I actually quite like flying into a Narita. (Regular traveler there) It’s nice to see a bit of the countryside and the contrast of it before the big city.
i save about 3-400$dollers landing in Narita, the few who does land in Haneda is more expensive, and the times for the flight are horendeus as well. By all means i dont mind Haneda, it has this really nice gimicky feel when leaving, but my hot take is Narita is actully a better airport then Haneda.
For my case, flying to Narita is probably worth it since 1. my tickets were cheaper + it's a non-stop flight 2. i should arrive around 15h30 so train and bus are available 3. for 30 minutes difference i don't mind the time of transport.
Great video and information. I would add that choosing the airport to arrive/depart from is also dependent on where you are staying in Tokyo. I stay in Ueno and accordingly choose Narita as the airport as it is a direct one train trip on the Keisei Skyliner to Ueno station. Don't wish to be changing metro trains with luggage.
1 mistake that took me awhile to realize was the small dish of sorts at the cashier is where 1 is suppose to put the money or card. I casually handed payments to the cashiers and they gave me a confused look 😅
I just returned from Japan and it was a wonderful experience (lots of video watching on prepping....many thanks to your videos!). I will say, the packing too much is so true. My next time I travel there, I will definitely pack lighter. While it wasn't terrible, it did make "travel days" a workout.
Thanks for all of the great videos as this one is perfect timing as we’re in Japan right now. Get wifi immediately I hesitated and we got lost in Osaka.
6:45 bro i saw some foreign family at mcdonalds let their kids do a big mess on the table and ground and they didnt even bother to clean a crumb and walked away
Thank you again for the different wi-fi suggestions for locked phones. I had to buy a new phone before I went to Japan and you broke down each Japanese phone carrier to help my decision.Very helpful and informative. ArigatoGozaimasu
Nice video, one mistake not mentioned is when paying for something do not try to directly hand money to the clerk, put the money in the small metal tray on the counter next to the cash register. If you get change the clerk will put your change into the tray for you to get. Also another mistake is trying to tip. That is a big no no in Japan. You are disgracing the person by making them feel that they are not being paid enough for their job and they will return your tip to you. The two words for please that you used, the first one means please take me (like when getting into a taxi) or please do me a favor, the second one means please bring me something like when you are ordering something. There is also another word for please which is dozo, which means I am offering you something to take or I want you to go ahead of me.
im not sure how much of a big misstake this is anymore, at this point i think a lot of them just assume we will hand them cash in hand hence they almost get confused when we do use the tray. I've had plenty of experiences when im about to drop money in the trai they reach out their hands to collect the money from me. Talking about reveresed shock xD
I'm going on my fifth trip to Japan this year, and depending on where in the city you stay, Narita vs Haneda isn't THAT much of a difference. Fly into whichever airport is cheaper.
Yeah, it depends upon where you will stay and whether you know how to get to your accommodations from the airport. This is just a heads up for people to be aware of the airport locations before booking plane tickets.
going for the 5th time in October myself, and agreed on this, there is such a small price difference from one airport to another it really doesnt matter that much, sure a little longer time from airport but its really not that bad. i also like using the limosin busses so i can get to my district directly not having to change trains 1/2 times as well
@@deaddrunkgamer7399 Yep, if there's no price difference and you're staying in Shibuya, yeah, go for Haneda. But these videos are so much "avoid Narita at all cost", and I'm imagining tourists paying £100 more to land at Haneda when staying in Asakusa
Some airlines offer cheaper prices to/from Narita, and even we spent add cost to take Keisei to Ueno / Tokyo in total it’ll much cheaper rather than flying to Haneda. if you bringing wife + kids like me, it’s a $300 saving.
Just want to thank you and the channel for giving top tier tips visiting Japan. Just came back from a 8 day trip to Kyoto and Osaka. Really helped navigating with travelling passes, Pocket Wifi etc
I always considered Picket wihi, and always end up opting out of it, I guess it has to do i often solo travel and i am very depended on notification meaning i would have had the pocket wifi on all the time, also considering having the cheapest E-sim so i can get my notifications and the pocket wifi when i need stable net, in the end E-Sim was always enough for me and 1/3 of the price and could be setup while i was still at home and ready to launch when i landet.
Only place i havent visited here is Nagoya, i opted for Himeji instead (and Hiroshima) have a lovely trip, Osaka has so much to offer, if its one place you should consider cooling down the sighseeing and rather take in the ambience of the people with drinking and food culture this is the spot! for sure
While I'm flying into Narita next month, I'll be staying in Chiba the first night anyway before heading to Fujisawa the next afternoon. I'm saving Tokyo itself for my last 3 days of the trip. Doing Chiba-Fujisawa (Enoshima)-Kamakura-Kanazawa-Shinjuku on this trip. Then Hokkaido next June for a motorcycle tour. Just 21 days to go.🎉
Regarding the waterproof shoes, I had a pair of Vessi’s sneakers (advertised as waterproof) but the rain got in through where my socks peeked out a tiny bit at the edges. My daughter tried spraying Scotchguard on her sneakers but probably did not thorough coverage so her shoes got soaked too. This was when a typhoon was passing so it was pretty heavy rain. Boots were too heavy to pack and took up too much room. Oh well, at least it wasn’t cold rain in the summer and our shoes dried overnight. Thanks for this video
I've heard those Vessi shoes recommended before. I guess most shoes aren't 100% waterproof. Rain can even get in through the top of rain boots. We ran out into the typhoon rain to get umbrellas at the nearest market and got soaked. Agreed, at least it wasn't cold rain! ☔️
80% of the time i land at Narita, i actually kinda prefer it, jump on a limusin bus and try to sleep a bit before arriving at my destination as im never able to sleepp during my 13 hour flight.
@@KenshoQuest yes absolutely. what if I run out of cash and shops doesn't accept cards, is there any money exchanger around the street ? or can I withdraw money ?
We withdraw money from the ATM machines, which are easy to find in 7-Eleven. Here's our video explaining how we manage our money while traveling in Japan: ruclips.net/video/J6AziGwySZo/видео.html @@alvinting7423
#21. DONT miss an opportunity to join a meetup. This is a rare opportunity to meet and talk to locals who enjoy speaking English and meeting foreigners.
I have a long plane layover (1.5 day) in Japan . We will be moving with a lot of luggage and wondered what we can do with all of our luggage. We come in at 6:00 p.m. and it looks like there is no service for holding luggage after 6:30. 😊 We are concerned we will not get to the luggage holding area soon enough for big bags
Hi, when you first arrive, please check with JAL ABC, they might be open. If not, ask the information desk for the location of the cloak room. If they too are not open you might try using ECBO Cloak app. More info here: ruclips.net/video/dsUGncWTVm8/видео.html
Thanks for the nice tips!! In regards to American medical insurance, for seniors, Medicare isn't available outside the USA. Because of that, I highly recommend getting medical coverage.
Questions for the Live Q&A: 1. Is it easy or likely to have an English speaker when picking up passes and making reservations at the major airports? 2. Are you able to make a series of reservations when picking up the pass? 3. Is it hard to change a reservation if you miss your train? If you need a luggage reservation especially? Thanks so much for all your helpful info! Not sure if I’ll make the Q&A due to time difference in Australia, but will definitely watch it back if you keep it up on RUclips 👍👍
1. Yes they do have English speaker when picking up passes and making reservations at the airport. 2. Yes u can make series reservation when pickup the pass. 3. If u missed the reservation train then u can reschedule or take non reservations seat instead. If u have large luggage then u need reservations or just take the non reservations seat and they won't give u too much hard time. I'm first time visiting Japan with my family's and I so nervous to deal with Jr pass voucher exchange but don't worry it is easy. U need Google translate and Google len to help u do the translation without any problem as first time.
