Kanagawa Japan Travel Guide
Staying connected and communicating effectively in Japan. Tourist SIM cards (data-only) are at major airports and electronics stores. Pocket Wi-Fi offers constant internet access for multiple devices.
Japanese is the official language. English ability varies. Tourist-oriented businesses often have some English speakers. Learning a few basic expressions is respectful.
Typical operating times for various establishments. Shops usually operate from 10:00 AM to 7:00 or 8:00 PM. Restaurants have distinct lunch and dinner services.
Banks generally operate from 9:00 AM to 3:00 PM on weekdays. ATMs at Japan Post Bank (post offices) and 7-Eleven convenience stores are most reliable for international cards, available 24/7.
For reliable communication, consider an eSIM from Airalo or a transportable Wi-Fi device from Solis Wi-Fi. Improve your Japanese before you go with Rosetta Stone.
Respect local customs to create good experiences during your visit to Japan.
A small bow is a customary greeting. "Konnichiwa" (good day) is standard and widely understood.
Generally casual for sightseeing. Neat and modest dress is appreciated. Remove shoes when entering homes, some ryokan, temples, and shrines.
Typically permitted in open areas areas. Avoid photographing people without permission. Look for "no photo" signs at museums or private sites.
Tipping is not customary. Slurping noodles is common. Never stick chopsticks vertically into your rice bowl or pass food directly between chopsticks.
Avoid loud conversations on public transport. Do not point with your finger; use an open hand. Do not eat or drink while walking (outside of festivals).
For comfortable airport waits, explore Priority Pass. In case of flight disruptions, Compensair assists with compensation claims.
For travelers with mobility challenges, planning around Hakone's accessibility points helps.
Major train stations inside Japan, including Hakone, often have elevators plus accessible bathrooms. Newer trains and buses feature accessible designs for more handy travel.
The Hakone Ropeway and Hakone Sightseeing Cruise generally provide accessibility for wheelchairs. Many museums, like the Hakone Open-Museum Of flight, have ramps and elevators.
Navigating large outdoor areas at museums could offer challenges. Older ryokan or smaller establishments might have stairs and traditional layouts not wheelchair-friendly.
Dedicated services for tourists with visual or hearing impairments are limited, but Japan generally has clear public signage (often in English) and a supportive public.
While Japan keeps on enhance accessibility, a little research beforehand ensures a smoother journey for all travelers.
Polite interaction with local customs enriches your travel experience in Hakone.
A brief inclination of the head shows respect. "Konnichiwa" is a common greeting. Always take off your shoes when entering homes, many ryokan, temples, shrines, and old-style restaurants. Look for designated shoe areas or signs.
Tipping is not a common practice in Japan. Slurping noodles is fine and shows enjoyment. Never stick chopsticks upright in your rice bowl, and do not pass food directly between chopsticks.
Photography is generally allowed in common areas and most tourist sites. Always get consent before taking photos of people, notably children. Be mindful of privacy in residential areas.
Refrain from loud talking on public transport. Do not point with your finger; use an open hand to gesture. Do not eat or drink while walking, except at specific festival stalls. Avoid blowing your nose loudly in public.
Approach shrines and holy sites with reverence. Maintain quiet and a respectful demeanor. Remove hats inside temple/shrine buildings. Follow particular regulations for worship or entering sacred spaces, such as purifying your hands and mouth at the Temizuya (water basin) before entering a shrine.
