Top Ten Helpful Things for Tokyo

1. The importance of cash - While you will hear this from any youtube video, instagram reel, or hacks for Japan do not ignore it! Japan’s usage of cash is still very prevalent. Especially, in less populated areas or for food stalls, cash is a must. Even on the Sophia University campus, food trucks normally only take cash. 

2. Japanese language - While you don’t need to know any Japanese before coming here, it will definitely be helpful to know a few key phrases. For convenience stores, restaurants, and general conversations with Japanese people, understanding and speaking can be very helpful. 

3. Public etiquette - Japan has many small rules that, although won’t get you in trouble, will grant you a few odd looks if you don’t follow it. Some of these include standing on the left side of an escalator and walking on the right to go up faster and not talking on the phone while on public transportation. Additionally, there are not many trash cans around so you might need to keep your trash with you for a while until you find one. Lastly, there are not many public restrooms around but you can always count on a train station having one.

4. Late openings - If you are an early bird, Japan is not very accommodating to your habits. Many breakfast places and cafes open around 11:00, but there are many convenience stores open as well as Tsukiji Market and temples. 

5. Medications - There are many common medications in the US that are not available in Japan. Some of these include melatonin and nyquil. You can bring a one month supply of medication, however, after that you need to fill out a form and get it approved to bring in more of a supply. This process can be very tedious and I recommend talking to your healthcare provider and insurance company in advance. 

6. Walking - There is a lot of walking in Japan. Since staying in Japan I feel like I've taken at least 10,000 steps a day. There are many stations that don’t have escalators and the elevators are generally reserved for priority passengers. I recommend getting comfortable walking shoes and remembering to stay hydrated throughout the day. Also I’ve found that using google maps is more helpful than apple maps. 

7. Tattoos - Many people will tell you that tattoos are generally not allowed in Japan. However, speaking from experience you might get a few odd stares but it should be fine. I do recommend wearing longer sleeved clothes or pants to cover it up if you want to avoid this. The only hard rules are at onsens and public bath houses. 

8. Identification - It is very important to bring your passport with you at all times while you are outside. It is actually illegal to be caught without your passport. However, when living in Japan you will get a residence card that will be able to replace this, but this is only after registering at your local municipal office. 

9. Train system - If you like to stay out late at night or just lose track of time, it is very important to check when the last train is running. Typically the last train is a little before midnight, and then trains begin running again at 5 am. Due to Japan’s late opening hours, you might find yourself out late at night or catching a very expensive cab ride home, so be very vigilant! 

10. Weather - While here from March until August, the weather has changed drastically. You must prepare to be able to layer in March, but also be ready for extreme humidity and sun starting in June. The weather can also change daily, and it is important to check every day whether or not to bring an umbrella with you. Additionally, most people use umbrellas rather than rain coats. An umbrella is also used to block the sun.