I would also recommend using the Tokyo metro as much as possible. Get a map from tourist information.(often hotels have them to give to guests) so you can find your way around. The various lines are coloured and when you enter a train station you will see the coloured lines marked on the floor. Just follow the line you want to lead you to the metro platform, but check you choose the right platform for the direction you want. Only once did I get on a train going in the wrong direction. All the carriages have the stations on the line marked, and there is always an announcement (in English) of the name of the next station. If you do go wrong, just get off, cross over the line, and go back. Japan Railways offer a travel carnet, permitting unlimited travel for a fixed period of time: one day; one week etc., choose whichever is appropriate for you.
When I was there the Japanese preferred to use cash, but I imagine debit or credit cards are now more widespread and acceptable.
The Japanese are very law abiding and honest. They won't jaywalk, but wait patiently for the 'walking green' at a zebra crossing. I once left something behind in a cafe I had visited. When I realised my mistake, I went back to find they had put it safely behind the counter waiting for me to return!
Places of interest are poorly signposted; you are almost there before you see any signs.
And if you smoke, be warned, smoking out on the street is outlawed.
That's about it - have great time and send back plenty of photos!
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Originally Posted by Roy S
