First, some short tips:
Dont touch the taxi doors, saysKumquatRodeo.
Theyll auto open/close and you arent supposed to touch them.
The view from the Tokyo Metropolitan government building was incredible, sayscrs12.
Do it during the day and its free!
Narita Airport is an hour and a half outside the city.
Eating low grade Japanese beef is already better than what we get in the states, sayspopotamus.
They treat their cows very well so no need to splurge on the Wagyu or Kobe.
Look up the local holidays before your trip, saysKenopoly1.
There are no trash cans on the streets of Tokyo.
I carried a large ziplock bag in my backpack to carry my rubbish, saysBroken-Spoke-Boy.
Tokyos 7-11s are essential.
They have wifi, and their ATMs take American cards.
The food quality is unbelievable and they have everything you will need there for great prices, saysJosieFluffyPants.
Navigation can be confusing, as Japan numbers addresses by block, not by street, saysIota.
Google Maps is essential, as is wifi.
Bring a portable hotspot, or rely on wifi at Starbucks and train stations.
And while youre on wifi, download a local map (a handy Google Maps feature), saysemrichar.
Even when youre without wifi or cell service, GPS will work.
Everyone recommends Tokyos train system.
But you have to learn to navigate it.
(Remember, the trains stop at 1 AM.
)Geovikigives an extensive breakdown of the system in and out of Tokyo.
Some highlights:
JR rail passes are a great deal if youre travelling outside Tokyo.
Use a Pasmo/Suica card instead.
Unlike most cities, Tokyos Metro/subway system is not owned by one entity but several private companies.
That can make the metro/train stations extra confusing.
Each station can have multiple companies and their tracks in it, so search for the company youre using.
Check out YouTube for many how-to-get-through X station videos.
Internet cafes are everywhere and open 24/7.
There is probably one closer to the place you are visiting than the nearest metro station.
No planning required unless there is a big event nearby.
For example, theres a lot of Italian food that caters more to a Japanese taste.
I went to an amazing Indian place in Japan.
Ive also heard good things about Chinese restaurants.
And this booze tip:
Another good tip is that hard liquor can be cheaper than beer.
Many of the vending machines in and around the stations will accept those cards.
Small stations in which an officer or two will stay for a shift.
Where ever you stay or go, note the nearest Koban.
Just in case you need help or even lose something.
Exchange money at the airport or at your hotel, they dont charge a fee, saysMike B.
Take the Tokaido Shinkansen all the way to Osaka and work your way slowly back to Tokyo.
Stop at the spots you want to visit.
Literally this takes you to all the largest urban centers of Japan.
LittleJohnHarrisonFordPrefectadds:
As a foreigner, Tokyo kind of eases you in to Japan.
Do a Mario Kart throw in experience if you have time.
Best use of $60 for a unique time.
Schedule a night drive as it makes Shibuya and Tokyo Tower really standout.
