Traveling to Japan is a unique and refreshing experience, but it’s easy to make a few missteps, especially during your first visit.
Between jet lag, cultural differences, and transportation quirks, there’s a lot to plan for. Here’s how to avoid some common mistakes:
1. Overloading Your First Day: Bad Idea?
After a long flight of 14 to 20 hours and a 7- to 8-hour time difference, exhaustion is inevitable. Even if you arrive in the evening, don’t expect a good night’s sleep to cure your jet lag right away.
Tip: Stick to a light schedule on your first day. Explore the area around your hotel, familiarize yourself with nearby restaurants or 24-hour konbini (convenience stores).
2. Going Full Throttle in the First Week: Be Careful!
Japan is full of wonders, but it’s easy to burn out quickly. Between the amount of walking in big cities and adjusting to local cuisine, your body needs time to adapt.
On past trips, some travelers who went hard during the first few days ended up with sprains or fatigue and had to spend two days resting at the hotel.
Tip: Balance active days with rest. Consider a relaxing visit to an onsen (hot spring) or lighter activities like strolling through Japanese gardens.
3. Underestimating Travel Time: How to Plan Better?
While Japan’s public transport is incredibly efficient, getting around can take longer than expected. For example, finding the right exit in massive stations like Shinjuku or Tôkyô can take more time than apps like Google Maps suggest.
Tip: Use apps like Navitime to plan your routes, but always allow an extra 15 to 20 minutes to navigate large stations.
4. Ignoring Opening Hours: What to Watch Out For?
Opening hours in Japan vary depending on the type of place you want to visit:
- Shops open between 11 AM and 10 PM
- Temples and shrines are usually open from 8 AM to 4 or 5 PM
- Restaurants typically operate from 6 PM to 10 PM
Tip: Check opening hours in advance, especially for rural areas where they might be more limited. Only konbini are open 24/7.
5. Disregarding Local Rules and Customs: What Mistakes to Avoid?
Japan has deeply ingrained social customs. While locals are very tolerant of foreigners, it’s best to follow certain rules to avoid unwanted attention:
- Don’t speak too loudly: Whether in public transportation or places like onsen (hot springs), quietness is appreciated.
- Chopstick etiquette: Don’t play with chopsticks, and never stick them upright in a bowl of rice—this resembles a Buddhist funeral ritual.
- No eating while walking: It’s considered rude to eat on the go. Instead, sit or stand near the vendor where you bought your food.
Tip: Observe locals to learn proper behavior. If you’re unsure, a polite smile and respectful demeanor will help avoid misunderstandings.
6. Keeping Your Shoes On: An Unforgivable Faux Pas?
One of the most important rules in Japan is removing your shoes in certain places. Temples, traditional inns (ryokan), and private homes all require shoes to be left at the entrance.
Tip: Wear clean socks and opt for shoes that are easy to slip on and off. Pay attention to the genkan (entryway) where shoes are left before entering a room.
7. Tipping: A Habit to Forget?
In Japan, tipping is seen as unnecessary and can even be viewed as condescending. Good service is considered a given without needing extra compensation.
Tip: A simple “arigatô” (thank you) with a bow is more than enough. If you wish to give money, it’s more appropriate to make a donation at temples.
8. Entering Women-Only Train Cars: Be Mindful of the Schedule!
In cities like Tôkyô or Ôsaka, there are women-only train cars during rush hours (morning and evening) to prevent incidents in crowded metros.
Note that metro trains always stop at the same level. The indications seem very visible, but with the mistake, it quickly happened to get into the wrong train.
Tip: Pay attention to the signs marking women-only cars, often indicated by pink "Women Only" signs on platforms.
9. Smoking Anywhere: What Are the Rules?
Japan has strict regulations on smoking in public. Smoking on the street is prohibited and can result in fines. Instead, there are designated “smoking areas” near train stations or malls, often tucked away to avoid bothering non-smokers.
Tip: Always use designated smoking areas. Hotels, bars, and restaurants sometimes have specific smoking rooms.
10. Blowing Your Nose in Public: A Habit to Avoid?
Though common in the West, blowing your nose in public is considered impolite in Japan. Locals prefer discreet sniffing or wearing a mask to cover their nose. Many Japanese wear masks not only to avoid spreading germs but also for modesty.
Go to toilet if you need to blow your nose.