20 Traveling to Tokyo Japan Tips: Your Mom Squad’s Survival Guide for an Epic Family Adventure
Tokyo, japan’s capital, located in central tokyo, is a city where ancient traditions blend with cutting-edge technology, creating one of the world’s most fascinating destinations. As you plan your Japanese adventure, it helps to be prepared for the unique customs, transportation systems, and cultural experiences that await. With some advance planning and insider knowledge, your Tokyo trip can be less overwhelming and more enjoyable than you ever imagined.
We’ve been there – standing in the middle of Shibuya Crossing, feeling both amazed and a bit lost! That’s why we’ve put together these travel tips to help you navigate everything from subway systems to shibuya station and tokyo station and top attractions like proper shrine etiquette. Whether it’s your first time visiting or you’re returning to explore more of this incredible city, these pointers will help you feel more confident and ready to soak up all the magic Tokyo has to offer.
1) Pack comfy shoes for endless Tokyo adventures!
Let’s talk real talk about shoes for Tokyo, friends! We cannot stress this enough – your feet will thank you for bringing super comfy shoes to experience japanese cuisine and green tea in Japan. You’ll be walking WAY more than you think!
Most of us hit around 20,000 steps daily when exploring Tokyo. That’s like a mini marathon every single day! So those cute but painful heels? Leave ’em at home!
We’ve learned (sometimes the hard way) that you should never wear brand new shoes on your trip. Break in your walking shoes for at least a month before you go. Blisters can ruin even the most magical Tokyo day, especially when you’re trying to enjoy a meal at small restaurants or a japanese restaurant!
Also, consider shoes that slip on and off easily. You’ll be taking them off at temples, traditional restaurants, and many accommodations. Nothing kills the vibe like struggling with complicated laces twenty times a day!
Some of our faves? Many travelers swear by New Balance 1080s for cloud-like comfort. Converse high tops have worked great for others of us!
Pro tip: Switch between two pairs of shoes during your trip to give each pair time to air out. Your feet (and everyone around you) will appreciate it!
2) Grab that JR Rail Pass before flying to Japan – trust me, it’s a lifesaver.
Hey mama, if you’re planning a trip to Japan, we’ve got a golden tip for you! The Japan Rail Pass (JR Pass) is seriously our favorite travel hack for exploring this amazing country, especially when you arrive at haneda airport or narita international airport.
You need to buy this magical pass BEFORE you land in Japan. Why? Because it’s only available to foreign tourists and you can save major yen! We learned this the hard way on our first trip, and we don’t want you making the same mistake.
The JR Pass gives you unlimited access to most JR trains across the country, including those speedy bullet trains (Shinkansen) that are otherwise super pricey. It’s perfect if you’re planning to visit multiple cities during your stay, especially with the convenience of the jr pass and access to free wifi.
The pass comes in different time periods – 7, 14, or 21 days. We usually go for the 7-day pass because it covers most vacation timeframes and gives the best value.
Some travelers wonder if it’s worth the upfront cost. Let us tell you – if you’re making even just a round trip between Tokyo and Kyoto, you’ve basically covered the cost already! Plus, it makes day trips from Tokyo so much easier and stress-free.
3) Tokyo’s public transport is epic, but watch those pricey taxis!
We absolutely love Tokyo’s public transportation system – it’s seriously one of the best in the world! The local train and subways are super clean, incredibly reliable, and can take you pretty much anywhere in the city.
Getting a Suica or PASMO IC card is a total game-changer! These rechargeable smart cards let you hop on and off different train lines to yoyogi park without buying separate tickets each time. So convenient, right?
The subway map might look like a crazy rainbow spaghetti mess at first (we’ve been there!), but trust us, you’ll get the hang of it quickly. Most signs are in English too, which is super helpful!
But here’s our friendly warning – taxis in Tokyo can drain your wallet faster than you can say “arigatou”! A 15-minute taxi ride costs between ¥2,000-3,000, which adds up quickly if you’re traveling with your family.
