JAPAN » GUIDE » FOTO podróże BPE

Japan is a country where ultramodern technology meets centuries-old tradition, and the silence of a temple garden can be just a few steps away from a neon-lit street full of games, shops, and restaurants. A world ordered according to its own rules, unusual gestures, and unspoken regulations, so different from ours.

Japan can give the impression of a place that exists as if alongside our world, almost in parallel. At first glance, everything seems familiar: there are large cities, fast trains, advertisements, office buildings, and crowds of people rushing to work. Yet after a moment, a feeling emerges that something operates differently. Things that elsewhere we would consider trivial here become ritual. What is obvious to a European can be unthinkable in Japan. And vice versa. That is why a trip to Japan does not resemble an ordinary visit to another country. It is more like crossing a boundary between two realities. One that we know well, and one that looks similar but follows an entirely different logic. And this is precisely what makes it so fascinating.

During our nearly two-week trip, we managed to see and explore only three cities. Japan is so interesting that it certainly deserves longer attention. Here, however, I share everything we managed to see, and as you can see below, it is quite a lot.

JAPAN – DETAILED GUIDES

TOKIO – GUIDE AND PRACTICAL INFORMATION >

DETAILED GUIDES TO TOKYO:

OSAKA – GUIDE AND PRACTICAL INFORMATION >

DETAILED GUIDES TO OSAKA:

KYOTO – GUIDE AND PRACTICAL INFORMATION >

DETAILED GUIDES TO KYOTO:

JAPAN – BASIC INFORMATION

AREA – approx. 377,975 km²
POPULATION – approx. 124 million inhabitants
FLAG AND EMBLEM – the flag is a white field with a red circle symbolizing the sun (Hinomaru). The traditional imperial emblem is a golden chrysanthemum with 16 petals, the symbol of the imperial dynasty.

CAPITAL – Tokyo
GOVERNMENT – constitutional monarchy with a parliamentary-cabinet system
RULER – Emperor Naruhito (mainly ceremonial role)
CURRENCY – Japanese yen (JPY) > aktualny kurs
SYMBOLS – cherry blossom (sakura), Mount Fuji, and the imperial chrysanthemum
ECONOMY – one of the largest economies in the world; highly developed technology, automotive, and electronics industries, large exports, high level of innovation and infrastructure
LANGUAGE – Japanese (official language); uses three writing systems: kanji, hiragana, and katakana.

ADMINISTRATIVE DIVISION

Japan is divided into 47 prefectures, which constitute the basic administrative level of the country. The prefectures are in turn grouped into eight larger geographic regions, mainly used for statistical and cultural purposes. Prefectures have a wide range of responsibilities in managing local administration, education, transportation, and environmental protection, although key political decisions are made at the central government level in Tokyo.

PRACTICAL INFORMATION

WEATHER – BEST TIME TO TRAVEL ?

Japan stretches over more than three thousand kilometers from north to south, so the climate varies depending on the region. The most popular travel period is spring (March–May). Temperatures are moderate, and the country is covered with blooming cherry trees – the famous sakura. Another great time to visit is autumn (October–November). The weather is stable and pleasant, and the trees take on intense red and golden colors. Summer (June–September) can be hot and very humid. Early summer brings the rainy season, while typhoons may occur at the end of summer. We were there in the first half of September, and the heat was difficult to endure. Winter (December–February) is cold but in many places sunny and dry. This is an ideal time for winter sports enthusiasts, especially in Hokkaido and the Japanese Alps.

Every year in Japan, special cherry blossom forecast maps are published, showing how the so-called “bloom front” moves from the south to the north of the country, as well as the timing of autumn colors. Thanks to them, it is possible to plan a trip quite accurately to catch the moment of full bloom. Unfortunately, these periods attract the most tourists, and one must expect many inconveniences and higher prices.

HOW TO GET AROUND IN JAPAN ?

