Travel to Japan: what to know before you go

Ah, Japan. A country where the wonderful and the weird cohabit happily, where dazzling modernity mingles with millennia of history, and ancient traditions meet a futuristic buzz wherever you look… 21st-century Japan is a paradise for the curious traveler. If you travel to Japan, expect to be blown away by the overwhelming urban frenzy, the gentle scenery of the countryside, and the hospitable, humble people. As wonderful as all that sounds, going to Japan for the first time can feel overwhelming since you don’t know what to expect. Here are a few practical pointers to take some of the sting out of the culture shock for first-time visitors to this enigmatic country.

Travel to Japan: top tips for first-time visitors

1. Tips on being sociable

The Japanese are generally very deferential and considerate people. Everybody puts the feelings of others first – you won’t hear loud telephone conversations on public transport, for instance. This deferential nature can mean that it’s hard to get beyond formalities, and sometimes, the Japanese can seem a little shy of foreigners.

Manners are extremely important in Japanese culture, and it’s best to familiarize yourself with basic etiquette before traveling to the country. These include taking your shoes off before entering someone’s home and bowing when apologizing to, greeting, or thanking a person. Always be mindful and ensure to respect Japanese customs and traditions during your visit.

2. Download useful apps when traveling to Japan

Downloading a currency converter app onto your phone will save you from needing to calculate complicated sums, eliminating confusion and room for mistakes. Google Translate is another brilliant tool: use the camera function to take a photo of Japanese kanji symbols, and the English translation will pop up — a lifesaver.

3. Things to consider about public transport

Public transport is fast, user-friendly, and punctual – so punctual that their rail service recently issued an apology for a train leaving 20 seconds early! The train system is speedy and notoriously expensive, so if you plan to use the railways for more than a couple of trips, make sure to invest in a Japan Rail pass (JR pass).

You should purchase these before visiting Japan, as they offer good value to those taking several journeys. In urban areas, invest in a rechargeable travel card. Simply touch in and out, and the fare will be deducted.

4. Carry cash on you

Despite the extensive gadgetry so beloved by the local people, Japan is still very much a cash society, and cards are not widely accepted for payment. You, therefore, need to ensure you have a reliable way to access your funds while there.

ATMs that take foreign cards are not as common as you might imagine. Head for an international bank, post office, or 7-11 for international-friendly ATMs. It is also worth remembering that notes are only available from ¥1,000 Yen and upwards, so you are likely to need something to carry coinage.

5. Where to buy essentials

Convenience stores (locally known as konbini) are especially present in large cities, and stock an enviable range of goods. If you find yourself in need of a clean shirt, a quality hot meal, or indeed, almost anything else, this is where you need to go. Vending machines also sell anything and everything, from a bottle of beer to an umbrella, and can be a useful resource.

6. How to practice hygiene in public

Beware of blowing your nose in public – this is considered bad behavior. Instead, go to the bathroom. For an unusual experience, keep an eye out for ‘robot toilets’, which have warm seats, water jets, lots of buttons to press, and even piped music!

Unless totally unavoidable, try not to cough or sneeze in a crowded place either, as this will cause many anxious looks; in fact, wearing a face mask is a common and helpful way to show respect to others when you’re feeling under the weather. It is also considered polite to cover your mouth when laughing.

It is not usual to find soap in public toilets, and it is equally uncommon to find air dryers or paper towels – so make sure to carry hand sanitizer.

7. A few notes on shoes

Bring nice socks and footwear that are easily slipped on and off, as you will be expected to remove your shoes in homes, temples, and pretty much anywhere carpeted. This includes fitting rooms in shops and some areas in restaurants.

You will also notice ‘bathroom slippers’ when entering bathrooms in homes or ryokan (traditional Japanese inn). These slippers are exclusive for bathroom use, and you should slip them on after leaving your regular slippers outside the door. Don’t forget to switch back once you’ve left the bathroom — otherwise, you might initiate some (friendly) laughter among the locals.

8. Prepare for a unique bathroom break

While we’re on the topic of bathrooms — do familiarize yourself with all the fancy buttons and control features. Japan is known for having futuristic toilets, and you might find yourself in a funny situation if you have no idea what you’re doing.

There are buttons for small or large flushes, a bidet, a dryer, and an automatic lid opener. While these are often marked in English, you may have to use an app to decipher the pictures and kanji characters if that’s not the case. That said, these icons should be reasonably self-explanatory, but Google’s your best friend when in doubt.

9. Try different foods

The food is a real highlight of Japan, so make sure to sample plenty of different dishes. Many restaurants specialize in just one type of meal and do so to perfection. The excellent quality of ‘fast food’ from convenience stores also makes a great alternative if you are on a budget.

10. A quick guide to Japanese tipping culture

Tipping is not required in Japan and can sometimes be considered rude. A sincere thanks is the best way to demonstrate that you are happy with the service. Tips may actually cause confusion and embarrassment.

It’s socially acceptable to tip your Japanese tour guide at the end of a tour, but remember to tip in Yen to avoid currency exchange fees. Other instances where one could tip include when you’re having a private dinner with a geisha or if you’ve used the services of a private interpreter.

Here’s how to tip in Japan:

• Put your tip in an envelope.
• Hand the envelope to them using both hands.
• Wrap the tip in a clean sheet of paper if you don’t have an envelope.

11. Learn some Japanese words and phrases

If you’re traveling to Japan for the first time, it might be a good idea to learn a few phrases and words. These could just be simple greetings, asking for directions, or saying thank-you to show respect and make the most of your experience.

