First-Time Travel to Japan: Everything You Need to Know 🇯🇵
- Nikol Allee
- Jan 26
- 11 min read
Tokyo is my favorite city in the world!
I was lucky enough to spend an entire month there — and it’s also where I got engaged, right in the middle of the iconic Shibuya Scramble Crossing.
If someone asked me to name one must visit destination in the world, this would be my choice — every single time. Out of all the places I’ve traveled, Tokyo is the one city that would genuinely entice me to pack up the house, the family, including my angels "the kitties", and move.
During my month there, we truly did everything. Karaoke with new friends is absolutely a thing and the live music and food scene is incredible. We experienced exceptional dining experiences like being served by ninjas and eating fugu (pufferfish), which is known for being deadly if prepared incorrectly, a high-stakes culinary tradition. It’s only served by expertly licensed chefs, which makes the experience feel incredibly intentional. We enjoyed it in a private dining room, adding to the sense of exclusivity.
We enjoyed a baseball game, amusement parks, haunted houses, Izakayas (casual bars), wandered through world-class museums, world-class shopping, shrines, temples and even did unforgettable animal encounters with micro pigs, capybaras and snow monkeys. The list goes on and on as we made the most of every moment!
Japanese baseball is really an experience all its own, even if you’re not normally a sports fan. There are so many cheerleaders, organized chants for both teams and each team has their own live band that play throughout the game, creating nonstop energy. Throughout the stadium, at a Swallows game, fans pull out tiny umbrellas and lift them in perfect unison during chants and home runs, a tradition that’s uniquely Swallows and endlessly charming. It’s joyful, coordinated, and impossible not to smile at. Between the historic stadium and the playful fan rituals, it felt like one of those moments where Japanese sports culture is both deeply rooted and wonderfully whimsical. And of course, like everywhere else in Japan, the Swallows game had it's own adorable details—from cookies and buns embossed with swallows to playful character moments throughout the stadium.
They play at Meiji Jingu Stadium, the oldest professional baseball stadium still in use in Tokyo. Opened in 1926, it has a classic, old-school feel that’s becoming increasingly rare in modern cities. One of its most famous moments dates back to 1934, when Babe Ruth played here during a U.S. tour of Japan, cementing the stadium’s place in baseball history. Attending a game feels less like going to a stadium and more like stepping into a living piece of Tokyo’s sporting past.
One of the most unforgettable experiences of our Japan trip was attending one of the Grand Sumo Tournaments, something we intentionally planned our travels around. With tournaments held only four times a year, it felt like a rare window into a centuries-old tradition.
We splurged on a private box that is typically sold for 4 people, which made the long afternoon far more comfortable and allowed us to truly relax. Vendors throughout the arena sold every kind of food and sake, and since I love sake, being able to sip it from our box felt like such a treat.
What moved me the most were the rituals especially the salt toss, where wrestlers throw salt into the ring to purify it before each match. Watching the salt rise and fall under the lights felt less like a sporting event and more like a sacred ceremony. It was refined, intentional, and deeply moving. It was one of those luxury travel moments that stays with you long after the trip ends.
We also spent a week in Kyoto and took day trips to Yokohama, and Nara (yes, to see the famous bowing deer... be still my heart!) and visited Mount Fuji for an overnight stay where we had a traditional hoto (hearty noodle hot pot) meal served in an iron pot which was enjoyed in a tatami (floor-seated) room with a rustic and homey feel. We took the Mt. Fuji Panoramic Ropeway up to a viewing platform overlooking Lake Kawaguchiko, which is one of the most effortless and scenic ways to take in Mount Fuji. It was wonderful trip and we really enjoyed sipping hot tea and looking at Mt. Fuji from our hotel balcony. We were so fortunate as the Mount Fuji gods truly smiled upon us, giving us a rare, clear view of the mountain. Even more special, we were able to see it for several days from our hotel in Tokyo, a fleeting gift that made the experience feel almost surreal.
We couldn’t resist a stop at Fuji-Q Highland, where we rode Fujiyama, one of Japan’s most iconic roller coasters. The thrill of climbing that first hill and then dropping at full speed with Mount Fuji rising in the distance was absolutely surreal. It’s not every day you get to experience heart-pounding adrenaline paired with one of the world’s most famous views. Equal parts exhilarating and unforgettable, it was one of those “only in Japan” moments we’ll never forget.
The shopping is also incredible and hard to resist. We brought two empty suitcases with us just for this occasion and took advantage of luggage forwarding services which I will talk about below when I finally get to the reason you probably came to this blog. You will find luxury to vintage shopping anywhere you go. Vintage shopping, which is one of my passions, had a surprising amount of men’s vintage, far more than women’s, which is the complete opposite of what you’ll find in the U.S. and this thrilled my husband.
Tokyo isn’t just a city — it’s a place where tradition, creativity, and pure joy coexist effortlessly, and where every traveler can find their own version of magic. Tokyo’s easy access to the rest of Japan with bullet trains and seamless rail connections makes it a perfect destination and an ideal base for exploring beyond the city.
