Recommended Apps for Traveling in Japan 👾

Traveling to Japan can raise quite a few questions and concerns - how will we manage? What if we don’t understand the language? How do we get from place to place?

Luckily, we live in a modern world, and there are plenty of tech tools that can upgrade your experience and ease those worries.

Most of the apps listed here require a stable internet connection. You can read more about data plans and connectivity here.

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1. Google Maps

Google does an excellent job when it comes to train schedules and detailed navigation - both inside stations and outside. The app works great all across Japan, including in more remote areas, and is without a doubt a must-have for any traveler.

Download for iPhone | Download for Android

2. Google Translate

English in Japan isn’t always great, and in some places menus or explanations may not be available in English. No worries - Google has you covered with a great free app. The most useful (and coolest) feature is the camera translation - just point your camera at text (like a restaurant menu), and it will translate it in real time into your chosen language. It’s pretty amazing and highly recommended.

Download for iPhone | Download for Android

3. Airalo

An app that allows you to download data plans for devices that support eSIM.

You can read more about connectivity and SIM cards here.

Download for iPhone | Download for Android

4. Wolt

Yes, it’s not a mistake - Wolt exists in Japan (mainly in Tokyo). Don’t expect top-tier Japanese food; it’s mostly useful in edge cases, like when it’s late, everything is closed, you’re hungry, and a quick McDonald’s order does the job.

Download for iPhone | Download for Android

5. Amazon

Not many people know this, but Amazon operates in Japan. You can often find great deals, sometimes cheaper than in physical stores. And delivery? Same day or next day.

Download for iPhone | Download for Android

6. HappyCow

A very useful app for finding vegetarian and vegan options. It’s no secret that Japan can be challenging when it comes to vegetarian and vegan food - HappyCow can definitely help you find good options. For more on vegetarian and vegan travel in Japan, click here.

Download for iPhone | Download for Android

7. Tabelog

Probably the most popular platform in Japan for restaurant reviews and reservations.

There is an app, but it’s only available in Japanese. You can use the website instead, switch to English, and continue from there. It’s recommended to check out the guide I wrote on how to book restaurants in Japan.

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*Data plans are usually limited, so it’s recommended to download these apps before your trip or while connected to your hotel’s Wi-Fi.