Start by learning the following Japanese phrases:

• Konnichiwa (こんにちは) – Hello
• Arigatou gozaimasu (ありがとうございます) – Thank you
• Itadakimasu (いただきます) – An expression of gratitude for the meal you’re about to eat
• __ wa doko desu ka? (__はどこですか) – Where is __?
• __ o kudasai (__をください) – I would like __, please
• Sumimasen (すみません) – Excuse me
• Ima nanji desu ka? (今何時ですか) – What time is it now?
• Asa (朝) – Morning
• __ ni ikitai (__に行きたい) – I want to go to __
• Dono densha? (どの電車？) – Which train?
• Kippu (切符) – Ticket
• Tomete kudasai (止めてください) – Stop, please
• Kyou (今日) – Today
• Ashita (明日) – Tomorrow

12. Pack light

Try to pack as lightly as possible with a small, easily portable bag or suitcase, as this will make navigating Japan much easier. It’s also a lifesaver if you’re planning to travel quite a bit between different destinations.

It’s essential to know that while most trains have a small amount of space for luggage, getting your spot isn’t always guaranteed. On top of that, the stations are often crowded, making it a headache to navigate with large bags. If you can’t manage to pack light, then opt for Japan’s smart solution to this dilemma: make use of the numerous coin lockers conveniently placed all over the country, at train stations and shopping malls. You can store your belongings in these safe and affordable lockers while you’re sightseeing in the surrounding area.

13. What to pack for a Japan trip

What you pack for a trip to Japan depends on various factors, such as which time of year you’re going, how long you’re going for, and what you plan on doing there. However, here’s a general list of must-haves when traveling to Japan:

• A local sim card or pocket Wi-Fi: This way, you can stay in touch with friends and family and never feel too disconnected.
• A daypack or tote bag to keep all your essentials, such as keys and wallets, on you while hiking or touring.
• Waterproof jackets: Japan generally receives a lot of rain annually, but especially during summer. So, prepare for unexpected showers with convenient and packable gear.
• A travel adapter: Japan uses the type A electrical outlet, and bringing along a universal adapter if you’re traveling from Canada or the United States can come in handy.
• Layered clothing: Pack lots of layers like long-sleeve shirts, light sweaters, and a medium-weight jacket to adapt to the varying weather conditions from day to night.
• Comfortable walking shoes: You’ll be doing plenty of sightseeing, and uncomfortable shoes or sneakers can ruin your time spent exploring.
• Thick socks: These will help with preventing blisters while wandering on foot.

14. Venture off the beaten path

Leave the big cities behind to explore some of the more off-the-beaten-path destinations. While you should definitely experience Tokyo, Kyoto, and Osaka, it’s important to see the lesser-known shades of Japan. Places like Hokkaido or the peaceful villages of Shikoku will showcase another facet of authentic Japanese culture. Then, exploring Okinawa’s tranquil islands allows you to escape and unwind amidst landscapes you might not expect to find in Japan.

Tips for planning a trip to Japan: FAQs

Have more questions about visiting Japan? Check out these answers to popular questions asked about Japan.

Where to go in Japan for your first visit?

You’ll absolutely want to visit either Tokyo, Kyoto, or Osaka for your first time in Japan. In fact, try visiting all three if you have the time! These stunning cities offer insight into a vibrant Japanese culture, blending modern and traditional sights, from ancient architecture to an epic food scene.

How long should you plan a trip to Japan?

Given the countless array of places to explore and activities to experience, ideally, you’d want to stay in Japan for at least two weeks if you’re a first-time visitor. Discount your arrival and departure days from your sightseeing itinerary: these won’t count due to time differences and jet lag.

By giving yourself plenty of time, you’ll get to spend a while in popular cities such as Tokyo or Kyoto, then venture off the beaten path to lesser-known gems like Takamatsu, Naoshima Island and the Iya Valley – all while taking things slowly and not burning out along the way.

What are the requirements to enter Japan?

To enter Japan, you’ll need a valid passport with at least six months’ validity remaining, a return ticket, a visa (depending on your nationality), plus fingerprint scans and an identity photo upon arrival. Be sure to use the Visit Japan Web online platform to pre-register your immigration and customs details for a smoother arrival experience.

What vaccinations do you need for Japan?

Generally, visitors do not require any special vaccinations. However, the United States Centers for Disease Control and Prevention advises that visitors to Japan should have all their routine immunizations up to date. These include measles-mumps-rubella (MMR), diphtheria-tetanus-pertussis, varicella (chickenpox), and polio vaccines. If you have any doubts or concerns, consult with your doctor or medical professional before traveling.

Can you drink tap water in Japan?

Tap water is safe to drink throughout Japan, including water found in parks, gardens, and public bathrooms. The country prides itself on providing high-quality, drinkable water, so you won’t have to worry about this.

Is $5,000 enough for a trip to Japan?

Absolutely! $5,000 USD should be more than enough for one person on a comfortable two-week trip. However, this implies that you’ve booked economy airfare from the USA and budget-friendly to mid-range hotels in advance. If you don’t reserve these tickets in advance, you’ll likely pay a bit more. Expect to spend far more if you opt for luxury hotels, private tours, and fine-dining restaurants.

Make it happen

Prepare to be fascinated at every turn as you travel to Japan and explore the meandering streets of this incredible country. Head to our destination page for more information, or send an inquiry to our lovely local experts – they can bring your dream trip to life!