Advertisements
Print
SNAP GUIDE

Tokyo: Essentials

Monday, February 13, 2006 |

  • JR East Infoline 011-81-3/3423-0111 Train information in English, Korean, and Chinese

  • International Access Code From U.S. 011; from Japan 001


    • TOKYO SNAP GUIDE
    • Essentials
    • Sleep
    • Ginza, Yurakucho, and environs
    • Harajuku and Aoyama
    • Shibuya, Daikanyama, Ebisu
    • Shinjuku and environs
    • Ueno, Asakusa, Yanaka
    SNAP GUIDES
    • Snap Guide: Buenos Aires
    • Snap Guide: Cape Town
    • Snap Guide: London
    • Snap Guide: Los Angeles
    • Snap Guide: Miami
    • Snap Guide: New York City
    • Snap Guide: Paris
    • Snap Guide: Rome
    • Snap Guide: Tokyo
    • More Snap Guides

  • City Code 03

    • Note: When dialing from abroad, drop the 0 in the city code in the Japanese number, e.g. from U.S.: 011-81-3/3761-1100

  • Pay phones take 10- and 100-yen coins. (Note: If you use a 100-yen coin, you won't get change back.)

  • Some phones only take calling cards, which you can purchase from vending machines and at most convenience stores. To use, insert the card in the slot and begin dialing. For international calls, there's the popular KDDI Super World Card, also available at most convenience stores.

  • Within Tokyo, start dialing without the city code 03; e.g., 3501-0110.

  • For example: If you want to call A Bathing Ape (p. 5) from a pay phone in Shinjuku, pick up the receiver, insert coins or a calling card, and dial 3407-2145.

    • USEFUL WORDS

    Conbini General term for convenience store (Lawson, Family Mart, etc.--most are open 24 hours and are licensed to sell alcohol).

    Futon Thin mattress. Unlike a western futon, there is no wooden frame; the mattress is folded up when not in use.

    Onsen Hot spring

    Ryokan Traditional Japanese inn; guests use futons rolled out on tatami mats on the floor. Baths are usually communal.

    Shoji Wood and paper screens used as room dividers

    Tatami Traditional reed mat

    Yukata Light cotton robe provided in ryokans and onsens. A thicker, more stylish variety is worn outside at summer festivals.

    TIP: Finding addresses can be difficult in Tokyo because most streets don't have names. The locals get around by using landmarks and by asking directions. Ask the concierge at your hotel to direct you. And be sure to get a card with a map of your hotel from the front desk to make sure that you can find your way back again.

    Note: This story was accurate when it was published. Please be sure to confirm all rates and details directly with the companies in question before planning your trip.

    Print