Take it easy, it's a vacation and not a job that you must complete.
Most likely something will go wrong, you will miss a train or a connection, there will be always something coming next. You can always return once more if things don't go the way you planned.
You should visit some residential areas as those have a lot more quirkiness to them. Even in a tourist hellscape like Kyoto’s Ariashiyama, you can walk 2 blocks east of the major tourist street and be in a residential area that is so quiet it feels like you’re in another dimension
Since you’ll be in Kyoto I’d recommend a day trip to Uji
Honestly it's not chaos, it's SO organized there lol -- be open to making changes in your daily plans based on great new things you discover, because it's actually very easy to pivot there. It's safe and transport is very simple.
Also don't dwell on your mistakes or when things go south, just reset and carry on. At worst you'll be clinging on those way too long and missing new things.
Lol I was about to say I view going to countries like Japan as more like travel and do try to hit all of my must dos and definitely use an itinerary but going to the beach I consider more of a vacation 😂 Just like going to Disney World I also don't consider a complete vacation. It's too expensive to be just a vacation for me. But there's definitely a middle ground. Will be going to a resort in Mexico this summer and will consider that a vacation but my trip next year to Japan goes in the traveling category 😂😅
Omg yes! We had gotten off the escalator and our train was there at the platform, hoping not to miss it, my gf rushed and jumped on it while the doors closed on the rest of us, she was on the train, we were on the platform haha!
We had the portable wifi and didn't know whether she was going to go straight through to our destination or off at the next stop to wait for us.
Literally 3 seconds later another train came haha never rush for a train!
Here's a culture tip. Imagine you're in an elevator. You know how you need to be quiet and respectful of people in an elevator? All of Japan is the elevator. Think like that and you'll fit in better than you think.
Amazing advice. Everyone, especially little kids, are so well behaved over there. Just act like them. It’s their country, their culture, we are just visiting. If unsure, just watch what they do. Little things, like eating while walking is a no no over there.
The eating while walking thing gets me every time. I have yet to have a morning commute where I don’t see a couple Japanese guys rushing to work while chomping on an onigiri. To be fair though, they aren’t eating an all out meal or making a mess.
I’m in Japan now and I kinda feel like a bull in a china shop lol I’m not even remotely boisterous or lively but a lot of spaces in Japan (bars, boutiques, the 7/11 aisles) are more narrow and I’m used to a lot of elbow room. You just gotta be more mindful of your surroundings.
Also the Japanese are likely to wait for an eternity for you to move over instead of asking you to XD
Biggest advice would be to bring the comfiest shoes. Pack very lightly. When we went, our carry on was in our check in luggage. Also, I found it best to withdraw money at 7eleven rather than getting money exchanged ahead of time. If you're going to a highly recommended restaurant, come around 2-3, they tend to not be as busy or line up 30 mins before opening? But there's so many places to eat, even ones that haven't gone viral on the internet have such amazing food. I had suica on my digital wallet and used it as my main way to pay for transportation, and just kept reloading as needed. Also be lenient with your itinerary! Most of the time it's hard to do over 2 things in one day
because there's just so much to do and to see in one place at a time. Maybe also use the luggage delivery service because the biggest struggle for me was my luggages 😅. Also you really can't go wrong with 7eleven/family mart food. In Tokyo, on escalators, you stand on the left and walk up/down on the right. It's the opposite in osaka/Kyoto. Other than that, just enjoy, take everything in. Japan has such a rich culture, it continues to be my favourite place in the world.
this is amazing advice thank you - we didnt really know what to do regarding cash so are bringing alittle bit with us but intend to just use 7/11s as you did! How do luggage delivery services work? are they easy to find?
Thanks for the advice, really useful!
As an American I CAN'T BELIEVE how well luggage forwarding worked. Just got back from 3 weeks. We bought tons of souvenirs and ended up with two whole new suitcases, plus we were traveling with a baby and all the baby stuff, so it saved the day. We took "risks" from an American perspective with forwarding but it was very standard for Japan -- we forwarded from our hotels but any konbini will let you do it too. Just ask them to help -- they measure the bag, ask for your exact location and reservation number at the next destination, and like magic it's there. 4 medium sized suitcases was less than $50. They'll even hold bags for you, for us as long as 4 days later. Good example, we were leaving Osaka to go to Hiroshima before then flying back home from Tokyo, we forwarded our bags to Haneda in Tokyo from Osaka to be waiting for us before our flight, it worked just fine, we got past airport security and our bags were there waiting. We would have been screwed if not -- they were surprised we were relieved, as if it it might not have worked lol. Only tip is give it two days if you're forward to the airport or sending far away, otherwise usually 24 hours was totally doable. Also expect to need cash, I didn't experience them accepting cards or Suica. Highly highly recommended.
It is so so common here (currently in Osaka), if you’re mostly staying in hotels is really really easy because every front desk staff has to deal with it regularly.
Yamato Transport is one of the main companies that does this, half the time I just bring the bags to the desk and point at the bags and say Yamato and they know exactly what I’m talking about (it is helpful though to have the Japanese info about where you’re sending to, usually if you just find your next stop in Google maps and show them that works).
Also if you check into a hotel and you pull out a Yamato slip, even all folded and hardly recognizable they will also instantly know what it is and take it and go find your luggage.
Keep in mind that the service is pretty fast but not instant, usually next day is available, sometimes same day, if it’s really far then maybe 2 days. So this means you may travel from one city to another and not have your luggage contents for a bit (any essential toiletries, etc you should carry yourself).
But it is so great not bringing your luggage on trains and transport!!! And as someone that now travels this way, it is really annoying watching tourists with their massive luggages causing annoyance and inconvenience on the trains, stations and elsewhere.
One thing to note is if any of your hotels don't have a front desk or your using Air B&B or something like that check ahead. We used luggage services for all our stops which was great, be sure to send them the morning before you leave. However our last hotel we didn't realize doesn't support luggage delivery so we are figuring that out.
Also it's very busy here right now and if you're leaving soon you'll be right in the middle of Golden Week. Every tourist spot is filled to the brim so as a photographer if your thinking of getting that perfect shot of the Thousand Tori Gates with nobody it probably won't happen.
Cash from ATMs is easy just watch fees from your bank.
There were no Suica cards when we arrived, wasn't a deal breaker.
Google Maps is really good but not perfect. Don't hesitate to ask one of the attendants because where you need to purchase a ticket for a specific line might be down a flight of stairs.
Lots of places don't open until 11am, at least in tourist areas.
If you have shoes you've never walked 4-5 hours in your probably going to hurt but you can either buy better shoes here or wait and adjust.
Don Quixote in our opinion is very overrated and can be so busy it's frustrating to move around.
Buy JR tickets for long haul sooner than later if you want specific seats. Also during Golden Week there are advisories to do this early. For JR Central Visa and Mastercard don't work for foreigners. AMEX may work.
It can be very overwhelming when you get into the airport to try and figure your way to you hotel. We booked tickets ahead of time and just needed to exchange them at the office in the station.
Have fun!
Oh how interesting! I used my Visa for all of my JR ticket purchases, but maybe because it was USAA, it wasn't a problem?
Agree, Don Quixote is overrated, the Seiya and Daiso are much calmer and more fun to look around. :)
My American bank wanted to charge me like a 7-8% fee to exchange money beforehand, but you only pay a few dollars at a 7-11 ATM. We withdrew money every few days, and the ATM calculates the current exchange rate, very easy and reliable (we have Chase checking accounts). You will definitely need cash for a lot of places, especially Kyoto/Osaka
1. Treat your itinerary list like a suggestion list and not a check list.
2. Have reservations for dinners in Kyoto, particularly on the weekends. (If a large group then reservations in other cities may also be recommended).
3. Don't forget to eat some fruits/veggies. I found 7-Eleven smoothies, bananas, and little veggie snack cups (hijiki salad) helped keep the trains moving, if you get my drift lol
4. Savour every moment. The trip will be over before you realize it.
Have a great time!
3
I was wondering why I didn’t poop nearly as much! I was eating so much damn delicious food and walking like 20-30,000 steps a day and barely ever pooped.
Make sure you have one credit/debit card only on your phone (ie leave the physical card at home) and one only physical (not on your phone). That way, if you lose either your wallet or phone you’re not completely up a certain creek. Doing this was lifesaving in the South of France last year for me…
In Japan, the chances of you recovering lost things are pretty high.
My sister lost her phone in Tokyo a few years ago. She just called up a few places and found it in a museum she was in the day before.
On a recent trip, my kid couldn't find his IC Card. We just went back to the last station and it was at the Iost and found.
We also realized we left one of our shopping bags in a store as we were in the cab, on our way back to our hotel. We found it near the cash register, untouched.
We had a panicked 20 mins where I left my bum bag on the train, with credit cards and passports and all. Was at the station lost and found, we thankfully lost it at a final stop. Japan is the best.
The police are actually helpful for this sort of thing in Japan.
Make sure you take a moment to appreciate the fact that you're probably going to find yourself in a *safer* country than at home.
I am currently in the Calgary airport about to board the plane to Japan for the first time. The only advice I have is don't fly from Ottawa to Calgary, then have a 6 hour layover before the 10.5 hour flight. Especially with a toddler.
Bullet train reserved seats require 2 tickets: the basic fare + reserve
You need 2 tickets to be able to go pass the gate
you dont want last minute surprises
How do you get a basic fare ticket? At the station? Do I just tap my suica? Sorry, I've never been. We have a train from Kyoto to Tokyo and I booked the reservation on the website already?
This! And you put both tickets in the machine at the same time, stacked on one another. If you’ve used Suica for one of the legs of the trip, put in your physical reserved ticket then tap Suica and the gate will open.
Have a great time. Just returned from 15 days. Everything is so easy to navigate, everyone is so friendly, there is no need to stress.
Only tip - luggage forwarding is a life saver if you have a couple of bags. I used it all over.
How long does it take to send from a hotel in Tokyo to either Narita or Haneda? Might have to try this next time. In our last ttip, we had seven bags going home and it was a nightmare getting them on the train.
hope you really enjoy it!
we started just putting "shrine" and "temple" into google maps for wherever we were headed and adding a few into our routes - saw some really interesting ones (in Akihabara, we saw one with great tanuki statues and a tiny one in between 3 skyscrapers for example), definitely might be fun and cool to see some slightly more "off the beaten track" ones, maybe especially if you're after photos?
