Do:
- Purchase a Pocket WIFI to use Google Translate/Google Maps -> Trust me you will be thankful for how much this will ease your trip experience. Outside of Tokyo, there are minimal people who speak English.
- Buy a JR pass if you are planning on traveling around a specific region of Japan within a certain time limit – https://www.japan-rail-pass.com/
- Take shoes off in a building with tatami floor. Typically, there are baskets/shelves by the door for your footwear
- Slurp your noodles. This is a common custom and shows enjoyment of food/appreciation to the chef
- Try the food at convenience stores -> 7/11 and Family Mart
- Go in an Onsen
- Stay in a Ryokan, Hostel or Airbnb
- Go to Karaoke
DON’T:
- Tip at restaurants -> they actually find this very disgraceful
- Talk on the phone or speak loudly while on trains or buses
- Eat/Drink/Chew gum while walking on the streets
- Litter -> Carry your trash if you’re out walking around. You will realize there are limited trashcans. Abide by their clean/recycle-focused system and DO NOT LITTER. The only trash bins you will typically find are next to the vending machines (which, conveniently, happen to be on every major corner)
- Be surprised to see a “squatty potty.” A majority of places will have normal, western toilets. But, on the occasion/depending on the location, you may be stuck with this unique style of using the restroom (might as well give it one try for the cultural experience!)
