Lost in Japan?
Japan is a land of mesmerizing contrasts, where ancient traditions seamlessly blend with cutting-edge technology. Navigating this enigmatic country can be both exhilarating and daunting for first-time visitors. From the efficient and punctual transportation system to the intricate etiquettes of ordering food, Japan offers a tapestry of experiences waiting to be unraveled by intrepid travelers. But before you get swept away by the bullet trains and bento boxes, let's equip you with the knowledge to navigate this enigmatic country with confidence.
National Language:
Japanese
Currency:
Japanese Yen
Time zone:
GMT +9
Arrival Process:
Immigration: As you step into Japan, expect a streamlined immigration process. Ensure you have your passport, a completed embarkation card (usually provided on the flight), a customs declaration form (also provided), and a visa if required. To streamline the process I recommend you fill out your embarkation/disembarkation card and custom form on the official site.
If you need me to walk you through it see this video here ᕕ( ᐛ )ᕗ
Currency Exchange: While airports have exchange counters, I strongly recommend bringing a travel debit card and withdrawing money at an airport ATM for a better exchange rate. You can withdraw more money from ATMs at 7/11's throughout Japan as needed.
Getting Data: There are plenty of counters at the airport selling SIM, E-SIM, and Hotspots. If you are traveling with a large group hotspots might be more economical, but if you are traveling alone/wandering off a lot I recommend getting an E-SIM. You can get some from aloSIM (5% off affiliate link :) that helps support my blog that doesn't cost anything to you). With eSIMs, you can set them up at home before your trip, ensuring they work on your device and eliminating the need to find a local SIM card upon arrival
Getting Out the Airport: Options abound at Japan's airports. Trains like the Narita Express or Haneda's monorail whisk you to city centers efficiently. I recommend getting a transit card like Suica or Pasmo not only eases travel but also allows you to pay for food and merchandise. If you have an iPhone you can find this in your wallet app when you add a transportation card. See this video for more help with that.
Luggage: Staying at a hotel and arriving before check-in time? Ask if you can leave your luggage there. Most hotels will allow you to do this for free, this also applies when you are checking out and have a late flight. For those without immediate accommodation, coin lockers at stations or luggage storage services in airports provide safe havens for your belongings. If you bougie like that, there are services at the airport and train stations that will transport your luggage for you. This is especially helpful if you are carrying heavy luggage.
Don't get lost:
Train Networks: The Japanese public system is both amazing and intense. Your best friend on this trip is going to be Google Maps. This is what you can expect when using Google Maps.
IC Cards: Suica and Pasmo cards are essentials for paying for rides on Japan's extensive transit networks. Available at most major stations, these rechargeable cards cover trains, buses, and even restaurants. If you are running low you can reload at kiosks outside of each station. I recommend getting Suica on your phone though allowing you to reload easily whenever you get low. You don't want to be the friend that makes your friends late to the train because you can't pay for the train ˙◠˙
Bus System: I'm going to be honest, using the bus still intimidates me, but the process is straightforward. To board the bus tap your IC card. Keep track on Google Maps when your stop is and press the button on board to let your driver know to stop (watch other people press this button to make sure you don't accidentally press the emergency button LOL). When you exit tap your IC card again so you get charged the right fare.
Etiquette Tips: Japanese loves etiquette. On public transport queue in orderly lines, place luggage in designated areas, and refrain from loud conversations or phone calls.
Rush Hours: Imagine the doors of the train opening and there's a crowd of people inside. You have two options: packing yourself in the train car like a sardine or waiting for the next train. I'm here to tell you there's a third option (∩^ω^)⊃━☆ﾟ.* avoiding rush hour .*☆ﾟOn weekdays these hours are 7:00 AM - 9:00 AM and 5:00 PM - 7:00 PM.
Ordering Food:
After dropping off my luggage at my hotel room, my tummy was rumbling like a tiny earthquake. With the hunger pangs leading the way, I embarked on a stroll through Asakusa. Spotting a promising restaurant, my group and I hesitated momentarily – it was our first time. But with stomachs growling like a chorus of hungry bears, they gathered the courage, took a deep breath, and pushed me inside to fend for myself. Just in case you find yourself in a similar hungry predicament this is what you can expect when dining in Japan.
