25 Important Things to Know Before Visiting Japan

If you’re planning a trip to Japan, get ready for one of the most fascinating, beautiful, and politely rule-abiding countries you’ll ever visit. But if it’s your first time, there are definitely some things you’ll want to know before you go.

We’ll be honest — researching Japan felt a little like studying for an exam. There’s just so much information out there that it’s easy to get overwhelmed. So after experiencing it ourselves, we decided to put together our own list of what you really need to know. Just the most crucial tips about things we would have struggled with had we not known in advance.

We’re not going to waste your time with stuff like “people bow” or “there’s a queue for everything” — you’ll figure that out the moment you land. Instead, this is a curated list of the 25 most helpful things to know before visiting Japan that will set your trip up for success. Let’s dive in.

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25 Things to Know Before Visiting Japan

Cultural Etiquette and Behavior

Japan is known for its order, politeness, and deep respect for others — and as a visitor, you’re expected to follow suit. While the cultural differences run deep (and we couldn’t possibly cover them all in one post), this section highlights the most essential etiquette tips to help you avoid coming across as rude or clueless.

1. Don’t Even Think About Tipping

Tipping isn’t just uncommon in Japan — it’s often considered rude. In Japanese culture, exceptional service is simply expected and delivered with pride, not as a means to earn extra money. Offering a tip can unintentionally suggest that the service wouldn’t have been good without it.

Because tipping isn’t part of the culture, handing someone cash may cause confusion or discomfort. It’s not unusual for them to politely refuse or return the money, and in some cases, it may even come across as condescending.

This no-tip norm even includes tour guides. And while it might feel strange, especially if you’re coming from a country where tipping is second nature, it’s best to resist the urge. In recent years, tipping guides has started to creep into heavily touristed areas — but this shift can create awkwardness and dilute the integrity of one of the few remaining tip-free cultures in the world.

2. Be Prepared to Remove Your Shoes

At some point during your trip to Japan — whether you’re visiting a temple, attending a traditional tea ceremony, or dining at an authentic restaurant — you’ll likely be asked to take off your shoes. It’s a deeply rooted cultural practice that signifies cleanliness and respect for indoor spaces.

It’s usually no big deal, but you’ll want to plan ahead. Wear socks and choose shoes that are easy to slip on and off. And take a mental snapshot of where you leave them — they may end up in a pile with dozens (or hundreds) of others. Don’t worry, no one’s going to steal them.

In many places, you’ll be given a pair of rubber slippers to wear inside. These typically come in just one or two small sizes, so don’t be surprised if your feet don’t exactly fit. Just do your best to shuffle along — your willingness to participate is all that matters.

3. Only Eat (and Smoke) in Designated Areas

In Japan, walking while eating is considered poor manners. Even in busy food markets, you’ll notice that people tend to eat right in front of the stall where they bought their food, rather than strolling with it. In fact, some markets post signs explicitly asking visitors not to walk and eat. It’s not just a suggestion — it’s a widely respected social norm.

💣_{Antisocial Tourist Tip — Some convenience store locations offer a small seating area to eat, so keep an eye out for them. It’s also okay to bring a snack on a longer train ride and eat it at your seat.}

The same goes for smoking. You won’t see many people lighting up on the sidewalk. Instead, there are designated smoking areas — often few and far between, and not always open 24/7. Many locals who smoke use smokeless tobacco alternatives and do so discreetly out of consideration for others.

On a related note, you’re also expected to avoid blowing your nose or coughing loudly in public. While sometimes unavoidable, these actions are generally seen as impolite in crowded spaces. That’s part of the reason why mask-wearing is so common in Japan — it’s not just about illness, but also about being considerate of those around you.

4. Stay Silent on the Train

One of the most unique and refreshing things about Japan is the quiet, especially on public transportation. It’s not that you can’t speak at all on a train or bus, but conversations are kept to a whisper. Loud phone calls, music without headphones, or shouting across seats? Absolutely not.

