- Climate (average temperature in Tokyo in May):
- Highs: 23℃ (73.4℉)
- Lows: 15℃ (59℉)
- Consumption Tax:
- Consumption tax (VAT) is 10%, usually added at the cash register. Major department stores and electronics shops often offer duty-free products to overseas travelers upon presenting their passports.
- Currencies, Banking, Credit Cards, and ATMs:
- Only Japanese yen is accepted at restaurants, shops, and other service facilities. Major credit cards such as Visa, MasterCard, American Express, Diners Club, JCB, and other international credit cards are accepted at hotels, restaurants, and major facilities, as well as for transportation, including air travel and some taxis.
- Drinking Water:
- Tap water in Japan is generally safe to drink.
- Electricity and Plugs:
- The voltage used throughout Japan is 100 V. There are two frequency standards: 50 Hertz in eastern Japan (including Tokyo) and 60 Hertz in western Japan. Japan uses 2-flat-pin plugs (type A, also used in North and Central America). It is advisable to purchase a plug adapter in advance if your electrical appliance is not compatible.
- Emergency Information:
- In case of emergency outside the hotel, call hotel reception or dial Ambulance at 119 or Police at 110. These numbers typically work with contracted Japanese telecommunications carriers.
- International Dialing Code:
- The country code for Japan is +81. To call a Japanese number from your mobile phone, dial +81 followed by the phone number, omitting the initial 0 (e.g., for a number starting with 03, dial +81 3…).
- Language:
- Japanese is the official language.
- Local Time:
- Tokyo is 9 hours ahead of Greenwich Mean Time (GMT+9) and 14 hours ahead of Pacific Standard Time.
- Taxis:
- Taxis can be hailed on the road at any time of day.
- Tipping:
- Tipping is not customary in Japan and is not required.
