Content

• Steps
• Method 1 of 5: Choosing Places to Visit
• Method 2 of 5: Making Travel Easy and Enjoyable
• Method 3 of 5: Getting around Japan
• Method 4 of 5: Following local customs and traditions
• Method 5 of 5: Finding Accommodation
• Tips

Japan, a popular tourist destination, is a land of great views, delicious food and a unique culture. It doesn't matter if you come here for a few days or weeks, there is always something to see and feel: from stunning views of mountains and temples to delicious misosiru and rice. To keep your trip running smoothly, plan your trip by gathering information on hotels, train tickets, and attractions. Take some time to familiarize yourself with Japanese culture and traditions in advance and be a respectful tourist.

Steps

Method 1 of 5: Choosing Places to Visit

1. 1 Go on a food and shopping tour in Tokyo. Tokyo is considered the main center and metropolis of Japan. For a gastronomic experience, head to traditional teahouses, noodle bars and hostess bars. For unique fashion, toys and souvenirs, head to Tokyo's major shopping malls.
   • Divide your Tokyo tour by neighborhoods such as Asakusa in the northeast, Tsukiji Market in central Tokyo, temples and shrines in the west, and Roppongi in the east for shopping and museums. Spend a few days exploring each area. Travel by public transport or by car to visit every part of the city.
   • Other good shopping spots in Tokyo include Shinjuku, Shibuya and Harajuku.
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   Lorenzo garriga

   
   
   French translator and native speaker Lorenzo Garriga is a native speaker and connoisseur of the French language. He has many years of experience as a translator, author and editor. A composer, pianist and traveler who has been wandering the world for over 30 years on a tight budget and with a backpack on his back.

   Lorenzo garriga
   French translator and native speaker

   If your budget is tight, look for discounted evening meals. Seasoned traveler Lorenzo Garriga says: “A good way to save money in Japan is to go to the supermarkets at 5:30 pm-6:00pm. In Japan, supermarket workers are forced to throw away fresh produce that is not sold by the end of the day. Therefore, in the late afternoon, they make discounts so as not to throw away food. At such times you can buy fish, meat and even sushi with a 50 or even 70% discount. "

2. 2 Travel to the Japanese Alps for skiing or snowboarding. In Japan, there is a mountainous area in the center of Honshu with fresh snow for skiing and snowboarding. It also has stunning views and hot springs. Visit this place for a slightly different experience, especially if you are a winter sports enthusiast.
   • You can also stay in a mountain resort in the area and go on a winter hike.
3. 3 Go to Hiroshima for a historical experience. Visit the site of the atomic bombing of the Second World War to learn more about this tragic event. There is a museum with detailed information about the explosions and tributes to the victims of the attack.
   • Hiroshima can be reached from Tokyo by high-speed train or plane; travel time for both methods will be approximately 1.5 hours.
   • The cheapest option would be a 13-hour overnight bus ride from Tokyo to Hiroshima.
4. 4 Travel to Kyoto to see shrines, temples and gardens. Kyoto is a popular major city that is considered the birthplace of "traditional" Japan. There are beautiful gardens and palaces from the time of the Imperial House, as well as traditional sanctuaries and temples.
   • Plan to stay in Kyoto for at least one night. If you also want to visit Tokyo, you can travel between cities by high speed train. The journey takes about 2.5 hours.

Method 2 of 5: Making Travel Easy and Enjoyable

1. 1 Visit Japan during the low season to avoid a lot of tourists. Japan has the most tourists during the spring months, when cherry blossoms are in full bloom, and during Golden Week, a national holiday that usually falls in late April or early May. Also, try not to visit Japan in summer as the weather is very hot and humid. Better to visit the low season, late September-early March, to avoid the crowds and enjoy the good weather.
   • If you are visiting Japan during the winter, enjoy skiing in Japan's famous mountains, or go ice skating at the world's largest outdoor rooftop skating rink at White Sacas.
2. 2 If possible, purchase your plane ticket in advance. Start looking for plane tickets to Japan at least three months in advance to catch the best price. Compare prices with different airlines to find the best deal. Don't forget to book your return ticket as well.
   • If you have a connecting flight, make sure you have enough time to catch your connecting flight.
3. 3 Hire a guide to visit sacred sites and areas if desired. You can book excursions to specific regions or locations before you travel or upon arrival in Japan. A guide can be helpful when visiting sanctuaries, temples and sacred places where you may not understand traditions or customs. Look for free guides or group tours run by volunteers in major locations and districts.
   • You can also choose a guide to take you on a food tour in a major city like Tokyo, so you know the best places to visit.
4. 4 When traveling, carry a certain amount of Japanese Yen with you. Although it is customary in Japan to use credit and debit cards, depending on where you travel, it is always wise to take cash with you as well. Take about 20,000 yen, which is roughly 12,000 Russian rubles (and just under 200 US dollars).
   • Do not forget to inform your bank employee that you are traveling in Japan so that he does not block your card!
   • Make sure in advance that most cities in Japan accept your credit card.
   • ATM machines in Japan can be found in places like the 7-Eleven store.
5. 5 Decide how you will use your mobile phone abroad. There are several different options for using your phone in Japan: buying a SIM card, renting a mobile phone while traveling, or international roaming from your phone operator. Consider all the options and choose the one that is most profitable and best suited to your plans.
   • You can take a SIM card with prepaid mobile traffic so that you have access to cards and search for information on the Internet.
   • Turn on airplane mode on your mobile phone to avoid high roaming bills.
6. 6 Buy souvenirs home before leaving Japan. Look for souvenirs throughout your trip to bring home for yourself or your loved ones. Good souvenirs from Japan are Japanese sweets and candies, folding fans, Japanese key chains, or decorated chopsticks.
   • Other souvenirs can also be viewed: Japanese face masks, matcha green tea, or yukatu (a casual summer kimono).

