Inside Kyoto

A Kyoto Travel Guide

A Guide to the Visit Japan Web app and Japan Entry Procedures

While it’s recommended to use the Visit Japan web app, it’s not mandatory. In fact it may be quicker to use the standard paper immigration forms on arrival in Japan.

Visit Japan Web app diagram

There are now no Covid protocols for Japan. The Japanese government still recommends that visitors to Japan use the Visit Japan Web app, which replaces the paper arrival card and customs declaration, but you DO NOT HAVE TO USE THE VISIT JAPAN WEB APP.

On our last entry to Japan in October 2023, those not using the app actually moved faster through immigration and customs. So, it’s really up to you: use the app or just go old school and fill out a paper arrival card and customs declaration (and if you don’t get them on the plane, you can pick them up at immigration and customs).

Visit Japan Web

Visit Japan Web app

Time required to fill out and instruction manuals

When you first download the app and look at the instruction manual, you may get the impression that it’s going to take a long time to complete Visit Japan Web. In practice, it takes about 15 minutes and is pretty intuitive. I suggest using the simplified manual and quarantine section manuals linked below.

Three parts to Visit Japan Web

Note, Visit Japan Web actually consists of three parts: 1) immigration information (ie, disembarkation card information), 2) customs information (ie, customs declaration), and 3) tax-exemption section. When you successfully complete these sections, you will receive three QR codes. The first two you will show at the airport upon arrival. The third you will show at shops that offer tax-free shopping to tourists.

Important tip

You will need a charged smartphone with internet access for Visit Japan Web to work at the airport when you arrive. Japanese airports have free wifi, so connectivity is not an issue, but be sure to charge your phone before flying. Just in case something goes wrong with your phone or you cannot get online at the airport, it’s a good idea to do two things to print out your immigration and customs QR codes to show at the airport.

Important Visit Japan Web Links

  • Here’s the Visit Japan Web download site .
  • Here’s a detailed manual for using Visit Japan Web.
  • Here’s a simplified Visit Japan Web Manual (scroll down for instructions).

Kyoto Vacation Checklist

  • For all the essentials in a brief overview, see my First Time In Kyoto guide
  • Check Kyoto accommodation availability on Booking.com – usually you can reserve a room with no upfront payment. Pay when you check out. Free cancellations too
  • Need tips on where to stay? See my one page guide Where To Stay In Kyoto
  • See my comprehensive Packing List For Japan
  • Buy a data-only SIM card online for collection when you arrive at Kansai International Airport (for Osaka and Kyoto) or Tokyo's Narita Airport . Or rent an unlimited data pocket wifi router
  • Compare Japan flight prices and timings to find the best deals
  • If you're visiting more than one city, you might save money with Japan Rail Pass – see if it's worth it for you
  • A prepaid Suica card makes travelling around Kyoto easy – here's how
  • World Nomads offers simple and flexible travel insurance. Buy at home or while traveling and claim online from anywhere in the world

Kyoto District Map

how to use japan travel app

  • Central Kyoto
  • Northwest Kyoto
  • Northern Higashiyama
  • Southern Higashiyama
  • Downtown Kyoto
  • Kyoto Station Area
  • South East Kyoto

Disclosure: InsideKyoto.com is a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for sites to earn advertising fees by advertising and linking to amazon.com and amazon.co.uk. World Nomads provides travel insurance for travellers in over 100 countries. As an affiliate, we receive a fee when you get a quote from World Nomads using this link. We do not represent World Nomads. This is information only and not a recommendation to buy travel insurance.

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  • Local Cuisine Eastern Japan
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  • Wellness Travel in Japan
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  • Traveling by Rail
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Useful Apps

Useful Apps Download a selection of apps to make your trip to Japan run even smoother. Choose from a list of all-round, navigation, sightseeing and accommodation applications.

  • Helping You Plan

Travel Info

Tokyo Subway Navigation for Tourists

Tokyo Subway Navigation for Tourists

The Tokyo Subway Navigation for Tourists app can help you get around the city like a local. Instead of looking at a confusing map, tap the station names to find the easiest route to your destination. There's no need to worry about having Wifi as the app can be used offline as well. Search for the station names based off nearby major tourist spots as well.

Apps

Free Japan Travel Guide DiGJAPAN!

The Free Japan Travel Guide DiGJAPAN! app can help you plan and enjoy your trip even more. With carefully selected travel information, browse sightseeing spots, restaurants, events and more. With the app, you'll be able to get around no problem as there's helpful information regarding public transportation.

  • Google Play

Apps

Japan Travel Guide for tourists

The Japan Travel Guide for Tourists app provides you with all the information you need as a tourist to truly explore Japan. Find specific information that you need and make recommendations via reviews for other travelers. In addition, you can create your own travel schedule.

Apps

Looking for the right tourist attractions in Japan? With the Japan2Go! app, you'll be able to discover Japan's seasonal beauty such as drift ice in the north, coral reefs in the south and much more. The app also has a feature that allows you to find the closest tourists spots near you and the best way to get there.

Apps

The TABIDO app not only provides information about Japanese culture and mannerisms, but gives you a deeper look into Japan and what it means to travel there. Knowledgeable writers provide information about tourists spots that explain the main charms of the place, allowing you to truly experience Japanese culture firsthand.

Apps

Catalog Pocket

The Catalog Pocket App brings informative brochures about various tourist spots in one location. With this easy-to-access app, you'll be able to find great deals quickly and information about lesser-known destinations. Share the information you find on Facebook, Twitter or LINE!

Accommodation

Apps

Not sure where to stay in Japan? With the Hotels.com app, you'll be able to find the right hotel to meet your travel needs, budget and specifications. Make quick and easy reservations with automatic confirmation.

Apps

Discover the best place to stay that meets your needs and budget! Agoda has many listings with detailed information, pictures and special deals. You'll be able to save more with lower prices than the website too.

booking com

Booking.com

With the Booking.com app, you'll be able to search for the right place to stay, whether that's hotels or vacation rentals, Booking.com has it all. You can search by city, attraction and more to ensure you stay exactly where you want to, to meet your travel needs. With all sorts of places to stay to meet your budget, the Booking.com app will help you plan your travels to Japan smoothly.

Apps

The Expedia.com app provides all that you need to plan your trip to Japan. From flights to hotels, tour packages, car rentals and more, Expedia.com has it all. Discounts on bundle flights and hotels, car rentals in as little as 30 minutes and up to 30% savings with mobile-exclusive hotel deals - download the app to get the best deals for your trip.

Food & Beverage

Gurunavi

Japan Restaurant Guide

This app will help you find delicious meals and restaurants nearby while you're on your trip. From ramen to sushi, let Japan Restaurant Guide be your guide to Japan's gourmet meals.

Apps

The famous user-based review site, Yelp, has now come to Japan! Looking for your next meal while traveling in Japan? Look no further than Yelp. You'll be able to make reservations, order delivery or pickup- all from your phone. Search for nearby businesses such as salons, spas and read reviews to make informed decisions.

Apps

sakefan World

For sake fans, this app will allow you to search for sake by scanning the labels or copy on the bottles, provide information regarding the origins of various sake and allow you to keep track of which sake you've drunk before.

Useful apps

Apps

Safety tips

Stay safe while in Japan! Find out the latest disaster information including EEW, tsunami warnings, volcanic activity and strong weather in the country with this app.

Apps

Worried about the language barrier in Japan? VoiceTra is a speech translation app that will help interpret your speech. Supporting over 31 languages, your trip to Japan will run smoothly, particularly in places such as public transportation, shopping, hotels or sightseeing spots.

Apps

Travel Japan Wi-Fi

Accessing Wi-Fi can be a little difficult in Japan. With the Travel Japan Wi-Fi app, you'll be able to find free wifi while you are out and about in the country. It automatically connects you to Wi-Fi hotspots while you travel, so you are never out of the loop.

Japan Connected-free WiFi

Japan Connected-free Wi-Fi

Stay connected with the Japan Connected-Free Wi-Fi app. With over 170,000 spots, tourists can easily access free wi-fi all over Japan. Simple and convenient, you'll be able to connect after a one-time registration and with a tap of a button. You can also search for wi-fi hotspots. This app has multi-lingual support.

Apps

KANSAI Free Wi-Fi

If you're traveling to Kansai, don't forget to stay connected with the KANSAI Free Wi-Fi app. With a one-time registration, you'll be able to connect to many Wi-Fi locations without having to register at each location. This app can be used in Shiga, Kyoto, Osaka, Hyogo, Nara and Wakayama prefectures.

Apps

WeatherJapan

The weather in Japan can change quickly. With the WeatherJapan app, keep up with the latest information about the weather in your location, a detailed forecast for up to 48 hours in the future including weather conditions and temperature.

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Best Free Apps for Easy Traveling Around Japan

Smartphones are the new guidebooks, translators and maps of travel combined—and in Japan, they’re pretty much indispensable.

Even if you like to be old school, or managed just fine in the rest of Asia without one, in Japan a smartphone can seriously save you. Whether it’s the surprising lack of English (or the confusing examples that are there) or finding that random hostel you booked three months ago, sometimes having a digital friend can make all the difference. We would say this of course, being a website, but we also promise we’re telling the truth. To prove it—here are the best apps and websites for traveling in Japan. Read it, try them, have a great trip and then email us to say thanks (only kidding, it’s Japan—you’ll have to fax our robot secretary).

  • 1. Transport Apps
  • 2. Food and Restaurant Apps
  • 4. Language Apps
  • 5. Money and Conversion Apps
  • 6. Safety Apps
  • 7. Bonus Social Media Apps

One thing to be aware of : Japanese websites and often apps too, are not known for their great interfaces. Not sure why they haven’t quite caught up here, but keep in mind that even the newest apps—if created by Japanese companies—might seem clunky, unintuitive and sometimes just downright bad. We suggest you try a few and see which ones work for you.

1. Transport: The big one

Train Apps

Trains are a fantastic way to travel, from the bullet train to the metro. Working out the best routes and the times can be a bit confusing though, just take a look at the metro maps in Tokyo for inspiration there. For this, we suggest that you combine two apps (or an app and a website anyway).

Google Maps (we know, keep reading)

We suggest Google Maps to figure out where your nearest stations are. It’s an obvious one, we know, but it’s a good one, especially when paired with our other suggestions. For actual A–B transport it’s pretty reliable in Tokyo too, but less so elsewhere. Download the areas you’re traveling to beforehand if you’re not getting wifi, and pre-save locations, then you can find them offline!

Pros : Great for location, especially if offline and lost Cons : Have to download sections in advance Available on: Android and Apple

Hyperdia: For A–B travel

  • For figuring out the actual journeys,
  • Hyperdia is your friend.

Available in English, Japanese and Chinese, this site is updated very regularly with information from Kotsushinbunsha, so it’s about as reliable as it gets. The only issue is you need to know your stations before you start (which is where Google Maps comes in). Giving you full train routes across the country with the added option of selecting (or excluding) not only bullet trains but JR Pass–friendly ones, it soon becomes indispensable. There are also options for highway buses—check them out if bullet trains start looking too pricy!

Pros : App allows first and last train search (website does not) Cons : Needs station names Available on: Android and Apple

Tokyo Subway Navigation: Get to know Tokyo

For specific Tokyo travel, this app is good for getting to know the city. It navigates around a detailed subway map and gives you a simple time, price and transfer list alongside the line you need to catch, and the direction. You can choose from entering station names or finding the station on the map. This makes it great for figuring out routes and getting to know Tokyo.

Note: There is a ‘for tourists’ version of this app—but we’re not entirely sure why, except you might just prefer the interface which is a bit cleaner and allows you to navigate between lines, stations and services like Lost and Found. This app doesn’t work offline, which is odd as the regular app does.

Pros : Handy map for familiarization and works offline Cons : Intense for cartophobics Available on: Android and Apple

Suica Card: Track your travel

If you’re already planning to use a Pasmo or Suica Card , firstly, well done, and secondly, why not app it up? You can use The official JR Suica App to track the balance, load and use tickets on your phone which is super handy—but it’s currently only available in Japanese and on iPhone. For Android users, you can connect your Suica to Google Pay instead. For Pasmo users you can . . . get a Suica? There isn’t an official Pasmo App at the moment, but there are some unofficial options out there (this is also the case for Android Suica users).

Pros : Can be linked to Apple or Google Pay Cons : Only in Japanese, not always smooth running, no Pasmo app Available on: Android and Apple

2. Food: Avoid getting hangry

japan travel apps

With over 160,000 restaurants to choose from, and only our reccomendations to help you (only kidding—but not really), finding dinner can become slightly overwhelming after a day’s worth of sightseeing. While there’s a solid point to be made for wandering into whichever spot tickles your fancy, there’s also a good one for going to great places you’ve previously looked up.

Tablelog (search for 食べログ)

This is the food bible of Japan, and while it is in Japanese, Google Translate/Chrome is your friend. Tabelog has photos, extensive reviews and a tough rating system though. The general rule is that anything over 3.5 stars is decent, anything above 4 is great and if you see a 4.5 it’s exceptional (and rare). If you have the time and patience, you can translate the reviews to find reccomended dishes, or just use the main page to check stars, location and photos.

Pros: Extensive and peer reviewed with lots of details Cons: Crowd sourced, so sometimes info can be a little inaccurate Available on: Android and Apple

Gurunavi: The food encyclopedia

The contender for biggest food encyclopedia of Japan, Gurunavi (short for “gourmet navigator”) is a huge compendium of dinner options. Available in English, it is certainly more tourist user–friendly, allowing you to select down to very specific categories. You can see average prices, availability of English-speaking staff, address, nearest station—it has everything, except ratings. So, potentially check out locations here, then see their rating on the Tabelog website.

Pros : Huge amount of information Cons : No peer reviews so no clue on quality Available on: Android and Apple

Happy Cow: Go green

If you’re vegetarian, vegan or otherwise specific about your food then Happy Cow is your new best friend. Providing locations, ratings and reviews of all the veggie-friendly establishments in the area, Happy Cow is the easiest way to find meat-free meals in Tokyo (and beyond). If you pay for the full app, you can save locations offline, otherwise the free version works fine, You can even search cities in advance.

Pros : Reliable due to customer reviews and updates. Cons : Can’t save locations offline, iOS version not free Available on: Android and Apple (not free)

3. Wifi: Keeping connected

Wifi App Logos

If you’re not planning on renting portable wifi , or getting a SIM card during your stay in Japan, then finding free wifi will become your new hobby. To make your life easier (and less Starbucks orientated) you can download these apps (in advance) and get on the net, as the cool kids say. This is our best list of cafes to go for wifi , so if you pair them up, you’ll be living the life of a well-connected and well-caffeinated riley.

Travel Japan Wi-Fi: All the wifi

With over 200,000 hotspots across the country this app lets you connect automatically, eliminating the annoyance of signing in eight-thousand times a day. The map function allows you to find the nearest spots and can be downloaded to work offline which is great. The spots to look out for are the blue-lettered Wi2 (and many variations)—you’ll start seeing them everywhere and can get pretty strong connectivity.

Pros : Has offline map, autoconnects to nearest hotspots. Cons : Requires social media log-in. Available on : Android and Apple

Japan Connected Free Wifi: Almost all the wifi

Another similar app with 170,000 spots and auto-connect features to avoid constant signing-in. The app has a map function too and works in 16 languages, which is pretty impressive.

4. Luggage storage: The Ecbo App

Luggage App Ecbo

4. Language learning: Get talking

Language App Logos

Even if you’re only here for a few days, the ability to get a few sentences out and recognize the odd character can be really helpful. If you’re a keen linguist, you might be well on top of this already—general language apps like Memrise and Duolino are good for building vocab and basic grammar. Meanwhile, WaniKani, Obenkyo and Anki all offer a more in-depth experience—the ones below will be great while you’re on the move though.

Google Translate (Again, we know—keep reading)

While you have probably used it here and there, Google Translate has a couple of features that really make it stand out. The best one is the camera function—see a sign, snap a picture and read the contents (it’s especially perfect for menus). Remember to save the Japanese option for offline use and try the writing option too if your camera can’t read handwritten kanji. As an add on to this, use Chrome when you can—it auto-translates websites which helps when researching.

Pros: Camera option makes menus a breeze Cons: Are there any? Available on: Android and Apple

Imiwa and Yomiwa: In-depth Google Translate

If you’re aiming to learn while you go, Imiwa and Yomiwa are similar to Google Translate in function, but also offer explanations of kanji and their radicals (the lines that make them up). These apps more for middle-range learners and great if you want to learn new kanji you spot when out and about. Imiwa has writing and reading practice while Yomiwa has the camera app—those with iPhones can combine the two for a stacked version of Google Translate.

Pros: Yomiwa works offline, Imiwa has a camera function Cons: Imiwa is only available on iPhones Available on: Imiwa is only available on Apple . Yomiwa is available on Android and Apple

Dr. Moku’s Hiragana & Katakana: Easy learning

If language learning isn’t really your thing, this app can be a fast way to learn the two phonetic alphabets: hiragana and katakana (not kanji, the Chinese symbols, although there’s a version for that too). The app employs the mnenomics method—using visual keys to help you remember each symbol’s corresponding sound. Learning these two alphabets can be very handy; hiragana can often be found written above kanji so children can read them, it’s especially handy for train station signs. Katakana is used for foreign words and is usually found on menus—so if you combine the two you’ll have a real head start without worrying about grammar. Note : Only the trial is free, so give it a go and if it works for you, it’s worth it.

Pros: Visual approach to learning Cons: Full version not free Available on: Android and Apple

5. Cash money: Currency converters and paying on the go

Payment App Logos

Japan is a cash-based nation and making sure you have some (and knowing how much) is key to having a good time. Flashing your Mastercard, Visa or Amex isn’t going to help you much in Japan, unless your in a large store or hotel. While the rest of the world has moved to contactless and beyond, here you’ll need to find ATMs and have backup cash on you. If that makes you nervous, remember Japan’s low crime rate (when it comes to theft).

The XE Currency Converter: How much is that exactly?

Remembering exactly how many thousands of yen make a few dozen dollars can be pretty confusing, especially if you’ve been country-hopping for a while. The XE app provides up-to-date conversions between dozens of different currencies and allows personalized settings. You can send money, check the exchange rates and track up to ten currencies at a time, allowing you to plan ahead if you’re moving on. If you’re looking to send money to Japan we have some tips , and a few for if you’re sending it back home as well.

Pros: Easy to use, allows personalization Cons: Source currency selection annoying to change Available on: Apple and Android

Google and Apple Pay: Skip the coins

Japan’s issue with cards is one of trust, and having pre-loaded cards like Suica or Waon is much more popular. The cards are accepted in lots of chain stores as well as being used for transport (in Suica’s case) and have now been linked to Smart Payment Systems Apple and Google Pay. This weird intersection of technologies is not yours to question, but you can make the most of it and use the apps to connect to cards and pay using home funds. We don’t suggest you rely on this for all costs but pair it with cash as well, as many places still don’t accept anything but the real deal.

Pros: Reduces amount you’ll need to withdraw, good backup Cons: Requires Suica or WAON to connect to, only accepted in some locations Available on: Android and Apple

6. Emergency and safety Apps: Literal lifesavers

Safety Apps Logos

So along with cherry blossom and hot springs, Japan’s close ties with nature also mean pretty frequent natural diasters (compared to most countries). Earthquakes, flooding and landslides are the most common, and while we’re not trying to bring down your holiday mood, if the worst does happen, it’s better to be prepared. While Japanese phones have in-built systems to notify you, many still prefer the app below. While you’re here, there’s also personal disasters to consider as well. Break a leg on a night out? Need some emergency dental treatment you weren’t expecting? There’s an app for that too …

Yurekuru Call: Earthquake early warning system

This is the most popular app in Japan for earthquake warnings, offering a good early notification system (often faster than built-in phone options) as well as info on the quake’s epicenter and strength. You can set your location as well as threshold for notifications based on seismic strength. The app works in English and allows for the option to be notified of early warning drills should you wish to participate. While all systems only offer a few seconds warning, they can give you time to get into a better position.

Pros: In English, allows personalization. Cons: Location use while offline can affect battery Available On: Android and Apple

Japan Hospital Guide

If you’re not indestructable (and even if you think you are), this app can be a lifesaver if you have an accident. Hospitals in Japan are a bit of a nightmare (closing for lunch, closing on weekends, closing on alternate staff member’s birthdays, and so on) and that’s before we even reach the language barrier. Luckily, the Japan Hospital Guide offers A Google Maps–based navigation system for clinics and hospitals including opening times, contact numbers and directions. Keep in mind that the app requires your location to function, so give it access in advance.

Pros: Easy interface, provides nearest to location. Cons: Crashes more following recent update Available on: Android and Apple

7. Social media special mention: LINE

Line App

There are a few apps that can be really handy, but don’t quite fit into any of our categories. LINE is an app only really used in Japan and was launched to help with communication following the 2011 Earthquake in Eastern Japan. It’s a messaging app and although there are timelines and profiles, etc., most people don’t really bother with that. LINE is good for adding new ‘friends’ you don’t necessarily want to add to your real-life social media (meta much). The messaging app allows for calls and blocking, so use them as you wish. It is also used by lots of stores and sites for discounts (scanning QR codes, etc.), so if you’re planning on shopping it can be handy to have.

Pros: Great for creepers and discounts Cons: Annoying to set up—requires a phone number (so set it up before you leave for Japan) Available on: Android and Apple

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One Life Passport

55 BEST Travel Apps For Japan 2024 (Useful Apps)

By: Author Austin Pierce

Posted on Published: February 8, 2024  - Last updated: March 1, 2024

Categories Digital Nomad Tips

Best Travel Apps For Japan Introduction

Best Travel Apps For Japan

Welcome Friends to your essential guide for the Best Travel Apps For Japan! Explore the curated selection of travel apps for a seamless experience for Navigating Japan like a pro.

Because trust me; we wish we knew this before we came to Japan! So we will teach you everything you need to know and we will also include helpful videos in this guide. So you will have a great base of knowledge before you go to Japan!

  • You will Master transportation with apps like Hyperdia and Navitime, optimizing your JR Rail Pass and more!
  • You Will be able To Plan tailored itineraries using Japan Travel Guide and Airbnb, Booking.com and local rental websites that you can rent per month which is what we did and more which we will include, ensuring personalized recommendations.
  • You Will be able to Navigate Japan’s culinary scene with confidence using Tabelog, Ramen Beast and Gurunavi. Immerse yourself in culture with the Japan Official Travel App and Japan Anime Tourism Guide. Prioritize safety and connectivity with Maps.Me Online and offline, Google Maps online and offline, online Japan maps, LINE and more.

This professional guide is crafted for an efficient, enriching journey through Tokyo, Kyoto, Osaka, and beyond. With these digital tools, your exploration of Japan is poised to be efficient, seamless, and thoroughly enjoyable without all the stress.

So Let’s Get Started!

Table Of Contents

Why travel apps matter in japan.

  • Efficiency Boost and Save Money: Navigate Japan’s intricate travel networks effortlessly. Real-time schedules for trains, buses, and planes.
  • Confidence on the Go : Empower yourself with instant decision-making capabilities. Travel apps eliminate uncertainties in real-time. also helps with Safety and Internet connection issues like using the Maps.me Offline which has been a gamechanger for me and its free.
  • Cultural Immersion : Immerse yourself in Japan’s rich culture with translation tools and hidden gem finders. Every moment becomes an opportunity for genuine cultural exploration.
  • Safety: As a full time traveler i personally use Google Maps offline and Maps.me offline if i have any data issues this saves me a ton of issues. especially in bas and sketchy areas.

Transit and Travel Navigation Apps in Japan

Navigating Japan’s vast transit network and exploring the country can be far easier with the right travel apps. This comprehensive guide covers the top picks for efficient navigation and trip planning in Japan.

Hyperdia – The Ultimate Transit Planner

Hyperdia is one of the most powerful Japan transit apps due to its comprehensive scheduling and routing capabilities. It allows you to efficiently plan out and book complex intercity itineraries with ease.

Key features include:

  • Intuitive search for trains, buses, planes – schedules, fares, seating
  • Easily filter Japan Rail Pass-eligible JR train routes
  • Compare route options by departure time, transfers, and cost
  • Available in English and Japanese

With Hyperdia you can book shinkansen bullet trains, express buses, discount airline tickets and more. It’s an invaluable tool for maximizing Japan Rail Passes. The clean interface and fast search make Hyperdia a favorite for sorting through the many route and pricing options for long distance travel in Japan.

What You Need to Know About Hyperdia in Japan:

  • Pros: Excellent for long distance train planning; easy Japan Rail Pass filtering
  • Cons: No offline access; can be hard to navigate initially
  • Website:  Hyperdia
  • Price: Free but has paid features.

Navitime – Optimized Navigation for Tourists

Navitime sets itself apart by tailoring its navigation specifically to foreign travelers in Japan.

