30 Things to Know Before Going to Japan—So You Don’t Look Like a Baka Gaijin!
If you don’t want to look like a baka gaijin (stupid foreigner), here are important things to know before going to Japan that will make your trip a smooth-sailing one.
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Crucial Things to Know Before Going to Japan
In case you’re new here… Hi, I’m Jas. I grew up in Taiwan just a three-hour flight away from Japan. In other words, I’ve really made this popular destination my own backyard.
When it comes to tips for visiting Japan, I think I’m pretty qualified to offer my two cents. Without further ado, let’s jump straight into today’s topic!
1. You Don’t Need a Visa…
If you have a valid American or Canadian passport* and are staying for less than 90 days for tourism purposes.
2025 Update: In April, Japan announced the introduction of a new one-stop entry system called JESTA (Japan Electronic Travel Authorization). This pre-screening system for visa-exempt travelers will come into effect by the end of 2028. I wouldn’t worry about it for now.
*Please note that my readers are predominantly North American. For those visiting from elsewhere, I suggest familiarizing yourself with Japan’s entry regulations.
2. Best Time to Visit Japan
In order to plan your Japan itinerary, you need to first determine the best time for visiting Japan.
If you want to chase spring blooms, the end of March to the beginning of April is a beautiful time for enjoying mother nature’s best shows.
If you prefer less crowds, however, you might find January and February to be a quieter time to visit.
At the end of the day, how you plan your trip depends largely on your interests + traveling style.
3. How Many Days to Spend Where
There’s so much to do in Japan that you won’t be able to check everything off your bucket list in one trip.
One of my biggest tips for going to Japan is to not be overly ambitious with your itinerary. If it’s your first time in Japan, here are the must-see cities:
- 3 to 4 days to explore Tokyo’s major attractions
- 3 to 4 days to stroll the streets of Kyoto in a kimono
- 2 days for a shopping spree in Osaka
- 1/2 to 1 full day to feed the sacred deer in Nara
If you have extra time or plan to venture outside of Tokyo, I recommend
- 2 to 3 days in Fujikawaguchiko to catch a glimpse of Mount Fuji
- 1 to 2 days to enjoy Hakone’s hot springs and museums
- 1 day to tour Yokohama’s Chinatown and Ramen Museum
- 1 to 2 days for temple hopping around Kamakura and Enoshima
- 2 to 3 days to explore Atami’s beaches and the Izu Peninsula
- 1 to 2 days to chase fall foliage and cafe hop around Karuizawa
- 1/2 to 1 full day to connect with nature at Hitachi Seaside Park in Ibaraki
4. Book Hotels Directly – and Early!
Compared to other Asian countries, Japan isn’t necessarily the most affordable.
One of the most important things to know before visiting Japan is that it is almost always cheaper to book directly on a hotel’s website.
If you don’t mind doing extra work, browse the hotel’s Japanese site, then translate everything using Google Translate.
I’ve noticed on multiple occasions with different hotels that there’d be no rooms available on the English website. BUT, if I were to search for the exact dates on the Japanese site, I’d suddenly get a list of all available rooms.
Hotels would sometimes even be be $50-100 cheaper. If you have the patience, why not save money for more yummy food 😉
2025 Update: The most recent time I was in Japan was November 2024. Not sure if achieving Genius Level 3 has changed anything, but Booking.com did offer more competitive rates for fall. (It could just be a seasonal promotion, though.)
Oh and obviously book well in advance if you can. Not only can you unlock further savings, you have more options to choose from. Traveling is stressful enough, don’t burden yourself with having to find hotels last minute.
5. Pack Appropriate Shoes + Clothes
Wearing comfortable walking shoes might sound like common sense, but it’s one of the easiest Japan vacation tips to overlook. (I, for one, am guilty of torturing myself to look cute for the gram. Oops!)
From touring historic temples to indulging in retail therapy, walking 10 to 30k+ steps a day is the norm. (Remember, there are stairs everywhere at train stations.)
Pack a good pair of sneakers and your feet will thank you.
Don’t forget to dress modestly!
Compared to North America, Japan is relatively conservative.
For ladies, showing a lot of skin (particularly in the upper body area) is considered risqué.
Deep v necks, crop tees… You will rarely ever see these in the streets or being sold in stores. (Ironically, Japanese girls do love wearing short skirts and showing off their legs.)
