A Practical Guide for First-Time Visitors to Japan: Transport, Money and Communication

Japan is a surprisingly easy country for first-time visitors: public transport runs on time, the streets are orderly and most signs are also in English. The four things that will make your first days easiest are a rechargeable transport card, some cash on you, a constant internet connection and the right plug adaptor. In this article we have gathered, in order, the practical things you need to know before you go.

Before you go: documents

Visa and passport requirements for entering Japan may vary depending on your passport type and the purpose of travel. Before you travel, check the current situation with Japan's official sources and the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the Republic of Türkiye. Check your passport's validity early as well, and do not neglect travel health insurance.

Transport: cards, trains and the metro

IC cards. Rechargeable cards such as Suica and Pasmo in Tokyo and ICOCA in the Kansai region are tapped on entry and exit on the metro, trains and buses. You can also pay with these cards in many shops and vending machines. The cards are largely valid in other regions too, and some phones can add them digitally. As the terms of sale and use change from time to time, check the latest information before you go.

Metro and rail network. In Tokyo, lines run by several companies are intertwined; this looks complicated, but thanks to line colours, numbered stations and map apps you soon get used to it. Major stations (Shinjuku, Tokyo, Kyoto, Osaka) are huge: knowing your exit number in advance stops you getting lost inside the station.

Shinkansen. High-speed trains are the main way to travel between cities. There are reserved and unreserved carriages. Some lines have reservation rules for large suitcases; this is why sending your luggage ahead from hotel to hotel (takkyubin) is a common practice in Japan.

Japan Rail Pass. The terms and price of this rail pass for foreign tourists have changed in the past. You need to work out before you go whether it will pay off on your route; for short, one-way routes, buying individual tickets may make more sense.

Taxi. The rear doors open and close automatically, operated by the driver, so you do not need to touch the door. Showing the address written in Japanese makes communication easier.

Money and payment habits

Japan's currency is the yen. Although paying by credit card and IC card is increasingly common in big cities, cash is still important. Small restaurants, temple entrances, some markets and rural areas may accept cash only.

• The easiest way to withdraw cash with foreign cards is from ATMs at konbini (convenience stores) and post offices. Not every ATM may accept foreign cards.
• Coins are used a lot; a small coin purse comes in handy.
• When paying, money is not handed over directly but placed on the small tray on the counter.
• There is no tipping. We cover this in detail in our Japanese etiquette article.
• Some shops offer tax-free shopping for tourists; as the conditions can change, ask at the till.

If you plan to use a card, let your bank know in advance about using it abroad.

Internet and communication

Map, train timetable and translation apps make life in Japan much easier, so a constant internet connection is important. The options are a roaming package, a local or digital SIM card (eSIM) and a pocket Wi-Fi device rented at the airport. For people travelling in a group, a single pocket Wi-Fi device can be enough for several people.

Language. In big cities signs include English, but the level of spoken English varies greatly from person to person. Simple English, a translation app and a few Japanese words are enough. "Sumimasen" (excuse me), "arigatou gozaimasu" (thank you) and "kore kudasai" (could I have this, please) are the phrases you will use most.

Electricity and technology

Sockets in Japan are type A with two flat pins, and the mains voltage is lower than in Türkiye. So you need an adaptor. Most phone and laptop chargers work at different voltages, but always check the label on devices such as hair dryers or straighteners.

Types of accommodation

• City hotels: Rooms are small, especially in business hotels; large suitcases take up space in the room.
• Ryokan: A traditional Japanese inn with tatami rooms and futons. A yukata (light kimono) is usually provided, and there is a shared hot spring bath.
• Capsule hotels: A budget option made up of single-person capsules, suited to short stays.

Safety and health

Japan is a country where travellers generally feel safe; still, keep an eye on your valuables, as you would anywhere. Stories of lost property being returned to its owner are common. Tap water is generally considered drinkable. Japan is in an earthquake zone; a quick look at your hotel's emergency instructions is enough. As medicine names may be different in pharmacies, take your regular medication with you and check the current health requirements with official sources.

If you are going with a group

TatiliYakala's Japan tour is a 6 nights, 8 days programme with hotel accommodation: it starts with a direct flight from Istanbul to Tokyo, moves to Kyoto by Shinkansen and ends with the return from Osaka. It is designed for culture lovers, young people, companies and groups. Travelling on an organised trip greatly reduces the burden of transport and finding your way for first-time visitors. We clarify the details for your group together at the quote stage. For the final step of your preparations, take a look at our what to pack for Japan article too.

Frequently asked questions

Do you need a visa for Japan?

Visa requirements may vary depending on your passport type and the purpose of travel. Before you travel, check the current situation with Japan's official sources and the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the Republic of Türkiye.

Are credit cards accepted in Japan?

In big cities they are accepted in most hotels, shops and chain restaurants. For small restaurants, temples and rural areas, it is advisable to carry cash.

What plugs are used in Japan?

Japan uses type A sockets with two flat pins, and the voltage is lower than in Türkiye. You should take an adaptor and check the voltage range of your devices.

Can you travel around Japan without speaking English?

Yes. Most signs include English, and picture menus and plastic food models are common in restaurants. A translation app and a few basic Japanese words will see you through.