How to Use i.e. in a Sentence

The abbreviation “i.e.” stands for the Latin phrase id est, which means “ in other words” or “that is to say.”^[1] You may be unsure how to use “i.e.” when you are writing an essay for a class or a brief for a business proposal. Start by deciding if “i.e.” will be effective in the sentence. Then, put “i.e.” in a sentence properly using commas so it is grammatically correct. With a few basic steps, you can use “i.e.” like a pro in no time.

EditSteps

EditDeciding When to Use “i.e.”

1. Use "i.e." to say “that is” or “in other words.” Use the abbreviation "i.e.” when you want to add on to the first part of a sentence and give the reader more information. The information should explain the first part of the sentence in more detail so the reader understands it better.^[2]
   
   • For example, you may write, “I am a vegan, i.e., I do not eat any animal-based products” or “He works the morning shift, i.e., from 6 am to 1 pm.”
2. Do not use "i.e." to say “for example” or “such as.” The abbreviation “i.e.” should not be used if you want to provide an example or illustration of what you mean for readers. If this is the case, you should use “e.g.” instead of “i.e.” “E.g.” stands for the Latin phrase “for the sake of example.”^[3]
   
   • For example, you would write, “I do not like eating raw fish, i.e., sushi.” and “I don't like Japanese food, e.g., sushi or ramen."
   • Or you may write, “She likes poetry about love, i.e., poems that explore matters of the heart” and “She likes poetry about love, e.g., poems by the New Romantics.”
3. Use this abbreviation in informal documents or as shorthand. You may put “i.e.” in a sentence if you are writing an email or a letter to a friend, an informal piece of writing for a class, or a quick business note. If you are writing a formal business document or an academic paper, consider using “that is” or “in other words” instead.^[4]
   
   • In some cases, using “i.e.” in a news article, an essay, or an academic paper may be okay. Double check with your instructor to make sure it is appropriate for you to use this abbreviation in a paper or essay.

EditPutting “i.e.” in a Sentence

1. Lowercase it and use periods. The abbreviation “i.e.” should always appear with a lowercase “i” and a lowercase “e” in a sentence, with a period between both letters.^[5]
   
2. Do not italicize or bold it. The abbreviation "i.e." does not need to be formatted differently than the rest of the document or paper. Leave it in regular case, with no italicizing or bolding.^[6]
   
3. Place a comma before and after “i.e.” This will help the abbreviation stand out and let the reader know you are providing additional information after “i.e.”^[7]
   
   • For example, you may write, “He prefers native plants in the garden, i.e., plants that naturally grow in the area” or “I have a soft spot for holiday music, i.e., songs that are about Christmas or Halloween.”
4. Put "i.e." in the middle of a sentence, never at the beginning or end. The abbreviation “i.e.” should always appear after the first section of the sentence, in the middle, so it is grammatically correct.^[8]
   
   • For example, the sentence, “I.e. he likes super heroes” or the sentence, “He likes super heroes, i.e.” are incorrect. The correct sentence would be, “He likes super heroes, i.e., social misfits who save the world.”

EditSources and Citations

Cite error: <ref> tags exist, but no <references/> tag was found

How to Lose Weight Through Clean Eating

Clean eating involves incorporating more whole foods like vegetables, fruits, and grains into your diet while eliminating processed, packaged foods. Eating a clean, balanced diet can be a struggle, as you may not know how to avoid unhealthy snacks and meals high in fat. Take small steps like trying to follow a healthy meal plan and cutting out unhealthy foods and junk food a little at a time. You can also maintain a clean eating diet by tracking your calorie intake and your meals so you stay healthy. Though you may find clean eating difficult at first, with a few dietary changes and some persistence, you should lose weight and develop eating habits that will help you to keep the weight off.

EditSteps

EditCutting out Unhealthy Ingredients and Junk Food

1. Replace refined sugar with fresh fruit once a week. Try to cut out cookies, cakes, candy, and sweets that contain refined sugar and substitute them for fresh fruit like apples, pears, strawberries, peaches, and mangos at least once a week. Slice the fruit for an easy snack or make a fresh fruit salad with just fruit and no added sugar.^[1]
   