Leggings are never worn on their own either. Locals tend to pair these with shorts, skirts, or long tops that cover the crotch area.
You might also come across other tips for Japan travel that say men should not wear shorts.
While this might’ve been true a couple decades ago, this is outdated advice. (More fashionable Japanese guys might consider wearing shorts outside of the beach “uncool,” but it’s not a big deal.) As long as the shorts are not crazy tight/short, no one will bat an eye at you.
Of course, there are exceptions in areas like Harajuku where younger generations are more liberal with their fashion style. If you are visiting a temple or attending a formal event, it’s best to dress modestly.
6. Take Advantage of Luggage Forwarding Services
One of my least favorite things to do is switching hotels and lugging my suitcase all over town.
It’s the 21st century. We’re working smarter, not harder. Say goodbye to body aches and send your belongings with a luggage forwarding service like Yamato Transport.
Prices vary depending on the size and weight of your suitcase(s). You can ship your luggage
- From the airport to your hotel or vice versa
- From one hotel to another
- To and from a convenience store
Same-day delivery is not always an option. If you plan to ship your luggage, pack a small backpack, duffle bag, or tote bag to carry your necessities with you.
For reference: In 2024, my friend and I paid 4,200 yen to send one large check-in & one small carry-on from a Kyoto Yamato Transport office to our hotel in Tokyo. We received them the next day.
7. Learn Basic Japanese
Despite Japan’s passport being so powerful, less than 20% of the population supposedly own one. And because Japan is an isolated island that doesn’t border other countries, locals are even less inclined to learn languages other than their native tongue.
While there are many English signs in major cities like Tokyo, you might find it difficult to track down locals who a) do, in fact, speak some English and b) are not shy about conversing with tourists.
Now you obviously don’t have to be fluent in Japanese to visit Japan. Regardless, it’s a good idea to keep these basic phrases in your back pocket:
- Konnichiwa – hello
- Onegai shimasu – please
- When in a restaurant, point to the dish you want on the menu then add “onegai shimasu” to order
- Sumimasen – I’m sorry/excuse me
- You can say this before asking someone for directions or for help
- Arigatou gozaimasu – thank you
- Ikura desu ka – how much is it
- Doko desu ka – where is it
- Hai – yes
- Iie – no
- If you don’t want to sound textbooky and robotic, use “daijoubu desu” (it’s okay) instead
*This literally translates into “Photo, okay?” Super short and easy to remember. If you want to be more polite/grammatically correct, use “Shashin o tottemo ii desu ka?” (Can I take a photo?)
8. Purchase an eSIM
Forget carrying physical pocket Wi-Fi devices or switching between SIM cards and potentially losing one.
An eSIM is a digital SIM that allows you to activate a mobile plan.
Airalo is my absolute holy grail. I’ve used it in several countries and never had a problem with speed or connectivity. It’s user-friendly. It’s affordable. Best part is you don’t have to worry about misplacing your regular SIM!
Tip: Use code “JASMIN2014” for $3 USD off your next purchase.
9. Carry Cash
We constantly hear about Japan’s crazy innovations and how they are living in the future. Believe it or not, one of the most shocking things to know before going to Japan is that the country is very cash heavy!
Make sure you exchange extra money. (The official currency is the Japanese yen.)
Other than that, it’s a good idea to have a coin purse as well. (Their coins are issued in six denominations: 1, 5, 10, 50, 100, and 500. That’s a lot!)
Things you may need cash for:
- Smaller restaurants, restaurants in less touristy areas, or street food vendors
- Train station coin lockers* or luggage storage services
- Vending machines*
- Making a wish or drawing an omikuji (paper fortune) at a shrine
*Coin lockers and vending machines in big cities can usually take IC cards.
10. Do Thorough Research Before Purchasing a Japan Rail Pass
One of the most common tips for traveling in Japan is to get a Japan Rail (JR) Pass.
If you’re not traveling extensively around the country, however, you might actually end up paying more.
To determine whether or not the JR Pass is truly worth it for your trip, I suggest using an online fare calculator.
11. Arrive Early for Your Shinkansen
Japan is extremely strict with punctuality. If your train is scheduled to depart at 11:42AM, it will leave the station at that exact time. Make sure you arrive at the platform early!
For busy stations like Tokyo Station and Shinagawa Station, I would budget extra time in case you get lost and need to ask for directions.
Tip: There are shops and restaurants inside the bigger train stations. If you’re early, grab some food (like an ekiben) or go window shopping.
