Tokyo Travel Guide 2026: Your Complete First-Timer's Adventure

What Is the Best Month to Visit Tokyo in 2026?

Tokyo welcomes visitors year-round, but choosing the right season significantly impacts your experience. Each period offers distinct advantages depending on your priorities—whether that's cherry blossoms, autumn colors, festival energy, or fewer crowds with better deals.

Spring 2026 (March to May) - Cherry Blossom Season

Spring ranks as Tokyo's most popular season for good reason. Cherry blossom season in 2026 is predicted to peak between March 25 and April 5, transforming parks and riverbanks into pink wonderlands. Ueno Park, Meguro River, and Chidorigafuchi become prime hanami (flower viewing) spots where locals gather for picnics under blooming sakura trees.

Temperatures range from 10°C to 20°C (50°F to 68°F), making it comfortable for full-day exploration. Pro tip for 2026: Book accommodations 3-4 months ahead during cherry blossom season, as prices increase 30-50% and availability shrinks quickly. Consider visiting in early May for fewer crowds and pleasant weather without the premium pricing.

Autumn 2026 (September to November) - Best Weather & Fall Colors

Many seasoned travelers consider autumn Tokyo's best-kept secret. September still carries summer warmth, but by October, crisp air arrives with stunning fall foliage. Temple gardens burst with red maples and golden ginkgo trees, creating photography-perfect scenes without spring's massive crowds.

November 2026 offers ideal conditions: pleasant temperatures (12°C to 18°C / 54°F to 64°F), clear skies perfect for Mount Fuji views, and seasonal ingredients appearing on restaurant menus. Koishikawa Korakuen Garden and Rikugien Garden showcase spectacular autumn colors. Expect to save 20-30% on accommodations compared to spring rates.

Summer 2026 (June to August) - Festival Season Despite Heat

Tokyo summers bring heat, humidity, and vibrant festivals. June marks rainy season (tsuyu), with frequent showers cooling the city. July and August heat up significantly—temperatures often exceed 30°C (86°F) with high humidity making it feel hotter.

Despite the weather, summer offers unique experiences: massive fireworks festivals (hanabi) along Sumida River, traditional bon odori dances, and lively beer gardens on rooftops. Pack light, breathable clothing and plan indoor activities during peak afternoon heat. Many museums and shopping districts provide welcome air-conditioned relief. Budget travelers benefit from 15-25% lower accommodation rates in July-August 2026.

Winter 2026 (December to February) - Clear Views & Illuminations

Winter reveals a different Tokyo—crisp, clear, and considerably less crowded. Temperatures stay mild compared to other northern cities (5°C to 12°C / 41°F to 54°F), though occasional cold snaps occur. Winter 2026 offers the best visibility for viewing Mount Fuji from Tokyo's observation decks—clear days are frequent from November through February.

December transforms the city with spectacular illuminations—LED light displays decorating shopping districts, parks, and landmarks. Roppongi Hills, Shibuya Blue Cave, and Tokyo Midtown create magical evening atmospheres. New Year's (Shogatsu) brings unique cultural experiences, including temple visits at midnight (hatsumode) and traditional osechi meals. Accommodation rates drop 25-40% in January-February 2026, making it the most budget-friendly season.

Where Can I Eat Authentic Tokyo Food Under ¥2000 in 2026?

Tokyo boasts more Michelin stars than any city globally—over 200 establishments recognized for excellence in 2026. Yet the food scene shines equally in ¥800 ramen shops and street-side yakitori stalls. Tokyo's culinary philosophy prioritizes seasonal ingredients, masterful technique, and unwavering quality regardless of price point.

Tsukiji Outer Market: Morning Food Paradise (Budget: ¥1,500-3,000)

While the inner wholesale market relocated to Toyosu in 2018, Tsukiji Outer Market remains essential for food lovers in 2026. Over 400 shops and restaurants cluster in narrow lanes, offering the freshest sushi breakfast imaginable. Arrive between 7-9 AM to experience the market's vibrant energy before tour groups arrive around 10 AM.

Watch master chefs slice enormous tuna with precision, savor sea urchin (uni) that dissolves on your tongue, and sample grilled scallops still steaming from charcoal grills. Small shops sell kitchen knives, cookware, dried goods, and specialty ingredients. Most vendors offer free samples—a delicious way to explore Japanese flavors. Budget tip: Sushi breakfast sets run ¥1,500-2,500 for exceptional quality.

