Travel Notes: Japan

March 20, 2018

Just had an amazing trip to Japan. There were too many highlights to go into, but suffice it to say, the cities were fun, and the people were very helpful.

Here are some things to know before you go:

Google Maps doesn’t work very well there. Get directions from a real person ahead of time.

None of the Airbnb’s we stayed at had washcloths, hand towels, or top sheets. You got a bottom sheet and a comforter on the bed. I have a hard time believing that the comforters were washed between visits so, according to your hygiene preferences, plan and pack accordingly. (Note: We survived just fine. But I really would have preferred a clean top sheet, and some washcloths.)

The signs at train stations and bus stops are pretty clear, but we were still very glad to have a person who spoke Japanese to help us plan our stops.

Train stations are set up so that if you go out one entrance, you may be going into an entirely different section of the city than if you go out another. Be very sure about which exit you want to take to make sure that you’re going to the right place. Getting back into the station to get to the right place can be frustrating. (And no, it’s not as easy as simply walking around the outside of the station to get to the correct exit. You’re going to have to trust me on this.)

You have a decent chance of finding someone who speaks English in Tokyo. In other cities, the people were just as willing to help, but there was a language barrier. Be warned.

No matter what time of year you go, wear sunglasses. The sunlight is pretty intense.

You won’t starve. Food is plentiful, pre-cooked, and cheap. Also delicious.

Be sure to bring something to track how many flavors of Kit Kats you spot. Japan has over 200 flavors. It can be a nice treasure hunt/trivia game.

Have fun!