Seat Reservation
Bullet trains come frequently and there are plenty of seats.
If you’re traveling with large suitcases, you have to reserve a seat with luggage storage. (These are seats at the end of the car with designated luggage space behind the chairs.)
The easiest way to do so is to head directly to a JR ticket office. Ask the staff book your ticket(s) for stress-free travel.
Mt. Fuji from the Shinkansen
Great news! You can see Mt. Fuji from the shinkansen!
Tip: If you’re traveling from Tokyo to Kyoto/Osaka, sit on the right (seat A for window, B for middle, or C for aisle). For Kyoto/Osaka to Tokyo, take the left D or E seat.
12. Utilize Public Transportation
Trains and buses are incredibly convenient in major hubs. Plus, they are a lot cheaper than taxis. Just beware that service ends at around midnight so plan accordingly.
I recommend getting an IC card and loading it up. (I have both Suica and PASMO cards, and they basically work the same.) That way, you don’t need to purchase a ticket for every single trip.
Alternatively, you can set up a digital IC card on your phone. (I prefer physical cards and think they’re cute souvenirs. It’s up to you!)
13. Practice Proper Etiquette on Trains & Buses
Japan is known for being an introvert’s heaven and you’ll honestly never find quieter, cleaner trains or buses elsewhere.
Mind Your Volume + Don’t Talk on the Phone
Locals tend to keep to themselves and scroll on their phones.
You’re in a foreign country with friends or loved ones. It’s new. It’s exciting. Nonetheless, don’t get carried away and keep your voice down.
Respect Priority Seats
Priority seats are reserved for elders, pregnant women, and people with disabilities. You can sit in a priority seat if the train is not crowded, but be prepared to give it up*.
*If you’re shy or you don’t know what to say, you can simply stand up and move aside.
Don’t Eat or Drink
Unless you are on the shinkansen, eating and drinking are heavily frowned upon. (Water is okay!)
For longer journeys on the bullet train, ekiben, or railway bento/lunchbox, can be purchased at the train station or on the train.
Women-Only Cars
It’s not unheard of for ladies to get groped on trains. As a result, women-only cars were introduced to reassure female passengers’ safety.
These are marked with a pink “Women Only” sign and will specify what times can only be used by women.
14. Taxi Doors Are Automatic
Should you choose to take a cab, do not open your own door!
It takes some getting used to and I’ve definitely made this mistake a few times.
Taxi drivers are generally quite relaxed about it, but try to remember this so you don’t damage their vehicles.
15. Don’t Take Pictures Without Asking
Due to obnoxious foreigners harassing geishas and maikos for photos, Kyoto has officially closed parts of Gion to tourists.
Whether you are in a shop or restaurant, or you wish to take a picture of someone in their gorgeous kimono, always ask for permission first! You don’t wanna be that asshole!
As mentioned above, “Shashin OK?” (“Photo, okay?”) is easy to remember. “Shashin o tottemo ii desu ka?” (“Can I take a photo?”) is more polite/grammatically correct.
16. Book Tickets in Advance
Iconic attractions like teamLab Borderless, teamLab Planets, and Shibuya Sky (above) sell out fast.
Most have timed entries, meaning you purchase a ticket for a specific time slot and show up at said date/time. If you want the earliest time slot for avoiding crowds or the sunset slot for golden hour pics, plan in advance!
Tip: In the event that tickets are sold out on their official sites, double check on Klook. You just might get lucky!
17. Be Respectful at Shrines & Temples
Everyone always says to be behave when visiting Japanese shrines and temples. But what exactly does that mean?
Dress Modestly
As stated above, it’s polite to dress modestly when visiting a shrine or temple. Cover up and avoid revealing clothes. Oh and no hats!
Purify Yourself Before Entering
Chozuya and temizuya are water basins placed at entrances for you to wash your hands and mouth before entering a shrine or temple.
The proper way to purify yourself is to
- Use your right hand to scoop water out with the ladle provided
- Wash your left hand
- Switch the ladle to your left hand and wash your right hand
- Switch the ladle back to your right hand and scoop more water
- Use your left hand as a cup, pour the water in, and rinse your mouth with your hand
- Spit the water out onto the rocks below, never back in the basin!
- Scoop more water and wash the ladle by holding it upright to let water trickle down its handle
- Place the ladle back scoop side down
Bow & Walk on the Side of Torii Gates
A torii gate acts as a gateway to the sacred realm.
