Tokyo is a behemoth—the largest city in the world, so vast that even the locals might not experience every nook and cranny in their lifetime. It’s a city of 23 distinct wards, each with its own character, meaning one person’s Tokyo can be drastically different from another’s. But amidst this diversity, there are some golden rules that every visitor should follow to make their experience seamless and enjoyable.
Navigating Tokyo Like a Local
Getting There and Getting Around
Instead of landing at the bustling Narita International Airport, consider flying into Haneda Airport, which is conveniently located within the city itself. This will save you time and money on commuting to the city center, as Haneda has excellent connections to the efficient public transportation system. You can choose from trains or buses, making it easy to reach your destination.
While the Japan Rail Pass is a great value for those exploring the entire country, it might not be necessary if you’re mainly focusing on Tokyo. The pass only covers trains and buses operated by the JR company, whereas Tokyo has a network of other train lines and bus services. These are especially useful for exploring the hidden gems like Yanaka’s old town, Kuramae’s hipster scene, or the bustling Tsukiji fish market.
Size Matters: Embrace the Tiny
Get ready for small spaces in Tokyo. Your hotel room, especially the bed and bathroom, might be smaller than what you’re used to. Pack light and check the bed size when booking your accommodation. Most restaurants are designed for small groups of two to four people, making it challenging to find a table for larger parties. It’s always a good idea to check the seating arrangements beforehand, especially when traveling with a big group.
Patience is Key: Embrace the Queues
The Japanese are famous for their patience and perseverance. Long lines are commonplace, whether it’s for a new store opening or a famous soba noodle joint. Don’t be discouraged by the queues—simply embrace the experience or arrive early to beat the crowd. Remember, wherever there’s a long line of locals, it’s a sign that the place is worth it.
Ramen Rules: Forget the Menu, Find the Machine
Stepping into a ramen shop is an adventure in itself. Forget the menu, it’s all about the ticket machine. You’ll find a huge machine near the entrance, filled with buttons showing pictures of each menu item and its price. Insert your cash (remember, cash is king in Tokyo!), press the button for your choice, and out pops your ticket and change. Simply hand the ticket to the attendant—that’s how you order your ramen.
The Breakfast Dilemma
While Tokyo is a culinary wonderland, breakfast isn’t a major focus. Most eateries open for lunch, and breakfast options are limited, except for international restaurants. The locals typically grab breakfast at home, from a convenience store, or skip it altogether to make their way to crowded trains.
Rush Hour: Navigate the Masses
Those infamous videos of Japanese train officers pushing people into packed cars are a reality. If you want to avoid the rush hour frenzy, steer clear of the trains between 7 am and 9 am, and shortly after 5 pm. The Tozai, JR Chuo-Sobu, and JR Yamanote lines are notorious for congestion. During these peak times, the stations become packed, so consider walking to a less crowded station on a different line if possible.
Tokyo Etiquette: Mastering the Unwritten Rules
Escalator Etiquette: Left for Standing, Right for Walking
In Tokyo, the escalator etiquette is the opposite of many Western countries. People stand on the left side to allow others to walk up on the right side without obstruction. Remember, it’s the right side for walking and the left side for standing.
The Missing Trash Cans: A Matter of Safety
You might be surprised to find that public trash cans are scarce in Tokyo. This is a result of a domestic terror attack in 1995, which led the government to remove public bins to prevent future incidents. You’ll occasionally find them in parks, some train stations, restrooms, and in front of convenience stores. It’s best to bring a small plastic bag with you to hold your trash until you can dispose of it properly at your accommodation.
Dive Into the Neighborhoods: Discover Tokyo’s Diverse Charms
Tokyo is a city of neighborhoods, each with its own personality and allure. Explore the youthful Shibuya, with its animal cafes, 100-yen stores, and adorable desserts. Venture into the never-sleeping Shinjuku, home to the infamous Kabukicho red light district. Discover the artistic Ikebukuro, with its shopping arcades, anime scene, and rooftop aquarium. Explore the sophisticated Roppongi, with its embassies, expat community, and world-class art galleries. And immerse yourself in the upscale Ginza, known for its prestigious department stores, high-end boutiques, and exclusive restaurants.
Embrace Self-Service: Technology at the Checkout
Don’t be surprised to find self-service cashiers in many stores. Tokyo is adopting self-checkout to address labor shortages. Major retailers like Uniqlo, Muji, and GU, and convenience stores like 7-Eleven and Family Mart have installed self-service counters for faster checkout.
The Art of Quiet: Respecting Personal Space
While Tokyo is a vibrant and energetic city, it’s essential to maintain a respectful volume, especially in public spaces like trains and buses. Loud conversations are considered rude. The Japanese are mindful of sharing space, so keep noise levels low, turn off phone sounds, and avoid calls on public transportation.
