Japan Holidays 2026: What You Need to Know for Your Trip

23 Sep 2025
Japan remains atop of the list of favourite destinations for world travellers in 2025, adding many new attractions including theme parks, luxury hotels, and unique museums.

The favourable currency exchange rate has led many overseas visitors to see Japan as a bargain destination, and visitors from countries like the United States, Canada, and Australia have increased exponentially as English language support has become stronger to support the number of tourists arriving in Japan. 

Getting to Japan has become easier and more convenient as well, with many new direct flights added from major cities over the past year, and not only to Tokyo-area airports but to Kansai (serving Osaka and Kyoto) as well. Visitors can enjoy a range of Japanese holidays, from modern innovations to traditional cultural treasures, such as ancient temples, cutting-edge cities, and breathtaking landscapes, and do so year-round. 

Let’s take a look at what is up-and-coming in 2026 in popular destinations across Japan. 

Cherry blossoms at Hirosaki Castle, Aomori

Is Cherry Blossom Season the best time to visit Japan in 2026? 

Spring and late autumn are certainly prime seasons to visit Japan. These seasons not only showcase the country’s natural beauty — showers of pink cherry blossoms in spring and fiery red and orange foliage of autumn — but also offer the best weather: in most locations, not too hot, not too cold and a few rainy days scattered among blue skies. 

While summers in Japan are hot and humid, especially in the paved-over urban cities, it’s an excellent season to head to higher altitudes and rural scenery for outdoor adventures like hiking in the Japanese Alps, exploring northern regions such as Aomori, Akita, or Hokkaido, and enjoying traditional festivals. Winter, though cold — especially in areas north of Tokyo, where powder snowfall creates picturesque snow scenes — offers clear weather for viewing Mt. Fuji and plenty of sunshine in major cities like Tokyo and Osaka. Winter, in particular, is an off-season for most of Japan, the best time to avoid the crowds in Japan’s most popular destinations like touring the temples of Kyoto. 

Spring and autumn remain top choices for travellers. Spring’s cherry blossom season, typically from late March to mid-April, is particularly popular for its breathtaking displays of blush-coloured flowers. However, this time also draws large crowds, especially in urban areas. Remember that cherry blossom viewing is much less crowded and often far more beautiful in rural areas of the country. Also consider visiting during autumn, which offers equally stunning fall scenery that often lasts longer than cherry blossom season, moderate weather, and fewer tourists. 

Women’s hands holding up a passport in front of Mt. Fuji

Requirements to Travel to Japan in 2026

With the growing number of visitors to Japan, changes to the system have been implemented in 2025 to make the process of visiting Japan faster and smoother than ever. The Japan eVISA system has been expanded to more nationalities, simplifying the process of applying for a single-entry, short-term tourism visa for thousands of visitors from countries that don’t have visa exemption agreements with Japan. This system eliminates the need for paper documents as everything can be done online and displayed on a smartphone. Overseas visa application centres have been opened in various countries as well, making the application process easier for those applying in person. 

There are many countries that allow entry for tourists to Japan for up to 90 days without applying for a visa. Launched in 2024, there is now also a digital nomad visa that is valid for remote work for up to six months. You can check the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Japan website for more details on tourist visas and digital nomad visas.

Visit Japan Web is still the easiest way to check information about travel to Japan and fill out forms online to simplify the immigration process when you arrive in Japan, allowing you to get onto the work of enjoying your holiday faster. 

One of the major changes in customs and immigration policies in 2026 will affect you more as you leave the country rather than when you enter. A major change to the duty-free tax exemption program will be implemented, targeted to be in full effect by November 2026. Rather than paying a tax-free price at the point of sale, visitors will pay full price and receive a refund after customs verification at the airport upon their departure. You will also no longer be required to keep your purchases in a sealed package during your stay in Japan; however, you must still ensure that you do not use the goods in Japan in order to qualify for the refund. 

