Travel Guide - Tokyo, Japan

Company Trip 2023
JAPAN
TOKYO
The Land of the Rising Sun
Welcome To
TOKYO
Tokyo is Japan's capital and the world's most
populous metropolis. It is also one of Japan's 47
prefectures, consisting of 23 central city wards and
multiple cities, towns, and villages west of the city
center.
Tokyo offers a seemingly unlimited choice of

shopping, entertainment, culture and dining to its
visitors. The city's history can be appreciated in
districts such as Asakusa and in many excellent
museums, historic temples, and gardens. Contrary to
common perception, Tokyo also offers a number of
attractive green spaces in the city center and within
relatively short train rides at its outskirts. Tokyo is one
of the best places in the world and is a fast paced,
futuristic city.
TRIP ITINERARY
4 days and 3 nights
Day 1
Arrival ETA - 01:00PM
Free for leisure --
Day 2
Breakfast at APA Hotel 06:30AM-09:30AM
Tokyo Shiomi Ekimae
Group Tour 09:00AM-05:00PM
Lunch at a Local 12:00NN
Restaurant
Day 3
Tokyo Shiomi Ekimae
Free for leisure --
Day 4
Tokyo Shiomi Ekimae
Departure in the hotel 10:00AM
Please see General Guidelines for

Japan Trip for more details.
All links are clickable.
Table Of
CONTENTS
1 Where to Stay
2 Destination /
Places to Visit
3 Most Popular Food
4 Culture/Etiquette
5 Travel Tips
01 Travel Guide
WHERE TO STAY
APA HOTEL TOKYO SHIOMI
EKIMAE
The APA Hotel Tokyo Shiomi Ekimae is a 3-star
hotel in Tokyo that is conveniently located a
minute walk from Shiomi Train Station,
It offers western-style rooms with free WiFi access. A spacious public bath is
available to all guests, free of charge. Guests can enjoy a buffet at the La
Veranda restaurant. Massage service is also available upon request. A
convenience store is located on the 1st floor.
Address 2-8-6, Shiomi, Koto-ku, Tokyo

Check In/Out 03:00PM / 10:00AM
Guest Room 706 rooms
Parking 47 spaces
Facilities Public Bath, Open-Air Bath, Restaurant, Convenience Store,
Parking Lots
Access Access by train
Get off at Shiomi Station on the JR Keiyo Line. Take the
east exit and turn right, and the hotel is right there. It
takes about 7 minutes from Tokyo Station (3 stations).
Take the JR Keiyo Line and get off at Hatchobori Station

connected to the Tokyo Metro Hibiya Line (2 stations). The
trip takes 5 minutes.
Travel Guide
FACILITIES / AMENITIES
Entrance Automatic Check-in APA Digital

Machine Information
Express Vending Machines Microwave Oven

Check-Out Post (1st & 7th Floors - Soft drinks (next to elevators on the 2nd &
3rd & 10th Floors - Alcohol) 6th floors. Ice machines are also
located on the same floors)
Large Public Bath Open-air bath Lawson

Operating Hours: 06:00AM-10:00AM; 03:00PM-02:00AM Convenience Store
Travel Guide
ACCOMODATION
Single Room Twin Room Triple Room

All rooms are equipped with ceiling lights for brightness, ultra fine bubble
showerheads, and a "Good night switch" that allows all lighting to be turned
on and off at once.
RESTAURANT
La Veranda Buffet Area Inside the Restaurant
Operating Hours:
06:30AM-09:30AM
Menu/Cuisine:
Japanese and Western
Style Buffet
Japan
DESTINATIONS
02 Travel Guide
TOUR (DAY 2) - PLACES TO VISIT

Sumida Park
is a public park in Tokyo, Japan. Cherry
blossoms can be seen in spring, and the
Sumidagawa Fireworks Festival is held in
July. There are about 700 cherry trees in
Sumida Park on both sides of the Sumida
River.
Imperial Palace
is located on the former site of Edo Castle,
a large park area surrounded by moats
and massive stone walls in the center of
Tokyo, a short walk from Tokyo Station. It
is the residence of Japan's Imperial Family.
Hachiko Memorial Statue

Popular meeting spot with a bronze
statue honoring Hachiko, the famously
loyal Akita dog.
Shibuya Crossing
is a popular pedestrian scramble
crossing in Shibuya, Tokyo, Japan.
Shopping at Ginza
The Ginza is Tokyo's most famous upmarket
shopping, dining, and entertainment
district, featuring numerous department
stores, boutiques, art galleries, restaurants,
night clubs and cafes.
OTHER POSSIBLE PLACES
TO VISIT
Tokyo Disneyland
is a 115-acre theme park at Chiba, Japan. The
park has seven themed areas: the World
Bazaar; the four traditional Disney lands:
Adventureland, Westernland, Fantasyland and
Tomorrowland; and two mini-lands: Critter
Country and Toontown.
Klook Ticket Price: P3,537.00 / 64USD / ¥8,901
Operating Hours: 09:00AM-09:00PM
Open from Monday to Sunday
Tokyo DisneySea
is a theme park at the Tokyo Disney Resort
located in Chiba, Japan. It offers a variety of
unique themed ports and attractions as
imagined by Disney. These are Mediterranean
Harbor, American Waterfront, Port Discovery,
Lost River Delta, Arabian Coast, Mermaid
Lagoon, and Mysterious Island
teamLab
is an art facility that utilizes digital technology
and was established by teamLab and
DMM.com. It is located in 6-Chome, Toyosu,
Koto-ku, Tokyo. Immerse yourself in a world of
beauty created with futuristic technology at a
unique art installation.
Note: Prices and schedule may change without prior notice.

