15 Japan Travel Tips No One Tells You | Only Japanese Locals Know

Summary

This video provides essential travel tips for navigating Japan, covering everything from ordering food using meal ticket vending machines to finding restaurants with the popular app Tabelog. Viewers will learn unique dining customs, such as enjoying barbecue with wasabi and the etiquette of sushi consumption. The video also emphasizes the importance of cultural norms, including how to effectively communicate with locals and the common practices in izakayas. Additionally, it compares transportation options, highlighting when to choose the Shinkansen over flying. With these insights, travelers can enhance their Japanese experience and enjoy the local cuisine more fully.

Takeaways

• 🍜 Many Japanese restaurants use ticket vending machines for ordering food; the top left item is often the most popular.
• 📱 Use Tabelog, a popular restaurant app in Japan, to find places to eat based on ratings.
• 🏬 Dining at rooftop restaurants in department stores like Takashimaya or Isetan guarantees good food options.
• 🥩 When barbecuing in Japan, try pairing meat with wasabi for a unique flavor experience.
• 🍣 Start with lighter-flavored sushi or yakiniku to enhance your overall tasting experience.
• 🍱 The basements of department stores (Depachika) offer a variety of delicious food items, perfect for souvenirs.
• ⏳ Many izakayas have a two-hour limit on table occupancy during weekends; be mindful of last orders and planning your next stop.
• 🍽️ In izakayas, an 'otoshi' dish is served upon arrival, which is a welcome offering and is charged to your bill.
• 📞 It is common in Japan to call staff for service by raising your hand or pressing a button.
• 🌐 Use Japanese phrases like 'すみません' (excuse me) when approaching locals for assistance to ease communication.

Q & A

What is a common way to order food in Japanese restaurants?

In many Japanese restaurants, you order food by purchasing meal tickets from a ticket vending machine. The item at the top left is usually the most popular or recommended dish.

How can travelers find good restaurants in Japan?

Travelers can use the app Tabelog, which is popular among locals for restaurant recommendations. A rating of 3.5 or higher typically indicates a good dining experience.

What dining experience is recommended in department stores?

Department store rooftops often feature excellent restaurants. Places like Takashimaya and Isetan are reliable options for finding popular and high-quality dining.

What unique way of eating meat is suggested in the transcript?

The transcript recommends trying wasabi with grilled meat, especially fatty cuts, as it enhances the flavor and creates a delightful experience.

What is the recommended order for eating sushi and yakiniku?

It's recommended to start with lighter-flavored dishes before moving on to heavier flavors, as this enhances the overall tasting experience.

What is 'otoshi' in izakayas, and how is it typically handled?

'Otoshi' is a welcome dish served automatically in izakayas, which often includes a seat fee. While you can technically refuse it, it’s considered polite to accept it.

How should diners call for staff in Japanese restaurants?

In Japanese restaurants, it's common for diners to call staff by raising their hand or calling out, especially during busy times when staff may not approach unless prompted.

What is a typical way to enjoy nightlife in Japan?

A typical night out in Japan may start with drinks, followed by karaoke, and usually ends with a bowl of ramen, often recommending salt ramen as a favorite.

What should travelers consider when choosing between the Shinkansen and flights?

Travelers should consider the total travel time. For example, the Shinkansen may be faster for certain routes like Tokyo to Hiroshima, while flights might save time on longer distances such as Tokyo to Fukuoka.

What should travelers say when asking locals for help?

Travelers should begin by saying 'すみません' (sumimasen), which means 'Excuse me,' to ease any tension and make the interaction more comfortable for the local person.