   • Start by replacing sugary treats with fresh fruit once a week and then amp it up to twice or three times a week. Over time, you should try to replace almost all sugary treats in your diet for fresh fruit, for many days in a row as you can manage.
2. Have whole-wheat grains instead of refined grains in at least 1-2 of your meals. Buy foods made with whole-wheat, such as whole-wheat pasta, bread, and crackers when you go grocery shopping. Start by replacing white bread, pasta, and rice in 1-2 of your meals with whole-wheat wraps, quinoa, and brown rice.^[2]
   
3. Cut down on packaged food and junk food to 1-2 times a week. Packaged foods like microwave dinners, pre-made sandwiches, and prepared soups are all high in sodium, fat, and unhealthy ingredients. Fast food is also high in fat and low in nutrients. Aim to reduce your consumption of these foods to only a couple of times a week. Over time, try to limit yourself to having fast food 1-2 times a month.^[3]
   
   • Try to have packaged or junk food only as an occasional treat!
4. Have food with less sodium and saturated fat. Opt for low-sodium soy sauce and other prepared sauces. Soak dry beans overnight or in a slow cooker, as canned beans have a high sodium content. Have fresh fruits and vegetables in your meals, as they have less sodium and fat.^[4]
   
5. Try replacing sugary drinks with water. Rather than reach for a soda, a packaged juice, or another cup of coffee, sip water instead. Carry a water bottle with you so you always have water on hand. Try to have more water throughout the day and limit or cut out any other drinks.^[5]
   
   • Add fresh sliced lemon or cucumber to your water to make it more flavorful.

EditFollowing a Healthy Meal Plan

1. Have three meals a day, preferably at the same time every day. Try not to skip any meals, as this can throw off your appetite and cause you to reach for unhealthy foods. Plan to eat every 4-5 hours so your body has enough nutrients and energy. Have a good breakfast, a larger lunch, and a nutrient-rich dinner every day so you can establish an eating routine.^[6]
   
   • For example, you may have breakfast at 8 or 9 am, lunch at 12 or 1 pm, and dinner at around 5 or 6 pm every day.
2. Cook at home as much as you can. Create a shopping list for the week and buy ingredients for each meal at the start of the week so you can cook for yourself at home. Include more healthy foods in each meal so you can eat clean. Keep your meals simple, with lots of fresh ingredients.^[7]
   
   • For example, you may make Sundays your day to shop for fresh ingredients for the week. You may then plan out 4-5 dinners for the week, keeping in mind you can have leftovers to eat for lunch or for days when you do not want to cook.
3. Try to add variety to your meals. Keep your meals interesting so you do not get bored or become tempted to eat out too much. Try having a different type of whole grain or healthy protein source a week for variety. Add a new vegetable or fruit to your meal plan. Look for healthy sauces you can prepare at home to give your meals a little more zip.^[8]
   
   • Search for new recipes that focus on clean eating online by looking at healthy food blogs and websites.
   • Buy clean eating cookbooks to get new ideas for recipes.
4. Go for healthy, clean meals when you eat out. Try to find restaurants that offer locally grown, organic foods. Look for options on the menu like a salad with whole grains and vegetables or a sandwich on whole-wheat bread. Substitute fries on the side for a salad or a healthier option. Try to stick to clean eating as much as you can when you eat out so your diet does not get thrown off.
   
5. Have healthy snacks once a week to start. Plan ahead by packing almonds, cashews, or macadamia nuts in plastic bags or containers so you can snack on them between meals. Cut up fresh fruit or vegetables and have them on hand as a snack. Try having at least 1 healthy snack a week and then gradually, replace most of your unhealthy snacks with healthy ones.^[9]
   
   • You can also pack healthy dips like hummus, black bean dip, or baba ganoush to add a little something extra to your snack.

EditMaintaining Healthy Eating Habits

1. Eat 250-500 calories less than the recommended amount every day. This will help you lose per week at a healthy pace. The recommended amount of calories a day is 2,000-2,400 for women, and 2,600-3,000 for men. Subtract 250-500 from your recommended daily amount and focus on eating that many calories every day.
   
   • Your calorie intake may fluctuate based on your age and lifestyle. You can find a detailed list of estimated calorie intake on the CNPP website: https://www.cnpp.usda.gov/sites/default/files/usda_food_patterns/EstimatedCalorieNeedsPerDayTable.pdf.
   • Use a calorie tracker on your smartphone to see how many calories you’re consuming.
2. Keep a food journal or use an app. Record your meals every day in a journal to keep track of your eating habits. Notice if your meals are starting to contain more healthy foods and less prepackaged foods. Use the journal as a guide to help you maintain a clean eating diet.
   
