10 Things I Wish I Knew Before My First Japan Trip
Planning your first trip to Japan? You're probably already thinking about where to go, what to eat and how to get around. But there are a few things that are surprisingly easy to overlook.
Here are 10 Japan travel tips I wish I knew before my first trip—so you can arrive prepared and enjoy the journey without unnecessary stress.
01 — Bring Comfortable Shoes 👟
You'll walk more than you expect.
Between enormous train stations, temples, shopping streets and neighbourhoods, a full day can easily mean thousands of steps.
Our tip: Wear shoes you've already broken in.
02 — Give Yourself Time for Trains 🚆
Tokyo's stations can be surprisingly large, with multiple lines, platforms and exits.
Our tip: Don't arrive at the last minute. For important journeys, give yourself extra time to find your platform.
03 — Carry Some Cash 💴
Cards are widely accepted, but smaller restaurants, shops and attractions may still prefer cash.
Our tip: Keep some yen with you every day, even if you mostly pay by card.
04 — Trash Cans Are Surprisingly Rare 🗑️
Japan is exceptionally clean, despite having relatively few public bins.
Our tip: Carry a small bag for wrappers and rubbish until you find somewhere to dispose of them.
05 — Don't Tip 💰
Tipping isn't part of everyday Japanese culture.
Our tip: Simply pay the bill and thank the staff. A warm arigatou gozaimasu goes a long way.
06 — Keep Trains Quiet 🤫
Public transport is generally calm and quiet.
Avoid phone calls and loud conversations, and let passengers exit before you board.
Our tip: When unsure, follow the locals.
07 — Check the Weather 🌦️
Japan's weather varies significantly by season and region, and conditions can change during the day.
Our tip: Check the forecast each morning and dress in layers.
08 — Leave Space in Your Suitcase 🛍️
You will probably buy more than you planned.
From Japanese skincare and stationery to snacks and souvenirs, shopping adds up quickly.
Our tip: Start your trip with some empty suitcase space.
09 — Check Your Hotel Room Size 🏨
Tokyo hotels can be surprisingly compact.
Our tip: Don't just check the price and reviews. Look at the actual room size, especially if you're travelling with large luggage.
10 — Check Opening Hours ⛩️
Some temples, museums and attractions close earlier than expected.
Our tip: Check opening hours and last admission before heading out.
The One Rule We'd Remember
Don't Overplan Japan.
Leave room to wander.
A tiny ramen shop.
A quiet neighbourhood.
An unexpected temple.
A café you didn't plan to visit.
Some of your favourite Japan memories may be the ones you never scheduled.
🇯🇵 Before You Go
Comfortable shoes · Some cash · Internet · Flexible plans · Empty suitcase space
Japan is waiting. Go prepared, but leave room for discovery.