Entering Restaurants: You're standing outside a restaurant in Japan, unsure of how to communicate your group size because, let's face it, your Japanese skills are limited. Don't fret! Simply hold up the corresponding number of fingers to indicate the size of your party as you step inside.
Seating: As you take your place at the table, you'll notice a moist towelette, an oshibori, waiting for you – a common sight in Japan, used for cleaning your hands. You may see some people wipe their mouth with this towel (I do it), but to some, it's considered bad form. Additionally, you'll often find a convenient basket beneath your seat, perfect for stowing away your belongings during your meal.
Ordering Etiquette: Sometimes the staff gives a english menu. If you get a Japanese menu using Google Translate AR helps. Some terms to help you out:
"eigo no menyu, onegaishimasu" (A English menu please).
"chotto matte kudasai" (wait a moment please).
"sumimasen" (excuse me) to get the waiter's attention.
To order you can point to the menu item and they will understand.
If you want to be polite you can say:"kore o kudasai" (can I have this please).
Paying: After your order is brought out they will also bring the check. When you are done eating bring your check up to the front to pay. It's not customary to tip. Some terms to help you pay:
"kado de harae masu ka" (can I pay by card)
"suica de harae masu ka" (can I pay by Suica)
"gochisosama deshita" (thank you for the meal)
Put your payment method in the little tray they give you.
Understanding Japan's Unique Culture:
Greetings and Bowing: Bowing is deeply ingrained in Japanese culture, manifesting in various social interactions. Whether it's greeting someone, bidding farewell, or expressing gratitude, you'll encounter this respectful gesture everywhere. To express gratitude, a simple "arigatou" will do. For a more polite "thank you" in Japanese, you can use "arigatou gozaimasu".
Etiquette in Temples and Shrines: When visiting these hallowed grounds, it's essential to dress modestly, showing respect for the sacred environment. Before entering, you may also encounter cleansing rituals, such as washing your hands and mouth at a temizuya (手水舎), a purification basin typically found at the entrance. When Praying at a shrine:
Ring the bell or gong to alert the deity.
Bow deeply twice.
Toss a coin into the offering box.
Clap your hands twice to get the deity's attention.
Bow deeply once more and silently offer your prayers.
Conclude with a final bow before stepping away.
Unique Experiences: If you get the chance, I would strongly recommend immersing yourself in Japanese culture by participating in tea ceremonies, soaking in hot springs (onsen), or attending a local festival. Here are some popular festivals in different seasons:
Spring: Enjoy the Cherry Blossom Festivals (Sakura Matsuri) or the vibrant Sanja Matsuri in Tokyo.
Summer: Experience the Gion Matsuri in Kyoto or the spirited Awa Odori in Tokushima.
Autumn: Witness the Momiji Matsuri or the Takayama Matsuri.
Winter: Explore the Sapporo Snow Festival or the Kobe Luminarie.
Misc Cultural Tips:
Shoes Off Indoors: It's customary to remove your shoes before entering someone's home, traditional accommodations like ryokans, and certain other indoor spaces like temples, shrines, and some restaurants.
Respect Personal Space: Japanese people value personal space and tend to avoid physical contact in public. Maintain a respectful distance, especially in crowded places like trains or buses.
Queueing Etiquette: Japanese society places a strong emphasis on orderly queuing. Always wait your turn in lines and avoid cutting or pushing.
Silence on Public Transport: Keep noise to a minimum, including talking on the phone, on trains, subways, and buses. Use headphones if listening to music or watching videos.
Takeaways
Imma be so for real, even after reading this guide you're still going to get lost at least once… and that's ok ദ്ദി（• ˕ •マ.ᐟ
Getting a little lost adds a touch of spice to your journey. Trust me, I've wandered off the beaten path, missed trains, show-up to places just for it to be closed countless times. But these beaten path journeys are the most memorable and who knows you might even stumble on some hidden gems. Remember, travel is a journey of discovery, and sometimes, the best experiences come from those unplanned detours. Enjoy every step of your adventure in Japan!
P.S. If you want my full itinerary check out my Wanderlog.
