Our Guide to Tokyo

Airports
There are two airports in Tokyo. Narita Airport (NRT) is larger but further away from Tokyo city centre, while Haneda Airport (HND) is closer to Tokyo but is smaller and typically more expensive to fly to/from.

Money
Japan's currency is known as the yen. Cash is the most reliable form of payment, and we recommend keeping a small sum on you at all times (approx. ¥10,000-20,000 is recommended). Some convenient alternatives are available for the tech-savvy, read on for more information. Worried about how expensive Japan is? Check out this video for an entertaining look into how to do Japan on a budget.

Suica/IC card
We highly recommend purchasing a Suica or Pasmo IC card upon arrival in Japan, as this is the easiest way to pay for travel and purchases in most stores and restaurants around Tokyo. For our tech-savvy guests, you can set up a rechargeable digital Suica in your Apple or Google wallet prior to travel. This option is especially handy if your bank doesn't charge fees for international currency transactions (for our Aussie guests looking to avoid these fees, look at opening a no-cost account with Up Bank). Instructions on how to do this for Apple device users will be added here soon!

Travelling with medication
If you plan to bring medication, check if it's legal in Japan (if it's on this list as a 'prohibited substance', it cannot be brought into Japan under any circumstances). Take enough medication for your trip, but ensure the amount is within legal limits. See the Ministry of Health, Labour and Welfare for more information.

Electricity in Japan
Not only are they a different shape, but Japanese electrical outlets are also a different voltage to Australian and NZ ones! Remember to check your adaptors and devices before you travel to make sure they can accept 100 volts and a variable 50/60 hertz frequency (depending on where you're travelling in Japan).

The basics with Japan Guide
Click here for some great tips and information on how to navigate Tokyo like a local.

Trains
The best way to get around Japan is by train. Within Tokyo, JR East operates most of the local train services, however be mindful that some train lines are owned by separate companies and are not covered by the JR Pass. If you're travelling between cities, most Shinkansen (bullet train) services are included in a JR Pass. A JR Pass calculator can be accessed here.

Taxis
While somewhat more expensive than public transport, taxis in Japan are reliable and efficient, and are a good option for accessing locations with limited public transport or if travelling in groups of three or more people.

Highway Buses
Highway buses are an available alternative option for anyone who's not keen on trains, or for getting to locations that aren't co-located with train lines.

Driving a car
We strongly recommend against renting a car in Japan unless you are travelling to rural areas, due to the costs and difficulty of driving and parking. Japanese police also have a very low tolerance for driving infractions. More information on driving in Japan can be found here, and information on car rental in Japan is available here.

Wedding venue
We will have preferential rates for Hotel Chinzanso^¥¥¥ for those who would like the convenience of staying on-site.

Local hotels
APA Hotel^¥ and The b Hotel^¥ are comfortable and simple chain hotels with various locations.

Capsule hotels
9 Hours capsule hotel^¥ is the perfect way to acclimate yourself to Japan and take some time to yourself (gender-separated) after a 8+ hour flight. Akihabara Bay Hotel^¥ is a female-only capsule hotel located in Akihabara for those looking for something different for a night or two.

The Millenials Shibuya
This is no ordinary capsule hotel! The Millenials in Shibuya^¥¥ is a unique capsule-style hotel experience comprised of "Smart Pods", 3m² cubbies with clever storage, entertainment and other smart controls. Breakfast is also available for a small additional fee.

Tokyo Skytree
Go for a trip up the lift to see all of Tokyo from the city's tallest tower. Best done at night, but any time is a good time!

Sumida Aquarium
On the Sumida River at the base of Tokyo Skytree, the Sumida Aquarium boasts a 350,000 L open indoor tank and brand-new jellyfish display.

Tokyo Water Bus
Take a trip on one of Tokyo's local ferry services, a great way to see more of the city from a different perspective.

Shibuya
Grab a beverage at Starbucks and spend a morning watching the crowds cross at the famous Shibuya Scramble Crossing.

Akihabara
Also known as Electric Town, Akihabara boasts a huge variety of electronics stalls and stores. A particularly good venue to check out if you're into retro gaming is Super Potato.

Asakusa
The atmosphere of Old Japan is alive and thriving in Asakusa. Senso-ji temple is a must-see, as is Nakamise, Asakusa's shopping street with a variety of traditional snack foods and souvenirs.

Shopping at Don Quijote
Not quite sure what Don Quijote is? Watch Abroad in Japan's review for a funny insight into this unique experience.

teamLab Planets
This is no ordinary museum! teamLab Planets is an interactive digital art exhibit that is wildly popular with locals and tourists alike. Unfortunately, teamLab Borderless is currently closed for moving to a new location.

Fuji-Q Highland
Thrill-seekers, look no further! Fuji-Q Highland is one of Japan's most popular amusement parks, boasting several world-record holding roller coasters.

Japanese convenience stores
There are many different kinds and they are exactly that, convenient! The most popular ones are 7 Eleven, Family Mart, and Lawson.

Food glossary
For the foodies among you, this glossary of Japanese food terminology will assist you to navigate the dizzying array of options that Japan has to offer.

Kyoto
The capital city of Japan for over 1000 years, Kyoto is a stunning historic city with many beautiful sights and attractions, including the Fushimi Inari Shrine, Kiyomizudera and Kyoto Railway Museum.

Hiroshima
Home to the Peace Memorial Park and Museum, Hiroshima is a small and beautiful city in the Kansai region of Japan, known best as one of the targets of the US atomic bombings at the end of World War II. The Peace Memorial Museum is a sad, yet enlightening, experience that is not to be missed.

Osaka
The second-largest city in Japan, Osaka is the economic powerhouse of Japan's Kansai region. Attractions include Universal Studios, Shinsekai and Dotonbori.

Himeji
Less than one hour from Osaka and Kyoto is the famous Himeji, home of the national treasure and designated UNESCO world heritage site, Himeji Castle.

Nara
Nara was the first permanent capital city of Japan, established in the year 710. Nara Park is a very popular destination, where wild deer coexist among humans and are able to be fed.

Magome-Tsumago Trail
A well-maintained section of the former Nakasendo, this 8km walking trail is gentle and leads through the beautiful forests of the Kiso Valley.

Tattoo Coverings
Tattoos are considered taboo in some areas of Japan, due to perceived links with yakuza (Japanese organised crime groups). Here are some tips on how to keep them discreet in settings that require it (e.g. onsen visits).