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31 HENNA DESIGNS FOR HANDS TO INSPIRE YOUR OWN

Henna, also known as Mehndi, is an exquisite artistic symbol that can be crafted on hands and feet, making it an ideal adornment for occasions ranging from the ordinary to the traditional. In India, applying henna patterns on the hands and feet of the bride is not just a form of decoration but also a wish for health and prosperity in her marital journey. These works of art may blend lace-like patterns, inspiration from nature, the lover’s name, depictions of animals, Hindu deities, and iconic designs, expressing blessings, luck, joy, and love. Below are 31 simple and easily achievable henna hand designs, especially suited for those newly exploring this art form.

EASY ARABIC HENNA DESIGNS

Arabic henna designs encompass uncomplicated yet swift and captivating mehndi patterns. This lovely hand design incorporates mehndi elements like leaves, flowers, and paisley, making it an ideal choice for beginners to experiment with.

BEAUTIFUL COMBINATION HENNA DESIGN 

This is a timeless compilation of Mehndi designs tailored for those who appreciate minimalistic and beautiful henna patterns on their hands and legs. Experiment with this uncomplicated henna design for your traditional occasions. The captivating combination of a bold circle surrounded by leaves adds an enchanting touch. This design is suitable for both front-hand and back-hand henna art.

SIMPLE HENNA DESIGN WITH JAAL PATTERN

A stylish mehndi design featuring an uncomplicated jaal pattern across the palms. The criss-cross lines and motifs render this henna design ideal for beginners. It can be duplicated on both sides of the hand. If you seek henna designs suitable for various occasions, this option proves to be an excellent choice.

MULTICULTURAL CHARACTERS

Drawing inspiration from this bride is a great idea if you’re incorporating two distinct cultures into your wedding celebration. In vibrant multicultural wedding held in New York,many brides paid homage to her Chinese heritage by incorporating the Chinese double happiness character into henna tattoo on hand, seamlessly blending her background with the groom’s Indian culture. To extend the cultural experience, she arranged for a henna artist in the wedding lounge area, allowing guests to adorn themselves with personalized designs.

ELBOW LENGTH

Opting for henna designs on the forearms ensures a longer-lasting imprint compared to those on the palms or fingers, symbolizing enduring happiness for both you and your partner. During her intimate wedding in Tennessee, this bride embraced a unique approach as her henna began at the cuticles and gracefully extended up her arm to the elbow, creating the illusion of an elegant lace glove.

LAVISH LACE

This intricately designed lace masterpiece is so lifelike that it seamlessly mirrors the embellishments on the bride’s sari. The invitation suite also featured henna-inspired details, resulting in a delightful fusion of themes that carried through every facet of the wedding.

COLOR MATCHING

Crafted from natural ingredients, henna paste offers limited options in terms of color. In a stroke of luck or perhaps through intentional ingredient mixing, this bride achieved a red henna design that flawlessly complemented her red sari adorned with gold embroidery. She wore this ensemble for both her Hindu and Christian Nashville nuptials.

PERSONALIZED DESIGN

Utilize your henna designs as a canvas to narrate a story, just as demonstrated by this bride. In this creative approach, have your henna artist incorporate an illustration of your partner on one palm and a representation of yourself on the other. When you bring your hands together, it beautifully portrays the narrative of the two of you uniting as one.

SPIRIT FINGERS

Mandalas stand out as prevalent symbols in wedding henna designs, with the term translating to “circle” in Sanskrit, symbolizing unity and wholeness. In this instance, the incorporation of a fishnet-like pattern on the fingers imparts a sultry, gloved appearance to the bride’s overall design.

WELL OUTFITTED

The delicate lacework of this bride’s mehndi art beautifully echoed the patterns on her vibrant, buttercup-hued sari, worn during her Hindu ceremony. The artistic details also complemented the lace embroidery on the dress she chose for her lakeside nuptials in New York. If multiple outfit changes are on the agenda for your big day, we recommend selecting a henna design that harmonizes with all of your ensembles.

