Japan Travel Guide: What We Wish We Knew Before Visiting Japan

Planning a trip to Japan can feel overwhelming at first, especially for first-time travelers. Here are the biggest lessons, packing tips, and mistakes to avoid before your trip.

Don’t Overpack

One of the biggest regrets travelers mention is bringing too much luggage.

Japan’s train stations often include:

  • Long staircases

  • Crowded platforms

  • Limited suitcase space

  • Lots of walking between transfers

Instead:

  • Pack lighter than you think you need

  • Leave roughly half your suitcase empty for shopping and souvenirs

  • Bring one small suitcase and a comfortable backpack if possible

Many travelers also recommend using luggage forwarding services like Yamato Transport to send bags directly to your next hotel.

Comfortable Shoes Are Essential

You may walk 20,000–30,000 steps per day in Japan.

Regular casual sneakers may not provide enough support for long sightseeing days.

Popular recommendations include:

  • ASICS

  • HOKA

  • On running shoes

If there’s one thing worth investing in before your trip, it’s footwear.

Get an eSIM Before You Arrive

Reliable internet access is critical in Japan for:

  • Google Maps

  • Train navigation

  • Translation

  • Restaurant searches

  • Transit schedules

Travelers strongly recommend setting up an eSIM or local SIM card before arrival rather than relying on public Wi-Fi.

Japan Still Uses Cash More Than You Expect

While Japan is becoming more card-friendly, cash is still important.

Carry yen for:

  • Temples

  • Shrines

  • Small restaurants

  • Street food

  • Local shops

Helpful tip:

When withdrawing cash from ATMs, always choose to be charged in Japanese Yen rather than US dollars to avoid poor exchange rates.

Also:

  • Convenience-store ATMs are reliable

  • Remember your debit card PIN before traveling

Use IC Cards for Transportation

One of the easiest ways to simplify travel in Japan is using an IC transit card.

Recommended options:

  • Suica

  • Pasmo

  • Mobile Suica through Apple Wallet

These cards allow tap-to-pay access for:

  • Trains

  • Buses

  • Convenience stores

  • Vending machines

Tourists often use the Welcome Suica because it does not require a deposit.

Convenience Stores Are Incredible

Japan’s convenience stores are on another level.

Visit:

  • 7-Eleven

  • Lawson

  • FamilyMart

You can find:

  • Fresh onigiri

  • Egg sandwiches

  • Coffee

  • Snacks

  • ATM access

  • Quick meals

They quickly become part of your daily routine while traveling.

Understand Japanese Etiquette

Trash Cans Are Rare

Public trash bins are surprisingly difficult to find.

Travel tips:

  • Carry a small bag for trash

  • Avoid eating while walking

  • Eat near food vendors when possible

  • Return trash directly to the vendor if appropriate

Onsen Etiquette

If visiting an onsen:

  • Shower before entering

  • Swimsuits are generally not allowed

  • Bathing areas are separated by gender

Bring Hygiene Essentials

Many older public bathrooms may not include:

  • Soap

  • Paper towels

  • Hand dryers

Carry:

  • Hand sanitizer

  • A small towel

  • Tissues

The bathrooms themselves are often extremely clean and technologically advanced.

Prepare for Heat & Mosquitoes

Japan’s summers can be intensely humid.

Helpful tips:

  • Pack lightweight layers

  • Consider hotels with in-room washing machines

  • Buy sunscreen and mosquito repellent locally if needed

Mosquitoes can be aggressive from spring through fall, especially around parks and temples.

Don’t Rush Through Kyoto

Many travelers regret spending too little time in Kyoto.

Kyoto rewards slower exploration:

  • Historic streets

  • Temples

  • Gardens

  • Tea shops

  • Quieter neighborhoods

Rather than treating it as a quick stop, allow time to wander and experience the atmosphere.

Plan Shopping Ahead of Time

Areas like Akihabara can become overwhelming quickly.

Research:

  • Stores you want to visit

  • Specialty districts

  • Shopping priorities

Otherwise it’s easy to lose hours wandering without finding what you actually wanted.

Arrival Tips That Save Time

Before your flight:

  • Complete the Visit Japan Web registration

  • Generate your immigration QR code

  • Book accommodations in advance

  • Stay near major train lines when possible

Transportation from airports includes:

  • Narita Express (N’EX)

  • Keisei Skyliner

  • Airport Limousine Bus

  • Taxi services using the GO Taxi App