55 Tips You Should Know BEFORE Travelling to Japan

If you're travelling to Japan for the first time, what do you need to know before you go? I've put together essential first-time tips about planning your trip, key Japanese phrases to use and communication tools, as well as advice on how to pay for things, and transportation hints. Knowing these travel tips should make your first visit to Japan smoother and more enjoyable, and you won't need to carry your trash around with you!
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Chapters
00:21 Attractions
01:20 Language
02:46 Internet
04:09 Money
07:13 Eating Out
08:18 Transportation
10:42 Trash and Toilets
12:48 Luggage
16:06 Weather

[@japanunravelled]

Got any questions? Have any other tips for travelling in Japan I didn't mention? Drop them here in the comments! 🗾🏯🎎🔰

[@geromyre]

If I'm travelling with a large suitcase, would it be cheaper to use the same day delivery service, or just take a taxi? I don't mind taking public transportation, but if the taxi and delivery are similarly priced I may as well get there with less hassle.

[@japanunravelled]

@@geromyre Definitely the same day delivery service. Taxis are WAY more expensive here, especially from the airports - a minimum of 10 times the price of the train or bus.

[@geromyre]

Thanks again for these videos and your responses! I fly out in 3 days and I'm both super excited and super nervous. I just packed my bike into a luggage bag and thought of something: is there an easy to use delivery system to get luggage to the airport when I go home? What if I'm staying at an airbnb and not a hotel? I so don't want to bring this on the train with me.

[@ladebbjohnson1223]

Traveling to Japan in June, and your videos have absolutely been helpful. My question.... Is it absolutely necessary to purchase a IC card. Or can I use my bank visa to tap for public transportation?

[@japanunravelled]

You'll need an IC card - the tap with your bank card thing has started in a few select locations though.

[@Big-Wonka]

I have one huge recommendation that is probably a super rare situation that happened to me. If you get the rail pass then of course you have to go to the travel center to exchange your voucher. Someone will be in the front of the line with a calendar to ask you which days you'd like to start the pass and end the pass. My friend and I are 10000% sure we gave the correct dates. Either the woman wrote them down wrong or the next woman at the counter entered it wrong. Needless to say, she entered the end date (2 weeks later) as the start date. We didn't realize until 3 days later because that was the first day we were going to take the shinkansen. We activated it at Shinjuku station but realized it at Tokyo station. The travel center agent there sent us to customer service and after an hour she told us to go back to Shinjuku station. We went back, waited an hour in line then explained the situation again. The guy working realized they made a mistake because the date the voucher was exchanged was exactly 14 days from the start date. So obviously it was a mix up. Unfortunately, once the voucher is exchanged then it can't be corrected. The only option left was the manager allowed us to be refunded (minus 10%) since it was never used in the 3 days since we got it and we could buy new passes (at a higher price than we originally paid because I got them when the yen was at its weakest point). All in all, we were out about $200 each. Lesson learned. Just make sure you confirm over and over again the correct dates lol. Sorry for the long comment.

[@japanunravelled]

Thanks for sharing! Yeah, definitely confirm and re-confirm things like dates, destinations etc, because even if you write things down, mistakes still get made.

[@theknightswhosay]

I have a similar story about the Eurail pass, but it wasn’t so much the agent’s fault as it was my dad’s fault for pretending he understood Spanish in Barcelona when he barely understands simple words in Latin America. Also, he thought “no reembolsable” was just a suggestion that he could talk his way out of later. So we ended up wasting over $1000 buying passes because he bought the tickets without redeeming the passes.

[@Gazumi-inOZ]

When staying in Tokyo it's super important to stay as close as you can to a station on the Yamanote Loop Line. This has you on track quickly to your destinations without having to connect from a line outside the city centre to the Yamanote line. After 8 trips to Tokyo I finally found the quiet northern area of Otsuka/Sugamo which is the best area I've stayed in out of seven different spots. It's a seniors' local area with cheaper prices all around in restaurants and supermarkets, etc. Sugamo is only 2 stations from Ikebukuro a major hub and busy city center, and places like Shinjuku and Shibuya only a few stations further on when you want to get amongst the bustling crowds. Sugamo also has a subway station next to the railway station so it's super convenient. In addition there is the Arakawa Toden Tram line as well, the last remaining tram line in Tokyo. It's a big advantage to be able to retreat from the bustling crowds at the end of each day and enjoy your mornings having breakfast in the quiet area of Otsuka/Sugamo 👍

[@japanunravelled]

Thanks for sharing the tip! I hope it helps some people out. I like to stay around Ueno usually, but it all depends on the trip.

[@JasminaFun]

I went to the tokyo tourist office. They were super helpful. They recommended a Hakkaido 3 day pass. You can commute an any vehicle! Was great!