It provides detailed walking, public transit, and driving directions optimized for sightseeing. Key perks include:

  • Transit directions filter Japan Rail Pass eligible routes
  • Offline maps/navigation enables getting around data-free
  • Robust train/bus schedules, platform info, seating availability
  • Point-to-point walking routes for exploring cities

Navitime makes navigating Japan’s immense public transportation network stress-free. With offline access and Japan Rail Pass support, it has the right features for foreign tourists. The bilingual interface adds to the overall experience.

What You Need to Know About Navitime in Japan:

  • Pros: Optimized for tourists; offline access; Rail Pass filtering
  • Cons: English app not as robust as Japanese version
  • Download:  iOS ,  Android
  • Website:  Navitime
  • Price: Free

Japan Rail App – Official JR Pass Travel

This official app by Japan Rail Pass provides an essential set of tools for maximizing Japan’s high-speed shinkansen and extensive JR train network.

It enables you to efficiently plan and book trips including:

  • Comprehensive JR train schedules, fares, real-time status
  • Station info, seat availability lookups
  • Verify Japan Rail Pass eligibility for rides
  • Route planning, reservations, trip management

For JR Pass holders, this app is invaluable for unlocking the full value of your pass across Japan. It has all the detailed schedules, booking, planning, and verification features required for convenient and cost-effective JR train travel.

What You Need to Know:

  • Pros: Essential for Japan Rail Pass; comprehensive JR info/booking
  • Cons: Only covers JR trains, not other railways
  • Website:  Japan Rail Pass

Google Maps – Navigation Workhorse

Google Maps is a versatile navigation app enabling smooth travel in Japan via transit, biking, walking, or driving.

  • Transit directions, route planning and turn-by-turn navigation
  • Offline access through downloaded maps and directions
  • AR navigation and live view street directions
  • Real-time ETAs and location sharing

Google Maps provides a full set of navigation features tailored for exploring Japan on your terms. With offline map downloads, you have data-free access to its top-notch urban navigation capabilities.

  • Pros: Offline maps; AR navigation; real-time trip sharing
  • Cons: Limited transit data compared to some Japan travel apps
  • Website:  Google Maps

Maps.me – Detailed Offline Maps and My Favorite

Maps.me is my personal Favorite and has saved me from alot of headache all over the world. seriously it has saved me from some sketchy areas when i didn’t have Data. Maps.Me shines with its ability to access detailed Japan maps completely offline. It’s one of my personal favorites that has saved me countless headaches.

It enables navigation without cell service or roaming data for:

  • Metro, transit, taxi, walking, driving
  • City guide downloads for robust offline info
  • Bookmark locations for quick access
  • Global search and voice navigation

For avoiding international data charges while still navigating smoothly, Maps.me is a stellar choice.

What You Need to Know about Maps.Me in Japan:

  • Pros: Detailed offline maps/navigation; avoids roaming charges
  • Cons: Not Much just ads if you have the free version
  • Offline Capability: Yes, fully offline
  • Website:  Maps.me
  • Price: Free with ads, Free on iOS with ads but can pay $2.99 for premium, Android free with ads but can pay $2.99 for Premium

Comparison of Top Japan Travel Apps

Travel Planning Apps in Japan

Japan travel guide.

Japan Travel Guide packs tons of helpful info into a seamless offline experience.

Key features:

  • Offline maps, transit, Japanese phrasebook
  • Build customized itineraries
  • Local recommendations for dining, shopping, attractions

What You Need to Know About Japan Travel Guide:

Pros: Robust offline guide and easy itinerary creation

Cons: Limited transit tools compared to some dedicated apps

Website: Japan Guide

Tripadvisor

Tripadvisor is invaluable for researching accommodations, restaurants, and things to do with millions of reviews.

  • Reviews and ratings for hotels, dining, tours
  • Easy booking for hotels, restaurants, attractions
  • City guide downloads

What You Need to Know About Tripadvisor:

Pros: Huge amounts of user reviews, seamless bookings

Cons: Review quality can vary

Website: Tripadvisor

Airbnb provides an immersive cultural experience through unique home and apartment rentals.

  • Entire homes, private rooms, unique properties
  • Communicate with local hosts for insider tips
  • Great for extended stays and cultural immersion

What You Need to Know About Airbnb:

Pros: Cultural immersion, perfect for long stays

Cons: Less consistency than hotels; availability issues in some cities

Website: Airbnb

Price: Free to browse. Hosts set nightly, weekly and monthly rates.

Google Translate

Google Translate makes overcoming the language barrier in Japan smooth and easy.

  • Instant camera translation of Japanese text
  • Offline translations with downloaded languages
  • Two-way instant voice conversations
  • Handwriting recognition and dictionary

What You Need to Know About Google Translate:

Pros: Invaluable instant translation, works offline

Website: Google Translate

XE Currency

XE Currency helps you effortlessly manage money and stay on budget in Japan.

  • Live exchange rates and currency charts
  • Offline access and currency conversion
  • Budgeting features and spending trends
  • Rate alerts and notifications

What You Need to Know About XE Currency:

Pros: Excellent exchange rate tracker with budget tools

Cons: Less robust analysis than some finance apps

Website: XE Currency

Booking.com

Booking.com provides an extensive selection of accommodations in Japan with free cancellation on many.

  • 600,000+ hotels, ryokans, hostels across Japan
  • Rewards program and discounts
  • Free cancellation on many bookings
  • Long-term stays up to 28 days

What You Need to Know About Booking.com:

Pros: Huge variety of accommodation options and deals

Cons: Pay full upfront for non-refundable bookings

Website: Booking.com

Price: Free to browse, bookings paid to property

Local Rental Sites in Japan

Local rental sites provide access to apartments for stays over 1 month. Popular options include:

  • Best-Estate.jp
  • homes.co.jp
  • athome.co.jp
  • realestate.yahoo.co.jp
  • kaiten-heiten.com
  • chintai.net

These sites enable you to live like a local and are ideal for digital nomads and extended visits.

Odigo and Voyagin

Odigo and Voyagin are activity booking platforms that make discovering local tours and experiences in Japan easy.

  • Book vetted, reviewed activities from cooking classes to Mt Fuji tours
  • Instant email confirmation
  • Selection of unique, culturally immersive experiences
  • Easy way to fill your itinerary with fun local activities

They provide seamless planning for reliably amazing activities you might otherwise miss out on.

Having comprehensive travel insurance is highly recommended when visiting Japan to protect against any unexpected incidents. SafetyWing is an excellent option tailored to global travelers and digital nomads.

Why Choose SafetyWing?

SafetyWing makes travel insurance easy and affordable at just $45 – $250/month . Here are some key reasons to consider it:

  • Global coverage including exotic destinations
  • Flexible policies fit nomadic lifestyles
  • Easy sign-up and claims from phone/computer
  • Covers medical, evacuations, disruptions, baggage, etc.
  • 24/7 customer support anywhere
  • Customizable coverage amounts and add-ons

Other Travel Insurance Options

While SafetyWing is a top choice, companies like WorldNomads, Cigna Global, and IMG also offer comprehensive travel insurance for Japan. Typical policies range from $45 – $500 for 2 weeks to a month of coverage. Compare coverage and premium costs.

Some key considerations for finding a good insurance policy:

  • Emergency medical and evacuation
  • Trip cancellation/interruption
  • Lost/delayed baggage
  • Adventure sports coverage
  • Altitude sickness coverage
  • 24/7 emergency assistance

Travel Health Insurance Cost Estimates

Google flights and skyscanner.

Google Flights , and Skyscanner make finding affordable airfare quick and easy.

  • Easily compare flight options across airlines
  • Flexible date search to find the best deals
  • Price tracking and alerts for chosen routes
  • Book flights directly or route to booking sites

Great tools for getting budget airline tickets to and within Japan.

Rail Passes in Japan like JR Pass

The Japan Rail Pass allows unlimited travel on JR trains including bullet trains. Passes must be purchased outside Japan.

Key Features:

  • 7, 14, or 21 day consecutive pass options
  • Prices range from ¥29,110 – ¥59,350 depending on duration
  • Covers most JR trains including bullet trains
  • Must be purchased outside Japan through authorized seller
  • Pros: Excellent value for exploring Japan by rail
  • Cons: Can only be used in consecutive days, doesn’t cover non-JR lines
  • Price: Passes start at ¥29,110

JR Pass Calculator

The JR Pass Calculator app lets you easily determine if a pass will pay off based on your itinerary.

  • Compare pass prices and calculate potential savings
  • Input trip routes, dates, and classes to optimize
  • Share results to help finalize JR Pass decision
  • Pros: Takes guessing out of pass purchase decision
  • Cons: Limited features compared to full railway apps
  • Website:  JRPass Calculator

JR Pass by Voice

JR Pass by Voice allows creating Japan Rail Pass trip itineraries using natural voice commands.

  • Build rail journey plan conversing with the app
  • Intuitive speech recognition software
  • Share final JR Pass itinerary via email or social media
  • Pros: Hands-free trip planning
  • Cons: Limited capability beyond JR Pass usage
  • Website:  JR Pass by Voice

JAPANiCAN provides easy booking services for rail passes and transport in Japan.

  • Book Japan Rail Passes and exchange orders
  • Domestic travel booking including bullet trains
  • Flexible delivery options in Japan and overseas
  • Pros: Convenient all-in-one booking service for rail passes and transport
  • Cons: Fees apply for exchange orders and certain bookings
  • Website:  JAPANiCAN
  • Price: Free to browse, fees depend on booking

Food and Restaurant Apps in Japan

Tabelog is Japan’s largest restaurant review app with over 5 million local reviews.

  • Reviews, ratings and photos for restaurants across Japan
  • Filter by cuisine type, budget, location
  • Make reservations through the app
  • Pros: Best for finding top local eateries
  • Cons: Focused just on Japanese dining
  • Website:  Tabelog

Gurunavi provides a restaurant guide for discovering and researching dining options.

  • Restaurant listings with reviews, ratings, photos
  • Search and filter by location, cuisine, features
  • Pros: Wide database of restaurants
  • Cons: Less reviews than Tabelog
  • Website:  Gurunavi

Halal Gourmet Japan

Halal Gourmet Japan helps Muslim travelers find Halal dining options.

  • Directory of Halal certified restaurants and cafes
  • Search by city and filter by cuisine
  • Pros: Essential for finding Halal options
  • Cons: Smaller database than broader apps
  • Website:  Halal Gourmet Japan

Happy Cow helps find vegetarian and vegan restaurants.

  • Reviews and listings for veg options
  • Filter by diet, location, cuisine, features
  • Vegan food phrase translator
  • Pros: Great for finding vegetarian/vegan eats
  • Cons: Limited locations outside major cities
  • Website:  Happy Cow
  • iOS App:  Happy Cow iOS

Ramen Beast

Ramen Beast helps find top ramen shops in Japan.

  • Ramen restaurant listings and reviews
  • Area guides for top ramen destinations
  • Ramen discovery features
  • Pros: Excellent for ramen lovers
  • Cons: Only covers ramen, not other cuisine
  • Website:  Ramen Beast

Communication And Messaging Apps in Japan

LINE is the most popular messaging app in Japan with over 80 million users. and we use it sometimes in Thailand and Japan.

  • Free messaging, voice calls, video calls
  • Group chats
  • Sticker store
  • Timeline for sharing photos
  • Pros: Widely used in Japan, fun features like stickers
  • Cons: Requires a local phone number
  • Website:  LINE
  • iOS App:  LINE iOS
  • Android App:  LINE Android

WhatsApp is a popular global messaging app with voice and video calling features. and what we personally use.

  • Messaging, voice calls, video calls with individuals or groups
  • Media sharing capabilities
  • End-to-end encryption
  • Pros: Widely used internationally, encrypted conversations
  • Cons: Requires a phone number, not as popular in Japan as LINE
  • Website:  WhatsApp
  • iOS App:  WhatsApp iOS
  • Android App:  WhatsApp Android

Google Voice

Google Voice provides free calling and messaging capabilities.

  • Make free voice calls to US and Canada
  • Free messaging to US numbers
  • Voicemail transcription
  • Pros: Free calls and messaging to US and Canada
  • Cons: Limited features compared to fuller messaging apps
  • Website:  Google Voice
  • iOS App:  Google Voice iOS
  • Android App:  Google Voice Android

Deepl Translate

Deepl Translate offers advanced translation capabilities.

  • Translates across 7 languages with accuracy
  • Context-aware translations
  • Alternate translations and definitions
  • Pros: Accurate, nuanced translations
  • Cons: Limited number of languages compared to Google Translate
  • Website:  Deepl Translate
  • Price: Free version available with limited character limit

Transportation Apps in Japan

JapanTaxi allows you to conveniently book taxis throughout Japan.

  • Book taxis in over 60 cities
  • Estimated fares and arrival times
  • Pay directly in the app
  • Pros: Wide coverage in Japan, cashless payment
  • Cons: Language barrier for non-Japanese speakers
  • Website:  JapanTaxi

Uber provides ridesharing services in key cities across Japan.

  • On-demand rides
  • Fare estimates and upfront pricing
  • Track your ride in real-time
  • Pros: Convenient transportation option
  • Cons: Limited availability outside major cities
  • Website:  Uber Japan
  • iOS App:  Uber iOS
  • Android App:  Uber Android
  • Price: Varies by ride

SuicaEng allows you to manage your Suica fare card on your phone.

  • Check your balance and transaction history
  • Add money to your Suica card
  • Receive notifications about your card
  • Pros: Manage your Suica card on the go
  • Cons: Requires a Suica card to use
  • Website:  Suica Card
  • Where to Get it: Suica Card here

Tokyo Subway Navigation

Tokyo Subway Navigation helps you expertly navigate Tokyo’s complex railway system like an expert we use it alot.

  • Interactive maps of all Tokyo rail and subway lines
  • Journey planner with route guidance
  • Real-time train times and status alerts
  • Pros: Essential for navigating Tokyo transit
  • Cons: Focused just on Tokyo area trains
  • Website:  Tokyo Subway Navigation

Safety and Convenience Apps in Japan

Maps.Me provides offline maps and navigation without an internet connection.

  • Download detailed maps to use offline
  • Turn-by-turn walking, driving, and public transit directions
  • Bookmark locations and destinations
  • Pros: No data required for navigation
  • Cons: Less frequent map updates than online maps
  • Website:  Maps.Me
  • iOS App:  Maps.Me iOS
  • Android App:  Maps.Me Android

Yurekuru Call

Yurekuru Call provides earthquake alerts and early warnings for Japan.

  • Receive earthquake alerts seconds before shaking
  • Customizable alert settings
  • Warnings based on your location
  • Pros: Potentially life-saving earthquake alerts
  • Cons: Works best with Japanese language skills
  • iOS App:  Yurekuru Call iOS
  • Android App:  Yurekuru Call Android

WiFi Map shows over 2 million hotspots to get connected in Japan.

  • Crowdsourced database of WiFi hotspots
  • Search for nearby connections
  • Submit new hotspots
  • Pros: Great for finding free WiFi
  • Cons: User-submitted data can be unreliable
  • Website:  WiFi Map
  • iOS App:  WiFi Map iOS
  • Android App:  WiFi Map Android

ICE – Emergency Info

ICE allows you to store essential emergency information on your locked screen.

  • Add emergency contacts, medical info, etc
  • Appears on locked screen for quick access
  • Keeps info secure yet accessible
  • Pros: Quick access to potentially lifesaving info
  • Cons: Limited details can be added

Luggage Apps in Japan

ecbo Cloak offers convenient luggage storage options throughout Japan. can leave your bags and explore the city.

  • Store luggage temporarily at partner venues
  • Book storage via the app
  • Track and manage your bags
  • Pros: Accessible luggage storage
  • Website:  ecbo Cloak
  • Price: Varies, from 300 yen per bag

Yamato Transport

Yamato Transport offers luggage delivery services across Japan.

  • Door-to-door baggage shipping
  • Tracking and insurance included
  • Online bookings
  • Pros: Reliable nationwide luggage delivery
  • Cons: Minimum 2 day delivery time
  • Website:  Yamato Transport
  • Price: Varies by weight and distance

JAL ABC offers airport luggage delivery and tracking services.

  • Luggage pickup and delivery to/from airports
  • Real-time tracking
  • Available at major airports
  • Pros: Convenient for airport travel
  • Cons: Limited to major airports
  • Website:  JAL ABC
  • Price: Varies by route

Entertainment and City Apps in Japan

Japan official travel app.

The official app from the Japan National Tourism Organization provides travel guides and info for the entire country.

  • Essential tourist info and recommendations
  • Transportation, accommodation, dining listings
  • Augmented reality camera with points of interest
  • Pros: Official app with extensive info
  • Cons: Very comprehensive, can be overwhelming
  • Website:  Japan Travel

Tokyo Disneyland

The official Tokyo Disneyland app provides useful information and planning tools.

  • Park maps, attraction wait times
  • Restaurant menus and reservations
  • Disney character appearances
  • Pros: Official app for Tokyo Disneyland
  • Cons: Specific to just the theme park
  • Website:  Tokyo Disneyland

Tokyo Official Travel App

The official app from the Tokyo Convention & Visitors Bureau provides in-depth travel information for Tokyo.

  • Neighborhood guides, maps, suggested itineraries
  • Dining, shopping, events listings
  • Augmented reality walking tours
  • Pros: Made specifically for Tokyo from official source
  • Cons: Very robust app, only for Tokyo area
  • Website:  Go Tokyo

Kyoto Official Travel App

The official travel app from Kyoto provides in-depth guides and info about visiting.

  • Suggested itineraries and maps
  • Listings of key sites, restaurants, events
  • Augmented reality camera
  • Pros: Official city app with great info
  • Cons: Specific just for Kyoto area
  • Website:  Kyoto Travel

Osaka Travel Guide

The official Osaka Travel app offers extensive information on visiting and experiencing the city.

  • Local tips, transportation, and discount info
  • AR camera, voice translation
  • Pros: Made specifically for Osaka
  • Cons: Content only pertains to Osaka
  • Website:  Osaka Travel

Anime and Manga Apps in Japan

Japan anime tourism guide.

Japan Anime Tourism Guide helps you discover real-world spots featured in anime.

  • Interactive map of anime locations
  • Anime spot info and photos
  • Create custom itineraries
  • Pros: Essential for anime fans visiting Japan
  • Cons: Very niche focus on anime/manga
  • Website:  Japan Anime Tourism Association

Akihabara Map

Akihabara Map helps anime fans explore Akihabara’s otaku culture spots.

  • Interactive map marking anime shops, arcades, cafes
  • Information and photos for locations
  • Navigation and travel tools
  • Pros: Otaku-focused guide to Akihabara
  • Cons: Very niche focus on just one neighborhood
  • Website:  Akihabara Map

Japanese Learning Apps in Japan

Pimsleur offers audio-based Japanese lessons focused on conversation. And I Personally Use it as well!

  • 30-minute audio lessons
  • Focus on spoken language
  • Gradual progression in difficulty
  • Pros: Effective conversational focus
  • Cons: Less reading/writing practice
  • Website:  Pimsleur
  • Price: Premium subscription required

Duolingo offers bite-sized Japanese lessons focused on reading, writing, speaking and listening.

  • Short, gamified lessons
  • Reading, writing, speaking practice
  • Motivational reminders and tracking
  • Pros: Fun, effective learning in small doses
  • Cons: Less focused on conversational skills
  • Website:  Duolingo

Busuu provides interactive Japanese lessons with speech recognition and AI features.

  • Lessons based on CEFR levels
  • Speech recognition for pronunciation
  • Review by native speakers
  • Pros: Interactive lessons with speech practice
  • Cons: Less content than some competitors
  • Website:  Busuu
  • iOS App:  Busuu iOS
  • Android App:  Busuu Android

Nature Apps in Japan

AllTrails provides detailed hiking trail information, reviews, and maps.

  • Trail maps and GPS navigation
  • Reviews and photos from hikers
  • Filter by difficulty, length, amenities
  • Pros: Wide trail coverage, good navigation features
  • Cons: Information can be sparse for some trails
  • Website:  AllTrails
  • Price: Free (subscription for premium features)

Japan Travel

The official tourism app includes guides to national parks and nature areas.

  • Guides to national parks and nature spots
  • Trip planning tools and itineraries
  • Transportation and lodging search
  • Pros: Official app with good nature and hiking info
  • Cons: General travel app, not just focused on hiking

Navitime Hiking

Navitime Hiking provides trail info specifically focused on Japan.

  • Japan trail maps and navigation
  • Trip planning and recording
  • Works offline
  • Pros: Specialized hiking app for Japan
  • Cons: More limited trail database than some apps
  • Website: Japan Travel By Navitime

Transport Apps in Japan

Jorudan trains.

Jorudan Trains provides detailed train schedules, routing, and information across Japan.

  • Comprehensive train schedules and fares
  • Route planning with transfer details
  • Delay and service alerts
  • Pros: Detailed train schedules and routing
  • Cons: Interface only in Japanese
  • Website:  Jorudan Trains

JapanBusLocator

JapanBusLocator provides bus schedules, route maps, and stop information across Japan.

  • Bus schedules for major cities and regions
  • Locate nearby bus stops
  • Route maps and fare info
  • Pros: Essential for navigating buses in Japan
  • Cons: Coverage can be sparse outside cities
  • Website:  JapanBusLocator

Conclusion on The Best Travel Apps For Japan

This guide has covered a diverse range of apps to enhance travel experiences in Japan across key categories like transit, navigation, planning, dining, culture, and more. The top apps provide the tools to optimize everything from transportation to discovering hidden gems.

  • Key transit apps like Hyperdia, Navitime, and Google Maps enable navigating Japan’s vast rail networks seamlessly. Food apps like Tabelog and Gurunavi unlock the rich culinary scene. And official city guides like the Tokyo Travel App and Kyoto Travel App provide insider perspectives.
  • Apps for rail passes, translation, communication, luggage delivery, and more all combine to streamline logistics. Specialized apps for interests like anime, hiking, and vegetarian dining uncover unique experiences.
  • While Japan presents challenges like a language barrier, dense transit, and complex cities, technology can minimize friction and maximize enjoyment. Travel apps enable efficient planning, instant communication, stress-free navigation, cultural immersion, and personalized experiences.

With the essential apps outlined in this guide, travelers can tap into local expertise, connect spontaneously, and independently craft their ideal trip. Apps allow you to unlock Japan your way – navigating its immense, rich landscape with ease. With preparation and the right tools, this innovative country becomes easily accessible and ripe for exploration.

Thanks so Much For reading and we hope you have learned a lot and gained so much helpful information!

Related Articles to Japan :

  • MONTHLY COST Of Living In Japan 2024
  • COST Of Living In Tokyo Japan 2024
  • COST Of Living In Osaka Japan 2024
  • 51 BEST Travel Apps For The Philippines 2024 (Useful Apps)

If you want to keep up with our travels , go ahead and follow us on our travel page on Instagram @ onelifepassport ! Comment below what else you would like to know/see about our experiences traveling the world! Also, check out our YouTube Channel!

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Austin Pierce

Co Owner of One Life Passport, Subject Matter Expert about Travel and Digital Nomadism, Travel Expert for 7 Years and Travel Youtuber with my Girlfriend Salina at One Life Passport on YouTube. About the Author: I Became A Digital Nomad in 2018 after working soul-crushing jobs in Tennessee, United States. I figured out how to make money online, and I bought a one-way ticket to Thailand in 2018, and we never looked back; I have been traveling the world with my girlfriend, Salina. We Run a YouTube Channel and this Blog; We write about the Digital Nomad Lifestyle, Travel, The Places we live, and How to Make Money Online. I am also an MMA and Muay Thai Fighter, and I am really into Fitness!

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15 Best Japan Travel Apps

Home » Blog » Japan » 15 Best Japan Travel Apps

Traveling in Japan is made so much easier (and less confusing!) with a few handy apps. Before packing your bags, be sure you have these helpful Japan travel apps downloaded to your phone to make transportation a cinch and the language barrier practically non-existent.

Best Japan Travel Apps

Traveling in Japan can be a tad — okay a LOT — overwhelming during  your first visit . The language barrier paired with an entirely new transportation system can make getting around tricky. Plus, ordering in restaurants might be difficult because menus can be in three different languages!

Lucky for you, we have rounded up the best apps for Japan that will make your trip SO much less stressful.  There are tons of apps out there, but honestly, you do not need them all. We downloaded a ton of apps for our trip to Japan, but we only used a handful.

We’re going to keep things simple, and we’re going to share the apps you absolutely must get, and a few extras that might be nice bonuses depending on your travel style.

Plus, almost all of these apps (with the exception of 2) are totally free to use!

