Tokyo Local Secrets

Elevator Etiquette: Always stand on the left side of escalators in Tokyo (opposite of Osaka). Shoe Culture: Remove shoes when entering homes, some restaurants, and temples - look for shoe racks at entrances. Train Rush Hour: Avoid 7:30-9:30 AM and 5:30-7:30 PM unless you want to experience human sardine simulation. Vending Machines: They're EVERYWHERE and sell everything from hot coffee to cold ramen - yes, cold ramen is a thing.

Hanami (Cherry Blossom Season): March-May, locals have elaborate picnics under sakura trees. Arrive early (6 AM) to claim spots in popular parks like Ueno. Summer Festivals (Matsuri): July-August, wear yukata (casual kimono) and try festival foods like takoyaki and kakigōri. Obon Festival (mid-August): Many businesses close as families honor ancestors - plan accordingly.

New Year (Shogatsu) - January 1-3: Everything closes, temples packed with first prayers (hatsumode). Golden Week - Late April/Early May: Major travel period, book early or avoid. Obon - Mid-August: Festival of the dead, many return to hometowns, city empties out. Autumn Leaves (Kouyou) - November: Peak season for temple visits and photography. Christmas Illuminations - December: Not religious but romantic date season with elaborate light displays.

Ramen Etiquette: Slurping is not only acceptable but shows appreciation to the chef. Conveyor Belt Sushi: Take only what you can eat, stack plates when done for easy counting. Izakaya Culture: Order drinks first, then food to share. Try yakitori (grilled chicken skewers), gyoza, and highball (whiskey soda). Department Store Basement Food Courts (Depachika): Higher quality than street food, perfect for trying various Japanese dishes.

Omotenashi (Hospitality): Service without expecting tips - tipping can actually be insulting. Meishi (Business Card Exchange): Receive with both hands, read it carefully, place it respectfully on table during meetings. Silence is Golden: Comfortable silence is normal, don't feel pressured to fill every gap in conversation. Group Harmony (Wa): Avoid standing out or being too direct - subtlety is valued.

Essential Phrases:

• "Sumimasen" (soo-mee-mah-sen) = excuse me/sorry - most useful word ever
• "Arigatou gozaimasu" (ah-ree-gah-toh go-zah-ee-mahs) = thank you very much
• "Eigo ga hanasemasu ka?" (ay-go gah hah-nah-seh-mahs kah) = Do you speak English?
• "Oishii!" (oh-ee-shee) = Delicious!

Train Words:

• "Tsugi wa..." (tsoo-gee wah) = Next is...
• "Norikae" (no-ree-kah-eh) = Transfer

Local Slang:

• "Sugoi!" (soo-goy) = Amazing/Cool!
• "Yabai" (yah-bye) = Oh no!/Awesome! (context dependent)
• "Konbini" (kon-bee-nee) = convenience store

JR Yamanote Line:

• ¥140-200 per journey, connects major districts in circular route
• Trains every 2-3 minutes, locals use for daily commuting
• Get rechargeable PASMO/Suica card for convenience and discounts
• Avoid rush hours 7:30-9:30 AM and 5:30-7:30 PM

Tokyo Metro & Toei Subway:

• ¥170-310 per journey, extensive network covering entire city
• Locals prefer specific lines for their neighborhoods
• Transfer between systems costs extra, plan routes carefully
• English announcements and signs throughout

Walking & Cycling:

• Many districts walkable, locals walk 10,000+ steps daily
• Bike rentals ¥500-1000/day, popular along rivers and parks
• Cobblestone streets in old areas, comfortable shoes essential
• Locals use walking as primary transport for short distances

Taxis & Rideshare:

• Expensive: ¥500-800 for short trips, ¥2000+ for airport
• Locals only use for late night or special occasions
• Uber available but traditional taxis more reliable
• Flag down with raised hand, green light means available

Food & Drinks:

• Ramen: ¥800-1500, sushi: ¥2000-5000 per person
• Coffee: ¥300-500, beer: ¥400-800
• Convenience store meals: ¥300-800, locals eat these daily
• Izakaya dinner: ¥2000-4000 per person with drinks
• Department store food courts: ¥1000-2000 for quality meals

Groceries (Local Markets):

• Weekly shop for two: ¥8000-15000
• Local rice: ¥300-500/kg, fish: ¥800-2000/kg
• Seasonal vegetables: ¥200-500 per bunch
• Local sake: ¥800-3000 per bottle
• Miso paste: ¥200-500 per pack

Activities & Transport:

• Museum entry: ¥500-2000
• Temple/shrine donations: ¥100-500
• Monthly metro pass: ¥8000-12000
• Bike rental: ¥500-1000/day
• Capsule hotel: ¥3000-5000/night

Accommodation:

