I have kept a notes app on my phone that has logged my observations in Japan that I thought were particularly unique. I focused on the smaller things that would truly give someone a look into a culture that you may not find just browsing on the internet. Some of these are humorous and solely my perception from personal experiences or when select people have explained them to me.
Privacy: They value privacy. When you use the restrooms, there is a music icon in most bidets that you click to play music when you do your business. If Japanese people are reading in public, they have a cover that goes around their book (they wrap it for you at the bookstore). They do this because they want to maintain privacy and respect for other people on the train or in public spaces.
Try not to hug strangers: This is a little silly, but I did not understand that usually strangers never partake in physical contact, especially those of the opposite sex. I went to a club event where we ate dinner and I was joined by some people from the University of Hawaii. There was one Japanese male student that sat with us since there were assigned seats and we ended up having a great time. When we parted ways I hugged the people from Hawaii, and I also hugged this Japanese man. He was very shocked and then proceeded to tell me that usually the hug means that I would like to be his girlfriend. I politely declined.
People do not say “bless you” when you sneeze: Someone sneezed on the train next to me and I said “bless you” which they politely ignored. I then asked a fellow student what is the equivalent of how to say “bless you” in Japanese. They told me there was no equivalent. People do not say anything after people sneeze.
Don’t mind the stares: It is acceptable for Japanese citizens (usually older) to sit and stare if you are a foreigner. They apparently are assessing what you are doing, seeing how you act, and learning from your mannerisms since they are curious. I went into a place to eat and there was an elderly woman who pulled up a chair about five feet away from our table and quietly stared at us while eating. We tried to converse with her, but she said she would just like to watch us. I immediately thought we could offer her to sit and eat with us, but my Japanese friend said no, that isn't a regular thing to do. *This was my personal experience. Be mindful, if you feel uncomfortable or if you truly feel there are bad intentions, seek a police station or alert other people immediately.
Suica Card: This green will save your life with the train system! You can download the app on your phone and add it to your Apple Wallet. This is a must when using the trains around Japan, you just scan your phone in and out of the station to get on/off the train.
Blackout umbrella: A lot of people use this to protect themselves from the harmful UV rays. I am not sure how to explain this, other than the sun in Japan really feels like it is burning your skin. This will go beyond sunscreen and help you not hurt out in the sun.
7/11 for ATM access: This is a very easy and trusted source to get cash in Japan. 7/11’s are everywhere so you will be okay if you run out of money.
Bring another suitcase or get ready to pay: DO NOT BE LIKE ME! I am flying home four checked bags…yes, FOUR! I came to Japan with two! When people say pack light coming to Japan, they really mean it. There are a lot of thrift stores so you can get in fashion quickly and other cheap home goods stores such as Daiso and Don Quijote.
Japanese phone number? Yes and no. I switched to T-Mobile before leaving for Japan and it was a great investment because when I went to Korea and Taiwan, it would automatically switch over for no additional charges. I also never had to worry about returning the pocket wifi to the airport or carrying around another phone. There were two times I could not make a reservation because I did not have a Japanese phone number, but I got around it.
They are very kind if you do not speak Japanese: This was one of my biggest anxieties coming to Japan. I did not have any prior knowledge about the Japanese language. Most Japanese people are the kindest, most compassionate people and will help you if you are struggling. Google translate will be your best friend. They use it as well if you are having trouble getting access. Do not expect anyone to speak English. Even though I was in Tokyo, there were limited English speakers at restaurants, bars, karaoke etc.