Every week, 9Travel shares a top travel tip from our readers or something our writers find. Have something to share? Email us at travel@nine.com.au for a chance to be featured in an upcoming story.
It’s safe to say that almost every Aussie has either been to Japan in the last few years, or knows someone who has.
The country, with its endless offerings, has skyrocketed in popularity, with over a million Australians visiting in 2025.
Though it may seem like a pretty ‘mainstream’ holiday spot, there is still plenty there waiting to be discovered.
Japan is more popular than ever. (Getty)
For example, did you know there’s a public onsen at Tokyo’s Haneda airport?
The hot spring is open 24-hours and has views of Mount Fuji, offering the perfect spot to soak up the last few hours of your holiday before your flight.
Entry to Izumi Tenku no Yu gives you access to natural hot spring baths, a carbonated water bath, saunas (dry, steam, stone), massage jets, and relaxation lounges – for ¥4,800, or about $40.
The best places to visit in Japan – besides Tokyo, Kyoto and Osaka
I found out about the airport onsen in a Reddit thread titled “What is something you regret NOT doing on your first trip to Japan?”
And it turns out a lot of people also had no idea it even existed.
READ MORE: A new type of ‘gap year’ has emerged and it’s booming for older Aussies
There’s an onsen open to the public at the airport. (Supplied)
Another tip that frequent Japan travellers pointed out in this thread is how convenient Japan’s luggage forwarding system is.
Say you’re travelling to three different cities on your trip to Japan.
Instead of having to lug your suitcases on crowded subways and bullet trains, you can have all your bags taken straight from one hotel to the next.
Just like most things in Japan, it’s convenient, reliable, and secure.
It does usually take a day for your suitcases to arrive, so just pack an overnight bag with your essentials – much easier than dragging heavy suitcases around.
Avoid lugging your suitcase on the train. (Getty)
Luggage forwarding also makes sense if you’re heading to a smaller, or far-flung destination for a day or two – like a traditional homestay in Hakone between longer stays in Tokyo and Kyoto.
Pack a carry-on-sized bag with everything you need for that detour, and have your big luggage sent on from Tokyo to Kyoto, bypassing your homestay.
You’ll be glad you made the choice when you’re not wheeling a massive suitcase over old cobblestoned streets in a small traditional town!
Drop us an email with all your wisdom to travel@nine.com.au, and your tip could be featured in an upcoming story on 9Travel.
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AloJapan.com