Japan Guide 
Living in Japan becomes much easier when you have the right apps on your phone. From trains and translations to payments and emergencies, these apps help you save time, reduce stress, and avoid common mistakes.
Below is a carefully selected list of essential apps for foreigners in Japan, with clear explanations and direct links.
1. Google Maps (Navigation & Daily Life)
Why you need it
Google Maps works extremely well in Japan. It shows:
- Train routes and transfers
- Platform numbers
- Walking directions
- Bus schedules
It’s reliable in both big cities and rural areas.
Best for
- Daily commuting
- Finding restaurants and shops
- Planning trips
2. Google Translate (Language Support)
Why you need it
Even basic Japanese can be challenging at first. Google Translate helps with:
- Menu translation (camera mode)
- Signs and notices
- Simple conversations
Offline language packs are very useful.
Best for
- Beginners
- Daily survival situations
🔗 https://translate.google.com/
3. Japan Official Travel App (Transport & Travel)
Why you need it
This app provides:
- Train and bus routes
- Delay information
- Tourist-friendly navigation
It’s especially useful if you travel between cities.
Best for
- Long-distance travel
- New residents and visitors
🔗 https://www.japan.travel/en/app/
4. LINE (Messaging & Social Life)
Why you need it
LINE is the most widely used messaging app in Japan. People use it for:
- Personal chats
- Work communication
- Group messages
Many shops and services also use LINE for updates.
Best for
- Staying connected
- Daily communication
5. PayPay (Cashless Payments)
Why you need it
Japan still uses cash, but cashless payments are growing fast. PayPay is accepted in:
- Convenience stores
- Restaurants
- Supermarkets
- Online shops
Best for
- Daily payments
- Discounts and campaigns
6. Suica / PASMO (Transport & Small Payments)
Why you need it
These IC cards work for:
- Trains and buses
- Vending machines
- Convenience stores
You can add them to your smartphone wallet.
Best for
- Daily commuting
- Quick payments
🔗 https://www.jreast.co.jp/multi/en/suica/
🔗 https://www.pasmo.co.jp/visitors/en/
7. NHK World Japan (News & Emergency Alerts)
Why you need it
This app provides:
- News in English
- Earthquake alerts
- Weather warnings
Very important for safety and staying informed.
Best for
- Emergencies
- Understanding local news
🔗 https://www3.nhk.or.jp/nhkworld/en/app/
8. Mercari (Buying & Selling Items)
Why you need it
Mercari lets you:
- Buy second-hand items
- Sell things you don’t need
Great for saving money when setting up your life.
Best for
- Furniture
- Clothes
- Electronics
9. Gurunavi / Tabelog (Food & Restaurants)
Why you need it
These apps help you:
- Find restaurants
- Check menus and reviews
- Make reservations
Some menus are available in English.
Best for
- Eating out
- Discovering local food
10. Hello Talk (Language Exchange)
Why you need it
Hello Talk connects you with Japanese speakers who want to learn your language.
Best for
- Practicing Japanese
- Making friends
- Cultural exchange
Optional but Useful Apps
- Uber Japan – Limited areas but useful https://www.uber.com/jp/en/
- Amazon Japan – Online shopping https://www.amazon.co.jp/
- Yahoo! Weather Japan – Detailed weather updates https://weather.yahoo.co.jp/
Tips for Using Apps in Japan
- Set your phone region to Japan
- Enable notifications for transport and emergency apps
- Download offline maps and translation packs
- Keep backup payment methods (cash is still important)
Final Thoughts
The right apps can make life in Japan smoother, safer, and more enjoyable. Install these early, and you’ll avoid many common frustrations that newcomers face.
Technology is one of the biggest advantages of living in Japan. Use it well.