Some tips that help you if you are visiting Tokyo from outside Japan. I have often been asked to give some recommendations on Tokyo, and this page might help you if you are not familiar with Japan. The information is based on my experience in Tokyo and feedback from good friends of mine. I update this page from time to time.

Last updated: October 2024. I am visiting Tokyo in Fall 2025 and will update!

Essential Tips

Prepare Some Cash

• There are cash-only stores in Japan, so it’s important to have physical currency
• If you’re from the US, you can withdraw cash at CVS stores in Japan
• I have used JPMC and Charles Schwab debit cards, and they worked perfectly
• JPMC has transaction fees, so I recommend Charles Schwab for international withdrawals

Transportation

• Public transportation is incredibly good - you do not need a car in Tokyo
• Get a Suica or Pasmo transportation card - you can top them up at stations and use them in many places:
  • Trains and subways
  • Convenience stores (CVS)
  • Restaurants and cafes
  • Vending machines
  • Many retail stores

Internet Access

• WiFi access is unavailable in many traditional cafes
• Consider getting a prepaid SIM card for reliable internet access
• Recently, several franchises provide Wi-Fi connections:
  • Starbucks
  • Doutor
  • Veloce
  • Most major chain restaurants

Convenience Stores (CVS)

• Extremely convenient and essential for daily life in Tokyo
• Major chains: Seven-Eleven, Family Mart, Lawson
• Open 24 hours a day
• You can find almost everything:
  • Food and drinks
  • Basic toiletries
  • Phone chargers
  • Umbrellas
  • ATM services
  • Bill payment services

Language and Communication

• Although many Japanese people are not confident speaking English, they are generally very kind and eager to help
• Learning basic Japanese phrases is appreciated
• Many signs and menus in central Tokyo have English translations
• Translation apps can be very helpful

Understanding Tokyo’s Scale

Tokyo is huge - one of the world’s largest metropolitan areas:

• 14 million people live in Tokyo proper
• 38 million people live in the Greater Tokyo Area (Kanto region)
• It takes 2-3 hours to travel from one edge to the other
• Tokyo is larger than most cities in the world, including New York City
• Plan your daily activities by area to minimize travel time

Recommended Places to Visit

Day Trip Destinations

Kamakura

• Beautiful seaside city with historic temples
• Located 2 hours by train from central Tokyo
• Perfect for a one-day trip
• Famous for the Great Buddha statue and traditional atmosphere

Central Tokyo Districts

Jinbocho (< 30 minutes from central Tokyo)

• Famous bookstore street with hundreds of used bookshops
• Excellent Japanese curry restaurants
• Great for book lovers and food enthusiasts

Yanaka (< 30 minutes from central Tokyo)

• Quiet, traditional district with old Tokyo atmosphere
• Charming shopping street with local crafts and snacks
• Beautiful cafes and traditional architecture
• Nezu Shrine with stunning azalea garden (best in spring)

Tokyo Skytree Town

• Major sightseeing destination with panoramic city views
• Excellent food courts with diverse dining options
• Must-visit if you’re interested in Japanese pop culture and subcultures
• Shopping and entertainment complex

Food Recommendations

Must-Try Japanese Foods

Japanese Curry

• Different from Indian curry - milder and sweeter
• Available at specialized curry restaurants
• Popular chains: CoCo Ichibanya, Go! Go! Curry
• Jinbocho area is famous for curry restaurants

Noodles

• Udon: Thick wheat noodles, often served in hot broth
• Soba: Buckwheat noodles, can be served hot or cold
• Available at specialized noodle shops throughout the city
• Great for quick, affordable, and satisfying meals

Other Tokyo Essentials

• Ramen: Each region has different styles
• Sushi: From high-end to conveyor belt options
• Tempura: Lightly battered and fried seafood and vegetables
• Yakitori: Grilled chicken skewers
• Taiyaki and other street foods: Fish-shaped pastries with sweet filling

Practical Advice

Planning Your Visit

• Group nearby attractions together to minimize travel time
• Purchase a Tokyo Metro day pass for unlimited subway travel
• Download helpful apps: Google Translate, Hyperdia (train schedules), Tabelog (restaurant reviews)
• Book popular restaurants in advance, especially for dinner

Cultural Etiquette

• Bow slightly when greeting or thanking someone
• Remove shoes when entering homes, temples, and some traditional restaurants
• Don’t eat or drink while walking (except in festival areas)
• Keep voices low on public transportation
• Don’t point with your finger - use an open hand instead

Emergency Information

• Emergency number: 119 (fire/ambulance), 110 (police)
• Most hospitals in central Tokyo have English-speaking staff
• Keep your passport with you at all times (legal requirement)

Feel free to reach out if you have specific questions about visiting Tokyo or need personalized recommendations!

Contact: junpei@komiyama.info