TO VISIT
Ghibli Museum
The Ghibli Museum is the animation and art
museum of Miyazaki Hayao's Studio Ghibli, one
of Japan's most famous animation studios. They
have produced many feature length films, such
as My Neighbor Totoro, Princess Mononoke,
Spirited Away, and Ponyo on the Cliff by the Sea.
The museum is a must-see for fans of the films.
Admission: Tickets are not sold at the museum
and must be purchased in advance. It can be
purchased online in English through the
l-tike.com website by Lawson for:
P399.00 / 7USD / ¥1,000
Operating Hours:
10:00AM-06:00PM, closed on Tuesdays
Sanrio Puroland
Sanrio Puroland also known as Hello Kitty
Land, is an indoor theme park located in Tama
New Town, Tokyo, Japan. It hosts attractions,
live shows, shopping outlets, and restaurants
dedicated to Sanrio characters such as Hello
Kitty, My Melody, Cinnamoroll, Gudetama, and
Aggretsuko, in a manner akin to Disney theme
parks. Sanrio Puroland attracts over 1.5 million
visitors per year, and is ranked among the
major theme parks in Japan.
Typically closed on Wednesdays and
Thursdays, but there are other days where they
are closed for maintenance or other reasons.
https://www.puroland.jp/lang/en/#calendar

TO VISIT
Legoland Discovery Center
Located in waterfront Odaiba, Legoland
Discovery Center contains more than three
million lego bricks and features a Miniland
Tokyo—a dioramic cityscape filled with mini
reconstructions of some of Tokyo’s most famous
landmarks. Other attractions include a dynamic
4D cinema, and three themed rides.
Typically closed on Thursdays
The Making of Harry Potter

Warner Bros. Studio Tour Tokyo will open on
16 June 2023 and provides fans the ultimate
opportunity to journey behind the scenes of the
Harry Potter and Fantastic Beasts films to learn
about the remarkable world of film production.
This will be the largest indoor Harry Potter
attraction in the world and the first Warner Bros.
Studio Tour to open in Asia.
Operating Hours:
09:00AM and closing times vary
Sumo Experience + Lunch

in Sumida Tokyo
Interact with sumo wrestlers and learn the
sumo world’s behind-the-scenes stories, their
daily life, and enjoy Chanko-nabe hot pot! The
sacred Japanese national sport of Sumo has a
long history, and admirers all over the globe.
Schedule: Open every Tuesdays and Fridays

TO VISIT IN CENTRAL TOKYO
Tsukiji Outer Market
Consists of a few blocks of wholesale and
retail shops, as well as restaurants crowded
along narrow lanes. Here you can find fresh
and processed seafood and produce
alongside food-related goods.
Operating Hours:
Varies by shop, typically 05:00AM-02:00PM
Closed on Sundays and national holidays
Akihabara
Akihabara is famous destination for fans of
anime, manga, video games, and idol culture. It
is a buzzing shopping hub famed for its
electronics retailers, ranging from tiny stalls to
vast department stores. Here you can find the
Tokyo Anime Center, for exhibits and souvenirs,
and Radio Kaikan with 10 floors of toys, trading
cards, and collectibles.
Operating Hours:
Varies by shop, typically 10:00AM-08:00PM
Tokyo Dome City

Tokyo Dome City is a leisure complex consisting
of the Tokyo Dome baseball stadium, an
amusement park, a spa, a variety of shops and
restaurants, and Tokyo Dome Hotel.
Klook Ticket Price:
P1,113.00 / 20USD / ¥2,794 (5 Rides)

OTHER POSSIBLE PLACES TO
VISIT IN NORTHERN TOKYO
Tokyo National Museum
The Tokyo National Museum is the oldest and
largest of Japan's top-level national museums. It
features one of the largest and best collections of
art and archeological artifacts in Japan, made up
of over 100,000 individual items including nearly
a hundred national treasures. Good English
information and audio guides are available.
Admission: P399.00 / 7USD / ¥1,000
Operating Hours:
09:30AM-05:00PM, closed on Mondays
Tokyo Skytree
The Tokyo Skytree is a television broadcasting
tower and landmark of Tokyo. With a height of
634 meters it is the tallest structure in Japan
and was the second tallest in the world at the
time of its completion. The highlight of the
Tokyo Skytree is its two observation decks
which offer spectacular views of Tokyo.
Sumida Aquarium
The Sumida Aquarium is one of the main
attractions of the Tokyo Skytree Town. The
moderately sized and beautifully designed
modern aquarium houses over 10,000 sea
creatures on the 5th and 6th floors of Tokyo
Solamachi at the base of the Tokyo Skytree.
Admission: P917.00 / 17USD / ¥2,300

