Updated September 17, 2023

As you probably know, it’s very difficult for tourists to see the real Japan—especially if they don’t speak Japanese. To that end, it’s really important to travel like a local rather than a tourist. That’s why we’ve created these 10 steps to help you see Japan like the locals do. 

Give these tips a read and then connect up with Project Expedition—we’ll help you plan exactly where to go, what to see, and how to get around. It’s like having a best friend who lives in Japan help plan your trip. Because why would you want to see Japan like a tourist when you could see it like a local?

#1:  Experience the must-dos like a local. 

No trip to Japan would be complete without hitting up essential Japan must-dos, like touring Tokyo or hiking the foothills of Mount Fuji. But just because these activities go on everyone’s Japan itineraries doesn’t mean you have to visit them like everyone else. 

Instead, explore Japan’s best places to go how locals do. Rather than simply touring Tokyo, take a go-kart around Tokyo must-dos like the Rainbow Bridge and Tokyo Tower (we can help you set it up). Don’t just wander around Mount Fuji—lounge on the shores of Lake Tanukiko while you watch the sunrise over Mount Fuji. 

#2: Stay in uniquely-Japan lodgings. 

When it comes to finding accommodations in Japan that suit your budget and tastes, it may be tempting to just stay at the familiar, big-name hotels that you’d find in the US. Don’t be fooled—it’s a tourist trap. It’s totally possible to find unique, authentic lodging in Japan, like rustic ryokans (traditional Japanese B&Bs) in Kyoto or futuristic capsule hotels in Tokyo. Whichever you choose, it’ll be a *much* more authentic experience.

#3: Know when to visit Japan’s incredible must-sees.

As you already know, trying to plan a trip to Japan often requires a bit of finesse—especially when determining the best time to visit. After all, you wouldn’t go to Japan in October and expect to see cherry blossoms. The same concept applies to many of Japan’s must-sees, like Tokyo’s December holiday illuminations and fireworks or Toyama Bay’s firefly squid in late March. Don’t miss out on what interests you most—utilize a local’s in-depth knowledge of seasonal Japan points of interest to make your Japan visit that much more spectacular.

#4: See the hidden gems. 

Planning a trip to Japan gets a lot easier (and much less stressful) when you know where you’re going in advance. Some travelers only know they’re spending something like 3 days in Tokyo but forget to outline their activities ahead of time—which is a total rookie move. To avoid wasting precious travel time, contact us to add off-the-beaten-path gems to your personalized itinerary.

#5: Take public transportation whenever you can.

Bottom line: in Japan, taxis add up super quickly (around $15 USD per ride). Uber Japan is only available in Tokyo and isn’t very popular, mainly because Japan’s public transportation is so incredibly efficient and cheap. As you plan a trip to Japan, set aside just 600 yen ($6 USD) for each day you plan to use Japan’s subways.

#6: Get to off-the-beaten-path spots that locals love.

Sure, you could go to Japan’s best cities like Tokyo or Kyoto and just hit the highlights. But, you’d miss out on the awesome local scenes, filled with the true taste of Japan. Connect with us to point you toward stuff like Tokyo’s izakaya alleyways, where you’ll sip sake with locals, or to the most delicious street food stalls along Osaka’s Dotonbori Canal. 

#7: Find out which Japan must-dos are completely free.

Some of the most fun things to do in Japan don’t cost a dime—you just need to know where to look. One of the best ways to budget-travel in Japan is to visit public-access places, like Japan’s stunning shrines and temples or municipal parks. You can view natural wonders (like cherry blossoms or mountains), watch street performers, and absorb the history without spending anything. 

#8: Get travel tips from someone who actually lives in Japan

We all love our tips and guidebooks, but the most reliable sources for Japan travel tips are Japan locals themselves. Local Japanese travel experts know all the ins and outs of Japan travel, from airfare deals to accommodations and special events. Plus, staying safe in Japan is much easier with travel tips from planners who live in the cities you’ll visit.

We know: When you plan a trip to Japan, you want the most up-to-date, reliable travel info. For this reason, some travelers work with travel agencies during the planning process. 

#9: Eat the fantastic local cuisine. 

Japan’s array of delicious foods will entice even the pickiest eaters. As a rule of thumb when it comes to travel in Japan, just follow the locals to find the best eateries, ranging from street food stalls to Michelin-starred restaurants. Osaka, Tokyo, and Hiroshima are all major foodie destinations in Japan, where locals line up for okonomiyaki pancakes, takoyaki octopus balls, and mind-boggling ramen. If these food spots sound right up your alley, connect with us for more recommendations on the best places to eat. 

#10: Build your personalized trip with Project Expedition.

The keyword here is “personalized.” You don’t want to take a cut-and-paste trip to Japan that everybody and their grandma has gone on. Instead, plan your trip to Japan with Project Expedition, who has insider travel knowledge and lots of experience with customized trips.