How to Go to Japan from India: A Complete Travel Guide

Japan has become the most aesthetically pleasing and beloved destination for Indian travelers. Japan offers a mix of ultra-modern cities and the culture that every individual craves. The Japan that you have always seen in books, movies, and cartoons can come to life on this trip. It is the dream of many, and so it comes with many questions, like, "How do I even get there? Do I need a visa? How much will it cost? And what exactly do you do once landed?
This guide will answer all of your questions, so you can start planning your Japan trip without feeling overwhelmed.

A quick overview of direct flights from India to Japan

Delhi is currently the strongest hub for direct flights to Japan, which is mainly to Tokyo. Recently, some airlines have also been expanding their services from Mumbai and some other Indian cities, so check the current schedules when you’re about to book.

A direct flight from Delhi to Tokyo takes almost 7.5 to 9 hours, depending on the airline and weather conditions.

If the option of a direct flight is not available, then a connecting flight with a layover is your best bet, which comes in budget as well.

Which Airport to Fly into in Japan

Japan has a number of major airports, and picking one of them tells where your trip will actually begin.

Narita International Airport (Tokyo) - Narita is farther from central Tokyo (about 0-90 minutes by train).
Haneda Airport (Tokyo) - It is relatively closer to the city center, usually 30-45 minutes away.
Kansai International Airport (Osaka) - It depends on your itinerary; if it starts in Osaka, Kyoto, or Nara, then flying to Kansai can save you a domestic flight later.

Japan Visa for Indian Citizens

This is the most important part where people worry the most, but it’s straightforward once you know the steps.

Every Indian traveler needs to apply for a visa in advance. The main categories are:

Tourist visa—for traveling, sightseeing, and vacations.
Business visa—if you have business travel, conferences, or short meetings.
Transit visa - If you have a layover or are passing through Japan en route to another country.
Visit visa—to meet family or friends living in Japan.

Documents Required for your Japan trip

In order to have a smooth trip, you would need to sort your documents first. The list of the documents are:

Valid passport with sufficient validity
Visa application form
Recent passport-size photograph
Detailed travel itinerary
Sufficient forex or a travel card
SIM card or eSIM for local connectivity
Proof of accommodation (hotel bookings)
Proof of sufficient funds (bank statements)
Flight reservations

Application Process and Where to Apply for a Japan Visa

Japan Visa Application Centre (via VFS Global) is where all the tourist visa applications are submitted.
You can do it via the Embassy/Consulate of Japan in India, depending on your city.
It usually takes 5-10 working days to process, so it’s safer to apply at least 3-4 weeks before your travel date.
You can apply for a visa digitally too, but it is advised to check the official Embassy of Japan in India website or your nearest VFS Global center for the latest update.

What to do in Japan once you Land

After all the documentation is sorted, it becomes quite refreshingly easy to get around Japan. Some tips that might help:

Shinkansen (Bullet Train): This is the most convenient public transportation that connects major cities like Tokyo, Kyoto, Osaka, and Hiroshima.
JP Pass: If you’re planning to cover multiple cities, then this is a cost-effective buy.
IC Cards (Suica/Pasmo): Rechargeable cards that are used on trains, subways, buses, and even at convenience stores.
Domestic Flights: This is for if you’re heading to farther regions like Hokkaido or Okinawa.
Buses: A good option for areas that are covered by trains.

What to Do in Japan - Top Places and Experiences

Japan has so much to offer, and now we have come to the fun part of exploring the place.

1. Tokyo -
The city of contrasts.
You’ll walk through the neon lights and crowds of Shibuya Crossing.

Explore the traditional charm of Asakusa and Senso-ji Temple.

Dive into anime and gaming culture in Akihabara.

Fill your shopping carts and enjoy the nightlife in Shinjuku.

2. Kyoto -

It will definitely feel like stepping into old Japan.

Capture iconic temples and shrines.

Walk through the peaceful Arashiyama bamboo grove.

Explore the historic geisha district of Gion.

3. Osaka -

The place is famous for its food and energy.

Tip—Make sure to explore Dotonbori for street food and neon signs.

Then comes the Universal Studios Japan (one of the greatest stops of your trip).

4. Mt. Fuji and Hakone -

The most awaited view of your entire trip.

It offers the most scenic views of the mountain range.

You can also see the hot spring resorts and experience a cruise on Lake Ashi.

5. Hiroshima and Miyajima -

A city famous because of its dreadful history.

Hiroshima’s Memorial Park is going to be an amazing experience.

Miyajima is famous for its floating torii gate.

Cultural Experiences in Japan Worth Trying

Japan is famous for its culture, and if you go there and don’t experience a part of their culture, then sadly your trip to japan is incomplete. Here are some cultural experiences to try there:

Soaking in a traditional onsen (hot spring bath)
Go to attend a tea ceremony
Rent a kimono for a day and click so many pictures in Kyoto
Watch a sumo match if your itinerary allows
If possible, visit during cherry blossom season (spring) or autumn foliage season (fall) and you’ll find some of the most beautiful sceneries in the world.
Try eating in restaurants that have rooted japanese culture and seating system

Food to Try

If you’re a food lover, then Japanese cuisine is your paradise. Try:

Authentic sushi
A steaming bowl of ramen
Endless variety of street food (you’ll find in Osaka and Tokyo’s local markets)

Tips to Save Money on Your Trip to Japan

Make sure to compare both direct and connecting flights before booking as per your budget.
If possible, travel around off-peak months to avoid the price surge.
Book your flights and your JR Pass a few weeks before your trip.
Consider a well-planned tour package by Deyor if you’d rather not coordinate flights, visas, and hotels separately.

Conclusion

Japan is a place that is on everyone's bucket list, and everyone should visit it once in their lifetime, as the place is so pretty. Japan feels so advanced yet so culturally rooted, so you know, you’re in for a treat. Planning a trip from India to Japan is a lot easier than it seems; you just need proper planning and need to follow proper steps.

Ready to Explore Japan with Deyor?

Planning a trip to Japan becomes much easier when everything is taken care of for you. From choosing the right flights and assisting with visa guidance to arranging comfortable stays and thoughtfully planned itineraries, Deyor helps you experience Japan without the stress of planning every detail yourself.

As India's first travel company to be featured on Shark Tank India, we create curated Japan holidays that combine iconic destinations like Tokyo, Kyoto, Osaka, Mount Fuji, and Hiroshima with authentic cultural experiences. Whether you're traveling as a couple, with family, or with friends, our travel experts help you choose an itinerary that matches your budget and interests.

Ready to turn your Japan dream into reality? Explore Deyor's Japan Tour Packages and start planning your unforgettable journey today.

FAQs

Q1. How many hours does it take to reach Japan from India?

Ans - A direct flight takes almost 7.5 to 9 hours. However, connecting flights take 11 to to16 hours, depending on the layover.

Q2: Do Indians need a visa for Japan?

Ans—Yes, all citizens of India need a visa to enter Japan. It depends on the purpose of your visit, and which visa will be needed.

Q3: What is the cheapest way to travel from India to Japan?

Ans - Generally, connecting flights through Bangkok, Singapore, or Seoul tend to be cheaper than direct flights. Book your flights, accommodation, or tour packages in advance, and it will save you more money.

Q4: How many days are enough to see Japan?

Ans - A 7-10 day trip is enough to easily cover Tokyo, Kyoto, Osaka, Mt. Fuji, and more.

Q5: What is the best time to visit Japan from India?

Ans—The best time to visit Japan from India is spring (late March to April) for cherry blossoms and autumn (October to November) for fall foliage.