Getting around Japan is relatively easy because the country has one of the best organized transport systems in the world, and it is incredibly punctual. Here are the most important ways:

HIGH-SPEED TRAINS

The most convenient way to travel between cities is the Shinkansen – very fast trains reaching up to about 320 km/h. Between Tokyo and Osaka they run every 15 minutes and are also full. Tickets can be purchased at the station for a specific time (seat reservations are mandatory). For tourists, it is often worth buying the Japan Rail Pass, which allows travel on many JR trains without additional fees for a certain period of time.

Note! There is no possibility to buy food or drinks on the trains. Ready-made meal boxes called bento can be bought at stations. One such set is shown in the photo. The gallery also includes a map of all connections.

METRO AND URBAN RAIL

The best way to get around large cities. In Tokyo there is a huge network of metro and urban rail lines. It is worth buying a card: Suica or Pasmo. They work like a contactless card – you tap it at the gate and ride. Details about the cards are described in the guide > TOKYO

BUSES

Useful especially in smaller cities, in the mountains, or in rural areas, as trains do not reach many places. For example, in Kyoto we used buses to get to temples, and in Tokyo to reach the islands.

DOMESTIC FLIGHTS

They make sense if you are traveling very far, for example from Tokyo to Okinawa. Local airlines include: All Nippon Airways and Japan Airlines.

CAR

Although most tourists use trains, a car can be very useful outside the big cities – for example in the mountains or in the countryside. The most popular rental networks include: Toyota Rent a Car, Nippon Rent-A-Car, Times Car Rental. Requirements: an international driving permit (according to the Geneva Convention), a passport, and a credit card. Cost of renting a small car: usually about 5,000–9,000 yen per day. In Japan, traffic drives on the left.

Japanese people choose cars that are small, economical, and very practical. The most characteristic are kei-cars (micro city cars), because they have a small engine, very low fuel consumption, and are easy to park in tight cities. Features of a typical car in Japan include maximum use of space (tall body), sliding doors in many models, and numerous safety systems.

BICYCLE

Bicycles are extremely common in Japanese cities. In many districts you can see hundreds of parked bicycles near railway stations, but parking is paid. Bicycles can be rented, and popular systems include, for example: Docomo Bike Share (large cities, e.g. Tokyo) or Hello Cycling. Cost: usually 100–300 yen for 30 minutes or about 1000 yen per day.

Bringing your own bicycle to Japan is possible and increasingly popular among cycling tourists. However, it is important to know a few rules regarding transporting a bicycle on trains. “Rinkō” is a popular practice among cyclists. It involves: removing one or both wheels, placing the bicycle in a special bag, and carrying it like large luggage.

JAPANESE CUISINE YOU MUST TRY

Japanese cuisine is famous for its simplicity, fresh ingredients, and great attention to presentation. Many dishes are based on rice, fish, vegetables, and seasonal products. Although sushi is the most famous Japanese food worldwide, Japanese cuisine is far more diverse. Here are a few dishes worth trying during a trip to Japan:

FISH, SEAFOOD, VEGETABLES:

SUSHI – the most recognizable dish of Japan. It consists of rice seasoned with rice vinegar, served with raw fish, seafood, or vegetables. It tastes best in small, local sushi bars.
TEMPURA – pieces of vegetables, fish, or seafood fried in a very light, crispy batter. This dish came to Japan in the 16th century with Portuguese missionaries.
TAKOYAKI – small balls of batter with pieces of octopus inside, prepared on a special griddle. It is a very popular street snack, especially in Osaka.

OTHER DISHES:

RAMEN – an aromatic noodle soup served in a rich broth (most often pork or chicken) with toppings such as meat, egg, seaweed, or green onions.
OKONOMIYAKI – a popular “Japanese pancake” made of cabbage, batter, and various additions (meat, seafood, noodles), fried on a hot griddle and topped with a characteristic sweet-savory sauce.
TONKATSU – a breaded pork cutlet fried until golden, served with cabbage and a thick sauce. The dish is filling and extremely popular in Japanese restaurants.
UDON – thick, soft wheat noodles served in a light broth, often with tempura, tofu, or vegetables.

