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== I'm worried about... == | |||
=== the language barrier === | |||
* Most train stations have English signage and announcements. Major stations like Tokyo, Shibuya, and Shin-Osaka have English-speaking staff at information counters | |||
* Google Translate's camera feature works well for reading menus and signs | |||
* Japanese staff who don't speak English generally try their best to accommodate language barriers, and are often the first to pull out a translation app if you don't have one up | |||
* In tourist areas, restaurants commonly have English menus or picture menus. You can point to what you want to order | |||
* Hotels in major cities usually have English-speaking staff at the front desk | |||
== How to... == | == How to... == | ||
=== Prepare to leave === | === Prepare to leave === | ||
* Set up an Amazon.co.jp account to be able to order things in Japan. Phone number verification is required to do so, non-Japanese phone numbers work, but you may or may not be able to receive texts in Japan, and if it does, it may be inconsistent | * Set up an [https://www.amazon.co.jp/ Amazon.co.jp] account to be able to order things in Japan. Phone number verification is required to do so, non-Japanese phone numbers work, but you may or may not be able to receive texts in Japan, and if it does, it may be inconsistent | ||
* Modify 2FA settings for any critical services (such as finance or airbnb) to avoid relying on phone numbers | * Modify 2FA settings for any critical services (such as finance or airbnb) to avoid relying on phone numbers | ||
** If you're eligible, register a Google Voice number to replace your domestic phone number | ** If you're eligible, register a Google Voice number to replace your domestic phone number | ||
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=== Find a place to stay === | === Find a place to stay === | ||
* Avoid rooms where smoking is permitted | * Avoid rooms where smoking is permitted | ||
* Book a '''minimum''' of 14 days ahead | * Book a '''minimum''' of 14 days ahead | ||
* APA Hotel is a bad experience and more expensive. but when booking late, it is sometimes the only option close to the city center. | * APA Hotel is a bad experience and more expensive. but when booking late, it is sometimes the only option close to the city center. | ||
==== Check out ==== | ==== Check out ==== |