MileHacker Logo
Toyama Travel Tips

Toyama Travel Tips

Toyama Japan Travel Guide

Mobile Connectivity

Staying connected on your trip.

SIM Cards & Wi-Fi

  • Tourist SIM cards are available at airports and electronics stores.
  • Pocket Wi-Fi devices offer portable internet for multiple devices.
  • Free Wi-Fi at Toyama Station, cafes, and hotels.

Language & Translation

Bridging the language gap for a smoother journey.

Language Aids

  • Official language is Japanese. English proficiency is limited.
  • Google Translate & DeepL are recommended; download offline Japanese packs.
  • Carry a small phrasebook for basic greetings and expressions.

Postal Services

Japan Post offices are numerous, efficient, and reliable for sending postcards and offers.

Sending Mail

  • Identifiable by red post boxes.
  • Main post offices offer international shipping.
  • Typically open 9:12:00 AM to 5:00 am:00 PM on weekdays.

Essential Phrases

Making an effort to speak a few Japanese words is always appreciated.

Expressions

  • Hello: Konnichiwa (こんにちわ)
  • Thank you: Arigato gozaimasu (ありがとうございます)
  • Excuse me/I'm sorry: Sumimasen (すみません)

Connectivity & Language Resources

Connectivity Tools

  • For seamless global connectivity, consider Airalo eSIMs.
  • Stay connected on the go with Solis Wi-Fi portable devices.
  • Improve your Japanese phrases with Rosetta Stone.
  • Consider offline maps for limited coverage areas.

Essential Phrases continued

  • Yes: Hai (はい)
  • No: Iie (いいえ)
  • Please: Onegaishimasu (お願いします)
  • Do you speak English?: Eigo o hanasemasu ka? (英語を話せますか?)

Language Tip:

While English is not widespread, making an effort to use basic Japanese phrases fosters positive interactions with locals.

Business Hours & Schedules

This section guides you through typical operating hours for businesses, banking accessibility, and airport services to streamline your arrival and departure.

Retail Store Hours

Generally open from 10:00 AM to 8:00 PM. Large retail stores may close earlier.

Restaurant Operating Hours

Food FROM 11:30 AM-2:00 PM. Dinner 5:00 PM-9:00 PM. Izakayas may open later.

Convenience Stores

Many Konbini are open ALL day and night, offering food, drinks, and various services.

Banking & ATMs

Access to financial services throughout your trip.

Financial Access

  • Banks typically operate 9:00 AM to 3:00 PM on weekdays.
  • ATMs are widely available from a post office and 7-Eleven convenience stores.
  • Most ATMs accept international cards, allowing convenient cash withdrawals 24/7.

Public Holidays & Travel Periods

Anticipate crowds and plan bookings in advance.

Peak Travel Times

  • The Golden week holidays (late April/the First part of may): A very popular domestic travel period.
  • Obon (mid-August): Many Japanese travel to ancestral homes.
  • New Year (late December/early January): Another significant travel period.

Airport Services for Travelers

Lounge Access

  • Enjoy airport lounge access worldwide with Priority Pass.
  • Independent airport lounge access for frequent travelers.
  • A relaxed environment prior to your flight.

Flight Compensation

  • For flight delays or cancellations, Compensair assists with compensation claims.
  • Service for flight delays, cancellations, or refused entry onto the plane.
  • Simplifies the process of receiving your due compensation.

Seasonal Closures:

Some attractions, especially in mountainous areas like the Tateyama Kurobe Alpine Route, close during winter (November to mid-April) due to heavy snow.

Etiquette & Cultural Norms

Engaging respectfully with Toyama's culture enriches your travel experience and honors local traditions.

Greeting & Attire

Cultural Courtesy

  • Bowing is the standard greeting and a sign of respect.
  • Neat and modest attire for most sightseeing. Remove hats indoors.
  • Dressing respectfully demonstrates consideration.

Dining Practices

Navigate Japanese dining with these cultural norms.

Table Manners

  • Tipping is not customary in Japan.
  • Slurping noodles is acceptable; it indicates enjoyment.
  • Use the provided wet towel (Oshibori) to clean your hands before eating.

Photography & Taboos

Respectful Photography

  • Get consent before taking pictures of people, children in particular.
  • Some sites prohibit photography (look for a crossed-out camera icon).
  • Avoid pointing with a single finger; use an open hand.

Sensitive Topics & Public Conduct

Navigate social engagement with awareness of cultural sensitivities.

General Guidelines

  • Public displays of affection are generally frowned upon.
  • Tattoos have historical associations; some Onsen may prohibit entry.
  • Avoid loud talking or boisterous behavior in public spaces.

Gender & LGBTQ+ Considerations

Societal Norms

  • Japan is generally a conservative society.
  • Same-sex marriage is not legally recognized nationally.
  • Some cities (Toyama from 2024) offer partnership certificates.

Travel Advice

  • Being discreet is advised in some areas due to varying public acceptance.
  • Toyama City is generally safe and welcoming for all travelers.
  • Public acceptance varies all over the nation.

Accessibility Information

Infrastructure Improvements

  • Newer facilities, Toyama Station, and some public transport have ramps and elevators.
  • Older buildings plus boutiques may yet have steps.
  • Contact transport companies in advance for assistance.

Accessible Attractions

  • Toyama Glass Art Museum and Fugan Unga Kansui Park are accessible.
  • Shinkansen trains provide accessible, with specialized wheelchair spaces.
  • Tactile paving blocks assist those with visual impairments.

Accessibility Resources:

Check specific attraction websites for detailed information. The Toyama City tourism office provides guidance. Accessible Japan offers general information.

Sustainable & Responsible Travel

By practicing sustainable and responsible travel, you help preserve these treasures for future generations and contribute positively to the local community.

Protected Areas & Conservation

Protecting Toyama's natural environment, from its mountains to its bay.

Conservation Initiatives

  • Chubu Sangaku National Park: Tateyama area has firm conservation rules.
  • Toyama Bay: Unique marine ecosystem recognized for biodiversity.
  • Respect designated trails, avoid littering, do not disturb wildlife.

Waste Management & Recycling

Japan has a highly organized and strict sorting trash system.

Recycling Practices

  • Familiarize yourself with waste categories: burnable, non-burnable, plastic.
  • Use designated bins correctly; public bins can be scarce.
  • Carry a small bag for your trash until you find appropriate bins.

Water Conservation Issues

Water conservation is generally not a major issue in Toyama due to abundant water resources.

Mindful Water Usage

  • Utilize water thoughtfully during your stay.
  • Abundant water flows from the mountains.
  • Good practices contribute to regional sustainability.

Carbon Offset Options

Lower your carbon footprint when traveling.

Sustainable Transportation

  • Choose trains (like Shinkansen) over short-haul flights.
  • Rail travel generally has a lower carbon footprint.
  • Some airlines offer carbon offset programs for flights.

Environmental Awareness:

Familiarize yourself with Japan's strict separating waste system and use designated bins correctly.

Next Up: Sustainable Travel in Toyama. Eco-Friendly, Responsible Tourism, Conservation