First Timers Guide for Visiting Japan

Written by our co-founder Dani - Original Content Taken from her Blog- Dani Roves the World

Japan, a land of ancient temples, neon-lit streets, and bullet trains, beckons travelers with its unique blend of tradition and modernity. But for first-timers, navigating a new culture can feel overwhelming. Fear not, intrepid explorer! This guide will equip you with essential tips to ensure your Japanese adventure is smooth, respectful, and unforgettable.

Finding Your Perfect Place to Stay:

Japan offers a variety of accommodation options to suit every budget and travel style:

Ryokans: Immerse yourself in Japanese culture by staying in a traditional ryokan, featuring tatami-mat floors, futon beds, and communal baths (onsen).

Capsule Hotels: Experience a uniquely Japanese concept with capsule hotels, offering compact yet comfortable pod-like sleeping quarters for budget-conscious travelers.

Western-Style Hotels: Major cities like Tokyo and Kyoto offer a range of familiar Western-style hotels for those seeking a more conventional stay.

AirBnBs: Opt for an AirBnB to experience local life and potentially score a unique apartment or homestay

Etiquette Essentials:

Respect is paramount: Bowing is a common greeting in Japan. A slight head bow shows respect to superiors, elders, or anyone showing you kindness.

Shoes Off: When entering temples, shrines, or traditional Japanese homes, always remove your shoes. Look for designated genkan areas at the entrance.

Slurp Your Noodles! Slurping noodles is actually considered a compliment to the chef in Japan, as it signifies enjoyment.

Tipping is Not Expected: Tipping is generally not practiced in Japan. A simple "arigatou gozaimasu" (thank you very much) is sufficient.

Silence is golden:  Public transportation and restaurants are generally quiet. Avoid loud phone calls or boisterous behavior.

Escalator Etiquette: Make sure to follow the signs and stand on the correct side of the escalator to allow others to pass on the left.

Getting Around:

Japan Rail Pass: If you plan on exploring multiple cities, consider purchasing a Japan Rail Pass for unlimited rides on JR trains (excluding bullet trains).However, the price has increased quite a bit so check out the pricing calculator to see if its worth the pass or individual tickets. 

Bullet Trains: Experience the thrill of Shinkansen (bullet trains) for fast and efficient travel between major cities. 

Local Trains and Buses: Local trains and buses are a great way to explore smaller towns and cities, offering a more affordable option. 

Subway Systems: Major cities like Tokyo and Osaka boast extensive subway networks, a convenient and efficient way to get around. Consider purchasing a prepaid travel card for cashless convenience.

Planning Your Trip:

Best Time to Visit: Spring (March-May) and fall (September-November) offer pleasant weather and comfortable temperatures for sightseeing. Summer (June-August) is hot and humid, while winter (December-February) can be cold and snowy in some regions.

Visas: Check visa requirements for your nationality well in advance.

Currency: Japan uses the Japanese Yen (JPY). Exchange your currency before arrival or use ATMs that accept foreign cards. You can also go to any 7-11, they have ATM without additional fees.

Learning Basic Phrases: A few basic Japanese phrases like "konnichiwa" (hello) and "arigatou gozaimasu" (thank you very much) go a long way in showing respect and appreciation.

Other Things to Remember:

Don’t walk and eat! When you purchase food, you should savor it at the stand or store you bought it from.

Consider bringing your own trash bag along. Yes, it may sound a bit out there, but trust me, trash cans are a rare sight. If you find yourself with trash, just keep a small plastic bag with you and dispose of it at the end of the day in your hotel.

Make sure to pack hand sanitizer and a small hand towel. You never know when you might encounter a public bathroom lacking soap or hand towels. These l