The city of Tokyo is a bustling metropolis that is like no other. Brimming with an intriguing culture, world-class cuisine and unique experiences, a Tokyo vacation can be an intriguing and interesting experience for many travellers.
As the biggest city in the world, it can be overwhelming when you first visit the lively capital of Japan. The city is divided into 23 separate wards, spread across an area of 2,194 km², creating an expansive urban landscape, home to 14 million people. In a place where the modern world combines with the traditional, there are a few things to know before going to Tokyo.
In this guide, discover essential tips and insights to elevate your trip to Tokyo, from recommended apps to how to navigate public transport. Uncover invaluable information about Japan’s culture and societal norms, to ensure you make the most of your journey and immerse yourself in the wonder of Japan.
- Apps you need before you arrive
- To help you navigate the public transport system download Japan Travel by Navitime which has a travel route function and info on currency, and the weather.
- Google Translate is essential unless you can read Japanese kanji, as many signs, especially on the subway are in Japanese.
- To stay safe in Japan, download Safety Tips. This free app sends you emergency alert information in the event of an earthquake or tsunami and includes info on how to find an English-speaking doctor.
- Download the Airalo app before arriving to make using your phone in Tokyo easier. Airalo offers eSims for nearly every country on Earth and allows you to access local data in your destination country.
- Good to know: Transport
Trains
- Some train lines have female-only carriages, look out for signs when boarding the trains.
- Trains stop running between midnight and 5 am, so make sure to leave in plenty of time to get back to your accommodation.
- The JR Line covers the entirety of Japan. If you are planning to travel outside of Tokyo it might be worth getting a JR Pass. However, if you plan to just stay in the capital it will be a waste of money.
- Get a prepaid IC Card (sometimes called an IC pass) which can be used on city trains, subways and buses. A ¥500 ($4.55) deposit is requested when buying one which you get back once you return it. You can also download apps like Pasmo to store your IC card on your phone wallet.
Buses
- Taking the bus is a great way to see the city. You can use your IC card to pay or use cash as you enter.
- Bus stops are displayed and announced in Japanese and English.
- Enter buses through the front door and pay at the beginning of your journey with either cash or your IC card.
Public transport etiquette:
When using public transport remember to be courteous to other passengers.
- Talking loudly on your phone is frowned upon,
- Eating on subways and buses is seen as disrespectful to other passengers, except on the bullet train and some national trains.
- Keep an eye out for the priority which is left empty for pregnant, elderly or injured passengers.
Taxis
- In Tokyo taxis run on a meter so they are great for short journeys.
- Drivers rarely speak English so make sure to have your destination written down in Japanese or show them on a map. If in doubt, ask to be taken to a big hotel or public building that is closest to your destination.
- Learn Japanese
Even in Tokyo, people do not always speak English, so you must learn some basic Japanese phrases, especially when eating out. Learning phrases such as “thank you”, “excuse me”, “hello” and “please” will be greatly appreciated. Hospitality in Japan is excellent, so expect to be warmly greeted in Japanese when entering a store or restaurant.
- Alcohol and drugs
- Drinking alcohol outside is legal in Japan, so you are more than welcome to enjoy a boozy picnic in the park, as long as you are over the age of 20 years old.
- However, Japan has a zero-tolerance on all recreational drugs which includes marijuana and can carry a hefty fine or even a prison sentence.
- Earthquakes and typhoons
Japan experiences around 2000 tremors nationally every year, however, it is good to know that the buildings in Tokyo have been built to be earthquake-resistant.
Typhoons are less likely to occur in Tokyo, however, the after-effects of a nearby typhoon can affect public transport and some outdoor public attractions may temporarily close.
Keep up to date with the local weather conditions and broadcasts by checking NHK or the Safety Tips app and following safety advice given by public officials.
- Cash is king
You can use your debit and credit card throughout Tokyo, including at street food stalls. However, cash is still commonly used and in some cases, you may only be able to use cash. The city of Tokyo is more accepting of card payments than the outer regions of Japan, however just to be sure make sure to always carry enough cash to pay for what you need.
- Dietary needs
Japan has an array of different cuisines with some excellent national dishes such as ramen and of course sushi. However, if you have dietary restrictions, (e.g. allergies or you are vegan or vegetarian) take a card specifying your dietary needs in Japanese, so you can show staff when eating out. This will help avoid awkward conversations and any mixups with food orders.
- Politeness pays off
It is common etiquette to queue in Japan and there is a polite culture when it comes to waiting. Japanese people are happy to get up early to queue for something and queuing can be expected at popular restaurants, department stores, or while waiting to board public transport.
It is polite to take your place in the queue and quietly wait your turn, however, be prepared to spend some time patiently waiting if there is a long line.
- Tipping in Japan
Japan has a firm no-tipping culture and in some cases, people can be offended when given a tip. Tipping is not customary which is the case almost everywhere including in taxis, hotels, restaurants and bars. If you offer and it is politely refused just simply accept this and thank them instead.
- Be ready to take your shoes off
Taking your shoes off when you enter someone’s home in Japan is a sign of respect and is expected in many Asian cultures. However, there will be times when you are expected to take your shoes off in public areas too, such as
- At temples, shrines, and some public buildings you will see shoe racks and may even be given temporary slippers to wear.
- In clothing stores, you may be asked to remove your shoes before entering dressing areas to try clothes on. Women may also be asked to cover their faces with a disposable cover to prevent makeup from rubbing off on clothes.
- Some restaurants may ask you to remove shoes, especially if they have tatami mat flooring.
- Your hotel room will also have an area for shoe removal by the door and it is expected that you take off your shoes at the entrance.
So make sure to buy some fresh socks as it’s likely more people will see them than you think.
Becki Chu
Freelance Travel Writer
Becki currently lives in London, UK with her family, and has travelled across the world, including Japan, Hong Kong and throughout Europe.