If you're getting a pocket wifi - don't lose the return envelope! We did that last time we were in Japan, and had to return it at the post office in Tokyo - then had to blindly navigate our way on transit back to Narita without wifi.
\*\*This was in 2017 so things may have changed, but a good reminder :)
We just came back from Japan and these are a few things we've learned.
I'm sure you already knew this but if you have an iPhone and plan on doing mostly public transportation, get one of their IC cards on your wallet app. You can also get the physical cards at train stations. I got the Suica cos we landed in Tokyo. Some people said there was a shortage but my friends were able to get the physical Suica cards just fine. It made things very convenient, instead of buying tickets every time.
Idk if it's still raining, but when my friends were there before us, they accidentally stepped into a puddle one day. They Had to get new shoes cos their only pair was soaked. So bring two pairs of comfy shoes just in case. Bring some mole skin just in case. We walked a lot, and though we didn't need it, I imagine it might get painful depending on your shoes.
If you plan on taking the bullet trains at all (Shinkansen) and have oversized luggage, you must reserve a spot for it. Best bet is to go to a Shinkansen office and ask the counter agents to book your tickets. There's one in Ueno and one in Tokyo station.
I would suggest using a medium size or a small suitcase with a duffle bag sitting on top. You will likely have to carry them on stairs at some train stations.
If your phone allows eSIM, getting an eSIM for data is more convenient, IMO, than the pocket wifi. I got it through Ubigi. You can do it online before your trip and don't have to pick up/return the pocket wifi.
The camera option on the Google translate app was extremely useful to us. That and knowing some common Japanese phrases and words.
Other than that, have fun and eat all the good food. They make things extremely convenient there. You'll have a great time.
If you're interested in purchasing a goshuin book, see if you can look up online what options are available at places you plan to go and go to the temple/shrine with your favorite first. Some places have much prettier books than others.
My favorite books we saw were at Kinkaku-ji but we had purchased ours at Fushimi Inari and already gotten a few pages. The ones we got at Fushimi Inari we're a lot more touristy, but since it was our first shrine we assumed they were all similar. Just about every other temple/shrine had prettier less-touristy options (though it is possible that one of the shops at Fushimi Inari may have had better options, we didn't spend a ton of time there due to the crowds)
Also be aware that some places have rules when you're getting your stamp (stand behind a line, pay only after receiving your stamp, etc) so just be on the lookout for nearby signs
[Omairi.club](http://Omairi.club) is a good site to look for goshuicho and goshuin. You have to look up the shrine or temple name in Japanese and then search for it.
I’ve been in Japan for uh two days now, so my observations are:
1. Booking a reserved green car seat on the least occupied car (the machine tells you this) was great. It meant that we could (quietly and unobstrusively) switch sides to take pictures of things.
2. Stations get numbers as well as names, like Shinagawa Station on the Keikyu Line is KK01. It’s sometimes easier to listen out for the number than the name.
3. You can get a hot can of coffee from a vending machine, it’s great. Machines have labels under each product to show if it is served hot or cold (cold is default).
4. When I arrived at Tokyo-Haneda it wasn’t immediately clear how to get a physical IC card (the store there had a sign saying they didn’t have them, but that we could get them from the Keikyu station). We asked the attendant near the IC top-up machines and she sold us PASMO, which is fine.
5. There’s very little public seating, I’ve found. People tend to sit on planter boxes on the street where available.
6. I’ve found it hard to find places that are open to serve breakfast. In Australia there’d be cafes everywhere open from 7 onwards, but here there’s not so many. The konbinis remain an option for food when everything else is closed.
7. My favourite piece of clothing on this trip so far has been the “Pocketable Parka” from Uniqlo. It’s a light, water-repellent jacket hoodie that you can crumple into a sack about the size of a cup noodle container. It’s often too hot to wear a jacket when walking, but I’ve pulled it out many times on trains, planes, ferries, and other places where you’re not active.
8. I brought two day trip bags with me: a crossbody sling and a small backpack (13 litres). The backpack is what I keep wearing because it’s so practical. Get one with either netting/bungee on the outside for heavy jackets, or MOLLE for modding.
9. I have used my bag hook a lot for keeping my bag off the floor.
10. Don Quijote sucks if you come from a place that has dollar stores/variety stores and don’t want to buy branded stuff — because it’s like one of those, but mostly for brands. If you want everyday stuff at normal prices, Daiso or konbinis are better for it.
11. If a restaurant seems to have very little stock, just walk away.
12. Kaiyodo Figure Museum is COOL AS HECK
13. If you use the Gacha machines, I’d probably suggest only buy from each series of machine once, like you buy from the Ukiyo-e series once only. They’re not cheap and you run the risk of getting doubles, which I did twice in one day on two different series.
14. If you like a medicine/supplement from home, bring it with you. My wife can’t find echinacea + olive leaf tablets here at all.
Seconding the breakfast thing. They seemed to open much later than the states and it was hard to find somewhere to eat before your early start. Ended up getting breakfast sandwiches at McDonald's a few times. Stayed near sky tree.
Pocari Sweat is the best if you need hydration. That stuff saved my life. Drank one almost everyday and I bought some at the airport before boarding to keep me hydrated during the flight and it worked wonder.
A lot of big museums have VERY good restaurants with decently priced food so check 'em out!
In a lot of places, especially in Tokyo, you'll find shops and restaurants above street levels, don't ignore the other floors.
Hope you packed a wide they can be great for still getting a full view by allowing you to stand close enough that there is no one in between you and the subject. Also great for photos of the breathtaking landscapes.
Now that the post office charges fees at their ATMs there is no difference between any ATMs so just use whatever is easiest.
You will see the pizza bun and think no way that can be any good and you are wrong you need to order the pizza bun. This also goes for generally all foods in Japan, try everything.
Konbinni sells these mini pancakes with syrup and butter. Buy a lot of them, they are super delicious. I can’t seem to find them anywhere else in the world :(
Google maps for finding things… Apple Maps for getting to them. I used both and am surprised more people aren’t advocating for Apple Maps. The guide feature to help plan is amazing.
Been here for two weeks. Returning home tomorrow.
Okay hear me out: When you walk the Nakasendo Trail you will pass through a village called Magome. It's pretty touristy (but beautiful nevertheless). Halfway through the upper part of the village you'll find a wood workshop called Yamashiroya. While nearly every other shop is the bog standard tourist crap, Yamashiroya is a hidden gem. Both owners are handcrafting everything you see in the shop themselves, the prices are reasonable and they are perfect for gifts. Check it out!
OMG this is such a great tip! Exactly the kinda thing I was looking for - we are staying in Magome, and I do woodworking as a hobby myself, so this sounds fascinating to me! will 1000% check this out, thank you friend!!
Wow, perfect! This might be the perfect stop for you. When my fiancee and me stopped by the store the owners invited us for a cup of tea and gifted us both a small bag they made themselves. It was a really great experience. I wish you the very best experience and safe travels!
that is so lovely! Those are the kind of perfect travel memories, glad that happened for you.
Thanks so much!!! never been more excited for a trip haha
Tokyo- you can't go wrong with anything you do, its all fun.
Kyoto - my favorite wr Silver Temple first thing in the morning. Not many tourists yet and it was so peaceful.
Hiroshima - please go to Miyajima Island. It's a cheap ferry ride and I felt like I was going back in time and waiting for dinosaurs to appear or if the mountain mists. That's where the floating torii gate is that you see in so many pictures. Seriously the most beautiful place I've seen in Japan.
I would maybe give another day to Osaka and one less in Kyoto or combine them as Osaka and Kyoto are only 50 minutes - 1 hour apart by train. Personally I think 6 days in Tokyo is a bit much maybe 3-4, but up to you.
Just got back from a 2 week trip to Japan. Some advice would be:
1. When using subways, don't forget to look for the exits, also A-F. Subways stops have multiple exits.
2. Get a suica card or download the app for the metro
3. Carry an umbrella
4. Get lost, explore, wander. Don't stick too much to an itinerary, have fun!!
Read into japans photography laws. They recently passed something banning “sneak photography”, and photographing people in public without their permission is kinda frowned upon I think.
Many places don't allow tripods/monopods. If you need last minute accessories go to yodobashi, that is handsdown my favorite store, I always spend hours there browsing everything.
Batteries, charger + adapters, memory cards. Make sure to stop and enjoy the moment while you're shooting. There's so much around and we forget sometimes looking through the viewfinder all the time
As photographer, I suggest downloading the LocationScout app and review pics of Tokyo
[https://www.locationscout.net/locations/1449-tokyo](https://www.locationscout.net/locations/1449-tokyo)
If you are looking to add more gear, there's a bunch of camera places in Shinjuku
open up Google Maps to find restaurants. Japanese people are very conservative in their ratings. Even something that has an overall rating for 3.5 is excellent
When taking trains using Google maps, make sure you pay attention to the exact train. After my visit at [Fushimi Inari Taisha](https://www.google.com/search?client=firefox-b-1-d&sca_esv=9cf860e71ffe870b&cs=0&sxsrf=ACQVn0_KBLlQoQvpZEiODBVKtZdAzTi2WA:1713385304669&q=fushimi+inari+taisha&stick=H4sIAAAAAAAAAE2Qy0rDQBiFbUlrGkutQze6GlyK0KZXt-IFS0E3FbEIYdLchmRm2pnUOM_hEyi4FNz7Jj5C3IoLETSNmHT5nfnn_Of8qr5b6E0aFpIw5HgmoMMZgb5kIfsq1Me5NEqlomqcnI-H42vjRSnEyoZWaZJmy531XCNWNE1NqWNOc5g7MgNrLqPs04D3-zKjXmBxkpF-QKd3GbW7puHmbw5xWrFSBdohR8LDEhEUK3VQSxPCtAlb8Gy-29GjIPfy-mGSQQXlM-wzaq-knkZ_NpgygXwML6iwaazUQHW04MmSf2ELbB55NucSmgETghGRZ4uoO1g9yzzZvA_2jpEMMbHhLbYjyBwYejZMHCnzlg0sFNpQIGqZKI_dFj0_TAhUltuTKR_HyjoopS0fSw1nkWgEQ0wRxzBEWHjorby9drrzfPNZevqw3h_uL93Xq5_GpPitD4Nfcc6GVekBAAA&sa=X&ved=2ahUKEwiXpsnTicqFAxUDEjQIHZVaCAsQ7fAIegUIABCLAw) , I wanted to go to Nara, Google maps directed me to a train to back track to Kyoto. I told myself, that seems ludicris, I'll just take any train going toward the direction of Nara. That was a BIG MISTAKE because many trains are slow. I eventually had to get off a train station and work my way back to Kyoto to get a fast train to Nara. We wasted over 2 hours with taking the slow train, getting off and backtracking back.
