Japan – General Travel Tips

1) Due to the language barrier, it was hard for me to identify products I was familiar with, so I was glad to have brought it all along. We did jar food for ten days which I wasn’t kicked about but since Karam was only 9 months old, I didn’t want to experiment with anything even as basic as rice because I wasn’t sure about the ingredients such as fish stock they was going into it. (We are not vegetarian, I am just a little paranoid about seafood when traveling). For the food alone, I would rather stay in a service apartment than a hotel.

2) Shopping for kids is great, with many American and European brands although beware: Japan is very expensive.

3) For short distances, I would take a taxi. There are no laws regarding car seats and it’s much more convenient than taking the train, especially at rush hour.

4) Narita airport is a good two hours from the city. You can take the train if your destination is on or close to a train line, or you can take a bus, which often takes longer due to traffic. Plan accordingly, especially on your return. And, as always, pack many snacks.

5) The Japanese are insanely polite and very fond of children. If you are stuck, gesture madly and ask for help – someone is sure to give you a hand!

Sayonara!