Japan
Tokyo
Essential facts
Currency
Japanese Yen (JPY)
Language
Japanese
Time zone
Japan Standard Time · UTC +9 (no daylight saving)
Typical weather
Hot, humid summers around 27–33°C with a June–July rainy season, and cool dry winters around 2–10°C. Spring and autumn are the most popular seasons.
Plug type
Type A and Type B · 100V
Getting around
Trains and subways are punctual and comprehensive; a Suica or Pasmo IC card covers most journeys. The Japan Rail Pass only pays off for significant intercity travel.
Local customs
Remove shoes where indicated. Do not tip — it can cause confusion. Keep phone calls off trains and speak quietly. Queue at the marked positions on platforms.
Travel tips
Carry some cash; smaller restaurants remain cash-only. Rubbish bins are rare, so carry litter with you. Tattoos may restrict entry to some onsen.
Entry requirements for British citizens
- Visa
- British citizens can normally enter for short-stay tourism for up to 90 days without a visa.
- Passport
- Your passport must be valid for the duration of your stay.
- Return ticket
- You may be asked to show a return or onward ticket.
- Accommodation
- You will be asked for your address in Japan on the arrival card.
- Health
- Some common UK medicines, including certain cold and allergy treatments, are prohibited. Check before travelling with medication.
- Customs
- Strict controls apply to medicines and stimulants. Declare cash over ¥1,000,000.
Always check before you travel