Travelling to Japan, or anywhere else in the world can be stressful. But if you
have enough information about your destination, everything just falls into place.
In this article, we have compiled useful and practical tips about travelling to Japan.
Facts about Japan
Japan lies on an area of 377,829 sq km (145,877 sq miles). It has a population of 127.8
million according to the 2011 census. There is a possibility of this number falling.
Japan population density is 333.7 per sq km.
Capital city of is Tokyo with a population of 7, 96,614 (1995.)
Time zone: GMT 9.
Before you go to Japan – be prepared well
Japan is one of the safest countries in the world. But that is not a guarantee things will
always stay that way. It is important that you be prepared well. Consider the following.
Passports and Visas
Check your passports and visas in advance. Call your travel agency at least 6 weeks before the
travel date just to be on the safe side.
Sometimes an onward visa is required is for you to enter the country. And the passport must be
valid for the period of time you want to stay.
Luggage forwarding
It is safer to travel with your luggage. But if you feel like it’s best to forward your luggage
ahead of your travel, it still works pretty well. You can send you luggage to any hotel with
tukuhaibin services.
Japan rail passes
For frequent long distance travels within the country, it is best to get rail passes. You can
use a one- or two-week rail pass. It will pay off despite the initial sticker.
Cell Phone Change Plan for Japan
There is a lot of convolution in the Japanese phone industry. There was a heavy restriction on
cell phones use. Bringing one over was almost impossible. But this changed and there is no
restriction. You will need to:
- Unlock your phone
- Choose between “SIM-free” and “unlocked”
- For short time visitors, consider rental or pay-as-you-go phones and SIM options.
If you have a 3G enabled phone, it will work in Japan. Any other device won’t work at all.
Set Your Budget Right
To travel on the cheapest budget, consider the following areas.
The Best Time to Travel
The best time to travel to Japan is during the normal months. Avoid the the busiest time of the
year like, April and mid-November. April 29- May 5th is the golden week which is quite busy. The
Obon week, mid-August is not a good time either.
The peak summer months are very expensive as the get rather busy. Plan your visit during the
quieter off-peak season.
Travel Advice
Hardest part about travelling to Japan is getting started. Consider getting medical check-up before
about two months prior to your travel date.
Some people think traveling to Japan is expensive. But if you start your plans early enough, it
should be easy.
Exchange rate is higher in Japan than other countries. Before going to Japan therefore, ensure you
exchange your money.
Currency
Japan is relatively safe, being a cash-based country. The Japanese Yen is the official currency with
6 different denominations coins in circulation. They include – 500, 100, 50, 5 and 1. Denomination
notes include 100000, 5000, 2000 and 1000.
The 2000 currency note is very rare though. If you come with one, it might be hard to use but that
is the norm here.
Check the latest exchange rates to find best deals when you want to travel. Make your budget ahead
of time because exchanges can be really bad for tourists.
Language
It is advised that you don’t go around asking people if they speak English. Some of them are shy and
will say no even if they don’t. Consider asking directly in English. It is important to learn some
Japanese culture.
But the people are very friendly and helpful. Ensure you have installed a translator on your phone with
Google maps for easier stay.
Weather
There is a great variety of Japanese weather. The winters are quite harsh, with mild summers in a place
like Hokkaiko.
The weather in August and September is hot and humid. Try carrying lighter cloths. Summer begins mid-June
to mid-July. The rainy season here lasts a few weeks.
Winter takes place between December and January. It is cold and needs warmer cloths.
Cash Money
It is advisable that you carry cash money in Japan. It is still a cash-based country so it makes much
sense to use than credit card.
Site Seeing
There are several cities that offer the ultimate excitement for first time visitors. Kyoto and Tokyo
are the top choice.
Kyoto is the former capital of Japan and regarded as the most beautiful city. It hides fantastic historical
sites and rich cultural heritage. There are over 2000 temples and shrines with numerous Zen gardens,
winding cobbled alleys and traditional tea house.
Tokyo has a little fewer than 40 million people. There is something for everyone in this city. The dazzling
array of skyscrapers will leave your memory full.
• Mount Fuji
• Imperial Tokyo
• Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park
• Historic Kyoto
• The Island Shrine of Itsukushima
• Temple City: Historic Nara
• Osaka Castle
• Chubu-Sangaku National Park and the Japanese Alps
• The Atsula Shrine, Nagoya
• Fukuona Castle and the City’s Ancient Festival
Japanese Restaurants - What Do You Behave?
In Japan, every city is recognized by great array of hotels and restaurants. Remember to make your reservations
early; this saves you a few bucks.
It is a rule in Japan – no tipping. You just pay the price on the bill. Some staff try to pursue foreigners to
return ‘forgotten money’.
The food at chain restaurants will be fine for those travelling from oversees. It is cheaper as well.
Many visitors subsist on bentos (boxed meals), onigiri and other foods not so expensive from convenience stores.
Booking Hotels - Can You Use the Internet to Book Online?
Can I make reservation with hot wire or expedia? Yes you can. In fact, you need to be an early bird to save more.
Many hotels offer services like luggage forwarding. Use that chance to book in advance and have and easy time getting
in the country.
Transportation - What is the Best Way to Travel?
You will need trail rail pass to use the trains while travelling in the country. Taking a three-week pass for instance
can really pay off.
If you want to save even more, consider using the bus though it takes longer. Using a taxi is also, convenient as it
is much faster but only within a location.
One must have exact fare as there is no tipping.
If you are taking more than a few trips, day passes can save you more. Local transit are the best way to navigate
the city.
Important things to travel with:
• Carry enough exchanged cash
• Your identification documents
• Carry a small plastic bag because it is not easy to get rubbish bins
Conclusion
Japan is among the most recommended tourist places to in the world. When you get to the country, know where the
shops are for easy stay.
Generally, you should have the most amazing time of your life in the country.
