What You Need to Know for Your First Trip to Japan: A Complete Guide

Planning your first trip to Japan? This guide covers everything you need to know, from cultural tips and must-see destinations to practical travel advice and etiquette.

Japan is one of those places that many people long to visit – a place where the ancient and modern world collide. Whether you are attracted by the quaintness of ancient temples, the busy crowds of Tokyo, or peaceful countryside bliss, Japan will offer an everlasting experience for everyone. This guidebook will provide you everything that is required for your very first experience adventuring in Japan to make it pleasurable and memorable at the same time.

1. Planning Your Trip

Best Time to Visit

While free to visit throughout the year, Japan is a top destination for both spring (March – May) and autumn (September-November) travel due to its weather; I recommend heading out in these seasons. The weather will be nice during any of these seasons, and you can see beautiful cherry blossoms in spring or colorful leaves in the fall.

Visa Requirements

No visa is needed for short visits (usually under 90 days) from the United States, Canada, EU, much of Europe, Australia, and many other nationalities. It is important, however, to check the latest visa regulations of your specific nationality before heading off.

Budgeting for Your Trip

Japan can be pricey, but with careful planning, you can stay within your budget. Make a budget for your accommodations, meals, transportation, and activities. If you plan on traveling significantly by train, consider obtaining a Japan Rail Pass (JR Pass).

2. Getting Around

Transportation Options

• Trains: Japan’s train system is world-renowned for its efficiency and punctuality. The quickest way to travel between major cities will be on the Shinkansen (bullet train).
• Subways and Buses: Many large cities in Japan have substantial subway systems, like Tokyo or Osaka.
• Taxis and Ride-Sharing: Taxis are convenient yet pricey. Some cities provide ride-sharing services such as Uber, but they are not as common as in other nations.
• Bicycles: Many cities are cycle-friendly, and renting a bicycle is an excellent way to get around.

Japan Rail Pass

The JR Pass offers unlimited travel on most of the Bullet and Regular trains operated by JR for a number of consecutive days (7, 14, or 21). It could save you a LOT of money traveling between places. Tip: Buy your JR Pass before you get to Japan; they usually aren’t on sale in the country.

3. Accommodation

Types of Accommodation

• Hotels: Japan offers a range of hotels, from budget options to luxury establishments.
• Ryokan: Traditional Japanese inns with tatami mat rooms, futon beds, and communal baths.
• Hostels: Affordable and social, hostels are an excellent choice for budget tourists.
• Capsule Hotels: Unique to Japan, capsule hotels offer small, pod-like sleeping spaces and are a novel experience for travelers.

Booking Tips

Especially during the peaks of vacation such as cherry blossom season and Golden week (late April to early May), book your accommodations in advance. Some of the most popular online booking sites in Japan are Booking.com, Agoda, and Airbnb.

4. Must-See Destinations

Tokyo

• Shibuya Crossing: The world’s busiest pedestrian crossing and an iconic symbol of Tokyo.
• Senso-ji Temple: It is in Asakusa and the oldest temple in Tokyo.
• Shinjuku Gyoen National Garden: Beautiful park ideal for a leisurely stroll.
• Harajuku: Known for its unique apparel and vibrant street culture.

Kyoto

• Fushimi Inari Shrine: Famous for its thousands of red torii gates.
• Kinkaku-ji (Golden Pavilion): A stunning Zen Buddhist temple covered in gold leaf.
• Arashiyama Bamboo Grove: A serene and lovely bamboo grove.
• Gion District: Kyoto’s historic geisha district, perfect for an evening walk.

Osaka

• Osaka Castle: A historic landmark surrounded by beautiful gardens.
• Dotonbori: A lively area known for its neon lights, street food, and entertainment.
• Universal Studios Japan: A popular theme park with attractions based on movies and TV shows.

Hiroshima

• Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park: A poignant reminder of the atomic bombing, with the Atomic Bomb Dome and Peace Memorial Museum.
• Miyajima Island: Known for the iconic Itsukushima Shrine and its floating torii gate.

Hokkaido

• Sapporo: Famous for its beer, skiing, and the annual Sapporo Snow Festival.
• Furano and Biei: Known for their beautiful lavender fields and scenic landscapes.

5. Cultural Etiquette

Basic Etiquette

• Bowing: Bowing is a popular greeting and expression of respect. Bow slightly when greeting or thanking someone.
• Shoes: At home, in ryokans and temples (some eateries): Remove your shoes before you step inside. Look for the slippers provided at the entrance.
• Quietness: Maintain modest noise levels, particularly in public spaces and on public transit.

Dining Etiquette

• Chopsticks: Do not place chopsticks upright in a dish of rice, as this mimics a mourning ceremony. Avoid moving food from one set of chopsticks to another.
• Slurping: Slurping noodles is normal, and even encouraged, as a sign of appreciation for the meal.
• Tipping: Tipping is not common in Japan and may be considered disrespectful. Excellent service is expected without additional gratuities.

Bathing Etiquette

• Onsen (Hot Springs): Before you enter a community bath, fully wash and rinse your body (your face should also be washed or rinsed). Do not bring towels into the bathing area.
• Tattoos: Some onsen do not allow guests with tattoos due to their association with the yakuza (Japanese organized crime). Check the onsen’s policy beforehand.

6. Food and Drink

Must-Try Dishes

• Sushi and Sashimi: Fresh seafood served with rice or on its own.
• Ramen: Noodle soup with a variety of broths and toppings.
• Tempura: Lightly battered and fried seafood and vegetables.
• Okonomiyaki: Savory pancakes made with various ingredients.
• Takoyaki: Octopus balls, a popular street food in Osaka.
• Soba and Udon: Traditional Japanese noodles served hot or cold.

Food Culture

Japan’s food culture is rich and diverse, with each region offering its specialties. Be adventurous and try local dishes wherever you go. Convenience stores (konbini) like 7-Eleven and Lawson offer surprisingly good and affordable meals.

7. Practical Tips

Money and Payments

• Currency: The Japanese yen (JPY) is the currency used in Japan. It’s helpful to carry some cash, as smaller establishments may not accept credit cards.
• ATMs: International ATMs can be found at post offices, convenience stores, and airports.
• IC Cards: Prepaid transportation cards like Suica and Pasmo can be used for trains, buses, and even some shops and vending machines.

Language

While English is not widely spoken, especially in rural areas, many signs in major cities are in English. Learning a few basic Japanese phrases can be helpful and appreciated by locals.

Connectivity

To stay connected, rent a portable Wi-Fi device or buy a SIM card once you land. You can reserve either at major airports.

8. Safety and Health

Safety

Japan is one of the safest countries in the world. Crime rates are low, and it’s safe to walk around cities at night. However, always exercise common sense and take usual precautions.

Health

Japan has excellent healthcare facilities. Travelers should have travel insurance that covers medical expenses. Pharmacies (kusuri-ya) are readily available, and many staff members can assist with basic English.

Conclusion

A trip to Japan combines ancient traditions and modern splendors that dazzle in equal measure. Knowing what to expect and planning in advance may help ensure a smooth experience while also enjoying the enrichment of the language and culture. Whether you are wowed by Tokyo’s neon-lit streets or calmed by Kyoto’s temples, a vacation to Japan is one of discovery.