The practical handbook for getting on, around, and into Japan.

Short answer: in Japan, official “dual pricing” so far means residents of a city pay less than everyone else. It is based on your address, not your passport. Himeji Castle is the best-known example: ¥2,500 for visitors and ¥1,000 for Himeji residents since 1 March 2026. Odawara Castle and 14 Kagoshima City facilities (sights and… Read guide →

Short answer: every traveller leaving Japan pays a ¥3,000 departure tax, usually built into the air or cruise ticket. On top of that, a growing list of cities and prefectures charge a hotel (accommodation) tax per guest per night, typically ¥100–¥500, and up to ¥10,000 a night in Kyoto at the very top end. More… Read guide →

Short answer: for purchases made from 1 November 2026, Japan’s tax-free shopping becomes a refund system. You pay the full price including consumption tax at the shop. When you leave Japan, you scan your passport at a customs kiosk before you check in your bags, and the shop (or its refund company) then pays the… Read guide →