Here are my 10 tips for entry !!

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1. Download Google Maps

Google Maps will be your best friend~ Best and easiest way to navigate Japan's train system. 

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2. Bring/Buy a hand towel 

There is no such thing as paper towels here in Japan, so make sure to bring or buy a hand towel !!

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3. Bring some snacks from home 

Japanese foods and snacks are awesome, but bring some snacks from home to eat whenever you feel homesick :)

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4. Bring a portable charger

Having a dead phone was one of my greatest fears. You'll rely on your phone a lot for transportation so make sure to bring a portable with you! 

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5. Learn basic Japanese

Once you step outside major tourist areas, majority will not understand English! So make sure to learn some basic Japanese :)

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6. Good walking shoes !! 

You will do a LOT, and I mean a LOT of walking. Bring sure to bring a nice pair of comfortable shoes. 

 

7. LINE & Hot Pepper Beauty 

LINE is a biggest form of communication here, and Hot Pepper Beauty for all your beauty reservations (ex. nails, hair, eyelash, brows, etc.) so make sure to check them out!! 

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8. Go into a cellular contract 

Most reservations and events (collaboration cafes, exhibition tickets, etc.) require a Japanese phone number, so I would recommend going into a cellular contract with one of Japan's top carriers, or find an esim that provides you with one!! 

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p.s. If you go to Big Camera, there's an area with all the carriers in one place and they'll help you into a plan that fits your needs! (but may need to know/speak conversational Japanese)

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9. Pick an accommodation near the station (JR)

You will do so much walking, and after a long day you wouldn't really want to walk another 20 minutes from your station to home. I would 1000000% recommend a place that's within 10 minutes from a station!! 

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10. Join a club!

Clubs would be the best way to meet new people, make friends, and get better at your Japanese!! They'll show you around Japan, too so would definitely recommend ;)

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