   • If you'd prefer to keep track of your meals on your smartphone, download a healthy eating app like MyFitnessPal, Noom, SideChef, or SimpleSteps.
3. Track your weight loss with photographs so you have a visual reference. Take the photographs once a week at the same time every day in the same clothing. Expose areas like your stomach and legs so you can notice weight loss in these areas.^[10]
   
   • You may notice small changes in the photographs at first. As you continue to change your diet, you should notice more significant weight loss.
4. Talk to a dietitian for guidance. If you are struggling with clean eating and staying away from junk food or empty calories, contact a registered dietitian in your area. Look for a certified dietitian at your local wellness center or through your doctor. Ask them about ways that you can integrate clean eating into your diet and maintain healthy eating habits.^[11]
   
   • You may also talk to a dietitian if you struggle with emotional eating, where you tend to eat unhealthy foods when you are feeling stressed, anxious, or upset. They can suggest ways that you can put your emotions into healthier activities, such as preparing a healthy meal or exercising.
5. Work exercise into your daily life. Clean eating is a great way to maintain a healthy weight, but it should be complemented with exercise. Start off easy with simple cardio like walking, running or biking, then try to build up to taking fitness classes or joining a gym! Exercising can help you maintain a healthy lifestyle overall and promote weight loss.^[12]
   
   • As you exercise, you should notice that eating clean is helping you feel strong and energetic for your workout. Clean eating should make it easier for you to exercise and stay fit.

EditSources and Citations

Cite error: <ref> tags exist, but no <references/> tag was found

How to Visit Japan

Japan is a popular tourist destination, full of beautiful scenery, delicious food, and a unique culture. Whether you are visiting for a few days or a few weeks, there is plenty to see and experience. Follow local customs and traditions during your visit to Japan so you can be respectful of the locals. You can also use public transit and rail travel to get around easily, and visit unique sites for a great experience. Make sure you plan your visit for the off season and bring cash with you so your trip goes smoothly.

EditSteps

EditMaking Your Trip Easy and Enjoyable

1. Visit Japan during the off-season to avoid crowds. Japan will be the most crowded in the spring months for cherry blossom season and hard to travel around during Golden Week, a national holiday that usually occurs from late April to early May. You should also avoid visiting in the summer, as it can be very hot and humid. Instead, visit during the off-season, from late September-early March, to avoid crowds and enjoy good weather.^[1]
   
   • If you are planning to do winter sports, you may opt to visit in the winter months so you can have access to good snow.
2. Hire a guide service for holy sites or areas. You can arrange guided tours for certain regions or sites before you embark on your trip, or arrange them when you arrive. A guide may be useful for visits to shrines, temples, and holy sites where you may not understand the traditions or customers. Look for free guides run by volunteers at major sites or areas.^[2]
   
   • You may also opt for a guide to take you on a food tour in a major city like Tokyo so you know the best spots to visit.
3. Bring cash with you. It is common to pay for most items in Japan with cash. Take out Japanese yen before you travel so you have cash on hand. Look for currency exchanges at banks, post offices, or malls to take out cash as needed.^[3]
   
   • Carry a decent amount of cash to start, at least 5,000-7,000 yen. A basic meal in Japan can cost between 1,000- 3,000 yen.
   • You can use your debit or credit card in major cities if you do not have cash on hand. Make sure your contact your bank and let them know you are traveling to Japan so they do not freeze your account.
4. Have a working cell phone. Get a SIM card that works in Japan for your cell phone so you can use it when you travel. Make sure your phone is unlocked so you can put a different SIM card in it. You may load the SIM card with data so you can access maps and browse the internet for information.^[4]
   
   • You can also rent a cell phone in Japan for occasional use using your credit card.
5. Buy souvenirs to take home before you leave Japan. Japan has many options if you’d like to bring home souvenirs for yourself or loved ones. Look for pretty packaged Japanese sweets or pick up a bottle of Japanese whisky. You can also bring home traditional Japanese tea or sake.^[5]
   

EditGetting around

1. Carry an updated map or use a map app on your smartphone. It can be tricky to navigate the streets of Tokyo and other major cities in Japan, especially if you are travelling on foot or with public transit. Make it easy by carrying a printed, updated map with you that features street names in Japanese and English. With a data plan, you can also use a map app on your smartphone to help you navigate the area.^[6]
   
