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Practical Information

Practical Information

Kyoto, Japan

Mobile Connectivity

Various options are available for staying connected during your visit.

Internet Access Choices

  • Tourist SIM Cards: Data-only SIMs from various providers like Airalo (eSIMs).
  • Pocket Wi-Fi Device: A popular option, often with unlimited data. Consider Solis Wi-Fi.
  • Free Wi-Fi Hotspots: Available at hotels, cafes, some public spaces, and convenience stores.

Language & Support

Tools to assist with language differences and navigation.

Navigating Language

  • Translation Apps: Google Translate (offline pack, camera feature) or DeepL.
  • Japanese Phrasebooks: A compact Phrasebook offers basic interactions. Consider Rosetta Stone for learning.
  • English Proficiency: Fluency varies; staff in tourist roles possess some English ability.

Phrases

Essential Japanese greetings and polite expressions for daily use.

Basic Japanese

  • Hello: Konnichiwa (こんにちわ) - Kohn-nee-chee-wah
  • Thank you: Arigato gozaimasu (ありがとうございます) - Ah-ree-gah-toh go-zai-mah-soo
  • Excuse me/Sorry: Sumimasen (すみません) - Soo-mee-mah-sen

Useful Queries

Practical questions for common daily interactions.

  • Do you speak English?: Eigo o hanasemasu ka? (英語を話せますか？)
  • How much?: Ikura desu ka? (いくらですか？)
  • Where is...?: ...wa doko desu ka? (...はどこですか？)

Overall Connectivity Aspects

Connecting Points

  • Japan's major mobile carriers: NTT Docomo, au, and SoftBank.
  • Tourist SIMs purchaseable at airports and electronics stores.
  • Pocket Wi-Fi devices often offer unlimited data plans.
  • Free Wi-Fi access in most hotels and many public spaces.

General Travel Notes

  • English proficiency varies, notably outside major tourist spots.
  • While widespread, Wi-Fi might not be constant in all remote areas.
  • Some older train stations possess limited accessibility features.
  • Public trash receptacles are rare; carry a small bag for waste.

General Advice

Consider a pocket Wi-Fi for groups or individuals with multiple devices. This offers extensive internet access during your trip.

Business Hours & Schedules

Plan your day with awareness of typical operating hours.

Shops & Dining

Shops generally operate 10:00 AM - 8:00 PM. Restaurants typically serve lunch 11:30 AM - 2:00 PM and dinner 6:00 PM - 9:00 PM/10:00 PM.

Temples & Shrines

Usually open from 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM, with last entry around 4:30 PM. The Arashiyama Bamboo Grove remains open to the public continuously.

Convenience Stores

Many operate 24/7. ATMs at 7-Eleven convenience stores and Japan Post Bank locations often support international cards and operate continuously.

Banking Access

ATM Availability

  • Banks: Typically operate on weekdays from 9:00 AM - 3:00 PM.
  • ATMs: Widely available at 7-Eleven convenience stores.
  • Japan Post Bank: ATMs located inside post offices or as standalone units.

Holiday & Season Planning

Anticipating closures and potential crowd levels.

Travel Considerations

  • National Holidays: Include New Year's (Jan 1-3), Golden Week (late Apr - early May), Obon (mid-Aug).
  • Check a Japanese holiday calendar to anticipate crowds.
  • Seasonal Closures: Some smaller attractions may possess irregular operating hours.

Transport and Accessibility

Mobility Infrastructure

  • Newer public transportation (Shinkansen, some subways) is generally accessible.
  • Major train stations feature lifts and escalators for accessibility.
  • Dedicated spaces for wheelchairs on many train lines.

Arashiyama Accessibility

  • The main path through the Bamboo Grove is paved and relatively flat.
  • The Togetsukyo Bridge offers accessible passage.
  • Many temples and shrines possess steps or gravel paths, posing challenges.

Timely Visits

Always check official websites for specific opening times before visiting, as schedules may vary.

Etiquette & Cultural Norms

Demonstrating respect for local customs represents a hallmark of a considerate traveler.

Greeting & Attire

Cultural Welcome

  • Bowing serves as the customary greeting in Japan.
  • For tourists, a slight head nod is generally appreciated.
  • Dress modestly and neatly; avoid overly revealing clothing.

Dining Practices

Insights into restaurant customs and mealtime manners.

Mealtime Manners

  • Tipping is not customary in Japan.
  • Wait to be seated in restaurants before selecting a spot.
  • It is generally polite to consume your entire meal, especially the rice.

Photography & Privacy

Guidelines for capturing moments respectfully.

Visual Respect

  • Always ask permission before photographing individuals, especially geisha or maiko.
  • Avoid candid shots unless you are at a large public event.
  • Look for clear signs indicating photography prohibitions at sacred sites.

Sensitive Topics & Conduct

Considerations for social interactions and general behavior.

Social Conduct

  • Being on time for appointments or reservations possesses great worth.
  • Maintain low noise levels on public transport and in residential areas.
  • Public displays of affection are generally uncommon in public settings.

Cultural Considerations

Cultural hints

  • The number four (shi) sounds like "death" in Japanese.
  • The number nine (ku) can sound like "suffering."
  • Avoid eating or drinking while walking, especially in crowded areas.

Inclusivity Notes

  • Japan offers a safe environment for all travelers.
  • Public displays of affection remain rare for all couples.
  • Major cities like Kyoto are tolerant and welcome all visitors.

Religious Site Conduct

Entering Temples

  • Dress modestly; shoulders and knees should possess cover.
  • Remove your shoes before entering designated areas.
  • Look for clear signs or follow the lead of others.

Behavior Within Sites

  • Speak quietly to avoid disturbing worshippers.
  • Adhere to specific rules, like photography prohibitions.
  • Photography inside temple halls or near sacred altars is often restricted.

Respectful Engagement

Observe local customs for a positive and respectful interaction throughout your visit.

Accessibility Information

Accessibility for travelers with mobility needs varies across Japan, with ongoing infrastructure improvements.

Mobility Infrastructure

Newer public transportation options are generally accessible.

Transport Features

  • Shinkansen, some subway lines, and major JR lines are accessible.
  • Stations possess lifts and escalators for ease of movement.
  • Dedicated spaces for wheelchairs are present in modern transport units.

Arashiyama Accessibility

Specific information for navigating Arashiyama's attractions.

Local Site Access

  • The main path through the Bamboo Grove is paved and relatively flat.
  • Togetsukyo Bridge offers an accessible passage.
  • Many temples and shrines have steps, gravel paths, or require shoe removal.

Accessible Attractions

Details on site access and transport options.

Site Access

  • Major tourist attractions often have ramps or lifts.
  • Check individual attraction websites for specific accessibility details.
  • JR trains typically constitute the most accessible transport to Arashiyama.

Impairment Services

Support for travelers with visual or hearing impairments.

Inclusive Features

  • Tactile paving (Tenji blocks) for visually impaired individuals is common.
  • Announcements on public transport are often made in both Japanese and English.
  • Resources like "Accessible Japan" provide detailed accessibility information.

Travel Support Services

Airport Lounge Access

  • Priority Pass: Access to independent airport lounges globally.
  • Provides a comfortable waiting experience for frequent flyers.
  • A network of airport lounges available worldwide.

Flight Disruption Support

  • Compensair: Service for flight delay, cancellation, or denied boarding compensation.
  • Tries to help travelers receive deserved financial compensation.
  • Facilitates the process for claiming funds for disrupted flights.

Inclusivity Focus

Japan is consistently working on making travel more accessible for all individuals.

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