10 Essential Japan Travel Tips You’ll Wish You Knew Before Your Trip 🇯🇵

First time in Japan? You’re in for a lifetime experience. These 10 tips — curated by the team at IV Travel Tokyo — will help you avoid common travel pitfalls and enjoy Japan’s beauty, culture, and charm to the fullest. From cash tips to etiquette, here’s everything you need to know before you land.

1. Yes, You Still Need Cash 💴

Even in 2025, Japan remains surprisingly cash-focused. While big chains accept cards, many restaurants, shrines, street food vendors, and taxis still prefer yen. Always carry around ¥10,000–¥20,000. Pro tip: use 7-Eleven ATMs for international cards with low fees.

2. Don’t Land Without Wi-Fi 📶

You’ll need maps, translation, reservations, and transport apps constantly. Renting a pocket Wi-Fi or buying an eSIM is a game changer. At IV Travel Tokyo, we offer connectivity support for guests booking private tours — so you're always online, hassle-free.

3. Avoid Train Rush Hours 🚇

Tokyo’s rail system is amazing — but during 7:30–9:30 AM and 5:30–7:30 PM, it's packed. You’ll be squashed. If you want to explore without stress, choose our private car tours instead — door-to-door comfort.

4. Bow, Not Tip 🙇

In Japan, respect is shown through actions, not money. You don’t need to tip, but always bow politely and say "Arigatou" (thank you). Turn your phone to silent mode on trains, and never speak loudly in public spaces — these small gestures go a long way.

5. Use IC Cards for Transit

Grab a SUICA or PASMO card at the airport. These prepaid cards work on subways, buses, and even vending machines. It’s easier and faster than buying individual tickets. Our team can help preload one for you during your private travel experience.

6. Know Convenience Stores Are a Lifeline

Japanese convenience stores (konbini) like 7-Eleven, Lawson, and FamilyMart offer everything — hot meals, drinks, ATMs, chargers, medicine, and more. They’re open 24/7, clean, and incredibly useful for travelers.

7. Book Experiences in Advance 🎟️

Ghibli Museum, TeamLab Planets, and sumo tournaments often sell out. If you’ve booked a private tour with us, we’ll assist with booking hard-to-get tickets and skip-the-line access where possible.

8. Learn a Few Phrases

While many Japanese locals understand English, even simple words like “Sumimasen” (Excuse me), “Konnichiwa” (Hello), and “Doko desu ka?” (Where is it?) can help you connect. Locals appreciate effort — and it opens doors to more authentic interactions.

9. Japan Is Safe — But Plan Your Route

Japan is one of the safest countries in the world. Still, some stations can be confusing with multiple exits. Use Google Maps but cross-check with apps like Navitime or ask your tour guide to help plan your route clearly in advance.

10. Private Tours Are the Secret to a Better Trip ✨

Public tours follow the crowd. Private tours follow you. Whether you want to explore hidden alleys in Asakusa or taste authentic street food in Shinjuku, our private guides help you craft a local, custom, and stress-free experience — in English, at your pace.

Let your Japan trip be more than just sightseeing.
With IV Travel Tokyo, we create unforgettable, personalized tours that connect you to Japan’s culture — not just its landmarks.