[@japanunravelled]

Thanks for sharing!

[@geromyre]

Again, thank you so much for making these videos. My trip is in 6 weeks, and it's nice to watch these and give myself peace-of-mind that I'm not overlooking something. The thing about over-the-counter medicines is something I've been meaning to double check, and those links you've provided are super useful!

[@japanunravelled]

Glad it was useful! I'm sure there are things I've missed but I hope these cover the most important points.

[@bigbrowntau]

Great tip about the UV! You're the only person I've ever heard mention it. Superb video, one of many you've made. Thank you so much for the effort you put into them.

[@japanunravelled]

Glad it was helpful!

[@mummaguns2435]

Thank you so much for your videos and helpful Tips for first time travelers to Japan. There is so much to research and learn before going and your videos have been enormously helpful. Fantastic help. Thank you🤗

[@japanunravelled]

Thank you for your kind words! I'm so happy when I know I've helped people!

[@charlottejsy7142]

Such a handy video. This will help a lot. Thanks 😊

[@japanunravelled]

Glad it was helpful!

[@Gazumi-inOZ]

I've watched a few of your videos over the years and every time I come back to view another you have really good information and a common sense approach to travelling in Japan. I've just subscribed and looking forward to more of your videos .... Well done, great job 👍 ... On my 10th trip next month.

[@japanunravelled]

Thanks for your kindness! Lots more to come.

[@blueyonder1233]

Wow what a load of great tips in this video. Glad to see you included soap & small cloth to wash hands. I've been thinking of carrying a small GoToob silicon bottle to carry liquid soap, refillable at your accommodation as liquid body soap is used at most Japanese accommodation. Regarding carrying passport, while you may walk fast I was approached by a police officer and asked to show passport when lingering outside a railway station. I wasn't carrying it but was let off with a warning. Since then I carry it unless going to a public bath. As passports are such an important document it's important to protect them in a case to prevent them getting bent or wet. If I could request in a future video, the use of the microwave oven at convenience stores to heat meals where the customer is expected to use the microwave. The labels are a little challenging. Thank you.

[@japanunravelled]

Thanks, I'll put it on the list.

[@katekenyon7318]

Great videos - very helpful for a first timer 👍👍

[@japanunravelled]

Glad it was helpful!

[@johnbailey2933]

So much good information! I'm not sure the travel experience in Japan would be the same without the konbini's - cash, trash disposal; surprising good food; all the essentials and many locations. I'm glad you mentioned the drug stores - OTC medications we usually find at a convenience store are better located at a drug store in Japan.

[@japanunravelled]

Yeah, that's true. A lot of the basic medicines I can get at the supermarket in England are only available at the drug stores here.

[@Gazumi-inOZ]

If you're confronted with a queue at a restaurant you're considering eating at, GET IN THE QUEUE then Gmap the restaurant to get reviews and menu ideas, or send someone in your group to the store window for assessment of the menu. Nothing worse after 5-10+ minutes of finally deciding to join the queue when you could be almost at the door 💡😮

[@japanunravelled]

If ever I see a queue for a restaurant, I skip it.

[@Gazumi-inOZ]

​​@@japanunravelled... 😅 me too 99% of the time ... but there's rare exceptions 😊

[@Ppzinha]

Great tips! Thanks!

[@japanunravelled]

Glad it was helpful!

[@wrinkledm]

Good stuff... excellent suggestions!

[@japanunravelled]

Glad you like them!

[@Bargadiel]

I read somewhere that NyQuil is no longer banned in Japan. Something about an ingredient changing a decade or so ago.

[@TheScratchingKiwi]

Nyquil is still on the banned list. Check with the Consulate.

[@Gazumi-inOZ]

The airport transfer bus was a very important tip often not paid enough attention to. When flying into either Narita or KIX Osaka ... seriously consider taking the Keisei Bus @1300Y lots of buses, convenient ticket desks at the terminal/s arrival areas or tap IC card on the bus 🤗 ... ahhhh the ease of transfer from directly outside the arrival doors of Narita and KIX airports to Tokyo or Osaka stations provided by luggage loading attendees, riding in air-conditioned comfortable guaranteed seating, while enjoying the large-window sightseeing trip as you travel. 🚌 Only wish I realised how good the KBS's are on my 1st trip rather than my 7th. Since then, it's now the only way I go ! ... From Tokyo station you can train to anywhere on the Yamanote Loop Line easily. BTW, big tip is ... if staying in Tokyo, stay close to a station on the Yamanote line - in hindsight you'll say that was GOLD 🥇 Oh, be aware the Keisei Buses allows only 1 bag (+ carry-on/s) and no oversized items per rider .... More bags/oversized items ? take the limousine buses at av/3200Y ... Skip trains altogether 👌 And, the Keisei bus can be cheaper than trains .... Limousine bus is the expensive one but still worth it 😊

[@Ppzinha]

Uou! Very interesting. I hace never being in Japan, why are the trains bad? There are no places to sit?

