Thinking about a trip to Japan? Brilliant choice. It’s gorgeous, it’s fascinating, it’s wildly efficient (seriously, even the vending machines feel organised), and it’s full of little surprises that will delight you and occasionally leave you quietly panicking in a train station wondering why everyone else knows exactly where to stand. The good news? A bit of prep goes a long way. That being the case, here are some easy, real-life tips to help you avoid culture shock and enjoy Japan like a native.
1. Master the Art of Polite Chaos
Japan is one of those countries that very much thrives on politeness. Bowing, apologising, thanking, apologising again - it’s all part of everyday communication there. That being said, no one there expects tourists to be perfect in this regard, but a little effort makes a huge difference. A small bow when greeting or thanking someone is always appreciated, and trust me, it’s infectious. You’ll be bowing at ATMs, trees, and your breakfast before you know it.
2. Don’t Wing the Train System
In lots of countries, you can pretty much just rock up at the train station and wait a few minutes until a train comes along that will take you where you need to go. The thing is, Japan’s rail network is incredible, but it’s also… comprehensive. So, you really do need to be smart about it and plan in advance if you want to make your journey. Colour-coded lines, express vs. local services, special platforms - it's basically public transport on “expert mode.” So, be sure to give yourself time, download a train app, and have Google Maps ready before you’re swept along by commuters who look like they’ve been training for this moment since birth.
If you prefer a more guided approach when you travel there, companies offering curated Japanese tours can take the guesswork out of navigating it all.
3. Learn a Few Handy Phrases
You don’t need to be fluent to get by, but knowing a handful of Japanese words can make your trip feel smoother nd more respectful. A simple arigatou (thank you), sumimasen (excuse me/sorry), and konnichiwa (hello) will serve you well. Bonus: locals will often respond with delighted enthusiasm, which is always a mood-booster.
4. Embrace the Quiet
Here’s the thing: Japan is lively… but quietly so. Trains are practically silent. People don’t take phone calls in public. No one’s blasting a YouTube video with full volume on the bus. If you’re used to the everyday soundtrack of British life - hatting, rumbling buses, someone yelling “Oi, mate!” - the hush can feel eerie at first. Lean into it. Treat it as a national mindfulness exercise.
5. Respect the Rituals
From removing your shoes in certain indoor spaces to following etiquette at shrines, Japan has plenty of customs worth knowing. It’s not complicated, you’ll quickly get the hang of it, but showing respect goes a long way. When in doubt, follow what locals do around you and you won’t go far wrong.
Have an amazing adventure in Japan!