First time in Japan? 12 things worth knowing before you go

Japan is easy to visit and full of small surprises. Most of them are pleasant, a few are confusing the first time. Here is what we would tell a friend before their first trip.

1. Bring cash, and know where to get it

Cards work in many places now, but Japan is still more cash-based than most visitors expect. Small restaurants, bars, shrines, and shops outside the big cities often take cash only. Foreign cards are usually accepted at ATMs in 7-Eleven stores and post offices, so you can withdraw yen as you go instead of changing a lot at once.

2. Get a transit IC card

Instead of buying a ticket for every ride, you tap a prepaid card on the gate. It works on trains, subways and buses in most big cities, and in many shops and vending machines. We wrote a separate guide to Suica with the details.

3. Trains are punctual, and quiet

Be on the platform a few minutes early, because the train will not be late. On the train, keep your voice low, put your phone on silent, and do not take calls. Eating is fine on long-distance trains, but on local trains most people don't.

4. Carry your trash

Public bins are rare, which surprises many visitors. People carry their rubbish until they reach a bin, often at a convenience store or a station, or take it back to their hotel. A small bag in your daybag solves it.

5. Take your shoes off when you should

Shoes come off at temples, in many traditional restaurants and inns, and in homes. Look for a raised step, a row of shoes, or slippers waiting at the door. Some places give you separate slippers for the toilet.

6. Don't tip

Tipping is not expected, and sometimes it causes confusion. Service is included in the price. A clear thank-you is the right response.

7. Eat at the convenience store

Konbini (コンビニ) in Japan are worth a visit by themselves. Onigiri, sandwiches, hot snacks, coffee, and proper breakfasts are cheap and good. They are also where you can pay bills, use an ATM, and print documents.

8. Restaurant habits

You will often get a small wet towel (oshibori) when you sit down, use it to wipe your hands. Say いただきます (itadakimasu) before eating and ごちそうさまでした (gochisōsama deshita) when you leave. Don't stick chopsticks upright in a bowl of rice, it resembles a funeral ritual. You often pay at the counter on your way out, not at the table.

9. Don't rely on English alone

In big stations and tourist areas, there is plenty of English. Away from them, less so. A few phrases make a difference, and people appreciate the effort. Here is a short list of phrases for your first trip.

10. Pack for the season

Japan has four real seasons, and the weather varies a lot between the north and the south. Summers are hot and humid, winters can be properly cold, and spring and autumn are popular for good reason. Check the forecast for the places you are going.

11. Stay flexible

It is tempting to fill every day. Leave gaps. Some of the best moments are the ones you didn't plan: a side street in the evening, a small shrine, a neighbourhood café.

12. Learn a bit of the language before you go

You don't need to be fluent. Hiragana and katakana can be learned faster than most people expect, and being able to read them helps with signs, menus and station names. If you would like a plan, see how to study Japanese effectively.