皆さん, こんにちは!
Welcome to my blog, where I share tips and experiences about life in Tokyo with a Working Holiday Visa—and what comes after. If you’re about to land in Japan, this guide for Japan will walk you through what to expect from the moment you step off the plane.
🛬 First thing in this guide for Japan: What to do when you land at the airport
After a long trip, I finally arrived in Tokyo, Japan. I landed at Narita Airport, though Haneda is often a better option since it’s closer to central Tokyo.
As soon as you get off the plane, you’ll notice the unique Japanese atmosphere—bright characters and kind, organized staff who guide you every step of the way. Don’t worry if you don’t speak Japanese; the airport staff will do their best to help, even walking with you to your next location.
If you have a Working Holiday Visa, follow the line for visa holders. Show your passport and visa, and you’ll be issued your Zairyu Card (residence card), which is essential for things like renting an apartment, opening a bank account, or working legally.
Once you have your card, pick up your luggage and you’re ready to begin. Don’t forget to pick up your SIM card if you ordered one online. I used Mobal, which I collected at the airport. I recommend switching later to more affordable options like JP Smart or Rakuten.
🚆How to get to your accommodation from the airport
Let’s continue with this guide for Japan…
Narita is quite far from central Tokyo, but there are several transport options depending on your budget, comfort level, and arrival time.
If you arrive late and there are no more trains, it’s a good idea to stay overnight at a nearby capsule hotel and travel the next day.
I arrived in the morning and chose the safest option: I bought a Skyliner ticket in advance. It’s a fast train with reserved seats and luggage space. It dropped me off near my hotel. It’s very convenient, though a bit pricey (around 3,000 yen).
Discover how was the beginning of my trip in Japan
If you want to save money, use Google Maps to explore all available routes. Another option is using a luggage delivery service (like Yamato Transport) to travel without the hassle of carrying heavy bags.
💸 Exchanging dollars to yen: What you need to know in this guide for Japan.
Before leaving the airport, it’s smart to exchange a small amount of dollars to have some cash on hand.
However, don’t exchange everything there—the rates aren’t great. I recommend going to Shinjuku, especially Ninja Exchange, near Omoide Yokocho, where you’ll get a much better rate.
🗼My personal experience: First day in Japan
Even though I had everything planned, my first day was quite an adventure. After landing, I went to pick up my SIM card. The staff helped me install it, but my phone wasn’t working properly. I figured it was a temporary issue and kept going.
On my way out, a TV crew asked me for an interview. I was jet-lagged, disoriented, and nervous, so I politely declined. After that, I took the Skyliner to Nippori. I didn’t speak Japanese, and my phone still wasn’t working, so I felt a bit anxious. Luckily, I had checked the map earlier and knew the hotel was close. I walked with my luggage until I found it—and right then, my phone started working again. What a relief.
That’s how my life in Japan began—tired, excited, and full of small surprises.
😴 Dealing with jet lag
Flying from the other side of the world can be exhausting. Ideally, you should plan your sleep during the flight. If you’re arriving in the morning, try to sleep in the final hours of the trip. I couldn’t sleep much because of nerves and excitement, so I dealt with jet lag for a few days after arriving.
🙌🏻 Final thoughts
Arriving in Japan on a Working Holiday Visa will be a once-in-a-lifetime experience filled with stories. Don’t worry if things don’t go exactly as planned—there’s always a solution. What matters is staying calm, being prepared, and enjoying this exciting new chapter.
Hope you liked this guide for Japan and thanks for reading!
よろしく、
花ちゃん。
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