Japan travel tips: language, money and phrases
By Parlo · Checked
At a glance
| Currency | Japanese yen (JPY) |
|---|---|
| Plugs | Type A and B, 100 V |
| Emergency | Police 110, ambulance and fire 119 |
| Driving | On the left |
| Tap water | Safe to drink |
| Tipping | Not done, and can cause confusion |
The language
Japanese is spoken everywhere. Signs in big cities and on trains are usually in English too, but conversation in English is limited outside hotels. Politeness matters: sumimasen (excuse me) and arigatō gozaimasu (thank you) cover a lot.
Phrases worth learning first
All 30 phrases are in the phrasebook.
Good to know
- A rechargeable IC card such as Suica, PASMO or ICOCA pays for trains, buses and many shops.
- Keep your voice down on trains and don't take phone calls on board.
- Take your shoes off where you see a step up or slippers at the entrance.
- Public bins are rare: carry your rubbish until you find one.
- Cash is still common in small restaurants and shops.
Before you go
Visa rules, health requirements and safety advice change often, so check your government's official travel advice for Japan before you book and again before you fly. Australians can use Smartraveller.