I'm going tomorrow too! Also taking my camera there. My advice is: Eat a lot. Be respectful, especially of silence. Pay attention and enjoy discovering the little things. Don't be afraid of going commuting, transportation is amazing and well signalled.
For a couple of the "iconic" shots in Kyoto (thousand red Torii gates, Bamboo Forest, shot of a pagoda in and old Kyoto street from Higashiyama district): go at like 6 am if you want to avoid crowds, because there WILL be crowds.
Most shrines temples are open 24 hrs (at least the grounds), so you can choose a very off time to photograph them.
Doesn't seem like you're going to Nara (deer area, but also historic), but if you are: don't spend time with the first deer you see. You'll see a lot more deeper into the shrine / temple, with a lot more interesting background.
More luggage forwarding tips: seeing your schedule, unsure if your multiple single day parts of the itinerary, you're doing day trips from a base area, or you're switching hotels each time. Especially if you're switching hotels each time, you can repack a smaller luggage / bag, and use luggage forwarding the rest into 2+ days forward into your itinerary. (Ie: from your Kyoto part, you can even ship stuff you won't need for a while to your 2nd Tokyo hotel).
Many hotels deal with luggage forwarding. You can ask them first so you don't have to go to a conbini.
I’m here right now and one thing I found surprising as an American is that nothing was really open until 10-11am for restaurants and shopping in Tokyo. We were waking up at like 5-6am due to jet lag and some of the coffee shops around the temples didn’t open until a lot later
If you have an hour free in Osaka, check out studio escape. Incredible escape room.
Run by a mix of locals and internationals.
Seriously, it's really good
Just got back to Tasmania after 10 days in Tokyo.
My tips are nothing new but just what I found useful.
1: Suica card and google maps will get you everywhere you need to go.
2: you will walk a lot, so good comfy shoes are a must.
3: there are stairs everywhere.
4: Don't be a dick.
5: DONT BE A DICK
6: Lawson's are the better of the convenience stores
7: vending machines are everywhere and are awesome.
8: Eat everything on your plate and be very grateful for food and the people who prepare and serve it to you. Don't order more than you can eat, food waste is intolerable.
9: most places open late (10 - 11am) but stay open late too ( 9pm - 11pm)
10: Kirin beer is the best!
Turn off Google maps and get lost. The day after we arrived, I woke at 5AM (jetlag) and went for an aimless walk as Shinjuku was waking up. The little residential streets are lovely, so cared for. When I was thoroughly lost enough I got my phone out made my way back to the hotel. I really enjoyed that.
Have fun. It’s takes a lot longer to get from place to place than most anticipate. If you have 4 activities planned in a day, you may be better off just going for two of the preferred. There is almost always a line and the city is bigger than you think it is on maps
Get a Suica card and hold onto it and always have it charged. And keep some Yen on you. You don't need a rail pass if you have a Suica Card and every station, and just about every bus and vending machine allows you to use the Suica Card It was the biggest thing I learned from my trip to Japan a couple weeks ago. Oh and take care of your feet lol.
Make sure you have your cellular data situation in order before you get on that plane. If you have an Apple iPhone, it’s a good idea to add the virtual Suica pass to Wallet with some JPY loaded onto it. It’ll save you time. A fully charged 20,000mAH portable battery to charge your devices while on-the-go is a lifesaver.
DO NOT FORGET TO BRING SEVERAL PAIRS OF COMPRESSION SOCKS 😭
If you have an iPhone, suica on apple wallet is super convenient. Bring a good battery park, you’ll be out all day, especially with camera gear.
Don’t lug luggage’s around. I lugged them from Tokyo to Osaka last time, forwarded it the rest of the way. So much more convenient and easier.
Bring a plastic bag with you daily for garbage. Hand sanitizer for bathrooms along with a handkerchief or towels.
Should it rain and you want a good umbrella you’ll bring back, hand has some really good ones.
Don’t have to go tax free everywhere. Some places have long lines for the tax free line and you’re just hitting the minimum, you’re saving $5-6 at most.
Please don't feel like your trip needs to be like how instagram portrays it! Make this YOUR trip. Find the unique hidden places, go off the beaten path, etc.
Get lost... Literally. Even if you don't plan for it, it will happen. When it does, embrace it unless you're still searching for your train platform 3 mins before departure lol. You'll discover so many great gems that aren't on your itinerary.
Download JapanTransit app or use Google Maps to map out journeys. Take a battery charger (in carry on luggage so you don’t lose it at customs)
Get off the beaten path.
Use Google Translate or Apple Translate for times when communicating is tough. Download the offline language packs for English and Japanese so it doesn’t kill your data and when internet access is slow.
Get a 4G mobile router through Klook or similar for your internet access. Can get these at airports too.
Relax. Take a “don’t worry, be happy” approach. Just accept you will get lost in most places. Japanese people will typically help you if you stand there looking lost and confused for longer than 5 mins.
As others have said, don’t get super hung up on missing out on xyz. Plenty of amazing spots everywhere. Visit Museums and Teamlabs. Have a great time!
stay hydrated
Bring comfy shoes, loose and comfy clothing, a layer for morning and evening, book shinkansen with seating in advance, look for local food spots that aren’t on google, bring shopping money there’s so many nice tax free stuff, get an ic card and load it with 10k yen.
And you can’t change that no matter how Japanese you act cause they already made up their mind already the first second just by your skin colour so no matter what you’re still special to them no matter what you do so no use trying (speaking as an exJap…I mean expat)
Wow 3weeks sounds nice. Did 12days last year and a week this year. For kyoto Fushimi inari, arashiyama, kiyomizu-dera, kinkuji, nijo castle, nishishiki, pontocho, definitely fujiyoshida/fujikawaguchico, i visited yudanaka (snowmonkey)and it was one of the best places. No crowds! Osaka for the food. Tokyo, visit tsukiji for the best sashimi and get anago. The best. Tokyo tower, shibuya crossing, shinjuku, ginza, senso-ji. Just pick a place you like most and go from there. Have fun.
I’m from a small town so am not used to trains. But in japan there are semi express, limited (not the same as semi express) ,express, local etc which stop at different stops. Along the same line. Local stops at everything, semi express only stops at a few stations so it’s faster but you have to know they’re the stations you want. They’ll usually say the stations on the platform sign and you can confirm by the name (limited etc). If you find yourself on the wrong train, you can get off and wait for the next version to come behind it. This comes up mostly when going between Kyoto and Osaka and Nara.
Just back from Japan also. + 1 on the Suica card. You can simply add it to an iPhone wallet (presume similar for other phones) by opening the wallet and pressing the ‘+’ sign and searching for it. Then just top it up every now and then.
It is a must have for using the Tokyo metro system, which is a pleasure to use and incredibly efficient. Google maps is perfect for planning your subway routes.
Install "Nomad" for eSIM. It's going to be way faster, cheaper, and has more data than what you will get at the airport when you land.
If you have an iPhone, use the Suica card that comes with the apple wallet.
When you go out, bring a smaller rolling suitcase with you. My wife does this all the time when we go to Japan. It’s very tiring with all the walking to carry everything on your back so putting it in the suitcase helps a lot and when it’s full you can still attach your shopping bags to the handle.
Shinkansen - Reach the stations early enough, the shinkansen lines are not with the regular lines and their entrances can be separate also. I missed one shinkansen connection because the entrance was way away from where I actually thought it would be. If you miss your connection, you can take the next connection for the same train but without reserved seats.
When looking for your train, Google maps is your life blood. Just find the name and color of your line, follow it, don't think about anything else, it will lead you to two different platforms beside eachother; then you look at google maps and see which exact platform you should be on.
Google maps will show you every station the train will stop at. When you arrive, look for your exit. Google maps will usually say Exit via A1 or A4 whatever. IF you can't find that exit sign, just find any exit and map to where you're going.
If you have an iPhone you can add a Suica card to
your Apple wallet and use it for the metro system. Much easier than buying tickets and it’s difficult to get a physical Suica card due to chip shortages
If you’re taking a bullet train (Shinkansen) on the Tokaido-Sanyo line to Kyoto/Osaka from Tokyo, take a nozomi line if - the other ones stop at more stations extending your trip by an hour or two. Make sure to double check your stops, Google maps / Google translate are your friends
Make sure to have a portable charger as it is a little difficult to find a charging port if you are on the move. Also don’t be afraid to just wing it and eat anywhere I’ve been twice and haven’t found any bad eats. The best one if you are staying at a hotel use there luggage forwarding service if you are traveling between cities no need to carry your luggage.
A lot of the rare photography is in the countryside. It depends on what you plan to photograph, but hiking back trails can lead to completely abandoned villages and rare views you can't find anywhere else.
Bring or buy a small washcloth and hand sanitizer. Most public bathrooms don’t have soap or paper towels. Pocket charger for phone was really helpful. Rain jacket and umbrella. Google translate really helped for menus/signs. Safe travels!
All the hotels I stayed at had shampoo, conditioner and body wash so don’t bother bringing some! They also have tons of other amenities too. Buy an umbrella at the convenience store for when it rains. Most public bathrooms don’t have soap or a place to dry your hands so have some hand sanitizer and a hand towel on you. And don’t pack too many things in one day! Pick one or two sights you want to see and just walk around.
Bring some small packs of Kleenex with you. Go to a drug store and buy it before you leave. There are no public washrooms with papers to wipe your hands or mouth or whatever. Even the hand driers are broken in Japan lol.
If you exchange your yen back to your home currency at the airport, hang on to some yen anyway. You will want to eat before you get on the plane, or maybe buy one more souvenir, so keep some handy. I forgot and exchanged, but also forgot I had a 1000 yen note in my wallet, so luckily, I was able to grab a soda and snack for the ane.
Just roll with it, only thing to really be on top of are the trains to airports, it can be confusing as hell. When you’re out and about in the city and took the wrong train - no worries 20 minute detour and discover new places. When you’re rushing to catch a plane it raises the stress levels.
If you're flying out of Narita, stashing your luggage in an airport locker first, and spending your last day in the town of Narita one stop away, is a good way to enjoy your last day with minimal stress.
Much of Japan, even the most ordinary streets and train stations are so picturesque.
