Tokyo Travel Tips: Your Easy Guide to Exploring the City of Lights

Tokyo waits for no one. So, here’s how to make every moment count!

Planning a getaway to Tokyo? You’re in for a real treat! This lively city beautifully mixes the charm of the past with futuristic sights. It is difficult not to fall in love with its pristine streets, friendly locals, and delicious food. To help you maximise your trip, here are five simple and useful travel tips for navigating Tokyo.

Get a Suica or Pasmo Card Right Away

Tokyo’s train system is one of the best in the world, but it can be confusing at first. A Suica or Pasmo card will save you from buying a ticket every time. Just load it with money and tap in and out of trains, buses, and even convenience stores. You can buy them at airport train stations or major JR stations.

Don’t Underestimate Convenience Stores

In Tokyo, convenience stores like 7-Eleven, Lawson, and FamilyMart are lifesavers. You’ll find fresh meals, drinks, travel-sized toiletries, and even ATMs that work with foreign cards. If you’re hungry late at night or need a quick breakfast before exploring, these stores have you covered.

Stay Somewhere Central but Calm

Tokyo is huge, so location matters. A good balance is staying somewhere central yet peaceful — like Minato City. If you’re in the area, Oakwood Hotel & Apartments Azabu Tokyo is a smart base, offering well-appointed Tokyo city apartments. It’s close to trains, shops, and local restaurants, making it easy to get around without being in the middle of chaos.

Always Carry Cash

While Japan is modern in many ways, not every place accepts cards, especially smaller shops and ramen joints. Always keep a bit of yen with you. You can withdraw from 7-Eleven ATMs, which usually accept international cards.

Mind the Local Etiquette

People in Tokyo are polite, and they appreciate good manners. Don’t talk loudly on trains, always stand on the correct side of the escalator (left in Tokyo) and remember to say “arigatou” (thank you). Even small efforts go a long way.

Tokyo is a mix of fast trains, quiet temples, neon signs, and gentle traditions. With a little planning and respect for the local culture, your trip will be smooth, fun, and full of wonderful surprises. Enjoy a wonderful trip!