You’ve heard so much about Japan, right? …Its technology, Culture, Tradition, Art, Nature, Megacities, rich societal culture like etiquette, discipline, punctuality, safety, cleanliness, etc… This has influenced Indian travelers in many ways and encouraged them to plan their visit to Japan from India for a live experience.

Since 11th October 2022, since the reopening of the Japan border for Independent Indian travelers, the number of Indian travelers to Japan is continuously increasing. However, Indian travelers have many myths about this enigmatic country. So TheGlitz decided to tackle each myth and help Indian travelers to plan their Japan tour more confidently.

Myth 1: Non-availability of Indian food in Japan
In India, ‘Sushi’ is commonly available in Japanese restaurants. Hence, it is a common myth for many Indians that every Japanese food has raw fish or meat in it. Nevertheless, Japan has over 2,100 Indian restaurants offering authentic Indian snacks and meals like Shahi Paneer, Chana Masala, Chole Bhatura, Dal Makhani, Japanese cheese naan, Butter Chicken, etc. Some Indian restaurants have proclaimed specialty in preparation of North and South Indian Cuisine. Japan also has a long list of popular fast-food outlets spread across the country, including Domino’s, Burger King, McDonald’s, KFC, and Pizza Hut, among others. One can also try popular Japanese curry at Coco Ichibanya restaurants, available in veg and non-veg options.
https://www.japan.travel/en/in/indian-restaurant/

Myth 2: Japan is Expensive
Most Indians assume that accommodation, travel, and meals in Japan cost a fortune. The truth of the matter is that if one chooses to stay in swanky grand hotels and eat at Michelin-star restaurants, of course, it will bring you an exclusive experience and cost some extra bucks. But let me tell you that Japan has reasonable accommodation, meals, and travel options to fit all pockets.

Accommodation – There are a variety of economical stay options to choose from depending upon an individual’s requirement (solo, couple, family) like Capsule hotels, Air BnB, Guest houses, Serviced Apartments, Economy hotels, or simple accommodations. Basic Japanese hotels offer rooms with private washrooms and are one of the top choices for a pocket-friendly trip. Room night tariff varies depending on the season, but basic Japanese hotels will always justify the spending when compared with other options. In Tokyo, it is easy to find such basic accommodations near the airport, station, or inside the station building. Throughout Japan, tipping is considered rude behavior and it’s not expected. In Japan, it is thought that by dining or using a facility, the visitor is already paying the deserved establishment for their good service. So, all tipping cost is saved throughout the Japan tour.

Transportation – Highway buses are most economical for City and Airport transfers. For short distances, the Metro and Subways, are easy to use, convenient, and economical. JR Rail Pass and regional passes are also available at discounts and are more convenient.

Meals – Japan is full of tiny eating joints called ‘Izakaya’ in Japanese. They are the undisputed champion of Japanese-style nightlife. It’s easy to spot one and suits every pocket. It is also an outstanding experience. In Japan, ramen pot is a popular noodle soup pot. It is a casual dish, inexpensive, and widely available, making it the best fit for a budget. Typical ramen noodles are long and elastic, but countless varieties exist that vary from thin and straight to thick and wavy. Some outlets allow customized noodle orders to some extent. Lunch combos at a discounted price are very common in Japan. So, make sure to take benefit of it.

Shopping – ‘Tax-Free Shops’ are quite popular among foreign tourists. Take advantage of tax-free shopping to save the consumption tax on a wide range of products. They are widely spread across all of Japan and can spot one in busy shopping areas or around tourist spots. One can easily see English stickers and counters in retail outlets. Make sure to carry your passport with you to claim the same. From 1st April 2023, travelers can also use Visit Japan App for a quick scan to verify their personal information and become eligible for Tax-Free Shopping.

For more information, visit: https://www.mlit.go.jp/kankocho/tax-free/content/001587676.pdf

Myth 3: Difficult to get around without a Japanese guide
Today, public information display boards such as traffic signboards, metro station maps, tourist Guides, Shopping Centers, bullet train stations, Tax-free shops, and others are printed in Japanese as well as the English language. Additionally, there are English displays and announcements inside subways and metros Gradually, over years Japan has become foreign tourist friendly. Also, English-speaking staff at Airport, metro station, hotels, restaurants, and theme parks are a common experience for many foreign visitors and makes the Japan tour even more relaxed. Moreover, TIC (Tourist Information Center), operated by the Japan National Tourism Organization, offers detailed and comprehensive tourist information and is equipped with skilled English-speaking staff. There are more than 1,500 certified Tourist Information Centers throughout Japan from Hokkaido down to Okinawa. So, it is very comfortable to stroll on your own. Gradually, with the changing trends many tourists want to explore Japan by themselves. To support the same, JNTO has its own “Japan. Official Travel App”. The app works well on Android and IOS systems. It offers an opportunity to discover content related to tourist interest, route search, and planning and has safety-enabled features. App’s ‘Route Search’ feature is also compatible with JR Pass and suggests alternate routes too.

For TIC information, please visit: https://www.japan.travel/en/plan/tic/
For English brochures, please visit: https://www.japan.travel/brochures/eng/index.php?publisher[]=1
For Japan. Official Travel App, visit: https://www.japan.travel/en/app/