27 Essential Japan Travel Tips for First-Time Visitors: What You Need to Know
Planning your first trip to Japan? You're in for an unforgettable adventure! Japan often leaves a deep impression, that draw travelers to return! However, navigating this incredible country can feel overwhelming for first-time visitors. That’s why I’ve put together these 27 essential Japan travel tips, based on my experience of living in Japan for over 4 years and organizing trips for family and friends.
I hope this guide can help you to make your trip smoother, so you can focus on just having the most enjoyable, unforgettable experience in Japan!
Getting Around Japan
1/ Download Google Maps to Easily Navigate Daily Transport
When I was living in Japan, the app I used the most was Google maps. Japan’s public transportation system, including trains and buses, is highly efficient but can be complex to navigate, especially for first-time visitors. What I particularly like about Google Maps is that it gives detailed, real-time directions, including precise timetables, sometimes the number of the exit closest to the destination and the best car for connections. You can use it in both major cities like Tokyo but also in more rural areas.
✨TRAVELY TIP: If you’re traveling in rural areas, I’d check train and bus timetables on Google maps in advance, as they’re less frequent than in big cities, and plan my visit accordingly. As far as buses are concerned, I also tend to check the timetable of the return journey at the stop when I arrive to make sure it matches what’s on Google maps (most of the time it does, but I’m a cautious traveller I guess). While in big cities, buses tend to be fairly punctual, this is less the case in rural areas, so I always recommend planning a to be at the bus stop 10-15 minutes in advance just in case, especially if the bus next isn’t for another 2-3 hours.
2/ Get a Pasmo/Suica Card
As soon as you arrive in Japan, one of the smartest purchases you can make is a Pasmo or Suica card (or another IC card if you’re not landing in Tokyo, such as ICOCA card in Kyoto/Osaka). Available at airport and train stations counters or ticket machines, these cards allow you to effortlessly tap in and out of trains, buses, and even some taxis. So instead of buying individual tickets for each ride, you simply load the card with credit and use it throughout your trip. It’s really a time-saver!
Note that in rural areas, for instance in the Kiso valley where you can hike the Nakasendo, buses and trains don't always accept IC cards, so always carry cash and coins with you just in case.
Another great thing about IC cards is that they can be used at convenience stores, vending machines, and many other places, which is super convenient!
✨TRAVELY TIP: Did you know that you can give back your Suica card in a JR station so you can collect the money remaining on your pass at the end of the trip? But I would recommend to actually keep your IC card if you already know you will travel again to Japan.
IMPORTANT: Sales of personalized Suica and Pasmo cards, which require registration of your name and other personal information, resumed on September 1, 2024, but anonymous cards remain unavailable due to the ongoing IC chip shortage. Other IC cards, such as ICOCA and TOICA, are still being sold as usual. Special tourist IC cards, called "Welcome Suica" and “Pasmo Passport”, are available at Travel Service Centers in major stations in Tokyo and both Narita and Haneda airports. In contrast to normal cards, they are valid for only 28 days, and refunds are not available, so make sure you use all the cash balance before you leave Japan. Also, if you have a relatively new iPhone model and have Apple Pay, you can get a Suica or PASMO card on your phone. You can also buy a Welcome Suica card online and have it sent to your home before you leave for Japan.
3/ Verify Whether You Need a JR Pass or Not
The Japan Rail (JR) Pass can be ideal for those planning to visit multiple cities, offering unlimited travel on JR trains, including the famous shinkansen (bullet trains). I’ve had experience with using the JR Pass in the past and it can be very convenient. However, since the significant price increase of the JR Pass in 2023, its cost is more likely to outweigh the benefits. So I would recommend you to check your planned route and compare the individual ticket costs with the JR Pass to ensure you’re making the most economical choice.
✨TRAVELY TIP: While the JR Pass is popular for covering long-distance travel, you might find that regional or local train passes better suit your needs, depending on where you’re traveling in Japan. Many areas offer dedicated passes that provide unlimited travel within specific regions. For example, the Kansai Railway Pass may be an interesting option to explore the Kansai region, while the Tokyo Subway Ticket covers unlimited rides on Tokyo's subway lines for 24 hours. JR East also offers interesting regional passes if you’re planning a trip in the Tohoku region.
