Visiting Japan is like stepping into another world—fascinating, organized, full of surprises, and often completely different from everyday life in the West. While this sense of disorientation is part of the charm, it can also lead to unexpected challenges, especially for first-time travelers. Cultural differences, local customs, and logistical quirks can trip you up... but most of these mistakes are easy to avoid.
Should you schedule activities on your first day?
Landing in Japan is thrilling. After months of planning, you’ve finally arrived in Tôkyô, Ôsaka, or Kyôto and you're eager to dive right into exploring temples, bustling neighborhoods, and traditional restaurants. But your first day is often the toughest when it comes to fatigue.
Flights to Japan usually take between 12 and 20 hours, depending on where you’re coming from and how many layovers you have. Add a time difference of 7 to 8 hours, and your body will be in full-on survival mode. Even if you land in the late afternoon, don’t expect to bounce back after just one night of sleep.
Pro tip
Use your first evening to take a gentle walk around your hotel or guesthouse. Find a nearby konbini (a 24-hour convenience store), scope out a place to grab an early dinner, and start soaking in the local atmosphere: no pressure, no rush.
Why you should slow down during your first week
Japan is packed with incredible things to see and do, from temple-hopping in Kyôto to exploring Tôkyô’s futuristic neighborhoods, sampling local cuisine, admiring Mount Fuji, or unwinding in a steamy onsen. But trying to cram it all in right away can seriously backfire.
Major cities involve a lot of walking, meals can be quite different from what you’re used to, and the overall pace can be intense. Some travelers have ended up stuck in their hotel for two days due to sheer exhaustion, or even minor injuries, just because they pushed too hard, too soon.
Pro tip
Balance high-energy days (sightseeing, travel, etc.) with slower-paced ones. Relaxing in an onsen, strolling through a Japanese garden, or visiting a quiet museum can help you recharge, without missing out on the experience.
Can you trust travel time estimates from apps?
Japan’s public transportation is famously efficient, on paper. But for visitors unfamiliar with the system, getting around can take longer than expected. Large train stations, like Shinjuku, are massive, often multi-level, with countless exits. Navigating them, especially during rush hour, can easily take 15-30 minutes.
Apps like Google Maps or Navitime are great for train schedules, but they often don’t account for real-world delays: buying tickets, finding the right platform, or deciphering signage that’s partly in Japanese.
Pro tip
Always allow an extra 15–20 minutes beyond what your app suggests. Learn to spot the right signs, and avoid tight transfers whenever possible. Navitime is a solid alternative to Google Maps for more complex routes.
Watch out for Japan’s unique opening hours
Unlike in Europe, Canada or the U.S., opening hours in Japan vary widely depending on the type of place. It’s easy to show up at a temple that’s already closed or a restaurant that hasn’t opened yet.
- Temples and shrines open early (usually around 8 a.m.) and often close between 4 and 5 p.m., depending on the season.
- Shops (except konbini) typically open around 10 or 11 a.m. and close by 8 or 9 p.m.
- Restaurants may open as early as 6 p.m., but hours can be quite limited in smaller cities (closing by 8 p.m. is common).
- Konbini are open 24/7, but they’re more for essentials than sightseeing.
Pro tip
Before heading out each day, double-check opening hours for the places you plan to visit. Google Maps is helpful, but official temple or museum websites are your best bet to avoid unpleasant surprises.
Cultural norms you definitely don’t want to break
Japanese culture places a high value on quietness, respect for public spaces, and following unspoken social rules. While locals are generally understanding toward foreigners, making an effort goes a long way.
Common mistakes to avoid:
- Speaking loudly in public, especially on trains or in public baths (onsen): keep your voice down.
- Misusing chopsticks: don’t stick them upright in a bowl of rice, use them to point, or pass food directly to someone.
- Eating while walking: generally frowned upon. Even at festivals, it’s better to stand near the food stall or sit down while eating.
Pro tip
When in doubt, watch how locals behave. If you're unsure, stay polite, low-key, and follow their lead.
Why you need to take off your shoes in certain places?
Removing your shoes isn’t just about cleanliness: it’s a deeply rooted cultural practice in Japan. Walking into a space where shoes should be off is seen as disrespectful.
Expect to remove your shoes in places like:
- Traditional temples and some museums
- Japanese-style accommodations (ryôkan)
- Private homes, and even some schools or restaurants
You’ll usually find a genkan (entryway) where you can leave your shoes. Often, slippers are provided for indoor use.
Pro tip
Wear clean socks without holes, and avoid shoes with lots of laces. Slip-ons are perfect for switching easily between “indoor” and “outdoor” mode.
Should you tip in Japan?
Tipping isn’t customary in Japan, and in fact, it can come across as rude. Some people may interpret it as patronizing or as questioning the quality of service.
Service is already included in prices, and delivering excellent hospitality is a point of pride. You’ll rarely see anyone expecting a tip after helping you.
Pro tip
A sincere "arigatô gozaimasu" (thank you very much) and a respectful bow are more than enough. If you want to show appreciation, consider making a small donation at a temple offering box instead.
How to avoid mistakes in Women-Only train cars
On certain subway lines in cities like Tôkyô or Ôsaka, you’ll find women-only train cars during rush hours. These are intended to prevent inappropriate behavior in crowded conditions. They’re clearly marked, usually in pink or purple, with "Women Only" signs on the platform and car doors.
These rules usually apply in the morning, and sometimes during evening rush hour. The same train cars are used consistently for this purpose.
Pro tip
Pay attention to platform and floor signs, especially during rush hour. If you’re not sure, just pick a different car. Even accidental violations can make others uncomfortable.
Faut-il laisser un pourboire au Japon ?
Contrairement à d’autres pays, le pourboire n’est pas une pratique courante au Japon. En réalité, il peut même être mal interprété. Certains Japonais y voient un geste condescendant ou une remise en cause de la qualité de leur service.
Le service est inclus dans les prix, et l’excellence dans l’accueil fait partie de la culture professionnelle japonaise. Vous verrez rarement quelqu’un attendre une pièce après vous avoir aidé.
Where can you smoke in Japan?
Smoking is still fairly common in Japan, but regulations are strict. You can’t just light up on the street, only in designated smoking areas. These may be open-air or enclosed, but they’re always clearly marked.
Smoking outside of these zones can lead to fines, especially in big cities like Tôkyô or Kyôto. Some hotels and bars have designated smoking sections, but it varies.
Pro tip
Always look for a designated smoking area before lighting up, or ask a staff member. At hotels, check if there’s a smoking room or balcony available.
Is it okay to blow your nose in public?
Blowing your nose loudly in public is considered rude in Japan. While it might seem harmless to Westerners, it’s viewed as a lack of self-restraint.
Surprisingly, discreet sniffing is more socially acceptable. Many people also wear masks, not just for health reasons, but to be polite when they have a cold.
Pro tip
If you need to blow your nose, head to a public restroom or somewhere private. Always carry tissues with you—many public places don’t provide them.