Are you getting ready or hoping to go to Tokyo, Japan? Here are some tips you must know before getting to Tokyo. These tips will help you prepare and navigate the busy capital of Japan.
The JR Pass can’t be used on all train lines
The Japan Rail Pass only covers JR lines, including the JR bullet trains. The JR pass can be expensive, so the pass will be worth it if you plan to use the bullet trains. You need a PASMO or SUICA card to travel in the inner city. These cards can be purchased at most train station kiosks. You may still buy individual tickets to ride the trains but having a PASMO or SUICA card is more convenient. The PASMO or SUICA card can also be added to your Apple wallet for increased convenience.
Google Translator App
If you are going to a big city such as Tokyo, there is enough English to navigate the city without a translator app. There are also enough menus with pictures and food replicas to be able to communicate with the staff without Japanese. The Google translator app will come in handy in smaller cities and when trying to communicate with locals. By having the Google translator app, you can download the Japanese language and use the app offline.
Restaurant Reservation
If you would like to eat at a popular location, MAKE A RESERVATION EARLY. Many restaurants and cafes can be fully reserved months in advance. Some locations’ reservations also go live after a specific period. For example, the Kirby cafe in Tokyo goes live with their reservations on the 10th of every month for the following month. If the location is popular, the reservations will likely be booked quickly after going live. If you want to go to a location that is reservation-based, please be aware of their reservation system.
How to Navigate the Tokyo train system
Two main things will help you know which train you need to take. There is a color associated with each train line and a number associated with each train station. This combination will let you know that the train you are about to take is heading in the right direction. There will be signs on the platform with arrows showing which platform is next based on the color/number and the direction of the train. For example, your GPS app such as Google Maps will tell you the number of the train station you need to enter and the number of the train station you need to get off on. If your GPS app tells you that you need to get off at the train station with a number higher than the train station where you entered the train, the sign will guide you in the direction of the train heading towards train stations with higher numbers.
Walking Shoes
While the train will take you practically anywhere, you WILL be doing a lot of walking. We had a daily average of 13,000 steps. You will also have to tackle many stairs. Comfortable and easily removable shoes are recommended for walking around Tokyo and entering locations that require you to take off your shoes.