Before we delve into the apps in this article, it’s important to mention that you’ll need cell signal (or WiFi) to use all the features of these apps. Be sure to read up on the pros and cons of  getting a Japanese SIM card vs. a WiFi hotspot , so you can decide which device (if any!) is best for you.

Japan travel apps guide

Best japan travel apps.

  • Bonus Japan travel apps
  • Bonus general travel apps
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The apps in this section are absolute musts when traveling in Japan.  They will help you communicate and get around the country with ease. Our advice is to download these before boarding your flight so you’re all set for your trip in Japan.

If you’re a minimalist and would prefer to keep your phone uncluttered, you will get by just fine with these essential apps. We’ve narrowed it down to just 5 to keep things simple.

We have tried and tested tons of apps, and these are the ones we have found to be the very best Japan travel apps.

1. Japan Official Travel App

Best Japan Travel Apps Official Japan App

This app is an absolute lifesaver while traveling in Japan. So stop what you’re doing and go download it now! It’s number 1 on our list for a reason.

Best Japan Travel Apps Japan Official

The Japan Official Travel App is made by the Japan National Tourism Organization and has loads of articles and current events to read up on. But the main reason you should download this app is for its navigation technology.

Under the “Route” tab, put in your location or a nearby station and where you want to go.  This app will tell you in real time what is the best route to take between Point A and Point B.  It also tells you which routes are covered in the  Japan Rail Pass  and how much a taxi would cost (which is typically way too expensive).

We used the travel app throughout Japan and it worked flawlessly. It even told us when a typhoon was coming and which train lines were stopped or delayed.

There are tons of apps out there all claiming to help you get around Japan. We’ve tried a bunch of these apps and websites, and honestly, there is no need to download more than one app for this purpose.

Download the  Official Japan Travel App .

Psst! Wondering how to stay connected awhile traveling? Use our  ultimate guide to getting an international SIM card , including helpful tips for using your phone abroad.

2. Google Maps

Best Japan Travel Apps Google Maps

There’s a huge chance you already have this app on your phone, so no need to download — yipee!

However, we’re going to go over a few “hacks” we use to get the most out of Google Maps  (no matter where in the world we are!). Using these tips will maximize your time in Japan, so listen up…

  • Before your trip, start plotting places on your Google Maps that you want to go, and marking them with icons. This way, you can view all the points of interest in relation to your real-time GPS location. Your customized map is also fun to look back on after your trip to see all the places you visited!
  • If you’re hungry and aren’t sure where to go, open Google Maps and search “restaurants”. It will populate the map with places to eat near your current location, and you can read reviews to be able to choose the best one!
  • a) Find best route on Japan Official Travel App
  • b) Trace out and follow the route in real time using Google Maps
  • You can download offline navigation so you can access your maps even when you have no cell signal.  This article  has step-by-step instructions to download Google Maps Offline.

Download  Google Maps .

3. Google Translate

Best Japan Travel Apps Google Translate

There are lots of “translate apps” out there, some specifically for Japanese. However, to keep things simple, we recommend downloading Google Translate app and keeping it on your phone for easy reference.

Best Japan Travel Apps Google Translate

Within Google Translate, you can download the Japanese language “package” to your phone so even if you don’t have WiFi or data, you can translate Japanese to English and vice versa.

When you are in WiFi or have data, one of the best functions of Google Translate is the camera feature that converts Japanese characters into English instantly in real time. It comes in handy when looking at restaurant menus, grocery stores, or street signs.

We even used the conversation feature when talking to a train operator. Ben talked into the app, and the app repeated what he said, but in Japanese for the operator to understand. We had a full conversation on where to go just by using the app.

Download the  Google Translate App .

4. Globe Convert

Best Japan Travel Apps Globe Convert

The conversion from Japanese yen to USD is pretty straightforward. At the time of writing, 100 yen is equal to $0.92. We always like to round up and think of it as 100 yen = $1 USD because it is a conservative estimate.

Best Japan Travel Apps Globe Convert

However, if you are trying to do the math in your head for a large sum or you’re converting to a different currency, this app is super helpful.

Not only does it convert currency, but you can find conversions for temperature, distance, weight, etc. This is one of those apps that always stays on our phones because it is so darn useful.

Download the  Global Convert App .

Best Japan Travel Apps Compass

Most phones already come with a compass app installed, so chances are you won’t have to download this at all.  But it’s a good idea to know where the compass feature on your phone is for one major reason: Exiting Subway Stations.

Google Maps and the Official Japan Travel App will both tell you which subway exit to take, however, sometimes it can be hard to find the signs.

And if you’re anything like me (aka directionally challenged!), this app is a huge help when trying to navigate the crowded subway stations in Japan!

Bonus Japan Travel Apps

If you’ve already gone through the section above, congrats — you’re all set with the essential Japan travel apps that will make your trip so much better. However, if you want a handful of other fun apps, keep reading…

Depending on your interests and travel style, the apps below could be helpful during your trip to Japan.

Best Japan Travel Apps Line

Line is to the East what WhatsApp is to the West.

This messaging app is ultra popular in Japan and other parts of Asia, and can be helpful if you are trying to connect with locals in Japan.

Also, most Japanese SIM card plans don’t come with calling minutes or texting. This means you can use the Internet to fuel a messing program, like Line, to call or text any business or person with a Line account.

Download the  Line App .

7. NHK World Japan News

NHK World

Stay up to date on Japan’s new stories during your trip.  This app has an English version and can be helpful especially if you’re  traveling during tsunami season ,  as it can keep you informed about train closures and other useful weather and disaster-related news.

Download the  NHK World Japan News App .

8. Sushi Dictionary

Best Japan Travel Apps Sushi Dictionary

This app is incredibly simple but can be helpful if you’re new to sushi.

Best Japan Travel Apps Sushi Dictionary

It is literally a list of seafood in both Japanese and English, so you know exactly what you’re ordering.

Download the  Sushi Dictionary App  (Android only)

9. Seafood Watch

Best Japan Travel Apps Seafood Watch

I hate to be the bearer of bad news, but Japan does not have the best record when it comes to fishing sustainably. In fact, there are estimates that bluefin tuna could be fished to extinction during our lifetime. And tuna is just one example of sea creatures that are threatened.

Best Japan Travel Apps Seafood Watch

This app has a lot of room for improvement, especially when it comes to locations that offer sustainably sourced seafood.  But as it is now, it is still a decent way to see which types of fish and seafood are the best choices when it comes to limiting our impact.

Plus, it’s one hell of a reminder and motivation to limit our sushi intake.

Responsible Travel Note:  I know that saying “don’t eat sushi in Japan” is not practical, and it would be ignored by the majority (ourselves included!). So instead, here is our advice: If you are a sushi lover but also want to be conscious of your footprint, splurge on one or two great sushi/seafood meals from fish markets. You really can’t get any better or fresher than that. Enjoy every bite.

And then choose to eat other food during the rest of your trip in Japan, or sushi with less-threatened fish/seafood, like mackerel, yellowtail, scallops, and uni. Vegetarian sushi is an even better option.

Download the  Seafood Watch App .

Pssst!  There’s tons of  Japanese food other than sushi  that you should try!

10. Duolingo

Best Japan Travel Apps Duolingo

If you want to learn a bit of Japanese before or during your trip, you might want to consider downloading a language-learning app.

There are a ton out there, but we have used Duolingo in the past and prefer it over other language learning programs for a few reasons:

  • It focuses on speaking and on practical phrases (instead of on grammar), which are super helpful when traveling.
  • They have many languages to choose from, so not only can you use this for Japanese, but you can use the same methods to learn Spanish, French, or whatever language strikes your fancy!

Insider Tip:  Everyone’s learning style is different, so we’d recommend you browse a few different language-learning apps, download them, and try them out a bit. Once you’ve determined which app works best for you, delete the rest so you can focus on one.

Download the  Duolingo App .

11. MyMizu Water App

Best Japan Travel Apps MyMizu Water App

During your trip you’ll likely notice that Japan relies heavily on single-use plastic, which is a shame considering they are pretty developed country that could have the resources to lessen their plastic-usage.

Best Japan Travel Apps MyMizu

We always recommend traveling with a reusable water bottle (we love our Hydroflasks because they keep water cold!) and filling up at the tap. Not only does it save you money — no need to buy plastic bottles every time you pass a 7-Eleven! — but it will save tons of unnecessary plastic waste.

The water in Japan is safe to drink , so there’s no need to sterilize it. Simply fill up in your hotel room each morning (we did this on our entire trip to Japan). There is a good chance that you’ll run out of water during the day, so here’s where this app comes in…

MyMizu is a new app that has compiled locations around Japan where there is a water refill station of sorts. So if you’re running low on H2O, simply open the app and see nearby locations on the map.

Then raise your full bottle and cheers to  reducing your plastic waste !

Download the  MyMisu App .

Bonus General Travel Apps

These apps are staples on both of our phones at all times.

We use them in everyday life as well as during our travels around the world.  If you don’t already have them, we think they’ll make your trip to Japan just a little more enjoyable!

12. One Second Everyday

Best Japan Travel Apps One Second Everyday

This is one of the only paid apps on the list, but we think it’s totally worth the $2.49 per month. There is a free basic version that allows you to create a video up to 30 days long, but it has less functions than the subscription.

The premise is you take a video each day of your trip, and the app allows you to mash them together to create a super fun video in a matter of seconds.

Download  One Second Everyday .

Just take a look at our One Second Everyday video from our Japan trip!

Note:  If you don’t see the video, please turn off your Ad Blocker.

Download the  One Second Everyday App .

13. Trail Wallet

Best Japan Travel Apps Trail Wallet

Trail Wallet is one of our very favorite apps and if you’ve been following our blog for a while, you’ve probably heard us rave about it before!

This app allows you to create a budget and stick to it by tracking all of your expenses and showing you where you are in relation to you spending goals.

Plus, it shows you which categories you are spending the most money on. Perhaps you’ll realize early on in your trip you need to dial back on your sake habit!

Trail Wallet converts seamlessly between your home currency and Japanese yen (or any other world currency), making it an essential app on our phones.

We use this app every single day to track our spending whether at home or abroad. Honestly, without tracking our daily expenditures, we would probably spend tons of unnecessary money because we’d be unaware.

Note: After entering 25 expenses, you will have to pay $4.99 to upgrade to the unlimited version of the app. We personally think it is totally worthwhile.

Alternatives:  We like Trail Wallet and have been using it for years, but there are lots of budgeting apps out there, so try a few until the “free version” runs out. By that point you should know which budgeting app you prefer.

If you’re  traveling to Japan on a budget , this is an absolute must!

Download the  Trail Wallet .

14. Netflix

Best Japan Travel Apps Netflix

If you have a Netflix account, be sure to download the app to your phone (or iPad) to unleash hours of viewing entertainment.

Below is our super handy hack for those long stretches on the Japanese trains where you’ll be in need of a minor time suck.

Insider Tip:  Download individual episodes of your favorite shows before your trip so you’ll be able to watch them even when you go in and out of cell service on train rides (those tunnels have zero signal!).

Download  Netflix .

15. Audible

Best Japan Travel Apps Audible

Yet another “staple” app that will become a quick favorite on those long Japanese train journeys.

If you’re like me and get mildly carsick when reading on transportation, Audible is a simple solution.

You can read all the books on your list even when your eyes are closed! Heck yes.

Download  Audible .

Are you planning a trip to Japan?

We have TONS of resources on travel in Japan and destinations throughout the country. Check out our  Ultimate Japan Travel Guide  for all the answers to your most burning questions, or read some of our favorite articles below.

  • Japan Pocket WiFi vs. Japanese SIM Card: Review & Comparison
  • Japan Rail Pass: Where to Buy a JR Pass & Is it Worthwhile?
  • Ultimate Japan Travel Guide: Everything You Need to Know for Your First Visit
  • 15 Crazy Fun Things to Do in Japan

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What Japan travel apps do you use the most? What are your favorite apps for everyday use? Do you have any questions about these travel apps? Let us know in the comments below.

Comment (1) on “ 15 Best Japan Travel Apps ”

Thanks for this helpful list! I was wondering if you are able to describe some of your 1 second a day video – or if there is a blog post that covers that stretch of time – it looked so fun and good variety!

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10 Essential travel apps for Japan

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Make your trip much easier with these Japan travel apps. Thank you technology!

Travelling to Japan for the first time can be both exhilarating and a tiny bit stress-inducing. But luckily, technology is here to help relieve some of that stress. These Japan travel apps all make your trip much easier and help you swerve around some avoidable travel problems.

Even if you don’t speak Japanese, it’s pretty easy to travel in Japan. Just make sure you have an internet connection during your trip (through Pocker WiFi or a tourist SIM), so you can use some of the essential Japan travel apps below.

* The Navigatio uses affiliate links . If you make a purchase through these links, I will receive a small commission at no extra cost to you. Thank you!

how to use japan travel app

Best travel apps for Japan

Here are the best Japan travel apps:

1. Google Maps

If you’re only going to use one app during your time in Japan, it should be Google Maps. I personally love planning my trips with Google Maps , but it’s not just a great tool for preparing for a trip beforehand.

Google Maps works great in Japan as it gives you specific directions. It even includes metro and train times and platform information. Especially in big cities like Tokyo and Osaka, knowing up-to-date public transport information makes travelling so much easier.

2. Suica Card on mobile

Okay, this isn’t quite the same as downloading an app, but it’s another essential thing to add to your phone before travelling to Japan. To use public transport in Japan, like metros, you can use a travel pass (called Suica or Pasmo).

Instead of buying separate tickets for every journey you take on the metro (believe me, you’ll be taking a lot of journeys!), you can simply tap in and out at every station. The card will then automatically take off the correct fare, saving you tons of time.

You can buy a physical Suica card at any train or metro station in Tokyo, but you can also add it to your Apple Wallet (on iPhone). You can top it up on your phone and use your phone to tap in and out at stations. It makes it so much easier to travel in bigger cities – especially since you can only top the physical card up with cash.

suica card mobile wallet

3. Japan Travel by NAVITIME

If you’re not a Google Maps fan, but still like an offline map to help you navigate through Japan, check out Japan Travel by NAVITIME . This app helps you find the most effective routes to take, but it’s also a gem for planning your Japan trip, searching for ATM/WiFi spots, making reservations, and much more.

Along with Google Maps and adding the Suica card to your phone, this app is a must-download before travelling to Japan. All the apps mentioned below aren’t necessary, but can still make your trip to Japan much easier.

4. Ramen Beast

Fan of a steaming bowl of fresh ramen? That’s probably one of the things you’re looking forward to most when visiting Japan. But how do you know what restaurant to go to and which to avoid?

Ramen Beast helps you find the best restaurants for ramen in Japan (no tourist traps, no chains, only the real deal). It includes more than 700 of the best ramen shops in Tokyo, plus it gives you English recommendations on what to order. You can also read restaurant reviews on top of the chef’s history, speciality ingredients, and more.

5. Ecbo Cloak

When travelling through Japan , you probably have quite a bit of luggage to drag around with you. Normally, this isn’t a problem, because you can leave your bag in your hotel room, or even ask the hotel reception to look after them before/after checking out. But if that isn’t an option, you can use Ecbo Cloak .

Use the app to locate a storage place nearby, store your luggage, pay, and pick it up when you need it again. Super easy!

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6. GuruNavi

Eating all the best Japanese food is one of the best things to do in Japan . So making sure you choose the right restaurants while in Japan is essential. GuruNavi is a Japan travel app that helps you find the perfect restaurant nearby. You can use filters to find the type of food you’re looking for, your budget, and even if they have English staff/menus.

7. Google Translate

Another great travel app for Japan is Google Translate. And I hear you think… how is this helpful? Google translate is not going to help you speak Japanese, but it has a very handy photo feature, which can translate menus at restaurants. 

While many restaurants in the big cities have English menus, it’s not a given. That’s why this photo feature comes in very handy!

8. Japan official travel app

And of course, the official Japan National Travel Organization app is also in the race for the best apps for travel to Japan. Definitely essential when you’re travelling to Japan for the first time . Filled with tons of useful information, up-to-date travel articles, navigation to get to the attractions you want to see, easy access to buying any tickets or passes, and more.

It even comes with offline searches to find the nearest WiFi spots, tourist centres, stations, and hospitals.

9. VoiceTra

Even though you can learn some basic Japanese phrases before you travel to Japan, learning to speak Japanese isn’t easy. That’s why downloading VoiceTra is a great idea! This speech translation app can translate your (or someone you’re speaking to) speech and translates it into the preferred language (including Japanese!).

10. Memrise (or another language-learning app)

If you do want to step up your language game and dive into the world of learning Japanese, there are quite a few great apps to kickstart the process. I’ve got a full guide on how to study Japanese , but before buying textbooks and cute stationery, you may want to start by using Memrise or Duolingo.

Both of these are great ways to get started and learn Hiragana and Katakana (two of the Japanese alphabets) and some basic words. If you decide you want to take it a step further, you can always buy a textbook, like Genkii or Japanese for Busy People .

Conclusion: Best Japan travel apps

Hopefully, these apps will help you plan your trip a bit better or ease any travel anxiety before going to Japan. It is such a wonderful country to visit, and even if you don’t speak the language, it’s very doable to get around.

Of course, there are some other handy travel apps for Japan like the weather app and Whatsapp to stay in touch with your friends and family back home. But the apps above will make your trip even better!

Looking for some more pre-travel inspiration? Check out the best novels about Japan to get you even more excited about your upcoming trip.

Nele (Nay-la) graduated from Manchester Metropolitan University with an English and Creative Writing Degree and has lived in the UK for nearly 10 years. She has had an interest in Japan and its culture for as long as she can remember. Since her first trip in 2018 surpassed all expectations, she has continued to return to Japan to explore more of all it has got to offer. You can read her full story here .

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Best Japan Travel Apps for a Hassle-Free Adventure

Japan’s all about punctuality and their top-notch train system proves it.

Travelling around this awesome country couldn’t be easier thanks to their super-connected rail network, and the best part? It won’t break the bank. But, let’s keep it real, if you’re a newbie in these parts, decoding those train schedules can be a bit like cracking a secret code.

Don’t sweat it though; we’ve got your back! Here’s our list of must-have apps to help you understand the train/bus/road routes, language translation, and even find some great places to eat and stay.

Keep this list of the best Japan travel apps handy when packing for your trip!

  • Google Maps
  • Japan Travel
  • Tokyo Subway Navigation
  • Norikae Annai
  • Google Translate
  • Xe Currency Converter
  • Tripadvisor

1. Google Maps

how to use japan travel app

Google Maps is one of the most commonly used apps worldwide for navigation.

And in Japan, Google Maps is your most convenient choice to find directions, public transportation options, and other points of interest.

It’s very easy to use, the timings are usually accurate – what’s not to love?

It is free to download on both iOS and Android devices.

2. Japan Travel

how to use japan travel app

The Japan Travel app offers comprehensive travel planning features, including route searches for various modes of transportation.

If you’re a first-time user, this Japan rail app is a blessing, as it provides routes through interactive rail maps and even gives sightseeing recommendations.

The app is free to download on both iOS and Android devices.

3. Tokyo Subway Navigation

how to use japan travel app

If you’re just visiting Tokyo, the Tokyo Subway Navigation app is your go-to for all rail-related information.

Use this app to avoid getting lost in the complex (but well-connected) rail network.

Managed by Tokyo Metro Co. Ltd., the app is easy to use and provides accurate information about train routes within Tokyo.

A great feature of this Tokyo train app is that it supports languages other than Japanese, like English, Korean, Chinese and a few others.

4. Japan Transit Planner-Norikae Annai

how to use japan travel app

This is one of Japan’s most downloaded train apps – even the locals use it to get their train schedules.

The app provides train schedules of Japan and information on the country’s airways routes.

Using their timetable, you can also calculate the exact travel time from one station to another.

Download this one, and make sure you’re never late due to commute-time miscalculations.

5. Google Translate

how to use japan travel app

A first-time trip to Japan can be overwhelming if you don’t know how to speak the language. To overcome this barrier, download the Google Translate app on your phone.

This app allows easy and accurate translations from any language into Japanese. It even allows downloading languages for offline translations.

Pro-tip: Use the camera function to hover over any Japanese words and translate it to the language of your choice.

6. Xe Currency Converter

how to use japan travel app

Forget all your currency conversion worries, and download the Xe app to simplify your calculations and conversions.

It offers quick and easy conversions at one click using your phone’s latest currency conversion rates. You can even use it for international money transfers as it is safe, secure and has no hidden charges.

how to use japan travel app

If you’re in Japan, then after sightseeing, exploring the local cuisine should be on the list! One of the top-rated apps in the world, Yelp is a lifesaver when you think of dining out.

Set your preferences in the filters and find some of the most amazing restaurants. You can even use Yelp to search for other services like beauty salons, spas etc.

8. Tripadvisor

how to use japan travel app

Those who have been travelling for several years would know that Tripadvisor is one of the oldest apps for giving travel information.

Authentic reviews and trustworthy information about places to stay, eat, sightseeing, and more are available on Tripadvisor.

Explore Japan Like a Pro

Okay, so you’ve downloaded all the right apps. Wondering how else can you explore this beautiful country? Check out our recommendations for the perfect, hassle-free trip within Japan.

9. Hop-on Hop-off Bus Pass

Tokyo sky hop-on hop-off bus pass.

Want to explore the main landmarks of Tokyo? Get on a double-decker bus and sightsee away! With a choice between a single or 2-day pass, you’ll get to see Tokyo’s main spots like the Tokyo Tower, Shinjuku Gyoen National Garden, and Ryogoku Edo-Tokyo Museum – complete with a multilingual audio guide to fill you in on the history of these places.

10. Hakone Free Pass

Hakone free pass regional discount and excursion ticket.

Just about an hour from Tokyo lies a beautiful place called Hakone, with plenty of attractions to visit. The Hakone Free Pass is an excursion ticket that allows you to conveniently travel to popular spots in Hakone. You can use this pass to explore the place via cable car, and a sightseeing cruise. You’ll also be eligible for amazing discounts and perks for more than 70 attractions in Hakone.

11. JR East Pass

Jr east pass 5 days unlimited (tohoku, nagano and niigata).

The JR East Pass is a must-have for first-time visitors to Japan for an easy commute through the country (find out how to use the pass before your trip).

You get unlimited train rides using this pass on all local, express and limited express trains. Save your time and money while discovering the hidden gems of Japan!

12. Tokyo Skyliner & Subway Pass

Tokyo skyliner and tokyo metro subway pass.

You just cannot miss riding the Tokyo Skyliner. Running at 160 km/h, the train takes you from Narita Airport to Tokyo in just 41 minutes. This pass also gives access to the Tokyo Subway, through which you can reach 250 metro stops.

13. Tokyo Subway Pass

Tokyo subway tickets (24, 48 or 72 hours pass).

The Tokyo Metro Subway is the most convenient option to travel to sightseeing spots within Tokyo. With trains arriving every 2-3 minutes, you can experience the buzz of the city without any hassle. Unlimited trip passes are available for 24, 48 and 72 hours.

14. Narita Airport Skyliner

Tokyo skyliner fast speed train to/from narita airport.

Riding the Tokyo Skyliner between Tokyo and Narita Airport is an experience that boasts lavish and classy interiors. It’s an incredibly fast train that takes you from the airport to central Tokyo in just about 40 minutes. It also offers convenient connections to JR and metro lines so you can switch your preferred routes.

15. Whole Japan Rail Pass

Jr whole japan rail pass (7, 14, or 21 days).

If you wish to explore the ‘Land of Rising Sun’ on just trains, go for the whole JR pass that allows you to travel to all the major cities in Japan on trains. This pass covers most trains and local buses and is a great way to save time as a tourist – here’s a guide on how to use the pass .

Got Enough Information? Get Boarded!

For a first-time visitor in Japan, you have enough information to explore the country yourself. And for some additional language help, do use our recommended language translation apps. Enjoy Japan’s landmarks, temples, food, culture, and beaches and bring home loads of memories to cherish forever!

Commonly Asked Questions

Is it safe to visit japan.

Japan is a safe and tourist-friendly country. Reports of crimes like theft are low.

Do tourists need a visa to enter Japan?

Most nationalities require a valid visa to enter Japan. Check for your at Japan’s immigration website.

How many days should be good to explore Japan?

If you wish to explore the entire archipelago, you should plan a minimum of two weeks’ holiday to Japan.

What are the most popular ways to commute in Japan?

Japan’s rail network is very strong and reliable to commute within the country. Other than that buses and taxis are also available.

What is the best season to visit Japan?

Japan does not have any extremes of weather, but the best months are March-May and September-November as it is warm and dry. Although it can be quite crowded at this time.

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Wapiti Travel

Best 15 Japan Travel Apps to Keep Your Trip Stress-Free

By: Author Sylvia

Posted on Last updated: December 17, 2022

When visiting Japan, a decent set of Japan travel apps can make planning your trip a breeze.

