Posted on Posted onBy Miško

First Trip to Japan

Japan is a fascinating destination, and it is on many bucket lists. It was on ours for a long time and was also a dream come true. Once in Japan, it will stimulate your senses and steal a piece of your heart, and its people, culture, and mentality will stay with you long after you leave. If it’s your first time in Japan, you’ll likely feel a little lost when you arrive and overwhelmed. It will feel like you are on a different planet.

Traveling to Japan for the first time can be an exciting and unforgettable experience. Japan is a country that is rich in culture, history, and traditions. With so much to see and do, it can be overwhelming to plan your trip, but with some preparation, your first trip to Japan can be a breeze. In this blog post, we will share some tips to make your first trip to Japan successful.

#1 Go with an open mind and open heart

Before going to Japan, you must realize it differs from Europe or other Western countries. We recommend you research the culture and customs. Japan’s unique culture differs from what you might be used to. For example, removing your shoes when entering someone’s home or a temple is customary. You should also be aware of the etiquette surrounding bowing and gift-giving.

#2 Learn a few words of Japanese before you go

Even a greeting goes a long way, and recognizing a few simple characters can give you confidence. And the people will be even happier if you greet them in their language. While many Japanese people speak English, learning some basic Japanese phrases is always helpful. Being able to greet someone, ask for directions, or order food in Japanese can make your trip more enjoyable. Note the more rural areas you plan to visit, the less English you will find.

#3 Respect local customs

Japanese culture values politeness and respect. Be mindful of your actions and behavior, and follow local customs and traditions. This can help ensure a positive experience for both you and the locals. Among some to remember is to remove your shoes before going indoors, don’t blow your nose in public, drop litter, tip, or eat in the street.

#4 Try the local cuisine

Japan is known for its delicious cuisine, from sushi to ramen to tempura. Don’t be afraid to try new foods and explore local restaurants. You may be surprised at how much you enjoy the local cuisine. Every prefecture, city, and town in Japan is famous for something, very often a particular food. Going on a foodie tour of the country can be an excellent way to explore outside the regular routes and discover all sorts of culinary delights. Why not challenge yourself to find the best takoyaki or sample some particular mountain vegetable type? Oh yes, and don’t forget to practice using chopsticks. 

Read also: Things You Should Eat When in Japan

#5 Go to an onsen

Even with little research, you will find out that there are thousands of onsen (hot springs) all over Japan, many of them in remote towns and villages, some on mountainsides, others by the ocean. All offer an authentic experience of Japanese life, a delight for your body, and a soothing experience for your mind. You’ll also likely experience warm hospitality and fantastic food. Many times you can stay in a ryokan, but you can also always stay in a minshuku (a local in) or Airbnb and go to an onsen as a daily visitor. To research google onsen and the area in Japan, you want to find one. One thing to remember, if you bathe in a public sento or onsen, wash before you get in the bath.

#6 Purchase a Japan Rail Pass

If you plan on traveling around Japan, a Japan Rail Pass can be a great investment. The pass allows you to travel on most JR trains and buses, making it a cost-effective way to see the country. With a Japan Rail Pass, you can close your eyes, put your flipper on the map and see where to go next.

#7 Plan your itinerary

Japan has so much to offer, from bustling cities to the scenic countryside. Plan your itinerary ahead of time to make the most of your trip. Consider the time of year you’re visiting and any events or festivals that may be happening.

Read also: How to plan your trip to Japan with social media

#8 Rent a house

To get the ultimate Japanese experience, rent a traditional house to stay in. Staying in a traditional house or homestay with a family can be a wonderful experience. Instead of rushing from place to place, consider staying for a while in one place, getting to know the local area, and imagining yourself living there. In many areas, apart from local cuisine, you can also discover traditional crafts. Some of the best potteries in the country are located in beautiful rural towns and villages. 

Another thing we recommend is to talk to local people whenever you can. It’s from them you can learn about the hidden gems that not even Google knows about. Japanese people are accommodating and welcoming. This brings us to another tip – take small gifts if you can visit someone’s home.

Generally, Japan is a quiet place. Keep the noise down, especially in temples, shrines, and gardens. People are quiet everywhere, though. This was also what surprised us then in Tokyo; it is a quiet city considering it’s one of the biggest ones in the world. The cars are not honking there at all. 

And lastly, smile! You’re having an adventure!

In conclusion, Japan is a fascinating country to visit, and with some preparation and planning, your first trip can be an unforgettable experience. Embrace the culture, try new foods, and explore all Japan offers.

Additional useful stuff

Useful websites

Share now