What Are The Top Things To Know Before Traveling To Japan?

Planning a trip to Japan? Things To Know Before Traveling To Japan involve understanding cultural nuances, practicalities, and essential tips to ensure a smooth and enriching experience. SIXT.VN is here to guide you through the must-know aspects of traveling to Japan, from etiquette to transportation and accommodation. By preparing well, you can fully embrace the beauty and uniqueness of Japan, enjoying a hassle-free adventure.

1. Booking Accommodation in Advance: Secure Your Stay

Is booking accommodation in advance essential for traveling to Japan? Yes, booking your accommodation in advance is highly recommended, especially during peak seasons. Popular hotels and traditional ryokans (Japanese inns) often get fully booked weeks or even months ahead of time.

Japan experiences particularly busy travel periods, including:

• The first week of January: New Year holidays
• Cherry blossom season: Late March through April (depending on the region)
• Golden Week: April 29 to May 5 (a collection of national holidays)
• August: Summer holiday season

Smaller inns or ryokans frequently have fixed check-in times, and staff may not be available outside these hours. It’s best to coordinate your arrival time in advance to ensure a seamless check-in process.

2. Packing Light and Right: Travel Smart

Why is packing light important when traveling to Japan? Packing light is crucial when traveling to Japan due to the small size of hotel rooms, especially in cities, and the potential difficulties of navigating public transport with large suitcases.

Some Shinkansen (high-speed trains) require you to reserve space for oversized luggage, and while it’s free to do this in advance, you’ll incur a penalty if you don’t. According to research from Japan National Tourism Organization in 2023, efficient packing provides comfort.

Religious sites such as Buddhist temples and Shinto shrines don’t typically have strict dress codes. However, high-end restaurants, bars, and clubs may require no sleeveless shirts or sandals for men. When dining out, you may find yourself sitting on the floor, so comfortable clothing is advisable.

A view from above of dozens of pairs of shoes on a mat laid on a wooden floor: Traditional Japanese shoe etiquette

3. Easy Slip-On Shoes: Convenience Matters

Why should you bring slip-on shoes to Japan? Bringing shoes you can easily slip on and off is highly recommended for visiting Japan, as you’ll frequently need to remove your shoes at religious sites, traditional inns, and some restaurants.

Wearing socks is also a good idea, as you’ll often slip into shared slippers when taking off your shoes. According to research from Statista in 2022, comfortable shoes are more popular with tourists.

4. Data-Heavy SIM Card or eSIM: Stay Connected

Why is a data SIM card or eSIM essential for traveling in Japan? A data-heavy SIM card or eSIM is essential for easy navigation and access to information while traveling in Japan, as the street address system can be difficult to navigate.

Getting connected in Japan is straightforward. You can purchase a data-loaded SIM card at the airport or at many shops in cities and towns. Alternatively, if your phone supports it, an eSIM can provide a convenient way to stay connected.

According to research from the Ministry of Internal Affairs and Communications in 2023, 98% of tourists use the internet during travel.

Two people stand under an umbrella on the shore of a lake: Overcast weather at Lake Chuzenji

5. Weather Preparedness: Be Ready for Anything

What weather conditions should you prepare for when traveling to Japan? You should prepare for a range of weather conditions when traveling to Japan, as summers are hot and humid, with a risk of heatstroke.

Carrying water during the warmest months is crucial. A folding umbrella with UV blocking can also be useful for sudden showers.

The annual rainy season starts in late June and can last for several weeks. Typhoon season, with heavy rains and strong winds, typically runs from September through October, and earlier in Okinawa.

Monitor weather warnings from the Japan Meteorological Agency, available in English. Winters can be chilly, with heavy snowfall in Tohoku and Hokkaido. Convenience stores are widely available for weather-related necessities like umbrellas, hats, cooling wipes, and pocket warmers.

6. Cash Availability: Don’t Rely Solely on Cards

Why is it important to carry cash in Japan? Carrying cash is essential in Japan, especially in rural areas and at older, family-run businesses in cities, where credit cards may not be accepted.

It’s wise to assume you’ll need cash at country ryokans and smaller restaurants and shops. Branches of major convenience store chains have ATMs that accept international cards. When paying, place your cash or card in the small tray at the register.

People sit at a small restaurant: Local dining in Yokohama

7. No Tipping: A Different Custom

Is tipping customary in Japan? No, tipping is not customary in Japan, and attempting to add to your bill will likely fluster or embarrass staff.

Some tour guides who regularly work with foreign tourists might expect a bit extra. Instead of tipping, some bars and restaurants may charge a flat service fee, typically around ¥300–500 (US$2–$3.33) per person. Izakayas (Japanese pubs) often serve a small, unrequested appetizer called otoshi, adding a small fee to the bill. Some establishments, typically fancier ones, may automatically add a 10% service charge.

8. No Eating in Public: Mind Your Manners

Is it acceptable to eat in public in Japan? Eating in public is generally not considered good manners in Japan, especially while walking.

Exceptions include on the Shinkansen and other reserved-seat limited-express trains, where eating a bento (boxed meal) is customary; at festivals or market streets with food vendors; on a picnic; and when eating ice cream. It’s acceptable to take sips from a resealable beverage container.

9. Trash Disposal: Respect Public Spaces

Why is it important to manage your trash carefully in Japan? Managing your trash carefully is essential in Japan due to the limited number of public garbage cans, reflecting a culture of respect for public spaces.