Sunny view of Tokyo

What happened in Japan in 2025 

2025 was a year when Japan offered two internationally well-known events: the Osaka World Expo and the Setouchi Art Triennale. Both events attracted thousands of visitors from all over the world despite the hot summer weather, testifying to the appeal that Japanese art and design have internationally. A new theme park, urban redevelopment, and museums were also big changes in attractions in Japan in 2025. See our blog post for the full line-up of Japan travel news in 2025.

Grand Ring of Osaka Expo 2025

Osaka EXPO 2025 

2025's most anticipated event, the Expo 2025 Osaka, Kansai, runs from April 13 to October 13 on the newly reclaimed Yumeshima Island. Themed “Designing Future Society for Our Lives,” the event showcases innovative ideas for improving wellbeing and environmental sustainability, with global participation through unique national pavilions. 

The expo’s striking design includes a circular layout designed by Sou Fujimoto architects, extending into the ocean, offering visitors the chance to explore exhibits over both land and sea. The event has been a success so far, with sales reaching break-even point about halfway through the schedule and a continued strong demand for tickets from visitors at home and from abroad. Read more about everything you need to know to visit Osaka EXPO 2025

Woman at teamLab exhibition, Japan

TeamLab Planets Expansion in Tokyo, and teamLab Biovortex Kyoto 

Tokyo’s teamLab Planets in Toyosu added three new interactive attractions in January 2025: Athletic Forest, Catching and Collecting Forest, and Future Park. These additions breathed new life into the older of Tokyo’s two teamLab exhibits, the other being teamLab Borderless in a new facility based in Azubudai Hills. 

Meanwhile, Kyoto’s first permanent teamLab exhibition opened in the autumn of 2025. TeamLab Biovortex Kyoto serves as a hub for experimental digital art, and features massless sculptures and interactive light works, with many previously unseen works by the world-famous digital art group. Covering over 10,000 square meters, it is Japan’s largest teamLab facility, and well worth adding to your 2026 Japan itinerary. 

Tadao Ando’s architecture on Naoshima Island, Japan

Naoshima's New Art Spaces 

Opened in spring 2025, the Naoshima New Museum of Art on Japan's Seto Inland Sea is a stunning addition to the island's renowned art scene. Designed by Tadao Ando, the museum showcases works by Asian artists and host exhibitions, workshops, and programs fostering dialogue and cultural exchange. It was completed in time to coincide with the Setouchi Triennale 2025, which takes place from April to November with the theme “Restoration of the Sea.” 

Sunset view of Nagoya, Japan

What’s new in Japan: 2026 

While it's difficult to top major events like the Osaka World Expo and Setouchi Art Triennale year after year, there are three very exciting developments for visitors to Japan planned for 2026. 

The premiere event in Japan in 2026 are the 2026 Asian Games, hosted in Nagoya City and other places in Aichi Prefecture. Thousands of spectators from around Asia are expected to attend the 16-day event from September 19 to October 4, cheering the athletes of their home country and creating a festive atmosphere that will resonate all over Japan. 

Next is the long-anticipated reopening of the Edo-Tokyo Museum in the spring. The museum has been undergoing major structural renovations since April 2022, for reasons you will understand when you see its unique architecture, built on pillars high above ground level. Apart from bringing the building up to safety standards, however, the exhibits have been revitalized using modern technology and interactive displays, providing an engaging way to learn about the history of Tokyo as it transformed from a swampy outpost called Edo over four centuries ago. The museum was a long-time staple of Tokyo itineraries for visitors, so there is much excitement around its pending return to the museum scene. 

Another spring opening in Tokyo is PokéPark KANTO, the world’s first permanent outdoor Pokémon-themed park. The park is designed to be an immersive experience that appeals to longtime fans of the franchise as well as new visitors. Housed within the Yomiuriland amusement park in western Tokyo, the park will feature two distinct zones: Pokémon Forest, a nature trail where visitors can find and interact with over 600 life-sized Pokémon figures in their native habitats, and Sedge Town, a more urban-themed area with unique shops, a Pokémon Center, and a “Sedge Gym,” as well as scheduled parades and other attractions. 

