Traveling Japan: A to Z Guide

Mytour presents a comprehensive and concise travel guide to Japan, covering visa information, top destinations, delightful cuisine, and essential tips for your visit to the Land of the Rising Sun.

Ideal Travel Period | Visa Application Tips | Tourist Attractions | Shopping Destinations | Must-Try Delicacies | Important Considerations

Traveling Japan: A to Z Guide

Ideal Travel Period for Japan

The best time to travel to Japan independently is from late March to early April when cherry blossoms are in full bloom and from late October to early November when you can admire the vibrant autumn leaves. Additionally, if you enjoy shopping, consider visiting Japan during the discounted season in July and August or during the New Year holidays.

Japan Visa Application Experience

Required Conditions

Your passport should not be brand new; it's advisable to have a few exit stamps from Vietnam, preferably from visits to other Southeast Asian countries that do not require a visa.

Meeting the Requirements: Document Preparation

The Japanese Embassy provides detailed guidelines at //www.hcmcgj.vn.emb-japan.go.jp/vn/visa/dulich_v.htm

Essential Documents to Prepare:

1. The visa application must clearly state the date of application and bear a signature matching the one in the passport. You can find the application form and guidelines here:

http://www.hcmcgj.vn.emb-japan.go.jp/2012/february/20120229_kinyuu_mihon.PDF

You can type directly on the website, print it out, and sign. The online form is available here:

http://www.vn.emb-japan.go.jp/document/pdf/visa1.pdf

2. Relevant documents related to the current company (in English)

– Leave request from the company (including full name, department, position, duration of leave, approval from supervisors, and the company stamp).

– Company confirmation letter clearly stating your name, position, salary, and the purpose of this confirmation to support your visa application.

– Employment contract.

– Payroll statements for the most recent consecutive 3 months.

3. Financial proof: Bank account statements demonstrating you have sufficient funds for the trip, with a minimum equivalent of 5,000 USD.

4. Itinerary and hotel bookings:

– Detailed travel itinerary. Not just a few dates and locations. It's best to create a detailed itinerary with elements such as where you will go, how you will travel, and where you will stay.

– Flight and hotel bookings: Make hotel reservations for the entire duration of your stay in Japan. Round-trip flight tickets. To avoid the risk of your visa application being rejected (which can still happen), you can visit booking websites like Mytour and find suitable hotels.

5. Passport validity: Your passport must be valid for at least 6 months.

Afterward, submit your application at the Embassy of Japan, located at 27 Lieu Giai, Ba Dinh District, Hanoi, or the Consulate-General of Japan, 261 Dien Bien Phu, District 3, Ho Chi Minh City. Visa application processing is only in the mornings from 8:30 - 11:00 on weekdays. Afternoons are reserved for visa results collection.

Must-Visit Destinations in Japan

Japan boasts a unique cultural heritage and a fascinating historical journey. Besides famous cultural and economic hubs like Tokyo, Osaka, Kyoto, or iconic landscapes such as Mount Fuji, Hokkaido's snowfields, and Okinawa's beaches, Japan offers numerous destinations with remarkable historical significance and enchanting landscapes. The diligent, industrious, and disciplined Japanese people have created magnificent structures and preserved the natural wonders bestowed upon them.

Horyuji Buddhist Architecture Complex

Recognized by UNESCO as a World Heritage Site in 2003, the Horyuji Buddhist architecture complex is Japan's national treasure located in Nara Prefecture. Among the structures in this complex, the most notable is Horyuji Temple (Temple for the Defense of the Nation by Means of the Law) with some of the world's oldest wooden buildings and Hokkiji Temple with an 11-faced Kannon Bodhisattva statue.

Himeji Castle

Himeji Castle is one of Japan's key tourist destinations. Situated in the city of Himeji in Hyogo Prefecture, Himeji is a castle complex adapted from an ancient fortress. Himeji is considered the epitome of Japanese castle architecture, having remained intact through World War II bombings and the Kobe earthquake.

