Travel Guide: 10 Things To Know Before Visiting Japan

Japan, a fascinating blend of ancient traditions and cutting-edge modernity, offers an experience like no other. This island nation in East Asia is not just about its technological advancements or the picturesque cherry blossoms; it's about the harmony of its deep-rooted culture with the fast-paced modern life. What sets Japan apart from the rest of the world is its ability to preserve its culture and tradition in this ultra-modern world or, in other words, striking the right balance between tradition and modernity.

Before you embark on your Japanese expedition, there are certain things to keep in mind. Whether you’re a first-time traveller or a seasoned one, these tips will make your travel hassle-free and enjoyable.

Even though you might easily get a basic business hotel without much effort, the point is, why take the risk? To get the best deals on highly-rated accommodations, you’ll have no option but to book your stay in advance, especially if you’re travelling during the cherry blossom season (late March through April, depending upon the destination), Golden Week (April 29 to May 5) and August.

Opt for compact and efficient accommodation and pack accordingly. Japan's plethora of attractions can be overwhelming. Carefully plan your itinerary to ensure you don't miss out on key experiences. Remember, accommodations and event tickets sell out quickly during peak seasons. Balance your visit between Japan's ultra-modern cities, serene countryside, historical landmarks, and beautiful natural parks.

The major cities of Japan are densely populated, especially Tokyo, which is why most of the accommodations are pretty small in size, leaving little room for larger suitcases. It is always an excellent option to travel light, which is more important in Japan’s case anyway.

One important thing to note here is that spiritual sites in Japan, including Buddhist temples and Shinto shrines, don’t have any dress code. Only luxury bars/clubs and restaurants in Japan follow the dress code, but that too is restricted to no sleeveless shirts and sandals for men.

With so many spectacular places to visit in Japan, it’s hard to decide which ones to go for and which to skip. For a memorable travel experience, it is best to plan your Japan itinerary in advance. During peak seasons, accommodations and event tickets get sold out quickly, so planning before your visit will save you from disappointment. 

Despite its high-tech image, Japan still prefers cash transactions, especially off the beaten path in rural areas. Ensure you have enough Yen or know where to exchange your currency in major cities.

Most bars, markets, small shops and local restaurants only demand payments in cash, and most big cities have currency exchanges at airports or commercial centres. 

Avoid hefty roaming charges by securing a pocket wifi or data sim at the airport upon arrival. This is indispensable for online reservations or just staying connected. From navigating your way through Google Maps to sharing your trip highlights on social media, ensuring seamless data connectivity is vital. 

The best way to ensure this is to purchase a data sim or pocket wifi right after you arrive at the airport. 

While key signs in urban areas might be in English, venturing into rural Japan might present a language barrier. Tools like Google Translate can be invaluable. Even though most Japanese people speak better English than they admit, Google Translate is still useful. 

It's recommended you learn a few simple phrases in the local tongue before travelling. However, this is particularly important in Japan, as etiquette is highly valued there. Even if you know how to write down the phrases "thank you," "please," and "excuse me," make sure you know how to say them—it's a sign of respect and appreciation for the local culture.

Removing shoes before entering homes, certain traditional accommodations (Ryokan), and even some dressing rooms in shops is a must. Be mindful of this practice to show respect for Japanese customs. Additionally, many restaurants follow this policy, so make sure to check if you need to remove your shoes. 

Tipping is not customary in Japan and might even cause discomfort. Instead, service establishments might charge a service fee, ensuring their staff are well-compensated.

Some bars and restaurants charge a flat-rate service fee (between USD 2.50 and USD 4.25 per person) instead of tips.

The Japan Rail Pass is a discounted rail pass available exclusively to tourists. It allows you unlimited travel on the majority of JR trains, including the Shinkansen (bullet train), for periods of 7, 14, or 21 consecutive days. 

This is an economical solution for tourists planning extensive travel across the country.

The quickest and most convenient way to to get to Japan from India is to take a flight, which takes around 9 hours and 40 minutes to reach. The flying distance between India and Japan is around 5907 kilometres.