Itabashi Travel Tips. Money, Safety, Culture

Mobile Connectivity

Data-only SIM cards or eSIMs from major providers (Docomo, SoftBank, au) deliver convenient mobile internet. Airalo presents eSIM options.

Reliable Internet Access

Portable Wi-Fi devices offer consistent coverage. Solis Wi-Fi is a portable option.
Free Wi-Fi in public spaces can be inconsistent.
Ensure your phone is unlocked and compatible with Japanese LTE.

Language & Logistics

Japan Post delivers efficient services for postcards and packages. Stamps are available in post offices and corner shops.

Translation Resources

Google Translate and DeepL apps (download offline packs).
A Japanese phrasebook for basic interactions.
Visual cues and menus with photos assist communication.

Essential Japanese Phrases

Basic phrases show respect and simplicity interactions, making your journey smoother.

Greetings

Konnichiwa (kon-nee-chee-wah): Hello (general greeting).
Arigato gozaimasu (ah-ree-gah-toh goh-zai-mas): Thank you (polite).
Sumimasen (soo-mee-mah-sen): Excuse me / Sorry.

Useful Phrases

These phrases assist in making requests or asking about prices during your travels.

Asking & Requesting

Onegaishimasu (oh-neh-gah-ee-shee-mas): Please (when making a request).
Hai (hai): Yes.
Iie (ee-eh): No.

Traveler's Dialogue

Common Questions

Eigo ga hanasemasu ka? (Do you speak English?)
Ikura desu ka? (How much is it?)
Wakarimasu (I understand).
Wakarimasen (I do not understand).

Dining & Gratitude

Itadakimasu (Let's eat/I receive).
Gochisousama Deshita (Thank you for the meal).
Oishii (oh-ee-shee): Delicious!
Sumimasen (Excuse me/Sorry for bumping).

Language Tip

English proficiency varies; major tourist areas offer more support. Having a translation app or phrasebook is a good resource.

Operating Hours & Holidays

Understand typical schedules to plan your activities effectively.

Retail Shops

Generally open from 10:00 AM to 8:00 PM (20:00). Big stores sometimes have shorter hours.

Restaurants

Lunch 11:00 AM - 3:00 PM; Dinner 5:00 PM - 11:00 PM. Many close between lunch and dinner service.

Convenience Stores

Most convenience stores (konbini) operate 24/7 for your daily needs.

Banking & ATMs

Banks operate 9:00 AM - 3:00 PM on weekdays. They are closed on weekends and public holidays.

ATM Accessibility

ATMs are widely available 24/7 at convenience stores.
Post office ATMs also accept foreign credit cards.
Look for 7-Eleven, Lawson, FamilyMart for easy access.

Attraction Schedules

Museums and attractions typically open 9:00 AM/10:00 AM to 4:00 PM/5:00 PM.

Important Notes

Many attractions close one day a week, often Monday.
Always check official websites for current hours and closures.
Some outdoor or smaller businesses have seasonal changes.

Public Holidays & Impact

Major Holiday Periods

Golden Week (late April/early May): Crowded travel periods.
Obon (mid-August): Many Japanese travel to hometowns.
New Year (late Dec/early Jan): Lots of companies close.

Traveler Considerations

Expect higher prices for flights and accommodation.
Some businesses may close or operate with reduced hours.
Plan and book ahead during these popular times.

Planning Note

Always find out when it's open and holiday schedules for specific locations before your visit to ensure a smooth trip.

Etiquette & Cultural Norms

Navigating local customs with respect for a harmonious visit.

Greeting Customs

Bowing is common; a slight head nod is usually enough for visitors. Avoid hugging or kissing as public greetings unless with close friends.

Reminders

Observe and imitate local greetings.
Personal space is valued.
Listen more, speak less initially.

Appropriate Attire

Neat and tidy clothing is generally appreciated. For temples and shrines, wear modest clothing that covers shoulders and knees.

Dress Code

Modest clothing for places of worship and shrines.
Remove hats when entering temples or shrines.
Easy-to-remove shoes are practical for many venues.

Dining & Tipping Practices

Tipping is not customary and can be considered impolite. Use "Itadakimasu" and "Gochisousama Deshita" before and after meals.

Mealtime Manners

Do not stick chopsticks upright in rice.
Avoid loud conversations in restaurants.
Use serving utensils for communal dishes.

Photography & Privacy

Always ask permission before photographing people, especially children. Look for signs indicating photography restrictions.

Respectful Snaps

Many sites prohibit or restrict photography.
Be mindful of privacy in residential areas.
Observe visible signs at attractions.

Taboos & Sensitive Topics

General Considerations

Avoid speaking loudly on public transport.
Do not point with your finger; use an open hand.
Remove shoes when entering homes, ryokan, some temples.

Cultural Sensitivities

Refrain from talking on the phone on public transport.
Avoid controversial political or social topics with strangers.
Hand money with both hands in shops.

Gender & LGBTQ+ Information

Social Context

Japan is generally tolerant, with advancing LGBTQ+ rights.
Tokyo, including Itabashi, is generally safe and accepting.
Major cities present visible LGBTQ+ communities.

Areas

Shinjuku Ni-chome is a prominent LGBTQ+ district.
Society remains relatively conservative in some aspects.
Enjoy an inviting ambiance in diverse venues.

Cultural Awareness

Adhering to local customs significantly enhances your experience and shows respect for Japanese culture.

Accessibility Guide

Tokyo strives for inclusive travel with efforts to advance accessibility.

Mobility Infrastructure

Tokyo's infrastructure is increasingly accessible. Most major train stations feature elevators, escalators, and accessible restrooms.

Urban Mobility

Newer buildings often have ramps and wider doorways.
Station staff provide help for boarding and navigation.
Public facilities prioritize ease of movement.

Accessible Destinations

Many major tourist attractions in central Tokyo have ramps or lifts. Public transportation, especially newer models, is becoming more wheelchair accessible.

Journey & Sightseeing

Newer trains and buses offer better access.
Station staff are generally helpful.
attractions ensure ease of access.

Visual & Hearing Support

Tactile paving (Braille blocks) on sidewalks and in stations guides visually impaired individuals. Audio announcements are common.

Navigation Aids

Widespread yellow tactile paving for guidance.
Audio announcements, sometimes multilingual.
Some public service staff know basic sign language.

Accessibility Resources

Several organizations deliver valuable information for travelers with disabilities to aid in planning.

Helpful Platforms

Accessible Japan website offers detailed guides.
JNTO (Japan National Tourism Organization) website for information.
Local organizations promoting accessible travel.

Proactive Planning

Communicating your unique needs clearly before and during your trip assists a smoother experience.

Pre-arrival check

Contact accommodations directly for specific needs.

On-site assistance

Station staff are ready to help with navigation.

Smooth journey

Clear communication ensures a comfortable trip.

Accessible Travel Insight

While facilities are advancing, proactively requesting assistance at stations or attractions delivers a smoother experience.

Itabashi Travel Tips