Top FAQ From Canadians
Looking for more detailed guides? Below we've compiled articles inspired by our top FAQ from Canadian visitors.Check out the following sliding menus to find resources and travel tips for every step of the planning process!
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Language
Japan's official language is Japanese, but English is generally understood in major cities and designated tourist sites.
Learn MoreTimezone
All of Japan sits within the same time zone, and no daylight saving is practiced. The country is nine hours ahead of GMT.
Learn MoreWi-Fi & Connectivity
Wireless hotspots are popping up all over major cities in Japan, so you should never be too far from a Wi-Fi connection.
Learn MorePlugs & Electricity
Japan uses two flat parallel prong plugs. For guaranteed charging of your electrical necessities, purchase a plug adapter beforehand.
Learn MoreCurrency
The Japanese yen is used throughout the country and you can exchange foreign currency at the airports and most major banks.
Learn MoreTax-Free Shopping
Visitors to Japan are eligible for tax exemption on many consumer goods. The process of receiving your tax back can vary from store to store.
Learn MoreTipping
Tipping is not practiced in Japan. In fact, it can cause discomfort and confusion if you do. A service charge is generally added on to the final bill in restaurants.
Learn MoreCredit Cards
Even though Japan is a cash-centric country, credit cards are usually accepted in most shops, restaurants and taxis in major cities.
Learn MoreWeather (When to Visit)
The weather in Japan can vary wildly depending on where you are traveling to. Find out the best times to visit and what to pack.
Learn MoreVisa Information
Please check the latest information on Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MOFA) website or contact the Japanese embassy/consulate in your country/region of residence.
Learn MoreInternational Tourist Tax
Visitors to Japan pay a 1,000 yen departure tax to expand and enhance the country’s tourist infrastructure—a small tax that will make a significant difference.
Learn MoreJapan Visitor Hotline
Japan National Tourism Organization (JNTO) operates a visitor hotline 24 hours a day, 365 days a year.
Learn MoreCustoms & Duty
The Japan Customs official page is your most trustworthy source to answer any questions or queries related to Japanese customs and duty.
Learn MoreIC Travel Cards
Make your journeys as smooth as the public transportation you will ride on by purchasing a chargeable IC travel card.
Learn MoreDrinking Water
While bottled water is readily available all over Japan—including in the infinite vending machines—the tap water is perfectly safe to drink.
Learn MoreLuggage Storage & Delivery
If you don't wish to haul your luggage around with you, drop your bags and cases off at the delivery service kiosks located at the airports.
Learn MoreTips for Budget Travels
To stretch your yen as far as possible, research into discounted travel and accommodation, as well as eating options that won't break the bank.
Learn MoreStaying Safe in Japan
If you do find yourself in a situation that requires serious help, dial 110 for an urgent call to the police and 119 for fire or ambulance.
Learn MoreEmbassies
Your embassy is there to help and support you if you should need it. Make sure you know how to get in touch.
Learn MoreCustom & Manners
Following a general travelers code of respect for the people you meet and places you visit will stand you in good stead.
Learn MoreLocal Laws
Make sure you are aware of the local laws in Japan as ignorance is not accepted as a valid line of defense.
Learn MoreBusiness Hours & Holidays
Avoid closed doors and fully-booked hotels by finding out the Japanese business hours for major businesses, services, and facilities, and the dates of the major holidays.
Learn MoreUseful Apps
Download a selection of apps to make your trip to Japan run even smoother. Choose from a list of all-round, navigation, sightseeing and accommodation applications.
Learn MorePostal Services
Instead of just an email, send a postcard back home to let friends and family know about your Japanese adventure.
Learn MoreTelephone Calls
While modern technology enables you to connect with friends and family around the world from the palm of your hand, there still might be times when you need to make use of public telephones.
Learn MoreOnline Reservation Sites
Book your stay in Japan through one of these useful sites offering a wide range of accommodation options.
Learn MoreTraveling With a Disability
At major train stations, airports, and hotels, as well as in most newer shopping centers and theaters in the city, the disabled traveler or wheelchair user should have little trouble getting from place to place.
Learn MoreTraveling With Children
Traveling to Japan with children may seem like a daunting prospect and something best avoided, however, the country is surprisingly accessible.
Learn MoreMuslim Travelers
Japan continues to enhance its hospitality for Muslim travelers through the introduction of Muslim-friendly facilities.
Learn MoreTop FAQ From Canadians
Looking for more detailed guides? Below we've compiled articles inspired by our top FAQ from Canadian visitors.Check out the following sliding menus to find resources and travel tips for every step of the planning process!
Please Choose Your Language
Browse the JNTO site in one of multiple languages