PROTECTIVE MEASURES

Applying henna designs to the backs of your hands and wrists, as per Katariwala, is believed to bring protection to both you and your marriage. The mehndi art showcased here boasts a rich, burnt-orange hue, adding an extra layer of dimension to the stunning artwork.

MIRROR IMAGE

While some brides integrate illustrations symbolizing their identity and their beloved, this bride elevated the stakes by featuring custom portraits on the palms of her hands during her weeklong Knanaya wedding. In addition to the customary henna motifs, she incorporated her name and her groom’s name on her wrists in a bracelet-like fashion. And indeed, her wedding henna design endured beyond the final day.

A MINIMALIST APPROACH

The intersection of minimalism and mehndi art is seldom seen, but this asymmetrical design breaks the mold. The om symbol on the right palm symbolizes the self as the union of mind, body, and spirit. The bride went a step further by incorporating her groom’s name into the piece.

REGAL FLOURISH

Seeking inspiration for your henna design? Look no further than your attire. This masterpiece reflected the intricate gold embroidery of the bride’s luxurious brocade. The delicate patterns on her fingers featured tiny lotus blooms, aligning with the Sahasrara on her palms, symbolizing unity. The magnificent trim imparted a regal touch to the overall look.

MATCHING SET

While henna is traditionally associated with the bride, it can also be a shared experience with your partner. In this garden-inspired wedding in Memphis, the bride’s henna design complemented the floral embroidery on her lehenga. Simultaneously, the groom paid homage to his partner by having her name and two hearts adorned on his left hand.

HANDFULS OF ROSES

Opting for floral designs is a widespread preference among brides, particularly if the flower holds significance in their life or wedding. The elaborate details included a prominent bloom on the palm of each hand, smaller blossoms on both the front and back of each finger, and a mandala adorned with roses on the back of each hand.

OPEN PALMS

Attention to detail is crucial for your henna design. Prior to her enchanting beach wedding in Vietnam, this bride adorned herself with intricate mehndi artwork. The detailed elements matched the opulence of her beaded ivory lehenga.

FLORAL ARTISTRY

Florals hold the same intrinsic significance in weddings as they do in bridal henna art, symbolizing beauty and new beginnings, both auspicious ways to commence a marriage. For her contemporary wedding in Santa Barbara, this bride embraced the full trifecta, incorporating vines and leaves.

LATTICEWORK

Every wedding embraces a unique aesthetic, so why not leverage your henna art to enhance your event’s design concept? For her wedding, themed around a lush garden, this bride’s henna featured latticework and organic elements, beautifully accentuating the floral motif. The visual narrative created a seamless and captivating continuity throughout the celebration.

DOUBLE DOWN

Cultures converge in this intricately winding wedding henna design. Amidst the classic paisley and floral motifs, the Chinese symbol for double happiness finds a place—a fitting addition for this bride’s multicultural nuptials in California.

PAISLEY PRINT

Paisley designs are another prevalent motif in the realm of henna. Traditionally associated with fashion, these curving shapes hold an auspicious symbolism representing fertility. In this instance, they seamlessly intertwine with flowers and mandalas, adorning the palms and extending down each finger.

BRIGHT PURPLE

Henna designs typically come in the colors of white, red, black, or gold, but you have the option to choose another captivating hue. Ahead of her Jewish-Pakistani wedding, this bride opted for mehndi art in a vibrant purple shade, perfectly complementing her beaded frock. The artwork showcased a intricate design of mandalas, lace details, and alternating bands.

BIG BLOOMS

Although flowers commonly grace wedding henna designs, we appreciate the eloquence of this solitary bloom. The petals gracefully highlight the natural curve of the bride’s index finger and echo the beaded buds on the lace sleeves that cascade to her wrists. In a harmonious touch, the groom also showcased a corresponding vine mehndi on his pinky finger during their enchanting autumnal wedding in Minneapolis.

