21 Japan Travel Tips For First-Time Visitors
From Tokyo’s vibrant and futuristic flair to the timeless allure of Kyoto, we uncover how to explore The Land of Rising Sun.
Oshino Hakkai, a Japanese Village at Yamanashi Prefecture. (Image credit: Shutterstock)
Planning the holiday of a lifetime? Japan won’t disappoint. After all, it’s a land of endless adventure, possibilities, and attractions — where historical rituals come together with inventive technology. Indeed, it’s a unique destination that blends old-world charm and modern futuristic vibes. But if you’re preparing to head to the Land of Rising Sun as a first-time traveler, it’s not always easy to know where to start. Often, it feels like you’re stepping into another world, a galaxy far far away.
With our tailored travel insights, we make planning a Japan trip more than just exciting, however. We turn your journey into an experience, and moments into unforgettable memories.
Tips For Visiting Japan
From mastering the basics of omotenashi and the buttons of the futuristic toilets to showing cultural respect and bowing correctly in temples — a visit to Japan requires enthusiasm, a little care and a lot of preparation. Not to mention, a deep respect and knowledge of its ancient traditions and modern way of life. That’s before we mention, knowing to remove your shoes in temples and restaurants alike, understanding the gentle nature of Japanese hospitality, and even navigating the etiquette of Japanese hot spring baths.
As your dedicated Japanese travel partner, we’re here to help you make the most of your adventure — whether you’re a seasoned globetrotter who has plenty of Japanese stamps in their passport or you’re getting ready to set foot on Japan’s international soil for the first time. So keep scrolling to uncover our handpicked and important Japan travel tips.
Sumo wrestlers at Tokyo (Image credit: Shutterstock)
Get to Grips with Japanese Rules & Etiquette
Brush up on your manners
Japan is renowned for its exceptional service, and a big part of that is due to the concept of "omotenashi", which can be translated as "hospitality". While "omotenashi" reflects the unparalleled service you'll receive in hotels, restaurants, and shops, as a visitor, you can show your appreciation and respect through some simple gestures.
When meeting Japanese individuals, whether it’s a tour guide, a restaurant owner, or even a shop assistant, it's customary to bow as a sign of respect. If you're unsure about the depth or type of bow, or if you're not comfortable with it, a simple nod of the head is recognized as a polite gesture and will be appreciated by locals.
Learn some Japanese phrases
The language of Japan is, of course, Japanese. And although English is widely spoken across the globe, it isn’t as prevalent in Japan as some people think. Instead, brush up on some phrases to help you get by. For starters: “Hai” means “Yes” and “Lie” means “No”. “Arigatō” means “Thank you”, and to say “Please”, it’s “O-negai shimasu”.
Before you travel, it might be useful to take a look at these basic conversation starters in Japan and you could even download a translation app to help with communication while you’re there! Once in Japan, you’ll notice that a lot of the words are written in symbols, known as Kanji. Brushing up on some of the most commonly used Kanji symbols for the likes of meat, sushi, alcohol and fish can help to make your time in Japan easier too.
Research specific tourist attractions
Many of the tourist attractions including the religious and culturally significant places will have their own rules. This includes taking off shoes, not taking any pictures inside, and behaving calmly. In Sumo matches, for example, clapping and throwing a cushion is perceived as a show of appreciation especially when the underdog wins. Each will have their own guidelines so be sure to research before visiting so that you’re prepared.
Mastering The Art of Socializing in Japan
Get your chopsticks in check
You’ll likely know that chopsticks are common in Asian regions but did you know that using them upright in a bowl of rice resembles a funeral ritual? So, it’s best to avoid this technique.
What’s more, Japanese etiquette states that you should never use one chopstick in each hand, known as chigiri-bashi. You should also avoid “yoko-bashi”, which is where you hold your chopsticks together and use them to shovel food into your mouth. Instead, hold both chopsticks in one hand and use the other to adjust them rather than using the plate or table to tap them into place.
Never pour your own drink
In Japan, your drink is always poured by someone else. You should never pour your own drink, but instead wait, especially in a business setting. And don’t forget to return the favor, because it’s a courtesy gesture to begin the meal. You must also never begin to drink until everyone is at the table and all glasses have been raised.
