There's NO place like Japan on this earth. I'm 100% convinced that it's out of a fairy tale. But over the the last decade of traveling to Japan, I've wasted so much money unnecessarily, unintentionally stayed out past the time that trains were running, and I've even stayed in a Japanese Love Hotel by accident. Having a seamless Japan trip isn't as easy as you might think.
The right prep work makes the difference between a good trip and an unforgettable one. So that's what I'm going to give you—the cheat codes you need to skip the planning headaches.
If you have any questions about the info I've shared, feel free to ask away in the comments below. I answer each and every one of them myself. And don't forget to watch the full YouTube video with all of the tips. Let's dive right in!
When you’re deciding on the best time to visit Japan, you should keep in mind that timing is everything. It’s important to have an idea of exactly what you want to do and experience on the trip you're going to take. Trust me, they're not all equal.
And just to start this off with some personal preferences, my favorite time to visit Japan is during the fall/autumn months of September through November, but the spring months between March and May are a close second. I hate to admit it, but I usually do my best to avoid the hot, humid summer weather.
Here’s a quick breakdown of how the seasons compare, so you can decide which season you might prefer for your trip to Japan:
| Season | Months | Best for | Weather | Popular Activities |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Spring | March - May | Cherry Blossoms, Festivals | 9-24°C (48-75°F) | Cherry Blossoms (Sakura), Takayama Spring Festival, Sanja Matsuri |
| Summer | June - August | Beaches, Festivals, Outdoor Activities | 20-30°C (68-86°F) | Fireworks Festivals, Gion Matsuri, Climbing Mount Fuji |
| Autumn/Fall | September - November | Fall Foliage, Festivals, Hiking | 15-25°C (59-77°F) | Autumn Leaves (Koyo), Arashiyama Bamboo Grove, Jidai Matsuri |
| Winter | December - February | Snow Sports, Hot Springs, Festivals | -5-10°C (23-50 °F) | Skiing/Snowboarding, Sapporo Snow Festival, Visiting Onsen |
Still not sure which time is right? Here's my insider breakdown for when you should really go, based on having spent at least 2-3 weeks at a time in Japan during each of the seasons:
You've gotta see the cherry blossoms. And the weather is going to be really mild and pleasant. But prices will be sky high in the major cities and in some ways not quite worth the premium. The other thing to keep in mind is that cherry blossoms bloom at different times and in different places across the country.
Learn more about the timing of the cherry blossom bloom cycle and locations in my article, When Is Cherry Blossom Season in Japan? Everything You Need to Know. For clothing in the Spring months, think light jackets and layers such as sweaters, long-sleeve shirts, and t-shirts. If you don’t mind the crowds, you’re going to get some pretty spectacular pics that look like they were altered in Photoshop.
If you're a cherry blossom fan, you should also check out my article, The 10 Best Places to See Cherry Blossoms for Tourists. In that article I’ll give you a breakdown of the peak times, places to avoid if you’re not into huge crowds, my favorite photo spots, and the best places to stay nearby. Want to see the best visions of cherry blossoms? Get there at dawn. Not only will you beat the crowds, but you’ll also enjoy a magical experience when the sun rises over the blooms. Trust me on this tip!
Summer in Japan is a tough one. This is during the off-season so there are fewer tourists, which can be great. Also great if you can only travel during the summer due to family schedules, since there are lots of festivals and fireworks and parties that your kids are sure to love. But it's a real doozy when it comes to weather. Avoid Summer at all costs if you are heat-sensitive. I'm talking hot and humid. Summer can also be really tough because June to October is typhoon season in Japan, and August through September are the heaviest months.
But like I said, there's a lot going on during the summer in Japan, entertainment-wise. If you're still thinking about visiting Japan in the summertime, these two are my favorite articles that will make you want to book your hot and heavy trip to Japan right away:
You HAVE to see Kyoto when it’s covered in Autumn leaves. Otherwise, what are we here on earth for?? Don't believe me when I tell you how breathtaking the scenery is? Think you've seen all the fall leaves there are to see? Well here’s the ultimate guide to get you pumped up for your first real Autumn season experience: Autumn in Japan: The Insider's Playbook for an Unforgettable Fall Getaway.
