Illustration: Tokyo, the capital of Japan. (Image via The Japan Times)

Hanging out in Tokyo? Here are some tips for you

Visiting Japan is in everyone’s bucket list, especially its capital, Tokyo. There are quite a handful of events happening in Tokyo such as the upcoming Rugby World Cup, 2020 Summer Olympics, and more. Let alone these events, Tokyo offers luxury and entertainment for those who seek it.

While being recognized as the safest country in the world, it is better to keep your guards up. Here in this article, we provided some tips for you to stay safe while still getting wild in Tokyo.

First, as we said earlier, despite its status as the safest country in the world, crime lurks when there is even the slightest opportunity. We are talking about gropers and purse-snatchers. Groping often happens in Japan such as inside a crowded train ride. Therefore, there is a stamp provided in the Japanese stationery stores to help you mark the perpetrator. Or else, you might call out the perpetrator and let the Japanese people do their thing by shouting “chikan!” which means “groper!”

How about purse-snatchers? They are always after your purse when you are letting your guard down. So, the most basic advice is to keep your purse close to you. At best, keep your purse in front of you because more often than not, these snatchers use motorcycles to quickly snatch your purse. Always bring your passport, necessary medicines, and extra cash, and make sure that your phone is fully charged.

Second things second, do research on what to do and what not to do. There are beautiful places in Japan, and our Instagram-sense might want to share it with the world. However, do keep in mind that not all of these places permit you to do this, or you will face the laws.

While you are visiting restaurants, izakayas, or bars, make sure you have googled up whether these places have “hidden fees” that charge you for seating or even entering them. And, don’t forget to seek the proper dress codes for these occasions. When you are visiting these lavish places, keep in mind that the Japanese culture does not accept any “tipping”, so do not think about giving tips.

While some places permit every attire, some need you to properly dress. While this dress rule seems simple, note than you might encounter street harassment on your way, and even when the police help you, they might want you to pay more attention to what you are wearing as it might seem seductive.

When you are partying too hard, and you miss the last train, what to do? Well, you should crash at somewhere to spend the night until the sun rises. We can offer you some places such as capsule hotels, net café, or even the infamous “love hotel” for those who seek slumber before catching the train.

After following all of this advice, what if you get into trouble such as missing your purse or wanting to inform a groper? You can go to the nearest koban or police box. Usually, they offer an English interpreter for you. For more serious occasions, you can ring 110 for police and 119 for an ambulance, and they have multiple language lines.

Source: https://savvytokyo.com/10-things-you-should-know-when-going-out-in-tokyo/