First trip to Japan: 7 things nobody tells you

Destinations · 5 Sept 2026

Going to Japan for the first time? Cash, trains, onsen and the small details that make all the difference.

Japan is easy, but it has its own rules. A few things we wish we’d known from the start.

Cash is still alive

Many small shops and temples accept cash only. Always keep some yen with you.

Trains don’t wait

The Shinkansen leaves on the minute. On our trip the tickets are booked, you just hop on.

Onsen without stress

Shower first, then bathe, no swimsuit. It sounds strange, then becomes your favourite habit.