Avoid all perfume, cologne, scented hair products, and strongly fragranced laundry detergent on dining days. Even light scents disrupt the aromas at omakase counters and can offend the chef. This is the single most important etiquette rule in Japan's top restaurants.

At omakase counters, the meal begins simultaneously for all guests. Arriving late disrupts the chef's carefully timed service and inconveniences every other diner. Allow extra travel time — many restaurants are on unmarked side streets. Budget an extra 15 minutes.

Remove rings, watches, and bracelets before sitting at sushi counters — the wood (often rare hinoki cypress) scratches easily. Rest both hands on the counter, not in your lap. Do not rearrange sushi — eat each piece as the chef presents it.

Say 「ごちそうさまでした」 (Gochisousama deshita) — "Thank you for this meal." It is deeply appreciated. Tipping is not customary and can be mildly offensive. Express appreciation with sincere words, not cash.

Add a Suica card to your Apple or Google Wallet before departure. Covers all subway, bus, and train fares in Tokyo and Kyoto. Tap your phone at the gate. Top up via your linked card when low. Far easier than buying individual tickets.

Activate an eSIM before landing. Recommended: Airalo, HolaFly, or YO for Japan coverage. Japan's 4G/5G network is exceptionally reliable. Google Maps works accurately throughout Tokyo and Kyoto.

Peak sakura in Tokyo and Kyoto falls late March to early April — this trip is perfectly timed. Conditions change daily. Your guide will check blossom status each morning and adjust sightseeing recommendations accordingly. Best viewing: Shinjuku Gyoen, Chidori-ga-fuchi, Maruyama Park.

Japan: 100V, two-pronged flat sockets. North American devices work without a converter. European and Australian visitors need a voltage converter. UK visitors need an adapter — Japan uses US-style flat pins, not UK three-pin.