recover an umbrella in Japan, with wet-floor, public-transport, bicycle and strong-wind safety rules.

62
Japanese manners · During your tripCan You Eat Outside a Convenience Store in Japan?

How to identify a permitted convenience-store eating area in Japan, declare eat-in use, keep access clear and handle rubbish, alcohol, smoking and parking rules.

63
Japanese manners · During your tripLittering Rules in Japan

What counts as littering in Japan, how national law and local penalties differ, and what to do when there is no bin or something is dropped accidentally.

64
Japanese manners · During your tripPhotography Etiquette in Japan

When to ask before photographing people in Japan, how incidental passersby differ from a portrait, and what to check before posting an identifiable image online.

65
Japanese manners · During your tripDo You Need Permission to Take Photos Inside Japanese Shops?

How to check a Japanese shop’s photo policy, ask for the exact shot, and separate still images from video, posting, livestreaming and commercial use.

66
Japanese manners · During your tripCan You Photograph Food in Japanese Restaurants?

How to take a quick food photo in Japan without capturing diners, delaying service or assuming that stills, video, posting and commercial use share one rule.

67
Japanese manners · During your tripFilming Etiquette on Japanese Trains and Stations

How to record a train or station in Japan without filming passengers, blocking the platform, using unsafe equipment or treating personal video as commercial permission.

68
Japanese manners · During your tripGeisha and Maiko Photography Etiquette in Kyoto

How to respect geiko, maiko and Gion residents without stopping, following, touching or photographing people and private places without permission.

69
Japanese manners · Before departureBasic Drone Rules for Tourists in Japan

A current decision guide to Japan’s 100 g threshold, DIPS registration, Remote ID, flight permission, important-facility zones, launch-site rules and safe tourist drone use.

70
Japanese manners · While in JapanHow to Recognize Private Property in Japan

A practical guide to private-property signs, private roads, barriers, visitor routes and places that can be closed even when they look public.

71
Japanese manners · While in JapanCan You Open Products Before Paying in Japan?

When to keep a product sealed, how testers and fitting rooms work, what to do after an accidental opening and the dated rules for tax-free packaging.

72
Japanese manners · While in JapanCan You Bargain in Japan?

Where Japan’s displayed prices are normally final, when one polite price question can fit, and how to use coupons, price matching and tax-free shopping instead.

73
Japanese manners · While in JapanPayment Tray Etiquette in Japan

How to pay with cash, a card or contactless at Japanese counters, including payment trays, customer-operated terminals, PINs, receipts and failed transactions.

74
Japanese manners · While in JapanTax-Free Shopping Rules in Japan

Japan's refund-method tax-free shopping rules from November 1, 2026, including eligibility, minimum spend, Customs confirmation, baggage timing and refunds.

75
Japanese manners · While in JapanHow to Use Convenience Store Eat-In Areas

How to find and use a Japanese convenience-store eat-in area, declare dine-in before payment, understand the 8% and 10% tax difference, and follow each store’s seating, food and waste rules.

76
Japanese manners · While in JapanReturns and Exchanges in Japan

When a Japanese shop may accept a return or exchange, how defective goods differ from a change of mind, and the separate rules for online and tax-free purchases.

77
Japanese manners · While in JapanHow to Ask for a Shopping Bag in Japan

How to request, decline or add a shopping bag at a Japanese checkout, what the national plastic-bag rule covers and how reusable-bag packing varies by store.

78
Japanese manners · During your tripCherry Blossom Viewing Etiquette

How to share a hanami space, handle picnic sheets and trash, protect cherry trees, and follow each park’s rules for food, alcohol, fire, photos and night viewing.

79
Japanese manners · During your tripFestival and Fireworks Etiquette in Japan

How to watch or join a Japanese festival safely, use a fireworks viewing area, handle food and waste, and plan for crowds, heat, weather and the trip home.

80
Japanese manners · During your tripResidential Area Etiquette in Kyoto

How to explore Kyoto’s residential streets without entering private lanes, blocking daily life, photographing residents or misusing neighborhood transport, bins and facilities.

81
Japanese manners · During your tripMount Fuji Climbing Etiquette

Current 2026 Mount Fuji climbing rules for the Yoshida, Subashiri, Gotemba and Fujinomiya trails, with entry procedures, hut planning, safety, trail manners and environmental protection.

82
Japanese manners · During your tripDeer Etiquette in Nara Park

How to observe, photograph and feed Nara Park’s wild deer safely, with current guidance for deer crackers, children, seasonal behavior, waste, roads, injuries and rescue contacts.

83
Japanese manners · During your tripSki Resort Etiquette in Japan

How to ski or snowboard safely and respectfully in Japan, with slope priority, lifts, children, terrain parks, powder, boundaries, backcountry, rescue and snow-road rules.

84
Japanese manners · During your tripWhy You Should Not Touch Cherry Trees or Cultural Properties

Why a light touch can harm cherry trees, museum objects, temples, castles and historic sites in Japan, with clear exceptions, legal scope and accident-reporting steps.

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Recover when something goes wrong

Official steps for lost property and urgent help.