15 Tips for First-Time Travellers to Japan | japan-guide.com

Recent questions

• How can I travel from Narita Airport to central Tokyo?

  You can choose from various transportation options like the Narita Express, Keisei Skyliner, buses, or taxis based on your destination and budget. Each mode of transportation offers different travel times and costs, so it's essential to consider your preferences before making a decision. The Narita Express and Keisei Skyliner are popular choices for travelers heading to central Tokyo due to their speed and convenience, while buses and taxis provide more flexibility in terms of drop-off locations. Researching the schedules and routes of each option can help you determine the best way to get from Narita Airport to central Tokyo efficiently.

• What services can I access at Narita Airport?

  Narita Airport offers various services to enhance your travel experience, including luggage delivery, data sim card or portable WiFi router purchase, IC card acquisition, and rail pass pick-up. You can take advantage of the Luggage Delivery counters to ship heavy luggage to different locations in Japan, such as hotels and airports. Additionally, purchasing a data sim card or WiFi router at the airport ensures you stay connected during your trip. Buying an IC card allows for convenient travel across Japan, while picking up a rail pass, like the Japan Rail Pass, at JR East Travel Service Centers provides cheaper and more convenient train travel options. These services cater to different aspects of your journey, making Narita Airport a convenient starting point for your adventures in Japan.

• What types of accommodation are available in Tokyo?

  Tokyo offers a diverse range of accommodation options to suit different preferences and budgets, including capsule hotels, hostels, internet cafes, and traditional ryokan. Capsule hotels provide a unique and compact lodging experience, ideal for solo travelers or those looking for a budget-friendly stay. Hostels offer communal living spaces and shared amenities, fostering a social atmosphere for guests. Internet cafes provide a quirky accommodation choice with private cubicles for resting, while traditional ryokan offer a cultural immersion with tatami mat rooms and communal baths. Depending on your preferences, you can explore these different types of accommodation in Tokyo to find the perfect place to stay during your visit.

• How can I purchase shinkansen tickets for travel in Japan?

  You can use the SmartEx app in English to purchase shinkansen tickets in advance, ensuring a smooth journey between Tokyo and Hakata. The app allows you to browse train schedules, select seat preferences, and make secure payments for your tickets. By booking shinkansen tickets through the SmartEx app, you can avoid long lines at the ticket counters and secure your preferred travel dates and times. This convenient method of ticket purchase streamlines the process of traveling on Japan's high-speed rail network, offering a hassle-free experience for passengers looking to explore different regions of the country.

• What should I remember when departing from Narita Airport?

  When departing from Narita Airport, it's essential to ensure you have all necessary travel essentials, such as your passport, boarding pass, and any required travel documents. Additionally, double-check your luggage to make sure you haven't left any valuables behind. Consider arriving at the airport with ample time before your flight to account for security checks and boarding procedures. If you have purchased any items at the airport, keep your receipts handy for customs declarations. Lastly, familiarize yourself with the departure gates and terminal layout to navigate the airport efficiently. By following these tips, you can have a smooth departure experience from Narita Airport and start your journey with peace of mind.