50 Essential Pro Tips for First-Time Visitors to Japan

Japan is an incredible travel destination, but navigating its unique culture, transportation, and etiquette can be overwhelming for first-time visitors. Here are 50 pro tips to help make your trip smoother, more enjoyable, and stress-free!

Pre-Departure Tips ✈️

• Download a Suica/Pasmo Card on Your Phone – Skip the physical card and use your smartphone (Apple Pay/Google Pay) for public transportation and convenience store payments.
• Get an eSIM or Pocket WiFi – Japan doesn't have widespread free WiFi, so stay connected with an eSIM or rent a Pocket WiFi.
• Activate International Roaming (if applicable) – Check if your mobile carrier offers affordable international roaming plans.
• Bring a Debit/Credit Card with No Foreign Transaction Fees – Japan is still cash-heavy, but many places accept cards.
• Get Some Yen in Cash Before Arrival – While ATMs are available, it's good to have some yen for taxis, small eateries, or rural areas.
• Learn Basic Japanese Phrases – Simple words like "Sumimasen" (Excuse me) and "Arigato" (Thank you) go a long way.
• Download Google Translate – Useful for translating menus, signs, and communicating with locals.
• Use Google Maps or Navitime – Essential for finding train routes, bus stops, and walking directions.
• Book Accommodations Near a Major Station – This will save you time and make commuting easier.
• Make Restaurant Reservations in Advance – Popular places book out fast, especially Michelin-starred spots.

Transportation Tips 🚆

• Get a Japan Rail Pass (JR Pass) If Traveling Long Distance – Ideal if you plan to visit multiple cities by Shinkansen (bullet train).
• Use Hyperdia or Jorudan for Train Schedules – Great for checking train routes and connections.
• Know the Difference Between Local, Rapid, and Limited Express Trains – Some trains skip stops, so check the schedule.
• Avoid Rush Hour (7:30–9:30 AM & 5:00–7:30 PM) – Trains are packed, especially in Tokyo and Osaka.
• Stand on the Correct Side of the Escalator – Left in Tokyo, right in Osaka.
• Taxis Are Expensive – Use them only when necessary or late at night when trains stop running.
• Uber & Lyft Are Limited – Use JapanTaxi or local cabs instead.
• Buses Are Useful in Kyoto & Smaller Cities – Have exact change or use IC cards like Suica/Pasmo.
• IC Cards Work Nationwide – Suica, Pasmo, ICOCA, and others are interchangeable across Japan.
• Subway Etiquette: Stay Quiet and Avoid Eating/Drinking – It's considered rude to be loud on public transport.

Money & Shopping Tips 💰🛍️

• Most ATMs That Accept Foreign Cards Are in 7-Eleven, FamilyMart, or Post Offices.
• Many Shops Offer Tax-Free Shopping – Bring your passport for an 8-10% tax refund at stores like Don Quijote and department stores.
• Coins Are Important – Keep change for vending machines, lockers, and small purchases.
• Use IC Cards for Convenience Store Purchases – Fast and efficient!
• Vending Machines Are Everywhere – A lifesaver for drinks, snacks, and even hot coffee in winter.
• Don't Haggle – Prices are usually fixed in Japan.
• Keep Receipts for Tax-Free Refunds – Some stores will process refunds at the airport.
• Department Stores Have Amazing Basement Food Markets (Depachika) – A great place to find gourmet snacks and meals.
• Shop at 100-Yen Stores for Souvenirs – Daiso, Seria, and Can Do have great deals.
• Bring a Reusable Shopping Bag – Many stores charge for plastic bags.

Food & Dining Tips 🍜🍣

• Try Convenience Store Food – 7-Eleven, Lawson, and FamilyMart have delicious onigiri, sandwiches, and bento boxes.
• Many Restaurants Have Ticket Machines – Order by purchasing a meal ticket before sitting down.
• Slurping Noodles Is Encouraged – It's a sign of appreciation for the food!
• No Tipping – Tipping is not expected and can even be considered rude.
• Some Restaurants Require Reservations – Use websites like TableCheck or Pocket Concierge.
• Cash is Preferred at Small Eateries – Some places still don't accept credit cards.
• Try a Konbini Breakfast – Quick, cheap, and delicious!
• Use Chopsticks Correctly – Never stick them upright in rice (it's associated with funerals).
• All-You-Can-Eat (Tabehoudai) and All-You-Can-Drink (Nomihoudai) Exist! – Great for groups.
• Eat at Standing Sushi Bars for Quick & Affordable Sushi – Perfect for solo travelers.

Cultural & Etiquette Tips 🇯🇵

• Take Off Shoes When Entering Homes, Some Restaurants, and Temples.
• Carry a Small Towel for Hand Drying – Many public restrooms don't provide paper towels.
• Respect Personal Space & Keep Volume Low – Avoid loud conversations on public transport.
• Don't Eat While Walking – It's considered impolite.
• Queuing Is Strictly Followed – Stand in line properly, especially for trains.
• Give and Receive Money with Both Hands – Shows respect.
• Bow Instead of Shaking Hands – A polite way to greet people.
• Public Trash Cans Are Rare – Carry a small bag for your trash.
• Smoking Is Restricted in Many Public Areas – Use designated smoking zones.
• Avoid Touching or Hugging Strangers – Personal space is valued.

Following these 50 tips will help first-time visitors navigate Japan with ease, avoid common mistakes, and make the most of their trip. If you have other great tips, feel free to share them below!