Practical Travel Info for Japan
Japan is one of the safest and most organized countries to travel in, but understanding local customs and practical details will enhance your experience.
Currency
JPY (¥)
Time Zone
JST (UTC+9)
Emergency
110 / 119
Electricity
100V / Type A
Money & Payments
Japan uses the Japanese Yen (JPY/¥). While cashless payment is growing, Japan remains more cash-dependent than many countries. Always carry cash, especially outside major cities.
- ATMs: 7-Eleven and Japan Post ATMs accept international cards 24/7
- Credit cards accepted at hotels and larger restaurants, but many small shops are cash-only
¥1,000
~$6.60
¥5,000
~$33
¥10,000
~$66
¥50,000
~$330
Language
Japanese is the official language. English proficiency is limited outside tourist areas, but signs in train stations and airports have English translations. Download Google Translate with offline Japanese pack.
Essential Phrases
Etiquette & Customs
Remove shoes when entering homes, temples, and some restaurants. Bow when greeting. Don't tip (it can be considered rude). Be quiet on trains. Don't eat while walking.
Shoes Off
Remove shoes when entering homes, temples, ryokans, and some restaurants. Look for shoe racks or genkan (entrance areas).
Bowing
A slight bow is appropriate for greetings and thanks. Deeper bows show more respect.
No Tipping
Tipping is not customary and can be considered rude. Service is included in prices.
Quiet on Trains
Keep phone calls and conversations quiet. Set phones to silent (manner mode).
No Eating While Walking
Eat at designated areas or stands. Carrying food while walking is frowned upon.
Chopstick Etiquette
Never stick chopsticks upright in rice or pass food between chopsticks — both are funeral customs.
Internet & Connectivity
Japan has excellent 4G/5G coverage. Options: pocket WiFi rental, prepaid SIM cards, or eSIM. Free WiFi available at stations, convenience stores, and many cafes.
Pocket WiFi
Rent at airports. Great for groups. Unlimited data from ¥500-900/day.
Free WiFi
Available at stations, 7-Eleven, Starbucks, and most hotels. Register for Japan Wi-Fi auto-connect.
Safety
Japan is one of the safest countries in the world. Crime rates are extremely low. Lost items are often returned. Emergency number: 110 (police) or 119 (ambulance/fire).
Police
110
Ambulance / Fire
119
Tourist Helpline
050-3816-2787
Electricity & Plugs
Japan uses 100V electricity with Type A plugs (flat two-pin, same as North America). Important differences:
- US/Canada travelers: Your plugs will fit, but voltage is 100V vs 120V. Most modern electronics (phones, laptops) work fine.
- European/UK travelers: You need a plug adapter. Most hotels provide adapters at the front desk.
- Eastern vs Western Japan: Eastern Japan (Tokyo) runs on 50Hz, Western Japan (Osaka, Kyoto) on 60Hz. This rarely matters for travelers.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need to tip in Japan?
No. Tipping is not customary in Japan and can sometimes be considered rude. Service charges are included in prices.
Is Japan expensive?
Japan can be surprisingly affordable. Budget travelers can manage on $50-80/day with konbini meals, hostels, and public transport. Mid-range travelers should budget $100-200/day.
Do I need to speak Japanese?
Not necessarily, but learning basic phrases (arigatou, sumimasen, kudasai) is appreciated. Google Translate's camera feature works well for menus and signs.