19 MISTAKES Tourists Always Make in Japan (And How to Avoid Them!)

Planning a Trip to Japan in 2025? Avoid These 19 Mistakes!

🚨 Don't Be That Tourist – Here's How to Do Japan Right!

So, you’re finally taking that dream trip to Japan? Amazing! But hold up—before you book that flight and start practicing your “Konnichiwa,” there are a few things you NEED to know. Japan is one of the most incredible travel destinations on Earth, but it’s also got some unique customs, unspoken rules, and unexpected challenges that can catch tourists off guard.

From travel mishaps to cultural slip-ups, we’re here to help you avoid the most common mistakes people make when visiting Japan. Follow these tips, and you’ll blend in like a pro, have the smoothest trip ever, and avoid looking like a clueless foreigner. Let’s go! 🚄✨

1. Traveling at the Wrong Time ⏳

Japan is beautiful year-round, but some seasons are way better than others. If you’re dreaming of cherry blossoms or stunning autumn leaves, plan accordingly!

🚫 AVOID:

• Summer (July & August): It's hot, humid, and just… sticky. Not to mention, there are a lot of bugs.
• Golden Week (late April - early May): One of Japan’s biggest holiday periods. Expect crowds, expensive flights, and fully booked hotels.
• New Year’s & Obon (mid-August): Many shops and attractions close, and domestic travel spikes.

✅ BETTER TIMES TO VISIT:

• Spring (March - May): Cherry blossoms, mild weather, and gorgeous scenery.
• Autumn (September - November): Cool temperatures and jaw-dropping fall foliage.
• Winter (December - February): Less crowded, epic snow festivals, and unreal skiing in Hokkaido.

2. Dressing Like You're at the Gym 🏋

Japanese people generally dress really well, especially in big cities. Walking around in leggings and oversized hoodies? You’ll stick out.

🚫 DON’T:

• Wear athleisure unless you’re actually working out.
• Rock flip-flops unless you’re at the beach.

✅ DO:

• Go for smart-casual outfits. Think jeans, skirts, or comfy but stylish clothes.
• Wear easy-to-remove shoes (you’ll be taking them off A LOT in temples, traditional restaurants, and even some dressing rooms).

💡 Pro Tip: Keep a pair of socks in your bag—some places won’t let you go barefoot!

3. Not Booking Popular Attractions in Advance 🎟️

Japan has some next-level attractions, but many of them require advance booking.

🚫 You can’t just walk into:

• Ghibli Museum (Tokyo) – Sells out weeks in advance.
• TeamLab Planets & Borderless (Tokyo) – Ultra-popular immersive art experience.
• Maid Cafés & Themed Restaurants – Some require reservations, especially on weekends.

✅ PLAN AHEAD! Book tickets online as soon as your trip is locked in.

4. Overpacking Your Itinerary 🏃‍♂️💨

Japan has so much to see, but trying to cram everything into one trip? Major mistake.

🚫 AVOID:

• Rushing from Tokyo to Kyoto, Osaka, Hiroshima, and back in a week.
• Packing your day with nonstop activities and no breaks.

✅ DO:

• Plan one major attraction per day and leave room for spontaneous discoveries.
• Factor in travel time—some train rides are longer than you think!

5. Underestimating Hotel Sizes 🏨

Japanese hotels, especially in cities like Tokyo, are tiny compared to Western standards.

🚫 Common Mistakes:

• Booking a semi-double bed, thinking it’s like a queen (it's not).
• Expecting lots of closet space (there usually isn’t any).

✅ Pro Tip:
Check the square footage before booking! Capsule hotels are cool, but if you’re claustrophobic, stick to regular hotels or Airbnbs.

6. Assuming Everyone Speaks English 🗣️

Japan is super tourist-friendly, but don’t expect fluent English everywhere.

🚫 Mistake:

• Speaking fast English and getting frustrated when people don’t understand.

✅ Solution:

• Learn basic phrases (Arigato = Thank you, Sumimasen = Excuse me, Eigo o hanasemasu ka? = Do you speak English?).
• Use Google Translate or apps like Papago for menus and signs.

7. Traveling in a Huge Group 🚶‍♀️🚶‍♂️🚶‍♂️🚶‍♀️

Japan is not built for large groups.

🚫 Difficulties:

• Getting tables at restaurants (most don’t accommodate big parties).
• Navigating busy areas (Shibuya Crossing with 10 people? Yikes).

✅ DO:

• Split into smaller groups and meet up later!

8. Assuming Public Transport Runs 24/7 🚆

Trains in Japan are super punctual, but they STOP running between midnight and 5 AM—plan accordingly!

🚫 Mistake:

• Booking a 6 AM flight without realizing trains won’t be running yet.

✅ Solution:

• If you have a late-night arrival or early departure, book an airport hotel or budget for a taxi (which can be pricey!).

9. Eating While Walking – The Unspoken Rule 🚷🍜

Japan has some of the most amazing street food in the world—takoyaki in Osaka, onigiri from konbinis, crepes in Harajuku—but here’s the thing: eating while walking is generally considered rude. Unlike in many Western countries where grabbing food to-go and munching on the move is normal, Japan has a strong culture of mindful eating.

