10 things to know before coming to Japan

1.Always carry some cash in your pocket (10,000 -20,000 yen). Although Japan is a modern country, there are places that do not accept credit cards (Example: shopping at Tsukiji market….). If you have to withdraw cash from an ATM, you should use the machines of Softbank or Japan Post banks because they charge less.

2. Eating and drinking while walking in public is something to avoid. The Japanese are very sensitive to the smell of food and drink, so they are very shy when those things are spilled on them. So you should stand still in one place to eat and drink your drink and then go, to avoid disturbing others.
3. Age to buy and drink alcohol: 20 years old
4. Tattoos and Public Onsen Bathing: Most public Onsen baths don't want their customers to be afraid of the Yakusa (Japanese Mafia) so they have an unwritten rule that refuses people with tattoos (although a small tattoo) on the body.
5. Smoking: Smoking is only allowed in public places. Do not smoke while walking to avoid causing burns to others while circulating.
6. Wifi : In some cities in Japan there is City Wifi, at Starbucks stores there is wifi. You can buy a sim card (Softbank) at the airport when you first arrive in Japan.
7. By train: Rush hour on weekdays 08:00 – 09:30 / 17:30 – 19:30. At this time, the trains are so crowded that it makes ordinary people uncomfortable. The first / last carriage at these hours is usually reserved for women (because in Japan there is often sexual harassment of women on trains). You need to wait for the passengers to exit the carriage and then go up. Pay attention to the seats reserved for the elderly, leg pain, pregnant women.

8. Tip : In Japan there is no tipping culture in restaurants. But some restaurants have an additional charge of "table service fee -Otoshidai - Table charge". This amount is from 500 to 1000 yen for 1 table. Usually, restaurants that charge this fee will serve 1 dish (small) before serving the main dish. Pay attention not to enter restaurants that advertise in front of the door dishes with very cheap prices (eg: Pizza: Pizza) only 500 yen). You will be deceived once you have entered their trap.

9. When taking the escalator, you should stand close to one side. Avoid standing horizontally across the space. The fact that you stand to one side will help those who are in a hurry to have space to move. Please keep this in mind.
10. Cooperate with the Police: In Japan, the Police may stop you on the street to check your documents and ask a few questions if they find you suspicious. So always carry documents or photocopies and cooperate with the police. This will take a little time but will not bring you trouble (if you refuse to cooperate).