Preparing for a trip to Japan but not sure where to begin? I’ve put together the best Tokyo travel tips to make your time in the city smoother. While frequent travelers may already be familiar with some of these, they can be particularly useful for first-time visitors. If you’re planning your first adventure to Tokyo, this guide will help you explore with ease and comfort.

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Get a Pocket Wi-Fi, eSIM, or SIM Card

We all know how important internet access is in our digital age. A pocket Wi-Fi, eSIM, or SIM card with a data connection can make traveling significantly easier, especially when navigating unfamiliar places. While many hotels and locations in Tokyo offer free Wi-Fi, it isn’t always reliable or convenient. Having your own internet access ensures you can stay connected while exploring the city, whether you’re looking up directions or finding a nearby restaurant.

I actually prefer a handy pocket Wi-Fi over an eSIM or physical SIM card. However, any of these three options are great for staying connected while exploring a bustling city like Tokyo. I booked mine through Klook, which was super convenient. If you prefer a physical SIM card, you can find one at the airport or in electronics and convenience stores.

Download a Train Navigation App

One of my top Tokyo travel tips is to download a reliable train navigation app before your trip, as the city’s train system can be daunting and complex, especially for first-time travelers. Before our trip, I researched various options and found the Japan Transit Planner to be the best choice. It’s available for both iOS and Android devices.

The Japan Transit Planner app provides real-time train schedules and fare information for each station or destination. It also supports multiple languages, making it easier for non-Japanese speakers like myself. We wouldn’t have had such a smooth experience exploring the city without it. Navigating Tokyo’s train system was surprisingly enjoyable, thanks to the Japan Transit Planner.

Flights to Japan
Looking for flights to Tokyo? Compare options and book easily through Trip.com.

Buy a Suica or Pasmo Card

Suica and Pasmo cards are rechargeable IC cards used for public transportation, vending machines, convenience stores, and other shops. They are far more convenient than buying a single-entry ticket every time you take the train.

Both Suica and Pasmo cards can be purchased and recharged at ticket machines and ticket counters. The initial cost is ¥1,500, which includes a ¥500 refundable deposit.

Important note: When we traveled in April 2024, IC cards were unavailable due to a shortage of IC chips. However, as of March 2025, Suica and Pasmo cards are now available for purchase again.

Always Carry Cash

Cash is still widely used, not just in Tokyo but throughout Japan. To avoid any hassle, make sure to carry enough cash, as many small shops, street vendors, and local restaurants accept cash only. You may not be able to rely on your card at all times, which is why carrying cash is essential during your trip.

If you run out of Japanese yen, ATMs are available in convenience stores like 7-Eleven and FamilyMart. Make sure to withdraw the maximum amount you’ll need instead of making several smaller transactions. That said, it’s best to have cash on hand before you head out to explore the city.

Save Google Maps Offline

One of the most practical Tokyo travel tips is to download Google Maps for offline use before your trip. Offline maps let you access directions without Wi-Fi or data, which is especially helpful if you lose signal or your pocket Wi-Fi runs out of battery. You can also use apps like MAPS.ME or Organic Maps for offline navigation around the city.

It’s always best to start your trip prepared for a hassle-free adventure while exploring Tokyo, Japan. Since you’ll likely do a lot of walking to get from train stations to your destinations, offline maps can be a lifesaver if you suddenly lose internet connection while exploring.

Get Travel Health Insurance

Travel health insurance is something you should always include in your budget before your trip to Japan, or anywhere else for that matter. Emergencies can happen unexpectedly, and it’s always best to be prepared. Having travel health insurance gives you peace of mind, and it’s absolutely worth every cent.

I rely on SafetyWing for my travels because it’s convenient and affordable. During our 5-day trip to Japan, I paid only $31.86 USD for coverage for both me and my son. It gave me a sense of security, and I haven’t traveled without it since Japan.

If you want to get your own travel health insurance before your trip, you can check out SafetyWing here.

Follow Japanese Etiquette & Customs

It’s important to be aware & respect the etiquette and customs of the country you’re visiting, and Japan is no exception. Tipping is generally not expected and may even be considered rude. When riding trains, avoid speaking loudly or eating. However, eating is allowed on bullet trains (Shinkansen), as they have tray tables for passengers to enjoy their meals.

You can also learn a few basic Japanese phrases to show respect to the locals. Although you can rely on Google Translate, making the effort to speak simple words gives a positive impression to the locals.

Bring a Travel Adapter 

Make sure to bring a travel adapter when visiting Japan, as your devices may have different plug types or may not be compatible with Japan’s voltage. Japan uses Type A and Type B outlets, with a standard voltage of 100V.

I personally didn’t need a travel adapter when I visited Tokyo, but your situation may be different. While adapters are available for purchase in Tokyo, it’s much more convenient to have one ready in your luggage.

Use a Travel Planner

Having a travel planner can help you stay organized during your first trip to Tokyo. You can use either a printable or digital planner to list everything you need to prepare before your flight. This includes what to expect upon arrival, what to pack in your luggage, and the places and foods you want to add to your itinerary. Staying organized in advance will make your trip less stressful and more enjoyable.

I personally use a travel planner for my international trips to make sure everything is ready and nothing important is forgotten. You can also check out my own travel planner to make your Tokyo adventure more manageable and stress-free.

Choose a Conveniently Located Hotel

Another essential Tokyo travel tip for a hassle-free trip is choosing a well-located hotel. Staying near train stations can greatly enhance your travel experience in a city like Tokyo. Booking accommodations near popular tourist spots ensures that you’re just steps away from the attractions you want to visit. While hotels close to train stations and major sights tend to be more expensive, the convenience and time saved often outweigh the cost.

During our visit to Tokyo, we stayed at Hop Inn Tokyo Asakusa. The hotel’s location was ideal as it’s just a short walk from train stations, convenience stores, and major tourist spots, such as Sumida River and Sensoji Temple. We especially appreciated the convenience of a direct train from Narita Airport to Asakusa Station, which was only minutes away from the hotel.

Book Hop Inn Tokyo Asakusa on Agoda or Trip.com to compare prices and find the best deal.

I hope these Tokyo travel tips help you make the most of your trip to Japan! If you found this Tokyo travel guide helpful, feel free to share it with fellow travelers or leave a comment with your own tips!

Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links. If you book through these links, I may earn a small commission at no additional cost. Thank you for your support!

Related Travel Guides:
Things to Do in Yokohama for a Day – Easy side trip from Tokyo
What to Do in Asakusa for a Day – Must-visit Tokyo neighborhood with Sensoji Temple

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