For that same ¥700 per person, you could ride the train for about an hour! Taxis are great for those late-night emergencies or when the little ones are having meltdowns, but for everyday sightseeing, the trains are your BFFs!
4) Don’t leave without some hand sanitizer – Tokyo’s crowded, germy hands everywhere!
Tokyo, a populous metropolis with a lively atmosphere, is amazing, but let’s be real – it’s crowded! We’ve found ourselves squished like sardines on trains during rush hour more times than we can count, especially when traveling near the sumida river .
All those people mean lots of touching the same surfaces. From train handles to vending machine buttons, our hands come in contact with thousands of other people’s germs daily, especially after touching fresh seafood at market stalls !
Hand sanitizer is our absolute BFF when visiting Tokyo, especially after exploring a beautiful japanese garden . We always keep a small bottle in our purse or backpack for quick clean-ups after riding the subway or before eating street food.
Japanese convenience stores (konbini) do sell sanitizer, but the labels are often in Japanese. We recommend bringing your favorite brand from home to avoid any translation issues.
Trust us, you’ll feel so much better pulling out that sanitizer after holding onto a subway pole that’s been touched by who-knows-how-many people that day! It’s such a simple thing, but it makes such a huge difference in helping us stay healthy during our adventures, especially after visiting the vibrant fish market .
5) Stay in Shinjuku or Shibuya to be in the middle of the action!
When we visited Tokyo, we discovered that where you stay makes a huge difference! Shinjuku and Shibuya are two neighborhoods that put you right in the heart of Tokyo’s excitement.
Shinjuku is frequently recommended for first-time visitors, and we totally see why! It’s super accessible, affordable, and there’s always something happening around you in the shopping district .
We love that Shinjuku has amazing shopping, tons of restaurants, and the nightlife is seriously unmatched. The area is perfect for bar hopping, nightclubs, izakaya experiences, and visiting a shopping mall.
Shibuya is our other top pick! That famous crossing isn’t the only cool thing there. The train station is faster to navigate than Shinjuku’s massive one, which is a huge plus when you’re tired after sightseeing all day.
Both areas have tons of hotel options for every budget. The best part? If you stay in one, you can easily visit the other—they’re just a very short train ride apart!
Just avoid hotels on the quieter sides of these neighborhoods so you don’t have a long walk home after your fun nights out at tiny bars !
6) Always check what time the last train leaves – you don’t wanna be stranded!
Listen up, friends! There’s nothing worse than having a blast in Tokyo only to realize you’ve missed the last train home. Been there, done that, and trust us—it’s not fun!
Most trains in Tokyo stop running around midnight, with the final departures typically between 12:30 and 1 am. This can catch travelers off guard if you’re used to 24-hour transit systems back home!
We always recommend checking the specific last departure time for your route. Apps like Japan Travel by Navitime are total lifesavers for this—seriously, download them before your trip!
If you do miss the last train, you have options! Taxis and Ubers are available, but they can get pricey compared to trains. Some of us have crashed at internet cafes or karaoke rooms until the first morning train (around 5 am).
Remember that bus systems might finish even earlier than trains in some areas. We always make a habit of checking our return options before heading out for a night of fun near the fish market !
7) Hey, Tokyo’s super safe, but keep an eye out for sneaky scams.
Tokyo is one of the safest cities we’ve ever visited, but even paradise has a few sneaky characters!
We don’t want to scare you, but it’s better to be prepared than sorry.
Those cute little bars in Golden Gai or Shinjuku might lure you in with friendly staff, but some places hit tourists with unexpected high cover charges. Always check prices before ordering!
Ever had someone approach you for an English conversation? Sometimes this is legit, but occasionally it leads to overpriced bars or restaurants near the sumida river . Trust your gut if something feels off, especially near the emperor meiji and meiji shrine.
Watch out for street distractions too! While Tokyo isn’t known for pickpockets, the classic “look over there!” trick works worldwide.
