Shizuoka Travel Tips. Money, Safety, Culture

Mobile Connectivity

Unlocked phones function with Japanese networks. Data-only SIM cards for visitors are available.

SIM Card & eSIM Options

Pre-order tourist SIM cards for airport pickup.
Utilize eSIM services for instant activation.
Airalo: eSIM provider for travelers

Portable Wi-Fi

Rent a pocket Wi-Fi device for constant internet access across multiple devices.

Rental Information

Book portable Wi-Fi devices online for airport collection.
Enjoy unlimited data for navigation and communication.
Solis Wi-Fi: Portable WiFi device retailer

Language Support

While English signage becomes more common, basic Japanese phrases enhance local interactions.

Learning & Translation

Translation apps provide instant spoken and text translation.
Consider learning a few Japanese phrases before your journey.
Local phrasebooks prove useful in smaller establishments.

Emergency Contacts

Knowing emergency numbers and having access to help from locals remain important.

Essential Numbers

Police: Dial 110 for immediate assistance.
Ambulance/Fire: Dial 119 for medical emergencies or fire.
Embassy/Consulate: Keep your home country's contact details ready.

Tipping & Savings

No Tipping Culture

Tipping is not customary in Japan; it can cause confusion.
Service charges often appear on bills at higher-end venues.
Avoid offering tips to avoid awkward situations.
Excellent service is standard and without extra payment.

Money Saving Strategies

Utilize convenience stores for affordable, quality meals and snacks.
Use local public transport over taxis for better value.
Seek lunch specials (teishoku) that frequently present better value than dinner menus.
Consider a Japan Rail Pass if your itinerary includes extensive nationwide travel.

Currency Tips

Carry some cash for smaller shops, vending machines, and rural areas. Many places accept IC cards like Suica or Pasmo for transport and small purchases.

Airport Services

Japan's airports offer comprehensive facilities for travelers.

Major Airports

Narita (NRT), Haneda (HND), and Chubu Centrair (NGO) serve as main international centers for Shizuoka visitors.

Transfer Options

From Tokyo airports, Shinkansen travel to Shizuoka takes 2-3 hours. Nagoya routes are 1.5-2 hours.

Airport Facilities

Major airports offer comprehensive services including restaurants, shops, Wi-Fi, lounges, and currency exchange.

Airport Lounges

Relax in comfortable airport lounges prior to your flight, regardless of your airline or ticket class.

Lounge Access Benefits

Enjoy comfortable seating and quiet spaces.
Access complimentary Wi-Fi and charging stations.
Savor complimentary food and beverages.

Flight Compensation

Services assist passengers seeking compensation for significant flight disruptions.

Claim Assistance

Receive assistance for delayed, canceled, or overbooked flights.
Claim potential compensation for qualifying disruptions.
Navigate the compensation process with expert support.

Travel Perks

Airport Comfort

Priority Pass: Airport lounge access for frequent travelers worldwide.
Compensair: Flight compensation service for delays or cancellations.
Rosetta Stone: Language learning platform to learn Japanese phrases.

Departure Services

Arrive sufficiently in advance for check-in and security procedures.
Explore duty-free shopping and dining options before boarding.
Departure procedures for Japanese airports typically proceed smoothly.

Departure Planning

Arrive at the airport with sufficient time for check-in and security. Departure procedures proceed smoothly at Japanese airports. Have your passport ready.

Cultural Guidelines

Observe local customs for harmonious interactions during your travels.

Temple & Shrine Visits

Maintain quiet demeanor and wear modest clothing, covering shoulders and knees, when visiting religious sites.

Common Practices

Wash hands and rinse mouth at the purification fountain before entering.
Bow slightly when greeting or thanking people.
Remove shoes before entering temples, homes, and some restaurants.

Dining Etiquette

Dining customs are unique. Slurping noodles is acceptable, but pointing chopsticks is not.

Table Manners

Avoid sticking chopsticks upright in rice bowls.
Say 'Itadakimasu' before eating and 'Gochisousama deshita' after.
Do not pass food from chopstick to chopstick.

Public Transport Rules

Observe rules of silence and order on public transport. Reserved seating is for specific groups.

Train & Bus Courtesy

Keep phone conversations quiet or use text messaging.
Line up orderly for trains and coaches.
Offer priority seats to elderly, pregnant, or injured individuals.

Gift Giving

Small gifts (omiyage) are a tradition, especially when visiting homes or after a trip.

Presenting Gifts

Offer gifts with both hands.
Do not immediately open gifts in front of the giver.
Wrapped gifts in theegant paper are customary.

Onsen & Tattoo Guidelines

Public Bathing

Some establishments prohibit tattooed individuals.
Others may ask for tattoos to be covered with waterproof patches.
Private onsen or kashikiri (private rental baths) are tattoo-friendly.

General Politeness

Avoid loud talking in public spaces.
Dispose of trash properly; public bins are rare, carry a small bag.
Do not eat or drink while walking in public, except for specific street food areas.

Everyday Interactions

Respectful Conduct

Avoid pointing with your finger; use an open hand.
Politeness in gestures and demeanor is highly valued.
Keep noise levels low in public settings.

Social Norms

Adhere to queuing etiquette in lines.
Maintain an awareness of your surroundings.
Carry a small bag for trash as public bins are rare.

Embracing local customs enriches your travel experience. A friendly attitude and openness always receive a positive reception.

Packing Essentials

Your clothing choices depend heavily on your travel dates. Prepare a personal health kit for minor ailments.

Climate-Appropriate Clothing

Shizuoka experiences four distinct seasons, each dictating specific attire.

Seasonal Recommendations

Spring (March-May): Pack light to medium layers, including sweaters or light jackets.
Summer (June-August): Lightweight, ventilated clothing; bring a light waterproof jacket for rainy season.
Autumn (September-November): Medium layers appropriate, with long-sleeved shirts and light jackets.

Activity-Specific Attire

Tailor your gear to your planned adventures and local customs.

Practical Attire

Hiking: Pack comfortable hiking shoes, moisture-wicking clothing, and rain gear.
Swimming: Bring a swimsuit; be aware of tattoo rules at some traditional onsen.
Religious Sites: Conservative attire (shoulders and knees covered) is appropriate.

Essential Documents

Keep your important documents secure and easily accessible for the duration of your journey.

Paperwork

Passport and any necessary visa documentation.
Travel insurance policy information with emergency contacts.
International Driving Permit (if renting a car).

Health & Wellness Items

Get a... ready personal health kit for minor ailments and specific needs.

Personal Care

Destination-specific first aid kit (band-aids, pain relievers).
Prescription medications in original packaging with a doctor's note.
Insect repellent and sun protection (sunscreen, hat, sunglasses).

Packing Smart

Comfortable walking shoes are a must. Shoes easy to slip on and off are useful for places where footwear removal is customary.

Shizuoka Travel Tips