Uktokyoite will like this blog:
The Tokyo Traveler is probably really helpful if you're heading off to Japan anytime soon.
Check out this post, all about things you should expect when visiting Tokyo:
http://www.thetokyotraveler.com/tokyo-trav...u-need-to-know/I was surprised by these ones:
Tip # 10 - Don’t assume that you can use your credit card everywhere.Many establishments in Tokyo do not accept credit/debit cards! Also, your ATM/debit card will only work international ATM’s so don’t expect to be able to pop your card in any old machine and punch a few numbers to get some cash. If you do run out of cash in Tokyo you will need to find an international ATM. Japan Post Bank, or “Yucho” as it is commonly referred to, operates over 20,000 International ATM’s which are located outside of most post offices with some exceptions. Beware though, many of these ATM’s are not open 24 hours so you will want to do some advance planning to ensure that you don’t run out of cash.
Tip #5 Don’t touch the taxi door! When you hail a taxi in Tokyo don’t reach for taxi tokyothe door or you will get a puzzled or annoyed look from the white gloved driver. The rear left door on taxis in Tokyo, and throughout Japan, are opened and closed automatically by the driver. Even if you are sitting on the right side of the car it is recommended that you slide across the seat and exit on the left in busy areas so you won’t be stepping out into oncoming traffic.
Tip #4 Don’t expect your server to bring you the bill when you dine out. It is normal to pay a restaurant or bar bill at the register rather than taking care of the transaction at your table. You may also find that Japanese wait-staff tend to be elusive and need to be hailed to provide service - this is not considered rude in Japan, quite the opposite, they want to ensure that you have a good dining experience and don’t want to bother you. So don’t be shy when dining out - a polite “sumimasen (excuse me)” will usually be enough to get your servers attention and when you are finished your meal simply look to see if the bill has been left on your table (or in a slot under it) and take it with you to the register and pay for your meal before leaving. Otherwise just head for the register where your bill will be waiting for you.
Tip #3 Accept Free Tissues! You may notice that when you are out exploring the city that at many major intersections and train stations there are often people handing out free tissues as part of an advertising campaign. Don’t be shy, take them! Stash some in your handbag or backpack as many public restroom facilities do not offer towels or air dryers for you hands and toilet paper can sometimes be elusive in older areas of the city. Speaking of restrooms, western toilets are fairly commonplace but there may be instances where your only option is a squat toilet which may come as a bit of a surprise but won’t hurt you - I promise!
10 Practical things to know in Tokyo
Sep 9 2008, 01:56 PM