Girl performing Yosakoi dance at festival

Photo: Todd Fong

Annual Events Around Japan in 2026 

The COVID-19 pandemic feels like the distant past now that annual festivals are back in full swing around Japan. Here are a few to look out for: 

Kayabuki no Sato Snow Lantern Festival
In January-February 

Located north of Kyoto, the village of Miyama transforms into a winter wonderland, where locals and visitors come together to create enchanting snow lanterns. 

Hirosaki Cherry Blossom Festival
In April-May 
Experience the magic of cherry blossoms in full bloom in Aomori, northern Japan, with breathtaking pink petals filling the air. 

Naha Hari
In May 
Okinawan spirit is on full display at the largest dragon boat racing event which also features sumo wrestling, musical performances and a fireworks display over the sea. 

Kanazawa Hyakumangoku Festival
In June 
Kanazawa's premier annual celebration, featuring vibrant samurai parades, thrilling ladder-climbing performances, and the powerful beats of taiko drums. 

Earth Celebration on Sado Island
In August 
The main events of this summer festival on Niigata’s largest island are concerts in collaboration with international guest artists and the acclaimed Kodo taiko (drumming) group based on the island.

Kochi Yosakoi Festival
In August 
This huge dance festival in Kochi city features hundreds of beautifully costumed dance teams from around the world performing Yosakoi, the energetic and colourful dance created to revitalize Kochi in the 1950s. 

Fire-Walking Ceremony at Daiganji Temple
In November 
Held on Miyajima Island, this iconic Buddhist ritual involves walking over fire to ward off evil spirits and embrace spiritual renewal. 

Evening view of Tokyo with Tokyo Skytree

Highlights to See in Tokyo in 2026 

Tokyo and Kyoto are the top two destination cities for visitors to Japan, and for good reason! While they are both constantly evolving with new attractions for visitors, there are also many must-see spots that are permanent fixtures. Here are some foundational attractions for your trip to Japan in 2026. 

Tokyo’s Recommended Permanent Sightseeing Spots

The classic highlights of Tokyo include the following spots: 

Tokyo Skytree 
A towering 634-meter structure featuring two panoramic observation decks surrounded by Solamachi, a shopping, dining, and entertainment facility. Here is more information on how to visit

Shibuya Sky
A sky-high view of iconic Shibuya Crossing and western Tokyo, complete with shops and dining options. 

Sensoji Temple 
Tokyo’s best known temple complex, showcasing a five-story pagoda and Nakamise souvenir shopping street, the perfect place to dress in kimono and stroll about. 

Ghibli Museum
A small, family-friendly museum located in Mitaka, Western Tokyo, celebrating the magic of Studio Ghibli’s animations. 

Tokyo National Museum
A gem of Ueno Park’s many museums, with fascinating changing exhibitions and a treasure trove of Japan’s priceless National Treasures. 

Girl in Shibuya Crossing, Tokyo

New in Tokyo for 2026 

In 2026, Tokyo is expanding its attractions with the following spots:

Edo-Tokyo Museum 
See the details above about the long-awaited 2026 reopening of this favourite museum for Tokyo’ visitors. 

PokéPark KANTO 
The world’s only permanent outdoor Pokémon-themed park. See above for details. 

Waldorf Astoria Tokyo Nihonbashi 
The first Waldorf Astoria hotel in Japan featuring 197 guest rooms, three restaurants, and an indoor pool. Located close to Tokyo Station and the Ginza shopping district. 

Tokyo Disney Resort 
A new attraction will open, based on the animated film, “Wreck-It Ralph” in the Disneyland park. It replaces the Buzz Lightyear Astro Blasters attraction, a long-time favourite that closed in October 2024. 

Shibuya 2026
Replacing the Shibuya Marui department store, this building will be Japan’s first full-scale shopping complex made completely from wood. Incorporating traditional Japanese construction techniques, the building itself will be as much of an attraction as its future tenants.