Fall in Japan is pretty surreal. Most people know all about Kyoto during the Autumn months, but there are so many other locations that can give Kyoto a run for its money. I’ve featured them here in my article, Leaf-Chasing in Japan: 12 Under-the-Radar Spots That'll Blow Kyoto Out of the Water
Winter is still considered the off-season in Japan, which means fewer crowds. And it’s perfect if you like winter sports like skiing or snowboarding. But fair warning that Winter weather in Japan in the northern cities can be harsh and cold. Like, 'Let’s stay inside and plan to come back during a different season' type of cold.
But there's a tradition that happens across Japan during the Winter months that makes it all worth it. Various cities such as Tokyo, Osaka, Nagoya, and Kobe, host spectacular illumination events, with millions of LED lights creating over-the-top displays, and it’s definitely worth experiencing at least once.
For the enthusiastic light-viewers in your group, I’ve created the Japan's Winter Wonderlights: Your Ticket to the Most Dazzling Illuminations. Find out the best times to view the different Illuminations across the country and of course...you guessed it...how to avoid the crowds!
Oh and if you decide to brave it out and visit Japan during the Winter months, do NOT miss the chance to spend some time soaking in one of the infamous Japanese onsens. Don't know which ones are the best for you to choose from? I've got you. I've tried a lot of them and I think I've narrowed down my list to a very respectable few. Check out my guide, Hot Spring Heaven: 10 Must-Visit Japanese Onsens for the First-Time Bather
No matter when you decide to visit, or how long you decide to visit, Japan is going to be an unforgettable experience. Plan according to your interests, be mindful of busy seasons, and take advantage of insider tips to make the most of your trip.
And once you've decided on when you're going to go, be sure you've packed the right clothes. Need help? Check out my guide, The Ultimate Japan Packing List: What to Take (And Leave) for Each Season for a full rundown. I created a quick graphic with a few dates to keep in mind when planning your trip around the busiest and more weather-bound seasons:
As long as possible. Seriously.
Japan is one of those places that keeps pulling you back. You could spend months exploring and still have a list of places you haven't seen. But let's be realistic – not everyone has unlimited time. For first-time visitors, I recommend a two-week trip. Fourteen days is enough to get a good taste of what Japan has to offer. You can check out my 2-week Japan itinerary called Essential Japan: A Two-Week Itinerary for First-Time Visitors for some ideas of places you have to visit for pictures to post on Instagram, as well as some off-the-beaten path places that will give you a feel for the real Japan, local-style.
If two weeks is a stretch, a week can still give you a solid introduction. Focus on either Tokyo or Kyoto, using them as a base for day trips. If you're okay with a faster pace, you could even squeeze in both cities with an overnight stop in between – Hakone is a good choice for that. Check out my 1-week itinerary here in the article, A Perfect Week in Japan: Tokyo, Kyoto, and a Dash of Hakone
The key is to plan based on what interests you most. Japan has something for everyone, whether it's the fast, neon-lit streets of Tokyo, the magical temples of Kyoto, or the hot springs and mountain views of Hakone. And did you know that there's even a Dutch-themed park in Nagasaki? There's so much to see in Japan that I don't even know where to begin. For more detailed and customized suggestions, have a look at these other guides I've created on the best places to visit in Japan:
And for my self-diagnosed Type-A brothers and sisters out there, if you already have your trip planned, but you just need a way to organize it in a super convenient way, check out my full tutorial, Plan Like a Pro: Create the Perfect Japan Itinerary with Google My Maps. It will be right up your alley!
Remember, no matter how long you stay, Japan will leave you wanting more. Plan your trip well, but be prepared to start thinking about your next visit even before you leave! :)
Japan threw open its doors to independent international tourists on October 11, 2022 and boy have the flood gates opened! And as of April 29, 2023, there are no more proof of vaccination requirements or negative Covid test records required. The indoor mask mandate? Gone. Though, you’ll still see many locals wearing them – a habit that existed before Covid and might stick around for a while. And here's why...
