Tips for Traveling to Japan: What I Wish I Knew Before My Trip
Updated: Aug 22
After spending my trip basically eating and wandering my way across the country with my family, I came home with a running list of small things that made a genuinely big difference. None of these are complicated, but they're the kind of details that either save you money, save you a headache, or just make the trip smoother. Here's everything I'd tell a friend before they go.
Download the Suica app before you land
This might be the single most useful tip in this whole list. Suica is Japan's tap-to-pay transit card, and you can load it directly onto your phone's wallet before you even leave home. Instead of fumbling with paper tickets or a physical IC card at every station, you just tap your phone at the gate. You can top it up digitally anytime, and it works at way more than just train stations — plenty of convenience stores and vending machines take it too. It made getting around so much easier for us.
Know how tax-free shopping works, and that it's about to change
As of right now, temporary visitors can get the consumption tax (generally 10%, or 8% on food) deducted or refunded right at checkout in participating stores just by showing your passport. But starting November 1, 2026, the system is shifting to a "pay first, refund later" model — you'll pay the full tax-inclusive price in the store, then process your refund at the airport when you leave, using a customs terminal or the Visit Japan Web platform. If you're traveling before that date, the current in-store process still applies; after it, budget a little extra time at the airport for the refund step. Also, be sure to keep all of your receipts.
Carry cash
Japan has a reputation for being cash-heavy, and while that's shifted a lot in recent years, especially in bigger cities, you'll still hit plenty of small restaurants, market stalls, and shops that are cash-only. Withdraw yen from a 7-Eleven ATM — they're everywhere, they reliably accept foreign cards, and they were my go-to the entire trip whenever I was running low.
Carry a small trash bag
Public trash cans are surprisingly hard to find in Japan, which catches a lot of visitors off guard given how clean everything is. The trick is that people generally carry their trash with them until they get home or find a convenience store bin. A small ziplock bag in your day bag solves this instantly.
Skip the walking-and-eating, except at food stalls
Eating while walking is generally frowned upon in Japan, with a few exceptions—namely festivals and most street food markets where eating on the go is part of the experience. At places like Tsukiji Outer Market or Ameyoko in Tokyo, you’re usually fine to snack as you explore. Elsewhere, it’s more customary to eat your food near the stall or shop where you purchased it before continuing on. Nishiki Market in Kyoto is especially strict about this, with plenty of signs reminding visitors not to eat while walking.
Book ahead for the popular stuff
TeamLab exhibits, certain restaurants, certain animal cafes, and observation decks can fill up, especially during peak seasons like cherry blossom time or major holidays. If there's something specific you don't want to miss, reserve it a few days to a couple weeks out rather than assuming you can walk in.
Trains are quiet, so match the energy
This one takes a little adjusting if you're used to louder public transit back home. Phone calls, loud conversations, and playing music without headphones are all considered pretty rude on Japanese trains. Keep your voice down, silence your phone, and save the phone calls for the platform. It's a small thing, but it's noticeable when you're the one breaking the vibe.
Don't expect to tip, and don't be offended if it's turned down
Tipping isn't part of the culture here, and if you try, there's a real chance it gets politely declined. Service workers aren't relying on gratuities, and the idea is that you're already paying for excellent service as part of the price. The one place I'd make an exception is with private tour guides, where a tip is increasingly accepted, especially from international visitors. However, even then, it's optional, not expected.
Ready to Plan Your Japan Trip?
Ryan and I are travel advisors, and we can help you turn all of your Japan ideas into a trip that actually flows. From choosing the right neighborhoods and hotels to booking experiences, mapping out transportation, and deciding how much time to spend in each city, we can help take the research and logistics off your plate. Reach out to us here.
If you would rather plan everything yourself, our Japan guides are here to help you do that too. Either way, the goal is to make your trip feel well planned, personal, and a lot less overwhelming.
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