Life Changing? Most Definitely! Absoultly amazing and will need more than one post, but this is a good start.
1. Bring lots of Japanese Yen: Cash is still the most common payment method, especially if it is a small amount. There has been an increased acceptance of credit and debit cards but mostly only in the larger cities. You can obtain Yen from your bank, Currency Exchange Businesses and at international airports.
2. Obtain Japanese Rail Pass (JR Pass) prior to going to Japan. The JR Pass is the official train pass allowing unlimited use of trains within Japan. It’s valid for the inter-city and regional trains, as well as for the Shinkansen bullet train, Narita Express (NEX) and buses and boats that are part of JR group. Depending on the time you want to stay in Japan, you can choose JR Pass for 7, 14, or 21 days, each of them as a Standard Pass, or Green pass (First Class). (*Tip once in Japan make sure to book your seats 1 to 2 days prior to your trip. This way you can assure you will have a place to sit.)
3. Check to make sure your medically required items are allowed. Most are allowed, but you may need to pre-certify or register them prior to your arrival. This includes certain prescription medications.
4. Make sure your passport is valid with at least six months remaining before it expires or you may not be allowed to enter Japan upon arrival. You should always check the Ministry of Foreign Affairs Japan to make sure you do not require a visa to enter as well.
5. Get international calling for your cell phone and also remember to purchase a Japan travel adapter or plug.
