Top 20 Tips for Your First Trip to Japan – What to Know Before You Go

Your time in Japan should not only be a trip but also a memorable time. A smart, smooth, and unforgettable experience—just the way a Japan trip should be.

Whether you're dreaming of cherry blossoms, Michelin-starred sushi, or serene temples, these practical tips will help you make your trip smoother and more perfect—the way to travel like an insider, not just a tourist.

1. Don't Expect English Everywhere

Hotel staff at international chains and airport workers usually speak decent English.

But in small restaurants, taxis, and local shops, English is rarely spoken. And fluent English-speaking guides are very limited—and in high demand.

That's why we always recommend booking early to secure one of the few fluent English-speaking guides. They make your experience easier and way more enriching.

Download Google Translate (with offline access) before your trip. It will save you a lot of trouble.

2. Carry Some Cash with You All the Time

In Japan, cash is still the most common way to pay, especially once you step outside the big cities.

In places like Tokyo, Kyoto, or Osaka, you can usually pay with credit cards or IC cards like Suica, Pasmo, and ICOCA.

But once you're in smaller towns like Nikko or the Mt. Fuji area, many local shops, temples, and even cafés will be cash only.

So it's smart to carry some yen with you at all times. No need to bring a huge amount from home, ATMs at 7-Eleven, FamilyMart, and Lawson are everywhere and usually accept international cards.

Just tell your guide if you need cash, and he will plan ATM stops on the way.

3. Reserve Restaurants in Advance

Many of Japan's best restaurants require reservations, often weeks in advance. Michelin sushi counters and themed cafes don't usually accept walk-ins.

You can make bookings through Tablog. But be sure to plan your schedule carefully. If you don't show up, you may be charged a fee. If you arrive late, you might lose your spot or have to queue again.

Share your reservations with your guide. They'll plan your sightseeing schedule around them and make sure you arrive at the restaurant on time, without any stress.

4. Ready to Take Off Your Shoes

In Japan, you'll often be asked to take off your shoes at temples, ryokans (traditional inns), art museums, and even in some hotel lobbies.

Some places provide slippers. Others may just offer a shoe shelf or a bag for you to carry your shoes with you.

So you need to wear shoes easy to take off.

But don't worry! Your guide (or the staff) will let you know what to do, or you can simply follow what others do.

5. Plan Dinner Early

Many restaurants in Japan close surprisingly early—often by 8 PM, even in big cities like Tokyo or Kyoto. In smaller towns or scenic areas, some places may close as early as 6 PM or even 5 PM. In Hakone Yumoto, many restaurants close at 5 pm.

Always plan your dinner in advance, especially if you're outside major cities.

6. Fill Out Immigration Forms Online with QR Code for Faster Entry

Skip the long arrival lines by filling out your immigration info online before your flight. It's quick and easy—just register at Visit Japan Web and get a QR code.

At immigration, simply scan the code and breeze through.

No worries if you forget. Paper forms are still available on arrival. Just expect a longer wait.

7. Expect Smaller Hotel Rooms Than You're Used To

Hotel rooms in Japan are compact. A standard 4-star room is typically just 23–30 m² (248–323 ft²), barely enough space for two medium suitcases. Even 5-star rooms are often only 26–40 m² (280–431 ft²). Tokyo has some of the smallest hotel rooms in the country.

For a more comfortable stay, we recommend booking 4-star hotels or above.

Japan's hotel rooms are usually small. Even in 4- or 5-star hotels, rooms are smaller than you might expect. Standard 4-star rooms have barely enough space for two medium suitcases.

Rooms in lower-star hotels are even smaller.

For a more comfortable stay, we recommend booking 4-star hotels or above.

8. Stay One Night in a Ryokan with Onsen

Spending a night in a traditional ryokan is one of the most authentic ways to experience Japan: tatami floors, onsen baths, and multi-course kaiseki meals.

One night is enough for most travelers, as you may not be suitable for the hard beds.

But how can you enjoy a truly authentic experience without giving up comfort?

That's why we often recommend Hakone. Here, luxury ryokans with peaceful forest surroundings provide a comfortable stay for vacations. The best open-air onsens there give you a refreshing escape.

You will soak in open-air onsens with mountain views, unwind in serene rooms, and feel fully refreshed.

Tell us your style and preferences. We'll match you with the perfect ryokan, whether you want romantic vibes, family-friendly comfort, or a private hot spring bath.

9. Try Authentic Japanese Noodles (Ramen)

When it comes to Japanese food, you may think of sushi. But believe me, ramen and other noodles like udon and soba are actually more common.

So, how to experience truly authentic ramen in Japan?

Try regional ramen styles! There are many unique flavors. From Tokyo's shoyu (soy sauce) ramen to the rich tonkotsu (pork bone) broth of Fukuoka to the hearty miso ramen of snowy Hokkaido, every region has something different to offer.

If you're traveling with us, your guide can help you discover the most distinctive local specialties—not just where to eat, but what to try, and why it's unique.

For example, near Mt. Fuji, you can enjoy Hōtō, a thick, rustic noodle soup beloved in the region for its warming, home-style flavor.

Or try Ichiran Ramen for a local-style experience: order at a machine, sit in a solo booth, and enjoy your bowl in peace. So Japan!

Want something deeper? We can help you make a food-focused itinerary that lets you taste hidden local favorites with a guide who knows where to go.

10. Avoid Japan's Golden Week If You Can

Golden Week in Japan usually runs from April 29 to May 6, 2026. It's one of the busiest travel periods of the year, as many locals take vacations during this time.

Expect higher hotel prices, crowded attractions, and limited availability for trains and accommodations across the country.

