Is This Trip Right for You?
Is this trip right for you?
Discover Corps wants our travelers to be as prepared as possible and choose the trip that will maximize enjoyment. Please read the points below thoroughly to see if this trip is right for you. Reach out to the Travel Coordinator, Colette, for any additional clarification or questions at Colette@discovercorps.com.
Pace: Discover Corps wants to make sure you get the most out of your trip with us. Therefore, each day is packed with activities. There will be a lot of walking each day, most of it will be on flat surfaces but keep in mind it may be much more walking than you are used to in your normal day to day.
Crowds: Japan has surged in popularity recently, hitting new records in 2024! This means large crowds in a very small country. The Japanese are very considerate so please be mindful when navigating through crowds.
Weather: Japan can get HOT in the summer months! You might think to yourself, well I am from Florida so I am used to it, but keep in mind that you will be outside most of the time, walking around and using public transportation. Air conditioning is not as commonly used as in the United States. It can also be extremely rainy so please be sure to bring a rain jacket.
Food: Expect smaller portions that emphasize quality. Look forward to a culinary journey that honors cultural traditions and offers a diverse array of flavors and textures. Japanese restaurants typically specialize in meals featuring rice, seafood, seasonal vegetables, ramen, tempura, and other local specialties.
Food Allergies and Intolerances: The two most common ingredients in Japanese food that can cause potential issues are dashi (cooking broth commonly made with fish) and shoyu (soy sauce made with wheat.) Be aware that because ingredients such as dashi and soy sauce are fundamental to so much of Japanese cuisine, not all restaurants or ryokans are able to alter their menus to fully exclude them. Restaurants commonly require reservations in advance especially if there are dietary restrictions. The restaurant will then plan the menu in advance to accommodate. Please feel free to contact us for more details or questions about your specific needs.
Social Etiquette: Etiquette is highly valued in Japan. You will notice Japan is very orderly, there is respect for the rules and consideration of others. As visitors, Discover Corps believes it is our responsibility to be aware of how we impact the communities we visit. Please see these tips for etiquette in Japan and feel free to research on your own as well!
You will not see garbage bins out in public. It is expected that you hold onto your garbage until you are able to dispose of it properly and to never litter.
It is considered impolite to eat, drink, speak loudly or use your device’s speaker on public transportation or in congested areas.
Do not block walkways, crowded areas, or escalators especially if you have luggage, please stand to one side to allow others to pass.
There is no jaywalking; wait for the crosswalk to indicate it is safe for you to cross.
When handing cash to someone for payment, there will be a dish to place the cash instead of directly into the teller’s hand.
Helpful hints:
Always carry a pair of clean socks with you for when you are expected to remove your shoes inside.
Bidets are most common in Japan but most restrooms should still have toilet paper. However, most public restrooms utilize hand dryers and will not have paper towels to dry your hands.
Tattoos are generally not permitted in hot springs, public bathhouses, swimming pools, or gyms. However, there are some exceptions depending on the type of establishment and the individual owner. For the onsen experience, there are tattoo cover ups that can be provided.