Depachika: Underground Food Halls (Budget: ¥500-2,000)

Department store basements (depachika) represent Tokyo's best-kept food secrets in 2026. Elaborate displays showcase impeccable presentation: perfectly arranged fruits, delicate wagashi (Japanese sweets), premium wagyu beef, and prepared foods rivaling restaurant quality.

Visit depachika at stores like Isetan Shinjuku, Takashimaya, or Mitsukoshi before closing time (typically 8-9 PM) when vendors discount perishable items by 20-50%. Staff offer generous free samples throughout the day. Perfect for assembling extraordinary picnics or sourcing unique gifts. Pro tip: Bento boxes marked down to ¥800-1,200 after 7 PM offer restaurant-quality meals at budget prices.

Izakaya Culture: Tokyo's Social Heart (Budget: ¥2,000-4,000 per person)

Izakayas—casual Japanese pubs—reveal Tokyo's soul. After work, locals gather in these establishments serving small plates (otsumami) paired with beer, sake, or shochu. The atmosphere balances relaxation with conviviality.

Classic izakaya dishes under ¥800 each include yakitori (grilled chicken skewers), karaage (Japanese fried chicken), edamame, sashimi, and grilled fish. Look for izakayas tucked under train tracks (ガード下/guard-shita) or down narrow alleys for authentic experiences. Many display plastic food models outside—point to order if language barriers arise. Budget strategy: Order 3-4 dishes plus drinks for ¥2,000-3,000 per person.

Ramen: Tokyo's Comfort Food (Budget: ¥800-1,500)

Tokyo-style ramen features shoyu (soy sauce) based broth with medium-thick noodles. Each shop develops unique recipes, creating passionate debates about the "best" ramen. Popular chains like Ichiran offer individual booths for focused eating (¥980), while Afuri specializes in yuzu-flavored varieties (¥1,200).

Most ramen shops use ticket vending machines—insert money, press buttons for dishes and toppings, then hand tickets to staff. Expect to eat relatively quickly; ramen shops emphasize turnover during busy periods. Slurping noodles isn't just acceptable—it's encouraged and shows appreciation. Hidden gem in 2026: Nakiryu in Toshima ward offers Michelin-starred tantanmen for just ¥1,100.

Conveyor Belt Sushi (Kaiten-zushi) (Budget: ¥1,000-2,500)

Conveyor belt sushi restaurants offer fun, affordable sushi experiences in 2026. Color-coded plates indicate prices (typically ¥100-500 per plate). Grab whatever appeals as it passes, or order specific items via tablet at your seat with English menus.

Chains like Kura Sushi, Sushiro, and Uobei maintain surprising quality despite low prices. Popular locations require wait times, especially during dinner hours—arrive slightly before or after peak times (12-1 PM, 6-8 PM) for shorter queues. Many locations now use smartphone apps for virtual queuing in 2026, allowing you to explore nearby areas while waiting.

How Do I Navigate Tokyo's Transportation System in 2026?

Tokyo's public transportation ranks among the world's most efficient, clean, and punctual. Trains rarely deviate more than 30 seconds from schedule—delays of even minutes prompt public apologies. The system appears daunting initially but operates on logical principles once understood. Over 8.7 million passengers use Tokyo's rail network daily in 2026.

IC Cards: Your Transportation Essential (Cost: ¥500 deposit + ¥1,000+ charge)

Purchase a Suica or Pasmo card immediately upon arrival—these rechargeable IC cards revolutionize Tokyo navigation in 2026. Both cards function identically and work on all Tokyo trains, subways, buses, and most vending machines, convenience stores, and even some restaurants.

Buy cards at any major station ticket machine (¥500 refundable deposit, minimum ¥1,000 initial charge). Simply tap when entering and exiting stations—fares automatically deduct. Recharge at any station's ticket machine or designated convenience stores. Cards remain valid indefinitely, perfect for return visits. New in 2026: Virtual IC cards available on iPhone and Android smartphones eliminate the need for physical cards.

Tokyo Metro & Toei Subway (Cost: ¥180-320 per ride)

Two separate companies operate Tokyo's subway: Tokyo Metro (9 lines) and Toei (4 lines). While technically different systems, IC cards work seamlessly across both. Trains run approximately 5 AM to midnight, with variations by line and day of week.

