Travel Tips - Before you go

• 90-days in advance

  Shinkansen (bullet train) tickets: Tickets can be purchased via official JR channels up to 90-days ahead of time. If you have the time to stop into a JR Travel Service Center (typically available at any JR train station in Japan) 1 or 2 days before travel via Shinkansen, you can book these tickets in person in Japan, however, if you’d rather book ahead, or don’t have the time to book 1~2 days in advance in person, you can do so via Ekinet and SmartEx.
  
  Smart Ex is the official JR Ticket sales platform for the Tokaido, Sanyo and Kyushu Shinkansen lines, and Eki Net is the official sales platform for all JR East lines. - Click here to see specific details for creating your accounts. Japan Junket recommends purchasing via these official channels instead of 3rd party resellers to avoid possible validity issues and last minute cancellations.

  Notes
  Luggage Restrictions: Shinkansens have luggage limits. If you’re not utilizing luggage forwarding and will be traveling with what is classed as ‘oversized luggage’ (click here and scroll down to ‘Shinkansens - Luggage Restrictions’ to see what classes as oversized) you’ll need to select one of the options that states ‘seats with oversized baggage area’ to ensure you’re given tickets in cars with enough storage space for all your suitcases.
  
  EkiNet: Ekinet bookings require tickets to be physically collected in Japan prior to your travel dates. Tickets must be collected by 21:00 the day before your travel date and can be collected anytime from any of the stations listed here, it doesn’t have to be the date/time specified at the time of booking.
  
  SmartEx: SmartEx bookings do not require physical tickets to be collected, the QR code provided via email at the time of seat allocation can be used at the gates of the train station to board.

• 6-weeks in advance

  Check your passports: Passports must be valid for a certain period of time AFTER your set return date, and should you need to apply for a new Passport. it may take up to 6-weeks to process. To learn more about passport requirements, head to the ‘Passports’ section of our ‘Things to Know Before you Go’ Travel Resource.
  
  SIMS, eSIMS & Pocket Wifi: Japan Junket recommends taying connected with Mobal, a Japan based company with nationwide connectivity. Data-only SIMS and Pocket Wifi systems will be available from the airport, however, should you wish to get your SIMs sorted before you go and streamline your transit through your arrival airport you can do so with Mobal.
  Physical data-only SIMS purchased via Mobal can be posted directly to your Australian Address (postage can in some cases take up to 6-weeks, this is why we recommend organizing this now), however you can also organize to have Pocket-Wifi delivered to your accommodation for pick-up on arrival, or purchase an eSIM which can be downloaded and set up instantly. To learn more about the options, and about Mobal, head to our ‘Staying Connected in Japan’ Travel Resource.

• 30-days in advance

  Medications: If you’re traveling with Medications that are restricted in Japan, you may need to apply for prior-permission to bring them with you on your travels. This process can take up to 2-weeks, as such, I recommend getting onto this around 1-month in advance just to be sure. To learn more or to check your medications head to the ‘Medications’ section of our ‘Things to Know Before you Go’ Travel Resource.

• 2-weeks in advance

  Have one last read-through of our ‘Things to Know Before you Go’ Travel Resource. This article outlines everything you need to know before you go, including important information about importing medications, things you can and cannot bring into the country, as well as advice on what/how to pack for your flight, things to double check before you go etc.

  I also recommend a quick look at our ' Websites and Apps' resource to ensure you've got everything set up and ready to go before you depart, taking note of the contact information in our 'Emergency Services' resources in case you should require it while you're away, and having a quick read over the 'Laws' section of our 'Social Etiquette and Laws' resource to familiarize yourself with a few of the laws that you may not be aware of.

• Learn Travel Japanese with Sakura Communication Institute (SaCI)

  Exclusive Japan Junket Travelers Japanese Package 

  Whether you're heading to the bustling streets of Tokyo or venturing off the beaten path into Japan’s scenic countryside, a little Japanese can go a very long way. That’s why we’ve partnered with Sakura Communication Institute (SaCI) to offer travelers an exclusive Travel Japanese Language Package, designed especially for beginners with no prior experience.

  This two-part program includes:

  • Lesson 1: Greetings, Manners & Culture (90-minutes)
    Learn the essentials of Japanese etiquette and cultural customs, from bowing to gift-giving, and master key greetings that will help you connect meaningfully with locals.
    

  • Lesson 2: Practical Language for Travel (90-minutes)
    Dive into the basics of sentence structure and must-know phrases, including how to ask helpful questions like "Where is the station?" and finish up with a Q&A Session with Yurika sensei. 

  These engaging and supportive lessons are led by Yurika sensei, a warm and passionate Japanese teacher based in Melbourne. Born in Japan’s Chiba Prefecture and raised in Malaysia, Yurika sensei brings a rich cultural perspective and nearly five years of teaching experience. Her love for Japan’s spirit of omotenashi (wholehearted hospitality) shines through in every lesson.

  Pricing:

  • Private Package (1 person): $185.00 AUD

  • Group Package (2 or more people): $139.00 AUD per person

  Whether you're traveling solo or with friends, this package will give you the confidence and tools to fully enjoy your time in Japan—especially in rural towns and regions where English isn't widely spoken.

