Tokyo, Japan

Spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November) offer mild weather and striking foliage, making them ideal seasons to visit. Early mornings on weekdays are usually the best time to explore major temples, parks, and viewpoints before crowds peak. Major travel periods like Golden Week in late spring and the New Year holidays often bring heavy domestic travel and selective shop closures, so check locally before planning.

Tokyo's extensive railway and subway network, operated primarily by JR East and Tokyo Metro, is the fastest way to get around. Rechargeable transit IC cards such as Suica or Pasmo, easily integrated into smartphone wallets, make tapping into trains, buses, and convenience stores effortless. Taxis and ride-hailing services are available but generally more expensive, while walking remains one of the best ways to explore individual districts.

Tokyo is widely considered one of the safest major cities in the world with very low rates of violent crime. Standard travel vigilance is still recommended in crowded nightlife areas such as Kabukicho or Roppongi late at night. For emergencies, dial 110 for police and 119 for fire or medical assistance.

The most common tourist traps involve street touts in nightlife districts enticing visitors into bars with promises of cheap drinks or entertainment, only to impose exorbitant cover charges and hidden fees. Avoid following promoters on the street into unmarked venues, and stick to well-reviewed establishments.

Tipping is not customary in Japan for restaurants, bars, taxis, or hotels, and offering extra cash can sometimes cause confusion or be politely refused. Exceptional service is built into standard hospitality, though some high-end dining spots and hotel lounges may include a service charge directly on the bill.

Credit and contactless cards are widely accepted across department stores, hotels, and major eateries, though carrying cash remains essential for smaller eateries, temple stalls, and older ticket vending machines. International debit cards can usually withdraw Japanese yen reliably from 7-Eleven (Seven Bank) and Japan Post ATMs.

Polite everyday etiquette includes speaking quietly on public transit, standing on the designated side of escalators, and packing out your own trash due to limited street bins. When dining, avoid passing food directly between chopsticks or sticking them vertically into rice, and always observe posted photography rules at sacred shrines and temples.