A couple of friends have reached out to ask about planning trips to Japan, so we put this short list of tips together:

You don’t need a converter for your device chargers…it’s the same plug as the US.
Rent a wifi mobile hotspot so you’ll be sure to always have wifi for your phone as you travel around – we used https://pupuruwifi.com
Download Google Lens and if you don’t already have Google Translate, be sure both are on your phone. Google Lens will translate text/characters using your phone’s camera. Both have been extremely helpful.
Bring cash (Yen). Cards are accepted at most places, but you will need cash for small transactions.
Follow the rules. There’s an unwritten social contract in Japan that everyone seems to agree to, and it makes for an incredibly pleasant experience.

A few of these rules:

Do not cross the street if the light is red, even if no cars are coming. Everyone waits for the green “go” to cross.
Do not eat while walking. It’s considered extremely rude.

On escalators and stairs, stand and walk to the left.
Don’t talk loudly (or at all) on public transportation. And depending on how soon you are coming here, plan to wear a mask on public transportation. At this point, 90%+ of Japanese are still wearing masks in public. It’s not required, but it’s a sign of respect.

Pro-tips:

7-11’s (yes, THAT 7-11, but better) in Japan are great (and safe) places to get cash and awesome snacks.

Bring your own hand towel for use after you wash your hands in public restrooms (which btw are plentiful and always shockingly clean).
Fill your water bottle at the hotel before you leave for the day…public water fountains are not a thing here especially since COVID.

Best advice: Learn some basic phrases and use them - it’s genuinely appreciated.

Tips for Traveling to Japan