FAQs

Entry, Visas & Documentation

Do Indian travellers need a visa for Japan?

Yes, Indian citizens must obtain a valid tourist or business visa. You can apply online (eVisa) or through accredited agencies with a passport, photos, itinerary, and required documents. Processing typically takes 4–10 working days.

Do Indian travellers need a visa for Japan?

Do Japanese tourists need a visa for India?

Yes, Japanese nationals are required to obtain an e-Visa before arrival. The application process is fully online and usually completed within 3–5 working days.

Do Japanese tourists need a visa for India?

Yes, Japanese nationals are required to obtain an e-Visa before arrival. The application process is fully online and usually completed within 3–5 working days.

Do Indian tourists need an International Driving Permit for Japan?

Yes, an International Driving Permit (IDP) is necessary for driving or renting a car in Japan.

Do Indian tourists need an International Driving Permit for Japan?

Yes, an International Driving Permit (IDP) is necessary for driving or renting a car in Japan.

Money & Payments

Is tipping expected?

Tipping is not customary in Japan and can even be considered rude. In India, it is recommended in restaurants and for service staff, typically around 5–10% of the bill.

Is tipping expected?

Tipping is not customary in Japan and can even be considered rude. In India, it is recommended in restaurants and for service staff, typically around 5–10% of the bill.

Can tourists claim tax refunds on shopping?

In Japan, tourists can claim tax refunds at designated stores by presenting their passport. In India, refunds are available only at limited outlets.

Can tourists claim tax refunds on shopping?

In Japan, tourists can claim tax refunds at designated stores by presenting their passport. In India, refunds are available only at limited outlets.

Are credit cards accepted in Japan?

Major stores and train stations accept credit cards. However, it is advisable to carry some cash, as some restaurants or shops accept only cash.

Are credit cards accepted in Japan?

Major stores and train stations accept credit cards. However, it is advisable to carry some cash, as some restaurants or shops accept only cash.

Travel Insurance & Emergencies

Is travel insurance required?

Travel insurance is not mandatory but is highly recommended to cover medical emergencies.

Is travel insurance required?

Travel insurance is not mandatory but is highly recommended to cover medical emergencies.

How can I contact emergency services in both countries?

In Japan: dial 110 for police and 119 for ambulance or fire. In India: dial 112 for general emergencies, 100 for police, and 102 for ambulance.

How can I contact emergency services in both countries?

In Japan: dial 110 for police and 119 for ambulance or fire. In India: dial 112 for general emergencies, 100 for police, and 102 for ambulance.

Transportation & Rail Passes

What is the Japan Rail Pass (JR Pass)?

The Japan Rail Pass is a special ticket for temporary visitors, offering unlimited travel on nearly all JR network trains—including Shinkansen (bullet trains), rapid, express, and local trains—for a set period.

What is the Japan Rail Pass (JR Pass)?

What trains are covered by the JR Pass?

The JR Pass is valid on all JR trains, including most Shinkansen services (except Nozomi and Mizuho), rapid, express, and local lines, plus airport express trains like Narita Express and Tokyo Monorail.

What trains are covered by the JR Pass?

How long is the JR Pass valid?

Passes are available for 7, 14, or 21 consecutive days. The validity starts from the date of first use.

How long is the JR Pass valid?

Passes are available for 7, 14, or 21 consecutive days. The validity starts from the date of first use.

How long is the JR Pass valid?

Passes are available for 7, 14, or 21 consecutive days. The validity starts from the date of first use.

How is luggage handled on JR trains?

Space is available for regular luggage. Free seat reservations are recommended when traveling with oversized bags.

How is luggage handled on JR trains?

Space is available for regular luggage. Free seat reservations are recommended when traveling with oversized bags.

How is luggage handled on JR trains?

Space is available for regular luggage. Free seat reservations are recommended when traveling with oversized bags.

Is it worth buying a JR Pass for short trips?

The JR Pass is best for long-distance or multi-city travel. For stays in a single city, local passes may be more economical.

Is it worth buying a JR Pass for short trips?

The JR Pass is best for long-distance or multi-city travel. For stays in a single city, local passes may be more economical.

Is it worth buying a JR Pass for short trips?

The JR Pass is best for long-distance or multi-city travel. For stays in a single city, local passes may be more economical.

Is train travel easy in Japan?

Yes, train travel is easy with English signage at stations. Avoid travel during rush hours: mornings (7–9 am) and evenings (5:30–7:30 pm).

Is train travel easy in Japan?

Yes, train travel is easy with English signage at stations. Avoid travel during rush hours: mornings (7–9 am) and evenings (5:30–7:30 pm).

Is train travel easy in Japan?

Yes, train travel is easy with English signage at stations. Avoid travel during rush hours: mornings (7–9 am) and evenings (5:30–7:30 pm).

Are there special escalator rules in Japan?

