tourist guide japan

15 things to know before going to Japan

Mar 31, 2024 • 7 min read

Be ready for a visit to Japan with these tips on health, safety and etiquette © pat138241 / Getty Images

Japan has a reputation as an etiquette-bound place that can be intimidating for first-time visitors.

The truth is, though, that the traditions here are no more formal or constricting than in many other destinations around the world. Moreover, most locals are more than willing to help out or give foreign travelers a pass for any perceived faux pas.

As with just about anything in life, expectation management is key. Put your mind at ease with our top tips for smooth traveling in Japan .

1. Book accommodation in advance (and arrive at the right time)

You can probably get a room at a basic business hotel without a reservation in a pinch, but why risk it? Top accommodations can book up weeks or even months in advance, so it's best to plan ahead.

Particularly busy travel periods include the first week of January, cherry blossom season (late March through April, depending on the destination), “Golden Week” (April 29 to May 5) and August.

You should also keep in mind that smaller inns or ryokan (traditional Japanese inns) often have fixed check-in times outside of which staff won’t be present, and rooms won’t be made up. Coordinate your arrival time in advance.

2. Pack light for a visit to Japan

Since hotel rooms in Japan tend to be small, especially in cities, there is little room for large suitcases – which can also be a pain to wrangle on public transport . Packing on the lighter side is always a good idea, but especially advisable for Japan.

Note that religious sites such as Buddhist temples and Shintō shrines don’t have dress codes. High-end restaurants, bars and clubs sometimes do, but that usually just means no sleeveless shirts or sandals on men.

Keep in mind that you might find yourself sitting on the floor when dining out, which can be uncomfortable in short (or tight) clothing.

3. Buy a data-heavy SIM card at the airport

Finding your way around in Japan can be tricky. The address system is notoriously difficult to navigate – even for locals – so smartphones with navigation apps have been a real boon for travelers.

This means you're likely to be using a substantial amount of data getting from place to place, so buy a data-heavy SIM card at the airport upon arrival. 

Ready to go to Japan? Here are 24 of the best things to do when you get there

4. Bring shoes you can easily slip on and off

Comfortable walking shoes are a must. You’ll also likely have to take your shoes off frequently at religious sites, traditional inns and some restaurants – you’ll thank yourself later if you pack shoes that are easy to slip on and off.

Since you’ll be slipping into a pair of communal slippers when you take your own shoes off, many visitors prefer to wear socks.

5. Learn how to use a bidet toilet

Called “washlets,” Japan’s high-tech, electronic bidet toilets will wash and dry your delicate parts with the touch of a button. (Don’t worry about any language barrier; the pictograms on the buttons are easy to understand).

Other toilet customs in Japan might throw you for a loop. Motion-sensor-activated sound machines are intended to conceal, um, sensitive noises. Also expect dedicated toilet slippers in shoes-off establishments.

Note that there is frequently a lack of towels and hand dryers (locals carry small cloths with them for this reason).

6. Come prepared for the weather

Summers in Japan are hot and humid, which can mean a real risk of heatstroke. Carry water with you, and a folding umbrella with UV blocking is useful – and does double duty in case of a sudden shower.

Late June is the start of the annual rainy season, when it can rain without end for days; this can last a few weeks or through most of July.

Rains, as well as punishing winds, are likely again during typhoon season , which runs from September through October (earlier in Okinawa ).

Typhoons can cause serious travel disruption; monitor the situation with the  Japan Meteorological Agency ’s storm and other weather warnings, which are available in English. Winters can get chilly, and  Tōhoku and Hokkaidō up north can get huge dumps of snow.

Japan’s ubiquitous convenience stores are handy for weather-related necessities like umbrellas, hats, cooling wipes and pocket warmers.

7. Make sure to carry cash...

In rural Japan and at older family-run businesses in cities, credit cards may not be accepted. It’s wise to assume you’ll need to pay cash at country ryokan and smaller restaurants and shops; stock up when you’re in a town with an ATM (cashpoint).