CALL TO ARMS

For those embracing multiple outfit changes, much like this bride did at her Wes Anderson–inspired wedding in Baja California, take advantage of the skin exposure. The cohesive twisting design of the mehndi, spiraling from her fingertips to her elbows, adds a captivating touch.

NUPTIAL VINES

Vine and leaf motifs within henna designs symbolize strength, devotion, and perseverance. While this mehndi artwork carries significant meaning, it’s the leafy fingertips that truly capture attention. The flourishing vines extend onto the backs of the hands and fingers, elegantly highlighting the wedding and engagement rings.

FULL COVERAGE

Opting to showcase henna art from your fingertips to your elbows is a visually striking decision for your design. During this multi-day Indian wedding in Mexico, the bride ensured the inclusion of the classic mandala along with other intricate elements such as flowers and swirls.

CONTRASTING COLORS

Why settle for a singular hue when you can flaunt multiple? This bride chose a hand-focused design that blended contrasting tones, making a statement at her wedding weekend in New Hampshire. Paired with jet black, the vibrant orange color truly stood out.

GLOVE-LIKE DESIGN

Certain brides choose henna designs that serve as a bold fashion statement. The mehndi art on this bride, done ahead of her modern Indian wedding in Los Cabos, Mexico, takes on the appearance of a stylish glove. Featuring netted detailing on the fingers and scalloped edges resembling lace trim on the wrists, it exudes a chic and fashionable look.

COMPLEMENTARY DESIGNS

Certainly, choosing details and symbols that reflect your identity and relationship is crucial, but it’s also essential to consider how your henna designs will complement the rest of your ensemble. Take this bride, for example, who displayed an elbow-length masterpiece in red and black for her fashion-forward, bohemian wedding. She opted for nude polish on her fingernails to ensure that the artwork didn’t overshadow her nails.

CONCLUSION

Easy henna hand designs are not just patterns on the skin; they serve as a canvas for self-expression. Henna is not limited to hands but extends to henna on foot designs as well. Whether drawing from tradition or embracing modern interpretations, brides worldwide use henna to convey elegance, symbolism, and uniqueness in their wedding celebrations.

41 ESSENTIAL TIPS FOR FIRST-TIME TRAVELERS TO JAPAN: ETIQUETTE AND CULTURAL INSIGHTS

Japan is rapidly becoming a popular destination, with more travelers choosing to explore its unique charm each year. However, Japanese culture and etiquette are distinctive and differ greatly from other parts of the world.

In this etiquette guide, I’m sharing essential tips that every traveler should know before visiting Japan for the first time. Understanding these cultural nuances not only helps you show respect as a visitor but also enhances your experience in this spectacular country.

Here’s my comprehensive guide to Japan etiquette for tourists, along with helpful tips for making the most of your first trip to Japan.

PLAN WHICH SEASON TO VISIT JAPAN

If you want to experience Japan’s famous Sakura season, plan your visit in spring (March to April). Autumn is another popular season, with vibrant fall foliage best seen from October to November. However, if your travel dates are flexible and you’re not set on visiting during these peak times, traveling during the low season (June to September or December to February) can offer fewer crowds and better deals.

While summer is typhoon season, rainstorms generally pass quickly. If you’re a skier, winter is an ideal time to visit Japan.

On our recent trip from late November to mid-December, we enjoyed autumn foliage in Kyoto in early December and then flew to Hokkaido to experience the snow. Winter in Japan is breathtaking, and we’re already planning another winter trip. I highly recommend visiting during the colder months for a unique experience with fewer crowds and lower costs!

DOWNLOAD OFFLINE MAPS (GOOGLE MAPS OR MAP.ME)

Be sure to download maps or bring a physical map with you on your trip. You can also ask your accommodation for any local maps.

While WiFi is common in cities, it may be less available or secure in smaller towns and rural areas.

For reliable data access abroad, I recommend using Airalo eSIMs. Just download the app and purchase a virtual eSIM, which works in over 180 countries. As long as your smartphone supports eSIM (most newer models do), this is an affordable and convenient way to stay connected while traveling.