In Tokyo, stand on the left and walk on the right. In Osaka, stand on the right and walk on the left.

Are there special escalator rules in Japan?

In Tokyo, stand on the left and walk on the right. In Osaka, stand on the right and walk on the left.

Are there special escalator rules in Japan?

In Tokyo, stand on the left and walk on the right. In Osaka, stand on the right and walk on the left.

Arrival & Local Arrangements

Can I arrange SIM cards and travel after landing in Japan?

Yes, Japanese airports offer "May I help you?" desks for information about taxis, trains, buses, SIM cards, the JR Pass, luggage delivery, and money exchange.

Can I arrange SIM cards and travel after landing in Japan?

Yes, Japanese airports offer "May I help you?" desks for information about taxis, trains, buses, SIM cards, the JR Pass, luggage delivery, and money exchange.

Do I need to fill out an immigration form upon arrival in Japan?

Yes, an immigration form must be completed on arrival. Keep your passport number, flight number, and hotel address handy for a faster process.

Do I need to fill out an immigration form upon arrival in Japan?

Yes, an immigration form must be completed on arrival. Keep your passport number, flight number, and hotel address handy for a faster process.

Hotels & Accommodation

Are Japanese hotel rooms smaller than Indian hotels?

Yes, rooms in Japanese hotels tend to be smaller than those in Indian hotels.

Are Japanese hotel rooms smaller than Indian hotels?

Yes, rooms in Japanese hotels tend to be smaller than those in Indian hotels.

What are the typical check-in and check-out times at hotels in Japan?

Most hotels follow a 3 pm check-in and a 10 am check-out.

What are the typical check-in and check-out times at hotels in Japan?

Most hotels follow a 3 pm check-in and a 10 am check-out.

What basic amenities are available at Japanese hotels?

Amenities such as dental kits, razors, and scrubs are available at the hotel reception.

What basic amenities are available at Japanese hotels?

Amenities such as dental kits, razors, and scrubs are available at the hotel reception.

Money & Daily Life

Are convenience stores open 24/7 in Japan?

Yes, stores like Family Mart and Lawson operate 24 hours a day, perfect for food, beverages, and daily necessities.

Are convenience stores open 24/7 in Japan?

Yes, stores like Family Mart and Lawson operate 24 hours a day, perfect for food, beverages, and daily necessities.

Is tap water safe to drink in Japan?

Yes, tap water is safe and drinkable throughout Japan.

Is tap water safe to drink in Japan?

Yes, tap water is safe and drinkable throughout Japan.

What are the general meal times at restaurants and hotels?

Breakfast: 6:30–8:30 am Lunch: 12–2 pm Dinner: 6:30–8:30 pm

What are the general meal times at restaurants and hotels?

Breakfast: 6:30–8:30 am Lunch: 12–2 pm Dinner: 6:30–8:30 pm

Daily Conduct & Etiquette

Is it okay to eat or drink while walking in Japan?

No, eating, drinking, or smoking while walking is considered rude. Consume food and drinks while seated or standing still.

Is it okay to eat or drink while walking in Japan?

No, eating, drinking, or smoking while walking is considered rude. Consume food and drinks while seated or standing still.

Can I use my phone on trains or buses in Japan?

Phones should be set to silent mode, and loud conversations should be avoided.

Can I use my phone on trains or buses in Japan?

Phones should be set to silent mode, and loud conversations should be avoided.

Is bowing required everywhere in Japan?

Bowing is polite. In informal situations, a casual nod is sufficient.

Is bowing required everywhere in Japan?

Bowing is polite. In informal situations, a casual nod is sufficient.

Cancellations & Tips

What is the company’s cancellation policy?

If you cancel 31–45 days before booking, 50% of the amount is deducted. After that, 100% is deducted.

Any tips for first-time travellers to Japan?

Purchase a Pasmo or ICOCA card for smooth travel by train or bus. These cards are also handy for shopping at convenience stores like Family Mart and Lawson.

Are credit cards accepted in India?

Major establishments, hotels, and large stores accept credit and debit cards. Carry cash for small shops and local markets.

Are taxis and app-based services available in India?

Yes, use app-based cabs like Ola and Uber or call prepaid taxis at airports and railway stations.

Is public transport safe and easy to use in India?

Major city metros and buses are safe and have clear English signage. Avoid travel during rush hours for comfort. Your guide will provide more relevant information on the same.

Can I buy a SIM card and arrange travel after landing in India?

Yes, local SIM cards and travel options are available at major airports and city centers.

What are typical check-in and check-out times in Indian hotels?

Most hotels allow check-in from 2 pm and expect check-out by 12 noon. Late checkout may be arranged if informed earlier.

What basic amenities are available at Indian hotels?

Hotels usually provide toiletries, bottled water, and in-room safes. Check with each property/guide for specifics.

Is tap water safe to drink in India?

No, drink only bottled or filtered water.

Is it okay to eat or drink while walking in India?

