Japan – getting there

Most of my travel has centered around the North America, the Caribbean, and Western Europe.  Today I’m focusing on Japan, as it’s been on my bucket list. Here are a few basics about Japan for those who are planning to visit this year.

Japan travel will take you to the island nation located in East Asia. The most popular cities to visit while you’re there include:

• Tokyo
• Osaka
• Hiroshima
• Nara
• Sendai
• Other important destinations include Mount Fuji and the Japan Alps

Getting In 

If you are traveling and plan to stay for more than three months, you will need to get a Certificate of Alien Registration (equivalent to a Visa). Also, anyone over 16 years of age will be fingerprinted and photographed upon entry. It is important to understand that customs will not allow some over-the-counter medications such as those containing pseudoephedrine and codeine. Your passport must be with you at all times while visiting the country.

Getting There

The country has two major airlines in addition to domestic airlines including Delta Air Lines, American Airlines and United Airlines all fly in and out of the country. There are two main airports that most flights go into. One is located near Tokyo and the other one close to Osaka.

There are also several smaller airports for domestic and international flights. The airports are fairly easy to get through unless it is one of the country’s busy seasons such as New Years, Goldman Week which is the end of April through the beginning of May and Obon which is the middle of August. Not only are these times busy but they are more expensive times as well.

Climate

The country has four seasons but most of the time tourism is most popular in spring or fall. Spring is one of the best times to visit the country because the temperatures are warm but not increasingly hot and there is not much rain.

Summer normally starts with the rainy season and turns hot and very humid in July and August. Autumn is a great time to visit because the temperatures and humidity are much lower, making being outside so  much more comfortable. Just note that autumn is also the time when the country experiences typhoons. If you’re a snow bunny, Winter is a great time for skiing, as the country experiences heavy snow and cold wind blasts.