Read this before visiting Japan: Beginners Guide and Travel Tips to know for First time Travellers

Hey, planning your first trip to Japan? These essential Japan travel tips for first-time travellers will help you save money, navigate trains, book tickets, driving license, etiquettes and explore like a local. Also hopefully make your journey smoother, stress-free, and unforgettable.

After returning from an amazing holiday in Japan , and it truly was a dream holiday! It took me 5 months mainly out of excitement to curate what I should prepare for this holiday.

I received Japan travel tips such as reservations, things to look out for, received advice from friends who lived there and then, of course, experiencing it yourself! That’s when you realise no matter how long you prepare, there will be things that surprise you along the way!

What do know Before you land in Japan

Planning a trip to Japan is exciting but a little preparation beforehand can make your arrival to Japan much smoother and stress free.

Passport and Entry Rules

If you’re travelling from places like the UK, US, Canada, Australia, or most of Europe, you can usually enter Japan without a visa for stays of up to 90 days. Still, it’s always worth double-checking your country’s requirements on the official Ministry of Foreign Affairs website.

Make sure your passport is valid for the entire duration of your trip. While Japan doesn’t require extra validity beyond your stay, many travellers prefer to have at least a few months left on their passport just in case. You should also have a blank page available for entry stamps.

Make sure you double check from the start of your passport date and not expiry, there’s been some confusion as of late.

You may be asked to show proof that you’ll leave Japan within the allowed time such as a return or onward flight ticket.

If you need to renew your passport, don’t leave it until the last minute. Giving yourself at least six months is a safe bet.

Before arrival, there’s no mandatory paperwork to complete. However, immigration and customs forms are now handled digitally. You can fill them out in advance using the  Visit Japan Web portal, which gives you a QR code to scan at the airport and can help speed things up.

You can check Japan’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs website to check other countries’ requirements.

Travel Insurance

Japan is very safe, but sometimes unexpected things can still happen. And it’s always safe to have Travel insurance and it is highly recommended to cover issues like delays, lost baggage, or medical emergencies.

Healthcare in Japan is excellent, but it isn’t free for visitors, and costs can add up quickly. Some credit cards offer limited travel protection, but a full insurance policy that includes medical coverage is usually a better choice for peace of mind.

I recommend full travel insurance that also covers medical expenses for this reason.

International Driving Permit (IDP)

Most visitors rely on Japan’s efficient train system, but if you’re thinking of renting a car, you’ll need an International Driving Permit.

This is separate from your regular driving licence, your domestic licence alone won’t be accepted. In countries like the US, you can get an IDP through organisations such as AAA, and this is often issued quickly and around $20.

An IDP is also required for certain activities, like the famous street go-karting experiences in cities such as Tokyo or Osaka. If you book one of these, you’ll typically need to show your permit both in advance and on the day.

Before I even arrived in Japan, we had to submit photos of our passports and IDPs to the tour company. We also had to bring them in-person and keep the IDP with us on the go-kart to abide by local Japanese driving laws. Oh and if only your partner drives and you don’t, you can’t do the go karting as a passenger, both need to have a licence (double check with your tour first).

Japan Travel Tips and Etiquettes

1. Is getting a JR PASS worth it?

JR pass is a tourist pass that allows unlimited rides on the Shinkansen (certain trains) and subway lines in mainly Tokyo, and some in Kyoto and Osaka as well. Buses and Ferries are allowed in some places as well but check it first before you jump on – sometimes it’s just a discounted price with your JR Pass.

Purchase the JR pass abroad and they will send you the ticket which you will activate in Japan itself and the time will start from the day of activation. I was toying with the idea of purchasing one as it is not cheap. I had 15 days in Japan in total.

We used this for our itinerary, as well as when we spent more than 4 days in Kyoto after Tokyo, and of course to Osaka as well.

My suggestion is, plan your itinerary well, and then go online to Hyperdia or Japan Rail Pass Calculator to check the prices of the train ticket for your route. Because it might actually be cheaper to do it solo without the JR pass. For me, I calculated it to be more or less the same price as getting a 14 day pass so I thought to get it and use it fully!

Pro Tip: Compare your itinerary with the Japan Rail Pass Calculator to see if buying a pass is cheaper than single tickets.

2. Get a Suico or Pasmo card

In addition to the JR pass or if you don’t have a JR pass, it is handy to get either a Suico or Pasmo card.

These prepaid cards are Japan’s equivalent of an Oyster card. Perfect for subways, buses, convenience stores, and vending machines.

Claim remaining balance at the airport (small fee applies). You pay 500 yen for the card and top up the rest. Make sure to claim your deposit back and the leftover Yen in the card at the airport- there is a small fee taken from the deposit money when you do this.

Suica is particularly useful in Kyoto, Osaka, and Hakone and you can use them on buses, subways, convenience stores, and vending machines (look for Suica or Pasmo sign) so you don’t have to carry too much money around with you.

Get the card either at the airport when you land at the subway station. There’s always an option for English on the machine and its very straightforward.