2. Rent a car if you plan to explore rural areas. Renting a car may be a good idea if you plan to explore regions outside of major cities or if you are traveling with a large group with a lot of luggage. Avoid renting a car if you plan on staying and exploring major cities, as traffic can be bad and the streets can be confusing for non-locals.^[7]
   
   • You will need to be 18 years or older and have an International Driving Permit, or a Japanese driver’s license, to rent a car.
   • Book the rental car online before you leave for your trip, or look into renting a car once you arrive in a major city for rural travel.
3. Use local transit for cheap travel. Take the subway in major cities like Tokyo to save you money and get around fast. Invest in day passes if you plan on taking a few trips on transit per day.^[8]
   
   • Most transit maps are easy to navigate and connect you to major areas or sites in the city.
4. Try walking to nearby sites or restaurants. Many Japanese people walk the streets to get around. Try walking from your accommodations to a nearby tourist site or area. Walk to and from a restaurant close by. You can also do a walking tour of areas in major cities to get a better sense of the atmosphere and vibe.^[9]
   
   • Japan is considered relatively safe, especially for foreigners. You should still be careful not to walk around late at night alone, though.
5. Get a rail pass for affordable long distance travel. Travelling around Japan by rail is a popular option, as it allows you to save money and enjoy stunning views from your train window. Look into buying a rail pass that gives you access to specific areas or routes in Japan. Use rail travel when you can to keep your trip cheap and to sneak in some extra sightseeing.^[10]
   
   • Buy a rail pass before you land in Japan to ensure you get the best price and do not have to worry about buying it once your arrive.
6. Take a long distance bus to travel cheaply to different areas or regions. Buses in Japan are often roomy and comfortable. They are also a lot cheaper than taking a bullet train. Overnight buses are a good option if you want to avoid paying for a hotel for one night and want to explore areas or regions around major cities.^[11]
   
   • Look up the bus routes online before you leave so you can plan your bus trip.
   • If you have a limited amount of time to spend in Japan, you may opt for a faster option like rail travel.

EditFinding Accommodations

1. Book accommodations in a budget hotel or hostel to save money. Compare rates for hotels online to find one within your budget. Look for hostels online as well and book them in advance. Try to get the hotel or hostel is in a central area, preferably within walking distance to major sites and public transit.^[12]
   
   • One night in a hostel can cost 1500-3000 yen per person and one night in a business hotel on the lower end can cost 5000-7000 yen for a single room.
   • Keep in mind hotels and hostels in less central areas will be cheaper. A long as the hotel or hostel is close to a transit stop, you should be fine to get around.
2. Stay in a capsule hotel if you don't mind enclosed spaces. Capsule hotels are designed to hold one person at a time and are stacked top of each, creating very close sleeping quarters. They are a fun experience for one night. Go for a non-smoking capsule hotel if you do not like sleeping near cigarette smoke.^[13]
   
   • Capsule hotels are also a good option if you miss your train or bus and need somewhere cheap to stay for the night.
3. Spend at least one night in a traditional ryokan or guest house. A traditional ryokan, or guest house, has been maintained and preserved to represent traditional Japanese-style lodgings. They are usually made of wood, with Japanese-style rooms and baths. There is also usually a traditional garden by the guest house. Though the rooms may appear bare by Western standards, they are representative of what Japanese lodgings once were.^[14]
   
   • You can opt to stay in a more luxurious ryokan if you want rooms that are a bit more modern. They will be more expensive than traditional ryokans, but they are usually located close to a natural hot spring and have stunning views.

EditHaving Unique Experiences

1. Go on a food and shopping tour of Tokyo. Tokyo is considered the main hub and metropolis in Japan. Visit traditional tea houses, noodle shops, and hostess bars for a culinary experience. Go to the major shopping centers in Tokyo to find one-of-a-kind fashion, toys, and souvenirs.^[15]
   
   • Break up your tour of Tokyo by area, such as Asakusa in the Northeast, the Tsukiji Fish Market in Central Tokyo, the temples and shrines in the West, and Roppongi in the East for shopping and museums. Spend a few days exploring each area, using public transit or a car to visit each section of the city.
2. Go skiing or snowboarding in the Japanese Alps. Japan has a stretch of mountains in Central Honshu full of fresh powder for skiing or boarding. It also has stunning views and hot springs. Visit this area for something a bit different, especially if you are an avid winter sports person.^[16]
   
