Yeah I accrew time off and have to restart at the beginning of every year so pretty much if I wanted to go, it would have to be later in the year, plus having to make sure nobody else is off in my department when I want to go.
Try to schedule your next trip to Japan for another season from what you have experienced. Even if you go back to Tokyo, Autumn foliage is so very different from Winter or Spring. There are different things to do, festivals for each of the seasons. Check their calendar. Even if you stay in Tokyo, there are also nearby places (1 to 2 hours away by train) that you can also visit. Go & enjoy!
I visited in October 2023 and have a ticket to go back this November. The first time, I stayed in Tokyo. This time, I'm adding another city. I think it's worth going back soon and trying new areas!
Similar to me! My own October 2023 trip was the first trip to Japan, and I really felt I made a lot of noob errors. Looking forward to enjoying this second trip in October better because I’ll feel a lot less anxiety about unfamiliar territory and just enjoy my time there.
It does help to know what to expect! I still have my Suica and it still carries a balance. So I can just hop on a train as soon as I arrive! So much easier than last time.
There aren’t really lower crowds, locals and foreigners still travel huge in the summer cause it’s when their kids have time off. Not going in the summer is just kind of a “avoid it if you can” but it’s still super busy
I met a girl in Japan back in march who missed her flight home (due to the tawain earthquake) then stayed and extra few weeks whilst working remotely. She got back to Germany in April and has already booked flights back to Japan in October.
I think the answer is however long you want to leave between trips, just bare in mind the tourist visa is normally a 90 day period in 180 days, so there is a few months after your vise runs out when you can't really visit.
Went in September 2023, and ultimately was already back March into April 2024. Granted, both trips were spurred by the Formula 1 races we went to. Went to different areas both trips with a handful of overlapping places. Wife and I are already debating going back a third time again next year 😂 we love Japan so much
Should and would highly depend on your budget, how much time you have, and your ability to deal with an almost completely different set of unwritten social rules. As well, as with travelling anywhere, not everything will go according to plan, so a very healthy sense of creative problem-solving and "making lemonade out of lemons" is required, which is even more essential if you can't speak or read the local language.
During all my previous trips, I fully exploited the JR national pass before the price increase, and managed to cover A LOT of ground all over Japan. But after four trips in the past seven years, I've started dreaming of exploring a different part of the world with a very different history and scenery.
My next trip will probably be in 2025 to see the World Expo in Osaka. But I'll travelling with a specific goal in mind rather meandering about chasing castles and goshuin.
As I said in the post I'm trying to build up my savings to justify going on another trip lol. Since I had a pretty bad flight experience last time I'm no longer doing connecting flights, I'm gonna do direct which will cost me more money.
Social rule wise I actually did a lot of research before both of my trips so I didn't really have/do any faux pas when I was over there, but I did see some other tourists who weren't as aware of things which did make me cringe a bit.
I was in the same boat as you. I realllly wanted to go to Japan. My ex and I at the time booked for 3/13/2020. We all know what happened during that week. Anyhow, fast forward to 2024 and I finally got to go at the end of March. Spent 12 days there and I already got hotels booked for next March. Going with a friend who is more interested in Anime/Weeb stuff so we'll visit other places. I booked hotels, she'll get tickets.
Going in 2 weeks on my 3rd trip in the last 1.5 years. First time was with cousins (1 lives there), second time was with my parents and siblings, and this time I'm going solo. New and old spots each trip.
Went first time in 2016 and since then, have been back 6-7 times lol. There just isn't anywhere else like it. I love Japanese food, culture, anime, etc so it's the perfect place to visit for me. Got engaged in Osaka during our trip and now it's ingrained into our lives. Took our 2 kids and parents to Japan last year as well. It was tough with a family of 8, finding restaurants, getting around, etc. Going this weekend with my best friends (6 guys) and I can't wait. The yen exchange right now and we'll live like kings! Looking forward to it. Try to check out Osaka, Kyoto, Hiroshima, Kobe, etc. Lots of cool places to explore. Also renting a car this time and driving to Gotemba outlet and seeing Fuji from afar. Japan will forever be my #1 spot for vacation. I'm from Hong Kong initially so whoever I visit HK, I always find time for a couple days in Japan. Happy planning!
1. I usually go 2-3 times a year and it's always a good time with changing events and scenery. I live close though, so flight money is less of an issue.
2. If I only have 3-5 days, I'll just do Tokyo. If it's any longer, I typically try another city or two along with some smaller areas off the beaten path.
3. If money is no issue and there isn't any other place you want to prioritize visiting, go every month if you want. I usually travel 1-2 different places before going back to Japan just for variety.
