Things You Need To Know Before Visiting Japan
Japan is extremely interesting place to visit. The most prominent characteristic of japan is smooth blend of mature traditions and latest technology. Technology is everywhere from small road side food ATMs to the large underground malls. Japan is better known as tech leader in many fields. You’ll also discover huge buildings and vast gorgeous natural landscapes here. People here are so focused in their personal and matters that social life is close to none. But still it is a place where people would wait for their turn to get assistance after a disaster. Japan has a unique and very distinct culture and language, listing all the things is not possible, we can spend hours on explaining people, their cuisine or transportation. However, it is always good to know basics about the destination before heading out.
Bring cash
In Japan cash rules. Businesses pay workers in cash, most of them accepts only cash for the services they provide. Your place of stay might accept credit but you should check it first. Few large departmental stores will accept credit as well but most accepts cash only. Japanese currencyYen is not a strong currency compared to USD in terms of value. Make sure you have enough Yen in your wallet to spend locally before you leave.
Safest place
Japan is a safe place to visit, it is among the top ten safest countries in the world. So, bringing cash with you should not bother you. Japan is a good and safe place to visit for females even if they decide to come solo.
No 24-hour service at metro
It is shocking to know that in a technologically advanced country metro is not available for 24 hours, even in the capital Tokyo metro works on a time schedule and closes for the night. So be careful when you are out shopping or seeing places cause if you miss the last train it will be very expensive mistake. The only option you will have is a very expensive cab.
No English at restaurants and shops
You need to be prepared of the fact that you will not find English translation for menus and sings. English will not be available even on the food ATMs. If you are visiting a place with heavy tourist flow then this won’t be a problem cause people their can communicate in English. However, if you go to places with low or no tourists, you will face this problem. Many restaurants display pictures of the food which can be helpful. Same goes for the shops, you will not find a single English sign.
Do not tip
You do not need to tip in Japan, no matter how good the food is or fast customer service is. Giving tip in Japan is considered rude. You do not need to feel guilty because waiters and service staff are paid living wage in Japan. This is true for large hotels as well.
Hide Your tattoos
Tattoos are considered bad in Japan because they are largely associated with the members of Yakuza gang. You cannot go to sauna bath or onsen, Japanese traditional hot spring. They will be asking you if you have any tattoos before they let you in onsen.
Wearing surgical masks
You may have noticed Japanese people wearing masks. Many people think this is due to pollution but it is not right. Actually, sick people wear mask in japan so they stop the spread of disease. They protect others they come in contact with from their allergies.
You cannot smoke in public place
This is true for many countries, in Japan also you cannot smoke anywhere you want. There are dedicated smoke spots around large buildings, metro stations, marts and shops. Smoking publicly is considered very offensive. So before you smoke remember you need to do it in dedicated smoking zone.
