Japan

Japan’s transport network is a marvel of efficiency, but it can be overwhelming for first-timers. The Shinkansen (bullet train) is the gold standard for long-distance travel, whisking you from Tokyo to Osaka in under three hours for roughly ¥14,500 ($95). For local travel, pick up a digital IC Card (such as Suica or Pasmo) on your smartphone to tap-and-go on buses and subways. To navigate the complex web of exits at Shinjuku Station—the world’s busiest—you’ll need reliable data. Activating a Hello eSIM before you land ensures you have instant access to Google Maps and real-time train schedules without hunting for public Wi-Fi. If you're exploring the rural parts of Hokkaido or Kyushu, consider a rental car; just remember that Japan drives on the left. Use the Hello trip planning feature to map out your route and keep your train timings organized in one place, ensuring a seamless transition between the neon lights of Tokyo and the quiet temples of Kyoto.

Eating in Japan is an adventure that ranges from ¥500 ($3.30) convenience store onigiri to high-end kaiseki multi-course meals. For an authentic local experience, head to an Izakaya—a Japanese gastropub. Look for the red lanterns (akachochin) in alleys like Tokyo’s Omoide Yokocho or Osaka's Hozenji Yokocho. Order a round of yakitori (grilled skewers) and a cold nama biru (draft beer). In Japan, it’s uncommon to tip, as excellent service is the standard. When dining with friends, the bill often comes as a single total rather than being split by the server. Instead of awkward math at the table, use the Hello expense splitting feature to divvy up the cost of that Wagyu beef or late-night ramen. Don't forget to try regional specialties like Okonomiyaki in Hiroshima. If you're a food lover, use your Hello trip planning tool to bookmark specific hidden gems in the backstreets of Gion so you never miss a reservation.

While Japan is rapidly modernizing, it remains a surprisingly cash-centric society, especially at smaller shrines, local ramen shops, and traditional ryokans. Always carry a coin purse for the ¥100 and ¥500 coins you’ll inevitably accumulate. ATMs in 7-Eleven stores (7-Bank) are the most reliable for international cards and usually offer fair exchange rates. To avoid overspending on Ghibli merchandise or luxury stationery at Itoya, use the Hello budget tracking tool. You can log your expenses in Japanese Yen as you go, and the app will help you see exactly how much you have left for that final duty-free haul. A typical mid-range daily budget is around ¥15,000–¥20,000 ($100–$130), covering food, local transport, and entrance fees for sights like the Fushimi Inari Shrine. Having a Hello eSIM allows you to check live exchange rates instantly, ensuring you're always informed when making a purchase.

Understanding local customs will make your trip much smoother. When entering a traditional inn or certain restaurants, look for a raised floor or a cubby for shoes—this is your cue to switch to slippers. Silence is golden on public transport; avoid talking on the phone and keep your music volume low. When visiting temples, a small offering of a ¥5 coin is considered lucky because the word for 'five yen' (go-en) sounds like the word for 'good fortune.' To keep your itinerary respectful and well-timed, use the Hello trip planning feature to schedule visits to popular spots like Senso-ji early in the morning to avoid the crowds. If you find yourself unsure of a social norm, a quick search using your Hello eSIM data can provide instant guidance on everything from chopstick etiquette to onsen rules, helping you navigate Japanese culture with confidence and grace.