Jon DeHart - Japan Expert
Jon is the author of the Japan guidebook series for Moon Travel Guides. He has lived in Tokyo for more than a decade. He’ll be your on-the- ground expert as you are in the travel planning stages and while you are in-country.
Japan Tour Information
At Journey Beyond Travel, we get lots of questions all the time about Japan. We try to keep this list updated so that you can get an understanding about how we run our Japan tours. We are different from a lot of other tour operators and pride ourselves on our dedicated staff and deep knowledge of the country. Find out how you can customize your tour for a bespoke experience tailored to your travel needs. Read through these common questions we get as our answers may help you decide if we are the best tour operator for you!
Please reach out and send us an email if you have any questions at all!
What kind of tours do you organize?
At Journey Beyond Travel, we work closely with discerning travelers from all corners of the globe to design private, bespoke and highly flexible Japan tours. We craft journeys that align with your schedule, interests and travel style, with a finely tuned sense for where to eat, stay and more. In practice, this means helping you strike the best balance of activities, experiences and downtime, combined with a healthy mix of the country’s greatest hits and strategically picked points beyond the tourist trail. We encourage independent exploration, but also time spent with knowledgeable guides in places where a bit of extra context goes a long way. We carefully structure each tour to include the right amount of each.
What kind of transportation do you use on your trips?
With one of the world’s most convenient public train systems, Japan is an ideal place to explore by rail, whether by slow local carriage or speedy bullet train. We offer a rechargeable smart card, known as an IC card in Japan, with all of our tours. These touch cards can be used to ride on all local, rapid and express trains, as well as subway systems in most cities. These nifty cards can be recharged any time you are running low on funds at one of the IC card vending machines at any station. The added bonus of having an IC card is that you can use it at vending machines inside stations and to make purchases at many convenience stores, whether inside a station or deep in a residential area. In addition, we offer baggage transfers, private airport transfer, and helpful summaries for how to navigate all train journeys for your trip.
Do you recommend getting a Japan Rail (JR) Pass?
One important caveat on the IC card: It doesn’t cover trips on the iconic shinkansen (bullet train) or limited express trains. To board one of these faster trains, you’ll either need to buy a ticket in advance or have the JR Rail Pass. This popular pass can be purchased for either one, two, or three weeks, during which pass holders can freely travel on all JR lines, including shinkansen, as well as local buses in the JR network nationwide and the JR-West ferry that runs to Miyajima. Simply flash the pass to the staff each time you pass through the ticket gates at any JR station, bus station, or ferry terminal in the case of Miyajima, and hop aboard. The question of whether to get a JR Pass depends on the details of a given itinerary, as some routes will make it a wise choice, while for others, it doesn’t result in any savings. Along with other key details of your trip, we help determine whether the JR Pass is right for you.
Can I join a group tour of Japan with you?
While we don’t arrange group tours to Japan, we welcome solo travelers to contact us. That said, if we happen to known of any other independent travelers who would be open to traveling with a partner, we will gladly introduce them. Most of the time, however, it makes more sense for independent travelers to venture out on their own, and we have experience with arranging epic solo journeys across the country. Just be aware that traveling in Japan isn’t necessarily cheap, and it tends to be a bit more expensive when going it alone.
When is the best time to travel in Japan?
Broadly speaking, spring (roughly late-March through mid-June) and autumn (October through early December) are the most pleasant times of year to visit, and are consequently, the most popular. Less hectic months include June, the dead of summer (July, August besides the mid-month Obon holidays, and September), and December. January through March is low season for most of the country, and the nation all but shuts down for several days on either side of New Year, when businesses grind to a temporary halt. One other period to avoid planning travel is during the nationwide Golden Week holidays (April 29-May 5), when domestic travelers squeeze in as much travel as they can. That said, Japan is truly a year-round destination, with each season offering its own draw, from summertime’s heaving traditional festivals to wintertime’s abundant chances for snow sports in the mountains.
What is the weather like in Japan?