DESSERTS:

Japanese desserts are usually less sweet than European ones and often use ingredients such as red bean paste (anko), rice, or green tea.

KAKIGORI – a large mound of very finely shaved ice topped with colorful fruit syrup, sometimes also with condensed milk, matcha, or red bean paste. On hot days, it is one of the favorite ways for Japanese people to cool down.
MATCHA ICE CREAM – made from powdered green tea. Matcha ice cream can be found almost everywhere.
MOCHI – soft cakes made from glutinous rice, often filled with sweet red bean paste or ice cream. Their delicate, springy texture is one of the most characteristic experiences of Japanese cuisine.

SAKE

Sake is one of the most characteristic beverages of Japan. Although it is often called “rice wine,” in reality its production process more closely resembles brewing beer. The alcohol is created through the fermentation of rice, water, yeast, and a special mold called kōji. The history of sake goes back more than a thousand years. This drink has long played an important role in culture and religious ceremonies. Sake can have different flavors and aromas. It is served in small ceramic cups or bowls, and the temperature is chosen depending on the type of drink. Some varieties taste best slightly chilled, while others are traditionally served warm. In Japan, it is a common custom not to pour alcohol for yourself. Instead, participants of a gathering fill the cups of their companions. This small gesture is an important element of Japanese table etiquette.

GROCERY STORES

Small 24-hour convenience stores play a big role and can be found on almost every street corner. The largest chains include 7-Eleven, Lawson, and FamilyMart. In such stores you can buy not only snacks or drinks, but also ready-made meals: rice balls (onigiri), noodles, salads, and even fresh bento. There are often microwaves on site so you can heat your meal immediately. An interesting feature is also the numerous vending machines with drinks and snacks, which stand along streets, at stations, and in parks.

JAPAN – INTERESTING FACTS

VENDING MACHINES AND ARCADE GAME HALLS EVERYWHERE

One of the things that quickly catches the eye when traveling around Japan is the enormous number of vending machines. They stand almost everywhere, and it is estimated that several million operate across the country. You can buy not only water or soft drinks from them, but also hot coffee, tea, and sometimes even soups or snacks. Many machines also sell toys and various gadgets. Another characteristic element of the urban landscape is game arcades. In multi-story arcades there are hundreds of machines – from classic arcade games to claw machines with plush prizes. Pachinko machines are also popular, resembling a combination of pinball and a gambling machine. Huge pachinko halls are filled with rows of shiny machines and the characteristic sound of falling metal balls.

FOOD MODELS INSTEAD OF MENUS

In front of many Japanese restaurants you can see something unusual: plastic models of dishes displayed in the windows. These realistic replicas show exactly the meals that can be ordered inside—from bowls of soup, through sushi sets, to desserts. This tradition appeared in Japan in the 20th century and remains very popular today. Thanks to these models, customers can easily see what the dish looks like and how large the portion is. This is especially helpful for tourists who do not know the Japanese language. The food models are often made with great precision. They can capture the shine of sauce, the texture of noodles, or even droplets of steam rising above a soup. In many cases they are so realistic that at first glance it is difficult to distinguish them from real food.

MANHOLE COVERS

During walks it is sometimes worth simply looking down at your feet. On the streets of many cities you can notice unusually decorative manhole covers which, instead of an ordinary technical appearance, feature ornamental patterns. Each city tries to stand out with its own motif. These may include local symbols, flowers, animals, or characteristic landmarks. In this way, an ordinary element of infrastructure becomes a small work of art and an interesting reflection of the culture of a given region.

TOILETS

Japanese toilets are a separate topic worth mentioning. They are famous for their modernity and functionality. They are often equipped with heated toilet seats, a bidet, adjustable water temperature and pressure, and even a drying function. In many places you can also find buttons that play the sound of running water to provide greater privacy. Although they offer so many conveniences, using them can sometimes be irritating. The control panel is full of buttons with different symbols, and each model may look slightly different. Paradoxically, the most difficult thing for me was finding the regular flush button. It is often located in a different place than the function panel, and in every toilet it is designed a little differently.

