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Most Japan guides are written for visitors from the US or Europe. If you are coming from Thailand, some advice does not apply and a few things surprise you that nobody mentions. Here are the eight that matter.
| Thailand | Japan | |
|---|---|---|
| Voltage / plug | 220V, A/B/C/O sockets | 100V, flat-pin Type A |
| Transit card | Rabbit Card / MRT card | Suica / PASMO / ICOCA |
| Tap water | Usually not drunk | Safe to drink |
| Weather | Hot year-round | Cold winters, four seasons |
| Tipping | Common in some services | Not expected |
1. Your plug usually fits, but check the voltage
Many Thai sockets accept flat two-pin plugs, so your charger often fits Japanese sockets. The difference is voltage: Japan is 100V against Thailand's 220V. Phone and laptop chargers are normally 100–240V and fine, but check the label on hair dryers and travel appliances, which may be single-voltage.
2. Your Rabbit card will not work
Thai transit cards are Thailand-only. Japan uses Suica, PASMO, and ICOCA, and one card works across most of the country. See our Japan IC card guide, or add Suica to an iPhone before you fly with this guide.
3. Pack for real cold
Winter in most of Japan is genuinely cold, and Tokyo and Kyoto drop close to freezing at night. Indoor heating is strong, so wear layers you can remove. Even spring and autumn evenings can be cool, so check the forecast for your dates rather than assuming it is mild.
4. Tap water is safe to drink
You do not need to buy bottled water. Tap water is safe across Japan, and many stations, parks, and hotels have drinking fountains or refill points. Bring a bottle and save money.
5. No tipping, and service is not negotiable
Tipping is not expected anywhere, and leaving cash on the table can cause confusion. Good service is simply the standard. Shoes come off at many restaurants, temples, and accommodations, so wear socks without holes.
6. Trains are silent and exact
Phone calls on trains are considered rude, and conversations stay quiet. Trains run to the minute, so arriving a few minutes early is enough. Read how not to cause trouble in Japan if you want the full list.
7. Cash still matters
Cards are common in cities, but small restaurants and shrines are still often cash-only. Carry yen and read our cash versus card guide.
8. Check the entry rules before you fly
Thai passport holders can visit Japan visa-free for up to 15 days, and the exemption applies to ICAO-standard ePassports. Note the length: 15 days is much shorter than the 90 days many nationalities get, so plan the trip around it. Immigration and customs declarations can be filed online in advance.
Where to go next
Deciding between cities? Start with Kyoto or Osaka and Hakone versus Nikko. Data-wise, compare eSIMs.
Can I use my Thai charger in Japan?
Often yes, because many Thai sockets take flat pins. Voltage is lower in Japan (100V), so check single-voltage appliances like hair dryers.
Can I use my Rabbit card in Japan?
No. Use a Japanese IC card such as Suica, PASMO, or ICOCA.
Should I tip in Japan?
No. Tipping is not expected and can cause confusion.