   • You can also stay in a mountain resort in this area and do a winter hike.
3. Visit Hiroshima for a historic experience. Go to the site of the atomic bombing during WWII to learn more about the tragic event. There is a museum with detailed information about the bombing and tributes to the victims of the attack.^[17]
   
   • You can take a 1.5 hour flight from Tokyo to Hiroshima or take the bullet train and get there just as fast.
   • For a cheaper option, take an overnight, 13 hour bus ride from Tokyo to Hiroshima.
4. Go to Kyoto to see shrines, temples, and gardens. Kyoto is a popular major city that is considered the home of traditional Japan. It contains beautiful gardens and palaces dating back to the Imperial court, as well as traditional shrines and temples.^[18]
   

EditFollowing Local Customs and Traditions

1. Give others room in public spaces. Japanese people like to have a lot of room to move around and sit. Try not to crowd too close to others when you are in public spaces like a city street, a subway platform, or a restaurant. Maintain your distance, giving others of space, so you do not appear too aggressive or overbearing.^[19]
   
2. Remove your shoes before you step inside someone’s home. It is part of tradition, and good hygiene, to take off your shoes before you step into someone’s home or office. You may get in the habit of wearing socks with your shoes or bringing socks with you so you can keep your feet covered.^[20]
   
   • If you forget to remove your shoes, do not fret. Simply apologize and return to the door to remove them.
3. Treat holy shrines and areas with respect. Keep your voice low and avoid shouting or yelling when you are at a shrine or holy site. Keep photography to a minimum, especially if there are holy processions going on. Try to maintain a quiet, respectful demeanor, even if you are not religious.^[21]
   
   • It may be worthwhile to hire a guide when you visit a holy shrine or site so you can better understand the holy traditions and practices. Look for guides offering tours in the front of the shrine or site.
4. Bow when you greet others. It is traditional and respectful in Japan to bow when you say hello or goodbye to someone, when you thank them, and when you congratulate them. Bow from the waist at a 45 degree angle, keeping your back straight and your legs together. Look down when you bow and avoid sticking your butt out. Inhale as you bow, exhale as you hold the bow, and inhale again when you rise up.^[22]
   
   • If you are interacting with individuals you know well, such as family or friends, you can nod your head and bow slightly forward with a straight back rather than do a full bow.
5. Do not stick your chopsticks in a bowl of rice when you eat. Putting your chopsticks upright in rice is common practice during funeral rites in Japan so do not do this when you are eating in public or around Japanese people. Keep your chopsticks flat on the bowl or resting against your plate.^[23]
   
   • You should also not pass food to others with your chopsticks, as this is considered rude.
   • If you are not comfortable using chopsticks, you can always request a fork or spoon instead.
6. Check the posted rules around tattoos at public baths before you get in. Many public bathing houses and hot springs do not allow people with tattoos to enter. You may need to cover up your tattoos with bandages out of respect for the rules.^[24]
   
   • You can also book a private room at a public bath or spa so you do not have to worry about covering up your tattoos.

EditSources and Citations

Cite error: <ref> tags exist, but no <references/> tag was found

How to Visit Japan

Japan is a popular tourist destination, full of beautiful scenery, delicious food, and a unique culture. Whether you are visiting for a few days or a few weeks, there is plenty to see and experience. Follow local customs and traditions during your visit to Japan so you can be respectful of the locals. You can also use public transit and rail travel to get around easily, and visit unique sites for a great experience. Make sure you plan your visit for the off season and bring cash with you so your trip goes smoothly.

EditSteps

EditMaking Your Trip Easy and Enjoyable

1. Visit Japan during the off-season to avoid crowds. Japan will be the most crowded in the spring months for cherry blossom season and hard to travel around during Golden Week, a national holiday that usually occurs from late April to early May. You should also avoid visiting in the summer, as it can be very hot and humid. Instead, visit during the off-season, from late September-early March, to avoid crowds and enjoy good weather.^[1]
   
   • If you are planning to do winter sports, you may opt to visit in the winter months so you can have access to good snow.
2. Hire a guide service for holy sites or areas. You can arrange guided tours for certain regions or sites before you embark on your trip, or arrange them when you arrive. A guide may be useful for visits to shrines, temples, and holy sites where you may not understand the traditions or customers. Look for free guides run by volunteers at major sites or areas.^[2]
   
   • You may also opt for a guide to take you on a food tour in a major city like Tokyo so you know the best spots to visit.
3. Bring cash with you. It is common to pay for most items in Japan with cash. Take out Japanese yen before you travel so you have cash on hand. Look for currency exchanges at banks, post offices, or malls to take out cash as needed.^[3]
   