[@nigel-b]

The Airport buses also stop directly outside some of the larger hotels.

[@melaniewray]

Thanks for this. All very useful. Anyone ever told you you look like Jarvis Cocker?!

[@japanunravelled]

No, but I imagine Jarvis Cocker has been told he looks like me 🤣🤣🤣

[@badgeologist]

Hi, I'm traveling to Japan in September, I'm pleased to find your KZbin channel, very helpful, there are so many things to consider)) By the way, I can't find the VPN link you are using, did I miss it? or did you forget to post it? Thank you

[@japanunravelled]

Thanks! The link for nordvpn is in the description. Hope you have a great trip, September is an underrated time to travel!

[@eggymixes]

On the pocket WiFi and eSIMs, why not just use international data plan from your normal provider. ATT is maximum of $100 ($10/day capped at 10 days.)

[@japanunravelled]

Yes, another option. It always depends on what your provider offers.

[@alongesundheit9210]

Some of them throttle speed after X amount of GB

[@FluffyBunny9002]

I'm not sure what I'm going to do, as I use StraightTalk and it's all prepaid. There are no international plans that would allow me to use my phone from Japan to call the States, but maybe that's for the best.

[@lenhampton4986]

Hi, Great video. For those of us who tend to buy too many souvenirs can you give us a tip for posting items home? Thanks again

[@japanunravelled]

Yes, my tip is: DON'T. For reasons, if you're sending parcels to the US, UK and other countries, you have to do a whole online form filling charade at the post office. From next March, all countries will be included. It's an absolute faff, and if anything, makes the process even slower than it used to be when you could hand write the address and customs label. Check the process here: www.post.japanpost.jp/int/howto/index_en.html Do yourself a favour and just bring an extra suitcase. I know Yamato does do international delivery, but doubtless it will be just as expensive as putting an extra suitcase in the hold.

[@lenhampton4986]

@@japanunravelled Thanks for your straightforward assessment (tip) 😀 We are carry-on only travelers.😁

[@japanunravelled]

As a one-bag guy, I salute you! Haven't used their international shipping service, but Yamato might be a more straightforward option: www.kuronekoyamato.co.jp/ytc/en/send/services/oversea/

[@sarveshchatlani]

Can we carry and use drones in Japan, could you share some details around drones?

[@japanunravelled]

You can, but there are lots of restrictions. And when I say lots, I really mean it. I can't begin to tell you how many times I've seen "drones prohibited" signs at attractions. This is one reason why I don't have one.

[@sarveshchatlani]

@@japanunravelled Thanks Andrew, do we have list of attractions we're drones are allowed, that would be really helpful.

[@ksbma]

awesome video! Can I go into the ticketing office to reserve Shinkansen tickets a few days prior to the trip? Or are the only available for same day reservations?

[@japanunravelled]

Cheers! Any time up to a month before, you can make reservations at the ticket office.

[@ksbma]

@@japanunravelled thank you for your quick response!

[@ninadaon1077]

I always use a color photocopy of my passport when I touring abroad (Europe/US). Do you think it is acceptable in Japan?

[@japanunravelled]

If you mean, "do I think police would find it acceptable over seeing your original passport?" then the answer would be, I don't think so. I really wouldn't want to try it.

[@carpet765]

Great help, thank you! I 'd like to ask you about Pasmo card: i will arrive in Osaka and leave from Tokyo after 14 days. Is Pasmo card the best solution? I mean, can I buy it in Osaka and return in Tokyo? Thanks in advance

[@japanunravelled]

You can buy an ICOCA card in Osaka, but you won't be able to return it in Tokyo. You can't buy Pasmo in Osaka. kzbin.info/www/bejne/bWiYqmODpMSGeMU

[@wildfire9782]

Why would you want to return it? The pass will remain valid for 10 years, and the money you put on will also remain valid so just use it next time you visit!

[@seandavie3672]

Call ahead to check if they are open... most tourists can't really get a phone plan?

[@japanunravelled]

Mobal has sim cards with voice, but you can easily do calls with apps like Skype, etc...

[@Gazumi-inOZ]

You can use public telephones ... They're normally a low set green phone, or sometimes a phone booth ... You can always ask someone where is the public phone ? 📞

[@sofyameytus710]

Thank you for these valuable advises ! My trip is this coming April 2025 and I am learning …. What alarmed me the most is your info about otc painkillers containing Tylenol . What for me to do if I cannot take ibuprofen group? Do they really search you? TIA😊

[@japanunravelled]

They can and do search people's luggage. There are some rules about medicines which I'll let you search for yourself because everyone's situation is different. Hope that helps!

