What to expect on your first trip to Japan

Few places on the globe draw the kind of amazement and inspiration Japan does. So, if you plan a trip to Japan and reach this destination any time soon, get ready to be blown away.

The Land of the Rising Sun is an endless supply of sights, neon lights, and cultural traditions that should be experienced at least once in a lifetime.

It’s said that you can never get bored in Japan, as it boasts thousands of attractions, restaurants, spots to photograph, and unique places in the world, including the cat-infested Aoshima Island, the Bamboo Forest in Kyoto, and the fashion district of Shinjuku in Tokyo.

However, for someone traveling to Japan for the first time, getting on a night bus to Osaka and sleeping on a futon might be a bit overwhelming, especially if coming from a totally different country in terms of customs and traditions.

But that’s the beauty of traveling – absorbing other people’s cultures and widening your horizons.

The most practical tip we can give is that you should embrace Japan with all its mountainous lands, cherry trees, cutting-edge technologies, and pop culture elements.

But for a more comprehensive guide on what to expect on your first trip to Japan, read the following lines. You’ll be surprised!

Manners are really meaningful.

Manners and etiquette matter to the Japanese, so ensure you respect people and be kind wherever you go.

Don’t be surprised at that irasshaimase (welcome) that everyone welcomes you with when entering a restaurant or shop or at everyone bowing and nodding.

This is part of their culture; if you ask for our opinion, it’s beautiful. Also, if you visit some temples and shrines, ensure you behave properly.

These sacred relics are considered places for prayer, meditation, and reflection, so it’s not recommended to make noise and cause offense.

Just behave respectfully and calmly, and you’ll go unnoticed. And don’t forget that you shouldn’t step into such spiritual places if you’re in mourning or sick.

And if someone asks you to take off your shoes before entering shrines or temples, don’t hesitate – this is one of the Japanese ways of purification.

The people are the loveliest you’ll ever meet

It’s said that the Japanese are reserved people, and that’s quite true, but this doesn’t mean they aren’t friendly.

People in Japan are very respectful and will politely say ‘hello’ without eye-rolling at the fact that you don’t know their language.

You’ll see the language barrier isn’t such a big problem as you may think. So, if you find yourself lost on crowded streets in Tokyo or Osaka, don’t hesitate to ask for directions.

The Japanese will most likely know how to give directions in English. And if they can’t understand you, they’ll surely do their best to help you.

The truth is that encountering friendly and polite people in Japan is as easy as finding entertainment for the night in the United States and Australia. But remember – they expect you to be nice, too.

Squat toilets are still a thing.

Although you’re more likely to find these toilets in public bathrooms or train stations, it would help to know about their existence.

They were once very common in Japan (we could assume that’s part of their culture), but now, ‘Western toilets’ have gained ground. Such toilets come with novelties such as an automatic lid opener or a heated seat.

But Japanese-style toilets are still a thing, and you’re likely to find them in public places, so just don’t be surprised and try to adapt as much as you can.

Have plenty of cash on you

Cash is king in Japan, so ensure you have plenty on you. Even if major shops for electronics or clothing, hotels, and restaurants accept major credit cards, this country is still very much a cash-based society.

That means you should always have a few thousand Japanese yen (JPY) at hand. Castles, temples, and shrines, as well as most shops and restaurants, request cash payments.

The next big challenge is buying Japanese currency. Only ATMs at certain hotels, post offices, and convenience stores accept foreign cards.

Therefore, consider doing a bit of research on this matter so that you don’t find yourself in a situation where you’re not able to pay for some goods or services.

Stay at a ryokan

Ryokans are traditional Japanese inns that would be a pity not to stay in during your trip to Japan.

There are plenty of Japanese cultural experiences you could indulge in. But staying in this kind of accommodation is definitely a one-of-a-kind one.

It’s a unique chance to get a grasp of what it means to truly live like a Japanese, from savoring authentic regional dishes to sleeping in traditional rooms and bathing in the renowned onsen, typical hot spring baths you could only find in Japan.

Finding a ryokan shouldn’t be daunting. This kind of inn is present all across the country, so ensure you take this experience into account. Especially if you’re here to absorb these people’s centuries-old culture.

No trash cans anywhere

If we tell you that you should take your trash with you, you wouldn’t believe us, would you? Well, try to do so, as there is a total lack of trash cans on Japanese streets.

Nevertheless, Japan is among the cleanest countries in the world. So, how do the Japanese manage it when there is no place to throw their trash?

First of all, they’re very disciplined. Second, they’ve learned how to dispose of their trash. Either they put it in the recycling bins for aluminum or plastic that are around some convenience stores and parks or collect it in their pockets until they get home.

This might sound strange, but there’s a whole story behind it. Back in 1995, there was a terrorist gas attack that injured thousands of people. Apparently, someone planted the substance inside a trash can.

That’s why the Japanese government decided to remove most trash bins on streets and train stations.

There is definitely much more to say about Japan. But the aforementioned are just some must-know facts that will help you on your first trip to Japan, the Land of the Rising Sun.