To pay as the Japanese do, place your cash or card in the small tray at the register rather than handing either to the cashier.

8. ...But don’t worry about tipping

Though tour guides who regularly take foreign tourists around might expect extra, Japan has no custom of tipping, and an attempt to add to your bill will more often than not fluster or embarrass staff.

In lieu of tipping, some bars and restaurants will charge a flat-rate service fee, usually around ¥300–500 per person; others, typically fancy ones, will automatically add a 10% service charge to the bill.

9. Learn the art of queueing in Japan

The Japanese are big on queues, forming neat lines everywhere from check-out counters to train platforms. (Regarding the latter: after the train doors open, it’s everyone for themselves when it comes to scoring a seat.)

10. Stand to the left (or to the right)

Always ride on one side of the escalator – but which side depends on where you are. In Kanto and eastwards, it’s to the left; in Kansai and westwards, it’s to the right. (The dividing point is somewhere just west of Nagoya ).

Incidentally, train operators want passengers to stand on both sides of the escalator and refrain from walking altogether, even if commuters have so far shrugged at these guidelines.

11. Note when the last train leaves

City subways run until 1am at the very latest. If you miss the last train for the night, the alternative is to catch a taxi, which can be expensive. 

12. Avoid the morning commute in Tokyo

For Tokyoites , the morning commute is a contact sport. On weekdays from 7:30am to 9am, millions squeeze into trains across the city, sometimes helped along by station staff who make sure everyone’s packed in.

Shinjuku Station, the busiest in the world, sees an average of over 3.5 million commuters daily; there are more than 200 exits leading in and out of the complex.

13. Eating in public is generally a no-no in Japan

It’s considered bad form to eat in public, especially while walking. Exceptions include the shinkansen (bullet train) and other reserved-seat limited-express trains, where it is customary to eat a bentō (boxed meal) on board; plus at festivals or market streets with food vendors; on a picnic; and of course if you're eating ice cream.

It’s also okay to take sips from a resealable beverage container, like a water bottle.

14. Know what to do in an earthquake or tsunami

Japan is one of the most seismically active places on the planet. While strong earthquakes are rare, minor temblors happen all the time. If this occurs during your time here, stay calm and take your cue from those around you.

Head under a table or stand in a doorway if the shaking picks up; strict building codes generally keep harm to a minimum.

Rarer but more dangerous tsunami can follow a significant quake. Should this occur, listen for tsunami warnings and get to higher ground fast if you are near the coast. 

15. Learn some Japanese lingo 

English is widely spoken in cities and around major tourist attractions; in rural areas, though, it can be hit or miss. Some Japanese words that will come in handy when dining out: 

• omori (large portion, often free at ramen stalls) • okawari (refill)  • mochikaeri (takeaway)  • tennai de (eat-in)  • onegai shimasu (please). Follow up any of your orders or requests with this; for example, if you want tea, say, “O-cha onegai shimasu.”  • sumimasen (excuse me)  • arigato gozaimasu (thank you). Because it’s a bit of a mouthful, it’s tempting to shorten it to simply arigato . Think of it as the difference between “thank you” and “thanks” and go for the politer “arigato gozaimasu.” • toire (toilet; pronounced “to-ee-rey”)

This article was first published Apr 6, 2022 and updated Mar 31, 2024.

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How to Plan a Trip to Japan: Ultimate Japan Travel Guide

When I first stepped foot in Japan in 2013, little did I know that it would ignite a new passion and spark a burning wanderlust, leading me to return to this vibrant country many times (five trips and counting!).

Outside of Australia, Japan is my favourite country. From the buzzing neon lights of Tokyo, to the serene temples and traditional streets of Kyoto, and of course, the incredible, mouth-watering food found nationwide – travelling to Japan offers a truly unique and rewarding experience that I haven’t quite experienced elsewhere in the world.