• Budget hostel: ¥3000-6000/night
• Mid-range hotel: ¥15000-25000/night
• Luxury hotel: ¥40000-80000+/night
• Local apartment rental: ¥80000-150000/month

Year-Round Basics:

• Four distinct seasons, pack layers for temperature changes
• Locals dress seasonally but fashionably, avoid tourist clothing
• Comfortable walking shoes essential for cobblestone streets
• Umbrella always needed - sudden rain common

Seasonal Guide:

Spring (Mar-May): 10-20°C

• Cherry blossom season, locals wear light jackets and sweaters
• Pastel colors popular, avoid heavy winter clothing
• Rainy season starts late May, pack waterproof jacket

Summer (Jun-Aug): 20-35°C

• Hot and humid, locals wear light cotton and linen
• Air conditioning everywhere, carry light sweater for indoors
• Traditional yukata worn during festivals

Autumn (Sep-Nov): 15-25°C

• Perfect weather for exploring, locals wear light layers
• Autumn colors peak in November, comfortable walking weather
• Evening temperatures drop, pack light jacket

Winter (Dec-Feb): 0-15°C

• Cold but dry, locals wear warm coats and boots
• Indoor heating strong, layer clothing for temperature changes
• Snow rare but possible, check forecast before packing

Evening Social Scene:

• Izakaya Hopping: Local bars in Shinjuku and Shibuya - locals start at 6 PM
• Karaoke Nights: Big Echo and Karaoke Kan chains - locals sing until midnight
• Board Game Cafes: Shibuya and Harajuku locations - locals play strategy games
• Language Exchange: Meetup groups in various districts, mix of Japanese and foreigners

Sports & Recreation:

• Morning Jogging: Imperial Palace and Yoyogi Park - locals run 6-8 AM
• Cycling Groups: Along Sumida River and Arakawa River - locals cycle weekends
• Tennis Courts: Public courts in parks, locals book weeks in advance
• Swimming: Public pools throughout city, locals swim year-round

Cultural Activities:

• Tea Ceremony Classes: Traditional schools in Ginza and Asakusa
• Calligraphy Practice: Community centers offer classes for all levels
• Traditional Crafts: Pottery, weaving, and paper making workshops
• Festival Participation: Locals join neighborhood matsuri celebrations

Volunteer Opportunities:

• English Teaching: Informal conversation practice with local students
• Park Cleanup: Monthly organized efforts, locals protect their green spaces
• Elder Care: Community centers need volunteers for senior programs
• Cultural Exchange: Help locals learn about foreign cultures

Robot Restaurant in Shinjuku: Crazy neon robot show with loud music and lasers - pure sensory overload. Tsukiji 5 AM Tuna Auctions: Watch wholesalers bid on massive tuna, then get fresh sushi breakfast. Shibuya Crossing Rush Hour: Stand in the center during evening rush - organized chaos at its finest. Capsule Hotel Night: Sleep in a pod smaller than most closets. Karaoke All-Night: Private rooms, unlimited drinks, sing until sunrise. Maid Cafe Experience: Awkward but uniquely Tokyo - maids serve you while calling you "master".

Tsukiji Outer Market:

• Still active for food stalls and restaurants, locals shop early morning
• Best fresh fish, local produce, traditional Japanese ingredients
• Tourist-friendly but authentic, locals buy here for special occasions
• Upstairs restaurants serve market-fresh meals

Ameya-Yokocho (Ameyoko):

• Traditional market under train tracks, locals shop for daily needs
• Fresh produce, fish, spices, and street food
• Less touristy than Tsukiji, better prices for locals
• Weekend crowds, locals prefer weekday shopping

Kappabashi Kitchen Street:

• Professional kitchen equipment and supplies, locals buy cooking tools
• Restaurant owners shop here, authentic Japanese kitchen culture
• Plastic food samples for restaurants, unique souvenir option
• Locals know best shops for specific items

Shibuya 109 Fashion:

• Youth fashion mecca, locals shop for trendy clothing
• Japanese street fashion, local brands and styles
• Tourist-friendly but authentic local shopping experience
• Locals know which floors have best deals

Supermarket Tips:

• Aeon and Ito Yokado most popular with locals
• Local brands much cheaper than imported goods
• Bring ¥100 coin for shopping cart, locals always prepared
• Evening discounts on prepared foods, locals shop 7-8 PM

Sumida River Dawn Walks:

• 6 AM strolls along river before salary-man rush begins
• Locals jog, walk dogs, practice tai chi - peaceful Tokyo moments
• Cherry blossom season (April) is magical but crowded after 8 AM

Roof Gardens of Department Stores:

• Free sunset viewing spots locals use instead of expensive Sky Tree
• Shibuya Sky, Ginza rooftops, Omotesando Hills - cheap drinks with views
• Best times: weekday evenings 6-8 PM

Imperial Palace East Gardens:

