Our suggestion is to bring half the clothing and twice the money for an enjoyable vacation. Just kidding ! Packing light enhances mobility and ease of navigation in Japan, particularly when using public transportation systems like trains and buses that are not designed for large luggage. Handling fewer belongings results in a more comfortable and less stressful travel experience, allowing for greater mobility, quicker transitions from one place to another, and reduced overall physical strain during travel. When required, we suggest using convenient Japanese delivery companies that will forward your luggage to your next destination. See Luggage section of our 50+ exclusive Trusted Travel Tips, a value-added feature for our paid tour clientele.

Please note that the medical suggestions or comments provided below by DIY City Tours are intended for general informational purposes only and should not be considered as formal medical advice. If you are a foreign traveler in Japan and do not speak Japanese, it is crucial to understand that language barriers and cultural differences may impact the interpretation and understanding of your medical condition. This content does not establish a doctor-patient relationship, and the provider of this information will not be held liable for any outcomes resulting from the use of this information. Always consult with a licensed healthcare professional for diagnosis, treatment, and answers to your medical questions. Health Insurance To avoid unexpected medical expenses while in Japan, it's advisable for foreign travelers to have travel health insurance that covers such eventualities. Tourist Medical Providers For any medical emergencies or specific health concerns, it is advised to contact local emergency services or visit a medical facility immediately. The following facilities provide a range of medical services and have English-speaking staff to assist foreign patients in Fukuoka: 1. Tojinmachi International Clinic (English) Ronald Schlemper, MDPhone: 092-717-1000 (For Appointments, English OK) Open, Monday, Tuesday, Thursday, Friday and 12 Day Saturday. Check website for holidays.Comments: Very popular clinic among English speaking expats. Specialty: General Internal Medicine, Gastroenterology, Respiratory Diseases, Cardiology, Diabetes and Thyroid Diseases, Oncology, Pediatrics, Dermatology, Allergies; Eyes; Ears, Nose, & Throat, Gynecology and Obstetrics, Immunizations, Annual Medical Checkups Address in English: 1-4-6 Jigyo, Chuo-ku, Fukuoka-shi, 810-0064, Address in Japanese: 福岡市中央区事業1-4-6 5 minutes from the Tenjin Subway Station, board any subway heading toward Meinohama, Nishijin or Karatsu. Get off at the Tojinmachi Station, go to Exit #1, walk up the stairs and continue in the same direction for 2 short blocks. The Clinic is on the same side of the street as the subway exit. 2. Fukuoka Sanno Hospital (English) Specialty: Large Hospital, General medical services Appointments: 092-407-1133, Outpatient Hours: Monday - Saturday, 9:00 am to 1:00 pm／2:00 pm to 5:00 pm Address in English: 13-1 Yoshizuka-honmachi, Hakata-ku, Fukuoka-shi, Fukuoka, 812-0046 Address in Japanese: 福岡市博多区吉塚本町13-1 3. Fukuoka University Hospital (English) (scroll down to bottom of page for location, directions, hours, contact) Specialty: Large Hospital, General medical services Appointments: 092-801-1011 Address in English: 7-45-1 Nanakuma, Jonan-ku, Fukuoka-shi, Fukuoka, 814-0180 Address in Japanese: 福岡市城南区七隈7丁目45-1 Ambulance Services Comment: Communicating in English with an ambulance operator in Fukuoka can be difficult. Some tourists find it more convenient to take a taxi to one of the aforementioned hospitals or clinics when seeking medical care. However, keep in mind that not all these facilities offer 24-hour emergency services. If you're staying at a hotel, consider asking the front desk staff for assistance in arranging transportation for medical help to a specific facility. In Fukuoka, as in the rest of Japan, ambulance services are provided free of charge to everyone, including foreign travelers. This means you won't have to pay for the ambulance ride itself. However, any medical care provided by paramedics during the transport may incur a fee, especially if you do not have Japanese health insurance. Typically, these charges are modest, usually under $75 USD. It's important for foreign travelers to be aware that while the ambulance service is free, any specific medical services received during the ride could be chargeable. To call an ambulance in Fukuoka, follow these steps: 1. Dial 119: This is the emergency number for ambulance and fire services in Japan. 2. Communicate Clearly: Even though the operator may primarily speak Japanese, clearly state your emergency. Use simple Japanese phrases like “Kyu-kyuu-desu” (I need an ambulance) if possible. 3. Provide Location and Details: Give a clear description of your location and any important details about the emergency. If you don’t know the exact address, describe nearby landmarks or major locations. 4. Use English if Necessary: If you cannot communicate in Japanese, try to speak slowly and clearly in English. Some operators may have limited English proficiency, and they might transfer you to an English-speaking operator or use a third-party translation service. 5. Stay on the Line: Do not hang up until you are sure the operator has all the necessary information about your location and the nature of the emergency. 6. Seek Help Locally: If possible, ask a local or someone nearby who speaks Japanese to assist with the call. This can facilitate better communication and ensure that the emergency services are dispatched promptly and accurately. 7. Use Interpretation Services if Available: In some cities like Fukuoka, emergency services might offer access to telephone interpretation services. You can request an interpreter if one is available.