There have been reports of a rise in cases of streptococcal toxic shock syndrome (STSS) in Japan. The term "flesh-eating bacteria" sounds nuts, and it's important to know about it before you go.
Here's what the Department of Disease Control (DDC) is warning Japan-bound travelers about the bacterial infection:
The good thing is that travel to and from Japan has not been restricted, but here's what you can do to make sure you stay safe on your trip once you get there:
For more information about the bacterial infection and the latest travel health information, stay closely attached to the CDC Traveler's Health website.
Visa-Free Travel: U.S. citizens are fortunate and can visit Japan for up to 90 days without a visa. However, travel regulations can change quickly, so always check with the nearest Japanese embassy or consulate before your trip. For the Visa requirements for all countries, take a look at the list in this article from the Japanese Embassy.
Passport Validity: Ensure your passport is valid for the duration of your stay. While there’s no requirement for additional months of validity beyond your trip, having some buffer is wise. Also, it's important to keep in mind that it's a requirement in Japan that you keep your passport on you at all times, even as a tourist. Failure to keep it on you is punishable with a fine up to 100,000 yen.
Say goodbye to super long immigrations and customs lines. There are some miraculous inventions that have come out of Japan over the years, and Visit Japan Web is right up there on the list of the best. While it's not required to use Visit Japan Web, I highly recommend it. It's convenient and it saves a LOT of time when you arrive in Japan. It's a favorite among savvy Japan travelers.
By using Visit Japan Web, you can complete essential procedures like linking your Visa, inputting your passport, and registering for tax-free shopping. Need help on navigating the Visit Japan Web app? My How to Register for Visit Japan Web article is a helpful guide that walks you through it step by step.
Here’s why enrolling in STEP is a smart move:
It's really easy to enroll in the STEP program, and although it's a U.S. citizen-specific program, there are other similar programs for citizens of other countries. Here's a list of the other programs for international travelers, along with their services and contact information:
| Country | Organization | Service Provided | Contact Information |
|---|---|---|---|
| United States | STEP (Smart Traveler Enrollment Program) | Safety and travel alerts, assistance in emergencies | STEP Website, +1-888- 407-4747 |
| Canada | Registration of Canadians Abroad (ROCA) | Safety and travel alerts, emergency assistance | ROCA Website, +1-613- 996-8885 |
| United Kingdom | Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO) | Travel advice, crisis support | FCDO Website, +44 20 7008 1500 |
| Australia | Smartraveller | Travel advice, emergency assistance | Smartraveller Website, +61 2 6261 3305 |
| New Zealand | SafeTravel | Travel advisories, crisis support | SafeTravel Website, +64 4 439 8000 |
| Germany | Elektronische Erfassung von Deutschen im Ausland (Elefand) | Travel advisories, crisis management | Elefand Website, +49 30 18170 |
| France | Ariane | Travel alerts, assistance in emergencies | Ariane Website, +33 1 43 17 53 53 |
| Japan | Tabi-Regi | Travel advisories, emergency assistance | Tabi-Regi Website, +81 3 3580 3311 |
| Switzerland | Itineris | Travel advisories, emergency contact | Itineris Website, +41 800 24-7-365 |
| Netherlands | 24/7 BZ Contact Center | Travel advisories, crisis support | BZ Contact Center Website, +31 247 247 247 |
If you're traveling to Japan with medications, you’ll need to navigate some red tape. Japan categorizes medications differently than many other countries. Some drugs that are common elsewhere might be restricted or even banned in Japan. For a full rundown of what you'll need to do in order to prep your medications, take a look at the Embassy of Japan website for your country.
