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Most Japan guides are written for Americans. If you are coming from France, some advice is redundant and some misses what you actually run into. Here are eight differences that matter.
| France | Japan | |
|---|---|---|
| Voltage / plug | 230V, Type C/E | 100V, flat-pin Type A |
| Restaurant hours | Lunch 12–14h, dinner from 19h30 | Continuous service common; early last orders |
| Tipping | Service included | Not expected |
| Greeting | La bise / handshake | Bow, no contact |
| Cash | Cards everywhere | Cash still common in small places |
1. You need a plug adapter
French plugs do not fit Japanese flat-pin sockets, and voltage is 100V against 230V. Most phone and laptop chargers handle 100–240V and just need a Type A adapter; check single-voltage items like hair dryers.
2. Meal times work differently
Many Japanese restaurants serve all day without a break, but last orders can be early, often around 9 pm, and small places close by 10. There is no long French lunch hour, and dinner starts around 6 pm.
3. No tipping, and service is not negotiable
Tipping is not expected anywhere, and leaving money on the table can cause confusion. Good service is the baseline, not a bonus.
4. Bow instead of la bise
Physical contact is rare. A small bow is the standard greeting, and a handshake is fine with foreigners but not expected. See our guide to bowing.
5. Get an IC card for transport
Your Navigo pass does not work in Japan. Use Suica, PASMO, or ICOCA — see our IC card guide or Suica on iPhone.
6. Cash still matters
Cards are accepted widely in cities, but small restaurants and shrines are often cash-only. Carry yen and read our cash versus card guide.
7. Few bins, and no eating while walking
Public bins are scarce, so carry a small bag. Eating while walking is generally discouraged; eat near the stall.
8. Check the entry rules
French passport holders can generally visit Japan for short tourist stays without a visa, and the immigration and customs declarations can be completed online in advance.
Where to go next
Choosing a base? Read Kyoto or Osaka. For data, compare eSIMs.
Do I need a plug adapter in Japan from France?
Yes. French plugs do not fit Japanese flat-pin sockets. Most chargers handle 100–240V, so a Type A adapter is usually enough.
Do I tip in Japan?
No. Tipping is not expected anywhere.
Can I use my Navigo pass in Japan?
No. Use a Japanese IC card such as Suica, PASMO, or ICOCA.
