Honcho Travel Tips. Money, Safety, Culture

Mobile Connectivity

Japan has major mobile providers: NTT Docomo, au, and SoftBank, all with reliable service.

SIM & eSIM Options

Data-only SIM cards for tourists are available at airports and electronics stores.
eSIMs are increasingly popular. Purchase and activate online before arrival to skip physical SIMs. Get an eSIM from Airalo.
Rent a Pocket Wi-Fi device from Solis Wi-Fi at airports or online for a portable hotspot.

Internet Access

Free Wi-Fi is available in many hotels, cafes, major train stations, and public popular sights. Some cities offer public Wi-Fi.

Wi-Fi Hotspots & Postal

Convenience stores (7-Eleven, FamilyMart, Lawson) offer free Wi-Fi for registered users.
Japan Post offices offer efficient, reliable mailing services and international parcel shipping (EMS).
English proficiency varies outside major tourist hubs, including in parts of Chiba City and Honcho.

Translation Resources

Bridging language barriers with translation apps and phrasebooks smooths communication.

Tools for Communication

Google Translate: Download offline Japanese language packs. Use the camera translation for signs and menus.
DeepL: Another effective translation application for quick assistance.
A small Japanese phrasebook is useful for common interactions.

Essential Japanese Phrases

Learning a few basic Japanese phrases garners appreciation from locals. Consider Rosetta Stone for language learning.

Phrases

Konnichiwa (Hello), Arigatō gozaimasu (Thank you), Sumimasen (Excuse me / Sorry).
Onegaishimasu (Please), Hai (Yes), Iie (No).
Eigo o hanasemasu ka? (Do you speak English?), Ikura desu ka? (How much?).

More Useful Phrases

Common Inquiries

... Wa doko desu ka? (How do i get to...?)
Kanpai! (Cheers!)
Oishii (Delicious)
Your effort to speak Japanese is valued.

Situational Terms

When confirming: Hai (Yes)
When declining: Iie (No)
When excusing yourself: Sumimasen
When requesting: Onegaishimasu

Language Learning Resource

Start your Japanese language journey with Rosetta Stone before your trip.

Hours & Accessibility

Japan's business hours and accessibility infrastructure support smooth travel, with continuous improvements.

Shop Hours

Department stores and malls typically open from 10:00 AM to 8:00 PM. Smaller shops vary.

Restaurant Hours

Lunch from 11:30 AM to 2:00 PM. Dinner from 5:00 PM to 10:00 PM (last order often 9:00 PM).

Banking & ATMs

Banks: 9:00 AM to 3:00 PM, Mon-Fri. ATMs: Widely available at convenience stores and post offices, often 24/7.

Holiday Impacts

National holidays affect business hours. Transport may be crowded during New Year's, Golden Week, and Obon.

Peak Travel Times

New Year's (Dec 31 - Jan 3): Many businesses close.
Golden Week (late In the fourth month - early May): Highly sought-after travel period, expect crowds and higher prices.
Obon (mid-August): Family travel leads to busy transport.

Seasonal Adjustments

Some outdoor attractions or small local businesses have reduced hours or close during winter months.

Advance Checks

Always check attraction websites for current operating schedules.
Be mindful of last order times for restaurants, especially in areas outside of big cities.
Verify museum closure days, often Mondays.

Accessibility Features

Mobility Infrastructure

Newer public buildings and transportation in Japan, including Chiba City, are generally accessible.
Major train stations often feature elevators, escalators, and accessible restrooms.
Older buildings or smaller stations may have limited accessibility.

Accessible Locations

Chiba Urban Monorail, major shopping malls, and Chiba Port Tower are generally accessible.
Chiba Castle (Chiba City Folk Museum): Ground floor is accessible; upper floors may need stairs.
JNTO and local tourist information offices present resources for accessibility and route planning assistance.

Accessibility Resources

The Japan National Tourism Organization (JNTO) on accessible travel in Japan. Local tourist information centers also assist with inquiries.

Etiquette & Customs

Cultural sensitivity creates a more enriching and ethical travel experience in Honcho, Chiba.

Greeting & Attire

Bowing is a common greeting; a slight head nod is typically enough. Handshakes are less common.

Dress Code

Dress is generally conservative. Avoid overly casual clothing in formal settings.
Modest attire, covering shoulders and knees, is appreciated when visiting temples and shrines.
A bow shows respect; a deep bow signals high reverence.

Dining Practices

No tipping is customary in Japan; it can cause confusion. Slurping noodles indicates enjoyment.

Mealtime Manners

Remove shoes when entering private rooms in restaurants or traditional establishments.
Do not stick chopsticks vertically in your rice bowl or pass food with chopsticks.
Eating or drinking while walking on the street is uncommon; use designated areas.

Photography & Public Conduct

Photography is generally permissible, but always check for 'No Photography' signs.

Respectful Photography

Be respectful of people's privacy; ask permission before photographing individuals, notably for children.
Don't speak loudly on public transport; phone calls are not appropriate in these spaces.
Do not point with your finger; use an open hand to gesture instead.

Sensitive Topics & Inclusivity

Avoid discussing sensitive historical or political topics unless invited to by a local.

Societal Norms

Public displays of affection are rare in Japan.
Japan is generally a safe and respectful society.
LGBTQ+ rights are progressing; Tokyo and other major cities present greater openness.

Important Reminders

Behavioral Guidelines

Do not litter; proper waste disposal is observed.
Keep voice volume low in public and quiet spaces.
Smoking is restricted to designated areas.

Cultural Awareness

Your attempt at Japanese phrases earns appreciation.
Observe the way things are done locally to navigate social interactions smoothly.
Be mindful of your surroundings and adapt to the local pace.

Gender and Social Considerations

General Conduct

Dealings are generally polite and respectful.
Personal space is prized in social settings.
In certain traditional settings, gender-segregated spaces exist.

LGBTQ+ Community

Chiba City is relatively progressive compared to rural areas.
Major cities exhibit greater openness for the LGBTQ+ community.
Societal acceptance for LGBTQ+ people is evolving across Japan.

Cultural Enrichment Tip

Engaging with local traditions and learning a few phrases enriches your journey and demonstrates respect for Japanese culture.

Airport Services & Travel Tips

Airport Lounge Access

Relax before your flight with access to independent airport lounges globally.

Priority Pass

Gain access to airport lounges worldwide.
Enjoy a more comfortable travel experience.
Explore Priority Pass options for those who travel often.

Flight Compensation

Receive assistance for flight delays, cancellations, or denied boarding.

Compensair Service

Service for flight delays or cancellations.
Receive compensation when eligible.
Check your eligibility with Compensair.

Pre-Travel Checks

Ensure all travel documents are in order and confirm visa requirements for Japan.

Document Prep

A passport that is not expired and any necessary visas.
Coverage from travel insurance is advised.
Confirm baggage allowances with your airline.

Local Emergency Contacts

Know the essential emergency numbers for Japan before you travel.

Emergency Services

Police: 110
Fire/Ambulance: 119
General Emergency: 119

Additional Travel Tips

Currency

Japanese Yen (JPY) is the local currency. Credit cards are widely accepted, but cash is still important.

Weather

Japan experiences four distinct seasons. Check forecasts and pack appropriately.

Health

Tap water is safe to drink. Pharmacies are common for minor ailments.

Travel Optimization

Booking airport services beforehand creates a more relaxing and efficient travel experience.

Honcho Travel Tips