It is standard practice to bow first and you should never walk in the middle of the path. (The center is reserved for gods only.)
There are specific ways to pray as well, etc. As a foreigner, you’re obviously not expected to know/follow all these “rules.” Not to mention, everyone has different religious views. Feel free to do more research on your own.
18. Queuing Is a Common Etiquette
Asians love to queue. There! I said it!
If you plan on trying viral restaurants, you’ll definitely want to budget extra time for waiting in line. (Many popular restaurants have limited seats and don’t take reservations.)
Generally speaking, Japan is very orderly.
You line up to pay at a store, buy tickets, catch the train, go in an elevator, go on an escalator*, use the restroom… The list never ends because you literally line up for everything. Follow the crowd and be respectful!
*Tip: Stand on the left side of the escalator. Leave the right side open for those in a rush. (In Osaka, it’s the opposite. Stand on the right.) When in doubt, mimic the locals.
19. Understand Japanese Table Manners
There are countless things not to do in Japan. The important things to know before going to Japan are…
Show Gratitude
If you are dining at someone’s house, it’s polite to say “itadakimasu” before you start eating.
This roughly translates into “I humbly receive,” and is meant to show appreciation towards everyone and everything involved in the preparation of your meal from the farmer and the produce to the cook. (If you are at a restaurant, there really isn’t a need to say this unless you are eating with a Japanese local.)
At the end of your meal, you can show gratitude by saying “gochisousama desu” or “gochisousama deshita” (more formal) – thank you for the meal. (I would also say this at an intimate restaurant or one that is family-owned.)
Use Chopsticks Properly
I’m Asian and I probably don’t even hold my chopsticks correctly. As long as you can eat without spilling, don’t sweat the details.
What you should be careful of are things such as
- Rubbing your chopsticks together
- This is seen as an insult because you’re implying that the chopsticks are cheap
- Grabbing food from shared plates with your own chopsticks
- Use serving chopsticks when possible
- If not, place the food in your plate/bowl, not directly in your mouth
- Sticking your chopsticks upwards in a bowl of rice
- This is only done at funerals and can bring bad luck
- Passing food from chopsticks to chopsticks
- This reminds people of passing bones between chopsticks at funerals
- Stabbing your food with chopsticks
- It’s as if you’re checking to see if the food is cooked properly, thus you’re disrespecting the chef/host
20. There’s No Such Thing as Tipping!
Like most Asian countries, tipping is not customary in Japan.
Again, you can thank the chefs and waiters with “gochisousama desu” (thanks for the meal) or “gochisousama deshita” (thank you for the meal).
For other services, a simple “arigatou” (thanks), “arigatou goazimasu” (thank you), or “arigatou gozaimashita” (thank you very much) will suffice.
21. Don’t Fall for the Cheap Drinks (or “Modeling” Gigs)
Theft and robbery are rare in Japan. You’re not likely to get scammed out of a kidney or anything of that sort either.
HOWEVER, you do need to be careful when walking down the streets of Shinjuku and Shibuya.
There are two types of people you should beware of: touts and scouts.
Touts are pushy salesmen who will try to lure you into a nearby bar (or restaurant) under the pretense of cheap drinks. Do NOT follow them! If you think it’s too good to be true, it most likely is!
Scouts, on the other hand, are less aggressive and tend to target women walking alone.
They’ll shower you with compliments about how you’re fit to model. Or, they’ll sell you on the idea of working at a club. Do not be fooled! Their sole purpose is to push you into the adult entertainment industry and earn commission off of you.
I’ve been scouted twice (in Japanese) in Kabukicho (when I was covered from head to toe in a long trench coat). I simply said no then walked away.
Compared to the rest of the world, Japan’s red-light district is v safe and tame. (Hotels in this area are very convenient with Shinjuku Station being steps away.) I especially wouldn’t worry if you don’t look Japanese or are not East Asian.
22. Refrain From Walking and Eating
Every single “things to know when traveling to Japan” social media post will tell you to not walk and eat. (To be fair, I’ve done so as well in my viral Japanese etiquette TikTok videos.)
While it’s typically considered rude, it’s not illegal. (Osaka is generally pretty relaxed, whereas Tokyo frowns upon walking and eating. Although, frankly, you might find Japanese salarymen with a bottle of beer stumbling their way through Shinbashi.)
