What’s your single best tip for traveling in Japan? Here’s what frequent visitors said

Japan has long captivated travelers.

But many of its most famous qualities — from the cuisine to the country's nationwide culture of civility — can initially be befuddling for outsiders too.

To help travelers bridge the cultural gap, CNBC Travel asked frequent visitors for their single best piece of advice when visiting Japan.

"Japanese culture is about respecting your environment and the people around you. Don't talk on your phone on public transit and in confined areas around other people.

Also, savoring your food is an important show of respect, so don't eat while walking. Instead, sit down and enjoy each bite.

And be prepared to hold onto your trash around the city while traveling and sightseeing — chances of finding a trash can are slim to none! Locals generally bring a small bag to carry the day's trash until they get home. Japan is very clean, and you'll find public bathrooms to be spotless compared to other countries. Basically, try to leave no trace."

— Tyler Monahan, New Jersey-based assistant golf caddie manager married to a Japanese citizen. He has made three trips to Japan totaling 155 days.

"Trains are exceedingly punctual, so two minutes is a big deal — if it's not arriving at the exact time, it's a different train! If you miss a train in a big city like Osaka or Tokyo, another will be there in minutes, so don't sweat it. In the countryside though, it could be hours, or tomorrow!

Also, know the concept of "last train." The wholetrain scene, both public and private, shuts down roughly between midnight and 5 a.m., which can seem a little early in big cities, so be warned. In rural areas, it can be much earlier. Be prepared to take a cab, or if you're into it, explore this nocturnal world — perhaps at a jazz club