The Land of the Rising Sun. A country full of quirks, culture and endless (sometimes random) pockets to explore. I love it there.
So to help you better plan your trip, I put together this list of the top things to know before going to Japan.
Because the perfect itinerary doesn’t mean much if you skip things like knowing when the busiest holidays are or the importance of basic etiquette.
This is everything you need to know before visiting my favourite Asian country, Japan.
11 Things to Know Before Going to Japan
1. A Little Etiquette Goes A Long Way
Japan is known for its politeness. Being respectful is just a way of life there.
I still remember the first time I saw shop employees walk their customers out, only to bow and wave in gratitude until the customer was completely out of sight.
This level of customer service is normal in Japan.
And as visitors, one of the best things we can do is offer some respect in kind. How? By learning a few key simple etiquette points.
Of all the Japan tips in this post, this is the most foundational:
- Don’t jaywalk – it’s rude and unsafe
- Avoid eating or talking on the phone on trains
- Wait to get on trains until passengers have first gotten off
- Offer your seat up to elderly, injured or pregnant passengers
- Take your shoes off in homes and at certain shops/restaurants
- In Tokyo, stand to the left on escalators – in Osaka, stand to the right
- Just use common sense and stay polite and respectful
2. Free Wifi Exists – But It’s Pretty Unreliable
I’ve tried hopping onto free public wifi while strolling around Shibuya and other busy areas, but it’s a terrible connection (and not the most secure either).
So if you’re planning a trip to Japan, consider getting a Japanese SIM card/eSIM. I’ve used Mobal before and they’re great, but they only work in Japan. So if you plan on traveling to more countries, Airolo is another great option.
Alternatively, adding an international plan to your existing phone plan is another option (I have a friend that does this and it works great for him).
But if ever find yourself in a wifi-less pinch, just look for a cafe like Starbucks or Tully’s (they’re everywhere in Tokyo). You can usually just stand outside to grab their signal.
3. Watch the Time for Last Trains
If you’re having a good time and enjoying a night out on the town, be sure to double check when your last train is. Because they don’t run all night (except sometimes for random holidays or special events).
Usually, the last train is around midnight on the weekends (in Tokyo), but you can check the Google Maps app for exact times and train schedules.
Worst case scenario, if you do miss your train, you can always take a taxi home. Just keep in mind that taxis in Japan are pretty pricey.
Alternatively, you could stay out and wait for the first train (usually around 5 AM). There are plenty of people out all night in busy areas like Shibuya. You can stroll around, grab konbini drinks and pop into karaoke, McDonalds or a late-night cafe.
Recommended: How to Get Around Japan By Train
4. Maybe Bring A Power Adapter
Japan doesn’t have three-pronged outlets. So if any of your electronics have this style plug, you may want to pick up a universal power adapter before you arrive.
A cheap one off Amazon with decent reviews is all you need. But if you do forget to bring a power adapter with you, don’t stress too hard either.
You can also buy a cheap converter at an electronics store in Japan (like Bic Camera).
5. Always Carry Some Cash On You
Most places in busy areas like Tokyo accept credit cards these days. But there are still plenty of shops and restaurants that remain cash only.
Also, many train ticket machines only take cash.
All this is to say that cash culture in Japan is still very much alive, especially as you move out of busier tourist areas.
I usually like to carry at least 10,000 yen on me when exploring the city or going out (you know, just in case my card doesn’t work or some other random cash-only situation).
But don’t stress too much about bringing a ton of cash with you on the plane either. There are plenty of international ATMs to use while in Japan.
I usually just go to any 711. While there is a small fee (from 711 and your bank), it’s super easy to take out more yen while abroad in Japan.
6. Tattoos Are Still Taboo (Sort Of)
You’ve probably heard about Japan’s rocky relationship with tattoos. They can become an issue for getting a job or entering certain public places, like onsen (hot springs).
But these situations are mostly for Japanese people – tourists aren’t necessarily “judged” the same way (since literally everyone has a tattoo).
That being said, there’s always a chance of getting denied entry to more boujee spots or onsen if you have a lot of tattoos.
While tattoo culture is slowly evolving (especially with younger generations), there’s still a general hesitation for ink in Japan. But if you’re obviously a tourist, you won’t necessarily feel this.