Here’s a quick summary of what you'll need to do for your trip:
| Organization in Japan | Contact Information |
|---|---|
| Police (General Emergencies) | 110 |
| Ambulance and Fire Department | 119 |
| Japan Helpline (24-Hour Assistance) | 0120-461-997 (toll-free) |
| U.S. Embassy Tokyo | +81-3-3224-5000 |
| Australian Embassy Tokyo | +81-3-5232-4111 |
| British Embassy Tokyo | +81-3-5211-1100 |
| Canadian Embassy Tokyo | +81-3-5412-6200 |
| Japan National Tourism Organization | +81-50-3816-2787 |
| Japan Visitor Hotline (JNTO) | 050-3816-2787 (24/7 multilingual) |
| Tokyo English Life Line (TELL) | 03-5774-0992 |
| Tokyo Metropolitan Medical Information Service (Himawari) | 03-5285-8181 (daily, 9 am-8 pm) |
| Lost and Found (Tokyo Metro) | +81-3-3834-5577 |
| Japan Poison Information Center | +81-72-727-2499 (24/7) |
Japan is one of the safest places to visit. But even here you can run into a scam or two. Keeping an eye out for common scams isn't just smart—it's a must.
Knowing about these risks ahead of time can save you a lot of trouble. Plus, using a VPN can keep your data safe from hackers when you're online. Want to know more tips that you should know before you go? Check out my guide: Here's Why You Need a VPN: Avoiding Common Japan Tourist Scams. This will give you all the tips you need to stay safe and enjoy your trip without any worries.
I know it's not a fun thing to think about, but in Japan, where healthcare can be expensive and natural disasters like earthquakes and typhoons are not uncommon, it’s really important to have comprehensive travel insurance coverage. Here's what you should look for in your travel insurance policy:
Here's a comparison chart of different travel insurance companies and their features:
| Travel Insurance Company | Coverage Options | Medical Coverage | Trip Cancellation | Baggage Loss/Damage | Adventure Sports Coverage | 24/7 Assistance |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| SafetyWing Insurance | Budget, Long-term, Family | Yes | Limited | Yes | Yes | Cell |
| Heymondo Travel Insurance | Comprehensive, Family, Cancellation | Yes | Yes | Yes | Optional | Yes |
| Allianz Global Assistance | Emergency Medical, Trip Protection | Yes | Yes | Yes | Optional | Yes |
| World Nomads | Standard, Explorer, Adventure | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Travel Guard by AIG | Basic, Silver, Gold, Platinum | Yes | Yes | Yes | Optional | Yes |
I personally use Safety Wing Travel Insurance, and I've been super happy with their coverage even though I (thankfully) haven't had to use it yet. But travel insurance, just like health insurance, doesn't have a one-size fits all solution. If you're shopping around for travel insurance, I've created a comparison review based on their service offerings and recent reviews of the policies. You can check out my article, How to Choose the Best Travel Insurance Coverage for Your Japan Trip
Thinking about a trip to Japan but worried about the cost? Don't be! Japan can actually be pretty affordable if you know how to plan. Here's the lowdown on what you need to know.
Your airfare is going to be one of the biggest expenses. Depending on where you're flying from, a round-trip ticket to Japan can range from $600 to $1,200. For more tips on how to save on flights using the pro tips I've learned over the years, read, Outsmart the System: How to Find Cheap Flights to Japan.
Japan offers a range of accommodation options, from budget hostels to luxury hotels. On average, you can expect to pay:
Don't forget to budget for:
One of the most important articles you can read before going to Japan is Exchanging Cash in Japan: A Guide to Cash, Credit, & ATMs. Here are a few highlighted tips from the article that you should keep in mind. Trust me, the article can save you a lot of money, just by being more aware of hidden fees that are involved with traveling to Japan:
Let's cut to the chase. Airport currency exchanges are a rip-off. They lure you in with convenience but slam you with terrible rates and hidden fees. Save yourself the headache and wait until you're in Japan to exchange your money.
7-Eleven ATMs are your new best friend. They accept most international cards and don't charge ridiculous fees. And always choose to be charged in yen to dodge the dynamic currency conversion scam, which will eat into your money.