   • Carry a decent amount of cash to start, at least 5,000-7,000 yen. A basic meal in Japan can cost between 1,000- 3,000 yen.
   • You can use your debit or credit card in major cities if you do not have cash on hand. Make sure your contact your bank and let them know you are traveling to Japan so they do not freeze your account.
4. Have a working cell phone. Get a SIM card that works in Japan for your cell phone so you can use it when you travel. Make sure your phone is unlocked so you can put a different SIM card in it. You may load the SIM card with data so you can access maps and browse the internet for information.^[4]
   
   • You can also rent a cell phone in Japan for occasional use using your credit card.
5. Buy souvenirs to take home before you leave Japan. Japan has many options if you’d like to bring home souvenirs for yourself or loved ones. Look for pretty packaged Japanese sweets or pick up a bottle of Japanese whisky. You can also bring home traditional Japanese tea or sake.^[5]
   

EditGetting around

1. Carry an updated map or use a map app on your smartphone. It can be tricky to navigate the streets of Tokyo and other major cities in Japan, especially if you are travelling on foot or with public transit. Make it easy by carrying a printed, updated map with you that features street names in Japanese and English. With a data plan, you can also use a map app on your smartphone to help you navigate the area.^[6]
   
2. Rent a car if you plan to explore rural areas. Renting a car may be a good idea if you plan to explore regions outside of major cities or if you are traveling with a large group with a lot of luggage. Avoid renting a car if you plan on staying and exploring major cities, as traffic can be bad and the streets can be confusing for non-locals.^[7]
   
   • You will need to be 18 years or older and have an International Driving Permit, or a Japanese driver’s license, to rent a car.
   • Book the rental car online before you leave for your trip, or look into renting a car once you arrive in a major city for rural travel.
3. Use local transit for cheap travel. Take the subway in major cities like Tokyo to save you money and get around fast. Invest in day passes if you plan on taking a few trips on transit per day.^[8]
   
   • Most transit maps are easy to navigate and connect you to major areas or sites in the city.
4. Try walking to nearby sites or restaurants. Many Japanese people walk the streets to get around. Try walking from your accommodations to a nearby tourist site or area. Walk to and from a restaurant close by. You can also do a walking tour of areas in major cities to get a better sense of the atmosphere and vibe.^[9]
   
   • Japan is considered relatively safe, especially for foreigners. You should still be careful not to walk around late at night alone, though.
5. Get a rail pass for affordable long distance travel. Travelling around Japan by rail is a popular option, as it allows you to save money and enjoy stunning views from your train window. Look into buying a rail pass that gives you access to specific areas or routes in Japan. Use rail travel when you can to keep your trip cheap and to sneak in some extra sightseeing.^[10]
   
   • Buy a rail pass before you land in Japan to ensure you get the best price and do not have to worry about buying it once your arrive.
6. Take a long distance bus to travel cheaply to different areas or regions. Buses in Japan are often roomy and comfortable. They are also a lot cheaper than taking a bullet train. Overnight buses are a good option if you want to avoid paying for a hotel for one night and want to explore areas or regions around major cities.^[11]
   
   • Look up the bus routes online before you leave so you can plan your bus trip.
   • If you have a limited amount of time to spend in Japan, you may opt for a faster option like rail travel.

EditFinding Accommodations

1. Book accommodations in a budget hotel or hostel to save money. Compare rates for hotels online to find one within your budget. Look for hostels online as well and book them in advance. Try to get the hotel or hostel is in a central area, preferably within walking distance to major sites and public transit.^[12]
   
   • One night in a hostel can cost 1500-3000 yen per person and one night in a business hotel on the lower end can cost 5000-7000 yen for a single room.
   • Keep in mind hotels and hostels in less central areas will be cheaper. A long as the hotel or hostel is close to a transit stop, you should be fine to get around.
2. Stay in a capsule hotel if you don't mind enclosed spaces. Capsule hotels are designed to hold one person at a time and are stacked top of each, creating very close sleeping quarters. They are a fun experience for one night. Go for a non-smoking capsule hotel if you do not like sleeping near cigarette smoke.^[13]
   
   • Capsule hotels are also a good option if you miss your train or bus and need somewhere cheap to stay for the night.
3. Spend at least one night in a traditional ryokan or guest house. A traditional ryokan, or guest house, has been maintained and preserved to represent traditional Japanese-style lodgings. They are usually made of wood, with Japanese-style rooms and baths. There is also usually a traditional garden by the guest house. Though the rooms may appear bare by Western standards, they are representative of what Japanese lodgings once were.^[14]
   
   • You can opt to stay in a more luxurious ryokan if you want rooms that are a bit more modern. They will be more expensive than traditional ryokans, but they are usually located close to a natural hot spring and have stunning views.

