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Must-Have Mobile Apps When Traveling in Japan

Young women, looking down at thier phone smiling as ther Journey Japan eSIM is connected.

Posted on

Jul 11, 2025

5 min

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Kali

Must-Have Apps for Japan: Our Top Japan Travel Apps

For some of you, you've booked your flight to Japan and might be arriving here very soon. Having the Best apps for traveling Japan is on your to-do list, but between figuring out what to pack, itinerary planning, and and even preparing enough yen for your trip, you've barely had enough time.

We know there’s a lot to juggle, and the last thing you need to worry about is how to navigate through Japan's rail system, translate a menu, or even figure out direction while exploring different areas. So, that is why we have done the work for you!

Below we have listed our top Japan travel apps while visiting Japan. With these helpful apps, you should be able to navigate Japan quick with an interactive map, real time translation, and much more, all at your fingertips.

So, whether it is your first trip or your fifth, here are the best apps for Japan travel, how to use them, and a few other useful apps that can make or break your Japan adventure.

Maps & Navigation apps

The Winner - Google Maps

If you ask any seasoned traveler which app tops their list of must have mobile apps when traveling to Japan, Google Maps is almost always the answer. Japan’s public transportation system is world-class but can be overwhelming, especially in cities like Tokyo with dozens of train stations and subway lines. (We're looking at you, Shinjuku Station)

With Google Maps, you can:

Plan transit routes across Tokyo Metro, JR lines, and even buses.
See real-time train schedules, platform numbers, and transfer tips between two stations.
Use interactive maps to find coffee shops, restaurants, or convenience stores nearby.
Save your own itinerary, pinning must-see spots and day trips.
Also leave reviews for your fave restaurants or bars that you visit.

Personally, on my recent trip to Japan, Google Maps helped me navigate smoothly from Narita Airport to my hotel in Roppongi without a hitch. It even rerouted me when there was a train delay in real time. Google Maps ability to calculate the fastest route and provide the most optimal solution saved me from having a panic attack. Can't recommend Google Maps enough.

Runner Up - Apple Maps

While Google Maps is more popular app, Apple Maps has improved significantly in Japan, especially for iPhone users. It does offer detailed walking directions, public transport info, and even seamless integration with Apple Wallet for Suica card payments. There are plenty of others navigation apps, but these two are really all you need when traveling Japan.

Translation Apps

The Winner - Google Translate

While the local language can be intimidating, Google Translate is here to save the day. Here’s why:

Use can use your camera to translate Japanese menus, signs, and vending machine instructions instantly.
Easily type or speak simple sentences for speedy translation with locals and avoid the language barrier.
Download Japanese sentences and words offline, so you’re never stuck without translation.

Google Translate has helped me order food, ask for directions, and even chat with friendly locals at coffee shops. It’s a great tool for bridging the gap when your Japanese is limited. A Japan travel app essential.

Runner Up - DeepL

DeepL generally excels in producing high-quality, nuanced translations, particularly for European languages, making it suitable for professional use and when accuracy is paramount. But if you just need help ordering that yakisoba, either Google Translate or DeepL will work wonderfully.

Transit Apps

The Winner - Mobile Suica/Suica Card

One problem of visiting Japan during peak travel times or hopping from one location to another, is that you will soon find out that buying individual tickets is a waste of time. Solution: This card (also called a physical IC card) is a must have for public transport and small purchases at convenience stores, vending machines, and even some restaurants. Everyone in Japan has a IC card. You can either buy the physical card OR add this to your Apple Pay or Google Wallet/Pay. With just a tap of your phone, you can:

Tap in and out at train stations and buses.
Add money digitally. There's really no need to find a ticket machine or handle Japanese yen.
Use Apple Pay or Google Pay at thousands of locations such as convenience stores like 7-11, Lawson, Family Mart, etc.

This setup is incredibly easy and eliminates the risk of losing a physical card. One of the most convenient and best apps to use for Japan travel.

Runner Up - PassMo

While not as efficient all across Japan, PASMO is a good alternative for Tokyo-specific travel. It’s especially convenient for travelers using Tokyo Metro or private railway lines. Just like Suica, it can also be used for purchases at convenience stores and vending machines, making it a solid backup option.