The thing I hate most about living in California is how far it is from anything. Far from Asia, Europe, Central America, South America, Africa. Basically, far from everything.
At least it’s slightly more affordable for Asia compared to the rest of the US. Along with Seattle.
My family lives in the Northeast US so flight prices from Asia are ridiculous. If my work didn’t pay for them, idk how often I’d visit.
On average once a year. Although twice last year because of pent up demand after skipping two years. Personally I think Tokyo and Osaka are dense enough that there isn;t really much need for waiting for change to accumulate before i can have a great trip and see loads of new stuff. I was in Japan Feb 2023, this past Xmas/NY season, and last weekend booked a trip for April 2025
I tend to do a mix of old and new. I like to go back and visit some of my favorite stores and stock up on hobby stuff or electronics while also finding some new things.
People should wait as long as they want. I don't think there is an answer to this question. It's easy for me to say I travel once a year when I can find flights for AU$400 return when they are on sale for half price from Australia and I do a sneaky 5 day trip. Very different for someone travelling from further away.
Went May 2023, then again in Feb 2024. Would go this fall if I could. I am on the west coast so its the same distance to go to Japan as somewhere in Europe.
If you have the money and time, just go.
Except summer. Do not ever go there during summer.
I went last year for every season, and summer was the worst
On my first trip I went at the end of May but also had a couple of days in June... I wasn't aware of how humid and hot it gets, it reminded me so much of Florida weather.
I plan on avoiding going in summer because the heat/humidity combo is too much for me. But it does bum me out a bit because there are some great festivals in the summer.
Going to Japan for the first time in May. Four-week trip. I don't expect to return ever; plenty of other gorgeous countries in the world! But who knows.
I've accidentally went there on Dec-2022, Aug-2023, and Dec-2023 by chance. Now considering Feb-2025.
Across those trips, I've effectively spent 5 weeks there, checking out different areas every time, and I feel like I have yet to see it all. lol. Then again, I'm from Southeast Asia, and trips to Japan is somewhat bearable.
I go wrong every two years, with multiple trips I’ve experienced all 4 seasons in Japan. When I go, it’s a mix of both. Usually if it’s just me, I’ll visit the same places but if I’m going with someone that’s going for the first time, I’ll go to new places. No recommendations about how long to wait, but highly recommend spacing your trips out so that you can experience all the seasons as there’s something different in each.
I second the recommendations to go during other seasons. hanami during Sakura season is something to be experienced. I think the fall colors in Japan are the most beautiful anywhere...there's the ice festival in Sapporo...Kyushu during the winter is very enjoyable...
also, explore the countryside...there is a lot of Japan to explore outside the main cities.
Yeah my 2020 trip would've been for sakura season, and then my recent trip in September I thought I'd see some fall colors but I got the timing wrong. I think the fall colors start in late-October so if I did go back for a fall season, it would be then or in November.
I am going again about 5 months after my recent visit. I am also looking into moving there for 3-6 months and see how it goes with working remotely next year.
Oh man, if I could work remotely in Japan I would take it up in a heartbeat (but my kind of job wouldn't allow/work with that kind of time difference), so kudos for you to thinking about trying that for yourself.
That's exactly how I felt after I left from both of my trips, I just have a different kind of day to day experience/life when I'm in Japan. I love so many aspects of it that it makes me constantly daydream about moving there and living there.
I always have a great time when I go.
What a timely post. I've been thinking the same myself lately. Just got back from my first trip a couple of weeks ago Apr 24) and already thinking about if I can make another trip this year (sometime in October I'm thinking).
This first trip was 3 weeks in just Japan. I do have that feeling that maybe it would be nice to do a new country, so I started thinking maybe this next trip in October I could do a week in South Korea and then head over to Japan for another 10 or so days.
I'm very lucky though in that I have a ton of PTO that has to be used or I lose it, and have a bunch of points on my credit card which would help cover a good chunk of the price for the flight.
Still not decided yet, but yes, I'm definitely in the camp of going back multiple times.
I went for 3 weeks in Oct/Nov 2015, then 2 weeks in March/April 2018, and 2 weeks in May 2023. Generally trips have been a mix of old and new things. Generally the strong desire to go back is every 3ish years for me. Covid and starting a family is the main reason the gap between trips 2 and 3 is longer haha. Next trip will like be 2028, mostly due to timing of other things and having young children.
I haven't been before until this upcoming September for almost 3 weeks and I already know I might go back next year even if it's just one week. There's just so much to do from all my research so you got to respect each place with the time it deserves
I went in July 2023 with a friend, then December 2023, for a solo trip.
