Country Code for Japan: +81. Emergency Services: Police: 110 ; Ambulance, Fire: 119. The emergency numbers apply to all cities, but may not always have English speaking staff. Internet cafes are found all through Japan and wifi is available in most hotels.

Tipping is not expected in Japan and the Japanese never do it. Leaving money on the table in a restaurant will usually result in the waiter chasing you down the street to give it back. However, if you feel like you’ve received excellent service from a guide or your personal maid at a ryokan, then place some money in an envelope and hand it to the person (handing cash over without an envelope is considered crass in these situations). Local guides: Throughout your trip you may want to tip your guide. We suggest US$3 per person, per hour for local guides. Pay in the local currency. Drivers: You may have a range of private drivers on your trip. Some may be with you for a short journey while others may be with you for several days. We suggest US$1-2 per person, per hour for driver. Pay in the local currency. 

The following information is intended as a guide only and in no way should it be used as a substitute for professional medical advice relative to a traveller's individual needs and vaccination history. No guarantee is made as to its accuracy or thoroughness. For further information, please contact The Travel Doctor. The World Health Organization recommends that all travellers regardless of the region they are travelling in should be covered for diphtheria, tetanus, measles, mumps, rubella and polio, as well as hepatitis B. While making preparations to travel, take the opportunity to ensure that all of your routine vaccination cover is complete. Please consult a medical practitioner or contact The Travel Doctor for your specific risk to these preventable diseases and the appropriate avoidance measures. Australians travelling to Japan should also ensure that they have adequate travel insurance to cover the length of their stay. For further information, please visit the Smartraveller website, www.smartraveller.gov.au

Japan has an efficient public transportation network, especially within metropolitan areas and between the large cities. Japanese public transportation is characterized by its punctuality, its superb service, and the large crowds of people using it.

The official language is Japanese. Other languages spoken include some English.

In Japan the standard voltage is 100 V. The standard frequency is 50/60 Hz. The power sockets that are used are of type A / B.

Japan is a shopping paradise with a wealth of stores selling everything from traditional souvenirs and local food to the latest electronics and hottest fashion brands. Both domestic and foreign brands are represented, as are stores for all budgets, from the 100 yen shops to high-end fashion boutiques and department stores.

The Travel Corporation has partnered with the company Sherpa to provide travellers with the latest government and health restrictions. Simply enter the country you want to travel to for information on safety regulations, border closures, quarantine requirements, your travel visa and more using the Sherpa travel tool.
 

FIND OUT WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW FOR YOUR TRIP

Official travel advice is available by calling 04 439 8000 or visiting www.safetravel.govt.nz

The Japanese greetings are very formal so it is therefore advised to wait to be introduced. Age and status are highly regarded and therefore it important to show the right amount of respect. The traditional form of greeting is the bow, although it is expected for foreigners to shake hands. The bow is also important as the lower you bow the more respect you are giving.