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Flying into Tokyo 8th of November, staying mainly in Machida a doing day trips to Tokyo etc going to Osaka on the bullet train. This will be 3rd time in Japan and after a 3 year forced absence will be there once a year hopefully.
Regarding the shrine or temple debate: I don't want to advertise other people's content, but I recently watched Shogo's video about differences between shrines and temples and it was very informative, it also immediately helped me to identify Mt. Haguro's place as a shrine due to the red torii. To break it down, shrines belong to shintoism and worship nature and their gods while temples belong to buddhism and are the home of monks. The entrance of a shrine has a red torii as gateway while temples have a less colorful but even more impressive in size sanmon to go through. In shrines, you bow twice, clap twice and bow once while in temples you just quietly press your hands together. There are some exceptions where a shine is also a temple or vice-versa, but that's the main differences between them. I really recommend the video, it's easy to understand and I learned a lot =)
Sharla has always been an independent and positive person but seeing her in a relationship with someone that understand her work and supports her , well that’s all a long time viewer like me could ask for 😊
I’m loving that you guys are making videos together where you can both contribute all of your Japan knowledge to us!!! : D it’s great to see you both so happy and healthy, and hearing about all of the things we could do in Japan!!
True. I used to watch his videos and really liked him but the persona he played got old after a while. Really nice to see a more down-to-earth and genuine version of him.
@@cerg10 to each his own. I love his style because it feels like you’re hanging out with your best mate everywhere he goes. More entertaining with the brit humour as a Canadian. Not for everyone obviously I guess.
Chiming in with weekend Tokyo suggestions: Honestly, as a tourist, just picking a neighborhood to wonder around aimlessly and 'get lost' down the side streets is such a pleasant way to pass the time and you'll come across all sorts of interesting places you wouldn't have found otherwise.
I’m so happy to see you truly happy Sharla. I’m sure you are tired of people saying that but it’s true! I started watching you way back when you reviewed Japanese bread when you were still in university 😂 and I’ve never seen you so happy. I truly am so beyond thrilled and excited for your future. ❤
Pro Tip, if you're wanting to see Asakusa early morning is great. My brother and I stayed in Asakusa and we were jet lagged so we woke up at like 6AM one day in the first couple so we just got up, grabbed some early breakfast at McDonalds I think across the street and then we hit up the shrine and there was just no one there so it was lovely.
As someone who hiked Fushimi Inari alone near midnight, it is one of the most amazing experiences I have in Japan. Highly recommended but definitely not for the faint hearted.
Totally something I hadn't even considered but I am glad this video and this comment are suggesting it. I am gonna give this a try when I go now :). Not particularly worried about any boars or wild animals as hiking where I live in Canada is always dangerous aka bears, moose, cougars...
The two of you together gives the feel of Sweet and Sour. The Sour being Chris with his sarcasm. Love the feel that both of you give. Looking forward to more videos!
Your travel videos have helped keep me sane during lockdowns, quarentines and travel bans. Even just seeing nature and changing scenery on screen was better than nothing at all. So thank you, Sharla and Chris for your lovely travel videos.
When it comes to collecting, as a Japanese, I highly recommend Goshuin stamps (御朱印) which is like a stamp rally you can get at shrine and temple. The design is so cool that has recently become quite popular among the Japanese people, but so far it seems a few foreign tourists are doing it.
I learned about this 2 weeks before my trip when I told a Japanese friend that I was planning to visit Omi-jingu in Otsu. I never noticed the places to get them before, but yeah, it seems every shrine or temple that isn't very small has them. And a lot of Japanese people are getting them, but while getting over 20 of them in the past week (I have been in and around Kyoto for that time, so I ended up visiting a LOT of temples...) I only saw a single other foreigner getting one.
