Must-have apps for life and travel in Japan
Must-have apps for life and travel in Japan
Google Lens + Offline Dictionary: Let your phone read signs, labels, menus and more!
Back in the olden days (The 90s and early 2000s), memorizing kanji on appliance buttons and carrying an actual dictionary was the only feasible option for using home goods, an ATM, automated toilet, ordering food from a menu, or buying medicine without facing dire consequences.
Today, Google Lens (which includes OCR or “optical character recognition” meaning it can read text from photos or images) and a DOWNLOADED Japanese to English Google dictionary (so you don’t need any internet or cellular connection to use it) will read machine user panels, cosmetics and food labels, and just about anything else you need turned into a language more familiar to you.
First, get your Lens on:
Google Lens:
- Android: Pre-installed on most devices.
- iPhone: Download from the App Store.
Japanese-English Dictionary (Offline):
- Android:Download Google Translate app, open Settings > Offline translation > Download languages > Japanese.
- iPhone:Download Google Translate app, open Settings > Offline translation > Manage downloaded languages > Download Japanese.
How to Use Google Lens for Offline Translations:
- Open Google Lens: On Android, long-press the Home button or swipe diagonally up from the bottom corner (may differ based on model). On iPhone, open the Google Lens app.
- Point & Capture:Focus your camera on the Kanji text you want to translate and either take a photo or do it live.
- Tap the Text Overlay:Google Lens will automatically recognize the text and display an English translation above it.
- Optional:For deeper understanding, tap the translated text. This will open the Google Translate app with the Japanese text and additional options like dictionary definitions and sentence context.
Original Package
Google Lens Result
Navigating Japan: Essential Transportation Apps for Visitors and Students
Getting around Japan's intricate web of trains, buses, and taxis can be daunting, but fret not! Several fantastic apps will turn you into a navigation pro, whether you're a short-term visitor or a seasoned exchange student. Here's a breakdown of two popular options:
1. Online Apps:
- HyperDia/Japan Transit Planner (by Jorudan): This app reigns supreme for comprehensive route planning. It covers trains, buses, subways, and even ferries, displaying real-time schedules, platform changes, and estimated fares. The interface is intuitive, with English support and filter options for JR Pass compatibility. Think of it as your ultimate itinerary builder!
- Google Maps: A familiar face, Google Maps remains a reliable companion. Its strength lies in its user-friendly interface, live traffic updates, and integration with walking/cycling directions. While not as detailed as HyperDia for public transport, it excels for exploring local streets and finding nearby points of interest.
Bonus:
- NAVITIME Japan Travel: Combines route planning with travel guides and recommendations for attractions, restaurants, and shops along your journey. Perfect for combining travel planning with sightseeing inspiration.
- Citymapper:Offers real-time public transport info with a clean, map-centric interface. Great for quick navigation and visualizing your route.
2. Offline Navigation:
- Google Maps (Offline Mode): Download offline maps of areas you'll be visiting for internet-free navigation. While real-time updates won't be available, you'll still have access to saved routes, points of interest, and basic directions.
- Maps.me: This offline map app boasts detailed coverage of Japan, including hiking trails and rural areas. Download specific regions before your trip and enjoy worry-free exploration even without data.
Remember:
- Download apps and offline maps before leaving your home country to avoid roaming charges.
- Familiarize yourself with app interfaces before your trip.
- Carry a portable charger to keep your navigation buddy powered up.
Find the best local meals, reserve restaurants, find vegan options and more! Japan foodie apps
1. Gurunavi:
- What it's for: Renowned as Japan's largest gourmet guide, Gurunavi boasts a massive database of restaurants across all kinds of cuisines and budgets.
- Features: Advanced search filters by location, price range, dish type, and even specific ingredients. Browse menus with photos, read user reviews, and score exclusive deals and coupons. Gurunavi's user-friendly interface and English support make it ideal for visitors.
2. Hotpepper Gourmet:
- What it's for: Foodies seeking trendy restaurants and hidden gems flock to Hotpepper Gourmet. Discover up-and-coming eateries, browse seasonal menus, and snag limited-time reservations.
- Features: Curated restaurant recommendations by category and local experts. Score points with every reservation and redeem them for rewards. Hotpepper Gourmet caters to a younger demographic and adventurous palates.
Hotpepper Gourmet (not available in English)
3. Tabelog:
- What it's for: Considered the "Michelin Guide of Japan," Tabelog offers a trusted rating system based on user reviews and professional critiques. Foodies seeking exceptional dining experiences swear by it.
- Features: Detailed restaurant profiles with high-quality photos, user reviews, and professional evaluations. Discover top-rated eateries in various categories and areas. Tabelog's interface is mainly in Japanese, but its star rating system speaks volumes.
Bonus for Vegans:
HappyCow:
- What it's for: Finding vegan-friendly options in Japan is no sweat with HappyCow. This global app features a comprehensive directory of vegetarian and vegan restaurants, cafes, and shops.
- Features: Search by location, cuisine type, and dietary restrictions. Read user reviews, view photos, and access restaurant websites. HappyCow is a lifesaver for vegans exploring Japan's culinary scene.
Remember:
- Download these apps before your trip to avoid data roaming charges.
- Utilize search filters and recommendations to tailor your foodie adventures.
- Don't be afraid to step outside your comfort zone and try new dishes!
Other Apps for Making Life in Japan Easier
Communication & Language:
- LINE: Japan's dominant messaging app, essential for staying connected with locals and businesses. Offers group chats, voice calls, and even sticker fun.
- Google Translate: Your trusty interpreter, translating text and speech in real-time. Download offline language packs for areas with limited internet access.
- HelloTalk/Tandem: Language exchange apps connecting you with native speakers for practicing Japanese and learning about the culture firsthand.
Daily Life & Services:
- PayPay/Line Pay/Rakuten Pay: Embrace Japan's cashless society with these popular QR code payment apps. Widely accepted at stores and restaurants.
- Japan Official Travel App: Your official tourist companion, offering travel information, maps, attractions, and cultural insights. English-friendly and comprehensive.
Bonus:
- Citymapper: Real-time public transport info with a clean map-centric interface, great for quick navigation.
- Maps.me: Download detailed offline maps for worry-free exploration, especially in rural areas.
- NHK Easy Japanese News: Improve your Japanese comprehension with simplified news articles and audio recordings.