Bonus top tip: If you ask for still water in restaurants or hotels, it’s likely to be from a tap, which is completely safe to drink. If you’d prefer to drink bottled water, just say. Bottled water is available all over the country and won’t set you back in terms of price either.
Stay in line
The Japanese take queuing and patience very seriously so when you’re in their country it’s important to do the same. Be sure to stand in line and wait your turn – whether you’re in a public transport queue or even on an escalator. If someone does push in, it’s likely that another individual will call them out for it and point them to the back of the line.
No need to tip
While in the US, tipping is customary as a way to say thanks and show appreciation, in Japan it isn’t required. Instead, good service is already included in the overall price of your goods. If you do want to compliment the chef, for example, or a member of staff, simply pass on your regards.
Be gracious when handling money
Direct hand-to-hand transactions, especially involving cash, are not the norm. Instead, you'll often find a small tray at the cashier's counter where you should place your money. The cashier will then take the cash from the tray and likewise place your change on it, from which you can then collect.
Japanese cash tray often seen at payment counters.
Similarly, when handing over items like business cards or even the aforementioned tray, it's important to do so with both hands. Place your thumbs on top and make a slight bow as you offer or receive the item. This gesture isn't just about the act of giving or receiving but also about showing respect and gratitude to the other person.
Be wary about attracting attention
Japan is undoubtedly a modern and high-tech nation, especially in metropolises like Tokyo and Osaka, but the culture still values modesty and discretion. In many restaurants, especially in the larger cities, you might find a bell on the table or even an iPad to place your order, often with menus translated into English or Mandarin Chinese. This system allows for efficient service without drawing unnecessary attention.
However, if you're in a place without these modern conveniences and need assistance from the waitstaff, it's best to wait for them to approach your table. If you need to get their attention, it's acceptable to quietly call out “sumimasen” (which means "excuse me") but always ensure it's done politely.
Journeying Through Japan With Ease
Arrange a tour guide before you go
Similar to other countries, Japan has a whole host of tour guides offering to book attractions and reservations. But, not all of the tour companies out there are as it seems. Plus, you might find that booking your tours last minute comes at an extra cost. With this in mind, we advise getting in touch with a local agency before you go to help with your planning. Plus, we can even offer local insights and advice on the best places to visit that aren’t on the tourist path.
Consider private transport
While there is a lot of public transport around Japan, it can get very busy and if you can’t speak or read Japanese, navigating the network can be very challenging. With this in mind, you might want to consider using a private chartered car service, which makes traveling with kids and to less accessible areas much more convenient.
Pack sensibly
Temperatures can get hot in Japan, it’s important to remember that the country is a very religious place. What’s more, if you are visiting temples, shrines or other places of worship, then it is required that you wear modest clothing. This means clothing that covers shoulders and knees and doesn’t contain any words or pictures that may be offensive. Of course, when you’re in your hotel or around the pool, swimwear is allowed.
What’s more, in many places around the world, including in the Maldives, China, and Japan, it’s polite to remove your shoes before entering certain accommodation, restaurants and of course temples. For this reason, it’s a good idea to wear shoes that are easy to remove and put back on again.
Get to grip with the toilets
Japan leads the way when it comes to technology and its public toilets haven't been left out. They’re pretty high-tech with buttons for various features including a flush, seat wipe and even fragrance spray. There are even various buttons for flush intensity and privacy mode which plays music and certain sounds so you can remain in peace and quiet. While most cubicles have a pictograph inside detailing what the various buttons and functions do, it can be useful to do a little research beforehand. In rural areas, toilets tend to require squatting too so be sure to carry tissues with you.
Many buttons on a typical Japanese toilet
Be careful not to confuse the wash button with the emergency button.
Don’t rely on debit and credit cards
While credit cards and debit cards are gaining popularity, many places in Japan including some shops and restaurants still prefer cash – especially in rural areas. In fact, it’s less common in Japan for people to use cards compared to the US and UK. However, Japan is improving technologically, and some big cities like Tokyo and Osaka accept touchless payment from iWatches and apps installed in mobile phones as well.
