I recently fulfilled one of my childhood dreams by visiting Japan, and it exceeded all my expectations. From the incredible food to the rich culture and breathtaking sights, it was an unforgettable two weeks. Along the way, I picked up some valuable tips—things I’m grateful we did, and others I wish I’d considered for next time. Here are my suggestions for getting the most out of your trip to Japan.
Get a rail card
Public transport is essential when visiting Japan—it’s clean, affordable, and always on time. It’s by far the best way to travel, though it can feel a bit overwhelming at first. While many sources suggest purchasing a JR Rail Pass, it limits you to certain train lines and schedules. Instead, I recommend getting a prepaid Rail Card. I used one from INOCA, but there are several brands available. I picked mine up from the JR help desk at Kansai Airport Station. This pay-as-you-go card works on all trains, buses, and trams across Japan, making travel incredibly convenient. It’s a must-have, even if you’re only visiting one city!
Buy an eSIM before you arrive
One of my biggest fears about travelling to a non-English speaking country is not having data, so I made sure to purchase an unlimited data eSIM package before even landing in Japan. I went with Sakura Mobile, which tailors packages based on the number of days you’re staying. This way, you’re not paying for extra data on days you’re not even there. If you are more comfortable relying on public Wi-Fi, there are apps like “Japan Auto Wi-Fi Connect.” These apps let you register your details once, making it super easy to connect to public Wi-Fi quickly and seamlessly throughout your trip.
Bring an extra suitcase
Before going to Japan, I knew I’d be buying a lot—clothes, action figures, snacks, shoes, and more. However, I didn’t anticipate just how difficult it would be to bring everything back. This is where packing an extra, empty suitcase would have been incredibly useful. Many travellers recommend bringing a large suitcase with a smaller one inside, kind of like Russian nesting dolls. It may seem excessive at first, but between exclusive items, tax-free shopping, and the favourable exchange rate, you’ll likely end up purchasing much more than you could imagine.
As well as an extra suitcase, I recommend packing fewer clothes. I went for 16 days but cycled through just 4 or 5 t-shirts since most hotels have laundry facilities. Even if you plan to wear more outfits, by the end of my trip, I was wearing clothes I had bought in Japan. So, save space for the new fits you’ll undoubtedly pick up there.
Carry Cash
Despite Japan being one of the most innovative and tech-savvy countries, I was surprised by how regularly cash is still used. It’s crucial to keep plenty on hand. One of the main reasons I found cash essential was for buying water from vending machines, especially during the hot summer days. You’ll also need cash to top up your rail cards. Many traditional restaurants are cash-only, so save yourself the hassle by ensuring you always have some cash in your wallet. It’ll help avoid any sticky situations.
Learn the cultural Etiquette
Japan is an incredibly polite and respectful country, which makes it easy to unintentionally disrupt the peace if you’re unfamiliar with its cultural norms. Many of these customs may not exist elsewhere, so it’s a good idea to do some research beforehand to avoid drawing unwanted attention. Some key public etiquette tips include:
- Avoid speaking loudly in public, especially on trains or buses.
- Avoid eating while walking—it’s better to eat in designated areas.
- Remove your shoes when entering restaurants, hotels, or even changing rooms.
- No tipping in restaurants, as it can be seen as offensive.
The Japanese are extremely kind and understanding, and they won’t make a big deal if you accidentally do something against their customs. However, as a tourist, it’s always respectful to try your best to follow their way of life. I also recommend learning a few basic phrases like “hello” (konnichiwa) and “thank you” (arigatou gozaimasu), as even small efforts to speak the language are greatly appreciated.
Share your thoughts!