We once saw a train conductor approach a group of noisy tourists to politely ask them to lower their voices. He wasn’t rude, just incredibly respectful — and luckily, the travelers were quick to adjust.

This culture of quiet goes beyond public transit. Even in bustling markets or popular temple grounds, the overall volume is lower than you’d expect. It’s something you might not even know you needed — until you experience it. And when you leave Japan and return to the noisy, chaotic world you came from, you’ll miss it more than you thought possible.

5. Never Try to Bend the Rules

In Japan, all rules are expected to be followed. Rule breakers aren’t seen as rebellious or clever; they’re seen as irresponsible. So things you might do at home without thinking — like crossing the street when there are no cars, even if the signal is red — are considered bad manners here. If the light is red, you wait. If there’s a queue for a restaurant, you get in line. And if an onsen says no tattoos (more on that later), you respect the policy.

Japan is a collectivist society, which means the needs of the group are prioritized over the desires of the individual. There’s a deeply rooted cultural value placed on not inconveniencing others. So when everyone follows the rules — whether that’s standing in line perfectly or staying quiet on public transport — society runs more smoothly, and everyone feels respected.

Ultimately, it’s not about strict conformity. It’s about creating a considerate, peaceful environment where people can coexist without chaos — even in something as simple as waiting your turn at a crosswalk.

25 IMPORTANT THINGS TO KNOW BEFORE VISITING JAPAN

Transportation and Navigation

Getting around Japan is surprisingly easy once you know how everything works. Between Google Maps, trains, taxis, and transportation cards, it can feel like a lot at first. But once you understand the basics (and learn what you don’t actually need), everything becomes way more manageable. This section breaks it all down and includes a few hacks we wish we knew earlier.

6. Use Google Maps for Navigation

Google Maps works exceptionally well in Japan, especially for navigating public transportation. It shows train times, platform numbers, car numbers, transfer stations, walking routes, and even which train door to exit for the fastest transfer. We relied on it all day, every day, thanks to our mobile hotspot (more on that below), and it never let us down.

When figuring out how to get somewhere by train, don’t just search the name of a station — instead, plug in your actual starting point and destination. That way, Google Maps will map out your entire journey to where you’re going, including which station to use, which station entrance to go through, which train to take, which platform to use, and where to transfer (if needed).

That said, always double-check the electronic boards inside the stations for platform numbers. Your train ticket won’t list the platform, and while Google Maps is usually right, we did run into one instance where it sent us to the wrong platform. It was an easy fix, though, thanks to the clear signage at the station.

7. Don’t Avoid Taxis

Before our trip to Japan, we saw a ton of advice warning against using taxis because they’re “too expensive.” And yes, compared to the cost of a train ticket, a taxi will cost more — but that doesn’t mean they’re outrageously priced or not worth it.

We ended up taking taxis several times in both Tokyo and Kyoto, and we’re glad we did. Sometimes, after a long day or when navigating multiple train connections just felt like too much, a taxi was simply the more convenient option. And honestly? They were cheaper than an Uber ride back home.

We usually used the Go Taxi App, which works just like Uber. You can input your destination, get an upfront price, and pay directly in the app — no awkward language barrier or confusion. We do recommend downloading and setting up your payment info in the app before your trip.

We also hailed a few taxis the old-fashioned way in Kyoto. To communicate with the driver in these cases, we just pulled up our hotel or destination on Google Maps and showed it to the driver. Some hotels even offer cards with their name and address written in Japanese for this exact reason, so be sure to grab one if you’re planning to catch a cab.

💣_{Antisocial Tourist Tip — ALL taxi doors in Japan open automatically. Do not try to open or shut the door yourself.}

8. Study the Train System Before You Arrive

Japan’s train system is vast, efficient, and incredibly well-run — but there’s definitely a learning curve. Doing a little research ahead of time can make or break your experience. Watch videos, read blog posts, ask ChatGPT — whatever helps you get a general understanding of how it works, it’s worth it.

