Your first trip to Japan: a guide to Hanami, Onsen, and japanese dining culture

---

If you’re planning your first trip to Japan, get ready for an unforgettable journey through one of the most fascinating countries in the world. Japan’s seamless blend of ancient tradition and cutting-edge modernity offers something for every traveler — from serene cherry blossoms to rejuvenating hot springs and world-class cuisine that’s an experience in itself. Whether you’re strolling under the cherry trees in Kyoto, soaking in an onsen overlooking Mount Fuji, or savoring authentic sushi in Tokyo, your first trip to Japan will awaken every sense.

With lastminute.com and CY.SEND gift cards, you can make the most of your journey — booking flights, hotels, and experiences effortlessly while earning rewards through the CY.SEND Cashback Club, which gives members extra benefits and exclusive promotions for travelers who love exploring the world smartly.

 

Hanami: the art of cherry blossom viewing

Spring in Japan is pure magic. Between late March and early April, cherry blossoms (known as sakura) bloom across the country, transforming cities and parks into pink wonderlands. This centuries-old tradition of hanami, or flower viewing, celebrates the fleeting beauty of life — a core concept in Japanese culture.

Where to experience Hanami:

• Tokyo: Ueno Park and Shinjuku Gyoen are top favorites.
• Kyoto: Maruyama Park and the Philosopher’s Path are postcard-perfect.
• Osaka: The riverside Kema Sakuranomiya Park offers over 5,000 trees in bloom.

Tips for Hanami newcomers:

• Arrive early to secure a good picnic spot.
• Bring a picnic blanket (leisure sheet) and bento lunch boxes.
• Respect nature: avoid touching branches or picking flowers.

Travelers using lastminute.com gift cards from CY.SEND can easily plan cherry blossom trips — from booking affordable flights and hotels to arranging local tours. Members of the Cashback Club enjoy added rewards, turning every trip into savings for the next adventure.

 

Onsen: discover Japan’s soothing hot springs

One of the most relaxing and culturally rich experiences in Japan is visiting an onsen, or natural hot spring bath. Found across the country, onsen towns like Hakone, Beppu, and Noboribetsu offer mineral-rich waters surrounded by breathtaking scenery.

The Onsen etiquette:

1. Wash before entering – cleanliness is sacred in Japanese culture.
2. No swimsuits – baths are enjoyed nude, separated by gender.
3. Towels stay out of the water – place yours on your head or beside you.
4. Quiet relaxation – onsen are for peace and reflection, not chatter.

If you’re unsure where to go, Hakone is just a short train ride from Tokyo and offers luxurious resorts and traditional ryokans (inns). Many ryokans accept CY.SEND lastminute.com gift cards, so you can pay directly or redeem your rewards for an authentic onsen experience.

Being part of the Cashback Club means you earn SND rewards for each purchase, turning every soak in an onsen into points that can be used toward your next destination.

 

Japanese dining culture: more than just sushi

Food is central to Japanese identity. Beyond sushi, Japan’s culinary world is full of depth — from humble ramen shops to Michelin-starred dining experiences. Understanding local dining etiquette enhances not just your meal but your connection to Japanese culture.

Top dinning experiences:

• Sushi Bars: Sit at the counter, watch the chef work, and always say “Itadakimasu!” before eating.
• Ramen Shops: Try regional specialties like Tonkotsu (Fukuoka), Miso (Sapporo), or Shoyu (Tokyo).
• Kaiseki Dining: Multi-course haute cuisine celebrating seasonal ingredients.
• Street Food: Takoyaki in Osaka, Okonomiyaki in Hiroshima, Taiyaki (fish-shaped pastries) everywhere!

Dining etiquette to remember:

• Never stick chopsticks upright in rice — it’s a funeral custom.
• Avoid passing food directly from chopstick to chopstick.
• Don’t tip. Good service is included and considered part of respect.

Using CY.SEND gift cards for restaurants and experiences available through lastminute.com ensures secure payments and sometimes even bonus cashback. Perfect for travelers who value convenience and savings while immersing themselves in authentic cuisine.

 Where tradition meets technology

Japan’s contrasts make it irresistible. You can wake up in a minimalist tatami room in Nara, explore Kyoto’s ancient temples, and by evening be standing among neon lights in Shibuya Crossing — the world’s busiest intersection.

Must-see highlights:

• Tokyo: Shibuya, Asakusa, and Akihabara for a mix of culture and pop energy.
• Kyoto: Temples, shrines, geisha districts, and tea ceremonies.
• Osaka: Known for food, nightlife, and warm-hearted locals.
• Hokkaido: Perfect for skiing and natural beauty.
• Okinawa: Tropical beaches and island culture.

With lastminute.com, you can bundle flights, hotels, and even rail passes, while CY.SEND gift cards make payments seamless. And if you’re part of the Cashback Club, your travel expenses come with the bonus of earning rewards you can redeem later — the perfect combo of smart travel and Japanese precision.

 

Travel smart tips for first-time visitors 

1. Get a JR Pass: Ideal for intercity train travel — order in advance and save big.
2. Pocket Wi-Fi or eSIM: Stay connected; Japan’s maps and trains can be confusing.
3. Learn Basic Phrases: “Arigatou” (thank you), “Sumimasen” (excuse me), and “Kudasai” (please).
4. Cash Still Matters: Many small shops prefer yen over cards.
5. Respect Local Customs: Silence on trains, remove shoes indoors, bow slightly as a greeting.

