What you need to know before traveling to Japan in 2024

Traveling to Japan is a unique experience. This country captivates with its culture, traditions, and modernity. Learn more about important details that will make your journey to Japan enjoyable and unforgettable.

When planning a trip to Japan, pay attention to several important points. From the absence of trash cans in cities to etiquette rules, we’ve compiled the most crucial details. First and foremost, be prepared to walk a lot. Additionally, familiarize yourself with Japanese etiquette basics, pay attention to details, and immerse yourself in the local culture. Don’t worry, we’ll support you throughout this amazing journey! According to statistics, the majority of foreigners arriving in Japan come from China, India, Taiwan, and Korea.

If you’re planning a trip to Japan, utilize guides from the Travel2be website. These documents provide essential advice on visa matters, border crossings, employment, citizenship, and much more.

Prepare to do a lot of walking

Exploring Japan on foot is the most immersive way to experience the country’s beauty and energy. Whether you’re venturing through bustling metropolises like Tokyo or Kyoto, where each step reveals new impressions, or exploring ancient temples and shrines, much of your time will be spent walking from one remarkable place to another.

First and foremost, ensure you have comfortable footwear. Avoid experimenting with new pairs of shoes, as they may cause discomfort. It’s better to be prepared for anything.

Start your journey at a relaxed pace without overloading yourself on the first day. Allow your body to adjust, then gradually increase your activity level. This will help you enjoy every moment without feeling exhausted.

If you have limited time, consider preparing by exercising before your departure. This way, you’ll be ready for any adventure on the first day and can make the most of your time. Let your adventures in Japan be filled with discoveries and joy with every step!

Insufficient seating

During your travels in Japan, you may find that the limited availability of seating in public places becomes a real challenge. The country is known for its high population density, often requiring you to stand rather than sit, especially on public transportation. It can be particularly difficult to find seats on trains and buses during peak hours.

To minimize standing time, consider some strategies. For example, avoid traveling during rush hours or holidays when the streets are busiest. Also, consider boarding the bus at an earlier stop or opting for morning trips when traffic tends to be lighter.

Be prepared for your journey in Japan to require a bit more standing than you’re accustomed to. However, this is also part of the unique experience that allows you to better understand the culture and daily life of the country.

Insufficient number of trash bins on the streets

Upon arriving in Japan, you’ll quickly notice that there aren’t as many trash bins in public places as you might be used to in other countries. This reflects a strong emphasis on personal responsibility and cleanliness in Japanese culture.

In Japan, it’s expected that every citizen will responsibly manage their own trash, taking it with them and disposing of it properly at home. This is one reason why Japanese cities are always so well-maintained and clean.

Before you embark on your adventures in Japan, it’s important to rid yourself of unnecessary items that could become trash throughout the day. By carrying a special bag or container for trash, you’ll be able to dispose of it properly when you return to your hotel or home.

Remember, cleanliness is not only a cultural characteristic but also a sign of respect for the environment and fellow residents. Therefore, adhere to the rules and avoid littering!

Avoid traveling with large luggage

When traveling around Japan, especially in densely populated cities and metros, choosing your luggage wisely is crucial. Carrying a large suitcase can be a real challenge, especially when navigating crowded cities and public transport.

In many metro stations, there may be issues with elevators, especially during rush hours when they are overcrowded with tourists and passengers carrying large luggage. Also, be mindful of tactile paving, which can make it more difficult to move around with large items.

Regarding the Shinkansen bullet trains, storing large luggage can be problematic. Even if you pay extra for storage, it may not be the most convenient option.

For convenience, opt for a backpack or smaller suitcase, which will significantly simplify your movement around the city and on public transport. Alternatively, consider using a luggage delivery service, which frees you from the need to carry it yourself.

Choose your luggage based not only on its size but also on its ease of transport to ensure your journey through Japan is comfortable and enjoyable.

Prevalence of cash in financial transactions

In Japan, credit cards are becoming increasingly popular, but many places, especially outside cities, still only accept cash. Therefore, it’s always wise to have cash on hand.

During your travels, you’ll likely need a lot of coins, as they are widely used in the country. It’s recommended to carry a coin pouch so you can use them when necessary, such as for local buses that often only accept cash.

Many ticket machines at train and subway stations also do not accept credit cards but instead accept IC cards like Suica Card. Therefore, it’s always useful to have cash on hand for such situations.

Many establishments close early

In Japan, many establishments close early, especially in places like Nikko, where restaurants may close as early as 6-7 PM, even during the summer months. Therefore, before heading out for lunch or dinner, it’s worth checking the closing time, especially if you’re not in a major city.

Cable cars, such as those in Hakone and on Miyajima Island in Hiroshima, also close fairly early, around 4:30 PM. Plan your visit in advance to avoid unpleasant surprises and being stranded on the mountain without a way down.

Queues can be another obstacle, especially in tourist areas, so factor in waiting times. Learn about closing times and plan your schedule accordingly to ensure you have time for all planned activities.

Book everything in advance where possible

In Japan, due to the large influx of tourists, you often have to spend time waiting in lines, even just to take a simple photo. For example, to take a photo at the iconic Torii gates in Hakone, be prepared for an hour-long wait. However, is spending an hour for a photo for just a few likes worth it?

Many tourist attractions have solved this problem by introducing a booking system and time slots. This allows for efficient management of visitor flow and ensures attractions are kept in good condition.

Nevertheless, popular places like Shibuya Sky often get booked up very quickly. To visit this place, it’s best to make a reservation a week in advance, and for the “golden hour,” a month in advance. Similarly, other places like teamLAB Planet in Tokyo and Universal Studios in Osaka require advance booking.