Insider tip

With the Rugby World Cup under way, Japan is attracting even more interest than usual from Kiwis.

There’s a constant rotation of cool new things to see and do in the Land of the Rising Sun.

Here are some things you ought to know before you go.

■ Make sure you buy the unlimited Japan Rail (JR) Pass before leaving New Zealand if you need one. Short-term visitors can get an unlimited JR pass for two weeks. But make sure you will be travelling to enough cities to get your money’s worth first.

■ Exchange your money before leaving New Zealand. Many places, including in Tokyo and other major cities, only accept cash.

■ In Kyoto, stay near the Nishiki Market or the old quarter of Gion. Both locations are central, have plenty to do and, importantly, have great restaurants.

■ Be prepared for it to get a little crowded. The Greater Tokyo area has a population of 38 million (almost 60 per cent more than Australia’s) so things are a little squashed.

If you know an expat who wants to share their inside knowledge of their home away from home, or have a travel question, email travel@stuff.co.nz with Expat or Expert in the subject line.