Jun 9, 2025, 10:39 am
Last edit by: jib71
== Japan (Tokyo and beyond) Master Thread Wiki (Generated by AI - Please jump in and improve it) ==
=== 1. Pre‑Trip Planning ===
==== 1.1 Visas & Customs ====
Tokyo Area:
==== 1.3 IC Cards & Mobile Transit ====
==== 2.1 JR Pass & Regional Passes ====
=== 4. Arrival Procedures ===
==== 5.1 Accommodation Types ====
=== 7. Future Infrastructure ===
=== 9. Festivals & Events Calendar ===
=== 1. Pre‑Trip Planning ===
==== 1.1 Visas & Customs ====
- Visa requirements: Most Western passport holders can enter visa-free for 90 days. Always confirm with a Japanese consulate or the Ministry Of Foreign Affairs (MOFA).
- Prescription medications: You may bring up to a 1-month supply of prescription medication. For larger amounts, apply in advance for an import certificate. Carry original packaging and a copy of the prescription.
- Restricted substances: Common drugs like Adderall, pseudoephedrine (in Sudafed), and some codeine-containing medications are banned. Check with Japanese customs before bringing any medication.
Tokyo Area:
- Haneda (HND) Closest to central Tokyo (~14 km). Monorail, Keikyu Line, bus options, and future JR Haneda Access Line (by 2029).
- Narita (NRT) ~60 km from Tokyo. Access via Narita Express (NEX), Keisei Skyliner, and bus options. Runway expansion and terminal upgrades planned by 2028.
- Ibaraki (IBR) LCC-focused airport 80 km from Tokyo. Limited flights, but budget-friendly bus connections (500).
- Kansai Intl (KIX) Serves Osaka, Kyoto, and Kobe. Major international hub.
- Chubu Centrair (NGO) Serves Nagoya. Accessible via Meitetsu μ-SKY.
- Fukuoka (FUK) Central Kyushu access. Airport is 5 minutes from downtown via subway.
- Sapporo New Chitose (CTS) Primary Hokkaido airport. 24-hour operation, major domestic hub.
- Hiroshima (HIJ) Mix of domestic and international flights.
==== 1.3 IC Cards & Mobile Transit ====
- IC cards (Suica, PASMO, ICOCA, etc.) can be used on almost all public transport and in many shops.
- Apple users: Add Suica or PASMO to Apple Wallet for tap-and-go Express Mode. Works with iPhone 8/Watch Series 3 or newer (iOS 14+).
- Android users: Only Japanese-market Android phones with Osaifu-Keitai are supported. Most international Android devices cannot use Mobile Suica/PASMO.
- Tourist cards: Welcome Suica (valid 28180 days) available via app or at vending machines. No deposit required.
- For credit card compatibility with Mobile Suica, see this Flyertalk thread: [[url]https://www.flyertalk.com/forum/japan/2031557-best-us-credit-card-charging-mobile-suica.html Best US credit card for charging Mobile Suica].
==== 2.1 JR Pass & Regional Passes ====
- The Japan Rail Pass allows unlimited travel on most JR trains, including Shinkansen (excluding Nozomi and Mizuho).
- Prices increased in October 2023, so the pass is now only good value for those planning multiple long-distance trips in a 714 day span.
- Consider regional JR passes, which may offer better value and flexibility. See the [[url]https://www.flyertalk.com/forum/japan/1810489-consolidated-list-jr-regional-passes.html Consolidated List of JR Regional Passes] on the Japan forum.
- Both JAL and ANA offer special air passes for foreign visitors, such as:
- JAL Japan Explorer Pass
- ANA Experience Japan Fare
- JAL Japan Explorer Pass
- These allow up to 5 domestic flights at competitive flat rates. Ideal for covering large distances (e.g., TokyoOkinawa) quickly.
- Shinkansen: Reliable and fast. Reserved seating available via JR ticket offices or Smart EX (see below).
- Private railways: Extensive networks in urban areas (e.g., Kintetsu, Keikyu, Tobu).
- Buses: Overnight and highway buses connect most cities. Cheaper than trains but slower.
- Car rental: Useful in rural areas. International Driving Permit required.
- Cycling: Japan is bicycle friendly, but cycling rules and behavior differ from what you may be used to; rentals common in tourist areas.