Keep your belongings close, especially in crowded areas.
Fake monks asking for donations? Yeah, they’re in Tokyo too. Real monks don’t typically aggressively pursue donations from tourists.
We promise Tokyo is incredibly safe, but staying alert helps ensure your trip stays magical!
Just a tiny bit of caution goes a long way in keeping your adventure awesome.
8) Pick Haneda over Narita – it’s the smoother airport experience
When we’re planning our Tokyo adventures, the airport choice, especially the accessibility of tokyo station, can make a huge difference in how our trip starts!
Haneda Airport is our top pick because it’s only about 14 kilometers from central Tokyo, meaning we can reach the city in just 20-30 minutes by train or taxi. So convenient!
Narita might offer cheaper flights sometimes, but the savings might not be worth the extra travel time.
Trust us, after a long international flight, the last thing we want is another hour-plus journey to finally reach our hotel!
Haneda typically has shorter wait times and a smoother overall experience since it handles fewer international arrivals compared to Narita.
Less time in immigration lines means more time exploring Tokyo’s amazing sights!
For those of us traveling for business, Haneda is almost always the better option due to its proximity to Tokyo’s business districts. But honestly, it’s better for leisure travelers too!
We know choosing flights isn’t always about convenience—budget matters too!
But if you can swing it, the tokyo metro option will start your Tokyo adventure on the right foot with way less stress.
9) Window shopping in Omotesando? Yes, please!
Omotesando is one of Tokyo’s trendiest spots and we’re absolutely obsessed with it!
Even if shopping isn’t your thing, this area is worth a visit just for the stunning modern architecture lining the streets and the observation decks .
Located right next to Shibuya, this boutique shopping area is packed with high-end stores, adorable cafes, and aesthetically pleasing shops that are perfect for your Instagram feed. Trust us, it’s a feast for the eyes!
Don’t worry if your budget doesn’t stretch to buying designer goods.
We love just strolling through and admiring the beautiful window displays and unique store designs. It’s like visiting a free fashion museum!
Omotesando is known as one of the world’s fashion hubs, showcasing everything from kawaii Harajuku styles to sophisticated luxury brands.
The wide, tree-lined boulevard gives off major Parisian vibes!
When our feet get tired from all that window shopping, we always stop at one of the cute cafes near tokyo bay or even at yoyogi park for a refreshing drink and some quality people-watching.
The fashion-forward locals provide endless style inspiration!
10) Walk, walk, walk! It’s the best way to discover Tokyo’s secrets.
Tokyo is absolutely magical on foot! We’ve found that walking is hands-down the best way to uncover those hidden spots you’ll never see from a train window.
When we visited Tokyo last year, we ditched the subway one afternoon and just started walking in a random direction, eventually spotting the tokyo tower!
That’s how we stumbled upon the cutest little ramen shop tucked between office buildings!
One of the best tips we’ve heard is to take a random direction with fewer people and see where it leads you. Tokyo rewards curious wanderers!
The city has countless undiscovered streets and secluded sanctuaries that you’d totally miss otherwise.
We’re talking tiny shrines, quirky shops, and food spots that aren’t in any guidebook.
Wear your comfiest shoes, girls! Tokyo neighborhoods change character within just a few blocks.
One minute you’re in busy Shibuya, and the next you’re in a peaceful residential area with blooming cherry trees.
Just keep your phone charged for maps and photos. And remember to bring any garbage back to your hotel since Tokyo has very few public trash cans!
11) Stock up on yen – many spots are cash-only, shocking but true!
Okay ladies, this one blew our minds! Despite Japan being super high-tech in so many ways, cash is still QUEEN there, especially in the kanto region !
We were totally surprised when many restaurants, small shops, and even some tourist spots wouldn’t take our cards.
Before you go, we highly recommend withdrawing about $300-400 cash at an ATM in Japan when you land. Just remember to notify your bank about your travel plans first!
Some travelers suggest pulling out about 50,000 yen at the airport ATM for a two-week trip. This should cover your cash needs and transit top-ups.