IC cards like Suica are lifesavers. Use them for trains, buses, and even at vending machines and some shops. Top them up at stations or convenience stores, or link them to your phone for ultimate ease. I've created a comprehensive guide to using IC cards in Japan called, Travel Smart in Japan: A Guide to Digital and Physical IC Cards
Be sure to read my guide, Exchanging Cash in Japan: A Guide to Cash, Credit, & ATMs before your trip. Just by reading the guide and the tips inside, you're guaranteed to avoid the sneaky fees and save more money on your trip.
First rule: pack light. Trust me, hauling around a massive suitcase in the narrow streets of Kyoto or through Tokyo's huge train stations is a rookie mistake. You want a carry-on, something like the Away Bigger Carry-On, which fits perfectly in the overhead compartments of Japan's trains.
As a matter of fact, if you're shopping around for the right suitcase for your Japan trip, I think you'll find my article, Traveling to Japan? Here Are the Best Suitcases for Every Kind of Traveler very helpful. It's an in-depth review of the top travel bags and suitcases on the market, and the ones that I've found the most convenient and useful on my trips to Japan.
Next, slip-on shoes are a must. In Japan, you'll be taking your shoes off a lot—temples, ryokans, some restaurants, you name it. I swear by Allbirds Tree Breezers for warmer weather and their Wool Runners when it's cooler. They’re comfortable, can be worn without socks, and slip on and off without a fuss.
But Allbirds aren't the only shoes I've tested for a comfortable trip around Japan. Check out my review, Travel Smart: The Ultimate Guide to Shoes for Your Japan Trip for options that will keep you and your feet a lot happier.
Now I know what you're probably thinking...sneakers in Japan?! But it's the fashion capital of the world!" And I understand your confusion (and disgust). Trust me, I do. On my first trip to Japan, I lugged around 2 suitcases filled with my very best outfits in the middle of Japan's summer heat. I guess I thought I was going to compete in some imaginary street fashion show in Harajuku. Lesson learned.
The best advice I can give you, after now having realized that those street fashion showdowns don't actually exist is to, 'Dress smart.' A mix of casual and slightly formal clothes should do the trick. Leave some space in your bag for shopping – Japan’s fashion scene is something else. Need more help on exactly what to pack for your trip, for each of Japan's seasons, my From Spring to Winter: What to Wear for Every Season in Japan guide is full of ideas to help you out.
Simplify your Japan trip planning with my amazing FREE Japan Packing List. Fill out the form below to get your Japan Packing List delivered straight to your inbox.
Got more luggage than you can handle? Japan has the perfect fix. Their luggage-forwarding service, called a takuhaibin, is a game changer. You can ship your bags from one hotel to the next and travel light with just an overnight bag. It’s a small price to pay for the convenience and freedom it offers. I usually use Yamato Transport for transporting my bags, and they're conveniently located in Japan's major airport terminals.
Need help in understanding your luggage transportation and storage options in Japan? My article, Stash and Go: Your Guide to Luggage Storage and Transport in Japan is the perfect guide to review pre-travel, for luggage management options that will allow you to tour Japan hands-free and worry-free.
Japan is all about respect and subtlety. It’s these little things—like bowing, taking your shoes off, or enjoying a meal quietly—that make the difference between being a tourist and a respectful guest. It’s not rocket science, and there's no need to worry about whether you'll fit in. Just learn some simple gestures that show you get it. Here's a quick rundown of some cultural nuances you should be aware of before you go:
Looking for more etiquette guidelines and tips to learn before you go? Take a look at my article, Essential Etiquette and Cultural Tips for Visitors to Japan
Getting around Japan may seem confusing, but it can be a breeze if you have the right tools. One of the best ways to make your travel smooth and hassle-free is by getting a transportation card. It's so much cheaper and more convenient than taking taxis around town.
Here’s a quick rundown of the main options below, but Understanding Japan’s Transportation Cards: A Guide for Tourists covers exactly what you need to know to choose the right transportation passes for your Japan trip.
The JR Pass is ideal for tourists planning to travel long distances across Japan. It's not ideal if you're only going to be in one city, like Tokyo, or if you're only traveling to Kyoto and back. But here are the features and tips:
If you're not sure if your trip warrants buying a JR Pass, I recommend using this JR Pass Calculator to calculate whether it's worth the price, or if you should purchase one of the transportation pass options below instead.
