Kansai, Osaka

Grand Prince Hotel Osaka Bay 4^*

Japan offers a thousand and one faces, and never disappoints its travellers. The famed land of the rising sun offers superb scenery in every season, culminating in spring with its famous cherry blossom. Kyoto, Tokyo, Osaka... are all cities with rich histories and remarkable architectural details. And food lovers won't be left out in the cold, with a host of Japanese specialities. A trip to Japan is like diving into the heart of a country with a culture as rich as it is varied.

Uses and customs

Generally speaking, the Japanese are not very hands-on when it comes to everyday interaction. This applies to hugs, handshakes and other public displays of affection. The Japanese custom of bowing may seem strange if you're not used to it.

In Japan, you can't smoke in public spaces, on the street or on station platforms outside designated smoking areas. As for restaurants, bars and cafés, you'll need to find out in advance whether a smoking area is available. Please note that you may be fined for any infringement.

In the vast majority of Japanese homes, you are expected to remove your shoes on entering the home, so it is imperative that you do so on entering

Between Shintoism and Buddhism, Japan offers many temples and shrines to visit. Dress regulations are fairly flexible, but you'll often have to take off your shoes.

There are very few litter bins on the streets in Japan, but most konbini (mini-markets) have some. You can also dispose of plastic bottles and cans near drinks vending machines, of which there are many in Japan. It is common practice to keep your rubbish with you and then throw it away at home: so, be sure to bring a small plastic bag to keep it in.

Konbini are a major attraction in Japan. These small mini-markets, open 24/7 all year round, offer food, drinks, newspapers and all the essentials such as soap, razors, bandages and even tights and underwear. Some also offer ATMs for international credit cards. Major brands include 7 Eleven, Lawson and Family Mart.

Time difference

Osaka, Japan time is 8:00 hours ahead of London, United Kingdom

Electricity and internet access 

Electrical sockets in Japan are different from those used in the UK. Japanese sockets are type A or B, with two parallel flat plugs. You will therefore need an adapter to plug in your appliances in Japan.

If you don't have an adapter, you can always ask for one at your hotel reception.

As in other countries, Japan has free internet in some places. But if you want to be connected all the time, there are 2 options: buy a SIM card or rent a Pocket Wi-fi.

It's a small box with a data SIM card that connects it to the Internet and looks like a portable modem-router: up to five to ten devices (computers, smartphones, tablets, etc.) can connect to the Pocket Wi-Fi at the same time to access the Internet and enjoy fast, unlimited access.

Safety

Japan is very safe, and the crime rate is quite low. However, like any other destination, travelers need to be aware of what's going on around them and know how to react in the event of a problem.

It is always possible, though unlikely, that you will fall victim to some form of petty crime during your stay in Japan. If you need help, head for a local koban, the small neighbourhood police stations that are scattered throughout Japanese neighbourhoods. If you don't know where to find one, just ask.

Currency

The yen (JPY) is available in 1,000, 2,000, 5,000 and 10,000 yen notes and 1, 5, 10, 50 and 500 yen coins. It's a good idea to carry a wallet for your Japanese coins throughout your stay in Japan, as their quantity (and weight in your wallet) increases rapidly.

Japan is a cash-based society. So be sure to carry some cash with you at all times.

If you don't have cash in advance, it's easy to change any currency into Japanese yen as soon as you arrive in the country. All major airports have currency exchange offices in their respective arrivals halls.

Weather

To travel in Japan, we recommend the shoulder seasons of April, May, June, September and October, which guarantee pleasant temperatures and little rain. Avoid the cool winter months of January and February.

Summer is not necessarily advisable, as it's very hot and humid.

Languages

The language spoken in Japan is Japanese.

Accommodation quality

The quality of accommodation in Japan is very good, and very close to or even equivalent to European standards, especially in tourist areas.

If you choose a more traditional hotel, the level of comfort will be lower. However, you will have the Japanese decoration and charm instead. But these are still very good hotels. Hotels are classified as 3-star, 4-star or 5-star according to local standards. The services provided may not be equivalent to 3-star, 4-star or 5-star European standards.

Food quality

Proud of the quality of its products and its traditions, Japan has maintained a rich and diverse culinary art. Despite its ever-growing international success, this art remains little-known. It is often associated with just a few emblematic dishes, such as sushi and ramen.

Japanese cuisine is often less rich in starch, fiber, vegetables and fruit, which may surprise visitors accustomed to a more varied diet.

The water in hotels is safe to drink.