Japan 101: A First Time Travel Guide to Japan

Welcome to Japan 101! Here’s our travel guide for the country where tradition meets modern innovation. So if you’re planning your first trip to Japan, here’s the basics you need to know to make your trip go smoothly.

Language: 3 Basic Phrases
Let’s start with the language. While English is spoken in tourist areas, a few Japanese phrases go a long way. Greet with ‘Konnichiwa’ for hello, say ‘Arigato gozaimasu’ for thank you, and ‘Sumimasen’ for excuse me or sorry. It’s very handy for getting attention at a restaurant!

Currency: Japanese Yen
Next, currency. Japan uses the yen, and cash is preferred in many places, especially smaller shops and rural areas. ATMs are readily available, but for convenience, keep cash on hand.

Transport: Bullet Trains
Getting around is seamless, thanks to Japan’s top-notch transport system. The high-speed shinkansen or bullet train is perfect for longer journeys, while the Suica and Pasmo cards make it easy to use trains and buses in major cities. And in Japan, everything runs on time. To the second. Aussies will really like this over our usual public transport.

Best time to visit Japan
Wondering when to visit? Each season has its own charm—spring is the famous cherry blossom season, while autumn brings stunning red and gold foliage, and is a gorgeous time to explore when the weather is perfect. Summer is vibrant with festivals, and winter is ideal for skiing and of course onsen, the hot spring baths. It’ll be best to avoid the end of April into the start of May for Japan’s Golden Week, when Japan has multiple public holidays and a lot of restaurants and stores will be closed and tourist spots will be at peak capacity.

Cherry blossoms by the river, Tokyo

Etiquette when in Japan
Japan values respect and etiquette. A slight bow is the standard greeting, and always remove your shoes when entering homes or traditional inns. Be mindful of noise, especially in public places, and try to keep phone calls quiet or brief. Also if you grab some street eats, you should not walk around with it and instead eat it where you buy it and carry your garbage around with you until you find somewhere to get rid of it.

Various types of sushi served in Japan

Cuisine: The World’s Finest
Now, let’s talk about Japan’s amazing cuisine! Try sushi at a local spot, warm up with ramen, and don’t miss tempura for that perfect crispy bite. Street food is a must too. Try takoyaki, grilled octopus balls, or okonomiyaki, a delicious savoury pancake. Hiroshima-style is my personal favourite. Also, a lot of restaurants will require bookings, and if you can’t speak Japanese don’t worry. Use online booking site Tabelog.com if you’re looking for wagyu that you don’t have to wait in line for.

Shibuya Scramble Crossing, Tokyo

Sights to see in Japan
For sightseeing, Tokyo’s bright lights and buzzing neighbourhoods offer endless experiences. If you’re like me and into vintage electronics, you’ll love Akihabara, which is the Hub for electronics, technology and manga in Tokyo. For a historic look at Japan, head to Kyoto for timeless temples, shrines and the famed Arashiyama Bamboo Grove. Osaka is a foodie paradise, and don’t even get me started on the north island of Hokkaido. This is just the start to knowing all there is to know about this amazing destination.

Japan is a place of wonder, discovery, and hospitality. At AVG Travels, we have tours designed to help you explore Japan with ease, let you immerse yourself into the heart of Japanese culture, and make memories that last a lifetime. Check out our awe-inspiring Japan tours here.