Japan is a beautiful country in Asia. Its diverse culture, historical sites, and modern urban lifestyle are very attractive to travelers. If this is your first time visiting Japan, there are a few things you should know before traveling. If you have done proper planning before your trip, your trip to Japan will go much smoother. In this blog, I will try to cover all the things you need to know so that your first trip to Japan will be easier and more enjoyable.
Narita Airport’s Luggage Delivery Service
Narita Airport's luggage delivery service is a great way to make your trip to Japan easier and less stressful. With this service, you can have your luggage delivered directly to your hotel, Airbnb, or other destination, saving you the hassle of lugging heavy suitcases through busy train stations.
After arriving at the airport, you go to the baggage delivery counter and provide your destination address. Then, your luggage will be sent to that address. It relieves you of the stress of carrying your bags on long journeys or at train stations.
Purchase a Data SIM or Portable WiFi Router
When traveling in Japan, it's very important to stay connected, especially if you're traveling to a new place or need to translate Japanese. To ensure internet connectivity for your smartphone or other device, you can consider two main options, a data SIM card or a portable WiFi router.
If you use multiple devices or travel in a group, you can consider portable WiFi routers, or for single users consider a sim card. You can easily find it in various local shops or internet cafes, also you can get it from Narita Airport. Also, you can get portable routers as rentals from the airport stores. You can pick up the router by making an online reservation.
Buy an IC card for transportation
One of the best and most convenient ways to use public transportation in Japan is to use an IC card.
Suica, Passmore, or other IC cards act as prepaid transportation cards. They can be used on almost all types of transportation in Japan, like trains, buses, taxis, etc.
This card can be used to make cashless payments at shops, vending machines, and some restaurants if you want to pay this fee.
You don't have to waste time waiting in line to buy tickets at the train station or bus stop. It's possible to enter and exit quickly by inserting the card.
If you don't use all the balance at the end of your trip, you can get a small refund by returning the IC card.
Get a Japan Rail Pass
If you want to travel on multiple long-distance trains in Japan, get a Japan Rail Pass. This pass gives you unlimited rail travel. You can buy these passes for 7, 14, or 21 days. You can also use the bullet train with this pass. This Japan rail pass is only for foreign travelers. You should take it if you want to save money on your trips.
Best Way to go from Narita Airport to Central Tokyo
There are several options for going to Tokyo from Narita depending on your time and convenience. Here are some developing and active options you can try
Narita Express:
This is the most popular and fastest train service that runs directly from Narita Airport to Tokyo Station and other major stops. It takes around 1 hour and 15 minutes.
It's a bit more expensive, but it's a very comfortable and fast way to travel, and it's a good option if you're visiting Japan for the first time and want to travel hassle-free. Ticket price ¥3,070 or around $21.
Airport Limousine Bus:
Bus service from the airport that stops at major hotels and districts in the city. However, it takes a little longer due to traffic. From the bus, it normally takes 1.5 - 2 hours, and the fare is around ¥3,200 or $22
Taxi:
This is the most expensive option but if you are traveling with large luggage or arriving late at night, it can be the most comfortable and convenient. It will also take around 1.5 to 2 hours and fare around ¥20,000 - ¥30,000 or $140-$150.
Book Shinkansen Tickets in Advance with the SmartEx App
Buying tickets for the Shinkansen in Japan can be time-consuming. If you're traveling during peak times or on a holiday, it takes much longer, and you'll need to face longer lines.
But you can avoid standing in long lines, it's very convenient to book your Shinkansen tickets in advance using the SmartX app. This makes your travel experience much easier.
Navigating Tokyo Station
If you are traveling to Japan for the first time navigating Tokyo Station is a bit challenging. Tokyo Station is one of the busiest and largest railway stations in the world. By following some helpful tips, you can easily navigate Tokyo Station.
After entering Tokyo Station, you need to follow the directional signs to reach the Shinkansen platform or any destination. The signs are also written in English, so you can easily reach the correct platform or train line.
If you have not purchased a Shinkansen ticket in advance, you will need to purchase your ticket at the station at a ticket machine or ticket counter.
After collecting your ticket, you will need to go to the Shinkansen gate. Here you will need to scan your ticket.
Follow the platform signs to find the correct Shinkansen platform for your destination.
Enjoy an Ekiben Before Boarding the Shinkansen
In the Tokyo Station, you can experience a completely different kind of food. You can try "Ekiben" which is a popular and convenient meal that you can enjoy before boarding the Shinkansen. Ekiben is a regional dish and its specialty is that it is presented in a beautiful package. Its taste is incomparable.
You can buy Ekiben at Tokyo Station from Ekiben kiosks or vending machines. You can find those kiosks in various parts of the stations, especially near the Shinkansen platforms.
Store Your Luggage on the Shinkansen
Traveling on Shinkansen trains is easy and comfortable, but there are some procedures you need to follow to store large or small luggage. Try the overhead shelf if you use it for small bags and backpacks. If your bag is not too heavy or is small, it can usually be placed on this shelf.
