I. General
Japan is a country established on four bigger islands and multiple small islands that are situated at the east-most end of Asia. Due to the geographical location, it has developed a unique culture, though heavily influenced by multiple overseas countries, such as China, Portugal, Germany, Britain, and the USA. Many people feel the place is clean and safe, and the people are polite but not necessarily friendly. While cities like Tokyo continue growing new skyscrapers and attract more populations both domestically and internationally, the general population of the country is declining. The rural areas are very empty but you can enjoy the nature in those places, if that is your thing.
II. Transportation
Short Distance
- Train / Subway – in major and mid-sized cities, trains and subways would be the most convenient and economic mean of transportation.
- Buses – in some cities, buses are also convenient mean of transportation.
- Taxi – in most places, you can catch taxis at train stations, and other major public sites.
***When taking taxis in Japan, remember that the taxi driver opens and closes door for you so do not open it by yourself. - Uber: yes but only in major cities.
Long Distance
- Train / Bullet Train – again, it is the most convenient mean of transportation in Japan. As a foreigner tourist, you can get discount on JR trains.
- Bus – more economical mean of transportation but you may need to speak Japanese to fully understand the system. Your hotel may be able to help you to certain extent but if you are on a budget travel, find a way to take buses.
- Airplane – if you are traveling to major cities in Japan then the flights are available.
- Rental Car – high-way toll costs a lot but if you are traveling with your family, then it would be less expensive than taking train. Be sure to get international driving license before you visit Japan.
III. Accommodation
There are international franchise hotels, as well as Japanese hotels.
One thing to keep in mind is that you will be charged for each guest, instead of for each room.
IV. Food
You can eat various food in Japan, from steak house to Indian restaurant.
Unless if you go to authentic Japanese bar, Izakaya, you can order meal without being able to speak Japanese, since menus usually have photo of the meal.
If you have grown up on American continent, you may feel the portion does not fill your stomach. Maybe that is better for your health but if you are eager for more, there are some places that serve more. You just need to look around.
One of the amusement in Japan is convenience store. Their collection of food and dessert would keep you entertained. Be sure to stop by one of the convenience stores.
V. Safety
Japan is said to be one of the most safe places in the world.
Even so, there are petty crimes, like pick pocketing.
Always be aware of your belongings. Use your common sense!
VI. Climate
Japan has four seasons. It depends on where, in Japan, you visit but it can be unbearably hot or cold. Be sure to check the climate before you visit.
VII. Power Plug & Voltage
Power Plug: 1) Type A (more common plug)
2) Type B
Voltage: 100, 50/60HZ
Reference: https://www.iec.ch/world-plugs
VII. Language
In large cities, you may find some people who speak English but other than that, expect to meet nobody who speaks English in Japan. It is strongly recommended to learn Japanese, at least, some vocabularies, unless if you are going in a tour.
Just a side note, the writing is combination of Chinese characters and Japanese alphabets but the grammar is similar to Korean, Mongolian and Turkish.
(Subject PPP Object PPP Verb
eg. I Sushi eat, instead of I eat Sushi.
*** PPP = Post Positional Particles)
VIII. Currency
National Currency: Japanese Yen
Quick currency conversion:
USD 1 = JPY 130 (varies between JPY 80 and 145)
General sense of the cost in the currency
1 can of coke: JPY 120
1 piece of rice ball in convenience store : JPY 150
1 meal in McDonalds: JPY 600
1 meal in restaurant: JPY 800 – 5,000 / person
Tips (supermarket / street): (Do not tip in Japan)
Tips (restaurant): (Do not tip in Japan)
IX. Visa and Other Requirements
Check the visa requirement before you purchase your flight tickets:
https://discover.passportindex.org/
Also, do not forget to check the COVID vaccination requirements.