Helpful Link to Get the JR Pass and Other Regional Passes
Japan Experience — A JR Pass provider that I’ve used in the past and can recommend as each time it’s always went very smoothly. They also have other services you can book at the same time such as Welcome Suica card, pocket wifi, sim card and more.
4/ Where and How To Buy Shinkansen Tickets?
Purchasing Shinkansen (bullet train) tickets in Japan is straightforward and can be done in several ways. You can buy tickets directly at JR ticket counters, known as Midori no Madoguchi, located in JR train stations across Japan. These counters generally have English-speaking staff, making the process smooth for international travelers. Alternatively, you can use automated ticket machines, which also have an English option, to select your preferred train, seating class, and route. If you prefer to plan ahead, you can also buy Shinkansen tickets online, or directly on a dedicated application called Smart Ex for certain Shinkansen routes. Be sure to reserve your seat in advance if you plan to travel during peak periods in Japan, such as Golden Week or the holiday season.
5/ Consider Traveling by Other Means of Transport to Some Destinations
While Japan’s shinkansen is a fast and iconic way to travel between cities, it’s not always the most cost-effective or convenient option for every destination.
Buses, for instance, are a comfortable and budget-friendly option, especially for longer distances. They often provide overnight services, saving you on accommodation costs. I usually book my trips through websites like Willer Bus or highwaybus.com, but there are plenty of other options available for purchasing tickets online.
For smaller cities or rural areas, renting a car can give you more flexibility and access to places not easily reachable by train, such as the Japanese Alps, various locations in Shikoku, or some remote onsens. You can compare options and book a rental car through Rentalcars.com, or check other rental car websites such as Budget Rent a Car or Japanese companies likes Toyota Rentacar, Nippon Rentacar, Orix Rentacar or Times Car Rental.
Domestic flights with budget airlines like Peach or Jetstar are also worth considering for longer distances, like Tokyo to Hokkaido or Okinawa. Ferries can also be a great alternatives to travel between islands.
Things to Plan Beforehand
6/ Plan Your Accommodation to Experience Amazing Japanese Hospitality
One of my favorite ryokan experiences at Kanaguya, in Nagano Prefecture
Choosing the right accommodation in Japan is more than just finding a place to sleep—it’s an opportunity to experience the country’s renowned hospitality, known as omotenashi. I book most of my accommodations through platforms like Agoda or Booking.com. Both sites offer a wide range of options, from traditional ryokan to modern business hotels, allowing you to compare prices, amenities, and guest reviews. They also frequently have special deals and flexible cancellation policies.
Staying in a traditional ryokan (Japanese inn) offers a unique chance to immerse yourself in Japanese culture, with traditional Japanese rooms with tatami-mat and futon bedding, and multi-course kaiseki meals. Many ryokan also have private or communal onsen (hot springs), where you can relax after a day of exploring. If you’d like to know more about what it’s like, you can read my article “A Night at Kanaguya: A Review of a Traditional Ryokan in Shibu Onsen”. Whatever your budget, I’d recommend to try to fit at least one night in a ryokan, as it is really an experience not to miss when traveling in Japan. You can also consider a night at a temple lodging, called shukubo, where you can experience the Buddhist lifestyle for a night by discovering a traditional vegetarian meal called Shojin-ryori and attending Buddhist rituals (meditation or early-morning praying ceremony for instance).
For a more modern stay, business hotels are affordable and often located near train stations, offering both convenience and comfort. Some hotel chains in Japan that I particularly like and try to stay at are Dormy Inn, Sotetsu Fresa Inn and Tokyu Stay. In particular, I try to look for hotels that offer hot spring or public baths (such as Dormy Inn), because it’s a wonderful feeling to just relax in an onsen after a long day of exploring.
To conclude, wherever you choose and whatever your budget, you can find accommodations that emphasize excellent service and attention to detail, so to me it’s worth taking the time to choose a memorable place to stay.
7/ Internet Use in Japan - Pocket Wifi or SIM Card?
