Hi, I’m Helen, creator of Japlanease.
Organising a trip to Japan can be a bit overwhelming, but after planning nine trips to Japan (so far), visiting over 50 cities and towns, and spending over 100 nights in more than 60 hotels, I’ve got pretty good at Ja-planning. So, let me share my secrets and fight the overwhelm so you can plan your own trip more easily.
There are three ways to use this website to help with your planning…
- Read our helpful articles. You’ll find heaps of advice on what to see, eat and do, where to stay and more. Plus, we take you through the practical stuff like getting around, getting cash or getting online.
- If you want more structure in your planning, our fillable planners can help you organise your thoughts and plans.
- Or, book a personal call to get all your questions answered one-to-one; an hour on the phone can save you a heap of time, money and stress.
Planning Your First Trip
All the advice you need to plan your trip without getting overwhelmed is here. Start with ‘When to Go’ then keep moving through the sections.
If you’re still looking for advice on where to visit, though, head to the destinations section first then come back here once you’ve been inspired.
book a call
My one-to-one chat service is perfect if you’re overwhelmed, bamboozled by trains, money, Tokyo Disney or Universal Studios Japan, or if you simply want someone to check your itinerary.
One hour on the phone could save you hours of planning – and a lot of stress!
So, whether you’re confused about one thing, or overwhelmed about everything, why not book a one-to-one planning call with me and sort it all out?
discover moreDESTINATIONS
Our destination pages are full of inspiring ideas for amazing places to visit on your Japan trip.
If you’re not quite sure where to stay yet, this is the section you need.
You’ll find everything from daily plans that organise your day, to brilliant ideas on where to eat, where to sleep and the best things to do in each of the popular cities.
Planners
Not quite ready for a one-to-one call but still want some help structuring your plans.
Our step-by-step guides are the perfect middle ground. They are fillable guides that can help you organise your thoughts – and your days in Japan.
They are packed with inspiring sightseeing ideas, dining tips, transport guides and done-for-you itineraries – and plenty of fillable sheets for you to get everything organised.
BUY HEREWHO am I?
That’s me there, with the waving cats…
I’m Helen Foster, a Sydney-based journalist, author, and Japanophile. I’ve been to Japan nine times, the last time in May 2026.
I know that planning a Japan trip can get confusing, so I started Japlanease to try and make the whole process a bit easier. Find out more about me and working with Japlanease on our About Page.
If you’re still confused?
Start with these six steps…
④ Understand trains & transport
⑥ Get organised with paperwork, SIMs, etc
