Japan Travel Guide

The first inhabitants to Japan can be traced all the way back to prehistoric times; the Yayoi period (300 BC - 250AD) saw the introduction of rice farming and metal work. Buddhism was introduced to Japan from China and Korea in the 6th century during the Kofun period, which also saw the rise of powerful clans like the Yamato who established the Imperial House or royal family of Japan. The Nara Period (710 - 794) saw the establishment of a centralized imperial government and creation of the first permanent capital in Nara, which was later changed to modern day Kyoto during the Heian period (794 - 1185). The feudal era began with the rise of the samurai warriors in the 12th century and lasted until the early 1600s. The Edo Period then followed and under the rule of the Tokugawa shogunate there was very restricted contact outside of Japan, but during this time the country saw cultural development in art, poetry and theatre. After 100s of years of isolation, the Meiji Restoration (1868 -1912) saw the modernisation of Japan's government, economy and military. Japan's involvement in WW2 ultimately led to the infamous atomic bombings of Nagasaki and Hiroshima. After they surrendered, Japan adopted a new constitution in 1947, which is still adhered to this day. From the 1950s until the 1980s saw the 'Japanese economic miracle', where its car, electronics, computer industries grew and helped established Japan to be one of the most powerful and developed countries in the world as we know it today. 

Irish and British passport holders: Your passport should be valid for minimum six months from your return date of travel and you must also have an onward/return ticket to substantiate you plan to leave the country within a 90 day period. If these requirements are met you will be able to enter upon arrival. Non Irish / British passport holders should check their visa requirements with the relevant Embassy or Consulate.

Japan is the safest country in the world. However, in any large city there can be opportunists and pickpockets. It is wise to be vigilant, especially at busy tourist attractions, and always take good care of your personal belongings.

Do not expect to be able to read any Japanese although English is creeping in on many signs particularly on the trains and underground in major cities. All young people learn English and if you need to approach anyone to find you way or have something explained, they will be more than happy to help. Try to learn some basic Japanese phrases as the locals will appreciate you trying to make an effort to speak their language!  

In general tipping in Japan is not customary and can often be viewed as an insult. Respect and politeness is expected at all times and travellers are cautioned not to be offended if your tip is rejected. However if you have the services of a guide, a tip is most welcome and must always be given in an envelope.

Try to travel as light as possible. ‘Smart casual’ clothing is probably the most advisable – the Japanese are extremely smart and fashion conscious but don’t attempt to compete! Everything is available there but clothes, particularly shoes, are smaller sizes. Do wear comfortable shoes, as we will be doing a lot of walking. Some of the temples require visitors to remove their footwear. If you do wear sandals, bring socks – bare feet are not acceptable.

In Japan the power sockets are of type A and B, these are the two prong and three prong outputs respectively. The standard voltage is 100 V and the standard frequency is 50/60 Hz. To avoid any issues upon arrival we always recommend travelling with a universal adapter as this will be able to work in any country you visit.