Method 3 of 5: Getting around Japan

1. 1 Get an up-to-date paper map or use the maps app on your phone. Moving around the streets of Tokyo and other major cities can be confusing, especially if you are hiking or using public transportation. Make your trip easier with a printed, up-to-date map with street names in Japanese and Russian (or English). If you have prepaid mobile traffic, you can also use a mobile map on your phone to move around the area.
   • Print a map at home before you travel, or look for a map at your nearest store, hotel, or tourist center if you are already in Japan.
2. 2 Rent a car if you want to explore the countryside. If you want to visit regions outside of the major cities, or if you are traveling in a large group with a lot of luggage, it is a good idea to rent a car. Avoid renting a car if you plan to live and explore major cities as traffic can be very slow and the streets can be confusing for non-locals.
   • To rent a car, you must be over 18 years old and hold an international or Japanese driving license.
   • Book your rental car online before you travel, or look for a car rental service when you arrive in a major city before heading out into the countryside.
   • Please note that driving on the left in Japan.
3. 3 For more efficient transportation, use the local metro or train. Major cities in Japan, such as Tokyo, have rail systems that are easy to navigate. If you are traveling short distances, you can buy a ticket at the station, but a long-distance train ticket, (for example, if the journey takes an entire day), it is better to buy in advance.
   • Purchase a daily pass if you are planning multiple connecting trips on the same day.
   • Most transit maps are easy to navigate and will take you to major areas or locations in the city.
   • The Tokyo Subway is a popular travel metro system.
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   Lorenzo garriga

   
   
   French translator and native speaker Lorenzo Garriga is a native speaker and connoisseur of the French language. He has many years of experience as a translator, author and editor. A composer, pianist and traveler who has been wandering the world for over 30 years on a tight budget and with a backpack on his back.

   Lorenzo garriga
   French translator and native speaker

   If you are traveling to Tokyo, stop at Asakusa to get around the city with ease. It is a quiet and inexpensive area and is easily accessible by metro. There are three subway lines - once you understand them, you can go anywhere. The train and subway systems in Japan are excellent.

4. 4 Try walking to nearby attractions or restaurants. Many Japanese people walk the streets. Try walking from your hotel to a nearby tourist spot, or walking to and from a nearby restaurant. You can also go on a walking tour of areas in major cities such as Tokyo or Kyoto to get a better feel for the atmosphere and spirit of the city.
   • Take a map with you on your walks so you don't accidentally get lost.
   • Although Japan is considered a relatively safe country, be careful not to walk alone late at night, especially in unfamiliar areas.
   SPECIALIST'S ADVICE

   

   Lorenzo garriga

   
   
   French translator and native speaker Lorenzo Garriga is a native speaker and connoisseur of the French language. He has many years of experience as a translator, author and editor. A composer, pianist and traveler who has been wandering the world for over 30 years on a tight budget and with a backpack on his back.

   Lorenzo garriga
   French translator and native speaker

   You may be able to find someone who will take you to your destination. Experienced traveler Lorenzo Garriga says: “In Japan, hardly anyone hitchhikes, perhaps it will play into your hands, and you can find someone who will give you a ride to the desired location. Note, however, that Japanese people often do not speak English, so you may have problems communicating with the drivers. "

5. 5 For a cheap ride around the city, choose the city bus. The bus system in Japan will allow you to explore the city and save time and money. Check on the internet or ask the tourist or information center for a map of the nearest bus routes, as well as information on the standard fare.
   • Different cities have different types of buses, so explore the city where you are staying for the most accurate information.
   • You could also consider taking the Tokyo-Kyoto / Osaka night buses with tickets at a very reasonable price.