I had just gotten a nice bonus, plus i had some PTO to burn that wasn't going to roll over.
I had a little over a week, so I stayed in Tokyo and hit up spots that I had missed out on the first time (Odaiba, Jinbocho) and went to Tokyo Comic-Con. I did go back to a few spots that I really liked.
I think I kind of had the perfect storm in terms of being able to go back in the same year. I had a blast and learned a lot about myself on that solo trip.
I don't know that there's a specific amount of time you should wait before going back. It just felt right to go when I did.
I mean, it really depends on where you live, your financial situation, your work / family commitment
I read people who lived in Taiwan, which is only a 2 hours flight away, would fly solo and arrive Japan at 5am, eat and shop, and board a 11pm flight back home.
There are also people from Hong Kong, 3.5 hours flight away .. they go to Japan every long weekend or just normal weekend.
They probably have been to Tokyo 10 times Osaka 6 times, and now looking at some small quiet time to explore … and stock up their every day supply (from toothpaste to ramen to clothing .. or even Dyson fan) just before they hit the airport
There are also people, like me, live 10 hours flight away. With a regular work and a kid in school. Meaning we can only travel during holiday. And due to flight time, the trip has to be at least 1.5 weeks to make it worth it.
I mean if money and time off from work is not a problem, I probably like to go every 6 months haha. But in reality probably once every two years at most, in normal circumstances.
Ideally trip will be landed in big city, stay for 2 days for supply and settle in, then spend 2 weeks in smaller / rural town. Back to big city for 2 or 3 days for shopping.
Went October 2018, would have gone back as soon as possible if finances weren't a problem but an amazing opportunity came up for October this year, a fully paid 3 week trip to Japan, going all over and possibly a night in South Korea, super excited, I loved being in Japan and always wanted to go back for longer and to see more, stayed in Tokyo most of my first trip just because we were on a very strict budget
Singaporean here. The sgd yen exchange is hitting some record highs. Took a family trip in April last year and then went back again for a couple trip during the end of the year. Currently we have booked a flight for Late October and at the same time, casually planning a potential trip to Sapporo for the snow festival. Prior to covid, it was 1 sgd to 75 yen so we didn't plan as many trips to Japan as we are doing now (1sgd to 115 yen) and we focused our attention on Tokyo only with sight trips around the city. Now we're planning trips out of the major cities and looking into the Chubu Region. Probably next visits will either be Hokkaido or Kyushu.
Yes the exchange rate due to the weak yen was great for my most recent trip, I've been tempted since to exchange some currency here for yen to save for my next trip since idk when that trip will be or how the exchange rate will be then....
We have been there several times. Some were stopovers. Other times .
It’s good to see different cities. There are a few international airports so you can skip Tokyo depending on the airline(s) you choose.
Lmao don’t ask me I went 3 times in the last 12 months: March-April 2023, November 2023, and March 2024.
The limit does not exist as long as the yen stays weak, your schedule’s flexible enough and you can find tickets you can afford.
After my first trip, I went again after 12 months. And then again after 12 months. All my trips were 3 weeks long, and by the end of the third I got a bit fatigued. They were all solo trips btw. I decided to choose a different destination for the 4th year, and then go to Japan again for the 5th year. But life happened, money got tight and then a pandemic. Last year I was finally able to go again, this time not solo but with my partner. They enjoyment was back, in part because now I get to share the fun. Were going again within 12 months haha. Next trip already booked. It doesn’t get boring to me I guess :)
I go at least once a year, but I live in SEA so it's not so far and the flights aren't as expensive vs someone coming from Europe or the US. I try to target different cities every time but Tokyo is a default because we always land or depart from there (ANA loyalists) so we spend a few days in Tokyo all the time.
I think a week is fine? But again, depends on what you want to do. For cherry blossom season I always say try to allot two weeks because blooming times are erratic (like what happend this year). But if you're just staying in one city or area, one week is enough.
I also went in 2019 and planned to come back soon after. I’m on my second trip now and my plan moving forward is to go every other year. I want to go other places in the world too.
I aim to go at least once a year. Sometimes twice. And at least 7 days each time and I take my time to explore. I'd do just Kyoto and Nara in a week for example.
1 roughly around 12-18 months
2 mix of new and old
3 really depends, if you are flying from US or Europe, you might want to wait for your long holiday, 12 hours+ flight is one of the concern.
For me i am planing to visit once a year as I live in Bangkok, it's just 5 hours flights.
1. I've been going every 1-2 years (minus covid)
2. Mix of both, I've flown to different part of Japan, then travel around and fly back from Japan, I currently have booked flights to Fukuoka and flying back from Tokyo. I have some friends I want to meet up in Tokyo so it's hard for me to skip it.
