Do I need to speak Japanese?

Not for tourism. Tokyo, Kyoto, and Osaka have extensive English signage and transit apps, though learning 'sumimasen' (excuse me) and 'arigato' (thank you) goes a long way.

Is cash still required?

Yes. While cards are accepted at major stores and hotels, many small shrines, ramen shops, and regional transport vendors only accept yen cash.

Planning Your First Two-Week Trip to Japan

Stick to the 'Golden Route' of Tokyo, Kyoto, and Osaka to maximize your time. Use the JR Pass only if you are calculating heavy travel, otherwise book individual Shinkansen tickets via the SmartEX app to save money.

Set your itinerary route. For a first trip, spend 5 days in Tokyo, 5 days in Kyoto (with day trips to Nara and Osaka), 2 days in Hiroshima/Miyajima, and 2 days back in Tokyo to fly out.
Book your international flights. Fly into Tokyo (NRT or HND) and out of Osaka (KIX) if possible to save a day of backtracking and the cost of an extra train ticket.
Secure your connectivity. Order a pocket Wi-Fi device or an eSIM (like Airalo or Ubigi) before you land. You will need consistent navigation for the complex train stations.
Arrange your transport. Download the Japan Transit by Jorudan app to track train schedules. Get a Suica or Pasmo card on your iPhone's Apple Wallet for seamless tap-and-go travel on local subways.

Do I need to speak Japanese?: Not for tourism. Tokyo, Kyoto, and Osaka have extensive English signage and transit apps, though learning 'sumimasen' (excuse me) and 'arigato' (thank you) goes a long way.
Is cash still required?: Yes. While cards are accepted at major stores and hotels, many small shrines, ramen shops, and regional transport vendors only accept yen cash.