Travel is a strange thing. We spend months, sometimes years, saving up for a trip. We read the blogs, we watch the videos, we plan every single day down to the minute. But even with all that preparation, the most important lessons are the ones you can only learn on the ground. They’re the small, almost insignificant details that, in aggregate, determine whether a trip feels like a smooth, effortless experience or a series of minor frustrations.
Going to Japan for the first time is a masterclass in this kind of learning. The country operates on a different logic, a different rhythm. It’s a place of quiet order and deep respect, a society where the unspoken rules are just as important as the written ones. And if you don’t know them, you can feel like a bull in a china shop, even with the best of intentions.
So, for all you first-timers dreaming of cherry blossoms and neon-lit streets, here are ten things I wish I had known before my maiden voyage to the Land of the Rising Sun. Do share your thoughts in the comments below.
1. It’s Not the Trains, It’s the Stations!
The Japanese train system is, without a doubt, a marvel of modern engineering. It’s world-class, punctual, and a masterclass in efficiency. It might take a few rides to get the hang of the color-coded lines and numbered stations, but once you do, you’ll have that “aha!” moment of appreciating just how brilliantly it’s all laid out.
What the online guides don’t tell you is that navigating the major stations themselves can be a labyrinthine challenge. Think Grand Central Station on steroids, with multiple levels, dozens of exits, and a dizzying flow of humanity. Give yourself at least 10 extra minutes at new stations, especially when transferring lines. And don’t solely rely on Google Maps for directions inside; its GPS signal often gets lost deep underground. Instead of bothering busy commuters, look for the friendly station staff—they’re a fantastic resource and are used to helping confused tourists.
2. The Language Barrier is Real (and a Beautiful Thing)
Unless you’re fluent in Japanese, you’ll only ever truly experience a small slice of the country. Despite the growing presence of English in major tourist hubs, Japan holds tightly to its cultural identity. This includes Japanese-only signage and an array of local bars and restaurants that are primarily for regulars, or “members-only.”
While this might feel exclusionary to some, it’s often a business model centered on serving a loyal, local clientele. Rather than a snub to tourists, it’s a reflection of a deep-seated community culture. Embrace it. You’ll find that the “Western-friendly” venues are fantastic in their own right, and those hidden local gems are simply a motivation to return one day, perhaps with a local friend to guide you.
3. Don’t Try to Do It All
With such a seamless transportation system, there’s a strong temptation to pack your itinerary to the brim. From the bustling streets of Tokyo to the tranquil temples of Kyoto and the natural beauty of Hakone, it feels like you can conquer it all. But trust me, you can’t. Japan is a vast, densely populated country with an endless list of things to see and do.
Resist the urge to be a hero. Don’t rush from one landmark to the next. Instead, slow down. Pick a neighborhood and get lost in its side streets. Savor a quiet moment in a traditional garden. Give yourself permission to do less so you can experience more. You’ll return home feeling recharged, not exhausted.
4. Exploring the “Red Light” Districts is a Must (For Adults!)
The term “red light district” carries a seedy connotation in many parts of the world, but in Japan, these areas are often vibrant, safe, and a hub of late-night activity. In Tokyo, places like Roppongi and Golden Gai are a melting pot of culture, with some of the city’s best restaurants and most unique bars.
I highly recommend booking a guided tour with a local expert for your first visit. They can demystify the area, explain the various subcultures, and ensure you have a fun and safe experience. It’s an eye-opening glimpse into a different side of Japanese nightlife and an essential part of the adult travel experience.
5. Cash is King in Unexpected Places
While major hotels and chain stores are happy to swipe your credit card, many smaller, local establishments—especially in markets, small restaurants, and vending machines—are cash-only. The reason is often a mix of tradition and a way to avoid credit card processing fees. Either way, you’ll want to have a decent amount of Japanese Yen on hand at all times. Look for 7-Eleven or Japan Post ATMs, as these are typically the most reliable for foreign cards.
6. Stay in a Hotel, Not a Residential Airbnb
Unless you speak Japanese or know a local, I strongly recommend booking a hotel for your first trip. Residential Airbnbs can be great, but they also come with a unique set of challenges. Getting a taxi can be difficult, the houses often have complex gadgets and appliances with Japanese-only instructions, and you won’t have a bilingual concierge to help with reservations or local advice. A good hotel with staff who speak English will make your trip infinitely more comfortable and hassle-free.
7. Taxis Are More Accessible Than You Think
Sure, a taxi ride to and from the airport can be pricey, but for short trips, especially when traveling in a group of three or more, they can be surprisingly cost-effective. They are also a lifesaver on a rainy day or late at night when the trains stop running. The drivers are incredibly professional and the cars are spotless.
8. Food is Cheaper and Better Than You Imagine
Forget what you’ve heard about Japan being expensive. A decent, high-quality meal—even at a small, local spot—can often be found for around $10 USD. The quality of the food, from a simple bowl of ramen to a perfectly grilled skewer, is consistently outstanding, even at the humblest of eateries. You’ll pay a premium for Western chains or upscale restaurants, but you can eat like a king on a backpacker’s budget.
9. YouTube is Your Best Friend for Pre-Trip Research
There is an overwhelming amount of information online about Japan. Many of the articles and blogs are filled with sponsored ads and affiliate links, making it hard to get unbiased advice. Instead, turn to YouTube. Videos give you a visual sense of what places are really like, helping you determine if a particular neighborhood or activity is right for you. I also highly recommend picking up a compact, physical travel guide—the maps and recommendations are often invaluable when your phone battery dies or you’re in a Wi-Fi dead zone.
10. Learn a Few Phrases (and Have a Photo Handy!)
You don’t need to be fluent, but learning a handful of basic Japanese phrases will go a long way. Arigato (thank you), sumimasen (excuse me/sorry), and konnichiwa (hello) are great starting points. You’ll find that Japanese people are very appreciative of the effort. Another pro tip: save a photo of your hotel address in Japanese on your phone. This is a huge help for taxi drivers, who might not be familiar with the English spelling of your hotel name.
And one final note on a practical matter: while US and Japanese plugs are the same, most outlets are the two-pronged variety. Your phone and laptop chargers should work just fine, but if you have a three-pronged plug, you may need an adapter for the grounding pin.
So there you have it. My biggest takeaways from an unforgettable first trip. Japan is an incredible country, and these little insights will hopefully help you move from traveler to explorer, ready to embrace all the magic, chaos, and beauty it has to offer. Happy travels!