Apps & Technology¶
There are many apps that can benefit your stay in Japan. The list here mostly focuses on maps, trains and language support. I’m sure there are many others. Please update me with what you are using and I will add it to this list.
Note
I am using Android, so I know more about apps for Android. There is some information about iphone here, but it is grossly incomplete. If you have an iphone, please write to me about the apps you used and what was your experience with them.
Using the provided routes¶
There are some routes provided throughout this guide. In order to use the routes, you will need to download the route file to your phone or computer, and load it up in an application.
All the routes are provided as two different files - KMZ and GPX. Which file you choose depends on the application you will be using it with. KMZ files are used in Google maps, GPX is a more standard format used in other GPS software and maps.
Before using the routes, make sure you have an offline map you can use while walking around, and a GPS Receiver on your device. If you don’t have one of those, you can still use the route if you study the map or print it ahead of time.
I haven’t seen any publicly available printers in Japan, so you’re best bet is to print these at home before you leave.
Maps¶
It’s easy and free to download an offline map of Japan to your phone. This together with the GPS receiver on your phone will allow you to determine where you are at all times.
I have included various routes in this documents. You can load the route on the map and follow it to get to the places you need.
Cruiser - Map¶
Android Only.
I have used Cruiser extensively while in Japan. It’s simple and was very helpful. It’s available for Android only as far as I know.
First, download a map of Japan to your phone. The map is available here: http://download.mapsforge.org/maps/asia/japan.map (800 MB download).
Once the map is downloaded and the application is installed, open it, and from the map menu select “Open map”. Then select the file you downloaded, and you’re all set.
You can load any of the routes listed in this document on to the map and follow them if you choose the GPX format. From the Cruiser menu select Routing, then Import, then select the route file you’d like to follow. Then select Overlay, and you’ll have the route loaded on the map.
Install it from Google play: https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=gr.talent.cruiser.
Google Maps¶
Google maps is great, but it usually requires you to be connected at all times. They do have a feature to allow one to use the maps offline. You need to select the area you want to download, and it will store it for 30 days for offline use.
I was unable to download maps for Japan from Google Maps this way. I’ve looked into it, and I believe it’s an issue with license restrictions from the maps provider Google is using.
Please try, things might be different by the time you read this. Let me know if it worked for you. Remember that the maps expire after 30 days, so don’t do this too early.
If you are using Google Maps, or Google Earth, you would want to choose the KMZ option for the routes provided throughout this guide.
Maps.Me¶
Provides offline maps, and includes Japan, so it is better suited than Google Maps.
After installation, from the hamburger menu, select “Download Maps”, “Japan”, “Kantō region”, “Kanagawa Perfecture”. This should cover the areas you would need to travel around the different dojos.
If you are planning to travel to other areas in Japan, be sure to download the maps for those areas as well.
To use any of the routes published here, click on the KMZ link provided, save it, and open it with the “maps.me” app.
GPX Viewer¶
Android only.
This app is focused on showing recorded routes on maps. The maps can be online or offline. You can use the same maps you downloaded for the maps application, or use google maps.
For more information: https://vecturagames.com/gpxviewer/
RunnerUp¶
I used RunnerUp to record the routes provided in this guide. It would be great if you can install this and record more routes. After you have recorded a route, give it a short description, and you can export it and send me by email, to yhager@yhager.com. I will be happy to add more routes to this guide.
This app is completely free, no ads, no registration, no tracking.
Install it from Google Play: https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=org.runnerup
Train Schedule¶
There are many apps and ways to learn the train schedule in Japan. Below are just two examples, but others work well too.
HyperDia¶
Web site, Android app, iphone app.
Hyperdia is great at finding routes that include bus, train or plane rides in japan. It provides accurate information and is easy to read.
The app is free for 30 days, and requires internet connection while routes are being searched.
Japan Trains¶
Simple train schedules. I believe this uses the same information as hyperdia, so use whatever seems more comfortable for you. This only works online, so be sure to check the schedule when you are connected.
https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=bside.extremeambient.net
JR East Train Info¶
I did not use that app too much, mostly because I found Japan Trains to be sufficient. But you might find this one helpful as well.
https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=jp.co.jreast.en
Japanese¶
Make sure to have at least one offline dictionary on your phone. It helps a lot to communicate and to have discussions with locals. Simply type in the word you want to say, find the translation, and show it to your partner. It is surprising how well this works in a conversation.
Takoboto¶
Android Only.
This is the app I used for dictionary. It allows you to also find kanji by selecting the radicals used. It works well, but takes quite a bit of patience.
Human Japanese¶
This is not a dictionary, and it’s not free. But it will teach you about Japanese language and culture in very nicely laid out and thoughtful lessons.
It is not strictly required, but if you enjoy learning about the language and culture, this is a good option.
Additional Apps¶
I have no experience with these apps, but you might find these useful:
Navitime for Japan (android, ios)
Yomiwa – Offline Japanese English Dictionary (android, ios). Can also detect kanji characters using the camera.