Japan Travel Guide for First-Timers: Essential Tips to Know Before You Go
Japan is a country known for its stunning landscapes, rich culture, delicious food, and highly efficient public transportation. However, for first-time travelers, navigating Japanese customs, etiquette, and transportation can be challenging.
To help you have a smooth and enjoyable trip, this guide will introduce essential things to know before traveling to Japan.
Important Things to Know Before Traveling to Japan
Japan’s Climate and Best Travel Seasons
Japan has four distinct seasons, and your travel experience will vary depending on when you visit.
| Season | Temperature & Features | Travel Tips |
|---|---|---|
| Spring (March–May) | 15–25°C, Cherry blossoms | Best time for sightseeing |
| Summer (June–August) | 25–35°C, High humidity | Enjoy summer festivals and fireworks but prepare for the heat |
| Autumn (September–November) | 15–25°C, Beautiful autumn leaves | Comfortable weather for traveling |
| Winter (December–February) | 0–10°C, Snow in some areas | Great for hot springs and winter illuminations |
Best Seasons: Spring & Autumn (Mild weather and beautiful scenery)
Japanese Currency & Payment Methods
The currency in Japan is Japanese Yen (JPY / ¥)
Credit cards are increasingly accepted, but cash is still necessary (especially for small restaurants, shrines, and local markets)
Recommended Payment Methods
| Credit Cards (VISA, Mastercard, AMEX are commonly accepted) |
| IC Cards (Suica, PASMO) → Useful for trains and convenience stores |
| Mobile Payment (PayPay, LINE Pay) → Available at some stores |
Carrying cash is recommended! You can withdraw Japanese yen from ATMs in convenience stores or post offices.
Transportation Tips: Getting Around in Japan
Japan’s transportation system is one of the most efficient in the world, but it can be confusing for first-time travelers.
| Trains & Subways (Best for city travel) JR Pass (Exclusive rail pass for foreign tourists) IC Cards (Suica, PASMO) for smooth entry at ticket gates |
| Taxis (Comfortable but expensive) |
| Buses (Useful in tourist areas but can be complicated) |
| Bicycle Rentals (Recommended for Kyoto & some Tokyo areas) |
Use Google Maps or NAVITIME to navigate easily!
Japanese Culture & Etiquette
Essential Japanese Etiquette
Understanding Japanese manners will help you avoid awkward situations.
Public Transportation Etiquette
- Be quiet on trains and buses (no phone calls, keep conversations low)
- Offer priority seats to elderly, pregnant women, and disabled passengers
- Stand on the left in Tokyo, right in Osaka on escalators
Dining Etiquette
- Avoid eating while walking (except in designated areas)
- Do not stick chopsticks upright into rice (bad omen)
- Saying “Itadakimasu” before eating and “Gochisousama deshita” after a meal is polite
No Tipping Culture
Japan does not have a tipping culture (no need to tip at restaurants or taxis)
Best Places to Visit in Japan
Recommended Cities for First-Time Travelers
| City | Features | Must-Visit Places |
|---|---|---|
| Tokyo | A mix of modern and traditional culture Asakusa | Shibuya, Akihabara, Tokyo Skytree |
| Kyoto | The heart of Japan’s traditional culture | Kiyomizu Temple, Fushimi Inari Shrine, Arashiyama |
| Osaka | Famous for food culture and nightlife | Dotonbori, Osaka Castle, Universal Studios Japan |
| Hiroshima | Rich in history and culture | Atomic Bomb Dome, Miyajima |
| Hokkaido | Stunning nature and great food | Sapporo, Otaru, Furano |
Use the Shinkansen (bullet train) or budget airlines (LCCs) for long-distance travel!
Essential Items for a Comfortable Trip
Useful Items for Japan Travel
| Pocket Wi-Fi or SIM Card (Japan has limited free Wi-Fi) |
| Portable Charger (You’ll use your phone a lot!) |
| Compact Umbrella (For unexpected rain) |
| Small Coin Pouch (Useful for vending machines and shrines) |
| Eco Bag (Plastic bags at stores cost extra) |
You can buy most essential items at convenience stores or 100-yen shops!
What is a 100-Yen Shop?
A 100-yen shop (Hyaku-en shop) is a store where almost everything costs 100 yen (+ tax).
These shops sell travel essentials, stationery, phone accessories, snacks, and even souvenirs at an affordable price.
Popular 100-yen store chains
| DAISO | Largest chain with a wide selection |
| Seria | Stylish and high-quality items |
| Can★Do | Convenient locations, often near train stations |
If you need last-minute travel items, souvenirs, or daily necessities, a 100-yen shop is the best place to go! 😊
Conclusion
Japan is a safe and convenient country, but knowing some basic rules and tips will help you enjoy your trip without stress.
Key Takeaways Before Your Trip
- Prepare cash and an IC card (credit cards may not be accepted everywhere)
- Use trains and subways for easy travel (check routes in advance)
- Be mindful of Japanese etiquette in public places
- Plan your must-visit destinations
- Bring essential travel items like Wi-Fi, portable chargers, and eco bags
By keeping these tips in mind, your first trip to Japan will be a smooth and unforgettable experience!
