IMPORTANT: Things To Know BEFORE Going To Japan

Before you head off on your once in a lifetime Japan adventure, or even before you HIT book and lock in your Japan itinerary, it’s essential to be well-prepared to make the most of your journey. These practical and handy tips will ensure your trip is as seamless and epic as possible. So read below to uncover all the things to know BEFORE going to Japan!

From cultural nuances, language challenges and local customs to practical tips for navigating transportation and dining, there are essential details that can TRULY enhance your trip across all of Japan.

Language

Overall Language Barrier

One of the first questions, I get asked when a friend is travelling to Japan and looking for advice is… “What is the language barrier like”. Truth is, we really didn’t find it a challenge AT ALL. In most situations there is English, and when there isn’t, there are apps and google translate to get you through.

Furthermore, locals are always so willing to help you.

Common Phrases

Before going to Japan you can try to learn few common phrases, as it is always nice to greet, thank etc in their local language.

Phrases to know before going to Japan:

• Good Morning = Ohayogozaimasu (oh-hai-oh-goz-eye-i-maas)
• Good Afternoon = Konnichiwa (kon-nit-chee-wha)
• Good Evening = Konbanwa (kon-bun-wha)
• Thank You = Arigato (ah-rhi-ga-toe) or Arigatogozaimashita (ah-rhi-ga-toe-goz-eye-i-mash-ta)
• Yes = Hai (ha-eye)
• Excuse me, sorry = Asumi masen (ah-sue-mi-maa-sen)
• Do you speak English = Eigo o hanasemasu ka (aye-go-hanna-se-mas-ka)

Translation Apps:

Use Google Translate – Either use the straight translation feature or add an image and translate that.

Take a Photo and Translate on your Iphone: If you get stuck with a menu or something in Japanese, take a photo, highlight the words you need translated and then select translate on your image.

Learn Japanese before you go: You can learn Japanese with an App before you go like Duolingo

Navigating around Japan

We use 2 methods to navigate around Japan, and to plan how to get from one point to another.

1. The first is Google Maps or Apple Maps. You simply put in your desired destination from your current location, and select train, or walk and it will map out the best route, and include, times, prices, train lines, and walking directions.
2. The second is a website or APP, called Roam2Rio, and it works the same as Google Maps or Apple Maps but better with even more information, and also looks at flights, taxi prices, ferries etc.

Itinerary for First Time Visitors

The below Itinerary will help you plan your trip to Japan, including which cities to visit. It is especially useful to first timers – 10 Day Japan Itinerary for FIRST TIMERS!

Hotels are just different in Japan – Here’s what you need to know!

• Expect ALL the amenities. Not just shampoo and conditioner, EXPECT IT ALL, like razors, facemasks, grooming kits, in Japan they go above and beyond with their amenities.
• MOST hotels will have slippers and pyjamas.
• ALMOST EVERY hotel will have a bidet toilet.
• Expect rooms with modern technologies – they are very common.
• MOST hotels won’t let you check in until late 3pm.
• FREE Beer and sake – Yes there are quite a few hotels you’ll find that offer FREE BEER!

Etiquette and Manners

People operate very EFFICIENTLY in Japan and following their rules and practices is one of the most important things to know before going to Japan.

Escalators & Lines

• Ride escalators in a single file so others can walk past, essentially there is a slow lane and a fast lane.
• Always follow the direction of traffic when walking, there will be markings on the ground to know which direction.

Trains

• Do no answer your phone on the Train.
• Do not speak loudly on the Train.
• Do not eat on the Train (Except for long Shinkansen rides, where this is acceptable).
• Give your seat up for elderly, disabled or pregnant women or those with small children.

General Manners & Etiquette

• Always say thank you and be polite.
• Take your shoes off to go inside.
• Do not eat while walking.

Transport – (The important things to know before going to Japan)

Where to get a Suica or Pasmo Card:

First thing you’re going to need is a Suica or Pasmo card IC Transit Card. These are used on Trains, Buses, some ferries, as well as convenience stores and some retailers. Unfortunately, they are a little more difficult to get at the moment, due to a global shortage of chips, so read my guide of where you can pick up a Suica or Pasmo Card in 2024

Japan’s Rail Network and the different Pass options

Next you will need to decide if you are going to pay as you go for your train travel, or get a Train pass like the JR Pass, Tokyo Metro Pass or the Kansai Rail Pass. Our blog below, will help you to work out which pass will be best for your travels.

