Before you go

Get a portable WiFi or eSim.

Seriously, do it! Tokyo in particular can be challenging if you are looking for specific spots – the streets in Tokyo and generally Japan are actually numbered in a chronological way of which buildings appeared when, which means, numbers are all over the place. And, if you are going to remote places, you want to make sure to have cell service.

My personal favorite is using an eSim, because I don't have to take another device with me and don't have to worry about charging it. I've used Xplori which was really cheap and reliable, even in the most remote parts I went to. You also don't have to worry abput picking up and returning a device and it is much more affordable.

Useful apps

• Google translate (make sure the Japanese package is installed and downloaded for offline use)

• Maps.me or CityMaps2Go (install the Japan map beforehand for offline use)

• HappyCow (finding vegan / vegetarian restaurants near you. I use this on all of my travels)

Break the language barrier

and download some travel apps. Communicating in English is improving in Japan since I first arrived in the country in 2009, however, you can still never count on it 100%. You might find menus to be available in Japanese only and you will likely run into people who will not be able to speak English at all. However, people in Japan are generally very accommodating so I never felt too awkward when I didnt speak Japanese yet. You can easily use Google Translate for understanding menus (simply point the camera and the English text will magically appear!) and communicating with people who do not speak English (this is where the portable WiFi will be very helpful). This brings us to…

Learn a few phrases!

Seriously, do it. Nothing makes locals happier than foreigners trying to learn and use their complex language. It is also a form of respect to at least know some phrases such as „Hello, thank you, yes and no“. No one will be mad if you make a mistake – people will probably be happy, that you are trying at all. Similarly, taking a few days to learn Hiragana and Katakana will be incredibly helpful and might be helping you feel more at ease.