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Our Top Travel Tips for Japan

In this section you’ll find a range of practical advice to help you travel confidently in Japan.
Use the links in the left-hand menu to jump directly to whatever topic interests you.

 

Facts about Japan

  • Area: 377,829 sq km (145,877 sq miles)
  • Population: 124.5 million (2025) – predicted to fall over coming decades
  • Population density: 336 per sq km
  • Capital: Tokyo (population 14.18 million, 2025) – greater Tokyo area is much larger
  • Time zone: GMT +9

Travel Advice

Japan is considered one of the safest countries in the world. While nothing is entirely risk-free, situations that go wrong are extremely rare.
Before departure: contact a health professional up to six weeks ahead to check whether you require any vaccinations.
Ensure you have appropriate travel insurance, including cover for any adventure activities.

Climate

Japan’s climate varies significantly. From the harsh winters and mild summers of Hokkaido to the subtropical weather of Okinawa – there’s a wide range of conditions to consider.
On the mainland, summer temperatures are generally 20–30 °C. Early summer (mid-June to mid-July) brings a rainy season and late summer may bring typhoons – though these usually pass in a day.

Electricity

Japan does not have a single national power grid – there are separate eastern and western grids. The standard voltage is 100 V across the country, but the frequency differs: 50 Hz in the east (including Tokyo), 60 Hz in western Japan.
Plugs are the flat 2-pin type (similar to US style). If you have a US adapter you may find it works; UK travelers should ensure they bring a suitable adapter.

Mobile Phones

Using an overseas mobile phone in Japan can be confusing, as the network systems differ. But if your handset is 3G or above, you should have no major problem.
Note: roaming charges can be very high, especially for data use. We suggest turning roaming off to avoid a nasty surprise!
While almost all hotels offer complimentary Wi-Fi, you may want Internet access while out and about – we suggest renting a pocket WiFi device (for example: PuPuRu) for best coverage.

Medication

Japan has strict rules about bringing prescription and over-the-counter medication into the country. Some common cold remedies may be prohibited. Always check in advance.
As a general guide (UK Japan Embassy information, Jan 2019): you may bring up to one month’s supply of prescribed medication and up to two months of certain over-the-counter drugs without requiring a certificate.
If you are bringing needles, narcotics (e.g. codeine, morphine) or large quantities, you will need to apply for an import certificate (“Yakkan Shoumei”).

Currency

The Japanese currency is the Yen. In circulation: COINS of 500, 100, 50, 10, 5 and 1 yen; NOTES of 10,000, 5,000, 2,000 and 1,000 yen.
Note: 2,000 yen notes are rare and you may encounter shopkeepers who haven’t seen one regularly.

Exchange Rates

The Yen continues to be one of the more volatile major currencies. Exchange rates can change significantly, so it’s wise to check ahead of your trip.
Practical tip: you can exchange money at the airport, most banks and post offices – the current rate should be clearly displayed. When using cards, the withdrawal of cash at convenience store ATMs (for example 7-Eleven) is often more convenient.

Passports & Visas

This information is intended as a guide only. For official details, always contact your nearest Japanese embassy or consulate.
Your passport must be valid for the duration of your stay. It’s also wise to make a photocopy of your passport in case you lose it. Some nationalities require an onward ticket to be admitted.
Nationals of certain countries including the UK, Germany, Mexico, Austria, Switzerland, Liechtenstein, Ireland – no visa required, maximum stay of six months (initially three). Nationals of USA, Barbados, New Zealand – no visa required, maximum stay of 90 days.

Getting Money

Japan remains largely a cash-based society, so it’s advisable to carry some Yen with you.
Credit/debit cards are becoming more widely accepted in cities, but still may not be usable in smaller shops or restaurants. The most reliable way to withdraw cash with international cards is at Japan Post Offices or at 7-Eleven ATMs. You’ll need a 4-digit PIN.
There are no personal cheques in Japan for travelers. Most payments are either cash or card. Also take the card issuer’s emergency phone number with you just in case.

Tipping

In general, tipping is **not required** in Japan – paying the price on the bill is sufficient.
In restaurants and taxis, extra payment above the fare or bill may cause confusion – in some exceptional cases, staff may attempt to return your tip!
If you stay in a high-end ryokan where meals are served in your room and futons are laid out, a small tip might be appropriate (approximately 1,000 yen per night) placed in an envelope at the beginning of your stay. Never hand the cash directly.

Emergencies

Police: dial 110   |   Fire/Ambulance: dial 119 in Japan.
For English-language assistance: Japan Helpline (nationwide, 24h) – 81-50-3816-2787.