Planning a trip to Japan? Get ready for incredible food, stunning temples, high-tech toilets, and some of the most polite people on the planet.
But before you hop on that plane, there are a few things you should know to make your adventure smoother and even more enjoyable.
Here’s a helpful list of essential tips for first-time travelers to Japan.
💰 1. Cash Is Still King
Japan is modern in many ways, but surprisingly, not all places accept credit cards. Be sure to carry some cash (yen), especially for small shops, temples, and rural areas. ATMs at 7-Eleven and Japan Post are foreign card–friendly.
🤫 2. Public Transport = Quiet Time
On trains and buses, people stay quiet. Talking loudly or taking phone calls is frowned upon. Use this time to relax, enjoy the view, or scroll silently.
🚮 3. Where Are the Trash Cans!?
Japan is super clean, but public trash bins are rare. You’ll often need to carry your garbage with you until you find a place to throw it away—usually near vending machines or convenience stores.
🧻 4. High-Tech Toilets (With Buttons!)
Don’t be afraid of those fancy toilet buttons! Most Japanese toilets have bidet and spray functions, and they’re super clean. Look for the “flush” symbol (usually in English), or use the sensor.
🧦 5. Take Off Your Shoes
When entering someone’s home, traditional inns (ryokan), temples, and even some restaurants, you’ll be asked to remove your shoes. Sometimes you’ll switch to indoor slippers—watch out for the toilet-only ones!
🗾 6. Get a JR Pass or IC Card
If you’re traveling across cities, the Japan Rail Pass can save you money. For local transport, get an IC card (like Suica or Pasmo) to tap in/out easily at stations and convenience stores.
📱 7. Internet & SIM Cards
Japan has great Wi-Fi in hotels and cafés, but public hotspots can be patchy. Renting a pocket Wi-Fi or SIM card at the airport is a smart move.
🙇♂️ 8. Mind Your Manners
Japanese etiquette is subtle but important. Say “arigatou” (thank you), bow lightly when greeting, and avoid pointing. A little effort goes a long way.
🍣 9. Not All Sushi Is Raw
Don’t like raw fish? No worries! There are cooked options like tamago (sweet egg), unagi (grilled eel), and shrimp tempura rolls. Also, ramen, curry rice, and convenience store food are all amazing.
⛩️ 10. Respect Sacred Spaces
When visiting shrines and temples, be quiet and respectful. Cleanse your hands at the purification station before entering, and don’t take photos where it’s forbidden.
✨ Final Thoughts
Japan is safe, beautiful, and full of surprises. By knowing just a few cultural basics, you’ll enjoy your trip even more—and impress the locals with your respect and curiosity.
Happy travels, or as they say in Japan, “良い旅を！” (Yoi tabi o!)
Please check out ‘Essential Japanese Phrases to Know Before You Travel to Japan‘!
