Japan

Travel tips for Japan: safety advisories, currency and cash vs. card, tap water, plugs, local phrases, food, and advice from travelers.

Cash and cards

Cards widely accepted. While credit cards and digital Suica cover the vast majority of purchases in cities, travelers still recommend carrying some yen for small vendors, temples, and rural areas.

Try the food

Sushi (寿司): Vinegared rice topped with impeccably fresh, raw seafood.
Ramen (ラーメン): Chewy wheat noodles served in a rich, savory broth topped with sliced pork and scallions.
Okonomiyaki (お好み焼き): A savory, customizable cabbage pancake griddled at your table and drizzled with sweet sauce and mayonnaise.

Say it in Japanese

Hello: こんにちは (Konnichiwa)
Thank you: ありがとうございます (Arigatou gozaimasu)
Please: お願いします (Onegaishimasu)
Excuse me: すみません (Sumimasen)
How much is this?: これはいくらですか？ (Kore wa ikura desu ka?)
The bill please: お会計をお願いします (Okaikei o onegaishimasu)
Yes / No: はい / いいえ (Hai / Iie)
Goodbye: さようなら (Sayounara)

Essentials

Plugs: Type A / Type B
Voltage: 100V, 50Hz/60Hz
Driving: Left side
Tap water: Safe to drink
Emergency: 110 (police), 119 (fire/ambulance)
SIM tip: Pre-purchase an eSIM online before arrival or pick up a data-only tourist SIM card from the vending machines or counters at major airports like Narita or Haneda.

Etiquette

Tipping is not practiced in Japan and leaving money on the table will likely result in a server chasing you down the street to return it.