Japan Travel Tips
Airports
Japan’s main tourist point of entry is Tokyo. Tokyo has 2 airports to choose from – Narita & Haneda. Most international airlines from US flies to both these airports. Both the airports are well served by Rail, Bus and Taxi connections.
Choose your airport based on the airline and the cost of the flight.
Haneda is slightly closer to the Tokyo city where as Narita is an hour ride by the Narita Express train from the center of Tokyo and bus can take 2- 2.5 hours depending on the traffic conditions.
Currency
Like most other countries, Japan honors cash as well as card transactions. But there are many places in Japan that still does not honor cards and it is recommended that you carry some cash with you.
When I traveled I ordered cash through my bank and carried it in different denominations so has to make life easier especially with small outlets.
Tokyo’s metro system also offers a type of card that combines travel privileges along with retail use option. You can buy it if you decide to be in the Tokyo metro area for more than 2/ 3 days.
Food
Always eat like a local in any city / country. It is very essential that you try the local cuisines authentically when you get a chance. Most countries today cater to all dietary needs and Japan is no exception.
You should be able to find plenty of food options to choose from – street food to upscale restaurants, Japanese to Mongolian, Vegan to Sea-food.
The big cities in Japan do offer lot of dining options even in the food courts of big malls. If you have dietary requirements, have it printed in Japanese or have your translation app in your smart phones before you head to the counters.
Retail stores near the stations do offer boxed meals ( like sandwiches ) and also pre-mixed coffee to go.
Transport
Japan has one of the world’s best Transport system be it in their metropolitan cities or the rural areas.
Most of Japan is well connected by their railways and even if there is no bus service, taxis and Uber fill the gaps in such cases.
Before you get to Japan, order your Japan Rail Pass which gives you the options for unlimited travel by train and JR buses in counts of 7 days. This is way cheater as compared to buying tickets in Japan ( which will cost you a fortune).
When in Japan, do not miss a ride on the Shinkansen bullet trains. Those who are familiar with the European inter country fast trains, Shinkansen is the mother of Thales, TGV, Eurostar etc.
Japanese transport systems are VERY punctual ( even to the seconds ), so do arrive on time for your train / bus.