00:01 wrong. i prefer which is cheaper. because it is not too important distance between the airport and the city center. you will you it maximum two times. 2:25 be careful that card. you must install not too much. because if there is any remaining balance, you cannot withdraw this balance from anywhere. it is weird, but you can not withdraw. so, last day in japan, i have to send my money to buy some things at Airporty.
I'm hoping to go to Japan for the first time next year, and I'm going to fly on Zipair, which only flies out of Narita. My plan is still to get a hotel closer to Haneda or Tokyo station rather than Narita.
00:00 *✈️ Fly into Haneda Airport instead of Narita to save time and transportation costs, even if it's slightly more expensive.* 00:41 *🚖 Avoid arriving between 11:00 p.m. and 5:00 a.m. to prevent high taxi costs and closed services.* 01:09 *🎫 Pre-order your Japan Rail Pass by September 29, 2023 to avoid a price increase starting October 1, 2023.* 01:35 *⏰ Be on time for trains; Japanese trains are punctual, and you should arrive early to find your platform.* 02:02 *💳 Credit cards are widely accepted in Japan, though some places might still require cash.* 02:42 *💵 Know the conversion rate between your currency and Yen before and during your trip.* 03:09 *❌ Don't accept marked-up ATM conversion rates; always choose to pay in Japanese Yen for better rates.* 03:51 *🏰 Book attractions and themed cafes in advance as they often sell out months ahead.* 04:31 *🚻 Understand how to use Japanese toilets; read the icons and don’t press random buttons.* 05:13 *🍴 Restaurants may only provide chopsticks and spoons; practice using chopsticks or bring your own utensils.* 05:57 *🕑 Don't miss breakfast at your hotel; breakfast service usually ends at 10:00 a.m. and you should arrive before 9:30 a.m.* 06:11 *🧼 Clean up after yourself in food courts; use the cleaning station and trash cans provided.* 06:39 *🚯 Public trash cans are rare; carry a small bag for your trash or find a place to dispose of it.* 06:54 *👟 Remove your shoes where required; be respectful in temples, homes, and hotel rooms.* 07:21 *🌧️ Pack waterproof shoes for summer to handle unexpected rain in Japan.* 08:04 *📣 Keep your voice down in public; avoid being loud to blend in better.* 08:26 *🇯🇵 Learn basic Japanese phrases like “Excuse me,” “Thank you,” and “Sorry” to navigate daily interactions.* 09:05 *🌐 Have internet access for navigation and translation; consider a SIM card or pocket Wi-Fi.* 09:34 *🧳 Pack light to manage luggage on public transportation; consider using luggage shipping services.* 10:00 *🏥 Get travel health insurance if your home insurance doesn’t cover international travel.* 10:39 *🗺️ Join the live Q&A about the Japan Rail Pass on September 17th for more travel tips.*
Hi there, how do you transfer luggage between two cities like from Tokyo to Osaka? Do they provide luggage storage if we are staying in Airbnb and not a hotel
Hi, most Airbnb's will not allow luggage to be delivered since someone needs to be at the residence to receive it. Instead, you can forward your luggage to the nearest Yamato Transport and pick up your luggage from there. We've done this several times. I recommend that you watch our video on this subject here: ruclips.net/video/wnZuv2t9J1Y/видео.html
Most airline ticket purchases have an insurance option that you can purchase but the insurance (#20) they are mentioning is different. Travel Insurance can cover a whole range of options besides health. For example, god forbid someone in your party is tragically hurt or even deceased, if you select the options that covers this, someone from your home country can fly over to the country where the injury or death occurred to coordinate assistance with local institutions and/or your nation's embassy to fly the body back. This takes a LOT of money and paperwork, you have no idea! Insurance!! People may not think about this option in advance but research and budget this into your travel plans. Make sure you have the information with you when you travel.
Thanks for adding this. Our SafetyWing travel health insurance includes other benefits we didn't mention in the video such as medical evacuation, political evacuation, trip interruption (if you need to return home for an emergency back home), and burial or repatriation of remains. I have no idea what it would entail to use that final benefit on someone's behalf.
Oh good, I show up at Haneda by 2pm on April 17 and I'll be staying for 14 days. I, so far, only booked the flight. Then, after booking all that, I kept hearing about tourists going to Narita, and I thought I screwed up. I think I'm going to pass on the JR Pass as it doesn't seem worth it anymore. Might stay half the time in Tokyo and then I'm thinking about flying to Hiroshima for the rest of the stay, but I'll have to come back to Tokyo for my flight back to the USA.
If you’re flying Delta from the US yeah you’re going to be in Haneda which is great. You can take the Tokyo monorail to Hamamatsucho station (one stop from Tokyo station) for about ¥500 and takes less than 30 min. From there you can grab a train to pretty much anywhere else in Tokyo quick. The JR pass is only worth it if you’re going to be moving around a lot. Otherwise a standard ticket is cheaper. I would also highly recommend checking the price on a train ticket to Hiroshima. The Shinkansen is about 3.5hrs and $130 each way. While a flight is only around 1.5 hours the train is VASTLY more comfortable and convenient. Once you factor in transit to the airport, security, and baggage the Shinkansen almost always wins out. The train leaves directly from Tokyo station, whereas you’re going to need at least 30 min to get to Haneda airport, plus an hour or more buffer to clear security. The train is also infinitely more comfortable and you get a fantastic view of the country on the way.
@XeonAlpha Oh, I've massively changed my itinerary since I posted this, but thanks for the info. Will arrive in Tokyo on April 17. Staying until the 21st. I'm going to Osaka until the 24th (I'll dedicate a full day to Hiroshima while here). I'm going to Kyoto until the 27th. I'm going all the way up to stay in Aomori to hopefully catch some cherry blossoms at Hirosaki Park. From here, I'll catch a domestic flight back to Haneda on my departure day, where my return flight leaves at 4PM, so I should be able to make time with an early flight. I'm thinking the 7 day JR Pass from the 21st-27th might be worth it, where I'd use it to get from Tokyo - Osaka - Hiroshima (round trip) - Kyoto - Aomori (going through Tokyo). Still working everything out. Lol
@@FluffyBunny9002 JR might be worth it but do the math. Personally I don’t think flying is worth it unless you’re going really far (DEFINITELY not Kyoto/Osaka to Tokyo). I’ve done that route 3 times now and the Shinkansen is the way to go. I’ll cross my fingers for you on the cherry blossoms but it’s been very, very warm this year. I was just in Nagano 3rd week of Feb and it was already up into the high 60’s. I actually left early because I was planning to ski and it was just rain and slush.