Ride Sharing & Transporation Apps

The Winner - Go Taxi

Definitely get this one app because throughout Japan, Uber really isn't a thing. Go Taxi is an app used very much LIKE Uber in that you can request a taxi to your location and see how long it will take for it to arrive at your destination. We're big fans of it due to the English interface. However, be prepared for your taxi driver to only speak Japanese. Definitely get this app. Across Japan, more global apps like Uber iaren't widely used, and GO Taxi fills that gap perfectly. It works just like Uber: request a taxi to your location, track its arrival, and pay in-app. It’s especially helpful thanks to its English interface, making the whole process smoother for visitors. The only thing to keep in mind is that most drivers will still only speak Japanese, so be ready with your destination info.

Runner Up - Uber Japan

While still growing it's image in Japan, Uber technically in available, but it is quite limited to major cities like Tokyo, Osaka, and Kyoto. The company will usually partners with local taxi companies, and be used as a side option, mostly for tourist. If you already have it installed, it is an okay backup option, especially for travelers who prefer the familiar user friendly interface and built-in payment system. However, just don’t expect widespread availability, especially outside metro areas.

Honorable Mention - LUUP

LUUP is Japan’s local version of apps like Bird or Lime, offering e-scooters and e-bikes for short trips around cities like Tokyo, Osaka, and Kyoto. It’s a great way to explore more ground quickly and perfect for reaching spots that are too far to walk, and too tricky to access by train. Make sure to have some form of valid ID (like your passport) as you will need to scan to get started.

Restaurant Reservation & Dining Guide Apps

Winner – Tabelog

This app is one our absolute favorites of the Japan travel apps listed. Tabelog is Japan’s #1 go-to app for restaurant reviews, rankings, and reservations. Think of it as Japan’s version of Yelp or OpenTable, but with deeper local insight and incredibly detailed scoring system ( seriously, receiving a 3 out of 5 star rating is incredible). It’s widely used by locals and travelers alike to book top-rated restaurants, including Michelin-starred spots and hidden gems. Most of the restraunts available are not mentioned on Google Maps, so you know they have credible recommendations. Unfortunately, the phone app is mostly in Japanese, but there is now a English Version available to download.

Runner Up – GuruNavi

Gurunavi , short for "Gourmet Navigator", is a solid option for discovering and booking restaurants across Japan. While it doesn’t have the same community-driven review depth or scoring precision as Tabelog, it’s still a convenient tool to find great places to eat and tourist friendly spots. It does offers some helpful features like coupons and reservation support, with some English language coverage.

Communication and Apps

Winner – LINE

It is a no brainer that LINE is the top choice here. It is the all-in-on messaging app adopted by the entire country of Japan. LINE is used not only for texting and chatting but also for:

Voice and Video calls
Sending Digital stickers
Completing Mobile payments
Booking restaurants or hair salons.
Earn points for shopping

Many Japanese services, stores, and even tourist attractions offer LINE-based customer support or promotions. This is the most efficient way to stay in touch locals, Airbnb hosts, or make local reservations. LINE is the standard way to communicate, and with all it's application, is one of the best apps to have when visiting Japan. The app has a full English interface and is free to use.

Runner Up – Instagram

While technically a global social media app, Instagram has become an increasingly important way to connect with Japan’s local culture. Many trendy restaurants, cafés, boutique shops, and travel creators post updates, menus, and availability exclusively through Instagram Stories or DMs. While LINE is used more for business phone calls and close friends, Instagram sits comfortably in the middle—as a casual, less formal way to reach out. Additionally, if you need to communicate with multiple people from other countries, Instagram's messaging features may be easier and more familiar to navigate.

Emergency & Disaster Alert Apps

Winner – JMA App (Japan Meteorological Agency)

If you’re visiting Japan during rainy season or typhoon season (especially in summer and early autumn), this app is highly recommended. The JMA app provides official, real-time updates on natural disasters like earthquakes, tsunamis, typhoons, and other extreme weather conditions. As Japan sits on one of the most seismically active zones in the world, having a reliable earthquake and weather alert system is a smart move. This one might be one of the more boring Japan travel apps, but it is better than to be safe than sorry.

