Smooth your way with a little Forward Planning
You may be a bit overwhelmed when you visit Japan / Mie for the first time, so find out the basics before you fly and get acquainted with Japan’s customs, culture and Wi-Fi connectivity, as well as its seasonal weather, geography and luggage and golf bag delivery options.
Many of the questions for first-time travelers may be answered here, along with some insider tips and practical advice to help you travel to Mie with confidence!
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1. Language Japan’s official language is Japanese, but English is generally understood in major cities and designated tourist sites. Learning a few everyday Japanese phrases will make your trip even more memorable. Learn More |
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2. Timezone All of Japan sits within the same time zone, and no daylight saving is practiced. The country is nine hours ahead of GMT. Set your clock to Japanese time from wherever you are in the world. Learn More |
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3. Wi-Fi & Connectivity Wireless hotspots are popping up all over major cities in Japan, so you should never be too far from a Wi-Fi connection. However, for guaranteed access, especially in remote areas, Wi-Fi rental is recommended. Learn More |
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4. Plugs & Electricity Japan uses two flat parallel prong plugs. For guaranteed charging of your electrical necessities, purchase a plug adapter beforehand. The voltage used throughout Japan is uniformly 100 volts, A.C. Learn More |
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5. Currency The Japanese yen is used throughout the country. If you haven’t prepared cash in advance, it’s easy to exchange any currency into Japanese yen once you arrive in the country. Learn More |
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6. Tax-Free Shopping Visitors to Japan are eligible for tax exemption on many consumer goods. To make the most of shopping in Japan, you need to know about Japan’s tax exemption program. Learn More |
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7. Tipping Tipping is not practiced in Japan. In fact, it can cause discomfort and confusion if you do. A service charge is generally added on to the final bill in restaurants. Learn More |
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8. Credit Cards Even though Japan is a cash-centric country, credit, debit and prepaid cards of international brands are generally accepted in most shops, restaurants and taxis in major cities. Learn More |
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9. Weather (When to Visit) Japan’s land area stretches from the northernmost island of Hokkaido, close to Russia, to the subtropics of Okinawa. The weather varies greatly across regions, so check the weather forecast for specific areas. Learn More |
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10 Visa Information Travelers from 68 countries across the globe with a valid passport can visit Japan for up to 90 days without requiring a visa. However, all visitors must comply with the official rules for Japan visa requirements. Learn More |
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11. International Tourist Tax Visitors to Japan pay a 1,000 yen departure tax to expand and enhance the country’s tourist infrastructure – a small tax that will make a significant difference. Learn More |
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12. Custom & Duty When you enter Japan, you are requested to hand in a Customs Declaration form for both your accompanied and unaccompanied baggage at the Customs Clearance. Learn More |
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13. IC Travel Cards Make your journeys as smooth as the public transportation you will ride on by purchasing a chargeable IC travel card. An IC card will become your most treasured possession during your stay in Japan. Learn More |
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14. Drinking Water Apart from the numerous vending machines, all convenience stores stock bottles of water in various sizes. However, the tap water is perfectly safe to drink. Learn More |
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15. Luggage Storage & Delivery If you don’t wish to haul your luggage around with you, drop your bags and cases off at the delivery service kiosks located at the airports. Rest assured, it will be delivered to your desired location. Learn More |
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16. Staying Safe in Japan In short, Japan is very safe and the crime rate is quite low. If you do find yourself in a situation that requires serious help, dial 110 for an urgent call to the police and 119 for fire or ambulance. Learn More |
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17. Embassies & Consulate Your embassy is there to help and support you if you should need it. Make sure you know how to get in touch. Learn More |
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18. Customs & Manners Following a general travelers code of respect for the people you meet and places you visit will stand you in good stead. Always ask if you are unsure of any particular cultural curiosities – the locals will be happy to tell you. Learn More |
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19. Useful Apps Download a selection of apps to make your trip to Japan run even smoother. Choose from a list of all-round, navigation, sightseeing and accommodation applications. Learn More |
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20. Business Hours & Holidays Avoid closed doors and fully-booked hotels by finding out the Japanese business hours for major businesses, services, and facilities, and the dates of the major holidays. Learn More |
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