Travel Difficulties in Japan
Japan can be a difficult place for independent travellers, due to the language barrier and cultural nuances that can make the experience a little overwhelming. Travelling alone without a guide means that it’s easy for visitors to fail to understand local customs, including social etiquette, which can result in frustrating experiences. For those with limited Japanese language skills, even straightforward tasks like deciphering menus and asking for directions can be a challenge.
Despite the added difficulty in navigating Japan, travellers will be rewarded with a unique cultural experience. Japan is a land of fascinating history, stunning natural beauty, and, of course, delicious food. Taking the time to explore Japan can be immensely rewarding, but it’s not without its trials.
Preparation
Travelling to Japan without a guide requires careful research and preparation. Obtaining a guidebook can be an invaluable resource, as can obtaining advice from friends or other travellers who have already done the journey. To make getting around easier, it’s also recommended to obtain a pre-paid electronic train pass to make purchasing tickets and navigating the complex rail network much simpler.
Familiarising oneself with the language is another key part of the preparation. Learning basic words such as ‘thankyou’, ‘hello’, ‘where is…?’, and other simple phrases can prove useful, as not all Japanese people can speak English. And if all else fails, there are always helpful flyers and maps available at train stations for visitors.
Visa Requirements
Obtaining a visa for Japan can be tricky for some travellers, depending on their nationality. Those from some countries will require a visa but will be able to get one from their nearest Japanese embassy for free. Other visitors will need to apply for a tourist visa, which typically requires numerous documents and costs money.
Recent efforts by the Japanese government have made obtaining a tourist visa easier, however, the process still remains relatively complicated. The bottom line is that it’s best to do some research and make sure you know what the visa requirements are before you travel.
Transport
For independent travellers, the most popular way to get around Japan is by train. The Japan Rail Pass is an attractive option for longer trips as it allows for unlimited travel on most lines for a flat fee. The Japan Rail Pass also makes travelling to distant destinations like Hokkaido, an island in the far north of Japan, more affordable.
Japan is well connected with a highly advanced high-speed rail network, however, it is also possible to get around by car or bus. There are also a few domestic flights that can get passengers to their destination much faster than a train can. Airlines such as JAL and ANA offer competitively priced tickets, but it’s worth doing some research to find the best deal.
Safety
Japan is an incredibly safe country to travel. Despite the language barrier and cultural differences, Japanese people are always friendly and willing to help when asked. Ensuring general safety precautions are taken, Japan is an incredible place to travel solo, and it’s not uncommon to see travellers alone roaming the streets.
Carrying a map is highly recommended, as most streets in Japan have no names, but they are perfectly laid out in a grid pattern to make navigation easier. There is plenty of help available if you get lost, and asking for a local for assistance is usually welcomed.
Accommodation
Finding accommodation in Japan is the easiest it has ever been. With many hostels, guest-houses and hotels throughout the country, ranging in price from extremely cheap to luxurious, there is likely to be something to suit everyone’s budget and needs. Finding places to stay online has been made much simpler with the use of websites such as Booking.com.
For a truly authentic experience, there are many traditional Japanese inns known as ‘ryokans’, located in the outskirts of major cities. Staying in a ryokan is a unique experience, typically involving tatami mats, garden views and traditional meals. Advance reservations are usually necessary, but it can prove an unforgettable experience.
Attractions
Japan has a captivating culture that shouldn’t be missed during your visit. From Japan’s imperial palaces, to its majestic snow-capped Mount Fuji, or its modern, neon-filled cityscapes, there’s something to suit all tastes. Traditional cultural attractions such as temples, shrines and museums are usually free, and a great way to learn about the country’s incredible history.
There are also plenty of natural and physical attractions spread across the entire nation. Japan is renowned for its ski fields in the winter, but there are plenty of beaches and mountain hiking trails to choose from in the summer. A wealth of Japan’s natural beauty can be found in some of its famed national parks, such as Yakushima and Daisetsuzan National Parks.
Food
Without a doubt, Japan is a paradise for foodies. The country is renowned for its amazing range of dishes, from sushi and sashimi, to ramen and katsu curry. It’s worth taking the time to explore the side streets of major cities, where budding chefs are offering unique dishes at prices that suit every budget.
Although the traditional dishes of Japan are a must-try, the country is filled with international restaurants offering everything from pizza and burgers to Argentinean steak. In addition, Japan also has some of the world’s best street food, including takoyaki, soba, and okonomiyaki.
Shopping
Japan is a great place to go shopping and is one of the only countries in the world where you can find all of the latest electronic gadgets. Japan’s biggest electronics stores are located in the vibrant city of Akihabara, while luxury brands such as Chanel, Prada and Louis Vuitton can be found in the upmarket Ginza district. For more unusual items, there are also numerous antique stores, second-hand shops, and department stores selling a wide variety of items.
Japan is also a great source for rare vintage items, such as kimonos, lacquerware and traditional handicrafts. To top off the experience, there is also the famed Shibuya ‘scramble’ crossing – an intersection that turns into a pedestrian free-for-all for a few minutes every hour. It’s a spectacle that certainly should not be missed.
