In areas like Nara and Miyajima, do not provoke the sacred deer. These animals are wild and have injured tourists (kicking and biting) when angered, often by people teasing them with food to get a perfect selfie, or withholding food after attracting them.
Furthermore, do not feed them human food, as it can make them seriously ill. Maintain a respectful distance and treat them as wild animals, not pets, to ensure both your safety and their well-being.
Tip
Traps
Maintain silence on trains
Tokyo, Japan
Community RALF
Do not make or take phone calls while on Japanese trains, including the subway and Shinkansen (bullet train). Avoid listening to music loudly or engaging in loud conversations, as absolute silence is expected. This rule honors the Omotenashi culture and respects tired commuters who rely on the quiet carriage time for rest. If you must take an important call on the Shinkansen, move to the small area between the train cars. Otherwise, keep your phone on silent mode and reject all calls until you disembark.
Tip
Art & Culture
Collecting Temple Stamps Around Japan
Tokyo, Japan
Charlotte
If you’re visiting temples and shrines in Japan, start collecting goshuin; beautiful handwritten (traditional Japanese calligraphy) stamps that make a meaningful and unique souvenir. You’ll need a special stamp book called a goshuinchō, which you can purchase at most temples and shrines, as well as larger stationery stores like Loft and Tokyu Hands.
Some locations even offer limited or seasonal editions, so keep an eye out for special designs you can’t get anywhere else. It’s a peaceful and memorable way to document your travels, it is like a fun game! And you get to see some incredible calligraphy!
Tip
Art & Culture
Visit outstanding museums and cultural spaces
Tokyo, Japan
Community RALF
- teamLab Borderless: immersive digital art
- Mori Art Museum: contemporary exhibitions
- Edo-Tokyo Museum: history and city evolution
- Ghibli Museum (if you can get tickets)
Trap
Eat & Drink
Skip the Red Town District for Roppongi
Tokyo, Japan
Harriet Hapra
If you want to party in Tokyo, I’d say skip the red-light district (Kabukicho) and head straight to Roppongi! You’ll find more bars and clubs there, plus you get a clear view of Tokyo Tower.
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In Tokyo, the Savor the Matcha experience is a must if you’re curious about Japanese tea culture. You’ll learn about the history and ritual of matcha while being guided through the process of preparing it yourself. It’s a calm, mindful experience where you can truly slow down, appreciate the flavours, and enjoy a deeper connection to the tradition; perfect for a peaceful break from the city’s fast pace.
I was lucky enough to stumble across this experience while getting utterly lost in Tokyo...which by the way is the best way to find the hidden gems in Japan....walk and get lost!
QuickTrap
Eat & Drink
Assuming all restaurants accept credit cards
Tokyo, Japan
Community RALF
Small ramen shops and izakayas often only take cash. Always carry some yen to avoid awkward situations, especially late at night.
Tip
Art & Culture
Tokyo city view & Mori Art Museum
Tokyo, Japan
Community RALF
If you want one of the most impressive skyline views in Tokyo, save time for the Tokyo City View observation deck on the top floors of the Mori Tower in Roppongi Hills. The panoramic windows give you a 360° perspective of the city — including Tokyo Tower glowing right in front of you at night. The best part is that your ticket usually includes access to the Mori Art Museum, known for cutting-edge contemporary exhibitions featuring Japanese and international artists. It’s an ideal combo: first explore thought-provoking art, then head upstairs for an unforgettable view of the world’s largest metropolis, especially beautiful at sunset or after dark.
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