Real-world tips, easier planning, and better experiences for life-experienced travelers exploring Japan.
Tips, stories, and inspiration to help you experience Japan deeper – from must-visit destinations to cultural insights and local eats, Backpacks and Chopsticks is along for your journey as your Japan travel companion.
Smart, practical advice for traveling Japan after 50. Learn how to plan, navigate, and experience Japan comfortably while avoiding common mistakes and unnecessary stress.
Explore Japanese food culture through authentic dining experiences, regional specialties, street food, and practical tips for ordering, etiquette, and discovering unforgettable meals across Japan.
Learn about Japanese culture, traditions, and etiquette to help you travel with confidence, respect local customs, and better understand everyday life in Japan.
Discover must-see destinations and hidden gems across Japan, from iconic landmarks and historic temples to off-the-beaten-path locations worth exploring.
Plan your perfect Japan adventure with practical planning guides, budgeting tools, itinerary resources, and expert tips to make every step of your journey easier.
For several years, we’ve felt there was a community of people who, although aging, still want to travel in a way that doesn’t include tour buses or cruise ships. People who still see travel as adventure and exploration. We felt a need to have a place to share the tips and tricks we have learned that help keep us enjoying the life we love.
If you have an interest in Japanese travel, all the better as much of this content is devoted to traveling Japan, Japanese food, and experiences.
On my first trip to Japan, I spent one day in Tokyo. I had two things on my list, the first was to bath in the neon of Shibuya, the second was to eat some of the best street food in the world at the famous Tsukiji fish market. The dish pictured was one of the best things I have ever eaten. Tuna, scallop, crab, and a big scoop of sea urchin on top.
Rules matter. Even late at night, when the streets are empty, locals will still wait for the crosswalk light to change.
There are WOMEN ONLY cars in the Subway. Check the decals showing where to cue for the cars, as they will be marked as such.
Beverage cans in Japan are stamped in braille for the visually impaired.
Carry a handkerchief. Many restrooms don’t have paper towels or air dryers. This includes Narita and Haneda airport restrooms.
When riding an escalator in Tokyo, stand on the LEFT side, allow those climbing the stairs to pass on the right.
When riding an escalator in Osaka, stand on the RIGHT, allowing those climbing the stairs to pass on the left.
Pack a couple of plastic shopping bags in your luggage. It’s good to have one with you, as trash cans are hard to find. PRO TIP – convivence stores will always have a waste can.
In Tokyo, pedestrian crossings use different tones, depending up on the direction of the street.
Plan Your Trip section = JR Pass calculator for email capture.
Ask yourself this – WHY do you want to travel to Japan?
There are many, many reasons to visit Japan. It’s important to know what your “why” is so we can get you to your “where”.
This FREE Pre-trip questionnaire allows you to put your expectations and desires in writing so we can get you to where you need to be! Simply provide your email and the Pre-Trip Questionnaire is yours – for FREE!
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Headline:
Japan Travel for People Who Still Want Adventure… Just Smarter
Built for travelers 50+ navigating Japan with confidence
Real experiences. No fluff. No overwhelm.
Less rushing. Better experiences. Smarter travel.