- Google Maps / Apple Maps Best for transit routes and walking directions.
- Navitime Reliable for multi-modal journey planning.
- JR East app For JR East reservations and Suica balance.
- Smart EX (English) Book and reserve Shinkansen seats on the Tokaido/Sanyo/Kyushu lines (including Nozomi trains) in English: https://smart-ex.jp/en/
- Suica / PASMO / Welcome Suica apps Manage balances, add cards to Wallet, reload funds.
- GO Taxi Hail regular taxis across Japan. Alternatives include JapanTaxi and DiDi.
- Google Translate Excellent for scanning signs and menus.
- XE Currency Easy currency converter.
- eSIM provider apps or airport SIM rentals For connectivity during your trip.
=== 4. Arrival Procedures ===
- Immigration: Recent reports of long lines at peak times. Especially at HND.
- Trusted Traveler Program (TTP): Frequent visitors (2+ entries/year) may be eligible. Apply via Immigration Bureau. Details in this Flyertalk thread: [[url]https://www.flyertalk.com/forum/japan/1872951-trusted-traveller-program-japan.html Trusted Traveller Program in Japan].
- Visit Japan Web (Online Customs Declaration) is available for faster entry. Set up Visit Japan Web on your mobile phone before arriving. Once you have your luggage, you need to validate / confirm your declaration at a kiosk, then go through the automated gates.
- Mobile Suica/PASMO card kiosks are located at airport train stations. *(But you can add SUICA to iPhone wallet in advance to save time)
==== 5.1 Accommodation Types ====
- Deluxe hotels: Luxury brands (Ritz-Carlton, Aman, etc.).
- City hotels: 34 star, often part of local Japanese chains, good business services.
- Business hotels: Compact, clean, and functional (e.g., Dormy Inn, APA).
- Hostels: Budget-friendly, social options.
- Ryokan: Traditional Japanese inn with tatami rooms and onsen baths. Meals often included.
- Minshuku: Family-run guesthouses with a more casual experience.
- Airbnb / Vacation Rentals: Legal in many areas but regulated. Always check listings for legality.
- Capsule Hotels: Novelty value.
- Internet: Download an eSim in advance. Failing that, rent Pocket Wi-Fi or buy an eSIM/SIM card at the airport.
- Cash is still widely used. ATMs at 7‑Eleven and Japan Post accept foreign cards.
- Credit cards: Visa and Mastercard most accepted; Amex and Diners less so. Some smaller shops are cash-only.
- Quiet on public transport no phone calls.
- Form lines and wait your turn for trains.
- Convenience stores (konbini) offer food, ATMs, toiletries, and even tickets.
- No tipping service is included.
- No eating while walking its considered rude.
- Arrive 23 hours before international departures.
- Tax-free shopping: Save receipts and present passport at checkout.
- Refill your IC card or use up your balance before heading to the airport.
=== 7. Future Infrastructure ===
- Haneda Access Line (JR) under construction, will allow direct rail link from central Tokyo (expected 2029).
- Narita Airport expansion includes a third runway and terminal redevelopment (by 2028).
- Ibaraki Airport upgrades underway to expand low-cost service options through 2026.
