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Traveling to Japan for the first time can feel intimidating. The language is unfamiliar, there are different customs and there are tons of things to expect. But surprisingly, Japan wasn't at all foreign and it was just as comfortable as home. I've had 8 trips in Japan and there are things I wish I knew when I traveled for the first time.
If Japan is your first international trip (or your first time in Asia), here’s what you should really expect—beyond guidebooks and social media.
Japan is Orderly, Calm, and Deeply Respectful
Japan may seem to be always busy, but it rarely feels chaotic. People queue patiently, talk softly in public and nd show a quiet respect for one another that’s felt everywhere—from train platforms to crowded streets.
As visitors, we're gently invited to adapt. Lowering our voices, avoiding phone calls on trains, and being mindful of shared spaces aren’t strict rules, but small acts of respect that help us blend in and fully appreciate the culture.
Etiquette is Observed Quietly, Not Explained
There are no written rules regarding etiquette in Japan but social expectations are deeply ingrained and are quietly followed. I made a few mistakes when I first traveled to Japan but you can easily pick it up when you observe the crowd. You’ll notice people standing on one side of escalators, avoiding loud phone calls on trains, eating minimally while walking, and bowing instead of using physical contact. What’s surprising is that you’re rarely corrected if you make a mistake—rather, you’re gently guided by observing how others move, behave, and respect shared spaces.
Public Transportation is Beginner-Friendly
Japan wasn’t the first Asian country I’ve visited, so I was already familiar with train systems. Still, for first-time visitors, Japan’s extensive rail network can look intimidating at first glance.
Don’t let it fool you. Japan’s public transportation is not complicated—it’s thoughtfully designed. With the help of apps like Google Maps, navigating trains becomes straightforward and stress-free. Trains run on time, platforms are clearly marked, and directions are easy to follow.
Even for beginners, moving around is manageable by simply following platform signs and color-coded lines. Once you take your first ride, the system quickly starts to make sense—and soon, it feels surprisingly intuitive.
Always Bring Cash
Always Bring Cash
Despite Japan’s modern and high-tech image, cash is still widely used, especially in small restaurants, local shops, and temples or shrines. While many places accept cards, having cash on hand makes transactions easier and avoids unnecessary inconvenience. Fortunately, ATMs inside convenience stores are reliable and tourist-friendly, making it easy to withdraw money when needed.
I usually withdraw money in ATMs inside the convenience stores. For Filipino travelers, GCash and GoTyme cards are also advantageous because of their competitive exchange rates and ease to use abroad.
What often surprises first-time visitors is just how much smoother and stress-free traveling in Japan becomes when you’re prepared with enough cash.
Convenience Stores Are Part of the Travel Experience
Convenience Stores Are Part of the Travel Experience
In Japan, convenience stores are not just for emergency meals—they are an essential part of everyday life and the travel experience. Inside, you’ll find fresh rice meals, sandwiches and pastries, quality coffee, indulgent desserts, and even travel essentials. What often surprises first-time visitors is that some of the most satisfying and affordable meals during the trip may come from a convenience store.
In the chaos, take it slow
In the chaos, take it slow
Japan isn’t about rushing from one attraction to another; it rewards travelers who slow down and observe. The real magic is often found in quiet neighborhoods, small cafés tucked away from busy streets, and moments spent walking without a strict plan. What surprises many first-time visitors is that the spaces between destinations—the unplanned pauses and simple encounters—often become the most memorable parts of the journey.
Japan doesn’t try to impress loudly or demand your attention. Instead, it welcomes you gently, inviting you to slow down, observe, and move with intention. For many first-time travelers, what begins as an exciting trip often becomes something more meaningful—a journey that feels grounding, reflective, and quietly transformative long after the visit ends.
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