Tokyo

Population:

13 million

Money:

Currency in Japan is the Yen. Cash is king in Tokyo, many places won't accept cards at all, but it's quite difficult to get hold of when compared to home! Many of the ATMs don't accept UK cards but there are dedicated foreign exchange bureau so having a few travellers cheques to swap in these may come in handy. It's best to check with your bank which ATMs you can use when you're travelling, and take some notes with you.

Language:

Japanese. Whilst English will be spoken in tourist hotspots and at hotels, very few Japanese people speak English. Written phrases are more likely to be understood and roman characters are used at many of the train stations, but learning a few phrases in Japanese may just help your trip go a little more smoothly.

Dialling codes:

+81 for Japan followed by 3 for Tokyo

Local Trends:

Japan is a very safe place to be a traveller, with crime rates very low. You are most likely to stand out for wearing the wrong things, with shorts for men and short shorts for ladies frowned upon even at the height of summer!

Entry:

A valid passport and a return ticket are all that is required for a UK national to stay in Japan for up to three months.

Current Foreign Office Advice for Japan