Yakushima Island

Yakushima Island, part of Kagoshima Prefecture, is a pristine island with rich biodiversity, recognized by UNESCO as a World Natural Heritage Site. Particularly, Yakushima preserves remnants of a specially valuable ancient warm temperate forest. Each year, over 300,000 nature enthusiasts visit this island.

Kyoto Imperial Palace

Kyoto, along with its surrounding areas covering cities such as Kyoto, Uji, and Otsu, now encompasses a large region. The destinations in the Kyoto Imperial Palace complex are an essential part of any Japan travel itinerary. Specifically, when exploring the Kyoto Imperial Palace complex, you will discover 14 Buddhist temples, including Kyogokoku-ji Temple (Toji Temple), Kiyomizu-dera Temple, Enryaku-ji Temple, Daigo-ji Temple, Ninna-ji Temple, Byodo-in Temple, Kozan-ji Temple, Saiho-ji Moss Temple, Tenryu-ji Temple, Rokuon-ji Temple (Golden Pavilion Kinkakuji), Jisho-ji Temple (Silver Pavilion Ginkakuji), Ryoan-ji Temple, Nishi Hongan-ji Temple; 3 Shinto shrines, including Kamigamo Shrine, Shimogamo Shrine, Ujigami Shrine; and 1 castle, Nijo Castle. Among them, highlights include Kiyomizu Temple with its elevated wooden architecture, Kinkakuji Temple covered in pure gold leaf, Ryoanji Temple with a Zen-style rock garden, and Kozanji Temple deep in the forest housing Japan's precious national treasures.

Historic Villages of Shirakawa-go and Gokayama

The two villages of Shirakawa-go and Gokayama are located on the border of the Japanese provinces of Gifu and Toyama. These villages contribute significantly to Japanese tourism not only for their scenic rural landscapes and peaceful fields but also for their unique houses with distinctive steep thatched roofs, resembling praying hands. The buildings here appear simple but sturdy, capable of withstanding the weight of snow during the winter in this region.

Hiroshima Peace Memorial - Genbaku Dome

When it comes to Japan, one cannot ignore the two atomic bombs that struck the country during World War II. The city of Hiroshima, heavily affected by the atomic bomb, has now become a popular tourist destination in Japan. One of the main attractions of this city is the Hiroshima Peace Memorial, featuring the Genbaku Dome, the only remaining structure near the bomb blast site.

Itsukushima Shrine

Located on Miyajima Island in Hiroshima Prefecture, Itsukushima Shrine (also known as Itsukushima Shrine) is an important Shinto landmark in Japanese tourism, renowned for its giant torii gate. The scenic torii gate submerged in the waters in front of Mount Misen is one of Japan's top three picturesque views.

Nara Ancient Capital Sites

The Nara Ancient Capital Sites, situated in present-day Nara Prefecture, encompass 8 attractions: 5 Buddhist temples, including Todai-ji Temple, Kofuku-ji Temple, Gango-ji Temple, Yakushi-ji Temple, and Toshodai-ji Temple; 1 Shinto shrine, Kasuga Shrine; 1 imperial palace, Heijo - Nara Imperial Palace; and 1 primeval forest, Kasugayama Forest. Among them, Todai-ji Temple stands out, housing the world's largest bronze statue of the Great Buddha, also known as Daibutsu. In the temple compound and surrounding areas, sacred deer roam freely alongside visitors.

Nikko Shrines and Temples

The Nikko heritage sites in Japanese tourism comprise 103 structures and natural features located in Nikko, Tochigi Prefecture. These sites belong to 2 Shinto shrines, Futarasan and Toshogu, along with 1 Buddhist temple, Rinnoji. Notable structures here include the curved Shinkyo wooden bridge at Futarasan, the 5-story pagoda Gojunoto at Toshogu, and the Sanbutsudo hall (also known as Sando) at Rinnoji Temple adorned with gold leaf statues of Amida Buddha and Kannon.

Hiraizumi - Tendai Buddhism Heritage

Located in Iwate Prefecture, the Hiraizumi heritage sites in Japanese tourism include 5 locations: Chuson Temple, Motsu Temple, Kanjizaio Temple, Muryoko Temple, and Mount Kinkeisan. The standout is Chusonji Temple with the Golden Hall Konjikido, a mausoleum containing the remains of the leader of the Northern Fujiwara clan. This hall is entirely constructed from wood, adorned with sheets of pure gold leaf and cypress wood.