We mapped out our major train routes in advance and watched walkthroughs on how to buy tickets and navigate the specific stations we’d be using — and I’m so glad we did. When we arrived, we weren’t overwhelmed or confused. We knew exactly where to go, what to look for, and how to get our tickets without stressing.

That research also saved us money. A lot of tourists assume they have to get the JR Pass (a multi-use rail pass), but we realized we wouldn’t be using the trains enough to make it worth the cost. So instead, we bought individual tickets for the routes we needed. And we also learned that we didn’t need a Suica card either (more on that next), because we wouldn’t use it often enough to justify it.

25 IMPORTANT THINGS TO KNOW BEFORE VISITING JAPAN

Connectivity and Convenience

Japan is incredibly efficient, but only if you know a few local tricks. From how to stay connected to ways to lighten your load (literally), this section covers some things to consider for an easy, stress-free experience in Japan.

9. Not Everyone Needs the Suica Card

The Suica card is a prepaid IC card issued by JR East (one of Japan’s major railway companies). It’s mainly used for tapping in and out of trains, subways, and buses, but it also works at vending machines, convenience stores, and even some restaurants and attractions. It’s cool and convenient, and if you get one, you’ll certainly use it.

But one of the most helpful things to know before visiting Japan, and contrary to popular advice, is that it’s not essential! Sure it’s convenient, but it’s not like Alipay in China. If you’re only riding the train a few times and you’ve already bought individual tickets, you really don’t need it. And while it’s handy for grabbing drinks at vending machines or paying at convenience stores, so are credit cards and cash. We read so much advice before our trip that made it seem like the Suica card was a must, that we worried we’d regret not having one — but once we arrived, we didn’t think about it even once.

iPhone users can actually download a digital Suica card through Apple Wallet, which is super convenient. But Android users (like us) are out of luck unless they’re using a Japanese-made phone. Yes, you can pick up a physical Suica card when you arrive, or grab a tourist-friendly version called the Welcome Suica (valid for 30 days), but honestly — unless you’re planning to ride public transit a ton, you’re not missing much. Credit cards and cash work just fine.

10. Cash Is Still King, Sort Of

Japan has a reputation for being a cash-based society, and while that’s still true in some ways, things are changing fast. You’ll definitely run into small restaurants, shrines, or old-school vendors that are cash-only, but in our experience, plenty of places accept credit cards — even American Express. We were able to tap our card for purchases way more often than expected (even at markets).

That said, we did use cash regularly — but mostly by choice, since we had brought some yen with us. What surprised us most was how many coins we ended up with, especially the 100 yen coins. They pile up fast and become super handy, but also kind of a pain to carry loose. We recommend bringing a coin organizer or small coin purse. It will make a big difference.

11. Consider Renting a Pocket Wi-Fi

We were surprised by how many tourists insist on getting a mobile hotspot (or “pocket Wi-Fi”) specifically for Japan. It’s funny, because while we always travel with a hotspot, there are places in the world where it’s way more necessary — yet Japan is the one country where everyone seems to understand how convenient it actually is.

To be clear: If you’re using an international data plan or an eSIM, you’ll have no problem getting connected. But if you want to avoid draining your phone’s data plan — especially while using Google Maps constantly (and trust us, you will) — then a pocket Wi-Fi is the most convenient solution. Sure, you’ll find public wifi in many places throughout Japan, but it’s not always great, plus it doesn’t do you much good when you’re on the move.

We personally own and love our Solis hotspot (highly recommend if you travel a lot), but if you don’t have your own, Japan makes it super easy to rent one. For just a few dollars a day, you can rent one at the airport from companies like Ninja WiFi (we recommend this one), Global WiFi, or Japan Wireless. Or better yet, you can reserve one online in advance and pick it up or have it delivered to your hotel when you arrive.

