From the incredible temples and shrines, to the bright and bustling cities, to the fascinating history and cuisine, there’s so much to see and explore when you travel to Japan.
In order to truly make the most of your trip, though, it’s best to be prepared. Knowing what to expect in Japan can help you avoid some of the little stresses that go along with travel and spend more time on what you came for: life-changing experiences.
Here are some tips for making sure you’re ready for your trip to Japan:
What do I need to know about Japan?
Prime Minister: Shinzo Abe
Religion: Folk Shinto/none (51.8%), Buddhism (34.9%), Other (13.3%)
Date format: YYYY/MM/DD
Time zone: Japan Standard Time (EST+13)
Currency: Yen
What do I need to know about Japanese culture?
Language: The official language of Japan is — you guessed it — Japanese. If you’re learning Japanese, then this is a golden opportunity to practice.
It’s okay, though, if you have no knowledge of the language — tour guides will help you navigate, and it’s not hard to get around without knowing the language, especially since many Japanese speak at least some English. Here are some Japanese phrases that might be helpful for you to learn before you go. For most interactions, like making a purchase, all you’ll need is basics like “hello,” “please,” and “thank you.”
You’ll also find that the writing is obviously very different from what we use in English. Lucky for you, Japanese script is translated to Latin letters in many public places like transit systems. Street signs are often translated as well, and it’s not uncommon for trains to have signs and to make announcements in English. At restaurants, English menus may be available; if not, you can point to what you want.
When in doubt, you can always ask for help, especially from concierges or tour guides, who can help you write down an address in Japanese if necessary. Japan is known for being tourist-friendly, and people will usually try their best to help you.
Etiquette: The most important thing to remember in terms of etiquette is to be open minded and to show respect, especially at religious sites like temples and shrines. When in doubt, look around you to see what locals are doing, and ask for advice, especially from a tour guide. Here are a few more specific things you might need to know for your trip:
Rather than shake hands, Japanese usually bow. A simple tip of the head is what you’ll mostly experience from people you interact with. You can reciprocate with the same.
It’s customary to take off your shoes when entering a home in Japan, and in other spaces like shrines and temples. You might be given slippers to wear throughout the house, and you might even have a separate set just for the bathroom. Be sure to wear or carry socks when you’re touring in Japan, so you can comfortably walk around without shoes when you visit certain sites.
When eating, use chopsticks if you can, but if you find it to be a struggle, Western-style cutlery might be available. If you’re sharing food with the rest of the table, you should use the opposite end of your chopsticks to pick up the food from the communal dish and put it on your own. Another practice of note is that it’s actually polite to pick up a bowl of soup and slurp it close to your mouth, or even to drink straight from it.
Holidays: If your trip happens to fall during a holiday, this can be an excellent way to interact with locals during your free time, though it may affect business hours for shops and sites. Check out a calendar of Japanese holidays to see if any of them overlap with your trip dates.
The busiest time to visit Japan is during cherry blossom season, which typically begins in early April but depends on the region. This makes for a beautiful visit, but it can also be crowded. Many Japanese travel during Golden Week, a period of spring holidays that falls around cherry blossom season. Whether you love the crowds and celebrations or would rather go during the off-season, take note of the Japanese calendar and plan accordingly.
What about health and safety?
Safety: As of this post, the Government of Canada has listed Japan as a country where you should “take normal security precautions.” Be sure to keep an eye on your luggage and wallet, and stay with your group if you’re with a tour.
Japanese drive on the left. Be careful when crossing the street; just like when you were little, be sure to look both ways, every time.
Health: You do not need to have any vaccines to travel to Japan, and the tap water is safe to drink.
Weather: Japan has a mostly temperate climate, meaning you probably won’t find it to be too hot or too cold. However, you should still check out the weather for the areas you’ll be visiting before you go, and pack accordingly.
Food: Japan is known for savory, fishy foods, featuring lots of rice and noodles, and vegetables. Miso soup is a common appetizer made with fish stock and soybeans, and you will recognize other famous dishes like ramen noodles, sushi, and tempura (deep-fried vegetables or fish).
Japan can be a bit difficult for a vegetarian who doesn’t know the language. If you don’t eat fish, you may need help from a Japanese-speaking guide who can help you order something that isn’t made with broth. Vegetable tempura is usually a good option, as is anything with tofu as its base, and if you are at a sushi restaurant, fish-free options are usually available, like avocado or cucumber.
How do I use my phone in Japan?
International calling and WiFi: The number to call for emergency services is 110, or 119 for an ambulance. To call Canada from Japan, dial 0101, and then the number, starting with the area code. Most hotels will offer WiFi.
For information on how international calling works for your cellular provider, contact them directly.
Adaptors: Good news: Japan uses the same plugs as the U.S. and Canada, so you don’t need an adaptor when you travel there.
What do I need to get in, out, and around Japan?
Passport and visa: Your passport must be valid for the duration of your stay in Japan. Visas are not required if you are staying in the country for less than 90 days.
Customs: Don’t try to bring any raw beans, or fruits or vegetables back into Canada.
Money: Japan uses the Yen (¥). Be sure to carry Yen around, as it’s more popularly used than cards. Other types of paper currency won’t be accepted, though credit cards from Canada are fine. Check with your bank to see if you’ll be charged a fee for using your card abroad, and definitely notify them of your tour dates.
Check out the exchange rate for Canadian dollars to Yen before you go, and if you decide to change money, make sure the rate is favorable. Usually, the airport currency exchange will not offer you the best rate, and you’re best off using a debit card at an ATM during your trip, but be aware of any international fees.
Also, be sure to check out our tips and guidelines for spending money abroad.
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