Websites and Apps
Apps we recommend downloading before departing for Japan.
Google Translate
The Google Translate App allows you quick and easy access to translations. The live camera translation in particular will be incredibly valuable to you while you're there for on-the-go text translation.
Download for Apple / Download for Android
Google Maps
Google Maps is incredibly accurate and details for navigating Japan and its public transport system. With the app, you can download routes to use ahead of time offline, and if your internet connection is slow, or drops out, if you’re using the app, it will continue to guide you.
Download for Apple / Download for Android
Smart EX
Smart EX is the official website/app for pre-purchasing bullet train (shinkansen) tickets on the Tokaido, Sanyo and Kyushu Shinkansen lines (JR Cental / JR West / JR Kyushuu owned lines). During busy periods it’s often advised to book your tickets a day or two in advance and this app is the quickest and easiest way to do that without having to detour to a JR Ticket Office and do it in person. You will need to sign up for a free membership, I recommend doing this before you leave for your trip, and will need a Visa, Mastercard, JCB, American Express and Diners Club credit card to link to your account in order to make and pay for reservations. Please note, that many have had a lot of trouble with the App being a little glitchy when linking a credit card, however the website is much more reliable.
Go to the Website / Download the App
Eki Net
Eki Net is the official website for pre-purchasing bullet train (shinkansen) tickets on JR East owned lines During busy periods it’s often advised to book your tickets a day or two in advance and this app is the quickest and easiest way to do that without having to detour to a JR Ticket Office and do it in person. You will need to sign up for a free membership, I recommend doing the before you leave for your trip, and you will need a VIEW CARD, JCB, Visa, Mastercard, American Express, or Diners Club credit card to link to your account in order to make and pay for ticket reservations. Tickets purchased via Eki Net will need to be collected in person when you arrive in Japan. I recommend setting tickets for pick-up at either the JR East Travel Service Center at the airport to collect on arrival, or Tokyo Station to collect before you depart.
Go to the Website
Tabelog
If you'd like something to help you find and choose restaurants, Japans no. 1 restaurant ranking, and review website is Tabelog. Unfortunately, the Australian Play and Apple store doesn’t have this app available to download, but I highly recommend adding a shortcut to your browser. Restaurant reviews are serious business in Japan, so Tabelog is incredibly trustworthy and invaluable in finding hidden gems and the locals favourite places to eat.
View Tabelog in English
My Mizu
If you’re traveling in the warmer months, save yourself some yen and take along your refillable water bottle to refill at water stations found on the My Mizu App.
Download for Apple / Download for Android
Safey Tips
Safety Tips is one that is highly recommended to ensure that you are notified in advance of any incoming natural disasters such as earthquake, typhoon and volcanic activity. It's unlikely, but good to always be prepared.
Download for Apple / Download for Android
Taxi Go
If you think you might like to utilize Taxis while you’re in Japan, I highly recommend downloading the Taxi Go app. It’s a universally available app that allows you to call for a Taxi when needed, or if you link your credit card to the app, reserve a taxi ahead of time for when you need it. This app is especially useful if you’ll be staying at self-contained accommodation without a front desk to call for a Taxi on your behalf, or if you’re going to be needing a Taxi in the early hours of the morning.
Download for Apple / Download for Android
Your Japan Junket Itinerary
For ease of use while you’re away, we recommend adding a quick link to your itinerary on your phones homescreen, you can do this by following the steps below.
Android
Open Google Chrome and go to your itinerary.
Tap the three vertical dots button at the top right corner of the screen.
Select Add to Home screen.
Apple
At the bottom of the Safari browser, find and tap on the share icon on the menu bar (it looks like a box with an up arrow)
From the list of share options, choose Add to Home Screen.