@XeonAlpha Oh no, the only domestic flight I'm considering is getting back to Haneda Airport from Aomori. It would be on April 30, and my plane for the States leaves that same day from Haneda at 4:00pm, so I'd probably take an early flight no later than noon to make sure I make it back in time. The forecasts I keep looking at say the cherry blossoms should start to bloom in Aomori about a week before I arrive, give or take a day or two, and I'm hoping I can see them at Hirosaki Park, even if I only manage to catch the later blooming variety. If it looks like I'll miss the blossom up there the closer that time comes I can still cancel my trip up north for a full refund, and then I'll improvise the last 4 days of my trip. The rest of my itinerary is locked in.
i wouldnt say that :P i think a lot of japan influencers are painting Narita to be this really horrible thing which it is not. Last time i took the Limusin bus from narita it only took 60 ish minuts to Shinjuku.
Hi, it really depends on what you want to do. There are so many different types of travelers who come to Japan for different reasons. But we do have a ton of videos covering a wide variety of topics. The main thing we can suggest is to take it slow. In Japan, it takes a long time to get from one attraction to another even if it across town. Also, you will enjoy it more by taking things slow. Here are a couple of videos that you might find helpful: ruclips.net/video/MqdBGSiqYLs/видео.html ruclips.net/video/E1d_mn5gMaQ/видео.html ruclips.net/video/NGSW8nVdqYA/видео.html
Love your video even though I visit many times. Singapore, it is better to change more Yen than using credit card in Japan. One trip expenditure of S$4K can save couple of hundreds S$, especially for high ticket items. Credit card and Hotels has the worst lowest ex rate. Thanks.
Only thing that cought me offguard here is cleaning station at food places, i've never seen one in my 4 trips. Only a station where you put you're trays back and dump the trash. Could this be a family resturant thing?
I’m not certain for bullet trains. For local trains, you can request assistance when passing through the ticket gate. They will ask which station to plan to get off the train at. Then an attendant will bring a small ramp and place it at the train entrance once the train arrives. There are particular cars marked for handicapped, with space to fit a wheelchair. When you arrive at the destination station there will be another attendant waiting with a ramp for getting off the train. 🌸 Heidi
Hi. We use SafetyWing Nomad Insurance for travel and health insurance. Here’s one of our old videos on the topic: ruclips.net/video/pObCQ4JoNfQ/видео.htmlsi=hfowyjnj1Hbkcr4R
How do you get from Shinjuku station to Kyoto by train with luggage? Is it complicated, do you need to pre book or can you get tickets right there at station before boarding? Also will it allow you to upgrade your seating?
It's easy but you will need to take your luggage on the local train first. Take the local train from Shinjuku Station, take the Yamanote line to Shinagawa Station. Purchase a shinkansen ticket at Shinagawa station (or easier, use the link below) to Kyoto on the Tokaido Shinkansen. When you purchase your ticket you can choose to buy a Green Car ticket which is first class. Also, if you want the fastest train choose Nozomi. they are all the same price regardless of train. here is a direct link to where you can buy your ticket: affiliate link: geni.us/shinkansen 🌟 Save with KENSHOQUESTKLOOK
@@KenshoQuest Thanks for the reply, let me ask you if I want to avoid taking local train can I take a hired car to the Shinagawa station directly instead and then buy the Shinkansen ticket there? I am confused, also when I buy the Shinkansen ticket will it take cash?
Yes, you absolutely can hire a taxi, there are plenty around and as long as you don't get stuck in traffic, prices are reasonable. We do this often. And yes, the shinkansen ticket machine does take cash.
@@KenshoQuest Hey, thank you so much for your help. I was getting nervous about going because it seems complicated. I am trying to learn some basic Japanese to be respectful and at least try to speak the language.
@@KenshoQuest I have unlocked phone. How do I obtain a SIM card for it, preferably if I can get card sent to me before I arrive. If not where can I purchase one in person? Is it just Plug n Play (Insert SIM and go). I would like Voice and Data, but ones I have seen only include data. I will only need it to communicate with any tour guides or hired drivers.
October is lovely in Japan! We're more independent style travelers, so we always go on our own rather than through an agency or group tour. We share lots here on Kensho Quest about riding trains to various cities and sites, no tour needed.
How & where do I buy wifi connection when I arrive in Japan I will be there for two weeks. My US wifi cell phone international plan is too expensive. Thank you.
Hi, I it is possible that renting a car will be cheaper but do keep in mind that you will also need to pay toll roads, gas, parking fees and it can be very hard at times to find parking in general. This video has more details on transportation for your route: ruclips.net/video/bkcZVmjZr4M/видео.html
As always your videos are very helpful. BTW: I booked a hotel through Expedia, and purchased their travel insurance as well. Wish I saw this video first before buying their travel insurance. Anyhoo, I’ll check safetywing-cuz I’m booking more hotel stays in Kyoto. Thank you, and take care. 🤎
@ Just done watchin’ your vid about travel insurance. I think safetywing insurance is way better than Expedia hotel/travel insurance. Expedia doesn’t cover COVID & political evacuation. Again, thank you for everything. 🤎
HI, sorry for the confusion and hopefully I am answering your question.. If you are charging your Suica or Pasmo with Apple Pay and have your credit card selected then you may be charged a cash advance fee. We recommend you contact your CC issuer to see if that is the case unless you are using a different method.
Last time I did this was Jun 2023 and used my AMEX Green Card. The 10000yen charge through the My Suica app was recognized as purchase and got me 3X points on travel. Hope this data point helps@@KenshoQuest
My view on narita vs haneda is it is less of an error but mere convenience, as long as one does enough homework on transport it should be fine. For please, i would suggest using onegashimasu as kudasai doesn't work with certain situations, can sometimes end up creating a point blank moment for Japanese on other side.
Short answer, if its can you hand me that, its okay to use Kudasai. like Nama biiru kudasai (ill have a beer thanks) you can say Nama biiru Onegaishimasu (same as above but more formal) things that take time would not be correct with Kudasai. Can i have the hamburger kudasai, would be an incorrect use of Kudasai. use Onegaishimasu in that case.
@@jackfromthe60s as a foreigner you certainly would get a freepass, though the distinction is the how unconvinient is it. Handing you a quick drink is easy, or a scewer that is allready ready or something from 7/11. but if it's something that needs to be prepped its more polite to use the longer formal Onegaishimasu. Me personally use Onegaishimasu often even when ordering beer etc, because i do like being polite.
Your videos have been helpful in planning our family's first time to Japan. I do have a question about footwear advise. We are going in June 2024 and I am debating between waterproof boots and waterproof sneakers. Do you know if there is enough rain while walking around to justify boots? They are more difficult to put on and off so just not sure. WE plan to hike up at least part of Miyajima but otherwise we plan to do temples, gardens, and inside activities. We are planning on going to Tokyo, Kyoto, Osaka, Hiroshima, and Hakone.
It rains a TON in June. I would choose whichever shoes you feel more comfortable walking in for a long time. It's also nice to have two pairs of shoes, so if one gets wet you can switch to the other while they dry. Being able to easily take shoes off is a plus in Japan.
Questions for the Live Q&A: Some third party vendors (e.g. Klook) sell JR pass more than 90 days away from planned travel day. However, they will not issue exchange order till 70 days prior to the travel date. Question: 1) When will be the last day of exchange if I pre-order the pass more than 90 days away? I will be travelling on Dec and I am little bit worrying about bad weather which would delay the flight and push my arrival a day or two . It become critical when the 90 days validity starting counting. 2) Not a question directly related to JR pass. What are the pros and cons to buy Shinkansen one-way ticket from third party website as compared to ticket office/vending machine? Thanks for the video and great tips.
