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Japan currently has 26 UNESCO World Heritage Sites, comprising 21 cultural sites and 5 natural sites.

Japan has reciprocal visa exemption arrangements with countries and regions listed at the link. It's highly recommended you are aware of all necessary documents before travel.

In major cities such as Tokyo, Kyoto, and Osaka, speaking Japanese is not essential; however, learning a few basic phrases—such as “hello,” “thank you,” and “excuse me”—is highly recommended. These small gestures of courtesy are appreciated and can greatly enhance your experience. In rural areas, English and other foreign languages are far less common, making even a modest knowledge of Japanese particularly useful. Public transportation throughout Japan is designed with international visitors in mind. Announcements are generally provided in both Japanese and English, and clear pictograms and universal symbols are widely used, ensuring that travelers can navigate with confidence.

Before entering Japan you will want to utilize the Visit Japan Web Portal. There you will find a link to the QR code you will need at customs upon entering.

Yes, most major credit cards are accepted in Japan. Be aware, however, that cash is still used in many businesses throughout the country in both metropolitan and rural areas. Ensure that you have a working ATM card and or the ability to obtain Japanese Cash, Yen, while in Japan.

Koi fish in home ponds typically live 15 to 30 years under proper care, though some can surpass 50 years in well-maintained ponds. Koi lifespan depends on water quality, diet, genetics, and protection from disease. The most famous example of koi longevity is Japanese koi named Hanako, who lived an extraordinary 226 years before passing in 1977.

Koi Varieties: A Complete Guide Koi, or Nishikigoi, are admired worldwide for their beauty, history, and symbolism. Over centuries of breeding in Japan, koi have developed into many distinct types. While there are around 15 major groups, each has numerous sub-varieties, making the total number of recognized koi types well over 100. This guide introduces the major koi varieties according to the ZNA (Zen Nippon Airinkai) and highlights their most well-known sub-varieties. Below are the Koi Varities listed on the All Japan Nishikigoi Promotion Association website. Kohaku Taisho-Sanshoku Showa-Sanshoku Shiroutsuri Goshiki A-Ginrin B-Ginrin Kawarigoi Kujaku Kumonryu Doisugoi Hikari-moyo Koromo Tancho Hikari-utsuri Hikari-muji Shusui Asagi Bekko Hiutsuri and Kiutsuri Muji Koi classification remains both a science and an art, deeply tied to Japan’s aquaculture heritage. For collectors, hobbyists, and professionals, knowing the differences between koi varieties is essential to appreciating their beauty and cultural value.

What is the average price of a koi fish? The price of koi fish varies widely depending on size, quality, and breeding. Small juvenile koi (around 5”) can start at $10–$20, making them affordable for most hobbyists. How much do larger koi cost? • Large butterfly koi typically range from $30 to $660. • High-quality domestic koi often fall between $100 and $2,500. • Imported Japanese koi of higher grade usually cost $100–$1,500. What about rare or show-quality koi? Champion-level koi from prestigious Japanese bloodlines can command $50,000 or more. Exceptional specimens have sold for hundreds of thousands of dollars. The record-breaking Kohaku koi named S Legend sold for $1.8 million. Why do koi prices vary so much? Several factors influence the price: 1. Genetics and breeding quality – Fish from respected bloodlines are highly valued. 2. Color, pattern, and body shape – Precision of markings and balanced form matter greatly. 3. Size and age – Larger, older koi with refined features cost more. 4. Rarity of variety – Uncommon or prized patterns ( eg. Kohaku, Sanke, Showa) cost more. 5. Source and location – Buying directly from Japanese breeders or specialized dealers can increase costs compared to local sellers. How much should I expect to spend for my pond? • Backyard hobbyists: Plan on $10–$30 per koi for attractive starter fish. • Collectors or dealers: Expect to invest hundreds to thousands for show-quality koi. • Top-tier enthusiasts: Prepare for prices that can exceed six figures for rare champions.

Koi fish, or Nishikigoi, originated in the Yamakoshi region of Niigata, Japan. The term Nishikigoi means “brocaded carp,” referring to their bright, decorative patterns reminiscent of silk brocade fabrics. Farmers raising common carp (Cyprinus carpio) in rice ponds discovered natural color mutations and began selectively breeding them for beauty rather than food. These ornamental koi gained fame at the 1914 Tokyo Taisho Exposition, where they were admired by the Imperial family. From Niigata, koi spread worldwide and are now cherished as symbols of Japanese culture, perseverance, and beauty.

According to the All Japan Nishikigoi Promotion Association, there are 183 listed members as of September 2025. A further search of the AJNPA site reveals 301 dealers, 90 certified handlers, and 23 exporters.

The Origins of Japanese Gardens The beginnings of what we now call Japanese gardens can be traced to the Nara Period (710–794), when the Imperial Palace first incorporated carefully designed landscapes. These early gardens reflected influences from Chinese construction techniques, introduced after Japan established its first diplomatic mission to China. Yet, rather than mere copies, they evolved into distinctly Japanese expressions of landscape design. Rooted in the native Shinto religion, these gardens embodied a reverence for nature, emphasizing harmony between the spiritual and the natural world. In later centuries, Zen Buddhism adopted the garden into its temple complexes, shaping spaces for meditation and contemplation. This integration further refined the principles of Japanese garden design, giving rise to traditions that endure to this day.

A Tradition of Excellence Top ten lists may be subjective, but the gardens included here are unquestionably worthy of your time in Japan. Among them, the Adachi Museum of Art Garden stands apart. Celebrated for its seamless harmony between landscape and art, it has long been recognized as the number one Japanese garden in the world. Year after year, it continues to embody the highest standards of design, refinement, and cultural expression. Adachi Museum of Art Garden Ashikaga Flower Park Isuien Kairakuen Katsura Rikyu Imperial Villa Garden Kenrokuen Korakuen Rikugien Ritsurin Garden Tottori Prefectural Flower Park