For tourists planning intensive sightseeing, consider unlimited ride passes: 24-hour (¥800), 48-hour (¥1,200), or 72-hour (¥1,500) tickets covering both systems. These pay for themselves after 4-5 rides daily. Purchase at major stations or Narita/Haneda Airport tourist counters. Google Maps accurately calculates which pass saves money based on your planned routes.

JR Yamanote Line: Your Best Friend (Cost: ¥140-200 per ride)

The JR Yamanote Line—a loop circling central Tokyo—connects virtually all major districts: Shibuya, Shinjuku, Harajuku, Tokyo Station, Ueno, and Ikebukuro. Most first-time visitors use this line for 70-80% of their journeys. Trains arrive every 3-5 minutes during daytime, making wait times minimal.

The entire loop takes approximately 60 minutes—a scenic way to orient yourself on day one. Green cars indicate the direction trains travel around the loop (clockwise or counter-clockwise). Unlike subway systems, JR lines charge by distance, though IC cards handle calculations automatically. Pro tip: Download the JR East app for real-time train information in English.

Navigating Stations Like a Local

Major stations like Shinjuku (world's busiest) or Tokyo Station feel overwhelming initially—dozens of exits, multiple lines, underground shopping areas. Follow these proven strategies:

• Use Google Maps navigation—incredibly accurate in Tokyo, showing exactly which exits and transfers to use with step-by-step guidance
• Exit numbers matter significantly; the correct exit can save 10+ minutes of walking. Always verify exit numbers before leaving the station
• Station staff at information desks speak basic English and provide helpful guidance. Don't hesitate to ask—they genuinely want to help
• Many stations have coin lockers (¥300-700) for storing luggage during day trips. Arrive early for popular stations as lockers fill quickly
• Women-only cars operate during rush hours (7:30-9:30 AM) on most lines—marked with pink signs. Men traveling with women/children may use these cars

Taxis: Convenient but Expensive (Cost: ¥500 base + ¥100/280m)

Tokyo taxis offer impeccable service but cost significantly more than trains in 2026. Base fares start around ¥500, increasing rapidly with distance and time. Useful for late-night returns after trains stop, groups splitting costs, or reaching areas poorly served by trains.

Hail taxis from the street (left rear door opens automatically), wait at designated taxi stands near stations and hotels, or use apps like JapanTaxi (GO) or Uber in 2026. Many drivers speak limited English—have destinations written in Japanese or show addresses on your phone. Budget estimate: Expect ¥2,000-4,000 for cross-town rides (20-30 minutes).

What Hidden Gems Do Tourists Miss in Tokyo 2026?

While Tokyo Tower, Senso-ji Temple, and Shibuya Crossing earn their fame, Tokyo's true magic often emerges in unexpected places. These lesser-known spots deliver authentic experiences without overwhelming crowds—neighborhoods where locals actually live and traditional Tokyo culture thrives.

Yanaka District: Edo-Period Time Capsule

Yanaka survived World War II bombing, preserving historic wooden buildings, traditional shops, and peaceful cemetery walks. This old neighborhood feels like stepping back decades into Showa-era Tokyo. Yanaka Ginza shopping street offers nostalgic charm—small shops selling traditional crafts, freshly made croquettes (¥100), and local sweets.

Visit on weekday afternoons when tourists thin out and locals go about daily routines. Explore small temples scattered throughout narrow lanes, discover charming cafes in renovated traditional houses (kissaten), and experience Tokyo's quieter side. The nearby Nezu neighborhood extends this atmosphere with equally appealing traditional streets. Best access: Nippori Station on JR Yamanote Line, then 10-minute walk.

Shimokitazawa: Bohemian Village Spirit

Shimokitazawa cultivates Tokyo's bohemian spirit in 2026. Winding streets packed with vintage clothing stores, independent theaters, cozy cafes, record shops, and live music venues create village-like atmosphere despite central location. No chain stores disrupt the authentic, slightly chaotic aesthetic.

Perfect for aimless wandering, discovering unique boutiques, catching indie performances, or enjoying craft beer at small bars. The neighborhood attracts artists, musicians, and students, maintaining creative energy distinct from Tokyo's corporate districts. Visit evening hours (after 6 PM) when venues come alive with performances. Budget tip: Vintage clothing runs ¥1,000-5,000 for quality pieces.

