Welcome to the 7th episode of the “One Passport Stamp at a Time” series on Vihāra.

In this episode of One Passport Stamp at a Time, we explore the essentials every traveler should know before visiting Japan—a country where timeless traditions and cutting-edge technology coexist in everyday life.

We begin with a guide to eSIMs, explaining how they make it easy to stay connected across Japan—from navigating train systems and maps to translating menus and communicating on the go—all without the need for a physical SIM card.

We’ll also cover must-know Japanese etiquette, including quiet and respectful behavior on public transport, proper ways to handle money, when to remove your shoes, and the cultural importance of politeness and consideration. These small gestures can greatly enhance your experience and help you connect more respectfully with local culture.

Next, we dive into Japan’s famous vending machines, which you’ll find on nearly every street corner. From hot and cold drinks to snacks and everyday essentials, these machines are a symbol of Japan’s convenience, safety, and innovation.

Finally, we explore the fun and addictive world of Gachapon—capsule toy machines filled with creative, quirky, and collectible surprises. You’ll learn why they’re so popular and how they’ve become a unique part of modern Japanese culture.

You can find photos and videos from what we discussed on the podcast over on Vihāra’s Instagram.

📸 Instagram handle : ⁠⁠viharathepodcast⁠

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