MitzEclipse

Hi all

Will be going to Tokyo/Kyoto/Okinawa and wanted to know what the best apps you recommend for English speakers? I just tried to download offline maps on Google Maps and for some reason offline maps in Japan is unavailable (at least on the iOS version). Seems odd as offline maps works in other countries I visit.

Any apps for offline navigation? Any other apps you recommend?

FlyinHawaiian

I would recommend renting a pocket wifi and using Google Maps in online mode. The cost isn't that prohibitive.

PAX_fips

http://maps.me has an offline version of at least Tokyo Prefecture -- worked fine for me.
also, if you feel like it, https://www.tokyometro.jp/en/tips/co...one/index.html

not an app, but useful as well to check severe weather/quakes Japan Meteorological Agency

Carteeb

Waygo for translation. Klook for points of interest and deals. Maps.me is the way to go for navigation, as has been said.

SQ319

+1 on this! We used Japan Wireless on our past 2 trips and the speed is really good and it's so convenient!

kalderlake

I don't know if they have an app, but hyperdia.com is good for determining train/subway routes.

Cheetah_SA

angra

not apps (that I know of) but relevant to this discussion, I think:

https://tabelog.com/en

https://supleks.jp/

freecia

There are a few apps which will grant wifi access
https://www.japan-guide.com/e/e2279.html

I've used Japan Connected-free Wi-Fi, Free Wi-Fi Passport (Softbank), and Travel Japan Wi-Fi . Softbank was the least reliable to connect to but doesn't require a special app (which basically gps and data mines your phone). The apps usually allow you to login to combini wifi and Starbucks without having to pre-register.

Mobile data (+ wifi) makes navigating a lot easier. I use Google Maps and Citymapper apps with data.

I also prefer mobile suica if you have a new iPhone/iWatch as a repeat visitor to Japan who prefers a digital wallet (plus carrying around less coins). A regular physical suica/IC card also works very similarly for the average tourist but needs to be reloaded with cash. The mobile version (currently) accepts funding with US credit cards. It is just a little quicker to pay with IC card at the combini than credit card/cash and many urban vending machines near the train station also accept IC card.

CrazyInteg

As others have already said...
Google Maps seemed to be the best for navigation.
MAPS.ME was alright as a Google Maps backup, but didn't quite have the best mapping for the train stations and bus stops.
Hyperdia was amazing for train planning.

codex57

So far, they seem the cheapest by far. Anyone else find a cheap place, or does it just vary per time of year?