25 Things to Know Before Visiting Japan

Japan is one of those destinations that looks effortless on Instagram but can genuinely overwhelm you with its complexity when you start planning. Different etiquette rules, a transport system that could power a small country, and a language barrier that Google Translate can only partially solve.

After 50+ combined trips and countless reader questions, we’ve distilled everything into 25 essential things every first-time visitor needs to know. These aren’t generic “be respectful” platitudes. They’re specific, actionable tips that will genuinely make your trip smoother.

Most Western passport holders can enter Japan visa-free for 90 days as a tourist. This includes citizens of the US, UK, Canada, Australia, and all EU countries. Since April 2023, Japan has fully reopened with no COVID-related restrictions: no tests, no vaccinations required, no apps to install.

If you need a visa or want the full breakdown of entry requirements by nationality, check our complete Japan Visa Guide.

This surprises almost every first-time visitor: Japan is still largely a cash society. While credit cards are increasingly accepted at hotels, major department stores, and chain restaurants, many smaller restaurants, local shops, temple entries, and vending machines still only accept cash.

A Suica (or Pasmo) IC card is a rechargeable smart card for public transport. Tap in, tap out on trains, buses, and subways across Japan. It also works at vending machines, convenience stores, and even some restaurants.

The Japan Rail Pass gives you unlimited rides on JR trains, including most Shinkansen (bullet trains). It sounds amazing, but after the 2023 price increase, it’s only worth it if you’re covering long distances between multiple cities.

Temples, ryokans, some restaurants, fitting rooms, and many homes require you to remove your shoes. Look for a genkan (entryway). If you see shoes lined up or a step up, take yours off. Often slippers are provided, though you’ll need to remove those too before stepping on tatami mats.

Japanese toilets are famously high-tech, with heated seats, bidet functions, sound effects, and more buttons than your TV remote. Don’t be intimidated. The main button you need is 流す (nagasu) = flush. The bidet is optional but life-changing on a long trip.

Public restrooms are everywhere, free, and remarkably clean. Train stations, convenience stores, department stores, and parks all have them.

Phone calls on trains are a big no-no. Texting is fine, but talking on your phone is considered extremely rude. Keep conversations with travel companions at a low volume. On Shinkansen, the etiquette is even stricter, so treat it like a library on wheels.

Tipping doesn’t exist in Japan and can actually cause confusion or even offense. Not at restaurants, not at hotels, not in taxis. Excellent service is simply the standard. It’s part of the culture called omotenashi (おもてなし), the spirit of selfless hospitality.

Forget what you know about convenience stores. Japanese konbini (7-Eleven, Lawson, FamilyMart) are a genuine food destination. Fresh onigiri for ¥150, hot bento boxes for ¥500, excellent coffee for ¥100, and seasonal desserts that rival dedicated pastry shops.

You’ll notice very quickly: public trash cans barely exist in Japan. The expectation is that you carry your trash with you until you find a bin (usually at convenience stores or train stations). Pack a small plastic bag in your daypack for this purpose.

You don’t need to be fluent, but these five phrases will cover 80% of daily interactions and locals will genuinely appreciate the effort.

You’ll need mobile data for maps, translation, and train schedules. An eSIM is the easiest option. Install it before you fly and you’re connected when you land. Providers like Airalo and Ubigi start at $5 for 7 days.

For the full comparison of all options, read our SIM Card & WiFi Guide.