Even after five trips, I am already planning my next visit. Here is my essential mini Japan travel guide to help you start planning your own adventures.

Ikimashoo! (Let’s go!)

Table of Contents

Best Time to Visit

A great thing about Japan is that you can travel all year round . I’ve visited in winter, autumn and spring.

My most recent Japan trip was timed to catch the spring cherry blossoms in Tokyo at the end of March. Autumn is another beautiful time of the year to visit, thanks to the amazing autumn foliage that spreads across the country. 

However, these times can also be some of the peak tourist season – particularly peak cherry blossom season in early April.

Consider the shoulder months of February/March, or September/early October for  off-peak travel  periods. 

I haven’t visited Japan in the summer months of June to August, however, I personally wouldn’t visit during this time.

Summer in Japan can be humid and sweltering, which I would find unbearable in built-up cities like Osaka and Tokyo. On the plus side, the countryside is beautiful and prices should be cheaper for things like hotels and flights.

How Long Should I Go For?

I’d recommend spending at least 10 days if doing a typical Tokyo, Osaka and Kyoto first-timers itinerary, however recommend staying longer and exploring more than just these three cities.

Check out my 4 weeks in Japan itinerary for more ideas and inspiration (or to go all out and visit for a month like I did!).

Where Should I Visit and What Should I Do?

How long is a piece of string?

Despite visiting Japan five times now, I’ve never run out of things to do and see! My favourite places in Japan so far have been:

• Tokyo (I can never get enough of this city!)
• Fuji Five Lakes
• Nozawa Onsen (a delightful ski town in the Nagano region, a few hours from Tokyo)
• Universal Studios Japan in Osaka
• A Buddhist Temple Stay at Koyasan

For more inspiration, check out my article with 30 Unmissable Experiences for your Japan Bucket List!

How Much Should I Budget?

The good news is with the AUD to JPY exchange rate at an all-time high, there’s never been a better time to visit!

As a rough guide, here’s how much to budget for a couple staying at mid-range hotels (prices in AUD):

• Accommodation: $100 – 200 per day
• Food & Drinks: $70 – 120 per day
• Transport : $20 – 40 per day
• Activities & Attractions: $10 – 40 per day
• Total: $200 – $400 per day

For a more detailed breakdown and cost analysis from my 4-week trip, check out my Japan Trip Cost Breakdown here.

Flight prices vary on your location and time of travel, plan to spend around $800 – $1500 on return flights from Australia to Tokyo per person.

Do I Need to Take Cash?

Japan is very much a cash reliant society, though I’ve noticed that more places take cards after returning post pandemic. However, many smaller businesses still operate with cash, and you will need to keep some yen on you at all times.

It is  not essential  to bring yen into the country with you, thanks to the ATMs found in every 7/11 which allow international cards to withdraw cash. No ATM fee is charged either, making this a great option for debit cards that allow fee-free international withdrawals.

My ING Everyday Savings debit card allows fee-free international withdrawals with no account fees Ewy037. Use my referral code “Ewy037” to get a free $75 bonus if you sign up for an account before 30 June.

The good news is that 7/11 ATMs are found widely across Japan – and not just in the stores (although 7/11’s are found pretty much on every corner in the cities!).

For example, you’ll find 7/11 branded ATMs in both  Narita and Haneda Airport in Tokyo,  so you can take out cash once you’ve landed. 

Booking Accommodation in Japan

I use  booking.com  to book all my accommodation in Japan, filtering for properties with a rating score of  over 8.0  and making sure to find accommodation that is close to a subway station (in cities like Osaka and Tokyo).

I find the majority of properties are available to book through this platform, but sometimes more traditional or boutique ryokans won’t be listed on booking however might be available to book online at Japanican.

Just a heads up – accommodation in Japan can be expensive , especially in touristy places like Kyoto. For what you pay, the rooms are quite small too.