Want to know the best routes that will make the most of your JR Pass? Check out these routes I've traveled with a JR Pass in my article, The Ultimate Guide to Using Your JR Pass: Top Destinations and Tips. They made buying a JR Pass worth every penny!
A lot of travelers get confused when it comes to IC Cards vs JR Passes. Which one to choose??! Well, the main difference is that the JR Pass is only ideal if you're planning on traveling to multiple cities within Japan, or back and forth to the same few cities multiple times.
If you're only planning to travel from Tokyo, to maybe Kyoto or Osaka, and then back to Tokyo, you're better off buying individual Shinkansen tickets and an IC Card. Here's the benefit:
Want to learn more about how to load an IC Card on your phone, and how to use them throughout Japan? Check out my article, Travel Smart in Japan: A Guide to Digital and Physical IC Cards
If you’re sticking around Tokyo, the Tokyo Metro Subway Card is your best bet. You can purchase 24, 48, or 72-hour unlimited passes that allow you to ride the subway whenever and wherever you want within the Tokyo city limits, as long as you’re traveling on the Tokyo Metro and Toei Subway lines. Here’s why you’ll love this pass:
Still confused about how in the world all these trains work together, and how to ride the subway in Tokyo? This is the guide for you: Navigating Tokyo’s Train Maze: Your Essential Guide to the Subway and Beyond
Renting a car in Japan can be a great way to explore the country, especially if you're venturing off the beaten path. But it comes with its own set of challenges and considerations that you should be aware of. Here’s a breakdown of the pros and cons to help you decide if renting a car is the right choice for your trip.
Still thinking about renting a car for your trip to Japan? Here's are some additional tips and information to keep in mind as you're planning out your road trip:
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Documents Required | International Driving Permit (IDP), Passport, Credit Card |
| License Requirements | Must have a valid driver's license from your home country plus an IDP |
| Average Rental Costs | $50 - $100 per day, depending on the car type and rental duration |
| Toll Costs | Average $0.20 per km, but varies by region and road type |
| Insurance | Basic insurance usually included; additional coverage recommended |
| Fuel Costs | Approximately $1.40 per liter (varied by region) |
| Parking Fees | Urban areas: $3 - $10 per hour; Rural areas: usually free or nominal fee |
| Navigation | GPS systems available, often with English language option |
| Road Signs | Mostly in Japanese, with key signs in English |
For more details on navigating Japan's roads and the best rental options, check out my comprehensive guide, Explore Japan on Wheels: A Comprehensive Car Rental Guide. Enjoy the ride!
Japan has something for everyone, whether you’re interested in history, nature, food, or pop culture. From ancient temples to modern theme parks, here are some of the top things to do in Japan.
For an in-depth guide to all the amazing things you can do in Japan, check out these detailed articles:
Now it’s time for the final prep—the last-minute details that make all the difference. Do not skip this step! If you take care of these items before you go, you'll feel much more ahead of the game and I guarantee your trip will run a lot more smoothly!
Go ahead and download these apps before you go. They'll change the way you navigate your japan trip, and they'll definitely make your trip easier.
Staying connected to the Internet or setting up your phone to take calls in Japan takes a little bit of preparation. And to be honest, you're better off taking care of it before you go, rather than doing it while you're there. When it comes to connecting to the internet, there are two primary methods that most tourists to Japan choose from—using a SIM card or renting a portable wifi device for the duration of the stay.
For my recommendations on the best SIM card and mobile wifi companies in Japan and instructions on how to buy an eSIM or pocket wifi, be sure to read my guide, eSIM vs Portable Wifi: How to Pick What's Best for Your Japan Trip
Here's how you can decide which one is best for you:
What is it? A SIM card is a small chip that you insert into your phone to connect to local networks. They come in two formats: eSIM and SIM. The SIM card is a physical chip and an eSIM is the digital version that's programmable remotely since it's built into newer smartphones.