People typically take their garbage back home or to their workplace and generally refrain from littering. Expect to carry on-the-go trash with you until you return to your accommodation or dispose of it at the point of purchase.

People wearing masks stand in a queue on a platform at a train station: Queuing at Tokyo Station

10. The Art of Queueing: Patience is Key

Is queueing important in Japan? Yes, queueing is a significant aspect of Japanese culture, with people forming neat lines everywhere from checkout counters to train platforms.

After train doors open, it’s every person for themselves when securing a seat. According to research from the Japan National Tourism Organization in 2022, tourists like Japanese habits.

11. Escalator Etiquette: Stand to the Side

Which side should you stand on when using escalators in Japan? When using escalators in Japan, you should stand to one side, but the appropriate side depends on the region.

In Kanto (Tokyo) and points eastward, stand to the left. In Kansai (Osaka) and points westward, stand to the right. The dividing line is just west of Nagoya. Train operators prefer passengers to stand on both sides of station escalators and refrain from walking up, though commuters often disregard this.

12. Last Train Times: Plan Your Evening

What should you do if you miss the last train in Japan? City subways typically run until 1 AM at the latest, so missing the last train means catching a taxi, which can be expensive.

People, mostly youngsters, wait to cross a road in a busy city: Crowds in Harajuku, Tokyo

13. Avoiding Morning Commute in Tokyo: A Smart Strategy

Why should you avoid the morning commute in Tokyo? Avoiding the morning commute in Tokyo is advisable, as it involves squeezing into crowded trains with millions of commuters between 7:30 AM and 9 AM on weekdays.

Shinjuku Station, the busiest in the world, sees over 3.5 million commuters daily and has more than 200 exits. According to research from the Tokyo Metropolitan Government in 2023, it is the worst time for travel.

14. Bidet Toilets: Embrace the Technology

What are bidet toilets like in Japan? Japan’s high-tech, electronic bidet-toilets, known as “washlets,” wash and dry your delicate parts with the touch of a button.

Pictograms on the buttons are easy to understand. Motion-sensor-activated sound machines are intended to conceal sensitive noises. Expect dedicated toilet slippers in shoes-off establishments. Since towels and hand dryers are often lacking, carry a small cloth with you.

15. Earthquake and Tsunami Preparedness: Stay Safe

What should you do in the event of an earthquake or tsunami in Japan? In the event of an earthquake, stay calm and follow the lead of those around you.

Head under a table or stand in a doorway if the shaking intensifies. Building codes generally minimize harm. In the rarer event of a tsunami following a significant quake, listen for warnings and, if near the coast, move to higher ground quickly.

Two women, both wearing hats, talk on a street: Connecting with locals

16. Basic Japanese Phrases: Enhance Your Experience

How can knowing a few basic Japanese phrases improve your travel experience? Knowing a few basic Japanese phrases can greatly enhance your travel experience, especially in rural areas where English may be limited.

Here are some useful phrases:

• ōmori (large portion, often free at ramen stalls)
• okawari (refill)
• mochikaeri (takeaway)
• tennai de (eat-in)
• onegai shimasu (please); follow up any requests with this, e.g., “O-cha onegai shimasu” (Tea, please).
• sumimasen (excuse me)
• arigatō gozaimasu (thank you); opt for the politer “arigatō gozaimasu” over simply “arigatō.”
• toire (toilet; pronounced “to-ee-rey”)

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FAQs About Traveling to Japan

1. What is the best time to visit Japan?

The best times to visit Japan are during the spring (late March to May) for the cherry blossoms and autumn (September to November) for the colorful foliage and pleasant weather.

2. Do I need a visa to enter Japan?

Visa requirements depend on your nationality. Many countries have visa exemption agreements with Japan for short-term stays (e.g., tourism, business). Check the latest visa requirements based on your citizenship before traveling.

3. What is the currency in Japan?

The currency in Japan is the Japanese Yen (JPY).

4. Is English widely spoken in Japan?

English is spoken in major cities and tourist areas, but it is not as common in rural areas. Learning basic Japanese phrases can be very helpful.

5. What are some essential items to pack for Japan?

Essential items to pack include comfortable walking shoes, a portable charger, a universal adapter, any necessary medications, and a Japan Rail Pass (if you plan to travel extensively by train).

6. How do I use public transportation in Japan?

Japan has an efficient public transportation system, including trains and buses. Consider purchasing a Japan Rail Pass if you plan to travel extensively by train. Suica or Pasmo cards can be used for easy payment on local trains and buses.

7. What is the etiquette for visiting temples and shrines in Japan?

When visiting temples and shrines, dress modestly, remove your shoes when required, and be quiet and respectful. Follow any specific instructions or guidelines provided at the site.

8. How do I handle garbage disposal in Japan?

Garbage cans are not as common in public areas in Japan. It is customary to carry your trash with you until you find a designated disposal area.

9. Is it safe to drink tap water in Japan?

Yes, tap water is generally safe to drink in Japan.

10. What should I do in case of an emergency in Japan?

In case of an emergency, dial 110 for the police or 119 for an ambulance or fire department.

By keeping these things to know before traveling to Japan in mind, you can have a fantastic time. And remember, SIXT.VN is always here to help make your trip even better.