Tip: While I recommend booking accommodation in Japan in advance, especially during peak seasons, I’ve found many properties won’t accept bookings until 5- 6 months out (you will be able to tell as the full month of availability will be greyed out on booking .com etc).

To save money on accommodation in Japan, consider staying at business hotel chains .

You’ll find these across the country. They offer good value accommodation if you’re looking for a clean, comfortable and affordable place to sleep at night, but also have extra facilities like coin-operated laundry machines and even provide pyjamas at some of them! 

Common chains to look out for include APA Hotel, Daiwa Roynet Hotel, Dormy Inn, Tokyo Inn and my new favourite, Via Inn. We stayed at three different Via Inn properties on my last trip alone! (Two in Osaka, and one in Tokyo).

To  save on accommodation , we often stay at guesthouses or private rooms in hostels that come with shared bathroom facilities as I’ve found them to be spotlessly clean in Japan. One of my favourites is Kimi Ryokan Guesthouse  in  Tokyo  which has traditional tatami mat rooms in this cosy guesthouse. I’ve stayed here 3 times now!

How to Get Around Japan

You can rely on Japan’s efficient and relatively straightforward public transportation system to get around. 

I generally use a combination of local subways and trains, the high-speed Shinkansen “bullet train” and buses. I’ve also caught one or two taxis in cities like Kyoto and Kanazawa that rely more on the bus network than the subway, however taxis are pretty expensive in Japan.

Tip: Get a Suica card to save buying individual cash tickets for the inevitably many subway trips you will take. You can add Yen to a physical Suica card at almost any ticket machine, and then use it to tap on and tap off through the subway system throughout Japan as well as many bus lines.

iPhone users can also download a digital Suica into their Apple Wallet, which can be topped up through ApplePay – making getting around the cities even easier! Read more about getting a Suica here .

Tip: The Suica is Tokyo’s version, if you purchase one in person in Osaka it will be called the Pasmo card but it’s basically the same thing.

Do I Need a Rail Pass?

Since the price of Japan Rail Passes rose nearly 50% last year in 2023, I do NOT recommend getting a JR pass as they do not offer good value anymore for most travellers.

You can buy individual tickets from the station in advance or on the day of travel. You can do this in person at the ticket office, or at ticket machines which have an English option.

Read more about getting around Japan in my guide on Things to Know Before Visiting Japan for the First Time

Must Try Foods

We eat a bowl of ramen a day when travelling Japan (no joke). Usually for around $10 a bowl too! Other must try foods include:

• Okonomiyaki (Japanese savoury pancake)
• Takoyaki (Fried octopus balls)
• Taiyaki (custard filled fish-shaped pastries)
• Fresh sashimi and seafood donburi (rice bowl)

Final Thoughts on this Travel Guide for Japan

That wraps up this mini guide to travelling Japan.

Feel free to comment below or send me a DM on Instagram with any burning questions, and make sure to check out all my Japan articles below to help you plan your trip in detail!

Japan Itineraries:

• A Fun 7 Day Tokyo Itinerary: Complete 1 Week in Tokyo Guide
• A Perfect 4 Weeks in Japan Itinerary: Ultimate Travel Guide
• An Exciting 4 Days in Osaka Itinerary for First-Timers
• Exploring Fuji Five Lakes: 3 Days in Kawaguchiko Guide
• Takayama Itinerary: 2 Days Discovering Traditional Japan

More Japan Guides:

• 15 Things to Know Before Visiting Japan for the First Time
• 30 Unmissable Experiences for Your Japan Bucket List
• Is Japan Expensive? My EXACT Japan Trip Cost Breakdown Revealed
• Koyasan Temple Stay: Essential Travel Guide & Tips
• Guide to Visiting the Fuji Shibazakura Festival in 2024 
• 10 Best Tokyo Cherry Blossom Spots for Incredible Photos
• Cool Stuff to Buy in Japan: 20 Souvenirs Actually Worth Buying
• How to Easily Visit the Chureito Pagoda from Tokyo
• 10 Most Mesmerising Views of Mt Fuji from Kawaguchiko

TRAVEL PLANNING RESOURCES My tried and tested recommendations to make your next trip easier

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🏨 Accommodation: I book all my accommodation through booking.com . Discover their vast selection of accommodations worldwide, with great deals and flexible booking options. Plus, if you join their Genius Loyalty program, you get special benefits and discounts on selected stays.

