Japan Travel Guide

Cards are common in larger cities, but cash is still useful for small businesses, rural areas and some transit situations. Seven Bank and Japan Post Bank ATMs are widely used by international visitors; carry a backup card and avoid relying on one payment method.

Prepaid IC cards such as Suica and PASMO can make local rail and bus travel much simpler. They also work at many convenience stores, vending machines, lockers and some taxis—but not everywhere. Check the operator, keep enough balance and carry cash for physical-card top-ups where required.

Convenience stores are useful for drinks, snacks, simple meals, cash machines and basic travel supplies. Many operate late or around the clock, but services vary by branch. Supermarkets can be better value for picnic supplies; check local closing times rather than assuming 24-hour opening.

For non-urgent needs, ask your hotel or a pharmacy for local guidance. Bring prescription medicine in its original packaging with supporting documentation where appropriate, and check Japan’s rules for any controlled medicine well before departure.

Japan uses 100V electricity and Type A plugs. Eastern Japan uses 50Hz and western Japan uses 60Hz, so check that higher-power appliances are compatible and bring an adapter. For long rail days, a power bank is useful; some newer Shinkansen seats have outlets.

Install your eSIM on Wi-Fi before you leave and confirm your phone is unlocked. Download offline maps, save hotel names and addresses in Japanese where possible, and keep eSIM activation details, insurance and passport copies accessible without a data connection.

Conditions vary greatly by region and season. Pack layers, comfortable walking shoes and rain protection; summer heat can be intense and August–September can bring typhoons. Check regional forecasts, warnings and transport notices, especially before mountain or island trips.

Japan is generally very safe, but earthquakes, typhoons and service disruption can happen. Follow local instructions, keep a charged phone and portable battery, and know your accommodation address. A local koban (police box) can help if you are lost or need assistance.

Call 110 for police and 119 for fire or ambulance. JNTO’s 24-hour Japan Visitor Hotline is 050-3816-2787 in Japan (+81-50-3816-2787 from overseas) for tourist information and support during accidents, illness or natural disasters.

Queue where marked, keep calls quiet on public transport, take rubbish with you until you find a bin, and follow photography signs. Do not eat while walking where it is discouraged—at Kyoto’s Nishiki Market, use designated eating spaces. At shrines and temples, follow posted rules and dress respectfully.

Large luggage can be awkward on busy trains and in compact hotels. Travel light where you can; use station lockers when available, and consider luggage-delivery services between airports, hotels or your next city. Reserve space on busy services when required and check the operator’s current rules.

Major stations commonly have lifts and accessible facilities, but older streets, smaller stations and historic sites can involve steps or uneven surfaces. Check each attraction and hotel directly for current step-free access, lift availability, stroller storage and family-room facilities.

Tax-free rules and eligible purchases can change. Carry your passport when shopping, ask the retailer before you pay, and keep any documents or sealed goods as instructed. Check the official guidance for the latest conditions rather than relying on older online advice.

Opening days and hours vary by attraction, restaurant and region. Reserve high-demand restaurants, timed entries and popular rail seats early; on arrival days, check the final train or coach before leaving the airport, especially during holidays, weekends and poor weather.