BEFORE you arrive in JAPAN

1. Install Google maps app

This tip is the most important one and is absolutely necessary for fully experiencing Japan and making the most of my guides! In my opinion, this app is the best for navigating Japan. It is simple and efficient, providing information on prices, timetables, station exits, and more.

2. Install Google Translate app

A very small percentage of Japanese people speak English. Sure, in very touristy areas, you will be fine, but if you want to level up your travel experience, get yourself this app, and you are good to explore absolutely any areas of Japan (even those places where you might be the first foreigner met by locals).

Remember to download (with an arrow button) your desired languages, including Japanese, so that you will be able to use the app even when there won't be any internet.

And one of the most useful functions worth mentioning is translating through the camera. You can translate any signs in Japanese and any menus when they don't have English ones (which is quite often).

3. Add a virtual IC card to your Wallet app on Android or iOS. It is used for paying for public transportation, making purchases at convenience stores and vending machines, and so on.

There are three card options called Suica, ICOCA, or Pasmo. There is literally no difference in terms of usability, so feel free to choose any (choose the cutest one - ICOCA 😍🤣). It can be done from your home country (my friend from New Zealand tested it out, and everything worked perfectly from setting up the card to topping it up). Please refer to one of the attached photos for a quick guide (iPhone), and if you have any difficulties, please search for a step-by-step guide by googling - How to add IC card to Android (or iOS) wallet

To use it - simply tap the terminal with your phone, without unlocking your phone and activating your wallet app (but be sure that your phone is set up correctly).

Both your virtual IC card on your phone or physical one can be topped up in three ways:

• By using a special machine (check one of the attached photos - located at any train/subway station on both sides).

• Online (the one I use the most): if you are using a virtual IC card with your wallet app - by Apple or Google Pay.

• In the majority of convenience stores.

4. Rent (make a reservation) a Pocket WiFi

I am not sure that I need to tell you how important it is to stay connected while traveling around Japan 😅 getting your directions, searching for a restaurant with a good rating, and so on. There is a sim card option, but with pocket wifi, you will be able to share it with somebody else and connect your laptop or iPad on the go.

I recommend getting it from one of these 2 websites:

https://www.japan-wireless.com/en

https://ninjawifi.com/

5. Consider purchasing JR pass

JR Pass website (purchase and useful info)

I am often asked, "Should I purchase a JR pass or not?" As much as I would have loved to help, there is no easy way around this - if you want to make a decision, you will have to calculate in advance all your transportation costs between the cities within Japan (depending on your itinerary) and see whether it will be cheaper to use a JR pass or not. Just remember that a JR pass does not apply to absolutely all types of trains and buses. The official website contains all the information that you might need when considering whether to purchase it or not. Some authorized JR pass resellers also offer Regional passes - they are designed to offer cost-effective and convenient travel options for tourists who plan to explore a particular region extensively.

6. If you're considering renting a car in Japan, it's essential to understand the requirements for driving in the country. Depending on your nationality, you may need to obtain an International Driving Permit in your home country or have a Japanese translation of your national driving license. This ensures that you can legally drive in Japan. Be sure to check out this link - who can drive in Japan

For more detailed information on renting a car in Japan, you can refer to the "Renting a car in Japan" section in the Tips provided earlier.

7. Pack your power plug adapter

If you don't have a suitable power plug adapter for Japan, don't worry. You can often purchase one upon your arrival in Japan, either at the airport or in various convenience stores throughout the country. Japan uses a unique type of power plug, so having an adapter is essential to ensure you can charge your devices during your stay.

8. Learn Hiragana and Katakana alphabets

It can be a fun and rewarding way to enhance your Japan travel experience. These phonetic scripts are the building blocks of the Japanese writing system and can help you read basic signs and understand how foreign words are pronounced in Japanese. While this tip is not crucial for your trip, it can add a unique dimension to your cultural experience if you have the time and interest to explore it. There are many apps and resources available that make it easy to learn and practice these alphabets in short daily sessions, making it a manageable and enjoyable task.