7 Essential Apps for Travelers in Japan
Traveling through Japan is an incredible adventure, but having a few handy tools can make your journey even smoother. Whether you’re armed with an Apple iOS device or an Android device, there are several apps you should download to enhance your travels.
1) Master Your Trip Planning with Hyperdia
For anyone traveling by train, especially those using a JR Pass, Hyperdia is an indispensable app. This powerful tool allows users to easily check travel times, ticket prices, and train transfer information. Note that Hyperdia requires an active internet connection to function, and JR Pass users must change their settings in the details to avoid surprise chargers.
2) Navigate Japan with Ease Using Maps.Me
Finding your way around a new country can be daunting, but MapsWithMe simplifies things. This app provides detailed maps which users can download ahead of time to be used while offline. This is perfect for travelers in areas with limited service coverage or those seeking to avoid unnecessary data charges.
3) Get Accurate Locations with Google Maps
Google Maps works well in Japan for finding the location of train stations, bus stops, hotels, and restaurants. This is especially helpful as many Japaneses streets and building addresses do not follow the same system as many travelers may be familiar with. Google Maps also provides information regarding which platform trains are located and how many stops are between your destinations on all bus and train routes. Please note that store times listed on Google Maps may not always be accurate or up to date. Surprisingly, Instagram may provide travelers with the most accurate opening hours for shops and restaurants.
4) Hail a Taxi with GO
The GO app offers travelers advance booking on taxis and specialized vehicles. It is especially useful in scheduling a trip to the airport as it offers flat-rate service to both Haneda and Narita Airports in Tokyo. GO also provides arrival alerts, direct messaging, and cashless payments to make you trip as convenient as possible.
For those looking to travel to Central Japan, we are happy to help! Our buses and vehicles are suitable for single travelers, couples, families and groups of up to 45 people. Click the button below to browse some of our popular charters and to inquire directly.
5) Travel Savely with Safety tips
Safety tips provides the latest emergency and disaster information including earthquake warnings, tsunami warnings, and severe weather alerts.
6) Stay Connected with Japan Wi-Fi
This app allows registered users to locate and connect to free Wi-Fi at shops, restaurants, airports, and train stations all across Japan. Japan Wi-Fi will only connect uses to wi-fi that is secure and trustworthy ensuring that users are not connecting to weak or unsafe networks.
7) Simplify Currency Conversions with XE.com
To make currency conversions easier, download the free XE.com app. This handy tool lets you quickly convert Yen to your local currency, helping you keep track of your expenses with ease.
Plan Your Travels Ahead With Snow Monkey Resorts
Based in Central Japan and operating all-year-round, we offer highly entertaining group and private tours of Central Japan and the surrounding areas that are sure to please. All tours are led by locally-based guides and will take you around the must-see sights in the region, as well as some lesser known gems. Our tours are fun, interactive and family-friendly. For more information, or to book a tour, click on the banner to make an inquiry.