Fairmont Tokyo
Fairmont’s brand debut in Japan will be located on the upper floors of the Shibaura Project’s S Tower with stunning views of the city skyline and Tokyo Bay. 

Cultural Creation Building
Part of the larger Takanawa Gateway City project, this facility designed by Kengo Kuma is scheduled to open in spring 2026. It will offer exhibitions, traditional Japanese activities, experimental projects and more. A new theme will be introduced every six months on which the planned exhibits and activities will be based.

Girl running in Fushimi Inari shrine,Kyoto

Highlights to See in Kyoto in 2026 

Unlike Tokyo, which is being constantly redeveloped at warp speed, Kyoto prides itself on maintaining tradition and history for future generations. For a fulfilling Kyoto trip, we recommend immersing yourself in the history and culture of the city. Here’s how to spend 3 days in Kyoto

Kyoto’s Recommended Permanent Sightseeing Spots 

The iconic highlights of Kyoto include the following spots: 

Fushimi Inari Taisha
Kyoto’s iconic Shinto shrine, renowned for its thousands of vermillion torii gates and breathtaking views of the city. 

Kinkakuji (Golden Pavilion)
A magnificent pavilion adorned with pure gold leaf that is a breathtaking sight in all four seasons of Kyoto. 

Nishiki Market
Located in central Kyoto’s Kawaramachi area, this is “Kyoto’s Kitchen,” offering fresh ingredients and deliciously prepared meals alike. 

Arashiyama Bamboo Forest
Immerse yourself in nature’s tranquillity at Kyoto’s famous bamboo grove in the picturesque Arashiyama district; just do it early before the hordes of tourists arrive. 

Yasaka Shrine
One of Kyoto’s most historic shrines, featuring an ancient pagoda on the Eastern Hill above the vibrant Gion geisha district. 

Statues in moss garden in Kyoto, Japan

New in Kyoto for 2026

After working hard to try to build additional infrastructure to support the exponential growth in Kyoto tourism, the city has shifted more toward changing policies and strategies for managing the volume of tourists they receive. 

As such, there may be changes in the way the city approaches tourism that are too subtle for visitors staying in the city only for a few days to notice. These might be the city’s increase in limited express bus routes to popular attractions, or encouraging visitors to use the subway or less-travelled bus routes. There may also be changes that are unpopular with tourists but will benefit them in the long run, such as an increase in accommodation taxes taking effect in March 2026, the proceeds of which will be invested in the infrastructure supporting Kyoto tourism.

 Japanese sake being poured

My Sake World 

A new attraction opened in 2025 that has been popular with overseas tourist is My Sake World in Kyoto’s Kawaramachi district. This event features tastings of some top sake brands from around Japan, but focused mainly on Kyoto breweries. The highlight of the attraction is the chance to discover and create your own sake blend to take home with you. 

TeamLab Biovortex Kyoto 

As mentioned above in more detail, Kyoto became home to Japan’s largest teamLab exhibition space in the autumn of 2025, the teamLab Biovortex Kyoto. This is a highlight worth pinning to visitors’ 2026 Kyoto itineraries.

Imperial Hotel, Kyoto 

Another new attraction relevant to visitors to Kyoto opening in 2026 is the Imperial Hotel, Kyoto, the first new opening of the brand in 30 years. This boutique-sized hotel will use the historic Yasaka Kaikan building, a nationally registered Tangible Cultural Property. Located in the Gion district, this luxury accommodation will be a true immersion into Kyoto culture. 

Travellers looking for an escape from the Kyoto crowds may consider taking a day-trip to surrounding areas.

 Sunrise from Mount Fuji, Japan

Japan's New Highlights for 2026 

Overtourism is a theme many cities in the world are becoming familiar with, and Tokyo and Kyoto are unfortunately no exception. While there are still many areas of both cities that receive little to no tourism, the most popular areas that are shared through social media can be unbearably crowded, even during what used to be off-season. Because of this, exploring hidden gems and natural destinations is becoming even more important in 2026 in Japan.