Japan is safe, efficient, and incredibly welcoming, but it operates on etiquette, systems, and small cultural details that can surprise first-time visitors. Knowing these tips ahead of time will make your trip smoother, more comfortable, and far more enjoyable.
This guide covers transportation, money, connectivity, luggage, culture, weather, and the little things travelers are always glad they know.
Transportation & Getting Around
Suica / PASMO (IC Cards)
Suica and PASMO cards are essential in Japan. You can use them for:
Trains and buses
Vending machines
Convenience stores
Some restaurants and shops
When to buy:
The easiest option is to get one once you arrive in Japan at airport or major train stations (we opted for the physical card in case we had phone issues)
Digital Suica / PASMO (Apple Wallet) works well, though some foreign credit cards may have setup issues
Don’t stress about buying in advance — Japan makes this simple on arrival
The Yamanote Line (Tokyo Loop)
If you’re visiting Tokyo, the Yamanote Line is the most important train line to know. It loops around major areas including:
Shibuya
Shinagawa
Shinjuku (Busiest station in the world)
Tokyo Station
Ueno
Akihabara
Ikebukuro
Osaki
Where to Stay
Choose a hotel within 5–7 minutes walking distance of a Yamanote Line station
Location matters more than hotel size in Japan
Staying near this loop saves time, energy, and money
For longer stays or more luggage space choose a hotel with coin-operated laundry
Hotels in Japan tend to be more compact than their U.S. counterparts, with an emphasis on smart design and functionality.
Good to know:
Trains run exactly on time!
Last trains typically run around midnight! (Make sure you get to your last connecting train by midnight!)
Subways get very crowded, especially during peak hours.
Public bathrooms are easy to find in train stations, so always take advantage and use them when you’re there bathrooms are much harder to find while walking around, so plan ahead.
Good backup bathroom options include Starbucks, museums, public parks, and shopping malls.
Carry a small pack of tissues—many bathrooms don’t have paper towels.
Don’t be alarmed if you encounter a Japanese toilet- go ahead and squat!
High-tech bidets are common and many have sound and scent features, which are surprisingly enjoyable.
Wear comfortable shoes. You’ll be walking a lot.
Internet, Phones & Connectivity
Pocket Wi-Fi vs eSIM
Pocket Wi-Fi works well for couples or groups traveling together
Do note that if your group splits up, only one person can take the device — everyone else will be without internet
Pocket Wi-Fi Pro Tips
Bring a portable backup charger (power bank) — battery drains quickly
Charge the device every night
Decide ahead of time who carries it
If your group plans to separate often, consider:
Individual eSIMs
Or pocket Wi-Fi plus one unlocked phone with data as backup
What It Means to Have an Unlocked Phone
An unlocked phone is not tied to one carrier and allows you to:
Use international SIM cards
Use eSIMs
Connect to local networks overseas
Unlocked phones are required for:
eSIMs
Local or international data plans
Check your phone before travel and request an unlock from your carrier if needed.
Battery-Saving Tips
Download maps offline before your trip (by city)
Screenshot hotel addresses and train routes
Use low power mode during long sightseeing days
Money, ATMs & Exchange Rates
Japan is still a cash-friendly country.
Getting Cash
Wait to withdraw cash once you arrive in Japan — rates are usually better than exchanging beforehand
Best ATMs for Foreign Cards
7-Eleven ATMs
Japan Post ATMs
Found at airports, train stations, and convenience stores
Pro Travel Tip: Conversion Rates
When using an ATM:
Always choose JPY / Japan conversion
Decline your bank’s conversion option
Before you travel, check with your bank about:
Foreign transaction fees
Daily ATM withdrawal limits
This small choice can save you a surprising amount of money.
Luggage Transfer
(Highly Recommended)
Japan’s luggage forwarding services (often called TA-Q-BIN or Yamato) are:
Extremely reliable
Very affordable
Exceptionally safe
You can send luggage:
Hotel to hotel
City to city
Bags often arrive next day, allowing you to travel light on trains.
Most hotels will arrange this for you at the front desk.
Extra peace of mind:
Add an AirTag or tracker to your luggage so you can monitor it easily
Convenience Stores Are a Must
Japanese convenience stores are next-level and should not be skipped.
Must-tries:
The famous egg salad sandwich
A can of hot or iced coffee from the drink wall
Pocari Sweat (Japan's go to hydration drink and my personal favorite!)
7-Eleven, Lawson, and FamilyMart offer:
Fresh meals and snacks
Desserts and drinks
Toiletries and essentials (Deodorant can be surprisingly hard to find, so pack it before you go)
24/7 access
Why Japan Feels So Easy & Welcoming
One of the most special parts of Japan is just how kind, polite, and helpful people are even in the most populated city in the world.
Tokyo, despite its size, runs with an efficiency and organization that feels almost unbelievable. Trains run on time, people follow unspoken rules, cities are spotless, and everything just works. It’s proof that a place can be both incredibly busy and deeply calm at the same time.