Although Wifi is generally available in stations and konbinis (but with limited security), with many free hotspots in big cities and attractions, renting a pocket WIFI device or purchasing a SIM card to stay connected in Japan at all time is easy and affordable. Each has its advantages, so your choice will depend on your specific needs. Pocket WIFI will be a more popular choice for travelers who want to connect multiple devices simultaneously, such as smartphones, tablets, and laptops, or to share it within your group. Both Sim cards and pocket wifi can be ordered online in advance and picked up directly at the airport. The main Japanese pocket WIFI and SIM card providers are Sakura Mobile, Ninja Wifi, CDJapan Rental, or Mobal.
Another option is using an eSIM in Japan, which can be convenient and more affordable, offering easy activation and avoiding the hassle of physical SIM cards.
8/ Popular Activities and Experiences that Must Be Booked in Advance
When visiting Japan, many of the most popular activities and attractions—especially in Tokyo and Osaka—require advance bookings to secure a spot and avoid long waits. For Ghibli lovers, the Ghibli Museum in Mitaka is a must-visit, but tickets sell out quickly and must be booked in advance. The Ghibli Park in Nagoya also requires advance booking. Other Tokyo attractions like Shibuya Sky, TeamLab Borderless or the Yayoi Kusama Museum are also high in demand, and pre-booking is necessary or highly recommended. If you’re a Disney fan, both Tokyo Disneyland and DisneySea should also be reserved ahead of time. Over in Osaka, Universal Studios Japan is another top destination that sees large crowds, and securing tickets beforehand is essential, especially if you want to experience attractions like Super Nintendo World.
More generally, if you have the option to book activities in advance, I highly recommend doing so—it saves time and lets you enjoy your trip without worrying about long lines. You can easily book through platforms like Klook, which offers a wide selection of discounted tickets and tours for attractions, experiences, and transportation across Japan.
9/ Your Japan Packing List
I will not go over a complete packing list in this article (it would require a dedicated article), but things that shouldn’t be forgotten (in addition to the travel essentials like passport, travel insurance,…) are comfortable shoes, plug adapters (Japan uses Type A plugs, 100V), a rain jacket (in particular if you visit between June to October), and a small notebook.
✨TRAVELY TIP: Why the small notebook? Because a great thing to do when exploring Japan is going on a stamps hunt! Collecting free stamps at train stations, temples, museums, and popular attractions is a fun and unique activity in Japan that adds a special touch to your travel experience. Known as "eki stamps" or “commemorative stamps,” these stamps are often found at station counters and tourist spots, each featuring local landmarks or cultural symbols. I personally love collecting them and I find it an amazing way to capture memories of my travels in Japan.
Take Your Japan Trip to the Next Level
10/ Look for Authentic Experiences to Discover Japanese Culture
Image courtesy of Wabunka
To truly immerse yourself in Japan, I’d recommend to include to your travel plans authentic cultural experiences. Dressing in a yukata or kimono while exploring traditional areas adds a memorable and enjoyable touch to the experience, which you can capture taking beautiful pictures. Visiting onsen (hot springs) allows you to relax like the locals, while staying in a ryokan (traditional inn) offers a glimpse into Japan’s unique hospitality. You can also take part in workshops, such as pottery making or calligraphy, to familiarize yourself with the country's deeply-rooted traditional arts and crafts.
To look for such activities, you can check for each location you’re planning to go to activities available on platforms like:
Wabunka — specializes in traditional Japanese cultural experiences with Japanese craftmen and experts of their art accompanied by a interpreter, offering unique activities like tea ceremonies, calligraphy, and kimono rentals (and much more) for a more immersive journey.
GetYourGuide — provides curated tours and activities in Japan, allowing travelers to explore top destinations and hidden gems with local guides.
📨 I’ll write other blog posts on my favorite cultural and free experiences in Japan in the future, so make sure to subscribe to my monthly newsletter if you’d like to be informed when they are published!
