Top 10
Rules
It will likely come as no surprise that things in Japan are mighty organised. This also translates into rules aplenty. Some to highlight include:
You shouldn’t walk while you eat, and in fact, you will be stopped if you are doing this in most markets. You also can’t stop and eat just anywhere, so make sure you see somewhere to perch before you buy your snack.
Talking on phones is discouraged on the tube – we love this.
Don’t jaywalk. As in, ever. No one does, and you quickly get used to just waiting your turn.
Japan E-Sim
This applies to travel in general, but e-sims are so efficient and, depending on the length of your trip (and your mobile plan), can save you a lot! We used a Japanese e-sim from Ubigi – worked a charm.
Vintage Shops
There is such great vintage shopping in Japan. Yes, for designer wares, but also so much amazing Americana (90s tees, sportswear, preppy brands). Get organised, though, if you really want to hunt down the true finds.
Transportation
Ubers are reasonable-ish, the metro was clean and extensive, and the bullet trains are seemingly always on time. For airports, Haneda is much closer than Narita to the centre of town, but you can take an express train to Narita (if needed) from several locations.
Monday at Museums
Many (maybe all) museums are closed on Monday: it was ‘baby day’ at one of the museums in Ueno Park (there are five there), which is nice!
Queues
Sometimes you think, ‘it’s not that busy here’ – and then you go to an attraction… people were queuing up from dawn to see the visiting giant panda bears, daily, and we hear people begin to queue the night before for Disney.
Fish Market
The fish market has moved to Toyosu, but the old location, for the Tsukji Outer Market, is still a great place to visit for restaurants and seafood stalls.
Sumo
We hear that the tournaments, which each last approximately 15 days in January, May and September, are great. They start early and end late afternoon; book tickets in advance and try to get a box seat. Front row = could get a sumo on your lap.
The Tokyo EDITIONs
If you’re thinking of staying at The EDITION, the Toranomon location (rather than their newer Ginza property) would be our pick for the views, bars, and vibes.
Rubbish
Plan on carrying your rubbish with you, as there are very few bins around. And you generally can’t use a venue’s trash can, unless you bought something there.
