Heading to Japan on a cruise holiday, escorted tour, or school trip? Monika, our intern from Japan, shares some helpful travel tips to make your journey smoother and more enjoyable. Here are her top things to know before visiting Japan:
1. Respectful Manners
The essence of Japanese culture lies in its commitment to the subtleties and value of respect, especially through language. Simple greetings can make a big difference. Try saying:
Arigatou – thank you
Sumimasen – excuse me, sorry
Onegaishimasu – please, often used when asking for something
Itadakimasu – said before eating, to show gratitude
Gochisousamadeshita – said after eating, to thank for the meal
Oishikattadesu – that was delicious
Using these words shows good manners and will help you connect with locals
2. Be Punctual
In Japan, being punctual is highly valued. Even a few minutes late can be seen as disrespectful. Always aim to arrive 5-10 minutes before the scheduled start time.
3. Stay Quiet in Public
On trains and buses, people usually stay quiet. No phone calls are allowed, and talking is kept to a low voice. In shrines and temples, silence is especially appreciated.
4. Line Up Politely
Japanese people always form neat lines and wait their turn patiently at train stations, shops, and even elevators. Cutting the lines is a big no-no!
5. Bring Cash
Not all places accept credit cards: At shrines, for omikuji (fortune slips) or small food stalls, cash, especially coins, is often needed. Always carry some with you.
6. Shoes Off at Shrines and Temples
You often need to take off your shoes before entering certain areas. Wear easy-to-remove shoes and clean socks. Since many sites have steps, choose comfortable footwear. Also, in some hotels, you may be asked to use slippers inside your room and switch back to your regular shoes when going to shared areas like restaurants. This is a common practice in Japan, so be sure to check for signs or ask the staff if you’re unsure. At traditional inns (ryokan), you might even be given geta (wooden sandals) to wear outside your room. This is part of the cultural experience, so follow the signs and enjoy trying something new!
7. Restrooms
Japanese toilets often include bidets and a sound device to protect privacy, but hand dryers are not always available. It’s smart to carry a small towel or handkerchief with you.
8. Convenience Stores (Konbini)
One of the best parts of daily life in Japan is the amazing convenience stores, known as Konbini. They are everywhere and open 24/7. You can buy tasty foods, drinks, umbrellas, stationery, essential clothes, cosmetics, tickets, and even pay bills! Clean, safe, and super helpful-they’re a traveller’s best friend. Don’t miss trying onigiri (rice balls), hot snacks, or Japanese sweets from Konbini!
9. Meal time
Japanese people usually eat breakfast around 7:00-9:00, lunch around noon, and dinner between 18:00and 20:00. Many cafes open early in the morning and offer “morning sets,” a light breakfast menu with coffee or tea. These are popular with locals and travellers alike. In the evening, Izakaya (Japanese-style pubs) often open after 17:00 and stay open late. They are great places to enjoy small Japanese dishes or Japanese sake.
10. Favourite Japanese food
One unique Japanese dish you should try is oden. It’s a warm and comforting Japanese stew with ingredients like daikon radish, boiled eggs, and fish cakes. Each bite soaks up the flavourful dashi (Japanese soup stock), making it simple yet deeply satisfying. Oden is especially popular in the colder months, and you can find it at specialty shops, izakaya, and even convenience stores in winter. It’s a perfect dish to warm both your body and heart.
11. Bathing and hot springs in Japan
In Japan, many people enjoy soaking in a hot bath to relax. You’ll find many onsen (natural hot springs), which are a great experience. If you want something more local, try a sento (a traditional public bathhouse). It’s usually cheaper and smaller than an onsen, and often used by locals as part of daily life. Before entering the bath, first rinse your body with hot water(Kake-yu) first-it’s an important rule in Japan. Soaking in a warm bath is a great way to rest and feel part of the culture.
With these tips, your Japan trip will be more fun and exciting. Get ready to explore Japan and feel its unique warmth and kindness.
We hope you found our things to know before visiting Japan blog post useful. Talk to our travel team about our tours:
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