Tip: If you are starving, find a spot to stand or sit down to eat your emergency snack. Street food vendors will sometimes set up designated eating areas.
23. Take Your Trash with You
One of the most surprising things to know about traveling to Japan is that there are no garbage cans on the streets.
Locals bring their trash home. You can do the same by throwing yours away when you get back to your hotel.
If you buy food from a street vendor, you can pass them your trash once you are done eating. And if it’s something small, you can throw it away on your next conbini run.
24. There’s No Smoking in the Streets
A big reason why Japan is so clean is that you are not allowed to smoke in the streets.
Designated smoking zones are clearly marked. Smoking outside of these areas may result in a fine.
25. Avoid Blowing Your Nose in Public
Japan’s collectivistic culture means being thoughtful to those around you and trying not to inconvenience others.
Some minor things to not do in Japan include blowing your nose in public.
This is why you can often times hear locals sniffling 50x instead of blowing their nose into a tissue.
If you’re sick or have allergies, find a nearby washroom to clear your nose in the stall. (Or worse-case scenario, you sniff that back in and swallow it! XDD)
26. Take Your Shoes Off Indoors
Taking your shoes off is common in Asian households.
Certain Japanese hotels will require you to switch into slippers right in the lobby. Restaurants with tatami straw mats will ask you to take off your shoes as well.
27. Bathroom Slippers Are a Thing
When visiting a Japanese home or staying at a local Airbnb, you will notice that there are slippers meant specifically for the bathroom. (Some restaurants have these too.)
Do not wear your outside shoes/slippers into the bathroom and don’t make the mistake of wearing bathroom slippers out of their intended areas.
28. Embrace the Bidet
Frankly speaking, I am terrified of using one. (Not me exposing my dirty bum to the whole Internet.) My boyfriend loves it though and it is more hygienic.
Other Things to Know Before Traveling to Japan
I’m not kidding when I say there are a million buttons on a Japanese toilet. The last thing you want is to spend 30 minutes in the washroom because you can’t figure out how to flush.
流す大 means big flush and 流す小 is a small or half/eco flush. The former is symbolized by a big whirlwind, whereas the latter is a smaller whirlwind sign.
Less fancy toilets will have the characters 大 (big) and 小 (small) printed on the toilet lever. Some even play music so you can do your business without scaring your next-door neighbor.
29. Understand Japan’s Onsen Culture
Onsen, or hot spring in English, is a must when in Japan.
What I tell all my friends visiting Japan for the first time is that you absolutely need to treat yourself to a staycation at an onsen ryokan (hot springs inn).
As its name suggests, an onsen ryokan is a property with onsen facilities. Dinner and breakfast are usually included with dinner being served in a multi-course kaiseki style.
If your budget allows, definitely book a room with a private onsen*.
*Because tattoos are traditionally associated with yakuza gangsters, many public baths do not accept customers with ink. (Some will allow entry if you cover up with tattoo tape.) A private onsen is a fantastic alternative.
Onsen 101
Men and women are typically separated, although there are mixed gender baths.
Other things to know about Japan onsens:
- They are enjoyed completely butt naked, so leave all your belongings in a locker
- Relax, no one will stare
- You should always shower first! Heck nobody wants to bathe in some stranger’s poop water!
- Make sure to get in slowly
- Before you fully submerge yourself in the onsen, you can splash a little water on your body to better acclimate to the hot temperature
- You can keep a small, wet, cold towel on your head to prevent dizziness
- Remember that your face and hair should never dip into the onsen
- Once you are done, pat yourself dry and get dressed
- There’s no need to shower because the minerals in the water are good for your body!
30. Know What to Do In Case of an Earthquake
Earthquakes are a common occurrence in Japan.
If you’ve never experienced one, a small shake might send you into panic. Unless it’s a high magnitude earthquake, there’s really no need to be alarmed. Remember, drop, cover, and hold.
- Drop down low to avoid falling
- Cover and protect your head
- Hold onto something to stabilize yourself
For other emergencies, call
- 110 for the police
- 119 for an ambulance or for the fire department
Pin for later!
There you have it! 30 things to know before going to Japan. (I can honestly go on and on about what not to do in Japan.)
At the end of the day, you are a foreigner. Locals can tell and will judge you regardless. (I’m sorry! It’s true!! It’s human nature.) If you make one tiny mistake, don’t stress about it. Be respectful when you can and have fun on your trip!