VISIT IN NORTHERN TOKYO
Asakusa
Asakusa retains the vibe of an older Tokyo,
with traditional craft shops and street-food
stalls along Nakamise Street. Its main
attraction is Sensoji Temple. Asakusa can
easily be explored on foot. Alternatively, you
can consider a guided tour on a rickshaw.
Tour Price: Free
Sensoji Temple
Sensoji is a Buddhist temple located in Asakusa.
The temple was completed in 645, making it
Tokyo's oldest temple. When approaching the
temple, visitors first enter through the
Kaminarimon (Thunder Gate), the outer gate of
Sensoji Temple and the symbol of Asakusa and
the entire city of Tokyo.
Admission: Free
Rikugien Gardens
Rikugien is often considered Tokyo's most
beautiful Japanese landscape garden alongside
Koishikawa Korakuen. Built around 1700,
Rikugien literally means "six poems garden". It is
quite spacious, and it takes about an hour to
cover the garden's entire network of walking
paths at a leisurely speed.
Admission: P120.00 / 2USD / ¥300

VISIT IN WESTERN TOKYO
Shibuya
Shibuya is a center for youth fashion and culture,
and its streets are the birthplace to many of
Japan's fashion and entertainment trends.
Numerous shopping malls can be found around
the area catering to all types of shoppers. Many
of the area's large shopping complexes belong
to either Tokyu or Seibu, two competing
corporations. Shibuya's most prominent
landmark is the busy intersection in front of the
station's Hachiko Exit.
Shinjuku
Shinjuku is one of the 23 city wards of Tokyo, but
the name commonly refers to just the large
entertainment, business, and shopping area
around Shinjuku Station like Don Quijote, the
biggest discount store in Japan.
Shinjuku Station is the world's busiest railway
station, handling more than two million
passengers every day. It is served by about a
dozen railway and subway lines, including the
JR Yamanote Line.
Harajuku
Buzzing Harajuku is renowned for colorful street
art, and youth fashion, with quirky vintage
clothing stores and cosplay shops along
Takeshita Street, and traditional, upmarket
boutiques on leafy Omotesando Avenue.
Harajuku is not only about teenage culture and
shopping. Meiji Jingu, one of Tokyo's major
shrines, is located just west of the railway tracks
in a large green oasis shared with the spacious
Yoyogi Park.
Japanese
FOOD
03 Travel Guide
MOST POPULAR FOOD

Sushi & Sashimi
is definitely one of the foods you really need to try
when coming to Japan. Raw fish is an essential part
of Japanese cuisine, and you won’t find any other
country in the world where restaurants are so
demanding about the quality and freshness of the
fish.
Don’t miss: O-toro (fatty tuna belly); shime-saba
(vinegar cured mackerel); uni (sea urchin roe).
Where to eat: Nemuro Hanamaru, Marunouchi,
Ganzo Sushi
Tempura
If there is one eating experience in Japan we’d
recommend splurging on, we think it’s tempura.
There is nothing wrong with cheap and cheerful
Tendon Tenya chain or your neighbourhood
tempura-don joint but a meal at a real tempura
restaurant is a universe apart. Here the chef has
been doing nothing but fine tuning for decades the
art of delicately frying bite sized pieces of the
freshest of seafoods and vegetables.
Don’t miss: Omakase tempura meal
Where to eat: Tenmatsu, Nihonbashi
Yakitori
Every food culture on earth seems to have a
barbecued meat-on-a-skewer dish dear to their
hearts and the Japanese are no exception.
Over here it’s yakitori: Skewered chicken meat
typically brushed with a sweet soy and mirin glaze,
barbecued over charcoal.
Where to eat: Yakitori restaurants inside
Omoideyokocho, Shinjuku
03 Travel Guide
MOST POPULAR FOOD

Takoyaki
This quintessential summer dish is a popular
festival food all across Japan. Originating from
Osaka, takoyaki consists of pan-fried balls that are
made with a savory mix of batter, green onions,
pickled red ginger, and pieces of octopus. Hot off
the griddle, they are slathered in a tangy sauce and
sprinkled with katsuobushi fish flakes.
Where to eat: Gindako, Ginza Fukuyoshi, Takahachi

Ramen
Tokyo reigns supreme in Japan’s ramen world.
Sure, Sapporo has its rich miso ramen and Fukuoka
has some of the best creamy tonkotsu pork ramen,
but Tokyo has it all: rich and funky niboshi ramen
made from dried sardines, spicy bowls tinged with
Trinidad scorpion peppers, Michelin-worthy truffle-
infused ramen, and of course local shoyu ramen,
which is all the rage these days.
Where to eat: Ichiran, Ueno, and other locations
Donburi
Donburi are Japanese dishes where you eat rice
topped with various ingredients together. It’s loved
and recognized worldwide as a dish originating in
Japan. With options such as tendon, katsudon, and
kaisendon, you won’t want to miss out on these
popular spots!
Where to eat: Tempura Akimitsu, Tonkatsu
Takeshin, Nihonbasi Kaisendon Tsujihan
04 Travel Guide
GETTING TO KNOW
JAPAN
LANGUAGE
Japanese is the official language in Japan. And while most of the world speaks a fair
amount of English, do not expect Japanese people to speak it. However, in some hostels
and hotels, English is spoken. Be sure to learn a few key phrases to help you enjoy your
travel more and, of course, to show respect for the Japanese way of life. Many signs are in
both Japanese and English and announcements at subway and train stations are often in
both languages.
BASIC PHRASES FOR ALL SITUATIONS FOOD NUMBERS