Question about baggage transportation... If I'd like to get my baggage delivered from Narita to Hotel in Tokyo(Ginza) in the same day. What is an hour I have to be on Yamato service desk in Narita Airport. THANKS
Hello again and THANK YOU for hosting the upcoming Q&A! My Question is: Can I purchase tickets for Narita Express and Book seats online ahead of arrival? If my flight Arrives at 4:40, I am thinking I would be safe to book seats for 6:45 or 7:00 PM NEX into Tokyo from Narita... (I realized I only need a 7 Day JR Pass and will not activate upon Arrival but 7 days into our 14 day trip to travel to Kyoto and Osaka and return to Tokyo). Also, can you UPGRADE to GREEN CAR for JR Pass while reserving seats?
Hi, You're welcome! We hope to see you on the live stream! Yes, you can purchase and book your reserved sets for the NEX from the jr east website here: www.jreast.co.jp/multi/en/pass/nex.html Also, from our experience there are usually plenty of seats available on the NEX. As for upgrading your JR Pass, if you are interested in the Green Car then you might just want to buy that now. We do not know if you can upgrade at the ticketing office.
I ordered pocket wifi because it came with the power bank I can use for all my other stuff too. Do still need the VPN, I mean I will be signed into the pocket wifi
Hi, VPN is for extra security. Mainly if you will be connecting to public Wifis or want to keep your connection private or want to watch netflix or Amazon. So you probably don't need one since you will be using a pocket wifi.
Thank you, very informative. I have 9AM fight at NRT Airport, what is best method to go from Tokyo? What is the earliest time train or bus run in the morning from Tokyo to NRT? Thank you.
Hi, glad it is helpful! The earliest trains leave around 6am which will get you to NRT around 7am. If you take the train, I recommend the Keisei skyliner as it is the fastest. If that is too late then you can look for an early bus. Note, it depends on location whether they have an early bus or not so you need to do some searching by location to find the earliest bus for your needs. Here are links to both: airport bus: webservice.limousinebus.co.jp/web/en skyliner: geni.us/skyliner
Wondering if anyone in chat will know if I can cancel a reservation made online in US. Do not pick up my rail Pass until Oct 2 and made an error in one of my reservations. I cannot figure out how to change or delete it. I need a different routing. Any insight will be appreciated🙏🏼
Hi. We haven't personally done this. Here's what we found on the website: The purchaser must make any changes on JAPAN RAIL PASS Reservation. - After logging in on JAPAN RAIL PASS Reservation, go to My Menu and select JAPAN RAIL PASS in which you wish change your reserved seat. - In the itinerary list, click the “Change” button for the train you want to change. Reserved seats can be changed on JAPAN RAIL PASS Reservation between 4:00 and 23:30 (Japan time UTC+09:00), up to the departure time of the first train on your reserved itinerary, and as late as 6 minutes before the departure time of the train after changes are made. Click the following link for further details. www.japanrailpass-reservation.net/PurchaseGuide
Wow, good advice and introduction about traveling in Japan….. makes me want to go to Japan 👍🏼 Any women wish to travel to 🇯🇵, I would like to join you, small group is ok!
Hello gd day I'll be traveling from the Philippines to Narita then going to Yokohama for 2 days what should I do first since it's my first time in Japan! Need some tips
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I actually quite like flying into a Narita. (Regular traveler there) It’s nice to see a bit of the countryside and the contrast of it before the big city.
The view from the motorway is dull or nonexistent
@@bashdamonkey sorry I was meaning the airport train.
I arrive Haneda and depart Narita.
I Much prefer Haneda. It’s much easier, faster & cheaper to transfer into Tokyo. Also clearing customs & immigration is faster.
i save about 3-400$dollers landing in Narita, the few who does land in Haneda is more expensive, and the times for the flight are horendeus as well. By all means i dont mind Haneda, it has this really nice gimicky feel when leaving, but my hot take is Narita is actully a better airport then Haneda.
For my case, flying to Narita is probably worth it since 1. my tickets were cheaper + it's a non-stop flight 2. i should arrive around 15h30 so train and bus are available 3. for 30 minutes difference i don't mind the time of transport.
Yep, that sounds worth it!
this is so informative! Eases my anxiety for sure! Flying out tomorrow for the first time
Have a wonderful time in Japan! 🌸
Your video contains so much helpful information. Thanks
Very informative video. Kudos to your and your husband for bringing your young children on your travels. Kids learn so much while vacationing. 🙂
Thanks!
I saw “first time traveler” and thought sci fi stuff was going to happen 😂 Thanks for the video cause I’m traveling in July 2024!
Great video and information. I would add that choosing the airport to arrive/depart from is also dependent on where you are staying in Tokyo. I stay in Ueno and accordingly choose Narita as the airport as it is a direct one train trip on the Keisei Skyliner to Ueno station. Don't wish to be changing metro trains with luggage.
Good point! Thanks for adding that.
1 mistake that took me awhile to realize was the small dish of sorts at the cashier is where 1 is suppose to put the money or card. I casually handed payments to the cashiers and they gave me a confused look 😅
Will be traveling for the first time. Your videos are very helpful, and succinct. And, quite polished - no superfluous stuff. Thank-you.
I just returned from Japan and it was a wonderful experience (lots of video watching on prepping....many thanks to your videos!). I will say, the packing too much is so true. My next time I travel there, I will definitely pack lighter. While it wasn't terrible, it did make "travel days" a workout.
Welcome back! We try to pack light, but it’s hard. Last time we left Japan with two more suitcases than we arrived with 😂.
Great advice, super useful. Thank you. Also, beautiful family you have!
Thanks for all of the great videos as this one is perfect timing as we’re in Japan right now. Get wifi immediately I hesitated and we got lost in Osaka.
Thanks for the tip! Have fun in Japan.
6:45 bro i saw some foreign family at mcdonalds let their kids do a big mess on the table and ground and they didnt even bother to clean a crumb and walked away
What does everyone have against Narita?
It's chilling and the train ride is like the intro to an anime
Thank you again for the different wi-fi suggestions for locked phones. I had to buy a new phone before I went to Japan and you broke down each Japanese phone carrier to help my decision.Very helpful and informative. ArigatoGozaimasu
Enjoying watching your videos, very helpful, straight to point! Thanks very much!
Love how you went right into list!
Nice video, one mistake not mentioned is when paying for something do not try to directly hand money to the clerk, put the money in the small metal tray on the counter next to the cash register. If you get change the clerk will put your change into the tray for you to get. Also another mistake is trying to tip. That is a big no no in Japan. You are disgracing the person by making them feel that they are not being paid enough for their job and they will return your tip to you. The two words for please that you used, the first one means please take me (like when getting into a taxi) or please do me a favor, the second one means please bring me something like when you are ordering something. There is also another word for please which is dozo, which means I am offering you something to take or I want you to go ahead of me.
im not sure how much of a big misstake this is anymore, at this point i think a lot of them just assume we will hand them cash in hand hence they almost get confused when we do use the tray.
I've had plenty of experiences when im about to drop money in the trai they reach out their hands to collect the money from me.
Talking about reveresed shock xD
I'm going on my fifth trip to Japan this year, and depending on where in the city you stay, Narita vs Haneda isn't THAT much of a difference. Fly into whichever airport is cheaper.
