Other useful information

I cannot speak Japanese. Will it be difficult to travel in Japan?

In Japan’s major cities signage on public transport is provided in English and Japanese. Also, all Japanese people learn English from the first year of high school, some even earlier. If you are having trouble communicating with a Japanese person, you could try writing down what you want to say. Due to different accents and a lack of experience with native speakers, it is often easier for Japanese people to understand written English.You can also phone or visit one of the Tourist Information Centres or “i” Tourist Information Offices, where English speaking staff will be able to assist you.

For a full list of their locations, please see the Useful Links section on the JNTO Sydney’s website.

Can I use my mobile in Japan?

You can use your mobile phone in Japan in SoftBank Mobile or DOCOMO’s 3G (3rd Generation) service area. All you have to do is bring your own SIM card and insert it to a rental phone or your own 3G handset.

For more details, please check with your local mobile phone service provider.

Travellers’ cheques, cash or credit card? What is the best way to carry money in Japan?

Japan has one of the lowest crime rates in the world and is generally a safe place to carry cash, however travellers’ cheques remain the safest and most practical way to carry money while you are travelling. Travellers’ cheques denominated in Japanese yen or American dollars are the most practical for a visit to Japan.

For more information please check Cash, Cheques & Credit Cards.

How can I send my luggage throughout Japan?

Through out Japan, there are carrier services that operate. The major three companies are Yamato Unyuu (Kuroneko) andSagawa Express. You are able to choose what time it reaches its destination, making it rather convenient. You can send them from their service stations as well as most of the convenience stores and super markets, or you even can arrange someone to pick it up from your location.

Price ranges from about 1000yen to 5000yen per box and should be delivered in the next day or two if it is a remote area like Hokkaido and Okinawa.

From and to the Airport, you should be able to receive your luggage on the day or the next day. Prices are around 2000-4000yen depending on the operators and the destinations. If you want them to pick up your luggage in order to send it to the airport, usually you need to book 2-3days in advance and organize the pick up.

For more information on operators, please visit their website for Narita Airport and for Kansai International Airport.

Can I ask for an English-speaking guide in Japan?

Guide-interpreters may be hired through hotels as well as land operators. Licensed guides are available for interpretation in English, French, Spanish, German, Chinese, Italian, Portuguese, Russian, and Korean.If you’d like to save money, ask a volunteer guide and make arrangements for a personal tour. Groups of volunteer guides, the Goodwill Guides, are registered with JNTO and offer tourists from overseas free local tours guided in English and other languages.

Visit Guide Services section for bookings and more information on these guides.

Does my laptop work in Japan?

The voltage used throughout Japan is uniformly 100 volts AC. So first, make sure if your computer is convertible with the Japanese current. And don’t forget to bring with you a plug adapter as Japanese plugs are 2-flat-pin.At many hotels you’ll have hi-speed internet access in each room, or if not, in a business centre within a hotel. You’ll also find Internet Cafes in most major cities and other internet access points are available at some train stations and restaurants.

For internet access points in Tokyo, please see Internet Cafés & Shops with Wireless (LAN) Access Points.

For more answers to commonly asked questions, please go to the FAQ in the JNTO Tokyo’s website.