The great news is that Japan is a large country with a fantastic transportation infrastructure, so thousands of incredible destinations off-the-beaten-path are accessible to visitors by airplane, train, and bus alone. Once you’ve had your fill of attractions in Tokyo and Kyoto, here are some other parts of Japan that are worthy of your attention. 

 Dancers parade through Yatsuo Town, Toyama, Japan

Toyama 

In the past year, Toyama has been recognized as an “emerging destination” for travellers to Japan. It’s proximity and ease of access from Tokyo combined with stunning natural landscapes like the Tateyama Kurobe Alpine Route and UNESCO World Heritage recognized Gokayama Villages make it naturally attractive, while its near lack of foreign and domestic tourists is perplexing. Don’t count on Toyama to fly under the radar for long; visit soon to enjoy its delicious fresh seafood, unique festivals, and outdoor adventure activities like trekking and cycling before everyone else discovers it. 

 Takachiho Gorge, Miyazaki, Japan

Kyushu Region 

The westernmost of Japan's four main islands, Kyushu is an island of incredible natural beauty and a rich cultural heritage with much fewer crowds than Honshu's "Golden Route." 

Beppu (Oita Prefecture) 
Known as Japan's hot spring capital, Beppu is famous for its "hells tour" where visitors can see bubbling, colourful hot springs that are too hot for bathing but are a spectacular sight. If you’d like to actually relax in a hot springs bath, however, there are literally hundreds of options within the city for that too. 

Kumamoto and Mount Aso 
Home to one of Japan's most impressive castles, Kumamoto City is an ideal hub for exploring the region. From here, you can easily access Mount Aso, one of the world's largest volcanic calderas, for hiking, biking, and horseback riding opportunities. 

Takachiho (Miyazaki Prefecture) 
A place steeped in myth and natural wonder, Takachiho Gorge is famous for its dramatic cliffs carved by the Gokase River and the picturesque Manai Waterfall. You can admire the gorge from walking paths along the rim or rent a rowboat to glide through its emerald waters for an unforgettable view. 

Nagasaki 
This port city offers a poignant look at Japan’s tragic WW2 history, with its Peace Park and Atomic Bomb Museum. It is also the centre of Japan’s Christian history from four centuries ago, with significant landmarks representing that period and culture. 

Fukuoka 
A lively, friendly city and a culinary hotspot, Fukuoka is known for its "yatai" (open-air food stalls) set up around Nakasu Island on the river at night. It's a great place to experience regional cuisine like tonkotsu ramen and make new friends in the process. 

Snowy night at Ginzan Onsen

Tohoku Region 

Located in northern Honshu, the Tohoku area hasn’t fully recovered from the damage done to the tourism industry when the area was devastated by a huge tsunami and earthquake in 2011. The Tohoku region offers a raw, natural beauty and a chance to experience traditional culture away from the crowds. Tohoku’s prefectures are some of the best off-the-beaten-path destinations in Japan. 

Hirosaki (Aomori Prefecture) 
Home to Hirosaki Castle, this city is also a top recommendation for cherry blossom viewing in the spring, as well as the summer Neputa Festival featuring colourful illuminated floats. 

Ginzan Onsen (Yamagata Prefecture) 
A picturesque, old-fashioned hot spring town with beautifully preserved wooden ryokans and gas lamps that light up the cobblestone streets at night. Extremely popular in recent years, the area has taken measures to prevent overtourism so that visitors can be assured to enjoy their stay here. 

Kakunodate (Akita Prefecture) 
Known as the "Little Kyoto of Tohoku," this town has a beautifully preserved samurai district with old samurai houses and a picturesque main street. It is probably one of the most beautiful areas to view spring cherry blossoms in the entire country and the blossoms take place later than most due to its location in the north, so you don’t have to choose between Kakunodate and other popular locations. 

Yamadera (Yamagata Prefecture) 
A stunning mountainside temple complex with over a thousand steps leading up to sweeping views of the valley. The climb itself is part of the spiritual journey, and in autumn the surrounding foliage makes it especially magical. 