Yeah, it depends upon where you will stay and whether you know how to get to your accommodations from the airport. This is just a heads up for people to be aware of the airport locations before booking plane tickets.
Woah 5th time is crazy bro! I'm barely going for the first time!
going for the 5th time in October myself, and agreed on this, there is such a small price difference from one airport to another it really doesnt matter that much, sure a little longer time from airport but its really not that bad.
i also like using the limosin busses so i can get to my district directly not having to change trains 1/2 times as well
@@deaddrunkgamer7399 Yep, if there's no price difference and you're staying in Shibuya, yeah, go for Haneda. But these videos are so much "avoid Narita at all cost", and I'm imagining tourists paying £100 more to land at Haneda when staying in Asakusa
Thanks!
Thank you! We just released an updated Mistakes to Avoid video for 2024: ruclips.net/video/iRsqQUXB5XY/видео.html
My wife and I are planning a trip to Japan for next May. Thank you for your content. It will be very helpful.
Glad it was helpful!
Some airlines offer cheaper prices to/from Narita, and even we spent add cost to take Keisei to Ueno / Tokyo in total it’ll much cheaper rather than flying to Haneda. if you bringing wife + kids like me, it’s a $300 saving.
same, i just go with whatever is cheaper
Just want to thank you and the channel for giving top tier tips visiting Japan. Just came back from a 8 day trip to Kyoto and Osaka. Really helped navigating with travelling passes, Pocket Wifi etc
Awesome! What was your favorite thing in Japan?
I always considered Picket wihi, and always end up opting out of it, I guess it has to do i often solo travel and i am very depended on notification meaning i would have had the pocket wifi on all the time, also considering having the cheapest E-sim so i can get my notifications and the pocket wifi when i need stable net, in the end E-Sim was always enough for me and 1/3 of the price and could be setup while i was still at home and ready to launch when i landet.
Thanks!
You’re welcome! Thank you!
I really appreciate your help and new subscriber now.
Leaving last week of May to Osaka, Kobe, Kyoto, Nagoya & Tokyo.
Only place i havent visited here is Nagoya, i opted for Himeji instead (and Hiroshima) have a lovely trip, Osaka has so much to offer, if its one place you should consider cooling down the sighseeing and rather take in the ambience of the people with drinking and food culture this is the spot! for sure
thanks for the information. I have used a lot of this information during my recent trip in Japan.
What was your favorite place you visited in Japan?
Narita can be better and faster depending on your Tokyo destination. It's certainly faster for me.
True! It depends where you are headed.
While I'm flying into Narita next month, I'll be staying in Chiba the first night anyway before heading to Fujisawa the next afternoon. I'm saving Tokyo itself for my last 3 days of the trip. Doing Chiba-Fujisawa (Enoshima)-Kamakura-Kanazawa-Shinjuku on this trip. Then Hokkaido next June for a motorcycle tour.
Just 21 days to go.🎉
Sounds like a wonderful trip! We hope you have a great time. And Hokkaido is one of our favorite destinations. 🌺 Heidi
Regarding the waterproof shoes, I had a pair of Vessi’s sneakers (advertised as waterproof) but the rain got in through where my socks peeked out a tiny bit at the edges. My daughter tried spraying Scotchguard on her sneakers but probably did not thorough coverage so her shoes got soaked too. This was when a typhoon was passing so it was pretty heavy rain. Boots were too heavy to pack and took up too much room. Oh well, at least it wasn’t cold rain in the summer and our shoes dried overnight. Thanks for this video
I've heard those Vessi shoes recommended before. I guess most shoes aren't 100% waterproof. Rain can even get in through the top of rain boots. We ran out into the typhoon rain to get umbrellas at the nearest market and got soaked. Agreed, at least it wasn't cold rain! ☔️
Thanks!
Thank you!
Thanks for the great videos in Japan.👍🙏
These are helpful information! Thank you
Glad it was helpful!
So good! Thanks so much for posting all these videos! Unfortunately I had no choice of which airport I could fly into :( So I am stuck at Narita.
Totally understandable that not everyone will be able to fly into HND.
80% of the time i land at Narita, i actually kinda prefer it, jump on a limusin bus and try to sleep a bit before arriving at my destination as im never able to sleepp during my 13 hour flight.
CounterPoint - Narita has a pokemon store. Haneda dosn't ......
so informative and straight forward. thanks for sharing
You're welcome! Are you planning a Japan trip?
@@KenshoQuest yes absolutely. what if I run out of cash and shops doesn't accept cards, is there any money exchanger around the street ? or can I withdraw money ?
We withdraw money from the ATM machines, which are easy to find in 7-Eleven. Here's our video explaining how we manage our money while traveling in Japan: ruclips.net/video/J6AziGwySZo/видео.html @@alvinting7423
@@KenshoQuest thank you. Hav eyou been to Seoul Korea as well ? which is more convinient for first timer ? Tokyo or Seoul ?
We still haven't been to Seoul. Hopefully soon!
Thanks for your advices.
just subbed 😁 first time going in january and these are helpful thank you!!
Welcome!!
#21. DONT miss an opportunity to join a meetup. This is a rare opportunity to meet and talk to locals who enjoy speaking English and meeting foreigners.
How would I find something like this?
Where I find this kind of things??
Some helpful tips there, arigatou gozaimasu
Dōitashimashite!
Thank you thank you thank you soooo much! Please keep on doing God’s work!
thank you so much for all this info , it is great
I have a long plane layover (1.5 day) in Japan . We will be moving with a lot of luggage and wondered what we can do with all of our luggage. We come in at 6:00 p.m. and it looks like there is no service for holding luggage after 6:30. 😊 We are concerned we will not get to the luggage holding area soon enough for big bags
Hi, when you first arrive, please check with JAL ABC, they might be open. If not, ask the information desk for the location of the cloak room. If they too are not open you might try using ECBO Cloak app. More info here: ruclips.net/video/dsUGncWTVm8/видео.html
Thanks for the nice tips!! In regards to American medical insurance, for seniors, Medicare isn't available outside the USA. Because of that, I highly recommend getting medical coverage.
Thanks for adding that!
Good to know. I don’t have Medicare yet but am getting close to the age when I will have to get it.
Questions for the Live Q&A:
1. Is it easy or likely to have an English speaker when picking up passes and making reservations at the major airports?
2. Are you able to make a series of reservations when picking up the pass?
3. Is it hard to change a reservation if you miss your train? If you need a luggage reservation especially?
Thanks so much for all your helpful info! Not sure if I’ll make the Q&A due to time difference in Australia, but will definitely watch it back if you keep it up on RUclips 👍👍
1. Yes they do have English speaker when picking up passes and making reservations at the airport.
2. Yes u can make series reservation when pickup the pass.
3. If u missed the reservation train then u can reschedule or take non reservations seat instead. If u have large luggage then u need reservations or just take the non reservations seat and they won't give u too much hard time.
I'm first time visiting Japan with my family's and I so nervous to deal with Jr pass voucher exchange but don't worry it is easy. U need Google translate and Google len to help u do the translation without any problem as first time.
00:01 wrong. i prefer which is cheaper. because it is not too important distance between the airport and the city center. you will you it maximum two times.
2:25 be careful that card. you must install not too much. because if there is any remaining balance, you cannot withdraw this balance from anywhere. it is weird, but you can not withdraw. so, last day in japan, i have to send my money to buy some things at Airporty.