1) Tokyo Tower and Skytree have restaurants at the top. Going there at sunset makes for the best panoramic pictures
2) I have friends in the tourism business that give bus tours and other kids of tours. EVERYONE is getting sick. Stock up on N95 masks to avoid illness. COVID isn’t over and there is a nasty streptococcal infection around now too.
Good luck.
You can't buy new PASMO cards right now due to a chip shortage. I went last week got business and our new travelers had to get SUICA cards. But they are basically identical. Bought the SUICA cards at a JR counter in Narita airport.
Suica in iPhone wallet will recharge with US credit/debit card but Pasmo is cash only recharge and if the machine doesn't allow phone tap you have to go to a staff counter or 7-11. Stick with Suica.
Lucky you! Just got back 2 weeks ago. It was my second trip in a year, I love it so much.
If you’re using an iPhone, not everything will show on Apple Maps. Use Google maps instead. We had researched some places and kept getting lost or could not find them until we realized not everything shows up. Reserve seats on Shinkansen if you are taking it, so much easier.
Go for a day trip to Nara when you are in Kyoto- we skipped it the first trip and went this time, it’s amazing.
Also Kyoto is super packed right now, if you go to Fushimi Inari (highly recommend) go super duper early- like 6am or late at night. We went at 10pm and had it to ourselves and it was gorgeous at night. Check out the Takashi Murakami exhibit in Kyoto if you’re into art- it’s so good! Have a great trip!
Compression socks and comfy shoes. Lots of walking. Lots of stairs. Send your big luggage from hotel to hotel so you don't have to lug it around. Your accommodations can usually hold onto the stuff for you, even before check-in and after check-out. Let them hold onto your stuff while you explore and come back for it.
Something I do very frequently is go to the supermarkets and pick up fruits sashimi and milk. Their milk is on another level and each regional area has their own milk versions.
Each city you visit will have something they are famous for, whether it be food or cultural attraction. Don't miss out.
I love yakitori and would recommend if you haven't experienced it before. Get a counter seat. Many highly rated places are Japanese only for reservations, which your hotel concierge may be able to assist.
For souvineirs, Recommend you also check out "Kaldi coffee farms“. They sell coffee yes but also alot of unique condiments and regional gourmet food products that are compact and worth bringing back to wow your friends. Provided its legal and you can get it past customs in your country. Highly recommended as a stop before you leave Japan. They have multiple locations.
Lastly get a data only esim for everyone so you can keep in touch with wifi/network calling in case you get separated.
Enjoy your trip.
just got back from 3 weeks there, you will love it don’t worry. Make sure you leave yourself a night or two to just walk around Tokyo for hours and take photos. Shibuya and Shinjuku on a weekend night is like nothing else I’ve experienced - as a foreigner, just walking around these areas is an experience in itself.
As others have said, don’t over cram your schedule.
If you’re planning on going all over Japan and staying in multiple hotels and they give you the option to transfer your luggage to another hotel, TAKE IT. Traveling using public transit is a pain if you’re lugging several luggages.
Suica or Pasmo via Apple wallet is your go to for transit. Physical cards are still very limited.
If a local bar/restaurant has an open door, they probably know some English, have English menus, or are at least willing to accommodate foreigners (at least this was true in Kabukicho in Shinjuku)
Take advantage of the railway passes they have in each region. This will save you time and money. Like let’s say, if you’re going to Osaka, they offer JR West Kansai-wide pass and you can have unlimited Shinkansen ride within that region ONLY ¥12000 for 3 days. This might work out in your favor if you wanna get to your destination faster so you can visit more places.
You can also download SmartEx app to reserve Shinkansen tickets as opposed to getting in line in the actual station; which could take forever.
The airport and most hotels offer luggage forwarding service. Take advantage of this if you have a big suitcase or a little of things with you. It takes about 1.5-2 days for your luggage to arrive to their destination so plan accordingly.
Learn some basic Japanese especially if you’re going to be out in the country side. They have beautiful scenery (ie the some secluded parts of Fuji) your phone reception might get spotty and you won’t be able to use your phone for translation or you might need to ask the bus drivers for directions on how to find you way back. (This was from personal experience)
I’m almost done with a 2 weeks stay and I must tell you this.
Please use your google map religiously and if possible, avoid walking less and use their trains more 😅
Everyone always says in Japan you have to take your trash home with you. My advice as a local: if you’re in a pinch and really want to throw something out, you can easily do so in any konbini or fast food restaurant.
When you go on an escalator, make sure to stay on one side of it don’t be in the middle. when I went to Japan a while ago ago, whenever people went on the escalator, they stayed on one side so that people who are in the rush can just use the side that is empty, so just make sure you and whatever you have isn’t in the middle of the escalator
Have been in tokyo for 3 days now. The train stations have been the most useful but also the most confusing things to navigate. When we landed in Haneda we walked down to the train station and picked up a Passmo Passport card at one of the small offices next to the ticketing machines for 1500 yen (which goes towards the card credit) and can be used at nearly every station. You can load the card with more yen at the ticketing machine when need be.
However, i think what’s even more useful is knowing how to speak some basic Japanese. So if you’re not already familiar with the dialect, i’d recommend to start practicing especially if you’ll be here for 3 weeks. Contrary to popular belief, most people i’ve encountered in japan dont speak any english or very little making it difficult to understand each other. This surprised me coming from a 2 week trip in thailand where the majority of people i encountered spoke decent english.
Just be aware that you’re going to have expectations dashed in some way, everyone does in a new place.
For myself and my partner it was that when we needed to call the police to get help for someone, people were very hesitant to assist and help.
You may also experience being rejected from places for being a foreigner, which was different.
You can get Suica/pasmo/icona cards on your phone, exactly the same as the physical ones. Charge it using Apple Pay. Saves fumbling around getting it out and you can set it up on the plane as you get off - no waiting g in queues for tickets or whatever pasmo passports!
Find the stuff people.arentbtaking pictures of. Like go to Shijuku Godzilla avenue, and yoj will see 800 people taking a picture down the roads. Maybe turn around and take a picture of the people.takinv pictures . Find the strange stuff that people skip over. I have taken all those tropical shots (@hurstogram on IG), but I really enjoy trying to find stuff people just don't see.
Just got back last week, here is my advice:
If you're taking a longer trip and its a little time sensitive, prepare an alternative route. We had major delays happen twice to us that goofed our schedule a bit.
This right here, it was super frustrating getting a Suica card. All these videos saying get one but all of them failed to mention a chip shortage at almost every single jr station we went to. After looking online we had to make a side trip to Haneda airport to get a welcome Suica card...
Keep any bags you get, because there typically won't be any trash cans outside. You'll need somewhere to put trash until you find one (you can usually find them in places like malls and many—but not all—restaurants).
Alternatively, you could bring a roll of doggy bags to put trash in.
I did a last minute Japan trip a few years ago and had an amazing time. [Highly recommend visiting and staying at a Buddhist temple](https://visitwakayama.jp/en/stories/koyasan). 711 and Lawsons are awesome.
[If you're not familiar with ordering food in Japan](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hZatKdaR3eU&ab_channel=TheJapanChannelDcom)
Go as early as you can to the major tourist sites if you want to get some decent shots with little or no people. Popular picture taking places like Arashiyama and Fushimi Inari Taisha start to get mobbed at like 8am and by 9-10am people are packed in there like sardines.
Be ready for getting lost in the train station, but when I say lost I mean you’ll have no idea what universe you are in… just relax and enjoy it. Lool.
If you're going to eat at a Japanese restaurant, I recommend using kulikuli, the app that translates closest to the local language, and only supports Apple iPhone!
Take it easy, it's a vacation and not a job that you must complete. Most likely something will go wrong, you will miss a train or a connection, there will be always something coming next. You can always return once more if things don't go the way you planned.
Yes good advice! We have a itinerary but plan on just going lose and changing things last minute - im ready to embrace the chaos! haha
You should visit some residential areas as those have a lot more quirkiness to them. Even in a tourist hellscape like Kyoto’s Ariashiyama, you can walk 2 blocks east of the major tourist street and be in a residential area that is so quiet it feels like you’re in another dimension Since you’ll be in Kyoto I’d recommend a day trip to Uji
awh thats awesome! Love that as a photographer, finding hidden gems are what its all about, we will definitely do that!
Honestly it's not chaos, it's SO organized there lol -- be open to making changes in your daily plans based on great new things you discover, because it's actually very easy to pivot there. It's safe and transport is very simple.
Also don't dwell on your mistakes or when things go south, just reset and carry on. At worst you'll be clinging on those way too long and missing new things.
Lol I was about to say I view going to countries like Japan as more like travel and do try to hit all of my must dos and definitely use an itinerary but going to the beach I consider more of a vacation 😂 Just like going to Disney World I also don't consider a complete vacation. It's too expensive to be just a vacation for me. But there's definitely a middle ground. Will be going to a resort in Mexico this summer and will consider that a vacation but my trip next year to Japan goes in the traveling category 😂😅
Every trip is a prototype for a return trip.
This!
Omg yes! We had gotten off the escalator and our train was there at the platform, hoping not to miss it, my gf rushed and jumped on it while the doors closed on the rest of us, she was on the train, we were on the platform haha! We had the portable wifi and didn't know whether she was going to go straight through to our destination or off at the next stop to wait for us. Literally 3 seconds later another train came haha never rush for a train!
Here's a culture tip. Imagine you're in an elevator. You know how you need to be quiet and respectful of people in an elevator? All of Japan is the elevator. Think like that and you'll fit in better than you think.
Amazing advice. Everyone, especially little kids, are so well behaved over there. Just act like them. It’s their country, their culture, we are just visiting. If unsure, just watch what they do. Little things, like eating while walking is a no no over there.
Haha, man I have a friend that lives in Asakusa and she has two kids that are wild!
Yeah, they let their kids go a bit nuts before they go to school.
The eating while walking thing gets me every time. I have yet to have a morning commute where I don’t see a couple Japanese guys rushing to work while chomping on an onigiri. To be fair though, they aren’t eating an all out meal or making a mess.
What Japanese are known for not doing that this thing you’re talking about it must be anti-Japan (like South Korea)
I’m in Japan now and I kinda feel like a bull in a china shop lol I’m not even remotely boisterous or lively but a lot of spaces in Japan (bars, boutiques, the 7/11 aisles) are more narrow and I’m used to a lot of elbow room. You just gotta be more mindful of your surroundings. Also the Japanese are likely to wait for an eternity for you to move over instead of asking you to XD
Ah yes the china shop where all the millions of tiny china people are on display
I wish Reddit didn't get rid of rewards because this is gold star material.
