Japan

To travel to Japan, you need a valid passport with at least six months of validity remaining from your return date and proof of return/return ticket. Spanish tourists do not need a visa for stays of up to 90 days.

It is advisable to register on the Visit Japan website before starting your trip.

The official language is Japanese, although there are several regional dialects. In most cities and tourist places, English is spoken.

According to data from the Ministry of Internal Affairs in 2021, 48.1% of the inhabitants consider themselves Shintoists, 46.5% Buddhists, 1.05% Christians and 4.3% that include other religions.

The Japanese custom of bowing may seem strange if you are not used to it. This act is deeply rooted and can be full of nuances. As a guest in the country, they are more likely to bow to you than expect you to bow, it's a nice gesture to accompany a thank you. As a curiosity, especially on public transport, if you carry a mobile phone, it is better to carry it silently and avoid telephone conversations, to follow the example of the local people. You should not leave a tip; doing so can create an awkward and confusing situation. As a general rule, restaurant bills include a percentage for the service. In traditional Japanese hot spring baths of volcanic origin (Onsen), people with tattoos are not allowed to enter for cultural reasons (although small ones can be covered).

It is generally mild, although because the country extends from north to south for about 3,000 kilometers, the weather varies depending on the location and time of year. Spring and autumn being the most pleasant seasons to travel.

No vaccine is required for tourists coming from Spain. Tap water is potable and can be safely drunk.

The official currency is the yen. There are 1, 5, 10, 50, 100 and 500 yen coins. The bills are 1,000, 2,000, 5,000 and 10,000 yen. Currency can be exchanged at airports and most banks. €1 is equivalent to approximately 140 yen.

Most restaurants, hotels, shops and taxis in major cities accept card payment. It is common that only cash is accepted for the purchase of urban transport tickets, as well as in hotel and restaurant establishments outside the large urban centers.

Japanese plugs have two parallel flat pins, so you have to bring an adapter to plug in electrical appliances.

The main means of transport is the train, but there is also an extensive network of buses and metro or, if necessary, different options to take an internal flight or a ferry.

La zona horaria de Japón es GMT+09:00.