Awesome channel! Thanks for all the tips :)
You’re welcome. Will you visit Japan soon?
I'm hoping to go to Japan for the first time next year, and I'm going to fly on Zipair, which only flies out of Narita. My plan is still to get a hotel closer to Haneda or Tokyo station rather than Narita.
So helpful. Thank you very much ❤
You're welcome! Here's our updated Mistakes to Avoid video: ruclips.net/video/iRsqQUXB5XY/видео.html
00:00 *✈️ Fly into Haneda Airport instead of Narita to save time and transportation costs, even if it's slightly more expensive.*
00:41 *🚖 Avoid arriving between 11:00 p.m. and 5:00 a.m. to prevent high taxi costs and closed services.*
01:09 *🎫 Pre-order your Japan Rail Pass by September 29, 2023 to avoid a price increase starting October 1, 2023.*
01:35 *⏰ Be on time for trains; Japanese trains are punctual, and you should arrive early to find your platform.*
02:02 *💳 Credit cards are widely accepted in Japan, though some places might still require cash.*
02:42 *💵 Know the conversion rate between your currency and Yen before and during your trip.*
03:09 *❌ Don't accept marked-up ATM conversion rates; always choose to pay in Japanese Yen for better rates.*
03:51 *🏰 Book attractions and themed cafes in advance as they often sell out months ahead.*
04:31 *🚻 Understand how to use Japanese toilets; read the icons and don’t press random buttons.*
05:13 *🍴 Restaurants may only provide chopsticks and spoons; practice using chopsticks or bring your own utensils.*
05:57 *🕑 Don't miss breakfast at your hotel; breakfast service usually ends at 10:00 a.m. and you should arrive before 9:30 a.m.*
06:11 *🧼 Clean up after yourself in food courts; use the cleaning station and trash cans provided.*
06:39 *🚯 Public trash cans are rare; carry a small bag for your trash or find a place to dispose of it.*
06:54 *👟 Remove your shoes where required; be respectful in temples, homes, and hotel rooms.*
07:21 *🌧️ Pack waterproof shoes for summer to handle unexpected rain in Japan.*
08:04 *📣 Keep your voice down in public; avoid being loud to blend in better.*
08:26 *🇯🇵 Learn basic Japanese phrases like “Excuse me,” “Thank you,” and “Sorry” to navigate daily interactions.*
09:05 *🌐 Have internet access for navigation and translation; consider a SIM card or pocket Wi-Fi.*
09:34 *🧳 Pack light to manage luggage on public transportation; consider using luggage shipping services.*
10:00 *🏥 Get travel health insurance if your home insurance doesn’t cover international travel.*
10:39 *🗺️ Join the live Q&A about the Japan Rail Pass on September 17th for more travel tips.*
Hi there, how do you transfer luggage between two cities like from Tokyo to Osaka? Do they provide luggage storage if we are staying in Airbnb and not a hotel
Hi, most Airbnb's will not allow luggage to be delivered since someone needs to be at the residence to receive it. Instead, you can forward your luggage to the nearest Yamato Transport and pick up your luggage from there. We've done this several times. I recommend that you watch our video on this subject here: ruclips.net/video/wnZuv2t9J1Y/видео.html
Narita is unfortunately on my flight back 😂😂
love this channel... hugs from Brazil
Thanks!
Most airline ticket purchases have an insurance option that you can purchase but the insurance (#20) they are mentioning is different. Travel Insurance can cover a whole range of options besides health. For example, god forbid someone in your party is tragically hurt or even deceased, if you select the options that covers this, someone from your home country can fly over to the country where the injury or death occurred to coordinate assistance with local institutions and/or your nation's embassy to fly the body back. This takes a LOT of money and paperwork, you have no idea! Insurance!! People may not think about this option in advance but research and budget this into your travel plans. Make sure you have the information with you when you travel.
Thanks for adding this. Our SafetyWing travel health insurance includes other benefits we didn't mention in the video such as medical evacuation, political evacuation, trip interruption (if you need to return home for an emergency back home), and burial or repatriation of remains. I have no idea what it would entail to use that final benefit on someone's behalf.
para tirar basura...apenas hay problema..cerca de las maquinas de bebidas ...hay papeleras
Hi, any chance you would know what size a twin bed is in centimetres? I can’t seem to get that information anywhere 😢
I'm not sure, but I found this chart online: blog.tokyoroomfinder.com/living-in-japan/bed-sizes-in-japan/
Using the spray toilet is pretty easy, its the squat toilet to do number 2 that I'm afraid of.
🤣
Thank you for sharing
Oh good, I show up at Haneda by 2pm on April 17 and I'll be staying for 14 days. I, so far, only booked the flight. Then, after booking all that, I kept hearing about tourists going to Narita, and I thought I screwed up. I think I'm going to pass on the JR Pass as it doesn't seem worth it anymore. Might stay half the time in Tokyo and then I'm thinking about flying to Hiroshima for the rest of the stay, but I'll have to come back to Tokyo for my flight back to the USA.
If you’re flying Delta from the US yeah you’re going to be in Haneda which is great. You can take the Tokyo monorail to Hamamatsucho station (one stop from Tokyo station) for about ¥500 and takes less than 30 min. From there you can grab a train to pretty much anywhere else in Tokyo quick.
The JR pass is only worth it if you’re going to be moving around a lot. Otherwise a standard ticket is cheaper.
I would also highly recommend checking the price on a train ticket to Hiroshima. The Shinkansen is about 3.5hrs and $130 each way. While a flight is only around 1.5 hours the train is VASTLY more comfortable and convenient. Once you factor in transit to the airport, security, and baggage the Shinkansen almost always wins out.
The train leaves directly from Tokyo station, whereas you’re going to need at least 30 min to get to Haneda airport, plus an hour or more buffer to clear security. The train is also infinitely more comfortable and you get a fantastic view of the country on the way.
@XeonAlpha Oh, I've massively changed my itinerary since I posted this, but thanks for the info. Will arrive in Tokyo on April 17. Staying until the 21st. I'm going to Osaka until the 24th (I'll dedicate a full day to Hiroshima while here). I'm going to Kyoto until the 27th. I'm going all the way up to stay in Aomori to hopefully catch some cherry blossoms at Hirosaki Park. From here, I'll catch a domestic flight back to Haneda on my departure day, where my return flight leaves at 4PM, so I should be able to make time with an early flight. I'm thinking the 7 day JR Pass from the 21st-27th might be worth it, where I'd use it to get from Tokyo - Osaka - Hiroshima (round trip) - Kyoto - Aomori (going through Tokyo). Still working everything out. Lol
@@FluffyBunny9002 JR might be worth it but do the math. Personally I don’t think flying is worth it unless you’re going really far (DEFINITELY not Kyoto/Osaka to Tokyo). I’ve done that route 3 times now and the Shinkansen is the way to go.
I’ll cross my fingers for you on the cherry blossoms but it’s been very, very warm this year. I was just in Nagano 3rd week of Feb and it was already up into the high 60’s. I actually left early because I was planning to ski and it was just rain and slush.
