Can I use my phone in Japan?

Major carriers offer international plans for $10-15/day, but pocket WiFi devices ($6-8/day) often work better. Download offline maps and translation apps before you go.

How much cash should I bring?

Japan is still cash-heavy. Bring $300-500 in yen for small purchases, transportation, and places that don't take cards. 7-Eleven ATMs accept foreign cards for more cash.

What if I'm vegetarian or have dietary restrictions?

Download Google Translate and learn to say your restrictions in Japanese. Many business lunches involve meat or fish. High-end hotels can accommodate dietary needs with advance notice.

How early should I arrive for meetings?

Arrive 10-15 minutes early and wait in the lobby. Being late is extremely rude. Being too early can also be awkward. Time your arrival precisely.

Do I need to speak Japanese?

English is common in business settings in Tokyo and Osaka, but learn basic phrases like arigatou gozaimasu (thank you) and sumimasen (excuse me). It shows respect.

How to Plan Your First Business Trip to Japan

Plan 2-3 weeks ahead for visas and flights, book hotels near train stations in business districts, and budget $200-300 per day. Download Google Translate with camera function and get an IC card for trains. Business culture is formal — bring business cards and dress conservatively.

Handle visa requirements 3 weeks before travel. Most business travelers need either a visa or are eligible for visa-free entry. US, EU, UK, and Canadian citizens get 90 days visa-free. If you need a visa, apply at the Japanese consulate with your invitation letter from the Japanese company. Processing takes 5-7 business days.
Book flights 2-3 weeks ahead. Fly into Narita or Haneda if meeting in Tokyo, Kansai if meeting in Osaka. Tuesday-Thursday departures are cheapest. Book business class if your company allows — the 14-hour flight is brutal in economy and you'll arrive more functional.
Choose hotels in business districts near train stations. Tokyo: Stay in Marunouchi, Shinbashi, or Shimbashi near your meetings. Osaka: Stay near Umeda or Namba stations. Book directly with major chains like ANA, Okura, or international brands. Japanese business hotels are small but efficient.
Set up transportation and communication. Download Google Translate with camera function before you leave. At the airport, buy an IC card (Suica or Pasmo) with ¥5,000 loaded for trains and subways. Get a pocket WiFi device or international phone plan. Download Hyperdia app for train schedules.
Prepare for business culture differences. Order 200 business cards before you go — exchange them with both hands and receive with both hands. Dress conservatively: dark suit, white shirt, conservative tie. Learn basic bowing (15-degree nod is fine). Meetings start exactly on time. Bring small gifts from your home country for key contacts.
Plan arrival and jet lag strategy. Arrive 1-2 days before your first meeting. Book the first night at an airport hotel if you arrive evening, then transfer to city hotel next day. Take melatonin on the plane and force yourself to stay awake until 9 PM local time on arrival day.

Can I use my phone in Japan?: Major carriers offer international plans for $10-15/day, but pocket WiFi devices ($6-8/day) often work better. Download offline maps and translation apps before you go.
How much cash should I bring?: Japan is still cash-heavy. Bring $300-500 in yen for small purchases, transportation, and places that don't take cards. 7-Eleven ATMs accept foreign cards for more cash.
What if I'm vegetarian or have dietary restrictions?: Download Google Translate and learn to say your restrictions in Japanese. Many business lunches involve meat or fish. High-end hotels can accommodate dietary needs with advance notice.
How early should I arrive for meetings?: Arrive 10-15 minutes early and wait in the lobby. Being late is extremely rude. Being too early can also be awkward. Time your arrival precisely.
Do I need to speak Japanese?: English is common in business settings in Tokyo and Osaka, but learn basic phrases like arigatou gozaimasu (thank you) and sumimasen (excuse me). It shows respect.