Hawaii Useful Information

Which island do you want to go to?

Hawaii consists of eight main islands and more than 100 smaller islands. Here’s a look at each island’s unique features and how to get there!  

Oahu (Oahu)

Oahu is the most famous tourist destination in the state of Hawaii, dotted with attractions such as Waikiki Beach, Diamond Head, and historic Pearl Harbor. The variety of shopping, nightlife, dining, and activities is overwhelming, andRecommended for beginners in Hawaii.That's right♪ You can enjoy the lush natural scenery, and on the North Shore, you can see the world-famous big waves.

 

Hawaii, Big Island

The Big Island of Hawaii is the largest island in the state of Hawaii, with the powerful lava flow of Kilauea, an active volcano, and Mauna Kea, one of the most star-filled mountains in the world,The overwhelming power of nature...is what makes it so appealing. Volcano National Park and Black Sand Beach are also must-see attractions, making it a popular destination for travelers who enjoy active outdoor adventures!  

Maui

Known as the “Island of Valleys,” Maui boasts beautiful beaches and abundant natural scenery, offering a blend of resort experiences and ecotourism. At Haleakala National Park, you can experience a magical sunrise, and during the winter months,Whale watching is also popularIt is! It has a romantic atmosphere and is recommended for honeymooners and couples♪  

Kauai

Known as the “Garden Island,” Kauai is famous for its lush tropical rainforests, beautiful valleys, and waterfalls. There are many spots where you can experience the grandeur of nature, such as the sheer cliffs of the Na Pali Coast and the Waimea Canyon, andPerfect for those who want to enjoy the great outdoors by hiking or kayaking.That's right! It also has the feel of a retreat where you can enjoy some quiet time.  

Lanai

Lanai Island, often referred to as a “private island,” is the perfect destination for those seeking a relaxed and peaceful getaway. With its blend of unspoiled nature and upscale resorts, it offers a truly luxurious stay. With relatively few tourists, it’s highly recommended for those who want to enjoy a sense of privacy!  

Molokai

Molokai, where traditional Hawaiian culture remains deeply rooted, charms visitors with its unspoiled, rustic atmosphere♪ With an abundance of pristine beaches and hiking trails, it’s the perfect destination for those who want to relax and interact with the locals.Quiet island time as it was and still is.You will be able to enjoy and truly relax.  

What to do in Hawaii?

Here are some recommendations from Hawaii's travel professionals on things not to miss in Hawaii!  

Hotels & Resorts

Hawaii offers a wide variety of accommodations, ranging from resort hotels to private villas and vacation rentals. Waikiki Beach on Oahu is lined with luxury hotels and beach resorts, and there are plenty of rooms offering spectacular views. Since oceanfront hotels tend to be a bit pricey,Changing to a city view is a plus for a cosy trip♪ If you take full advantage of the lounge, even seemingly expensive hotels can be a cost-effective place to stay.  

Play] Experiences and Activities

In Hawaii, marine sports such as snorkeling, diving, and surfing are of course available,Hiking and ziplining are also popular.It is. From whale watching and exploring Kilauea Volcano on the Big Island to horseback riding, you’re sure to enjoy Hawaii’s unique scenery and have plenty of opportunities to encounter wildlife—making for a truly memorable trip! Plus, with hula dance lessons, lei-making, and a traditional luau (Hawaiian-style feast),Hawaiian Cultural ExperienceYou can also enjoy

Click here to see the ranking of popular Hawaii tours  

【View】Sightseeing, Places of Interest, Natural Spots

Hawaii has so many famous landmarks and natural attractions worth visiting! Diamond Head and Pearl Harbor on Oahu, as well as Hawaii Volcanoes National Park on the Big Island, are must-sees. On Kauai, you’ll find the majestic Na Pali Coast and the beautiful scenery of the Waimea Canyon, while on Maui, you can enjoy the spectacular views from Mount Haleakala. Each island offers a unique landscape, allowing you to experience the raw power of nature. Surrounded by breathtaking scenery,Special moments you'll want to captureWe hope you will enjoy the  

Eating] Restaurants and cafes

Hawaii's food culture is unique, drawing on local ingredients and multinational influences. In addition to local dishes like loco moco and poke, there is a growing number of restaurants that use organic ingredients. On Oahu, you can dine at a beachfront restaurant and enjoy the sunset, while on Maui and Kauai, you can enjoy farm-to-table fresh cuisine. Reservations are recommended for restaurants.That's right. American restaurant information sites like "Yelp" and "OpenTable" are really handy! You can check restaurant information, reviews, and business hours.  

