A few helpful things to know for Japan first timers….
Before your trip, take a moment to get familiar with the country – Japanese customs, culture, and Wi-Fi connectivity, as well as seasonal weather, geography, and luggage-delivery services.
Here, you’ll find answers to many common questions first-time travelers ask, along with insider tips and practical advice to help you explore Japan with confidence.
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When is peak travel season?
Japan has very definite travel seasons. If you have a flexible schedule, try to avoid the following time periods when prices can be higher than usual and transportation and hotels can be fully booked. New Year–December 27 to January 4 and adjacent weekends. Golden Week–April 29 to May 5 and adjacent weekends. The Summer Bon Holiday–the week centering on August 15.
Will travel in Japan be difficult without Japanese language skills?
Even without speaking Japanese, navigating Japan is usually quite manageable. English is widely understood, especially in major cities and popular tourist areas. With a bit of friendly body language and simple gestures, you’ll rarely run into difficulties. Public transportation often provides announcements in both Japanese and English, and most signs include easy-to-read Roman characters or English translations. In addition, a wide range of tourist services is available to support international visitors throughout the country.
Are credit cards widely accepted?
While most stores and restaurants accept major credit cards such as Visa, MasterCard, and American Express, it’s important to remember that Japan still operates largely as a cash-based society. Smaller shops, family-run businesses, and remote ryokan inns may only take payment in yen. Fortunately, more than 26,000 Post Office ATMs are located throughout the country, and those with international withdrawal capability are clearly marked. These ATMs support Cirrus, Plus, Maestro, and Visa Electron networks, as well as Visa, MasterCard, American Express, and Diners Club cards.
Japan consistently ranks as one of the safest countries in the world, so carrying cash is generally not a concern.
Can I use my cell phone in Japan?
Compatibility can vary depending on your mobile network provider, so it’s best to confirm whether your phone will work in Japan before you travel. If needed, you can easily rent a phone, purchase a SIM card, or arrange portable Wi-Fi once you arrive. Most major airports offer kiosks with a range of plans and pricing options to suit different needs.
Is WiFi accessible in Japan?
In Japan you should never be too far from a Wi-Fi connection. However, for guaranteed access, especially if you are traveling to more remote areas, Wi-Fi rental is recommended.
Most major hotels in Japanese cities offer a Wi-Fi connection for its guests, however, don’t expect traditional ryokan hotels and smaller minshuku style accommodation to provide such a service.
The safest option for guaranteed Wi-Fi from all corners of Japan is to rent a personal hotspot or pocket Wi-Fi device when you arrive in the country. Rental kiosks are located at all major airports, available at competitive rates. Alternatively, make a prior reservation via the internet and have your device delivered straight to your hotel. Research the options from the various providers—JAL ABC , PuPuRu Wi-Fi , Vision Inc , WiFiBOX —and choose the most appropriate plan.
Another way to stay connected is to rent or buy a sim card. Major airports offer different data plans depending on your need. Other options include Brastel . You can buy a sim card at one of the electronic megastores such as Bic Camera or Yodobashi Camera. A wide range of plans are on offer, so research is recommended to find one that best suits your needs. As a rough guide, you should be able to pick one up a 1GB data plan for 30 days for around 3,000 yen.
Are trains are the most convenient way to travel in Japan?
Railway networks criss-cross throughout the nation. Japan Railways (JR)–including the shinkansen lines–connect all major cities nationwide, while private railway companies operate in each region. Large cities also have plenty of subway and monorail options.
The Japan Railways Group: Japan Rail Pass is a very economical and convenient method of accessing unlimited travel on JR lines within Japan, including bullet trains–with the exception of the Nozomi.
Are there any prepaid cards for traveling in Tokyo
The main prepaid cards used around Japan are the Pasmo and Suica–there are other local cards too.
These chargeable cards require a refundable deposit of 500 yen when you purchase one. They can be charged over and over allowing for smooth travel on trains, buses and some boats.
The cards can be returned to reclaim the deposit – or keep your card as a souvenir!
What kinds of accommodation is available in Japan?
Japan offers a wide variety of accommodation to suit all tastes and budgets. For western-style lodgings, there are luxury hotels and business hotels. If you prefer Japanese-style accommodations, try a Ryokan (Japanese-style inn) and Minshuku (private guest-houses providing a bed and meals). For travelers on low budgets, try the Japanese Inn Group and Youth Hostels.
What about Plugs and Electricity?
Japan uses a uniform voltage of 100 volts A.C. across the country. However, frequency varies by region: eastern Japan operates at 50 hertz, while western Japan—including Nagoya, Kyoto, and Osaka—uses 60 hertz. Many dual-voltage items such as travel irons, shavers, and hair dryers work without issue, but other appliances may require a step-down transformer.
Australian plugs are Type I (three flat pins), while Japan uses Type A (two flat pins) and Type B (two flat pins plus a grounding pin). Additionally, Australia’s standard voltage is 230V, while Japan’s is 100V. Therefore, Australian travellers will need a plug adapter for Japan and may also need a voltage converter to use certain appliances.
In major cities, it’s easy to find travel accessories like plug adapters and transformers. They’re available in well-known electronics districts such as Akihabara in Tokyo and Nipponbashi in Osaka, as well as at large retail chains like Yodobashi Camera and Bic Camera.
For charging on the go, newer shinkansen trains offer power outlets at the window seats; simply request one when purchasing your ticket. Some fast-food chains and family restaurants also provide outlets for customer use.