Eating or drinking while walking is common, but try to avoid in crowded or religious settings.

Is greeting with “Namaste” required everywhere?

“Namaste” with folded hands is polite, especially in traditional settings.

Is bargaining common when shopping in India?

Yes, bargaining is a standard practice in Indian bazaars, street markets, and local shops. Fixed-price stores, malls, and supermarkets do not allow bargaining.

Is it rude to walk away if the price is too high?

No, walking away is a common bargaining strategy. Often, shopkeepers will call you back and offer a better price.

What are common scams to watch out for?

- Overcharging for taxi rides, especially at airports/stations. - Fake travel agents offering non-existent tours or tickets. - Street vendors selling fake goods or imitation handicrafts. - People claiming to be guides without credentials.

Are there any payment safety tips?

Pay in cash in small stalls and markets. Use cards only at reputable establishments. Always count your change and request a receipt if possible.

What is the company’s cancellation policy?

If you cancel 31–45 days before booking, 50% of the amount is deducted. After that, 100% is deducted.

Any tips for first-time travellers to Japan?

Purchase a Pasmo or ICOCA card for smooth travel by train or bus. These cards are also handy for shopping at convenience stores like Family Mart and Lawson.

Are credit cards accepted in India?

Major establishments, hotels, and large stores accept credit and debit cards. Carry cash for small shops and local markets.

Are taxis and app-based services available in India?

Yes, use app-based cabs like Ola and Uber or call prepaid taxis at airports and railway stations.

Is public transport safe and easy to use in India?

Major city metros and buses are safe and have clear English signage. Avoid travel during rush hours for comfort. Your guide will provide more relevant information on the same.

Can I buy a SIM card and arrange travel after landing in India?

Yes, local SIM cards and travel options are available at major airports and city centers.

What are typical check-in and check-out times in Indian hotels?

Most hotels allow check-in from 2 pm and expect check-out by 12 noon. Late checkout may be arranged if informed earlier.

What basic amenities are available at Indian hotels?

Hotels usually provide toiletries, bottled water, and in-room safes. Check with each property/guide for specifics.

Is tap water safe to drink in India?

No, drink only bottled or filtered water.

Is it okay to eat or drink while walking in India?

Eating or drinking while walking is common, but try to avoid in crowded or religious settings.

Is greeting with “Namaste” required everywhere?

“Namaste” with folded hands is polite, especially in traditional settings.

Is bargaining common when shopping in India?

Yes, bargaining is a standard practice in Indian bazaars, street markets, and local shops. Fixed-price stores, malls, and supermarkets do not allow bargaining.

Is it rude to walk away if the price is too high?

No, walking away is a common bargaining strategy. Often, shopkeepers will call you back and offer a better price.

What are common scams to watch out for?

Are there any payment safety tips?

Pay in cash in small stalls and markets. Use cards only at reputable establishments. Always count your change and request a receipt if possible.

What is the company’s cancellation policy?

If you cancel 31–45 days before booking, 50% of the amount is deducted. After that, 100% is deducted.

Any tips for first-time travellers to Japan?

Purchase a Pasmo or ICOCA card for smooth travel by train or bus. These cards are also handy for shopping at convenience stores like Family Mart and Lawson.

Are credit cards accepted in India?

Major establishments, hotels, and large stores accept credit and debit cards. Carry cash for small shops and local markets.

Are taxis and app-based services available in India?

Yes, use app-based cabs like Ola and Uber or call prepaid taxis at airports and railway stations.

Is public transport safe and easy to use in India?

Major city metros and buses are safe and have clear English signage. Avoid travel during rush hours for comfort. Your guide will provide more relevant information on the same.

Can I buy a SIM card and arrange travel after landing in India?

Yes, local SIM cards and travel options are available at major airports and city centers.

What are typical check-in and check-out times in Indian hotels?

Most hotels allow check-in from 2 pm and expect check-out by 12 noon. Late checkout may be arranged if informed earlier.

What basic amenities are available at Indian hotels?

Hotels usually provide toiletries, bottled water, and in-room safes. Check with each property/guide for specifics.

Is tap water safe to drink in India?

No, drink only bottled or filtered water.

Is it okay to eat or drink while walking in India?

Eating or drinking while walking is common, but try to avoid in crowded or religious settings.

Is greeting with “Namaste” required everywhere?

“Namaste” with folded hands is polite, especially in traditional settings.

Is bargaining common when shopping in India?

Yes, bargaining is a standard practice in Indian bazaars, street markets, and local shops. Fixed-price stores, malls, and supermarkets do not allow bargaining.

Is it rude to walk away if the price is too high?

No, walking away is a common bargaining strategy. Often, shopkeepers will call you back and offer a better price.

What are common scams to watch out for?

Are there any payment safety tips?

Pay in cash in small stalls and markets. Use cards only at reputable establishments. Always count your change and request a receipt if possible.

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