Japan Travel
Concierge

Look for plastic food displays (食品サンプル) outside restaurants — they show exact portions and prices. Many places have picture menus.

At shrines: bow before passing through the torii. At temples: remove shoes before entering buildings. Photography is usually OK outdoors but often restricted inside.

Wash thoroughly at the shower station BEFORE entering any bath. Tattoos may be restricted — look for 'tattoo-friendly' (タトゥーOK) signs. Swimsuits are NOT worn. Small towels shouldn't touch the water. Typical price: ¥600–¥2,000.

Show your passport at stores with 'Tax Free' signs to get a 10% consumption tax refund on purchases over ¥5,000.

Japanese konbini are amazing! Withdraw cash (7-Eleven ATMs accept most foreign cards), buy tickets, print documents, send luggage, eat great meals. Open 24/7.

Google Maps works great for Japanese trains! Shows real-time delays, platform numbers, and fare. Consider a Suica/Pasmo IC card or Japan Rail Pass.

Taxi doors open and close AUTOMATICALLY — don't touch them! No tipping. Base fare ¥500-710. Most accept credit cards and IC cards.

You can send luggage from any convenience store or hotel to your next destination via Yamato (Kuroneko 🐱). Costs ¥1,500-2,500 per bag. Takes 1-2 days. Great for shinkansen trips!

7-Eleven ATMs are the most reliable for foreign cards. Japan is still largely cash-based — always carry ¥10,000-20,000. Tax-free shopping requires passport + ¥5,000 minimum purchase.

Most convenience stores and train stations have free Wi-Fi. For reliable internet, get an eSIM (no physical card needed) or pocket WiFi before arrival via Klook.

JNTO Tourist Helpline (0570-000-911) provides 24/7 English support. Drug stores like Matsumoto Kiyoshi carry common medicines. Travel insurance strongly recommended — Japanese hospitals require upfront payment.

If you lose your passport, contact your embassy immediately. Most are in Tokyo but have consulates in Osaka, Nagoya, Fukuoka, and Sapporo.