When it comes to long-distance travel, long-haul flights have always been a particularly complex, costly, and time consuming endeavor. It is no surprise that people often feel intimidated at the prospect of taking a flight to a distant land such as Japan from New York. In this article, we take an indepth look at the different aspect involved in taking a flight from New York to Japan in order to start planning for the journey.
The first step of the journey is to book the flight itself. When travelling from New York to Japan, the best option usually involves booking multiple flights. Depending on which airline is used, the journey could involve direct flights, as well as several connections through Europe, such as London or Frankfurt. Although many travelers may balk at the prospect of extra hours of travel, these flights usually cost less than an extended non-stop flight. It’s always best to compare prices and reviews in order to figure out which airline is the best option.
The next step of planning the journey involves deciding whether to book a hotel room, rent an Airbnb, or stay at a hostel. Hotels are the perfect option for those looking for a luxurious stay that can provide all the amenities. On the other hand, Airbnb’s and hostels can be a more cost-effective option for those who are okay with sacrificing a few amenities and living in a more authentic setting. Once again, it is important to compare reviews and prices in order to decide which option is best.
After booking the flights and accommodation, it is time to think about what sights to visit and activities to do while in Japan. Japan is an incredible country full of culture and customs that need to be experienced in order to be fully appreciated. Furthermore, the landscape of Japan is beyond breathtaking, as it contains some of the most beautiful and captivating scenery one can imagine. A great way to explore Japan’s culture and landscapes is to book a tour package, as it usually includes all the best sightseeing spots as well as all the important cultural stops.
In order to navigate and explore Japan, it is recommended to purchase an unlimited train pass when arriving at the airport. This will come in handy when exploring the country, as Japan is well known for its high-speed and efficient train system. This is the best way to get around the country, as it is relatively cheap, efficient, and a great way to get to know the country.
Finally, it is also important to keep in mind that traveling to Japan often requires different types of visas and other formalities. Depending on one’s nationality, it could be beneficial to apply for a visa before travelling. Furthermore, Japan is known for having very strict immigration laws and customs regulations, so it is important to do some research before going in order to avoid any unnecessary problems.
Money-saving Tips
The cost of travelling from New York to Japan can be quite high. To help minimize the cost of the flight, it is always best to book in advance, as prices can often increase drastically if booked later on. Many airlines also offer discounts on tickets for students or seniors, so be sure to look out for those as well. Additionally, it is important to research different airlines and compare prices in order to find the best deal. Another helpful tip is to book multiple flights, as this could end up being cheaper.
It is also important to plan out the sights to visit while in Japan, as museums and tourist attractions often have entrance fees. Furthermore, it is beneficial to purchase tickets in advance, as packages usually cost less than buying the tickets individually. Additionally, Tokyo is known for its bustling nightlife, so it is important to be careful when it comes to spending money on entertainment.
When it comes to food, it is always best to ask a local for their recommendations. This not only exposes travelers to an authentic cultural experience but also helps them save some money. From street vendors to hidden jewels, there are always cheaper and more delicious options to be found when asking locals for directions. Furthermore, travelers can always look up the restaurants on Google Maps to find the best hidden gems from the comfort of their own homes.
Finally, it is important to be aware of any money-saving tips available at airports. For example, arrivals at Narita International Airport in Tokyo are subject to a 1000 Yen tax, which can be reduced with the purchase of a 500 Yen coupon at the airport. Every little bit saved can add up when it comes to long-haul trips.
Cultural Considerations
One major point of consideration when travelling to Japan from New York is the cultural aspect. The culture and language of Japan could not be more different from those of the United States. It is important to be aware of how different cultures and customs interact with each other in order to showcase respect and to avoid any misunderstandings during the trip.
One of the most important cultural considerations is to be respectful of the food and customs. While in Japan, it is important to be aware of how certain foods and traditions are to be handled. For example, Japanese meals often involve a variety of dishes served at the same time and usually require little accessories. Furthermore, it is important to keep quiet when eating in public, as talking and laughing can be seen as disrespectful and rude in some parts of Japan.
In terms of clothing, it is important to be aware of the dress code depending on the situation. It is especially important to be aware of how formal or casual the dress code is in certain places, such as museums, temples, or restaurants. Furthermore, it is important to be aware that some of the more traditional places might require people to take their shoes off before entering.
Additionally, it is important to be aware of how different cultures interact with each other. For example, while body language is incredibly important in western cultures, it could be seen as quite rude in Japan. Similarly, it is important to be mindful when talking about sensitive topics such as politics or religion, as it could lead to an awkward and unpleasant experience.
Language Barriers
Another important point to consider is language barriers. While Japan is well known for its hospitality, few people in Japan speak English fluently. This could make it quite difficult to interact with locals and could cause issues or misunderstandings when it comes to communication. In order to overcome language barriers while traveling in Japan, it is important to learn a few basic phrases and words in Japanese. It is also beneficial to research the different forms of communication used in the country, such as pointing instead of speaking.
There are a few other helpful tips for overcoming language barriers while travelling in Japan. The first is to ask for help from locals whenever necessary. Most Japanese people are more than willing to help out visitors, even if they can’t speak English. It is also helpful to carry around a dictionary or a phrasebook in order to make conversations easier. Additionally, there are a lot of great online resources for those looking to learn Japanese, such as audio courses and online tutors.
Furthermore, it is important to be aware of any cultural differences in terms of communication. For example, eye contact is not usual in Japan, and could be seen as quite disrespectful. Additionally, many Japanese people take turns speaking in conversations, so it is important to be aware of these differences in order to maintain respectful communication.
Time Considerations
Last but not least, it is important to be aware of the time considerations when travelling to Japan. Keep in mind that the time difference between New York and Japan is 12 to 17 hours, depending on the season and the area of Japan. Furthermore, it is important to be aware of the jet-lag that comes with long-distance travels, as this could cause a lot of issues during the trip. The best way to prevent this is to try to sleep and keep to the local time as soon as arriving in Japan.
Another point to consider is the duration of the trip. Depending on the type of flights booked and the duration of the holidays, a trip to Japan could go from a few days to a few weeks. It is always important to be aware of the duration of the trip in order to make the most of it. Having an itinerary planned out in advance is always beneficial, as it will help travelers make the most of their time in Japan.
Finally, it is important to be aware of the different business hours in Japan. Make sure to plan trips and activities so that they coincide with the opening and closing hours. Furthermore, it is important to be aware of any holidays or interesting seasonal events happening while in Japan and plan trips accordingly.
