Planning a trip to Japan? Here are some essential tips to make your journey smoother and safer. From reliable resources to use during emergencies, to proper manners on public transportation, and the dos and don’ts when visiting temples and shrines, this guide covers it all. With these in mind, you’ll be able to enjoy your trip to Japan with peace of mind!

When you encounter a disaster in Japan, here are useful websites and convenient items that can help protect yourself. We’ve also summarized quick actions you can take to stay safe when an earthquake occurs.

Japan Safe Travel Information

Operated by the Japan National Tourism Organization (JNTO), this website provides easy-to-understand maps showing information such as earthquakes, tsunami disasters, heavy rain, and strong wind warnings. It also offers a wide range of links to resources useful for travelers.

Japan Visitor Hotline   (JNTO Call Center)

A reliable 24/7, year-round call center designed to ensure the safety and peace of mind of international travelers in case of accidents, illness, or disasters. Support is available in English, Chinese, Korean, and Japanese.

Phone number: +81 50-3816-2787

NHK WORLD-JAPAN

The international broadcasting service of NHK, Japan’s only public broadcaster. It provides news and a variety of programs in multiple languages worldwide, while also introducing the latest updates from Japan and Asia, as well as Japanese culture.

In addition, JNTO operates social media accounts to share essential information for international travelers during disasters:

●X account: @JapanSafeTravel

●Weibo account: 「安心访日」Japan Safe Travel

Mobile Battery

Smartphones are essential during disasters—for checking information websites and social media, or using translation functions. However, right after a disaster, it may be difficult to find a place to recharge. Be sure to carry a mobile battery as backup.

Mask

From autumn through winter, the air tends to get dry, so it’s a good idea to carry a mask. It not only helps prevent throat dryness but also reduces the risk of catching colds or influenza, which can spread more easily during disasters.

Snacks & Drinks

In large-scale disasters where lifelines are cut off, or if you are stuck in a stopped train, snacks and drinks will be helpful. Filling options such as biscuits or crackers are recommended, while green tea or coffee can provide a refreshing effect. Choose items that can be stored at room temperature.

When an earthquake occurs, immediately hide under a sturdy desk or table, protect your head with a bag or cushion, and wait until the shaking stops. Rushing outside in a panic is dangerous, as falling objects are likely.

Once the shaking has stopped, carefully exit while avoiding hazards such as broken glass, and move to a safe location. In the event of a major earthquake, there may be a risk of a tsunami. If a tsunami warning is issued, head to higher ground immediately.

Japan’s trains are punctual, running according to the timetable, and safe enough that you don’t need to worry even if you fall asleep onboard. While they are highly convenient and reliable, there are also unique rules that you may not find in other countries.

Please keep the following points in mind when using trains in Japan:

• Line up and wait your turn when boarding. Cutting in line is not allowed.
• Do not leave trash on the train; please dispose of it in the bins located at stations.
• Be considerate of other passengers and avoid talking loudly.
• Phone calls should be made in private spaces whenever possible—refrain from talking on the phone inside the train.
• Especially on local trains, please avoid eating foods with strong smells.

In some sightseeing areas, buses are a convenient way to get around. However, in recent years, issues with foreign tourists’ bus manners have become a social concern in Kyoto. Please keep in mind that many people use buses for commuting to work or school.

Be sure to observe the following etiquette when riding the bus:

• Line up and wait your turn when boarding. Cutting in line is not allowed.
• Do not leave trash on the bus—always take it with you.
• Be considerate of other passengers and avoid talking loudly.
• Phone calls should be made in private spaces whenever possible—refrain from talking on the phone inside the bus.
• Aisles are narrow, so please avoid bringing large luggage (such as suitcases).
• The space inside the bus is limited, so please avoid eating foods with strong smells.

In Kyoto, buses are the main form of transportation, but bringing a suitcase onboard is not recommended. If you have a suitcase, the “Hankyu Tourist Information Center Kyoto Kawaramachi” offers a same-day delivery service that is very convenient.

https://enjoy-osaka-kyoto-kobe.com/ja/article/a/baggage-service-kyoto/

Shrines and temples are not originally sightseeing spots but religious facilities. When visiting, please keep in mind the following points to show proper respect and observe good manners.

Etiquette at Japanese Shrines

1. Avoid speaking loudly.
A shrine is a sacred place. Once you pass through the torii gate, you are in a sacred area. Refrain from making noise and be respectful.

2. Do not eat or drink within the precincts.
Many shrines prohibit eating, drinking, or bringing food onto the grounds. Please be mindful.

3. Do not touch the buildings or torii.
Leaning on, climbing, or touching the torii is strictly forbidden. Treat them as sacred objects.

4. Check the photography rules.
Shrines are places of ritual and prayer. Many areas prohibit photography, so always confirm the rules before taking pictures.

5. Do not walk in the center of the approach.
The center path is considered the passage of the deities. Walk along the sides instead.

6. How to pray.
Bow once at the torii, purify your hands at the temizuya (water basin), and at the main shrine, follow the standard ritual: two bows, two claps, one bow (ni-hai, ni-hakushu, ippai).

Etiquette at Japanese Temples

1. Avoid speaking loudly.
A temple is a sacred place. Once you pass through the main gate (sanmon), you are in a holy area. Keep quiet and respectful.

2. Do not eat or drink within the precincts.
Eating, drinking, or bringing food into the grounds is often prohibited.

3. Do not touch the statues.
Touching or leaning on Buddhist statues is forbidden. They must be treated with reverence.

4. Check the photography rules.
At the main hall or in front of the principal image (honzon), photography is often prohibited. Always follow posted signs.

5. How to pray.
Bow once at the gate, purify your hands at the temizuya, and at the main hall, put your hands together silently in prayer without clapping.

How to Tell Shrines and Temples Apart
Shrines: Often have a torii gate and guardian lion-dogs (komainu).
Temples: Typically feature a main gate (sanmon), Buddhist statues, or pagodas.

By observing proper etiquette and manners, you can fully appreciate the solemn and spiritual atmosphere of shrines and temples during your visit.