Visas are not required for US passport holders. 

Just ensure that your passport is valid for a minimum period of 6 months from the date of entry into Japan. Many passport holders do not need visas to stay in Japan for up to 90 days. 

Visas are the responsibility of the individual traveler. Since entry requirements can change at any time, it's important to check for the latest information before your trip.

Japan’s currency is the yen (JPY). Before your trip, check with your bank about ordering some currency so you have money upon arrival.

Japan is ranked among the safest countries in the world, with very low crime rates, including theft.

No vaccinations are required to enter Japan.

Japan has four distinct seasons, making it a great place to travel year-round. Spring is the most popular time to visit as the famous wave of blooming sakura (cherry blossom trees) spreads from the south to the north of the country between February and April. Autumn is a wonderful alternative to spring when the weather is mild, and Japan’s forests turn beautiful shades of red and gold.

We recommend a travel backpack for your convenience or a medium-sized suitcase if you prefer. A daypack is also essential for carrying everyday items. Since space is limited on transportation, there is a maximum of one main piece of luggage per person. You will be responsible for carrying your own luggage, so pack smart.

Japan has a public tendency toward neatness and appearance. Caring for your clothes is standard; rarely will you see a ragged hem, torn shirt, or sloppy looks. It doesn’t have to be expensive, but smart and tidy goes a long way here.

Fashion in Japan is more modest than in the United States. It’s not common to show much skin, for any gender. Avoid shirts that show cleavage, belly-exposing shirts, tank tops that resemble lingerie without a shirt on top, and anything transparent that shows part of your underwear. Women should also avoid wearing super-short skirts or shorts. 

You’re likely to be walking a lot in Tokyo, so opt for comfortable shoes. Choose something that’s easy to slip on and off, as you’ll need to remove your shoes at temples, in homes, and in some traditional shops or restaurants. Sandals are fine, but flip-flops are strictly beach attire only.

When visiting temples in Japan, modest attire is important as a sign of respect. Choose loose-fitting clothing that doesn’t expose much skin. Your shoulders should be covered. Shorts are okay, but they should be knee-length.

Always remove your shoes and hats before entering a temple. It is respectful to wear socks when visiting a temple—never go barefoot. 

Tipping isn't customary in Japan and is not expected. In fact, it will sometimes be considered impolite. Some inns or ryokans may leave a small envelope in your room where a small gratuity can be left for the housekeeping staff.

Japanese power outlets come in two varieties: type A and B. In the United States, power outlets are type B. Because they are the same size and shape, you can use your plugs in type B outlets without an adapter.

However, the standard voltage in Japan is 100V at 50/60 Hz, while that in the United States is 120V at 60 Hz. These differences can sometimes damage the device or result in lower functioning performance. For this reason, we recommend purchasing a universal travel adapter to prevent issues. 

Japan has excellent internet connectivity, with one of the world's most developed high-speed networks. Cafes with internet and wi-fi hotspots are easily found in most cities and major towns.

If you are a fan of raw fish, you’re in for a real treat, but it’s also important to note that Japanese cuisine is much more than just sushi. Dishes such as crisp and delicate tempura, succulent yakitori, and steaming umami-rich bowls of ramen and udon noodles mean that there is something for everyone.

In recent years, Japan has also started developing delicious vegetarian and vegan cuisines, with specialty restaurants popping up all over the major cities. Shojin-ryouri is also traditionally eaten by Buddhist monks who follow a strict vegetarian diet.

In Japan, toilets range from high-tech bidets to standard Western-style flushable toilets to squat toilets, which are still common outside the city. Both types are often available.

Yes, drinking water from taps in Japan is completely safe. For environmental reasons, try to use a refillable water bottle rather than buying bottled water. Major cities often have water fountains in train stations.

The easiest way to get around Tokyo is to buy a pre-paid ticket. This will save you money and time, as you won't need to purchase individual tickets each time you want to take a train. The main options are a JR Pass, a Tokyo Subway Pass, or a Suica IC Card. 

Tokyo Subway Navigation for Tourists is the official Tokyo Metro app, which is free for Apple and Android users to download. It’s a really handy navigation tool! 

We generally recommend 400 USD. Below is a basic breakdown:

• 8 breakfasts and 4 dinners are included
• A basic Japanese dish for lunch costs 8-12 USD, and dinner costs 15-25 USD. Alcohol is excluded from these price ranges.
• A cup of coffee or a can of soda will cost 2-4 USD.
• Optional activities range from 10 USD to 40 USD, depending on the activity. 
• We suggest tipping Trip Leaders 3-6 USD per day.

Yes, there will be opportunities to do laundry. Expect to use laundromats in the neighborhoods around the accommodations. Your Trip Leader can give you more details about the nearest one.

Foreign credit cards are generally accepted in major stores, hotels, and restaurants across Japan, especially in large cities. 

However, Japan is still considered a largely cash-based society, so it's advisable to carry both cash and a credit card.

ATMs are readily available and include English translations, making them very convenient for travelers.

Japan is generally very safe for LGBTQIA+ travelers. While homosexuality is legal in Japan, gay marriage has not been made legal by the Japanese high court. There is no legal recognition of non-binary gender in Japan; however, similar to the legitimacy of gay marriage, it can vary by region.

LGBTQIA+ travelers shouldn’t have any issues visiting Japan, as violence, outright hostility, or overt discrimination is extremely rare. However, Japan’s older generation still holds conservative values when it comes to LGBTQIA+ sexuality and non-binary gender expression, especially those who live in more rural areas.

Public displays of affection are often frowned upon, regardless of sex, gender, or sexual orientation, so keep that in mind when you’re out in public.

Of course! This trip is yours, and you don’t have to participate in anything you don’t want to. However, opting out of included activities will not reduce the trip's price.

Yes, we do! When travelers take advantage of our “Switch Your Trip” program, last-minute slots open up on sold-out trips. Visit our Trips On Sale page for the latest last-minute deals. Sign up to the list to be notified of new last-minute opportunities.

Feel free to reach out to our all-star customer service team at info@under30experiences.com.