Visa, money, eSIM, JR Pass, onsen rules, etiquette — everything you need to know before you go.
3/17/2026 · 2 min read · tips
Trash sorting in Japan is mandatory and strictly enforced — put the wrong thing in the wrong bag and your garbage simply won't get collected.
3/16/2026 · 8 min read · tips
Visa and Mastercard work almost everywhere; Amex is spotty; Discover barely works. Plus: no-FX-fee cards, the PIN vs. signature issue, ATM withdrawals, and IC card reload limits.
3/8/2026 · 8 min read · tips
Americans with a US passport enter Japan visa-free for 90 days. Here's what the 6-month passport rule, JESTA, onward-ticket question, and customs card actually require.
2/25/2026 · 8 min read · tips
Americans need a Geneva-1949 International Driving Permit plus the original US license. Costs $20 at AAA, takes 15 minutes. Here's what's legal, what rentals cost, and the 4 Japan driving rules Americans break.
2/25/2026 · 7 min read · tips
Adderall, Vyvanse, codeine, pseudoephedrine are banned. Insulin, Ozempic, SSRIs need Yakkan Shoumei paperwork. Here's exactly what Americans must file and when to leave the bottle at home.
2/24/2026 · 2 min read · tips
Everything US and UK expats and long-term visitors need to know about renewing their Zairyu Card and getting a My Number Card in Japan in 2026.
2/22/2026 · 3 min read · tips
Your complete guide to Japan's Digital Nomad Visa (Designated Activities Visa) in 2026 — income thresholds, required documents, length of stay, and everything you need to know before you pack your laptop.
2/12/2026 · 7 min read · tips
ANA, JAL, United, Delta, and American fly nonstop to Tokyo from 8 US cities, with economy roundtrips typically $850-$1,600. Compare route-by-route flight times, Haneda vs Narita, airline rankings, and booking strategy.
2/9/2026 · 2 min read · tips
Moving to Japan long-term? Here's how to get fast, affordable home internet — fiber plans compared, sign-up steps explained, and what to do while you wait.
2/7/2026 · 7 min read · tips
After the 2023 price hike, the JR Pass costs $335+ for 7 days. Here's the real math on when it's worth it for Americans, US agents vs Japanese counters, and when single tickets win.
1/16/2026 · 3 min read · tips
A practical comparison of eSIMs and physical SIMs for Japan 2026: pricing, speeds, data, pros and cons. Includes a ranked list of the best eSIM providers and tips for choosing the right plan.
