Japan consists of some 1000 small islands and the 4 main islands of Hokkaido, Honshu, Shikoku and Kyushu. Japan is divided into 8 main regions consisting of Hokkaido, Tohoku, Kanto, Chubu, Kinki, Chugoku, Shikoku and Kyushu. Okinawa is the largest and most significant of the smaller islands.
The Regions of Japan include:
Use our sightseeing map on the home page to help navigate yourself around Japan
When to Visit Japan
The high season in Japan is April – May and mid-August. Golden Week (April 28 to May 11) a collection of four public holidays is to be avoided as well as Obon in mid-August as these are peak travel times in Japan. The period around New Year is also a peak travel period. Trains, hotels and tourist areas are extremely crowded during this period and prices are a lot higher.
The low season is January – March which is winter in Japan with cool to cold weather conditions. It is still a good time to travel with clear crisp days and blue skies.
The Cost of Travel in Japan
As an Estimate or General Guide
On a Budget (daily expense)
- Hostel: 3000 yen
- Meals: 2000 yen
- Transport: 1500 yen
- Attractions: 1000 yen
- Extras: 1000 yen
- Total: 8500 yen per day (USD$85)
Mid-Price (daily expense)
- Business Hotel: 8000 yen
- Meals: 4000 yen
- Transport: 1500 yen
- Attractions: 1000 yen
- Extras: 2000 yen
- Total: 16500 yen per day (USD$165)