• Free entry to former Edo Castle grounds
• Morning joggers circuit at 7 AM, elderly practicing calligraphy
• Autumn colors peak in late November, avoid weekends

Odaiba Beach Artificial Sand:

• Locals bring convenience store beer and watch Rainbow Bridge lights
• Not swimming beach but relaxation spot, especially summer evenings
• Young couples' date spot, families with kids playing in sand

Izakaya (ee-zah-KAH-yah):

• Traditional Japanese pub, after-work drinking central to Japanese culture
• Order drinks first, then small plates (otsumami) to share
• Loud and social, very different from quiet daytime Japan

Konbini (kon-bee-nee):

• 24/7 convenience stores, lifeline of Japanese society
• Pay bills, get hot food, use ATM, buy concert tickets
• Each brand has cult following: 7-Eleven vs FamilyMart vs Lawson

Kissaten (kee-SAH-ten):

• Old-school coffee shops with dark wood and jazz music
• Older generation hangouts, expensive coffee served in tiny cups
• Morning sets (toast, egg, coffee) popular with salarymen

Depachika (deh-pah-CHEE-kah):

• Department store basement food courts
• High-end takeaway food, sample everything before buying

Bowing to ATMs:

• Japanese people unconsciously bow to ATMs and vending machines
• Foreign residents start doing it too after a few months

The Gaijin Card:

• Foreigners blamed for everything: train delays, bad weather, economy
• Locals joke 'Must be because of all the gaijin'

Fake Sleeping on Trains:

• Everyone pretends to sleep to avoid giving up seats
• Perfectly timed 'wake ups' right before their station

Nomikai Transformation:

• Shy office workers become completely different people at drinking parties
• What happens at nomikai stays at nomikai - unwritten rule

Akira Kurosawa:

• Film director who defined Japanese cinema globally
• Every taxi driver knows his samurai films, influenced Star Wars and westerns

Hayao Miyazaki:

• Studio Ghibli creator, Japan's Walt Disney
• Adults cry at Totoro references, his films are cultural touchstones

Ichiro Suzuki:

• Baseball legend who conquered both Japan and MLB
• Mention his name and get instant respect from any Japanese sports fan

Emperor Naruhito:

• Current emperor, surprisingly popular and modern
• Japanese people genuinely respect the imperial family

Baseball (Yakyu):

• Tokyo Giants vs Hanshin Tigers rivalry - more passionate than any football match
• Seasons run March-October, buy outfield seats for the real fan experience
• Fans bring elaborate cheering gear and choreographed songs

Sumo Wrestling:

• Tokyo tournaments in January, May, September at Ryogoku Kokugikan
• Locals gather in izakayas to watch, incredibly respectful silence during matches
• Wrestlers are celebrities - spotting one on the street causes excitement

Pachinko & Gaming:

• Not exactly sport but national obsession, parlors everywhere
• Older generation's preferred entertainment, younger people prefer mobile games

Natto & Raw Egg on Rice:

• Fermented soybeans that smell like old socks, mixed with raw egg
• Breakfast staple that horrifies foreigners but locals eat daily

Corn & Mayo Pizza:

• Pizza Hut's most popular topping combination in Japan
• Sounds wrong but surprisingly addictive

Kit-Kat Flavors Gone Wild:

• Green tea, sweet potato, sake, wasabi Kit-Kats
• Regional flavors only available in certain prefectures

Curry Bread (Kare Pan):

• Deep-fried bread filled with Japanese curry
• Convenience store staple, best eaten hot at 3 AM

Melon Pan with Ice Cream:

• Sweet bread that looks like melon but tastes like cookie
• Summer combo: slice open and stuff with vanilla ice cream

Shrine vs Temple: Shinto shrines have torii gates (orange/red arches), Buddhist temples have pagodas. Purification Ritual: At shrines, wash hands and mouth at temizu basin before praying. Prayer Process: Bow twice, clap twice, make wish, bow once more. Temple Bells: Ring them before praying to call the attention of Buddha.

Payment Methods:

• Cash still preferred in many places, especially small shops
• Credit cards accepted in department stores and restaurants
• Locals use IC cards (PASMO/Suica) for small purchases
• ATMs available at convenience stores and post offices

Bargaining Culture:

• Fixed prices everywhere - no bargaining expected
• Locals respect price tags, haggling considered rude
• Seasonal sales in January and July offer discounts
• Tax-free shopping for tourists over ¥5000 with passport

Shopping Hours:

• Department stores: 10 AM - 8 PM
• Small shops: 10 AM - 7 PM
• Convenience stores: 24/7
• Locals shop early morning or evening after work

Tax & Receipts:

• 10% consumption tax included in all prices
• Tax refund available for tourists over ¥5000
• Keep receipts for expensive purchases
• Locals always ask for receipts for expense tracking

Absolute Essentials:

• "Konnichiwa" (kon-nee-chee-wah) = hello
• "Arigatou" (ah-ree-gah-toh) = thank you
• "Sumimasen" (soo-mee-mah-sen) = excuse me
• "Hai, iie" (hah-ee, ee-eh) = yes, no
• "Wakarimasu" (wah-kah-ree-mahs) = I understand
• "Wakarimasen" (wah-kah-ree-mah-sen) = I don't understand
• "Eigo ga hanasemasu ka?" (ay-go gah hah-nah-seh-mahs kah) = Do you speak English?
• "Oishii" (oh-ee-shee) = delicious

Daily Greetings:

• "Ohayou gozaimasu" (oh-hah-yoh go-zah-ee-mahs) = good morning
• "Konnichiwa" (kon-nee-chee-wah) = good afternoon
• "Konbanwa" (kon-bahn-wah) = good evening
• "Oyasumi nasai" (oh-yah-soo-mee nah-sah-ee) = good night
• "Sayounara" (sah-yoh-nah-rah) = goodbye

Numbers & Practical:

• "Ichi, ni, san" (ee-chee, nee, sahn) = one, two, three
• "Yon, go, roku" (yohn, goh, roh-koo) = four, five, six
• "Nana, hachi, kyuu, juu" (nah-nah, hah-chee, kyoo, joo) = seven, eight, nine, ten
• "Ikura desu ka?" (ee-koo-rah deh-soo kah) = how much does it cost?
• "Doko desu ka?" (doh-koh deh-soo kah) = where is it?

Food & Dining:

• "Itadakimasu" (ee-tah-dah-kee-mahs) = let's eat (before meal)
• "Gochisou sama deshita" (goh-chee-soh sah-mah deh-shee-tah) = thank you for the meal
• "O-mizu kudasai" (oh-mee-zoo koo-dah-sah-ee) = water please
• "O-sake" (oh-sah-keh) = sake/alcohol
• "Kanpai" (kahn-pah-ee) = cheers

Authentic Local Products:

• Matcha Powder: High-quality green tea powder, locals use daily - ¥500-2000
• Miso Paste: Traditional fermented soybean paste, local varieties - ¥300-800
• Sake Sets: Traditional drinking vessels, local breweries - ¥2000-8000
• Traditional Crafts: Wooden items, ceramics, textiles - ¥1000-10000
• Local Snacks: Kit-Kat flavors, traditional sweets - ¥200-1000

Handcrafted Items:

• Washi Paper: Traditional Japanese paper, local artisans - ¥500-3000
• Pottery: Local kilns and traditional techniques - ¥1000-15000
• Textiles: Kimono fabric, traditional patterns - ¥2000-20000
• Wooden Items: Traditional joinery, local craftsmen - ¥3000-25000
• Metalwork: Traditional knives, tools, decorative items - ¥5000-50000

Edible Souvenirs:

• Local Sake: Regional varieties, traditional brewing - ¥800-5000
• Traditional Sweets: Wagashi, mochi, seasonal treats - ¥300-1500
• Tea Varieties: Green tea, hojicha, genmaicha - ¥500-3000
• Local Snacks: Regional specialties, seasonal items - ¥200-1000
• Pickled Items: Umeboshi, takuan, traditional preserves - ¥300-1000

Where Locals Actually Shop:

• Department Store Basements: High-quality local products
• Traditional Markets: Tsukiji, Ameyoko for authentic items
• Local Specialty Shops: Neighborhood stores for regional items
• Avoid Tourist Shops: Locals know authentic items cost same or less
• Family Recommendations: Ask locals where their grandmothers shopped

Japanese Family Customs:

• Department stores have dedicated kids' floors with play areas - locals spend entire afternoons here
• Children's safety is paramount - locals let young kids ride trains alone, very safe society
• Multi-generational shopping trips are common - grandparents actively involved in daily errands
• Kids participate in seasonal events like hanami (cherry blossoms) - whole families picnic together

Dining with Children:

• Family restaurants have tatami rooms where kids can sit on floor - shoes off tradition
• Children's sets (okosama lunch) available everywhere - locals expect colorful, fun presentations
• Many places provide wet towels and bibs automatically when they see children
• Quiet behavior expected in restaurants - locals teach children early about consideration for others

Public Transport Culture:

• Priority seats for families with small children clearly marked - locals respect and offer seats
• Station attendants actively help families with strollers - push-button assistance common
• Many trains have dedicated car areas for families during rush hours
• Locals navigate with complex stroller systems - compact, lightweight models preferred

Neighborhood Parenting:

• Local parks have strict age-segregated play areas - different zones for different ages
• School children walk to school in groups (登校班) - community safety approach
• Convenience stores stock baby supplies extensively - locals rely on conbini for emergency needs
• Bath houses (sento) welcome families - traditional bonding time for local parents and children