And for the larger suitcases, you can take it behind the last row of seat spaces. This space is reserved for your larger luggage, such as suitcases or large bags.
Luggage Reservation
If you are traveling with large luggage on the Shinkansen and it is not possible to store it on the shelf or behind the seat, you are advised to make a luggage reservation. You can get this service for large luggage on several Shinkansen routes, ensuring additional space and charges.
Use Free public toilets on trains and at stations
Japanese train stations and Shinkansen offer free, well-maintained toilets, so you don't need to worry if you haven't used the toilet before boarding. Many stations have special toilets for the disabled and diaper-changing stations for babies. It is very important to keep clean the toilet after using it – cleanliness is taken very seriously in Japan.
Take Advantage of Shinkansen Amenities
Japan's Shinkansen bullet trains are very fast and comfortable. Most Shinkansen trains have power outlets near their seats. The Nozomi, Hikari, and Sakura trains have charging points in the window seats, the first row and the last row. Some newer trains have power outlets for every seat. There are separate spaces for charging phones, laptops, and cameras.
Trains have food courts, you can get snacks, drinks, coffee, and even bear into that food court.
Many train stations offer the option to purchase Ekiben, the station's famous Food boxes.
Most trains have seats that can be rotated - if you travel with a group or friendly, you can seat by face to face. First Class (Green Car) seats are wider and have softer cushions.
Some new Shinkansen trains have free WiFi. The digital screen shows the next stop, destination updates, train speed, etc.
Shinkansen trains have both Western-style and Japanese-style toilets. There are washbasins and sanitizers for washing hands.
You should take advantage of all these facilities, as they will make your tour more comfortable and relaxing.
View of Mount Fuji from the Shinkansen
On a clear day, you can see incredible views of Mount Fuji when you travel on the Shinkansen to Tokyo. It's one of the greatest experiences in Japan and perfect for capturing on camera!
Choose a window seat on the right side. The weather is relatively clear between 8-10 am. Due to the low fog, Fuji Peak can be easily seen. And for sunset, The sunlight on Mount Fuji creates extraordinary reflections.
Some tips 📌
✔ Sit by the window and have your camera ready.
✔ On cloudy days, the view may not be clear, so check the forecast.
✔ There will be a high-speed train after Shin-Fuji Station, so be prepared in advance!
Access Your Money with International-Friendly ATMs
Withdrawing cash using foreign cards in Japan is not always easy, as many local bank ATMs do not accept international cards. Always try to keep enough money in your wallet. Certain ATMs reliably accept Visa, MasterCard, American Express, and other international cards. But You need to find those at your nearby.
Try 7-Eleven ATMs 🏪
Open 24/7 nationwide and accept international cards. Also, an English menu is displayed on those ATMs. Accepts most Visa, MasterCard, JCB, American Express, and UnionPay cards.
Also, in some major cities International bank ATMs are available. In the Tokyo and Osaka areas, you can find lots of International ATMs. But the charges can be relatively high.
Banks may charge additional international transaction fees for each transaction, so check with your bank in advance about their charges.
The withdrawal limit is usually ¥50,000-¥100,000 Around $350-$500.
Final Thoughts
Japan is world famous for its transportation system, technological facilities, and extraordinary hospitality.
If you plan properly, your Japan trip will be very beautiful and smooth. I have tried to highlight most of the essentials of the trip, I hope that by picking these, you will be able to have a very smooth trip to Japan.
Most frequently asked questions (FAQs) to visit Japan
✈️ How can I avoid carrying heavy luggage from Narita Airport?
You can use Narita Airport’s luggage delivery service to send your bags directly to your hotel or Airbnb.
📶 What’s the best way to stay connected in Japan?
You can buy a data SIM card or rent a portable WiFi router at Narita Airport or local stores.
🚆 Should I get an IC card for public transport?
Yes! Cards like Suica or Pasmo make it easy to ride trains, and buses and even pay at vending machines.
🎟️ Is a Japan Rail Pass worth it?
If you plan to travel long distances, the Japan Rail Pass saves money and offers unlimited train rides.
🚖 What’s the best way to travel from Narita Airport to Tokyo?
Options include the Narita Express train (fastest), Airport Limousine Bus (cheaper), or a taxi (most expensive).
🚄 Should I book Shinkansen (bullet train) tickets in advance?
Yes! Use the SmartEx app to book your tickets and avoid long queues at the station.
🍱 What is an Ekiben, and where can I get one?
Ekiben is a delicious train station bento box, available at Tokyo Station and other railway stops.
💳 Can I withdraw money with an international bank card?
Yes, but only at specific ATMs, like 7-Eleven ATMs, which accept most Visa and MasterCard cards.
🗻 How can I see Mount Fuji from the Shinkansen?
Sit on the right side of the train when traveling from Osaka to Tokyo, and aim for clear mornings (8-10 AM).
🚻 Are public toilets easily available in Japan?
Yes! Free, clean toilets are available at train stations, Shinkansen, and public areas.