Oirase Gorge & Lake Towada (Aomori Prefecture) 
A serene walking route following a clear mountain stream, lined with waterfalls and mossy rocks, leading up to the volcanic caldera lake of Towada. This area is a paradise for hikers and nature lovers seeking tranquillity. 

Freeskier in Hakuba ski resort, Nagano, Japan

Other Regions 

Beyond the main islands of Honshu, Kyushu, and Tohoku, there are exciting new openings and events that make it worth looking further afield when planning your trip to Japan. 

Shuri Castle Main Hall (Okinawa) 
Slated for grand completion in autumn 2026, this iconic Ryukyuan landmark is returning after the devastating 2019 fire. Pair a visit with Naha city exploration or a longer island-hopping trip to the Yaeyama Islands. Here are plus five reasons to visit Okinawa

Swatch Nines Snow, Niseko (Hokkaido) 
An elite freestyle ski and snowboard showcase taking place in Niseko ski resort in 2026 and 2028. Travellers can time their Hokkaido trips to align with the event window. 

Hakuba (Nagano) 
Mainland Japan’s largest ski region, Hakuba is going to benefit from major lift upgrades — including new gondolas (2024–25) and the 10th-anniversary Hakuba Valley pass — which will make the 2025–26 and 2026–27 ski seasons smoother than ever. 
  
Hoshino Resorts (2026 Expansions) 
Japan’s most stylish luxury ryokan brand is expanding with KAI Kusatsu (spring), KAI Miyajima (summer), and KAI Teshikaga (August), a lakeside onsen ryokan in Akan-Mashu National Park. In addition, OMO7 Yokohama will open in spring, offering a playful urban retreat in one of Japan’s most vibrant port cities. 

Hotel The Mitsui Hakone (Spring 2026) 
A 76-room onsen retreat set in the hills of Hakone, designed as a luxurious mountain escape. Just a short trip from Tokyo, it’s ideal for combining with city stays. 

Train in Kyoto, Japan

Getting Around Japan in 2026

Whether you plan to stay in one region or explore the entire country during your Japan holiday, trains and public transport remain the most convenient and efficient ways to get around.

While taxis can be tricky to hail and renting a car offers greater flexibility, the costs can add up quickly. In contrast, Japan’s extensive train network links all major cities, with local train lines and buses providing access to more remote areas. For faster travel between major destinations, the Shinkansen, or bullet train, offers a quick and reliable option for exploring Japan. 

If you are intending to travel to multiple cities across Japan on your holiday trip, the Japan Rail Pass might be your best option for saving time and making your travel hassle-free. And while Japan Rail has not made things easier for tourists to understand recently, there are still many other regional rail and bus passes that can make short distance travel easier. For a simpler explanation of what is available, have a look at our introduction to Japan’s different regional passes here

Autumn leaves in Japan around temple gate

Photo: Todd Fong

When to Visit Japan in 2026

Planning a trip to Japan in 2026? Domestic travellers tend to plan vacations around nationally designated holiday periods: New Year, Golden Week, and Obon. It’s best to avoid traveling in Japan during these periods which often see increased crowds, fully booked trains and accommodations, and higher prices. Here are the key dates to consider: 

New Year (December 31 – January 3) 
A time for family gatherings, temple visits, and traditional celebrations, with many shops and attractions closed. 

Golden Week (April 29 – May 5) 
One of Japan’s busiest travel periods, as multiple national holidays occur back-to-back, making transport and tourist spots exceptionally crowded. 

Obon (Mid-August) 
A traditional festival honouring ancestors, marked by high domestic travel, with locals returning to their hometowns or visiting gravesites. 

For more details on the best times to travel Japan, including tips on seasonal highlights like cherry blossoms and autumn foliage, check out our blog. Our FAQ section also provides practical advice on navigating Japan’s public transport, cultural etiquette, and more. 

