7 THINGS YOU NEED TO KNOW BEFORE GOING TO JAPAN

Japan is an enchanting destination. You can find so many new technologies, and also an old technology as well. You could also see beautiful landscapes not far from the city lights. From a traditional cuisine, until cute pastries could be found as well in Japan. 

For those who want to go for a holiday, or maybe a business trip in Japan, here are seven things you need to know, before you go to Japan. We hope that after you read this, your trip in Japan would be great without any disappointment. 

1. Safety in Japan is High.

Japan is well-known as a safe country. Japan repeatedly made to the top ten lists world’s safest countries. It is also a great destination for solo travelers. But it doesn’t mean you can do anything here impetuously. 

At some places, you need to be watchful as a foreigner, stay out of dimly areas, do not flaunt your cash, and make sure to not provoke anyone. 

2. Train system in Japan is not 24 hours.

Japan may have so many conveniences, but it doesn’t have a 24-hours train system, even in Tokyo. If you are planning to have a night out, make sure to check for the last train schedule. You have to be through between 11:30 p.m to 1:00 a.m. Because, when you are missing the train, it could be hard for you to choose a pricey taxi. 

And be sure to have your hotel address printed or written before you go out. There is another option to go to the all-night karaoke place, and sing until the early hours of the morning. It’s often cheaper than a taxi.

3. You may see many drunk businessmen on trains.

It is not a culture, but it happens frequently. You’re likely to see drunk Japanese businessmen, although most of Japanese society is mild mannered. Businessmen in Japan will go out drinking after work. It’s been a part of the hardworking culture in Japan. 

People said, don’t be surprised if you walk on a train at night and hit with an alcoholic smell and intoxicated businessmen. 

4. Tattoos are considered taboo in Japan.

Outside of Japan, tattoos are a way of expressing artistic spirit, but in Japan, they are commonly associated with criminals, or the Japanese know as the Yakuza gang. This also need to be noted when you want to go to a Japanese Onsen. Because people with tattoos are not allowed to enter Onsen.   

5. You don’t have to tip in Japan.

When you are in Japanese restaurant, no need to leave a tip. Because, if you do that, you will be chased by the restaurant server that wants to give you the money you left at your table. 

Waiters in Japan are get paid enough to buy some food and clothes, so do not feel guilty. This also works for hotel staff and other services staff you’ll encounter in Japan.  

6. Japan doesn’t always have an English translation.

Speaking of eating outside, be ready to receive menus and see signs with no English translations. If you are in a tourist-heavy spots, this won’t be a problem. Japanese only signs are commonly to be seen outside of the major tourist spots. 

Many places attempt to cope this by making a pictures of the menu. If you don’t have a list and the restaurant don’t have pictures on their menu, you can always choose a place with plastic versions of their menu displayed on front of their restaurant. 

7. Speak in a low volume when you are in public.

Watching your volume when you speak is important in Japan. Everyone in Japan is aware of their surrounding, so they are keeping their conversations to a minimum, and speak at a low volume in public. You will be appreciated if you do that when you are on a trip in Japan. 


Source:
https://www.oyster.com/articles/24-things-you-should-know-before-traveling-to-japan/