Travel to Japan
Your Gateway to Adventure
Japan is an incredibly well-connected country, making it easy for travelers to begin their journey with Shogun Motorbike Adventures. Whether you're arriving from Haneda or Narita, or venturing beyond Tokyo, our tours are designed to be accessible and easy to reach.
Arriving in Japan: Haneda and Narita Airports
- Haneda Airport (HND): Located closer to central Tokyo, Haneda is a convenient option for international travelers. You can reach central Tokyo by train, monorail, or bus. The Tokyo Monorail takes you to Hamamatsucho Station, where you can easily connect to the JR Yamanote Line to reach destinations like Ikebukuro, where our Fuji Explorer Tour begins.
- Narita Airport (NRT): Narita is located further outside of Tokyo, but it’s still well-connected. The Narita Express (N’EX) train is the fastest way to reach central Tokyo and stops at major stations, including Ikebukuro. You can also opt for shuttle buses or affordable local trains if you have extra time.
Starting Your Shogun Adventure
- Fuji Explorer Tour - Ikebukuro, Tokyo: Our Fuji Explorer Tour departs from Ikebukuro, a vibrant district in Tokyo that’s a major public transportation hub. It’s easy to reach from Haneda, Narita, and anywhere else in Tokyo via the JR Yamanote Line, Tokyo Metro, and several private rail lines. Whether you’re staying nearby or exploring the city, Ikebukuro offers convenient access to the rest of Tokyo.
- Mountain Strider Tour - Nagoya: Our Mountain Strider Tour begins in Nagoya, a city known for its great transportation links. It's just a short ride on the shinkansen (bullet train) from Tokyo. Nagoya is a gateway to explore Japan’s other famous cities, including Osaka and Kyoto, both easily accessible by bullet train from here.
- Volcanic Voyage Tour - Fukuoka: Our Volcanic Voyage Tour starts in Fukuoka, located on the island of Kyushu. You can reach Fukuoka from any major city in Japan via the shinkansen, and the journey offers breathtaking views. Fukuoka is also serviced by many domestic flights, which are frequent and reasonably priced, making it easy to fly in from any major airport.
Travel Tips for First-Time Visitors to Japan
- SIM Cards and Pocket Wi-Fi: Staying connected while in Japan is essential, especially when navigating or looking up information. SIM cards for tourists are available at the airports, major electronics stores, and convenience stores. You can purchase one with data-only plans for a specific number of days. Alternatively, renting a Pocket Wi-Fi device is a popular option, which provides unlimited data for multiple devices, making it ideal for small groups or couples.
- IC Cards (Metro Cards): Japan’s cities have fantastic public transportation, and the best way to get around is by using an IC card such as Suica or Pasmo. These rechargeable smart cards can be used on trains, buses, and even in many convenience stores and vending machines. You can buy and top up these cards at stations, and they are valid in multiple cities across Japan, so you can use the same card in Tokyo, Nagoya, Fukuoka, and more.
- JR Pass: If you plan to explore multiple regions by bullet train, consider purchasing the Japan Rail (JR) Pass before your trip. This pass allows unlimited travel on JR trains, including the shinkansen, and is cost-effective for those planning to visit several cities. Passes are available for 7, 14, or 21 days and can be activated at any major JR station.
- Language: While many Japanese people do not speak English fluently, you’ll find that signs, transport information, and menus in major cities are often in English. Learning a few basic Japanese phrases, or using translation apps, can enhance your experience, especially in more rural areas.
- Cash and Credit Cards: Although Japan is increasingly becoming card-friendly, cash is still king in many places, particularly in rural areas or smaller establishments. ATMs that accept international cards are available at convenience stores like 7-Eleven, Lawson, and Family Mart. It’s a good idea to always carry some yen with you, especially when traveling outside of major cities.
- Etiquette: Japan is known for its culture of respect, and understanding some basic etiquette will enrich your visit. For example, it’s polite to bow when greeting someone, and you should avoid speaking loudly on public transport. Also, be aware that many restaurants expect you to pay at the front register rather than at your table.
Traveling Around Japan
Japan boasts an extensive and efficient public transportation network, including the shinkansen (bullet trains) and local trains, making it easy to travel between cities. Domestic flights offer another fast and convenient option, especially for reaching more distant regions like Kyushu. Wherever your journey begins, getting to your Shogun Motorbike Adventure is seamless and stress-free.