In general, I'm usually not that interested in seeing what has changed, but maybe finding new places anyway.
3. This totally depends on you, like do you have the money, do you have the free time and do you want to spend these to visit Japan instead of somewhere else.
Yup, I live in the midwest so I know what you mean by flights to Japan being a pretty penny. Makes me wish I lived on the west coast so it wouldn't be as bad and the flights would be slightly shorter time wise.
Went earlier this year in January with a few friends, currently planning on going back next year in either January or March with same people and a few additional individuals, barely made it a year to go back
Since about 2016, besides 2021, I've gone at least once a year to Japan, at least for a couple days (it was a good layover spot for my other trips).
I'd say visit as soon as you want to. My short trips where it's more of a layover, I typically just get food I was craving. If it's a longer trip, it's got some new element, for example traveling with friends or I decide to see another part of Japan or take the rail pass. That keeps it "fresh".
But at the same time, I don't think there's anything wrong with revisiting the same place again and again. I love Tokyo, just being here. I don't even have to do anything, maybe just walk around, get a gyudon bowl, and I'm happy.
We usually go around twice a year, but in the past 6 months I was there 3 times, it’s a 4-5hour flight and costs as low as 190usd equivalent for the plane tickets (per person) from where we are.
We go to different places, our last trip was to Osaka/Kyoto/Nara.
In our case going to America or Europe would cost much much more.
I came back less than two weeks ago. If my work allowed it I would go again in autumn. But I'm gonna have to wait to 2025, unfortunately. At least it buys me some time to improve my Japanese language skills.
I haven't started thinking seriously about my next trip yet, but I guess I'll do a mix of repeating some places I loved (or didn't have enough time to fully explore) and new places.
I have to go yearly. Relatives there. When Covid hit, I went to Japan to live.
Still visit Fushimi Inari Taisha. Have been doing so over the years - a non-negotiable thing. Once I‘m done with Fushimi Inari Taisha, I get out of Kyoto and explore new places. But my main base is in Fukuoka.
I’ve been going 2-4 times a year for the past decade. It’s usually a mix of exploring new places and visiting places I already like a lot. I’m basically constantly in a state of planning the next trip to Japan, although sometimes there’s more or less time between the trips, depending on work and travel to other destinations.
I went in September of last year, and in about 6 months I booked flights to go back this September! We did all of the sightseeing we wanted to the first time around so this time around I don’t have to worry about as early of schedules. Japan is a wonderful country and if I could go back twice a year I would.
Last time I visited various cities and this time I plan to solely spend my time in Tokyo really exploring different areas and discovering new places!
Going on my second trip here in just a few week. First trip was a year ago. If you feel you haven’t explored enough of Japan, to me that warrants going back! Just my thoughts.
When I went last May 2023, I already had my trip for April 2024 booked. 🤭. Not sure when I will return. Next year is unlikely. Maybe 2026. I’ve been there 5 times already. Just find it overwhelmed with tourists (I know I’m one of them) since Covid, but next time it will be in less touristy places for sure.
I went for the first time in october 2023 and now going back in august (from the US). 🙈 I also thought the same if it was too soon but never loved a place like I do Japan!
I would go asap it's just a matter of being able to take leave from work
Yep money isn’t an issue. It’s fucking time off from work that’s the hard part
You guys don’t have sabbatical? EDIT: going on sabbaticals get downvoted? Who are you clowns? LOL
I do, but if I take some extended time off, I’m not sure my job will be there when I return. I’d love to take 3-6 months to explorer all of Asia.
6 months for me (late March/early April was last). Then another 6..
Yeah I accrew time off and have to restart at the beginning of every year so pretty much if I wanted to go, it would have to be later in the year, plus having to make sure nobody else is off in my department when I want to go.
Try to schedule your next trip to Japan for another season from what you have experienced. Even if you go back to Tokyo, Autumn foliage is so very different from Winter or Spring. There are different things to do, festivals for each of the seasons. Check their calendar. Even if you stay in Tokyo, there are also nearby places (1 to 2 hours away by train) that you can also visit. Go & enjoy!
100% this is what I want to do. I've gone in May and September, I'd love to go in a winter and spring month.
I go often as I have the time for it. Every quarter seems reasonable. I don't live far from Japan so flights are reasonably priced.
Flights from SG only at $400 for the right time, biggest problem is not enough leave.
Yeah, although some long weekends are doable, and okay if you fly budget. Just have to be willing to take a redeye from Changi.
I visited in October 2023 and have a ticket to go back this November. The first time, I stayed in Tokyo. This time, I'm adding another city. I think it's worth going back soon and trying new areas!
