Travel Tips

Visiting Temples & Shrines
Tip: Show respect by bowing before entering, and make sure to wash your hands and mouth at the purification fountain. Keep quiet, and avoid taking photos where it is prohibited.

Shoe Etiquette
Tip: In Japan, it’s customary to remove your shoes when entering homes, certain temples, and traditional inns. Always make sure to place them neatly with the toes facing the door as a sign of respect.

Public Noise Awareness
Tip: In Japan, maintaining a low volume during conversations, especially in public spaces like trains and buses, is considered polite. It's important to be mindful of your surroundings and keep noise levels down to respect local customs.

No Tipping Culture
Tip: Tipping is not customary in Japan and may even be considered rude. Excellent service is expected, and prices reflect this. Instead of tipping, express your gratitude verbally with a polite "thank you" or "arigatou."

Restroom Facilities
Tip: Public restrooms are generally clean and well-maintained. Some may not have soap or hand dryers, so carrying a small towel or hand sanitizer is advisable.

Street Food Etiquette
Tip: Street food is delicious, but it's not common to walk and eat at the same time in Japan. Instead, eat your food at the vendor's stall or a designated eating area

Wi-Fi & Internet
Tip: Free Wi-Fi is available in many public places and convenience stores, but it can be spotty in some areas. Consider renting a pocket Wi-Fi device for reliable internet access throughout your trip.

Language Barriers
Tip: English is not widely spoken in Japan, so learning a few basic Japanese phrases can go a long way. A translation app can also be helpful for communicating with locals.

Dress Respectfully
Tip: Show respect by bowing before entering, and make sure to wash your hands and mouth at the purification fountain. Keep quiet, and avoid taking photos where it is prohibited.

​Public Trash Cans
Tip: Japan is a conservative country, so dress modestly, especially when visiting temples and shrines. Avoid revealing clothing, and always have a pair of socks handy for visiting temples where shoes are not allowed.

​Money (Cash vs. Cards)
Tip: While credit cards are increasingly accepted, Japan is still very much a cash-based society. Carry enough yen for smaller establishments and transportation. ATMs that accept foreign cards can usually be found at convenience stores like 7-Eleven.

​Convenience Stores
Tip: Japanese convenience stores, or "konbini," are incredibly handy for buying snacks, drinks, and even essentials like toiletries or travel items. They often have ATMs, and many are open 24/7.

Vending Machines
Tip: Japan has vending machines everywhere, offering drinks, snacks, and even hot meals. They are convenient, and the prices are usually reasonable. Carry small change as not all machines accept cards.

Japanese ATMs
Tip: ATMs are widely available, especially in convenience stores. Most machines offer English instructions, but not all accept foreign cards. The best places to withdraw cash with an international card are 7-Eleven, FamilyMart, or post office ATMs.

Train & Subway Etiquette
Tip: Always queue up on the platform, let passengers exit before boarding, and keep your voice down while on the train. Avoid eating, talking on the phone, or making noise to respect others' space.

Buses & Public Transport
Tip: On buses, pay when you exit, and it’s customary to exit from the rear. Keep conversations quiet and offer your seat to elderly passengers or those with disabilities.

Japan’s Taxi System
Tip: Japanese taxis are clean and safe, with drivers who usually don’t expect tips. The rear doors open automatically, so wait for the driver to open and close the door for you.

Bicycle Rentals
Tip: Renting a bicycle is a great way to explore cities. Be sure to ride on the left side of the road, and park only in designated areas to avoid fines.

Emergency Services & Medical Care
Tip: Japan has a highly efficient emergency service system. Dial 110 for police and 119 for ambulance services. It’s wise to carry your travel insurance details and some basic Japanese medical phrases or a translation app.
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Buy a Japan Rail Pass
Tip: If you plan to travel extensively by train, consider purchasing a Japan Rail (JR) Pass before arriving. It offers unlimited travel on JR trains, including the Shinkansen, for a set period and can save you a lot of money.
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Use Suica or Pasmo Cards
Tip: These rechargeable smart cards are convenient for paying fares on trains, buses, and even at vending machines and convenience stores. You can purchase and top them up at train stations.
 
Bring Comfortable Walking Shoes
Tip: Japan’s cities are best explored on foot, so make sure to bring comfortable shoes. Many tourist spots, such as temples and gardens, require a lot of walking.

Be Mindful of Onsen Etiquette
Tip: When visiting an onsen, make sure to wash thoroughly before entering the communal bath. Also, remember that tattoos are often frowned upon in these baths, so check the rules beforehand.

Carry a Handkerchief or Towel
Tip: Public restrooms in Japan often don’t have hand dryers or paper towels. Carrying a small towel or handkerchief can be handy for drying your hands.

Learn Basic Japanese Phrases
Tip: While many Japanese people understand some English, learning basic phrases like “hello,” “thank you,” and “excuse me” can go a long way in showing respect and making your trip smoother.

Use a Pocket Wi-Fi or SIM Card
Tip: Having access to the internet while traveling is crucial for navigation and communication. Renting a pocket Wi-Fi or getting a local SIM card ensures you stay connected.

Respect Personal Space
Tip: In crowded places like trains, it’s important to respect personal space. Avoid standing too close to others or making physical contact unless necessary.

Avoid Public Displays of Affection
Tip: Public displays of affection, like kissing or hugging, are not common in Japan and can make others uncomfortable. Keep it discreet when in public spaces.

Be Punctual
Tip: Japanese culture places a high value on punctuality. Whether you’re meeting someone or catching a train, make sure to be on time.

Respect Restaurant Etiquette
Tip: When eating out, it’s customary to wait to be seated and avoid speaking loudly. Also, don’t pour soy sauce directly on rice; instead, dip your sushi lightly into the soy sauce.

Use Luggage Forwarding Services
Tip: If you have large luggage, consider using the Takkyubin (luggage forwarding) service to send your bags directly to your next hotel, allowing you to travel light.

Be Aware of Seasonal Weather
Tip: Japan’s weather varies greatly by season, so pack accordingly. Bring an umbrella during the rainy season, and wear layers in the winter.

Respect Smoking Areas
Tip: Smoking is restricted to designated areas in Japan. Look for marked smoking zones and avoid smoking in public places to respect local customs.

Carry Cash for Rural Areas
Tip: In rural areas, cash is still king. Make sure to have enough yen on hand, as card acceptance may be limited.

Observe Elevator Etiquette
Tip: In elevators, it’s polite to let others exit first and avoid pressing buttons that have already been selected. The person nearest the control panel typically operates the buttons.

Be Aware of Local Holidays
Tip: Japan has several national holidays where businesses may close, and tourist spots become crowded. Plan your visit accordingly.​

Understand Japanese Work Culture
Tip: If interacting with Japanese professionals, it’s important to understand the formalities of Japanese work culture, including exchanging business cards with both hands and bowing respectfully.