Here are 15  travel apps for Japan to help get you started.

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There is a really good chance that this post contains affiliate links. If you click one of them, we may receive a small commission (for which we are deeply grateful) at no extra cost to you.

Table of Contents

Japan Essentials

We almost always find the best flights to Tokyo and Osaka on Momondo .  It may be worthwile to compare these with Skyscanner and a new but promising flight aggregator, WayAway .

Don’t lose time upon arrival at the airport and order your Japan travel SIM  or portable WiFi device in advance so that it’s ready and waiting for you at the airport when you arrive.

Having a Japan Rail Pass is often the cheapest way to travel around Japan.

Check out our ultimate Japan travel blog where you can find many more interesting Japan articles to prepare for your trip.

Need help with your Japan trip planning? Check out this post on how to plan your trip to Japan.

Some of these apps require a data connection for them to work. Check here which local SIM card is the best for your trip and avoid high data-roaming costs.

how to use japan travel app

Best Travel Apps for Japan

Japan travel by navitime.

In Japan, Navitime is well-known for its automatic trip planners, compiling possible train routes for any given date and time.

Its app ‘Japan Travel’ is no exception, even taking into consideration any tourist passes you might have.

This an especially handy trick if you’re using the Japan Rail Pass and want to get your money’s worth.

Not only that, this Japan train app provides a build-your-own-itinerary function and detailed Japan tourist maps in English that shows a variety of locations helpful to any traveler.

You don’t even need to type out a search of “stores near me.” Simply tap an icon at the bottom of the screen for Wi-Fi, ATMs, convenience stores, restaurants, etc.

Then, voila! The pins of every nearby spot will pop up on the map.

Altogether, it serves as a true Japan travel guide app, designed to guide you at every point in your journey from the moment you touch down at the airport until you leave.

With the itinerary function, you can save your entire trip plan in one convenient location.

Some functionality is restricted to paid users only, but the essentials – such as the map and train route planner – are 100% free to use.

Download the app here: Android  / iOs

Here is an overview of all our Japan itineraries that we have online:

  • Best Japan 7 day itinerary suggestions
  • Best 2 weeks Japan itinerary
  • Epic 3 week Japan itinerary

Tokyo skyline Japan

Google Maps

Google Maps has come a long way in the past decade.

Nowadays, it’s easily one of the best apps for Japan travel in the world. It not only provides ease of navigation but detailed data for many different locations in Japan.

This ranges from restaurants to businesses to common tourist spots. It wouldn’t be an exaggeration to say that you could use it as a one-stop trip planner.

One of its most notable features is the Street View. Being able to zoom into the streets takes a huge burden off as you navigate to Japan.

No more wondering, “Is this the right place?”

You’ll be able to confirm with your own two eyes what your destination looks like just by checking this map.

That holds true whether it’s an attraction, a station, or the front of a hotel or restaurant.

And if you don’t have internet access for whatever reason, no worries – you can use Google Maps offline in Japan. You just have to prep ahead of time and download the maps you’ll need.

You can’t always guarantee that you’ll always have internet access, after all.

how to use japan travel app

Google Translate

Google Translate is a powerful tool for deciphering languages. As must-have apps for travelers go, it’s at the top regardless of destination, but doubly so for Japan.

Why? While many Japanese people are required to learn English in school, they get very little real-world practice.

High-traffic tourist spots are usually fine, but outside of those, you’ll find yourself in a sea of Japanese only.

Most folks can only speak very basic English, and sometimes nothing more than “Hello” and “How are you?”

That’s where Google’s audio translation software comes in. One little screen tap will let you automatically translate conversations from Japanese to English or vice versa in real time.

It’s not perfect, but the technology for it is constantly improving, making it more accurate every year.

Need to read a Japanese-only sign? Break out the app’s camera function and it’ll translate anything you point it at in mere seconds.

Come across a particular Japanese character that the camera can’t read?

Try copying it out with the handwriting tool. Even if you can’t draw an exact match, the software will make suggestions to help you figure it out.

It’s one of the most invaluable apps for traveling in Japan that you can get.

how to use japan travel app

Norikae Annai

Need a Japan train app with timetables? Look no further than Norikae Annai , a transit planner with train timetables and a route search engine.

It suggests not just train routes, but some common alternatives, such as the shuttle going from Narita Airport to Tokyo Disneyland .

Using it is quick and easy. Input the departing and arriving train stations into the search engine, enter the date and time of travel, and boom! The app will show several different options, some with abbreviations for speedy reference.

These are F to indicate fast travel time, E for easy (i.e., few transfers), and L for low cost.

You can also adjust the search to focus on results that are cheapest, quickest, or have the fewest transfers.

Once you’ve picked out the route that works best for you, you can even send it to yourself via email.

The main downside is that, although undoubtedly useful, the interface is rather plain.

Even so, a plain-Jane Japan trip planner app with good functions beats a flashy but useless one any day of the week.

Japan train inner-city network

Japan Rail Metro Map

One problem with many Japan apps is that they require the internet to work.

For that reason, it’s good to have an offline backup to help you out in a pinch. That’s where Japan Rail Metro Map comes in.

This Japan train app provides straightforward train route maps in Japan’s three most popular tourist destinations: Tokyo, Osaka, and Kyoto.

You may not think you need an offline route map – after all, there are maps on the trains, right? Well, not exactly. While the train stations themselves always have route maps, they’re typically posted near the ticket machines. Once you get past the ticketing gate and onto the station platforms, it’s just a signboard announcing the next few incoming trains. At best, they might have a plain chart showing which stations a given train stops at.

Taking into consideration that trains and subways are the least likely to have internet service, it’s important to have a backup plan. Japan’s train routes are vast and intertwining. It can be difficult even for locals to keep track of. Having a metro map on hand will allow you to keep track of exactly which station you’re at and where the train you’re on is headed.

Time is precious when traveling. You don’t want to wait until the end of the line to realize you got on the wrong train! Download this train app for Japan to stay on top of the metro system at all times.

Download the app here: Android 

Osaka Castle with cherry blossoms

Suica and IC Card Reader

One thing you’ll inevitably have to deal with when using public transportation is figuring out how to pay for it.

You could lug around a heavy sack of coins wherever you go, or get an IC card to make paying quick and easy. But once you have an IC Card, how are you going to keep track of it?

This is where the Suica and IC Card Reader app comes in.

Though it may not be the first to pop into your head when you think of apps for traveling in Japan, it’s still very helpful.

With this, you can track your IC Card’s balance as well as your public transit history. All you have to do is install the app and scan your IC Card.

No stress of wondering how much is left on the card – just open the app and check.

This card reader works for a wide range of public transit cards, including Toica, Pasmo, Suica, Nanaco, and more.

Meanwhile, the cards themselves can be used on many types of public transportation, from buses to the nationwide JR railway.

It even has a function to export your transit data to a CSV sheet.

That’s something that will come in especially handy if you need a detailed record of your travel expenses.

Download the app here: Android / IOS

how to use japan travel app

Xe –Converter & Money Transfer

When visiting a foreign country, one thing you’ll need to do before setting off is learn about the local currency and what its exchange rate is with your home currency.

This is especially true in Japan, a country where people still use cash for everyday transactions. In some cases, cash may even be the only option.

You can prepare ahead of time with Xe Converter, one of the best apps for currency exchange.

Enter your home country’s currency in one box, and Japanese yen in the other, and start your calculations.

It will be able to convert from one currency to another just like that.

For travelers, this app can serve as a great budgeting tool. Quickly check what your favorite dish is on the menu or see if you can afford that fancy souvenir.

You can also figure out how much money you need to convert into yen – it’s always good to have some spare cash on you.

The app is just a starting point, though. It will give an approximation using a mid-market rate and isn’t necessarily the amount you’ll receive in the end.

However, that ballpark idea will be a good measure to know what something costs, or whether you’re getting a good exchange rate if you decide to exchange money.

The app can also be used to send money , but only if you have a bank account in Japan – or a trusted friend or relative has one.

If you want to go that route, be sure to create an account long before your departure date.

That way, you can transfer the money and have it ready to go by the time you arrive in Japan.

The Wise Debit card is another excellent travel companion. You can keep a balance in Japanese Yen, convert your money at low fees when the conversion rate is in your favor and withdraw a certain amount for free every month.

Akihabara, also called Electric City, in Tokyo

Tokyo Metro Subway Map & Route

Since almost everyone who visits Japan ends up going through Tokyo, you’ll almost certainly need one of the best train apps in Japan for navigating Tokyo’s maze of subway routes.

Although the JR trains are ideal for getting between cities, the metro system serves as the best intracity transportation between popular sightseeing spots, such as the Asakusa Temple and the Tokyo Skytree.

Tokyo Metro Subway Map & Route offers an intricate map of the metropolis’s entire subway system.

It has a slick, intuitive interface that allows you to pick out which stations you want to depart from and arrive at and suggests the best trains and transfers.

You can also flip the map from a plain white background showing only the routes and stations to one where you can see streets and parks overlaid with the subway lines.

This feature in particular is helpful in planning which stations to use to get from one sight to the next.

The free version of the app comes with ads, but you can pay to have them removed when you first boot it up.

You could also get the free no-ad, three-day trial, but only if you think you’ll remember to unsubscribe in between sightseeing.

For more information about using public transportation in Tokyo, click here.

Itineraries:

  • Best 5 day Tokyo itinerary
  • Best Tokyo itinerary for 4 days 

Where to stay in Tokyo:

  • Best places to stay in Tokyo
  • 12 cool hotels in Tokyo
  • Best vacation rentals in Tokyo for families
  • Best Airbnbs in Tokyo

Getting around in Tokyo:

  • First-timers guide to Tokyo’s public transport

General information about Tokyo:

  • What is Tokyo famous for
  • Best sakura spots in Tokyo
  • Best places to visit in Tokyo

Lanterns in temples in Japan

Learn Japanese Phrases

As mentioned above, most people in Japan don’t speak a lot of English. So, include a good phrasebook app like Learn Japanese Phrases on your list of apps for Japan travel.

Rather than trying to learn a language from scratch, most travelers would rather just learn key phrases to prepare for their time abroad.

That’s where Learn Japanese Phrases comes in.

The home page presents you with a colorful array of situations that you’ll likely find yourself in – transportation, accommodation, eating, and so on.

Select one and it will display dozens of useful words and phrases, complete with audio.

It makes for a great study aid or even just a quick translation tool if others are having a hard time understanding your accent.

All you have to do is tap on the phrase that you want and show it to the other person. For this reason, it’s one of the best language apps for traveling in Japan.

Traveling for the first time to Japan? Here is an overview of more travel tips for Japan.

how to use japan travel app

Universal Studios Japan

If you’re stopping at Universal Studios Japan (referred to as USJ by the locals), the Universal Studios Japan app is one of the best apps in Japan for checking wait times for each attraction.

In addition, the app has a map of USJ and provides useful information regarding rides, shows, restaurants, and shops.

One of the nice things – particularly if you’re traveling with children – is that it will give height requirements and other restrictions right on the app.

It makes it much easier to plan where to go and what to do so that you don’t have to waste time deciding after you’ve arrived.

As USJ’s official app, it even comes with the option to buy tickets and passes, including the express pass.

The page for the annual pass is Japanese-only, but that’s only an issue if you’re planning multiple trips a year.

Looking for Universal studios tickets? Buy your tickets here.

Check prices and availability: Universal Studios Tickets

Tip: If you want to be able to do all the rides in 1 day we highly recommend paying the extra fee for  the Express Passes.   The express passes need to be bought separately from the entry tickets. A limited number of express passes is available for each day so these may be sold out on the day itself.

If you’re planning to head to Super Nintendo World, the app also allows you to scan your band and keep track of your coins and rank.

It’s a definite must if you want a truly immersive experience.

The Mediterranean Harbor in Tokyo DisneySea

Tokyo Disney Resort App

Much like the Universal Studios Japan app, the Tokyo Disney Resort App is the perfect resource when strolling through Tokyo Disneyland and Tokyo DisneySea.

With it, you can check wait times for attractions and get information on various rides, shows, restaurants, and shops. As Disney’s official app, it’s one of the best apps in Japan to find such information in one place quickly and easily.

If you make an account, you’ll open up access to a slew of other useful features, including the ability to book a reservation at a restaurant or show, apply for a standby pass, or even buy a vacation package.

You can even get some bonus features if you scan your ticket into the app at the park.

If there are any downsides, it’s mainly that the app needs reliable internet access in order to work properly.

Rather than take your chance with spotty Wi-Fi, make sure to get a Sim Card in Japan upon arrival so that you’ll be secure.

Here you can find more information on Tokyo Disney.

Looking for Tokyo Disney Tickets? Choose between Tokyo Disneyland and Tokyo DisneySea.

Check prices and availability: Tokyo Disneyland and DisneySea Tickets

Buying Sushi in the supermarket

One thing to take into consideration when traveling to a foreign country is purchasing things when you can’t read the label.

Some things you’ll be able to identify easily with a glance, but packaging can often get in the way.

Especially in the case of food products, appearances can be deceiving, and you’ll need to be able to read a nutrition label if you or anyone you might be buying a gift for has allergies or special nutritional requirements.

This is where Payke comes in: an extremely useful tool that scans barcodes and provides product information in your native language.

This alone makes it one of the best apps for Japan travel, if not any travel in the world, but it doesn’t stop there.

It also connects to a network so that you know what items are popular in your area.

It’s a handy trick if you want to confirm a product’s quality but aren’t willing to do the drudge work of scanning through dozens of reviews.

Granted, the English grammar in the app isn’t perfect, and most if not all of the translations are clearly automated.

However, the usefulness and uniqueness far outweigh any linguistic nitpicking.

Kaiseki dinner course Japan

Despite the many restaurant apps to choose from, OpenTable is one of the few travel apps for Japan that offers both a decent array of Japanese restaurants and an English language interface.

You can look up places to eat either by your current location or by searching a general area – for example, Minato Ward in Tokyo.

The app will show pictures and names of each restaurant, plus ratings and price ranges.

Tapping on a restaurant will bring you to a page where you can check availability for reservations, check its location on a map, and read reviews (note: many, sometimes all, reviews might be in Japanese).

You can even input your email to book a reservation through the app itself, which is a great way to get ahead of the crowds.

As useful as OpenTable is, though, it’s not all that comprehensive.

If you’re not in a major city, for example, it might not list any restaurants at all. This brings us to the next point on this list of Japan travel apps…

how to use japan travel app

Hot Pepper Gourmet

Hot Pepper Gourmet has got to be one of the best apps in Japan when looking for a place to chow down.

It comes with an extensive catalog of restaurants in every prefecture and a map so you can scan for nearby eateries.

They also have an English website that will allow you to search for restaurants and book a reservation. (Note: reservations can only be made through the app if you’re a resident of Japan.)

Although completely in Japanese, the user-friendly interface is intuitive and easy to understand.

The map also ensures that a comprehensive knowledge of Japanese writing isn’t needed in order to use it.

It is wise, however, to learn at least what the name(s) of the cities you’re visiting look like in their native Japanese, as that will make it easier to plan ahead.

You just have to go to the main directory and find the city name (Tokyo is at the very top, being the most common destination).

Unlike OpenTable, this Japan travel app has a huge number of restaurants in cities and towns all over Japan. You don’t have to worry about missing out if you happen to be on a road less traveled.

Kifune Shrine in Kibune, North Kyoto

Safety Tips

Although not one of the happier aspects of travel, emergency situations do happen sometimes.

And if it happens while you’re on your trip, you want to be prepared.

That is precisely what Safety Tips is designed for, and it’s one of the most essential apps for traveling in Japan on this list.

Once you download the app, select the language and your country of origin. You’ll be asked to choose five different areas to keep a lookout for warning alerts.

You can choose by current location, tourist spot, or city and district. To change the locations (for example, after leaving one city for another), you can do so in Settings.

Not only does it provide warnings for natural disasters, but information on weather, hospitals, and evacuation shelters.

It even has a fairly comprehensive route search function, meaning that it doubles as a Japan train app.

You’d think that would be the end of it, but nope! It contains helpful phrases in Japanese, general medical information, and useful links to news websites and WiFi spots.

It even has contact numbers for emergency services, including the local consulate of your country. (That’s why it requests your country of origin during installation.)

If ever something unexpected should happen while traveling, this is one of the best apps in Japan to have on hand.

Traveling shouldn’t drive you up a wall.

Take advantage of modern technology with these Japan travel apps and make your trip as stress-free as possible.

Vegetarian's Japan Guide

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The Most Useful Apps for Traveling in Japan

In this day and age, smartphones are our new maps, translators, and guides. It is the most useful tool that helps us navigate when traveling to a foreign country like Japan. But for it to be useful for your Japan trip, there are a couple of apps that you need to download, which we have compiled for you below. As the interface of each app differs, a few apps are included under each category where possible. It is best to play around with them to find out which one you like the best before departing for Japan.

Table of Contents

Japan wifi auto-connect.

  • Safety Tips

The Most Useful Transportation Apps for Traveling in Japan

The most useful food apps for traveling in japan, the most useful translation apps for traveling in japan.

  • Ecbo Cloak – The Most Useful Baggage Storage App for Traveling in Japan

mymizu : The Most Useful Free Water Refill App for Traveling in Japan

how to use japan travel app

Obviously, if there is free WiFi to use, it would be the best. But just like any country in the world, the free service in Japan is mostly only available at your accommodation, restaurants and cafes, and shopping malls. Once you leave these facilities, you will likely have no other free internet connection to rely on.

But if you are comfortable without access to the internet when you are away from a hot spot, a convenient app to download is Japan WiFi Auto-Connect . The phone app notifies you if a secure, trustworthy, free WiFi hotspot is nearby. You can then connect your device to that hotspot. The network will be saved in your device, and the app will automatically connect it to the hotspot in the future.

Important: Refrain from inputting sensitive personal information, including credit card details, while connected to free WiFi.

Tip: If you want to know where to enjoy free WiFi access in Japan, refer to Japan WiFi Auto-Connect’s WiFi Spot Map .

Safety tips

As you may be aware, Japan is a country where natural disasters like earthquakes and typhoons happen frequently. While there is no need to be overly concerned, installing the country’s official travel app on your phone will help prepare you for the worst situation. Because the Japan Official Travel App was terminated in September 2023, you can download the Safety tips app, an alternative developed by the Japanese government.

how to use japan travel app

When you first open the app, it will ask where you come from. Set it as your home country for the Emergency Contacts screen to show your country’s embassy. The app will also ask you to input up to five destinations you plan to visit. This can be changed later on in the setting screen. We recommend turning on the “Automatic location setting” on the setting screen so you don’t need to keep updating the attractions you will visit in the next few days.

If any warnings are issued in your chosen area, they will show at the top of the screen. The app also offers Medical Institutions and Evacuation information and Helpful phrases if needed.

Trains, whether the metro or bullet train, are one of the best ways to travel around cities and between prefectures in Japan. However, because Japan’s train system is one of the most confusing and complicated networks in the world, relying only on Google Maps would not be sufficient to determine which train line is best for you to catch. So we recommend downloading a transportation app specifically for Japan’s public transportation system.

Google Maps

Japan transit planner, japan travel.

Google Maps are great for finding out the closest stations to you. Utilizing Google Maps’ Offline Maps feature, you can still get directions to the locations you want to get to, even without a signal to a WiFi hotspot! Of course, remember to download the area map beforehand for this function to work.

how to use japan travel app

Japan Transit Planner is arguably the most convenient app when it comes to figuring out what train line or bus route to take. The app was developed by a well-known company, Jorudan. It is one of the most popular apps the Japanese use for travel planning.

In addition to Japanese, the app also supports other languages, such as English, Chinese, French, German, and Spanish. The app will automatically be set to your phone’s default language. If you wish to set the app to a different language, go to the Menu tab and select FAQ. Under “Others”, there should be a “Select Language” option.

Searching for how to get from destination A to B is easy. After inputting the destinations, the app will list out a couple of route suggestions. Each option will display the departure and arrival time, the time required for the trip, the number of transfers required, and the cost.

You will notice that there is a small alphabet underneath most options. “F” marks the fastest option. The options marked with “E” are the ones that require the least transfers. If you are on a budget, choose the option marked with “L”.

how to use japan travel app

Before using the app, ensure the “Route Options” settings reflect your situation or preferences. For example, if you have a Tokyo Subway Ticket or a JR Pass, remember to tick it so that the search result only shows the routes covered by the pass. You can also untick the transportation modes you don’t want to take. For instance, remember to untick all the other modes if you only want to take the train.

how to use japan travel app

Japan Transit Planner’s Timetable Function and Buy Tickets Function

The app also has a timetable function to assist with your trip planning. Not only can you search for the timetable for a particular date, but it can also tell you the timetable for a weekday, on Saturdays, or on holidays, including Sundays.

how to use japan travel app

Japan Transit Planner app also has a Ticket tab. All tickets shown in the “Buy Tickets” screen can be purchased. Once purchased, it will show on the “My Tickets” screen and can be activated on the day you want to use it.

Important: Please only activate a ticket on the day you want to use it.

NAVITIME JAPAN Co., Ltd is another mainstream company specializing in Japan’s transportation planning. The app that the company developed for foreign tourists is called Japan Travel. The Japan Travel app has many more functions than the Japan Transit Planner. You can use it to search for train and bus routes, explore nearby popular tourist spots and restaurants, create a sharable itinerary, and spots where you can purchase tourist products, including transportation passes.

Japan Travel’s Route Function

To search how to go from destination A to B, use Japan Travel’s Route function. Like Japan Transit Planner, you can customize the preferred transportation mode. In addition, it also offers the Preferred Route options. This is particularly useful if you need the travel route to be wheelchair accessible. On a typhoon day, you will also want to set the Preferred Route to Avoid Rain.

how to use japan travel app

After completing a route search, you can pin it for future reference. It will also show you how much it would cost if you take a taxi.

how to use japan travel app

Besides the nationwide JR Pass and Tokyo Subway Ticket, the Japan Travel app has incorporated all transportation passes available, making it more convenient for those who use the regional passes!

However, unlike Japan Transit Planner, Japan Travel’s timetable function is only available to the premium version.

how to use japan travel app

Japan Travel’s Itinerary Planning Function

Japan Travel App’s itinerary planning is called Trip. You can create an itinerary for your upcoming Japan trip on the Trip tab and share it with others. Whether it is via WhatsApp, Instagram, Facebook, or text messages, the app can support all the sharing functions available on your phone.

how to use japan travel app

The most useful thing about this itinerary planning function is that the app will automatically show the time required to travel between the two spots entered, as well as detailing the arrival time at the next attraction you want to visit. So all you need to do is keep adding the spots you want to visit on a particular day, and the app will sort out the transportation for you!

Japan Travel’s Map Function

Japan Travel’s map function is really handy if you need to find free WiFi hot spots, currency exchange, tourist information, and ATMs around you. It will also tell you where to store your baggage, directions to the nearby convenience stores, and, most importantly, the restrooms!

how to use japan travel app

Finding where to eat can be overwhelming, particularly after you have spent all day finding your way around to sightsee. Especially in big cities like Tokyo, where an entire building can be filled with cafes and restaurants, choosing which one to enter for your next meal can be overwhelming. Again, Google is useful. The reviews of the restaurants and attractions in Japan are mostly authentic. The practice of buying reviews in the country is uncommon, so the ratings are generally trustworthy!

You might already have the OpenTable app downloaded on your phone. The app works in Japan too! While many locals use Tablelog or Gurunavi, neither app supports the English language. However, both Tablelog and Gurunavi have mobile-friendly English websites.

  • A rating over 3.5/5 means that the restaurant serves decent food, as reviews given by the Japanese are generally more critical.
  • Gurunavi tells you whether there are multilingual staff and menus available. If a restaurant has vegetarian options, this information might also be available under the restaurant’s information.

how to use japan travel app

If you are a vegan or vegetarian, you might already have HappyCow’s app downloaded to your phone. The app will be your lifesaver when you are in Japan. It is the ultimate source to find a vegan-friendly restaurant close to you.

The information provided by HappyCow and the customer reviews are very reliable!

how to use japan travel app

Tip: You can also refer to our articles in the Vegetarian Dining category. While the articles only cover a limited part of Japan, detailed information about the restaurants and cafes is included.

The language barrier is always the most daunting experience when traveling to a foreign country. Unless you speak Japanese, a translation app is essential to explore this beautiful country on your own.

Google Translate and Google Lens

In addition to inputting a phrase or a sentence into the app, Google Translate has a feature where you can snap a picture of anything you want to translate. The app then turns the foreign language into English or any other language you wish to select. It is a great feature when it comes to reading menus. Google Translate also has a speech-to-text translation function, which will be handy when communicating with the locals.

how to use japan travel app

Another advantage of using Google Translate is that you can use it offline if you have downloaded both your native language and another foreign language beforehand. This is a lifesaver feature when your phone cannot connect to the internet.