DOWNLOAD TRANSLATION APPS

One of my top tips for first-time travelers to Japan is to download Google Translate or bring a phrasebook before you go.

While navigating signage in big cities is manageable (I found Tokyo’s metro system easy to use thanks to color coding and symbols), it can be more challenging in other areas.

English isn’t widely spoken, except among younger people. However, the Japanese are very helpful, and knowing a few phrases, like how to say “thank you” in Japanese, will go a long way.

The camera function in Google Translate is especially useful—just point your phone at text (signs, menus, etc.) and it will translate in real-time on your screen!

CARRY YOUR PASSPORT WITH YOU AT ALL TIMES

In Japan, foreign visitors are legally required to carry their passport at all times to show ID and visa status if requested. Although you might not be asked to show it frequently, it’s wise to keep your passport with you and have a photocopy stored safely at your accommodation as a backup, just in case.

DON’T BE AFRAID TO ASK FOR HELP IF YOU GET STUCK

That’s a great point! Many Japanese people are very helpful, even if they don’t speak English. Showing them a place name on your phone or map can be very effective. Learning a few basic phrases like “Please,” “Thank you,” or “Where is…” demonstrates your effort and respect as a visitor, and locals often appreciate the gesture.

DON’T WEAR YOUR OUTDOOR SHOES INDOORS

In Japan, it’s considered impolite to wear outdoor shoes indoors in many places. You’ll need to get used to changing into slippers or slip-on shoes at the entrance of homes, and even in some restaurants and shops—slippers are usually provided for you.

If you’re staying in Japan for an extended period, it may be a good idea to buy your own pair of indoor slippers to carry with you for convenience.

STAY IN A CAPSULE HOTEL OR HOSTEL

Capsule hotels are a popular accommodation option in Japan and other parts of Asia. They offer the budget-friendly benefits of a hostel while providing your own private space, complete with a bed, bedding, light, shelving, and storage—luxury capsules often come with even more amenities. Additionally, consider staying in a Ryokan, a traditional Japanese-style inn, for a more authentic experience.

Keep in mind that Airbnb is widely unpopular in Japan, and there have been several legal disputes over properties being rented illegally. I recommend avoiding Airbnb altogether and opting for a traditional Ryokan or capsule hostel instead.

FOOD AT CONVENIENCE AND GROCERY STORES IS AMAZING

Convenience stores in Japan are fantastic for grabbing snacks and meals on the go. They offer a wide range of fresh and tasty options. Some of my favorites were Onigiri, pork buns, and Mochi balls, and I found the fresh sushi to be better than some I’ve had at Japanese restaurants back home.

You can also check out grocery stores with prepared food sections—they often have a great selection of meals, including sushi.

DON’T CONSUME FOOD WHILE YOU’RE OUT IN PUBLIC

In Japan, it’s considered impolite to eat while walking. Eating on the go is generally frowned upon unless you’re in a specific setting, like a food market. This custom also explains why you’ll find very few rubbish bins in public spaces.

Japanese cities are remarkably clean, with very little litter. If you have any trash, it’s best to keep it in your bag and dispose of it later, such as when you return home.

If you purchase food from a convenience store or street vendor, it’s customary to stand still and eat it where you bought it. There’s often a trash can nearby, making it easier to dispose of your waste without carrying it around.

GET TO GRIPS WITH CHOPSTICKS (NO PUN INTENDED!)

Great advice! In Japan, knives and forks are uncommon, especially outside of major cities, so being comfortable with chopsticks is important. To practice, you can wrap a rubber band around chopsticks and place a roll of paper between them to simulate the pincer movement. And remember, using chopsticks to stab your food is considered impolite.

KNOW HOW TO PLACE YOUR CHOPSTICKS

Exactly! When you put down chopsticks, you should either rest them across your bowl or on the chopstick rest if provided. Sticking them upright in your rice or placing them directly on the table is considered improper etiquette in Japan.