@XeonAlpha Oh no, the only domestic flight I'm considering is getting back to Haneda Airport from Aomori. It would be on April 30, and my plane for the States leaves that same day from Haneda at 4:00pm, so I'd probably take an early flight no later than noon to make sure I make it back in time. The forecasts I keep looking at say the cherry blossoms should start to bloom in Aomori about a week before I arrive, give or take a day or two, and I'm hoping I can see them at Hirosaki Park, even if I only manage to catch the later blooming variety. If it looks like I'll miss the blossom up there the closer that time comes I can still cancel my trip up north for a full refund, and then I'll improvise the last 4 days of my trip. The rest of my itinerary is locked in.
I f’d up with on Narita 😭. The tickets were cheaper and now I know why.
As long as you plan your transportation ahead of time, of how you will get from the airport into the city, you will be fine.
i wouldnt say that :P i think a lot of japan influencers are painting Narita to be this really horrible thing which it is not.
Last time i took the Limusin bus from narita it only took 60 ish minuts to Shinjuku.
Cant make it this sunday QnA, business dinner here in LA, California.
I’m love your videos,I’m going to Tokyo on January stay 5 days can you give some advice,this is first time at Japan
Hi, it really depends on what you want to do. There are so many different types of travelers who come to Japan for different reasons. But we do have a ton of videos covering a wide variety of topics. The main thing we can suggest is to take it slow. In Japan, it takes a long time to get from one attraction to another even if it across town. Also, you will enjoy it more by taking things slow.
Here are a couple of videos that you might find helpful:
ruclips.net/video/MqdBGSiqYLs/видео.html
ruclips.net/video/E1d_mn5gMaQ/видео.html
ruclips.net/video/NGSW8nVdqYA/видео.html
Love your video even though I visit many times. Singapore, it is better to change more Yen than using credit card in Japan. One trip expenditure of S$4K can save couple of hundreds S$, especially for high ticket items. Credit card and Hotels has the worst lowest ex rate. Thanks.
Thanks for sharing your experience.
Only thing that cought me offguard here is cleaning station at food places, i've never seen one in my 4 trips. Only a station where you put you're trays back and dump the trash.
Could this be a family resturant thing?
There tends to be cleaning cloths and spray bottles at food courts in shopping malls.
@@KenshoQuest ah got ya, cant say i ever go to shopping malls / food courts, does explain things :)
Thank you for your very informative videos. Can you advise if you bring food into Japan? Might want to bring some snacks... Thank you
Hi, snacks are fine as long as they are packaged.
What type of accommodations does handicapped using wheelchairs have in using the bullet train or any other transportation in Japan?
I’m not certain for bullet trains. For local trains, you can request assistance when passing through the ticket gate. They will ask which station to plan to get off the train at. Then an attendant will bring a small ramp and place it at the train entrance once the train arrives. There are particular cars marked for handicapped, with space to fit a wheelchair. When you arrive at the destination station there will be another attendant waiting with a ramp for getting off the train. 🌸 Heidi
True. Trash cans are like ninjas.. difficult to find
Great information. Just one small correction- September is PDT, not PST.
Oops! We don’t live in California anymore and I just use PST out of habit. I forgot that it alternates.
Hello Kensho, I wold like to know about travel medical insurance.
Hi. We use SafetyWing Nomad Insurance for travel and health insurance. Here’s one of our old videos on the topic: ruclips.net/video/pObCQ4JoNfQ/видео.htmlsi=hfowyjnj1Hbkcr4R
Thank for very helpful tips, what summer month did you go?
We were there in June and July. June had the most rain. ☔️
How do you get from Shinjuku station to Kyoto by train with luggage? Is it complicated, do you need to pre book or can you get tickets right there at station before boarding? Also will it allow you to upgrade your seating?
It's easy but you will need to take your luggage on the local train first. Take the local train from Shinjuku Station, take the Yamanote line to Shinagawa Station. Purchase a shinkansen ticket at Shinagawa station (or easier, use the link below) to Kyoto on the Tokaido Shinkansen. When you purchase your ticket you can choose to buy a Green Car ticket which is first class. Also, if you want the fastest train choose Nozomi. they are all the same price regardless of train.
here is a direct link to where you can buy your ticket:
affiliate link: geni.us/shinkansen 🌟 Save with KENSHOQUESTKLOOK
@@KenshoQuest Thanks for the reply, let me ask you if I want to avoid taking local train can I take a hired car to the Shinagawa station directly instead and then buy the Shinkansen ticket there? I am confused, also when I buy the Shinkansen ticket will it take cash?
Yes, you absolutely can hire a taxi, there are plenty around and as long as you don't get stuck in traffic, prices are reasonable. We do this often. And yes, the shinkansen ticket machine does take cash.
@@KenshoQuest Hey, thank you so much for your help. I was getting nervous about going because it seems complicated. I am trying to learn some basic Japanese to be respectful and at least try to speak the language.
@@KenshoQuest I have unlocked phone. How do I obtain a SIM card for it, preferably if I can get card sent to me before I arrive. If not where can I purchase one in person? Is it just Plug n Play (Insert SIM and go). I would like Voice and Data, but ones I have seen only include data. I will only need it to communicate with any tour guides or hired drivers.
good to know, I have been considering going in october, I just dont know if I should go through a travel agency or a group since my japanese is rusty
October is lovely in Japan! We're more independent style travelers, so we always go on our own rather than through an agency or group tour. We share lots here on Kensho Quest about riding trains to various cities and sites, no tour needed.
Good advice.
#5 loading Suica Card with Apple Pay is not considered a cash advance !!!
Correct, it currently is not considered a cash advance.
Thank you!!
How & where do I buy wifi connection when I arrive in Japan I will be there for two weeks. My US wifi cell phone international plan is too expensive. Thank you.
Here’s our video on choosing a Pocket WiFi or SIM card for your Japan trip:
ruclips.net/video/2fhdT0Ubxmo/видео.htmlsi=D4cJFgrB0IbS02d6
I will travel with my kids 13 and 14 . Osaka -Tokyo - Kyoto - Osaka is cheaper to rent a car ?
Hi, I it is possible that renting a car will be cheaper but do keep in mind that you will also need to pay toll roads, gas, parking fees and it can be very hard at times to find parking in general. This video has more details on transportation for your route:
ruclips.net/video/bkcZVmjZr4M/видео.html
Super thank you so much
1:22 yeah the new price is incredible... almost doubled.
Hi, I was wondering, if I decide to do the luggage drop off, will they just leave my luggages outside unattended?
Yamato Transport would store your luggage inside their office.
JR pass just doesn't work for me.
I find that suica is great, I costed it up and it just doesn't make it cheaper for me to get the JRp
Thanks for sharing!
As always your videos are very helpful.
BTW: I booked a hotel through Expedia, and purchased their travel insurance as well. Wish I saw this video first before buying their travel insurance. Anyhoo, I’ll check safetywing-cuz I’m booking more hotel stays in Kyoto. Thank you, and take care. 🤎
Hi, so glad the video is helpful :) Do you have any particular concerns about insurance?
@ Just done watchin’ your vid about travel insurance. I think safetywing insurance is way better than Expedia hotel/travel insurance. Expedia doesn’t cover COVID & political evacuation. Again, thank you for everything. 🤎
I heard Haneda is a little bit more modern too.
Cash advance? I've been charging my Suica with Apple Pay and all counted as purchases. Are you talking about recent recent changes?
HI, sorry for the confusion and hopefully I am answering your question.. If you are charging your Suica or Pasmo with Apple Pay and have your credit card selected then you may be charged a cash advance fee. We recommend you contact your CC issuer to see if that is the case unless you are using a different method.
