'How To Get The Best Deal' Guides

Sunday, November 24th 2024

"I'm a travel junkie who's hooked on deals from YYC." - Chris Myden


Takayama | Tagged Posts

2019
17
December
First Time Traveling to Japan in May: What Should We Know?

Question:

Profile picture of Elena

Elena

I and my family booked already a trip to Japan in May this year. Are there any tips or piece of advice to share? It is first time and is one of our dream. Very much appreciated! Thanks!

Humans say...

Profile picture of Andrea

Andrea

Buy a Japan Rail Pass! Sometimes they don’t even check it and you get free days of travel.
Kyoto is a beautiful city.

Profile picture of Kerry

Kerry

I second Kyoto, it's amazing! We rented a mifi (portable wifi unit) which really helped for checking maps etc. while we were out. It was really reasonably priced, they shipped it directly to the hotel, and they give you an envelope to drop it off at the airport when you leave. We also used a Japan Rail Pass. You have to buy it in advance.

Profile picture of Sherene

Sherene

Go to an onsen and/or ryokan at least once. Eat all the food. If you like Ghibli, you need to book tickets to the museum 2-3 months ahead (depending on which website you use). Rail Pass may not save you money if you don't visit a lot of towns - you can calculate costs using the schedule and fares at www.hyperdia.com. Kyoto was my favourite. If you want to go to Shirakawa-go and don't want to stay there, it is an easy half day trip by bus from Takayama. Portable wifi is also available for rent at the airports if you arrive during opening hours and don't want to book it ahead of time.
HYPERDIA.COM
HyperDia | 乗換案内 路線検索 時刻表 旅費精算 通勤費 ダイヤ作成なら

Profile picture of Ryan

Ryan

Go to Nikko if your really interested in history and temples! It was an amazing place! Team lab borderless was a really cool experience in Tokyo. Also hakone is a great place for a day or two to experience onsens, the mountains and the nearby lake has pirate ships.

Profile picture of Jayson

Jayson

Make a plan - i lived there for 3 years and have been back 4 times since and I still have more to see!! Each region has a lot to offer. If you are staying near Tokyo, excellent quick trips are Kamakura and Nikko.

Profile picture of Vu

Vu

Klook app - I used that for most of attractions and JR pass

Profile picture of Lisa

Lisa

I’m not sure about cities outside of Tokyo but English is not well spoken. My daughter and I struggled greatly at communicating. Maybe a translation app.

Profile picture of Elena

Elena

We may learn some japanese

Profile picture of Tamy

Tamy

Joint the Japan Travel Planning group here on FB.
They help a lot with planning and very informative group

Profile picture of Sherry

Sherry

Don't forget Yokohama, a very interesting walking city and near the Haneda airport.

Profile picture of Elena

Elena

Thank you all for the tips. Can’t wait to visit this country.

Profile picture of Kerry

Kerry

Just in case, if you have visible tattoos you cannot go in to any public pool - including onsens and hotel pools.

Profile picture of Jhoudiey

Jhoudiey

Seconding wifi box and only get the jr pass if you're planning on city hopping a lot (Tokyo-Kyoto-osaka-etc).
Also, when planning your activities, don't forget to give yourself travel time. If you wanna be in shibuya at noon, you can't leave odaiba at 1150 and expect to be there on time etc etc.

Profile picture of Jennifer

Jennifer

If you have children make sure to go to Edo Wonderland. My 11 year old son loved it! Also Disney Sea and Universal Studios. We enjoyed the rural communities the most.

Profile picture of Ana

Ana

Following

Profile picture of Dionne

Dionne

I really enjoyed the Zenkoji Temple in Nagano.
. The samurai castle in Matsumoto is beautiful too.
It will be very useful to learn some basic phrases in Japanese, most people in smaller centres dont know english. Learn words for getting directions, and including “please” and “Thankyous”... they really are polite about everything!
I think this is obvious, but maybe it isnt to everyone - learn to use chopsticks! ( my aunt thought they would have forks as an option at most restaurants - they dont)

Profile picture of Jayson

Jayson

The most fun can be things like professional baseball games, karaoke, video arcades, eating out of convenience stores.... not just old temples. Are you going with kids? If not, lots of great fun with alcohol since they have more liberal laws. Like renting a boat in Ueno park and having a few Beers in the middle of the city (with squid jerky of course)

Profile picture of Amanda

Amanda

If you’re having trouble communicating, write it down. Many people can understand when the see the words rather than hear them.

