Japan is on the east side of the globe. It is a country that exemplifies phoenix as it literally rose from ashes to its present stature. The country is one of the most advanced ones in the present times. It is said that the country is not meant for all as the manner rules and lifestyle of this landmark on the eastern globe are quite different. So, when you are planning to visit the capital of Japan, Tokyo, keep these things in mind:
- Opt for international flight
An international flight to Tokyo is a treat that you would be thanking yourself for later. International flights like ones run by Cathay Pacific are studded with state-of-the-art features. These flights offer more spacious seats, great food and drinks, movie collection, personal TVs at the back of all seats and etc. All these features add to the comfort of the travel. Some flights have informative documentaries about the city of Tokyo that you can catch while on the way to know this destination better.
- Have cash in hand and lots of it
The economy of Japan is still cash-based largely. Your credit cards or Forex cards are going to have limited utilities, as you will be asked for cash payments at most of the places. Thus, before you head to Tokyo city, make sure that you have got ample currency exchanged to have comfortable stay in the city.
- Know about JR pass and how to get it
JR Pass or Japan Rail Pass is useful when you are planning to move out of Tokyo to some other city. This pass is costlier than subway ticket. If you have no plans to go out of Tokyo and need moving within city only, you can avoid having JR Pass. For those who need it, JR Pass offers access to all slow and fast trains of Japan railway system. It costs $250 which is actually quite higher than subway ticket price. So, practice discretion and do not jump upon buying it, you might simply block your money in it.
- Confirm any Japanese whether they speak English
No one in Japan will ever come forward and declare their knowledge of English. So, instead of struggling through accents and pronunciation, practice Japanese phrase that means, “Do you know English?” Quite different from anybody’s notion, most of Japanese people are articulate in English. So, when you want to know about any route or mode of transport, confirm about English speaking ability of the person first. This will help you have information minus the confusion.
- Shop from places away from railway stations
Buying Japanese dress Kimono or scarf, or collecting mementos comes naturally to any first-time traveler. This should not be done from the first shop you see after stepping out of subway. Generally, the shops farther away from railway stations sell the stuff cheaper.
These are the five most important things you must take note of if you are travelling to Tokyo for the first time. This hi-tech city has a charm of its own and you will enjoy it more if you have gained knowledge about it in advance.