=== 9. Festivals & Events Calendar ===
January
1. Sapporo Snow Festival (Yuki Matsuri)- Location: Sapporo, Hokkaido
- Scale: Extremely popular, draws 2+ million visitors annually
- What to See: Giant, intricate snow and ice sculptures, light displays, snow slides
- History: Began in 1950 by local high school students; now an international event with global ice sculptors
- Location: Tokyo (and other cities)
- Scale: Moderately crowded, more locals
- What to See: Edo-era firefighting acrobatics, fire truck parades, rescue drills
- History: Dates back to the Edo period to display skills of fire brigades and pray for fire safety
February
3. Otaru Snow Light Path Festival- Location: Otaru, Hokkaido
- Scale: Medium-sized, less crowded than Sapporo
- What to See: Romantic candle-lit lanterns lining canals and streets
- History: Started in 1999 as a way to encourage tourism in winter
- Location: Nationwide (notably at Senso-ji in Tokyo and Yoshida Shrine in Kyoto)
- Scale: Popular among locals, modest tourist turnout
- What to See: "Mamemaki" bean-throwing to drive out demons, blessings
- History: Based on ancient Chinese lunar customs marking seasonal change
March
5. Omizutori (Water Drawing Festival)- Location: Todai-ji Temple, Nara
- Scale: Popular, especially around March 12
- What to See: Torch-bearing monks run along temple balconies at night
- History: Over 1,250 years old, part of Buddhist repentance rituals for world purification
April
6. Takayama Spring Festival (Sanno Matsuri)- Location: Takayama, Gifu
- Scale: Medium-large, very popular with tourists
- What to See: Beautifully ornate floats (yatai), puppet shows, night parades
- History: Dates back to the 17th century as part of the Sanno Shrine tradition
- Location: Gion district, Kyoto
- Scale: Niche but very popular among cultural tourists
- What to See: Performances by real geisha and maiko in spring dances
- History: Started in 1872 to attract tourists to Kyoto during Japans modernization
May
8. Sanja Matsuri- Location: Asakusa Shrine, Tokyo
- Scale: One of Tokyos biggest festivals, over 2 million attendees
- What to See: Massive mikoshi (portable shrines), chanting, drumming
- History: Celebrates the three men who founded Senso-ji Temple in the 7th century
- Location: Kyoto (Shimogamo and Kamigamo Shrines)
- Scale: Large, but more serene
- What to See: Procession in Heian-period dress, ox carts, court nobles
- History: Dates to the 6th century as a rite to appease deities for good harvests
June
10. Sanno Matsuri- Location: Tokyo (Hie Shrine)
- Scale: Alternates every other year, large but less chaotic
- What to See: Imperial-style procession with mikoshi, dancers
- History: One of Tokyos three major festivals, tied to the Tokugawa shogunate
- Location: Sapporo, Hokkaido
- Scale: Popular dance event, energetic and large crowds
- What to See: Colorful, high-energy modern folk dance teams
- History: Began in 1992, inspired by Kochis Yosakoi and Hokkaidos Soran Bushi song
July
12. Gion Matsuri- Location: Kyoto
- Scale: MassiveJapans most famous festival
- What to See: Giant floats (yamaboko), traditional music, kimono-clad crowds
- History: Originated in 869 to appease gods during a plague
- Location: Osaka
- Scale: One of Japans top three festivals, very crowded
- What to See: River procession with illuminated boats, fireworks
- History: Honors Sugawara no Michizane, patron of learning and art
August
14. Nebuta Matsuri- Location: Aomori City
- Scale: Huge, draws millions
- What to See: Gigantic illuminated paper floats, dancers in haneto costumes
- History: Possibly evolved from Tanabata and paper lantern traditions
- Location: Nationwide, especially Kyoto (Daimonji), Tokushima (Awa Odori)
- Scale: Variable; Awa Odori in Tokushima is massive
- What to See: Traditional dance, lantern floating, fire ceremonies
- History: Buddhist custom to honor spirits of ancestors
September
16. Kishiwada Danjiri Matsuri- Location: Kishiwada, Osaka
- Scale: Large and lively
- What to See: High-speed pulling of huge wooden floats through narrow streets
- History: Started in the early 1700s as a harvest prayer to the gods
October
17. Jidai Matsuri (Festival of the Ages)- Location: Kyoto
- Scale: Popular with tourists, less hectic
- What to See: Historical parade featuring costumes from every era of Japanese history
- History: Began in 1895 to celebrate Kyotos cultural legacy after losing capital status
- Location: Nagasaki
- Scale: Major local event with international flavor
- What to See: Unique fusion of Japanese and Dutch/Chinese influences, dragon dances, floats
- History: Over 400 years old; tied to Suwa Shrine and Nagasakis port history
November
19. Shichi-Go-San- Location: Nationwide (notably Meiji Shrine in Tokyo)
- Scale: Not a festival in the usual sense, but widely practiced
- What to See: Children aged 3, 5, and 7 dressed in kimono for shrine visits
- History: Edo-period custom marking milestones in child development
- Location: Kurama, Kyoto
- Scale: Small town, but increasingly popular
- What to See: Villagers carry massive torches through the streets
- History: Held to welcome deities from the Kurama temple, started in the 10th century
December
21. Chichibu Night Festival- Location: Chichibu, Saitama Prefecture
- Scale: Well-known, but less crowded than summer festivals
- What to See: Illuminated floats, fireworks in winter
- History: Dates back over 300 years, associated with Chichibu Shrine
- Location: Nationwide
- Scale: Quiet, family-focused, except for temple visits
- What to See: Bell-ringing (Joya no Kane) at temples, soba eating, shrine visits
- History: Ancient custom marking the end of the lunar calendar year
Japan (Tokyo and beyond) Master Thread
Mar 17, 2014 | 3:39 am
#31
Join Date: Jun 2006
Posts: 564
Note that the NEX is now 1500 yen from NRT to Tokyo. You have to ask for a "Tokyo Direct Ticket" apparently. The discount does not apply from Tokyo to NRT.
