Introduction
Arriving in Japan for the first time can feel overwhelming — especially after a long flight.
However, the process is very organised, and once you understand the steps, everything becomes much easier.
This guide walks you through what to do from the moment you land until you arrive at your hotel.
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1. Immigration and Arrival Procedures
After landing, follow signs for arrivals.
You will go through:
- Passport control
- Baggage claim
- Customs
Requirements may vary depending on your nationality, so always check official information before travelling.
2. Getting Internet Access
Having internet is essential in Japan.
Options include:
- SIM cards
- Pocket Wi-Fi
You can collect these at the airport.
3. Getting Cash
Although cashless payments are increasing, cash is still important.
At the airport, you can:
- Withdraw yen from ATMs
- Use international cards (depending on your bank)
4. Transportation from the Airport
You have several options:
- Trains (fast and reliable)
- Airport buses
- Taxis
For cities like Tokyo, trains are usually the most efficient.
5. Using Trains
Train systems can look complex, but they are very reliable.
- Use apps like Google Maps
- Follow signs carefully
- Use IC cards like Suica
Tourists can pick up a Welcome Suica or Tourist Pasmo card at the airport, which work in exactly the same way as a regular IC card.
6. Arriving at Your Hotel
At your hotel:
- Show your reservation
- Check in at reception
- Receive your room key
The process is usually smooth and efficient.
7. Useful Japanese Phrases
すみません/Sumimasen (Excuse me)
英語を話せますか？/Eigo o hanasemasu ka? (Do you speak English?)
〜に行きたいです/~ ni ikitai desu (I want to go to ~)
Conclusion
Arriving in Japan may feel overwhelming at first, but once you understand the steps, the process becomes simple and manageable.
With a little preparation, you can move smoothly from the airport to your hotel and start enjoying your trip with confidence.
If you’d like extra help planning the rest of your trip — beyond just arrival day — our Travel Planning service gives you a personalised itinerary built by a Japan native, so you can spend less time researching and more time enjoying your trip.
👉 Get your personalised plan — start here.
Related Guides
Planning your trip? Explore our Travel Planning service, or get ready to speak with confidence through Travel Japanese lessons. For steady, self-paced progress, check out Self-study Support.