QUEUES

One of the characteristic features of everyday life in Japan is the enormous respect for order, particularly visible in the way people line up in queues. Regardless of whether it is entering a store, restaurant, or train, people calmly stand in designated spots and patiently wait for their turn. On platforms, there are often special markings on the ground showing exactly where to stand to board a carriage. Queues here are not only an element of spatial organization but also a manifestation of mutual respect and social discipline.

CLEANLINESS AND THE LACK OF TRASH BINS

One of the things that often surprises tourists in Japan is the extraordinary cleanliness of the streets. Sidewalks, parks, and train stations are very well maintained, and trash is practically never seen. Interestingly, this happens despite the fact that it is rare to find trash bins on the streets of Japanese cities. This situation also has a historical background. After the tragic Tokyo subway sarin attack in March 1995, carried out by the Aum Shinrikyo cult, many city trash bins were removed from public spaces. During the attack, dangerous substances were hidden in such containers, which led to a change in urban safety approaches. Since then, it has been a common rule that trash generated outside the home should be taken with you and disposed of later, most often after returning home, at work, or in stores. Education and a sense of responsibility for shared spaces also play a big role. Even in schools, children are taught to clean up after themselves, as students themselves tidy classrooms and hallways.

TOYS NOT JUST FOR CHILDREN

After a few days in Japan, it’s easy to notice that everyone becomes a bit childlike. It’s hardly surprising. Nowhere else probably has so many stores and vending machines with toys and various kinds of gadgets. Small figurines, plush toys, and colorful keychains are particularly popular. Many Japanese people, even serious businessmen, attach them to phones, bags, or keys. Such little items are part of everyday culture and don’t surprise anyone. The world of characters from fairy tales, comics, and games is extremely vivid in Japan. Characters known from anime and manga can be found almost everywhere—on toys, clothing, and even in trains or cafes. The fashion for such characters, which in many countries has long faded, is still thriving in Japan and is a natural part of daily life. In Pokémon stores, you have to wait in an hour-long line to buy something.

WHAT TO BRING FROM JAPAN

Artistic chopsticks – Wooden or bamboo, often hand-painted. Some feature gold decorations or animal motifs. Frequently sold in elegant boxes, perfect for gifts.
Fans “uchiwa” and folding “sensu” – While tourist versions are common, you can also find miniature artistic collections. Ideal as decorations or functional gadgets for hot weather.
Kokeshi and Daruma dolls – Kokeshi: wooden, hand-painted, minimalist. Daruma: symbols of determination and good luck, often purchased to fulfill personal goals.
Maneki-neko – lucky cats. Available in various sizes and colors, each symbolizing something different (e.g., wealth, love, health). Great for display at home or in the office.
Traditional and modern umbrellas – Wagasa, or paper umbrellas, are decorative, handmade, or modern folding versions.
Tea and accessories – Green tea such as matcha, sencha, hojicha, often bought from small, local tea shops. Ceremonial tea sets include teapots, bowls, and bamboo whisks.
Clothing and textiles – Yukata and kimono in light, casual versions. Haori – short jackets worn over kimono. Socks and T-shirts with Japanese motifs or anime designs.
Sweets and local snacks – Wagashi: traditional Japanese sweets, often beautifully packaged. Regional snacks: e.g., fish crackers, rice chips, local biscuits.

STUDENTS / SCHOOL BAGS

In Japan, every school has its unique uniform, which applies to both boys and girls, making it easy to recognize which institution the students belong to. School uniforms usually consist of a blazer or sweater, a skirt or pants, a shirt, and an accessory such as a tie or bow, and often feature the school emblem.

Younger children in elementary schools use distinctive backpacks called randoseru, which are rigid, rectangular, and very durable. These backpacks help evenly distribute the weight of books and supplies, making them comfortable even for daily use over six years of schooling. These backpacks often have built-in GPS, are buoyant, and can even serve as head protection during an earthquake.