Tip: Many Android phones have Google Lens built-in as part of the phone’s camera app. It can be used to translate foreign languages too.

For a more accurate translation, download Naver Papago. Many users find Papago’s interface more user-friendly. It is probably the best English ⇔ Japanese translation app available. Like Google Translate, if you download the language pack, you can use it offline.

how to use japan travel app

The app can also translate images and can provide a speech-to-text translation function. In addition, Papago also has a Phrasebook for anyone who wants to learn some basic everyday phrases.

Ecbo Cloak : The Most Useful Baggage Storage App for Traveling in Japan

Being able to find a place where things can be kept securely is essential when traveling. Apart from the coin-operated lockers at the stations, some shops in Japan also offer baggage storage services. But how do you find them?

Ecbo Cloak is the best app to have when you need to store your belongings temporarily, almost anywhere and anytime. After entering the location, the number of bags you own, and/or the number of suitcases, the app will show you a list of places that can hold your belongings. So whether you need a place to store your baggage for a few days or have done too much shopping and need to offload some bags before heading back to the hotel, Ecbo Cloak is the best solution provider!

how to use japan travel app

You can even make a reservation!

Access to fresh water is a necessity, regardless if we are traveling or not. If you are on a budget or want to be more eco-friendly, finding a spot to refill your water bottle during the day is desirable. So download the mymizu app!

how to use japan travel app

mymizu is the ultimate lifesaver, especially during Japan’s hot and humid summer. If you are running low on water but don’t want to purchase another plastic bottle, use the mymizu app to find a nearby water refill spot.

The app even has a function that can remind you to drink more water to prevent dehydration!

how to use japan travel app

Not only does the app work in Japan, but it might also show water refill spots in your home country! If it doesn’t, you can be the first person to add a spot to the map! If you are a business owner, you can also contribute to this great cause to help spread access to those who need it!

Do I Need a JR Pass & Is the JR Pass Worth It?

how to use japan travel app

Once you have a rough idea of which prefectures and cities you want to visit during your next Japan trip, it is time to figure out if you need a JR Pass because not all itinerary needs one.

Our Guide to Do I Need a JR Pass & Is the JR Pass Worth It article has everything you need to know about the nationwide and regional JR Passes. It also covers other factors that can help you decide if a JR Pass is or is not worth your upcoming trip!

SIM Card, eSIM, or Pocket WiFi: Which One to Use in Japan?

If you haven’t already, get your internet connection in Japan sorted out as soon as possible. The last thing you would want to do after landing in Japan is spend time deciding what product and from which company you should rent a pocket WiFi or purchase a SIM Card . Another common question is whether to rent a pocket Wi-Fi or purchase a SIM Card.

So refer to our SIM Card, eSIM, or Pocket WiFi: Which One to Use in Japan article that answers all your questions about how to stay connected to the internet when you are in Japan!

Japan-Wireless-Pocket-WiFi

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12 of the Best Apps for Japan Travel

Last Updated January 11, 2024 William Tang

You are here: Home » Travel Gear & Tech » 12 of the Best Apps for Japan Travel

When it comes to travel to Japan, things can easily get lost in translation.  Whether you’re a first timer or a frequent traveller to the country, it’s always a bit overwhelming especially in big cities such as Tokyo and Osaka where you’re faced with endless number of neighbourhoods, what seems to be an infinite number of train lines and companies that run them, and not to mention all of the restaurants that you can choose from.  It’s a lot to take in but thanks to a couple of apps, your life on the road in Japan can be made a lot easier.

So without further ado, here are the twelve best apps for Japan travel that you’ll definitely want to make sure you download before you go.

Read more about Japan

  • Best offline maps app for travel that isn’t Google
  • Ultimate Tokyo food guide
  • Must-read Japan 12 day itinerary
  • Kichijoji street food guide
  • What to buy in Japan and where

Where to stay in Japan?

  • Now that’s a loaded question but to get you started, here are a few guides to take a look at.  Here are places to stay in Tokyo and where to stay in Kyoto .
  • Table of Contents

Looking for something specific in this itinerary?  Jump to what you want to read.

Here's what we're covering:

1.  Google Maps

2.  maps.me, 3.  hyperdia, 4.  japan travel by navitime, 5.  tokyo subway navigation, 6.  norikae annai japan transit (formerly japan transit planner by jorudan), 7. google translate, 8. gurunavi, 9. ramen beast, 10. rosetta stone, 11. ecbo cloak, 12 must-download best apps for japan travel, the best apps for japan travel.

12 best apps for japan travel top download

As technology has evolved, so have the apps that are on our smartphones.  Here are a collection of apps that I always make sure are loaded on my phone before I start my trip to Japan.

google maps japan travel apps

Let’s start with the most obvious here.  Map apps are going to be one of the most critical ones to keep you from getting lost.  You’ll use it to find places you want to go and you can use it to navigate as well.

On my first trip to Japan I was skeptical about how good this would be but in most cases, I’d say I defaulted to Google as one does.

You can pretty much find anything you’re looking for on Google and with its handy Save feature where you can drop pins on places that you want to visit.  This is something I do for almost every trip and part of my trip planning process .

Google Maps is also surprisingly good when it comes to providing train navigation instructions with accurate timing.  I noticed locals use it too so it must be pretty reliable.

Offline wise, Google Maps is fully capable but with drawbacks.  You can easily do the “OK Maps” technique of saving maps offline  or you can go into the “Offline maps” section of the menu.  However, the issue is that if you pull up your offline map when you’re out of range of data, your pins don’t show up and that can get pretty annoying if you don’t have a Japan SIM card or a hotspot such as Skyroam .

Get your SIM

If you’re headed to Japan, think about ordering a SIM card ahead of time so that you can hit the ground running when you arrive. No more stressing with where to go one you land at the airport and figuring out what plans work out the best or are the best deal.

ORDER YOUR SIM

Another nifty feature of Google Maps is that you can create your own custom maps (called My Maps) which you’ll see me use on all of my itineraries and guides including the top ramen shops in Tokyo and best places to eat in Tokyo .  I love them because you can copy them from folks like me and then tweak it to your liking in terms of adding custom icons, colours, and layers.  The only problem with this feature is that again, you need data to access it.  Even if you have offline maps saved, it won’t let you load it unless you have data.

Tips:  If you’re going to travel without data and you want to use Google Maps with your pins intact (custom maps or otherwise), make sure you have the Google Maps open while you have wifi and make sure you keep the map alive throughout the day

WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW

Pros:  

  • Easy to use and most are comfortable with the interface
  • Navigation capabilities are very good in Japan
  • Access to the large pool of data that’s on Google (point of interest information such as hours, website, pictures, reviews)

Cons:  

  • Has limitations when it comes to offline use

Offline Capability: Yes but no access to pins or My Maps without data

Download:  iOS / Android

Price:  Free

must download japan travel apps maps me

On the topic of maps, Maps.me is an app that I’m going to more and more and here’s why.

Maps.me is an offline map juggernaut and while I can’t say it’s a replacement for Google Maps, I use it to complement it in situations where I know there’s going to be blackout of data or simply put, I’m too cheap to pay for data.

That is why when I plan my trips, I make sure that the pins that I added on Google Maps also appear on Maps.me.  There’s a fairly simple process of doing it but if you don’t know how, make sure to read my guide on how to import your custom Google Maps into Maps.me .

The advantage of the Maps.me app is that once you download the areas of interest, you’ll have access to the maps, points of interests that are built-in, and of course any custom pins/bookmarks that you create.

  • Has very rich offline capabilities
  • Bookmarking features are handy and luckily you can import them from your Google My Maps
  • Surprisingly a high number of points of interests for their small offline map sizes which means you can actually search for places offline
  • Tracks GPS location as you would expect
  • Does not have navigation capabilities
  • Takes awhile to learn the app if you’re a first-time user
  • Point of interest lacks rich data that Google has

hyperdia japan train schedule travel app

UPDATE: As of March 31, 2022, they disabled the ability to search timetables but you can still search average times. It looks like the Android version of the app has been pulled but the iOS version remains as “HYPERDIA by VOICE”. The better alternative for Hyperdia is now Japan Travel .

This is one of the essential apps when it comes to travel in Japan mainly because it is the Bible for all any train travel in the country.

Whether you have the Japan Rail Pass or you’re purchasing rail tickets leg by leg, this is the must-have app or website to find out what you need to take and accurately see the departure and arrival times. What makes HyperDia a godsend is that it’s useable Japanese website that has English translations.

Traditionally, HyperDia was something you used on your desktop.  It’s got handy features like being able to filter out Nozomi and Mizuho trains in your search so you only see trains that your Japan Rail Pass can use.  This is still the preferred way to use HyperDia but with everyone living off of their smartphones, they’ve also developed an app version.

For those with Apple phones, they have an app that’s built with Siri-like capabilities.  All you have to do is say something like “Tokyo station to Osaka station, first train” and it’ll be able to parse it out to search.  It’s a good quick search tool for those that are on the go.  I also like that you can filter for results that only work with the Japan Rail Pass .

If you have Android, it doesn’t have the voice feature but it does everything else and even has additional features like providing walking times, car rental rates, and even suggest hotels in the area.

The disadvantage with HyperDia apps is that they’re not free and so I think most people will end up using this on your browser or laptop if you packed one for your trip to Japan.

Overall, this is a must-use tool especially for anyone travelling around the country.

  • Access to highly accurate and complete schedule of all trains in Japan
  • Will show you routes that sometimes Google will miss
  • Useful for those that are travelling with the JR Pass
  • Provides tons of valuable travel information including duration and cost
  • Saves your history of searches
  • App is not free
  • Extremely basic app design that is quite dated
  • Mapping isn’t built in
  • No real offline capabilities

Offline Capability: No

Download:  iOS

Website:    HyperDia

Price:  App is free to download but unlocking English features require payment.  Subscription based – $2.99 USD per month for English and $25.99 USD for the year.  That said, you can use the app as a 30 day trial so just download this right before you leave.

Japan Trip Planning Essentials

If you’re in the middle of booking your trip to Japan, here are the most important places you need to go to book:

ninjawifi 15 percent off coupon code for pocket wifi in japan

  • JR Pass – The two most reliable places we always check are JRailPass and JRPass . If you are taking long distance Shinkansen across multiple region, get the full JR Pass . If you’re focusing on one specific area, you only need a JR regional pass .
  • Shinkansen – The JR Pass prices have gone up and for many of you, it’ll make more sense to book tickets individually. The secret is that when you buy your Shinkansen tickets through Klook offers special vouchers for Don Quijote and BIC when booking. Their tickets are super easy to redeem as well. Right now, use code SKS10OFF to save $10 USD off.
  • Hotels/Ryokans – In Japan, the best website for accommodations, hands down is Agoda . When we’ve compared them against Booking , Agoda consistently came out cheaper.
  • Pocket Wifi – While we do love eSIMs, having a pocket wifi is great for sharing data with a large group. The most popular is NinjaWifi which is easy to pick up at the airport. Use code AWESOME15 to save 15% (automatically applied). Alternatives are offered by JRPass and JRailPass but they aren’t as cheap. For a more global solution, consider Solis and PokeFi .
  • eSIM – The best one is Airalo . Save money by getting the Japan region eSIM and use referral code WILLIA9500 to get $3 USD credit on your first purchase. From now to Feb 29, the 10GB package is half price as well! Ubigi is another one that we’ve had success with where they uniquely offer 5G coverage. Use code AWESOME10 to save 10% on your first order.
  • Car Rental – Big companies like Budget , Avis , and Enterprise operate in Japan but they’re usually the most expensive. The best companies are the local Japanese ones such as Toyota Rentacar, Nippon Rentacar, Orix Rentacar, Nissan Rentacar, and Times Car Rental. To make things easier, use Rentalcars and Klook to compare prices all in one place. Don’t forget, you need an IDP to drive in Japan!
  • Learn Japanese – It helps to know even a bit of the language before you go. Start your learning with Rosetta Stone Japanese .
  • Cash or credit – Cash is still very important to have in Japan but when you use credit cards, make sure you’re not getting charged those extra exchange rate fees. The best card right now is the Wise Multi-Currency Card which is actually a debit card where you can convert at favorable rates beforehand. This cuts out any sneaky transaction fees.
  • Travel Insurance – Make sure you’re covered in case something happens. Get quotes from Insured Nomads and if you’re from Canada, get quotes from RATESDOTCA .
  • Shopping – Discovering Don Quijote is a quintessential part of the Japan experience. The secret for tax-free shopping is that they have a coupon that can help you save 10% off + additional 5% off if you spend ¥10,000 or more.

japan travel by navitime navigation app

This is another essential app to have for anyone that’s spending time in Japan’s capital, Tokyo.  If you’ve read my  how to get around in Tokyo guide, you’ll know how complex transit is in the city because of all the different companies, lines, ways to pay and so much more.

NaviTime is a comprehensive app that has everything you need to know about not only Tokyo’s transportation network but also the rest of the country.  It also includes the following:

  • Offline search for free WiFi spots
  • Navigation directions to get from point A to B
  • Voice navigation
  • Train stop list which helps with knowing you’ve gotten on train that’s going in the right direction
  • Train delays
  • Recent routes are saved offline

If you’re using this to plan your train routes, another handy thing is knowing what platform you need to be on which is especially useful in big cities such as Tokyo and Osaka.

The app has also expanded beyond just transit as it also has built in guides for events, shopping, nature, nightlife, art & culture, and food & drink.  It also has itineraries and coupons as well which can be helpful.

One thing you should be mindful of is that to use most of the functionalities you will need data so make sure you grab a SIM card ahead of time or a pocket wi-fi device .

  • You could say this is a more full fleshed out app compared to HyperDia
  • Detailed schedule of trains in Japan and optimal routing
  • Access to travel guides and articles
  • The searches by JR Pass can be limiting because it can exclude some obvious connectors that will require cash payment and instead ask you to walk instead which may not be ideal
  • There are some complaints about battery life on Android
  • No real offline capability

Price:  Free (searching alternate routes based on disruptions or voice searching are paid features)

tokyo subway navigation must download metro app

UPDATE: This app has been discontinued but we really like Tokyo Subway Map OFFLINE on iOS. There’s a different Android version called Tokyo Metro Map (Offline) .

If you’re only staying in Tokyo and need just a really simple app to replace the paper map for the Tokyo Metro and Toei subway lines then this is it.

There’s not much to say about it other than the fact that it’s basic, easy to use, and for me is all about seeing the subway system lines so I can quickly figure out how to get to where I need to go.

  • Offline map of the Tokyo Metro and Toei lines in Tokyo
  • Limited functionality beyond the two lines

Offline Capability: Yes but only for the map and not for navigation purposes

japan transit planner by jorudan travel app

This is another transit app that is often raved by locals that live in Japan.  The original Jorudan app is packed with features but since there was never any English built in, they finally created a stand-alone app called Japan Transit Planner.

Similar to the other navigation apps on the list so far, it does routing for trains so you can filter out routes that aren’t covered by the JR Pass, pick reserved seats, find out how much each option costs, and which takes the least amount of time.  I also like that this one has capabilities to search by station to see what lines run through and their individual schedules.

This app also has information about flights as well if that’s an option that makes sense for your journey.

What it doesn’t have are any maps or any offline capabilities which was one of the big advantages of the Japanese version.

  • Easy to use and clean interface
  • Allows you to find the fastest route and tells you which ones are easy to help you decide
  • Includes ticket pricing whether using a ticket or IC card which is helpful
  • Useful filtering options for Japan Rail Pass, Tokyo Subway Ticket, and sort order preferences
  • No offline functionality

Price:  Free but there is a subscription available that removes ads, path/timetable history, customized search criteria, and optimal boarding position

google translate japan travel app to download

So far we’ve been focusing on navigation and that’s super important because the worst feeling is getting lost in a brand new country.  The second thing that you’ll encounter is the language barrier.  While you might not have any experience in Japanese at all, there are apps like Google Translate that can help along the way.

This is an app that is a must-have for anyone that travels because you can download so many different languages for offline translation.  Over the years it has also gotten better and better with new functionality.

Here are a few things that Google Translate is good for:

  • Translating something in English to Japanese and either attempting to say it or just showing the characters (flip the phone to landscape mode and it’ll show the words in a giant cue-card format
  • Voice translation (data required) where you can translate something quickly on the fly from English to Japanese or if you hear something in Japanese and want it translated, you can also use this
  • Conversation mode is a new one that I haven’t tried yet but the idea is that you can literally have it running and it’ll translate back and forth as both sides speak
  • Handwriting can be helpful if you see Japanese characters and you’re trying to figure out what it says
  • Camera mode is also useful for translating Japanese to English on the fly by taking your phone’s camera and pointing at the sign that you’re trying to figure out
  • Voice playback to help with pronunciation
  • Incredibly easy to use and offers multiple ways to translate
  • Offline capability is a huge plus
  • Camera mode is sometimes un-useable as only some of the translations make sense so it is very much hit-or-miss

Offline Capability: Yes but some features may not be available such as any voice feature, Conversation, or Handwriting

japan restaurant app gurunavi features

We’ve gotten this far without talking about food so it’s time to correct that.  If you’ve been wondering “what is the Yelp of Japan”, GuruNavi is going to be the closest thing as a reputable app that let’s just say is going offer way more authentic advice than TripAdvisor.

GuruNavi is an app that helps you figure out what to eat based on where you’re going to be, the type of cuisine, and budget across cities all over Japan.  The app is a relatively simple search interface where you’ll pick the cuisine you want and the city or neighbourhood.

These are the features that you’ll find helpful while you travel:

  • Find out whether they have English menus or not
  • Preview of menus with price
  • Recommended dishes
  • Credit cards accepted
  • Opening hours
  • Phone number

I personally feel like the app is decent for restaurant research but you’re going to be overwhelmed with the results.  The main issue is that there’s no real way to sort the restaurant listing by some sort of rating system.  There doesn’t seem to be a rhyme or reason to what you see so the challenge you’ll have is figuring out what’s the best.  Still, it’s helpful in a pinch if you feel like just picking something random around you.

  • English-based app for restaurants all across Japan
  • Detailed information about each restaurant
  • Handy link to be able to call restaurants to make reservations if you need to
  • Ability to filter by neighbourhood and cuisine
  • No offline capability
  • Missing utility features such as being able to bookmark restaurants
  • No rating system to make it possible to sort listings

ramen beast food japan travel app

If you’ve read my piece of ramen etiquette that you’re probably breaking or the best ramen restaurants in Tokyo , you’ll know that I did this with the help of local experts from Ramen Beast.  They’re a small team that’s obsessed with finding the best ramen in the country and sharing that passion with the rest of the world.

They started off as something web-based but now they have a killer app as well and super handy for anyone that wants to seek out the best bowl of ramen goodness.

It’s truly impressive how much of the country that have covered and especially when you go to hot spots like Tokyo or Osaka, you’ll see the land dotted with red pins.  Each listing has photos of the location and food, essential info about the shop, recommended “bowl to crush”, and a description that reads like it was written by a writer for The Hollywood Reporter (which is actually true).

If you’re overwhelmed by the choice, the Ramen Beast app also has lists which are curated collection of ramen shops that will tell you which ones are the best miso style, ones that are open late, or simply the crème de la crème of Tokyo.

  • Slick and modern UI that’s easy to use and navigate
  • Has a geo-location function to narrow down by map where you are
  • Listings include photos and more importantly, the one bowl you have to order
  • Handy lists to help narrow down your choices
  • No Android version
  • No offline capabilities

Download:  iOS /not available on Android

rosetta stone must have japan travel app

If you’re super keen on learning Japanese, I’d recommend trying out Rosetta Stone.  Yes they still exist!  Instead of the boxes you could buy off the shelves of Best Buy, it’s gone fully digital with an app and everything.

I recently tested the app for the Mandarin edition and I was really impressed with how well put together the curriculum is and its focus on the practical as opposed to the mundane details of grammar.  You jump right into conversational pieces that will actually be useful.

With the Rosetta Stone, you can truly learn a new language on the go where all the modules can be done while commuting or waiting at the doctor’s appointment.  There are built in audio guides for extended learning, and on top of that, lessons can be saved offline.

Once you learn the basics of Japanese, you won’t feel some of the struggles that are very real in the country where English comprehension is quite limited.

  • Very well-built app that is very conducive to learning a new language
  • Offline capability is handy
  • May not match your learning style

Offline Capability: Yes, lessons can be downloaded offline and is available for 30 days afterwards

Price:  The subscription $129.99 USD for 12 months or if you want something shorter $89.99 for 6 months of $49.99 for 3 months but they always offer Rosetta Stone discounts so check them out for savings up to 20% off.

ecbo cloak must have japan travel app to download

Have you ever had situations in your travels where you’ve needed to check out of your accommodations early and you have this awkward gap of time between catching a bus, plane, or train and you don’t know what to do with your stuff?  You either have to carry your luggage with you or you have to find a place to stash it for a couple of hours.

Ecbo Cloak is an app that works similarly to another service I learned about in Taiwan called Lalalocker .  Think of it as the Airbnb of storage lockers.  In most cities, you’ll have the official storage lockers in train stations, large retail stores, and post offices but what about all of the available space in someone’s store, restaurant, maybe even a hotel offering up their space to non-guests, or even someone’s home?

With Ecbo Cloak, it’ll help you find the luggage storage shops nearby, help you reserve, and pay all through the app.  How it works is you reserve your space ahead of time by paying online with your credit card.  Storage is charged per day and for most places, it’s 300 JPY for small bags smaller than 45cm long and 600 JPY for anything larger.  You can also reserve at rail stations for a flat fee of 800 JPY.

  • Sharing economy at its finest and provides great utility for a common travel issue
  • Reasonable prices and all handled within the app to eliminate the hassle of payment outside of the system
  • Established trust factor

Price:  Free to download but fee required for luggage storage

using uber in japan for travel

Yes Uber does work in Japan. I finally got a chance to test it on my latest trip to Japan!

I don’t think I need to explain what Uber does so why don’t I just dive into what situations you’d want to use Uber versus the traditional way of hailing a cab in a city such as Tokyo.

I talk about this same topic when explaining how to apply to the Toyosu Fish Market tuna auction  but essentially it works like this.  Uber in Tokyo is more like a taxi-hailing app where the same taxis that you’d flag down on the street could be the same ones picking you up by Uber.  Overall, Uber in most cases is going to be more expensive than regular cabs but where there’s a twist in the story is during late night from 10PM to 5AM where there’s usually a 20% surcharge.  Uber doesn’t add this in so if you’re out late, Uber may be a good option.

Another thing to consider is when you’re travelling in groups of 5 or more.  Most cabs in the city are for a maximum of 4 passengers.  Uber allows you to call a van on-the-fly as opposed to waiting around and hoping for a larger van cab to roll by.

  • Regular taxis are usually cheaper

Price:  Free to download but if you’re creating a new account, make sure to use promo code  willt1324ue to save $5 off your first ride.

So there you have it!  12 useful apps to have when travelling to Japan.  You might not use all of these apps when you’re in the country but they’re always good to have pre-downloaded before you go.

Last tip I’ll share is that you want to make sure you open each one before you leave because they may need to download an internal update or in the case of the map apps, do all the offline downloading ahead of time.

Have a blast in Japan!

What you should read next

  • Travel Hacking – Caching Your Google Maps For When You Have No Data
  • Best Offline Maps App for Travel that Isn’t Google – How to Import My Maps into Maps.me
  • 7 Essential Apps for Iceland

About William Tang

William Tang is the Chief of Awesome behind the award-winning Going Awesome Places which is focused on outdoor adventure, and experiential travel. His true passion lies in telling stories, inspiring photography and videos, and writing detailed itineraries and travel guides. He is a member of Travel Media Association of Canada (TMAC), Society of American Travel Writers (SATW), Adventure Travel Trade Association (ATTA), and Travel Massive. He has also been featured in publications such as Reader's Digest, Entrepreneur, Men's Journal, and Haute Living. Make sure to learn more about William Tang to find out his story and how Going Awesome Places started.

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June 5, 2021 at 1:03 AM

Dear editor, please update the listing as some of the apps you are recommending is so outdated that the UI looks like it was made for original nokia.

Will Tang says

June 5, 2021 at 6:22 PM

Those are just how many of the Japanese apps look and are designed. Yes, many of them can be better but we use what we can get when we’re travelling.

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best apps for travel to japan

19 Best Apps For Travel To Japan In 2024

Disclaimer: This page may contain affiliate links and I may get a small commission if you decide to make a purchase through my links, at no additional cost to you. Thank you.

Are you looking for the best apps for travel to Japan? 

If that is a resounding yes, then you have definitely come to the right site.

I did a solo trip to Japan and I have got to say downloading some of these Japan travel apps made my trip so much easier and less stressful since I do not speak Japanese !

