Tokyo for First Timers: What to Know Before Visiting
Visiting Tokyo for the first time can be both exciting and a bit overwhelming, but with the right tips, you’ll be navigating this incredible city like a pro. Whether you’re figuring out how to get around or what to pack, planning your trip to Tokyo for first timers is all about making things easy and enjoyable.
Here’s everything you need to know to have a smooth and unforgettable experience in Japan’s bustling capital.
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Best Tips for Visiting Tokyo for the First Time
Tips for Booking Your Trip to Tokyo
Now that I’ve been to the motherland 4x times, I’ve gotten pretty good at all the booking prep it takes to make traveling to Tokyo as smooth as possible, especially for those visiting for the first time. Here are my most useful tips when considering a trip to Japan.
Purchase an E-Sim Card online which makes connecting your phone to international data cheap and instant as soon as you land. We use and recommend Airalo.
Once you land, you can purchase what’s called a Suica card, which is a debit style card that you can use for all modes of transportation. This can be loaded onto your phone and you can just tap and go. Suica cards also works at shops, convenience stores, etc. It’s much easier than fumbling around with cash and coins and can be reloadable with funds anytime.
Alternatively, the JR Pass is specifically for subway travel from city to city and good for tourists as it’s valid for limited periods such as 14 days, a good amount of time for first timers.
When looking for hotels or airbnbs, note where the nearest train station is, it will help you get to places efficiently when exploring.
Tips for How to Pack for Tokyo
Like with any very long flight, wear something you feel comfortable in to hopefully sleep on the plane. I opt for lounge sets and a large tote bag that fits all my in flight essentials.
Do keep in mind that Japan is relatively conservative in day to day dressing. Women are very stylish, but do dress on the conservative side so don’t show too much skin. Men are usually in respective uniforms or if they are a salary man, they will be in suits. As tourists, you can dress how you want so long as you aren’t vulgar or showing too much skin, that goes for both men and women.
Japan is tax free, which means shopping is top tier! That being said, I always bring an extra suitcase or duffel bag for souvenirs, gifts, etc to bring back home.
Japan is a walking city. You absolutely will need a pair of solid walking shoes.
Here are some options I recommend:
Hands free bags and/or backpack will make your life easier. These are functional and super stylish.
Tips for Traveling to Tokyo
I much prefer to visit Tokyo during the Fall months where the weather is perfect. Weather is about 60-70 degrees and the leaves are starting to change which is in October. Summers are excruciatingly humid so I personally don't recommend visiting during the months of July-August if you can help it. March-April is prime Cherry Blossom season which is both beautiful yet an expensive time to visit.
English is not widely spoken in Japan. Most Japanese natives will only communicate in Japanese, so I highly recommend you learn some basics prior to arriving. Here is some very basic phrases you need to practice beforehand:
“thank you” - Dōmo arigatōgozaimasu (どうもありがとうございます)
“please” - Onegaishimasu (お願いします)
“hello” - Kon'nichiwa (こんにちは)
“good morning” - Ohayō (おはよう)
“good evening” - Konbanwa (こんばんは)
“excuse me - Sumimasen (すみません)
“Just one moment” - Chotto Matte (ちょっと待って (ちょっとまって)
“Thank you for the food” - *always said before consuming a meal. Itadakimasu (いただきます)
Uber is now in Japan! Of course you can order an Uber from Haneda or Narita airport which is cheaper than using taxi service however the train system remains king of all transportation.
I speak enough Japanese to get by, but when I get stuck or forget how to ask for something, I turn to Google Translate and it really does help! Don’t be afraid to use it.
Tips for Arrival
If you have some down time until checking in to your hotel and want to explore, every train station has lockers where you can store your luggage!
Jet lag is hard, and it’s even harder for kids. I recommend downloading the Timeshifter app a week before you arrive. It helps navigate sleep cycles to adjust to the drastic time change and keep your body regulated.
Tips for Safety in Tokyo
Japan is one of the safest countries in the world, if not the safest. That being said, it’s still recommended to be organized and safe for a streamlined experience, no matter where you are traveling.
Keep cash/passports/cards consolidated and/or on your person with a belt bag or sling bag.
Tips for Exploring Tokyo
Train system and Bus lines can be very overwhelming. Luckily, Google Maps works in Japan! Do be aware that because the subway is underground, there are a lot of stairs to contend with at most stations.
Typically, pedestrians walk on the left side of the street. Tokyo is very condensed with people, so typically walking on the left side keeps the flow of people moving.
Eating while walking is considered to be rude.
Tips for Tokyo with Kids
Ride on luggage is so key when traveling with kids, especially if you have an almost 4 year old such as mine who has outgrown a stroller. Plus, the perk of not checking at the gate saves a lot of hassle.
Great travel stroller recommendations:
You do not need a carseat in Japan, children are usually held in lap for taxi, uber, and train.
If your airline allows, you can use a seat extender so your toddler can lay down comfortably to sleep or an inflatable insert.
Final Thoughts on Tokyo for First Timers
Traveling to Tokyo for first timers doesn’t have to be stressful if you plan ahead and follow these tips. From booking your transportation to packing smart for your long flight, these insights will help make your trip seamless and enjoyable.
With these preparations, you’ll be able to fully embrace the magic of Tokyo and make the most of your adventure.