Recommended: Things To Do In Japan With Kids
7. Public Trash Cans Are Rare (So Plan Ahead)
One of the first things people notice about Japan is its cleanliness. Yet, when exploring the city, you also don’t see many public trash cans.
You’d think this would create a garbage issue, but given Japan’s culture of respect and collectivism, caring for their things and their environment is commonplace (*generally speaking).
So if there are limited trash bins, what do you do with all your garbage then?
Keep it with you.
I always have an extra plastic bag in my backpack to throw my random trash into (like drinks, paper bags, bento boxes, etc.). It’s just an extra small thing to remember before you head out to explore the city.
But if you’re really in a pinch for a bin, 711 usually has a trash can next to their coffee area – or look next to some vending machines (for bottle and can recycling).
Tip: At konbini stores like 711 or Family Mart, staff will always ask if you’d like a plastic bag. If you want one, say “Onegaishimasu” (own-na-guy-she-mahs); if you don’t want one, say “Daijobu” (die-joe-B).
8. “Kobinis” Are Your Best Friend
Is it strange that I look forward to those short konbini trips while in Japan? Maybe. But after you spend some time in Japan, you too will learn to love them!
Konbini (convenience stores) are ubiquitous in Japan and are usually open 24/7. They have lots of food, drinks and quick cheap (tasty) snacks. And if I’m being honest, the food is actually quite good.
It’s usually pretty fresh and perfect when you want a quick meal on the go.
There are three major konbini chains in Japan:
- 711
- Lawson
- Family Mart
All konbinis pretty much offer the same stuff. But here’s a fun challenge if you want to feel like a true local. Test the egg sandwiches (“tamago sando”) at each chain to find the best one.
Everyone has their own opinion, but one thing is certain: the tamago sandos at Japanese konbini are insanely delicious.
9. Avoid Japanese Holidays If You Can
Japan is seriously trending in the travel scene. So you’ll probably be dealing with crowds regardless of when you go (except maybe the winter shoulder season).
But if you’re traveling during a couple key Japanese holidays, then you’ll have a lot of extra chaos to deal with.
So if you can, avoid traveling to Japan during major holidays like:
- Golden Week (end of April, early May)
- Shōgatsu (New Years holiday)
- Obon (mid august)
There are also many 3-day weekends throughout the year in Japan. So it’s worth checking the Japanese calendar so you can plan ahead (i.e., avoid bullet train travel on those weekends).
If you find yourself traveling through Japan during these seasons, you’ll probably experience inflated prices, even more hectic crowds and difficulty with booking accommodations or reservations.
If you do need to travel during holidays like Golden Week, I’d recommend staying in the city (like Tokyo).
Many locals tend to head out of town during these extended breaks (since a lot of Tokyo residents are transplants), making bullet trains and resort areas potentially busier than Tokyo.
10. Watch Out for “No Photography” Areas
Japan is having a moment. And with this popularity comes problems of overtourism. To adapt, some new tourist etiquette has started to pop up.
As places like Kyoto battle with overtourism, new rules like photography restrictions in certain areas, capacity limitations and additional fees are becoming more common.
So this is just a friendly reminder to keep an eye out for extra signs about what’s allowed or not allowed and don’t be surprised if you get an extra reservation charge in certain areas.
Tip: Check out lesser-known spots around Japan. For example, Kawagoe in Saitama is like a mini Kyoto and has lots of cool vintage shops and restaurants to explore.
11. Learn Some Basic Japanese
Japan – especially Tokyo – is pretty English friendly. But many people still don’t speak English (or at least, don’t have a ton of confidence in using it).
So learning a few key phrases will go a long way if you need some extra help in making your travels way smoother.
Plus, you’ll probably impress a few of the locals, which is always nice validation!
Here are a few of the most common phrases you’ll hear (and potentially use) in Japan:
- Daijobu(?)
- Are you okay?
- I’m okay/fine.
- Sumimasen
- Excuse me (useful for getting off of a crowded train).
- Eigo o hanashimasu ka?
- Do you speak English?
- ___ wa doco desu ka?
- Where is (the) ___?
If you’re dealing with a more complex question or conversation, a translation app may be better suited. But even without anything, most Japanese people will at least make an effort to use some English (at least, in my experience).
So, do you feel ready for Japan now?