http://www.jreast.co.jp/e/pass/nex_oneway.html
http://www.jreast.co.jp/e/pass/nex_oneway.html
Apr 15, 2014 | 1:54 am
#32
Join Date: Mar 2013
Location: NRT/HND
Programs: A3 *G, HH Gold
Posts: 81
For those looking for accommodations in Japan, may I suggest: http://travel.rakuten.com/
I use it all the time, it has a lot of the japan specific, smaller and independent hotels that normally have japanese only reservation pages but with a full english interface and reviews and ratings from the japanese side of the site which is quite popular.
I managed to get an onsen booking in Hakone during the busy new years season when pretty much everything that was english accessible otherwise was completely full.
I use it all the time, it has a lot of the japan specific, smaller and independent hotels that normally have japanese only reservation pages but with a full english interface and reviews and ratings from the japanese side of the site which is quite popular.
I managed to get an onsen booking in Hakone during the busy new years season when pretty much everything that was english accessible otherwise was completely full.
Feb 23, 2015 | 12:23 pm
#34
Join Date: Mar 2004
Location: Minneapolis, Minnesota,USA
Programs: UA, NW
Posts: 3,752
One of my helpful hints for travel in Japan is based on the fact that most streets have no names and that the street names have no connection with the mailing addresses anyway.
Print out both the Japanese and English maps from your hotels' websites (I have never seen a hotel website without a map).
The English versions are to help you find your hotel for the first time if it's within walking distance of a station or to find your way back to it after you've spent the day out.
The Japanese versions are to help your cabdriver, who may not know where any but the most famous hotels are (and Tokyo has hundreds of hotels), and to help any Japanese person you ask for directions. The hotel's phone number is helpful, too. I once didn't realize that the map I had printed out showed the location as it was before some streets got rerouted, so it was good that the cab driver was able to whip out his cell phone and call the hotel for updated directions.
Print out both the Japanese and English maps from your hotels' websites (I have never seen a hotel website without a map).
The English versions are to help you find your hotel for the first time if it's within walking distance of a station or to find your way back to it after you've spent the day out.
The Japanese versions are to help your cabdriver, who may not know where any but the most famous hotels are (and Tokyo has hundreds of hotels), and to help any Japanese person you ask for directions. The hotel's phone number is helpful, too. I once didn't realize that the map I had printed out showed the location as it was before some streets got rerouted, so it was good that the cab driver was able to whip out his cell phone and call the hotel for updated directions.
Jun 20, 2020 | 8:18 pm
#36
Join Date: Dec 2014
Location: LAX
Programs: UA-K
Posts: 153
GETTING AROUND TOKYO
You may find it easier to travel around by purchasing a pre-paid card.
JR Trains, Subways and Buses now all accept the same non-contact cards for payment. The cards carry a 500yen deposit - and they can be charged up with 1000, 2000, 3000, 5000 or 10,000yen of credit.
The deposit is returnable - but JR charges about 210yen in admin fees if you have some money remaining on the card. So it is best to completely use up any credit that you have on the card. (And then you will get the full 500 yen returned).
So if you purchase a "SUICA" card at a JR station - it will also work on the subway. And vice versa if you purchase a "PASSMO" card at a subway station. (However, supply of PASSMO cards is currently limited so you may find it easier to buy a SUICA card).
http://www.flyertalk.com/forum/showthread.php?t=646228
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Suica
You may find it easier to travel around by purchasing a pre-paid card.
JR Trains, Subways and Buses now all accept the same non-contact cards for payment. The cards carry a 500yen deposit - and they can be charged up with 1000, 2000, 3000, 5000 or 10,000yen of credit.