Most of Japan has four distinct seasons, interspersed by a few rainy periods, specifically in June when tsuyu (rainy season) hits and from roughly September through early October when typhoons periodically whip through the islands. That said, the country’s diverse geography means the climate varies. Spring begins to creep northward to central Japan in early to mid-March and tends to be cool (8-24°C/46-75°F in Tokyo)—gradually warming through April and May—with patches of rain. Cherry blossoms usually start to bloom from late March in Tokyo. Most of Japan is wet throughout June, when the hit-and-miss tsuyu (rainy season) takes hold. Overcast skies with patches of rain and the occasional all-day shower are the norm during this period, though there are plenty of sunny days in between, too. From July through September, things can be downright stifling, with furnace-like temperatures (23 38°C/73-100°F in Tokyo) and high humidity throughout much of the country. In September and early October, it’s possible for typhoons to make landfall through the country, with torrential rain and even devastating floods on occasion. These extreme cases aside, it’s perfectly safe to travel during this time of year. Just be sure to keep an eye on the weather forecast if you’ll be in the country then. Autumn proper starts from around early October and lasts through the first half of December for much of the country (10 22°C/50- 72°F in Tokyo). Winter sets in from mid-December through mid-March (2-12°C/36-54°F in Tokyo). The Pacific side of Japan is cold, dry, and crisp, with clear skies and little snow, while large swathes of the Sea of Japan coastline, all of Hokkaido and the country’s central mountains get inundated with snow. By contrast, down south, Okinawa’s average annual temperatures are similar to those of Miami. Information on weather, earthquakes, and more is available in English on the website of the Japan Meteorological Agency. The same information is also disseminated by the national broadcaster, NHK, in up to 18 different languages on their NHK World website.
Do you recommend coming for cherry blossoms in spring or to see the changing leaves in autumn?
Japan’s most famous seasonal draw is hanami (cherry blossom viewing), when picnics are thrown in parks nationwide every spring, with viewing autumn leaves being a close second. While both seasons are admittedly beautiful, hotspots like Kyoto resemble Disneyland during these peak periods. As such, accommodations during these times must be booked well in advance (no less than six months ahead). If you’re really keen to experience the country during either of these popular times, we will gladly recommend some places off the beaten path that you might not have known about otherwise to experience these two special seasons with fewer crowds.
Where can I find a map of Japan and learn more about tourism in the country?
The Japan National Tourism Organization (JNTO) provides an interactive map that nicely breaks down the country by region. It also includes a variety of tourism activities and information about key destinations in each region. To explore this useful map, click here.
Is Japan a safe country to travel?
Japan sets a high benchmark for cleanliness and safety. Your chances of encountering any serious physical danger in the country are very low. In fact, Japan is blessed with some of the lowest crime rates in the world. Still, resist the temptation to lull yourself into a false sense of security. One common crime is drink spiking, which occurs routinely in small, dodgy corners of select nightlife zones such as parts of Tokyo’s Roppongi and Kabukicho districts. If you happen to go out in one of these two areas, keep an eye on your drink to be safe. Also, never follow a tout into any establishment in either neighborhood. Being caught up in a natural disaster is more likely than falling victim to a crime in Japan. Foremost, there are regular earthquakes, which are usually small, but the “big one” always looms. If you happen to be unlucky enough to be in the country when the next big one strikes, drop close to the ground, cover your head and neck—either under a table or under your backpack; whatever is at hand—and hold onto something to keep your footing steady. Typhoons, as well as occasional landslides, volcanic eruptions, extreme heat waves at the peak of summer, and occasional snowstorms in the depths of Tohoku and Hokkaido during winter are other potential natural dangers. To call the police about a crime or accident, dial 110. For English-language help with emergency services assistance, available 24/7, dial 0120/461-997 (link). Alternatively, contact your embassy if you’re not in immediate danger. If you need emergency medical assistance, dial 119. Most operators only speak Japanese, but they will transfer your call to someone who speaks English.
Should I purchase trip insurance for my Japan trip?
In the world of modern travel, it’s a good idea to have travel insurance for your customized Japan tour. We suggest that you purchase cancellation, interruption, and medical insurance that will cover you in the case of an emergency while you are traveling. Once you’ve booked an excursion with our company, we’ll send you the details of some insurance providers that our past clients have recommended for their travels.
