“The Land of the Rising Sun” is one of the most beloved destinations in the world thanks to its unique culture, geography, history, hospitality and technology. With the recent news that Japan will now issue e-visas to tourists, travellers around the world are gearing up to cross off a once-in-a-lifetime trip to the island nation.
Here’s our guide to all the things you should know before going.
Sure, Japan is at the forefront of the latest advances in science and technology but cash continues to be used in the country. Small businesses, konbinis (convenience store), rural shops, and even some restaurants and department stores in big cities continue to accept physical currency.
When you’re making a payment follow the Japanese way and put the money or card in the small tray at the register rather than handing it to the cashier.
The country boasts a well-connected rail network and is known for its punctual trains which arrive and depart to the minute. Tourists should get a Japan Rail (JR) Pass which offers discounted fares and unlimited travel on JR trains including the shinkansen (bullet train).
A seven-day pass costs an estimated INR 28,000; the 14-day pass is around INR 45,000; and the 21-day pass is close to INR 57,000 as of writing. There are regional passes you can also avail of but get them only if you’re staying for a long time or visiting specific regions.
Visitors should be mindful of their manners and behaviour when visiting Japan. For instance, unless you are sampling the fare of a street market, riding the shinkansen or scooping up ice cream, eating in public is frowned upon.
Always ride on one side of the escalator. To the east of the Kanto region you should stand on the left while to the west of the Kansai area it’s the right.
Queues are the norm here. Cutting in line will earn you more than a few raised eyebrows.
Take your shoes off before entering temples, traditional inns, homes and even some restaurants. You will be provided with a pair of indoor slippers so feel comfortable slipping them on over your socks.
Don’t point with your finger. Use an open hand to indicate or make gestures.
Tipping is not culturally accepted so show your gratitude to your servers with a smile and bow. There are multiple ways to say “thank you” in Japanese but you won’t go wrong with a simple "domo" or the more polite "arigatou gozaimasu."
Lastly, speaking on your phone in public transport is rude. Whisper or speak softly and follow the lead of your fellow passengers.
While attitudes are slowly changing tattoos are stigmatised by some people and certain businesses due to their association with the yakuza (mafia). Before you check into an onsen (hot spring), ryokan (traditional inn) or gym, be sure to check its tattoo policy. If your ink is fairly small a sticker should cover it up without further issue.
Whipping out your nationally-recognised driver’s license will not sway rental companies in loaning you a car. Visitors have to furnish an International Driving Permit (IDP) alongside their country-issued license to get behind the wheel in Japan. You’ll have to apply for it before going to the country but chances are you won't want to drive in the first place owing to the excellent transport network linking the length and breadth of the country.
You may be able to get by with English in the major cities of Tokyo, Kyoto and Osaka but bear in mind that many people are not comfortable speaking the language due to shyness or feeling like they aren’t fluent enough to converse in it fully. Be patient and respectful if they try, just like they will behave with your attempts to speak their language.
Learning basic greetings and carrying an accurate translation app will help you and the local people communicate with more ease.
Only Bengaluru, Mumbai and New Delhi operate direct flights to Tokyo but there are plenty of Southeast Asian airlines you can use to travel to Japan.