My Japan Travel Tips

Well, now that I am home, I won't be posting here much more until I decide to make my next trip away. But I thought that I would leave you with a few travel tips for Japan - direct from Tracey and I.

1. Take Japanese Money
Do not believe your bank when they look at you stupidly for taking great wads of cash. Most places in Japan do not take credit cards or travel cards. You need cash. Especially when you are going outside of Tokyo. And finding an ATM that takes your card can be tricky. That being said, most hotels will take credit card - so it can be handy to just book that up so that you have more shopping allowance. :)

2. Take your medication with you
This includes a good supply of paracetamol and ibuprofen. Japanese medication is pretty weak and you don't want to be stuck with a thumping headache and have to try and decipher the packaging (hoping that you get the right one!). And don't forget the head cold medicine, especially if you are traveling in winter. I suspect that the lovely rash I have now is an allergic reaction to the pills I bought in Japan.

3. Travel with someone of a similar fitness level
This may seem an odd thing to say but as someone with a very low level of fitness, it was great to be with someone who was at the same pace. The last thing you want is someone hanging miles behind you or someone charging ahead when you just aren't physically capable.

4. Travel with someone who has the same level of whinge-i-ness as you
My travel buddy and I are very similar, same level and all. Cause when someone else is complaining that their feet hurt, and you are complaining that your calf muscles are on fire, you are a perfect match. I guess this almost goes back to the same fitness level thing.

5. Take your own pillow
A pillow should not make a sound like a sack of flour when dropped to the bed. Our pillows weighed a tonne and kept an awful head shape indentation after use, making rolling over a real pain. Even if you have to sleep on a rock hard bed, a comfy pillow is everything. They are pretty cheap in Australia and light to pack, so I would suggest tossing one in. You can always leave it behind to fit in your shopping to come home.

6. Learn key phrases
I don't know much Japanese, but what I do know is very helpful:
Sumimasen - sorry, excuse me
Arigato - Thanks
I suggest doing a quick google search and learning a couple of things before you go. May make life easier.

7. Take an itinerary
Many Japanese people don't speak English, but they do read it. If you have your itinerary on you, you can point to the English word for where you are trying to go, and someone may be able to help you. It also helps to add maps in both Japanese and English - one for you and one for your helper. My itinerary was such a useful tool for seeking assistance.

8. Same level of Child-like qualities
Especially if you are heading to Disneyland. You don't want a party pooper with you who won't wear minnie mouse ears when that is all you have ever wanted to do. Plus, the kids rides are just as much fun as the adult rides and the lines are much shorter.

9. Space Bags
Perfect for plush toys. If you don't take any, find a 100yen shop. They will save you heaps of room by squishing up your clothing and toys allowing you to fit a whole lot more in your suitcase.

10. Have Fun and remember to take photos.
Why else are you on holidays - to have fun. The photos are to help you remember the good times. Just remember to take your camera charger. Trust me, the battery won't last.