10 things to know before your first trip to Japan ^{Advertisement}

Did you know that at a pedestrian crossing at three in the morning, Japanese people will obediently wait for the green light, even if there are no cars around, and there is absolute, almost mystical silence in a crowded subway car during rush hour? Japan knows how to surprise and break stereotypes from the very first day. Here, everyone follows the rules and order, so no one violates the boundaries of someone else's comfort. While you're packing your bags, we've compiled 10 ironclad facts that will save your nerves and wallet on your first trip.

1. Visa issue: the first and most important step

Let's start with the basics, because without it, your trip is impossible. Citizens of many countries, including Ukraine, require preliminary preparation of documents. To get a Japanese visa, you need to collect a standard package: a passport, a certificate from work or a bank, and a detailed travel plan (the so-called program of stay). The Japanese are very picky, so each point of your itinerary should be clearly written. The good news is that the visa itself is often free (no consular fee is charged).

2. Rules at the border: what to leave at home

Japan has strict customs control, and ignorance of the law does not exempt from huge fines or even deportation. The main question that worries many people before the meeting: What can't be imported into Japan?

Here is a short list of taboos:

• Any meat products (sausages, frankfurters, bacon, jerky) are strictly prohibited due to sanitary standards.
• Fresh vegetables, fruits, plants and seeds without special international certificates.
• Some medicines. Many common cold or painkillers (for example, containing codeine or pseudoephedrine) are considered narcotic drugs in Japan. If you need specific medications, be sure to take a prescription from your doctor and apply for a special permit from Yunyu Kakunin-sho online 1-2 months before your trip.

3. Prepare cash

It's hard to believe when you look at Japanese technology, but Japan remains quite conservative with money. Yes, in large shopping centers and chain hotels in Tokyo or Kyoto, you will be accepted by card. But in authentic ramen shops, small souvenir shops, temples, or to buy tickets in many vending machines, you will need paper yen and coins. Always carry 5,000-10,000 yen in cash per day. You can withdraw money without a hefty fee at 7-Eleven or Lawson ATMs, which are open around the clock.

4. Public transportation as a separate art

Japan's transportation system is the most punctual in the world, but also one of the most confusing. There is a public railroad subway (JR lines) and private subway lines from different companies. If you change from one company to another, you'll have to pay twice.

To make your life easier, use Suica or Pasmo digital transportation cards. They can be easily added to Apple Wallet right in your phone and reloaded with a bank card. Just hold your phone to the turnstile and the system will calculate the fare. For intercity travel on bullet trains, you should consider the JR Pass, but it is only profitable to buy it if you have many trips planned in 7-14 days.

5. Etiquette in the city and transport

The way you behave in Japan determines the attitude of the locals towards you. The Japanese are incredibly polite and expect respect for their personal space.
Here are some railroad rules that must not be broken:

• Absolute silence reigns in the subway and buses. Talking on the phone is taboo. Even conversations with a companion should be whispered.
• All calls on gadgets should be switched to silent mode
• Never eat or drink on the go on the street or in the subway. The exception is long routes on shinkansen, where you can take special boxes of food - bento.

6. Secrets of Japanese cleanliness and a quest with garbage

The first thing that catches your eye in Tokyo is its perfect cleanliness. The second is the complete absence of garbage cans on the streets. They were removed for safety reasons back in 1995. Where to put the garbage? Carry it with you in your backpack for the rest of the day or look for drink vending machines - there are almost always small containers for plastic bottles and cans next to them. Keep in mind that it is strictly forbidden to throw paper or food scraps in them. The Japanese sort garbage into several categories, and a foreigner may be severely reprimanded for violating the rules.

7. Table manners and tipping

Japanese cuisine is a gastronomic paradise, but the restaurant industry has its own nuances. Remember the main thing: there is no tipping culture in Japan at all. An attempt to leave extra money on the table is considered an insult or inattention - the waiter will run after you to return the "forgotten" change.

Also, learn basic Japanese customs for foreigners regarding chopsticks (hashi). Never stick chopsticks vertically into rice - this gesture is associated with a funeral ritual. Do not pass food from chopsticks to another person's chopsticks. If you want to share, put a piece on a friend's plate. And yes, it's not just normal to eat noodles loudly while eating, it's a compliment to the cook that shows you're enjoying yourself.

8. Culture shock in onsen and tattoos

Onsen are traditional Japanese hot springs that are a must-see. However, strict hygiene rules apply here. Before entering the communal hot-water pool, you must wash yourself in the shower while sitting on a small chair. You enter the pool completely naked - swimsuits are prohibited.

In addition, Japan has specific rules for tourists regarding tattoos. Historically, body paintings have been associated with the Yakuza mafia, so most public onsen, swimming pools, and gyms are still closed to people with tattoos. If you have body art, look for tattoo-friendly establishments or book hotels (ryokans) with private onsen (kashikiri-buro).

9. Shopping: what to bring home

This country is a real paradise for shopaholics. And there is also a Tax Free system that allows you to return 10% of the tax. What is worth buying in Japan? Bring home top cosmetics from Japanese brands, exotic sweets with matcha or sake flavors, interesting gadgets from Tokyo, or authentic ceramics and vintage kimonos from Kyoto.

10. Traveler's checklist before departure

To ensure that your trip goes without unpleasant surprises, keep a final preparation for Japan checklist:

1. Check the validity of your passport.
2. Apply for a Japanese visa on time.
3. Download offline maps and Google Translate and Japan Travel apps.
4. Take out health insurance.
5. Order an eSIM or a pocket Wi-Fi router for uninterrupted Internet access.
6. Take comfortable shoes, because in Japan you will have to take off your shoes very often (at the entrance to temples, traditional restaurants and hotels).

Japan is an incredible country that falls in love with you at first sight if you respect its rules and traditions. Careful preparation of documents, understanding of local etiquette and openness to new experiences will make your vacation unforgettable.

Олена Болган