Good morning – Ohayo Gozaimas Breakfast – Asa-gohan One – Ichi
Good afternoon / Hello – Konnichiwa Lunch – Hiru-gohan Two – Ni
Good evening – Konbanwa Dinner – Yoru-gohan Three – San
Thank you – Arigato Rice / Meal – Gohan Four – Yon
You’re welcome - Doitashimashite Water – Mizu Five – Go
I’m sorry – Gomen Nasai Coffee – Koohii Six – Roku
Excuse me – Sumimasen Tea – Ocha Seven – Sichi
Yes – Hai Alcohol – Sake Eight – Hachi
No – Iie Bread – Pan Nine – Ku
What is your name? – Namae wa nan des ka? Meat – Niku Ten – Juu
I am ___ – Watashi wa des _____ Fish – Sakana
What is this? – Kore wa nan des ka? Vegetables – Yasai
How much? – Ikura des ka? Fruits – Kudamono
Can I get this one? / I will get this one – Salad – Sarada
Kore Kudasai Egg – Tamago
It's good - Ii desu yo
PLACES
Great / I'm glad - Yokatta
Airport - Kuukou
Who? - Dare
Hotel - Hoteru
What? - Nani
Reception - Uketsuke
When? - Itsu
Station - Eki
Where? - Doko
Train - Densha
Why? Doushite
Bus - Basu
Where am I? – Koko wa Doko desu ka?
Convenience Store - Konbini
Where is the train station? – Eki wa doko des ka?
Store / Shop - Mise
Where is the bathroom? – Toire wa doko des ka?
Money Exchange - Ryougae
I don’t understand – Wakara-nai
Bank - Ginkou
Hospital - Byouin
Police Station - Keisatsusho
NOTE: Google Translate and iTranslate will help you communicate as you travel in Japan.
04 Travel Guide
GETTING TO KNOW
JAPAN
CULTURE / ETIQUETTE
Don't arrive late. The Japanese are incredibly punctual in all aspects of life. This is
most important when it comes to work, but you should pay attention to this fact when
it comes to dinner reservations, leisure activities, and public transport plans.
Learn the customs of bowing. In the west, bowing is not a instinctive as shaking
someone's hand, but generally speaking, bow when someone else bows to you and
you'll pick up this custom fast, or at least learn to do a polite head nod.
Take your shoes off indoors. Wearing shoes indoors is seen as extremely unhygienic
and you'll be expected to take them off when entering Japanese households, schools,
temples, some restaurants, and hospitals. But don’t fret as you'll usually be given some
slippers to walk around in instead.
Don't count your change. Often when you purchase something, your change will be
handed back to you on a little tray. Try your best to not count this in front of them as
this shows you distrust them and being honest is a big thing that is expected of
everyone there. On the topic of little trays, its also good to get into the habit of not
handing people cash directly, these little trays are there for you to place your money
on to pay and receive change.
Don’t tip. Tipping in Japan is a big no-no in almost all situations. In fact, tipping your
waiter, hotel, taxi, etc., is considered insulting. As if you’re looking down on them for
the job they’re performing.
Don't walk while eating. Walking with food and drink in hand can be seen as
disrespectful in Japan.
Know your way around the escalator. When using the escalator in Japan, the left side
is for standing and the right is for continuous walking.
Don't ever skip the queue. The Japanese will always line up in single file whether it’s
for the train or bus. You simply wait for people to get off completely and then get on
when it’s your turn.
Be quiet on public transport. Looping back to being considerate of others and your
surroundings, you'll have people staring in disbelief if you're having a long and loud
conversation with your mates, or if you're blasting music loudly through your
headphones. Commuters like to keep communal spaces quiet for people that work
long hours. Trains are often used as a place to relax, take a nap, or play a few games on
silent mode.
Don’t blow your nose in public. This should already be ingrained in your everyday
post-COVID etiquette but in Japan it was looked down upon even before COVID hit.
Sniffling and blowing your nose loudly can result in you standing out and people
looking at you in disgust. Regardless, it's best to wear a mask in public if you're feeling
even the faintest bit under the weather.
04 Travel Guide
GETTING TO KNOW
JAPAN
CULTURE / ETIQUETTE
Hang on to your rubbish. Japanese are well known for their clean streets, but you'll
notice that bins are super hard to find in Japan. This is because Japanese hold on to
their rubbish until they find a bin, or get home. A tip for finding a public bin in Japan is
that there will most likely be a bin at the conbini’s (7/11, Lawsons, etc.) next to vending
machines, or in public restrooms.
Do smoke in designated areas. Smoking is allowed in most restaurants and bars.
Some of which have designated smoking sections. You can’t smoke while walking
down the street or sitting on a bench in a park. You must instead smoke in designated
areas while outside.
Don’t approach geishas and maiko for selfies. As amazing as it is to see the graceful
geishas in the streets and how epic it would be to catch a selfie with them for your
friends and family back home, just remember that this is extremely disrespectful.
Be respectful when visiting a temple or shrine. Tours are offered at many Buddhist
and Shinto shrines, and you may see these as mere tourist attractions – but remember,
these are religious sites still used for worship. Don’t enter off-limits areas, speak softly,
and dress respectfully
Do abide by “random” police searches. If you’re doing something even slightly fishy,
the police can check to ensure you’re in the country legally. You must have your
passport with you at all times. If not, the police can detain you, and, if you’re
indignant about the search, fine you up to $1,000.
Do check if your medications are legal. While numerous medications are easily
available in Philippines and other countries without a prescription, Japan takes a
much harder line on certain ingredients. The following are prohibited:
Any medicine containing Amphetamine or Phenylaminopropane. This
includes, but is not limited to, common medications such as Tylenol and Advil.
Any form of marijuana, including Cannabidiol oil that may contain THC, even
for medical use is ILLEGAL.
Over-the-counter and prescription medications common in the US, including
ones for pain, depression, ADHD, and many kinds of decongestants and allergy
medications are ILLEGAL.
You risk arrest in Japan for bringing in banned substances even with a valid
prescription.
Some medications are legal but only with limited quantities or with advance
permission from the Japanese Government. Contact Japan's Ministry of Health,
Labour, and Welfare at yakkan@mhlw.go.jp or visit https://is.gd/gUXdin
04 Travel Guide
GETTING TO KNOW
JAPAN
FOOD ETIQUETTE
Do wait to be told where to sit at meals or formal occasions.
Do put your palms together and say “Itadakimasu” before eating – it is a polite way of
expressing “Thank you for the meal I am about to receive.”
You're allowed to lift bowls of rice, noodles, and small plates up to make the
chopsticks experience easier for yourself.
Do slurp noodles with broth.
Do not burp at the table - it is considered rude in Japan.
Avoid lifting larger plates off the table to eat out of them, transfer smaller portions to a
smaller plate before you eat.
Don’t blow your nose at the table or anywhere in public for that matter.
MASTER THE WAYS OF THE CHOPSTICKS