What is it? A portable WiFi device, also known as a pocket WiFi, gives you internet access for multiple devices through a single connection. If you're planning on connecting to the internet while you're in Japan, don't rely on public hotspots and free WiFi at the hotel. This allows you to get an internet connection anywhere you go; even in the Japanese countryside and other remote locations.
If you're trying to decide which device is right for you, I've created the chart below.
| Feature | SIM Card | Portable WiFi |
|---|---|---|
| Advantages | ||
| Local Rates | Enjoy local calling and data rates. No roaming charges. | - |
| Ease of Use | Phone works just like at home once installed | Provides internet for multiple devices |
| No Extra Device | No need to carry an additional device | Often more reliable connection in rural areas |
| Multiple Connections | Only for device where it's installed | Ideal for groups or multiple devices |
| Strong Signal | Depends on location | Generally offers a strong, consistent signal |
| Phone Modifications Required | Minor | No |
| Phone Compatibility | Ensure your phone is unlocked and compatible | Works on any phone |
| Data Limits | Some plans may have data caps | No data caps |
| Purchase Location | Buy at the airport, convenience stores, or online | Must pick up and return, usually at airport |
| Battery Life | No battery | Need to manage and charge the device |
| Rental Process | Requires a purchase | Requires rental process and return |
| Cost | Generally more economical for longer stays | Can be more expensive, especially for long stays |
Ready to buy an eSIM or rent a Pocket Wifi? I've outlined the full instructions, along with my favorite picks in this eSIM vs Portable Wifi: How to Pick What's Best for Your Japan Trip guide.
When you're connecting to public Wi-Fi in airports, cafes, or hotels in Japan or anywhere else, your personal information is at risk. What most people don't realize is that these networks are often unsecured, making it easy for hackers to steal your data.
Without getting too technical about it, a VPN (Virtual Private Network) encrypts your internet connection and protects your personal details so that other people can't steal your information. If you're planning on checking your email, accessing your bank account, or just browsing the web while you're in Japan, you need a VPN to keep your information safe.
Find out how to keep your personal information safe, and all the newest scams that you should be aware of in my article, Here's Why You Need a VPN: Avoiding Common Japan Tourist Scams.
I forgot to mention this earlier, but when you're packing for Japan, don’t forget to take everything you need to keep your devices charged. Nothing’s worse than finding your phone or camera dead when you need it most. And as tempting as it might be to charge your electronics using the charging stations at airports or in other public spaces, you should be aware that you’re putting your personal data and privacy at risk.
Public charging stations can be a hotbed for hackers looking to steal your information through techniques like "juice jacking." This involves malicious software being installed on your device via compromised charging stations. To avoid this, always use your own charger and plug it directly into an outlet. Better yet, invest in a portable power bank.
Here’s how to prepare your electronics for your trip to Japan:
Here's a checklist of all my recommendations for electronics you'll need while in Japan: Essential Electronics Checklist for Your Trip to Japan. Stay connected, keep your devices charged, and enjoy your trip without any power problems.
So, you've packed your bags, sorted your travel plans, and equipped yourself with everything you need to keep those devices charged. Excellent work!
But here's the thing about Japan—it's not just about the tourist checklist. It's about diving deeper, going beyond the surface. It's about the hidden bars down narrow alleys, the ramen shops that only locals know.
In the next article, How to Experience Japan Like a Local: Essential Tips for First-Time Visitors, we'll peel back the layers. We'll talk about where to stay in Japan, where you just have to eat, and I'll even let you in on a few of my favorite must-see attractions that you'll absolutely love.
But before you go, I have a question for you...
What parts of planning your trip are you still struggling with or dreading? Or are you in the middle of pure planning bliss? Let me know below in the comments!
Kelly Browning is a design enthusiast and avid traveler who’s fallen head over heels for Japan. With an advanced degree in architecture and over 12 years in the fashion industry, Kelly’s career took her around the world, but it was Japan that truly captured her heart. Now, through a blog, newsletter, and YouTube channel, Kelly aims to inspire others to explore the beauty of Japan.
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