[@sofyameytus710]

@@japanunravelled thank you

[@Ricoz13th]

Sadly i only just found your channel now, even if you dont see this Ive been loving binge watching your videos. Love from Canada

[@japanunravelled]

Thank you so much!! Have you already come back from your trip to Japan?

[@seandavie3672]

Combini has a loo, wow, I hadn't realised that!!

[@tc-ou2zb]

Thank you for your great videos - they have really helped me me out. I am coming to the end of my three weeks in Japan and I have to say that I have found it really difficult to connect with the people here. This has been really disappointing because I had been told that the Japanese people were going to be really friendly. I learnt the basic language months in advance and I am a clean cut middle aged guy known for being fairly kind and gregarious. My experience in all four cities that I stayed in here was the same - no Japanese person would make eye contact with me, none would initiate conversation and their heads were invariably bowed over a smartphone screen. I can certainly understand why the suicide rate is so high in Japan, put it that way! I have travelled all over the world and I have never felt this way about the people in a country before. They essentially made me feel invisible. If you read this, please don't be too dismissive of me (entitled westerner, etc) but I wonder if anyone else has suffered a similar experience whilst in Japan or if you are able to shed any light on this?

[@japanunravelled]

I wouldn't overstress about this. Japanese culture does surface level friendliness well, and that's what most travellers experience and love. All good. If you're looking for anything deeper than a chit chat about where you're from and where you're visiting, good luck. Been here a number of years and can count the number of decent conversations I've had with locals when travelling on one hand. And that's even using Japanese. I hate to say it, but being a foreigner puts you at a disadvantage. No big deal - it's just the way the culture is. You want real friendliess? Probably better value elsewhere my friend.

[@tc-ou2zb]

@@japanunravelled thank you for your considered and intelligent response. Again, great channel - all of your tips were spot on (the luggage one is superb!). I managed to pack lots in and your videos were both enjoyable to watch and extremely helpful. 🙏🇯🇵

[@japanunravelled]

Thanks! So glad to be helpful!

[@nigel-b]

Don't buy a JR Rail pass unless you're going to take some long distance Shinkansen trains. If you're staying in one area you'll be paying more for the pass than the local trains but one long trip on the Shinkansen can save the cost of the pass. It's fine to just nip into the convenience store to use the waste bins even if you're not buying anything.

[@japanunravelled]

Thanks!

[@b0hemianrage414]

Thank you for the app tips. I've not heard of the mizu one and it's something I always need (I'm terrible for getting dehydrated on holiday because I forget to drink and am trying to make it more of a thing)

[@japanunravelled]

Happy to help!

[@Fccluduslitterarius9441]

🎉🎉🎉🎉🎉 very much

[@carolinavillalba5127]

I love you videos! I have one questions, I am traveling to japan to study Japanese for 3 months. Do you have any tips? I've always wondered about the train tickets with discounts vs the suica card for example. which one would be best? I appretiate your help beforehand!

[@japanunravelled]

Well it depends a lot on where you're going to be. If you're going to be doing the same journey everyday to go to school, you should look at getting a commuter pass - it will save you a ton over a plain suica card. Will look and work the same though. Most importantly, bring enough deodorant and especially the scent-free one.

[@carolinavillalba5127]

@@japanunravelled Thanks for the tip! I'll make sure to look into the commuter pass once the school give me more info. And yes, I already have extra deo packed! 😅THANKS!

[@shpeen8835]

I've learned to never try to avoid bicycles. If you try to dodge them they will likely hit you. Let them steer around you.

[@japanunravelled]

Very true! Thanks for sharing!

[@shpeen8835]

@@japanunravelledBeware the squeaky brakes from behind you

[@helenstratigos4862]

Excellent tips - thank you! 👍Excited for my very first trip to Japan in early spring! This is incredibly helpful.😍

[@japanunravelled]

Thanks! Have fun! Don't forget to try some of the special kitkat flavours.

[@helenstratigos4862]

@@japanunravelled Definitely! :) By the way, do you recommend two days + one night in Hiroshima (via shinkansen from our base in Tokyo), or can this be a good day trip? Thanks in advance!

[@japanunravelled]

Definitely stay at least one night. I recommend staying on Miyajima if you can as a great way of avoiding the crowds early and late. You'll undoubtedly want to go there.

[@helenstratigos4862]

@@japanunravelled Ah sounds good! I'll look into it. Cheers from Toronto! :)