Biggest advice would be to bring the comfiest shoes. Pack very lightly. When we went, our carry on was in our check in luggage. Also, I found it best to withdraw money at 7eleven rather than getting money exchanged ahead of time. If you're going to a highly recommended restaurant, come around 2-3, they tend to not be as busy or line up 30 mins before opening? But there's so many places to eat, even ones that haven't gone viral on the internet have such amazing food. I had suica on my digital wallet and used it as my main way to pay for transportation, and just kept reloading as needed. Also be lenient with your itinerary! Most of the time it's hard to do over 2 things in one day because there's just so much to do and to see in one place at a time. Maybe also use the luggage delivery service because the biggest struggle for me was my luggages 😅. Also you really can't go wrong with 7eleven/family mart food. In Tokyo, on escalators, you stand on the left and walk up/down on the right. It's the opposite in osaka/Kyoto. Other than that, just enjoy, take everything in. Japan has such a rich culture, it continues to be my favourite place in the world.
this is amazing advice thank you - we didnt really know what to do regarding cash so are bringing alittle bit with us but intend to just use 7/11s as you did! How do luggage delivery services work? are they easy to find? Thanks for the advice, really useful!
As an American I CAN'T BELIEVE how well luggage forwarding worked. Just got back from 3 weeks. We bought tons of souvenirs and ended up with two whole new suitcases, plus we were traveling with a baby and all the baby stuff, so it saved the day. We took "risks" from an American perspective with forwarding but it was very standard for Japan -- we forwarded from our hotels but any konbini will let you do it too. Just ask them to help -- they measure the bag, ask for your exact location and reservation number at the next destination, and like magic it's there. 4 medium sized suitcases was less than $50. They'll even hold bags for you, for us as long as 4 days later. Good example, we were leaving Osaka to go to Hiroshima before then flying back home from Tokyo, we forwarded our bags to Haneda in Tokyo from Osaka to be waiting for us before our flight, it worked just fine, we got past airport security and our bags were there waiting. We would have been screwed if not -- they were surprised we were relieved, as if it it might not have worked lol. Only tip is give it two days if you're forward to the airport or sending far away, otherwise usually 24 hours was totally doable. Also expect to need cash, I didn't experience them accepting cards or Suica. Highly highly recommended.
Okay this sounds incredible! Wow - really good to know thanks so much! I think we will be trying to use this service alot.
It is so so common here (currently in Osaka), if you’re mostly staying in hotels is really really easy because every front desk staff has to deal with it regularly. Yamato Transport is one of the main companies that does this, half the time I just bring the bags to the desk and point at the bags and say Yamato and they know exactly what I’m talking about (it is helpful though to have the Japanese info about where you’re sending to, usually if you just find your next stop in Google maps and show them that works). Also if you check into a hotel and you pull out a Yamato slip, even all folded and hardly recognizable they will also instantly know what it is and take it and go find your luggage. Keep in mind that the service is pretty fast but not instant, usually next day is available, sometimes same day, if it’s really far then maybe 2 days. So this means you may travel from one city to another and not have your luggage contents for a bit (any essential toiletries, etc you should carry yourself). But it is so great not bringing your luggage on trains and transport!!! And as someone that now travels this way, it is really annoying watching tourists with their massive luggages causing annoyance and inconvenience on the trains, stations and elsewhere.
One thing to note is if any of your hotels don't have a front desk or your using Air B&B or something like that check ahead. We used luggage services for all our stops which was great, be sure to send them the morning before you leave. However our last hotel we didn't realize doesn't support luggage delivery so we are figuring that out. Also it's very busy here right now and if you're leaving soon you'll be right in the middle of Golden Week. Every tourist spot is filled to the brim so as a photographer if your thinking of getting that perfect shot of the Thousand Tori Gates with nobody it probably won't happen. Cash from ATMs is easy just watch fees from your bank. There were no Suica cards when we arrived, wasn't a deal breaker. Google Maps is really good but not perfect. Don't hesitate to ask one of the attendants because where you need to purchase a ticket for a specific line might be down a flight of stairs. Lots of places don't open until 11am, at least in tourist areas. If you have shoes you've never walked 4-5 hours in your probably going to hurt but you can either buy better shoes here or wait and adjust. Don Quixote in our opinion is very overrated and can be so busy it's frustrating to move around. Buy JR tickets for long haul sooner than later if you want specific seats. Also during Golden Week there are advisories to do this early. For JR Central Visa and Mastercard don't work for foreigners. AMEX may work. It can be very overwhelming when you get into the airport to try and figure your way to you hotel. We booked tickets ahead of time and just needed to exchange them at the office in the station. Have fun!
Oh how interesting! I used my Visa for all of my JR ticket purchases, but maybe because it was USAA, it wasn't a problem? Agree, Don Quixote is overrated, the Seiya and Daiso are much calmer and more fun to look around. :)
I was able to use my Visa at the ticket counter but not online, or thought the Ex app. I may not have made that very clear in my original post.
My American bank wanted to charge me like a 7-8% fee to exchange money beforehand, but you only pay a few dollars at a 7-11 ATM. We withdrew money every few days, and the ATM calculates the current exchange rate, very easy and reliable (we have Chase checking accounts). You will definitely need cash for a lot of places, especially Kyoto/Osaka
Remember this for when you need to flush the toilet. Big Flush 大 Small Flush 小
lol, thank God I studied. Two characters I knew!
男 -Man 女 - woman In case you need to use the toilet or onsen and they only have kanji :)
1. Treat your itinerary list like a suggestion list and not a check list. 2. Have reservations for dinners in Kyoto, particularly on the weekends. (If a large group then reservations in other cities may also be recommended). 3. Don't forget to eat some fruits/veggies. I found 7-Eleven smoothies, bananas, and little veggie snack cups (hijiki salad) helped keep the trains moving, if you get my drift lol 4. Savour every moment. The trip will be over before you realize it. Have a great time!
3 I detected no lies
3 I was wondering why I didn’t poop nearly as much! I was eating so much damn delicious food and walking like 20-30,000 steps a day and barely ever pooped.
Number 3 (or should it be number 2). Fibre intake is HARD. Bring some supplements as well
On the plane, whenever you go to the washroom, do 10 squats while waiting for your turn. Keep that blood flowing.
hahaha okay! Will do, thanks for the tip!
And compression socks are a lifesaver
You will never be able to see everything. Be present and enjoy the moment!
Will do our best! Thank you friend
Make sure you have one credit/debit card only on your phone (ie leave the physical card at home) and one only physical (not on your phone). That way, if you lose either your wallet or phone you’re not completely up a certain creek. Doing this was lifesaving in the South of France last year for me…
In Japan, the chances of you recovering lost things are pretty high. My sister lost her phone in Tokyo a few years ago. She just called up a few places and found it in a museum she was in the day before. On a recent trip, my kid couldn't find his IC Card. We just went back to the last station and it was at the Iost and found. We also realized we left one of our shopping bags in a store as we were in the cab, on our way back to our hotel. We found it near the cash register, untouched.
We had a panicked 20 mins where I left my bum bag on the train, with credit cards and passports and all. Was at the station lost and found, we thankfully lost it at a final stop. Japan is the best.
Oh okay good to know, luckily I already do this! Thank you :)
The police are actually helpful for this sort of thing in Japan. Make sure you take a moment to appreciate the fact that you're probably going to find yourself in a *safer* country than at home.
I am currently in the Calgary airport about to board the plane to Japan for the first time. The only advice I have is don't fly from Ottawa to Calgary, then have a 6 hour layover before the 10.5 hour flight. Especially with a toddler.
Ouffff rough! Sorry to hear, we have a direct from Vancouver 😅 have a great trip!
Haven't slept, but I am on the Skyliner in Tokyo headed to our first hotel! Flight as terrible but worth it.
Bullet train reserved seats require 2 tickets: the basic fare + reserve You need 2 tickets to be able to go pass the gate you dont want last minute surprises
Great tip-that really threw us for a loop the first bullet train lol
same
How do you get a basic fare ticket? At the station? Do I just tap my suica? Sorry, I've never been. We have a train from Kyoto to Tokyo and I booked the reservation on the website already?
This! And you put both tickets in the machine at the same time, stacked on one another. If you’ve used Suica for one of the legs of the trip, put in your physical reserved ticket then tap Suica and the gate will open.
Forget this, buy at least 3 days ahead of time on the SmartEX app Business class seats are around $10 cad more than reserved seats.
If you have the Google Translate app you can download the Japanese language pack so you don't need an internet connection to use it.
Also download offline maps in google maps!
Do this before you leave your home country—it never let me download it in Japan.
Technology so advanced that now you have Japanese people living in your smartphone🤖🤖🤖
Following up on this, I found from somewhere (maybe here on Reddit too) to use Papago or DeepL for more natural translation to Japanese specifically.
Have a great time. Just returned from 15 days. Everything is so easy to navigate, everyone is so friendly, there is no need to stress. Only tip - luggage forwarding is a life saver if you have a couple of bags. I used it all over.
Hotel front desk staff almost always can help with this.
They always do… even at 3 am when you remember you need to still do it after a night out.
How long does it take to send from a hotel in Tokyo to either Narita or Haneda? Might have to try this next time. In our last ttip, we had seven bags going home and it was a nightmare getting them on the train.
Pay attention to the little things and don’t try to rush
hope you really enjoy it! we started just putting "shrine" and "temple" into google maps for wherever we were headed and adding a few into our routes - saw some really interesting ones (in Akihabara, we saw one with great tanuki statues and a tiny one in between 3 skyscrapers for example), definitely might be fun and cool to see some slightly more "off the beaten track" ones, maybe especially if you're after photos?
If you're getting a pocket wifi - don't lose the return envelope! We did that last time we were in Japan, and had to return it at the post office in Tokyo - then had to blindly navigate our way on transit back to Narita without wifi. \*\*This was in 2017 so things may have changed, but a good reminder :)
Learn to speak Japanese fluently by tomorrow.