Do I need a visa to enter Japan?
Travelers from 68 countries, including the US, Canada, UK, Australia, and New Zealand, as well as most European nations, receive short-term visas on arrival in Japan. The majority of these visas are for 90 days, with extensions of up to 90 days possible for a handful of countries, including the UK, Germany, and Switzerland, with a trip to the immigration office required. For a full list of visa-exempt nations, visit here. Note that South African nationals must apply for a tourist visa at their nearest embassy or consulate. Before traveling to Japan, check your passport’s expiration date. It must be valid for at least six months from the date of your flight and entry into the country. Further, an onward ticket is required to enter the country.
Do I need to tip in Japan?
Many travelers to Japan are shocked to see the amazing levels of service at even the cheapest restaurants. Their amazement only grows when they consider the fact that tips are simply not accepted in Japan. Be aware, however, that some upscale restaurants might add a 10% service charge or a seating charge ranging from ¥200 to upward of ¥1,000 at swankier establishments. There’s one exception to this no-tips rule: ryokan (traditional inns), due to the exceptional hospitality they often provide. Although it’s by no means necessary or expected, upon leaving a high-end ryokan (traditional inn), you can nudge an envelope with a cash tip to the staff if their service truly impresses you. But again, tipping isn’t customary in Japan, so don’t feel pressured to do so.
Should I exchange money before arriving in Japan?
Thanks to ubiquitous ATMs throughout Japan’s major cities, from convenience stores to banks, you’ll likely not have any issue using your debit card at select ATMs, even at the airport upon arriving. Just be aware that making a withdrawal will incur a small fee. That said, to the chagrin of some travelers, some ATMs don’t cooperate quite as readily with foreign-issued cards, even when they bear the logos of Visa, MasterCard, American Express, Plus, or any other major card. A good rule of thumb is to look out for 7-Eleven ATMs (Seven Bank), which tend to be the most accessible for those with overseas cards. Beyond the cities, ATMs are a bit harder to find. If you’re heading into the countryside, withdraw enough cash to cover you until you plan to be back in a larger town. You shouldn’t have any issues exchanging money in most banks, regardless of size. For currency exchange, most banks such as Mizuho, Mitsubishi UFJ, and Sumitomo Mitsui do the job, but only on weekdays 9am-3pm. If you need to exchange currency, it’s best to handle it upon arriving at an international airport.
Where can I learn more about Japan travel?
A great starting point is the Moon Japan country guidebook or Moon Tokyo, Kyoto and Hiroshima guide, both written by our Japan destination expert. Trusty online resources include Wikipedia, for a thorough rundown on the country’s basics; Wiki Travel, which presents a view of the country through a travel lens; and UNESCO, which details Japan’s 25 properties on the World Heritage list. The official portal of the Japan National Tourism Organization (JNTO) and well-curated Japan Guide website are also excellent online resources with a travel focus. Given the unique challenges that come with traveling Japan, we highly recommend considering the option of building a customized trip with us. Feel free to get in touch with us about this process and we’d be delighted to discuss what a bespoke journey to the country would look like for you.
Some of our Favorite Japan Tours
We’ve got some great Japan tours we’ve developed over the years. These are some of our favorites. And, while many tour operators have similar routes, it’s really the inner-workings and attention to detail that truly matter and make our Japan tours stand out.
Eclectic Japan
This Japan itinerary highlights the best of the country including Tokyo, Kyoto, and Hiroshima. Many companies attempt this route, only a few do it superbly! You can also do this trip in reverse if you are starting in Tokyo.
The Golden Route
This Japan tour takes you on the classic route that we’ve filled with hidden delights.
Our Trip Testimonials
Read what our clients are saying about our tours. We work endlessly to ensure that those who travel with our team have an unparalleled experience. Take a look at the reviews of our private trips. And, if you’d like to talk to one of our past travelers, just let us know!
