Although there are already many times we’ve spent in Japan, and although we have not always visited as tourists, we also have had to face many times to the same doubts that anyone who decides he wants to travel to Japan. Therefore, we have compiled in this post some tips for traveling to Japan that we have implemented in all our travels. Advice on topics also often asks us by mail or through social networks.
Of course, they are just that, advice or recommendations do not want to be too categorical nor do we want to tell anyone how you have to prepare your travels or how to enjoy Japan. So think that our tips are nothing but ideas that can serve you on your journey to Japan. Sure some things and ye had in mind, and perhaps others not.
We hope that your visit all the land of the rising sun even more simple and enjoyable.
1. Plan when to go
Travel to Japan is enjoyed at any time of year. We’ve already told you why the summer and the fall are great times, although we have yet to tell all the wonders of winter and spring Japanese. And yes, these two stations that remain are also perfect for trying to go to Japan.
But it is important to know the average temperature that you will have, as well as the main events of each season, so that you judge according to your tastes what the best time is. Cherry trees in spring, hot and humid in summer, red leaves in autumn, snow and Christmas decorations in winter … In Japan there is something special in every season.
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2. Stay tuned to the prices of airline tickets
If you travel to Japan check all airlines flying to Japan from your region. Always scale, of course, because long since ceased to have direct flights ago.
Of course, you do not buy the first flight that is set before us, and utilized even a search engine to compare prices, because increasingly, airlines publish specific offers. And we can get to fly prices very affordable, even in summer and we tell you from experience.
3. Decide whether to buy the JR Pass and get your exchange order
While it is true that one JR Pass not always pays off (for this we must take some calculation, as we told you), you most likely have this rail pass is your best ally on a trip to Japan, especially if it’s your first time and you are going to visit at least Tokyo and the Osaka and Kyoto.
But beware; the JR Pass cannot be bought upon arrival in Japan, as some have come to ask us by mail. You have to buy before leaving Japan a trading orders that, once there, pass itself. This can be done in the train stations at airports, or in one of the major stations JR.
Remember you can buy the JR Pass comfortably from this web of our confidence (and in doing so, you help us a little to keep alive Japanism).
4. Find out in advance events and parties
Once you’ve decided what season to go, once you already have airline tickets and to exchange order to get the JR Pass, take a look at the special events that are in the city you will serve Headquarters, will serve to plan the itinerary not only in terms of temples, buildings, parks or other “permanent” but those attractions activities that occur only a few days a year and that certainly worth your trip and bring a personal charm and make it unique.
As we know that this is important, we have written very extensive for each of the months, with tickets all Japanese festivals and festivities distributed by region and city. And although conventional guides usually include such information, often they focus on the best-known events, but many are left out, so be careful.
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5. Plan schedules trains Hyperdia
Although Japan is a railway country par excellence, not all destinations have a quick or easy connection by train, and you have to keep in mind that dawn soon and, likewise, the sun sets soon. It is important, therefore, make the most of the days and it is best to plan ahead the train schedules that we use.
In this way we can know exactly what time you arrive at the destination and make the most of the daylight hours to come back later when the sun starts to fall. Also, if it is high season, we can book in advance (whenever we go with JR Pass on trains with reservation) and have no problems with the trip.
6. Hire Internet for your trip
In these times, to have your travel lives via social networks and stay in touch with family and friends has ceased to be an option to be almost something sought by all. In Japan there are not many open wireless networks, except in the case of Starbucks (which requires prior registration as you count) or network in northeastern Japan to tourists.
Right now, the two best options to provide Internet when traveling by Japan is or buy a SIM card with data connection, or rent a MiFi or system Pocket WiFi, which will give us all the connectivity we want while we are visiting the country Japan.
7. Bring enough cash
Whether you change it before traveling as if you do it once there, you do not trust too much on credit cards in Japan. In hotels it is normal that you may have no problem paying by credit card, but many restaurants and Japanese stores will not accept them, and if you do not bring enough money changed, you can find any problems.
In addition, there is the problem that not all ATMs help you make money with foreign cards. The Citibank, the 7 eleven and those of Japan Post, as a rule, if you will allow withdraw money with your credit card, but better to be cautious.
8. Bring an extension cord with plug adapter
I do not think we are the only ones who travel with lots of electronic devices. Between mobile phones, tablets, cameras, battery chargers for camera flash, etc., just being crazy.
And bring an adapter for each of the chargers that we can be tricky, because surely not have many and there are so many outlets in the room. And staying at a hotel that has adapted to plug sockets is not common. What then is the best solution? For carry a single flat pin adapter (such as we use for the US) and an extension that allows us to connect all our chargers.
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9. Learn some catchphrases
In a country where everything surprises you, it is quite possible to go clueless on more than one occasion. And sure just you stumble with someone, or you get on the escalators on the site you should not, or anything else.
To say “thank you”, “sorry” or “excuse me” is basic, and as in any other country, to speak in the local language is always well received, gives good picture and says a lot about you as a tourist.
10. Learn basic Japanese etiquette
When we travel to another country, we will find c always different tumbrels, different ways of doing things. And although often tourists usually look benignly, because locals know we do not know all their customs, it is not more learn some basic rules of behavior and etiquette.
And there is nothing uglier than eating in Japan and use chopsticks like a funeral. Or get somewhere with tatami and do not take off our shoes and leave dirty mess. Or reach a sanctuary and want to drink water from the pile at the entrance without knowing the ritual of temizu. Knowing a little these basic details will make our experience more pleasant and more Japanese.
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