Runner Up – Yurekuru Call

This app specializes in specifically earthquake early warnings, and is a great companion to the JMA app. Yurekuru sends alerts a few seconds before shaking begins, which can be enough time to brace yourself or find shelter. It’s especially useful if you’ll be in rural or less tourist-heavy areas, where loudspeaker announcements might not reach you. The app has an English setting, though setup can take a few minutes.

Health & Medical Assistance Apps

Winner – Japan Travel Health (Japan Hospital Guide)

Again, being safe is better than being sorry, and getting sick abroad is never fun. Luckily, Japan Travel Health helps you locate nearby hospitals and clinics that offer English-speaking (or multilingual) services. You can search by location, specialty, or even the language spoken by the staff. It’s especially helpful if you’re dealing with anything beyond basic first aid, and want to avoid the stress of navigating Japanese medical systems alone.

Runner Up – First Call

If you need quick advice and aren’t sure whether to go to a hospital or not, First Call, offers licensed doctors to contact for consolation through text, phone, or video chat. While it’s primarily built for residents, short-term visitors can also use the app for immediate help. Doctors typically respond quickly, and consultations are available in English, Chinese, and Korean. Some option may not be free, but even with the extra cost can save time and unnecessary confusion.

Entertainment & Activity Discovery Apps

Winner – Meetup

Meetup is a great platform and one of the best apps for finding events like language exchanges, food tours, hobby clubs, and even local tech or business meetups. There are plenty of free and casual activities, especially in cities like Tokyo and Osaka. It’s perfect for solo travelers looking to make new friends or just find something fun to do in the area. Personally, I still use Meetup to find weekend events, or to branch out and find new and interesting hobby groups. Most groups are genuinely nice and welcoming, so no need to feel nervous or awkward attending these events.

Runner Up – Peatix

A strong runner-up, Peatix is a local favorite for discovering cultural events, workshops, pop-ups, and indie concerts throughout Japan. Widely used by Japanese organizers, the platform features off-the-beaten-path experiences you won’t find on major event sites—think calligraphy classes, sake tastings, cherry blossom viewings, DJ nights, and anime screenings. While some listings may be in Japanese, many are foreigner-friendly, and the mobile-optimized ticketing system makes booking quick and easy. With less emphasis on community-building, it’s a great app to download if you're just visiting Japan and want to explore unique, local experiences.

Travel Data & Connectivity – Powering All Your Japan Travel Apps

All of the Japan travel apps in this guide (and many others)—from Google Maps to Tabelog—depend on one thing: a stable internet connection. Unfortunately, public or free Wi-Fi in Japan can be unreliable, and paying for international roaming or juggling clunky SIM cards and pocket Wi-Fi rentals often ends up being a costly hassle.

That’s where eSIM comes in. A user-friendly data solution, that with just a few taps on your phone, you’re connected. No tools, no shipping delays, no pickup booths. So, what’s the best option?

The Winner - Journey Japan eSIM

For the best eSIM for Japan travel, Journey Japan eSIM is the clear choice. As a Japan-only eSIM, it is powered by Japan’s top-tier networks and is trusted by thousands of travelers for fast, reliable data on the go. Journey Japan eSIM offers affordable, 30-day data plans designed specifically for visitors to Japan. It’s quick to set up, with no app or downloads needed. Simply purchase online, activate your plan on your phone before departure, and enjoy instant connectivity the moment you land. Manage all your data and travel apps completely stress-free.

Final Thoughts: The Best Travel Apps in Japan

There are so many more apps that we could recommend, but obviously each traveler will have different needs and preferences for their Japan travels. Some will prefer a physical transit, IC card rather than the app. Others might find the free app for translating Japanese extremely useful. Everyone's "apps for Japan" will be different, so as they say, "to each their own".

However, for our best travel apps in Japan (and from our personal experience), you can't go wrong with the essentials, and with these, you should be completely fine for your next trip: