Communication: Kanazawa

Local SIM Cards and Mobile Providers

ESIM: Data-only plans for unlocked, eSIM-compatible phones. Physical SIM Cards: Data-only SIMs at major international airports or electronics stores.

Options

Airalo: Purchase and activate digitally before arrival.
Solis Wi-Fi: Portable Wi-Fi devices for rent.
Physical SIMs available at Yodobashi Camera or Bic Camera.

Internet Access and Wi-Fi Availability

Free Wi-Fi at many hotels, major train stations, airports, convenience stores, and some cafes/restaurants. Quality and speed vary.

Access Points

Public Wi-Fi via "Japan Wi-Fi Auto-Connect" or "Travel Japan Wi-Fi" apps.
Pocket Wi-Fi devices for reliable internet across multiple devices.
Postal Services: Reliable for sending mail internationally; look for the red 〒 symbol.

Language Barriers and Translation Resources

Japanese is the official language. English proficiency varies. Major tourist attractions and larger hotels typically have basic English speakers.

Translation Tools

Rosetta Stone: Language learning platform.
Google Translate App: Real-time translation (text, voice, image). Download offline pack.
Phrasebooks: Pocket-sized guides for common phrases.

Important Phrases with Pronunciation Guides

Learning basic Japanese phrases elevates interactions and shows cultural respect.

Phrases

Hello (morning): Ohayou gozaimasu (oh-hah-YOH goh-zah-ee-mah-soo)
Thank you: Arigato gozaimasu (ah-ree-gah-TOH goh-zah-ee-mah-soo)
Excuse me/Sorry: Sumimasen (soo-mee-mah-SEN)

More Phrases & Airport Services

Essential Phrases

Please: Onegaishimasu (oh-neh-gah-ee-shee-mah-soo)
Yes: Hai (hah-ee)
No: Iie (ee-eh)
Delicious: Oishii desu (oh-ee-shee dess)

Airport Amenities

Compensair: Compensation for flight delays/cancellations.
Priority Pass: Airport lounge access for frequent travelers.
Money & Banking: ATMs widely available at convenience stores and post offices.
Cheers!: Kanpai! (kahn-pah-ee!)

Connectivity Tip

For continuous internet access, a pocket Wi-Fi device is a reliable choice, especially for groups.

Business Hours & Schedules

Understand typical operating hours and holiday schedules to plan your activities.

Shops

Generally open from 10:00 AM to 7:00 PM or 8:00 PM. Convenience stores are often 24/7.

Restaurants

Lunch: 11:00/11:30 AM to 2:00/2:30 PM. Dinner: 5:00/5:30 PM to 9:00/10:00 PM. Last orders are typically 30-60 minutes before closing.

Museums/Attractions

Typically 9:00/10:00 AM to 5:00/6:00 PM. Many close on Mondays (or the next day if Monday is a public holiday).

Banking Hours and ATM Locations

Banks are generally open from 9:00 AM to 3:00 PM on weekdays, closed on weekends and public holidays.

ATM Access

ATMs are widely available at 7-Eleven, Lawson, and FamilyMart convenience stores.
Also available at post offices, accessible 24/7.
Most international credit and debit cards are accepted for withdrawals.

Religious and Public Holidays

Japan has numerous national holidays. Businesses, banks, and some attractions may be closed or have reduced hours.

Major Holiday Periods

Golden Week (late April - early May): Increased crowds, higher prices.
Obon (mid-August): Expect domestic travel, higher prices.
New Year (late December - early January): Increased crowds, higher prices.

Seasonal Closures and Limited Schedules

Establishment Variances

Smaller, family-run places might have irregular closures.
Traditional ryokan often require specific check-in times for dinner service.
Winter outdoor attractions in mountains might have limited access due to snow.

Transport Adjustments

Public transport usually operates on a holiday schedule during national holidays.
Reduced frequency can occur during holiday periods.
Planning ahead for these times is advisable.

Schedule Note

Verify opening hours for specific attractions and restaurants, especially around national holidays.