The deposit is returnable - but JR charges about 210yen in admin fees if you have some money remaining on the card. So it is best to completely use up any credit that you have on the card. (And then you will get the full 500 yen returned).
So if you purchase a "SUICA" card at a JR station - it will also work on the subway. And vice versa if you purchase a "PASSMO" card at a subway station. (However, supply of PASSMO cards is currently limited so you may find it easier to buy a SUICA card).
http://www.flyertalk.com/forum/showthread.php?t=646228
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Suica
Have an iPhone? Like an iPhone X or newer?
Add a virtual Suica Card - https://support.apple.com/en-us/HT207155
Now dig through your credit cards and make sure you have a card with no foreign transaction fees. Set it up in Apple Pay. Use this card for the default payment method for recharging the Suica. Put a reasonable amount on it to cover your trip from the Airport to the hotel, or more. You can do this at home before you leave for Japan. What does this get you?
You land in Japan with a cash card that uses the local currency, that's the first thing.
You now have a contactless cash/transit card in your phone that you can recharge via credit card, avoiding the need to use cash to recharge a physical Suica card*. You can also do this anywhere, not just at a train station or convenience store. These cards are not only good for public transport, many shops and eateries will take them too as a form of payment (look for the logo). If you drop low on funds (the card can carry up to 20000 -about $200- at any one time) you can recharge on the spot. No need to go to foreign exchange (or less of a need to, not everyplace takes Suica).
Another added bonus - install the Suica App (unfortunately all in Japanese) and add an account. Want a seat on the Green Car? Hop in the green car and find an empty seat with a red light over it. Sit down and buy your green card ticket with the app while in the seat and wave your phone at the sensor. It'll turn green, and you can enjoy your trip.
* Read the terms for your credit card. My card, a UA-branded Chase product, considers these transactions as "travel" and not cash advances. Combine this with no foreign transaction fees and a decent exchange rate, it makes getting money for traveling around town a lot less of a hassle.
Last edited by rworne; Jun 20, 2020 at 8:31 pm
Jun 22, 2020 | 4:21 am
#37
Join Date: Dec 2004
Location: Berkshire, UK
Programs: QF Silver, Marriott Gold, Amex Plat, Priority Pass
Posts: 386
Jun 22, 2020 | 6:19 pm
#38
Join Date: Dec 2014
Location: LAX
Programs: UA-K
Posts: 153
"Meanwhile anything more complicated than adding virtual Suica: purchasing e-tickets, commuter pass, Green Seat reservations etc., still requires the Japanese only Suica App"
Suica with a virtual wallet is the best thing while traveling to Japan. I've gone around with 30,000 in my wallet and not have had to touch it for a week or two. You cannot go 100% cashless there yet, even after the recent push for the Olympics... but this and a good CC will get you 80% or more of the way there. Most cash-only places are the small mom & pop stores and some restaurant chains (Saizeria is a notable example). Huge cash drains are public transit, followed by food, and this is the only method for a foreigner to use a CC to buy public transportation fares on a CC.
Jun 1, 2022 | 11:14 pm
#41
Join Date: Feb 2011
Location: SAN, TYO, OSA
Posts: 261
I would say probably forever. I remember reading an article about Japanese police keeping fingerprint/DNA collected from citizens on a voluntary basis for future use without any consent.
Jun 2, 2022 | 4:29 pm
#42
FlyerTalk Evangelist
Join Date: Sep 2003
Location: Thanks for the Memories !!!
Posts: 10,737
There was a huge brouhaha about this in the early 90's when they ended fingerprints on the "gaijin-cards". Roll ahead to the 2000's and they collect your fingerprints each time you enter , whether you have residency or not.
Sep 12, 2022 | 5:10 pm
#43
Join Date: Jul 2017
Location: California
Programs: AA EXP; Hyatt Globalist; Marriott Bonvoy Titanium Elite
Posts: 2,081
I usually stay in Shinjuku, Shinagawa or Kinshicho when I'm in Tokyo. But I've decided to mix it up a bit this time. I have 8 days to throw around where I don't have to log on to work, so I'm going to spend a couple days in Sendai, but for Tokyo, does anyone have any thoughts on a neighborhood that gives fairly good walking access to a good station where I can get fairly quick access to the Shinkansen (for jr pass) within a few stops, but is more oldschool wrt the buildings (hasn't undergone modernization yet) with lots of mom-and-pop type shops and restaurants?
