When it comes to planning your first journey to Japan, you may feel completely overwhelmed. You can have an effortless and enjoyable trip with just a little amount of preparation and the right information. Here are some suggestions for first-time visitors from Malaysia to Japan.

The first step in planning a trip to Japan is to decide on a season. There are four distinct seasons that can be experienced in this country. The cherry blossom season in the spring and the changing of the leaves in the fall are both popular times to explore. However, you should know that these are peak periods, so expect more people and higher prices.

The next step is to plan out which locations and attractions you want to see. Every first-time traveler to Japan should make their way to Tokyo, but they should also consider Kyoto, Osaka, and Hiroshima. Create a schedule that includes visits to each city’s must-see attractions.

Japan’s public transit network is one of the world’s most efficient and advanced. To instantly travel between cities, take the Shinkansen (bullet train), while local trains and buses are ideal for getting around within cities. If you’re going to be taking trains all over Japan, you might as well get a Japan Rail Pass.

Last but not least, you should anticipate some societal differences. In Japan, it is customary to remove your shoes at the door of a person’s house or other private or public establishments. It’s also rude to eat or speak on the phone while walking through public spaces.

Your journey to Japan will go smoothly if you keep these recommendations in mind.