12. Luggage Transfer Services are Encouraged

With the sheer volume of people on the streets and in the train stations in Japan, hauling large luggage around is just as inconvenient to others as it is to you. Because of this, luggage transfer services are a big thing in Japan. When traveling from hotel to hotel, you can simply ship your luggage separately and travel hands-free. It’s called takuhaibin (or luggage forwarding service), and it’s a total game-changer — especially if you’re taking multiple trains, staying in different cities, or just don’t want to drag a suitcase through crowded stations and up hotel staircases.

Japan’s luggage transfer services are insanely reliable, too. We’re talking door-to-door delivery with virtually no risk of a lost bag. Just drop off your luggage the night before you change locations, and it magically shows up at your next hotel the following day (or even same-day in some cases).

The most popular and reliable service is Yamato Transport (often referred to by the black cat logo), but Sagawa and Japan Post Yu-Pack offer similar services. You can schedule a transfer online in advance or arrange it with the front desk at your hotel. Normally, we’re all about advanced planning — but in this case, we actually recommend booking through your hotel so you know exactly when and where to leave your bags.

💣_{Antisocial Tourist Tip — You can bring luggage onto most trains in Japan, but each type of train has its own rules. Bullet trains (Shinkansen) have overhead storage, similar to airplanes, that can fit small to medium-sized bags. If you’re traveling with a large suitcase, you can reserve a seat with extra space for oversized luggage on these trains, as well. But most local and regional trains don’t have overhead racks, so you’ll need to keep your bags at your feet}

25 IMPORTANT THINGS TO KNOW BEFORE VISITING JAPAN

Food and Dining

Japan is a foodie’s dream, but if you’re even a little bit picky, you may be surprised to find that you won’t always know what you’re eating, and you may not be able to modify your order. From fine dining surprises to unexpected chopstick rules, here’s what you need to know to survive (and maybe even thrive) in Japan’s food scene.

13. Learn Basic Chopstick Etiquette

One of the most underrated things to know before visiting Japan is chopstick etiquette. You will have no choice but to embrace chopsticks during your trip, and they carry a deeper cultural meaning in Japan than most people realize, so it’s easy to offend if you don’t know some basics. There’s actually a long list of etiquette rules around them, but after actually being there and observing locals, we realized just two things are crucial to avoid offending anyone:

1. Never stab your food with your chopsticks (like you would with a fork).
2. Never stick your chopsticks upright in your bowl (this mimics a ritual performed at funerals)

If you can remember those two things, you’ll be just fine. Don’t overthink the rest. No matter how much you know about chopstick etiquette, they’ll still know you’re a tourist — and that’s okay.

💣_{Antisocial Tourist Tip — If you’re not totally confident using chopsticks, practice before your trip. Swap out your fork for chopsticks at a few meals, or challenge yourself to pick up popcorn with them. You’ll be surprised how quickly it becomes second nature.}

14. Don’t Expect Food Modifications

When you decide what to eat in Japan, just be ready to take it as it comes. If you’re someone who’s used to customizing every meal — “no onions,” “sauce on the side,” “gluten-free bun,” etc. — Japan will absolutely test your flexibility. Modifying dishes simply isn’t common here. In fact, it’s often not possible. Most meals are served as a set, with little room for substitutions, and asking to change something may be met with confusion or a polite refusal.

It’s not rudeness — it’s just not part of the culture. Meals are typically crafted with balance and presentation in mind, and altering them can be seen as disrupting that harmony. If you have strong preferences or dietary restrictions, it’s best to look for restaurants that already cater to your needs rather than expecting adjustments.

This goes double for those with food allergies or vegan diets. Allergen labeling isn’t always clear, and language barriers can make it tough to ask specific questions. If you’re vegan or vegetarian, your best bet is to seek out restaurants that are specifically labeled as such — and even then, double-check the menu. Vegan food does exist in Japan, but it’s not the default.

