Know before you go
Planning a trip to Japan
Build the itinerary around regions and rail corridors rather than trying to cover the whole country. Reserve scarce experiences early, but leave room for neighborhood exploration.
Transport
IC cards simplify urban transport and small purchases. Compare regional passes against individual fares; a nationwide pass is not automatically the cheapest choice.
Practical etiquette
Queues are orderly, waste bins can be limited and many smaller businesses remain cash friendly. Keep voices low on public transport and follow local photography rules.