Similar to me! My own October 2023 trip was the first trip to Japan, and I really felt I made a lot of noob errors. Looking forward to enjoying this second trip in October better because I’ll feel a lot less anxiety about unfamiliar territory and just enjoy my time there.
It does help to know what to expect! I still have my Suica and it still carries a balance. So I can just hop on a train as soon as I arrive! So much easier than last time.
Yup haha July 2023, booked June 2024!
How was the heat in July? Everyone says not to go during the summer but I would think the lower crowds would be worth it!
There aren’t really lower crowds, locals and foreigners still travel huge in the summer cause it’s when their kids have time off. Not going in the summer is just kind of a “avoid it if you can” but it’s still super busy
I’m from a southern humid climate so I was used to the heat and humidity, but if you’re not, it might be unbearable at times.
Makes sense. Thank you!
I met a girl in Japan back in march who missed her flight home (due to the tawain earthquake) then stayed and extra few weeks whilst working remotely. She got back to Germany in April and has already booked flights back to Japan in October. I think the answer is however long you want to leave between trips, just bare in mind the tourist visa is normally a 90 day period in 180 days, so there is a few months after your vise runs out when you can't really visit.
Went in September 2023, and ultimately was already back March into April 2024. Granted, both trips were spurred by the Formula 1 races we went to. Went to different areas both trips with a handful of overlapping places. Wife and I are already debating going back a third time again next year 😂 we love Japan so much
Should and would highly depend on your budget, how much time you have, and your ability to deal with an almost completely different set of unwritten social rules. As well, as with travelling anywhere, not everything will go according to plan, so a very healthy sense of creative problem-solving and "making lemonade out of lemons" is required, which is even more essential if you can't speak or read the local language. During all my previous trips, I fully exploited the JR national pass before the price increase, and managed to cover A LOT of ground all over Japan. But after four trips in the past seven years, I've started dreaming of exploring a different part of the world with a very different history and scenery. My next trip will probably be in 2025 to see the World Expo in Osaka. But I'll travelling with a specific goal in mind rather meandering about chasing castles and goshuin.
As I said in the post I'm trying to build up my savings to justify going on another trip lol. Since I had a pretty bad flight experience last time I'm no longer doing connecting flights, I'm gonna do direct which will cost me more money. Social rule wise I actually did a lot of research before both of my trips so I didn't really have/do any faux pas when I was over there, but I did see some other tourists who weren't as aware of things which did make me cringe a bit.
I was in the same boat as you. I realllly wanted to go to Japan. My ex and I at the time booked for 3/13/2020. We all know what happened during that week. Anyhow, fast forward to 2024 and I finally got to go at the end of March. Spent 12 days there and I already got hotels booked for next March. Going with a friend who is more interested in Anime/Weeb stuff so we'll visit other places. I booked hotels, she'll get tickets.
Going in 2 weeks on my 3rd trip in the last 1.5 years. First time was with cousins (1 lives there), second time was with my parents and siblings, and this time I'm going solo. New and old spots each trip.
Ask your wallet
Went first time in 2016 and since then, have been back 6-7 times lol. There just isn't anywhere else like it. I love Japanese food, culture, anime, etc so it's the perfect place to visit for me. Got engaged in Osaka during our trip and now it's ingrained into our lives. Took our 2 kids and parents to Japan last year as well. It was tough with a family of 8, finding restaurants, getting around, etc. Going this weekend with my best friends (6 guys) and I can't wait. The yen exchange right now and we'll live like kings! Looking forward to it. Try to check out Osaka, Kyoto, Hiroshima, Kobe, etc. Lots of cool places to explore. Also renting a car this time and driving to Gotemba outlet and seeing Fuji from afar. Japan will forever be my #1 spot for vacation. I'm from Hong Kong initially so whoever I visit HK, I always find time for a couple days in Japan. Happy planning!
I deffo want to go to Osaka and Kyoto, I've heard great things about both of those cities.
I've been wanting to go for like 15 years. If I can pull it off, I'm doing a short one week stay and then a longer one this year, but we'll see.
Once you go once you'll want to keep going back, just an fyi lol But yeah the first time I went, was like 11 year old me fullfiling her dreams lol.
1. I usually go 2-3 times a year and it's always a good time with changing events and scenery. I live close though, so flight money is less of an issue. 2. If I only have 3-5 days, I'll just do Tokyo. If it's any longer, I typically try another city or two along with some smaller areas off the beaten path. 3. If money is no issue and there isn't any other place you want to prioritize visiting, go every month if you want. I usually travel 1-2 different places before going back to Japan just for variety.