Planning with lastminute.com and CY.SEND not only makes your booking process smooth but also gives you financial flexibility. With their Cashback Club, every trip becomes more rewarding.

 

Make your japanese adventure unforgettable

Your first trip to Japan will change how you see travel. It’s a place where respect, beauty, and precision coexist in harmony. Whether you’re walking under sakura petals, soaking in an onsen, or tasting ramen at midnight — every moment feels cinematic.

Make it easy and rewarding: use lastminute.com gift cards via CY.SEND to plan, book, and enjoy your journey — while earning cashback that brings you closer to your next adventure.

Book your Japan adventure today with lastminute.com gift cards from CY.SEND — and let every flight, stay, and experience reward you through the Cashback Club.

 

FAQs

1. When is the best time to visit Japan for cherry blossoms?
   Late March to early April, depending on the region.
2. What is hanami in Japan?
   Hanami is the traditional custom of enjoying cherry blossom viewing with friends and family.
3. Where can I see cherry blossoms in Tokyo?
   Ueno Park, Shinjuku Gyoen, and Meguro River are among the top spots.
4. Can I book Japan flights with lastminute.com gift cards?
   Yes, you can book flights and hotels using CY.SEND lastminute.com gift cards.
5. What is an onsen?
   A Japanese natural hot spring used for relaxation and healing.
6. Are tattoos allowed in onsen?
   Some onsens restrict tattoos, but many modern ones are tattoo-friendly.
7. Do I need to wear clothes in an onsen?
   No, onsen are typically enjoyed nude, with strict cleanliness rules.
8. What’s the difference between an onsen and a sento?
   Onsen use natural hot springs, while sento are regular public baths.
9. What foods should I try in Japan?
   Sushi, ramen, tempura, yakitori, okonomiyaki, and mochi desserts.
10. Is tipping expected in Japan?
    No, tipping is not customary and can even be considered rude.
11. How do I pay for meals?
    Many restaurants accept card payments; CY.SEND gift cards can help with prepaid travel funds.
12. What are the best cities for first-time visitors?
    Tokyo, Kyoto, Osaka, and Nara are top choices.
13. Do people speak English in Japan?
    Major tourist areas do, but learning simple phrases helps a lot.
14. What is the Japanese etiquette at temples?
    Bow before entering, cleanse your hands, and be quiet.
15. How can I travel between cities affordably?
    Use the JR Pass for unlimited train travel.
16. Can I book hotels in Kyoto with CY.SEND gift cards?
    Yes, via lastminute.com.
17. Is Japan expensive to visit?
    It depends on your choices — travel deals on lastminute.com help you save.
18. What is kaiseki?
    A traditional multi-course Japanese dinner showcasing seasonal dishes.
19. What is the best region for hot springs?
    Hakone, Beppu, and Noboribetsu are the most famous.
20. Can I use foreign credit cards in Japan?
    Most places accept them, but small vendors may prefer cash.
21. What is the JR Pass?
    A rail pass for unlimited travel across Japan on JR lines.
22. What’s the time difference between Japan and the UK?
    Japan is 9 hours ahead of GMT.
23. Do I need a visa to visit Japan?
    Many countries enjoy visa-free stays up to 90 days; check before travel.
24. How do I respect Japanese culture as a tourist?
    Be polite, quiet in public spaces, and always say “thank you.”
25. Can I use my CY.SEND Cashback Club rewards for travel?
    Yes, you can redeem your rewards for future gift card purchases.
26. Where can I find the best sushi in Japan?
    Tokyo’s Tsukiji Market and Ginza’s sushi bars are world-famous.
27. How do I book ryokans?
    Easily through lastminute.com, often payable with CY.SEND gift cards.
28. Are there mixed-gender onsen?
    Yes, called konyoku, but they are rare.
29. Is public transportation easy to use?
    Extremely efficient and foreigner-friendly.
30. Can I use lastminute.com for domestic Japan travel?
    Yes, it covers hotels, flights, and tours across Japan.
31. What are Japanese convenience stores like?
    7-Eleven and Lawson offer great snacks, ATMs, and essentials.
32. How should I behave on trains?
    Stay quiet, avoid phone calls, and give up seats to the elderly.
33. What are must-try street foods?
    Takoyaki, yakisoba, taiyaki, and dango.
34. Can I use CY.SEND gift cards outside Japan?
    Yes, they are valid for global lastminute.com bookings.
35. What is omotenashi?
    The Japanese concept of selfless hospitality.
36. Is Japan good for solo travelers?
    Yes, it’s one of the safest and most organized destinations in the world.
37. What souvenirs should I buy?
    Green tea, ceramics, chopsticks, and Japanese sweets.
38. Do I need travel insurance for Japan?
    Yes, always recommended for international trips.
39. Are there vegan or vegetarian options?
    Yes, but limited — use apps or hotel concierges for help.
40. How can I make my Japan trip more rewarding?
    Use lastminute.com CY.SEND gift cards and join the Cashback Club to earn on every booking.

---

Article Number: 2283
Author: Nov 3, 2025
Last Updated: Jun 11, 2026

Online URL: https://faq.cysend.com/article/your-first-trip-to-japan-a-guide-to-hanami-onsen-and-japanese-dining-culture.html