Quick guide to Japan
Japan is a very different experience, here are some interesting things that our team has curated for your trip
Learn some Basic Japanese
Knowing common phrases of the local language is fun, try it !
If you want to greet someone in Japanese by saying “hello”, “good day,” or “good afternoon,” the word you want to use is Konnichiwa, Check out how to pronounce it
“Arigatou gozaimasu” is an expression you will hear the most during your stay. Its means thank you very much. You can use this to thank anyone politely.
For those of you who are more interested in learning useful Japanese words and phrases, have a look at this video.
Going Shopping? - A pro tip to save big!
Watch out for Tax-free sign at the store when you are shopping.
If you buy for a minimum amount (mostly JPY5000 and above) you can get a 6-10% tax refund of the amount you spent. To claim the refund you need to show your original passport (no photocopy or digital image) and you can avail of the additional discount. For stores like Donki, this can be claimed directly at the time of checkout, for multi-brand outlets – you will have to pay the full amount and then get the cashback from the Tax Refund counter.
If you plan to buy any expensive gadget, do remember to carry your passport with you and make the most of this offer.
Shopping at Akhiabara? Check out Donki
Donki or Don Quijote is a chain of biggest discount stores open 24 x7 and have a wide range of things to buy. During our trip, we will stop at Akhiabara area for shopping and this can be a good outlet to shop for gifts, souvenirs and other items for your loved ones. This multi-story stores can be your one stop shop.
Akihabara is the largest market in Tokyo for electronics and anime. If you are looking for cameras and equipment you can also explore the Yadobashi Camera Akiba Store. While roaming around the market, do try buying something from a vending machine. Did you know Japan has one vending machine for every 30 persons! Know more about the amazing vending machines of Japan.
Additional experiences that you can try
Even though your itinerary is quite packed, here are a few fun things that won't take much time and you can
try them while we are visiting these places
Tomikuji - the fortune card at senso-ji temple at asakusa
Omikuji are written fortunes offered at shrines and temples in Japan. Usually, omikuji require a small offering ( ¥100 usually), and are chosen randomly from a box. At Senso-ji Temple (Asakusa Kannon Temple), Tokyo's oldest temple, in Asakusa you can pick up an omikuji to try your luck.
Send a post card to your loved ones from the post office at Mount Fuji
There is a post office on the summit of Mount Fuji where you can buy postcards and stamps with a Mount Fuji stamp. Some say that a postmark from Mount Fuji is more coveted than a like on social media Location: The post office is on the left side of the station. Stamps: You can buy stamps at the post office, or use a cute Mt. Fuji stamp to decorate your postcard. Postmark: Some say you can drop a postcard in the postbox and it will be stamped with a special postmark.
Experience the busy Shibuya crossing
The crossing is nicknamed "scramble" because pedestrians cross from all directions. Shibuya Crossing in Tokyo, Japan is famous for many reasons, including its high volume of pedestrians, vibrant surroundings, and cultural significance Thousands of people cross the intersection at a time, especially during peak hours. The crossing is often called "the busiest pedestrian intersection in the world"
Some highlights
You will be visiting many popular places in Japan during your travel. Here are some details about them.
Tokyo Tower – It is a modernist charm that can be appreciated from the outside as it lights up at night, but the real thrill comes as you climb to the top to catch dynamic views of the city
Mount Fuji – Mount Fuji, is Japan’s tallest peak and has been an object of worship since ancient times. It’s been the center of training for ascetic Buddhism and is home to many Shinto shrines. The locals always mention it as ‘Fuji-San’ which is a respectful way of addressing someone
Sinkansen – More commonly known as Bullet train. Shinkansen trains are known for being punctual, with most trains departing on time to the second. With a speed up to 300 km per hour, it’s a very special experience to visit Japan.
You will be visiting many more interesting places. Check out your itinerary for more details.
Ready for some fun?
Remembering the counting till 10 may be a challenge but it will have its rewards
Well, during the tours, our team may randomly ask for a Japanese number from you and if you happen to know how to say it in Japanese, you are in for a surprise gift. So are you in for the challenge? (well this also extends to the words mentioned in all the 3 videos on this page)
