Japan is one of the hottest travel destinations for Canadians in 2025, and for good reason! It’s a foodie paradise with stunning natural landscapes and an amazingly rich culture to be explored. Plus, Air Canada runs direct flights to Tokyo from Vancouver, Toronto and Montreal. If you’re planning a trip, here are a few things to know about travelling to Japan.
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What Do Canadians Need Before Travelling to Japan?
As per all international travel, Canadians will need a valid passport to enter Japan. The good news is you will not need a visa as long as you’re visiting for less than three months.
There are no required vaccines for Canadians entering Japan, but it’s always a good idea to be up to date on your routine vaccinations.
Do Canadians Need to Tip in Japan?
No, tipping is not expected in Japan. It’s not common to tip for service in bars, cafes, restaurants, taxis or hotels.
However, there are some specific instances where it’s appropriate. If you’ve hired a private guide or interpreter, they may accept a tip as a gesture of gratitude.
If you do choose to tip, be sure to do so discretely. It’s customary to put it in a small cash envelope that you can purchase at convenience stores and stationery stores.
Can Canadians Use Credit Cards in Japan?
While you will be able to use your credit card and in touristy areas and at major shops like convenience stores, cash is king in Japan. Some restaurants, temples and shops will only accept cash, so it’s best to plan accordingly!
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Is It Best Bring Yen or Withdraw It in Japan?
Withdrawing yen in advance means you can find the best rate from your bank or currency exchange, so bringing it with you is always a safe bet. Be sure to call your bank or currency exchange in advance, as they may need to order it in specially for you.
If you need to withdraw yen in Japan, keep in mind that most ATM machines will limit your withdrawal to 50,000 yen, which is around $450 CAD. It’s always best to withdraw the maximum amount at once to avoid repeat bank charge fees.
What Should Canadians Wear When Travelling to Japan?
When packing for your trip to Japan, it’s worth noting that Japanese fashion tends to be slightly more polished and conservative than what you might typically find in Canada. If you’re hoping to blend in, avoid things like spaghetti straps, denim cut-offs or any clothing that’s overly revealing or casual.
Is Uber Available in Japan?
In Japan, the Uber app will call you a taxi from a local taxi service. It’s available in major cities like Tokyo, Kyoto and Osaka, but you may need to use a local taxi service in other smaller cities.
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Can You Walk and Eat in Japan?
No, it’s generally considered rude to walk and eat, and eating on public transit is not allowed.
If you purchase food to go from convenience stores or street vendors, it’s expected that you will not eat it while walking down the street. Instead, take it home with you, find a bench in a public park, or eat right at the place of purchase.
Do Canadians Need to Cover Up Tattoos in Japan?
While tattoos are becoming more widely accepted in tourist areas of Japan, they could still be associated with the Japanese mafia. As a restul, tattoos can lead to restrictions on access to certain establishments like onsens (hot springs), gyms and swimming pools. Some establishments may offer you bandages to cover up your tattoos, but it might be a good idea to pack some long sleeves and pants as well.
Is English Widely Spoken in Japan?
Recently, English has become more common in tourist destinations in major cities like Tokyo, Osaka and Kyoto, but generally English is not spoken in Japan. It’s best to learn some basic Japanese in advance and have a translation app downloaded on your phone to use in a pinch.
Should Canadians Stick to Major Tourist Destinations When Travelling to Japan?
Absolutely not! There’s nothing wrong with planning your trip around the major cities of Tokyo, Osaka and Kyoto. However, there are plenty of other, smaller travel destinations in Japan that can offer you endless unique experiences.
Takayama offers beautifully preserved townscapes, while Mount Daisen offers a great (and less busy!) alternative to Mount Fuji. And Okunoshima, a.k.a. “Rabbit Island,” is a dream destination for animal lovers because of its super friendly wild rabbits. These are just a few of Japan’s hidden gems: a little research can go a long way when tailoring your Japan trip to your interests.
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