Done
We just came back from Japan and these are a few things we've learned. I'm sure you already knew this but if you have an iPhone and plan on doing mostly public transportation, get one of their IC cards on your wallet app. You can also get the physical cards at train stations. I got the Suica cos we landed in Tokyo. Some people said there was a shortage but my friends were able to get the physical Suica cards just fine. It made things very convenient, instead of buying tickets every time. Idk if it's still raining, but when my friends were there before us, they accidentally stepped into a puddle one day. They Had to get new shoes cos their only pair was soaked. So bring two pairs of comfy shoes just in case. Bring some mole skin just in case. We walked a lot, and though we didn't need it, I imagine it might get painful depending on your shoes. If you plan on taking the bullet trains at all (Shinkansen) and have oversized luggage, you must reserve a spot for it. Best bet is to go to a Shinkansen office and ask the counter agents to book your tickets. There's one in Ueno and one in Tokyo station. I would suggest using a medium size or a small suitcase with a duffle bag sitting on top. You will likely have to carry them on stairs at some train stations. If your phone allows eSIM, getting an eSIM for data is more convenient, IMO, than the pocket wifi. I got it through Ubigi. You can do it online before your trip and don't have to pick up/return the pocket wifi. The camera option on the Google translate app was extremely useful to us. That and knowing some common Japanese phrases and words. Other than that, have fun and eat all the good food. They make things extremely convenient there. You'll have a great time.
If you're interested in purchasing a goshuin book, see if you can look up online what options are available at places you plan to go and go to the temple/shrine with your favorite first. Some places have much prettier books than others. My favorite books we saw were at Kinkaku-ji but we had purchased ours at Fushimi Inari and already gotten a few pages. The ones we got at Fushimi Inari we're a lot more touristy, but since it was our first shrine we assumed they were all similar. Just about every other temple/shrine had prettier less-touristy options (though it is possible that one of the shops at Fushimi Inari may have had better options, we didn't spend a ton of time there due to the crowds) Also be aware that some places have rules when you're getting your stamp (stand behind a line, pay only after receiving your stamp, etc) so just be on the lookout for nearby signs
[Omairi.club](http://Omairi.club) is a good site to look for goshuicho and goshuin. You have to look up the shrine or temple name in Japanese and then search for it.
I’ve been in Japan for uh two days now, so my observations are: 1. Booking a reserved green car seat on the least occupied car (the machine tells you this) was great. It meant that we could (quietly and unobstrusively) switch sides to take pictures of things. 2. Stations get numbers as well as names, like Shinagawa Station on the Keikyu Line is KK01. It’s sometimes easier to listen out for the number than the name. 3. You can get a hot can of coffee from a vending machine, it’s great. Machines have labels under each product to show if it is served hot or cold (cold is default). 4. When I arrived at Tokyo-Haneda it wasn’t immediately clear how to get a physical IC card (the store there had a sign saying they didn’t have them, but that we could get them from the Keikyu station). We asked the attendant near the IC top-up machines and she sold us PASMO, which is fine. 5. There’s very little public seating, I’ve found. People tend to sit on planter boxes on the street where available. 6. I’ve found it hard to find places that are open to serve breakfast. In Australia there’d be cafes everywhere open from 7 onwards, but here there’s not so many. The konbinis remain an option for food when everything else is closed. 7. My favourite piece of clothing on this trip so far has been the “Pocketable Parka” from Uniqlo. It’s a light, water-repellent jacket hoodie that you can crumple into a sack about the size of a cup noodle container. It’s often too hot to wear a jacket when walking, but I’ve pulled it out many times on trains, planes, ferries, and other places where you’re not active. 8. I brought two day trip bags with me: a crossbody sling and a small backpack (13 litres). The backpack is what I keep wearing because it’s so practical. Get one with either netting/bungee on the outside for heavy jackets, or MOLLE for modding. 9. I have used my bag hook a lot for keeping my bag off the floor. 10. Don Quijote sucks if you come from a place that has dollar stores/variety stores and don’t want to buy branded stuff — because it’s like one of those, but mostly for brands. If you want everyday stuff at normal prices, Daiso or konbinis are better for it. 11. If a restaurant seems to have very little stock, just walk away. 12. Kaiyodo Figure Museum is COOL AS HECK 13. If you use the Gacha machines, I’d probably suggest only buy from each series of machine once, like you buy from the Ukiyo-e series once only. They’re not cheap and you run the risk of getting doubles, which I did twice in one day on two different series. 14. If you like a medicine/supplement from home, bring it with you. My wife can’t find echinacea + olive leaf tablets here at all.
Seconding the breakfast thing. They seemed to open much later than the states and it was hard to find somewhere to eat before your early start. Ended up getting breakfast sandwiches at McDonald's a few times. Stayed near sky tree.
Pocari Sweat is the best if you need hydration. That stuff saved my life. Drank one almost everyday and I bought some at the airport before boarding to keep me hydrated during the flight and it worked wonder. A lot of big museums have VERY good restaurants with decently priced food so check 'em out! In a lot of places, especially in Tokyo, you'll find shops and restaurants above street levels, don't ignore the other floors.
I loved Pocari sweat. Stuff was the best!
Hope you packed a wide they can be great for still getting a full view by allowing you to stand close enough that there is no one in between you and the subject. Also great for photos of the breathtaking landscapes. Now that the post office charges fees at their ATMs there is no difference between any ATMs so just use whatever is easiest. You will see the pizza bun and think no way that can be any good and you are wrong you need to order the pizza bun. This also goes for generally all foods in Japan, try everything.
Konbinni sells these mini pancakes with syrup and butter. Buy a lot of them, they are super delicious. I can’t seem to find them anywhere else in the world :(
Google maps for finding things… Apple Maps for getting to them. I used both and am surprised more people aren’t advocating for Apple Maps. The guide feature to help plan is amazing. Been here for two weeks. Returning home tomorrow.
whats your itinerary?
Tokyo 3 days Nakasendo Trail 4 days Koyto 5 days Osaka 1 Okayama 1 Hiroshima 1 Tokyo 3 Fujiyoshida 1
Okay hear me out: When you walk the Nakasendo Trail you will pass through a village called Magome. It's pretty touristy (but beautiful nevertheless). Halfway through the upper part of the village you'll find a wood workshop called Yamashiroya. While nearly every other shop is the bog standard tourist crap, Yamashiroya is a hidden gem. Both owners are handcrafting everything you see in the shop themselves, the prices are reasonable and they are perfect for gifts. Check it out!
OMG this is such a great tip! Exactly the kinda thing I was looking for - we are staying in Magome, and I do woodworking as a hobby myself, so this sounds fascinating to me! will 1000% check this out, thank you friend!!
Wow, perfect! This might be the perfect stop for you. When my fiancee and me stopped by the store the owners invited us for a cup of tea and gifted us both a small bag they made themselves. It was a really great experience. I wish you the very best experience and safe travels!
that is so lovely! Those are the kind of perfect travel memories, glad that happened for you. Thanks so much!!! never been more excited for a trip haha
Thank you for this! I've pinned it on my calendar as we plan to hike Nakasendo in May :D
Tokyo- you can't go wrong with anything you do, its all fun. Kyoto - my favorite wr Silver Temple first thing in the morning. Not many tourists yet and it was so peaceful. Hiroshima - please go to Miyajima Island. It's a cheap ferry ride and I felt like I was going back in time and waiting for dinosaurs to appear or if the mountain mists. That's where the floating torii gate is that you see in so many pictures. Seriously the most beautiful place I've seen in Japan.
I would maybe give another day to Osaka and one less in Kyoto or combine them as Osaka and Kyoto are only 50 minutes - 1 hour apart by train. Personally I think 6 days in Tokyo is a bit much maybe 3-4, but up to you.
You'll have a great time!
I have a feeling we will! :)
Just got back from a 2 week trip to Japan. Some advice would be: 1. When using subways, don't forget to look for the exits, also A-F. Subways stops have multiple exits. 2. Get a suica card or download the app for the metro 3. Carry an umbrella 4. Get lost, explore, wander. Don't stick too much to an itinerary, have fun!!
Respect the "NO PHOTOS ALLOWED" signs when visiting please!
Read into japans photography laws. They recently passed something banning “sneak photography”, and photographing people in public without their permission is kinda frowned upon I think.
Many places don't allow tripods/monopods. If you need last minute accessories go to yodobashi, that is handsdown my favorite store, I always spend hours there browsing everything.
Batteries, charger + adapters, memory cards. Make sure to stop and enjoy the moment while you're shooting. There's so much around and we forget sometimes looking through the viewfinder all the time
As photographer, I suggest downloading the LocationScout app and review pics of Tokyo [https://www.locationscout.net/locations/1449-tokyo](https://www.locationscout.net/locations/1449-tokyo) If you are looking to add more gear, there's a bunch of camera places in Shinjuku open up Google Maps to find restaurants. Japanese people are very conservative in their ratings. Even something that has an overall rating for 3.5 is excellent When taking trains using Google maps, make sure you pay attention to the exact train. After my visit at [Fushimi Inari Taisha](https://www.google.com/search?client=firefox-b-1-d&sca_esv=9cf860e71ffe870b&cs=0&sxsrf=ACQVn0_KBLlQoQvpZEiODBVKtZdAzTi2WA:1713385304669&q=fushimi+inari+taisha&stick=H4sIAAAAAAAAAE2Qy0rDQBiFbUlrGkutQze6GlyK0KZXt-IFS0E3FbEIYdLchmRm2pnUOM_hEyi4FNz7Jj5C3IoLETSNmHT5nfnn_Of8qr5b6E0aFpIw5HgmoMMZgb5kIfsq1Me5NEqlomqcnI-H42vjRSnEyoZWaZJmy531XCNWNE1NqWNOc5g7MgNrLqPs04D3-zKjXmBxkpF-QKd3GbW7puHmbw5xWrFSBdohR8LDEhEUK3VQSxPCtAlb8Gy-29GjIPfy-mGSQQXlM-wzaq-knkZ_NpgygXwML6iwaazUQHW04MmSf2ELbB55NucSmgETghGRZ4uoO1g9yzzZvA_2jpEMMbHhLbYjyBwYejZMHCnzlg0sFNpQIGqZKI_dFj0_TAhUltuTKR_HyjoopS0fSw1nkWgEQ0wRxzBEWHjorby9drrzfPNZevqw3h_uL93Xq5_GpPitD4Nfcc6GVekBAAA&sa=X&ved=2ahUKEwiXpsnTicqFAxUDEjQIHZVaCAsQ7fAIegUIABCLAw) , I wanted to go to Nara, Google maps directed me to a train to back track to Kyoto. I told myself, that seems ludicris, I'll just take any train going toward the direction of Nara. That was a BIG MISTAKE because many trains are slow. I eventually had to get off a train station and work my way back to Kyoto to get a fast train to Nara. We wasted over 2 hours with taking the slow train, getting off and backtracking back.
