1. Get a Pocket WiFi
A compact pocket WiFi device is going to be your best friend in Japan. It is strongly suggested to pre-book the device for rent in advance before you land in Japan. If you try to rent it after reaching Japan, it is going to be way more expensive and may not be even available from a recommended company. Japan Wireless is considered to be the cheap and best to hire the device. Don’t forget to get the discount coupon from here for online booking. The device can be collected at the airport, your hotel or at any given address. Please specify your choice while booking on their website. We recommend collecting it from the airport straight after landing (if you have time).
The return process is very easy too. Just put the device and its accesories in the provided prepaid envelope and drop it in any post box in Japan. We dropped it in the postbox at airport before doing security check. Click here for more details on return process.
Pocket WiFi 
Return Envelope
2. Install ‘Google Translate’ App on your phone
It’s a digital world nowadays. Mobile apps have made our life much easier. We installed Google Translate app on the phone and downloaded the offline Japanese language file in it. It means that app will translate Japanese to your selected language even if you are not connected to internet. This app has a wonderful feature of translating the language when you point the camera at the text. Give it a try..it is really useful.
3. Use the Public Transportation
Of course there is no harm in using the taxis but the public transport in Japan is so quick and efficient. We strongly feel the best way to see a country or a city is by using their public transportation. And Japan definitely tops our list 🙂 It’s easy and cheap too. Bullet trains are perfect for longer distances and they are brilliant.
4. Learn About Culture
Delving a little bit into the culture, norms and language will make your Japan visit much more interesting and meaningful. We gathered all the knowledge online only. When in doubt “Ask” anyone, people are very friendly in Japan. For example, people tend to use surgical masks not because they are afraid to get sick but to prevent one’s own germs or sickness spreading in public places.
The hay fever season was in full bloom when we visited. We had to call off a full day as my allergies and rising fever was so bad. Thank heaven we had all the required medication.
Learn more about the concept of Tattoos before going. In many Onsens, Ryokans, pools and bars visible tattoos are banned and being a foreign tourist will not help.
In another example photography has been banned in the private streets (not the main street of Hanamikoji) of Gion district. One could incur heavy fines if anyone stalk Geishas or photograph them without their permission. We were lucky enough to spot few meikos in a shopping mall in Kyoto. We requested their manager for a photograph, to which they happily obliged. Geishas and Meikos are symbolic of ancient Japanese culture and they are highly respected in Japan.
5. Learn about Language
Although English is widely spoken in Japan, knowing basic Japanese is sure to earn you some extra admiring glances and brownie points 🙂 Though do keep your Google translator handy. Ready to Konnichiwa (Hello), Genki desu ka (How are you), Gomen Nasai (I’m sorry) and Sumimasen (Excuse Me). Learning few more will go a long way.
6. Get a Japan RailPass
It’s a worthwhile investment for a first time traveller if you plan to visit from one city to another. We know it comes out quite expensive but it will save you time and money (esp with return trip). Buy your JRPass before you go.
A JR pass is only available to foreigners travelling on tourist visas and must be bought outside Japan. Buying a JR Pass online can potentially save you lots of money. Click here to book JR Pass.
It is very important to activate your JR Pass (at any JR office) before you start using it. You just need to fill a form and show your passport. Need more details? Click here.
7. Do Not Tip
Do not tip in Japan. It can cause social offence if you are not careful.
8. Pack Toilet Paper and Sanitizer
Though most of the public restrooms are fully equipped and clean but some do lack toilet paper or hand soap. So packing your own essential stuff might come handy. Do remember the toilets in Japan sing and chirp too, so don’t be alarmed 😉
9. Keep To the Right
Cars drive on the left in Japan but pedestrians keep to the right there. If confused follow the human traffic and you will figure it out soon.
10. Hang onto your Garbage
Japan is a very neat and clean country and people here don’t shirk away from doing their bit to maintain that standard. Garbage or trash cans are a rare sight here and people mostly keep a poly bag with them to collect the bit of trash they end up with throughout the day. And then they dispose of it properly. Trash cans can be usually found at train stations, convenience stores, vending machines and public parks.
11. Get an International Driving Permit
You will need an international driving permit if you are planning to steer through the busy streets of Japan. Of course you won’t necessarily need to drive, keeping in mind the efficient transportation system of metropolitan cities. But a car comes handy outside of major cities. We hired one to explore the Kawaguchi area.
Indeed useful tips 👍👍
Author
Thank you 🙏
Really useful informarion, thanks🙏🙏
Author
Thank you 🙏