Communication: Hiroshima

Local SIM Cards & Wi-Fi

Prepaid data SIM cards or eSIMs are convenient for tourists. Purchase online or upon arrival.

Connectivity Choices

Airalo: eSIM provider for travelers, easy digital activation.
Solis Wi-Fi: Portable Wi-Fi device for consistent internet access.
Free Wi-Fi: Widely available in hotels, stations, airports, and cafes.

Language & Translation

English proficiency varies, but translation resources ease communication.

Tools for Communication

Google Translate: Offers text, voice, and camera translation (download offline Japanese pack).
Japanese phrasebook: A small, pocket-sized book for common phrases.
Japan Official Travel App: Provides useful phrases and travel information.

Important Phrases

Greetings

Hello: Konnichiwa (こんにちわ)
Thank you: Arigato gozaimasu (ありがとうございます)
Excuse me/Sorry: Sumimasen (すみません)

Postal Services

Japan Post offices are efficient and reliable for sending mail.

Sending Mail

Availability: Find post offices by the "〒" symbol.
Stamps: Purchase at post offices or most convenience stores.
Reliability: Services are known for efficiency.

Language Learning

Prepare Your Skills

Rosetta Stone: Language learning platform.
Basic Phrases: Learn common greetings and requests.
Pronunciation: Practice simple pronunciations.
Cultural subtleties: Understand politeness levels.

On-the-Go Learning

Translation Apps: Use Google Translate's camera function.
Point-and-Speak: Carry a small phrasebook for visual help.
Listen Actively: Pay attention to common phrases used by locals.
Don't Be Afraid: Most Japanese appreciate your effort to speak their language.

Digital Connectivity

For consistent internet, consider renting a pocket Wi-Fi device or using an eSIM for your smartphone. Airalo for eSIMs and Solis Wi-Fi for portable devices.

Business Hours & Schedules

Understand typical operating hours and holiday impacts in Hiroshima.

Shops & Stores

Generally open around 10:00 AM and close around 8:00 PM. Department stores may close slightly earlier.

Convenience Stores

Most convenience stores (7-Eleven, Lawson, FamilyMart) operate 24/7 for snacks or emergency items.

Restaurants

Lunch 11:30 AM-2:00 PM. Dinner from 5:00 PM, many close by 10:00 PM or 11:00 PM.

Attractions

Museums and historical sites typically open 9:00/10:00 AM to 5:00/6:00 PM, with last entry 30-60 min before closing.

Planning Visits

Weekly Closures: Many museums close one day a week (often Monday or Tuesday).
Official Websites: Always verify current operating hours on official websites.
Seasonal Adjustments: Some outdoor attractions may have limited winter hours.

Banking & ATMs

Traditional bank branches are Mon-Fri, 9:00 AM-3:00 PM. ATMs are more accessible.

Cash Access

ATM Locations: Widely available at 7-Eleven, Lawson, FamilyMart, and post offices.
24/7 Access: Many convenience store ATMs operate 24/7 for foreign cards.
International Cards: Look for international card logos on ATMs.

Public Holidays & Crowds

Holiday Impact

Golden Week: Late April/early May, very busy travel period.
Obon: Mid-August, transport and attractions can be very crowded.
New Year's: January 1st, some closures, but major businesses open.

Travel Tips

Book Ahead: Secure transport and accommodation well in advance during holidays.
Stay Open: Major shops and restaurants typically remain open during holidays.
Crowd Management: Be prepared for longer lines at popular sites.

Plan Around Holidays

Public holidays like Golden Week (late April/early May) and Obon (mid-August) lead to crowded transport and attractions. Book early during these times.

Etiquette & Cultural Norms

Greeting Customs

Bowing is common. For tourists, a slight nod of the head is sufficient.

Interaction Basics

Bowing: A common form of greeting and showing respect.
Eye Contact: Polite, but not overly direct.
Polite Nod: Often appreciated from visitors.

Appropriate Attire

Neat and modest attire is generally appreciated in most settings.

Dress Code

Casual Wear: Fine for most tourist activities.
Modest Dress: Cover shoulders and knees when visiting temples and shrines.
Respectful Approach: Shows consideration for local customs.

Dining & Tipping

Tipping is not customary in Japan. Follow specific dining practices.

Mealtime Manners

No Tipping: Not expected and can cause confusion.
Slurping Noodles: Acceptable and a sign of enjoyment.
Chopsticks: Avoid sticking upright in rice or passing food.

Photography

Be respectful and mindful of privacy when taking photos.

Photo Practices

Ask Permission: Before photographing people, especially children.
Respect Rules: Look for signs prohibiting photography or flash.
Privacy: Avoid pointing camera into private homes.

Taboos & Sensitive Topics

Avoid These

Atomic Bombing: Discuss with extreme sensitivity. Do not initiate.
Nose Blowing: Do not blow loudly in public; use restrooms discreetly.
Littering: Japan is clean; carry trash until a bin is found.

Cultural Considerations

Eating/Drinking: Avoid while walking, unless in street food areas.
Tattoos & Onsen: Often prohibited in public bathhouses; check rules.
Public Affection: Rare regardless of sexual orientation.

Gender & LGBTQ+

Safety for All

Generally Safe: Japan is very safe for all travelers, including solo women.
Respectful Environment: Public displays of affection are rare.
Big Cities: Major cities like Hiroshima are relatively open.

Legal Status

Same-Sex Marriage: Not legally recognized nationwide.
Partnership Certificates: Some cities have these, but not universally recognized.
Travel Freedom: LGBTQ+ individuals can travel freely and safely.

Religious Site Conduct

Dress modestly, remove shoes before entering temple buildings, and maintain respectful silence. Follow purification rituals carefully at shrines.

Accessibility Information

Japan continues to make strides in accessible infrastructure, especially in major cities.

Mobility Infrastructure

Japan has improved accessibility in major cities and new infrastructure.

Facilitating Movement

Train Stations: Often feature elevators, escalators, accessible restrooms.
Public Transport: Newer vehicles, some trams, and the Astram Line are accessible.
Older Trams: May still have steps, presenting a challenge.

Accessible Attractions

Many sites in Hiroshima have accessibility features.

Easy Access

Peace Memorial Park: Largely flat, well-paved, with ramps and elevators in the museum.
Itsukushima Shrine: Main shrine complex has accessible routes.
Department Stores: Modern hotels and large shopping centers are generally accessible.

Visual/Hearing Impairments

Resources and infrastructure for sensory impairments.

Support Systems

Tactile Paving: Common on sidewalks, stations, public spaces for guiding visually impaired.
Audio Announcements: Often in Japanese and English on public transport.
Assistance Dogs: Generally accepted in public spaces and transport; confirm with venues.

Airport Services

Services to enhance the airport experience for frequent travelers.

Travel Conveniences

Priority Pass: Access to independent airport lounges globally.
Compensair: Compensation for flight delays/cancellations.
Airport Support: Staff often available for assistance within terminals.

Accessibility Resources

The Japan National Tourism Organization (JNTO) website offers information and resources on accessible travel. Check specific venue websites for details.

Communication