Is carrying cash really that important? 100% yes!
Japan is slowly moving toward narita airport cashless options, but trust us, that change isn’t happening anytime soon.
We learned this the hard way when we couldn’t buy those adorable Hello Kitty souvenirs because the shop near sensoji temple was cash-only!
Don’t make our mistake, mamas! Keep that yen handy for those unexpected cash-only moments!
12) Geeking out over anime? Akihabara’s your dream world!
OMG, if you or your kids are anime obsessed, we just HAVE to tell you about Akihabara!
This neighborhood in Tokyo is literally anime heaven and will blow your mind!
When we visited with our teenager (who knows WAY more about manga than we ever will), we were totally overwhelmed by the amazing energy.
Locals call it “Akiba” and it’s absolutely bursting with everything geeky your heart desires!
You’ll find endless anime merchandise, manga bookstores, and the cutest character cafés ever. Our daughter nearly fainted when she spotted rare collectibles from her favorite series!
The famous Otaku culture is on full display here.
We spent hours watching pro gamers in massive arcades that make our mall arcades look like nothing!
Don’t miss the quirky maid cafés where staff dress in costumes and treat you like royalty.
Our shy tween actually had the BEST time getting her photo taken with the characters.
We’d recommend setting aside at least half a day to explore this wonderland.
Trust us – even if you’re not an anime fan yourself, seeing your kids’ faces light up in geek paradise is totally worth it!
13) Be polite and practice saying ‘Arigato!’ in stores
When shopping in Tokyo, one of the easiest ways to connect with locals is by using simple Japanese phrases. The word “Arigato” (thank you) goes a long way in stores and restaurants!
Don’t stress about perfect pronunciation – Japanese people appreciate tourists who make an effort.
For extra politeness points, try the more formal version “Arigato gozaimasu” which can be used in any situation, no matter how formal or casual.
We found that saying thank you in Japanese after a purchase made shopkeepers smile and sometimes even led to better service. It’s such a small gesture but makes a huge difference in how locals perceive you!
When leaving a restaurant or shop, it’s also proper etiquette to express your thanks.
Don’t overthink it though! As one traveler puts it, in Japan “it’s cool to say arigatō whenever someone helps you” – just go with the flow!
14) No trash cans around? Hold onto that litter like it’s gold!
One of the biggest shocks we experienced in Tokyo was the serious lack of public trash cans! It’s wild but true – Japan somehow maintains super clean streets despite having very few places to toss your garbage.
What’s a tourist to do?
Always carry a small plastic bag in your purse or backpack! We learned this trick the hard way after walking for what felt like miles with empty drink bottles.
Convenience stores (or “conbinis” as they’re called) are your best friends. They usually have trash and recycling bins you can use. Train stations and public toilets often have them too!
Remember that walking while eating isn’t really done in Japan. Most people finish their snacks where they buy them, which helps explain the lack of bins.
We got into the habit of keeping our trash until getting back to our hotel.
This might sound annoying, but it’s just part of respecting local customs. Plus, how cool is it that everyone follows this rule and keeps Tokyo sparkling clean?
15) Late night ramen in Tokyo? You bet your noodles it’s a must!
Hungry at midnight in Tokyo? No problem! Late night ramen spots are totally a thing and we’re here to tell you they’re an essential Tokyo experience.
After a fun night out, nothing hits the spot like a steaming bowl of ramen.
Tokyo has tons of spots that stay open into the wee hours for your noodle fix. Some places like Ichiran Ramen even operate 24 hours!
The late-night ramen scene has a special vibe that’s different from daytime dining.
Picture yourself slurping noodles at 1 AM surrounded by locals doing the same thing. So authentic!
If you’re near Ikebukuro, we highly recommend checking out Kikanbo. The spicy miso ramen will knock your socks off! Another great option is near Kanda Station.
Some spots like Nakiryu are super popular and have even earned Michelin stars!
