Article: Japan will be the most crowded in the spring months for cherry blossom season and hard to travel around during Golden Week, a national holiday that usually occurs from late April to early May. You should also avoid visiting in the summer, as it can be very hot and humid. Instead, visit during the off-season, from late September-early March, to avoid crowds and enjoy good weather. If you visit Japan during the winter, enjoy skiing down some of Japan's famous mountains or go ice skating at the world's largest outdoor rooftop ice skating rink at White Sacas. Start looking for plane tickets to Japan at least 3 months in advance for the best prices. Compare prices among several different airlines to find the best option, and make sure you book your return flight as well.  If your flight requires a layover, make sure you have enough time in between flights to make it to your connection. You can arrange guided tours for certain regions or sites before you embark on your trip, or arrange them when you arrive. A guide may be useful for visits to shrines, temples, and holy sites where you may not understand the traditions or customs. Look for free guides or group tours run by volunteers at major sites or areas. You may also opt for a guide to take you on a food tour in a major city like Tokyo so you know the best spots to visit. While it's common to use credit and debit cards in Japan, depending on where you're traveling, it's always smart to carry cash with you as well. Consider taking out roughly 20,000 yen, which is a little less than 200 US dollars.  Make sure you contact your bank and let them know you are traveling to Japan so they don't freeze your account. Check to make sure that most cities in Japan take your credit card beforehand as well. You can often find ATMs at places like 7-Eleven in Japan. There are several different options when it comes to using your phone while in Japan, such as getting a SIM card, renting a cell phone while you're there, or asking your phone provider about buying an international package. Look into your options and choose the one that's cost efficient and makes the most sense for your plans.  You may load the SIM card with data so you can access maps and browse the internet for information. Keep your cell phone on airplane mode so that you don't get lots of international roaming charges. Look for Japanese souvenirs to bring home for yourself or loved ones throughout your trip. Great souvenirs include things like Japanese sweets and candy, folding fans, Japan-themed keychains, or chopsticks with designs on them. Other souvenirs to look out for are Japanese face masks, matcha green tea, or a yukata (a casual summer kimono).
What is a summary of what this article is about?
Visit Japan during the off-season to avoid crowds. Purchase a plane ticket well in advance, if possible. Hire a guide service for holy sites or areas, if desired. Carry a certain amount of Japanese yen with you during your trip. Decide how you'll use your cell phone while abroad. Buy souvenirs to take home before you leave Japan.