Shopping] Shopping malls and souvenirs

Hawaii offers a wide variety of shopping spots, from trendy malls to local shops. The Ala Moana Shopping Center on Oahu and Kalakaua Avenue in Waikiki are popular with tourists, and you can find the latest brands and items unique to Hawaii there♪ At local markets and farmers markets,Hawaiian coffee, macadamia nuts and handmade souvenirs.You can also purchase it! When paying by credit card, you may be able to choose between Japanese yen and U.S. dollars, but if you pay in yen, the amount may vary depending on the store’s exchange rate, soDollar choice is recommended.That's right. Why not find a special item to go along with your travel memories?

Hawaii Airport Transfers to and from Waikiki

Here are the best ways to get from Daniel K. Inouye International Airport (formerly Honolulu International Airport) in Hawaii to Waikiki.

Shuttle buses are recommended if price is important, and Uber if time is important.It is.

 

1. airport shuttle bus

The shuttle, which requires advance reservations, is a relatively affordable way to get to and from major Waikiki hotels. The fare is around $23 each way, and the trip takes about 30-50 minutes.

Since you will be sharing a car with several passengers, each hotel may be visited in turn.Make a reservation in advance if you want to use it.Let's do it.

 

2. ride-sharing (Uber, Lyft)

Ride-sharing services, in which cars can be dispatched using a smartphone app, are highly convenient and popular. The fare is about $30 each way plus tip, and the trip takes about 20 minutes.

No in-car payments,Japanese-language display is also available.It is.

 

3. cab

The ride can be taken directly from the airport cab stand and takes approximately 20 minutes to Waikiki. The fare is approximately $42 one-way, with an additional tip.

If you make a reservationCab companies offering flat ratesThere are also

 

4. car rental

It is not a cheap means of transportation, but it offers a high degree of freedom and is convenient for touring tourist destinations.Rent for a limited number of days.is also a good idea.

A free shuttle bus also runs from the arrival lobby to the rental car center at the airport.

 

Island Transportation

The following is a summary of the major modes of transportation and their characteristics within each of the Hawaiian islands.

 

The Bus

TheBus, a public bus service that covers all of Oahu, is widely used by both local residents and tourists.

It connects major tourist attractions and shopping areas,Only $3 for the ride.This is the cheapest and most popular means of transportation.

 

How to Ride The Bus

Fares and riding directions are as follows

 

 Waikiki Trolley

By trolleybus for tourists,Touring major spots around WaikikiThe city is located in the center of the city. Multiple train lines are available, making it convenient for tourists to get around the city efficiently.

The line consists of four lines: pink, blue, green, and red.

 

Types of Tickets and How to Purchase

The types of tickets and how to purchase them are as follows

 

Biki (biki), Go-X (Go-X)

Biki, a bicycle-sharing service operating in Honolulu, and Go X, an electric kickboard, are suitable for short distances.

Easily accessible using a smartphone application.

 

rent-a-car

Car rental is a popular means of transportation with a high degree of freedom.Hotel parking is about $20-$40 per dayIt is. Many popular towns, such as Ala Moana Center, have free parking.

Keep in mind traffic rules in advance, such as driving on the right side of the road and mileage signs.

 

cab

It is convenient when you have a lot of luggage, are traveling with a large group, or want to save time, as it allows you to travel directly to your destination. However, the fare is higher than other means of transportation.

In addition, there are few cab stands in Hawaii, and cab stands are commonly used.

Uber or flat rate cabs are also recommended.

 

skyline

The Skyline rail system, which opened on June 30, 2023, is Oahu's newest transportation network.

Future extensions to Daniel K. Inouye International Airport and downtown are planned.Use HOLO card for faresThe payment will be made in the form of a lump-sum payment.

Hawaii Weather and Clothing

Hawaii.Warm climate throughout the yearis a feature of this product.

November through April is the rainy season, with brief showers, but the days are warm and pleasant.

