Essential Tips and Information You Need Before Visiting Japan

Japan offers a unique blend of ancient traditions and cutting-edge modernity, making it a fascinating destination for travelers. Yet, before stepping foot in this island nation, there are important details every visitor should know to make the trip smooth and enjoyable. This guide covers practical tips and essential information to help you prepare for your journey to Japan.

A bustling Tokyo street filled with vibrant signs and people walking

Understanding Japanese Culture and Etiquette

Japan has a rich culture with customs that may differ significantly from those in other countries. Respecting these traditions will help you avoid misunderstandings and show appreciation for the local way of life.

• Bowing is a common greeting. A slight bow is polite when meeting or thanking someone.

• Shoes off indoors. Always remove your shoes when entering homes, temples, and some traditional restaurants.

• Quiet public behavior. Speaking loudly on public transport or in public spaces is considered rude.

• Handling money. Use both hands when giving or receiving money, especially in shops or restaurants.

• Tipping is not customary. Leaving a tip can confuse or embarrass staff; excellent service is standard.

Outlets: Japan uses the same voltage and plug type as the United States with one important difference: Japanese outlets have two slots, while many American plugs have three prongs. Two-pronged devices (such as most phone chargers) will work without an adapter, but three-pronged plugs will require one.

Money Exchange: There are several ways to obtain Japanese Yen (JPY):

• Purchasing yen from your local bank before departure often provides one of the best exchange rates.

• Exchanging cash at the airport is convenient but usually results in a less favorable rate.

• Using a credit card with no foreign transaction fees often provides an exchange rate very close to the market rate.

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Few Garbage Cans: Public garbage cans are surprisingly rare in Japan. Be prepared to carry your trash with you throughout the day. Recycling bins can often be found near vending machines, and some convenience stores provide garbage receptacles.

Plentiful and Clean Bathrooms: Japan has an abundance of free, clean, and well-maintained public restrooms. Many feature bidet functions, heated seats, and other advanced features. Staying hydrated is easy since restrooms are readily available throughout the country.

Public Benches Are Rare: Unlike many Western countries, public benches can be difficult to find, particularly in busy city centers. If you need a break, convenience stores, department stores, train stations, parks, and cafés are often your best options.

Carry a Small Hand Towel and Hand Soap: Many public restrooms do not provide paper towels, hand dryers, or even hand soap. Japanese residents commonly carry a small hand towel to dry their hands after washing.

Cash Is Still King: While credit cards are increasingly accepted, some smaller restaurants, local shops, temples, and rural businesses remain cash-only. Carrying some yen is always recommended for smaller purchases and emergencies.

Trains Are Extremely Punctual: Japanese trains are known for their precision. Arriving a few minutes early is highly recommended, as trains often depart exactly on schedule.

Last Trains Come Earlier Than Many Visitors Expect: Although Japan's public transportation system is excellent, most train services stop around midnight. Missing the last train can result in an expensive taxi ride.

Respectful Quietness: Speaking loudly on trains and buses is considered impolite. Phone conversations should generally be avoided while riding public transportation.

Lines Are Normal: Japanese people are accustomed to orderly queues. Popular restaurants, attractions, and shops often have long lines, especially on weekends. A long line is frequently a sign of a highly regarded establishment.

Convenience Stores Are Amazing: Convenience stores (konbini) such as 7-Eleven, Lawson, and FamilyMart offer fresh food, drinks, ATMs, travel essentials, and many other services 24 hours a day.

Shoes Off Indoors: Many temples, traditional inns (ryokan), homes, and some restaurants require guests to remove their shoes before entering. Always look for shoe racks or provided slippers.

Escalator Etiquette: In most parts of Japan, people stand on one side of the escalator and leave the other side open for those who wish to walk. Observe local customs, as the standing side may differ depending on the region.

Keep Your Passport With You: Foreign visitors are legally required to carry their passport while in Japan. While checks are uncommon, police may request identification, and a photocopy is not considered sufficient.

Hotel Rooms Are Often Smaller Than Expected: Compared to North America, hotel rooms in Japan are often compact. While they are generally very clean and efficient, luggage storage space can be limited in standard rooms.

Vending Machines Everywhere: Japan has millions of vending machines selling everything from cold drinks and hot coffee to snacks and ice cream. They are a convenient option for refreshments almost anywhere in the country.

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Wearing Perfume at Restaurants in Japan, Especially Sushi Restaurants

Strong perfume is best avoided when dining at high-end Japanese restaurants, particularly sushi and omakase restaurants. Aroma is an important part of experiencing food, and strong fragrances can interfere with the delicate smell and flavor of sushi. Counter seating also places guests close together, meaning one person’s fragrance can affect the experience of everyone nearby.

Many restaurants explicitly ask guests not to wear perfume or cologne. Some policies also mention heavily scented hair products, body creams, deodorants, fabric sprays, and fabric softeners. In stricter establishments, guests wearing a strong fragrance may be moved, refused entry, or treated as a same-day cancellation. 

This is not a universal rule at every casual restaurant in Japan. However, when visiting an omakase sushi restaurant, kaiseki restaurant, or another small fine-dining establishment, the safest approach is to wear no added fragrance. Check the restaurant’s reservation policy in advance and make sure every member of your group knows the rule.

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Furniture Etiquette in Japan: Keep Your Feet Off Tables and Chairs

In Japan, placing your feet on tables, desks, chairs, armrests, or the back of another seat is generally considered rude and unhygienic. This applies in restaurants, cafés, hotel lounges, trains, waiting areas, and other shared spaces. Even if a nearby chair is empty, avoid using it as a footrest.

In Japan, shoes are viewed as carrying dirt from outside, so putting them on furniture can make people uncomfortable. This is especially inappropriate on tables and desks, where people eat, work, or place their belongings. You should also avoid resting your feet on the armrest or back of the seat in front of you, particularly on public transportation.

Keep your feet on the floor and use furniture only for its intended purpose. This simple habit shows respect for the people around you and helps keep shared spaces clean.