Communication: Beppu

Local SIM Cards & Providers

Major mobile providers in Japan include Docomo, Softbank, and AU. Data-only SIM cards for tourists are widely available.

Connectivity Options

Purchase data-only SIM cards at airports, electronics stores, or online.
ESIMs from Airalo are popular for online purchase and activation upon landing.
Options for 7, 15, or 30 days are generally available.

Internet Access & Wi-Fi

Most accommodations offer free Wi-Fi. Many cafes and restaurants also provide free Wi-Fi for customers.

Staying Connected

Free Wi-Fi is common in hotels and ryokan.
Limited free public Wi-Fi spots are found at train stations and tourist centers.
Consider renting a Portable Wi-Fi device from Solis Wi-Fi for constant connectivity.

Language Barriers & Translation

Japanese is the official language. English proficiency can be limited outside major tourist hubs.

Translation Tools

The Google Translate app (with camera and voice features) is invaluable.
Preparing a few basic phrases in Japanese is highly recommended.
Enhance your Japanese with Rosetta Stone.

Important Phrases

Learning a few Japanese phrases aids greatly in daily interactions.

Expressions

Hello (daytime): 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)

More Helpful Phrases

Basic Responses

Yes: Hai (はい)
No: Iie (いいえ)
Please: Onegaishimasu (お願いします)
Delicious: Oishii (おいしい)

Questions & Needs

Hot spring: Onsen (温泉)
Where is...? : ~wa doko desu ka? (〜はどこですか？)
I don't understand: Wakarimasen (わかりません)
Can you speak English?: Eigo ga hanasemasu ka? (英語が話せますか？)

Communication Advice

Embrace the challenge of a new language; locals appreciate the effort. Use translation apps for detailed conversations.

Business Hours & Schedules

Shop Hours

Typically open from 10:00 AM to 7:00 PM or 8:00 PM. Department stores may close earlier.

Restaurant Hours

Lunch from 11:30 AM to 2:00 PM; dinner from 5:00 PM to 9:00 PM. Last orders are usually 30-60 minutes before closing. Izakayas may stay open later.

Banking & ATMs

Banks are open weekdays, generally from 9:00 AM to 3:00 PM. ATMs are widely available at post offices and convenience stores.

Convenience & Attractions

Convenience stores often operate 24/7. Tourist attractions have specific operating hours.

Timings

Most convenience stores (7-Eleven, Lawson, FamilyMart) operate 24/7.
Tourist attractions like Beppu Hells generally open from 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM.
Always check specific attraction websites for exact hours.

Holidays & Closures

National holidays can greatly affect business schedules and crowds. Certain attractions may have seasonal closures.

Planning Around Closures

Japan observes numerous national holidays (e.g., Golden Week, Obon).
During holidays, attractions can be very crowded, and transportation fully booked.
Some smaller establishments or outdoor attractions may close temporarily due to weather.

Financial Access

ATM Availability

ATMs at 7-Eleven, Lawson, and FamilyMart are generally 24/7.
These ATMs typically accept international cards.
Currency exchange is available at banks and some large hotels.

Airport Services

Consider Priority Pass for airport lounge access.
For flight disruptions, Compensair can help claim compensation.
Tourist information centers can help with local queries.

Etiquette & Cultural Norms

Cultural sensitivity deepens your appreciation for Beppu and its people.

Greeting Customs

Bowing is a common greeting. A slight head nod suffices for casual encounters. Observe how locals greet each other.

Verbal & Non-Verbal Greetings

Bowing is customary; a slight nod is for casual interactions.
The versatile phrase "Sumimasen" means "excuse me," "sorry," and "thank you."
Observe local interactions for guidance.

Appropriate Attire

Generally, casual attire is acceptable. For religious sites, modest dress shows respect.

Onsen & Temples

For temples, shoulders and knees covered indicates respect.
Communal onsen bathing requires nudity; always shower thoroughly before entry.
Tattoos may restrict access at some onsen; consider covering them if possible.

Dining & Tipping Practices

Tipping is not customary in Japan and may cause confusion. Slurping noodles is acceptable.

Mealtime Manners

Do not leave extra money; tipping is not practiced.
Slurping noodles indicates enjoyment of the meal.
Do not stick chopsticks upright in rice or pass food from chopstick to chopstick.

Photography & Taboos

Always ask for permission before taking photos of people. Respect privacy in all public and private settings.

Social Customs

Some sites prohibit indoor photography; check for signs.
Do not blow your nose loudly in public; use tissues discreetly.
Avoid eating or drinking while walking on crowded streets.

Important Cultural Reminders

General Taboos

Avoid discussing sensitive political issues.
Avoid public displays of affection.
Remember to take off shoes when required (e.g., homes, some restaurants).

Gender & LGBTQ+

Onsen are typically gender-separated.
While same-sex marriage is not nationally recognized, acceptance grows in larger cities.
Beppu, as a tourist destination, fosters a respectful environment.

Religious Site Etiquette

Shrine Practices

Maintain quiet and respectful behavior.
Avoid littering.
Perform the purification ritual (Temizuya) by washing hands and rinsing mouth.

Temple Practices

Often remove hats inside temples.
Refrain from photography in certain designated areas.
Avoid loud conversations.

Cultural Courtesy

Respectful behavior and an open mind truly enrich your interactions and overall journey in Beppu.

Accessibility Information

Accessibility for travelers with mobility challenges is steadily improving in Japan.

Infrastructure for Mobility

Accessibility is improving in newer buildings, train stations, and public facilities.

Navigating Beppu

Newer constructions often feature ramps or elevators.
Older ryokan, smaller shops, and traditional onsen may have stairs.
This can present challenges for wheelchair users.

Accessible Attractions & Transport

Beppu Station is generally accessible. Certain attractions have more accessible paths.

Getting Around

Beppu Station has elevators and ramps.
Some Beppu Hells have relatively flat main paths; check individual hell info.
Newer local buses often feature low-floor designs for easier boarding.

Sensory Impairment Services

Public transportation and major facilities increasingly cater to visual and hearing impairments.

Inclusive Features

Tactile paving is more common for visually impaired travelers.
Visual display information helps those with hearing impairments.
Efforts are ongoing to enhance overall accessibility features.

Resources & Organizations

Dedicated websites and local information centers offer assistance for travelers with disabilities.

Finding Support

Websites like Accessible Japan provide detailed information.
Contact the Beppu Tourist Information Center for local inquiries.
They can offer up-to-date information on hotels or attractions.

Accessibility Note

While accessibility is growing, it's prudent to confirm specific needs with accommodations and attractions directly before your visit.

Communication