If your travel dates are flexible, avoid this week altogether.

But if you do need to travel during Golden Week, don't worry! A well-planned itinerary makes all the difference.

So work with a local expert: book key experiences at least 6 months in advance. Avoid day trips from major cities during peak days.

Continue reading >>> Expert tips for a smooth trip during Golden Week 2026.

11. Plan Ahead for Japan's Public Holidays

Even outside Golden Week, Japan's 3/4-day holiday weekends may cause major traffic jams. Temples, scenic areas, and highways can get crowded.

It may not be possible to avoid them, as Japan has a lot of public holidays—16 in 2026. But you can plan around them.

The biggest issue is usually traffic during day trips to nearby cities. In 2024, we spent 6 hours on the road for a day trip to Nikko from Tokyo—a drive that normally takes just 3 hours!

So, for a smoother experience, we usually plan your day trips to avoid public holidays. If that's not possible, we'll turn it into an overnight stay, so you don't have to rush or get stuck in traffic.

Check a list of Japan's public holidays in 2025

12. Be Prepared for the Onsen Rituals

You'll need to be completely naked to enjoy a Japanese hot spring—no swimsuits allowed. You first wash thoroughly, then soak and relax.

If you feel shy or uncomfortable. Just book your private baths!

Most ryokans and onsen hotels offer private onsen sessions you can reserve in advance. Some even have private baths in your room. We often recommend Hakone Kowakien Ten-yu, where every room comes with its own private onsen and views of the forest.

You'll also find private bath options in some famous hot spring spots, like Dogo Onsen in Ehime—one of the oldest and most iconic in Japan.

Just keep in mind: hotel rooms with private onsen are in high demand, especially during peak travel seasons. It's best to book at least 3 months in advance to secure the best ones.

13. Don't Expect to See Mt. Fuji Every Day

Fuji is often hidden behind clouds during the cloudy or rainy days—visibility is only about 80 clear days a year.

If seeing Fuji is a must for you, plan around the weather. Avoid the rainy season from June to August, when your chances are very low.

The best time to catch a clear view is early morning, before 9 AM. For the best shot at that magical view, we recommend staying overnight at Lake Kawaguchi. Wake up to sunrise over Fuji—it's worth it.

14. Take the Shinkansen Between Cities, Use Private Transfers for Day Trips

Japan's Shinkansen (bullet train) is fast, clean, and comfortable. It is also incredibly punctual, often down to the minute. It's the best way to travel between major cities like Tokyo, Kyoto, and Osaka.

Train stations are tourist-friendly with clear English signs. Just follow the signs, and you'll easily find your platform and train.

While the Shinkansen is perfect for intercity travel, it doesn't go to smaller scenic spots like Mt. Fuji, the countryside, or hidden towns. These are usually only accessible via local trains, which often run from large, complex stations with multiple routes and platforms.

So navigating them, especially with luggage, can be time-consuming and confusing.

That's why we usually recommend private transfers for day trips. It saves time, avoids station stress, and gets you straight to the sights—comfortably.

15. You May Not Need a JR Pass

For most travelers, especially those planning a relaxing, customized trip, the JR Pass is not necessary.

It's really only worth it if you're doing fast-paced travel across multiple cities within a short time; think Tokyo to Osaka to Kyoto to Hiroshima and back within a week.

If your trip only includes popular routes like Tokyo, Kyoto, and Osaka with a few days in each, buying regular train tickets is usually cheaper and more flexible.

16. Get a Suica Card for Easy Transit and Shopping

For transportation and small purchases, the best way to pay is with an IC card (Suica/PASMO/ICOCA).

These three cards are almost the same in use, so you don't need to worry about which one to choose. However, Suica is more popular and it works better with Visa credit card charging.

You could load these cards into your Apple or Google Wallet and pay directly from your phone. If you don't have an Apple phone, our guide can help you buy a physical IC card.

IC cards could also be used at most convenience stores, vending machines, pharmacies, restaurants, and shopping malls.

17. Don't Open or Close the Taxi Door Yourself

In Japan, taxi doors open and close automatically—the driver controls them.

So just wait and let the driver handle it. Trying to open or shut the door yourself can be awkward or even seen as rude.

18. Reserve Space for Your Large Baggage on the Shinkansen

If your suitcase is 30 inches or larger (total dimensions between 161cm and 250cm), it's considered oversized. You'll need to reserve a special seat with designated luggage space in advance.

These seats are usually located at the rear of each car.

Traveling with a large suitcase? Just let your travel advisor know—we'll handle the reservations for you.

19. Deliver Your Baggage for an Easier Trip

Don't feel like dragging a heavy suitcase through busy stations or up and down stairs? You don't have to in Japan.

You can easily send your bags to your next hotel. Many hotels can help you arrange it right at the front desk.

While most stations do have elevators, they're not always easy to find.

It usually takes 1-3 days to arrive at the destination. The cost ranges from ¥3,000 to ¥8,000 (about $20–55 USD) per item, based on size and weight.

20. Expect No Trash Bins at Street

You'll hardly find trash bins on the streets, even in parks or train stations. Bring a small, clear bag in your daypack for your own waste.

Our guides usually carry extra plastic bags for you to store your trash until you're back at the hotel.

Ready for a Smarter Way to Explore Japan?

Visiting Japan for the first time is exciting, but planning every detail can quickly become overwhelming.

So, we are here to help you. Whether you're looking for unforgettable family moments, a romantic getaway, an immersive local experience, or a special birthday gift, we'll tailor an itinerary based on your interests to create an authentic and memorable journey.

Get in touch today and start planning your dream trip to Japan with ease and confidence!

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