Japan Guide for a 7-14 day visit of Everything Japanese
- What you need to know before your visit:
Japan is a society deeply rooted in collectivism, which means that respecting rules and regulations is essential throughout your stay. Please note that English proficiency may be limited, especially outside of the major tourist areas of Tokyo, Shinjuku, Shibuya, Roppongi, and Asakusa. Below are five important etiquette tips to keep in mind:
a. Avoid talking on the phone or talking loudly while using public transportation.
b. Avoid eating, smoking or spitting while walking. Use designated smoking areas and dispose of waste properly.
c. Don't litter, even if public trash cans seem few. Convenience stores like Family Mart, 7 Eleven, or Lawson are good places to get rid of trash.
d. Keep pedestrian traffic flowing on busy sidewalks or in train stations. If you have to stop, move to the side.
e. Show respect for privacy by not taking pictures of strangers or in areas with "No Photos" signs. Also remember to turn off your camera's flash.
- Preparations for arrival:
a. Book at least one day's accommodation in advance to be able to provide an address upon arrival.
b. Review travel information on Regjeringen.no to familiarize yourself with any visit requirements.
c. Register on Visit Japan Web and fill in all the necessary information before your trip. Don't forget to take screenshots of QR codes and bookmark the pages for easy access upon arrival.
d. Download a translation app like Google Translate. The app's camera, voice, and caption translation features can prove invaluable.
- Upon arrival at the airport (Haneda/Narita for Tokyo):
a. Consider getting a data SIM card or ordering a Wi-Fi puck for constant internet access. Use the airport's free Wi-Fi to access your QR codes and necessary information before going through immigration.
b. Withdraw enough cash for your initial expenses. For better exchange rates, use ATMs at convenience stores like 7 Eleven or Family Mart after you leave the airport.
c. Buy a Pasmo card from the machines near the train gates for hassle-free access to public transport. If you plan to use the Shinkansen, pick up a JR Pass at the airport. For more tips, see the full guide.
d. To combat jet lag and adapt to the new climate, buy bottled water, easily digestible foods, vitamins, and make sure to get a good night's sleep upon arrival.
- Sightseeing and things to do
Tokyo:
Tokyo offers a rich variety of activities, making a 7-10 day stay optimal. Should you run out of ideas, neighboring areas such as Yokohama, Saitama and Chiba in the Kanto region are worth a visit.
a. Must-see areas include Shibuya, Harajuku, Shinjuku, Asakusa, Akihabara, and Roppongi.
b. For shopping, head to Harajuku for unique fashion (especially appealing to younger adults/teens). Shibuya and Shinjuku offer a wide range of shopping and dining experiences. Don Quijote is a good choice for tax-free, budget-friendly, and unique items. For luxury shopping, Roppongi and Ginza are your go-to areas, while Akihabara is a haven for anime enthusiasts and tech buffs. Asakusa is great for souvenir hunting.
c. Enjoy the cityscape from Tokyo Tower or Skytree – night visits are especially captivating.
d. Explore Tokyo's gardens, temples, and shrines. For a more detailed guide, see the full article.
Osaka/Kyoto:
If you plan to travel outside of Tokyo, consider the JR Pass for cost-effective travel, including Shinkansen tickets.
a. In Osaka, the Dotonbori area, Osaka Castle and the Osaka Aquarium are must-sees. Also enjoy the city's vibrant nightlife.
b. Kyoto's attractions include Fushimi Inari-taisha, Kinkakuji Temple, Arashiyama, and Nijo Castle. For more information on other cities, see the full guide.
- Food, drink and nightlife:
a. Japanese cuisine is rich and regionally diverse. Be sure to sample classics like sushi, ramen, tempura, yakitori, wagyu, and Kobe beef. When it comes to drinks, try traditional sake, matcha tea, and the countless selection of flavored drinks available in widespread vending machines.
b. Tokyo is a city that never sleeps, and the nightlife is proof of this. Enjoy evening meals and drinks in areas like Shibuya, Shinjuku, Ginza and Roppongi.
c. To experience Tokyo's club scene, pubs and bars, Shibuya, Shinjuku and Roppongi are full of life.
- Important information:
a. Always carry your passport with you in a secure pocket. The police may ask to see it, and many places do not accept foreign IDs. Although theft is extremely rare in Japan, and lost items often turn up at lost and found offices, it is best to double-check your phone, wallet, and passport every time you leave public places like trains, restaurants, or taxis.
b. Japan's weather can be extreme, so keep up to date with local weather reports. It is recommended to always carry an umbrella, and be aware that in some seasons you may receive warnings on your phone for typhoons, earthquakes, and other extreme weather conditions.
c. The local currency is Japanese Yen, and cash is king in many places. Make sure to bring enough cash as card payment is not always an option.
d. Etiquette is key in Japanese culture. Bowing is a standard greeting, and when visiting temples or shrines, you should follow local customs such as cleansing yourself at purification fountains. Don't forget to take off your shoes before entering homes and some traditional restaurants.
- Enjoy the fun:
The most important rule is to have fun. Don’t worry about mastering all the local customs; the Japanese people are understanding and will appreciate your efforts to be polite and respectful. Beyond the major tourist spots, there are many hidden gems to explore. Wear comfortable shoes for long walks, familiarize yourself with the complex train stations using Google Maps (although it can sometimes lead you astray), and bring a power bank. Take lots of photos and videos, but also remember to live in the moment, enjoy the unique experiences and breathtaking views. Japan offers an unforgettable adventure like no other!
- Expand your adventure:
For more insights, consider purchasing my complete, detailed guide to Japan. It contains a bunch of cool tricks and tips, as well as an invitation to my Discord server, where I answer questions about Japan, travel, Working Holiday visas, and more!
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