If Japan is on your travel wishlist, spring is truly one of the most magical times to go — and after experiencing it firsthand in April 2025, I can honestly say it exceeded all expectations. From cherry blossoms in full bloom to steaming bowls of ramen in tucked-away alleys, here are my top travel tips to help you get the most out of your holiday to Japan.

1. Time Your Trip for Cherry Blossom Magic

April is sakura (cherry blossom) season — and it’s as stunning as you’ve heard. Cities like Kyoto, Tokyo, and Hiroshima were bursting with pale pink petals during my trip.

Tip: If you’re chasing peak bloom, check blossom forecasts a few weeks before you go. Blooms vary slightly each year depending on the weather.

Don’t Miss:

  • Philosopher’s Path, Kyoto
  • Ueno Park, Tokyo
  • Miyajima Island, Hiroshima

2. Get a Japan Rail Pass — But Plan Ahead

If you’re planning to visit multiple cities, the Japan Rail (JR) Pass can be a game-changer. It gives you unlimited travel on JR trains, including the iconic Shinkansen bullet trains.

Tip:

  • Buy the JR Pass before you go — it’s often cheaper and sometimes not available once in Japan.
  • Use an app like NAVITIME Japan Travel to check train routes and times.
  • Check how many times you are using the train – we actually found out individual bookings worked out cheaper (although a little faff – it saved us £70 each!)

3. Pack Light (and Smart)

Most Japanese hotel rooms are small — and public transport doesn’t lend itself to huge suitcases. We travelled with carry-on-sized luggage and never looked back.

Tip: Many hotels offer coin laundries or same-day washing services, so you can re-wear items easily.

4. Convenience Stores Are Incredible

I lost count of how many meals we grabbed from 7-Eleven, FamilyMart, or Lawson — and they were surprisingly delicious!

Must-Try Combini Picks:

  • Onigiri (rice balls)
  • Egg sandwiches
  • Matcha lattes
  • Fried chicken bites

5. Prepare to Walk (A Lot)

Japan is a pedestrian-friendly country, especially in cities like Kyoto and Tokyo. Between exploring shrines, temples, parks, and street markets, we easily hit 15,000+ steps a day.

Tip:

  • Wear super-comfy walking shoes.
  • Don’t forget to take off your shoes when entering temples, ryokans, or traditional restaurants!

6. Respect Local Customs

The Japanese are incredibly polite, and showing respect goes a long way.

Simple etiquette to remember:

  • Bow when greeting or thanking someone.
  • Speak quietly in public spaces.
  • Don’t point or eat while walking.
  • Bring a small bag to hold your rubbish — public bins are rare.

7. Language Isn’t a Barrier — But Learn the Basics

Most signs are in English, and big cities are tourist-friendly, but learning a few Japanese phrases made a big difference.

Helpful words:

  • Arigatou gozaimasu = Thank you
  • Sumimasen = Excuse me / Sorry
  • Eigo o hanasemasu ka? = Do you speak English?

8. Book Accommodation Early

April is peak travel season in Japan. Hotels, especially ryokans (traditional inns), fill up fast.

Where we stayed:

  • A traditional ryokan in Hakone with futons and tatami mats, this was such a fantastic experience, it even had a private onset due to my tattoos!
  • We stayed in 4/5* hotels across Toyko, Kyoto, Osaka and Hiroshima

Tip: If you want that “authentic Japan” feel, try booking at least one night in a ryokan with an onsen (hot spring).

9. Bring Cash — Not Everywhere Takes Card

While Japan is high-tech in many ways, cash is still king in smaller shops, shrines, markets, and rural areas.

Tip:

  • Withdraw Japanese Yen at ATMs inside 7-Eleven — they accept foreign cards.
  • Keep coins handy for vending machines and temple donations.

10. Stay Connected with a Travel SIM or Pocket WiFi

We used a eSIM purely for ease, but you can actually get pocket Wi-Fi device rented at the airport, and it worked perfectly across multiple cities. Reliable internet was essential for maps, translation apps, and train planning though.

Here is my referral recommendation. Download Simly by going to unlink.to/simly and enter my referral code (LEONSXX1) at the check out for $3 off your eSIM! You’re welcome 😉

Final Thoughts

Travelling to Japan in April 2025 was nothing short of magical. The combination of ancient culture, high-tech modern life, and the peaceful beauty of cherry blossoms made it a trip I’ll never forget.

If you’re planning your own Japan adventure, I hope these tips help you feel more prepared and excited. Whether you’re eating sushi in Osaka or sipping matcha under sakura trees, Japan is full of unforgettable moments.

Planning Your Trip?

I’d love to help you create your dream Japan holiday! Get in touch through Enchanting Worlds Travel — I offer expert planning, support, and personalised itineraries tailored to your travel style.