Just be prepared – the best places often have lines, even late at night.
Don’t worry about the language barrier. Most ramen joints have ticket machines with pictures, making ordering a breeze even when you’re tired!
16) Get a local SIM card for easy Googling and ‘Gram sharing
Staying connected while exploring Tokyo is super important! We totally recommend grabbing a Japan SIM card to keep your phone working throughout your adventure.
The easiest places to snag one?
Major airports like Narita and Haneda have SIM card vending machines right when you land! No need to panic about finding your way to your hotel without Google Maps. Phew!
We’ve tried Mobal on previous trips, and it worked amazingly well!
Setup was a breeze, and it started working almost immediately after landing. Talk about hassle-free!
For 2025 travelers, there are both physical SIM cards and eSIM options available depending on what your phone supports.
eSIMs are super convenient since you can set them up before even leaving home!
Trust us, having data access means you can translate menus, navigate Tokyo’s maze-like streets, and share those epic Tokyo Skytree selfies instantly, especially if you’re planning a trip to mount fuji ! Your friends back home will be so jealous of your ramen pics!
17) Tuned into Harajuku fashion? Take notes on those streets!
OMG, Harajuku is absolutely THE place to feast your eyes on the wildest fashion trends! We couldn’t believe the creativity when we first visited this fashion paradise in Tokyo.
Harajuku street style is like nothing you’ve ever seen before! Think bright colors, mixed patterns, and outfits that will make your jaw drop. It’s a total vibe!
When you visit, make sure to wander down Takeshita Street, the hub of Japanese pop culture. This pedestrian-only street is where all the magic happens!
We recommend bringing your camera to capture these looks and the amazing cosplay culture for inspiration.
The locals are usually super friendly about photos if you ask politely!
Don’t just stick to the main drag though.
If you roam around the side streets, you’ll discover amazing thrift shops and hidden boutiques with unique pieces.
While you’re there, why not try on something bold? Step out of your comfort zone, mama! Harajuku is all about self-expression and having fun with fashion.
18) Have a plan, but be ready for all the jazz Tokyo throws your way.
Tokyo is a place where having a plan is super helpful, but being flexible is absolutely essential! We’ve found that the best approach is to outline your must-sees but leave room for surprise adventures.
Sometimes the train might run late (rarely, but it happens!), or you might stumble upon a random street festival that’s just too awesome to skip.
Don’t make the mistake of cramming too many cities into one trip.
We suggest having a loose daily itinerary with 2-3 major activities planned.
This gives you wiggle room when you inevitably spot that quirky café or get lost in the backstreets of Shimokitazawa.
Weather can be unpredictable too!
Always have a rainy day backup plan like shopping in underground malls or visiting museums.
Planning a trip to Japan means being prepared but not rigid.
The magic of Tokyo often happens in those unplanned moments – like when we discovered an amazing basement ramen shop because our original dinner spot was closed. These happy accidents become the stories we tell forever!
19) Sumo wrestling matches? Totally epic and totally Tokyo!
We absolutely love a good sumo match when visiting Tokyo! The imperial palace is one of those uniquely Japanese experiences you just can’t miss. There’s nothing quite like watching these powerful athletes battle it out in the ring.
Sumo tournaments in Tokyo happen three times a year – January, May, and September.
The 2024 Tokyo tournaments are scheduled for January 14-28, May 12-26, and September 8-22. If you’re lucky enough to be there during these times, you’ve hit the jackpot!
Don’t worry if your visit doesn’t align with tournament dates.
You can still experience sumo by visiting Ryogoku, the heart of sumo in Tokyo. It’s where most sumo stables are located and near edo castle as well .
Getting tickets can be tricky but so worth it!
Remember to bring cash as credit cards aren’t always accepted at the venue.
Pro tip: arrive early for the best experience!
We found the atmosphere absolutely electric – the crowd’s reactions, the traditional rituals, and those heart-stopping matches had us on the edge of our seats. It’s honestly one of our favorite Tokyo memories!