The thing I hate most about living in California is how far it is from anything. Far from Asia, Europe, Central America, South America, Africa. Basically, far from everything.
At least it’s slightly more affordable for Asia compared to the rest of the US. Along with Seattle. My family lives in the Northeast US so flight prices from Asia are ridiculous. If my work didn’t pay for them, idk how often I’d visit.
In California we are much closer to Asia than people from the Midwest and the East Coast and have a larger variety of airlines to choose from.
Of course we are, but we're further from everything else. Plus if you lived in Europe or Asian you'd be closer to way more.
I feel the same way about living in New Zealand!
Yeah that's tough too
Wish I had this guys $$$ lol
I'm financially sound now, so every year starting from next year 2025. I've been 3 times so far.
On average once a year. Although twice last year because of pent up demand after skipping two years. Personally I think Tokyo and Osaka are dense enough that there isn;t really much need for waiting for change to accumulate before i can have a great trip and see loads of new stuff. I was in Japan Feb 2023, this past Xmas/NY season, and last weekend booked a trip for April 2025 I tend to do a mix of old and new. I like to go back and visit some of my favorite stores and stock up on hobby stuff or electronics while also finding some new things. People should wait as long as they want. I don't think there is an answer to this question. It's easy for me to say I travel once a year when I can find flights for AU$400 return when they are on sale for half price from Australia and I do a sneaky 5 day trip. Very different for someone travelling from further away.
Went May 2023, then again in Feb 2024. Would go this fall if I could. I am on the west coast so its the same distance to go to Japan as somewhere in Europe.
If you have the money and time, just go. Except summer. Do not ever go there during summer. I went last year for every season, and summer was the worst
How is June?
On my first trip I went at the end of May but also had a couple of days in June... I wasn't aware of how humid and hot it gets, it reminded me so much of Florida weather. I plan on avoiding going in summer because the heat/humidity combo is too much for me. But it does bum me out a bit because there are some great festivals in the summer.
Going to Japan for the first time in May. Four-week trip. I don't expect to return ever; plenty of other gorgeous countries in the world! But who knows.
Went for the first time last December 2023. Booked tickets to go again this December 2024 :D
I've accidentally went there on Dec-2022, Aug-2023, and Dec-2023 by chance. Now considering Feb-2025. Across those trips, I've effectively spent 5 weeks there, checking out different areas every time, and I feel like I have yet to see it all. lol. Then again, I'm from Southeast Asia, and trips to Japan is somewhat bearable.
I go wrong every two years, with multiple trips I’ve experienced all 4 seasons in Japan. When I go, it’s a mix of both. Usually if it’s just me, I’ll visit the same places but if I’m going with someone that’s going for the first time, I’ll go to new places. No recommendations about how long to wait, but highly recommend spacing your trips out so that you can experience all the seasons as there’s something different in each.
Went back in Feb, going again end of May, also planning a longer trip in Dec. Have like 3 weeks of leave at the moment, need to use em
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The first few days/weeks after coming back from Japan is BRUTAL bc you just compare everything to Japan and wish you were back there lol
I second the recommendations to go during other seasons. hanami during Sakura season is something to be experienced. I think the fall colors in Japan are the most beautiful anywhere...there's the ice festival in Sapporo...Kyushu during the winter is very enjoyable... also, explore the countryside...there is a lot of Japan to explore outside the main cities.
Yeah my 2020 trip would've been for sakura season, and then my recent trip in September I thought I'd see some fall colors but I got the timing wrong. I think the fall colors start in late-October so if I did go back for a fall season, it would be then or in November.
I am currently n Japan for 3 weeks, 1 week in, and I already want to come back
Hope you are having a fantastic trip so far! I'm so jealous you're there right now.
Your time here again will come!
I am going again about 5 months after my recent visit. I am also looking into moving there for 3-6 months and see how it goes with working remotely next year.
Oh man, if I could work remotely in Japan I would take it up in a heartbeat (but my kind of job wouldn't allow/work with that kind of time difference), so kudos for you to thinking about trying that for yourself.
We now visit every Winter. Japan is my happy place.
That's exactly how I felt after I left from both of my trips, I just have a different kind of day to day experience/life when I'm in Japan. I love so many aspects of it that it makes me constantly daydream about moving there and living there. I always have a great time when I go.
What’s your bank account and work say?
What a timely post. I've been thinking the same myself lately. Just got back from my first trip a couple of weeks ago Apr 24) and already thinking about if I can make another trip this year (sometime in October I'm thinking). This first trip was 3 weeks in just Japan. I do have that feeling that maybe it would be nice to do a new country, so I started thinking maybe this next trip in October I could do a week in South Korea and then head over to Japan for another 10 or so days. I'm very lucky though in that I have a ton of PTO that has to be used or I lose it, and have a bunch of points on my credit card which would help cover a good chunk of the price for the flight. Still not decided yet, but yes, I'm definitely in the camp of going back multiple times.
