10 Things you should know before visiting Japan in 2026

A few years back I visited Japan for the first time and had such an amazing time that Tokyo became one of my favourite places I’ve ever visited. That’s a pretty big call. Being my first visit, I had absolutely no idea what to expect, and there were a lot of things I learned along the way. Today, I wanted to share with you some tips for anyone visiting Japan for the first time. These are things everyone needs to know before they visit Japan.

Planning your trip?
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Hotels, I use Agoda
Insurance: Cover-More
Rentals: Discover Cars
RVs: Motorhome Republic
Transfers: Welcome Pickups
Travel eSIM: Simify

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1. Speaking the language

There’s no such thing as a language barrier. We’re all human and have ways of communicating beyond words if you want to connect with another human you can do that without needing to speak the same language. We met and connected with so many cool locals, including a shared love of bulk-size chocolates with one super-cool local, and we never had a moment where speaking different languages was something we couldn’t get past. Even in remote back streets, we were able to get help from locals and communicate with them, it was awesome! Everyone was so approachable, friendly and helpful.

Before we went, I printed out a few pages of key phrases and things I may need to say, like ‘I’m vegetarian’. This came in handy quite a few times when I needed to communicate with the locals about directions, food or just wanted to try out my Japanese language skills and say hello and thank you. Learning some basic phrases goes a long way and you’ll get a chance to interact with the locals and experience their culture.

I printed out keywords that included the English translation (for me), Japanese Kanji, Hiragana and Katakana symbols (for locals) and Japanese Romaji (Japanese words written using English lettering, so I could pronounce them). This meant I could point to the symbols for locals to read when I needed help.

2. What’s with all the masks?

When you visit Japan, you might still see some people wearing masks across their mouth and nose, though it’s less common now than it was a few years ago. After the pandemic, mask-wearing became more normalised globally, but in Japan it was already a well-established practice. Some people wear them during allergy season or when they’re feeling under the weather as a courtesy to others. If you get sick while travelling in Japan, picking up a mask from any convenience store is a respectful gesture that locals will appreciate.

3. The train system looks crazy, but it’s easy to work out

When you look at the railway map in Tokyo, you can’t help but freak out. It looks like someone has made a big bowl of multi-coloured spaghetti, thrown it on a piece of paper and labelled it ‘train map’. Here’s the thing, if you’ve travelled in London or any major city with a comprehensive metro system, you’ll be able to work out the Tokyo maps without any trouble. Even if you haven’t, you’ll be able to wrap your head around it if you study the map for a little bit.

So, how does Tokyo’s railway system work? There are competing railway lines, which means you catch different lines that belong to different companies. There may be times when you have to exit the gates when travelling so you can enter the gates of another line. It’s all really well signed and colour-coded though so it’s easy. The network is run by Japan Rail (JR) who own the above-ground Yamanote and Chuo lines. Tokyo Metro and Toei operate the subway lines and there are some smaller private lines that service suburban areas.

How do you buy tickets? The easiest option is getting an IC card like Suica or Pasmo, which you can now add to your smartphone through Apple Pay or Google Pay before you even arrive in Japan. Just tap on and off at the gates and the correct fare is automatically deducted. If you prefer a physical card, you can buy one at any station ticket machine. The old method of calculating fares from maps above ticket machines still exists, but most visitors find IC cards far more convenient. If you plan on doing extensive travel across Japan, look into getting a Japan Rail Pass before you leave Australia.

If you plan on doing a lot of travel within in Japan then it may be worth getting a Japan Rail Pass in Australia before you leave.

4. Train travel tips

• Don’t try to catch the train system during rush-hour, it’s absolutely hectic and you’ll get squished in and regret doing it.
• The trains are a quiet, peaceful place so it’s important to respect the Japanese culture and be quiet and respectful too.
• Observe seats that are designated for the elderly, disabled and pregnant and give up your seat to someone who needs it more than you.
• It’s not polite to eat and drink on the train, listen to your music up loud, talk loudly on the phone or to the person next to you or cause a scene.
• The Japanese queue politely, waiting for the train to arrive so they can get on in an orderly manner. Don’t jump the queue.

5. Don’t be a litterbug

You’ll notice Japan is a clean and tidy place because the locals and Government work hard to keep it this way. It’s not okay to throw your empty wrappers or rubbish on the ground, so don’t be a litterbug! Litterers are given detention after school.

6. Tipping isn’t necessary

People in Japan take great pride in the work they do and believe the reward is seeing a happy customer and knowing they’ve done their job well. It’s not customary to tip in Japan and you may find people looking very confused, possibly offended or trying to chase you to return the money you accidentally left behind on the table.

7. Manners matter

If can encourage you to do one thing when you visit Japan, it’s to be very polite. Learn how to ask for things, so please and thank you and excuse me. When you’re talking to locals, hotel staff, shop assistants or anyone really, give them a big smile and use polite phrases to convey your gratitude and appreciation. It will go a long way and is a way of observing the Japanese culture and being respectful.

8. Getting money and using cards

Japan has become much more card-friendly in recent years, with contactless payments and digital wallets now accepted at most major retailers, restaurants and convenience stores in cities like Tokyo and Osaka. That said, cash is still king in many smaller establishments, local markets and rural areas. Convenience stores like 7-Eleven and Lawson have ATMs that accept international cards, and these are everywhere. Post office ATMs are also reliable for international withdrawals. While you don’t need to carry as much cash as you would have a decade ago, it’s smart to always have some yen on hand, especially if you’re heading outside major cities.

9. Wear shoes you can take off easily

You have to take your shoes off before getting on the train. No, no you don’t, I’m just joking. BUT you will need to remove your shoes before entering some places, like cat cafes and rabbit cafes and other similar places. This means it’s not an appropriate time to start wearing your knee-high lace-up boots and you should consider packing footwear that is really easy to slip on and off.

10. Internet and connectivity

Staying connected in Japan is easier than ever. In 2026, eSIMs are the most convenient option for travellers. You can purchase and activate a Japan eSIM before you leave home through providers like Saily or Simify, giving you instant data access the moment you land. Physical SIM cards are still available at airports and electronics stores if your phone doesn’t support eSIM technology. Free wifi is widely available at convenience stores, train stations and many restaurants, though having your own data connection makes navigating and translating on the go much smoother.

Frequently asked questions about visiting Japan

Do I need a visa to visit Japan?

Australian passport holders can visit Japan visa-free for up to 90 days for tourism purposes.

What’s the best time of year to visit Japan?

Spring (March to May) for cherry blossoms and autumn (September to November) for fall colours are the most popular times, though they’re also the busiest and most expensive. Summer can be hot and humid, while winter offers great skiing in places like Hokkaido.

Is Japan expensive to visit?

Japan can be as budget-friendly or luxurious as you want it to be. Convenience store meals and ramen shops are affordable, while high-end dining and accommodation can get pricey. Overall, it’s comparable to Australia in terms of costs.

Can I use my credit card everywhere in Japan?

Major cities have good credit card acceptance, but cash is still essential for smaller shops, local restaurants and rural areas. Always carry some yen.

How do I get from the airport to Tokyo?

From Narita Airport, the Narita Express train or Keisei Skyliner are the fastest options into central Tokyo. From Haneda Airport, the Tokyo Monorail or Keikyu Line connect you to the city. Both airports also offer bus services.

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