Where to Shop in Japan

Ginza: Tokyo's most luxurious shopping district, an ideal destination for avid shoppers with deep pockets. Visitors can indulge in high-end fashion, cosmetics, and artisanal crafts.

Asakusa: The heart of the historic Edo-era Tokyo, Asakusa is the residence of artisans, merchants, and geishas. Even today, the narrow, wind-swept alleys of Asakusa offer surprises for tourists with traditional Japanese products such as dolls, Taiko drums, and many other intriguing souvenirs.

Shinjuku: A place where tourists can find interesting traditional items like geta (Japanese wooden clogs) or luxurious bags made from kimono fabric.

Roppongi: Famous for entertainment venues, bars, and pubs, Roppongi also boasts large shopping centers like Roppongi Hills and Tokyo Midtown. Most notably, Japan Sword is renowned for displaying and selling famous samurai swords from Tanaka.

Shibuya: A shopping district dedicated to Japanese teen trends. Here, you'll find record stores with an enormous selection of inexpensive CDs and a variety of trendy clothing and accessories for Japanese youth.

Harajuku & Aoyama: Famous for Harajuku-style girls, this district is packed with stores selling self-designed clothing. If you're a fan of Harajuku fashion, Lolita, etc., you can visit this area to shop for unique and eye-catching outfits. Aoyama offers more high-end and creatively designed clothing, of course, at a significantly higher price.

Ikebukuro: Prices for goods here are a bit cheaper, suitable for those with a tight budget who don't need to buy luxury items. Ikebukuro has many large grocery stores where you can definitely bargain for discounted items.

Odaiba: A renowned shopping haven with a full range of famous brands as well as small shops, Odaiba is a spacious destination that welcomes both lavish spenders and budget-conscious travelers.

Must-Try Delicious Foods in Japan

Ramen: Each region of Japan has a different way of preparing ramen, with four main types: shoyu, shio, tonkotsu, and miso. Chewy noodles paired with rich broth are perfect for cold days.

Okonomiyaki: This enticing savory pancake is made with various ingredients such as pork, octopus, shrimp, and even cheese.

Unagi no kabayaki: Eel is marinated in sweet kabayaki sauce, then grilled to create a rich, smoky flavor. It's often enjoyed with white rice.

Yakitori: Traditionally, yakitori refers to grilled poultry. However, the term has expanded to include various vegetables and meats. Most restaurants brush a concentrated sauce made from soybeans, rice wine, and mirin onto the meat, but connoisseurs often prefer a sprinkle of salt.

Sushi: A Japanese culinary icon, delicious sushi depends on two main factors: the freshness of the ingredients and the chef's skill. In the land of the rising sun, you'll have the opportunity to savor a variety of sushi at different price points.

Sanuki udon: What makes Sanuki udon special is its chewy and smooth texture. The slippery noodles have the firmness of Italian pasta and the softness of mochi. They are served in a sweet dashi broth, pleasing to the palate.

Tonkatsu: Pork cutlets are thickly sliced, coated in breadcrumbs, and deep-fried until golden brown. The meat is tender inside and crispy outside, drizzled with a spicy-sweet sauce, perfect when paired with white rice.

Beef Tongue: Sendai is renowned as the best place to savor beef tongue in Japan. The tongue has a rich, tender texture and is less fatty than regular beef.

Natto: This fermented soybean dish has a distinctive aroma that may be challenging for first-time tasters. A common Japanese breakfast item, it is often enjoyed with white rice.

Gyoza: Resembling and prepared similarly to Chinese dumplings, gyoza typically has a filling made from pork, cabbage, and chives, pan-fried until golden on one side and served with a soy vinegar dip.

Nabe: One of the popular dishes for communal gatherings in Japan, especially during winter. Nabe usually consists of various vegetables, mushrooms, and meat, cooked in a hot pot and served with various dipping sauces.

