SIM cards
Using a travel SIM card has become essential when going on a trip to Japan nowadays.
Aside from letting you stay connected to your loved ones while you’re abroad, having an internet connection allows you to access Google Maps and translating apps—both of which are very important when traveling to a country like Japan. There are a number of providers of SIM cards to use when you’re in Japan, including Sakura Mobile travel SIM card, Docomo Japan travel eSIM, Airalo eSIM and SoftBank SIM.
You can buy a Japan travel SIM card upon your arrival in Japan! There are several shop counters at airports where you can buy these SIM cards; however, do note that these shops are not open 24/7. Alternatively, you can also buy SIM cards via vending machines and electronic shops.
Many network providers also allow online pre-orders via their official website. You can choose to have your travel SIM card either shipped to you prior to your flight or pick them up at airports or hotels.
Of course, if you use an eSIM this is all done digitally and as such can be pre-loaded before you arrive in Japan.
Purchasing an IC Card
If there’s one thing that will add convenience to your time in Japan, this is it.
IC cards are rechargeable credit-card-sized passes that can be used to pay fares on various public transport networks with a single tap (like London’s Oyster card and New York City’s MetroCard). With one of these, you won’t have to worry about which ticket to buy or how much the fare will be — just tap and go.
For even more convenience for Apple users, the PASMO Card is also one of the travel cards already stored in your ‘Apple Wallet’. Just go in, add credit and start using – it is that simple.
Be aware that you will need to purchase paper tickets for the shinkansen and limited express/special express trains.
What’s also great about Japan’s IC cards is that they can be used in other cities, besides the one where you purchased it. For example, Tokyo’s PASMO card can also be used in Kyoto. Plus you can use them to pay for drinks and snacks at most convenience stores and vending machines – it doesn’t get much more convenient!
Cover Your Tattoos
In Japan, there is still an association between tattoos and organized crime. As a foreigner, you’re unlikely to be mistaken for a member of the yakuza. However, you might need to cover up your tattoos if you want to use public facilities such as gyms, swimming pools, and onsen (hot spring baths). If your tattoos are too big or awkward to cover, don’t worry. You can always use a private onsen or search online for a tattoo-friendly one. These are becoming more common nowadays, particularly among establishments looking to cater to overseas visitors.
Be Respectful on Public Transport
Japanese society is known for its emphasis on politeness, and one of the places this is most apparent is the train network. Conductors bow to you, carriages are spotlessly clean, and departures are so punctual you can set your watch by them. Keep these simple pointers in mind, and you’ll fit right in:
- Don’t talk on your phone on public transport. If you need to make or answer a call on the train, you can do so in the small compartments between carriages.
- Queue in the designated areas. On the train platform, you will usually see painted lines, numbers, and symbols on the ground indicating where to wait. And of course, let people off the train before trying to board.
- Enjoy it! Take photos out the window, recline your seat on the shinkansen, grab a delicious bento box lunch from the station or beverage cart. Trains are a great place to relax as you glide seamlessly to your next destination.
Use the Money Tray
In Japan, money is rarely passed directly from hand to hand. When you’re purchasing something in a shop, restaurant, or bar, you’ll often notice a small tray next to the cash register. It might be on the counter or attached to the cash register itself. You should place your money or credit/debit card in the tray, instead of handing it to the cashier.
The cashier will usually place your change in the money tray after completing the transaction. The same system operates when paying for services in places like hotels, cinemas, and onsen.
Using the Shinkansen (Bullet Train) and the Japan Rail Pass
Travelling by Shinkansen at 300 kph is amazing and once experienced you cannot compare it with any other train services around the world – because it’s so clean, efficient, and convenient. The is wifi, plenty of legroom, plenty of space to store the luggage, and the attendants selling snacks.
The cost of using the service is high, but don’t despare the best way to use these trains is through Regional Rail Passes or the Japan Rail Pass. If you’re planning to travel around Japan. For the first time I would recommend repurchasing a Japan Rail pass. The passes are seven days for NZ$370, 14 days for US $525, and 21 days for $725 (prices fluctuate with the exchange rate).
Each Regional carriers such as Japan Rail West and Japan Rail East also offer passes tailored explicitly for foreign tourists for as low as NZ$240 for a five-day pass for specific regions in the country. These regional passes also provide discounts to tourist attractions at the destinations. To obtain these passes, travellers must present their passports to confirm their tourist status. You can easily buy tickets at the train stations without reservations..
Do not lose the paper JR Pass ticket, as you need this each time you book a ticket on a train – if you lose this you will need to purchase a new pass. Also, pre-book your train tickets as early as possible, you can always amend the train and time if you get to the station early.
Cheap Domestic Flighs
Aside from traveling via Shinkansen, traveling via plane across Japan is also convenient and competitively priced. Japan Airlines offers a Japan Explorer Pass that only foreign tourists can purchase online, and you can get domestic tickets as low as US $45 one way. This is an excellent option if you visit islands like Okinawa or farther-flung destinations like Sapporo. Also, low-cost carriers like Peach and Jetstar sell affordable plane tickets. Although the prices may look cheaper than the train, make sure to factor in train tickets or taxi fares to/from the airport, arrival time to the airport, and luggage restrictions.
Spend a Night in a Ryokan
A ryokan is a traditional, Japanese-style inn, and we highly recommend staying a night or two in one during your trip. Ryokan are very different from regular hotels, and a quintessential part of the Japanese experience.
The majority are located in the countryside, providing the perfect opportunity to unwind, rejuvenate, and enjoy the very best of Japanese hospitality. Complete with minimalist tatami mat rooms, yukata robes, kaiseki meals, onsen baths, and futon bedding, you’re guaranteed to find it an experience like no other!
Discover True Relaxation at an Onsen
Japanese onsen (hot springs) resorts provide an amazing experience and are the ultimate in luxury and relaxation. Whether you choose a historic indoor bath or a remote outdoor location surrounded by breathtaking natural scenery, they are a sublime, authentic cultural experience that you won’t encounter anywhere else.
- Wash yourself thoroughly before entering the onsen itself, to keep the water sparkly clean.
- Keep towels, toiletries, and clothing (everything but yourself!) out of the water.
- Don’t stay in hot water too long if you’re not used to it – and be careful getting out. The high temperatures can make you feel lightheaded.
- If you’re nervous about being naked in front of other people, consider renting a private onsen instead. Many high-end ryokan provide private baths attached to the rooms, and others offer hourly rentals.