Visitors should notice the plethora of robots and cashless payment options, while mask-wearing persists
Visitors outside the Kumamoto Castle in Kumamoto.Picture: BLOOMBERG/SOICHIRO KORIYAMA
A few things have changed, for better or for worse. Here’s a list compiled by Bloomberg Tokyo’s newsroom on what to expect:Shibuya — famous for its huge crossing, Hachiko statue and plethora of shops — has seen some big changes over the past few years. Once known for underground clothing brands, graffiti and night clubs, the enclave has seen four megaskyscrapers open in the past four years: Scramble Square, Fukuras, Stream and the rebuilt Parco.
Many attractions now require online ticket reservations, getting rid of the snaking queues often seen before the pandemic. This includes Tokyo Disney Resort and the National Museum of Nature and Science, so plan accordingly and do not assume you can buy tickets on the spot. Going maskless may attract unwanted attention. A huge variety of disposable masks are available at pharmacies and convenience stores. Expect to be asked to disinfect your hands and have your temperature taken on entering many restaurants and other businesses, as well. You’ll also see gadgets informing you of air quality indoors, and in taxis.Hailing a taxi used to be a big challenge in Japan.
Almost all restaurants and shops accept credit cards, as well as contactless payments. QR-code based payments systems have also proliferated, including Japan’s PayPay. In fact, one new problem is that there can sometimes be too many options. We recommend getting hold of transit cards such as Suica and Pasmo; recharge them with cash or a credit card. They can be used countrywide to pay for trains, taxi rides and quick purchases at convenience stores.
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