11/ Consider Seasonality in Your Travel Planning
When planning your trip to Japan, it's important to consider the seasonality of your visit, as each season offers distinct experiences and attractions. Spring is renowned for the breathtaking cherry blossoms (sakura), with parks and gardens transforming into vibrant pink landscapes, while fall brings stunning autumn foliage that colors temples and mountains in red and gold. Summer is filled with lively festivals, called matsuri, and beautiful fireworks displays, though it can be quite hot and humid. Winter, on the other hand, offers magical experiences like skiing in Hokkaido or visiting onsen towns surrounded by snow.
✨TRAVELY TIP: If you’re a flower lover like me, Japan is a paradise where almost every month brings a new bloom to admire. Beyond the famous cherry blossoms in spring, the country has a rich calendar of floral displays that vary by season. Throughout the year, Japan’s love for flowers is celebrated with festivals, gardens, and special viewing spots, which I regularly write about in my blog posts on flower-related events and destinations.
➡️ Search my Japan blog by Season, and read the articles that best correspond to the period you will be in Japan.
12/ Look for Local Events Around You
Another thing I’d recommend is to seek out local events happening during your stay. Whether it’s a lively matsuri with traditional dances and street food, or a special fireworks display, such events are the perfect opportunities to experience Japan’s vibrant culture firsthand.
If you’d like to look for more ideas for festivals and events in Japan, I would recommend checking websites like Tokyo Cheapo, or for Tokyo in particular, Time Out Tokyo to find out what the upcoming events are.
➡️ You can read about some examples in my previous events articles, such as:
15 Amazing Summer Festivals to Experience in Tokyo This Year
Kishiwada Danjiri Matsuri: A Guide to Japan's Most Adrenaline-Fueled Festival
Guide to Kyoto’s Gion Matsuri, One of Japan’s Biggest Summer Festivals
13/ Add Lesser-Known Destinations to Your Itinerary
While Japan’s iconic cities like Tokyo, Kyoto, and Osaka are beautiful and exciting destinations, I’d recommend adding off-the-beaten-path spots to your itinerary so you can explore a more local, authentic, but also peaceful side of Japan. Shikoku, Japan's smallest main island, is famous for its stunning landscapes, traditional shrine pilgrimage routes, and delicious local cuisine, including fresh seafood and unique udon noodles. Tohoku, located in the northeast, offers breathtaking natural beauty and rich cultural heritage, featuring numerous hot springs, historic castles, and incredible festivals. Additionally, places like Kanazawa, with its beautifully preserved samurai and geisha districts, provide a quieter glimpse into Japan’s historical charm. Tottori is home to stunning sand dunes and coastal landscapes that few tourists visit, while Koyasan offers a serene mountain getaway from Osaka with ancient temples, Japan’s oldest cemetery and the chance to stay in a Buddhist temple. In Gifu Prefecture, Takayama and Shirakawa-go boast traditional thatched-roof villages, providing a window into rural Japan. And there are so many other hidden gems and off-the-beaten-track destinations I could mention here!
➡️ In my blog, I make a priority to introduce hidden gems and lesser-known destinations and prefectures in Japan, so if you’d like to discover more travel ideas, you can look through my Japan Blog, especially my articles on lesser-known destinations.
14/ Sample Regional Foods Across Japan
I know I'm biased, but I consider Japanese cuisine to be one of the most delicious in the world! And it’s exciting to know that each region has its own dishes and culinary specialties to discover. During your trip, be sure to learn about local food specialties and visit markets, stalls and restaurants to savor regional cuisine. For me, food tasting in Japan is an important part of a traveler's experience.
✨TRAVELY TIP: When I travel, I always like to buy local omiyage boxes to sample snacks and sweets from the region I’m visiting. Something else I like to do is to taste soft serve made with local specialties and original flavors such as wasabi, flowers, sake or even oysters!
Japanese Language: A Must or Not?
When you travel to Japan, you may wonder whether it's essential to know the Japanese language in order to have a pleasant experience. Given the growing number of foreign tourists visiting Japan, Japanese authorities are making it increasingly easy to navigate in Japan without speaking Japanese, with more and more signs translated in English. While many Japanese, particularly in urban areas, understand and speak basic English, language barriers can arise, especially in more rural areas.