VEGETARIANS MAY STRUGGLE IN JAPAN – DOWNLOAD THE HAPPY COW APP

Navigating vegetarian options in Japan can be challenging, as vegetarianism isn’t widely recognized, and fish and chicken might not be classified as “meat.” Many broths used in dishes contain meat, so it’s important to be cautious.

Checking side dishes and noodle soups can be a good strategy, but always clarify with the help of Google Translate if you’re unsure. Additionally, the app Happy Cow is useful for finding vegan and vegetarian restaurants, especially in urban areas.

BOW TO GREET SOMEONE

In Japan, bowing is a customary way to convey greetings, thanks, or apologies. It’s a significant part of social etiquette. Typically, you’ll bow when greeting someone, expressing gratitude, or making an apology.

The best way to learn is by observing and following the locals. If someone bows to you, it’s polite to return the bow. It helps you blend in and show respect for local customs.

KEEP TO THE LEFT!

As a British traveler, you’ll be pleased to know that Japan also keeps to the left for cars, bikes, and pedestrian traffic. Punctuality is highly valued in Japan, so be mindful of standing on the correct side of escalators to avoid blocking others.

DON’T BLOW YOUR NOSE IN PUBLIC

It may come as a surprise, but in Japan, blowing your nose in public is considered bad etiquette. Instead, you’ll notice that people often sniffle in public settings, and you may need to do the same until you can find a private place to blow your nose. If the sound of sniffing bothers you, it’s something you’ll need to get used to during your time in Japan!

USE THE LUGGAGE FORWARDING SERVICE

Great tip! Avoiding rush hours with large luggage is definitely considerate. The Yamato Transport service is a lifesaver for managing luggage across Japan, especially when dealing with limited accessibility at stations or traveling on trains without reserved luggage space. Their “Hands-Free Travel” service is incredibly convenient for a smooth journey.

BUY A SUICA CARD OR PASMO CARD IN TOKYO

When you’re in Tokyo, consider getting a Suica or Pasmo card. These IC travel cards are re-loadable and make using the transport system much easier. You can also withdraw any remaining balance from the card before you leave Japan.

Similar IC cards are available throughout Japan—like Icoca in Osaka—which streamline the swipe-in/swipe-out process at train stations, saving you from having to buy a new ticket each time.

If you’re an iPhone user, you can purchase a Suica Card directly on your phone and add it to your Apple Wallet. Unfortunately, this feature isn’t available for Android users yet.

SLURPING YOUR FOOD SHOWS YOUR APPRECIATION!

In Japan, slurping your food is perfectly acceptable and even encouraged—it signals that you’re enjoying your meal. The louder the slurp, the more satisfied you’re considered to be. This is especially true for noodles, soups, and broth-based dishes. So, don’t hesitate to embrace this cultural norm and enjoy your food with a satisfying slurp!

DON’T TIP IN JAPAN

Great news for your budget: tipping is considered rude and unnecessary in Japan. High standards of service are expected, so there’s no need to leave a tip.

This can be a surprising tip for first-time travelers from places like the U.S., where tipping is customary.

If you do feel compelled to show appreciation in certain situations, like an exceptional homestay, you can place the money in an envelope and offer it discreetly.

JAYWALKING IS ILLEGAL

Absolutely! Always use the designated crossings when crossing streets. Japan’s traffic rules and pedestrian systems are well-organized, and using the crossings helps ensure your safety and keeps traffic flowing smoothly.

PREBOOK LUGGAGE SPACE ON SHINKANSENS

That’s a crucial tip for traveling on the Shinkansen! The larger luggage storage spaces on bullet trains require advance reservation, and they do sell out quickly. If you don’t book a space in advance, you might be asked to move your luggage if it’s in someone else’s reserved area.

For convenience, especially if you have prams or large items, using the luggage forwarding service from Yamato Transport can be a great solution. It ensures you can travel comfortably without worrying about space on the train.

