Travel Tips for Japan 2025

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According to the Japan National Tourism Organization (JNTO), more than 2 million Vietnamese tourists visit Japan every year. However, an iVISA survey revealed that nearly 40% of first-time travelers to Japan encountered difficulties adapting to the country’s culture and lifestyle. This highlights the importance of understanding essential Japan travel tips before your trip.

Why Should You Prepare Carefully Before Visiting Japan?

Japan is renowned for its discipline, precision, and cultural sophistication. Every action – from greetings and queuing to public behavior and punctuality – reflects deep respect for rules and order. Therefore, preparing thoroughly before your Japan trip not only helps you adapt easily to local customs but also prevents awkward situations. Understanding and respecting cultural differences is the key to making your journey to Japan truly fulfilling.

Preparation Steps Before Departure

For Vietnamese travelers, especially first-time visitors, early preparation (1–2 months before departure) is highly recommended. This ensures smoother arrangements and minimizes risks. Below are essential Japan travel reminders to keep in mind.

Visa and Travel Insurance

To enter Japan, travelers must apply for a tourist visa. Required documents include a passport valid for at least 6 months, a completed visa application form, proof of financial status, and a proposed itinerary. The processing time usually takes 5–7 working days but may be longer during peak seasons. To save time and improve your visa travel Japan approval rate, contact iVISA. Our consultants will guide you through every step, ensure accurate document preparation, and help expedite the approval process.

In addition, international travel insurance is mandatory before entering Japan. The average insurance cost ranges from 300,000–500,000 VND per person.

Currency Exchange – Japanese Yen

Cash remains the preferred payment method in Japan, especially at small stores and local markets. You should exchange money in Vietnam before departure – either at banks or currency exchange counters at airports. Always check the exchange rate in advance. According to the experience of many travelers Japan, prepare about 50,000–70,000 yen per week for basic expenses such as meals, transportation, and entrance fees.

Booking Flights and Accommodation

After obtaining your visa, the next step is to book flights and accommodation. During peak seasons such as cherry blossom (spring) or autumn foliage (fall), prices can increase by 30–50%, so it’s best to book at least 6 weeks in advance. You can also use booking platforms like Booking.com or Agoda to take advantage of special deals and save more on your Japan trip.

Etiquette and “Unspoken” Cultural Rules in Japan

The Japanese are known for their discipline, politeness, and deep respect for others. Understanding and following these etiquette rules during your trip will help you avoid misunderstandings and create a positive impression with locals.

When Using Trains

Trains are Japan’s most common mode of public transport, so maintaining silence and order is crucial. Avoid loud conversations or phone calls while on board. If you need to make an urgent call, move to the platform or designated area.

Visiting Temples or Hot Springs (Onsen)

When visiting temples or traditional houses, always remove your shoes and keep quiet. At onsen (hot springs), guests must wash thoroughly before entering shared baths, avoid wearing swimsuits, and never dip towels into the water. Photography is prohibited to ensure privacy for everyone.These small details reflect Japan’s core values of respect, order, and harmony. By understanding and practicing them, you’ll enjoy a more meaningful cultural experience and show respect for Japanese traditions.

Transportation and Connectivity in Japan

Once your itinerary, visa, and luggage are ready, the next important aspect is transportation and internet connectivity. Japan’s transport system is famous for its punctuality and safety, though first-time visitors might find it a bit confusing. iVISA has summarized key tips below:

Use the JR Pass

If you plan to travel between cities like Tokyo, Osaka, or Kyoto, the Japan Rail (JR) Pass is essential. For only 29,650 yen (~4.8 million VND), you can use almost all JR trains – including the Shinkansen (bullet train) – for 7 days. This saves 30–40% compared to buying individual tickets.

Suica/Pasmo Cards – Convenient for City Travel

For urban travelers, the Suica or Pasmo cards are extremely convenient. With just a tap, you can use them for subways, buses, vending machines, and even convenience stores. They can be easily purchased and topped up at airports or major train stations – helping you save time and avoid payment hassles.

Useful Apps for Vietnamese Travelers

Before your trip, install helpful apps such as:

Google Maps and Navitime Japan Travel: to check routes, schedules, and accurate travel times.
Japan Travel App: to discover top attractions, local events, and exclusive discounts for international tourists.

