22 Simple MISTAKES to AVOID when you first visit Japan

Summary

This video offers essential travel tips for first-time visitors to Japan, focusing on common mistakes to avoid. From misjudging the best time for breakfast and handling luggage to navigating public transport and selecting destinations, the video provides practical advice. It emphasizes the importance of avoiding tourist traps, using local resources like tourist information centers, and making smarter decisions about travel arrangements. The presenter also warns about overlooking travel insurance and encourages travelers to embrace a more personalized journey, ensuring an authentic and less stressful experience while exploring Japan.

Takeaways

• 😀 Don't take a shower first thing in the morning if you're staying in a shared space like guesthouses or hostels—showers are often crowded in the morning but free at night.
• 🍽️ Don't wait until the last minute for breakfast; many Japanese guests line up early for buffet breakfasts, and your favorite items might be gone if you're late.
• 🧳 Avoid carrying your luggage around the city after checking out—use hotel luggage storage or station lockers to avoid unnecessary hassle.
• 🤝 Let staff help you when visiting tourist attractions—don't ignore their assistance or use Google Translate without interacting personally.
• 🚅 Don't stay in Tokyo for your entire trip. Explore other parts of Japan like Kyoto or Osaka to get a more authentic and diverse experience.
• 💻 Plan ahead for things like a SIM card or JR pass to avoid wasting time in long lines at the airport.
• 📱 Consider using an e-SIM instead of getting a physical SIM card or pocket Wi-Fi upon arrival. It's more convenient and saves time.
• 💵 Always have a backup method of payment—carry some cash, as not all places accept credit cards or IC cards.
• 🚖 Taxis can be expensive, but they might be the cheapest option for group travel or when you're in a rush across the city.
• 🗺️ Don't overload your itinerary with too many attractions. Pace yourself and enjoy the places you visit rather than rushing from one spot to another.
• 🎒 Avoid bringing an enormous suitcase—opt for a smaller bag that is easier to carry around. Japan's small spaces make it harder to travel with large luggage.

Q & A

What is one of the first mistakes new visitors to Japan often make regarding their morning routine?

Many first-time visitors make the mistake of taking a shower first thing in the morning. If you're staying in places like guesthouses or hostels with shared bathrooms, the showers can get crowded early in the day. It’s better to shower at night when they're less busy.

Why is it important not to go late to breakfast at a hotel in Japan?

If you’ve paid for a breakfast buffet, it’s essential to arrive early. Japanese guests often line up before the buffet opens, and waiting until the last minute might mean your favorite dishes, like onigiris, won’t be restocked.

What should visitors do with their luggage if they need to check out of their hotel but still have time to explore the city?

Instead of dragging luggage around the city, guests should take advantage of hotel services that store luggage for the day or use luggage lockers at train stations or tourist information centers.

What is a common mistake visitors make when interacting with staff at tourist attractions?

A common mistake is not letting the staff help. Staff at tourist attractions are accustomed to foreign visitors, so allowing them to assist with things like ticket purchases or directions will make your experience smoother.

Why should visitors avoid staying in Tokyo for the entire duration of their trip to Japan?

While Tokyo is fantastic, it doesn't give you a full sense of Japan's diversity. Visitors should venture outside Tokyo to experience different regions and cultures, such as Kyoto and Osaka, which offer distinct experiences.

What’s the mistake in flying into Tokyo if you're planning to visit Kyoto or Osaka first?

Flying into Tokyo is a mistake because it significantly extends travel time. It’s quicker to fly into Kansai Airport, which is only 80 minutes away from Kyoto, compared to the 3.5 hours it takes to reach Kyoto from Narita Airport.

What should visitors do to avoid wasting time at the airport when collecting rail passes?

Visitors should avoid picking up rail passes immediately upon landing at the airport. It’s often more efficient to buy a ticket to Tokyo or Osaka, and then collect the rail pass the following morning when queues are shorter.

Why is it recommended to use an e-SIM for internet access instead of picking up a physical SIM card or pocket wifi at the airport?

Using an e-SIM is more convenient as you can download the app, choose a plan, and activate it before leaving home. This eliminates the hassle of picking up a physical device at the airport and saves time.

What should visitors do regarding money before traveling to Japan?

It's wise to bring some yen with you before you travel, even if you plan to use credit cards or IC cards. Having cash on hand ensures you're prepared in case a payment method isn't accepted.

What is one transport-related mistake that visitors often make in Japan?

Visitors often fail to research and utilize discount passes, which can save money on travel. Before or during the trip, checking for city travel passes or rail discounts at tourist information centers can help reduce transport costs.