Destinations / Japan
Here's everything you need to know — currency, tipping, language, safety, and the tips that actually matter.
Currency
Japanese Yen (JPY)
Language
Japanese
Emergency
110 (police) / 119 (fire & ambulance)
Plug Type
Type A (two flat prongs — same as US, no adapter needed!)
Voltage
100V / 50-60Hz
Driving Side
Left
Tap Water
Safe to drink from the tap
U.S. Embassy
Tokyo: +81 3 3224 5000
Do NOT tip. It can be considered rude or confusing. Service is included.
No tipping. The driver may try to return the money.
Not expected at most hotels. At traditional ryokans, leave ¥1000-3000 in an envelope.
No tipping.
| English | Japanese | Pronunciation |
|---|---|---|
| Hello | Konnichiwa | kohn-NEE-chee-wah |
| Thank you | Arigatou gozaimasu | ah-ree-GAH-toh go-zai-MAHS |
| Excuse me | Sumimasen | soo-mee-mah-SEN |
| I don't understand | Wakarimasen | wah-kah-ree-mah-SEN |
Tipping is not a thing. Seriously. Don't do it.
Eat and walk at the same time? That's considered rude in Japan
Trains are precisely on time — if it says 10:03, it means 10:03
Cash is still king in many places — get yen from a 7-Eleven ATM
Speak quietly on trains. Phone calls on public transit are a no-go
Trash cans are rare in public — carry your trash with you
Pack socks without holes — you'll remove shoes constantly
A small towel (many restrooms don't have paper towels or dryers)
Comfortable walking shoes — you'll walk more than you expect
No power adapter needed — Japan uses the same plug as the US
Currency, tipping, phrases, emergency info, and city guides for Japan — offline and instant.