Everything I wish I knew before landing in Tokyo

Planning your first trip to Japan? Prepare to be blown away—by the food, the culture, the precision, and yes, even the convenience store egg salad sandwiches. Japan not only lived up to every expectation I had of it - the country exceeded my wildest dreams at every single turn.

Japan is the first place I’ve travelled in a long time where I experienced true culture shock. Japanese culture is so beautifully different from the way we live in North America and the cultures I’ve experienced in Europe. Everything from the language to public transit to public manners was eye opening and so, so fun to experience for the first time.

I’m already counting down the moments until I can make my return.

Now while a lot of things were fun to experience for the first time and figure out as I went, there are a few things I wish someone had told me before I touched down. So here’s your friendly, slightly spicy guide to doing Japan right the first time.

1. Don’t expect English everywhere

Don’t expect everyone to speak English, especially once you’re outside the big tourist zones. Download Google Translate to help you navigate train stations, menus, and the occasional vending machine mystery.

Learning a few key Japanese phrases goes a long way. Even a simple “arigatou” (thank you) or “sumimasen” (excuse me) is met with so much appreciation. Locals really notice the effort—and it makes the experience that much more meaningful.

2. It’s still a cash-based society

Yes, Japan is the land of robot toilets and bullet trains, but when it comes to paying for things? They still love cold, hard cash. Many restaurants, shops, and even train stations don’t accept foreign credit cards, so be prepared. Have cash with you before you land in the country. You can also add a Suica card to your Apple Wallet before your trip—it’s a transit card you can also use at convenience stores and vending machines.

3. Master the train system

The train system in Japan will seem very overwhelming at first. And yes, there is a bit of a learning curse. But this is truly the best and only way to get around the country. Taxis are very expensive and Uber isn’t really a thing. The app does work and can be convenient for navigating language barriers, but it’ll just call a normal taxi.

Google Maps will be your best friend when trying to get around and navigating public transit.

And whatever you do, don’t talk loudly on the train, and do not even think about taking a call on the train. Japan is peaceful. Respect the peace.

4. Eating etiquette is a whole thing

Eating etiquette in Japan is a whole thing, and it starts with not walking and eating—it’s considered rude. Keep this in mind when you visit the famous markets in areas like Kyoto and Tokyo. If you grab something quick from a market stall or convenience store, step aside or find a designated eating spot before digging in.

Many restaurants specialize in just one dish (like ramen, soba, sushi, or yakitori), so go deep on whatever you’re craving. And at casual spots—especially in train stations or food courts—don’t be surprised if you're asked to pay before you eat.

5. The convenience stores are heaven

This is your sign to go to 7-Eleven, Family Mart, and Lawson—and not just once. The snacks, sandwiches, onigiri, and even the fried chicken are elite and everything is super affordable, so you can try out a ton of cool Japanese snacks without breaking the bank!

6. Japanese mustard = fire

Okay, this might seem random, but it caught me by surprise several times during our trip. It looks unassuming. It tastes like a wasabi-mustard hybrid that’s here to wreck you. Approach with caution—and maybe keep a glass of water nearby.

7. Come with an empty suitcase

If you love fashion, vintage, or just really well-made basics, Japan will eat your wallet alive in the best way possible.

From curated secondhand shops to niche designer finds and capsule collections you can’t get anywhere else—Japan is vintage shopping heaven. You’ve been warned.

8. Japanese breakfast will have you rethinking your pancakes and eggs

If you’re expecting eggs and bacon, think again. A traditional Japanese breakfast might include grilled fish, miso soup, rice, pickles, and a soft-cooked egg—and it’s SO GOOD. It’s nourishing, balanced, and honestly makes a western-style breakfast feel a little…gross?

9. Tabelog is the key to finding the best spots to eat

Tableog is what locals actually use to rate and review restaurants. Anything over a 3.8 is usually amazing. Trust the ratings and prepare to eat well.

10. There’s no bad food in Japan

I’m serious. We ate at Michelin-star restaurants, train stations, food markets, hotel breakfasts, hole-in-the-wall joints, and even McDonald’s—and it was all solid.

Trust me. Try everything.