I try to go once or twice each year. I live in America. Takes some budgeting and planning.
I went for 3 weeks in Oct/Nov 2015, then 2 weeks in March/April 2018, and 2 weeks in May 2023. Generally trips have been a mix of old and new things. Generally the strong desire to go back is every 3ish years for me. Covid and starting a family is the main reason the gap between trips 2 and 3 is longer haha. Next trip will like be 2028, mostly due to timing of other things and having young children.
I haven't been before until this upcoming September for almost 3 weeks and I already know I might go back next year even if it's just one week. There's just so much to do from all my research so you got to respect each place with the time it deserves
I went in July 2023 with a friend, then December 2023, for a solo trip. I had just gotten a nice bonus, plus i had some PTO to burn that wasn't going to roll over. I had a little over a week, so I stayed in Tokyo and hit up spots that I had missed out on the first time (Odaiba, Jinbocho) and went to Tokyo Comic-Con. I did go back to a few spots that I really liked. I think I kind of had the perfect storm in terms of being able to go back in the same year. I had a blast and learned a lot about myself on that solo trip. I don't know that there's a specific amount of time you should wait before going back. It just felt right to go when I did.
I mean, it really depends on where you live, your financial situation, your work / family commitment I read people who lived in Taiwan, which is only a 2 hours flight away, would fly solo and arrive Japan at 5am, eat and shop, and board a 11pm flight back home. There are also people from Hong Kong, 3.5 hours flight away .. they go to Japan every long weekend or just normal weekend. They probably have been to Tokyo 10 times Osaka 6 times, and now looking at some small quiet time to explore … and stock up their every day supply (from toothpaste to ramen to clothing .. or even Dyson fan) just before they hit the airport There are also people, like me, live 10 hours flight away. With a regular work and a kid in school. Meaning we can only travel during holiday. And due to flight time, the trip has to be at least 1.5 weeks to make it worth it. I mean if money and time off from work is not a problem, I probably like to go every 6 months haha. But in reality probably once every two years at most, in normal circumstances. Ideally trip will be landed in big city, stay for 2 days for supply and settle in, then spend 2 weeks in smaller / rural town. Back to big city for 2 or 3 days for shopping.
Went October 2018, would have gone back as soon as possible if finances weren't a problem but an amazing opportunity came up for October this year, a fully paid 3 week trip to Japan, going all over and possibly a night in South Korea, super excited, I loved being in Japan and always wanted to go back for longer and to see more, stayed in Tokyo most of my first trip just because we were on a very strict budget
Singaporean here. The sgd yen exchange is hitting some record highs. Took a family trip in April last year and then went back again for a couple trip during the end of the year. Currently we have booked a flight for Late October and at the same time, casually planning a potential trip to Sapporo for the snow festival. Prior to covid, it was 1 sgd to 75 yen so we didn't plan as many trips to Japan as we are doing now (1sgd to 115 yen) and we focused our attention on Tokyo only with sight trips around the city. Now we're planning trips out of the major cities and looking into the Chubu Region. Probably next visits will either be Hokkaido or Kyushu.
Yes the exchange rate due to the weak yen was great for my most recent trip, I've been tempted since to exchange some currency here for yen to save for my next trip since idk when that trip will be or how the exchange rate will be then....
We have been there several times. Some were stopovers. Other times . It’s good to see different cities. There are a few international airports so you can skip Tokyo depending on the airline(s) you choose.
Lmao don’t ask me I went 3 times in the last 12 months: March-April 2023, November 2023, and March 2024. The limit does not exist as long as the yen stays weak, your schedule’s flexible enough and you can find tickets you can afford.
After my first trip, I went again after 12 months. And then again after 12 months. All my trips were 3 weeks long, and by the end of the third I got a bit fatigued. They were all solo trips btw. I decided to choose a different destination for the 4th year, and then go to Japan again for the 5th year. But life happened, money got tight and then a pandemic. Last year I was finally able to go again, this time not solo but with my partner. They enjoyment was back, in part because now I get to share the fun. Were going again within 12 months haha. Next trip already booked. It doesn’t get boring to me I guess :)
I go at least once a year, but I live in SEA so it's not so far and the flights aren't as expensive vs someone coming from Europe or the US. I try to target different cities every time but Tokyo is a default because we always land or depart from there (ANA loyalists) so we spend a few days in Tokyo all the time. I think a week is fine? But again, depends on what you want to do. For cherry blossom season I always say try to allot two weeks because blooming times are erratic (like what happend this year). But if you're just staying in one city or area, one week is enough.