With the recent price rises, getting a JR Rail Pass may not be your best solution. If you plan on staying in Tokyo or Osaka / Kyoto and not doing longer day trips out of the city or Shinkansen trips, then you may just want Metro or Regional Pass and a Suica card to get around. You can use the calculator and read our guide here.

Luggage Delivery

Gosh, I really wish I knew this before going to Japan!! No dragging your suitcase on the train, up the subway stairs and km’s to your hotel! These services are a LIFESAVER! LuggAgent

Trains finish at around midnight

I thought Tokyo would be the city that never sleeps, BUT this is NOT the case. If you enjoy a night out, make sure you stay somewhere central to the nightlife or you will be caught out catching an expensive taxi home. I suggest staying in Shibuya or Shinjuku (my favorite and central to all the action, suggestions are here: Where to stay in Tokyo for the first time)

Taxis are expensive

Taxi’s in Japan are, in general, expensive. Get used to the trains as you will SAVE yourself a lot of money by skipping the taxis.

Money

Carry Cash

Cash is still used throughout Japan, especially with small vendors and in rural areas. Although you will likely be able to pay by card in a lot of situations in the cities, it is important to ALWAYS carry some cash just in case.

Travel Card & ATM Guide

I STRONGLY suggest before you go to Japan you get a Wise card, they offer the best exchange rates, by far.

When withdrawing money from an ATM always choose the local currency, or the ATM will do the conversion and not your WISE card. This will ensure you get the best rate.

I honestly wish I had of known about this card sooner!

Discount Codes

Book your tours, shinkansen train tickets and transfers and get 10% off with Klook. CODE: TRAVELLIVNKLOOK

Booking in advance

• Alot of people don’t realize that they have to book many attractions well in advance, places like Universal Studios, Ghibili Museum, Shibuya Sky just to name a few, book out 4-6 weeks in advance. You can easily book all of your tours and entry tickets through Klook
• Hotels are similar, I would aim to book 3-9 months in advance, to get the best selection of hotels and room types.

Opening hours

• In Japan, many places won’t open until 10 or 11am, so it’s wise to factor this into your itinerary. However, shrines, parks, and similar attractions often open earlier, making them ideal for morning visits while you wait for other parts of the city to start their day. Planning your schedule to visit these early-opening spots can help you make the most of your time.
• Convenience stores (which are located on just about every corner) are open 24 hours a day, 365 days a year!

Packing

• I wish I had of known this before going to Japan…
• Pack as light as you can, as you will be carrying your suitcase with you through the city, up and down stairs in the subways and on the trains.
• Alternatively, you can use a luggage delivery service like: LuggAgent

Season

• Spring in Japan: (March to May) Spring in Japan is synonymous with cherry blossoms (sakura). The country transforms into a sea of pink and white blossoms as parks, gardens, and streets come alive with these delicate flowers.
• Summer in Japan: (June to August) Summer brings HOT temperatures and vibrant festivals known as matsuri. These festivals feature colorful parades fireworks, traditional dances, offering a lively glimpse into Japanese culture.
• Autumn in Japan: (September to November) Autumn paints Japan in hues of red, orange, and gold as the leaves change color. Known as koyo or momiji, this foliage attracts visitors to scenic spots like Kyoto’s Arashiyama and Nikko’s Toshogu Shrine.
• Winter in Japan: (December to February) Winter , when the snowfall turns landscapes into winter wonderlands. It’s the season for enjoying hot springs (onsen), skiing and snowboarding.

Things you’ll only find in Japan that are just normal

• You will find heated bidet toilets seats EVERYWHERE and all the toilets are so clean.
• There are vending machines everywhere, selling everything from drinks, snacks, ramen, even crickets and bugs😂

Tipping

Tipping is not expected in Japan.

E-Sim or Pocket Wifi?

Both are good options, however I like the convenience of an E-Sim. We usually use Airalo, they offer great packages, have good coverage and great rates.

Onsen’s (Things to know before going to Japan)

• Etiquette:
• In most Onsen’s you may be required to cover your tattoos. They may have covers for you to stick over.
• Wash thoroughly before entering the communal baths to maintain cleanliness and hygiene.
• It’s customary to be completely nude while bathing, so be respectful of others privacy and avoid bringing towels into the water.

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