Traveling to Japan For the First Time
Things to Know Before the Traveler Goes - A Visitor's Guide
Sep 8, 2008
Traveling abroad is always more enjoyable if the visitor can anticipate customs and amenities that are likely to be different from those at home. The following represent some of the concerns travelers to Japan will likely to want to know about before embarking on the journey.
Dealing with Japanese Money
The Japanese currency is the yen. It averages out to about one hundred yen to the dollar. The exchange rate will, of course, be higher or lower depending on the economy. But an average of 1 to 100 will help in estimating prices.
Staying in Japanese Hotels
Western travelers will be most comfortable in either Western-style or business hotels, both of which will have typical western-style beds. The Western-style hotels generally have larger rooms and more amenities. They range in price from affordable to very expensive.
Japanese business hotels typically have very small, often just single occupancy, rooms and very little by way of extra services. They are always clean, inexpensive, and generally located close to rail stations and public transportation.
For a more cultural experience, try a Ryokan. The tatami-floored rooms will offer Japanese-style sleeping accommodations. Meals and a Japanese-style bath are often included.
Using Electricity in Japan
Using small appliances such as hair dryers and curling irons are not generally a problem in Japan. The Japanese voltage is 100v (as compared to 110v in the U.S. and 120v in Canada) with an alternating current of 50 Hertz.
Travelers will need a two-pronged adapter in order to plug in computers requiring a three-prong outlet. Japan’s electrical system accommodates only two-prong appliances.
Driving in Japan
Vehicles in Japan drive on the left. That, of course, means that the driver’s seat will be on the right side of the car.
Driver’s from abroad will need an international driver’s license. However, travelers should be aware that all road signage is in Japanese characters. Speed limits and distances are in kilometers. The combination of driving on the opposite side of the road (unless the traveler is from England or Australia) and having to deal with road signs in an unfamiliar language and script will likely steer first time visitors to the trains for transportation.
Note: Japan is very strict about its driving code. Drinking and driving are prohibited, as is cell phone use by the driver.
Using Public Toilets in Japan
Public toilets are readily available in transportation hubs, such as airports and train stations. Squat-style toilets are most common, but (at least in the ladies room) there is usually at least one Western-style toilet available.
Paper towels are not provided, and the hand-dryers do not look like the blow dryers that are so common in the U.S. The hand-dryers are appliances with an opening to wave wet hands through.
Toilet paper is usually available, but not always. Travelers to Japan should keep tissue paper on hand; often small packets are given out for free in the market areas as advertising.
Eating in Japanese Restaurants
Some restaurants require patrons to remove their shoes before being seated. These are usually establishments in which diners sit at low tables, using mats on the floor. Restaurants with tables and chairs generally seat their patrons western-style—with shoes left on. Patrons can check the entryway to see which custom is being followed. Or ask the host.
Diners in Japanese restaurants will be given small wet towels (often hot) with which to wash hands before ordering. Paper and cloth napkins are generally not provided. It is okay to use the wet towel for this purpose.
Chopsticks are the utensils used in Asia. However, a spoon will be provided with soups and broths. It is impolite to stick chopsticks into food when not in use; instead, ldiners should ay them across the bowl or plate.
Tipping in Japan
There is no tipping in Japan. Absolutely none at all. The western traveler may feel odd the first couple of times leaving a restaurant or getting out of a cab without leaving a tip, but the Japanese service class is well paid and takes pride in their work. They would be offended to be offered a tip.
For more information about traveling in Japan, travelers can check out Visiting Japan? What to Know! and Have a Successful Japan Homestay. Another helpful source of information can be found at Japan-Guide.com.
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