First things

Visit Japan - Enter your trip details

Before traveling to Japan I recommend registering your Japan trip at Visit Japan. This provides an easy way to enter Japan by simply displaying a QR code. Otherwise, you must fill out a piece of paper at the airport, which is time-consuming. It's best to complete this in advance. The form is straightforward, and each person must fill it out. If you're traveling with friends, ensure that everyone has their QR code.

What about mobile data?

This is actually not that hard either. I always used an app called Saily. It's very easy to set up and use. It provides a great overview of how much data you have left, and you can recharge easily. It's a fantastic app!

(Image from: Saily)

The Suica card

This was the first thing I did at Narita Airport in Tokyo. I searched for charging stations to find a card called Suica. Suica functions like a credit card for public transportation and other conveniences. For example, you can use it to pay at konbini (Japanese convenience stores).

When you locate the card station at Narita Airport, you can obtain a new card, load it with yen, and use it for public transportation.

It's even more easy when you have an iPhone (Sorry Android Users) - because you can just install the Suica Mobile App or directly add Suica to Apple Wallet.

When you have this card or your phone set up, simply tap it on the IC card reader at the train station gates. As shown below, they all look similar throughout Japan:

(Image from: Rakuten Travel)

Apps I use in Japan

Google Maps or Apple Maps

There are several apps that have definitely saved me on numerous occasions. First, Google Maps and Apple Maps are essential. Google Maps is your best friend in Japan. It provides the best routes and indicates which train and gate to take to reach your destination. Without Google Maps, you could easily get lost. Additionally, mark your favorite spots in advance to save time when you arrive.

Google Translate

Of course, when you're in a new country with a completely different language, you need to have a translator app on your device. I believe the best one available, which I use the most, is Google Translate. I will discuss language in more detail later on.

Japan Travel

Sometimes I wanted more information or alternative routes for a specific trip—that's when Japan Travel proved useful. I remember paying a small amount for two weeks of access, which allowed me to see much more information. I highly recommend this app. I trust it for routes and public transportation more than Google Maps.

These were definitely the most used apps during my time in Japan. It's also helpful to check the weather occasionally.

Basic japanese

Japanese is not an easy language, but I recommend learning a few key words to navigate Japan more easily.

Sumimasen

Sumimasen basically means "Excuse me." It's used very frequently, especially when you want to order something. You need to raise your hand and just shout "Sumimasen." Otherwise, the waiter will not come to you.

Arigatou gozaimasu

Just say this when you want to say thank you. This one you will also use a lot - like A LOT.

Ohayou gozaimasu - Konnichiwa - Konbanwa

I'm sure you heard of that when you were already planning a trip to Japan. Konnichiwa means hello. It's always nice to greet some Japanese people, and they are happy about it. In the morning, you could even say: Ohayou gozaimasu - which translates to good morning. At noon, just say Konnichiwa, and in the evening, you can say Konbanwa - good evening.

Toire wa doko desu ka?

Hahaha, so one time I needed to go to the toilet REAL BAD. This is where this sentence helped me out: Toire wa doko desu ka - Where is the toilet?

For the start, that's enough. But of course, it's always nice to know a few more words to get around Japan even more easily.

Tourist places

Little tip from me: Visit the places from tourist recommendations; it's a good start to get to know Japan. Tokyo Tower, Skytree, Mt. Fuji, and so on - just visit all of them on your first trip. I'm sure you will visit Japan once more, and then you can plan different places to go, which is even more exciting because you already know more about Japan then.

Cash or Card?

Both. I recommend having both always on you. In some places, you can't pay with a card, so make sure you have some yen on you. Mostly, a card is okay. I always used Revolut for my trips or just my Visa.

Enjoy and learn

There is always something to learn, and you will encounter some strange situations. Just be patient and seek help. Use your translator app or try to speak simple English—sometimes they understand you, and sometimes they don't. But everyone is willing to try to help you.

So just have fun while you're in Japan!