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Essential Travel Tips for Visiting Japan

Aug 9, 2024

Travel Tips for First-Time Visitors to Japan

Japan is a unique country with diverse attractions. However, navigating through its services and transport can be daunting for first-time visitors. Here are 15 travel tips to enhance your experience.

1. Luggage Delivery Services at Narita Airport

  • Drop off heavy or large luggage at Luggage Delivery counters.
  • Services ship bags to hotels, airports, and private residences.
  • Inform lodgings in advance if staying at smaller establishments.

2. Internet Connectivity

  • Purchase a data SIM or a portable WiFi router at the airport.
  • Booking online in advance can save time upon arrival.

3. Buy an IC Card

  • IC Cards facilitate travel on most public transport in major cities.
  • Rechargeable at ticket machines and convenience stores.
  • Can be used for cashless payments at many shops.
  • Refund available at the end of the trip.

4. Rail Passes

  • Consider purchasing a Japan Rail Pass for cheaper travel.
  • Pick up pre-purchased rail passes at JR East Travel Service Centers in Narita Airport.

5. Getting from Narita Airport to Central Tokyo

  • Options include:
    • JR Narita Express: Fast and direct to Tokyo Station.
    • Keisei Skyliner: Quick to Nippori Station.
    • Keisei Limited Express: Slower, cheaper option.
    • Airport Limousines: Stops at various stations and hotels (expensive).
    • Discount Shuttle Buses: Cheaper but fewer stops.
    • Taxis: Most expensive option.

6. Accommodation in Tokyo

  • Diverse range of accommodations: hotels, capsule hotels, hostels, internet cafes, ryokan.
  • Consider unique options for a memorable experience.

7. Buying Shinkansen Tickets

  • Use the SmartEx app to purchase shinkansen tickets ahead of time.
  • Steps:
    1. Purchase an IC card
    2. Install the SmartEx app
    3. Register your credit card
    4. Connect your IC card to the app
    5. Book your Shinkansen
    6. Use the IC card to tap through gates.

8. Navigating Tokyo Station

  • Follow signs for Tokaido Shinkansen.
  • Purchase tickets at machines or counters before entering the gates.

9. Ekiben Experience

  • Purchase an Ekiben (station food box) before boarding.
  • Great quality, regional specialties presented in decorative packaging.

10. Luggage Storage on Shinkansen

  • Space for luggage available in the train car.
  • Overhead shelves for smaller bags; larger bags can go behind the last row of seats.

11. Restroom Facilities

  • Shinkansen restrooms are clean and free of charge.
  • Toilets are located between cars for easy access.

12. Shinkansen Amenities

  • Amenities include power outlets at seats and food carts offering snacks and beverages.

13. Mount Fuji Views

  • Best views from seat E (or D in Green Class) on clear days.
  • Possible to see Mt. Fuji by standing between train cars.

14. Luggage Upon Arrival

  • Major stations offer luggage storage and delivery services.
  • Coin lockers compatible with IC Cards are available for short-term storage.

15. Accessing Money

  • First opportunity to exchange money at currency facilities in airports.
  • ATMs in banks and convenience stores; post offices and 7/11s generally accept foreign cards.

For more information, visit japan-guide.com. Happy travels!

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