Central Honshu, Japan
Nagoya experiences four distinct seasons, each with its own character.
Spring (March-May): Mild and comfortable temperatures, generally low precipitation. Late March to early April features cherry blossoms, creating a scenic environment for walks.
Summer (June-August): Hot and humid, temperatures often reach 25°C-35°C+. High precipitation, with June and early July seeing the "tsuyu" (rainy season). August can bring significant rain and typhoon activity. Opportunities exist for nearby beach trips.
Autumn (September-November): Mild and comfortable temperatures, low precipitation with many clear days. Humidity lessens after summer. Late October to November features stunning autumn foliage, ideal for outdoor activities.
Winter (December-February): Cool to cold, typically 0°C-10°C. Minimal precipitation, mostly dry air. Light snow occurs occasionally but rarely accumulates in the city. Fewer tourists, lower accommodation rates, and city illuminations are notable.
"Tsuyu" (Rainy Season) runs from mid-June to mid-July. This period brings consistent, often heavy, rainfall. Plan for indoor activities, carry an umbrella, and use waterproof footwear. Humidity levels stay high. Typhoons may occur from August to October. These storms feature strong winds and heavy rain, potentially disrupting travel, including flight cancellations and train delays. Monitor weather forecasts closely if traveling during these months. Keep plans flexible and be aware of emergency steps.
Summer temperatures reach 35°C or more, with high humidity. Take steps against heatstroke: stay hydrated, seek shade, use air-conditioned spaces, and wear lightweight clothing. Winter temperatures drop to near 0°C, especially at night. Warm clothing is important.
August to October
Monitor forecasts, keep plans flexible, know emergency procedures.
Heavy rain, strong winds, travel disruptions (flights, trains).
June to August
Stay hydrated, seek shade, use AC, wear light clothing.
Risk of heatstroke from high temperatures and humidity.
Mid-June to Mid-July
Carry umbrella, use waterproof footwear, plan indoor activities.
Consistent, heavy rainfall and high humidity.
Cherry Blossom Viewing: Late March to early April. The city's parks and riverbanks bloom. Book accommodations far in advance. Autumn Foliage Viewing: Late October to late November. Outdoor Exploration and Hiking: Spring and Autumn offer the most comfortable weather for walking, cycling, and exploring Nagoya's extensive parks and gardens.
Museums and Indoor Attractions: The low season (winter and rainy season) presents a great opportunity to explore Nagoya's many museums, art galleries, and cultural institutions without the crowds. Hot Springs (Onsen): Winter presents an especially delightful time to visit nearby hot spring resorts like Gero Onsen, offering a warm escape from the cold.
Cherry blossoms, comfortable walks, cycling.
Beach trips, indoor attractions during rain/heat.
Autumn foliage, hiking, outdoor photography.
Museums, illuminations, nearby skiing, hot springs.
Fewer tourists, lower prices, serene experiences.
Japan has specific requirements for foreign visitors.
Your passport must remain valid for your entire stay in Japan. There is no general rule for additional validity beyond your visit. For example, a 30-day stay means your passport needs 30 days of validity. Blank pages for entry stamps are important.
If your nationality does not fall under the visa waiver program, or for longer stays, a visa application is necessary. Apply at a Japanese embassy or consulate in your home country or country of legal residence. Processing varies from days to weeks, so apply well in advance.
A comprehensive travel insurance policy is highly recommended for all travelers to Japan. This policy should cover medical emergencies, emergency evacuation, trip cancellation/interruption, lost/delayed luggage, and personal liability. Verify coverage for pre-existing conditions and planned activities.
Japan might be seen as expensive. However, careful planning helps manage your spending effectively.
The official currency of Japan is the Japanese Yen (JPY, ¥). Banknotes are ¥1,000, ¥2,000 (rare), ¥5,000, and ¥10,000. Coins are ¥1, ¥5, ¥10, ¥50, ¥100, and ¥500.
ATMs are widespread and often the most convenient way to get cash. Look for ATMs at convenience stores (7-Eleven, Lawson, FamilyMart), post offices, and major bank branches. Most international debit and credit cards (Plus, Cirrus, Visa, Mastercard logos) work at these ATMs. Withdraw larger sums less often to minimize transaction fees.
Average daily estimate: ¥7,000 - ¥15,500. This covers hostel dorms, capsule hotels, convenience store meals, public transport passes, and free attractions.
Utilize day passes for public transport. Eat at convenience stores and supermarkets.
Limit frequent taxi use. Avoid high-end restaurants.
Average daily estimate: ¥17,500 - ¥37,500. This includes mid-range business hotels, izakaya dining, subway/bus use, and paid attractions/day trips.
Enjoy lunch sets for better value. Explore diverse dining options.
Limit daily taxi usage. Be mindful of higher attraction fees for multiple entries.
Average daily estimate: ¥41,000+. This covers luxury hotels, fine dining, frequent taxi use, special tours, and boutique shopping.
Indulge in gourmet experiences. Consider private transfers for convenience.
No major financial limitations, but prices can quickly add up for extensive services.
| Category | Budget | Mid-Range | Luxury |
|---|---|---|---|
| Accommodation (per night) | ¥3,000 - ¥7,000 (Hostel/Capsule/Budget Business) | ¥8,000 - ¥18,000 (Mid-range Business/Standard) | ¥20,000+ (Luxury Hotel/High-end Ryokan) |
| Meals (per meal) | ¥500 - ¥1,000 (Convenience Store/Street Food) | ¥800 - ¥5,000 (Casual/Mid-range Restaurant) | ¥8,000+ (Fine Dining) |
| Attractions (per entry) | ¥0 - ¥500 (Free/Small museum) | ¥400 - ¥1,500 (Major museums/gardens) | ¥1,000+ (Special exhibitions/experiences) |
Nagoya remains a very safe city.
No specific vaccinations are mandatory for Japan. Routine vaccinations (MMR, DTP, Varicella, Polio) should be current. Hepatitis A and B are often recommended.
Nagoya summers are hot and humid. Stay hydrated, wear light clothing, seek AC, avoid strenuous activity during peak heat.
Pollen allergies (kafunsho) are common in spring. Bring your usual antihistamines. Local pharmacies stock options.
Tap water in Nagoya and across Japan remains safe to drink.
Japan maintains very high food safety and hygiene standards. Food poisoning remains rare. Eat at reputable establishments. Wash your hands before eating.
You can confidently refill your reusable water bottle from public taps. Carrying a LifeStraw is not necessary for city water but useful for outdoor adventures.
Consult your doctor or a travel health clinic at least 4-6 weeks before your trip for personalized vaccination recommendations.
Nagoya has a modern healthcare system. Major hospitals often have English-speaking staff or translation services. Visitors generally pay upfront; keep receipts for insurance.
Ambulance/Fire: Dial 119. Police: Dial 110. JNTO Visitor Hotline (English): 050-3816-2787. Your hotel front desk also offers local help.
A comprehensive policy covering medical emergencies, evacuation, and trip disruptions is highly recommended. Insubuy and World Nomads are options.
Japan reports one of the lowest crime rates globally. Nagoya is a very safe city; violent crime against tourists rarely occurs. Petty crime, like pickpocketing, is uncommon but possible in very crowded areas. Take standard precautions with valuables. All major districts are safe, even at night.