Method 4 of 5: Following local customs and traditions

1. 1 Be polite in public. Try not to stand too close to other people in public places, such as on city streets, on a subway platform, or in a restaurant. Maintain a distance of 30 to 90 centimeters to avoid appearing aggressive or arrogant.
   • Avoid loud phone calls on public transport to be courteous to other people.
2. 2 Take off your shoes before entering anyone's home. Taking off your shoes before entering your home or office is part of tradition and good hygiene. You may become accustomed to wearing socks with your shoes or taking them with you to cover your bare feet.
   • If you forgot to take off your shoes, don't despair. Just apologize and go back to the door to take off your shoes.
   • Some Japanese houses even have slippers by the door for guests.
3. 3 Treat shrines and holy sites with respect. Speak softly and do not scream when in a sanctuary or holy place. Take as little pictures as possible, especially if a service is taking place. Try to maintain a calm, respectful demeanor, even if you are not religious.
   • It may be worth hiring a guide to visit a sanctuary or holy site to better understand the traditions and sacred practices. Look for guides offering tours in front of a temple or holy place.
   • Before taking photographs, check and make sure that photographing is permitted, especially if you are using a flash.
4. 4 Bow down when greeting people. In Japan, bowing - a tradition and expression of respect - is used when you say hello or say goodbye, when you thank someone or when you congratulate someone. Bow from your waist to a 45-degree angle, keeping your back straight and your legs together. Look down while bowing and avoid overly accentuated movements.
   • If you are hanging out with people you know well, such as family or friends, you can nod and lean forward slightly with your back straight instead of bowing completely.
5. 5 Do not stick your chopsticks into a bowl of rice while eating. Sticks sticking vertically into rice are commonly associated with funeral rituals in Japan, so don't do this when eating in public or with Japanese people. Place the chopsticks horizontally on a bowl or opposite a plate.
   • Also, do not pass food to other people with chopsticks, as this is considered rude and is only done at funerals.
   • If you are uncomfortable eating with chopsticks, you can always ask for a fork or spoon.
6. 6 Check the published rules on tattoos in public baths before going there. Many public baths and hot springs are prohibited for people with tattoos. You may need to cover your tattoos with bandages to follow the rules.
   • If necessary, you can book a private room in a public bath or spa center, and then you do not have to worry about masking tattoos.

Method 5 of 5: Finding Accommodation

1. 1 To save money, reserve a place at the hostel. Hostel prices in Japan range from 1,500-4,000 yen per person. On the internet, try to find a hostel in a central area, preferably within walking distance of major attractions and public transport.
   • Book your hostel in advance to pay a great price.
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   Lorenzo garriga

   French translator and native speaker Lorenzo Garriga is a native speaker and connoisseur of the French language. He has many years of experience as a translator, author and editor. A composer, pianist and traveler who has been wandering the world for over 30 years on a tight budget and with a backpack on his back.

   Lorenzo garriga
   French translator and native speaker

   There is always someone who speaks English in hostels and hotels. Most of the locals do not speak English, which makes communication difficult. If you get lost, find the nearest hostel or hotel to ask directions. These are one of the few places where they serve in English.

2. 2 Stay in a capsule hotel if you don't mind enclosed spaces. Capsule hotels are designed to accommodate one person and the rooms are stacked on top of each other, creating very cramped sleeping quarters. This is a good option if you only need a bed to sleep, or if you miss the train or bus and need to sleep cheaply.
   • Guests have access to a shared bathroom.
   • Room prices in capsule hotels typically range from ¥ 3000-4000 per person.
   SPECIALIST'S ADVICE

   

   Lorenzo garriga

   French translator and native speaker Lorenzo Garriga is a native speaker and connoisseur of the French language. He has many years of experience as a translator, author and editor. A composer, pianist and traveler who has been wandering the world for over 30 years on a tight budget and with a backpack on his back.

   Lorenzo garriga
   French translator and native speaker

   If you are a tourist or you have a tourist visa, you will not be able to rent an apartment. Better and cheaper to stay in a hostel or capsule hotel. If you still want to live in an apartment, look for relevant ads in newspapers and on local sites - look for those who need a roommate. It is possible to rent a room in an apartment, but from a Japanese.

3. 3 For more amenities, choose a Western-style hotel. Western-style hotel rooms have a regular bed and familiar Western amenities. Such hotels can be found in all major cities. The prices for rooms in such hotels can be high: the average price is from 8,000 to 50,000 yen.
   • If you decide to book a room in one of these hotels, do it in advance via the Internet in order to get a better price.
4. 4 For an unforgettable experience, spend the night in a traditional Japanese ryokan house. The decoration of a traditional ryokan, or Japanese-style inn, has been kept in good condition to reflect the traditional Japanese style of living. Rooms usually have tatami floors, futon beds, and even Japanese-style bathrooms.
   • You can also stay in a more luxurious ryokan if you want to stay in slightly more modern rooms.
   • Ryokan will cost 6,000-40,000 yen per person.

Tips

• In Japan, there is no need to leave a tip in restaurants as it is already included in the bill.
• In everyday situations, the Japanese do not very often resort to physical contact, so instead of hugging, kissing or shaking hands, it is better to just smile or bow if you are not allowed otherwise.