💱 Japan Travel Etiquette: Must Know Before You Go
📋 Visa-Free Entry
68 countries including US, UK, EU, Australia, Canada enjoy visa-free entry for up to 90 days. Check Japanese Embassy for your nationality.
💳 Suica / Pasmo IC Card
Suica and Pasmo IC cards are essential for Tokyo travel. Works on trains, buses, convenience stores, and vending machines. 500 yen deposit + load amount.
📱 Mobile Suica
- Available on iPhone (Apple Pay) and Android (Google Pay)
- No physical card needed - just tap your phone
- Easy to reload via Apple Pay or credit card
💡 Quick Tips
- JR Pass price increased significantly in 2023 - calculate your trips first
- Suica cards can be used nationwide, not just Tokyo
- 7-Eleven ATMs accept foreign cards 24/7
⚡ Pro Tips
- Buy Suica at Narita/Haneda airport upon arrival
- Japan Rail Pass now includes NOZOMI and MIZUHO Shinkansen
📋 Summary
Japan is extremely visitor-friendly. Get a Suica card at the airport and you are set for most transportation and small payments throughout your trip.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need cash in Japan?
Cards are widely accepted in cities, but smaller restaurants, shrines and rural shops are still cash-first, so carry some yen — 7-Eleven ATMs accept foreign cards.
Should I tip in Japan?
No. Tipping is not customary in Japan and can cause confusion — great service is simply the standard.
Will my eSIM work on the Shinkansen and in rural Japan?
Yes — Japan's major carriers cover the Shinkansen lines and rural areas well, and your eSIM connects to the same national networks as local SIMs.