So here are the 19 best apps for Japan travel ranging from navigation, transportation, language, food, and others so you can bid farewell to travel-related anxiety and enjoy yourself thoroughly throughout the trip!

List Of 16 Best Apps For Japan Travel

  • Japan National Tourism Organisation (JNTO)
  • Universal Studios Japan
  • Google Maps
  • Japan Navitime
  • Tokyo Subway Navigation
  • Norikae Annai
  • Suica and IC Card Reader
  •  Imiwa
  • Rosetta Stone
  • Travel Japan Wi-Fi
  • Ramen Beast

Related Articles:

  • Best 16 Kyoto Food Tours (For Delicious Feasts!)
  • Best 17 Ryokan With Private Onsen In Hakone (2023)
  • Japan Ski Packing List: What To Pack & Useful Tips
  • First Time To Japan: 45 Useful Travel Tips For First Time Traveler
  • Best Day Trip To Hakone From Tokyo: The Ultimate Guide
  • Top 23 Snacks In Japan To Try (And Where To Get Them)
  • The Ultimate Japan 3-Week Itinerary

19 Best Apps For Travel To Japan

Let’s dive right into the 19 best apps for Japan travel :

Japan Guide

1. japan national tourism organisation (jnto).

If you are looking to plan your itinerary in Japan, Japan National Tourism Organisation (JNTO) is the right place to get to. 

Available in English, Chinese, and Korean languages, you can find the main highlights to visit around the country, filled with detailed information such as the history, operating hours, entrance fee, and so on.

Besides, you can also search for routes using the app—such as Japan Rail (JR) , subways, taxis, and ferry services.

BEST APPS JAPAN - THE SCREENSHOT OF JNTO JAPAN TRAVEL APP

JNTO comes with the “ Safety Assistance ” feature too where users will be notified when there are natural disasters or other national-level emergencies. 

These handy features make JNTO among the best apps for travel to Japan.

Personal experience: This Japan travel app is my saviour! I literally refer to this app to get to virtually everywhere in Japan during my trip there.

Since I used 3-Day Subway Tokyo Ticket when I was at Tokyo, I selected that pass during the search and the app showed the eligible routes that I could take to get from Point A to Point B without paying extra fare.

And I did the same when I was at Osaka using Osaka Amazing Pass and JR Pass when I wanted to take JR trains, buses and shinkansen.

If you could only download 1 travel app for Japan, JNTO is the one to get!

Download here: iOS | Android | Website

Price: Free 

Planning To Get A Japan Rail (JR) Pass?

A JR pass offers a time-saving, convenient, wallet-friendly approach to international visitors (like you and I), especially when you are exploring at least 3 Japanese cities or planning a 3-week stay in the country.

2. Universal Studios Japan

Being one of the 6 Universal Studios parks in the world, Universal Studios Japan (USJ) attracts thousands of visitors all year long.

And if you are not a fan of waiting in long queues for amazing rides, you can check the waiting time for each attraction using Universal Studios Japan app.

With this, you can readjust your plan as you go and opt for a shorter queue ride first without wasting time queuing for the longer one.

The app also shows the map of the site and offers useful information like:

  • available rides,
  • restaurants,
  • and more, offering a better travel experience for visitors.

best apps for travelling in japan - UNIVERSAL STUDIOS JAPAN OSAKA

Tip: Make sure to buy the Express Pass separately so you can try all the stunning rides in USJ within 1 day!

Since there is a limited number of Express Passes for each day, it is best to buy the ticket in advance before flying into Japan.

BUY USJ PASS NOW 🎢 | GET USJ EXPRESS PASS TODAY ⚡

Download here: iOS | Android

Price: Free

Best Japan Travel App: Navigation 

best apps for japan travel

3. Google Maps

Google Maps might be the most familiar best Japan travel app among all the apps listed in this article. 

This user-friendly navigation travel app allows you to save the landmarks or places that you want to visit and retrieve them later when needed. 

It also shows the shortest route from one place to another, with accurate train timing, travel duration, and estimated total fare. 

If you are looking for nearby eateries or convenience stores, Google Maps show their operating hours, pictures, and even reviews!

Travel tip: I like visiting local-frequented, family-ran eateries instead of chain restaurants for a more authentic dining experience. And you can find plenty of these eateries when you search the food term in Japanese using Google Maps.

So if I feel like eating curry rice, I use the Google Translate app to translate “curry rice” into Japanese language and I paste the term into Google Maps. And voila now I have more authentic eateries options to choose from!

I did this in every city I visited in Japan and that was how I managed to enjoy a truly good plate of curry rice at a small eatery managed by a lovely old Japanese couple in Takayama .

However, Google Maps requires an internet connection to work and load. 

So to have peace of mind of not getting lost among the tall skyscrapers or ancient temples during your visit to Japan, it is recommended to get yourself a local sim card or portable Wi-Fi router . 

I got this   eSIM for Japan  before I travel to Japan and it was one of the best purchases that I have made for the trip!

It was easy to use and convenient since I did not need to change any sim card just to get the data.

Download here: iOS | Android  

Maps.me is the free, not-too-bad alternative to Google Maps where the app is still workable even when there is no internet connection. 

To use Maps.me, you will have to first download the map of Japan . It will show you the places of interest that you can visit during your trip. 

This app also offers travel guides to the users and you can search ATMs, restaurants, or cafes in the area.

Note: This free travel app is available in 15 languages, including English, German, and Arabic. 

Price: Free & Paid Subscription

Best Apps For Japan: Transportation

best apps for japan travel

5. Hyperdia

If you are asking for a local’s recommendation for the best Japan travel app for transportation, Hyperdia would probably top the list. 

Available in English, Japanese, and Chinese, Hyperdia allows you to check for the accurate timings of train departure and arrival regardless of whether you are using a JR pass or getting the individual train tickets from one station to another. 

Hyperdia’s result page will show the detailed breakdown of your search request, including:

  • The train’s name
  • The departure and arrival track number
  • Ticket fare
  • Travel duration 
  • Number of train transfers
  • Total travel distance

You can also personalise your filters by opting out of Nozomi and Mizuho trains —the two trains that are not covered under JR pass; a handy feature that you will be thankful for after knowing Japan has more than a dozen train operators throughout the country.

Other than providing information about train services, Hyperdia offers car rental services, recommends hotels to book, and even nearby restaurants to visit . 

Hyperdia by Voice app comes with an additional feature where you can speak to the phone for your search queries, like “Tokyo Station to Kyoto Station, first train”.

And yes, you can customise the search to include the trains that are covered under JR Pass with this. 

One word—convenient!

However, this app version with voice software is only available to iPhone users (sorry Android users!).

You will also need an internet connection to use Hyperdia, so make sure to get a Japan  eSIM , local sim card or pocket Wi-Fi router to fully utilise the useful features that this Japan transportation app offers.

6. Japan Navitime

Japan Navitime is one of the best apps for travel to Japan for navigating around this culturally rich country.

best app for travel in japan

This useful transportation app offers detailed and comprehensive information about the country’s transportation system, map, train routes , and so much more. 

Some of the searches that you can do using Japan Navitime are: 

  • Navigation between two places in Japan
  • List of all public transportation modes (trains, taxis, ferries, and planes)
  • Free Wi-Fi spots 
  • Train delays
  • Efficient route for JR pass holders  
  • Recent saved routes to view offline

Besides, Japan Navitime also comes with travel guides and itineraries that you can refer to when you are in Japan.

Or you can create your travel plan by using the app itself. 

To offer a better travel experience to the user, this Japan travel app has added  several new guides , such as shopping, nightlife, events, food and drinks and more!

It is worth noting that most Japan Navitime features require an internet connection to work so it is best to get a Japan  eSIM (I used this & loved it!), local sim card with data or a portable Wi-Fi router before your Japan touchdown. 

7. Tokyo Subway Navigation

Update:  Tokyo Subway Navigation is no longer available for download. For Android phone users, you can download this alternative Japan travel app instead:  Tokyo Metro Map .

As the app name suggests, the Tokyo Subway Navigation app shows the intensive subway map in Tokyo without the need to use an internet connection. 

best apps for japan travel

You can search for the shortest route between the two stations or landmarks, ticket fare, and the travel duration. 

If you are not sure of the station name, fret not—you can just key in the landmark and the app will show the nearest exit to get to the place. 

Besides, this travel app also shows the subway stations offering free Wi-Fi connection to passengers.

Tokyo Subway Navigation app is exceptionally helpful particularly to international travellers , where the sight of Tokyo subway networks might be slightly overwhelming to first-time visitors.

Looking for unmissable things to do in Tokyo? Check out my detailed 4 Days Tokyo Itinerary to learn more!

8. Norikae Annai (Previously know as Jorudan)

Norikae Annai is a helpful transportation planning app that allows you to search for the train schedule and fare , including the reserved and non-reserved seats.

Besides, this app for Japan travel shows the travel duration between stations, vehicle numbers, platforms, and the shortest route to the input destination .

Letter symbols  are used to describe the ride, such as F to indicate fast travel, E for less transfer, and L for low price.

The one thing that I like about Norikae Annai is that you can also filter out the routes that are not covered by the JR pass .

Did I mention that Norikae Annai also shows the weather in the departure and destination areas? That is just so cool!

9. Suica and IC Card Reader

If you plan to use cash to buy single-trip tickets every single time you travel from one station to another, you are doing it wrong.

Aside from keeping lots of coins thanks to the change given, wasting time queuing to buy train tickets is not exactly the core memory you want to create while exploring Japan.

Downloading a Suica and IC Card Reader app is one of the best things you can do before flying into the country. 

The app allows users to make contactless payments for various transportation services and purchases. 

Simply tap your smartphone on the card reader and you can pay for

  • train and subway fares,
  • vending machines,
  • and even convenience stores!

It is also not just limited to Suica ; you can manage other IC cards too using the same app such as Pasmo, Toica, and more!

You can even charge the card in your mobile phone electronically , so you can save time and spend it on visiting extra attraction sites while in Japan.

I used the Suica Card in Osaka and Kyoto and I really love how convenient it is to explore around the cities by just tapping in and out of the stations.

It is definitely one of the best apps for Japanese travel to have in your mobile phone!

Travel tip:  Suica Card is widely accepted around the country, including Tokyo, Osaka, Kyoto, Nagoya, Sapporo, and rural areas.

10. Ecbo Cloak

Have you ever felt like ditching your luggage in a safe place to explore the city one more time before heading to the airport? 

I feel it most of the time—especially when I need to check out of the hotel in the morning and I have a night flight out of the country on the last vacation day.

If you are also feeling that way, then you will have to download Ecbo Cloak into your mobile phone when you are in Japan!

Ecbo Cloak is an app that shows you the nearby luggage storage places . 

You can also use the app to reserve a spot for your luggage and make payment online using a credit card—seamlessly convenient.

For most locations, you will be charged US$3 (300 yen) for small bags (45 cm long and under) and U$6 ( 600 yen) for larger bags. 

All these charges are for per -day use.

You can also rent a storage space in a train station , where the fee typically ranges from 500 yen to 700 yen per hour depending on the luggage size. 

BEST JAPAN TRAVEL APP - luggage locker near Kanazawa Station

Best Apps For Travel In Japan: Language

best apps for japanese travel

If you are looking for an offline multilingual Japanese dictionary that is similar to Google Translate, Imiwa is your best bet. 

You can find the meaning of the words in English, Spanish, Russian, French, German —making it among the best apps for travel in Japan that you should not miss downloading!

Apart from that, Imiwa also offers sample sentences based on the search entry and teaches you the word pronunciation in Japanese.

So if you are looking forward to interacting with the locals using some simple Japanese words , you can definitely learn them using Imiwa. 

However, this language app for Japan travel is only available for iOS users . 

Download here: iOS  

Yomiwa is one of the best apps for travel to Japan that could potentially save your life from frustration and loads of time when you are exploring the country. 

This  offline   Japanese translation travel app  allows you to literally point at the road signs, menu, package labels, and ATMs (you name it) and  translate the wording into English !

It also works if you  upload the picture  directly into the language app for translation. 

You can even pick up the language by using Yomiwa thanks to its  flashcard feature!

13. Rosetta Stone

If speaking to the locals in Japanese has always been a dream of yours, then you should download Rosetta Stone.

Available in multiple languages including Japanese, Rosetta Stone has plenty of immersive curriculum to enhance one’s capability to learn foreign languages easily. 

You can conveniently develop your listening, speaking, reading, and writing skills through the interactive lessons and real-life scenarios offered by this app.

And the best part is you can use Rosetta Stone on the go as it can be used offline!

Whether you are commuting on the subway or waiting for your meal in a restaurant, you can practise Japanese with the handy app.  

Price: 3 months for US$49.99

14. VoiceTra

Of course, learning a foreign language with three writing systems is not for everyone.

Kanji? Hiragana? Katakana? Nan desu ka? (Meaning “What is it?” in Japanese)

And for some, VoiceTra could be one of the best apps to have when travelling to Japan acting as their free personal speech translator.

This voice translation app can translate your words instantly into Japanese or any other supported language and vice versa.

This feature of VoiceTra makes having conversations with locals, ordering food, or asking for directions to be so so so much easier and more fun!

Sugoi! (Means “awesome” in Japanese!)

Best Travel Apps For Japan: Wi-Fi

15. travel japan wi-fi.

If you do not plan to get a Japan eSIM , local sim card or pocket Wi-Fi route r when visiting Japan, then the Travel Japan Wi-Fi app will be your saviour . 

This Japan travel app offers more than 200 000 hotspots all over the country and allows you to connect automatically.

Travel Japan Wi-Fi also comes with a map feature that lets you search for the nearest hotspot even when you are offline . 

To connect to Travel Japan Wi-Fi, you will just have to look out for blue-lettered Wi2 on your mobile gadgets and voila— free Wi-Fi connection throughout your Japan stay!

best app for japan travel

Being said that, the one con about this travel app is that you will need to use your social media account to log in for the internet connection.

Best Apps For Travel To Japan: Food

best app for japan travel

16. GuruNavi

GuruNavi is among the best apps for Japan travel to download to plan your meals easily based on your preference.

This user-friendly  food Japan travel app  allows you to  look for nearby restaurants according to your search preferences , such as:

  • cuisine types,
  •  meal budget,
  •  directions,
  •  free Wi-Fi access,
  •  the presence of English-speaking servers and more.

You can also filter the city (Tokyo, Osaka, Kyoto, etc.) for the restaurant recommendations and make your plans before even getting over to that city!

However, GuruNavi does not come with a rating system —so you would not know the restaurants’ reviews at a glance. 

To overcome this, you will have to Google search the restaurant online to check on the reviews instead. 

17. Ramen Beast

One of the famous things that Japan is known for is definitely its ramen.

If you are a ramen enthusiast or simply want to embark on a culinary adventure that revolves around places that offer a truly authentic, non-tourist-trapped bowl of ramen , then the Ramen Beast app could be the single best Japan travel app. 

With detailed reviews, ratings, location photos , and insider tips, Ramen Beast helps you navigate the vast and diverse world of ramen, making it easy to find your perfect bowl.

But if you are overwhelmed with the choices, you can navigate the list by category , such as “Late Night”, “Tsukemen”, “Vegetarian”, and more.

Travel tip: Tokyo alone has more than 700 recommended ramen places to visit in this Japan travel app!

Download here: iOS

BEST APPS FOR TRAVEL IN JAPAN - tasty bowl of ramen in Kyoto

18. Happy Cow

Happy Cow is definitely a must-download Japan travel app for vegetarian or vegan international travellers!

Among the best apps for Japanese travel for meatless food , Happy Cow shows the locations of vegetarian and vegan-friendly restaurants located nearby you. 

best apps for japan

This app also shows reviews of the eateries , making your food planning easier—especially if you plan for local non-meat food hunting all day long.

Though, it is worth noting that this app requires an internet connection to work or else getting the premium subscription for the food app to work offline. 

If you plan to save on the pocket Wi-Fi router rental and premium app subscription, you can do some research on the vegetarian or vegan restaurants and screenshot their locations before getting disconnected from your hotel’s Internet connection. 

Apps For Japan: Earthquake Notifier

19. yurekuru.

There are quite a few Japanese earthquake apps available but the one best app for Japan travel that you need to get before you are travelling to Japan is Yurekuru . 

Yurekuru is popular among the locals and visitors in Japan as the app alerts the users and provides accurate information regarding upcoming earthquakes , including:

  • the location,
  • magnitude and
  • its epicentre. 

Note: The app is available in the English language. 

apps for japan

FAQs: Best Japan Travel Apps

What app to use to travel around japan.

Japan National Tourism Organisation (JNTO) Universal Studios Japan Google Maps Maps.me Hyperdia Japan Navitime Tokyo Subway Navigation Norikae Annai Suica and IC Card Reader Ecbo Cloak  Imiwa Yomiwa Rosetta Stone VoiceTra Travel Japan Wi-Fi GuruNavi Ramen Beast Happy Cow Yurekuru

What is Japan’s best way to travel?

One of the best ways to travel around Japan is by train . Regardless of you getting to off the beaten path places of Japan by bullet train or up the beautiful mountain in a electric tram, Japanese trains are clean, punctual, and offers a comfortable ride.

BEST APPS FOR JAPAN TRAVEL

Which is better Suica or Pasmo?

Since there is no difference between these two cards in terms of fare usage , you can get either Suica or Pasmo card when you are in Tokyo. Japan offers plenty of rechargeable travel cards (IC card) options that are made compatible with each other.

Japan Navigation App: Round-Up

Google Maps Maps.me

Tokyo Travel App: Round-Up

Japan National Tourism Organisation (JNTO) Google Maps Maps.me Hyperdia Japan Navitime Tokyo Subway Navigation Norikae Annai Suica and IC Card Reader Ecbo Cloak Yomiwa VoiceTra Travel Japan Wi-Fi GuruNavi Ramen Beast Happy Cow Yurekuru

Final Thoughts: Best Apps For Travel To Japan

So here you go—the 19 best apps for travel to Japan that you need to know and consider before embarking on your journey to Japan!

These best apps for Japanese travel can improve your travel experience in Japan by allowing you to immerse into the local culture and navigate the country easily without many struggles. 

Japan was my first solo trip destination, and being a non-Japanese speaker, downloading these Japan travel apps gave me the courage and independence to keep going and have fun throughout my trip! ❤️

Do you have any other best travel apps for Japan that you would like to share with me? I would really love to hear from you!

Remember to share this article with your friends and family members who are looking forward to spending their vacations in Japan stress-free!

Tanoshinde! (Have fun!)

Asian Countries Travel Expert - Sam Lee Travel

Sam Lee, founder of Sam Lee Travel, is a seasoned traveler with over 10 years of experience exploring various Asian countries. Having lived in Singapore for almost a decade, Sam has developed a deep understanding of the culture, customs, and attractions in the region.

With a passion for outdoor travel adventures and water sports, Sam has helped over 25K readers per month plan their trips around Asia, including off-the-beaten-path destinations, offering helpful travel tips and unfiltered personal travel experience.

how to use japan travel app

How to use japan travel

Japan Travel by NAVITIME is very helpful when sightseeing in Japan. The app tells you not only where to go and how to get there, but also about any free-WiFi spots nearby. It’s a super useful app!

how to use japan travel app

I was really impressed by this application, the company know what they’re doing! This app is all in one! There are so many information websites about Japan but this company has mixed the information with a route finding service. Also, they’re constantly updating info on new shops and popular spots as well as more out of the way bars, activities and sight seeing spots. 

This is all helps you find interesting and unusual places to visit, but… WHY NO SEARCH WINDOW? It’s a good tool to make daily plans if you’ve already decided where you want to go but otherwise it was very hard for me to choose from the huge amount of information. It would be great to be able to narrow down the places a bit. 

One more thing that I want them to add is a review function. When I went to Hong Kong, it was hard to know what to do with my limited time there because I didn’t know what kind of shops, activities, and places  there was. I checked out a bunch of websites but most of them are curation websites like “TOP 30 restaurants in Hong Kong” or “TOP 20 best places to buy~”. How can I choose one in TOP twenty or thirty? And can I trust that they’re actually good places and not just paid advertisements? I prefer to choose based on others’ experiences. That’s why I asked my friend for advice – and she could show us good restaurants that are only famous for local people. All of the menus were written in Chinese, none of the shop staff could speak English so I couldn’t even know what kind of food they provided. Also, the cultural differences meant that service standards were really different, so it was actually hard to know the quality of a restaurant just on outward appearances alone. This is where local people’s opinions come in really handy. If I didn’t have any friends in Hong Kong, I couldn’t have had such an amazing experience. That’s why local people’s reviews are very important to help figure out whether a place is good or not without sacrificing cultural immersion by only going to foreigner friendly places. 

Anyway, except these two things, this application is very useful for what it is and I like it! 

What is Japan Travel by NAVITIME

The application is called Japan Travel by NAVITIME is very helpful when you see around in Japan. The app tells you not only where to go, but also where is the free-WiFi spot nearby, what train you need to get to go to the directions, etc. Also, you can make your full daily plan included the transportations and maps without paying for a travel agency. The app is run by NAVITIME. This company was established in 1996 to do a travel route search engine’s license business. Since then, they’ve been released many applications such as route search for trains, buses and bicycles etc. That’s why they have plenty of knowledge of the route search technology. 

It’s very easy to get around Tokyo by train because the railway is spread around like a spider’s nest. On the other hand, that’s why it’s very hard to transfer the train. But If you could make the perfect daily plan, you don’t need to worry about the issues. You might think if you don’t know how to get the directions, you can ask someone. However, Japanese people’s English level is quite low, #49 of 88 countries/regions. The position in Asia is #11 of 21 according to the world’s largest ranking of countries and regions by English skills, EF EPI, English Proficiency Index in 2019.  So, not so many people speak English. I would recommend to make the plan and search for the place where you want to go before travel at your home and use the map in Japan. Because the interface is good and user-friendly but it’s not so simple, so you need a time to get used to it. Today, I’ll show you how to make full use of the application!

Download & setup

IMG_9506

1. Download the "Japan Travel" app.

The app maker, NAVITIME, has a few different applications so make sure you download "Japan Travel". 

how to use japan travel app

2. Accept the terms of service, and answer the three questions.

how to use japan travel app

3. Tap on "All Areas" and select the area you're going to visit.

How to search spots nearby.

IMG_9492

1. Tap on "Map"

It will open a screen with options for "FREE WiFi" "MONEY EXCHANGE" etc. Scroll up the bottom window.

how to use japan travel app

2. Choose what you want to serch and tap the icon

For example, tap the Hotel icon, hotel's icons appear nearby you. Free-WiFi spots, ATM etc. as the same. However, if you want to connect to free-WiFi, most of the Japanese free-WiFi services have to register so if you want to know how, click How to connect free-WiFi in Japan.

IMG_9494

3. Tap the window of your interest

If you search hotels where you want to stay, you can see many information of hotels bottom of the screen. If you could find a nice hotel, tap the bottom window. You can book the hotel through Booking.com as well.

How to make a daily plan

IMG_9504

1. Choose the tab what you want to do

Choose the tab, open the article to find the place that you want to visit/do. Don't forget "select areas". If you choose the articles that are NOT tagged the area name, there are many different places information in Japan included the area that you choose. For example, It's opening the tab "NATURE" and you can see six articles in the example pictures. "Nature|Tokyo" shows only Tokyo information but "Nature" is a curation information included the place in Tokyo one. 

how to use japan travel app

2. tap the window of your interest, and tap "heart"

If you could find the interesting spot or information, scroll down a bit and find its address and tap " heart" which means you added the address in your favorite spots. Correcting the spots that you want to visit in the same way.

IMG_9504 2

3. Tap "Plan"

After adding the spots to your favorite included your hotel, tap "Plan".

IMG_9508

4. Tap "Create Travel Plan"

IMG_9509

5. Make "Plan Name", choose "date" and tap "Create"

IMG_9510

6. Choose the transportation, and tap "favorite spots"

IMG_9512

7. Make your original day trip plan!

You have to choose the spot to make the plan one by one so at first, I recommend to choose the place where you start. If you want to start from your hotel, you choose the hotel first. 

IMG_9513

8. tap "add to plan"

IMG_9515

9. Tap the plan name that yo already made

IMG_9516

10. Choose the date

I added the "favorite spot" that i chose to "DAY1"in the example picture. You can add the "favorite spot" to any day you want. After choosing the date, the message window "Check the details of the edited plan" is going to pop up. If it's OK, tap "Confirm". Basically, that's the way of making the plan. You do the same steps again and again from STEP7 to STEP10.

IMG_9518

You can find a place from "Search and Add Spots" button. But If you are not sure the place name, I wouldn't recommend to use it because if you put the wrong name, many spots are going to appear in the map, for example, the searching result of the famous temple's name "Sensouji" and "Sensoji" are totally different.  Maybe the keyword suggest system is not so strong as Google?  

