Japan's bullet trains have become a must-do for Aussies visiting the hotspot.

Zooming from Tokyo to Kyoto at up to 320km/hour isn't just a way of travelling - it's an experience.

But there are a few pitfalls to watch out for while on board what's known as the shinkansen, according to Aussie Donna Burke, who is actually the 'voice' behind the train announcements.

The performer moved to Japan from Perth in 1996, and has since not only become a bit of an expert, but is well-versed when it comes to dishing out tips.

She advises passengers in her Aussie-English voice on everything such as the next station to where to put bags.

The actor, whose also voices video games and anime, was chosen for her soothing and gentle tones. She was even featured on Japanese TV listening to her announcements for the first time.

And when it comes to using the famous trains, she says that if you're on time, you're basically late.

"Being punctual means planning an extra 20 minutes more than you think to navigate the huge stations," she tells 9Travel. "The Shinkansen trains always depart exactly on time."

And while you might have managed to book a ticket online - website Klook is popular as it's in English - Donna recommends just heading to the station the day before to buy one.

Meanwhile, unlike on Aussie trains, chatting or talking on the phone is a big no-no.

"You're not allowed to talk on a phone at your seat - you have to move to the end of the carriage," Donna says.

"They are not into any noise on trains."

And while most thoughtful travellers already do this, after you eat, get up and put your rubbish in a bin, she says.

Meanwhile, blocking the train aisles either by standing chatting or with suitcases is also frowned upon.

Most travellers opt to send their luggage separately with one of the dedicated and efficient luggage services.

"In Japan the motto is, 'don't trouble your neighbour'," she tells us.

And transport is not the only thing Aussies get wrong in Japan. Underestimating the weather is another one.

"The summers are brutal, humidity wise, and even though you think, 'Oh, it's just 32 today. It's really like 40 degrees," she says.

"You might end up buying a sun parasol just to cope.

"The great thing is, the convenience stores are all over this, and as soon as it rains, have umbrellas out for you."

Donna, who appears in the Improvazilla improv show in Tokyo, knows plenty of hotspots Aussies would never unearth themselves.

They include her favourite onsen or hot spring.

" I have lived in Tokyo since 1996 and only discovered Tokyo's best Onsen in 2021," she says.

Toshimaen Niwa no Yu has a restaurant, hot baths, and a Japanese garden, she says.

Another tip when visiting is to go to one of the luxury hotels for afternoon tea.

"Aman Tokyo is next level with a roof made of washi paper," she says.

"A personal favourite is Park Lounge Park Hyatt where they filmed Lost in Translation, though it's closed until October.

"You are on the 41st floor and you get an incredible free view and Japanese service at its finest."

And if you want to get off the tourist trail, Donna recommends a shopping centre called LalaPort in Toyosu.

"It's close to the Tsukiji markets and Ginza but is a suburban shopping centre with Tokyu Hands, an incredible store to browse in, and all the other major shops," she says.

As for food, if you want good value, she takes her visitors to Jonathan's restaurants, to be served by robots.

"You can order from an iPad in English at your table," she says. "It's a good vibe of real Japan."

One thing Japan does not to well, however, is pouring beer, so Aussies might like to learn a phrase in Japanese.

"They like a five centimetre head of beer so I've learnt important Japanese: 'awa sukuname de onegai-shimasu' which means 'less foam, please'," she shares.