“Journey Beyond Travel is an exceptional organization that has a deep passion for the people and experiences throughout Morocco. They work with friendly, competent, intelligent guides and drivers. I strongly recommend JBT for anyone who wants a fantastic Morocco tour!” –Danielle & Family, USA
“We would thoroughly recommend Journey Beyond Travel to any of our family or friends who are considering a tour to Morocco. Through the attention to detail, passion and professionalism displayed by their knowledgeable team, we had a wonderful experience!” –Diana & Margaret, Australia
“Journey Beyond Travel is an exceptional company that has a deep passion for the people and experiences throughout Morocco. They have friendly, competent, intelligent guides and drivers. I strongly recommend their Morocco tours for anyone bringing their family!” –Shumon & Family, India
Japan Travel Information
We hope that as you prepare for your personalized Japan tour that you’ll be able to use our website as a handy reference. We’ve got all sorts of information to share here with you about Japan! Enjoy learning and feel free to check out our blog for more information, articles, and videos to help you prepare for your travels through Japan. This information, among other details, will be sent to you in a packet before your Japan vacation begins.
Introduction to Japan
Japan is a constitutional monarchy with a parliamentary system. The government is led by Prime Minister Fumio Kishida, who took the place of Yoshihide Suga in October 2021. According to the postwar constitution, the emperor is head of state, but is restricted from participating in politics. Emperor Akihito shocked the nation in August 2016 when he expressed his desire to abdicate: the first time this had been done in about two centuries. The Heisei era, which began on January 8, 1989, finally ended on April 30, 2019, when Crown Prince Naruhito officially ascended to the throne to become the 126th emperor of Japan, marking the start of the Reiwa period. Naruhito broke with tradition in a number of ways, from studying at Oxford to marrying a commoner, Empress Masako (nee Owada).
Pacifism is another key element of the constitution. Japan is banned from having atomic weaponry or maintaining a standing army, although it does maintain self-defense forces, which in recent years have gone on missions abroad but never engaged in combat. Japanese society is exceptionally homogenous, with less than 2 percent being foreign-born. There is a strong sense of social harmony in the country, which is blessed with some of the lowest crime rates in the world, making it an exceptionally safe place to travel in. While a glance at the average corporate board will reveal a trend of male-dominance, women have gained stronger footing in recent decades. Although sometimes criticized for promoting rote learning over creative thinking, the education system is highly effective and the population boasts a 99% literacy rate and a consistently high employment rate.
Alongside being well educated, Japanese are legendarily polite, gracious hosts. When greeting someone in Japan, lightly bow and offer a friendly yoroshiku onegaishimasu. But don’t be shocked if you are simply met with a handshake, which is commonly offered to foreign guests. The one thing you want to avoid doing is embracing or kissing on the cheek Mediterranean-style. Ask before taking photos of people. Not only out of courtesy, but also the law. Taking photos in which people in public spaces are visibly recognizable and publishing them without their permission is illegal. Also, watch out for places, especially at museums and religious structures, where photography is often forbidden. When it comes to attire, aim to dress slightly more formally than you might be used to. Japanese tend to be quite dapper and, cutting edge trendsters aside, modest. You’ll notice that many men wear suits, especially while working, while women tend to dress in classic cuts.
When it comes to religion, there’s a saying that most Japanese are born Shinto, are (sometimes) married Christian (aesthetically, anyway), and die Buddhist. In many ways, this truism is a good summary of the nation’s spiritual life, which is highly pragmatic and involves a lot of mixing. From a Judeo-Christian or Western perspective, religion is a slippery concept in Japan. Today, ask someone in Japan if they’re religious and chances are they’ll say they’re not. Many will go as far as saying that Japan as a whole is not a very religious country. Yet, you won’t have to look far to see throngs at Buddhist temples where they wave holy incense smoke around their heads and bodies, or at Shinto shrines where they toss coins into wooden boxes, ring bells to summon the resident kami (god), bow, clap their hands, and pray.
