Banking and Currency

• Currency:

  • Japanese Yen (JPY)

• Banking:  

  • Credit cards a fairly widely accepted and ATMs are widely available, often in convenience stores. It is always worth carrying some cash as on occasions you will find restaurants or cafés that are cash only.

Health & Safety

Personal Safety

Japan is one of the world's safest destinations with very low crime rates. Tourists are very rarely targeted and only when giving opportunists the chance, like leaving items unattended for long periods of time, etc. Police are highly visible in key tourist spots. If anything did go missing, 9 times out of 10 you will find the item is handed in at a local lost & found.

You should be aware of the natural disasters that can occur in Japan, as the country is located in a seismically active region, and earthquakes are a common occurrence. It's essential to be prepared and follow safety guidelines during an earthquake.

• Earthquake Safety: Familiarise yourself with earthquake safety procedures, such as "Drop, Cover, and Hold On." Pay attention to announcements and follow the guidance of local authorities and advice written on hotel notice boards.  

• Tsunami Risk: In coastal areas, be aware of tsunami warnings. Evacuate immediately to higher ground if an alert is issued.

• Typhoons are commonplace in late summer / autumn and can also occur in late spring. These can cause disruption to all forms of travel and, in extreme cases, can prevent you from going outside during the height of the storm.

Healthcare

• Healthcare: Japan has a high-quality healthcare system, but medical costs can be expensive. It's a must to have comprehensive travel insurance that covers medical emergencies.  

• Food Safety: Japanese food is generally safe, but it's wise to avoid street food, especially if you have a sensitive stomach. Stick to reputable restaurants and food vendors.

• Tap Water: Tap water in Japan is generally safe to drink. However, bottled water is readily available.  

Language, Communicating and Customs

Japanese is the official language but many people will speak some English, though not extensively as you may think.

It is a fact that a few essential words and phrases in Japanese will get you far, though a good translation app will get you further! Have one at the ready at all times, and if you do not yet know the functionality of these apps, then familiarise yourselves with them before travelling, as you can then communicate much easier with the locals, find your way around, travel the less well travelled road and, most importantly, experience the amazing variety of Japanese food from menus.

Respect the customs and traditions of the local communities, especially when visiting rural areas. Ask for permission before taking photos of people. Japan is known for its politeness and respect for tradition. Here are a few customs to be aware of:

• Bowing: A common greeting, especially in formal settings.

• Shoes Off: Remove your shoes when entering homes, temples, and traditional inns (ryokan).

• Chopstick Etiquette: Don't stick chopsticks upright in rice, as it resembles a funeral ritual.

• Public Behaviour: Avoid loud conversations and public displays of affection.

• Having long mobile phone conversations in quiet areas is generally frowned upon and you should never contemplate taking a call in a designated silent railway carriage or other locations where a no mobile logo is displayed.

Mobile and Wi-Fi access is excellent in towns, on trains, in cities and most urbanised areas.

Travel, Transport & Getting Around

• The primary gateways from Europe and the US are Tokyo and Osaka, although if flying indirectly with an non-Japanese Asian airline, e.g. Cathay Pacific via Hong Kong, these carriers service a number of regional airports up and down the country.

• Taxis in cities are plentiful and fairly reasonably priced. Always ask your hotel for public transport alternatives first. It is also recommended to have a hotel key card or the name of your hotel written in Japanese - to show any taxi driver.

• Major cities have Uber and other app-based taxis services.

• Driving in Japan is very straightforward for British travellers; they drive on the same side of the road and unsurprisingly it’s a very orderly experience. Have awareness of local speed limits and rules. Most street signage is dual language and a good mobile mapping app is helpful.

Food, Drink & Cuisine Advice

Japanese cuisine is renowned for its freshness and variety. Some must-tries include:

• Sushi and Sashimi: Fresh raw fish served with rice.

• Ramen: A hearty noodle soup.

• Tempura: Deep-fried vegetables and seafood.

• Okonomiyaki: Savoury pancakes.

To fully experience Japanese cuisine when visiting, we strongly advise you have an app with you that can read and translate from printed menus.

When is the best time to visit Japan? Climate & Weather

The best time to visit Japan largely depends on your interests:

• Spring (March-May): Cherry blossom season, a breathtaking spectacle, draws crowds.

• Summer (June-August): Hot and humid, but perfect for outdoor activities like hiking and visiting cultural festivals.

• Autumn (September-November): Pleasant weather and stunning autumn foliage.

• Winter (December-February): Ideal for skiing and winter sports in northern regions. Snow is common on the northern islands, including Tokyo.

Electricity & Plug Standards

Japan primarily uses two types of plugs:

• Type A: Two flat parallel pins

• Type B: Two flat parallel pins with a grounding pin

These are similar to the plugs used in North America.

Japan uses a 100V electrical system with a 50/60 Hz frequency. You'll need a voltage converter and a plug adapter for any equipment which is not primed to operate or charge of this supply.

Disclaimer

While every effort is taken to provide accurate and up-to-date information, and in particular in relation to health and visa/passport information, we urge you to seek independent advice from the proper medical or government authorities in good time before you t