Japan is one of the most visited countries in the world because of its scenic tourist spots, rich culture, delicious food and the best shopping. But visiting a country that’s halfway across the world and doesn’t exactly speak your language can be nerve-wracking, especially if you’re doing it for the first time.

So from looking for the best Osaka accommodation recommendations (오사카 숙소 추천) to taking the time to understand local culture, here are some ways to prepare for your first trip to the Land of the Rising Sun:

• Prepare all the documents that you need for the trip. Japan has requirements for travellers visiting Japan depending on the country that you’re coming from. From a valid passport to a visa, preparing your travel documents should be your first priority because it will determine if you can enter the country or not.

• Read up about the country. Preparing for a trip isn’t just about booking flights, securing hotels and creating itineraries. It’s also very important to read up about the country that you’re visiting just so you have an idea about what to expect when you arrive there. Japan is very welcoming to tourists, but because of the language barrier and huge cultural differences, things can easily get lost in translation. Learning the basics can help you adjust to the culture faster, which also makes navigating the country a lot easier.

• Choose the right accommodation. Seasoned travellers will tell you this: you can save on flights but invest on your accommodation. A centrally located hotel, for instance, gives you access to most of the city’s amenities, so you won’t have to spend so much time figuring out where to go. The right accommodation also ensures that you don’t feel homesick during your trip, and it gives you peace of mind knowing that you’re safe.

• Learn about Japan’s public transport system. Taking public transport is still the best way to explore Japan, but navigating your way through its system can also be stressful, especially because of the language barrier. So if you want to experience Japan’s public transport, it’s best to learn about them before your trip, including the passes and cards that you need and the routes that you can take. 

• Don’t be afraid to go local. One of the best things about travelling to Japan is the seemingly endless options that you have, especially with food, nightlife and shopping. But if you really want to experience the best of what the country has to offer, don’t be afraid to try the not-so-famous spots. You just need to follow where the locals go, and for sure, you’ll discover places that will let you understand local culture better.

Now if you’re too busy to plan your entire trip on your own, there’s always the option to go for a Japan travel package that already includes all the activities that you can do during your trip. Now if you’re still looking for a hotel to stay in Japan, check out the options that we offer.