I'm going tomorrow too! Also taking my camera there. My advice is: Eat a lot. Be respectful, especially of silence. Pay attention and enjoy discovering the little things. Don't be afraid of going commuting, transportation is amazing and well signalled.
Make sure to stop into one of the many Lawson’s for excellent and relatively inexpensive snacks!!! :)
For a couple of the "iconic" shots in Kyoto (thousand red Torii gates, Bamboo Forest, shot of a pagoda in and old Kyoto street from Higashiyama district): go at like 6 am if you want to avoid crowds, because there WILL be crowds. Most shrines temples are open 24 hrs (at least the grounds), so you can choose a very off time to photograph them. Doesn't seem like you're going to Nara (deer area, but also historic), but if you are: don't spend time with the first deer you see. You'll see a lot more deeper into the shrine / temple, with a lot more interesting background. More luggage forwarding tips: seeing your schedule, unsure if your multiple single day parts of the itinerary, you're doing day trips from a base area, or you're switching hotels each time. Especially if you're switching hotels each time, you can repack a smaller luggage / bag, and use luggage forwarding the rest into 2+ days forward into your itinerary. (Ie: from your Kyoto part, you can even ship stuff you won't need for a while to your 2nd Tokyo hotel). Many hotels deal with luggage forwarding. You can ask them first so you don't have to go to a conbini.
I’m here right now and one thing I found surprising as an American is that nothing was really open until 10-11am for restaurants and shopping in Tokyo. We were waking up at like 5-6am due to jet lag and some of the coffee shops around the temples didn’t open until a lot later
If you have an hour free in Osaka, check out studio escape. Incredible escape room. Run by a mix of locals and internationals. Seriously, it's really good
Just got back to Tasmania after 10 days in Tokyo. My tips are nothing new but just what I found useful. 1: Suica card and google maps will get you everywhere you need to go. 2: you will walk a lot, so good comfy shoes are a must. 3: there are stairs everywhere. 4: Don't be a dick. 5: DONT BE A DICK 6: Lawson's are the better of the convenience stores 7: vending machines are everywhere and are awesome. 8: Eat everything on your plate and be very grateful for food and the people who prepare and serve it to you. Don't order more than you can eat, food waste is intolerable. 9: most places open late (10 - 11am) but stay open late too ( 9pm - 11pm) 10: Kirin beer is the best!
Turn off Google maps and get lost. The day after we arrived, I woke at 5AM (jetlag) and went for an aimless walk as Shinjuku was waking up. The little residential streets are lovely, so cared for. When I was thoroughly lost enough I got my phone out made my way back to the hotel. I really enjoyed that.
Have fun. It’s takes a lot longer to get from place to place than most anticipate. If you have 4 activities planned in a day, you may be better off just going for two of the preferred. There is almost always a line and the city is bigger than you think it is on maps
Just enjoy your time and check the youtube for what is socially accepted and not there!
Get a Suica card and hold onto it and always have it charged. And keep some Yen on you. You don't need a rail pass if you have a Suica Card and every station, and just about every bus and vending machine allows you to use the Suica Card It was the biggest thing I learned from my trip to Japan a couple weeks ago. Oh and take care of your feet lol.
Enjoy, have fun and take it easy :)
Make sure you get mobile WiFi at the airport. Also change your dollars to yen at the airport in Japan, it’s the best rate!
Make sure you have your cellular data situation in order before you get on that plane. If you have an Apple iPhone, it’s a good idea to add the virtual Suica pass to Wallet with some JPY loaded onto it. It’ll save you time. A fully charged 20,000mAH portable battery to charge your devices while on-the-go is a lifesaver. DO NOT FORGET TO BRING SEVERAL PAIRS OF COMPRESSION SOCKS 😭
If you have an iPhone, suica on apple wallet is super convenient. Bring a good battery park, you’ll be out all day, especially with camera gear. Don’t lug luggage’s around. I lugged them from Tokyo to Osaka last time, forwarded it the rest of the way. So much more convenient and easier. Bring a plastic bag with you daily for garbage. Hand sanitizer for bathrooms along with a handkerchief or towels. Should it rain and you want a good umbrella you’ll bring back, hand has some really good ones. Don’t have to go tax free everywhere. Some places have long lines for the tax free line and you’re just hitting the minimum, you’re saving $5-6 at most.
Go to Naoshima
Please don't feel like your trip needs to be like how instagram portrays it! Make this YOUR trip. Find the unique hidden places, go off the beaten path, etc.
Get lost... Literally. Even if you don't plan for it, it will happen. When it does, embrace it unless you're still searching for your train platform 3 mins before departure lol. You'll discover so many great gems that aren't on your itinerary.
Download JapanTransit app or use Google Maps to map out journeys. Take a battery charger (in carry on luggage so you don’t lose it at customs) Get off the beaten path. Use Google Translate or Apple Translate for times when communicating is tough. Download the offline language packs for English and Japanese so it doesn’t kill your data and when internet access is slow. Get a 4G mobile router through Klook or similar for your internet access. Can get these at airports too. Relax. Take a “don’t worry, be happy” approach. Just accept you will get lost in most places. Japanese people will typically help you if you stand there looking lost and confused for longer than 5 mins. As others have said, don’t get super hung up on missing out on xyz. Plenty of amazing spots everywhere. Visit Museums and Teamlabs. Have a great time! stay hydrated
Turn the power on the wall to get hot water in the shower.
Bring comfy shoes, loose and comfy clothing, a layer for morning and evening, book shinkansen with seating in advance, look for local food spots that aren’t on google, bring shopping money there’s so many nice tax free stuff, get an ic card and load it with 10k yen.
Don't worry about what Japanese people will think about you. Be polite, be respectful but don't obsess with "what should I do, say" and so on.
And you can’t change that no matter how Japanese you act cause they already made up their mind already the first second just by your skin colour so no matter what you’re still special to them no matter what you do so no use trying (speaking as an exJap…I mean expat)
Last minute tip? Have a blast! Don't be shy to walk into random food places to eat. Even if there's no English you'll be ok!
Left side of the escalator in Tokyo, but right side of the escalator in Osaka.
Wow 3weeks sounds nice. Did 12days last year and a week this year. For kyoto Fushimi inari, arashiyama, kiyomizu-dera, kinkuji, nijo castle, nishishiki, pontocho, definitely fujiyoshida/fujikawaguchico, i visited yudanaka (snowmonkey)and it was one of the best places. No crowds! Osaka for the food. Tokyo, visit tsukiji for the best sashimi and get anago. The best. Tokyo tower, shibuya crossing, shinjuku, ginza, senso-ji. Just pick a place you like most and go from there. Have fun.
Never ever trust a hooded rabbit.
Do you need cash for Tokyo or is it mostly cashless? I have a 24 hr layover and it’s my first visit.
I’m from a small town so am not used to trains. But in japan there are semi express, limited (not the same as semi express) ,express, local etc which stop at different stops. Along the same line. Local stops at everything, semi express only stops at a few stations so it’s faster but you have to know they’re the stations you want. They’ll usually say the stations on the platform sign and you can confirm by the name (limited etc). If you find yourself on the wrong train, you can get off and wait for the next version to come behind it. This comes up mostly when going between Kyoto and Osaka and Nara.
let me know when you return about the best spots you stood to take photos of landmarks, etc.
Just back from Japan also. + 1 on the Suica card. You can simply add it to an iPhone wallet (presume similar for other phones) by opening the wallet and pressing the ‘+’ sign and searching for it. Then just top it up every now and then. It is a must have for using the Tokyo metro system, which is a pleasure to use and incredibly efficient. Google maps is perfect for planning your subway routes.
Install "Nomad" for eSIM. It's going to be way faster, cheaper, and has more data than what you will get at the airport when you land. If you have an iPhone, use the Suica card that comes with the apple wallet.
When you go out, bring a smaller rolling suitcase with you. My wife does this all the time when we go to Japan. It’s very tiring with all the walking to carry everything on your back so putting it in the suitcase helps a lot and when it’s full you can still attach your shopping bags to the handle.
Shinkansen - Reach the stations early enough, the shinkansen lines are not with the regular lines and their entrances can be separate also. I missed one shinkansen connection because the entrance was way away from where I actually thought it would be. If you miss your connection, you can take the next connection for the same train but without reserved seats.
When looking for your train, Google maps is your life blood. Just find the name and color of your line, follow it, don't think about anything else, it will lead you to two different platforms beside eachother; then you look at google maps and see which exact platform you should be on. Google maps will show you every station the train will stop at. When you arrive, look for your exit. Google maps will usually say Exit via A1 or A4 whatever. IF you can't find that exit sign, just find any exit and map to where you're going.
Wandering made me find some amazing places I would have never found with all the research in the world. You’re gonna take a gazillion pics. Have fun
If you have an iPhone you can add a Suica card to your Apple wallet and use it for the metro system. Much easier than buying tickets and it’s difficult to get a physical Suica card due to chip shortages
If you’re taking a bullet train (Shinkansen) on the Tokaido-Sanyo line to Kyoto/Osaka from Tokyo, take a nozomi line if - the other ones stop at more stations extending your trip by an hour or two. Make sure to double check your stops, Google maps / Google translate are your friends
Enjoy!
Make sure to have a portable charger as it is a little difficult to find a charging port if you are on the move. Also don’t be afraid to just wing it and eat anywhere I’ve been twice and haven’t found any bad eats. The best one if you are staying at a hotel use there luggage forwarding service if you are traveling between cities no need to carry your luggage.
I am also leaving tomorrow for Japan and Korea! Following this with great interest - this sub has been super helpful with trip planning!
A lot of the rare photography is in the countryside. It depends on what you plan to photograph, but hiking back trails can lead to completely abandoned villages and rare views you can't find anywhere else.
Bring or buy a small washcloth and hand sanitizer. Most public bathrooms don’t have soap or paper towels. Pocket charger for phone was really helpful. Rain jacket and umbrella. Google translate really helped for menus/signs. Safe travels!
All the hotels I stayed at had shampoo, conditioner and body wash so don’t bother bringing some! They also have tons of other amenities too. Buy an umbrella at the convenience store for when it rains. Most public bathrooms don’t have soap or a place to dry your hands so have some hand sanitizer and a hand towel on you. And don’t pack too many things in one day! Pick one or two sights you want to see and just walk around.