Chopsticks have a heavy symbolic meaning in Asia, so in order not to offend anyone it's
best to be aware of some of the do’s and don’ts in Japan while using chopsticks. Try your
best to avoid these:
Sticking your chopsticks upright in your rice bowl. You might have already heard of
this one but do not know the reason why it's quite so “taboo.” This particular ritual is
reserved for funerals and is extremely disrespectful as it is a reminder of death or bad
luck.
Rubbing your chopsticks together aggressively in your palms is a complete no no. If
there are wooden splinters, feel free to gently rub one chopstick against the other to
remove them.
Don’t stab your food with chopsticks. Stabbing pieces of food can offend people.
Avoid passing food from chopstick to chopstick. This is done in funeral. If you're really
in a sharing mood, then you can take food from their plate directly and place it on
your plate before eating it.
Don’t point at things with your chopsticks, it's weird with a fork and knife, it's also
weird with chopsticks, so better avoid it.
When sharing a communal dish, flip your chopsticks around and use the opposite end
to serve yourself.
Keep your chopsticks parallel, and don't cross them over in any way.
04 Travel Guide
GETTING TO KNOW
JAPAN
ONSEN ETIQUETTE
Onsen, a word that literally means "hot spring," are natural hot water baths rich in
beneficial minerals. There are various types of onsen available, including popular ones like
outdoor baths (roten-buro) and indoor baths (noten-buro). A sento is a public hot bath
that typically does not use naturally sourced hot water as with an onsen. In addition, there
are "super sento" establishments that offer a more luxurious experience with a variety of
saunas, baths, and additional services.
Don’t let nudity hold you back from enjoying an onsen or sento. Onsen are an important
part of Japanese culture, so if you're popping over for the full experience and want to
embrace your inner zen, it's definitely a must do for even the most conservative of people.
Here's some things to avoid and watch out for during your first onsen experience.
Rinse thoroughly before entering the hot spring. There are specific areas for washing
up, this is to ensure you don’t get outside dirt in the shared pools.
Don’t dip your hair into the water.
Don’t touch others.
Don’t talk loudly in the sauna.
Don’t splash around in the water, especially for kids.
Don't take photos. There will be people walking around baring all so what you see at
the onsen stays at the onsen.
Be sure to check the tattoo policies of an onsen. In Japan, tattoos are still associated
with criminal gangs/Yakuza, so just be weary when entering a public bath house.
If you don't feel comfortable walking around fully nude, you can cover up a little with a
towel before hopping in.
男女
Most onsens are separated by gender, so its good form to at least learn the Japanese
characters so you don’t end up in the wrong area: is for men and for women.
Travel
TIPS
GOING TO THE AIRPORT
Double check everything so you don't miss anything like money, bags, valid IDs, itinerary,
and most importantly your passport especially if you are a first time flyer. You tend to forget
many things out of your excitement.
IMMIGRATION OFFICER
Always wear a smile and make sure to look pleasant and not suspicious. Wear presentable
clothes to look decent and trustworthy. When asked what is the purpose of your travel, just
say for LEISURE or VACATION. When asked who are travelling with you, just say that you are
travelling with your friends. Always greet to give a good impression and say thank you
before leaving.
SAFETY
Yes, Tokyo is a very safe city; crime rates are low compared to other major cities worldwide.
But clearly, you should always practice some basic safety guidelines no matter where in the
world you travel.
Keep copies of your passport and financial documents in the event they are lost or stolen.
Don’t be flashy with expensive items or cash.
Avoid travelling alone at night. Call a taxi or Uber in advance and wait inside the venue
until it arrives.
Be aware of your surroundings, particularly if you’ve had a night out drinking.
Keep your personal items close. Make sure your wallet, phone, and other important
belongings secure particularly when travelling in crowded public transportation.
INTERNET ACCESS
Both paid and free wireless (WiFi) hotspots are available across Japan, which laptops,
smartphones and other mobile devices can use to connect to the internet.
FREE WIFI HOTSPOTS