These tools help you save both time and money while exploring Japan efficiently.

Staying Connected During Your Trip

To ensure a smooth experience, rent a pocket Wi-Fi or buy a Japan 4G SIM card at the airport. Pocket Wi-Fi is ideal for groups of 2–4 people, costing around 150,000 VND per day with unlimited data. Solo travelers can opt for a 3–5GB SIM card, enough for navigation and online bookings.

The Cost of Travel in Japan

Managing expenses is one of the most important Japan travel tips. Although Japan has a high cost of living, smart spending and tax refund policies can help you save significantly.

Average Daily Expenses

Category	Average Cost per Day (VND)
Meals	700,000 – 1,000,000
Transportation	300,000 – 600,000
Accommodation	1,000,000 – 1,500,000
Total	2,000,000 – 3,000,000

Japan’s Tax-Free Shopping Policy

Foreign visitors can enjoy an 8–10% tax exemption at stores displaying the “Japan Tax-Free Shop” logo, applicable to purchases over 5,000 yen (in one day, at one store). Popular tax-free stores include Don Quijote, Bic Camera, Takashimaya, and Yodobashi Camera. Present your passport at checkout to get the tax deducted immediately. Understanding this policy helps you control spending and maximize savings – an essential tip for every Japan traveler.

Local Experiences and Money-Saving Tips

To truly experience Japan, immerse yourself in local life instead of just following tour schedules. According to JNTO, over 78% of international visitors rated localized experiences as the highlight of their trip – from street dining to homestays and cultural immersion.

Discover Regional Cuisine

Japanese cuisine is not just about food – it’s an art form reflecting culture and soul. Recognized by UNESCO in 2013 as an Intangible Cultural Heritage, Japanese gastronomy offers diverse regional specialties:

Fukuoka: Famous for Hakata Ramen, rich and flavorful broth.
Tokyo: The perfect place to enjoy Toyosu Sushi, priced around 2,000–5,000 yen per set.
Kobe: Home of the world-famous Kobe beef, costing 10,000–20,000 yen per serving, a must-try for any traveler.

Save with Travel Passes and Combos

According to Japan Railways Group, tourists can save 25–40% by using regional travel passes:

Kyoto Day Pass: Unlimited bus and subway rides for 24 hours (700 yen).
Osaka Amazing Pass: Access to 40+ attractions (2,800 yen/day), saving up to 8,000 yen.
JR Pass: Best for long-distance routes (Tokyo–Osaka–Hokkaido), saving greatly on Shinkansen rides.

Photography and Souvenir Tips

For stunning photos, shoot between 6:00–8:00 AM – the best lighting and fewer crowds. Popular souvenirs include Uji matcha tea, Kyoto mochi cakes, and traditional crafts, all deeply symbolic of Japan. These thoughtful touches make your trip more memorable and meaningful.

Read more: Japanese Student Visa

Frequently Asked Questions about Traveling to Japan

Do I Need to Speak Japanese to Travel Independently?

No. About 55% of transactions in Japan are still in cash. International cards such as Visa or MasterCard are widely accepted, but Vietnamese e-wallets like MoMo or ZaloPay are not supported.

Can I Use Vietnamese E-Wallets in Japan?

No. About 55% of transactions in Japan are still in cash. International cards such as Visa or MasterCard are widely accepted, but Vietnamese e-wallets like MoMo or ZaloPay are not supported.

What Should I Do If I Get Lost in Japan?

Find the nearest koban (police box) for assistance. With over 6,000 koban nationwide, police officers are available to help you quickly and safely.

What Gifts Should I Bring for Locals?

Japanese people appreciate small, thoughtful gifts such as Vietnamese coffee, tea, or handicrafts. Avoid white wrapping paper or the number 4, as they are considered unlucky in Japanese culture.

Japan remains one of the most dream-worthy destinations for global travelers, especially Vietnamese tourists. By mastering these Japan travel tips, you can fully enjoy your journey and explore the Land of the Rising Sun with confidence.

If you’re planning a trip this year, contact iVISA for fast visa service Japan assistance and make your Japan adventure effortless and unforgettable!

iVISA Property & Citizenship

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