HAVE CASH WITH YOU

Be sure to bring a suitable amount of cash with you to Japan. You can exchange money before you go, use ATMs at the airport, or find a convenience store like 7-11, which typically has ATMs inside. While credit cards are increasingly accepted, cash remains widely used and is essential for many transactions.

TAKE A COIN PURSE

While Japan is increasingly cashless, carrying some cash is still necessary. This often results in a significant amount of coin change. To stay organized, it’s advisable to bring a coin purse to keep your loose change together.

PUT YOUR MONEY IN THE TRAY

When paying for items in Japan, use the small tray provided on the counter for your money—handing money directly to the cashier is considered impolite. Always place your payment in the tray.

It’s also important not to count your change at the counter. In Japanese culture, politeness and trust are paramount, and it’s understood that you will be given the correct amount.

DON’T OPEN A TAXI DOOR YOURSELF

That’s a great tip! In Japan, taxi doors are automatic and will open and close for you without needing to touch them. Just wait for the door to open as the taxi arrives and again when you’re ready to get out. This system helps ensure a smooth and hassle-free experience.

ALLOW PLENTY OF TIME FOR CATCHING TRAINS

Absolutely, Japanese train stations can be massive and bustling, especially in major cities like Tokyo and Osaka. Arriving at least 30 minutes early at major stations is a smart move to navigate through the crowds, find your platform, and handle any last-minute details. Rural towns and smaller metro stations tend to be more manageable, so you won’t need to budget as much extra time there.

DON’T EAT ON PUBLIC TRANSPORT

Eating and drinking on public transportation, including the metro, subway, and local trains, is generally not allowed in Japan. The only exception is the Shinkansen, where you can purchase bento boxes for your journey.

HOW TO USE RAMEN TICKET VENDING MACHINES

That’s a great overview of how the food ticket system works in many ramen shops! It’s a convenient way to streamline ordering, especially in the often small and busy ramen restaurants. Using the vending machine to place your order before you sit down helps keep things efficient and minimizes wait times.

YOU WON’T GET CAUGHT SHORT!

Japan is well-known for its clean and well-maintained public toilets, and you’ll find them widely available. Many of these toilets come with high-tech features like heated seats, bidet functions, and various wash and dry options. It can be quite an experience, making a visit to the toilet a bit of a novelty and enjoyable part of your trip!

BE PREPARED FOR SMALL HOTEL ROOMS

While these tips are primarily focused on Tokyo, they can also be helpful in other parts of Japan where space is often limited. Many affordable hotels, especially those outside of the luxury category, may be smaller in size to keep costs down. A helpful tip: check for storage space under the bed, which can be a convenient place to store your luggage.

CONSIDER IF YOU NEED A JR RAIL PASS

If you’re staying in Japan for an extended period, consider purchasing a JR Rail Pass, but make sure to buy it before you arrive, as it’s cheaper in advance.

For example, I found the pass worthwhile for journeys like Tokyo to Fuji, Fuji to Kyoto, and Kyoto to Osaka. However, be aware that as of October 2023, the JR Pass price has increased by 70%, making it less cost-effective for many travelers, especially those spending around two weeks in Japan. It’s a good idea to use a JR Rail Pass calculator to see if it’s worth it for your itinerary.

Also, check which trains are covered by the pass, as not all trains are included—this includes the fastest bullet trains and some privately owned regional trains.

HAND SANITIZER AND A HAND CLOTH

While Japan boasts numerous public restrooms, it’s worth noting that many of them may not have hand soap or drying facilities. As a precaution, carrying hand sanitizer and a small cloth can be helpful for maintaining hygiene.

ACCEPT ITEMS WITH BOTH HANDS

When someone hands you something in Japan, it’s polite to accept it with both hands and with your palms laid flat. This is especially important for business cards, which hold significant value in Japanese culture. Treating the card with respect demonstrates respect for the person giving it to you.