Woman at Ginkakuji temple, Kyoto

Frequently Asked Questions 

Do I need a visa to travel to Japan in 2026? 
Many countries have a 90-day visa exemption, but if you require a visa, Japan’s expanded eVISA system makes applying simple online. A digital nomad visa (valid up to 6 months) is also available. Always check the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Japan website before traveling. 

What’s the best time to visit Japan in 2026? 
Spring (late March–April) for cherry blossoms and autumn (October–November) for vibrant foliage are the most popular seasons. Winter is ideal for skiing and fewer crowds, while summer suits festivals and hiking in cooler regions like Hokkaido and the Alps. 

What should I avoid when planning my trip? 
Try to avoid peak domestic travel periods: New Year (Dec 31–Jan 3), Golden Week (late April–early May), and Obon (mid-August). These times see high prices, crowded transport, and limited availability for accommodations. 

Where should I start planning my Japan 2026 holiday? 
Start by thinking about the season you’d like to travel, the regions you want to see, and how much time you have. From there, consider transport options like the Japan Rail Pass, and look into must-see events or new openings in 2026. If you’d like expert guidance, our online consultation service can help turn your ideas into a personalized itinerary. 

Is Japan expensive in 2026? 
Thanks to a favourable currency exchange rate, Japan remains more affordable than many travellers expect. While luxury hotels and fine dining are available, you can also find budget-friendly accommodations, transport passes, and dining options. Our team is here to help you with recommendations. 

What’s new in Japan for 2026? 
Highlights include the Asian Games in Nagoya (Sept–Oct), the reopening of the Edo-Tokyo Museum, and the world’s first outdoor Pokémon park (PokéPark KANTO) in Tokyo. Kyoto also welcomes the new teamLab Biovortex immersive exhibition, and ongoing cultural attractions. 

How do I get around Japan most efficiently? 
The Shinkansen (bullet train) is the fastest way between major cities. For longer trips, consider the Japan Rail Pass or regional passes. Local trains, buses, and subways make getting around easy. Taxis are convenient but more expensive, while car rental is best for rural areas. 

Are there any travel restrictions or new rules in 2026? 
Yes. From November 2026, duty-free purchases will shift to a refund system at the airport instead of tax-free prices in stores. Goods must remain unused in Japan to qualify for a refund. Immigration is now streamlined with Visit Japan Web for faster entry. 

How can I avoid overtourism in 2026? 
Famous sites like Fushimi Inari Shrine and Arashiyama in Kyoto, or Shibuya and Shinjuku in Tokyo can get crowded. For a calmer trip, explore Toyama’s villages, Tohoku’s hot spring towns, or Kyushu’s natural wonders. Our specialists can balance must-sees with hidden gems so you enjoy Japan at your own pace. 

Which Japanese festivals should I see in 2026? 
Top picks include the Hirosaki Cherry Blossom Festival (April–May), Kochi Yosakoi Festival (August), and the Fire-Walking Ceremony on Miyajima (November). Seasonal and regional festivals take place year-round, offering authentic cultural experiences. 

Is Japan family-friendly in 2026? 
Yes. Japan is safe, clean, and easy to navigate with kids. Attractions like PokéPark KANTO, Tokyo Disneyland, and animal parks in Hokkaido make it ideal for families. Our consultants can recommend family-friendly hotels, day trips, and activities tailored to your children’s ages. 

Do I need help planning a Japan holiday with kids? 
It’s possible to travel independently, but with children, expert advice makes a big difference. From stroller access to family-friendly transport options and flexible sightseeing, we can save you time and stress. An online consultation ensures your trip works for everyone. 

Is English widely spoken in Japan? 
English signage and support have greatly expanded, especially in major cities, transport hubs, and tourist attractions. While not everyone speaks English fluently, most travellers find it easy to get by. Learning a few Japanese phrases will be appreciated. 

Excited to see Japan in 2026? 

Now that you know some of what you can look forward to on your 2026 trip, why not explore some of our tours and get planning your next holiday to Japan? 

For more travel inspiration, check out our latest blog posts for exploring Japan. 

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Sunset at Himeji Castle, Japan

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