Kagurazaka: French-Japanese Fusion Neighborhood

Kagurazaka blends French influence with traditional Japanese atmosphere—cobblestone streets wind past French bistros, Japanese ryotei (traditional restaurants), and hidden geisha districts. The neighborhood slopes upward from Iidabashi Station, revealing charming discoveries around each corner.

Narrow side alleys (especially Hyogo Yokocho and Kakurenbo Yokocho meaning "hide and seek alley") preserve old Tokyo character with traditional architecture and intimate establishments. French bakeries, cafes, and restaurants reflect the area's historical French connection since the early 1900s. Visit during summer's Awa Odori festival when streets fill with traditional dancers. Best for: Couples seeking romantic atmosphere and quality dining.

Koenji: Underground Music & Vintage Paradise

Koenji maintains countercultural edge as Tokyo's underground music and vintage shopping capital. Multiple live music venues host punk, indie rock, and experimental performances nightly. Over 200 vintage shops cluster in the area, offering better prices and selections than touristy Harajuku.

The neighborhood's annual Awa Odori festival in August attracts 1 million visitors—Tokyo's largest traditional dance festival. Year-round, Koenji offers authentic local atmosphere with izakayas, ramen shops, and quirky establishments. Pro tip: Visit Saturday afternoons when vintage shops are fully open and live music previews begin. Budget: Vintage finds ¥500-3,000, live music cover charges ¥1,000-2,000.

Odaiba: Futuristic Island Experience

This man-made island in Tokyo Bay showcases futuristic architecture and waterfront attractions. TeamLab Borderless creates mind-bending digital art installations—interactive rooms where projections respond to movement, creating ever-changing environments (admission ¥3,200, booking required weeks ahead in 2026).

Additional attractions include Oedo Onsen Monogatari (hot spring theme park ¥2,900), life-size Unicorn Gundam statue, shopping malls, and stunning Rainbow Bridge views. Sunset from Odaiba Marine Park offers spectacular city skyline photography. Less crowded than central Tokyo, providing relaxed exploration pace. Access: Yurikamome Line from Shimbashi Station (automated train with great views) or Rinkai Line.

What Are the Best Day Trips from Tokyo in 2026?

Tokyo's location provides easy access to mountains, hot springs, historic sites, and coastal towns—all within 1-2 hours by train. These destinations offer different perspectives on Japanese culture and natural beauty beyond the metropolitan experience.

Mount Fuji & Hakone (2 hours, Budget: ¥6,000-10,000)

Japan's most iconic mountain pairs perfectly with Hakone's hot springs, art museums, and Lake Ashi. Clear days offer spectacular Fuji views, particularly from November through February. The Hakone Loop ticket (¥5,700) includes train, cable car, ropeway, and pirate ship—a full-day adventure using varied transportation modes.

Key stops include Hakone Open-Air Museum (sculptures in mountain setting ¥1,600), Owakudani volcanic valley (active sulfur vents and famous black eggs), and relaxing onsen baths with mountain views (¥800-2,000 for day use). Stay overnight to experience traditional ryokan hospitality (¥15,000-30,000 per person with dinner), or return to Tokyo same evening using romance car express trains. Pro tip 2026: Book romance car seats 1 month ahead for guaranteed window views.

Nikko (2 hours, Budget: ¥4,000-7,000)

This UNESCO World Heritage site showcases ornate Toshogu Shrine—possibly Japan's most decorated temple complex with intricate gold leaf and colorful carvings. Surrounding mountains provide stunning natural beauty, especially during autumn foliage (late October through early November).

Don't miss Kegon Falls (one of Japan's top waterfalls, elevator to viewing platform ¥570), Lake Chuzenji, and peaceful forest walks through cedars hundreds of years old. Winter brings fewer crowds and occasional snow creating magical atmosphere. JR Nikko Line reaches the town directly from Tokyo (¥2,810 each way). Consider JR Kanto Area Pass (¥10,180 for 3 days) if visiting multiple destinations.

Kamakura (1 hour, Budget: ¥2,000-5,000)

Once Japan's political capital (1185-1333), Kamakura retains historical significance with numerous temples, the Great Buddha (Daibutsu) statue, and coastal atmosphere. More relaxed than Tokyo yet equally rich in culture and history—perfect for day trips in 2026.