USE THE FARE ADJUSTMENT MACHINES IF YOU’RE UNSURE WHICH TICKET TO GET

Tokyo’s metro system, like many others in Japan, charges fares based on distance traveled. If you’re buying single tickets (instead of using a convenient IC card), determining the exact fare can be a bit tricky. However, Japan’s thoughtful system allows for fare adjustments at every station. So, if you’re unsure which ticket to purchase, simply buy the cheapest option. When you reach your destination, you can easily pay the difference at a Fare Adjustment machine

COVER UP YOUR TATTOOS

In Japan, tattoos can carry a strong association with criminality due to their historical connection with the Yakuza, the Japanese organized crime gangs. As a result, tattoos are not widely accepted in public spaces, and you might encounter restrictions.

If you have visible tattoos, it’s wise to cover them up to avoid any discomfort or negative attention. When visiting traditional Onsens (hot springs), you may be required to cover your tattoos with a bandage, or you might be refused entry entirely.

DON’T SKIP AFFORDABLE JAPANESE CHAIN RESTAURANTS

Japanese fast food definitely has its own unique appeal! CoCo Curry is fantastic for curry, while Ichiran is well-loved for its ramen. Yoshinoya, Sukiya, and Matsuya are all excellent choices for gyudon rice bowls and beef rice. They offer great quality and prices, making them standout options compared to international chains. Enjoy the local flavors!

WEARING A MASK IS RESPECTFUL

While not a strict requirement, wearing a mask is a common practice in Japan, especially in crowded areas like public transportation. It’s considered a respectful gesture to follow this local custom.

CHECK FLIGHT PRICES AS WELL AS TRAIN FOR LONG DISTANCE

When traveling extensively in Japan, especially to destinations like Hokkaido or Fukuoka, it might seem like trains are the most affordable option. However, with the recent increase in JR Pass prices and the high cost of Shinkansen tickets, it’s worth considering flights as well. Japan has several low-cost domestic airlines, including Peach, Jetstar, ANA, Air Do, Japan Airlines (JAL), and Skymark, which can offer competitive fares.

DON’T MESS UP THE FLOW OF PEOPLE

Efficiency is highly valued in Japan, and most people aim to move quickly through their day. If you need to stop to check your phone, consult a map, or admire a sight, it’s considerate to step aside, preferably near a wall or waiting area. This helps avoid blocking the flow of people. Remember, stopping in the middle of the street is generally considered impolite in Japan.

YOU WILL NEED AN INTERNATIONAL DRIVING PERMIT TO HIRE A CAR

In rural areas of Japan, renting a car is common for extensive travel. However, be aware that you’ll need a valid International Driving Permit (IDP) from your home country; a standard driver’s license alone will not be sufficient.

CHECK IF YOU NEED PERMISSIONS TO BRING YOUR MEDICATION

There are two essential points to remember regarding medications in Japan. First, some over-the-counter medications commonly available in other countries, such as ibuprofen and Pseudoephedrine (found in brands like Sudafed and Vicks Inhalers), are not legal in Japan. Additionally, certain allergy medications are also restricted. It’s recommended to check the latest regulations for a comprehensive list. Fortunately, Japan offers its own versions of antihistamines and anti-inflammatories, which can be easily purchased at pharmacies.

Second, if you’re traveling with a prescription medication supply exceeding 30 days or an over-the-counter supply exceeding 60 days, you’ll need to obtain a Yunyu Kakunin-sho (exemption form). This form must be presented to customs upon arrival. I personally needed to apply for this as I was carrying more than 30 days of birth control. You can complete the application online and print the form to show to the customs officer along with your medication. The process is relatively straightforward, taking approximately 30 seconds at the airport.

Please note that narcotics and psychotropics are strictly prohibited in Japan.

CONCLUSION

I hope these tips help you feel more prepared and confident for your first trip to Japan! Having visited Japan multiple times, I understand that adjusting to local customs can be challenging. However, making an effort to respect Japanese etiquette can make a big difference. Japanese people are aware that you’re a visitor and don’t expect you to know all their customs, but showing that you’re trying to follow their rules and etiquette will be appreciated. Pin this guide to save for later and use it to plan your future travels!