Destination Tokyo
It would take an uncountable hour and years even, to get to know every face of Tokyo. Diverse objects and ideas are freely coexisting in the city: hypermodernity and tradition, globalism and regionalism, industrial design and handicraftsman new technologies and skilled workmanship. Tokyo has long nurtured both the skill of precision craftsmanship and a unique aesthetic sensibility, which stem from original ideas and perseverance in research and development. These traditions and spirits are much alive today.
Modern Graphic Design in Japan
Modern graphic design or visual communication in Japan may be studied as a synthesis of both Japanese and western design movements and styles. From Japanese traditional painting such as Rimpa and ukiyo-e woodblock prints, together with western styles of Art Nouveau, Constructivism, Bauhaus, futurism, Dada and others. Western style have influenced and formed some of the modern visual communication in Japan.
Yusaku Kamekura, The 18th Olympic Games, poster no.1 / 1961
Ikko Tanaka, The 8th Sankei Kanze No ©Ikko Tanaka / licensed by DNPartcom
Communication design became increasingly popular in Showa Period (1926-1989) and was enthusiastically accepted by the general public. The evolution of graphic design, as a discipline was deeply rooted in Japan's industrialization and the growth of the modern city, and the urban consumer's needs for advertisements. Posters become meaningful in the context of city life with artistic expression and its own vocabulary and grammar. Some of the remarkable graphic designers such as Yusaku Kamekura and Ikko Tanaka helped established the field of graphic design and their style and philosophy are passed on to younger generations today.
Getting there
Visa requirements
Visas are required depend on your nationality. Visit Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Japan for more detail.
https://www.mofa.go.jp/j_info/visit/visa/index.html
By plane
The easiest way to get to Tokyo is by airplane. There are two international airports located in Tokyo area: Haneda and Narita. Both airports are accessible by airport bus.
Limousine Bus https://www.limousinebus.co.jp/en/
Public Transportation
Tokyo’s public transportation is known for its efficiency and being very accurate. However, language can be a barrier sometime so it’s best to use along with some of useful Apps.
Subway
Tokyo Subway https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.navitime.inbound.walk
Taxi
Tokyo Taxi http://takkun.taxi-tokyo.or.jp/en/
Prepaid transportation card
There are 2 types you can purchase in Tokyo area: Pasmo and Suica. Both can be used for almost all lines in Tokyo. So just buy one of them.How to buy, and where you can use:
Pasmo https://www.pasmo.co.jp/en/buy/
Suica https://www.jreast.co.jp/e/pass/suica.html
Shops
Shops in Tokyo usually open at 10:00 and close 20:00 - 22:00 depending on each store. Restaurants usually start lunch at 11:30 and close 14:00 or so. And start dinner time 18:00. Closing time depend on each place
Weather
Most like sunny days are expected in the early September, but it is a typhoon season and on average, one typhoon hits Eastern Japan in September. Sometimes the temperature goes over 30 degrees Celsius with humidity. Take extra care about heat stroke. Drink enough water. Wear a pair of sunglasses and sunscreen to protect yourself from the strong UV rays.
Bring your pocket Wi-Fi
Japan is slowly expanding the area of public free Wi-Fi, however highly recommended to bring a pocket Wi-Fi on your own to keep connected to the internet.
Tipping
Tipping in Japan is not mandatory, and it is not expected.
*People would not feel offended or disrespectful if they receive some tips but we just do not have the culture of tipping. However, sometimes service charge is included.
Currency
The yen is the official currency of Japan. Many big stores accept major credit cards. But sometimes small stores or restaurants accept only cash. So make sure that you can withdraw yen with your credit card in Japan. The major and ubiquitous ATM points are 7-Eleven stores. Check your cards are accepted.
https://www.sevenbank.co.jp/intlcard/index2.html
More information about Tokyo
Visit GO TOKYO The Official Tokyo Travel Guide