Visit Hasedera Temple for hilltop views and hydrangeas (June), walk through bamboo groves at Hokokuji Temple (¥300 entry + ¥600 for matcha tea experience), explore Tsurugaoka Hachimangu Shrine, and enjoy beaches during summer months. Komachi-dori shopping street offers local crafts, sweets, and restaurants. Combine with nearby Enoshima Island (connected by bridge) for extended coastal exploration. Access: JR Yokosuka Line from Tokyo Station (¥920, 1 hour).

Yokohama (30 minutes, Budget: ¥2,000-5,000)

Japan's second-largest city sits just south of Tokyo, offering waterfront attractions, one of the world's largest Chinatowns, and historic Western architecture. Minato Mirai 21 district features modern landmarks, shopping, and museums along revitalized harbor.

Cup Noodles Museum celebrates instant ramen history and lets you create custom cup noodles (¥500 admission + ¥400 for DIY cup noodles), Sankeien Garden showcases traditional buildings in beautiful landscape (¥900), and Yokohama Chinatown serves authentic Chinese cuisine in atmospheric streets. Easy afternoon trip from Tokyo. Access: JR Negishi Line or Tokyu Toyoko Line (¥480-560, 30-40 minutes).

Kawagoe (1 hour, Budget: ¥2,000-4,000)

Known as "Little Edo," Kawagoe preserves merchant town atmosphere from the Edo period with well-maintained warehouses (kura) and traditional streets. The historic district feels like stepping back 200 years—perfect for photography and traditional craft shopping.

Explore candy alley (Kashiya Yokocho) with traditional sweets shops, visit Kitain Temple and its 500 distinctive statues, and walk the preserved merchant street lined with Edo-period buildings. Less touristy than Nikko or Kamakura despite proximity to Tokyo. New in 2026: Kawagoe Festival Museum (¥300) showcases elaborate festival floats with multimedia presentations. Access: Tobu Tojo Line from Ikebukuro (¥480, 30 minutes).

How Much Does a 7-Day Trip to Tokyo Cost in 2026?

Tokyo carries a reputation for expense, but strategic planning enables budget-friendly visits without sacrificing experience quality. Understanding cost tiers helps set realistic expectations and allocate resources effectively based on your travel style and priorities.

Budget Travel (¥8,000-12,000 per day = ¥56,000-84,000 for 7 days)

Accommodation (¥2,500-4,000): Hostels in Asakusa, Ueno, or Ikebukuro provide clean, functional beds with common areas perfect for meeting fellow travelers. Budget business hotels (¥4,000-7,000) offer private rooms with basic amenities. Capsule hotels provide unique experiences at similar price points—try Nine Hours or First Cabin for modern designs.

Food (¥2,000-4,000): Convenience stores offer surprisingly good meals (¥300-800)—onigiri, bento boxes, sandwiches. Conveyor belt sushi satisfies for ¥1,000-2,000. Ramen shops serve filling bowls around ¥800-1,200. Gyudon chains (Yoshinoya, Sukiya) provide ¥400-800 meals. Supermarkets discount bento boxes 30-50% after 7 PM—excellent value dinners.

Activities (¥1,000-2,000): Many attractions cost nothing—Meiji Shrine, Imperial Palace East Gardens, Senso-ji Temple, people-watching at Shibuya Crossing. Free observation decks at Tokyo Metropolitan Government Building. Museums typically charge ¥500-1,000 admission. Transportation (¥2,000-2,500) with IC card covers 3-4 rides daily.

Mid-Range Travel (¥15,000-25,000 per day = ¥105,000-175,000 for 7 days)

Accommodation (¥8,000-15,000): Comfortable business hotels in convenient locations (Shinjuku, Shibuya, Ginza) provide quality rest and amenities. Brands like Dormy Inn, Super Hotel, or APA Hotel offer reliable service. Consider neighborhood boutique hotels for character at similar prices.

Food (¥5,000-8,000): Mix casual restaurants (¥1,500-3,000 per meal) with nice dining experiences (¥5,000-8,000). Enjoy izakayas, quality sushi, tonkatsu specialty shops, and department store restaurants. Occasional splurges on higher-end establishments. Morning coffee/pastry (¥500-800), lunch teishoku sets (¥1,000-1,500), nice dinner (¥3,000-5,000).

Activities (¥3,000-5,000): Paid attractions like TeamLab (¥3,200), Tokyo Skytree (¥2,700), occasional guided tours (¥5,000-10,000), shopping allowance, day trips. Transportation (¥2,000-3,000) covers unlimited subway passes or JR travel. This range offers comfortable exploration with diverse experiences without constant budget stress.

