Getting around Tokyo is relatively easy, thanks to the citys efficient public transportation system. The spectacular, sparkling temples and palaces are unlike anything that most first-time visitors to Asia will have seen before, and the shopping experiences combine high-end glamor, outlet bargains and traditional markets. Top sites: Night markets are a big deal in Taipei, and they're both a great way to try tasty local food on the cheap and experience local culture. You can use it for transportation fares + vending machines and newspapers! The Singapore Zoo is highly respected. The most lenient change came Oct. 11, when Japan began allowing individual visitors to enter visa-free. It is actually 1.5 times more populous than the next largest metropolitan area in the world, Seoul. Related: How to book Singapore Airlines awards using Alaska miles. How to get a refund for a canceled flight, Recover a lost item at TSA, the airport or your flight. Sound good? Get experimental and find your new fave. | Find what to do today, this weekend, or in July. Learn how your comment data is processed. Luckily, visitors on a tourist visa are often exempt from this tax in order to encourage shopping. Plus, once youve had your fill of big-city Thai life, its easy to get to the beautiful islands and beaches of Thailand from Bangkok. If you're interested in Thai art and culture, head to the beautiful Jim Thompsons House. If you're looking for a more affordable stay in Tokyo, look for business hotels. By proceeding, you agree to our Privacy Policy and Terms of Use. I found myself talking on the subway way too loudly a lot of times. This also means that if you dont want to live among the hustle and bustle of the center, you can enjoy a quieter life in one of the suburban wards such as Setagaya-ku, which are an easy, though possibly also lengthy, commute away from Tokyos center. Language(s) spoken: Korean. Youll likely find yourself most often traveling on the JR Yamanote Line. Theres also no tipping in Japan! People get in lines to wait outside of the doors prior to getting in (New York could never), and they wait for people to completely come off before going in. You can also check out our Expat Q&A Forum to look for accommodation, jobs, or even advice on the best international schools or whether there are any American schools in your area. Visit top-rated & must-see attractions. I put it into Google Translator and It came out From the family running a small ryokan in Hakone to the local ramen noodle shop owner in Osaka, people are happy to have visitors returning, he said in an email. There's no need to feel overwhelmed by planning a first trip to Asia, as there are experiences, sights and price points to suit all needs. Things to Do in Tokyo, Japan: See Tripadvisor's 1,539,858 traveler reviews and photos of Tokyo tourist attractions. Language(s) spoken: Mandarin Chinese, and other dialects of Chinese (Hokkien and Haka). Tokyo is probably the safest large metropolitan city in the world. Here is some more detailed information on the Suica Card. Notify me of follow-up comments by email. Google Maps makes navigating the train system easy. These activities are a casual way to get to know expats from the USA in your local community as well as Americans in Japan nationwide. Language(s) spoken: Malay is the official language of Singapore, and Mandarin Chinese, Tamil and English are also widely spoken. A juxtaposition of deep tradition and fast-paced, modern energy, Tokyo, the capital city of Japan, is one of the best places to visit in Asia. And again, with your pocket wifi you can pull up google translate and take pictures of things, type things out, and even speak into the microphone for a translation. The Japanese capital is a very cosmopolitan city known for an internationally acclaimed food scene, its sheer size and population numbers, which 2019 estimates put at around 14 million, one of the worlds busiest yet highly performing subway systems, and much more! I havent been to Taiwan so I cant give you a personal recommendation. Follow Embassy Tokyos American Citizen Services section on Facebook and Twitter. Were thinking 5 nights and then to Kyoto. Id go back in a heartbeat tho, Visiting Japan as an American: What to Know Before You Go, Click to share on Twitter (Opens in new window), Click to share on Facebook (Opens in new window). Pet-Friendly Hotels in Tokyo | Stay with Your Pet in These Neighborhoods, Rental Homes in Akihabara | Best Places to Stay in Tokyo's Electric Town, Halloween in Tokyo: Shibuya & Ikebukuro Events - Rental Homes Nearby, Best Hotels in Tokyo: Luxury & 5-Star Accommodations, 15 Luxury Hotels in Tokyo | Resorts & 5-Star Accommodations, 12 Cheap Hotels in Tokyo for Budget Travelers, Tokyo Accommodations: 15 Great Family Hotels in Tokyo, Best Day Trips from Tokyo | 8 Places for Fast Getaways via Bullet Train, Day Trips from Tokyo - 5 Easy Tours & Eye-Popping Destinations in Japan, 15 Best Restaurants in Tokyo: Top Dining Options, DIY Tokyo Food Tour! A Suica card makes your life so much easier when traveling this way. The subway is one place where youll definitely want to respect the norms. The 7/11 worker who pointed me to the pharmacist walked out of the store and gave me physical directions on taking a right or left. Editors Note: The information contained on this page was compiled using real traveler reviews about