EditHaving Unique Experiences

1. Go on a food and shopping tour of Tokyo. Tokyo is considered the main hub and metropolis in Japan. Visit traditional tea houses, noodle shops, and hostess bars for a culinary experience. Go to the major shopping centers in Tokyo to find one-of-a-kind fashion, toys, and souvenirs.^[15]
   
   • Break up your tour of Tokyo by area, such as Asakusa in the Northeast, the Tsukiji Fish Market in Central Tokyo, the temples and shrines in the West, and Roppongi in the East for shopping and museums. Spend a few days exploring each area, using public transit or a car to visit each section of the city.
2. Go skiing or snowboarding in the Japanese Alps. Japan has a stretch of mountains in Central Honshu full of fresh powder for skiing or boarding. It also has stunning views and hot springs. Visit this area for something a bit different, especially if you are an avid winter sports person.^[16]
   
   • You can also stay in a mountain resort in this area and do a winter hike.
3. Visit Hiroshima for a historic experience. Go to the site of the atomic bombing during WWII to learn more about the tragic event. There is a museum with detailed information about the bombing and tributes to the victims of the attack.^[17]
   
   • You can take a 1.5 hour flight from Tokyo to Hiroshima or take the bullet train and get there just as fast.
   • For a cheaper option, take an overnight, 13 hour bus ride from Tokyo to Hiroshima.
4. Go to Kyoto to see shrines, temples, and gardens. Kyoto is a popular major city that is considered the home of traditional Japan. It contains beautiful gardens and palaces dating back to the Imperial court, as well as traditional shrines and temples.^[18]
   

EditFollowing Local Customs and Traditions

1. Give others room in public spaces. Japanese people like to have a lot of room to move around and sit. Try not to crowd too close to others when you are in public spaces like a city street, a subway platform, or a restaurant. Maintain your distance, giving others of space, so you do not appear too aggressive or overbearing.^[19]
   
2. Remove your shoes before you step inside someone’s home. It is part of tradition, and good hygiene, to take off your shoes before you step into someone’s home or office. You may get in the habit of wearing socks with your shoes or bringing socks with you so you can keep your feet covered.^[20]
   
   • If you forget to remove your shoes, do not fret. Simply apologize and return to the door to remove them.
3. Treat holy shrines and areas with respect. Keep your voice low and avoid shouting or yelling when you are at a shrine or holy site. Keep photography to a minimum, especially if there are holy processions going on. Try to maintain a quiet, respectful demeanor, even if you are not religious.^[21]
   
   • It may be worthwhile to hire a guide when you visit a holy shrine or site so you can better understand the holy traditions and practices. Look for guides offering tours in the front of the shrine or site.
4. Bow when you greet others. It is traditional and respectful in Japan to bow when you say hello or goodbye to someone, when you thank them, and when you congratulate them. Bow from the waist at a 45 degree angle, keeping your back straight and your legs together. Look down when you bow and avoid sticking your butt out. Inhale as you bow, exhale as you hold the bow, and inhale again when you rise up.^[22]
   
   • If you are interacting with individuals you know well, such as family or friends, you can nod your head and bow slightly forward with a straight back rather than do a full bow.
5. Do not stick your chopsticks in a bowl of rice when you eat. Putting your chopsticks upright in rice is common practice during funeral rites in Japan so do not do this when you are eating in public or around Japanese people. Keep your chopsticks flat on the bowl or resting against your plate.^[23]
   
   • You should also not pass food to others with your chopsticks, as this is considered rude.
   • If you are not comfortable using chopsticks, you can always request a fork or spoon instead.
6. Check the posted rules around tattoos at public baths before you get in. Many public bathing houses and hot springs do not allow people with tattoos to enter. You may need to cover up your tattoos with bandages out of respect for the rules.^[24]
   
   • You can also book a private room at a public bath or spa so you do not have to worry about covering up your tattoos.

EditSources and Citations

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