Before you Leave the Airport

• Flight Details

  Flights won’t be available until 12 months out from your departure date (October 13th 2026).
  
  We’ll aim to provide a quote for the flights we think most suitable on October 14th 2026, however you are also more than welcome to book your flights yourself, just let us know the details so that we can input them here for you for ease of use.

• If Arriving Narita

  SIMS:
  T1: You’ll find Softbank on the 1st floor, this is where we recommend purchasing your SIMs or pocket wi-fi from.

  T2: You’ll find Telecomsquare on the 3rd floor, this is where we recommend purchasing your SIMs or pocket wi-fi from.
  
  T3: You’ll find J Wifi & Mobile  on the 1st floor just behind the information desk, this is where we recommend purchasing your SIMs or pocket wi-fi from.

  IC Cards: Suica or Pasmo cards can be purchased from the vending machines by the JR EAST Travel Service Center between Terminals 2 & 3 on Floor B1. You will require a card per person.
  
  You can find more information re: what to expect at the airport, SIMS vs Pocket Wi-fi, Suica Cards and information on using the Japan Web App to fast track your transfer through the airport at www.japanjunket.com.au/travel-resources/departure-and-arrivals

• If Arriving Haneda

  SIMS: There are two sim card providers, Telecomsquare and Anyfone Japan located on floor 2 of Terminal 3, they’re right next to one another and just around the corner from where you’ll exit baggage claim & customs. There’s also Global Wifi which you can find around behind the Tourist Information Center nearby where you’ll purchase your SUICA’s). And you can find WifiBOX on floor 3, I recommend purchasing your SIMs or pocket wi-fi from one of these stores,
  
  IC Cards: Suica or Pasmo cards can be purchased from the ticket machines. Their exact location isn’t available on Google Maps, but if you head past the tourist information center you can’t miss them. It’s a whole wall of ticket machines. You will require a card per person.

  You can find more information re: what to expect at the airport, SIMS vs Pocket Wi-fi, Suica Cards and information on using the Japan Web App to fast track your transfer through the airport at www.japanjunket.com.au/travel-resources/departure-and-arrivals

Head to Tokyo Accommodation

Private Transfer: 55 minutes - Roughly $236.84 - Can be booked by Japan Junket (price subject to change)
Taxi: 55 minutes - Around $250 - Terminal 3 - directions
Train: 1 hour 2 minutes (direct on the Narita Keisei Sky access line) - ¥1,200 - directions to airport station

• Hotel Details

  Keisei Richmond Hotel Tokyo Oshiage - directions
  Contact: +81366585991
  Address: 1 Chome-8-23 Oshiage, Sumida City, Tokyo 131-0045, Japan

  Check-in: 13th October from 2:00pm
  Check-out: 16th October by 11:00am
  
  We’ll aim to provide a quote for this stay on 13th April 2026, however you are also more than welcome to book yourself if you have access to favorable rates prior to that point in time. Just let us know so that we can mark it as booked.

Orientation with Omotesando Signature Japan

Japan Junket has partnered with Omotesando Signature Japan to ensure you start your trip on the right foot.
Start your journey with an informative orientation led by a friendly local expert. In this 2-hour session, we’ll cover the essentials to help you feel confident and comfortable exploring Tokyo and beyond. Walk through the local neighborhood so you can get your bearings, ask questions, and get personalized recommendations based on your interests,. Learn how to navigate the train system, pick up useful tips on Japanese customs and etiquette, and discover great spots to eat, shop, and hang out—whether you're into hidden cafes, quirky shops, parks, or nightlife.

Departure: ?
Duration: 2 hours
Cost: ¥27,750
🚩Prior Reservation is Required - To be booked by Japan Junket

• Itinerary

  • Meet at Accommodation

    Start your Tokyo journey, Travel with your guide to Ueno Station. Learn how to navigate the trains, use IC cards, and pick up essential apps. Get practical tips on ATMs, customs, and everyday etiquette.

  • Ameyoko Market

    Stroll through this vibrant street market known for its lively atmosphere and bargain goods. Try local snacks like takoyaki or grab a sweet treat from a local food stand.

  • Train to Nippori Station

    Hop on the JR Yamanote Line for a short ride to Nippori. A great time to explain local train etiquette and how to transfer smoothly.

  • Yanaka Ginza

    Wander through this retro shopping street filled with local shops and a nostalgic post-warcharm. Sample snacks like menchi-katsu or traditional sweets, and enjoy the slow pace ofold Tokyo.

  • Nezu Shrine or Yanaka Cemetery

    Visit Nezu Shrine, known for its tunnel of red torii gates and seasonal flowers. Alternatively, stroll past the peaceful Yanaka Cemetery for a glimpse of Tokyo’s spiritual side.

  • Wrap-up & Personal Tips

    End with a casual chat over coffee or in a park. Ask questions and get customized suggestions based on your interests and plans.

• Shinkansen Ticket info

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🍴Kura Sushi Global Flagship Store Oshiage Station

Onsite at Keisei Richmond Hotel Tokyo Oshiage - directions 
Open: 11:00am ~ 12:00am
Closed: No Closures

[vegetarian friendly]
Part of the renowned Kura Sushi chain, it offers a wide variety of fresh and affordable sushi options, with plates starting at 130 yen.