English is not widely spoken, but don’t let that stop you trying to chat with the locals. Its Japan, so electronics can and will come to the rescue in the form of google translate. Add in some alcohol, and you’ll be grand.
The food in Japan really is something else. From even the most basic of places, up to the finest in the world (Japan has 30 Michelin 3 star restaurants – roughly a quarter of all those in the world), so don’t waste the opportunity. You’ll have most likely tried types of restaurants dotted all over the world (sushi, sashimi, teppinyaki, ramen dishes), but make sure you also head to an Izakaya (more like a Japanese bar with small, but delicious, snacks).
Three things to try and experience on your first time in Japan:
- Bathing in a Onsen (a large, communal bath area which always comes with nearby washing and grooming facilities).
- Staying in a Ryokan (a traditional Japanese inn, which will include food served in your room).
- Staying in a pod / capsule hotel – there are heaps of them in Tokyo and surprisingly nice.
Getting around and things like ATMs are super easy, but it may be worth getting a pocket wifi. Although bulkier than a SIM card for your phone, they are way less faff and you can pick them up easily at the major airports
If have more time, I would really recommend 2 further adventures that will show you further variety of the Japanese islands:
- The snowy wilderness of Hokkaido with some skiing and volcanic lake – see Skiing in Niseko and Staying in a Ryokan by Lake Toya.
- The idyllic palm fringed Okinawa islands, in particular the nearby Kerama Islands – see A weekend in Okinawa for Naha and the Aquarium and Zamami Jima and Aka Jima, from Okinawa.