Ancient, sometimes rowdy festivals (matsuri), tied to more primal matters such as the harvest, are important social rituals on the annual calendar, which is neatly delineated into four distinct seasons. Many of these celebrations have roots in Shinto, focused on the here and now: births, blessings, rites of passage. Buddhist events tend to be more sober affairs, with graveyards often situated next to temples. Especially in rural Japan, it’s common to see a small Buddhist altar, known as a butsudan, prominently displayed in a family’s living space. These miniature altars, which often contain statues of the Buddha or various deities and scrolls inscribed with sacred text, are meant to honor deceased loved ones.
Perhaps Japan’s most widely observed religious holiday––and one of the busiest times for domestic travel––is the Buddhist festival of Obon, celebrated in July or August, depending on the region. During this time, ancestors who have passed on are believed to return to the land of the living, guided on their journey by lanterns festooned in front of homes and around towns. Dances are performed at local festivals by everyone from children to the elderly, and people tend to the graves of their ancestors and leave offerings of food at temples and home altars. True to Japan’s knack for balancing ancient tradition with the cutting-edge present, ancient traditions tend to follow the lunar calendar, but daily life otherwise follows the solar, Gregorian calendar, in sync with the rest of the modern world.
Japan Country Facts
OFFICIAL NAME: Japan
CAPITAL CITY: Tokyo
GOVERNMENT: Constitutional Monarchy
RULER: Prim Minister Fumio Kishida
GEOGRAPHIC LOCATION: East Asia; shares no land borders, but shares maritime borders with Russia, North Korea, South Korea, China, Taiwan, the Philippines and Northern Marinara Islands (US)
GEOGRAPHY: Mountains, Volcanoes, Alluvial Plains, Beaches, Forests, Gorges, Valleys, Volcanic Crater Lakes
BODIES OF WATER: Pacific Ocean, Sea of Japan, Inland Sea
POPULATION: 125 million
AREA: 377,915 sq km / 145,914 sq miles (about the size of Germany or California)
COASTLINE: 27,000 km / 16,777 miles
LANGUAGES: Japanese
ETHNICITY: Japanese, Ainu, Korean
RELIGION: Shinto (70.5%); Buddhist (67.2%); Christian (1.5%), Other (5.9%)
LITERACY RATE: 99% Unemployment Rate: 2.8%
CURRENCY: Japanese Yen (JPY)
ANNUAL PER CAPITA GNP: $36,000
ARABLE LAND: 20%
IRRIGATED ARABLE LAND: 35% of total agricultural land
FORESTS: 67%
AGRICULTURE: Wheat, barley, corn, potatoes, tomatoes, citrus fruits, olives; livestock
NATURAL RESOURCES: Phosphates, iron ore, manganese, lead, zinc, fish, salt
INDUSTRIES: Textiles, tourism, food processing, phosphate, construction
NUMBER OF TOURISTS IN 2019: 31.9 million
LARGEST CITIES: Tokyo (9.3 million); Yokohama (3.7 million); Osaka (2.7 million); Nagoya (2.3 million); Sapporo (1.9 million); Fukuoka (1.5 million)
TIME ZONE: GMT+9
TELEPHONE COUNTRY CODE: +81
CLIMATE: Coast of Honshu, Shikoku and Kyushu: mild & humid (snowy on west side of Honshu and dry on east side of Honshu during winter); Hokkaido: Northern Temperate Zone (akin to New England); Okinawa and southwest islands: subtropical; Mountains of Honshu and Hokkaido: cold & snowy; Average Winter Temp: 3°C/37°F; Average Summer Temp: 27°C/80°F
HOTTEST CITY: Kumagaya (Greater Tokyo area) – There’s really no hard and fast rule for this, as I’m sure somewhere like Naha, Okinawa, is hotter on average than all of the rest of Japan. But Kumagaya, just north of Tokyo, has a reputation as being ‘the hottest’—at least during summer.
COLDEST CITY: Sapporo
BEST TIMES TO VISIT: late March through May; October through November
JAPANESE PEOPLE: Respectful; genuine; hospitable; generous; conscientious; attentive to detail; curious about the outside world; reserved at first, but friendly and open after a few drinks.
