1. Remove your Shoes
Traditionally it’s custom in Japan to remove your shoes before entering into a home, or any location that uses traditional tatami woven straw matting. Don’t forget to pack a pair of shoes that you can slip on and off easily!
2. Bowing
Rather than with handshakes, Japanese traditionally greet each other by bowing. Knowing exactly when and how to bow in a certain situation can seem daunting. Your host may opt for a handshake to avoid any awkward encounters but if someone does greet you with a bow, do your best to offer one in return.
3. Chopstick Etiquette
As if eating with chopsticks wasn’t difficult enough, there are a number of ‘rules’ you should follow to adhere to proper chopstick etiquette. These include: not sticking your chopsticks in a bowl of rice in the vertical position (unless you’re at a funeral!), never rubbing your chopsticks together, and using a chopstick holder when putting your chopsticks next to your bowl or plate.
1. Trains and Subways
Trains and subways are the most common, fast, and convenient way to get around Japan and operate in most major cities. If you plan on visiting a number of different areas within a city in a day, it’s best to get an unlimited travel day ticket – known as ichi-nichi-jōsha-ken in Japanese.
2. Buses
Buses are a less-commonly used form of public transport for tourists in Japan, despite all cities having public bus systems in place. The exception to this is if visiting Kyoto. Tip – you’ll need to enter the bus from the back!
3. Taxis
Japan taxi’s run on a meter and fares are fairly standard across cities; with most taxis accepting credit cards. If the taxi light is red it means it is not available, well a green light indicates it is free.
Spring
Spring in Japan lasts from about mid- March through till May. This period is most famous for cherry blossom season, where you can experience hanami (cherry blossom viewing). This also means it’s the most popular time for travel in Japan, which may mean more expensive accommodation, and crowds.
Summer
Summer in Japan is hot and humid, with the season starting in June and ending around September. It’s also known as the season of festivals, with many traditional celebrations taking place during this period.
If you’re looking to escape the heat, head to the Japanese Alps, Tohoku (northern Japan), and Hokkaido, where activities like hiking are popular and temperatures are cooler.
Autumn
Lasting from mid-September through to November, autumn boasts some of the most comfortable weather conditions. It’s also koyo season, when foliage turns from green to spectacular hues of red and orange.
Similar to cherry blossom season, koyo attracts large numbers of tourists to Japan. This means an increase in accommodation costs, and a need to plan your trip further in advance.
Winter
Winters in Japan are cold, with temperatures getting to below zero. For snow bunnies, this is the perfect season to hit the slopes. High snowfall in mountain regions like Hokkaido makes Japan a popular winter sports destination.
Other popular winter activities include experiencing an outdoor onsen, and getting the chance to see the Sumo grand tournament in January. Winter in Japan lasts from December through to February.
Before travelling to Japan, make sure you buy Japanese yen so you can arrive prepared with enough cash to last your trip
Buy Japanese Yen