🚫 What Not to Do:

• Don’t walk around Shibuya with a slice of pizza in your hand.
• Avoid snacking while browsing in shops or on public transport.

✅ What to Do Instead:

• If you buy food from a stall, eat it right there at the designated eating areas. Many vendors even provide small standing tables.
• Convenience stores (konbinis) often have small seating areas or trash bins outside where you can quickly eat your snack.
• When in doubt, observe what locals are doing—if you see people stopping to eat in one spot, follow suit!

The only real exception? Drinks. You’ll see people sipping on bottled tea or coffee while walking, but food is a different story.

10. Not Getting a Suica or Pasmo Card – Stop Wasting Time at Ticket Machines! 💳🚇

Japan has one of the most efficient public transportation systems in the world, but if you’re constantly buying single-use tickets, you’re making your trip way harder than it needs to be.

🚫 Why It’s a Mistake:

• Ticket machines can be confusing, especially if you don’t read Japanese.
• You’ll spend extra time figuring out exact fares every time you ride the train or subway.
• Some stations only take cash, meaning you’ll have to scramble for coins.

✅ How to Fix It:

• Get a Suica or Pasmo card (Japan’s version of a metro card) ASAP.
• Even better? Download it to your phone! If you have an iPhone, you can add a Suica to Apple Wallet and top it up without ever visiting a ticket machine. Google Pay offers a similar option for Android users.

💡 Pro Tip: You can also use Suica/Pasmo at vending machines, convenience stores, and some restaurants—so it’s great to have even when you’re not taking the train!

11. Forgetting Cash – Japan is Still a Cash Society 💴

Yes, Japan is super high-tech, but don’t assume that everywhere takes credit cards—many smaller businesses still operate on cash only.

🚫 Where You Might Get Caught Off Guard:

• Local ramen shops & izakayas (Japanese pubs)
• Some temples and shrines (if you want to buy charms or make offerings)
• Street markets, food stalls, and mom-and-pop stores
• Some train stations (especially in rural areas)

✅ How to Avoid This Mistake:

• Withdraw yen as soon as you land. Most 7-Eleven ATMs accept foreign cards.
• Always keep at least 5,000 - 10,000 yen ($30-$70) in cash for small expenses.
• If you do use a card, Visa and Mastercard are the most widely accepted, but always ask first.

💡 Bonus Tip: Japan uses coin-heavy currency, so make use of coin pouches or wallets with zippers. You’ll thank us later.

12. Not Checking Restaurant Hours – Don't Miss Your Meal 🍣🕒

Japan takes food seriously, but it also has strict meal times. Unlike in many other countries where restaurants stay open all day, most Japanese restaurants close between lunch and dinner service.

🚫 Common Mistakes:

• Thinking you can grab sushi at 3 PM—most places will be closed.
• Showing up for dinner at 9:30 PM and realizing they already called last orders.
• Assuming that a restaurant is open just because Google Maps says so (many small places don’t update their hours online).

✅ Know the Standard Meal Times:

• Lunch: 12:00 PM – 2:00 PM
• Dinner: 5:30 PM – 9:00 PM (some izakayas stay open later)

How to Avoid This Issue:

• Plan your meals around standard hours or opt for places that serve food all day, like chain restaurants (Ichiran, Coco Ichibanya, Yoshinoya).
• Make reservations for popular places, especially on weekends.

💡 Extra Hack: If you’re starving at an odd hour, head to a konbini (7-Eleven, FamilyMart, or Lawson)—they have surprisingly amazing food, and they’re open 24/7!

13. Tipping – It's Not a Thing in Japan ❌💸

🚫 What NOT to Do:

• Leave extra cash at a restaurant—staff might chase you down to return it!
• Try tipping a taxi driver—they’ll probably refuse it.

✅ What to Do Instead:

• Show appreciation with a simple “Arigato gozaimasu” (Thank you very much!)
• If you really want to show gratitude, buy small souvenirs or gifts instead of leaving money.

The only exception? Some high-end hotels and private tour guides may accept tips, but it’s always best to check first.

14. Talking Loudly on Trains – Keep It Lowkey 🚆🤫

Japan’s public transport is an experience—it’s clean, efficient, and eerily quiet. Unlike in some countries where loud conversations on the subway are normal, in Japan, it’s considered rude to talk loudly on public transport.

🚫 Mistakes Tourists Make:

• Chatting loudly with friends on a crowded train.
• Taking phone calls (big no-no!).
• Playing music or videos without headphones.

✅ Train Etiquette 101:

• Keep conversations low or silent—whisper if needed.
• Put your phone on silent mode (aka "Manner Mode").
• Avoid talking on the phone—if it’s urgent, step off at the next stop and take the call on the platform.

💡 Pro Tip: If you’re on a long-distance train like the Shinkansen (bullet train), talking is fine in reserved seating areas or designated talking sections.