May through October is the dry season, with many sunny days, perfect for beaches and outdoor activities.

 

Event Calendar

Hawaii offers a wide variety of events and festivals throughout the year. When traveling,Check local event informationand enjoy a more fulfilling stay.

Note that if the holiday falls on a Saturday or Sunday, the day before or the day after will be a substitute holiday!

 

Time Difference Calculation

The time difference from Japan is -19 hours. There is no daylight saving time.

 

Currency, Exchange and Tipping in Hawaii

The currency in Hawaii is the U.S. dollar (USD), which is approximately 160 yen to the dollar. 6 types of bills are available: $1, $5, $10, $20, $50, and $100, and 6 types of coins: 1 cent, 5 cents, 10 cents, 25 cents, 50 cents, and $1.

 

Where is the best place to exchange money?

Most accept credit cards, though,Farmer's market and tip only accept cash.Therefore, it is recommended to exchange some money.

Banks and private exchange offices authorized by the state government are recommended with good rates.It is. However, hours of operation are limited.

You can do this at currency exchange offices at airports, hotels, and in major shopping centers, but the fees may be higher. You can also withdraw cash at local ATMs using an international cash card or credit card, but beware of fees and interest charges.

 

Tipping Rates and Giving Tips

Tipping, a part of American culture, is a way of showing appreciation for service.

Tipping is generally given in cash.

 

Immigration Flow

Let's also review immigration procedures upon arrival in Hawaii.

Get in line at the Non-resident line and present a valid passport, ESTA authorization notice, and customs declaration form. You may be asked about the purpose and duration of your stay and where you will be staying.

Customs Declaration Forms should be filled out on board.

Entry and Exit Information (Visa/ESTA)

Under the Visa Waiver Program (VWP), Japanese citizens visiting Hawaii for tourism do not need a visa for stays of 90 days or less.

However,Electronic System for Travel Authorization (ESTA) application and approval required prior to travelIt is. Applications can be submitted through the official website at https://esta.cbp.dhs.gov. The application fee is $21. It is recommended that applications be submitted at least 72 hours prior to travel.

If you use an application agency site, the agency fee will be added,Beware of similar sites.Please do so.

If you have traveled to certain countries (e.g., Iran, Iraq, North Korea, etc.) after March 1, 2011, your ESTA status may be restricted. Please check the official website of the U.S. Embassy for details.

 

In case of illness or trouble

Here is some information you should know in advance in case of sudden illness or injury during your trip.

 

I'll buy travel insurance overseas.

Hawaii also charges for ambulance service. Medical care in Hawaii is often expensive, so be prepared for any eventuality.Overseas travel insurance is strongly recommended.I will do so.

You can purchase it relatively inexpensively online. Some credit cards come with travel insurance, but be sure to check coverage and eligibility requirements in advance.

 

Emergency Contacts

There are several hospitals and clinics in Hawaii where Japanese is spoken. For example, there is the Waikiki Urgent Care Clinic and Doctors on Call.

andEmergency services, police, and fire emergency number is 911It is. If you are involved in an accident or theft, contact us.

 

checkout

Tabiregi- is a distribution service that allows you to check the latest safety information from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs in Japanese.

Register your e-mail address and your place of stay to receive the latest safety information from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs.

It is a good idea to check frequently before departure!

 

Beware of high charges for overseas smartphones

Smartphone use abroad carries the risk of high charges due to data roaming. Set your mobile data connection to off before you travel.

After arrival in Hawaii,Buy a local prepaid SIM cardDo you want to,Rent a WiFi routerand use the Internet.

There are many options for WiFi router rentals, including home delivery, airport pickup, and local pickup.

 

WiFi situation

In Hawaii, many hotels, cafes, and shopping malls offer free WiFi.

Honolulu International Airport is also equipped with free WiFi, which is available immediately upon arrival.

 

What you should bring from Japan

Most items can be procured locally, but here are some items that are especially safe to bring from Japan.

 

Lowest price period for airline tickets

The timing of travel and reservations is critical to getting the best value for your airfare to Hawaii.

Although it depends on the season and the airline, in general, the following are the times when the cost of a trip to Hawaii is lower. Plan your trip for the time of year when the cost is lower.

In addition to the time of year, the price fluctuation is also affected by fuel surcharges.