How to edit plan

IMG_9523

1. Tap "Plan" then tap your plan that you already made

IMG_9524

2. Tap the "gear icon" on the right

You can edit everything, choose transportation, Duration time, arrival and Departure time, etc. I'll show you example how to change transportation train to car here.

IMG_9525

3. Tap "car"

IMG_9526

4. tap "Select This route"

Basically, that's it. You can see the route when you tap the icon like a snake on the right.

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JRailPass.com » Japan Travel Blog » How to Explore Japan Effortlessly With Navitime

How to Explore Japan Effortlessly With Navitime

May 10, 2023

young woman with mobile in Japanese train station

Everyone wants to get the most out of the Japan Rail Pass (JR Pass) and make organizing a Japanese adventure a simple and stress-free experience. Thankfully, there is an app designed to be a Japan trip planner.

Japan Travel by NAVITIME — Japan’s leading travel app — provides valuable information and tools to help you navigate your way around the country.

The best news is that it is can actively help you to plan your trip using your JR Pass to get between train stations in Japan in the most convenient and cost-effective way possible.

This article will introduce you to the features of NAVITIME and teach you how to use it with your JR Pass for a seamless travel experience.

What is NAVITIME?

NAVITIME is considered one of the best apps for traveling in Japan . This comprehensive app offers various features, such as route planning, transportation guidance, and location search . It is the perfect tool to make your trip to Japan smooth and hassle-free.

With its user-friendly interface and support for multiple languages, NAVITIME has become a must-have for both locals and tourists alike.

This powerful app is available on both iOS and Android devices.

NAVITIME: Key features

  • Route search and planning: Plan your travel routes by inputting your starting point, destination, and desired arrival time. The app will then provide you with several route options, including the ones included with the JR Pass, to save money. It also calculates the estimated travel time and cost for each route.
  • Train timetable: The app offers an up-to-date train schedule for all JR lines and many private railways, helping you plan your journey more efficiently. You can also save your favorite routes for easy access.
  • Offline maps: NAVITIME provides detailed offline maps of Japan, which can be a lifesaver when you don’t have access to the internet. The maps also show nearby landmarks, making it easier to find your way around.
  • Multilingual support: NAVITIME supports English, Chinese (Simplified and Traditional), Korean, and Japanese, catering to a wide range of travelers.
  • Travel guides: The app also has in-depth articles about Japanese culture, public transport, and other useful information about visiting the country.

NAVITIME: Where to get it

You can download the NAVITIME app to your smartphone very easily.

If you are using an iPhone or other Apple device , simply go to the App Store and search for NAVITIME. Android users can do the same at the Google Play Store.

Once you have downloaded the app, set up NAVITIME to meet your needs. This includes selecting the following:

  • Your nationality
  • Your language
  • Areas in Japan you plan to visit

How to use NAVITIME with your JR Pass

One of the significant benefits of using NAVITIME is its compatibility with the Japan Rail Pass .

The app can help you get the most out of your JR Pass by providing accurate information on JR lines and assisting you in planning your trips. Here’s how to use NAVITIME with your JRailPass.

Step 1: Download the app

First, download the NAVITIME app from the App Store (for iOS devices) or Google Play Store (for Android devices). Once the app is installed, launch it and choose your preferred language .

Step 2: Set up your JR Pass

Go to the app’s settings and look for the “Rail Pass” option .

Tap on it and select “Japan Rail Pass” from the list. This will ensure that the app only provides you with route options that are covered by the JR Pass.

Step 3: Plan your route

Enter your starting point and destination, along with your desired arrival time. NAVITIME will then display several route options , including travel time, cost, and the number of transfers.

Since you have already set up the JR Pass option, NAVITIME will show you the Shinkansen trains you can use with your pass.

How to create a plan for the day with NAVITIME

how to use japan travel app

NAVITIME offers so much more than older travel-planning services like Hyperdia .

More than simply showing you train timetables, this simple and efficient tool can help you create a daily itinerary .

Follow these steps to make your personalized day trip plan :

Step 1: Choose a category

Select a category based on your interests, such as “nature” or “food & drink”.

You can use the “Selected Areas” button to choose which part(s) of Japan you want to explore. Now you can open whichever article piques your interest.

Step 2: Add places to your favorites

Once you find an interesting place in an article, scroll down to the address and tap the “heart” icon. This adds the location to your favorite spots. Continue collecting places you’d like to visit.

Step 3: Access the Plan section

After adding locations to your favorites, tap the “Plan” button at the bottom of the app.

Step 4: Create a new travel plan

Select “Create Travel Plan” to start a new itinerary.

Step 5: Name your plan and set the date

Enter a name for your plan, choose the desired date, and tap “Create.”

Step 6: Choose transportation and favorite spots

Select your preferred mode of transportation and tap on “favorite spots” to add them to your plan.

Step 7: Build your personalized day trip plan

Starting with your initial location (e.g. your hotel), add each favorite spot to your plan one by one.

Step 8: Add places to your plan

Tap “add to plan” after selecting each location.

Step 9: Select the plan and date

Choose the plan you created and confirm the date(s) you wish to visit the places you have selected.

Step 10: Confirm and save

Once you’ve added all the destinations to your plan, confirm the details and save your itinerary .

Bonus: Searching for additional spots

Use the “Search and Add Spots” button to find more locations. However, if you’re unsure of the exact name, be cautious, as the search results may vary significantly.

The keyword suggestion system may not be as robust as Google, so it’s best to search for precise names.

By following these steps, you can create a customized daily plan for your trip, making it easier to explore Japan and get the most out of your experience.

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Finding the Right Japan Travel App

A Japan travel app can be an invaluable guide during a trip to Japan. Whether it’s navigating local transportation systems, planning the perfect itinerary, or finding a great deal on an accommodation, there’s an app for it. Utilizing these apps can save time and effort, allowing travelers to make the most of their journey. When searching for a Japan travel app, it’s important to consider both the type of phone a traveler has, as well as what type of features they are hoping to find. Apple users have access to a wide variety of apps, while Android users may find their options limited. Some apps are also catered towards specific types of travelers, such as backpackers, young families, or business travelers. Experts recommend considering all the features available in a travel app. Some Japan travel apps have additional features such as real-time updates on transportation status, Google Maps integration, travel discounts, and even a messaging system that can allow travelers to communicate with locals. Other features to look out for include language translation services, currency conversion, and even an activity planner, which can be invaluable in a country as diverse and fascinating as Japan.

Using an App to Get Around Japan

Japan has an efficient and efficient public transportation system. A Japan travel app can prove to be an invaluable asset when navigating Japan’s many cities and towns. When using a travel app, travelers can access up-to-date information on train, bus, and subway lines, as well as schedules and fare information. This can save time and make planning much easier. Travelers should also be aware that some Japan travel apps also offer route optimization. This feature can be especially helpful when planning a day trip or making changes to an existing itinerary. Route optimization will provide suggestions for the best route and timing when traveling between two locations. Depending on the app, users may even be able to input multiple destinations at once and the app will do the rest. Finally, it’s important to check for updates on the app when you’re in Japan. Public transportation systems can change and updates can be essential. Some apps may also provide helpful notifications if there are changes in the routing of a train line or other information.

Using an App to Book Travel Accommodations

Japan is full of unique accommodations, ranging from traditional ryokans to modern, cutting-edge hotels. A Japan travel app can help travelers find the perfect place to stay during their trip. Users can look for accommodations that meet their price range, amenities, and preferences. Some apps may even offer exclusive discounts on accommodations. This can be especially helpful in busy tourist cities such as Tokyo, Kyoto, and Osaka, where hotels can be pricey. A travel app can be the perfect place to find the best price for a last-minute hotel stay or a luxury experience. It’s also important to note that some apps may offer additional features, such as integration with popular home-sharing services like Airbnb. While these services are not as popular in Japan as in other parts of the world, they can be helpful for providing a more personal and less touristy experience.

Using an App to Plan the Perfect Itinerary

Planning an itinerary for a trip to Japan can be a daunting task. With so many incredible places to see and things to do, it can be difficult to decide how to spend your time. Here is where a Japan travel app can be a real lifesaver. Many apps offer a variety of suggested itineraries based on travelers’ preferences for destination, number of days, budget, and interest. Every app will have different suggestions, but most will offer a mix of popular iconic locations, as well as some lesser known gems. The suggested itineraries are usually customizable, so travelers can add or remove locations to their hearts’ content. For something completely unique, some apps also offer an “activity planner” feature. With this, users can input what kind of activity they are interested in doing, as well as additional parameters such as time available, budget, weather, etc., and the app will suggest a selection of activities that meet these requirements.

Using an App to Explore Japan’s Culture

How To Use Japan Travel App

Japan is full of interesting and unique culture. A Japan travel app can help travelers discover it. Many apps offer a variety of features, including maps of cultural sites, information on local festivals, and even audio-visual presentations on various aspects of Japanese culture. In addition, some apps offer language translation services. This can be incredibly helpful, as English is not widely spoken in Japan. Translating simple phrases can open up a whole new world of culinary and cultural experiences. Finally, some apps offer the option of connecting with locals. This can be a great way to learn more about Japan without the traditional tourist traps. It can also provide unique opportunities to explore hidden gems in the local area.

Using an App to Track Finances

Budget planning is an important part of any travel adventure. A Japan travel app can be a great way to keep track of expenses and help travelers stay on budget. Many apps offer an “expense tracker” feature, which allows users to track their spending while in Japan. Other budget-centered features may include currency conversion, so travelers can easily tell how much they are spending in their own currency. Some apps also offer various discounts on activities and accommodations, which can save money in the long run. Finally, users should consider the features found within the app itself. Many apps allow users to adjust their budget to reflect their current situation. This can make it easier to plan for unexpected expenses and purchases.

Using an App to Find Last-Minute Deals

Most Japan travel apps have a “last minute” feature, which can be a great way to find deals on attractions, activities, and accommodations. The app will suggest the best deals available, based on the traveler’s desired criteria. When using this feature, it’s important to be aware of the time frame in which the deals are available. Some apps may offer deals specifically for last-minute travelers, while others may only offer discounts for those booking in advance. It’s also important to consider other features offered by the app. Some apps may offer coupons or discount codes which, when used, may lead to additional savings.

Using an App to Access Detailed Safety Information

Japan is generally a very safe country, but it is still important to stay informed on the latest safety protocols. Many Japan travel apps have detailed information regarding the safety of the country and what travelers should be aware of. This can include information on crime rates, natural disasters, medical emergencies, and even places to avoid. Some apps will even offer up-to-date safety alerts, so that travelers can be informed of any changes that may affect their journey. Finally, travelers should consider the features found within the safety section of the app. Some apps will offer information on medical facilities and insurance, as well as detailed contact information for security personnel or emergency services. This can help travelers feel more secure while in a new country.

Nancy Weiner

Nancy Weiner

Nancy A. Weiner is an experienced journalist and author specializing in Japan. She is a published author of several books and articles about Japanese culture, history and politics. She has also been a featured guest speaker at many international conferences on Japanese culture, politics and education.

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12 Best Japan Travel Apps 2024: Essential for Your Japan Travel!

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February 22, 2024

how to use japan travel app

Table of Essential Japan Travel Apps

Japan travel app : navigation & transportation, google maps.

how to use japan travel app

When planning a trip to Japan, it is highly recommended to use Google Maps, a key travel app for navigation. It helps you easily mark the places you plan to visit, which is an important feature in my travel planning every time. Surprisingly, Google Maps is awesome at providing accurate train itineraries and times that even locals rely on it to prove its reliability.

Over time, Google Maps has evolved into one of the world's leading travel tools for Japan. It provides detailed information on a variety of locations including restaurants, businesses and major tourist attractions, making it ideal for one-stop travel planning.

The Street View feature in particular is worth mentioning, as it allows you to see the streets in depth, greatly easing the difficulty of navigating Japan. This means you no longer have to ask, "Where am I now?" Because you can directly use the map to confirm the real view of the destination, whether it is the sightseeing spot, the station or the main entrance of the hotel restaurant.

Plus, even when you don't have an Internet connection, you don't have to worry, as Google Maps supports offline use in Japan. Simply download the required map in advance to make your trip stress free even if you do not have access to the Internet.

how to use japan travel app

What sets Maps.me apart, especially for travelers, is its great offline functionality. Gone are the worries of finding Wi-Fi or facing data connectivity issues.

With Maps.me, you can search for places by name, address, or category without an internet connection. It's particularly handy for outdoor enthusiasts with detailed maps that include hiking trails and even metro overlays for urban navigation.

The app also offers turn-by-turn navigation, bookmarking capabilities similar to Google Maps, and even features travel guides and the ability to share your location with friends. Despite its slightly less polished user interface and the presence of ads, Maps.me's offline reliability and the richness of its features make it an essential travel tool, complementing Google Maps' offine deficiency.

It continues to draw its rich mapping data from OpenStreetMap. This is an open-source platform over proprietary technologies allows for a diverse and detailed mapping experience, crafted by a community passionate about creating superior maps. In fact, within nine months of enabling users to edit, over a million changes were made, showcasing the app's collaborative spirit.

how to use japan travel app

Based on my travel experiences in Japan, drivers have mentioned that this app is one of their most frequently used tools. They attribute its popularity to the high accuracy of its integrated maps, which, for instance, can precisely indicate whether a pick-up point is on the left or right side of the road. The data is updated swiftly, making it a favorite among both drivers and passengers. The user interface is available in various languages, making it simple and easy to use.

Uber operates in over 700 cities across the globe. In many places, drivers use their personal vehicles for rides, but in Japan, due to strict regulations, only licensed taxi services can join the platform. The service covers key urban areas including Tokyo, Yokohama, Sendai, Nagoya, Osaka, Kyoto, and Fukuoka. To use the service, you need to download the app and sign up by providing your email address and phone number. You will also need to enter credit card details for making electronic payments.

When you're ready to ride, simply input your desired destination and where you'd like to be picked up. The app then finds available taxis nearby. While you wait, you can track the approaching taxi's location directly on your smartphone.

Japan Travel by NAVITIME App

how to use japan travel app

For travelers heading to Japan, the NAVITIME app is a must-have, simplifying every aspect of your journey. This user-friendly app, praised for its route planning and comprehensive transportation guidance, helps you navigate Japan with ease. Available for both iOS and Android, NAVITIME offers a wealth of features to make your trip seamless and enjoyable. Downloading NAVITIME is straightforward. Search for it in the App Store or Google Play, download, and customize it to your preferences, including language and areas of Japan you plan to visit. It's known for its precise trip planning, taking into account any tourist passes like the Japan Rail Pass, offering a feature to build your itinerary, and providing detailed maps in English. This makes exploring Japan's attractions, finding Wi-Fi spots, ATMs, and eateries effortless.

Key features include:

  • Route Search & Planning: Enter your start and end points along with your preferred arrival time to get a selection of routes, including JR Pass-friendly options to help save money.
  • Train Timetables: Stay updated with the latest schedules for JR and private railways, ensuring efficient travel planning.
  • Offline Maps: Detailed maps of Japan are available offline, showing landmarks to help you find your way without needing internet access.
  • Multilingual Support: The app caters to a global audience with support in English, Chinese, Korean, and Japanese.
  • Travel Guides: Explore articles on Japanese culture and travel tips, enhancing your visit.

Stay Connected for Your Japan Travel!

  • If you are going to Japan, eSIM is a must! We explain how to choose Japan eSIM and its advantages and disadvantages

User Comments

Japan Travel App: Hotels & Flights

how to use japan travel app

Website | iOS | Android

Trip.com, which you might remember as Ctrip, becomes an indispensable tool for your trip to Japan, and it's all conveniently in English . I've found it pretty useful for organizing various aspects of travel, including booking tours, accommodations, flights, transfers, and even deals on Disney tickets.

As a leading travel platform , Trip.com offers a great variety of services such as hotel reservations, transportation tickets, and comprehensive tour packages. Boasting partnerships with over 1.4 million hotels across 200 countries, it offers a wide range of lodging options and exclusive discounts . Its extensive flight network includes more than 2 million routes, connecting over 5,000 cities worldwide.

Paired with 24/7 customer support in English and a number of additional travel products, Trip.com is a reliable ally for planning your upcoming adventures in Japan!

Japan Travel App : Food

Gourmet navigator (gurunavi).

how to use japan travel app

GuruNavi, short for Gourmet Navigator, boils down its essence to one simple phrase: "Restaurants at your fingertip." Launched in 1996, it has grown to support not just diners but also restaurants through online services, promotions, and management advice. Here's a breakdown of what makes GuruNavi stand out:

  • Easy Search: GuruNavi lets you find restaurants by location or type of cuisine, offering access to a wide range of dining experiences.
  • Curated Recommendations: The app highlights top restaurants based on their popularity and the type of cuisine they offer, helping you make informed choices about where to eat.
  • Multilingual Menus: Understanding the menu is crucial, and GuruNavi provides this information in multiple languages, including English, Chinese (Simplified and Traditional), and Korean.
  • Direct Reservations: Once you've chosen a restaurant, you can book directly through the app. This feature simplifies the process, especially for first-timers, by allowing you to select a set menu and pay in advance.

With GuruNavi, you're spoilt for choice, with access to a database of over 50,000 restaurants, whether you're craving local dishes or international flavors. Find the perfect spot by location or cuisine type. The only catch? The app is in Japanese. But, if you've been brushing up on your Japanese, you'll find GuruNavi really handy!

Ramen Beast

how to use japan travel app

Get up to speed with Japan's ramen culture through an app that's a dream come true for noodle enthusiasts! It's hard to imagine, but the creators sampled over 10,000 ramen dishes to bring this app to life. Dubbed Ramen Beast, this app is your reliable guide to discovering your next ramen adventure. It's crafted for the culinary explorer, featuring a curated list of top-notch ramen joints throughout Japan. Navigate easily with a map that pinpoints ramen spots near you, delve into ratings and details right from your phone, and effortlessly pick where to head for your ramen fix next. Ready to explore?

how to use japan travel app

Yelp, the renowned platform for user-generated reviews, has officially landed in Japan! If you're on the hunt for your next dining experience while roaming around Japan, Yelp is your go-to resource. This app simplifies the process of finding your next meal by allowing you to book tables, order food for delivery or pickup, all directly through your smartphone. Beyond just eateries, Yelp also helps you discover local businesses like beauty salons and spas, complete with reviews to guide your choices.

Japan Travel App : Safety

how to use japan travel app

Whether you're moving to Japan or just touring, staying updated on natural disaster preparedness is crucial. In cities filled with skyscrapers, knowing what to do in the event of an earthquake is essential.

NERV, a smartphone service designed to deliver precise emergency updates. Created for those residing in or visiting disaster-prone areas, NERV aims to swiftly inform users about emergencies, including earthquakes, tsunamis, volcanic eruptions, and other weather-related dangers.

With location-based alerts, it ensures you're well-informed on how to sidestep potential hazards. With NERV, there's no need to feel anxious about what to do in an emergency situation—help is just a tap away. Ready to feel more secure?

Safety tips

how to use japan travel app

Stay alert and safe during your travels in Japan with this essential information app, designed specifically for international visitors. This innovative app delivers real-time notifications about earthquakes, tsunamis, and various weather conditions across Japan.

Beyond just alerts, the app is packed with features to aid both tourists and expats. It includes an evacuation guide, illustrating step-by-step procedures based on your current situation, useful phrases to gather information from locals, and links to websites for comprehensive disaster-related data. This tool is invaluable for ensuring your safety and preparedness in Japan.

It also supports a wide array of languages including English, Japanese, Hangul, Chinese, Vietnamese, Spanish, Portuguese etc.

Japan Travel App : Translation

how to use japan travel app

Concerned about navigating the language differences in Japan? Look no further than VoiceTra, your personal speech translation assistant. This app breaks down language barriers, offering translation support for over 31 languages. Whether you're navigating public transit, shopping, staying at hotels, or visiting tourist attractions, VoiceTra will interpret your speech and make your communication in Japan really smooth. Ready to bring a digital interpreter with you in Japan? Download!!

how to use japan travel app

Note that Japanese appears not only when Japanese talk but also shows up in everywhere you go. When visiting a country where the language and surroundings are totally strange to you, everything from street signs to cafe menus might be in Japanese, only sometimes with English translations available. But there's no need to worry! With the Yomiwa app, you're well-equipped to navigate these challenges effortlessly. All it takes is a snapshot of any text you need translated, and the app instantly provides the translation. It's an incredibly useful tool to have, ensuring you're never lost or confused during your travels.

FAQs about Best Japan Travel Apps

What app do most japanese use, what app to download before going to japan, what map app do japanese use.

12 of the Best Japan Travel Apps

  • 1. Table of Essential Japan Travel Apps
  • 2. Japan Travel App: Navigation & Transportation
  • 3. Stay Connected for Your Japan Travel!
  • 4. Japan Travel App: Hotels & Flights
  • 5. Japan Travel App: Food
  • 6. Japan Travel App: Safety
  • 7. Japan Travel App: Translation

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How to use Japan Travel app

As the network of railroads and subways in Tokyo is complicated, it is advisable to use the smartphone app “Japan Travel”. Here I show you how to use it when you take railroad or subway to your destination. Here iPhone app is used as example, but procedures almost same for Android app.

Opening the app “Japan Travel”

After you open the “Japan Travel” app, the first screen of the app is something like as follows.

First screen of the app

Touch the icon “Route” on bottom of the screen. Then, it turns to the Route Search screen.

Route Search screen

If you want to know the route from your current position (for example, your hotel) to destination, designate your destination by typing-in or using map of the app. If you want to know the route from the specific station to your destination, designate the names of the departure and arrival station by typing-in or using map.

Typing in the name of the station

Here let’s suppose you want to take a trip from Higashi-Jujo station to Roppongi station. First suppose you know the spelling of the departure station.

Note : In Rōma-ji, spellings “Higashi-Jujo”, “Higashijujo” are possible. But in this “Japan Travel” app , only “Higashi-Jujo” is acceptable . Here “ Higashi ” means East and it is treated like a kind of prefix , and required to be followed by  hyphen . In this app, the same rule applied for “Nishi (West)”,  “Kita (North)”, “Minami (South)” and “Shin (New)” etc. Examples are “Nishi-Nippori”, “Shin-Ochanomizu”, “Shin-Yokohama” etc.  “ Shinosaka ” is exception of this rule . “Shin-Osaka” is not acceptable in this app. There is inconsistency in the rule.

Touch “FROM” panel located on upper part of the screen, then the screen turns to type-in screen. As you type in the name of the station (case-insensitive), candidates of the station names appear below the type-in panel.

Type-in panel and candidates of stations

As you continue typing to j, that is “Higashi-j”, the solo candidate “Higashi-Jujo” appears.

Solo candidate station

Touch this solo candidate, then the departure station is fixed and screen returns to the Route Search screen with fixed departure station. Touch “TO” panel, then begin to type Roppongi and select the candidate “Roppongi”. Destination is fixed and it returns to the Route Search screen.

Departure and destination station

Touch SEARCH button in the middle of the screen. Candidate routes from Higashi-Jujo to Roppongi station appear.

Route search results

Above screen shot, you see exclamation marks in colored triangles on far right side. They show there are some warning on the routes, like train delay. If you touch a warning mark, you know what it is.

Select a route you prefer. If you touch the route 1, then you can see the details of the route 1.

Details of route 1

It seems there are bugs on result detail panel in this app. Look at “Platform:” rows, information is in Japanese not in English. Despite these bugs, you can get necessary Platform number information.

Using  the map

If you don’t know well the spelling of the station, you can use the map of the app and select the departure and/or destination station.

On the Route Search screen, touch “OPEN MAP” icon on the upper right side of the screen.

Route search panel

It turns to the map screen. Then find out the intended station. Suppose we try to find out Higashi-Jujo station. After finding it out and touching it on the map. Then “From To” pop-up appears.

map-from

Touch “From”, then the screen returns to the Route Search screen with the fixed departure station. Touch “OPEN MAP” icon again. You get the map screen again.

map-1

Suppose you want to find out Roppongi station. After finding it out and touching it, “From To” pop-up appears.

map-2

Touch “To”, then the screen returns to the Route Search screen with the fixed departure and destination. Now you can search the routes from Higashi-Jujo to Roppongi station.

Fixing departure or arrival time

If you want to depart or arrive at specific time, touch “Leaving now” pull-down on the Route Search screen.

Then pull-down appears.

select-day1

You can designate date, hour and minute of departure or arrival.

select-day2

On the above screen, if you touch “First”, you can get the information on the first train, “Last” for information on the last train.

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'Stay out': Signs in Kyoto's popular geisha district aim to curb misbehaving tourists

Kimono-clad geiko and maiko professional entertainers arrive for a ceremony in Kyoto on Jan. 7, 2020.

