Experience and Advice for Traveling to Japan
Overview
I have traveled to Japan four times, mostly during the cherry blossom season (end of March to early April), and it remains one of my top travel experiences. Here are some tips and insights from my visits:
Preparation and Planning
Research: Utilize resources such as social media, Google, and YouTube for research.
Rome2Rio: Use this app to plan daily visits efficiently.
Basic Japanese: Learn basic Japanese phrases, especially "thank you," "please," and "may I."
Recommended Itineraries
Tokyo: Spend at least 3-4 days. Highlights include Shibuya, Shinjuku, Team Lab, Skytree, and Takashita Street.
Osaka: Allocate 2-3 days. Don't miss Universal Studios Japan and the Nintendo World.
Kyoto: Spend at least 2-3 days to explore its temples and cultural sites.
Transportation
Train System: Very easy and safe to navigate.
Limousine Bus: Worth considering for airport transfers.
Taxis: Can be expensive, so budget accordingly.
Accommodation
Tokyo Hotels: Recommended areas include Shibuya and Shinjuku for proximity to attractions and train stations.
General Tips: Most hotel rooms are small, akin to an inside cabin on a cruise. Hotels typically provide essential toiletries.
Food and Shopping
Convenience Stores: Family Mart and 7/11 are great for quick and delicious meals.
Shopping: Don Quixote is a fun shopping paradise.
Restaurants: Many use kiosks for ordering and payment.
Common Places of Use
Fast Food Restaurants: Automated ordering machines are installed in many fast food chains such as McDonald's, Kentucky Fried Chicken, and MOS Burger.
Casual Dining: Beef bowl chains like Yoshinoya, Matsuya, and Sukiya, as well as conveyor belt sushi chains such as Sushiro and Kura Sushi, also use automated ordering machines.
Cafes: Cafe chains like Starbucks and Doutor have also adopted automated ordering machines.
Advantages
Efficiency: The ordering process becomes faster, reducing waiting times.
Language Support: Many automated ordering machines support multiple languages, making them user-friendly for foreign tourists. Common languages include English, Chinese, and Korean.
Payment Methods: Payments at automated ordering machines can be made using cash, credit cards, and IC cards (such as Suica and Pasmo).
Etiquette and Practical Tips
Respectful Behavior: Japanese people are respectful and welcoming. Be courteous, especially on public transportation.
Garbage: Bring a small bag for carrying garbage, as bins are scarce.
No Eating/Drinking on Streets: Avoid eating or drinking while walking.
Vending Machines: Sell a variety of items, including liquor.
Dress Code: Wear comfortable walking shoes and respectful clothing. Capsule wardrobes with layered clothing are recommended.
Photography: Always ask for permission before taking photos of locals, especially those in anime or other costumes.
Smoking: Only in designated areas.
Adapter: Bring a Japan-specific adapter for electronic devices.
Internet: Consider purchasing an eSIM or checking with your carrier for internet options.
Currency: Exchange $100-200 into yen at your home bank for pocket money.
Additional Advice
Customs: Can take 30 minutes to 2 hours, depending on traffic. Be patient.
Tickets: Pre-purchase tickets for popular sites, especially during peak times.
Weather: Check the weather forecast for the month of your visit to prepare for heat or rain.
Comfort: Wear comfortable walking shoes, like Hoka or On Cloud.
Extra Travel
If you have more time, consider a side trip to Seoul, Korea, which is just a 2.5-hour flight away.
Final Thoughts
Enjoy the rich culture, history, beauty, and food of Japan. Happy travels!
🌸✈️🌎⛩️🍣🍜🥢
JTI | Japan Travel Itinerary
Empowering your travel dreams with bespoke itineraries crafted by our expert team, independent of vendors for truly personalized experiences.
この記事が気に入ったらサポートをしてみませんか？