First-Time Travel in Japan: Amazing Discoveries and Experiences in 2024

“First-time travel in Japan was a dream come true for me. From breathtaking shrines to cutting-edge technology, my journey was filled with surprises.”

Hello, my name is Anh, and I work in the BC (Business Communication) team at CodeComplete Solutions. I studied Japanese for four years at the University of Foreign Language Studies in Da Nang in Vietnam, and after graduating, I started working in a Japanese-related job in Da Nang. As someone who has been studying Japanese, visiting Japan has always been a dream for me, but I never had the opportunity to go.

Thanks to a three-month business trip with my company, I had the incredible opportunity to visit Japan and experience countless new things for the first time. This trip was truly an amazing journey for me. I would like to share some things that surprised me during my time in Japan.

1. Everywhere: A Fascinating Sight for First-Time Travelers

It felt like there was a shrine on almost every street in Japan, each offering a unique sense of history and spirituality. I learned that Japan has numerous gods dedicated to different aspects of life, such as those for health, love, and money, which I found fascinating and reflective of the country’s rich cultural traditions.

I visited a shrine near Meiji-Jingumae Station and made sure to look up some basic shrine etiquette beforehand. Learning about customs like the “two bows, two claps, and one bow” ritual added a sense of respect and understanding to the visit. It made the experience feel more meaningful and this allowed me to connect more deeply with the cultural significance of the shrine.

2. Queuing Culture: What to Expect During First-Time Travel in Japan

I was impressed by how people in Japan follow proper queuing etiquette when taking trains or using escalators. On escalators, people stand on the left side, leaving the right side open for those in a hurry. The same orderliness can be seen when people get off escalators. This level of discipline and respect for others left a strong impression on me. 

What stood out to me was the remarkable orderliness not only on escalators but also when people disembark, moving calmly and cooperatively to maintain a smooth flow. This discipline and mutual consideration reflect Japan’s cultural mindset, where individual actions are guided by their impact on the group. Witnessing such small acts of courtesy left a strong impression on me and highlighted how they contribute to a more harmonious society, offering inspiration for other countries.

3. First-Time Travel in Japan: Must-See Smart Restrooms

Japanese restrooms are equipped with an impressive array of features that left me truly amazed. From the ability to adjust the seat temperature, water pressure, and even water temperature, you can adjust them to have comfort and convenience. Moreover, many public restrooms have seats where you can safely place a baby, showcasing thoughtful consideration for users of all needs.

In one shop I visited, everything in the restroom was fully automated, from opening the door to turning on the lights and flushing, so I didn’t have to touch anything. It was incredibly convenient and impressive, reflecting the advanced technology and attention to hygiene in Japan.

4. The use of coins

I was surprised by how often coins are still used in Japan, even in everyday transactions. It gave me the impression that Japan values preserving traditional practices, blending modernity with a respect for its cultural and historical roots.

Especially at convenience stores, I often received a lot of coins as change, and before I knew it, my wallet was overflowing with them. It became quite challenging to use them all, and I quickly realized that having a wallet with a coin compartment was essential.

5. A Time of Celebration and Togetherness

I had the chance to experience Japanese culture during my business trip, where I visited clients’ offices and held in-person meetings. Meeting face-to-face felt much more personal than online and helped strengthen our relationships.

At the office in Japan, the local team was incredibly warm and supportive. They taught me new things, helped me settle in, and even invited me to join them for lunch. Since my visit was at the end of the year, I also had the chance to take part in the year-end party, which was a great experience.

One of the most memorable moments was my birthday. The team surprised me with a party, complete with gifts, cake, and decorations. I was truly touched by their kindness, and it made my time in Japan even more special.

Beyond these experiences, I encountered many other firsts during my time in Japan. This business trip marked a major turning point in my career and became a valuable experience that will contribute to my future growth. I will make the most of what I have learned in Japan and strive to further contribute to our customers.

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