TOKYO — Japan’s ancient capital of Kyoto, long a popular destination for tourists, is closing off some private-property alleys in its famous geisha district because of complaints about misbehaving visitors.

Tourists crowd the narrow, quaint streets of the area called Gion, often following tour guides who show people around and lecture for long hours, local district official Isokazu Ota said Friday.

“We are going to put up signs in April that tell tourists to stay out of our private streets,” he told The Associated Press.

A sign will say in both Japanese and English: “This is a private road, so you are not allowed to drive through it,” although the keep-out warning is aimed mainly at pedestrians, not cars, as the Japanese wording refers to generically “passing through.”

Visiting Japan: What you need to know for your first trip

“There will be a fine of 10,000 yen,” the sign adds, which comes to about $70 under recent currency conversion rates

The ban covers just several blocks of Gion. The district's public streets will remain open to tourists, so the area and the rest of Kyoto will still be teeming with visitors, both from Japan and around the world.

Gion’s outrage highlights brewing resentment at what many people feel is “over-tourism,” even though the Japanese economy depends more than ever on tourism revenue to sustain growth.

The district of winding alleyways is known for picturesque teahouses, where geisha and their maiko apprentices, wearing fancy kimono and hair ornaments, perform in dance and music.

In a city known for gorgeous temples and gardens, Gion is one of its most scenic and historical spots. Tourists, armed with cameras, like to wander around Gion, hoping to catch the women on their way to dance class or a fancy dinner party.

Complaints about over-zealous tourists began bubbling years ago, though the discontent cooled when the coronavirus pandemic brought a lull in tourism. Now, visitors are back with a frenzy.

Overseas tourist traffic to Japan is rebounding to pre-pandemic levels.

More than 22 million visitors came to Japan last year, eager to take in sushi, electronic gadgetry and the splendors of nature like Mount Fuji and the beaches of Okinawa. In 2019, incoming travel totaled more than 31 million people, and this year’s number could approach or even overtake that, experts say.

It's been too much for many residents of Gion. Their local council summarized the less than eager sentiments a few months ago by proclaiming: “Kyoto is not a theme park.”

Use eSIM while traveling internationally with your iPhone

Learn about the options and benefits for using eSIM while traveling abroad.

Learn about the benefits of traveling with eSIM

eSIM is more secure than a physical SIM because it can't be removed if your iPhone is lost or stolen.

With eSIM, you don't need to obtain, carry, and swap physical SIM cards (which can also be lost), or wait for them to arrive by mail.

You can have two eSIMs active on supported iPhone models at the same time. This could, for example, include one eSIM for your home and another eSIM for the place you're visiting.

You can swap which of your stored eSIMs are active simply by changing your selections in Settings. This might be helpful if you travel regularly to the same places.

What you need

An iPhone XS, iPhone XS Max, iPhone XR, or later

A wireless carrier or worldwide service provider that supports eSIM

Your iPhone must be connected to a Wi-Fi network*

If your iPhone has a SIM tray, you can use both a physical SIM and an eSIM while traveling internationally

Learn more about eSIM on iPhone

eSIM on iPhone isn’t offered in China mainland. In Hong Kong and Macao, some iPhone models feature eSIM. Learn about using Dual SIM with two nano-SIM cards in China mainland, Hong Kong, and Macao . For travelers visiting China mainland who wish to use an eSIM for prepaid data plans, these are offered by many worldwide service providers .

Roam internationally with your existing carrier

Carriers might include international roaming on select data plans without additional fees.

Alternatively, your carrier might offer affordable travel passes or plans that you can purchase ahead of time to use at your destination.

International roaming with an eSIM works the same as roaming with a physical SIM.

Your carrier might offer the ability to digitally manage your eSIM plan and add more data as needed.

To learn more, contact your carrier.

Learn more about cellular data roaming options for traveling internationally

Purchase an eSIM from a local carrier in the country or region you're visiting

Find carriers around the world that support eSIM on iPhone .

If your iPhone is locked to a carrier, it can be used only by that carrier. You can add multiple eSIMs and plans through that carrier. To check if your iPhone is unlocked, go to Settings > General > About. If your iPhone is unlocked, "No SIM restrictions" appears next to Carrier Lock. Learn how to unlock iPhone for use with a different carrier .

Many carriers offer prepaid plan options that you can purchase from the carriers' websites or apps before you arrive, or in person after arrival, through a carrier kiosk at the airport, carrier store, or other location. Carriers will provide steps to activate your eSIM digitally, like with a QR code or carrier app. Depending on local regulations, you might be asked to show identification (like your passport) to purchase. These prepaid carrier options might offer more affordable local plans for data, voice, and text. Check with individual carriers for details.

In addition to purchasing a prepaid eSIM plan, you might wish to get a postpaid account if you plan to be in another place for an extended time.Carriers around the world that support eSIM offer postpaid plans. Depending on the country or region, you might need proof of local residency, an established local bank account, or credit card.

On your iPhone, you can store eight or more eSIMs, which can be used as needed. On supported iPhone models, you can use two eSIMs at the same time . Carrier fees might apply. Contact your carrier for information.

Purchase a prepaid data eSIM from a worldwide service provider

Many worldwide service providers offer prepaid data plans . These plans allow you to stay connected in over 190 countries and regions when you travel. Carriers offer plans that differ by the amount of data and duration. You can also purchase a plan before you travel.

Apps that offer data only eSIM plans are available on the App Store on your iPhone .

While you're abroad, you can use a data-only eSIM as your secondary line and have two active eSIM plans on supported iPhone models.

The capabilities on your primary line will continue to work when you add a data-only eSIM for cellular data. For example, you might keep your primary line for your home and set up a data-only eSIM plan as your secondary line while traveling.

To choose your data line, go to Settings > Cellular > Cellular Data. You can continue to use FaceTime, iMessage, and other apps to make VoIP calls or send messages while you're traveling.

You can also turn data roaming on and off on your home line in Settings > Cellular > Cellular Data. Carrier fees might apply.

If you purchased an iPhone 14 model or later in the United States but will use it while living in a different country or region

You can activate an unlocked iPhone 14 model or later that you purchased in the United States with over 400 carriers in 100 markets worldwide that support eSIM on iPhone . Contact your carrier to confirm that they support eSIM on your cellular plan. Also, check iPhone cellular band support for country compatibility.

Many worldwide service providers also offer prepaid eSIM data plans for long-term use in countries and regions across the world.

* iPhone 14 models and later that are eSIM-only can activate without a Wi-Fi network.

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Wells fargo launches a new travel rewards program with 6 transfer partners and more to come, qualified wells fargo cardholders will get a big boost to their rewards points' value..

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Wells Fargo is making a big splash with the introduction of a transferable travel rewards program. Starting April 4, 2024, you'll be able to transfer Wells Fargo Rewards points to six travel loyalty programs and more partners are expected to be added. Transfers will be available for all points-based Wells Fargo credit cards , such as the Wells Fargo Autograph℠ Card and the new Wells Fargo Autograph℠ Journey Visa® Card . If you have either of these cards, you'll be able to combine rewards from any other Wells Fargo-branded consumer card and transfer those rewards to the new travel partners.

CNBC Select has the details of what we know about this program so far and how it compares to other credit card rewards programs .

What credit cards earn transferable Wells Fargo Rewards?

There are currently two Wells Fargo rewards credit cards that will allow point transfers once the system is in place:

Wells Fargo Autograph℠ Card

  • Wells Fargo Autograph℠ Journey Visa® Card (open for in-branch applications on March 9, 2024, and online applications on March 20, 2024)

The Autograph card has no annual fee, earns 3X points in useful spending categories and offers an intro 0% APR for new cardholders. It's uncommon for a no-annual-fee card to earn transferable points, and given this card's other benefits it's easily among the best travel credit cards with no annual fee .

Earn unlimited 3X points on restaurants, travel, gas stations, transit, popular streaming services and phone plans. Plus earn 1X points on other purchases

Welcome bonus

Earn 20,000 bonus points when you spend $1,000 in purchases in the first 3 months - that's a $200 cash redemption value.

$0 annual fee

0% intro APR for 12 months from account opening on purchases

Regular APR

20.24%, 25.24% or 29.99% variable APR

Balance transfer fee

Up to 5%, min: $5 

Foreign transaction fee

Credit needed.

Excellent/Good

See rates and fees , terms apply.

The Wells Fargo Autograph℠ Journey Visa® Card is a mid-tier travel credit card with a $95 annual fee that can be partially offset by a $50 annual airfare credit. The rewards it earns for hotel (5X points) and airline (4X points) purchases are hard to beat because you'll get that high rate of return regardless of how you book (e.g., you don't have to book through the issuer's travel portal).

Cardholders also get 3X points on other travel spending and dining purchases, which makes this card one of the most rewarding options for common travel expenses. It has additional perks such as cell phone protection , trip cancellation and interruption protection and no foreign transaction fees .

Wells Fargo told CNBC Select that the rewards you earn from any Wells Fargo-branded consumer cards can be converted into transferable points, provided you also have either the Autograph or the Autograph Journey card. For example, the no-annual-fee Wells Fargo Active Cash® Card earns 2% cash rewards back on all purchases (see rates and fees ) and if you also have the no-annual-fee Wells Fargo Autograph℠ Card , you'll be able to transfer those rewards to Wells Fargo travel partners.

Wells Fargo Rewards travel partners

There are currently six Wells Fargo Rewards transfer partners, and it has said more will be announced this year. As of April 4th, you'll be able to transfer Wells Fargo points to these five airline partners at a 1:1 ratio:

  • Aer Lingus AerClub
  • Air France/KLM Flying Blue (partners with Delta)
  • Avianca LifeMiles (partners with United Airlines)
  • British Airways Executive Club (partners with American Airlines and Alaska Airlines)
  • Iberia Plus (partners with American Airlines and Alaska Airlines)

In addition, Wells Fargo points transfer to Choice Hotels at a 1:2 ratio.

While this is a smaller list of partners, it's a decent start because it gives you access to award flights with all three of the major airline alliances. There are quite a few sweet spots (a flight or hotel stay that gives you outsized value for your rewards) that you can book with this initial group of programs.

Use Wells Fargo Rewards for Oneworld flights

British Airways, Iberia and Aer Lingus are all part of the Oneworld alliance , which includes American Airlines and Alaska Airlines. Iberia is an excellent option for business-class award flights to Europe because you can book one-way off-peak business-class flights from a handful of U.S. cities to places like Barcelona and Madrid for only 34,000 points each way. If Ireland is on your bucket list, Aer Lingus offers one-way awards to the Emerald Isle from East Coast cities such as Boston and New York for 13,000 points on off-peak dates. You can even fly from West Coast cities such as San Francisco or Seattle to Dublin for only 16,250 points each way on off-peak dates. The best part is, over 30 weeks of the year qualify for off-peak prices.

Use Wells Fargo Rewards for Star Alliance flights

Avianca may have the most versatile program of Wells Fargo's partners. It's a member of the Star Alliance , which is the largest global airline alliance. When you transfer points to Avianca, you can book awards flights with airlines such as United , Lufthansa, Singapore Airlines and Air Canada. You can book one-way business-class awards from the U.S. to Europe for around 63,000 miles or one-way domestic awards starting at 7,500 miles or less. Avianca charges a $25 award booking fee but it doesn't add fuel surcharges, so the fees are generally less than other options for international business class awards.

Use Wells Fargo Rewards for SkyTeam flights

Flying Blue is the loyalty program for Air France and the Dutch airline KLM (both part of the SkyTeam alliance , which includes Delta) and it has several features that make it extremely useful. There are monthly Promo Rewards which include discounts of 25%-50% on different routes and classes of service. You can also add free stopovers on many award flights, which unlocks all sorts of options. You could book a flight to Germany and add in a free visit to Paris for no additional miles, and each stopover can last from 24 hours to up to a year.

Use Wells Fargo Rewards for hotel deals in Norway and Japan

Choice Hotels is the only Wells Fargo hotel partner. It includes brands such as EconoLodge, Rodeway Inn, Comfort, Quality Inn and Sleep Inn, which typically aren't the most aspirational properties to visit. However, it also includes upscale brands such as Cambria Hotels and the Ascend Hotel Collection. Certain geographic areas offer great value for Choice points (especially when you factor in the 1:2 transfer ratio with your Wells Fargo rewards), and include locations in Norway and Japan.

Choice Hotels award prices vary, but you can book The Clarion Hotel The Hub in Oslo, Norway for 16,000 Choice points per room on dates it costs $350+ a night. You'd only need 8,000 Wells Fargo points to book a night, which is a value of over four cents per point. This is an exceptionally nice hotel and includes a free full breakfast spread which may feature ingredients from its rooftop garden. In Japan, there are lots of Choice Hotels available for 8,000 Choice points per night (4,000 Wells Fargo points). While the Japanese Choice Hotels generally cost less, you can often get a solid value per point. With the Autograph Journey's welcome bonus of 60,000 points, you could realistically book all your hotels for a two-week trip to Japan.

How this travel program stacks up against the competition

It's difficult to judge Wells Fargo Rewards against other programs such as Chase Ultimate Rewards® , Citi ThankYou or American Express Membership Rewards because these other programs have been around for years. Wells Fargo has far fewer partner programs, but it will grow from here.

Wells Fargo's partnerships overlap with other travel rewards programs, which makes the rewards you earn potentially more useful. If you want to book an expensive business-class award with Avianca, you could transfer points from American Express, Capital One and Wells Fargo to the same Avianca account. So as it stands, Wells Fargo Rewards are at the very least a strong supplement to other rewards you may have, and it also has several cards with unusually high rates of return in specific categories.

However, anyone who wants to use credit card rewards for hotel stays may have more flexible options than Wells Fargo points right now. For hotel awards, most people are better off with a card like the Chase Sapphire Preferred® Card , which earns points you can transfer to Marriott, IHG and Hyatt. With the Sapphire Preferred , you can also book hotels through the Chase Travel portal and pay with points at an elevated value of 1.25 cents each. That means that Chase Ultimate Rewards® currently gives you more options for booking hotel stays with points.

Chase Sapphire Preferred® Card

Enjoy benefits such as 5x on travel purchased through Chase Ultimate Rewards®, 3x on dining, select streaming services and online groceries, 2x on all other travel purchases, 1x on all other purchases, and $50 annual Ultimate Rewards Hotel Credit, plus more.

Earn 60,000 bonus points after you spend $4,000 on purchases in the first 3 months from account opening. That's $750 when you redeem through Chase Ultimate Rewards®.

21.49% - 28.49% variable on purchases and balance transfers

Either $5 or 5% of the amount of each transfer, whichever is greater

Terms apply.

Read our Chase Sapphire Preferred® Card review .

If you're a loyal Choice Privileges member or can take advantage of one of the program's sweet spots, Wells Fargo's 1:2 transfer ratio can be a stellar deal. Plus the Autograph Journey card earns 5X points at hotels, so you could effectively earn 10X Choice points on hotel spending. The only other major rewards program that matches Wells Fargo's 1:2 transfer ratio to Choice is Citi ThankYou . You can access all of Citi's transfer partners with a card such as the Citi Premier® Card . For a limited time, you can earn 10X points on hotels and car rentals booked through the Citi Travel portal (valid through June 30, 2024).

Citi Premier® Card

3X points per $1 spent at restaurants, supermarkets, gas stations, and on hotels and air travel, 1X points on all other purchases

Earn 60,000 bonus ThankYou® Points after you spend $4,000 in purchases within the first 3 months of account opening. Plus, for a limited time, earn a total of 10 ThankYou® Points per $1 spent on hotel, car rentals, and attractions (excluding air travel) booked on the Citi Travel℠ portal through June 30, 2024.

21.24% - 29.24% variable

5% of each balance transfer, $5 minimum

Good/Excellent

See rates and fees . Terms apply.

Read our Citi Premier® Card review.

Money matters — so make the most of it. Get expert tips, strategies, news and everything else you need to maximize your money, right to your inbox.  Sign up here .

Bottom line

Wells Fargo is revamping its rewards program and adding transfer partners to select cards. While the list of travel partners is smaller than other programs, this can dramatically increase the value of the rewards you earn with Wells Fargo's travel credit cards. If you're looking for a travel credit card, the Wells Fargo Autograph℠ Card and Wells Fargo Autograph℠ Journey Visa® Card are both options worth considering.

Why trust CNBC Select?

At CNBC Select, our mission is to provide our readers with high-quality service journalism and comprehensive consumer advice so they can make informed decisions with their money. Every personal finance article is based on rigorous reporting by our team of expert writers and editors with extensive knowledge of financial products .  While CNBC Select earns a commission from affiliate partners on many offers and links, we create all our content without input from our commercial team or any outside third parties, and we pride ourselves on our journalistic standards and ethics.

Catch up on CNBC Select's in-depth coverage of  credit cards ,  banking  and  money , and follow us on  TikTok ,  Facebook ,  Instagram  and  Twitter  to stay up to date.

Information about the Wells Fargo Autograph℠ Journey Visa® Card has been collected independently by Select and has not been reviewed or provided by the issuer of the card prior to publication.

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COMMENTS

  1. The Best Travel Apps for Japan you can't travel without in 2024

    Google Maps (download the offline Japan map) Japan Travel by NAVITIME. Uber. Japan Official Travel App. Google Translate (download the offline Japanese dictionary) Tabelog. Ecbo Cloak. mamapapamap (recommended for families) To download these apps, click on the iOS or Android link within the article.

  2. Japan Official Travel App

    Japan Official Travel App" is the official smartphone app provided by JNTO, delivering up-to-date information about traveling in Japan for a safe and comfortable journey.

  3. 15 best apps for traveling around Japan in 2024

    Navitime (Japan Travel by Navitime) Navitime for Japan is a popular app that makes navigating around the Japanese capital and the rest of the country stress-free. Apart from providing detailed information about the world's most complex metropolis ( Tokyo ), it also generates: Door-to-door route search. Voice navigation.

  4. A Guide to the Visit Japan Web app and Japan Entry Procedures

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  5. Useful Apps

    The Expedia.com app provides all that you need to plan your trip to Japan. From flights to hotels, tour packages, car rentals and more, Expedia.com has it all. Discounts on bundle flights and hotels, car rentals in as little as 30 minutes and up to 30% savings with mobile-exclusive hotel deals - download the app to get the best deals for your trip.

  6. Best Japan Travel Apps: Getting Around, Getting Connected and More

    Safety Apps. 7. Bonus Social Media Apps. Smartphones are the new guidebooks, translators and maps of travel combined—and in Japan, they're pretty much indispensable. Even if you like to be old school, or managed just fine in the rest of Asia without one, in Japan a smartphone can seriously save you.

  7. 55 BEST Travel Apps For Japan 2024 (Useful Apps)

    3 Why Travel Apps Matter in Japan. 4 Transit and Travel Navigation Apps in Japan. 4.1 Hyperdia - The Ultimate Transit Planner. 4.2 Navitime - Optimized Navigation for Tourists. 4.3 Japan Rail App - Official JR Pass Travel. 4.4 Google Maps - Navigation Workhorse. 4.5 Maps.me - Detailed Offline Maps and My Favorite.

  8. 15 Best Japan Travel Apps

    Depending on your interests and travel style, the apps below could be helpful during your trip to Japan. 6. Line. Line is to the East what WhatsApp is to the West. This messaging app is ultra popular in Japan and other parts of Asia, and can be helpful if you are trying to connect with locals in Japan.

  9. 10 Essential Travel Apps For Japan

    GuruNavi is a Japan travel app that helps you find the perfect restaurant nearby. You can use filters to find the type of food you're looking for, your budget, and even if they have English staff/menus. 7. Google Translate. Another great travel app for Japan is Google Translate.

  10. 8 Best Travel Apps for Getting Around in Japan

    The app is free to download on both iOS and Android devices. 4. Japan Transit Planner-Norikae Annai. This is one of Japan's most downloaded train apps - even the locals use it to get their train schedules. The app provides train schedules of Japan and information on the country's airways routes.

  11. Visit Japan Web

    This service can be used not only by those entering the country from overseas but also by those returning to Japan. Register the necessary information for immigration procedures in advance.Please create a 2D code on this web service and show it during immigration and customs declaration procedures. You will need to show it from your smartphone ...

  12. Best 15 Japan Travel Apps to Keep Your Trip Stress-Free

    Japan Travel by NAVITIME. In Japan, Navitime is well-known for its automatic trip planners, compiling possible train routes for any given date and time. Its app 'Japan Travel' is no exception, even taking into consideration any tourist passes you might have. This an especially handy trick if you're using the Japan Rail Pass and want to ...

  13. The Most Useful Apps for Traveling in Japan 2024

    Important: Please only activate a ticket on the day you want to use it. Japan Travel. NAVITIME JAPAN Co., Ltd is another mainstream company specializing in Japan's transportation planning. The app that the company developed for foreign tourists is called Japan Travel. The Japan Travel app has many more functions than the Japan Transit Planner.

  14. 12 of the Best Apps for Japan Travel

    4. Japan Travel by NAVITIME. This is another essential app to have for anyone that's spending time in Japan's capital, Tokyo. If you've read my how to get around in Tokyo guide, you'll know how complex transit is in the city because of all the different companies, lines, ways to pay and so much more.

  15. 19 Best Apps For Travel To Japan In 2024

    6. Japan Navitime. Japan Navitime is one of the best apps for travel to Japan for navigating around this culturally rich country. This useful transportation app offers detailed and comprehensive information about the country's transportation system, map, train routes, and so much more.

  16. How to use Japan Travel by Navitime

    The application is called Japan Travel by NAVITIME is very helpful when you see around in Japan. The app tells you not only where to go, but also where is the free-WiFi spot nearby, what train you need to get to go to the directions, etc. Also, you can make your full daily plan included the transportations and maps without paying for a travel ...

  17. What are the most useful apps for visiting Japan? Give us your ...

    The Japan Travel app allows to select the pass you have and exclude routes that do not fit that pass. Google maps doesn't do that. So yeah it has advantages beyond google maps. It also has guides and other info available, it's save route feature works better and it's more accurate with delays and train problems. Google maps isn't ...

  18. 11 of the Best Japan Travel Apps and Sites for Visitors

    That's where Hyperdia comes in. Arguably the best Japan train app out there, it provides highly-accurate route suggestions in English, Japanese, and simplified Chinese. While most visitors use the app to navigate the train system, it can also provide walking times, offer car rental rates, and even suggest hotels around the area.

  19. Useful Japan Travel Apps

    An explanation on the essential travel apps that you should consider when traveling to Japan. Sharing my thoughts about the apps that I have used during my 1...

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    First, download the NAVITIME app from the App Store (for iOS devices) or Google Play Store (for Android devices). Once the app is installed, launch it and choose your preferred language. Step 2: Set up your JR Pass. Go to the app's settings and look for the "Rail Pass" option. Tap on it and select "Japan Rail Pass" from the list. This ...

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    Don't get lost in Japan! Use these useful travel apps you'll find it east to navigate this country with ease! When you travel to Japan you can use a wide ran...

  22. How To Use Japan Travel App

    Using an App to Get Around Japan. Japan has an efficient and efficient public transportation system. A Japan travel app can prove to be an invaluable asset when navigating Japan's many cities and towns. When using a travel app, travelers can access up-to-date information on train, bus, and subway lines, as well as schedules and fare information.

  23. Best Japan Travel Apps 2024: All You Need Here

    Japan Travel App: Safety NERV . Whether you're moving to Japan or just touring, staying updated on natural disaster preparedness is crucial. In cities filled with skyscrapers, knowing what to do in the event of an earthquake is essential. NERV, a smartphone service designed to deliver precise emergency updates. Created for those residing in or ...

  24. How to use Japan Travel app

    As the network of railroads and subways in Tokyo is complicated, it is advisable to use the smartphone app "Japan Travel". Here I show you how to use it when you take railroad or subway to your destination. Here iPhone app is used as example, but procedures almost same for Android app. Opening the app "Japan Travel" After you open the ...

  25. Mount Fuji fights overtourism with new entry fees, daily visitor limit

    According to the Japan Tourism Agency, more than 2.5 million tourists have already visited Japan as of January of this year. Between January and November of last year, more than 22.3 million ...

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    The Japan-bound flight will depart JFK at 11:25 a.m. and arrive in Haneda at 2:30 p.m. the next day. The return flight leaves Haneda at 4:30 p.m. daily and arrives at JFK at 4:35 p.m. the same day.

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    Kevin Monahan was sentenced Friday to 25 years to life in prison for shooting and killing a woman who was a passenger in a car that mistakenly drove up his driveway in rural New York last year.

  30. Wells Fargo Launches New Travel Rewards Program

    The Wells Fargo Autograph℠ Journey Visa® Card is a mid-tier travel credit card with a $95 annual fee that can be partially offset by a $50 annual airfare credit. The rewards it earns for hotel ...