3. Can you bring a big Suitcase on Shinkansen or Subway trains?

One of my biggest worries is getting on the subway (underground train) and the Shinkansen and not finding a space for my massive suitcase!

If you are arriving at Narita Airport, you can take the Narita Express to Tokyo Station and swap to the subway. It’s free with the JR pass or around 6000 yen for 2 passengers. On this train, there are designated suitcase space rack with an inbuilt lock and key code (so cool!). Or there’s so much legroom, you can place them in front of you.

On the Subway, it depends! Like any underground trains, keep to the side and be aware of people getting on and off.

Takeaway : Yes! But space is limited

Subway: Keep bags to the side and be mindful of others.

Narita Express: Has designated luggage racks with locks.

Shinkansen: Ask the conductor; you can place suitcases at the back of the carriage.

Warning: For the Shinkansen, on the 2 trains I have taken, there wasn’t a designated suitcase rack. However, if you inform the conductor first, you can place your suitcase at the back of the seat right at the end of the carriage by the door. However, if you leave it without informing the officials, they will confiscate it as an unattended bag.

Pro tip: A great alternative is the space above your seat does fit a big suitcase. My bag was 75cm and weighs 25 kg and it fits on top! Please make sure you don’t drop it on your head whilst putting it up there.

There’s a big amount of legroom and you can easily fit your suitcase between your legs or under.

4. To get a portable WIFI or SIM card?

If you do decide to get a JR Pass, the JR tourist website also has the option to purchase a SIM card and have it delivered to your house. I missed this opportunity, so when I arrived at Narita airport, there were a number of vending machines selling sim cards depending on data and days.

I purchased mine at the JR tourist office, a Mobal sim card that is data only for 16 days – Tethering is possible and no data restraints even if you’ve used too much.

• 8 days Unlimited Sim Card – 4390 Yen Tax included
• 16 days Unlimted Sim Card – 6590 Yen Tax included

I find having a Sim card more convenient, as I read having portable wifi needs to be charged. Not convenient if you’re out literally 15 hours a day.

5. Taxes and carrying Passport

Japan’s goods and food prices are quoted without tax included. Keep in mind when you see a price in a shop, there will be a separate price beneath it which will include the tax. Tax is currently at 10%, and in Donki or bigger shops, there are designated cashier desks to claim your tax back. So it’s worth it to bring your passport with you when you’re out shopping or buying souvenirs. Can’t hurt to ask!

The loveliest thing is the shop assistants will check if the item you’re purchasing is allowed into your own country. For example, if you’re purchasing Sake or maybe a Ninja item or Katana as a souvenir – they will check their list based on information from online and customer feedback if you are allowed to take it through customs – so it is at your risk if you are to bring them back with you.

6. Booking Hotels and Accommodation tax

If you are like me and scour online for hotels at the best location and price, you will find and realise at some point that Japanese hotels charge hotel room by a person. Yes, you read that right!

If you are to book a hotel room via the hotel website, they charge per person for the room. This is in particular to Ryokans as well, and then the percentage of tax on top of it.

Booking hotels via Agoda or Booking.com is per night so that is still normal. And if you are in Tokyo and looking for a place to stay, I can recommend staying at Candeo Hotels at Shimbashi and this area is by the JR line and easily accessible to the famous landmarks and districts.

And depending on where in Japan, Hotels charge Accommodation Tax when you check-in. In Kyoto, 200 yen per night for a room less than 20000 yen per person. If the price of the room is between 20k and 50k, it is 500 yen per night per person. More than 50k Yen, it will be 1000 yen.

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️Candeo Hotel Roppongi– Click here for rates & availability

7. Pre Booking Tickets

If you are a huge fan of Ghibli like myself or if you are wanting to visit TeamLab Borderless after seeing the beautiful installations on Instagram – You should consider getting the tickets beforehand.

Studio Ghibli tickets are released every month on the 10th for the next month. The best place to get it is at the Lawson website because the others tend to be for big groups or tours. Get them early morning because they get snapped up very quickly!

For Teamlab Borderless, you can purchase them on the day you are there, however, it’s faster to purchase it before heading to Japan. Tickets get released a couple of months in advance, and each ticket is for the day itself so there’s no set time.

8. Cash is King!

You read it right, cash is still king in Japan. Especially for ramen shops and street food places. You can easily use a Suica or Pasmo card at convenient (Konbini) shops and vending machines as well. Bigger shops in shopping malls do have card machines and some ramen shops as well but rarely.

Check currency rates from months prior, and always shop around. I actually like this because you are budgeting your spending for your entire trip. I satisfyingly didn’t use my card at all during this trip!

And bring a coin purse or bag, you will end up with a lot of coins! And don’t worry, at Narita airport, there is a coin changing machine which converts yen coins to vouchers or for charity.

There are atms in the convenient shops as well.

9. Learn some basic Japanese words

For my last Japan travel tips here is the basic language. If you are worried about communicating with the locals, don’t worry! They are very helpful.

A little understanding of Japanese does go a long way. Alternatively, Google translate works like a charm! Be sure to type in either a word or the proper sentence otherwise Google will go crazy in its translations.