I know it's kind of a broad question, but looking to mix it up a little from what I used to do before the pandemic. Currently I am booked at both the moxy kinshicho and tokyo hyatt regency for those 8 days while I decide what I want to do, but now will be canceling them both and finding a much smaller hotel or a botique hotel, based on the cheap hotel thread, in a new area that I haven't stayed in.
Maybe Asakusa? Ueno might be an option too, both have pretty good access.
I know it's kind of a broad question, but looking to mix it up a little from what I used to do before the pandemic. Currently I am booked at both the moxy kinshicho and tokyo hyatt regency for those 8 days while I decide what I want to do, but now will be canceling them both and finding a much smaller hotel or a botique hotel, based on the cheap hotel thread, in a new area that I haven't stayed in.
Maybe Asakusa? Ueno might be an option too, both have pretty good access.
Last edited by seigex; Sep 12, 2022 at 5:16 pm
Sep 12, 2022 | 7:32 pm
#44
Join Date: Nov 2013
Location: NYC / TYO / RSW Up in the Air avoiding the Snowflakes
Programs: UA GS 1.8MM, AA 2.1MM, EK, BA, SQ, CX, Marriott LT, Accor P
Posts: 8,113
I usually stay in Shinjuku, Shinagawa or Kinshicho when I'm in Tokyo. But I've decided to mix it up a bit this time. I have 8 days to throw around where I don't have to log on to work, so I'm going to spend a couple days in Sendai, but for Tokyo, does anyone have any thoughts on a neighborhood that gives fairly good walking access to a good station where I can get fairly quick access to the Shinkansen (for jr pass) within a few stops, but is more oldschool wrt the buildings (hasn't undergone modernization yet) with lots of mom-and-pop type shops and restaurants?
I know it's kind of a broad question, but looking to mix it up a little from what I used to do before the pandemic. Currently I am booked at both the moxy kinshicho and tokyo hyatt regency for those 8 days while I decide what I want to do, but now will be canceling them both and finding a much smaller hotel or a botique hotel, based on the cheap hotel thread, in a new area that I haven't stayed in.
Maybe Asakusa? Ueno might be an option too, both have pretty good access.
I know it's kind of a broad question, but looking to mix it up a little from what I used to do before the pandemic. Currently I am booked at both the moxy kinshicho and tokyo hyatt regency for those 8 days while I decide what I want to do, but now will be canceling them both and finding a much smaller hotel or a botique hotel, based on the cheap hotel thread, in a new area that I haven't stayed in.
Maybe Asakusa? Ueno might be an option too, both have pretty good access.
Sep 12, 2022 | 10:05 pm
#45
Join Date: Sep 2011
Location: HIJ
Posts: 522
I usually stay in Shinjuku, Shinagawa or Kinshicho when I'm in Tokyo. But I've decided to mix it up a bit this time. I have 8 days to throw around where I don't have to log on to work, so I'm going to spend a couple days in Sendai, but for Tokyo, does anyone have any thoughts on a neighborhood that gives fairly good walking access to a good station where I can get fairly quick access to the Shinkansen (for jr pass) within a few stops, but is more oldschool wrt the buildings (hasn't undergone modernization yet) with lots of mom-and-pop type shops and restaurants?
I know it's kind of a broad question, but looking to mix it up a little from what I used to do before the pandemic. Currently I am booked at both the moxy kinshicho and tokyo hyatt regency for those 8 days while I decide what I want to do, but now will be canceling them both and finding a much smaller hotel or a botique hotel, based on the cheap hotel thread, in a new area that I haven't stayed in.
Maybe Asakusa? Ueno might be an option too, both have pretty good access.
I know it's kind of a broad question, but looking to mix it up a little from what I used to do before the pandemic. Currently I am booked at both the moxy kinshicho and tokyo hyatt regency for those 8 days while I decide what I want to do, but now will be canceling them both and finding a much smaller hotel or a botique hotel, based on the cheap hotel thread, in a new area that I haven't stayed in.
Maybe Asakusa? Ueno might be an option too, both have pretty good access.