Last time I did this was Jun 2023 and used my AMEX Green Card. The 10000yen charge through the My Suica app was recognized as purchase and got me 3X points on travel. Hope this data point helps@@KenshoQuest
My cc says it’s a purchase also not a cash advance :)
Do I have to be a digital Nomad to use Safety Wing?
Hi, anyone can use it, it’s just marketed that way.
My view on narita vs haneda is it is less of an error but mere convenience, as long as one does enough homework on transport it should be fine. For please, i would suggest using onegashimasu as kudasai doesn't work with certain situations, can sometimes end up creating a point blank moment for Japanese on other side.
Yes, it’s all preference, as long as you know what you’re getting yourself into.
Short answer, if its can you hand me that, its okay to use Kudasai.
like Nama biiru kudasai (ill have a beer thanks)
you can say Nama biiru Onegaishimasu (same as above but more formal)
things that take time would not be correct with Kudasai.
Can i have the hamburger kudasai, would be an incorrect use of Kudasai. use Onegaishimasu in that case.
@@deaddrunkgamer7399 so kudasai is OK for ordering a beer, but not a hamburger? What’s the distinction?
@@jackfromthe60s as a foreigner you certainly would get a freepass, though the distinction is the how unconvinient is it.
Handing you a quick drink is easy, or a scewer that is allready ready or something from 7/11. but if it's something that needs to be prepped its more polite to use the longer formal Onegaishimasu.
Me personally use Onegaishimasu often even when ordering beer etc, because i do like being polite.
@@deaddrunkgamer7399 OK, thanks for the clarification.
Flying to Narita is definitely not a mistake unless you are on a really tight schedule and strapped for time.
Your videos have been helpful in planning our family's first time to Japan. I do have a question about footwear advise. We are going in June 2024 and I am debating between waterproof boots and waterproof sneakers. Do you know if there is enough rain while walking around to justify boots? They are more difficult to put on and off so just not sure. WE plan to hike up at least part of Miyajima but otherwise we plan to do temples, gardens, and inside activities. We are planning on going to Tokyo, Kyoto, Osaka, Hiroshima, and Hakone.
It rains a TON in June. I would choose whichever shoes you feel more comfortable walking in for a long time. It's also nice to have two pairs of shoes, so if one gets wet you can switch to the other while they dry. Being able to easily take shoes off is a plus in Japan.
Questions for the Live Q&A: Some third party vendors (e.g. Klook) sell JR pass more than 90 days away from planned travel day. However, they will not issue exchange order till 70 days prior to the travel date.
Question:
1) When will be the last day of exchange if I pre-order the pass more than 90 days away? I will be travelling on Dec and I am little bit worrying about bad weather which would delay the flight and push my arrival a day or two . It become critical when the 90 days validity starting counting.
2) Not a question directly related to JR pass. What are the pros and cons to buy Shinkansen one-way ticket from third party website as compared to ticket office/vending machine?
Thanks for the video and great tips.
Question about baggage transportation...
If I'd like to get my baggage delivered from Narita to Hotel in Tokyo(Ginza) in the same day. What is an hour I have to be on Yamato service desk in Narita Airport. THANKS
I don’t think it’s guaranteed to be same day delivery. It probably depends how busy they are. I’d drop it off as early in the morning as you can.
Hello again and THANK YOU for hosting the upcoming Q&A! My Question is: Can I purchase tickets for Narita Express and Book seats online ahead of arrival? If my flight Arrives at 4:40, I am thinking I would be safe to book seats for 6:45 or 7:00 PM NEX into Tokyo from Narita... (I realized I only need a 7 Day JR Pass and will not activate upon Arrival but 7 days into our 14 day trip to travel to Kyoto and Osaka and return to Tokyo). Also, can you UPGRADE to GREEN CAR for JR Pass while reserving seats?
Hi, You're welcome! We hope to see you on the live stream! Yes, you can purchase and book your reserved sets for the NEX from the jr east website here: www.jreast.co.jp/multi/en/pass/nex.html
Also, from our experience there are usually plenty of seats available on the NEX.
As for upgrading your JR Pass, if you are interested in the Green Car then you might just want to buy that now. We do not know if you can upgrade at the ticketing office.
No, you can't upgrade for Green Car if you buy a basic JR Pass, you can only reserve seats in standard reserved cars.
I've always fly to Haneda precovid but now the price of the airline that go to Haneda are unbearable.
That’s too bad! I guess it depends where you are flying from.
I ordered pocket wifi because it came with the power bank I can use for all my other stuff too. Do still need the VPN, I mean I will be signed into the pocket wifi
Hi, VPN is for extra security. Mainly if you will be connecting to public Wifis or want to keep your connection private or want to watch netflix or Amazon. So you probably don't need one since you will be using a pocket wifi.
I’m arriving at HND around 5:30 am.. will stuff be running by then? I’m assuming by the time I’m actually out of the airport it’ll be 6 or later
Hi, many services are open by 6am.
2:00 Your chapters are messed up. Just FYI. Thanks for the video, though!
I just updated the timestamps. Thanks for bringing that to our attention. The timeline got shifted when we cut out a piece of the video. 🌸 Heidi
Thank you, very informative.
I have 9AM fight at NRT Airport, what is best method to go from Tokyo? What is the earliest time train or bus run in the morning from Tokyo to NRT? Thank you.
Hi, glad it is helpful! The earliest trains leave around 6am which will get you to NRT around 7am. If you take the train, I recommend the Keisei skyliner as it is the fastest. If that is too late then you can look for an early bus. Note, it depends on location whether they have an early bus or not so you need to do some searching by location to find the earliest bus for your needs. Here are links to both:
airport bus: webservice.limousinebus.co.jp/web/en
skyliner: geni.us/skyliner
Explanation for "please" options is a bit simplified
Keisei to Ueno is 45min. It's not another 30mins more to Tokyo.
Wondering if anyone in chat will know if I can cancel a reservation made online in US. Do not pick up my rail
Pass until Oct 2 and made an error in one of my reservations. I cannot figure out how to change or delete it. I need a different routing. Any insight will be appreciated🙏🏼
Hi. We haven't personally done this. Here's what we found on the website:
The purchaser must make any changes on JAPAN RAIL PASS Reservation.
- After logging in on JAPAN RAIL PASS Reservation, go to My Menu and select JAPAN RAIL PASS in which you wish change your reserved seat.
- In the itinerary list, click the “Change” button for the train you want to change.
Reserved seats can be changed on JAPAN RAIL PASS Reservation between 4:00 and 23:30 (Japan time UTC+09:00), up to the departure time of the first train on your reserved itinerary, and as late as 6 minutes before the departure time of the train after changes are made.
Click the following link for further details.
www.japanrailpass-reservation.net/PurchaseGuide
Wow, good advice and introduction about traveling in Japan….. makes me want to go to Japan 👍🏼 Any women wish to travel to 🇯🇵, I would like to join you, small group is ok!
Hello gd day I'll be traveling from the Philippines to Narita then going to Yokohama for 2 days what should I do first since it's my first time in Japan! Need some tips
Hi, It really depends on your interests. Can you provide more information?
If I load my Suica card into Apple Wallet, it won’t be a cash advance, correct?
Hi, it depends on what you use to pay with. Some credit cards will consider this a cash advance while others don’t. Please check with your card.