Spring is just around the corner. From late March to April, Japan’s most popular destinations become incredibly crowded as visitors from around the world arrive to enjoy cherry blossoms and seasonal beauty. Many of you are probably starting to get ready for your spring trips around this time.
Recently, more travelers have begun using AI-generated itineraries. (In 2025, 33% of travelers made use of AI tools.) While these itineraries are convenient, they often focus on well‑known tourist spots.
For seasoned travelers who prefer a more personal, flexible journey—or who want to explore hidden gems—AI alone may not be enough. Many visitors ask: How should I plan my trip? What are the smartest ways to travel comfortably in Japan?
Based on the questions I receive most often, I’ve put together practical tips to help you design a smoother, more enjoyable trip.
Key Questions Travelers Often Ask
- Where should I begin when planning my itinerary?
- Which airport is better—Haneda or Narita?
- How do trains and tickets work in Japan?
- What tools or apps should I use?
- Should I make reservations for restaurants and attractions?
- Is it worth hiring a local guide?
1. Where to Begin When Planning Your Itinerary
Once you decide on your travel dates and the regions you want to visit, the first step is booking your accommodation. In popular areas, hotels and ryokan fill up quickly depending on the season. Clarifying your preferences makes the search much easier—and ensures a more satisfying stay. Consider the following:
- Hotel or traditional ryokan inn
- Private onsen bath or shared public bath
- Meals included or not
- Japanese-style or Western-style meals
- Dining in the hotel restaurant or in-room dining
Even the best accommodation can feel disappointing if the meals and service don’t match your preferences. Defining what you enjoy is the first step toward a truly memorable trip.
Once your accommodation is set, think about transportation. For example, if you plan to visit Hakone, you can travel there directly from Haneda Airport. If planning your route feels overwhelming, I’m always happy to help.
2.Which Airport Should You Choose? Haneda vs. Narita
If getting into central Tokyo quickly is important to you, Haneda Airport will make your arrival much easier.
- Access to Tokyo
Haneda Airport offers the most convenient access to central Tokyo—about 30 minutes by train. Narita Airport requires about one hour on the Narita Express.
- Airport Bus or Train?
Both are convenient depending on your hotel location and arrival time. If a limousine bus is departing soon after you arrive, it can be very comfortable. However, during morning and evening rush hours, traffic congestion is common, so trains are usually the better choice.
- What About Taxis?
Taxis are available, but due to overtourism, wait times can be long. If you prefer a taxi transfer, booking in advance with a taxi company is recommended.
If you would like to request an airport pickup service, please feel free to reach out and I’ll gladly assist you.
3. How do trains and tickets work in Japan?
Japan’s train system is extremely convenient—but many international travelers find it complicated. One common question is whether the Japan Rail Pass is worth purchasing.
a. Is the JR Pass a Good Deal?
Although prices increased in October 2023, the pass can still be cost‑effective if you plan to visit multiple regions. It now also allows travel on Nozomi and Mizuho Shinkansen trains with an additional fee.
JR Pass Prices: Ordinary/Green Car
- 7 days: ¥50,000 / ¥70,000
- 14 days: ¥80,000 / ¥110,000
- 21 days: ¥100,000 / ¥140,000
JR Pass information is here
However, if you’re only traveling round‑trip between Tokyo and Kyoto/Osaka, regular tickets may be cheaper. Always compare prices using tools such as a JR Pass calculator.
b. How to Buy JR Pass
Purchasing online is recommended—you can also reserve seats digitally.
c. Train Tickets & IC Cards
Japan widely uses IC cards such as Suica and Pasmo. Suica/Pasmo can be used for:
- Trains and buses
- Convenience stores
- Many restaurants
You can charge it with your credit card, and with the right setup, you can even use it for Touch & Go Shinkansen travel.
4.Useful Tools & Apps for Traveling in Japan
In this section, I’d like to introduce some helpful tools and services that will make your trip around Japan smoother and more enjoyable.
a. Recommended Apps
- Mobile Suica : Useful IC Card
- EX: Shinkansen reservations
- Taxi Go : Taxi app
- Google Maps
*Linking Suica + EX allows seamless transfers from local trains to Shinkansen.
b. Luggage Delivery Services
If you arrive early and want to start sightseeing immediately, consider using airport luggage delivery.
If you check in before the daily cutoff time, your suitcase will be delivered to your hotel the same day—allowing you to travel hands‑free.
Japan’s major delivery companies have extremely low loss rates (estimated at 1–3 per 10,000 items), making them very reliable. Just remember to keep valuables with you.
Examples:
- Airporter: Hands free travel service
- Yamato Transport (Same‑day delivery to/from Haneda)
c. Luggage Storage
Coin lockers for large suitcases are increasingly difficult to find. Instead, consider:
- Leaving luggage at your hotel (before check‑in or after check‑out)
- Sending luggage to your next hotel via delivery service
- Using tourist information centers or station‑based storage services
- Services like ecbo cloak (This service uses available space in shops located around the station.)
d. Booking a Taxi by the Hour
Hiring a taxi for several hours can be surprisingly efficient:
- Hiring a taxi for several hours can be surprisingly efficient:
- No need to navigate stairs or transfers
- Driver waits for you while you explore
- Access to areas restricted to taxis
ideal for Tokyo, Kyoto, Mt. Fuji, and more
5. Should You Reserve Restaurants and Attractions?
Yes—especially for popular spots. If you have a must‑visit restaurant or attraction, reservations are highly recommended. For weather‑dependent activities, check the two‑week forecast before booking.
6. Should You Hire a Local Guide?
A knowledgeable local guide can introduce you to hidden treasures that travelers rarely find on their own.
Whether it’s your first visit or your fifth, a guide can deepen your understanding of the region’s culture, history, and unique charm.
Japan Is More Popular Than Ever
Japan has been ranked the world’s No.1 “most desired travel destination” for two consecutive years. With so many visitors, a few smart strategies can make your trip far more comfortable.
If you’d like help creating a personalized itinerary or discovering hidden gems at your own pace, feel free to reach out anytime. I offer seamless support—from itinerary planning to on‑the‑day assistance.
Mahalo Nuiloa Local Guide support everything from creating your itinerary to accompanying you on private tours. If you want to design a trip that feels uniquely yours and discover the hidden gems locals cherish, I’d love to hear from you. Please contact us from here.