Tempura: Vegetables and seafood coated in flour batter and deep-fried until crispy, often served with a dipping sauce. Tempura is enjoyed with various accompaniments, from drinks like beer or sake to rice and noodles.

Miso Soup: A staple in Japanese meals, this soup is made with dashi broth, miso paste, and ingredients like tofu, seaweed, and mushrooms.

Soba Noodles: Made from buckwheat, soba noodles are highly popular in Japan. They can be enjoyed either hot or cold, depending on the season.

Taiyaki: A favorite snack, taiyaki is a baked fish-shaped pastry with a crispy exterior and a sweet red bean filling. It can also be filled with various options like ice cream, cheese, or green tea.

Matcha Ice Cream: The slight bitterness of matcha green tea powder balanced with the sweetness of red bean paste. It's an ideal dessert for hot summer days.

Things to Note When in Japan

Tipping

Unlike Western countries, tipping culture is virtually non-existent in Japan. Service staff such as waiters, hotel employees, or taxi drivers never demand or accept tips from customers. In Japanese culture, tipping is considered impolite and disrespectful, so much so that many staff members will chase after customers to return any left behind.

Remove Shoes Before Entering Others' Homes

Before stepping into any house in Japan, it's customary to remove your shoes at the entrance. Most Japanese homes have a designated area called genkan for entering, which also serves as a place to leave shoes for guests. So, before entering a Japanese home, take a moment in the genkan to take off and neatly arrange your shoes (toes facing towards the door).

No Eating on the Streets

While in Western culture, eating on the go is common, the Japanese find it quite impolite. Eating in outdoor settings is only acceptable during cultural and music festivals. Therefore, when in Japan, avoid eating while walking on the streets, in trains, or in public places.

Dispose of Trash Properly

In other countries, people might overlook littered trash bags on the streets, but in Japan, this is unacceptable. Especially in Japan, you'll notice fewer public trash bins in streets, parks, and cultural or historical sites. So, if you want to dispose of trash without finding a bin, be patient and hold onto it until you find one.

Avoid Hugging Others

As a tourist, trying to be friendly is natural, but remember that the Japanese find it uncomfortable to be hugged, whether by acquaintances or strangers. It's better to bow or shake hands when meeting Japanese people rather than giving them a warm hug.

Avoid Phone Conversations on Public Transport

When using public transportation like trains or subways, it's best to switch your phone to silent mode and preferably not answer calls. Most Japanese tend to avoid phone conversations in public transport to avoid disturbing fellow passengers.

Sharing Meal Expenses Culture

The culture of splitting bills in Japan is similar to Saigon, where going out to eat is a shared activity, but each person pays for their own meal. However, it's not always necessary to meticulously split the bill. If the person inviting you wants to cover the entire cost of the meal, you should graciously accept and express your gratitude with a simple 'Go-chiso sama deshita' (Thank you for the treat).

Bathing Culture

In Japan, visitors can easily find public baths or hot springs (onsen). However, it's essential to cleanse your body thoroughly before entering communal bath areas in Japan.

Wearing Medical Masks

When in Japan, it's common to see people, regardless of gender or age, wearing medical masks. Apart from health protection, Japanese people wear masks to prevent the spread of illness to others, and sometimes, especially among the younger generation, it's considered a fashion accessory.

Dining Etiquette

Before a meal, place your hands in front of your chest, bow slightly, and say 'itadakimasu,' meaning 'I receive this food.' After finishing the meal, express gratitude by saying 'gochisosamadeshita.' These phrases convey appreciation to the person who prepared the delicious meal.

Card Payments Everywhere

While other payment methods are increasingly accepted and used in Japan, it's advisable to carry cash. Cash remains the preferred payment method when paying entrance fees at tourist attractions, dining at small restaurants, or shopping at small stores.

Avoid Playing with Chopsticks

For the Japanese, chopsticks are a crucial part of their culinary culture, and nearly all Japanese dishes are meant to be eaten with chopsticks. Therefore, when in Japan, refrain from using chopsticks for anything other than eating rice or playfully, as it is considered impolite and inappropriate.

By San San (compiled)

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Reference: Travel guide from Mytour