15. Slurping is Okay (Surprisingly)

It’s funny to us how respectful and quiet Japan’s culture is, yet slurping noodles loudly is totally fine. In fact, slurping your noodles is not only acceptable, it’s encouraged. It’s a way to show that you’re enjoying the meal, especially when eating dishes like ramen, soba, or udon.

Slurping also serves a practical purpose. It (supposedly) helps cool down hot noodles as you eat them and enhances the flavor by mixing air with the broth. Locals do it without hesitation, and you should too — no one will bat an eye.

Of course, this doesn’t mean you should go wild with slurping everything. It’s specifically for noodles, not rice or other dishes. And don’t confuse this with being loud in general — outside of noodle appreciation, Japanese dining culture is still very quiet and respectful.

16. Water is Free and Safe to Drink

Every country is different, and we’re big water drinkers, so one of the first things we check before visiting a new country is whether the tap water is safe to drink. In Japan, not only is it safe… It’s delicious. Crisp, clean, and refreshingly cold right out of the tap.

Most restaurants in Japan will automatically bring you a glass of iced water as soon as you sit down — no need to ask or pay for it. Even in busy food halls and market stalls, you’ll often find self-serve stations with pitchers of ice water and stacks of cups for anyone dining in.

💣_{Antisocial Tourist Tip — It’s very easy to find bottled water in convenience stores and cafes, but you will not find it at restaurants or in food halls. Expect iced tap water served instead. If you prefer bottled water, you’ll need to bring your own when dining out.}

25 IMPORTANT THINGS TO KNOW BEFORE VISITING JAPAN

Sightseeing and Experiences

Japan is packed with unforgettable sights, unique experiences, and cultural moments you won’t find anywhere else. But not everything lives up to the hype, and some attractions can feel repetitive if you don’t choose wisely. In this section, we’ll help you prioritize the things that are actually worth your time (and money).

17. It’s Okay to Skip Cherry Blossom Season

Everyone raves about cherry blossom season in Japan — and sure, the photos are stunning. But here’s the truth: unless the blossoms are the entire reason for your trip, it’s just not worth the chaos.

We’re talking shoulder-to-shoulder crowds, sky-high hotel prices, and sold-out attractions. It’s beautiful, yes. But so is the rest of Japan, all year long. You don’t need cherry blossoms to enjoy the thrill of playing Mario Kart in the streets of Tokyo or feeding deer in Nara.

And honestly? Japan isn’t the only place with cherry blossoms. South Korea, Washington D.C., Paris, Vancouver — all have stunning blooms with a fraction of the madness. So don’t feel like you’re missing out if you skip sakura season. And don’t feel like Japan will be your only shot at seeing them.

18. Kaiseki Dinners Are Not for Everyone

If you’ve done even a little research on traditional Japanese cuisine, you’ve probably heard of kaiseki. It’s a multi-course dining experience that’s all about seasonal ingredients, artistic presentation, and delicate flavors. Think of it as Japan’s answer to fine dining — elegant, refined, and very much rooted in tradition. That said… It’s not for everyone.

We tried two kaiseki dinners during our trip, and both times we left absolutely starving. And it wasn’t because the portions were small — it was because the food was so unusual and out there, we just couldn’t eat it. At one place, we were served fish jello — literally a clear gelatin cube filled with tiny whole fish suspended inside.

It’s not just us either — several of our friends felt the same way. So unless you’re a true foodie who genuinely enjoys trying everything (and we mean everything), kaiseki might not be worth the splurge. But if you’re a more adventurous eater or want the full cultural experience, go for it. Just know what you’re signing up for! Oh, and be prepared to spend 2 – 3 hours there.

