Must-Have Smartphone Apps for Traveling in Japan! 5 Super Useful Picks [2025 Edition]

Smartphones have become an essential part of our daily lives. From managing schedules to travel, food, and entertainment, the right apps can make life significantly more convenient. In this article, we introduce five of the most popular smartphone apps currently trending in Japan! If you haven’t used them yet, now is the perfect time to download and explore. If you’re planning a trip to Japan, these apps will be especially useful!

1. TimeTree – Make Scheduling a Breeze!

“Oops! I forgot about that plan…” “I want to share my schedule with my family and friends!” If this sounds like you, TimeTree is a must-have.

• Features: Create and share multiple calendars for family, friends, or work.
• Why it’s great: Real-time notifications for schedule updates minimize scheduling conflicts.
• Fun way to use it: Couples can share a calendar to avoid the classic “Wait, wasn’t our date today?!” mishap.

2. NHK News & Disaster Prevention – A Must-Have App for Emergencies

Japan is prone to earthquakes, typhoons, and other natural disasters. If you’re new to Japan or visiting, staying updated with the latest news and disaster alerts via NHK’s official app is crucial.

• Features: Real-time news updates and emergency alerts.
• Why it’s great: Live streaming allows you to check the latest disaster updates, even without a TV.
• Fun way to use it: Stay ahead of the weather and prepare accordingly—no more complaining about inaccurate forecasts!

3. Tokyo Disney Resort App – Maximize Your Fun at the Happiest Place on Earth!

Visiting Tokyo Disney Resort? Then this app is a must! Without it, you’re missing out on key features that will enhance your experience.

• Features: Buy tickets, check attraction wait times, and place mobile orders.
• Why it’s great: Online shopping within the park ensures you get the souvenirs you want without waiting in long lines.
• Fun way to use it: Strategically plan your visit—”The wait time for Space Mountain is short! Let’s grab a churro first!”

4. Retty – Find the Best Restaurants with Real Name Reviews!

Skeptical about anonymous online restaurant reviews? Retty uses real-name reviews, making it a trusted source for food lovers. You might just discover some hidden culinary gems!

• Features: Users post reviews under their real names, ensuring authenticity.
• Why it’s great: Search for top-rated restaurants by location, making it an essential tool for travelers and foodies.
• Fun way to use it: Plan a foodie adventure with friends, deciding on the best spots to visit next!

5. WidgetClub – Customize Your Smartphone’s Home Screen!

If your smartphone screen looks boring, it’s time for a change! This app is a favorite among younger users for personalizing their devices.

• Features: Customize widgets and app icons for a stylish home screen.
• Why it’s great: Perfect for fans of J-pop, anime, and K-pop, as you can create themed layouts.
• Fun way to use it: Refresh your home screen every year with a new theme for a fresh start!

Conclusion

We’ve introduced five must-have apps currently trending in Japan:

1. TimeTree (Simplify schedule management)
2. NHK News & Disaster Prevention (Stay prepared for emergencies)
3. Tokyo Disney Resort App (Enhance your Disney experience)
4. Retty (Find genuinely good restaurants)
5. WidgetClub (Personalize your phone’s appearance)

All of these apps will enhance your daily life or travel experience in Japan. If any of them caught your interest, download and try them out today!

Have you tried any of these apps? Do you have any other recommendations? Let us know in the comments!

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Recommendation for Wi-Fi Router Rental

It’s available for rent at airports and major tourist locations, allowing you to connect to high-speed internet anywhere in Japan. Reservations can be easily made online, and both pickup and return are highly convenient. Without worrying about communication limits, you can check maps, search for restaurants, and post on social media, enriching your travel experience.

For renting Wi-Fi, “wifi-rental-japan” is recommended！

These gadgets showcase the best of Japanese technology and design, making them highly beneficial for visitors to Japan. Be sure to take advantage of these useful gadgets when traveling in Japan.

Recommended eSIM Service

The eSIM from RakuSim, which uses networks from major Japanese carriers, provides reliable connectivity not only in urban areas but also in rural regions. It offers plans suitable for short-term stays as well.

Easy Purchase & Setup
Purchasing is simple and fully online. After purchase, follow the URL in the confirmation email to download your eSIM profile, or scan the QR code provided. You’ll be ready to use the service on the same day.

Flexible Plans
RakuSim offers a variety of plans to match different stay lengths, from short to long-term. Popular for its high data capacity and great value.

Reliable Support
Customer support is available every day, including weekends and holidays, from 10:00 AM to 7:00 PM. You can reach the team via email or phone for any inquiries.

Wide Coverage
Using the docomo network, RakuSim covers even rural and mountainous areas, providing stable connections even on the move.

Pricing Plans

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