12 Travel Tips for Tokyo (my best advice as a local)
It’s midnight. And I’m sitting in my mid-sized room in a small-sized town next to Tokyo with bamboo trees clapping just outside my window.
I love it here.
I’ve been living in Tokyo for the past 4 years (give or take) and it’s a place I’ve come to call my second home.
So these are my top travel tips for Tokyo — where I spend half my time each year.
Let’s get to it.
1. Check the Time for Last Trains
This may come as no surprise, but Tokyo trains don’t run all night.
So unless you’re planning to hit the town until sunrise, you may want to double check when your last train is.
Usually, trains in Tokyo stop around 11:30 or midnight.
But times can vary, depending on the train line and the day of the week. I usually check each night while I’m out (before 11 PM usually, so I can plan accordingly).
You can easily check train times using the Google Maps app by plugging in your route and clicking on the train line within the directions.
A screen will show you the most recent train times and the upcoming ones (and if they’re stopping soon).
Hot Tip: Local lines stop at all stations but Express or Rapid Express lines won’t. So double check your train platform and time before boarding.
2. Tokyo Is Super Safe (but watch out for occasional scams)
Japan is known for its safety.
It’s one of the main reasons I love coming back so much. Crimes like theft and assault are quite low.
Still, it never hurts to be careful with stuff — namely, scams.
This usually happens in busier bar areas like Kabukicho or Roppongi, so I’d suggest just staying alert and being aware if you’re having a night out.
For example, I’ve heard of situations where promoters will lure you into a bar, but charge you an outrageous bill when you go to check out.
I’ve luckily had no experiences here, but it’s always good to keep your guard up, listen to your intuition and avoid dodgy areas (or dodgy people).
Recommended: My Top 10 Japanese Concepts of Life
3. Keep Your Trash
If you’ve ever visited Tokyo, you’ll know that trash cans are hard to come by.
But leaving your trash on the street is extremely rude (please don’t do that). So just be prepared to keep your garbage with you when exploring the city (until you can find a bin or take it home with you).
I was talking with a friend recently about this topic and she explained one potential reason for the lack of trash cans in the city.
Generally, people in Japan don’t eat in public or produce a lot of trash while out and about. You usually bring your food home with you to eat (thus erasing the need for many trash cans).
So having a backpack or a separate plastic bag with you can be helpful here.
But if you’re really in a pinch, you can always check convenient stores, which will often have some trash area for plastics and simple stuff.
Also, vending machines sometimes have trash cans next to them for bottles and cans (just not always).
4. Avoid Travel During Japan’s Biggest Holidays
Traditional Japanese work culture doesn’t leave a lot of room for vacations.
But there are a few holidays that everyone in the country gets — at the same time.
So it’s best to avoid travel during these peak seasons (if you can).
Namely, there are two big extended holidays in Japan to know about (and avoid traveling during):
Golden Week
Usually around the end of April and early May
Obon
In mid-August
Traveling during these times can be overwhelming (to say the least).
Trains are packed, stations are a zoo, prices are inflated and everyone is everywhere.
It can be a bit much.
So if you can, schedule your big trips around these dates. Or at the very least, avoid the super touristy, popular places during these times.
5. Be Aware of Japanese Summers + Stormy Seasons
Want to know the number one complaint in Japan between May and September?
It’s the excessive heat.
(probably — I don’t actually have the data on this. I just hear it everyday)
So if you’re traveling to Tokyo during the summer, just be aware that you’ll be sweating most days (so pack accordingly).
Besides the heat, there’s also weather to consider.
Japan’s rainy season is from early June to mid-July and typhoons happen from May through October (although they’re more common from July to September).
So if you’re not a fan of rainy days or watching a good storm from indoors, then you may want to schedule your trip around these dates.
Generally, the best times to visit Tokyo/Japan are the spring and the fall.
The weather is perfect and you can catch the cherry blossoms (sakura) and the fall foliage (koyo).
6. Always Carry Some Cash With You
Most places take credit cards these days.
But if you find yourself at a smaller, local izakaya or restaurant, you may need to use cash as many still don’t accept credit cards.
Also, many train ticket machines and IC card charging stations are cash only (especially in the smaller towns and older stations).
So I always like to have around 5-10,000 yen in my wallet — just in case.
If you need to take out cash using your home bank card, I usually use a 711 ATM. They accept international cards and have English options (and they’re literally everywhere).
Hot Tip: Always choose the local currency (yen) when using an ATM or an international card for better conversion rates. You can learn more here.
7. Pick Up A Suica or Pasmo Card
If you’re spending some serious time in Tokyo, grabbing an IC card is a great move.
The two options for Tokyo are the Suica and the Pasmo cards. They’re a great way to pay for train fares and can also be used in many shops and stores.
Having an IC card is like having a rechargeable debit card for use in Japan. Many stores and shops will accept them (just look for the IC card sticker on the store window or at checkout).
You can usually pick up an IC card at a ticket machine — but as of August 2023, they stopped the sales of new ones (there was a shortage, I believe).
You can however still buy the Welcome Suica (*only at Narita or Haneda airport currently) or the Pasmo Passport card.
I imagine this won’t be a permanent situation, but if the cards are still unavailable when you visit, you can always check with a tourist booth for more information.
Or, you can download the IC card app to your smartphone.
From there, you should be able to use the card, view it and reload your balance all the same.
You can learn more about this IC card situation (and the different workarounds) in this video here.
8. Know Where to Stay
Tokyo is full of amazing pockets to explore, each with its own unique personality.