Thanks to efforts of businesses and governments, public WiFi networks for free use by
foreign tourists have become quite numerous. Tourists will encounter these networks at
international airports, major railway stations (including all Yamanote Line stations and
many shinkansen stations), inside some trains and buses, selected coffee shops, fast food,
convenience stores, and many tourist information offices. Networks vary widely from
easy-to-use ones to others that require registrations.
Japan WiFi auto-connect - is a smartphone app that unifies the registration process of a
large number of free tourist hotspots by numerous companies and organizations so that
visitors can use them all without having to register for each service individually.
Registration of some personal data is required.
WIFI ROUTERS
WiFi routers are available for rent on a daily basis at major Japan airports or via the internet
for delivery to airport/hotel. There are variety of ways to stay connected to the internet while
traveling in Japan. The following are the common solutions available.
Japan Wireless and Ninja WiFi - Mobile WiFi Routers for rent in Japan. Pick-up, return,
and connect anywhere in Japan.
Japan Experience - Purchase a data sim card. High-speed internet access and no data
limitation, straight from your own personal phone.
MONEY
Currency
Japan’s currency is the Yen (¥). 1USD = ¥139.83; 1PHP = ¥2.50 (as of 26 May 2023).
Foreign currencies are not accepted for payments in Tokyo. Majority of the shops and
restaurants still prefer cash payment.
ATMs
For short-term visitors, withdrawing from your local bank account into yen from an ATM in
Japan is probably the easiest choice. Many convenience store ATMs accept VISA, Master, and
JCB bank cards. Of the latter, 7-Eleven ATMs are probably the easiest to use. As for potential
language barriers, most ATMs have multiple language settings to help your transaction run
smoother. A potential downside to relying on ATMs is that, not all ATMs in Japan are
available 24/7. The costs you pay will depend on your local bank. Generally, JP Post ATMs
charge P41.72. Note that, depending on your bank, you may be limited to withdrawing
between P7,947.18 and P11,920.76. It would be best to confirm with your bank before
leaving for Japan. In terms of ATM withdrawal limits, ATMs in Japan allow up to P39,735.88
per transaction (amount may change depending on your local bank).
Changing Money
Currency exchange shops - Most airports in Japan have currency exchange shops
available on both sides of the exit, like in Narita International Airport. Aside from major
airports, expect to see them in major train stations and some shopping centers scattered
around the city. The shop with the most branches around Tokyo is World Currency Shop,
which is under Bank of Tokyo-Mitsubishi UFJ, Daikokuya, and Travelex. While this makes
exchanging currency easy, their commission can be quite steep. In some cases you may
even find currency exchange machines in places like Harajuku, Odaiba, and Shinjuku.
Banks - Big banks like SMBC, MUFG, and Mizuho also offer currency exchange services,
but they are only open from 09:00AM to 03:00PM on weekdays. None of these options
will give you super awesome rates so prioritize finding an ATM at a nearby convenience
store instead.
Hotels - As a last resort if you need cash immediately, large hotel chains like APA Hotel
offer foreign exchange services at a premium.
Warning: You might see some shifty-looking no-name currency exchange shops on your
meanderings — steer clear of these if you don’t want to get ripped off.
Tipping, Tax, and Service Charge

A 10% national consumption tax is added to all hotel bills. There is also a local Tokyo tax of
¥100 per night for bills between ¥10,000 and ¥14,999 and ¥200 for bills over ¥15,000. At first-
class, full-service, and luxury hotels, a 10% service charge is added to the bill in place of
individual tipping. At more expensive ryokans, where individualized maid service is
provided, the service charge is usually 15%.
Authorized tax-free shops knock the tax off purchases over ¥10,000 if you show your
passport and a valid tourist visa. A large sign is displayed at such shops. A 10% tax is also
added to all restaurant bills. At more expensive restaurants a 10%–15% service charge can be
added to the bill. Tipping is not customary.
CASHLESS PAYMENTS
Smartphone payment methods used overseas, such as ApplePay, GooglePay and AliPay
sometimes cannot be used in Japan. The most commonly accepted contactless payment
smartphone apps or QR code payment methods are PayPay, LinePay, Rpay (Rakuten Pay)
and MerPay. Most stores also support credit cards such as Visa, JCB, or Mastercard.
DISCOUNT CARDS
Suica Cards - The Suica is a prepaid e-money card for moving around and shopping. There is
no more need to buy a ticket from a vending machine. Just touch your Suica to the ticket
gate and the fare is automatically deducted from your Suica. The Suica can be used not only
for JR East trains, but subways, and buses as well. The Suica can also be used to pay for
things with e-money. Buy soft drinks and coffee from vending machines and on the train.
For traveling in Japan, the Suica makes a more pleasant trip. Suica cards are sold for the
following prices: 1,000 yen, 2,000 yen, 3,000 yen, 4,000 yen, 5,000 yen and 10,000 yen. The
price includes the card, a 500-yen deposit and usable credit. Suica can be used on trains and
buses, and also in some shops, in areas of Japan served by the following IC card operators:
SAPICA, Kitaca, PASMO, TOICA, manaca, ICOCA, PiTaPa, SUGOCA, nimoca, HAYAKAKEN,
odeca, icsca and RYUTO.
IOS: https://apps.apple.com/app/id1156875272
Can purchase via Klook

