Japan
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Land of the Rising Sun - Your Complete Travel Guide
Essential Phrases
Hello
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Konnichiwa
Thank you
γγγγ¨γ
Arigatou
Yes
γ―γ
Hai
No
γγγ
Iie
Excuse me
γγΏγΎγγ
Sumimasen
Sorry
γγγγͺγγ
Gomennasai
Please
γι‘γγγΎγ
Onegaishimasu
Help!
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Tasukete
Where is...?
...γ―γ©γγ§γγ
...wa doko desu ka
How much?
γγγγ§γγ
Ikura desu ka
Cheers!
δΉΎζ―
Kanpai
Goodbye
γγγγͺγ
Sayounara
Emergency Contacts
Police
110
Police (emergency)
Ambulance
119
Fire and Medical emergency
Fire
119
Fire department
Tourist Police
050-3816-2787
Japan Helpline (English, 24/7)
US Embassy Tokyo
+81 3-3224-5000
1-10-5 Akasaka, Minato-ku, Tokyo 107-8420
Money & ATM Reality
Currency
Japanese Yen
JPY
1 USD β 150 JPY (approximate)
ATM & Card Access
ATM Fees: 110-220 JPY per withdrawal (varies by bank)
- β’ Cash is king in Japan - many restaurants and shops don't accept cards
- β’ 7-Eleven, Post Office, and Lawson ATMs accept foreign cards
- β’ Most hotels, department stores, and tourist areas accept cards
- β’ Tipping is NOT customary and can be considered rude
Internet & Connectivity
Restrictions:
β’ Generally open internet with no major restrictions
β’ Some gambling websites may be blocked
- β’ SoftBank, NTT Docomo, and au are major carriers
- β’ eSIM available from Ubigi and Airalo
- β’ Tourist SIM: 3000-5000 JPY for 10-30GB valid 30 days
- β’ Pocket WiFi rental popular for groups
Popular Apps
Safety Index
Crime Overview
Transportation
Extremely safe. Trains and buses are reliable and safe. Watch for crowded rush hours.
Common Scams
- β’Taxi overcharging (use official taxis)
- β’Fake tour operators
- β’ATM skimming at non-bank machines
Areas to Avoid
- β’ Generally very safe - no dangerous areas to avoid
Natural Disaster Risks
- β’ Earthquakes (common but usually minor)
- β’ Typhoons (July-October)
- β’ Tsunami risk in coastal areas
Note: Safety ratings are based on Global Peace Index, US Department of State Travel Advisories, and local government sources. Ratings are subjective and should be used as a general guideline only. Always verify current travel advisories before your trip.
Solo Women Travelers
Night Safety
Dress Code
Casual and modest. Temples require covered shoulders and knees. Swimwear only at beaches/pools.
Harassment Risk
Women-only transport options available
Tips
- β’Women-only train carriages available during rush hours
- β’Cosplay cafes require caution - research before visiting
- β’Very safe for solo female travelers
- β’Japanese people are generally helpful and respectful
Note: Women safety ratings are based on solo female traveler experiences, TripAdvisor reviews, and US Department of State advisories. Every woman's experience may vary. Trust your instincts and research specific destinations.
Festivals & Events
Cherry Blossom (Sakura)
culturalHanami - flower viewing parties under cherry blossoms
Impact: Very crowded - book accommodations early
Golden Week
nationalConsecutive holidays - biggest travel period
Impact: Extremely crowded - everything booked, prices high
Mount Fuji Climbing Season
culturalOfficial climbing season for Japan's highest peak
Impact: Crowded trails - start early morning
New Year (Shogatsu)
religiousMost important holiday - temple visits, mochi eating, shrine pilgrimages
Impact: Many businesses closed January 1-3
Obon
religiousAncestor worship - bon odori dances, family reunions
Impact: Many businesses closed, travel crowded