Ota Travel Tips. Money, Safety, Culture

Communication

Staying connected and overcoming language barriers.

Connectivity & Language

Local SIM cards: Data-only SIMs are common. Look for Mobal, b-mobile, or IIJmio. Also consider an Airalo eSIM for instant data.
Pocket Wi-Fi devices: A highly popular alternative. Portable devices Like Solis Wi-Fi create a hotspot for multiple devices, offering reliable internet.
Language: Ability to speak english varies. Google Translate (offline pack) is invaluable. Also consider Rosetta Stone for basic phrases.

Business Hours & Schedules

Navigate Yokohama's daily rhythm for shopping, dining, and activities.

Operating Times

Shops & Malls: Generally open 10:00-11:00 AM, closing 8:00-9:00 PM.
Restaurants: Lunch 11:30 AM-2:00 PM, Dinner from FIVE:30 PM. Izakayas open later.
Museums/Attractions: Typically 9:00-10:00 AM to 5:00-6:00 PM. Check specific closing days.

Etiquette & Cultural Norms

Navigate Japanese customs with respect and understanding.

Cultural Pointers

Greeting: A slight bow is customary.
Attire: Dress neatly and modestly. Shoulders/knees covered for temples.
Tipping: Not expected or customary. Slurping noodles is acceptable.

Accessibility Information

Japan has worked to enhance accessibility, especially in major cities.

Travel for All

Infrastructure: Major train stations and public places have elevators, escalators, and accessible restrooms.
Transportation: A lot of more recent buses are low-floor. Shinkansen trains feature accessible seating.
Vision/Hearing: Tactile paving helps visually impaired individuals. Announcements are bilingual on major lines.

Important Phrases

Common Greetings

Hello: Konnichiwa (Kohn-nee-chee-wah)
Thank you: Arigato gozaimasu (Ah-ree-gah-toh goh-zai-mas)
Excuse me/Sorry: Sumimasen (Soo-mee-mah-sen)
Yes/No: Hai (Hai)/Iie (Ee-eh)

Useful Questions

Please: Onegaishimasu (Oh-neh-gai-shee-mas)
Do you speak English?: Eigo o hanasemasu ka? (Ei-goh oh hah-nah-seh-mas kah?)
How do i get to...?: ...wa doko desu ka? (...wah doh-koh des-kah?)
How much?: Ikura desu ka? (Ee-koo-rah des-kah?)

Language Tip

Download Google Translate's offline Japanese language pack. This feature helps translate text and conversations even without an internet connection.

Essential Information

Know more about services and cultural features for a respectful and smooth journey.

Banking & ATMs

Bank branches operate weekdays 9 AM - 3 PM. ATMs are widely available at 7-Eleven, Lawson, FamilyMart, and Japan Post Offices, often 24/7. These ATMs reliably accept international cards. Look for "International ATM" signs.

Public Holidays

Japan observes numerous public holidays. Major businesses remain open, but transport gets crowded. Golden Week holiday period in japan (late April-early May), Obon (mid-August), and New Year (late Dec-early Jan) see peak domestic travel and some closures.

Social Norms

Speak softly on public transport. Do not eat or drink while walking. Avoid blowing your nose loudly. Do not point with your finger. Do not wear shoes indoors where prohibited. Queue in an orderly fashion.

Photography Guidelines

Observe respectful photography practices during your visit.

Photo Etiquette

Generally acceptable for scenery and landmarks.
Always ask permission before taking photos of people, especially children.
Respect "Photos Not allowed" signs in museums, temples, or private establishments.

Religious Site Conduct

Show respect at shrines and shrines to observe proper conduct.

Temple & Shrine Rules

Dress modestly; shoulders and knees covered are polite.
Speak softly and keep a calm demeanor.
Remove hats before entering main halls; sometimes shoes too.

Accessibility Features

City Infrastructure

Tactile paving (raised dots or lines) on sidewalks.
Major train stations feature elevators and escalators.
Accessible restrooms are frequently found in public facilities.

Guidance & Support

Bilingual announcements on major train lines for clarity.
Tourist information centers offer assistance.
Resources from Accessible Japan or JNTO for detailed information.

Accessibility Note

While accessibility has improved, some older areas or smaller stations might still present challenges with stairs or narrower pathways.

Cultural Insights

Understand the local culture for a more enriching and respectful visit.

Respectful Interactions

Politeness and courtesy receive high regard. A simple nod with a slight bend at the waist works for casual interactions.

Manners

Avoid talking loudly on public transport, especially trains and buses.
Do not eat or drink while hiking in public, except in designated areas.
Do not point with your finger; use an open hand to gesture.

Social Sensitivities

Japan is generally safe and welcoming.

Important Notes

Remove shoes indoors in private homes, some traditional restaurants, temples, or ryokans.
Avoid extended direct eye contact, as it can be seen as aggressive.
Public displays of affection are rare for any couples in public.

Queueing Culture

Japanese people queue in an orderly fashion. Always wait your turn in lines for public services, shops, and attractions.

Orderly Lines

Observe local queueing practices at all times.
Patience when waiting in line is an appreciated.
Maintaining personal space while queuing.

Postal Services

Japan Post offices are widespread, easily recognizable by their red and white logo. They deliver reliable postal services for both domestic and overseas mail.

Services Available

Sending postcards and letters home.
Shipping larger parcels or souvenirs internationally.
Many post offices also host ATMs that accept international credit and debit cards.