Essential Travel Facts
| Capital | Tokyo |
| Currency | JPY – Japanese Yen (¥) |
| Time Zone | UTC+9 |
| Language | Japanese |
| Emergency Number | 110 |
| Driving Side | Left side |
| Tap Water | Drinkable ✓ |
| Visa (US) | Visa-free for US citizens |
| Travel Insurance | Recommended |
Electrical & Devices
| Plug Types | Type A, Type B |
| Voltage | 100V |
| Frequency | 50Hz |
| US Travelers | Adapter may not be needed |
| Voltage Converter | Not required for most devices |
Need adapter details? See our complete guide: Power Plugs and Outlets in Japan →
Connectivity
SIM / eSIM Availability
eSIM and physical SIM cards are available in Japan. eSIM is the most convenient option for travelers with compatible phones.
Internet Speeds
Typical speeds: 50-200 Mbps average
Recommended eSIM Providers
Airalo, Holafly, Ubigi, Sakura Mobile
Money & Costs
Average Hotel Prices
$80-250 per night Book on Expedia
Typical Daily Budget
$100-200 (mid-range traveler)
ATM & Cash
7-Eleven and Japan Post ATMs reliably accept international cards and are available 24/7. Many other ATMs do not accept foreign cards. Japan remains cash-heavy - always carry yen for small shops, temples, and restaurants.
Card Acceptance
Credit cards accepted at hotels, department stores, and chain restaurants. Many smaller restaurants, local shops, and train station lockers require cash. IC cards (Suica, Pasmo) work for transit and convenience stores.
Transportation
Major Airports
NRT, HND, KIX (serving Tokyo, Osaka, Kyoto)
Car Rental
Not recommended for major cities due to traffic and parking costs. Useful for rural areas like Hokkaido or Okinawa. International Driving Permit required. Remember: Japan drives on the left.
Public Transport
The Shinkansen (bullet train) network connects major cities efficiently. JR Pass offers unlimited travel for tourists. Tokyo's metro system is comprehensive with English signage. IC cards simplify payments across all transit.
Safety Overview
Japan consistently ranks among the safest countries for travelers. Violent crime against tourists is extremely rare, and theft is uncommon. Lost items are frequently returned. The main safety considerations are natural disasters (earthquakes, typhoons) - register with your embassy and follow local advisories.
Things to Watch For
Earthquakes can occur - know evacuation routes. Typhoon season is August-October. Download disaster alert apps. Some areas (like Shibuya at night) have aggressive touts.
What to Pack for Japan
- ✓Cash wallet with coin compartment
Japan uses cash heavily - you'll accumulate 100 and 500 yen coins for vending machines, lockers, and small purchases
- ✓IC card (Suica/Pasmo) or mobile Suica
Essential for trains, buses, convenience stores, and vending machines - saves time and avoids fumbling with coins
- ✓Compact umbrella
Rainy season (June-July) brings daily showers, and rain can occur year-round - Japanese convenience stores sell them cheaply too
- ✓Slip-on shoes
You'll remove shoes frequently at temples, traditional restaurants, and ryokans - slip-ons make this easier
- ✓Small daypack
Coin lockers are everywhere for storing luggage - a small bag lets you explore without dragging suitcases
- ✓Pocket WiFi or eSIM
Google Maps and translation apps are essential - free WiFi is limited outside major stations and hotels
- ✓Universal power adapter (Type A/B)
Japan uses Type A and B outlets at 100V - US plugs fit but some devices may charge slower
Recommended Travel Essentials
Slim RFID Travel Wallet
Perfect for Japan's cash-based society.
Learn more →2026 Japan Travel Guidebook
Essential information with inside information for a better trip to Japan
Learn more →Tripped Travel Gear Compression Packing Cubes
Large Compression Packing Cubes for Travel-Packing Cube Luggage Organizers 7 Piece Set for Checked Luggage-Ultralight
Learn more →EPICKA Universal Travel Adapter, International Power Adapter with 2 USB-A and 3 USB-C Ports
Works in 150+ countries with USB-C and USB-A ports
Learn more →Comfortable Walking Shoes
Essential for exploring new cities on foot
Learn more →VPN Service
Watch your local shows and access your local services securely from abroad
Learn more →Airport Transfer Service
Pre-booked airport transfers with English-speaking drivers, fixed prices, and flight tracking
Learn more →Skip-the-Line Tickets
Book skip-the-line tickets for museums, attractions, and experiences worldwide
Learn more →Car Rental Comparison
Compare car rental deals from 500+ companies worldwide
Learn more →Affiliate links - we may earn a commission at no extra cost to you.
Frequently Asked Questions: Japan
Do I need a plug adapter for Japan?
Japan uses Type A and B outlets - the same flat two-prong plugs as North America. US and Canadian devices will fit without an adapter. However, Japan's voltage is 100V (vs 120V in the US), so some devices may charge slightly slower. Most modern electronics handle this automatically.
Is tap water safe to drink in Japan?
Yes, tap water throughout Japan is safe to drink and tastes good. Many train stations have water fountains. Bottled water is widely available but unnecessary.
Is travel insurance required for Japan?
Travel insurance is not required for entry but highly recommended. Japan's healthcare is excellent but expensive for foreigners - a simple hospital visit can cost $200+. Insurance also covers trip cancellation and lost luggage.
What currency is used in Japan?
Japan uses the Japanese Yen (¥). Despite being a tech-forward country, cash remains king for many transactions. ATMs at 7-Eleven and Japan Post accept international cards. Credit cards work at hotels and larger stores but many restaurants and shops are cash-only.
What voltage is used in Japan?
Japan uses 100V at 50Hz (eastern Japan) or 60Hz (western Japan). This is lower than most countries. Modern dual-voltage electronics (phones, laptops, cameras) work fine. Older single-voltage appliances like hair dryers may not work properly.
Do US devices work in Japan?
US and Canadian plugs fit Japanese outlets (Type A/B). The lower voltage (100V vs 120V) rarely causes issues with modern electronics. Check your device's power adapter - if it says '100-240V', you're set. Hair dryers and curling irons may underperform.
What is the emergency number in Japan?
Police: 110. Fire/Ambulance: 119. The emergency number 110 has English support in major cities. Save your embassy's number. Japan is extremely safe, but know these numbers.
What language is spoken in Japan?
Japanese is the primary language. English signage exists in major cities and tourist areas. Translation apps like Google Translate are invaluable - the camera feature can translate menus and signs instantly.
Do I need a visa for Japan?
90-day visa-free entry for citizens of the US, UK, EU, Canada, Australia, and 60+ other countries. Passport must be valid for duration of stay.