Tips for Navigating Tokyo

One of people’s biggest fears is getting lost in a foreign city. Unfortunately, this fear can keep us from traveling the world and may keep us from enjoying the 2020 Summer Olympics in Tokyo. Lucky for you, I have some tips for navigating Tokyo’s streets like a pro, even without your Jarvisen Translator to help with communication.

Don’t Freak Out

When you’re in an unfamiliar place and feel like you’re lost, it’s easy to freak out and panic. This is one of the worst things you can do. Freaking out can make you miss obvious signs and can ruin a culture for you.

In the event that you find yourself lost, just take a deep breath and look around slowly. Most of the streets in Tokyo have signs that are actually in English, which makes being lost in a foreign country a lot more manageable.

Don’t Be Afraid to Ask For Directions

If you’re anything like my dad, you hate asking for directions. This has actually gotten us lost more times than not, which just goes to show how important it is to ask! You may be wondering how it could be easier to ask someone who doesn’t speak your language for directions than soldiering through on your own…

The answer is simple: have your translator handy! Japanese is a very complex language that isn’t anything like English, so guessing what someone has told you isn’t really full-proof. But, if you have your trusty Jarvisen translator by your side, asking for directions is as easy as the ABCs!

Using a Map Does Not Mean Giving Up

I am one of those people that hates using maps. I would much rather use someone’s verbal directions than let Google Maps work for me. Unfortunately, this has led to the weirdest detours on record, and I would not recommend it.

When you need to get from Point A to Point B in Tokyo, just remember that using a good old-fashioned paper map or using Google or Apple Maps will be far more helpful than going off of your gut (especially for finding a place you’ve never been to before!)

Bottom Line

Navigating in a foreign country can be scary, especially if you’re afraid of getting lost. To avoid ruining your trip to Tokyo for the Olympics, remember: don’t freak out, don’t be afraid to ask for directions, and using a map does not mean giving up. Oh, and having your Jarvisen Translator can make any situation abroad, even being lost, easier!