Japan Travel Tips
Practical advice from a family that's been there and back, with kids in tow.
We've traveled to Japan multiple times as a family, and we've learned a lot along the way. These are the tips we wish someone had told us before our first trip. Whether you're a first-timer or a repeat visitor, we hope something here makes your trip a little smoother.
Getting Around
Japan's rail system is among the best in the world. Get a Suica or Pasmo IC card at the airport and load it up. It works on trains, buses, and even vending machines and convenience stores. For longer trips between cities, the Japan Rail Pass can save you money if you're making multiple shinkansen journeys. Google Maps works flawlessly for train navigation in Japan, including real-time departure boards and transfer instructions.
Eating Well
Eat at convenience stores early and often. 7-Eleven, Lawson, and FamilyMart in Japan are nothing like their US counterparts. The onigiri, sandwiches, and bento boxes are genuinely excellent and affordable. For sit-down meals, look for restaurants with plastic food displays in the window, which makes ordering easy even without Japanese. Standing sushi bars near fish markets offer incredible quality at a fraction of omakase prices. Don't skip the department store basement food halls (depachika), which are an experience unto themselves.
Traveling with Kids and Family
Japan is one of the most family-friendly travel destinations we've experienced. Trains have priority seating, most stations have elevators, and public restrooms are clean and well-maintained. Our family includes a special needs teenager, and we've found Japan to be exceptionally accommodating. The structure and predictability of daily life there, from train schedules to restaurant routines, works well for our whole family. Pack light, use coin lockers at train stations to stash bags during day trips, and don't underestimate how much walking you'll do.
Shopping and Souvenirs
If you're a collector or a shopper, budget extra time and suitcase space. Visit Book Off and Hard Off for incredible vintage finds at low prices. Kappabashi in Tokyo is a must for kitchen enthusiasts. Don Quijote (Donki) is open late and carries everything from snacks to electronics to costumes. For Disney fans, get to the parks early because popular merchandise sells out fast. Tax-free shopping is available at most major stores for purchases over a certain amount when you show your passport.
Practical Essentials
Japan is still largely a cash society outside of major chains. Carry yen. 7-Eleven ATMs accept most international cards. Pocket Wi-Fi or an eSIM is essential for navigation. Bring a small towel or handkerchief, as many restrooms don't have paper towels or hand dryers. Trash cans are rare on the street, so carry a small bag for your garbage. Tipping is not customary and can actually cause confusion. Learn a few basic phrases: sumimasen (excuse me), arigatou gozaimasu (thank you), and kudasai (please) go a long way.
See What We've Sourced
Browse our latest Japan finds on eBay, or reach out if you'd like to discuss a custom sourcing request.