There are 26 cities (called “shi”) in the Tokyo area and knowing where to stay will ensure you have the best possible time while visiting. Plus, choosing the right location makes for a smoother travel experience overall.
For example, Shimokitazawa is great for vintage thrift shopping and more hipster culture while Ginza will give you more glitz, glamour and high-end shopping.
Roppongi is an entertainment district with plenty of clubs to enjoy but Harajuku has lots of “kawaii” culture (via Takeshita Street) and is close to Meiji Shrine, Yoyogi Park and Omotesando hills (for some more high-end shopping).
Choosing the right place totally depends on your travel style, goals, preferences and budget. But I’d recommend staying in a few different places throughout your trip or choose a central location like Shibuya or Shinjuku.
Personally, my favorite spots are Shibuya, Shimokitazawa, Harajuku/Omotesando and Ueno. I also like the Yokohama area too, which is technically outside of Tokyo but still close.
But don’t stress if you “choose wrong”. Tokyo has an incredibly efficient network of trains. You can easily get to anywhere from anywhere.
Recommended: Where to Stay In Tokyo Your First Time
9. Have Internet for Your Phone
Tokyo does have plenty of wifi spots — but it’s not always the most reliable and I’ve found myself without options more than enough times.
For example, 711 used to have free public Wifi. But as of March 2022, they discontinued this service.
So if you’re coming to Japan, make sure you have internet on your phone. Here are the most common options
Buy a SIM card before your trip (I usually use Mobal)
Buy a SIM card at the airport after you arrive (double check the hours online)
But a SIM card at an electronic store like Bic Camera in Tokyo
Buy pocket Wifi
Add an international plan to your mobile carrier
Whatever you do, having access to the internet will be a lifesaver for getting around and having a quick translation assistant by your side.
But if you are ever in a pinch, just look for a Starbucks or another chain coffee shop (like Tully’s) and stand nearby to grab a signal and sign in to their free Wifi.
10. Go to Restaurants With Confidence (a crash course)
Tokyo’s food culture is insane.
There are so many epic and amazing dishes to try — I’m obsessed.
So, here are a few tips for navigating the local food scene with confidence.
Getting a table
When first walking into a restaurant, the first thing you do is usually give a hand sign for how many people you have.
Check for a vending ticket machine
Many ramen shops or smaller places will have these.
If you see one, simply choose your dish and pay for it here first. A ticket will pop out with your order, which you then hand over to the staff.
Placing your order
If you’ve got your seat (and there was no ticket machine), don’t wait for the staff to come and take your order. You’ll usually need to call them over when you’re ready.
To do this, you can simply raise your hand and make eye contact.
But if they don’t see you, try saying “sumimasen”.
Don’t worry if this feels rude, it’s very normal in Japan.
Hot Tip: If you need an English menu, just say “eigo menu…?”. This is broken Japanese, but it gets the point across.
11. Be Prepared for These Japanese Questions
When traveling Japan, there’s a handful of basic questions you’ll likely hear (especially when paying for things).
So these are the most common ones worth knowing (so you’re not too surprised when they pop up).
“Fukuro…”
One of the most common questions you’ll hear (at convenient stores and when shopping) is the staff asking if you need a bag.
It’s often the only question you’ll get. So keep an ear out for the word “fukuro” here.
If you do need a bag, just say “onegaishimasu”. If you don’t need one, say “daijoubu”.
“Pointo cardo…”
Along with fukuro, you may be asked another question when paying for things — it’s usually the staff asking if you have a point card. So keep an ear out for the words “pointo cardo”.
If they say this, just shake your head no (I’m assuming you don’t have one).
Here are a few more key phrases worth practicing:
Daijoubu
It’s okay; I’m fine; no thank you
Sumimasen
Excuse me
Arigatou gozaimasu
Thank you
Eigo o hanishimasu ka?
Do you speak English?
Hot Tip: the “R” sound in Japanese sounds more like a soft “D” sound (similar to Spanish). For example, “fukuro” sounds more like “fuu-kuu-dou”.
12. Know the Etiquette
You’re probably already familiar with some of the etiquette and social “rules” of Japan.
But just in case, there are some helpful ones worth knowing about (so we can respect everyone who lives here).
Here are some key things to keep in mind:
Avoiding eating or drinking on the trains
Avoid eating while walking around busy streets (I like to try and find a nearby park)
Also, don’t talk on your phone on the trains
If you smoke, look for designated smoking areas (don’t smoke just anywhere)
On escalators, stand to the left side (the right side is for walking)
Recommended: Etiquette In Japan (what to know)
BONUS (rent a share house for longer stays)
I’m a huge fan of share houses. I stay in one every time I come to Tokyo.
They offer flexible lease terms and generally lower costs. You get a private room (although some have apartments) while sharing a kitchen, shower and restroom.
They’re also more foreigner-friendly and cater to travelers and foreign workers (so they usually have English support staff).
And one of the best parts is you’ll be instantly connected to a community. So if you’re traveling solo, this is a great way to meet other travelers, locals and friends.
The only caveat is you’ll usually need to stay for a minimum of one month.
I’ve stayed at both Borderless House and Oakhouse on multiple occasions. They’re both great companies and I can recommend them with confidence.
But there are other options of course, such as Sakura House or Bamboo House.
So if you can swing a long-term stay in Tokyo, I definitely recommend checking them out.
(and who knows, maybe we’ll bump into each other in one!)
Later ✌️
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