How to prepare for a smooth trip to Japan (for beginners)

How to prepare for a smooth trip to Japan (for beginners) Toon's 10-day trip to Japan just ended not long ago. I traveled by myself from Osaka, Kyoto, Kobe, Himeji, to the World Heritage Village in the central part of the country. Japan is so lovely. But before traveling, I was quite worried, especially because it was my first time managing everything myself, from tickets to trains. So I'd like to share "What You Should Prepare" for beginners who are going to Japan so that you don't miss out! ⸻ 📌 1. Passport with at least 6 months remaining validity Many people forget to check this before booking a ticket! Toon recommends checking your passport first. If it's about to expire, it's safest to renew it. ⸻ 📌 2. Apps You Should Download and Install Toon uses these apps every day to the point that I feel like I can't do without them: • Navigation apps (used to check train/walking routes) • Translation apps for reading menus/signs • Websites to check regional train schedules • Accommodation booking apps • Websites to register to enter Japan (should be done in advance) • Trip planning apps that can save expenses and view maps of tourist attractions Download them before traveling It will make everything much smoother. ⸻ 📌 3. SIM/Internet is a must! Toon chooses to use roaming service from the network that I usually use because I don't have to change SIMs. But if you are more comfortable using eSIM or buying a Japanese SIM, you can do that too. Just having internet access from the first day will make it much easier to find your way and use various services. ⸻ 📌 4. Prepare enough cash Although Japan accepts credit cards in large stores, small stores or buses and markets usually only accept cash. Toon brought about 50,000 yen (about 12,000 baht) to spend on food and small souvenirs. The rest can be used with a card. ⸻ 📌 5. Comfortable shoes are very important! I walk no less than 20,000 steps per day. Toon chooses to wear sneakers with soft soles that are comfortable to wear (some days I even add another layer of insoles) because I once wore fashionable shoes and they hurt so much that I could barely walk… ⸻ 📌 6. Important documents that you should carry with you Toon printed all the documents in a thin plastic file and carried them with her. In case the officer asks, she can submit them immediately: • Passport • QR Code for entry registration • Accommodation reservation information • Long-distance train tickets (if any) • Travel insurance ⸻ 🌸 Summary: Going to Japan is not as difficult as you think if you prepare everything before departure. Toon is also a newbie, but just checking this list will make your trip smooth! For those who are preparing, try checking the following. Then you will be able to travel to Japan comfortably and have fun for sure! ⸻ #Prepare for a trip to Japan #Travel to Japan #Travel to Japan by yourself