We love Japan. In the developed world, it is unique in the degree to which it has preserved its distinct culture. For visitors, it can be thrilling to experience, but often complicated to navigate.
Here are 5 things to know that will have you navigating Japan like an expert. ManAboutWorld’s recent issue includes 5 additional things to know.
Check out the GayCities guide to Tokyo.
Japanese bathing rituals are intricate. At a public bath or hot springs, you’re expected to wash and rinse thoroughly before getting into the bath naked to soak. If you have tattoos, you will not be allowed in the most traditional baths, though less of an issue at baths catering to foreigners.
2. Hyperdia.com will get you there
Japan’s transportation network is extensive, with many different operators. Hyperdia builds point-to-point itineraries for all of them, including connections between trains, subways, busses — even cable cars. Note that train fares may require payment of a “seat fee” (seat reservation fee), in addition to the base fare.
The basement levels of department stores and train stations have great food halls — carrying everything from raw ingredients to prepared meals and bento boxes (perfect for your train ride), to every kind of food gift you can imagine, including delicious sweets and those US$100 melons you’ve heard about.
You’ll be taking your shoes off and on a lot in Japan – especially if you’re going to explore the temples in Kyoto. You’ll feel super smart in shoes you can slip in and out of easily.
Most Japanese ATMs are not programmed for international cards. But Seven Bank has ATMs at every 7-Eleven which are. So get cash before leaving the airport, and use the Seven Bank ATM locator to find a 24/7 international ATM near you.
Yours for free: A 42-page long guide to gay Japan. Click here to download.
Photo credits via Flickr Creative Commons: From top: Fushimi dog by John Gillespie; Bathing by Stefan Powell; Hyperdia by Tokyo Form; Food hall by Istolethetv; shoes by Andrew; 7 Bank.
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