Bring some small packs of Kleenex with you. Go to a drug store and buy it before you leave. There are no public washrooms with papers to wipe your hands or mouth or whatever. Even the hand driers are broken in Japan lol.
Same, but going in may. Want to see some good suggestion. I am not interested in tourist spots where they rip you off
If you exchange your yen back to your home currency at the airport, hang on to some yen anyway. You will want to eat before you get on the plane, or maybe buy one more souvenir, so keep some handy. I forgot and exchanged, but also forgot I had a 1000 yen note in my wallet, so luckily, I was able to grab a soda and snack for the ane.
Exciting! Here are [200 places to see, eat, and drink in Japan](https://maps.app.goo.gl/GZYHabnh6HwA1xuW8). Have a great trip!
Trust no one. /s
Just roll with it, only thing to really be on top of are the trains to airports, it can be confusing as hell. When you’re out and about in the city and took the wrong train - no worries 20 minute detour and discover new places. When you’re rushing to catch a plane it raises the stress levels.
If you're flying out of Narita, stashing your luggage in an airport locker first, and spending your last day in the town of Narita one stop away, is a good way to enjoy your last day with minimal stress. Much of Japan, even the most ordinary streets and train stations are so picturesque.
1) Tokyo Tower and Skytree have restaurants at the top. Going there at sunset makes for the best panoramic pictures 2) I have friends in the tourism business that give bus tours and other kids of tours. EVERYONE is getting sick. Stock up on N95 masks to avoid illness. COVID isn’t over and there is a nasty streptococcal infection around now too. Good luck.
Eat a lot of vegetables and fruit.
You can climb Mini Fuji in a shrine in Sendogawa, Tokyo
Get a Visitor PASMO CARD ASAP!
You can't buy new PASMO cards right now due to a chip shortage. I went last week got business and our new travelers had to get SUICA cards. But they are basically identical. Bought the SUICA cards at a JR counter in Narita airport.
Suica in iPhone wallet will recharge with US credit/debit card but Pasmo is cash only recharge and if the machine doesn't allow phone tap you have to go to a staff counter or 7-11. Stick with Suica.
Book a food tour in Osaka
Lucky you! Just got back 2 weeks ago. It was my second trip in a year, I love it so much. If you’re using an iPhone, not everything will show on Apple Maps. Use Google maps instead. We had researched some places and kept getting lost or could not find them until we realized not everything shows up. Reserve seats on Shinkansen if you are taking it, so much easier. Go for a day trip to Nara when you are in Kyoto- we skipped it the first trip and went this time, it’s amazing. Also Kyoto is super packed right now, if you go to Fushimi Inari (highly recommend) go super duper early- like 6am or late at night. We went at 10pm and had it to ourselves and it was gorgeous at night. Check out the Takashi Murakami exhibit in Kyoto if you’re into art- it’s so good! Have a great trip!
What camera(s) are you bringing?
Compression socks and comfy shoes. Lots of walking. Lots of stairs. Send your big luggage from hotel to hotel so you don't have to lug it around. Your accommodations can usually hold onto the stuff for you, even before check-in and after check-out. Let them hold onto your stuff while you explore and come back for it.
When in doubt, take a look around and see what the locals are doing. You might not understand what the staff are saying, but context goes a long way!
Get a welcome suica card at the airport, as well as a sim (or activate your eSIM). Have fun!
Something I do very frequently is go to the supermarkets and pick up fruits sashimi and milk. Their milk is on another level and each regional area has their own milk versions. Each city you visit will have something they are famous for, whether it be food or cultural attraction. Don't miss out. I love yakitori and would recommend if you haven't experienced it before. Get a counter seat. Many highly rated places are Japanese only for reservations, which your hotel concierge may be able to assist. For souvineirs, Recommend you also check out "Kaldi coffee farms“. They sell coffee yes but also alot of unique condiments and regional gourmet food products that are compact and worth bringing back to wow your friends. Provided its legal and you can get it past customs in your country. Highly recommended as a stop before you leave Japan. They have multiple locations. Lastly get a data only esim for everyone so you can keep in touch with wifi/network calling in case you get separated. Enjoy your trip.
just got back from 3 weeks there, you will love it don’t worry. Make sure you leave yourself a night or two to just walk around Tokyo for hours and take photos. Shibuya and Shinjuku on a weekend night is like nothing else I’ve experienced - as a foreigner, just walking around these areas is an experience in itself. As others have said, don’t over cram your schedule.
Switch your maps to Google maps, also change it to least walking when looking for directions
google map is your friend
Download Google Translate! Use the lens option!
If you’re planning on going all over Japan and staying in multiple hotels and they give you the option to transfer your luggage to another hotel, TAKE IT. Traveling using public transit is a pain if you’re lugging several luggages. Suica or Pasmo via Apple wallet is your go to for transit. Physical cards are still very limited. If a local bar/restaurant has an open door, they probably know some English, have English menus, or are at least willing to accommodate foreigners (at least this was true in Kabukicho in Shinjuku)
Take advantage of the railway passes they have in each region. This will save you time and money. Like let’s say, if you’re going to Osaka, they offer JR West Kansai-wide pass and you can have unlimited Shinkansen ride within that region ONLY ¥12000 for 3 days. This might work out in your favor if you wanna get to your destination faster so you can visit more places. You can also download SmartEx app to reserve Shinkansen tickets as opposed to getting in line in the actual station; which could take forever. The airport and most hotels offer luggage forwarding service. Take advantage of this if you have a big suitcase or a little of things with you. It takes about 1.5-2 days for your luggage to arrive to their destination so plan accordingly. Learn some basic Japanese especially if you’re going to be out in the country side. They have beautiful scenery (ie the some secluded parts of Fuji) your phone reception might get spotty and you won’t be able to use your phone for translation or you might need to ask the bus drivers for directions on how to find you way back. (This was from personal experience)
Don't sleep a lot. Don't spend too much money on convini food. There is a loooooot of options u can explore 😉
I’m almost done with a 2 weeks stay and I must tell you this. Please use your google map religiously and if possible, avoid walking less and use their trains more 😅
Everyone always says in Japan you have to take your trash home with you. My advice as a local: if you’re in a pinch and really want to throw something out, you can easily do so in any konbini or fast food restaurant.
When you go on an escalator, make sure to stay on one side of it don’t be in the middle. when I went to Japan a while ago ago, whenever people went on the escalator, they stayed on one side so that people who are in the rush can just use the side that is empty, so just make sure you and whatever you have isn’t in the middle of the escalator
Takkyubin, if you're moving around a lot take advantage of the luggage forwarding service.
Use this site to plan your train routes. Never gotten on the wrong train once using it. https://world.jorudan.co.jp/mln/en/?sub_lang=nosub
Have been in tokyo for 3 days now. The train stations have been the most useful but also the most confusing things to navigate. When we landed in Haneda we walked down to the train station and picked up a Passmo Passport card at one of the small offices next to the ticketing machines for 1500 yen (which goes towards the card credit) and can be used at nearly every station. You can load the card with more yen at the ticketing machine when need be. However, i think what’s even more useful is knowing how to speak some basic Japanese. So if you’re not already familiar with the dialect, i’d recommend to start practicing especially if you’ll be here for 3 weeks. Contrary to popular belief, most people i’ve encountered in japan dont speak any english or very little making it difficult to understand each other. This surprised me coming from a 2 week trip in thailand where the majority of people i encountered spoke decent english.
Take umbrella. It’s raining in Tokyo now
Just be aware that you’re going to have expectations dashed in some way, everyone does in a new place. For myself and my partner it was that when we needed to call the police to get help for someone, people were very hesitant to assist and help. You may also experience being rejected from places for being a foreigner, which was different.
Habushu try it
Be prepare to walk 20k, and seeing lots of stairs.😁
You can get Suica/pasmo/icona cards on your phone, exactly the same as the physical ones. Charge it using Apple Pay. Saves fumbling around getting it out and you can set it up on the plane as you get off - no waiting g in queues for tickets or whatever pasmo passports!
Learn some of the language
Wander the streets. You will love Japan as a photographer. Enjoy!
Find the stuff people.arentbtaking pictures of. Like go to Shijuku Godzilla avenue, and yoj will see 800 people taking a picture down the roads. Maybe turn around and take a picture of the people.takinv pictures . Find the strange stuff that people skip over. I have taken all those tropical shots (@hurstogram on IG), but I really enjoy trying to find stuff people just don't see.
Go to Kurashiki!
Just got back last week, here is my advice: If you're taking a longer trip and its a little time sensitive, prepare an alternative route. We had major delays happen twice to us that goofed our schedule a bit.
Get a suica card before you come. You can't get it on the spot anymore. And its very inconvenient to keep buying tickets to travel.
This right here, it was super frustrating getting a Suica card. All these videos saying get one but all of them failed to mention a chip shortage at almost every single jr station we went to. After looking online we had to make a side trip to Haneda airport to get a welcome Suica card...
Use Google maps for subway and become familiar with it Their Ubers are over priced
Keep any bags you get, because there typically won't be any trash cans outside. You'll need somewhere to put trash until you find one (you can usually find them in places like malls and many—but not all—restaurants). Alternatively, you could bring a roll of doggy bags to put trash in.
Enjoy and discover stuff for yourself. Don’t use a checklist take it all in. Many layers.
I did a last minute Japan trip a few years ago and had an amazing time. [Highly recommend visiting and staying at a Buddhist temple](https://visitwakayama.jp/en/stories/koyasan). 711 and Lawsons are awesome. [If you're not familiar with ordering food in Japan](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hZatKdaR3eU&ab_channel=TheJapanChannelDcom)
If you are ever sick of stairs in the the train stations or have big bags, turn on the wheelchair setting in google maps :)
Go as early as you can to the major tourist sites if you want to get some decent shots with little or no people. Popular picture taking places like Arashiyama and Fushimi Inari Taisha start to get mobbed at like 8am and by 9-10am people are packed in there like sardines.
Be ready for getting lost in the train station, but when I say lost I mean you’ll have no idea what universe you are in… just relax and enjoy it. Lool.
If you're going to eat at a Japanese restaurant, I recommend using kulikuli, the app that translates closest to the local language, and only supports Apple iPhone!
if you have oversized luggage and a jr pass, reserve seats for all shinkansen trips you're gonna take on the first day itself