Cherry Blossoms of Japan - Additional information

Entry into Japan
Please ensure that your passport has at least 6 months validity from your return date left on your passport. No extra visas are required for entry into Japan for Australian passport holders.
Continue to monitor www.smartraveller.gov.au for the most up-to-date information.

 

Weather
March is the start of spring in Japan. The snow melts in most places and fresh foliage and flowers timidly stretch out. Compared to summer, the rainfall in March remains at a low level.
The average temperature in Tokyo reaches 13°C at the end of March. Slightly warmer than Tokyo and Kyoto, the temperature in Osaka exceeds 14°C in late March.

 

What to Pack
In March, the weather is unpredictable but generally mild. With the cherry blossoms in full bloom and mild weather, spring is the perfect time for exploring – just make sure you pack a raincoat! Light layers of clothing, including both T-shirts and long-sleeve shirts, and thin sweaters. A thicker jacket or cardigan. Comfortable walking shoes are a must.

 

Currency
The Japanese Yen is the third most traded currency in the world, and the most heavily traded currency in Asia. Cash is preferred in most places, but cards are becoming more widely used, especially in major cities. Hotels accept major credit cards. Credit cards are still not widely accepted outside major cities. Some ATMs at banks and convenience stores don't accept foreign cards.

Ask your bank if your cards will work in Japan.

 

Tipping
Tipping – Not expected and sometimes considered offensive in Japan.

 

Luggage
Please keep your luggage to a minimum. Do not take what you cannot handle yourself. Where available, the hotel staff will assist with taking your luggage to your room, so please keep this in mind when packing.

 

Ryokan accommodation
Experiencing a night in Ryokan style accommodation is a feature on this tour and it is a very different experience from what you may be used to. Please CLICK HERE for further information about what to expect.

 

Health Whilst Travelling
There is always a risk to your health when travelling and it is better to be prepared. It is recommended to take with you some diarrhoea medication in case you come down with a stomach bug. It is also a good idea to bring along some hydrolyte for dehydration purposes. We also recommend Travelan to help protect your stomach from any nasties (available over the counter at any pharmacy). For any other vaccination/health/medical concerns with regards to travelling, please consult your GP or visit a Travel Doctor. Please consider bringing COVID-19 tests if you wish to self-test. They are quite expensive to buy in Japan.

Japan has strict rules about bringing medicine into the country, including some ingredients in ADHD and cold and flu medication. If you plan on bringing in medication, you must check if it's legal before you travel. See Japan's Ministry of Health, Labour and Welfare website for more information.
 

Travel Insurance
It is mandatory for travellers to have comprehensive travel insurance; please ensure you have provided Sisterhood Womens Travel with a copy of your policy, including a 24/7 Emergency Contact Number.
 

 

Whats App Group
Please make sure you download WhatsApp onto your phone prior to departure. This App will be your communication tool whilst on tour and your tour hostess will contact you prior to departure to set you up in your tour WhatsApp group.  It’s also a lovely way to remain in touch with friends upon your return.

 

Changes to Itinerary
We do our best to give Sisters an enjoyable, trouble-free tour experience but occasionally, even the best-laid plans can go awry.  We cannot rule out any changes to the itinerary and ask that you maintain a positive, upbeat and flexible attitude.

 

 

Updated: 12 June 2025