Etiquette & Cultural Norms

Cultural sensitivity deepens your travel experience and fosters respectful interactions with locals.

Greeting Customs

Bowing (O-jigi) is the standard greeting. A slight head nod works for tourists. Bows show greater deference.

Phrases & Actions

"Sumimasen" (すみません): Used for "excuse me," "I'm sorry," or to gain attention.
"Arigato Gozaimasu" (ありがとうございます): The polite form of "Thank you."
Remove shoes when entering homes, ryokan, some restaurants, and cultural sites. Wear clean socks.

Appropriate Attire for Different Settings

Modest and neat attire is generally well-received. Avoid overly casual or revealing clothing in upscale restaurants or formal settings.

Dress Code

Temples/Shrines: Shoulders and knees should be covered as a sign of respect.
Remove hats when entering shrine or temple grounds, especially within main halls.
Remove shoes at specific entry points.

Dining and Tipping Practices

Tipping is not customary in Japan; it can cause confusion. Slurping noodles or soup is acceptable and shows enjoyment.

Chopstick Etiquette

Do not stick chopsticks upright in a bowl of rice.
Do not pass food directly from chopstick to chopstick.
Use a chopstick rest when not eating. Avoid pointing.
Use shared serving utensils if provided.

Photography Permissions and Restrictions

Generally, photography is allowed in public spaces. Always look for "No Photography" signs.

Guidelines

"No Photography" (撮影禁止 - Satsuei Kinshi) signs in museums, art galleries, temple halls, private homes.
Ask permission before photographing individuals, especially geisha or traditional attire.
Be discreet and respectful; avoid candid shots of strangers.

Taboos and Sensitive Topics

What to Avoid

Public Displays of Affection: Generally frowned upon.
Loudness/Noise: Maintain a low voice on public transport and quiet areas.
Pointing: Pointing with a single finger is generally avoided.

Health & Personal Considerations

Blowing Nose in Public: Considered impolite.
Tattoos: Some public baths (onsen) may prohibit entry; research policies or consider private baths.
Avoid candid shots of strangers.

Gender Considerations and LGBTQ+ Information

Societal Norms

Japan is generally a conservative society.
Public displays of affection are uncommon, regardless of gender.
LGBTQ+ rights are progressing; some cities recognize same-sex partnerships.

Local Environment

Kanazawa, as a major city, is generally safe and welcoming.
Kanazawa does not have a distinct LGBTQ+ district.
Larger entertainment areas (Katamachi) are generally tolerant.

Accessibility Information

Kanazawa is becoming increasingly accessible, though older areas might present some challenges.

Infrastructure for Travelers with Mobility Challenges

Newer public infrastructure, like Kanazawa Station and the 21st Century Museum of Contemporary Art, is generally well-equipped.

Features

Ramps, elevators, and accessible restrooms simplify navigation.
Older, traditional areas (e.g., Higashi Chaya District) with cobblestone streets or steps might present challenges.

Accessible Attractions and Transportation

Many popular sites have accessible routes, and transport options are improving.

Accessibility Highlights

Kenrokuen Garden has some accessible routes.
Kanazawa Castle Park is largely accessible with paved paths.
Newer Hokutetsu buses (e.g., Loop Bus) are often low-floor and wheelchair accessible.

Services for Travelers with Visual or Hearing Impairments

Support for visual and hearing impairments varies.

Available Support

Major train stations often feature tactile paving for visually impaired travelers.
Information in Braille or large print may be limited outside major transport hubs.
Sign language interpretation is rare in public settings.

Resources and Organizations Providing Accessibility Information

Seek specialized information for detailed accessibility planning.

Where to Find Info

Japan National Tourism Organization (JNTO) website for general accessibility info.
Kanazawa tourism websites may detail accessible routes or facilities.
Contact hotels directly to inquire about specific accessibility features.

Accessibility Planning

Confirm specific accessibility features with venues and transport providers prior to your visit for a smoother journey.

Communication