Travel Tips to Japan

UPDATED AUG 2026: I have planned several trips to Japan and here are my top tips for first time travelers. Not only do I work with the best suppliers and travel experts, but I have been there several times as well. It may seem like a daunting destination to discover on your own, but that is why you have me to guide you.

DID YOU KNOW… Japan is an island nation in East Asia and it is an archipelago consisting of almost 7,000 islands in total. Japan consists of four main islands: Hokkaido, Honshu, Shikoku and Kyushu plus the Ryukyu Islands and thousands of smaller islands. It also has 47 regional divisions called prefectures and each has its own capital and is comparable to a state in the U.S.

Language – Japan’s official language is Japanese, but English is generally understood in major cities and designated tourist sites.

Time Zone – All of Japan sits within the same time zone, and no daylight saving is practiced. The country is nine hours ahead of GMT.

Wi-Fi & Connectivity – Wireless hotspots are popping up all over major cities in Japan, so you should never be too far from a Wi-Fi connection. 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. I include a Wi-Fi rental with most of my vacation packages!

Plugs & Electricity – Japan uses Type A and Type B plugs, just like in the USA. Most devices should work without an adapter. However, keep in mind that some outlets in Japan only accept two-pronged (Type A) plugs. If your device has a three-pronged plug (Type B), then I recommend bringing a Type B to Type A adapter just in case.

DID YOU KNOW… Mountains and forests cover approximately 70% of the total land mass in Japan so that doesn’t leave much room for their 127 million inhabitants. It is probably why the Japanese are masters of making use of small spaces.

Currency – The Japanese yen is used throughout the country and you can exchange foreign currency at the airports and most major banks. If you haven’t prepared cash in advance, it’s easy to exchange any currency into Japanese yen once you arrive in the country. All major airports have exchange points in their respective arrivals halls. Despite being one of the first countries in the world to adopt technology allowing payment via your mobile phone, Japan is still a very cash-based society and many transactions are cash-only especially in more rural areas.

Tipping – It simply is not practiced in Japan. In fact, it can cause discomfort and confusion if you do. It may come as a surprise that there is no such culture in Japan. This might be especially shocking as the standard of customer service in Japan is often regarded as the best in the world. There are only three instances that I suggest tipping: Private Guide, Private Driver and Ryokan Stay.

Credit Cards – Even though Japan is a cash-centric country, credit cards are usually accepted in most shops, restaurants and taxis in major cities. Usually Visa & Mastercards are the most accepted while American Express is less common.

Coin Purse - Having a small coin purse helps manage the large volume of heavy yen coins you receive as change.

Visa Information – Travelers from 68 countries (including the USA) across the globe can visit Japan for up to 90 days without requiring a visa.

Vending Machine in Japan (use your IC Card for payment!)

IC Travel Cards – Make your journeys as smooth as the public transportation you will ride on by purchasing a chargeable IC travel card. Use it to transfer swiftly between train lines and hop onto waiting buses and boats with a minimum of fuss. You can also use it at a number of vending machines and convenience stores, some taxis and for other services. I usually include this item in most of my travel packages!

Weather (When to Visit) – The weather in Japan can vary wildly depending on where you are traveling to. Every season in Japan has its charms, brought by the seasonal changes in temperature and weather. Spring is celebrated throughout the country with the arrival of the cherry blossoms. Summer throughout Japan is stiflingly hot and intensely humid—make sure to keep hydrated. The autumn colors light-up the countryside and is a perfect time for outdoor exploration. Winter is crisp and cool and snow and ski season is in high demand in the north.

Drinking Water – While bottled water is readily available all over Japan—including in the infinite vending machines—the tap water is perfectly safe to drink.

DID YOU KNOW… Vending machines are a whole world to explore while in Japan. They can sell everything from food and beverages to manga and even underwear.

Luggage Storage & Delivery – If you don’t wish to haul your luggage around with you, drop your bags off at one of the delivery service kiosks located at the airports or make arrangements with your hotel. Luckily, Japan’s intense commitment to customer service means that your luggage can easily be transported or stored allowing you to travel “hands-free”. I highly recommend using this service and I offer specific recommendations where it is best to take advantage of it.

Small Day Bag - Bring a light backpack or sling bag for carrying water, a power bank, and your passport for tax-free shopping.

Staying Safe in Japan – If you do find yourself in a situation that requires serious help, dial 110 for an urgent call to the police and 119 for fire or ambulance. Japan is very safe and the crime rate is quite low. Like any other destination, travelers should be aware of their surroundings and know what to do in case something does happen.

Customs & Manners – For first-time visitors, Japan can be both extremely familiar and outrageously alien. Learning a little about the customs of a particular region or place will untangle a few of the potential knots of confusion, as well as giving you a more fulfilling experience. I provide many tips with your travel documents.

DID YOU KNOW… If you are eating sushi, it is okay to pick it up with your hands. Just pick up a piece, dip the fish (not the rice) into the bowl of soy sauce and enjoy. Also, when eating noodles slurping is allowed and even expected. Some say the louder the better!

Hand Towel or Handkerchief - A small washcloth or handkerchief is needed because many public restrooms lack paper towels or dryers. You can also pick one up in Japan as it makes a great souvenir!

Small Trash Bag - Public trash cans are rare, so you must carry your garbage until you find a trash bin. Sometimes, you have to pack your trash until you get back to your hotel room. I suggest a ziploc bag in either the sandwich size or gallon size.

Traveling With a Disability – At major train stations, airports, and hotels, as well as in most newer shopping centers and theaters in the city, the disabled traveler or wheelchair user should have little trouble getting from place to place.

Traveling With Children – Traveling to Japan with children may seem like a daunting prospect and something best avoided, however, the country is surprisingly accessible.

A common question I am often presented is “How much does a trip to Japan cost?” Here is a handy chart that is based on a typical trip with the usual inclusions. Prices are per person based on double occupancy. Solo travelers will typically be 20-25% more. Airfare is NOT included in these estimated prices.

Accommodation Style	1 Week	2 Weeks	3 Weeks
3 Star	$2,700	$4,700	$6,700
4 Star	$4,200	$6,800	$9,400
5 Star	$8,200	$13,400	$18,000

NOTE: I have looked at the estimates for 2026 and they aren't that different from 2019 due to the great exchange rate that the USD has with the Japanese Yen.