Local Knowledge
Telephone
Dialing Codes
Country code for Japan: +81 Area code for Tokyo: 03 (drop the zero when calling from abroad)
Emergency Numbers
Police: 110 Police in English: +81 (0) 3 3501 0110 (9110 on a touch-tone phone) Ambulance: 119 Fire: 119
Tipping
Tipping is not common practice in Japan. Bills in upscale restaurants and hotels may
include a 10-15% gratuity.
VAT & Taxes
Posted prices include the government's 5% value-added tax (VAT).
Getting Around
Taxis
Taxis are readily available throughout Tokyo. Hail one on the street or find a
taxi stand. If the red sign on the lower left-hand corner of the windshield is
lit, the taxi is available. Carry the address of your destination written in
Japanese, just in case your driver doesn't speak English.
Subway
The subway system (Metro) is clean, safe and efficient. The color-coded routes
crisscross Tokyo. The network is easy to use for an English speaker. Station
names are written in Western characters, and some announcements are in English.
Buy tickets from machines at stations or use a prepaid fare card.
Public Holidays
New Year's Day
January 1
Coming-of-Age Day
Second Monday in January
National Foundation Day
February 11
Vernal Equinox Day
March 20 or 21
Showa Day
April 29
Constitution Memorial Day
May 3
Greenery Day
May 4
Children's Day
May 5
Maritime Day
Third Monday in July
Respect for the Aged Day
Third Monday in September
Autumnal Equinox Day
September 23 or 24
Health Sports Day
Second Monday in October
Culture Day
November 3
Labor Thanksgiving Day
November 23
Emperor's Birthday
December 23
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