20) Bring a translator app – saving face when all else fails!
Traveling in Japan without knowing Japanese isn’t as scary as it sounds! We’ve found that most tourists don’t need to hire a translator for their trip. It’s totally doable with just some tech help!
Google Translate is our absolute bestie when navigating Tokyo! This free app has saved our butts countless times when trying to order food or ask for directions. We just type in English, show the Japanese translation to locals, and voilà – communication magic!
The camera feature is seriously life-changing when you’re staring at a menu full of characters you can’t read. Just point your phone at the text and it translates right before your eyes!
Many travelers have told us that navigation gets easier after the first day. Don’t stress if you feel overwhelmed at first!
Pro tip: Keep your translations super short and simple. Complex sentences can get weird real fast! And when locals see you pull out your translator app, they immediately understand you’re trying your best!
Getting Around Tokyo
Tokyo’s transportation system might seem overwhelming at first, but we promise it’s actually super efficient once you get the hang of it! The city offers multiple ways to explore, from trains to buses to walking, making it easy to see all the amazing sights.
Navigating Public Transportation
Let’s be real – Tokyo’s train and subway system is your best friend when visiting! The network is incredibly extensive and can get you pretty much anywhere you want to go.
We found Google Maps works perfectly for navigating the system, so definitely grab an eSIM before your trip (we loved Airalo!).
Don’t stress about the language barrier either. Most stations, including shinagawa station, have English signage and color-coded lines that make finding your way around super simple. The trains are reliable and affordable too!
For longer distances, consider these options:
- JR Narita Express – perfect for airport transfers
- Japan Rail Pass – great for travelers planning to visit multiple cities
- Airport bus – a budget-friendly alternative from the airports
Using IC Cards Like a Pro
Okay, here’s our #1 tip: get yourself a Suica card ASAP! These magical little IC cards are total game-changers for getting around Tokyo.
Instead of buying individual tickets for every ride (so tedious!), just tap your card at the gates and go!
You can purchase Suica cards at most major stations from ticket machines (they have English options!). Load them up with yen, and you’re good to go!
We love that you can use them for:
- Trains and subways
- Buses
- Convenience store purchases
- Vending machines
The best part? No more fumbling with paper tickets or trying to figure out fares! Just tap, go, and enjoy Tokyo. When your balance gets low, just reload at any station. So convenient, we promise you’ll wonder how you ever traveled without one!
Cultural Etiquette Essentials
Japanese culture has some unique customs that’ll make your Tokyo trip so much smoother! We’ve found that understanding these basics helps avoid awkward moments and shows respect for local traditions.
Mastering Chopstick Skills
Let’s talk chopsticks, friends! Before heading to Tokyo, we highly recommend practicing your chopstick skills.
Don’t stick them upright in your rice (this resembles funeral rituals) or pass food directly from your chopsticks to someone else’s (another funeral custom). Yikes!
When you’re not using them, rest chopsticks on the holder provided or place them neatly across your bowl. If you’re struggling, it’s totally okay to ask for a fork! Most restaurants are super understanding with tourists.
Pro tip: Never point with chopsticks or use them to spear food. And please don’t rub wooden chopsticks together – this suggests you think they’re cheap! We learned this one the hard way, trust us!
Bowing and Greeting Tips
Bowing is a huge part of Japanese culture, but don’t stress about getting it perfect! A slight bow (about 15 degrees) works for most casual situations.
The deeper the bow, the more respect you’re showing.
When meeting someone, a simple “Konnichiwa” (hello) with a small bow is perfect. Japanese people don’t expect visitors to nail every cultural nuance! We’ve found they really appreciate even small efforts.
Avoid physical contact like hugs or handshakes unless the other person initiates. Personal space is valued in Japan!
Also, try to speak softly in public, especially on public transport where loud conversations are considered rude.
Remember – being punctual is super important! Arriving late is seen as disrespectful, so we always aim to be 5-10 minutes early for appointments.
