According to recent travel data, departures to Japan from Australia have climbed by 50.1 per cent in January-December 2024, year on year. Specifically, that’s 920,200 visitors last year, compared with 613,062 in 2023.
Now the experts at Insure&Go have come up with eight tips and tools for travellers to Japan, as record numbers expected this year.
“As Japan’s popularity continues to skyrocket, many Aussies venturing beyond the major cities and discovering the real Japan,” said David Mayo, Commercial and Marketing Director of Insure&Go.
Here are Insure&Go’s top tips for Japan:
1. Get an eSIM for reliable, hassle-free phone data: eSIMs can be more affordable that international roaming plans and their reliable data access means you can look up train timetables, translation apps, or map routes on the go. Just ensure your device supports eSIM functionality.
2. Use Google Maps as a navigation tool: Essential for navigating the complex Tokyo Metro and local train lines throughout Japan. Real-time updates help you avoid getting lost in busy stations.
3. Use Google Translate to help with communication: Instantly translates menus, signboards and even live speech. Handy for interactions, especially if you’re venturing into less touristy areas where English is not as commonly spoken or understood.
4. Memorise a couple of key Japanese phrases: Arigato gozaimasu (thank you) and Sumimasen (excuse me/sorry) go a long way in showing respect and courtesy.
Locals will appreciate your effort to speak Japanese, even if it’s just a few words.
5. Download the NHK World to receive real-time alerts: NHK World is a local Japanese news outlet that lets you stay informed about weather changes, public transport disruptions, or any local advisories, especially useful if you’re heading off the beaten path or travelling during typhoon season.
6. Carry cash and a travel money card: Japan remains a cash-oriented society, so keep enough yen on hand for small shops, restaurants, or rural areas that might not accept cards.
Having a travel money card is convenient for larger payments and booking hotels online. Many banks, airlines and financial institutions offer these debit cards that you can load with foreign currencies. However, they vary in fees, exchange rates and the currencies they accept.
7. Always carry your passport: It’s required by law for tourists and may be needed for tax-free shopping. Also print out all essential documents, including travel insurance, and keep them together for added peace of mind.
8. Get the right travel cover at the time you book: Ensure you take out travel insurance as soon as you book your trip and providing the policy covers cancellations, you can be covered for any unexpected travel cancellations up until your departure date.
If you plan to ski or snowboard in Japan, you’ll need to upgrade your policy with winter sports cover.
Insure&Go’s winter sports upgrade also includes ice-skating, tobogganing, non-competitive ice hockey, cross-country skiing on designated routes, snowmobiling and more.
“Japan offers an incredible blend of traditional and modern experiences,” adds David. “A little preparation goes a long way toward help you have a worry-free adventure that respects local norms and leaves a positive impact.
“Travel insurance can be a safety net in this new environment, which may provide added peace of mind whether you’re skiing in Hokkaido, hiking Mt Fuji, or navigating busy train stations in Tokyo.”
