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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.

Table of contents

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

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 – here

Easy 10 Day Japan Itinerary For FIRST TIMERS
Easy 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)

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

Japan’s Rail Network and the different Pass options

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.

Japan Is the JR Pass worth it in 2024? Alternatives to save you money
Japan Is the JR Pass worth it in 2024? Alternatives to save you money
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: click here)

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.

Where to get a Suica or Pasmo Card:

Read my guide of where you can pick up a Suica or Pasmo Card in 2024

Global Shortage of Suica or Pasmo Cards in Japan: How to get one in 2024
Global Shortage of Suica or Pasmo Cards in Japan: How to get one in 2024

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

You can also take a look at this blog, for more ways to save money on your trip to Japan: How to save money & travel on a BUDGET in Japan

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.

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

  • Etiquette:
  • In most Onsens 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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