Where to Stay

I often use Booking.com, Agoda, or Expedia.com since they cover everything from budget hotels to ryokans.

If you prefer apartments or longer stays, Airbnb still operates in Japan (though with fewer listings than before due to regulations). For budget trips, Hostelworld is useful if you’re looking for hostels in major cities.

If you’re new to ryokans, my guide on how to book ryokans online and my list of the best ryokans in Tokyo are good starting points.

Travel Insurance

I always travel with insurance, and SafetyWing is the provider I use. It’s affordable, flexible, and easy to extend if my plans change. It gives me peace of mind, especially in rural areas or on longer trips.

Tours and Experiences

For simple booking, I use Klook, GetYourGuide, and Viator for day trips, food tours, and cultural activities.

Getting Around

Japan Rail Pass and Regional JR Passes

If you’re visiting several cities, the JR Pass can save both time and money. If you’re sticking to one area, a regional pass might be a better value. I explain more in my guide to Getting around Japan.

IC Cards (Suica, Pasmo, etc.)

These rechargeable cards are so convenient. Just tap at the gate and you’re good to go. They also work at shops and vending machines, which I love for quick snacks.

I mention them in my Tokyo travel tips post since they’re essential in the city.

Highway Buses

If you’re on a budget, highway buses are a comfortable and affordable option. Willer Express and Japan Bus Online both make it easy to book in English.

Don’t miss Japan Bus Pass from Willer Express. It offers multi-day travel on highway buses and can be much cheaper than the Shinkansen. 

Ferries

Heading to islands like Hokkaido or Shikoku? Sites like 12Go Asia are great for planning mixed routes that include ferries.

Flights

For longer distances, budget airlines like Peach, Jetstar Japan, and Zipair can be more cost-effective than trains. It’s also worth looking at special tourist fares from ANA and JAL.

If you’re flying into Japan, airport transport is straightforward. The Limousine Bus service from Narita and Haneda is reliable, and in Kansai, I usually take the Airport Rapid Service into Osaka or Kyoto.

Language and Communication

Google Translate is a useful tool for menus and signs. The camera feature works particularly well.

If you plan to stay longer or connect with locals, download LINE, Japan’s most widely used messaging app.

Staying Connected

Internet access is something I don’t like to risk. I usually arrange a Pocket Wi-Fi if I’m with friends or an eSIM if I’m traveling alone. I’ve had good experiences with Sakura Mobile and Ninja Wi-Fi. For more details, see my eSIM post.

Maps and Navigation

Most of the time I use Google Maps, but I also download offline maps before heading out. Maps.me is especially helpful in rural areas where signal can drop.

Money and Payments

I use a Wise card when I’m in Japan. It’s easy for payments, helps avoid foreign transaction fees, and works well for cash withdrawals.

I also use the XE Currency Converter app to check exchange rates quickly. For daily spending, my Suica card is convenient for transport, snacks, and even light meals. Some ryokans still prefer cash, which I explain in the Ryokan FAQ.

Weather and Help

The Japan Meteorological Agency is the most accurate site for forecasts. I also use the Weather App on my iphone.

And if something goes wrong, the Japan Visitor Hotline is free, available 24/7, and speaks multiple languages. It’s also worth saving Japan’s emergency numbers in your phone:

• 110 for police
• 119 for fire or ambulance

Food and Dining

Forget TripAdvisor. Locals check Tabelog, and so do I. It’s the best way to find real hidden gems!

If you’re aiming for Michelin-starred restaurants, try Tableall, Pocket Concierge, or Omakase to book in advance.
For more ideas, check out my guide on What to eat in Japan.

Luggage & Packing

Not sure what to bring? My Japan packing list covers the essentials I always recommend.

And don’t forget luggage forwarding. Takkyubin (run by Sagawa Express) lets you send your bags to your next hotel, so you can travel light.

If I just need short-term storage, I like Ecbo Cloak, which lets you leave bags at cafés and shops across Japan. Or you can also store your luggage at the train station too.