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Japan in November: A Fantastic Time to Visit!
November is a great time to visit Japan. For many travel experts, it's the best time to visit and it's certainly the time of year that Japansophy recommends to our friends. Why? It's the colour – yellows, reds, and orange everywhere, against clear blue skies – and perfect sightseeing weather. Read on to find out about what you can expect for a November trip to Japan. Jump to: Weather in Japan in November What to pack for Japan in November What to see and do in November in Jap

japansophy
2 days ago8 min read


Taking the Shinkansen from Tokyo to Osaka
Everything you need to know about this classic Kanto-Kansai route If you are planning a trip along Japan's iconic Golden Route, the Tōkaidō Shinkansen is your fastest, most comfortable option. The Tōkaidō route runs between Tokyo and Osaka with stops in major cities such as Yokohama, Nagoya and - especially interesting for tourists - Kyoto. Now, we have covered most of the basics in our article on Taking the Shinkansen from Tokyo to Kyoto , so click on that link to read all a

japansophy
4 days ago8 min read


Luggage forwarding in Japan: travel hands-free to your hotel
Dragging a suitcase through crowded stations, weaving through narrow streets, and clattering over train platforms — sound familiar? Japan...

japansophy
Oct 66 min read


Taking your luggage on the Shinkansen: the great suitcase dilemma
Traveling on Japan’s famous Shinkansen is one of the highlights of any trip, but if you’re carrying bulky suitcases or extra bags, it...

japansophy
Oct 210 min read


Taking the Shinkansen from Tokyo to Kyoto: everything you need to know
Tokyo to Kyoto is one of Japan’s most iconic journeys — and the best way to make it is on the Shinkansen, Japan’s world-famous bullet...

japansophy
Sep 258 min read


How to take the bullet train in Japan: the shinkansen how-to guide
Picture this: you settle into a comfy seat, leg-room galore and suddenly you're zipping across the Japanese countryside at over 300...

japansophy
Sep 2511 min read


Best day trips from Tokyo (in under 4 hours by train)
Bored of Tokyo? Never! It would take a lifetime to experience everything this city – the biggest in the world, don't forget – has to...

japansophy
Sep 2214 min read


Where to stay in Tokyo: our top recommended spots and why we pass on some
Choosing where to stay in Tokyo can be a bit of a headache, especially for first-timers. Let our guide narrow it down for you Tokyo is...

japansophy
Sep 1814 min read


🛍️ Tax-Free Shopping in Japan: The Complete Guide for 2025 and Beyond
Tax-free shopping in Japan lets tourists save 10% on fashion, electronics, souvenirs, and more—here’s how it works now, and what’s changing in 2026

japansophy
Sep 115 min read


Day trip to Fuji from Tokyo: Doable?
Want to get up close and personal with Mt Fuji? A day trip is very doable from Tokyo Planning a day trip to Mount Fuji from Tokyo can be...

japansophy
Sep 46 min read


What to bring back from Japan? We've got your souvenir list covered!
Ah, Japan! It's a land that captivates all your senses, and trust me, it also captivates your wallet with an endless array of tempting...

japansophy
Aug 308 min read


Japan in October: is this the best time to visit Japan?
So you're thinking of visiting Japan in October? Perhaps you're envisioning crisp, clear skies, the subtle start of autumn colours, and a break from the sweltering heat of summer. October is a glorious time in Japan, offering a perfect balance of pleasant weather and unique seasonal experiences. While the country is still buzzing with energy, the intensity of summer has given way to a more comfortable and leisurely pace. Read on to find out about what you can expect for an Oc

japansophy
Aug 258 min read


Taking a taxi in Japan: your guide to booking, tipping and costs
There are around 50,000 taxis in Tokyo alone. They're a bit spendy but can be your saviour in a transportation tight-spot. So, you've...

japansophy
Aug 147 min read


Essential Earthquake Preparedness for Your Trip to Japan
The Great Hanshin Earthquake of 1995 devastated the city of Kobe Japan, a land of captivating beauty, rich culture, and technological...

japansophy
Aug 147 min read


What's the legal drinking age in Japan? Navigating Japan's age restrictions
Cheers to your 20th birthday! The legal drinking age in Japan Dude, I could absolutely hammer an Asahi right now! Ahh, look at you all...

japansophy
Aug 147 min read


Best Beaches in Japan: The Ultimate Guide to Getting your Beach On
With over 30,000 kms of shoreline, you're never too far away from a beach in Japan When you picture Japan, what springs to mind? Perhaps...

japansophy
Aug 148 min read


When is the best time to visit Japan? It’s all about you!
Get your geta on, whatever the season! So, you've got that twinkle in your eye, that little flutter in your travel-hungry heart, and...

japansophy
Aug 146 min read


How much does a trip to Japan cost?
The cost of a trip to Japan will depend on a number of factors. We'll help you plan your budget. One of the first things you’ll have to...

japansophy
Aug 148 min read


Tokyo Metro Pass – Your ticket to navigating Tokyo on the cheap
The Tokyo metro system is the probably the fastest, cheapest way to make your way around the city. Imagine effortlessly zipping around...

japansophy
Aug 147 min read
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