Geography
Despite the insistence of many Japanese people, their country is not a small place. At 377,915 square km (145,914 square mi), it’s a bit larger than Germany and slightly smaller than California. From the northeastern tip of Hokkaido to far southwestern Okinawa, the bow of islands extends 3,008 km (1,869 mi), or roughly the same length, north to south, as the continental US. This gives the country a wide range of climates and landscapes, and a vast coastline. With so much natural splendor, it’s no surprise that Japan is home to 33 national parks. The first was created in 1934, following the birth of mountaineering among Japanese in the early 20th century.
Perhaps the most constant feature is the ocean. The Sea of Japan lies to the west, with the Korean peninsula and China on the other side. The lack of land borders has allowed Japan to develop its unique cultural universe. All told, some 27,000 km (16,777 mi) of coastline encircle these islands. Inland, the landscape is roughly 70-80 percent mountainous, pushing people and agriculture to the coastal fringes, comprising 20-30 percent of the land. Thousands of islands comprise Japan, but four make up the bulk of the landmass: the main island of Honshu; Hokkaido in the north, which is roughly the size of Ireland; and bordering the Inland Sea with Western Honshu in the nation’s southwest: rustic Shikoku and volcanic Kyushu.
Jagged peaks and foothills swathed in dense forest dot the sparsely populated natural wonderland of Hokkaido in the north. Honshu’s geographic heart is in the Japan Alps (North, Central, and Southern), where you’ll find most of the nation’s tallest peaks, some of which top 3,000 meters (9,800 feet). Elsewhere on Honshu are the Hida and Kiso ranges, as well as Japan’s tallest and one of the world’s most recognizable peaks, the sublime Mount Fuji (3,776 meters/12,388 feet). As you move southwest or northeast of Honshu, the mountains dip to rolling foothills. Down south, Shikoku is shot through with more modest peaks, while craggy Kyushu is awash in volcanic activity.
Geothermal activity is rife in the country. Part of the Ring of Fire, Japan is located directly on the Pacific Plate ridgeline. The country’s share of volcanic eruptions and earthquakes attest to that fact. Even Fuji itself is a volcano, which last erupted in 1707. All told, about 70 volcanoes dot Japan, including the famed cones of Aso-san and Sakurajima on Kyushu. Cataclysmic eruptions are rare, but even minor flare-ups have caused deaths, such as the unexpected eruption of Mount Ontake on September 27, 2014. Eruptions are but a side note for most Japanese, however, who take advantage of the country’s intense geothermal activity by periodically plunging into the waters of a hot onsen bath.
The vast majority of Japan has four neatly delineated seasons, but there are variations. The northern extremities of the country, particularly Hokkaido, fall into the Northern Temperate Zone, producing conditions similar to those of New England. Meanwhile, Okinawa and much of the far southwest enjoy subtropical warmth most of the year. This wide range of geography and climatic zones allows for a diverse range of experiences, from skiing in the Japan Alps in winter to scuba diving in Okinawa’s cyan-colored waters come summertime.
Money & Shopping
ATMs are on nearly every corner in the downtown of most big cities. Give a pre-trip travel notice to your card provider, and you’ll likely not have an issue using your card at select ATMs. Be aware that making a withdrawal may incur a small fee. A good rule of thumb is to look out for 7-Eleven ATMs (Seven Bank), which tend to be the most accessible for those with overseas cards. Beyond the cities, ATMs are a bit harder to find. If you’re heading into the countryside, withdraw enough cash to cover you until you plan to be back in a larger town. You shouldn’t have any issues exchanging money in most banks, regardless of size.
Japan is quite slow to the credit card game. A surprising number of smaller businesses still only accept cash, although major department stores, large hotels and similarly sized businesses usually do accept credit and debit cards. To be safe, plan on paying for the bulk of your trip with cash. That said, there is a growing trend toward cashless payments, so having a credit or debit card on hand for such occasions is similarly wise. Traveler’s checks aren’t generally accepted.
While haggling is alive and well in many other parts of Asia, it’s not commonly done in Japan. The one exception might be if you happen to find yourself at, say, a flea market or a privately owned, specialist shop. If you find yourself in such a casual context, you can gently ask if a discount might be possible if you pay in cash, thus avoiding the potential for credit card fees. But be prepared to simply pay the sticker price in basically all shopping situations.