Many signs, menus, and transit systems are available in English, especially in major cities
And when English isn’t available — charades absolutely works a lot of the time
Any time we looked even a little lost, someone would come over to see if they could help. That level of awareness and kindness makes traveling in Japan feel safe and supported. I felt very comfortable wandering off by myself a few days to go skin care shopping and other things my husband wasn't interested in while he did a few things he wanted to do.
Translation Apps ARe a Game-Changer & Build Real Connection
Having a translation app is invaluable
It doesn’t just help with directions or menus, it allows for real conversations
Using translation apps helped us build genuine relationships with people we met along the way from band members and shop owners to fellow karaoke singers.
Japan may be the most populated city center in the world, but it’s also one of the cleanest, most polite, and most thoughtfully organized places you’ll ever visit.
Japan may feel intimidating at first, but it’s one of the easiest places in the world to connect with others.
Culture, Events & Experiences
Sumo is seasonal — major tournaments only happen certain months and cities
Shrines and temples have etiquette: quiet voices, bowing, hand washing
Onsen (hot springs) may restrict tattoos (some allow cover stickers)
Music & Nightlife
Live music often starts early and on time (around 6–7 pm)
Music venues are frequently:
Underground
On upper floors
Minimally marked
This is intentional and tied to Japan’s strict sound regulations. Always check venue websites and maps carefully.
❌ Important “No’s” in Japan
No tipping — excellent service is expected
No eating or drinking while walking
No phone calls on public transport
No loud talking on trains, elevators, or indoors
No jaywalking
No shoes indoors (homes, ryokan, temples, some restaurants)
Few public trash cans — and absolutely no littering
Cleanliness & Everyday Etiquette
Despite very few trash cans, Japan is one of the cleanest countries in the world
Carry a small bag for trash in your "fanny pack", purse, or backpack
People line up for everything
Stand on the correct side of escalators (varies by city). We would just follow what the majority was doing
Cash is still widely used
Weather in Japan (Very Important)
Japan’s seasons are beautiful — and extreme. Planning around weather matters.
Spring (Mar–May)
Cherry blossoms
Mild but sometimes chilly
Peak crowds and pricing
Summer (Jun–Aug)
Very hot and humid
Rainy season in June
Heat exhaustion is common
Lightweight clothing and hydration are essential
Fall (Sep–Nov)
One of the best times to visit
Comfortable temperatures
Fall foliage
Winter (Dec–Feb)
Cold but dry in major cities
Heavy snow in northern regions
Excellent ski season
Pro tip: Always check weather by city, not country-wide, and pack layers.
🚕 Taxis in Japan
(Very Common & Reliable)
Taxis are everywhere, especially in cities
They are:
Extremely safe
Very clean
Professionally run
Doors often open automatically — don’t touch them
How to Get a Taxi
Flag one down on the street
Find them waiting at taxi stands near stations and hotels
Ask your hotel to call one for you
💡 Important: Always have your destination written in Japanese to show the driver.
🗺️ Hotel Names & Addresses in the Local Language (Very Important)
When traveling internationally, it’s incredibly helpful to have your hotel name and full address written in the local language so you can show it to a taxi driver or ride share.
Instead of trying to pronounce it, you can simply say:
“I have the hotel name and address written here.”
And then show them your phone or a printed card.
🇯🇵 Why This Matters in Japan
Addresses can be confusing, even for locals
Pronunciation is difficult for visitors
Taxi drivers strongly prefer written information
What to Do Before You Go
Save your hotel’s name and address in Japanese
Screenshot it and keep it available offline
Grab a hotel business card when you check in — most Japanese hotels provide one automatically
Easy Ways to Get the Address
Hotel website (local-language version)
Google Maps (local language view)
Booking confirmation
Ask the hotel front desk to write it down for you
🏁 Final Pro Tips
Hotel location matters more than hotel size
Follow local cues — Japan rewards respectful travelers
Slow down and enjoy the details
Traveling to Japan for the first time can feel overwhelming, but with a little preparation, it becomes one of the most rewarding destinations in the world.
My goal is to help travelers discover one of the most beautiful places on earth, with its extraordinary people, rich culture, and thoughtful traditions — and to experience Japan in a way that feels effortless, respectful, and unforgettable.
I’ll also be sharing a series on traveling through Tokyo, which is broken up into 23 prefectures that function like New York City boroughs. Tackling a prefecture at a time is one of the easiest and most efficient ways to explore the city without backtracking, and each area has its own personality, food scene, and must-see experiences. Those deep dives on the prefectures we explored will be coming in future blog posts for anyone who wants to explore Tokyo thoughtfully and intentionally.
Japan is an unforgettable destination, but the little details can make a big difference—especially on your first visit. From navigating trains to knowing what to pack, having someone guide you through the planning takes the stress out and lets you fully enjoy the experience. If Japan is on your bucket list, I’d love to help you plan a trip that fits you—your travel style, pace, and must-see spots.
📩 Contact me:
Nikol Allee
Alleeways Travel
+1-(317)-828-4950
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