THE TOKYO METROPOLIS
The Tokyo Metropolis is home to an estimated 30m+ people. One of the best places to grasp the sheer size of the city is from the 45th floor of the Tokyo Metropolitan Government building (Tocho) and entry is free.
SLURP AWAY
Unlike in the West, slurping your food in Japan isn’t considered rude, it’s a sign of enjoyment. So, if it’s a good bowl of ramen, slurp away (and lift your bowl to finish every drop).
VISIT AN IZAKAYA
Try new dishes at an Izakaya - these informal pubs are the perfect evening pick-me-up after a day sightseeing. They are also very Japanese and a great place to rub shoulders with the locals.
DON'T BLOW YOUR NOSE IN PUBLIC
Incessant sniffing might leave you reaching for a tissue, but in Japan blowing your nose in public is seen as rude and unhygienic. Avoid uncomfortable looks by holding off until you’re in private!
WEAR SENSIBLE SHOES
If you’re doing lots of sightseeing in Japan, wear shoes that are easy to slip off. Footwear is prohibited in some areas of temples, and in traditional inns you’ll be expected to swap your shoes for slippers at the door.
DON'T USE MOBILE PHONES ON PUBLIC TRANSPORT
Save that phone call with a hard of hearing relative for when you get off the train. Do as the Japanese do and respect the space of others around you.
A COUNTRY OF CONTRASTS
Japan has over 6,800 islands and a similar landmass to Germany. Hokkaido in the far north is covered in deep snow during the winter months, whilst the subtropical islands of Okinawa in the far south of the country are warm all year round. Some of the best skiing and diving can be had at the same time of year.
TRY OKONOMIYAKI
When is a pancake not a pancake? When it’s Okonomiyaki! These savoury pancakes are made to order, packed with whatever ingredients you fancy, then topped with a sticky sweet sauce – delicious and cheap. Word of warning: It’s hard to stop at one… .
CONVENIENT TRAVEL
Pasmo cards are like London’s Oyster cards and you top up as you go. Although you don’t save money necessarily, (public transport in Tokyo is not expensive, ranging from approx. 90p - £2.20), they are convenient as you can travel on any network and even use them on vending machines. .
WATCH YOUR CHOPSTICKS
Standing chopsticks in rice is reminiscent of funeral. Avoid bringing down the dinnertime mood by returning your chopsticks to the table
TAXI TRAVELS
Costing 750 yen from the first 2km, taxis are metered and will not take you on mystery tour. Most taxis will have automatic doors that will open and shut themselves – just let them do their job.
CONVENIENT TRAVEL
Like the UK, Japan drives on the left. It is believed that this stems back to the days of the samurai, when most right-handed people would draw their sword from the left and mount their horses from the left.
SPEEDY TRAINS
The Shinkansen (AKA The Bullet Train) now runs at speeds in excess of 320km/ph. The train was originally launched in 1964 running between Tokyo and Osaka. The UK still had steam trains in service.
CASH IS KING
Although there is gradual change, most people pay in cash rather than card. Make sure that you are carrying cash if you are expecting to go out, as many places often don’t accept card payment. Do not be afraid of carrying money as there is relatively zero petty crime in Japan.
BIG NOTES
Japanese notes are 1000, 2000, 5000 and 10000 yen (approx. 145 yen to £1). Don’t be afraid to use a 10,000 yen note to pay for something of low value. It’s pretty normal.
CLASSY COMBINI
Combini’s or ‘Convenience stores’ are all over Japan and are truly convenient, serving bento meals, drinks, snacks, toiletries and lots more. If you are looking to save pennies, perhaps grab a bento lunch and they will warm it up for you.
A PLACE TO EAT
Although not as frowned on as once was, it is considered mildly rude to walk in public whilst eating. It is best to take a seat somewhere if you are eating, or some convenience stores will have eating areas.
ETIQUETTE AND RESPECT
Gauge the Japanese atmosphere around you, respect it and you will be fine.
MOVE ANY MOUNTAIN
Around 73% of the country is covered in mountains with the highest being the famously shy, yet impressive being, Mount Fuji standing at 3776 metres tall. With climbing season from July to September, the winter is the best time to catch a glimpse.
SERENE SEASIDE
If you want to get away from the neon and high-rise, head to the seaside temple town of Kamakura. Almost exactly one hour way, the town has forest walks, impressive temples, a Giant Buddha and beach.
THE BEST OF BOTH WORLDS
Tokyo isn’t all neon and concrete. Mount Takao is just 40 minutes from Shinjuku, but is still in the city. The 600 metre high mountain gives great views back across the city and is home to shrines, temples, a hot spring and monkey.
DAY TRIPPING
Hakone national park is just 90 minutes from the city. Although better to stay the night in a ryokan, the area is connected by funicular rail, cable car, boats and bus for a good day out. It can also provide great views of Mount Fuji.
CULTURAL CAPITAL
Kyoto is a must for anyone visiting Japan. Although the cultural capital is over 500km from Tokyo, it takes just two and a half hours to reach on the Bullet Train. Home to thousands of temples and shrine, Geisha, old tea districts and more, it is worth spending time here.
OVERGROUND TRAINS
Japan Railways runs most of the overground railways in central Tokyo. The circular Yamanote line 山手線 (light green) and the central Chuo line 中央線 (yellow/orange) are two of the most useful lines linking all the key sightseeing districts. All the train lines are free to ride with a Japan Rail Pass.
THINGS TO SEE
Ueno Park is one of Tokyo’s largest open spaces and contains a host of museums well worth visiting, such as the National Science Museum and the Tokyo National Museum. You’ll also find The National Museum of Western Art, which is home to an original cast of one of the world’s most famous sculptures, Rodin’s The Thinker.