1. A TOURIST HOTSPOT ALL YEAR LONG

With its magical winter, blooming spring, enlivening summer, and peaceful autumn, Japan is the perfect destination for Filipino tourists all-year round. Plan your trip based on the season you want to experience Japan in.

2. MASKS ARE COMMON

Even before the pandemic, wearing face masks was common in Japan. Mask-wearing doesn't just help in preventing the spread of germs, it also blocks out pollens and other allergy triggers.

3. WRITE DOWN ADDRESSES!

We’re sure there are many places you want to visit so make sure that you write down (or save on your phone) the addresses. Even better if you write down the post number and the kanji so people can point you to the right direction.

4. KONBINI IS LIFE

It’s got good food, cold drinks, tea, toiletries, and everything else every eager tourist needs! Konbinis or convenience stores are scattered all over Japan. Take your pick among the various konbinis in the country!

5. CASH IS STILL USEFUL

Although there are establishments that honor cashless payments, it’s still better to have cash with you. You never know when you might need something from a shop that only accepts cash. Imagine finding the best pasalubong ever and they only accept cash. The closest ATM is not that close to you at all. That’s a situation you want to avoid so make sure to have some cash on you.

6. ITINIRARIES AND EXPLORATION

If you’re planning to attend any events in Japan during your trip, make sure to take note of the date, time, and location so you can make the most out of your time there! You can also visit Tourist Information Centers located throughout the country for support. To learn more, click here.

Of course, we highly encourage you to have an itinerary before you head to Japan. But what makes every trip that extra memorable is when you wander off the beaten path. Japan is full of surprises. It’s time for you to find them.

7. FOOOOD!

Ramen and sushi are great but Japan is home to a much more diverse selection of gastronomic treats. If you’re willing to spend a bit more, go for a kaiseki (multi-course meal). Izakayas are Japanese gastropubs that offer a lot of options to the hungry traveler.

Food is one, if not the best, way to fully experience Japanese culture. Tabemashou!

8. A DIFFERENT KIND OF SHOT

Saké is Japan’s iconic drink. As a tourist you cannot leave Japan without tasting it. Try to plan a tasting session or take a brewery tour. The easiest way to taste a part of Japan’s history is to simply order it at a bar or restaurant. Say nihonshu when you order for added points and to impress the bar or restaurant staff.

9. TRAVEL MADE MUCH EASIER

Once you get to Japan, get IC cards like Suica or Pasmo for easier travel. These cards are available at ticket machines at transportation stations. You can also load up your card so you don’t have to keep buying separate tickets for each trip. You can also get rail passes to save money. To learn more about easy transportation around Japan, click here.