19. Temple Burnout is Real

Japan has a lot of temples. And while they’re beautiful, peaceful, and deeply cultural… they start to blur together fast. This is especially true in Kyoto, where it can feel like there’s a temple on every corner. The architecture, colors, and layouts can be surprisingly similar, and unless you’re super into religious history or architecture, it’s easy to hit a wall.

Instead, be strategic. Pick a few that are actually impressive and different, and skip the rest. Fushimi Inari Taisha in Kyoto, for example, is absolutely worth the hype. The tunnel of endless vermilion torii gates creates one of the most iconic visuals in all of Japan, and hiking through them feels almost otherworldly. Another standout is Kinkaku-ji, also in Kyoto — the famous Golden Pavilion. It’s a bit touristy, but seeing a gold-covered temple shimmering over a tranquil pond is pretty hard to forget.

If you head to Nara, Todai-ji is a great one to prioritize. It houses one of the largest bronze Buddha statues in the world and has friendly deer roaming freely around the temple grounds — a combination that’s as surreal as it is memorable. In Tokyo, Senso-ji is the city’s oldest temple and offers a cool contrast between ancient architecture and modern energy. It’s especially beautiful at night when everything is lit up and the crowds thin out a bit.

For a quieter, more contemplative experience, Ryoan-ji’s famous zen rock garden can give you a completely different vibe from the more elaborate temple complexes. And if you’re looking for something truly unique, consider a visit to Itsukushima Shrine near Hiroshima, where the torii gate appears to float on the sea during high tide. It’s an image you won’t soon forget.

20. You May Need to Find a Tattoo-Friendly Onsen

Onsens (Japanese hot spring baths) are one of the best cultural experiences you can have in Japan — but they come with strict etiquette. The big one? Tattoos are banned at most public onsens. And before you get any ideas: you can’t just cover them with a swimsuit or towel, because you have to be completely naked in the bath. No exceptions, no fabric in the water — just you, freshly scrubbed, and your birthday suit. Baths are also separated by gender, and you’re expected to shower thoroughly before entering.

So, what’s with the no-tattoo rule? In Japan, tattoos have long been associated with the Yakuza (organized crime groups), so public bathhouses often still view them as intimidating or inappropriate, even if you’re clearly just a traveler with a cute ankle butterfly.

That said, some onsens do allow tattoos — especially in tourist-friendly areas — or they may let you cover small ones with a skin-colored patch (available at convenience stores or sometimes provided at check-in). But you’ll definitely want to check ahead of time so you don’t get turned away.

If you’re not into naked gender-divided soaks, consider booking a private onsen. These are typically available at ryokan (traditional inns), where you can enjoy the same relaxing soak without worrying about the rules. Some places offer in-room tubs with natural hot spring water, while others have reservable outdoor baths for private use. It’s a little more expensive, but absolutely worth it if you want the experience without the stress.

21. You Can’t Post Photos of the Geishas

Geishas are highly trained performers who dedicate their lives to traditional Japanese arts like dance, music, and conversation. They are living pieces of cultural history — not costumed street performers, and definitely not something to chase down the street for a photo-op.

In Kyoto’s Gion District, where you’re most likely to spot one walking to or from an engagement, the issue has gotten so out of hand that signs are now posted warning tourists not to take photos. This doesn’t mean you can’t snap a quick photo from afar, but don’t get too close or block a geisha’s path to get the picture. If you’re lucky enough to witness one in passing, admire her quietly and let her be.

There are legitimate ways to experience a geisha performance, like through a cultural dinner or private event, and these sometimes include a short photo opportunity. In those cases, photos are encouraged — but you’ll usually be asked not to share them online. (Yes, for real. It’s one of those honesty-policy situations.)

25 IMPORTANT THINGS TO KNOW BEFORE VISITING JAPAN

Random and Miscellaneous

Some tips just don’t fit neatly into a category — but that doesn’t make them any less important. From high-tech toilets to surprisingly generous hotel amenities, these are the quirky and helpful things that might catch you off guard if you don’t know about them in advance.