15. Meal Times in Japan: Don't Go Hungry at the Wrong Hour 🍣

Food is a big part of any trip, and in Japan, meal times follow a structured routine. Unlike in some countries where you can grab a meal anytime, many Japanese restaurants operate on strict schedules.

• Lunch Rush (12:00 PM - 2:00 PM): This is the prime lunch period, and popular spots will be packed. If you plan to eat at a famous ramen joint or sushi bar, expect long waits unless you arrive early.
• Afternoon Break: Many restaurants close between lunch and dinner, usually around 2:30 PM to 5:00 PM. If you’re hungry during this gap, your best bet is convenience stores, fast food, or department store food courts.
• Dinner Hours (5:30 PM - 9:00 PM): Most restaurants open for dinner service around 5:30 PM, but last orders can be as early as 8:30 PM in some places. Many places close early compared to Western standards.
• Weekend Dining: Restaurants get super busy on weekends, so making a reservation is smart, especially for izakayas, fancy sushi spots, or kaiseki dining.

16. Dietary Restrictions? Plan Ahead! 🥗🚫

If you’re vegetarian, vegan, or have food allergies, Japan can be a challenge when it comes to dining. Japanese cuisine is heavy on seafood, meat, and dashi (fish-based broth), and most restaurants are not used to customizing dishes.

• Limited Vegan & Vegetarian Options: Unlike in Western countries, plant-based diets aren’t widely practiced in Japan. Even "vegetarian" dishes might contain dashi, bonito flakes, or hidden seafood ingredients.
• Communicating Restrictions: Restaurants may not understand dietary requests unless stated very clearly in Japanese. Carry a printed food allergy card or use apps like Google Translate to explain what you can’t eat.
• Finding Safe Spots: Some places cater specifically to dietary restrictions. Tokyo, Kyoto, and Osaka have dedicated vegan and halal restaurants, but outside major cities, options become limited. Research beforehand and save locations on Google Maps!

17. Restaurant Etiquette: How Not to Look Like a Clueless Tourist 🍽️💴

Dining in Japan isn’t just about eating great food—there’s a whole set of unspoken rules that locals follow. Here’s how to navigate them like a pro:

• Ordering Food: Japanese waitstaff won’t hover around your table. To order, make eye contact, raise a hand, or press the call button (if available).
• Paying the Bill: Unlike in some countries where you flag down your waiter, in Japan, you take the check to the register to pay. Many places don’t split bills, so be ready to Venmo your friends later.
• No Tipping: Japan has a no-tipping culture—staff might even chase you down if you leave money on the table! If you really want to show appreciation, a simple "Arigatou gozaimasu" (Thank you) goes a long way.
• Cash Over Cards: While Japan is modern, many smaller restaurants and izakayas still only accept cash. Always have yen on hand.

18. Leave Room in Your Suitcase (Because You WILL Shop A Lot) 🛍️🎌

Japan is a shopping paradise, and no matter how much you tell yourself you won’t go overboard, you will. Between anime merch, exclusive skincare, fashion, and traditional souvenirs, it’s impossible to leave empty-handed.

• Start With Extra Space: Don’t pack your suitcase to the brim. Arrive in Japan with at least 30-40% of your suitcase empty for purchases.
• Consider a Foldable Bag: Many tourists end up buying an extra suitcase—you don’t want to be that person panicking at the airport. Bring a lightweight foldable duffel bag just in case.
• Tax-Free Shopping: Japan offers tax-free shopping for tourists, but only if you spend over ¥5,000 (about $35 USD) at a participating store. Bring your passport, as it’s required for tax-free purchases.
• Convenient Shipping Options: Many department stores and electronics shops offer direct shipping to your hotel or airport, so you don’t have to carry heavy bags around.

19. Over-Planning Can Ruin Your Trip – Leave Room for Spontaneity!

One of the biggest mistakes tourists make is trying to see everything in a short time. Japan is full of unexpected wonders, and if you plan every second of your trip, you might miss out on some of the best moments.

• Embrace the Unexpected: Wandering through a random street in Tokyo, stumbling upon a hidden café, or finding a small shrine with zero tourists—these moments make a trip memorable.
• Plan Downtime: Instead of back-to-back activities, give yourself pockets of free time in your itinerary. You’ll be less stressed, and you’ll actually get to soak in the vibe.
• Be Open to Cultural Mishaps: You will make mistakes, whether it’s standing in the wrong spot on an escalator or not realizing you need to separate your trash into 5 different bins. Don’t stress! Japanese people are generally understanding, and as long as you’re respectful, you’ll be fine.

Travel Smart & Enjoy the Best of Japan

Japan is an amazing destination, but it comes with its own unique customs and quirks. Avoiding these 19 common mistakes will save you stress, money, and awkward moments, making your trip way smoother and more enjoyable.

Whether you’re navigating busy Tokyo streets, indulging in the best ramen of your life, or soaking in an onsen in the mountains, Japan is best experienced with an open mind and a little bit of planning.

So pack your bags, charge your camera, and get ready to explore one of the coolest countries in the world—the right way.

Stay tuned for more travel hacks, cultural deep dives, and Gen Z-approved adventure guides, only at Woke Waves Magazine!

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