Luxury Travel (¥35,000+ per day = ¥245,000+ for 7 days)

Accommodation (¥25,000-100,000+): High-end hotels like Park Hyatt Tokyo (Lost in Translation fame ¥60,000+), Aman Tokyo (¥90,000+), Peninsula Tokyo, or Ritz-Carlton offering exceptional service, prime locations, and premium amenities. Concierge handles reservations and planning.

Food (¥15,000-50,000): Michelin-starred dining (¥20,000-50,000+ per meal), premium omakase sushi experiences at Sukiyabashi Jiro or Sushi Saito (¥30,000-60,000), kaiseki ryori (traditional multi-course meals ¥20,000-40,000), exclusive restaurants. Tokyo excels at luxury dining with impeccable service and presentation unmatched globally.

Activities (¥10,000-30,000): Private guides (¥40,000-80,000 per day), exclusive experiences, VIP tickets, luxury shopping in Ginza, private transportation. Tokyo delivers world-class luxury with attention to detail unmatched globally. Consider private tea ceremony (¥15,000-30,000), sumo tournament box seats (¥30,000-50,000), or private kaiseki cooking class (¥25,000-40,000).

What Cultural Etiquette Should I Know for Tokyo 2026?

Respecting local customs significantly enhances your Tokyo experience and interactions with residents, who deeply appreciate cultural awareness from visitors. Japanese culture values wa (harmony) and consideration for others—these guidelines help you navigate social situations smoothly.

Essential Do's in Tokyo 2026

• Bow slightly when greeting people—depth of bow indicates formality level; slight nod (15°) suffices for casual situations, deeper bows (30°-45°) for formal settings or showing deep appreciation
• Remove shoes when entering homes, traditional restaurants, temples, some accommodations, and traditional inns—look for raised floors (genkan), shoe racks, or slippers as indicators
• Keep voices low on trains—phone conversations strongly discouraged; set phones to silent (manner mode) and use messaging instead. Train cars maintain quiet atmosphere during commutes
• Stand left on escalators (right in Osaka/Kyoto) allowing others to walk past on the right side. This rule is strictly followed during rush hours
• Say "itadakimasu" before meals (expressing gratitude for food) and "gochisousama deshita" after finishing (thanking for the meal). Shows cultural respect
• Carry trash with you—public bins are rare due to 1995 subway attacks; convenience stores accept small amounts of trash. Hotels and stations have disposal areas
• Queue in organized lines—whether for trains, restaurants, or attractions. Cutting lines is extremely rude. White marks on platforms show where train doors open

Important Don'ts in Tokyo 2026

• Don't walk while eating—find a spot to stop and finish food; considered impolite except festival settings. Many food vendors provide standing eating areas
• Never stick chopsticks vertically into rice—resembles funeral ritual for deceased; rest them on chopstick holders instead. Also don't pass food chopstick-to-chopstick
• Don't tip at restaurants, taxis, or hotels—tipping considered rude and creates confusion; excellent service is standard expectation already included in prices
• Avoid talking loudly in public spaces—Japanese culture values wa (harmony) and avoiding disruption to others. Indoor voices are standard everywhere
• Don't touch merchandise in shops without asking—especially at traditional or high-end stores. Some shops display "Please don't touch" signs
• Never blow your nose in public—considered very impolite; excuse yourself to restroom if necessary. Sniffling is more acceptable than blowing
• Don't eat or drink while walking—except in festival areas. Sit down at benches or designated eating areas. Train station platforms have vending machines with nearby benches
• Avoid wearing shoes indoors—when slippers are provided, use them. Don't wear toilet slippers outside the bathroom (surprisingly common mistake)

Tokyo residents are remarkably helpful despite language barriers—don't hesitate asking for directions or recommendations. Most people will go considerably out of their way to assist visitors. Showing effort to respect local customs, even imperfectly, earns appreciation and warmth. Japanese people understand foreigners don't know all rules and appreciate genuine attempts at cultural respect.

New considerations for 2026: Many establishments now prefer cashless payments (Suica/Pasmo IC cards, credit cards) for hygiene. Some restaurants use QR code ordering systems with English options. Respect photography restrictions at temples, shrines, and certain museums—always check for signs before taking photos.