JAPANESE “AFTER HOURS”

On the streets of Japanese cities, it often seems like everyone dresses the same, because during the day most workers wear white shirts and dark pants or skirts, which serve as a sort of “work uniform.” This makes the cities look very uniform and orderly, which is part of the everyday Japanese aesthetic and discipline. However, after work or in retirement, many people move away from this formal attire and begin to express themselves through colorful and more relaxed outfits, allowing them to unwind after days spent in uniforms. Girls often wear cute dresses reminiscent of little girls’ outfits, giving the streets an interesting, colorful, and slightly fairy-tale-like appearance after working hours. Kimono rental shops are also very popular, not just among female tourists.

OTHER CURIOSITIES ABOUT JAPAN AND THE JAPANESE

There are hundreds of curiosities and differences that make Japan and the Japanese stand out compared to other countries, so it’s impossible to list them all in one place. Here are a few that are particularly noteworthy:

Adult manga – In Japan, comics, or manga, are not just entertainment for children. Adults regularly read manga in the subway, cafes, or libraries, with themes covering everything from romances and crime stories to serious social and philosophical narratives.

No tipping – Unlike in many countries, tipping is not practiced in Japan and can sometimes even be taken as an insult. Service in restaurants and taxis is already included in the price, and high-quality service is the standard.

Illuminated cars and Tokyo Drift – In large cities, especially Tokyo, you can sometimes see cars with LED lighting and colorful modifications, popular in tuning culture. Unfortunately, some young drivers participate in illegal street races, known from movies like “Tokyo Drift,” although the police actively pursue them.

Walking in socks – In Japan, it is customary to remove shoes before entering a home, and often also in schools, some restaurants, or temples. Guests and residents then walk in socks or special indoor slippers, which is a sign of cleanliness and respect.

Toyonaka - Open Air Museum of Old Japanese Farm Houses

Art and traditions – Ikebana, the Japanese art of flower arranging, focuses on harmony, lines, and space, not just the color of the flowers. The tea ceremony (chanoyu) is a ritual requiring focus and precision, where every gesture has meaning. It is not just about drinking tea but a form of meditation and an aesthetic experience.

Kawaii subculture – In Japan, the “kawaii” subculture (meaning “cute” or “adorable”) has a huge influence on fashion, behavior, and entertainment venues. One of its most distinctive expressions is special bars and cafes where staff dress in sweet, childlike dresses, bows, and accessories, with their appearance being part of the entire visual experience.

JAPAN FROM THE TRAIN WINDOW

During our stay in Japan, we focused exclusively on the big cities and, due to lack of time, skipped the countryside. One opportunity to see it was the Shinkansen ride from Osaka to Tokyo. These views, however, were surprisingly negative for us. Many areas are heavily urbanized; infrastructure, roads, power lines, and poles dominate the landscape almost everywhere, even against the backdrop of scenic mountains. Although Japan is famous for its beautiful vistas, we didn’t get the chance to see them. Even the most famous and tallest mountain, Fuji, was completely covered by clouds, so we couldn’t see it in its full glory. Looking out of the train windows, I had mixed feelings, but mostly very negative ones.

JAPAN – A BRIEF HISTORY

The history of Japan is the story of a country that developed for millennia on its islands largely independently from the rest of the world, creating its own culture, religion, and social system. Although influences from China and Korea played an important role in its development, Japan almost always adapted borrowed ideas in its own unique way.

If you are interested in a detailed history, please visit the page > HISTORY OF JAPAN

Today, Japan is a country where ancient traditions coexist with modernity. The history of the archipelago remains key to understanding this remarkable balance between the past and the future.

WHERE TO STAY IN JAPAN?

Choosing accommodation in Japaj mainly depends on how you want to spend your time. The cities offers everything, in every district. Public transport is so fantastic that it doesn’t really matter where you book your accommodation.

If you decide to book accommodation, we recommend using the portal: