Cherry blossoms dance in the wind. Mount Fuji’s snow-capped peak beams against the clear blue sky. Homemade ramen is served in an alleyway. The Tokyo Tower stands majestically, confident. Mangroves shelter marine wildlife. This is Japan.

For nearly two-and-a-half years, due to the COVID pandemic, Japan’s borders were closed to visiting foreigners. But as of October 11, 2022, Japan’s beauty and culture will captivate the world once again. The country’s Prime Minister has loosened Japan's travel restrictions and reinstated the visa waiver program, allowing tourists from more than 60 countries, including the United States, to visit. CIBTvisas is thrilled to help prepare you for a trip to Japan with our very own Japan travel guide below.

Discover Japan Anew

Whether you’ve been to Japan before or it has been on your bucket list for years, Japan is ready to welcome you. You may wonder when is the best time to visit Japan? Regardless of the season—spring, summer, autumn, or winter—the Land of the Rising Sun will provide you with unique experiences and activities. From food to national parks, discover the wonders of Japan!

Be Artistically Inspired

Japan’s aesthetic has influenced Western art for decades. Witness for yourself the artistic imagination that inspired famous artists such as Monet and Van Gogh. Visit the Hokusai Museum in Nagano Prefecture to view pop-artist Katsushika Hokusa’s ukiyo-e woodblock prints, including the iconic Great Wave off Kanagawa. Gain a deeper appreciation for the Edo period (1603-1867), and learn more about this artform that featured depictions of ordinary people, including scenes of daily life in cities and towns, beautiful women, and travel landscapes.

Japan is also renowned for its design. Consider making a pit stop to see the Tokyo Tower or the  Aizu Sazaedo. Located in Aizuwakamatsu, this double spiral staircase also known as the Sea Snail Temple was constructed in 1796 by a priest named Ikudo. Symbolic of the Saigoku Kannon Pilgrimage to 33 Buddhist temples, visitors can pray 33 times as they journey up and down. Travelers will not only be in awe of Japan’s artistic woodwork but also its rich religious history.

Taste Immeasurable Flavor

You can’t fully experience Japan’s culture without exploring its culinary world. Japan has two primary types of cuisine: washoku and yoshoku. Traditional dishes like sushi, somen, and tempura fall under the category of washoku, while the Japanese versions of Western cuisine staples like pasta and beef stew are included under the umbrella of yoshoku. Try authentic sushi created by artisanally trained sushi chefs in Kabukicho or consider going to Matsusaka for their locally-renowned beef and food festivals.

Whether you’re a sake enthusiast or have never tried the beverage, don’t miss out on getting a sample. Visit the town of Nanto in Toyama Prefecture to learn the art of sake cup carving or join an afternoon sake brewery tour with friends and family. To make a whole day of it, go out to Kamisuwa and enjoy a tour of five local Suwa sake breweries. You might just fall in love with it!

Breathtaking Views Await

Fall in love with nature in Japan. Come visit Japan’s breathtaking 34 national parks, where a variety of environments and climates are waiting for adventurers.

Explore rugged coastlines, volcanic islands, and the iconic Mount Fuji by foot or sea kayak at Japan’s Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park. Known as the country’s most visited park, it contains a wealth of beautiful scenery. On your way through, don’t forget to visit the caves of Aokigahara, a hidden gem of the park.

If you prefer a tropical environment, Japan’s southernmost island Iriomote-Ishigaki in Okinawa offers a subtropical oasis. The Iriomote-Ishigaki National Park is home to forests, mangroves, and coral reefs. Snorkel and scuba dive in the crystal-blue waters of the Sekisei lagoon to get up close with marine life and 360 different kinds of coral. While on land, explore the beautiful Mariyudu Falls. You might even catch a glimpse of endemic species like the Iriomote cat and Sakishima grass lizard.

Rest In Tranquility

Are you looking for some “me” time? Renew your mind, body, and soul in Japan. Head to the mountains, hike Mt. Ontake, one of Japan’s most sacred mountains, and travel its pilgrimage trail. Stop to meditate within the forests where shrines reside on mossy patches. Take all the time you need to recenter before trekking its spectacular volcanic landscape.

Continue your journey of calming rest on the island of Kyushu. Relax in rocky baths with ocean views or in high-class mountain retreats. One hot spring town that cannot be missed is the picturesque Ginzan Onsen. Located in the deep countryside of Yamagata Prefecture, this resort radiates a nostalgic and warm feel with its Taisho Era architecture. Unwind within a soothing environment with luxurious bath houses at your fingertips.

Let’s Get Ready For Japan Together

CIBTvisas can’t wait to help travelers just like you get ready for a trip to Japan. You can rely on us to help you navigate current requirements and keep you updated.

So what are you waiting for? Discover Japan anew. Rich history, culture, and natural beauty await. Get in touch with our team today!