- No need for a visa if UK citizen.
- If you are likely to take the bullet train (Shenzhen) then it is worth getting a JR Rail Pass. They are not cheap (US$250), but you would save that on a return trip to Kyoto. You can also use them on the Yamanote Line (circle line) in Tokyo and to get to and from the airports. You can only buy a JR Rail Pass overseas. You are given a voucher and then visit the JR (Green signage) counter at the airport of arrival and exchange for the pass. You then show that pass to the guards at all entrance gates and get waived through. If you know your likely travel dates, then ask the person at the counter to reserve your seats too. They speak English. If traveling from Tokyo to Kyoto (and back), ask for seats D & E to get views of Mt Fuji.
- There are two airport options - Narita and Haneda. Haneda is far closer.
- If interested in visiting the imperial palace in Kyoto, you must book to go in as part of a tour group.