warnings and dangers in Tokyo. Tokyo is madddd expensive!! Its extensive, and most places of interest to travelers are within walking distance of a station. It doesnt matter if you are buying food from a local street food vendor or dining at a high-end restaurant in Tokyo such as Kozue in Shinjuku, you do not need to tip your server. Korean food is distinct from that of its neighbors and growing in popularity around the world. Of course, Japans relations with the US are a lot more civil and Tokyo is one of the safest tourist destinations in the world. In fact, almost 4% provided positive words such as fun, clean and beautiful. And its easy to see why, with a backdrop as naturally beautiful as Mt Fuji, complementing the citys cosmopolitan skyline! Penny, Hey babe! The crappier hotels still charge a pretty penny. Here's what to know about restrictions. Theres no doubt about it: Tokyo offers a fascinating mix of the ultra modern with the traditional. Who flies there: A large number of international airlines fly to Bangkok, but travelers coming from the U.S. may need to stop elsewhere first, or board a code-share flight. Some great hotels where you can use and earn points include: Related: These are the best times to visit Singapore. Join groups to pursue your hobbies from sports to music, theres something for everyone With InterNations, youll quickly feel at home wherever life takes you. Infrastructure is well set up for tourists, without the city being "touristy." Short-term visitors that were exempt from visa requirements before the pandemic, which includes travelers from the United States, will no longer need to apply for tourist visas. And if crowds aren't your thing, there are many peaceful parks and temples to which you can retreat. From its vibrant culture and modern architecture to its delicious cuisine and friendly locals, Tokyo has something for everyone. Alicia Joy Tokyo Writer 5 June 2023 View Theres a lot to learn about Japanese culture, and its impossible to know everything. Top points hotels: Because Seoul isn't as popular as neighboring Tokyo, fewer points will get you further in the South Korean capital. For a peaceful temple experience, visit Hikawa Jinja. Our InterNations Ambassadors organize regular events and various expat activities, e.g. There are signs of normalcy returning to Japan. Read more in the following article: 11 Mistakes Tourists Make in Bangkok and Beyond. Im not sure how small in comparison airbnbs and homes are from America since they cost as much as hotels if not more, so we ended up going with a hotel. 150-0013 Tky-to, Shibuya-ku, Ebisu, 1 Chome301 All visitors to Asia's major cities must come to terms with the fact that they are very crowded, with an almost endless amount to see and do. Exploring the Life and Legacy of the Ancient Greek Mathematician, Are Fairlife Protein Shakes Healthy? If youre an American, the 7/11 ATMs will be your friend. Plus, for a change of pace, Seoul's nightlife is fun. Hope you have an amazing time! First-time travelers to Asia shouldn't just stick to Taipei, as the small island of Taiwan is underrated, with beautiful outdoor attractions like mountains, beaches, forests and interesting indigenous cultures within easy reach of the city. Its important to research the specific requirements for your country and to submit all the necessary paperwork before your trip. Language(s) spoken: Japanese. A beginners guide to visiting Tokyo: Everything you need Selecting one of these entry points and then exploring the country or region from there is a great way to start. Japanese women have zero qualms about tucking trash away into their bags for safe keeping. In most communities, there are also monthly Newcomers Events especially for those who have recently joined the American community in Tokyo. Even so, here are some warnings about potential dangers to be careful about when visiting Tokyo. This post contains references to products from one or more of our advertisers. Hello to all Americans in Tokyo! The farther you are from the center of the city, the more likely you are to need translation help. In general, though, the use and comprehension of English is not high, and the average Japanese person on the street won't understand you if you stop them to ask for directions in English. When you are traveling, keep your phone on silent, and dont answer calls. We offer our unbiased opinions and do not accept compensation to review products. Keep your social media fam updated in real life with a pocket wifi. Its common courtesy to not eat while youre walking. But, I will say the Japanese people I encountered were SO friendly. There is almost no risk that it will be stolen. Transportation is not very expensive, and you can make it even more affordable by buying a pass corresponding to the length of your stay. If youre wondering how to navigate the challenges of life abroad, youre not alone. Lots of attractions in Japan are free, including some parks and temples. WebTravelers who are unsure of their eligibility to travel to Japan should contact the nearest Japanese embassy or consulate for additional information. Note: Hong Kong is not on this list but it's a fabulous city to visit. Be sure to sample some of the local cuisine, such as sushi, ramen, and tempura, as well as international dishes like Italian, French, and Chinese.
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