Profile picture of Lisa

Lisa

Amanda didn’t work. But we do a mean stick man doing things now. Lol

Profile picture of Mark

Mark

Arrange to book your portable wifi before you arrive. It will be twice the cost if you don’t. There are several different companies that you can rent from. I always have it delivered to the post office at the airport. I get off the plane and go through customs and then go straight to the post office. You can also have it delivered to your hotel.

Profile picture of Margaret

Margaret

Is Japan even open to tourists yet?!?!?!

Profile picture of Mark

Mark

Margaret I don’t think so. My wife is going there next month and there’s no point for me to go because I don’t think I can do anything let alone get into the country.


A.I. says...

AI Profile Pic

Tips for Your First Trip to Japan

Congratulations on booking your dream trip to Japan! As a first-time visitor, there are several tips and pieces of advice that can help make your experience smooth and enjoyable.

Learn Basic Japanese Phrases

While many Japanese people, especially in major cities, have a basic understanding of English, learning a few basic Japanese phrases can go a long way in making your interactions more pleasant. It shows respect for their culture and can help you navigate situations like asking for directions, ordering food, or expressing gratitude.

Get a Japan Rail Pass

If you plan on visiting multiple cities or regions, consider purchasing a Japan Rail Pass. It provides unlimited travel on all JR trains, including shinkansen (bullet trains), and can save you a significant amount of money compared to buying individual tickets.

Pro Tip:

Purchase your Japan Rail Pass before your trip, as it's less expensive than buying it in Japan.

Embrace the Culture

Japan has a rich and fascinating culture that is deeply ingrained in its traditions and customs. Be respectful when visiting temples, shrines, and other cultural sites. Remove your shoes when entering certain buildings, and dress modestly when appropriate.

Try the Food

Japanese cuisine is renowned for its freshness, quality, and variety. Don't be afraid to step out of your comfort zone and try new dishes. From sushi and ramen to okonomiyaki and yakitori, Japan offers a culinary adventure for every palate.

Carry Cash

While many major establishments accept credit cards, it's still recommended to carry cash with you in Japan. Many smaller shops, restaurants, and attractions may only accept cash payments.

Explore Beyond the Major Cities

While Tokyo, Kyoto, and Osaka are must-visit destinations, Japan has so much more to offer. Consider venturing off the beaten path and exploring smaller towns, rural areas, and natural wonders to truly immerse yourself in the country's diverse landscapes and traditions.

With these tips in mind, you're well on your way to having an unforgettable experience in Japan. Embrace the adventure, stay open-minded, and create lasting memories with your family. Have a wonderful trip!



2019
9
December
Looking for Recommendations in Nagoya, Japan for 3 Days in Mid-April?

Read more



2019
15
January
How to Plan the Perfect Asia Trip: Nha Trang and Japan in December-January?

Read more



2018
12
March
Wondering What to See in Tokyo in Late March?

Read more



2017
24
December
Looking for Japan travel advice for 2-week itinerary in June?

Read more



2017
1
May
Are there any must-visit cities in Japan missing from our itinerary?

Read more



2016
5
January
What are the must-see spots in Japan for a 17-day trip?

Read more



2014
28
November
Where should I go in Japan for my next trip?

Read more



   










Join the Facebook Group!
    What happens when over 500,000 Canadians...

    * crowdsource the best travel deals

    * offer up their unbiased travel advice?

      Join the group for your city and find out!



(click 'Join Group', at the top-right, when you arrive)



Follow the deals on Twitter!
      Follow Twitter for the latest deals and       updates from your city...



(click 'Follow', when you arrive)




Follow the deals with RSS!
      Follow the deals from your city with your      favorite RSS reader...