What’s more, try to have a range of cash instead of simply large notes to prevent the establishment from having to find lots of change to give you. For example, if you want to buy a bottle of water, try to use some coins for this. It can also be more cost-efficient to get your travel money before you go instead of relying on local exchange rates.
Press the elevator buttons
There’s an unspoken rule about the person closest to the buttons and doors of an elevator being the person who presses them for everyone and ensures the door is open for individuals entering and leaving. If this is you, don’t forget! You can also say thank you or arigato to the person who presses the elevator for everyone before exiting the elevator, its customary for the locals to do so. If you do this, you are one step closer to integrating into the culture!
The Environment & Ethos
Follow energy-efficient procedures
As well as being trailblazers when it comes to technology, Japan is also incredibly focused on conserving energy. Many hotels even request that you insert your hotel room key into a specific slot in the room to activate energy when you’re inside. This means that you’re not using excess energy and electricity when you’re out.
Invest in a Japanese SIM card
While they might be at the forefront of tech, if you’re going to be out and about visiting far-flung areas of the region, you won’t always be connected to the internet. Whether you simply want to upload photos as you go or stay in contact with friends and family back home, it’s often a great idea to rent a pocket Wi-Fi adapter or purchase a local Japanese SIM card. Both will offer uninterrupted internet access so you can just enjoy your day.
Carry a small trash bag with you
In Japan, it’s rare to see a public trash bin but equally littering is not permitted. So, with this in mind, you might want to consider taking a small bag with you to store your rubbish in until you either get back to your hotel room or find a place to dispose of it later.
Stay updated
Wherever you are in the world, it’s important to stay updated by keeping an eye on local news, the weather and any travel websites. This is especially if you’re traveling during typhoon season or in the event that there are earthquakes. Beware of information on the internet, and make sure that your source of information is a reliable one. We highly recommend that you bookmark the Weather, Climate & Earthquake Information Page from the Japan Meterological Agency (available in English), as well as have the emergency numbers of your country’s embassy in Japan.
Ninensaka, a popular spot for photos at Kyoto. (Image credit: Shutterstock)
We might be biased, but Japan truly is one of the most magical places on earth. Boasting a blend of tradition and innovation, it offers experiences that are hard to find anywhere else and will certainly be talked about for many years to come. From the ancient temples of Kyoto to the preserved samurai district of Kanazawa, Japan’s rich and colorful history is evident everywhere and there are so many stories just waiting to be brought to life.
Of course, we can’t not mention the incredible natural beauty that surrounds Japan, everywhere you look. Think cherry blossoms in the spring, vivid autumn foliage, sun-soaked beaches in the summer and snow-capped mountains in the water. Whatever time of year you’re thinking of heading to Japan, there is breathtaking beauty all around.
Plus, it’s not just about the various landscapes. Japan’s culinary delights and cuisine, known as “washoku” is recognized by UNESCO for its cultural significance. That’s when you’re not delving into the many other attractions and activities on offer like traditional tea ceremonies, geisha performances and the world of anime and manga. For tech enthusiasts, Japan is undoubtedly one of the most impressive places to go with cutting-edge transport systems and restaurants manned completely by robots!
Plus, if that wasn’t enough, Japan is often ranked as one of the safest and cleanest countries in the whole world which, if you’re asking us, is another reason to add Japan to your travel bucket list.
How TokudAw Can Help
As travel enthusiasts, just like you probably are, we understand that embarking on a journey around the world can be daunting. But, with TokudAw by your side, your Japanese experience will be hassle-free and memorable. From private chartered car services, accommodation and restaurant booking, excursions and private tours, we manage every little detail so you can just focus on immersing yourself in the true beauty of Japan. And finally, our support doesn’t end once you land in Japan. We’re with you every step of the way to offer continuous advice and guidance and we ensure that any challenges are swiftly addressed.
You see with TokudAW, it might be your first visit to Japan but we guarantee it won’t be the last. So what are you waiting for? Get in touch with us today and let’s start planning an experience that’ll linger in your memory long after you check out. Take the first step towards your very own Japanese story.
