5 Things you should know when traveling to Japan

Japan is called the Land of the Rising Sun. Japan is a perfect blend of traditional culture and new technology, with its beautiful gardens and temples and its neon-lit streets full of new electronics.

Whatever your interests may be—foodie, history buff, or tech nerd—Japan should be at the top of your vacation itinerary this year.

If you’re planning a trip to Japan, these are five things you absolutely must read.

1. Convenience stores are really useful

In many ways, the 24-hour availability and wide selection of goods at Japan’s convenience stores make life more convenient than in the United States. In contrast to the stale hot dogs and microwaveable burritos you might get in a convenience store in the United States, convenience stores in Japan stock tasty rice balls, ready-to-eat meals, and, of course, endless varieties of instant noodles. If you visit Japan and don’t indulge in several bowls of instant noodles, you’re missing out on a crucial part of the culture.

2. Never tip in restaurants

Tips are a huge indicator of rudeness in Japan, regardless of whether you agree with the American norm or not. Simply ask for your check (imagine signing a piece of paper, or form a “X” with your index fingers), express your gratitude, and exit the establishment, even if you are under the impression that you have just had the best cuisine or service in the history of the universe.

3. Where are the trash cans?

It may take some time to put your finger on it, but Japan has very clean streets. What’s more stranger about this discovery? It’s difficult to find a trash can. In the US, there are a lot of places to put trash in the right way, but people still leave cans, bottles, and wrappers on the side of the road. People in Japan carry their trash around with them until they find a place to throw it away properly. But there are many places where you can recycle aluminum cans and plastic bottles, so you won’t have to carry everything with you.

4. Speaking some English is acceptable.

The good news is that English is fairly well understood in Japan, which is great for those of us who failed Spanish in high school. Even if they don’t want to admit it, most individuals can grasp simple English words and will try to respond to you in English. However, you should still make an effort to learn some fundamental Japanese words, such as how to say “please” and “thank you.” To avoid offending a Japanese visitor, just keep in mind how much English you would like to hear from them.

5. Drinking age in Japan

Japan lowered the age of civil law majority to 18 in April 2022, however the legal drinking age in Japan is still 20. It is illegal in Japan for anybody under the age of twenty to purchase or consume alcoholic beverages, and it is also illegal for parents or businesses to provide alcohol to minors.