🌟 Attractions & Tours: GetYourGuide is my preferred platform as they make it super easy to compare different tours, book experiences and get the best prices for tours across the world. I've downloaded their mobile app to have all my bookings in one place to easily pull up details when I've got multiple tours booked.

📸If you're wondering what I've used to capture the photos in this article, you can see what's in my camera bag here .

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1 thought on “How to Plan a Trip to Japan: Ultimate Japan Travel Guide”

This post is so useful! We haven’t made it to Japan yet, but we would both love to go, so it’s so nice to see a complete guide. We’ll have to let you know when we finally get there!

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See the Best Photos of the Royals at the Japan State Banquet

King Charles and Queen Camilla welcomed Emperor Naruhito and Empress Masako to Buckingham Palace in glamorous fashion.

This week marks the third state visit King Charles has hosted during his reign. The first, in honor of South Africa's President Ramaphosa , took place in November 2022, and the second, in honor of South Korea's President Yoon Suk Yeol , was in November 2023. On the first evening of a state visit, a state banquet traditionally takes place in the Buckingham Palace Ballroom.

Also in attendance tonight were Prince William and the Duke and Duchess of Edinburgh. Kate Middleton, though she appeared at Trooping the Colour earlier this month, is still undergoing cancer treatment and is not back to work, so she was not among the royals at the banquet this evening. Princess Anne, who was hospitalized with a head injury, also missed the banquet.

Here, see all the best photos of the royals (and their guests) at the Japan state banquet:

Queen Camilla, Empress Masako, Emperor Naruhito, and King Charles pose for a formal portrait.

The royals seemed to be in good spirits.

Queen Camilla wears the Burmese Ruby Tiara (made by Garrard) and a dress by Fiona Clare. She also wore a new honor from King Charles for the first time.

Read more about her honor

Empress Masako wore the Imperial Chrysanthemum Tiara for the first time, while Emperor Naruhito wore the star of the Order of the Garter .

Read more about Masako's tiara

Read more about Naruhito's appointment to the Garter

King Charles and Emperor Naruhito led the procession into the state banquet.

The Emperor and the King were deep in conversation as they walked in together, followed by Empress Masako and Queen Camilla.

The royal women both wore white gowns for the occasion.

Prince William walked algonside with Cheryl Schonhardt-Bailey as Prince Edward followed behind, walking next to Julia Longbottom.

Sophie, Duchess of Edinburgh (in green) wore the Lotus Flower Tiara for the first time . She entered the ballroom next to H.E. Mr. Hirofumi Nakasone.

Read more about the tiara

The Duke of Gloucester accompanied Ms Yukiko Nishimiya into the banquet.

Birgitte, the Duchess of Gloucester walked in with H.E. Mr. Yoshiji Nogami. The Duchess wore the Cartier Indian Tiara.

King Charles and Emperor Naruhito shared a laugh. Both delivered speeches during the event; King Charles mentioned Hello Kitty and Pokémon in his.

Read more here

Emperor Naruhito and King Charles clink glasses during a toast.

Guests seated during the dinner.

King Charles sat next to the Emperor and Queen Camilla.

A view of the Buckingham Palace ballroom before everyone arrived.

King Charles III's cypher is on the dinner plates.

Emily Burack (she/her) is the Senior News Editor for Town & Country, where she covers entertainment, culture, the royals, and a range of other subjects. Before joining T&C, she was the deputy managing editor at Hey Alma , a Jewish culture site. Follow her @emburack on Twitter and Instagram .

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