Japan traveling tips

Whether you're a first-time visitor or a seasoned traveler, there are a few things you should know to make your trip smoother and more fun. From local customs to getting around on public transport, these Japan traveling tips will help you navigate the ins and outs of this intriguing country.

Buy a Japan Rail Pass

At first glance, the Japan Rail Pass might seem expensive, but it's truly worth every yen. This pass allows you to save a significant amount of money, especially if you plan on traveling extensively using the Shinkansen, or bullet train. 

The pass is available for purchase online, but here's the crucial part: you must buy it before you leave for Japan. After your purchase, you'll receive a voucher in the mail. This voucher will come with detailed instructions on how to exchange it for the actual pass once you've arrived.

There are two types: the Green Pass and the Ordinary Pass. If you're travelling with a big group, the Green Pass (first-class) might be worth spending extra money on because the Green Cars are generally less crowded and more comfortable.

Sort out your itinerary

One of the most important steps in planning your trip to Japan is sorting out your itinerary well in advance. Booking your accommodations early — ideally more than six months ahead — can save you a lot of money. 

The same goes for restaurant reservations, especially at popular spots. Crowds are a fact of life in Japanese cities especially, and some restaurants require reservations weeks or even months in advance.

Major museums and attractions are also worth buying a ticket ahead of time. If you don’t, you might find impossibly long lines when you arrive.

If you want help creating your perfect itinerary, see our tailor-made trip service. Our trips are designed by local travel experts and are completely customizable. See our Japanese trip ideas for inspiration.

... but leave space for free time

You won’t want to overload your itinerary either. Japan is a place to be savored, not rushed. Jet lag can hit hard (Japan is 9 hours ahead of GMT and 14-17 hours ahead of various US time zones), so leave some free time in your schedule. 

This way, you have time to stroll through serene gardens, take a spontaneous detour into a charming side street, or spend extra time in a café people-watching. 

Sort out your budget (you'll need it in Japan)

Japan is known for being pricey, so it's essential to have a realistic budget. But don't worry — there are options for every budget. Convenience stores, or "konbini," are great for quick, affordable snacks and meals, and you'll be amazed at the quality and variety they offer. 

Accommodations range from luxury hotels to budget-friendly capsule hotels. Ryokans (traditional Japanese inns) offer a unique cultural experience and can vary in price. 

And while high-end dining can be expensive, you can find plenty of budget-friendly options like ramen shops, conveyor belt sushi, and izakayas (casual pubs). Street food, especially in places like Osaka's Dotonbori or Tokyo's Tsukiji Outer Market, is also a delicious and affordable way to experience local cuisine.

Don't just go for the cities

Tokyo, Osaka, and Kyoto are amazing, but don't miss out on Japan's countryside. Two-thirds of Japan is covered in forests. Staying in the cities means you might miss the charming villages, rice terraces and shrines.

Japan also boasts fantastic beaches, such as those in Okinawa, where you can enjoy crystal-clear waters and even go scuba diving with hammerhead sharks.

If you're visiting in the winter, the Japanese Alps offer some of the best skiing and are absolutely gorgeous. 

Just remember, life in the countryside moves slower, and many places close early (around 5:30 PM).

Learn about Japanese culture and etiquette

For instance, tipping is not customary in Japan and can even be considered disrespectful. 

When using escalators, stand on the left side to allow people in a hurry to pass on the right (except in Osaka, where it’s the opposite). 

It's also considered impolite to eat or smoke while walking; instead, find designated smoking areas and places to sit and eat. Public transport is generally very quiet, even when crowded. Speaking loudly or talking on the phone is frowned upon, so try to keep noise to a minimum.

When making purchases, you will notice that money is not handed directly to the cashier. Instead, you’ll want to place your cash on a small tray provided at the counter in order to be polite.

Photography etiquette varies; while photos are often allowed in Shinto shrines, many Buddhist temples prohibit them. 

Learn some Japanese words

Although you can navigate Japan without knowing Japanese, learning a few basic phrases can go a long way. Most menus and signs include English, and many Japanese people speak some English. Nevertheless, making the effort to learn and use some Japanese words is appreciated and can make interactions smoother.

 Words like "arigatou" (thank you), "sumimasen" (excuse me/sorry), and "onegai shimasu" (please) are appreciated. The VoiceTra app can help with translations for more complex conversations.

Pack light

Pack light for your trip to Japan, leaving space for souvenirs like ceramics, traditional clothing, and local snacks. Japan has so many great shopping opportunities, and you won't want to miss out on bringing home some special mementos.

Hotels usually have laundry facilities, and laundromats are common. Plus, public transport has limited space for large bags.

 Moreover, public transport doesn't have much space for large bags. If you have substantial luggage, consider using luggage forwarding services available at most convenience stores and hotels, which can transfer your bags to your next hotel for you. This service is called "takkyubin" and is incredibly convenient.

... but come prepared for the weather

Japan's weather is highly variable and can change drastically from one region to another. Spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November) are often considered the best times to visit Japan. During spring, you can experience the cherry blossom season, which typically peaks from late March to early April. Autumn is great for it’s pleasant temperatures and stunning fall foliage.

Summer (June to August) in Japan can be hot and humid, especially in cities like Tokyo and Osaka. If you plan to visit during this season, be prepared for high temperatures and occasional typhoons.

Winter (December to February) brings cold temperatures and heavy snowfall to areas like Hokkaido and the Japanese Alps.

Bring some cash 

Japan is still largely a cash-based society. Smaller shops and public transport might not accept credit cards, and splitting bills can be tricky due to language barriers. 

Your best bet is to exchange your money at your local bank before your trip to get a better exchange rate than at the airport. Since yen coins go up to ¥500, bring a coin purse to keep your money organized.

While ATMs can be scarce, most 7-Eleven stores have machines that accept international cards, making them a reliable option for withdrawing cash.

Carry your trash

Japan is renowned for its cleanliness, and this is partly because public trash cans are rare. You're expected to carry your trash with you and dispose of it at home or in designated areas, where you'll need to separate it for recycling. It’s also polite to wash items before throwing them away to keep public spaces clean.

If you're really struggling to find a trash can, convenience stores like 7-Eleven usually have one, but use them sparingly and respectfully.

Your SIM card might not work in Japan

Japan’s mobile network can be tricky for foreign visitors. Many international SIM cards don’t work, so consider renting a Pocket WiFi device. 

You can reserve one online before your trip and pick it up at the airport. These devices provide reliable internet access wherever you go and can connect multiple devices. This can be super helpful when you are navigating Tokyo’s city streets, for example.

Hire a guide

To really see Japan, consider hiring a guide. They can offer local insights, historical context, and cultural explanations that you might miss on your own. 

Guided tours can be especially helpful in places like Kyoto, where understanding the significance of temples, shrines, and historical sites enhances the experience. Some guides also offer themed tours, such as food tours, anime and manga tours, or nature hikes.

Watch out for expensive taxi rides

Taxis in Japan are clean and efficient but can be expensive, especially at night. Public transportation is much more economical. 

Apps like Hyperdia and Google Maps are great for navigating Japan’s transit system, providing detailed routes and train schedules. Japan's trains are known for their punctuality and efficiency, making them a reliable way to get around. 

Want more Japan traveling tips? 

Planning a trip can take hours of research — why not skip the hassle and instead leave the details to us? Our tailor made trips are designed by local travel experts and are completely customizable to your preferences. We take care of the booking, and you are left to just enjoy your trip, with 24/7 support. See our existing trips for inspiration.