First trip to Japan? How exciting! Japan is filled with wonders! From the modern, fast-paced atmosphere in Tokyo to remote historical towns like Kamakura, the ancient capital of the samurai from the 12th century, Japan has so much to offer.
However, as a first-time visitor to Japan, you’d benefit from knowing a few key tips to make your journey easier and more enjoyable. In this article, we’ll discuss some tips to help you prepare for your trip to Japan.
Sort out passports and visas
Having a valid passport and the right visa is the first essential step when heading to Japan – you know, other than actually booking your plane tickets. Depending on what country you’re from, we’d suggest that you get a 6-month visa (it’s more convenient if you want to travel to other countries).
You may not even need a visa. For example, citizens from countries like Australia, Indonesia, Germany, Italy, and Brazil don’t require visas to enter for tourist reasons. Check out this list to see if your country is exempt.
Find a currency exchange
Regardless of the country you’re travelling from, you’ll need to get your hands on some yen somewhere along the way. To do this, you’ll need to find a currency exchange that exchanges your currency for yen. We suggest doing this before you travel.
Go online and check out the most reputable exchanges that support your currency and yen exchanges. If you want to do your exchanges when you get to Japan, avoid using the airport exchanges. Rather, go to the bank or use an atm. Remember that while you’re buying Japanese yen from an exchange bank or withdrawing from an ATM, there are exchange fees that you’ll incur.
Learn basic Japanese phrases
Travelling around Japan can be challenging if you don’t know the language, but it’s not impossible to pick up if you go prepared. Like most countries, the Japanese also understand some English. However, they’re not inclined to just approach tourists. That said, learning a few key Japanese words and phrases will definitely make life easier for you. Here are some for you to start practising:
- Konnichiwa – hello
- Sumimasen – sorry
- Wakarimasen – I don’t understand
- O genki desu ka – how are you?
- Kudasai / Onegaishimasu – please
- Lie – no
Always travel with some yen
If you’re a seasoned traveller, then you’ll know the benefits of travelling with cash on you. The same applies to travelling to Japan. In Japan, many small businesses rely on cash flow to live for the day. Places like small shops, bars, markets, and restaurants often only accept cash for this reason. Likewise, many smaller towns might not even have card facilities for you to use. So, if you don’t have petty cash on you, then you might be in a little bit of trouble.
Don’t travel heavy
Consider how long you’ll be travelling and only take what’s necessary with you. Now, we don’t mean necessary in a subjective way. Take a limited amount of clothes and pack light so you can make travelling more convenient and comfortable. Chances are that you’ll catch a train in Japan. Often, trains are packed with people and don’t have much overhead space for luggage, which could put you in a precarious situation. So, packing light is the way to go. It’ll also give you more space to bring things home with you too.
What are the essentials?
So, what exactly should you pack, what are the essentials? Well, we’ve already mentioned that you’ll need your passport/visa and some yen, but what else? Here are some essentials to pack for your trip to Japan:
- Small towels and sanitiser because some bathrooms don’t have soap or towels to wash your hands
- Travel adaptors. Japan’s electrical outlets use a 2-pronged “Type A” plug
- Any medication you need for the trip
- A Japanese SIM card or pocket wifi unit
- Clothes for every weather condition (ideally ones you can wear multiple times)
- Your phone
- Any important toiletries
Download some important apps
Every country has their own set of apps that are essential for helping it run smoothly. For example, Uber, in many countries, is an essential app for getting around. Similar apps will come in handy in Japan:
- Hyperdia: allows you to see train routes and schedules in real time
- Google Maps: will help you effortlessly navigate Japan
- Google translate: Will help you translate important information to people in Japan so they can assist you
Final Thoughts
Travelling to Japan has a lot more to it, but for now, you should get by with the tips above. Remember, plan your trip well before you leave. Check that you have the right passport or visa, exchange your currency for yen, and pack light! Trust us, you’re in for an adventure!
