The flights are booked, you’ve decided where you want to visit and started to save – but what next? Planning a trip to Japan can be daunting. With so much to do and see, preparation is essential. We’ve compiled a list of 10 things you can do before you arrive in Japan to make sure you make the most of your time here (stress free).
Have a rough idea of what you want to see and where to eat
Before we went, I saved loads of restaurants, bakeries and coffee shops in each area of the cities we would be visiting to google maps list. That way when you’re in an area you have a selection of places to choose from (keep in mind, most places will have a physical or virtual queuing so it’s good to have options).
Book major attractions
Japan is busy – always. Places like Shibuya Sky, Universal and Team Lab planets will sell out. It’s good to book these tickets at least a month in advance.
Download your IC card before you arrive
In most Japan major cities, the Suica or Pasmo cards are used for all train services. You can download the app and top it up via apple/google pay easily before you even arrive. It makes taking the trains so easy in Japan. The card can even be used at vending machines and many convenience stores. So it’s a good way to manage what money you’re spending as well. We used both the Pasmo and Suica Card and being honest, they did the exact same thing !
Check out our complete guide to the IC card and Japanese transport here
Registering your tax declaration
In Japan, you can benefit from 10% off in ‘Tax free stores’ when spending over 5,500 yen. Big stores like Uniqlo and Don Quiote will have tax free counters as will many tourist shops and drugstore.
Before you arrive in Japan you’re going to fill out this online form with all your details. Have it ready at Immigration to show the boarder agent who will complete the process.
Research what you want to buy
Plan how you're going to get from the airport to your accommodation
If you arrive at Tokyo’s Narita or Haneda airports, trains like the Narita Express or Keisei Skyliner will zip you into the city, but navigating the ticket machines or the multiple train lines—especially if you don’t speak Japanese—can be stressful. Airports are well-signed in English, but once you’re on the train or in the station, finding the right platform can be confusing, especially with jet lag kicking in.
Taxis are easy to find but incredibly expensive, especially from Narita, which is quite far from central Tokyo. Airport limousine buses are a good compromise—they’re comfy and drop you off at major hotels or stations, but they can get caught in traffic, meaning what should be a smooth ride can turn into a long one.
On top of it all, if you’re carrying lots of luggage, you’ll quickly learn that Japan’s public transportation wasn’t really designed with large suitcases in mind.
Check out this helpful blog in preparing for the journey
learn some of the cultural and Social norms
Japan’s social and cultural norms reflect deep respect for others, with politeness and consideration woven into everyday life. Here are five things we think every first timer should be aware of:
- Refrain from talking on the phone in public transportation; it’s considered impolite and disruptive.
- Bow as a greeting or to show thanks and respect—handshakes are rare, especially in formal settings.
- Dispose of trash properly by following Japan’s strict garbage separation rules—public trash bins are scarce.
- Queue patiently when waiting for services, trains, or escalators—cutting in line is highly frowned upon.
- Offer and receive items (such as money) in a tray at shops or restaurants, rather than handing them directly to the cashier.
Tattoos in Japan
This one won’t be relevant to everyone but it’s good to know. Tattoos in Japan carry a complex cultural stigma, as they have long been associated with the yakuza, Japan’s organized crime groups. While attitudes are slowly changing, especially among younger generations and in urban areas, tattoos can still be seen as taboo in certain public settings.
I have a few tattoos on my arm and day-to-day walking around it was completely fine (I usually brought out something to cover in case). However, Onsens and even hotel swimming pools won’t allow you to have your tattoos on show and they’re quite strict about it. You can buy tattoo ‘plasters’ in most pharmacies.
Bring the correct footwear
This honestly could be our most important tip for Japan – BRING THE RIGHT SHOES. Every video and blog you read will tell you how much walking you will do in Japan and it’s true. Make sure you have good, comfortable (waterproof) shoes that are worn in.
On this note, many people buy Japanese footwear but be mindful that Japanese sizes run very small. Matthews needed new shoes while we were there and struggled to find anything bigger then a men’s UK 10!
Maybe even invest in some blister plasters to have on hand before you go because you’ll need them.
Bring your own hand towel
This was one we didn’t read about any where before visiting and a really practical tip.
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