Surprising facts and tips learned while traveling in Osaka, Kyoto and Tokyo, Japan!
This is a no tipping country, to the point where it is considered rude to give extra. Use your change (because you will end up with a lot of coins!) for the temples and metro instead!
Locals want to help. They will go out of their way to provide assistance, even if they don’t speak English.
Speaking of, there is a surprisingly lack of English speakers. Those in hospitality are a bit better. Translating devices also popular. Otherwise it’s helpful to have addresses and confirmations printed or on screen in Japanese.
Though a very modern country, some restaurants and attractions require take cash. It is also the only option when purchasing metro tickets.
Japan is very clean…like eat off the floor clean. The streets are spotless. No graffiti. No trash. In Buddhism and Shintoism, cleanliness is regarded as an important part of religious practice.
Ironically, there are no trash cans! If you have garbage, you will likely have to hold it until you enter a metro station or restaurant. Locals sometimes carry their own small garbage bags.
The metro may look intimidating at a glance, but it’s actually very easy to understand if you use Google Maps. Inside the station, there are multiple signs and indicators, all in English. There are barricades next to the tracks as well. It’s incredibly clean and you get some lovely music with each stop.
When on the metro, use your indoor voice. Many locals take this opportunity to nap!
Ubers/taxis are wonderful but expensive. They are white glove service.
When dining out, it’s typical to receive a check at the table and then pay at the register in the front of the restaurant.
Long lines are not unusual for the popular spots! With smaller menus, the lines tend to move quickly. And it’s a quick indicator that it’s a good restaurant.
Instead of napkins, you will receive a small wet towel to wash your hands before any meal.
It is frowned upon to walk and eat, drink or smoke. Chances are, no one will say anything to you if you do, but it will lead to some side eyes.
There is absolutely no jaywalking. You could be on a deserted street in the middle of the night and it would be frowned upon to walk across the road until the green crosswalk symbol flashes.
This is a country of convenience. The vending machines all over a symbol of this.
Once in awhile, you will come across a vending machine with beers. Japan has an open container law, and it’s legal to peruse the streets with alcohol. Though they don’t encourage walking with drinks…so drink in front of the vending machine?
Bathrooms are an experience in themselves. How will I ever go back to regular toilets without heated seats and peaceful background noise? (One downside: no soap in the public restrooms.)
Japan is one of the world’s largest tobacco markets. The older restaurants and bar establishments will allow smoking, and there are smoking rooms in many hotels. On the streets, there are smoking areas.
PSA: A “cafe” is not necessarily a cafe. It will likely serve typical Japanese meals. Same goes with bars!
Most restaurants will have food model displays outside and picture menus inside. They may not look appetizing but it is helpful to know what is available, especially if there are no English menu options.
Restaurants open later. Even coffee shops get a late start, with some not open until 10am.
If you have a sweet tooth you may be disappointed with the options. Most desserts are mochi related and have a red bean paste. Otherwise your best bets are ice cream, crepes and candied strawberries you can find at food stalls.
The kimono is not comfortable. If you plan on renting or buying one, know that it’s difficult to breathe!
Geishas, or Geikos, as they are now referred to, are a rare sighting. It’s fun to spend a night in Kyoto walking the streets and keeping an eye out. Typically they head to work between 4-5pm which is your best chance to see one. Photos and any sort of engagement are discouraged.
Japan is the only country in the world with a homeless rate around ~0%. Strict gun laws and mental health systems are working! The few we did see were very respectful.
Culture and traditions are such a large part of Japan. The locals absolutely take part in their community temples and shrines. It’s worth learning how to pay your respects the right way.