15/ Download Google Translate
Google Translate is a great app to have on your phone to help bridge the language gap. Even though I speak Japanese, I’ve used it countless times because of its features like camera translation for signs and menus. If you don’t speak any Japanese, the voice translation can also be a valuable feature to use.
16/ Learning Japanese for a More Authentic Experience?
Learning some basic Japanese phrases can significantly enhance your travel experience and help you connect with locals on a deeper level. While many Japanese people understand English to some extent, speaking even a few words is greatly appreciated. By adopting the language, you'll not only be able to navigate your surroundings more easily, but also enjoy a richer, more authentic experience, while opening the door to memorable new encounters.
💬 Want to learn Japanese? Go One Step Further and Sign Up for a Japanese Beginner Course
If you’re eager to dive deeper into the Japanese language, I have an exciting opportunity for you! I'm thrilled to announce a collaboration between Travely Notes and Learn with Hikari, a native Japanese teacher who offers a fantastic beginner’s Japanese MasterCourse. This online course is ideal for anyone wishing to acquire a solid foundation in the language in a dynamic and fun way, while learning more about Japanese culture and travel. Plus, there's a special coupon and an exclusive material available for those who sign up through this link!
➡️ Check out our collaboration page for more details about the course and take the first step toward your Japanese language journey!
Learn About and Respect Japanese Etiquette and Customs
Understanding and respecting Japanese etiquette and customs is essential to a positive travel experience in Japan. Familiarizing yourself with common social norms will not only help you manage day-to-day interactions, but also give you a greater appreciation of the traditions that shape Japanese life and culture, which emphasize harmony and respect. Misbehaving tourists are increasingly causing frictions, so I hope you find the following list of etiquette rules, which is by no means exhaustive, useful and that it can contribute to spread a more positive and considerate image of foreign travelers.
17/ Learning About Daily Life Etiquette
In Japan, bowing is a common greeting that expresses respect, so be prepared to bow slightly when meeting someone. When handing over money or objects, it's customary to use both hands as a sign of politeness. You'll also notice that people form orderly queues when waiting for trains or buses so be careful not to overtake someone in a queue by not paying attention. Generally, on an escalator, people stand on the left side (while it’s the opposite in the Kansai region). In addition, it's important to take off your shoes when entering someone's home, in some temples and ryokans.
18/ Key Things to Know About Restaurant Etiquette
While it’s generally acceptable to walk and eat in some public areas, be mindful of where you do so. In restaurants, it’s important to note that tipping is not practiced in Japan. Instead, you can show your appreciation by saying “gochisou sama deshita” after your meal, which means “thank you for the feast”. When it comes to chopsticks, the most important rules I was told are to not stick chopsticks into your food, especially not into rice, and to not pass food directly from your set of chopsticks to another’s.
19/ Respect Train Etiquette in Japan
When using public transportation, such as trains, it’s essential to follow specific etiquette. Eating is generally not permitted on local trains (but it’s acceptable at your seat on a shinkansen or other long distance trains), and you should avoid making loud noises or taking phone calls. Maintain a quiet atmosphere by keeping conversations to a minimum and turning your phone to silent mode, and leave priority seats to those who need them.
20/ Be Mindful of Shrine and Temple Etiquette
When visiting temples or shrines, it's important to show respect for the sacred space, especially given how bad behavior by foreign tourists at shrines has recently sparked outrage in Japan. Be mindful of the surroundings and maintain a respectful demeanor. In summer, if you're planning to visit the interior of the temples, where you’re generally required to take off your shoes, and you're wearing sandals, I recommend you have a pair of socks in your bag, as it's not polite to walk barefoot in these spaces (but nobody will stop you visiting if you don't).
21/ Onsen Rules and Manners: How to Enjoy Japanese Hot Springs
When visiting an onsen, there are specific rules to follow. Before entering the communal bath, you must thoroughly wash and rinse your body at the provided shower stations. Swimwear is not allowed; guests must enter the onsen naked. Additionally, long hair should be tied up to keep the water clean, and it’s considered rude to dive or splash in the baths.
What's more, most onsen don't accept visitors with visible tattoos. So it's a good idea to check what the rules are at the onsen you're planning to visit (sometimes they're very strict, while at other times, if you can cover the tattoo, it's tolerated).