22. There Are Very Few Public Trash Cans

One of the more surprising things to know before visiting Japan is that trash cans are basically non-existent. The only places you’ll find them are at train stations (but only on the platforms) and convenience stores. Despite this, the streets are almost spotless!

This is because in Japan, you’re expected to carry your trash with you until you can dispose of it properly. That means hanging onto your empty coffee cup or snack wrapper for hours, sometimes even until you get back to your hotel. We recommend keeping a small bag like this with you just for trash.

This may sound like a hassle at first, but it’s just part of the culture of personal responsibility. Everyone does their part to keep the country clean, and once you get used to it, it actually makes a lot of sense.

23. The Hotels Are Loaded with Amenities

If you’re someone who packs travel-sized toiletries out of habit, you might be surprised to learn you can skip most of them in Japan. Hotels here — even budget-friendly ones — are absolutely stacked with amenities. Shampoo, conditioner, body wash, toothbrushes, razors, combs, Q-tips, and more are often provided in your room or available in the lobby for free.

We were constantly impressed by how thoughtful and well-stocked even the simplest accommodations were. It’s one of those things you won’t fully appreciate until you experience it — and then you’ll wonder why hotels back home don’t do the same. So go ahead and leave that toiletry bag a little lighter.

💣_{Antisocial Tourist Tip — Hotels in Japan are small! Always pay attention to the square footage of the room you’re booking. We typically look for at least 200 sq ft for two people.}

24. There’s a Convenience Store on Every Corner

Japan’s convenience stores, or konbini, are legendary — and for good reason. The big three are 7-Eleven, FamilyMart, and Lawson. They’re nearly identical in terms of what they offer, so don’t stress about which one to choose. You’ll find bottled water, cold drinks, frozen treats, plus an endless supply of snacks, pastries, and even ready-to-heat meals.

In bigger cities, you’ll pass one on nearly every block. But even in rural areas, they’re never far — you’ll be amazed how often they pop up in places that feel like the middle of nowhere.

Some of the most popular tourist snacks include onigiri (rice balls), egg salad sandwiches, and the famous FamilyMart fried chicken (Famichiki). This was Jake’s favorite! It’s hot, juicy, and handed to you in a little paper sleeve. If you’re ever hungry between meals or just want to stock up before a long train ride, your nearest konbini will always come through. Just remember to eat near the entrance and not while you walk!

25. Don’t Let the Toilets Overwhelm You

Japan has completely changed the way we think about bathrooms. Compared to most toilets around the world, the ones in Japan are on another level — often packed with more buttons than the cockpit of a plane. But don’t worry if you’re not ready to test out the bidet functions or music buttons; you can ignore all of that and just look for the flush button (or a traditional handle). Everything else is optional.

What really blew us away was how many features were standard — even in public restrooms. Most toilet seats are heated, and they stay warm around the clock, making even a gas station bathroom feel oddly luxurious (it was weird at first, but then we ended up loving it). And unlike many other countries, there’s always toilet paper, even in the public facilities. So whether you use all the buttons or none at all, Japan’s bathrooms will probably ruin you for the rest of the world.

💣_{Antisocial Tourist Tip — While toilet paper is always provided, hand towels are not! In fact, they’re very rare. We recommend keeping a small towel in your bag to dry your hands on the go.}

Final Thoughts: Things to Know Before Visiting Japan

Japan is one of those rare places where ancient traditions and futuristic tech somehow coexist in perfect harmony — but that also means there’s a bit of a learning curve for first-time visitors. Hopefully, the tips and things to know before visiting Japan that we’ve shared will help take some of the mystery (and stress) out of planning your trip. Whether you’re still deciding where to go in Japan, figuring out how to get around in Japan, or stressing about tattoo rules in Japan, just know you’re not alone. Focus on the essentials, learn the basic rules, and trust that the rest you’ll figure out as you go. That’s half the fun anyway.

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