Practical Tips: Navigating Tottori & Beyond
Japan is known for being a conservative and highly organized country. As a foreign traveler, there are a few important things to pay attention to to ensure a smooth trip.
Transportation: Riding the Right Rail
Japan's railway system can be complicated, often having different express lines and normal lines. Always double-check which line you are taking. I highly recommend using Google Maps to verify the exact arrival times.
I booked the Hakuto Express in advance to ensure I got the special Conan-themed coating train. After transferring in Tottori, I knew I arrived when the train arriving at Conan Town began playing the Detective Conan theme song!
Accommodation: The Onsen Stay
Since there aren't many hotel options directly in Conan Town, I chose to stay in Himeji. Make sure you also book the hotel that is close to the station! The hotel was relatively cheap and included two buffets daily (breakfast and dinner). Crucially, it featured a traditional Japanese Onsen (hot spring). Remember to strictly follow Japanese Onsen etiquette when enjoying the bath!
Currency: Cash is King
While e-wallets are widely accepted in many large Japanese cities, it's still essential to carry cash. I recommend bringing around ¥10,000 per day, plus extra for souvenir shopping. Tip: If you need coins for capsule toy machines, there is almost always a bill-to-coin exchange machine nearby.
Language: Basic Communication
Although Japanese is distinct, the use of Kanji (Chinese characters) can sometimes make written language easier to guess for Chinese speakers. I still recommend learning a few basic phrases before your trip.If the conversation is still difficult, a polite nod goes a long way!