If you want to learn more about Japanese Etiquette and Do’s and Don’ts in Japan, I recommend reading this etiquette guide from Japan Guide, which I find very comprehensive and insightful.
Practical Tips for Everyday Life During Your Trip to Japan
22/ Always Carry Cash With You and Know Where to Withdraw
While Japan is becoming increasingly digital, it’s still essential to carry cash and coins during your trip. Many smaller shops, restaurants, and attractions do not accept credit cards, especially in rural areas. It’s easy to withdraw at ATMs in convenience stores, including Family Mart, Lawson, and 7-Eleven. If you need to withdraw big amounts, then the 7-Eleven ATMs are the most convenient as they have the highest withdrawal limit of ¥100,000 per operation.
23/ Other Things to Always Carry With You
When traveling in Japan, there are a few essential items you should always have on hand. One important item is a small towel. Many public bathrooms lack hand dryers or paper towels, so having a compact towel for drying your hands is quite practical.
Another must-have is a small bag for your trash. In Japan, public trash bins are quite rare, and it’s customary to carry your trash with you until you find a suitable place to dispose of it (whether your hotel or a nearby konbini).
24/ Enjoy the Convenince of Japanese Konbinis and Drugstores
One of the things I miss a lot in my daily life when I’m not in Japan are konbinis (mainly Family Mart, Lawson, and 7-Eleven).These stores offer a wide variety of affordable food options, from freshly made bento boxes and onigiri (rice balls) to an incredible selection of snacks and drinks, with unique flavors and seasonal items to try. Additionally, konbinis often have public toilets and designated areas for disposing of trash, which can be incredibly convenient while exploring the city.
Don’t overlook Japanese drugstores either! They offer a plethora of unique health and beauty products as well as seasonal items, from heat packs for winter days to cooling gels for hot summers.
Both konbinis and drugstores are essential stops that will give you a taste of everyday life in Japan!
25/ Where to Wash Your Laundry
Most hotels offer laundry facilities equipped with washing machines and dryers, allowing you to conveniently wash and dry your clothes without having to venture far. Many of these machines are user-friendly and often have English instructions to guide you through the process. In addition to hotel facilities, you'll find laundromats in many neighborhoods, which are a great option for travelers staying in hostels or airbnbs that don't offer washing machines.
26/ Dealing with Your Luggage During Your Trip
Most hotels offer luggage storage services, allowing you to leave your suitcases safely at the front desk before check-in or after check-out. This way, you can explore the area unencumbered by heavy bags.
In addition to hotel services, you’ll find lockers available at many train stations and airports. These lockers come in various sizes and can be a convenient option. Just know that in some places they can fill up quickly, especially during peak travel seasons.
I have never used it myself, but you can also consider using a shipping service (called takuhaibin (宅配便)) to send your bags ahead to your next hotel or destination.
27/ Safety in Japan: Things to Know
Japan is known for its low crime rate and overall safety, but like any destination, it’s important to stay informed and prepared for various situations.
When it comes to personal safety, assaults and thefts are relatively rare in Japan, but it’s always wise to stay aware of your surroundings, especially in crowded areas or when using public transportation.
If you plan to go hiking, be aware of potential encounters with wildlife, including bears in mountainous areas. It’s advisable to make noise while hiking to alert any nearby wildlife of your presence (you’ll hear Japanese hikers carrying bear belts for instance).
Finally, Japan is susceptible to natural disasters, including typhoons and earthquakes. Before you arrive to Japan, I’d recommend you to download emergency apps that provide real-time alerts, such as Safety Tips and Yurekuru. It’s also helpful to have a plan in place for natural disaster scenarios, including what to do and where to go (check the resources provided by the embassy of your country in Japan for instance).
To Conclude
Traveling in Japan offers endless opportunities for discovery, from its bustling cities to tranquil temples and breathtaking natural landscapes. I hope that these essential travel tips will help you to make the most of your first (and hopeful not last) trip to Japan. You can also read more of my guides and itineraries, such as my Tokyo's recommendations and best day trips from Kyoto or Osaka to help plan your itinerary.
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