Surviving Tokyo: Quick Travel Tips

Published: March 23, 2025
Updated: June 15, 2025

Tokyo can feel overwhelming, but it's easier than you think. Coming from the USA, I found it surprisingly convenient, efficient, and full of incredible experiences. These tips are based on my own adventures in Tokyo.

The Golden Rule: Match the Volume

There are endless articles about Japanese etiquette, but if you only remember one thing, make it this: match the volume of the people around you.

Japan is remarkably quiet. Whether you're on a train or walking through neighborhoods, it feels like most people talk at a whisper compared to the US.

Sometimes later at night at restaurants or at izakayas (think Japanese pubs), people will open up and be much louder.

Matching the volume is a great way to be polite.

Japanese to Know

If you don't have time to properly learn Japanese, just focus on these key phrases. They'll take you far.

1. Sumimasen - You'll use this the most. It's a great way to get someone's attention in a shop or store as well as if you need to squeeze by someone on a crowded train. Think of it like "excuse me" in English.
2. Arigato Gozaimasu - A polite "thank you." Use this with staff at shops and restaurants.
3. Onegaishimasu - "Please." If you're ordering food, just point at the menu and say this.

Your Phone: Your Best Friend in Tokyo

A working data connection is a big quality-of-life upgrade. Relying on your phone for navigation and translation can make a trip much easier.

Essential Apps

Besides Google Maps and Google Translate (download offline maps and Japanese language!), these apps can really simplify things:

• NERV - A disaster prevention app that provides real-time alerts for earthquakes, tsunamis, and other emergencies. Set it up and turn on notifications.
• GO Taxi - Like Uber or Lyft, this app makes hailing a taxi super easy. Enter your destination, set your pickup, and a taxi will come to you. Credit cards are accepted.
• Suikakeibo - This is only if you're using a physical Suica card. If you have a mobile Suica (through your iPhone), you're covered and can check your balance in your phone's wallet.

Getting Data

If your phone is unlocked and supports eSIM, I highly recommend using one of these providers:

• Ubigi - My personal choice.
• Airalo - I've seen people also recommend.

Think of an eSIM like adding a virtual SIM card to your phone.

If your phone has dual-SIM, you can keep your home SIM active for texts while using the eSIM for data. I did this on my Pixel 7 with WiFi calling enabled and it worked perfectly.

If your phone doesn't support eSIM, you have two main options:

• Check with your carrier for international roaming plans.
• Rent a pocket WiFi device, such as one from Japan Wireless. Keep in mind you'll need to keep track of it, charge it, and it limits your group's ability to split up.

I've always used an eSIM, while I haven't tried the other options personally, I've read that they are popular alternatives.

Getting Around

Tokyo's transit system is world-class, but navigating train stations can be daunting. Google Maps is your best tool here. It's very accurate with subway timings and platform numbers.

Paying for Transport

To pay for trains and buses, you have a few options:

• Paper Tickets - Available at ticket machines, but not recommended due to the hassle.
• IC Cards (Suica, Pasmo, etc.) - Convenient rechargeable transit cards.
• Mobile Suica - The Suica app works on iPhones as well as Android phones purchased in Japan.

I always use the Welcome Suica physical card. It's like a regular Suica but with these key differences:

You buy a Welcome Suica with a credit card and add money to it. Just remember it expires after 28 days! You can't get a refund on any money left on it, so spend it at convenience stores before you leave. PiQtour has a great article and video on Suica and IC cards.

How to Navigate the Metro

The easiest way to get around is to use Google Maps. Enter your destination and select the public transport option.

I like to adjust a few settings for better results:

• Set preferred mode to train and rail.
• Change filter by to Less walking to prioritize routes with minimal walking.
• Set connecting modes to ride services (turn off drive and bicycle).

For example, let's say you're going from Shinjuku Gyoen National Garden to the Imperial Palace East Garden:

I've marked key details for navigating the metro:

• Your starting station is Shinjuku-gyoemmae Sta. (M10).
• Find the Marunouchi Line (look for the red "M" symbol), head to Platform 2, and board a local train (express and limited express trains skip certain stops, while local trains go to every stop on their line).
• Google Maps often suggests the best train car for a quick exit.
• Get off at Otemachi Sta. (M18).
• Exit via C13a. If you don't see it, follow signs for Marunouchi District Gate.

Quick Tips for a Smooth Trip

Here are some final quick tips:

• Pack light if you can. There are lots of stairs and it's easier to use trains.
• Carry some cash. While cards are becoming more common, you'll still need Yen for small shops and temples. I budget about ¥10,000 per person per week in cash, more if you plan on hitting the Gachapon (capsule toy) machines.
• Always carry your passport. It's your legal ID in Japan, and you're required to show it if requested by authorities.
• Be prepared for lots of walking and stairs (wear comfortable shoes or whatever works for you).
• Bathrooms in Japan are great, but the ones in shopping centers, restaurants, and hotels tend to be the best.
• Bring hand sanitizer in case a public bathroom doesn't have soap.
• Pack your suitcase inside another suitcase so you can bring back two if you shop a lot.
• Aim to stay within a 5-10 minute walk of a Tokyo Metro or JR line.
• When given the option to pay in Japanese Yen or US Dollars, choose Yen. With 1 USD ≈ 150 JPY as of this writing, you'll usually get a better deal.
• Pack your own deodorant. It can be hard to find in Japan, and local versions are often much weaker than Western brands.
• Fill out your customs form in advance through Visit Japan Web. Using the QR code at the airport is much faster than handwriting paper forms.

More Resources

I'm always discovering new resources. These are just a few of my favorites right now.

• Websites:
  • Tokyo Cheapo - A go-to resource for budget-friendly travel tips, including accommodations, dining, and activities.
  • Japan Guide - A comprehensive travel site covering destinations, attractions, and cultural insights across Japan.
• Videos:
  • PiQtour YouTube - Abby covers useful guides on topics like buying Shinkansen tickets, finding Character Street in Tokyo Station, and choosing the right IC card.
  • Abroad in Japan - Entertaining and informative videos from Chris Broad, covering life in Japan, travel adventures, and cultural insights.
  • Seerasan - Tokyo travel guides and casual vlogs featuring local spots, cafes, and hidden gems.
  • Allison in Tokyo - A mix of daily life, food, and travel content from an expat perspective.
• Live streamers:
  • PremierTwo - IRL streams capturing life in Japan, from city walks to train rides and events.
  • CDawgVA - Fun, chaotic adventures in Japan, from biking cross-country to exploring niche subcultures.
  • robcdee - IRL streams featuring humor, spontaneous interactions, and deep dives into Tokyo's hidden gems.
• Forums:
  • r/JapanTravelTips - A solid community for specific questions. Like any travel forum, take the some of the options with a grain of salt and use what works for you.
  • r/JapanTravel - One of the biggest Japan travel subreddits, great for general questions, itinerary help, and travel updates.