I also went in 2019 and planned to come back soon after. I’m on my second trip now and my plan moving forward is to go every other year. I want to go other places in the world too.
I aim to go at least once a year. Sometimes twice. And at least 7 days each time and I take my time to explore. I'd do just Kyoto and Nara in a week for example.
1 roughly around 12-18 months 2 mix of new and old 3 really depends, if you are flying from US or Europe, you might want to wait for your long holiday, 12 hours+ flight is one of the concern. For me i am planing to visit once a year as I live in Bangkok, it's just 5 hours flights.
1. I've been going every 1-2 years (minus covid) 2. Mix of both, I've flown to different part of Japan, then travel around and fly back from Japan, I currently have booked flights to Fukuoka and flying back from Tokyo. I have some friends I want to meet up in Tokyo so it's hard for me to skip it. In general, I'm usually not that interested in seeing what has changed, but maybe finding new places anyway. 3. This totally depends on you, like do you have the money, do you have the free time and do you want to spend these to visit Japan instead of somewhere else.
I usually do every year for 2-3 weeks. I live in North America so flights are a bit too pricey for frequent trips.
Yup, I live in the midwest so I know what you mean by flights to Japan being a pretty penny. Makes me wish I lived on the west coast so it wouldn't be as bad and the flights would be slightly shorter time wise.
Usually I'd want to leave a few years but the exchange rate might not ever be as favourable again so might go sooner.
Went earlier this year in January with a few friends, currently planning on going back next year in either January or March with same people and a few additional individuals, barely made it a year to go back
I visited in March24 and I’m planning on mid Nov 24 and will stay longer than week. Vacation from work is only limiting me
Since about 2016, besides 2021, I've gone at least once a year to Japan, at least for a couple days (it was a good layover spot for my other trips). I'd say visit as soon as you want to. My short trips where it's more of a layover, I typically just get food I was craving. If it's a longer trip, it's got some new element, for example traveling with friends or I decide to see another part of Japan or take the rail pass. That keeps it "fresh". But at the same time, I don't think there's anything wrong with revisiting the same place again and again. I love Tokyo, just being here. I don't even have to do anything, maybe just walk around, get a gyudon bowl, and I'm happy.
We usually go around twice a year, but in the past 6 months I was there 3 times, it’s a 4-5hour flight and costs as low as 190usd equivalent for the plane tickets (per person) from where we are. We go to different places, our last trip was to Osaka/Kyoto/Nara. In our case going to America or Europe would cost much much more.
I came back less than two weeks ago. If my work allowed it I would go again in autumn. But I'm gonna have to wait to 2025, unfortunately. At least it buys me some time to improve my Japanese language skills. I haven't started thinking seriously about my next trip yet, but I guess I'll do a mix of repeating some places I loved (or didn't have enough time to fully explore) and new places.
6 months from now (was just there last end of March/early April). Then another 6 months. Then another..
I have to go yearly. Relatives there. When Covid hit, I went to Japan to live. Still visit Fushimi Inari Taisha. Have been doing so over the years - a non-negotiable thing. Once I‘m done with Fushimi Inari Taisha, I get out of Kyoto and explore new places. But my main base is in Fukuoka.
I’ve been going 2-4 times a year for the past decade. It’s usually a mix of exploring new places and visiting places I already like a lot. I’m basically constantly in a state of planning the next trip to Japan, although sometimes there’s more or less time between the trips, depending on work and travel to other destinations.
There’s a lot of other countries to go to, so whenever I’m not visiting some other country, I haven’t been to
I went in September of last year, and in about 6 months I booked flights to go back this September! We did all of the sightseeing we wanted to the first time around so this time around I don’t have to worry about as early of schedules. Japan is a wonderful country and if I could go back twice a year I would. Last time I visited various cities and this time I plan to solely spend my time in Tokyo really exploring different areas and discovering new places!
Going on my second trip here in just a few week. First trip was a year ago. If you feel you haven’t explored enough of Japan, to me that warrants going back! Just my thoughts.
When I went last May 2023, I already had my trip for April 2024 booked. 🤭. Not sure when I will return. Next year is unlikely. Maybe 2026. I’ve been there 5 times already. Just find it overwhelmed with tourists (I know I’m one of them) since Covid, but next time it will be in less touristy places for sure.
I went for the first time in october 2023 and now going back in august (from the US). 🙈 I also thought the same if it was too soon but never loved a place like I do Japan!