Buy Japanese Yen online

Most urban areas and tourist spots in Japan will accept card payments. However, you should still travel with cash Japanese Yen, especially in more remote areas where card connectivity is less reliable. Don’t forget, you’ll typically face fees, charges and unfavourable rates when making card payments overseas.

Although your daily budget depends on your travel style and preferences, Japan is considered an expensive destination for tourists. For a comfortable travel experience, you could budget around £100 to £200 per day to cover accommodation, meals, and transportation costs. Frugal travellers can spend as little as £45.

Japan’s official currency is Japanese Yen. Other foreign currencies aren’t typically accepted.

If you’re heading to Japan for a holiday, you won’t usually need a visa. UK citizens can stay for up to 90 days, but if you want to stay longer or earn money, you’ll need to apply for a relevant visa and/or work permit. 

Your passport must be valid for at least six months from your arrival date. Always check the entry requirements with your country’s embassy before departing.

Tipping isn’t standard in Japan, and can even be considered rude and disrespectful. Excellent service is seen as standard, so if you want to show appreciation, small gifts or souvenirs are welcomed (especially if they’re from your country of origin).

Japanese, also known as Nihongo, is Japan’s primary language, used by the majority of the population. It has several variants depending on where you are in Japan, but the Tokyo dialect is considered standard Japanese. 

Ryukyuan languages are spoken in the Ryukyu Islands, including Okinawa. Even though they are from the same language family as Japanese, they are not mutually intelligible. Ainu, spoken by the Ainu people, is an indigenous language that is considered endangered.

Japan is generally considered a safe destination for travellers. However, it’s always wise to check and follow any government travel advisories before your trip.

You can also visit the Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO)for the latest government travel advice for Japan.

Most tourists consider spring the best time of year to visit Japan, with autumn being a close second. During these seasons, the weather is much cooler, and travellers can enjoy Japan’s beautiful natural scenery, including its iconic cherry blossoms. This is also the most expensive time to go, so if you want to avoid crowds and inflated prices, winter offers excellent skiing and snowboarding, as well as the Sapporo Snow Festival.