It's almost time for Japan to host the Rugby World Cup! There's a lot to prepare: passport, tickets, and fan gear; but while watching rugby and traveling in Japan, it’s important to know the ins and outs of, not only how things work, but the etiquette as well. Let’s take a look at this short and quick guide to help prep you for your journey!
Trains
Japan is well known for its immense public transportation infrastructure, but it can be a little daunting for a first-time—or even live-in—foreigner to navigate. From buying tickets to boarding the right train, all it takes is a little practice to get used to it. In addition to buying individual tickets at the counter, there are also special 5-day tickets, called the JR Seishun 18 ticket. It might be just the thing for you while you watch some rugby matches.
How to Buy Train Tickets in Japan
Know one of the essential abilities you will need when traveling around Japan
Seishun 18 Kippu: Japan's Cheap Nationwide Train Ti...
The Seishun 18 Kippu (Seishun Juhachi Kippu), which translates roughly to Youthful 18 Ticket, offers five days of unlimited nationwide..
What to say?
| How much is a ticket to 〇 station? | 〇 eki made wa ikura desu ka? |
| I want to go to 〇. Please, guide me. | 〇 e ikitai. Annai shite onegai. |
| Where is the 〇 line? | 〇 sen wa doko desu ka? |
| Does this train stop at 〇 station? | Kono ressha 〇 eki ni tomarimasu ka? |
IC Cards
If you aren’t used to public transportation, IC cards can make the process a little easier. With this credit-card sized smart chip card you just need to tap the card to the panel at the ticket gate on trains and buses, and off you go. SUICA in particular is well known and used around Japan. You can even use it as a debit card at some big city convenience stores and vending machines.
Guide to Suica Cards
Suica is a rechargeable transportation card from JR recommended for traveling around Japan via train or bus. This convenient card..
What to say?
| I want to buy an IC card. | IC card o kaitai. |
| I want to charge my IC card. | IC card o chaaji shitai. |
| Can I use my IC card here? | Koko ni IC card o tsukaemasu ka? |
Cash vs. Credit
If you’re used to traveling abroad, you might be used to using credit cards abroad; such is not the case in Japan. Although credit cards are slowly becoming more common use, cash is still king. The more rural your travels become the less likely it is that you’ll be able to use credit cards, so be sure to carry enough cash to last. The good news is that there are some ATMs accustomed to dealing with foreign credit cards; most popular is the 7-Eleven convenient store.
Contactless payments, particularly Apple Pay, is making its way to Japan. It can even link your SUICA card (for trains and buses) directly to your phone. You can find out more about Apple Pay here.
Money in Japan
Know before you go with this money guide about the Japanese yen, exchanging currencies, how to pay in Japan, and using ATMs.
Guide to Shopping and Tax-Free Info
Shopping in Japan can be a wonderful experience – from the small 100 yen stores at the local shoutengai to the huge department..
What to say?
| Can I use a credit card here? | Koko ni kurejitto kaado wo tsukaemasu ka? |
| Where’s the nearest ATM? | Chikai no ATM wa doko desu ka? |
Driving in Japan & Car Rental
If your travels plan to take you out of the big cities, it might be worth considering renting a car. But what will you need—and how do you do it? First off, you'll need to get an International Driver's Permit; the process is easy and cheap and the permit allows you to drive in 150 countries worldwide. These IDPs should be obtained before coming to Japan and are valid for one year.
If you want to learn more about driving laws and signs, check the JAF English website.
Renting a car is surprisingly easy in Japan, especially with the magic of the internet and how simple it is to make a reservation.
How to Rent a Car in Japan
This quick guide will help you get your car fast and get going on the road.
Driving in Japan: How to Fill Up
In case you choose to utilize a vehicle for your ventures all through Japan, there are a few things to consider-one of those being..
If you decide to drive, just remember, there is zero tolerance for drinking with alcohol in your system and carries a fine of up to 500,000 yen.
Traveler’s Insurance
A must for every visitor to Japan is traveler’s insurance. Bicycle accidents, colds, or unexpected accidents can rack up quite a bill, especially in Japan where uninsured medical expenses are so high. There are a lot of criteria to take into account while choosing your insurance provider, but it’s definitely something you want to take care of before coming to Japan.
Basic Etiquette
You always want to make a good impression on people wherever you go, and that might be most true when you go abroad; you’re a representative of your country, after all. Here are some quick phrases—and full guides—on etiquette to practice and faux pas to avoid.
What to say?
| Can you help me? | Tetsudaemasu onegai. |
| Excuse me. | Sumimasen |
| Bon appetit! | Itadakimasu! |
| Thank you for the meal | Gochisosama deshita. |
| Cheers! | Kampai! |
| Please have my seat. | Kono seki e douzo. |
| Thank you. | Arigatou. |
| Please. | Onegai. |
More phrases
Japanese Survival Phrases – Guide
Survival phrases guide with the right lingo for getting around Japan
Other useful guides
Table Manners
This fantastic guide will keep you from making any unfortunate faux pas while you dine with your friends, or if you just want to look like you know what you're doing. And don't worry about tipping, it is not a system used in Japan—it's included with the great service.
With the guide to Japanese table manners you'll learn something new and feel confident about not breaking any taboos while enjoying..
Guide to Japanese Table Manners
Drinking Etiquette
Want to enjoy sake like a pro? This is the way!
Japan is a nation in which courtesy is greatly valued. To make sure that you have a fantastic sake drinking experience with your..
Sake Etiquette
Train Etiquette
From backpacks, luggage, offering your seat up, and public drinking—it's a good idea to know how to behave in these sometimes cramped conditions (if travelling during rush hour).
Onsen/ Hot Springs
Did you know that tattoos are taboo in Japan? And you'll probably be barred from onsen entry if you have one. If you are inked, be sure to check out Tattoo Friendly for a list of places you can visit.
Learn about the different types of Japanese baths, the health benefits, how to enjoy bathing in an onsen, and the manners and ..
Guide to Japanese Hot Springs
Shrine and Temples
Is it bow once, clap once? Or bow once, clap twice? And when am I supposed to wash my hands? Don't worry, we've got you covered in this guide.
Follow these easy steps to properly pay your respects at Japan's marvelous temples and shrines!
Etiquette at Shrines and Temples
Bringing Medication to Japan
Traveling with medicine can be tricky. Here are the guidelines for entering Japan with prescription or OTC drugs. However, recreational drugs (including marijuana) are outlawed and carries a severe penalty.
Guide to Bringing Medicines Into Japan
Find out what the rules are for bringing medication into Japan, including Over-The-Counter and Prescription medicine.
