Tokyo

Many nationals including US, Canadian, Australian, and EU citizens can visit Japan visa-free for up to 90 days. Check requirements at mofa.go.jp. Japan offers eVisa for some countries.

By Air: Narita Airport (NRT) is 60km east of Tokyo, the main international hub. Haneda Airport (HND) is closer (20km south) and handles both domestic and international flights.

By Train: Shinkansen bullet trains connect Tokyo to Osaka (2.5 hours), Kyoto (2 hours), and other major cities.

Japanese is the official language. English proficiency is limited outside major tourist areas and international hotels. Signage in tourist areas is often bilingual. Translation apps are essential. Japanese people are generally very helpful despite language barriers.

Japanese Yen (JPY). Japan is still surprisingly cash-based - many small restaurants, shops, and even some hotels don't accept cards. ATMs at 7-Eleven convenience stores and post offices accept foreign cards. Exchange rate: roughly 145-155 JPY per USD.

JR Yamanote Line: Loops central Tokyo, connecting all major hubs. Get a Suica or Pasmo IC card - works on all transit.

Tokyo Metro: 9 lines covering the city extensively. Google Maps works perfectly for routing.

JR Pass: Worth it if taking day trips (not valid on Tokyo Metro).

Last trains: Around 12:30am - plan accordingly or budget for expensive taxis.

Walking: Neighborhoods like Shibuya, Harajuku, Shinjuku, and Asakusa are pedestrian-friendly.

From Narita:
Narita Express (N'EX): To Tokyo/Shibuya/Shinjuku (60-90 min, ¥3,070).
Keisei Skyliner: To Ueno (40 min, ¥2,520).
Limousine Bus: To major hotels (90-120 min, ¥3,200).

From Haneda:
Tokyo Monorail: To Hamamatsucho, then transfer (30 min total, ¥500).
Keikyu Line: To Shinagawa (15 min, ¥300).
Limousine Bus: To major hotels (30-60 min, ¥1,300).