Internet, Phone, Post, and Health
Despite its high-tech reputation, finding Wi-Fi in Japan can be a challenge. It’s often available in cafés, at some restaurants, and even in some public spaces (at train stations, etc.), but it tends to be slow or require an inconvenient amount of hoop-jumping to get what is often only 30 minutes to 1 hour of very patchy access. As a saving grace, most accommodations do offer some form of internet, whether Wi-Fi in the rooms or (bare minimum) a shared computer for emails and basic web surfing in a shared lounge.
The best way around this is to rent a pocket Wi-Fi router for internet access when you’re on the go. The best pocket Wi-Fi provider is Ninja WiFi (https://ninjawifi.com). Conveniently, it’s possible to rent a Ninja WiFi pocket router along with a Japan Rail (JR) Pass, allowing you to pick up both of them at once at the airport or have them delivered to your accommodation. You can read more about this option at www.jrpass.com/pocket-wifi. It’s safe to travel with a smartphone, tablet or laptop.
Assuming you have a cell phone that is both unlocked and works on a Japanese network, you can also buy a prepaid Japan SIM card for it. Note that SIM cards on offer for foreign travelers often only allow for data usage. This means you’d only be able to make voice calls on internet-based apps like Skype and WhatsApp. If your phone has Wi-Fi connectivity, of course you’ll be able to access the internet anytime you have Wi-Fi access.
The best prepaid card on offer right now is available through Mobal (www.mobal.com). You’ll get unlimited cellular data, English-language support, and the ability to make and receive voice calls—a rarity among the main prepaid SIM card options—for any plan above the 30-day option. They send their SIM cards worldwide, so you can place your order and receive it before ever setting foot on a plane. Alternatively, you can reserve in advance, then fetch it on arrival at the airport.
For something a bit less expensive, but without voice calls and with limits on data usage, vending machines stocked with U-Mobile SIM cards (for one or two weeks) are found scattered around Narita Airport. You can also just walk into a major electronics shop (Bic Camera, Yodobashi Camera, Labi) and pick up a store-branded prepaid SIM card with limited data and no voice calls.
Japan’s country code is +81 (0081). When it comes to voltage, 100V is the norm, unlike the 110-120V standard for the US or Europe’s 220-230V. That said, the plugs are the same type as those used in the US, with two flat prongs. Bring a plug adapter from home if you’re traveling from a country with a different system. You can check if you’ll need an adapter at https://world-power-plugs.com/japan.
Post offices are widespread throughout Japan, as are red post boxes often seen sitting beside the road. Japan Post (www.post.japanpost.jp/index_en.html) runs a useful English-language website where you can search for the nearest post office. It’s easy to send letters, postcards, and packages anywhere on the globe for reasonable rates from any Japan Post branch. You’ll have the option of attaching a tracking number to your shipment and more.
If you need emergency medical assistance, dial 119. Most operators only speak Japanese, but they will transfer your call to someone who speaks English. Japanese hospitals and clinics, readily available even in small towns, only accept Japanese medical insurance. Foreigners will generally be asked to pay upfront and claim it back after returning home. Just be sure to get medical/travel insurance before your trip. If you do find yourself in need of medical assistance, the standard of care is high, but little English is spoken. Large university-affiliated hospitals, typically in major cities, tend to have more English-speaking doctors on staff, as do pricey international clinics, which are also usually in urban centers.
To be on the safe side, bring all medicines with you that you may need during your trip, preferably in the original packaging. Pharmacies (yakyoku) are plentiful—simply look for the internationally recognizable red cross symbol out front—but there are fewer over-the-counter medicines in Japan than overseas. In a pinch, most pharmacists can usually speak limited English and will likely be able to read and write some, too. On that subject, certain antidepressants and painkillers, which are mostly legal overseas, are illegal in Japan unless they’re under a certain strength. To learn more, read the information on classes of drugs and how to bring those that are legal into the country, as explained by the Ministry of Health, Labour and Welfare (www.mhlw.go.jp/english/policy/health-medical/pharmaceuticals/01.html).
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