Tokyo Information

Tokyo Information

Before travelling to Tokyo you're sure to have some basic questions that need answering, many of which you can find answers to here.

Necessary Documents

Find out what necessary documents, passports and visas needed to travel to Tokyo and Japan. Do I need a visa? Can I travel with just my passport?
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Language

What language is spoken in Tokyo? Is it easy to understand Japanese people? How good is their level of English? Find out about the Tokyo language and enjoy the trip.
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Money

What is the official currency in Japan? Do they accept dollars or euros anywhere? Can I pay by credit card, or would cash be better?
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Prices

How much does a night in a hotel cost? Are restaurants expensive? Is it possible to travel on a budget?
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Public Holidays

Which are the public holidays in Tokyo? Does Japan have more or fewer public holidays than other countries?
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Weather

Before visiting Tokyo you'll need to take into account its extreme temperatures and decide if you want to avoid certain times of year.
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History of Tokyo

History of Tokyo

Discover the history of Tokyo from its beginnings in the 3rd century BC to the present day, as the most populated and advanced metropolis in the world.
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Tokyo Trivia

Tokyo Trivia

Are the Japanese really so tidy and quiet? Are there really cat cafés, or dog rentals? Discover some useful Japanese trivia!
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Additional Information

Water

The water is drinkable throughout Japan

Plugs

Plugs in Japan have two flat prongs and works at 110 volts. You can get an adaptor at any hardware shop or, once in Japan, in many of the local Tokyo shops.

Before connecting you should check that your device is compatible with 220/110 V, but 90% of electrical items sold today can be used in Japan with no problems.

Time

GMT+9. That's to say, nine hours ahead of the United Kingdom, 8 hours ahead of Continental European Time, and 14 hours ahead of New York City.

Shopping

The opening times of shops in Tokyo are generally from 10 am to 8 pm Monday-Sunday. Having said this, you'll find  24 hour shops (7-Eleven, Family Mart, Lawson...) throughout the city.

Banks are open from Monday to Friday, 9 am to 5 pm.

Vaccinations

You don't need any vaccinations to visit Japan.

Illegal Substances

Japanese authorities have a no-tolerance attitude towards drugs and the possession of any illicit substances is likely to result in prosecution. The penalty for bringing drugs into Japan is more than five years in prison.

Telephone Numbers

  • Emergencies: 010.
  • Ambulance/Fire: 119.
  • Japan Country Code: 81.
  • Tokyo Code: 03.