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When planning a trip to Japan, there are many things to consider. When should you go? How much money should you take? Do you need a visa? This list of Japan travel tips is here to help you make the necessary preparations before going to Japan.

10 Japan Travel Tips to Know Before You Go

Cellular Service & Wi-Fi

Cellular Service & Wi-Fi

1. Cellular Service & Wi-Fi

Unlike some other countries, you can’t buy a SIM card for cellular service in Japan. It’s best to contact your cellular service provider before going to Japan and ask about international roaming packages.

If making phone calls is not important, you can buy SIM cards for Wi-Fi service at the Tokyo airport in the Arrivals hall. There are also Free WIFI areas throughout Japan at most airports, train stations, and hotels.

Japan Rail Pass

Japan Rail Pass

2. Rail Pass & Transport

If you are going to do any traveling in Japan, it pays to get the Japan Rail Pass (JR Pass). Basically, if you travel from Tokyo to Osaka and back, then it’s a better deal to get the rail pass. You can’t buy the pass in Japan, so you have to plan ahead if you are thinking about getting one.

It’s not necessary to rent a car in Japan because the trains and buses are comfortable and reliable. But if you do, you must have an international driver’s license.

Yukata (Japanese Robe)

Yukata (Japanese Robe)

3. Types of Hotels & Accommodation

Japan has a range of accommodation depending on your budget. You can choose from luxury hotels (large rooms), business hotels (very small rooms), Ryokan (Japanese style with shared bath), or Youth Hostels.

Business hotels are a popular option because they are centrally located near stations and reasonably priced. The rooms are very small, but they are clean, modern, and usually include breakfast.

Subway Map of Tokyo

Subway Map of Tokyo

4. Useful Apps

Download any apps and updates you need before you go in order to avoid any verification complications. It’s good to have information for weather, train timetables, Japanese dictionary, maps, and free WIFI areas.

Japan Visa

Japan Visa

5. Visa

Most nationalities can enter Japan as a tourist without a visa. However, if you are planning to work, you must get a visa before entering the country.

It’s best to check with the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Japan to find out whether you need to apply for a visa.

Japanese Money

Japanese Money

6. Costs & Budgets

Cost of travel in Japan is not as expensive as most people think. You can expect to spend around $2,500 for two people for one week, not including the cost of air tickets.

Generally, the price you see is the price you pay. The consumption tax and service charge are included in the prices, so there is no need to tip.

Japan Airlines

Japan Airlines

7. Flights

Most visitors book air travel into Tokyo because it offers the best rates and is centrally located. But also check fares into Haneda, Osaka, and Nagoya.

Japan Airlines (JAL) and All Nippon Airways (ANA) are both excellent airlines. The food and service are top-notch and the newer planes feature more legroom. Also, they offer complimentary beer and wine in all classes on international flights.

Train Etiquette in Japan

Train Etiquette in Japan

8. Etiquette

The people in Japan are very kind and always willing to help foreigners. As long as you smile and approach everything with an open mind, you will not have any problems. In general, people follow a strict social conduct. Rules are followed. Everything is on time. People don’t lose their cool. So, just follow this way of thinking. It’s also good to familiarize yourself with Japanese etiquette before you go.

Money Exchange

Money Exchange

9. Money Exchange

Do not exchange money in the United States before you leave. It’s best to exchange your cash at the airport when you arrive in Japan.

You can use ATM cards at 7-Eleven convenient store ATMs and Japan Post ATMs, but check with your bank regarding international withdrawal fees. Credit cards are becoming more widely accepted, but it’s always good to have cash on hand.

Celebrating Children’s Day in Japan

Japan Holidays and Annual Events

10. Holidays in Japan

There are certain times of the year that company employees get off from work. Try to avoid traveling during the three big Japan holidays because it is difficult to book hotels and rates skyrocket.

You may also want to avoid school holidays because families take vacation at this time.

SEE OUR JAPAN TOURS
  • Air Travel
  • Cellular Service & Wi-Fi
  • Cost of Travel
  • Etiquette
  • Exchanging Money
  • Holidays
  • Hotels
  • Japan Rail Pass
  • Useful Apps
  • Visas

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Bex and Shawn in Nara

Becki & Shawn
Japan Travel Specialist

Hi, we’re Becki and Shawn! We love Japan and are truly passionate about Japan and Japan travel.

We’ve lived, worked, and traveled in Japan for 20+ years, so we know where to go, what to see, and how to get there. Join us in Japan for an adventure of a lifetime!

SEE OUR JAPAN TOURS

TESTIMONIALS

“Every detail seemed to have been taken care of. Most importantly they truly listen to your requests and they work really hard to fulfill them. We had so much fun. A trip to brag about forever.”

Anita & Adam

“Shawn and Becki are excellent guides and we recommend their tours highly.”

Mary & Barry

“Our trip to Japan with Becki and Shawn was absolutely amazing! Their knowledge of Japan and ability to speak the language made everything so much easier.”

Andy & Amy

“Going on this tour was like spending time with old friends, even though we only met Becki and Shawn a week ago. Thank you for an authentic expat experience.”

John & Karen

“Thank you for your warmth and perfect planning. The trip was wonderful and exceeded my expectations on every level.”

Susan

“I appreciated the attention to detail, the care and thoughtfulness of you both, and the good humor. It enabled me to relax and enjoy Japan so much more.”

Sue

“Becki and Shawn are beautifully organized. Everything is done with charm and kindness. Can’t ask for more!”

Lynn

“I cannot recommend Japan and More highly enough! Our family of five spent about three weeks in Japan with Shawn and Becki, and we had an extraordinary experience of a lifetime.”

Peter

“The trip was amazing. It was everything I could have hoped for! I would not have been able to see and learn so much if it weren’t for Becki and Shawn!”

Blythe

“Shawn and Becki are very helpful with Japanese culture and how to maneuver around Japan.”

Wanda & Andy

“I was able to see so much, cover so much ground and experience places I would not have even considered without Becki’s guidance. She is truly an expert on the country and culture! It’s a magical place.”

Jennifer

“This was a very personal, customized, small group adventure that covered a lot of ground in a short period of time. The hotels were excellent and the food was varied and delicious. I am a raving fan!”

Hal

“Becki’s exceptional Japanese took us through the intimate corners of Japan where we could interact in a relaxed atmosphere.”

Judy

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Becki & Shawn in Nara, Japan

About

Becki and Shawn
Japan Travel Specialists

Hi, we’re Becki and Shawn! We love Japan and are truly passionate about Japan and Japan travel.

We’ve lived, worked, and traveled in Japan for 20+ years, so we know where to go, what to see, and how to get there. Join us in Japan for an adventure of a lifetime!

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