Price: P968.00 / 18USD / ¥2,407 (pre-loaded with ¥1,500 and a deposit of ¥500)
Welcome Suica - is an IC card for short-term foreign visitors to Japan. Unlike regular IC cards,
the Welcome Suica does not require a deposit, but can only be used for 28 days. These
differences aside, this card can be used like a regular Suica—in the above-mentioned service
areas, establishments that accept electronic money, taxis, tourist facilities, and more. The
Welcome Suica is sold in denominations of 1,000 yen, 2,000 yen, 3,000 yen, 4,000 yen, 5,000
yen, and 10,000 yen.
Sales Locations
JR East Travel Service Centers (Narita Airport Terminal 1 Station—also known as Narita
Airport Station, Narita Airport Terminal 2-3 Station, Haneda Airport Terminal 3 Station on the
Tokyo Monorail, Tokyo Station, Shinjuku Station, Shibuya Station, Ikebukuro Station, Ueno
Station, Hamamatsucho Station), Japan Rail Cafe, Welcome Suica Ticket Vending Machines.
TRANSPORTATION
Tokyo is a huge sprawling city but it's served by one of the world's best public transport
systems.
The Takeaway
Subways and trains are the best way to get around Tokyo.
A prepaid Suica or Pasmo card is the BEST way to pay for transport.
You can buy a Suica card online for pickup at the airport.
Taxis are excellent but rather expensive.
Buses aren't recommended for short-term visitors.
Details
The best way to understand Tokyo is to think of it as several cities connected by a great
public transport system. Each urban node like Shinjuku, Shibuya, or Roppongi is like its
own city. And if you jump on the subway or train, you can be in a completely different
"city" in a few minutes.
Most of Tokyo's major urban hubs are located on the JR Yamanote Line, which is
sometimes called the "Loop Line." The only major exceptions to this are Roppongi and
Asakusa. However, these two are just a few subway stops from the Yamamote Line stops
of Ebisu and Ueno, respectively. You can ride the JR Yamanote Line with a Japan Rail
Pass, but if you just want to explore Tokyo for the first few days after arriving in Japan, it's
best to activate your pass on the morning you leave Tokyo and use it for your long-
distance train travel.
Best Taxi Booking Services in Japan

Taxi is one of the most convenient forms of transportation. Though it is more expensive than
other transportation, once you get a taxi, you can go to a destination directly. Especially
when the weather is not good or you have a lot of stuff. Moreover, as public transportation in
Japan is complicated, catching a taxi is easier and more convenient especially when you
visit Japan for the first time.
Many taxi booking apps are showing up currently. You can book a taxi anywhere and no
longer need to find a taxi on a road only if you install these taxi apps on your phone. Though
it costs about ¥400 as an additional picking-up service fee, the estimated arrival time is
available on the apps, and the payment can be completed through them.
Go - has been the most popular taxi booking app in Japan. Ordering a taxi through the
app costs a normal fare for the riding and picking-up fee. You can pay in a car or through
the app. If you pay in a car, both cash and card are available as well as other electronic
money like Suica, Pasmo, Paypay, and so on. You need to register your card information if
you pay through the app.
Uber - As an Uber driver is an individual in some foreign countries, some Japanese