Most signs in major airports and train stations are in English and Japanese, and public transit systems are very easy to follow.

When conversing with Japanese people, be patient, speak slowly, and use translation apps like Google Translate when needed. A little politeness and effort go a long way! Please remember you are in their country. 

Knowing a few Japanese phrases makes a big difference:

Japanese	English	Usage
Arigato Gozaimasu	Thank you	Always polite
Sumimasen	Excuse me	Get attention
Gomen / Gomenasai	Sorry	Apologizing
Ohayou Gozaimasu	Good morning	Friendly greeting
Osusume wa nan desu ka?	What do you recommend?	In restaurants

10. Quiet & Respectful Behavior

One thing you’ll notice quickly in Japan is how calm and quiet public spaces feel. Even in busy areas, there’s a sense of order and low noise that can be surprising if you’re not used to it.

On trains, buses, and in restaurants, people tend to keep conversations quiet. Talking loudly, playing music, or taking phone calls on public transport is generally avoided. It creates a peaceful atmosphere that many visitors end up really appreciating.

This all comes down to a strong cultural emphasis on being mindful of others. Keeping your voice down, respecting personal space, and avoiding disruptions are simple ways to fit in.

11. Food & Drink Etiquette

Food is a huge highlight in Japan, and there are a few customs that are helpful to know before you dig in.

Eating while walking is usually frowned upon. If you grab something from a street stall or shop, it’s best to eat it nearby rather than on the move.

At restaurants, you’ll often be given a warm towel to clean your hands before eating. It’s common to say “itadakimasu” before your meal and “gochisosama deshita” once you’ve finished as a sign of appreciation.

You might also notice how few public bins there are, despite how clean everything is. Most people carry their rubbish with them until they find a suitable place to dispose of it, such as at convenience stores or stations.

Vending machines are everywhere and are a fun part of daily life. You’ll find everything from cold drinks to hot tea and coffee, and even alcohol in some machines.

Convenience stores are on a whole different level compared to what many travellers expect. Chains like 7-Eleven and Lawson are incredibly common and offer a wide range of fresh, ready-to-eat meals like rice balls, bento boxes, and even hot dishes.

Hotels vs Ryokans vs Onsens: What I Learned

When I was planning my trip to Japan, I knew I’d be staying in a mix of places, but I wasn’t totally sure whether a ryokan or an onsen would be worth it. I’m so glad I gave it a try, because it ended up being one of the most memorable parts of the trip.

In Japan, you can stay in regular hotels, apartment-style rentals, or traditional ryokans. Hotels are easy and comfortable, especially if you want something familiar. Ryokans, though, feel much more special and immersive. They’re traditional Japanese guesthouses or inns, and everything about them feels calm and beautiful.

Instead of a normal bed, you usually sleep on a futon laid out on tatami mats. The rooms are simple but beautiful, with sliding doors, low tables, and a really peaceful atmosphere. In some ryokans, you’ll also be served tea when you arrive or even have dinner brought to your room, which makes the whole stay feel extra special.

On our recent trip, we stayed in hotels for most of the time, but we booked one night in a ryokan in Kyoto, and I’m so glad we did. It was such a quiet, relaxing break from the busier parts of the trip. Afterward, we stayed in a more modern hotel in Kyoto’s Gion district, which was perfect for comfort and convenience.

If you’re thinking about trying a ryokan, I’d honestly recommend doing it in Kyoto. It feels especially suited to that kind of experience. You could also look for onsens in Hakone near Mount Fuji if you want something scenic and peaceful.

The Onsen Experience

One of the best parts of staying in a ryokan is getting to use the onsen. I’ll admit, this was the part I felt most unsure about at first.

Onsens are communal hot spring baths, usually separated by gender, and you’re expected to wash properly before getting in. You also bathe completely nude, which definitely felt outside my comfort zone at first. But once I got past the initial awkwardness, it turned out to be one of the most relaxing things I did in Hakone Japan.

It was quiet, calming, and surprisingly peaceful. I left feeling so refreshed, and it honestly gave me a new appreciation for Japanese hospitality and tradition.

Final Thoughts

If you can, I really recommend spending at least one night in a ryokan or an onsen while you’re in Japan. It’s such a unique experience, and it gives you a completely different side of the country.

Japan has this amazing way of blending modern life with deep tradition, and that contrast is one of the things I loved most about travelling there. After a few trips, and even some time staying in Osaka, it’s still one of my favourite places I’ve ever been.

My biggest advice? Don’t try to do too much. Keep your itinerary simple, leave space to slow down, and say yes to the little experiences that make a trip memorable.

Hope this guide helps you before your trip to Japan!

Courtney xx

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Explore my other Tokyo, Kyoto and Japan Travel Guides on WhatsupCourtney below:

My Japan Travel Guide 2026: First Timer’s Itinerary and Everything You Need to Know

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Candeo Hotels Roppongi review : The full review of the Candeo Hotels in Roppongi district

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Candeo Hotels Shimbashi Tokyo with a Sky Spa (Hotel Review 2026)

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