GO Taxi App For iPhone & Android phones and downloadable from their app stores. GO is the leading taxi booking app in Japan, serving 45 out of 47 prefectures, including major tourist destinations like Fukuoka. The app accounts for 80% of the total time spent on taxi apps in Japan, making it the most popular choice among users. Compared to other taxi apps like Uber and DiDi, GO stands out due to its extensive adoption and integration within the local taxi infrastructure in Fukuoka and other regions. The app also supports usage with non-Japanese mobile numbers, making it more accessible for international travelers. Overall, GO offers a comprehensive and widely accepted option for taxi services in Japan, particularly for those seeking a seamless and integrated service experience. Key features of the GO app include: • Easy taxi hailing: No need to wait on the side of the road; simply use the app to hail the nearest taxi and provides a fare estimate before you confirm the booking. • Advance destination setting: Set your destination ahead of time in English in the GO app which eliminates communication barriers with the driver. • Cashless payment with GO Pay: Pay for your ride automatically using your credit card in the app. • Stress-free experience: The app offers a seamless experience from hailing to payment. • Best taxi selection: Choose the type of taxi that best suits your needs. • GO PREMIUM: Request a luxury van with seating for up to six people in Fukuoka. • Reservation service: Schedule a taxi up to 7 days in advance. • Confirmation number: Ensure you're getting into the right taxi by providing the driver with your confirmation number. • No Tipping. In Japan, tipping taxi drivers is not practiced, unlike in many Western countries where it is expected. When I first arrived in Japan, I tried to tip a taxi driver, but he firmly refused and seemed offended by the offer. This experience highlighted the cultural difference regarding tipping between Japan and Western societies. Uber Taxi App For iPhone & Android phones and downloadable from their app stores. • Users pay for their rides upon arrival at the destination using various payment methods, including credit cards and PayPal. The Uber app will provide an estimated cost of the trip at time of booking. • No Tipping. In Japan, tipping taxi drivers is not practiced, unlike in many Western countries where it is expected. When I first arrived in Japan, I tried to tip a taxi driver, but he firmly refused and seemed offended by the offer. This experience highlighted the cultural difference regarding tipping between Japan and Western societies. • The pricing for Uber's taxi service in Fukuoka is competitive with local taxi rates. The Uber app will provide an estimated cost of the fare. The fare structure typically includes a base fare plus charges based on the distance traveled and time taken. For example, standard taxi fares in Japan start at around ¥580 for the first kilometer, with additional costs per kilometer thereafter. Uber may add a surcharge to these rates when booking through the app. • Uber's taxi service is available 24/7 in Fukuoka, making it a reliable option for transportation at any time of the day. This service is not only limited to Fukuoka City but also extends to parts of Itoshima City. • Uber in Fukuoka offers standard taxi services, which are operated by local taxi drivers. These taxis can accommodate up to four passengers, making them suitable for individual riders or small groups. Additionally, Uber provides efficient airport transfer services in the area. • Your Uber will most likely have an Uber branding logo on the side of the vehicle. Look for it if you are waiting for the taxi to arrive for pickup. • The app allows users to view driver profiles and share trip details with friends or family for added security. • Uber provides in-app support to assist users with any issues during their trips, including help with lost items.

To fully access all of our 50+ Trusted Travel Tips, we invite you to purchase our affordable DIY Tours. As a tour participant, you'll not only gain access to all 50+ travel tips, but also exclusive Fukuoka discounts and 10 complimentary DIY tours that companies may charge for. These value-added benefits are our way expressing our gratitude for your purchase and of ensuring you make the most of your Fukuoka adventure.

Tip: Both Haneda and Narita Airports offer a range of amenities, but Haneda's newer facilities, including the Edo-style decor and a variety of dining and shopping options, provide a more pleasant and convenient experience upon arrival or while waiting for your flight. If you have a late arrival or an early departure, consider the on-site hotels at Haneda for ease of access.