Lonely Planet Japan (Travel Guide)

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As always, the best way to kickoff planning of any itinerary is to read through Lonely Planet guides. Constantly changing and with a diverse collection of neighborhoods, no two experiences of Tokyo are ever the same. The guidebook will help you narrow down your itinerary but super-fast accessible internet is the way to go once you are there. Solo travelers (and fussy kids) can join the fun, picking out sushi from a kaiten-zushi conveyor-belt restaurant such as Numazukō in Tokyo. I found that the highlights at the beginning of each section helped to narrow down the choices, as did the beautiful photograph montages in the middle of most of the sections.

Tomonoura inspired anime maestro Hayao Miyazaki to create Ponyo on the Cliff by the Sea – get ready to be entranced by the green hills sheltering a port of bobbing white boats.Planning tip: The best time to climb Mt Fuji is during its official season, from July 1 through mid-September, which avoids the rainy season and snowfall.

There were two or three places suggested here which my 'local guide' hadn't heard of (mostly gardens/shrines in Kyoto) which were indeed cool and worth the trip.Planning tip: Try to plan your visit during one of the three exhibitions of the Setouchi Triennale festival, which happens during the spring, summer and fall every three years – the most recent was in 2022. Lonely Planet's Japan is our most comprehensive guide that extensively covers all the country has to offer, with recommendations for both popular and lesser-known experiences. Brush up on restaurant etiquette, local customs and what ingredients to expect in Lonely Planet's Eat Japan. This practical Guide and Workbook covers all the essential basics you need to ensure your first (or next) trip to Japan is as Amazing as you deserve it to be. A man and his daughter wearing kimonos play with snow in a garden in Kyoto © Eriko Koga / Getty Images 2.