people think using Uber service seems to be less secure than using public taxi
companies. In Japan, however, as an Uber taxi belongs to a taxi company, the security is
assured. You can see a driver’s face on the app as well. You can pay in a car by either cash
or card. You need to register your card information if you pay through the app. VISA,
Master Card, JCB, American Express, and Diners Club are available.
DiDi - has its origin in China and is expanding its service among the main cities in Japan
like Tokyo, Kyoto, and Osaka. The most attractive point of DiDi is the cheaper price than
other apps because there are discount coupon codes regularly. If you pay in a car, cash,
credit, and Paypay are available. You can pay through the app as well.
Fulcul - doesn’t require registering a membership. All you need to do is to install the app
and shake your phone. Then a taxi will find you and come to pick you up. There is no
additional fare for picking up, but if there are few taxis you can’t be assured of your ride.
Mode of payment is only cash.
Airport Taxi - is a service that specializes in airport transfers between airports and your
designated locations. You can choose either Alphard for 8 people or high-ace for 10
people at the most. The price setting is reasonable and easy to understand. You need to
book it 5 hours before you need a taxi. Online booking and phone call booking are
available. You need to pay online when you make a booking via its website. Bank transfer
is also available.
OPERATING HOURS OF ESTABLISHMENTS
Tokyo office hours generally are from 10:00AM to 06:00PM. Public transport such as trains
and buses get extremely crowded between 07:00AM to 09:00AM on weekdays. Train lines in
central Tokyo such as the JR Yamanote Line run their first train around 04:30AM, while the
last train departs between 12:30AM and 01:00AM.
Convenience stores such as 7-Eleven, Lawson, and FamilyMart can be found almost
everywhere and are open 24 hours. Certain cafés, restaurants, karaoke parlors, fast food
restaurants, and supermarkets are also usually open around the clock in Tokyo.
TOILET
You can always count on finding toilets inside train stations, though you’ll need to enter
through the ticket gate first. Large department stores also tend to have public restrooms
available, you can quickly navigate through the store by following signs hanging from the
ceiling or checking the store map near the elevators and stairs. The final place we suggest
looking is in public parks of all sizes; even the smaller inter-city parks will often have facilities
available. Almost all public restrooms use the international symbols for gender, so you
shouldn’t have a problem figuring out where to go.
WATER
Tokyo’s tap water is safe to drink, and millions of people do so daily, unboiled and unfiltered.
Also, you may download MyMizu – ‘mizu’ means ‘water’ in Japanese – the newest app that
will help you avoid purchasing and using convenient plastic bottles. Available in English, the
app features a user-friendly map listing free water spots from drinking fountains to
restaurants offering free refills. So all you need is to bring along your own reusable water
bottle. No registration required for this free app available on iOS & Android.
IOS - https://apps.apple.com/us/app/mymizu/id1480535233
Android - https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=co.mymizu.mymizu
MEDICAL SERVICES
If you need to see a doctor or go to the hospital while in Japan, check the “Search Medical
Institutions” (https://www.jnto.go.jp/emergency/eng/mi_guide.html) site by the Japan
National Tourism Organization. The site will provide you the following details:
Name of facilities, address, contact numbers, and websites.
Which facilities support English, Chinese, Portuguese, and other major languages.
Which credit card brands are supported by each facility.
List of facilities in PDF version can also be downloaded for easier offline reference.
Also, hotel desks and tourist information centers are places that will help you out as well.
Bring notes about your own medical information. Not all hospitals have resident interpreters
or staff that can speak English. If you have a medical condition or are pregnant, it is a good
idea to prepare notes about your medical information in English.
Important medical information:

- Name and Blood type
- Any illnesses currently being treated and medicines you are taking
- Medical history, allergies, and emergency contact information
DRUG STORES IN TOKYO

Tokyo have well-stocked pharmacies in most major metropolitan areas, so finding relief for
minor health issues like coughs and sore throats is often easily accomplished. Brands and
medication ingredients may differ but pharmacists can often assist in finding an effective
alternative.
Common drug stores in Tokyo:

Welcia
Matsumoto Kiyoshi
Tsuruha Drug
Daikoku Drug
EMERGENCY AND IMPORTANT CONTACT NUMBERS

TELEPHONE
The Japan country code is 81 and Tokyo area code is 03.
How to Dial Direct

Within Japan - Dial the number as it is. If you are calling from a landline to another
landline in the same area, you may omit the area code, but it is not necessary.
From Japan to abroad

1. Dial the international dialing access code (010).
2. Dial the country code of the country you are calling.
3. If the number starts with a 0, drop the leading 0 and dial everything else.
For example, to call the Philippine number (63) 917 630 7675, dial 010+63+917-630-7675. Note
that this method will work from any Japanese phone; however it tends to be an expensive
way to make an international call.
WEATHER FORECAST / CLOTHING

June - Across the month of June, the average temperature is 21°C, the lowest being 18°C and
the highest reaching 24°C. This is the start of Tokyo's six week rainy season with about
181mm of rain fall over 20 days - you will need a light rain jacket or poncho, and ideally, light
water repellant or waterproof clothing. This decreases to 128mm in July.
July - in Tokyo, Japan, brings more hot and sticky weather. The rainy season continues until
about the third week of July, while the average high temperature increases several degrees
to 28°C - 31°C. The rain can vary, with some days bringing intense downpours while others
bring just occasional sprinkles. Because of the heat, a jacket may be unbearable, so packing
lots of fast-drying, lightweight clothing may be your best bet, in addition to picking up a
hand fan and umbrella while you're here.
August - While it's still sweltering hot in August, with the average high temperature
increasing to 29°C - 32°C, the sun returns, putting the city in a festive mood once again. Be
sure to pack sweat-wicking clothes many swear by Uniqlo's AIRism, an iconic Japanese
brand designed to quickly absorb and release trapped moisture, allowing the wearer to stay
cool.
https://www.accuweather.com/en/jp/tokyo/226396/weather-forecast/226396
BEFORE LEAVING THE HOTEL

Double check your belongings especially your passport, e-ticket, cellpone, wallet, and valid
IDs.
Have a safe and
enjoyable trip!
For questions / queries:
0917 630 7675 / 0917 807 6336
mdelarosa@chromelabtech.com
rtimonio@chromelabtech.com

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MOST POPULAR FOOD

MOST POPULAR FOOD

BASIC PHRASES FOR ALL SITUATIONS FOOD NUMBERS

MASTER THE WAYS OF THE CHOPSTICKS

FREE WIFI HOTSPOTS

Tipping, Tax, and Service Charge

Can purchase via Klook

Best Taxi Booking Services in Japan

Uber - As an Uber driver is an individual in some foreign countries, some Japanese

OPERATING HOURS OF ESTABLISHMENTS

Important medical information:

DRUG STORES IN TOKYO

Common drug stores in Tokyo:

EMERGENCY AND IMPORTANT CONTACT NUMBERS

How to Dial Direct

From Japan to abroad

WEATHER FORECAST / CLOTHING

BEFORE LEAVING THE HOTEL

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