Things You Should Know Before Coming to Japan

Just knowing these things in advance can greatly reduce stress during your trip.

■Register for "Visit Japan Web"■
You can complete immigration procedures and customs declarations using a QR code.
This is a free official government web service provided by Japan’s Digital Agency that allows you to complete the required immigration and customs procedures online before entering or returning to Japan.

■Cash Is Still Necessary■
Large cities are becoming more cashless, but in rural areas, older temples and shrines, and small local shops, cash is often still required.

■Seasonal Clothing■
Summer in Japan can feel like a sauna because of the humidity, while winter is dry and sharply cold.
Cooling fan jackets　Portable fans　Heated clothing　Disposable heat packs

■Transportation IC Cards (Suica / PASMO)■
If you have an iPhone, you can issue one instantly through Apple Wallet. It is useful not only for trains and buses but also for vending machines and convenience stores.

■Installing Google Maps is essential■
Google Maps is extremely accurate for train routes and transfers in Japan.

■No Tipping Culture■
If you try to give a tip, staff may run after you saying “You forgot something!” A simple “Thank you” or “Gochisousama” is more than enough to show appreciation for great service.

■Hard to Find Trash Bins■
There are very few trash cans in public areas. It’s common to carry a small plastic bag and take your trash back to your hotel.

■The "Otoshi" Culture■
At izakaya (Japanese pubs), a small appetizer is often served before ordering, and a small seating charge is added.

■Tattoos and Hot Springs■
Many hot springs and public baths do not allow people with visible tattoos. You may need to cover them with stickers or look for a private bath.

■Left-Side Traffic■
Pedestrians and escalators also follow certain rules (Tokyo: stand left, Osaka: stand right), but basically you can just follow the person in front of you.

■When to Take Off Your Shoes■
At restaurants, temples, and house entrances, a step or raised floor usually means you should remove your shoes.

■Quiet Public Transportation■
Phone calls are considered rude on trains, and people usually keep their voices low.

■The Convenience of Convenience Stores■
You can find ATMs, ticket machines, good food, and souvenirs all in one place.

■Tax-Free Shopping■
Many stores offer tax-free shopping when you spend over 5,000 yen. Always carry your passport.

■SIM / eSIM Instead of Pocket Wi-Fi■
Free Wi-Fi has increased, but SIM or eSIM usually provides more stable internet while traveling.

■Restrictions on Prescription Medications■
Even common medicines like Vicks VapoInhaler may be prohibited depending on their ingredients.

■Reservation Culture■
Popular restaurants (especially yakiniku and sushi) often require reservations weeks in advance.
Also note that canceling a reservation the day before may result in a penalty fee.
Depending on the restaurant and number of people, cancellation fees may apply even about a week in advance.
If you check the Japanese calendar, reservations may already be full on Fridays, Saturdays, days before holidays, or during long holiday periods.

■Drink Vending Machines■
It’s not an exaggeration to say you can find one every 100 meters. Very helpful for preventing heatstroke.

■Voltage■
Japan uses 100V electricity. The plug type is Type A (same as the United States), but two-pin plugs are more common than three-pin plugs.

■The Versatility of “Sumimasen”■
It’s a magical word that can mean “Excuse me,” “I’m sorry,” or even “Thank you.”