I went to Tokyo in 2009, well before the Olympics, and had no problems getting around, using the trains with absolutely no Japanese. I rode back and forth all day and made it back to my hotel near the Shinagawa train station. Another day I was dropped off at Tokyo Disneyland, and had no problems finding my way back to my hotel. NOTE: One thing that helped a lot was having a compass, using it to make sure I was on the correct platform to go the direction on the train that I needed. Otherwise, only once did we get a little lost trying to find a specific park. We relied on advice we had received before we went. If you approach a Japanese person and ask a question in English, and their response is they don’t understand, try writing it down in English, and quite often you can get an answer. That’s how we found the park.
Tokyo has really great signage on their transit system. Was there in 2015 without no knowledge of Japanese, and had no problems getting around. They do a great job with their metro/train system English-language signage.
@@Nynke_K And the rental wifi hotspots are really cheap and excellent. I got one the first time I went to Japan and I will never not get one when I go there.
As an English speaker, who has no Japanese language, I've been to Tokyo and Kyoto. It's so easy to get round. People are so kind you can almost not go wrong (as long as your respectful). We've had people take us to the stop and then head off where they were going. You will never be truly lost.
Re: what to do on a weekend in Tokyo, the main parks in Tokyo (such as Shinjuku Gyoen National Garden) are a nice option if someone doesn't have time to leave the city. Even if the parks are busy, many of them are very large, so they don't impact the experience negatively.
Chris really do remember a lot of places he visited. The two of you together could put together an extensive guide about Japan, from two perspectives that is complimenting each other very well.
I visited Tokyo in 2018, and I found the English pretty great when navigating around. The ticket machines, signs, all were readable. Also, the workers in the train stations are great, even if the English is a problem, there’s always different ways to communicate
My short list of tips, as someone who has been to Japan a few times: 1. rent a wifi hotspot. Costs $2-$4 a day and you have fast, easy to use (and share) internet access. I would also get yourself a power bank because having your tech run out of power at the wrong time is annoying. 2. If your hotel offers breakfast with room, get it. In most cases, it'll be mediocre, but it also saves you from trying to source breakfast in a country that doesn't really have breakfast restaurants so you'll just end up at the corner store half the time and waste half an hour. Also, it'll usually save you money in the end. 3. Have 2 or 3 back up things to do for every thing you intend to do. Especially in very popular areas and museums, sometimes you will find places too crowded and you are better off cutting it short and doing something else instead. Some of my best adventures in Japan were from when I said "fuck this" and looked at what else was in the area to see and do. I've gotten museums entirely to myself because I walked two blocks away from a crazy, packed tourism site. 4. When booking a trip to Japan, look at the major holidays for China, Japan, Australia, and the USA, then DO NOT GO DURING THOSE HOLIDAYS! If you can do this, the number of tourists as well as the availability of tickets to things will be much better. 5. Remember you are a guest which means you need to be polite and respectful. Keep a ziplock bag in your backpack for your trash. Don't expect that everything is open to you to enter or visit. Flip your backback around to your front when on trains and public transit. In short, don't be the tourist that people complain about.
Thank you for mentioning hot spot because it's not something we looked into before. I thought all I had to do was add whatever my carrier had and would have access to data. I've never traveled outside the US so I didn't understand how little data you're allowed. In your opinion is hot spot all you'd need or is there another step?
Chris is looking really good, I like when he is clean shaven. He is looking buffed, wow. Living his best life. Congratulations all round to him, you Sharla and us for being there being supportive :) Great video again Sharla and very informative.
You guys have a different vibe together than you have separately. It’s really interesting to see a different side of both of you. Thanks for the tips :) I’ve been to Japan twice pre-pandemic, would love to go back in the next couple years. This time though we’ll be travelling as a family! 👨👩👧
I will say, as someone who visited Japan in the summer, it isn't insufferable, it's humid, really humid and that just makes you sticky and gross but I still found my holiday absolutely magical, I don't think it detracts massively! Plus the konbini sell so many different things to keep you cool!
I am unfortunately also one of the few that can only go there for the summer due to conflicting family schedules 😢 and was really bummed once I realized how the weather was going to be and how it was basically the worst time to book since who wants to be traveling and feeling super sweaty. It makes me feel little better hearing that the experience wasn’t too bad despite the weather. I am planning late July to early august and am hoping that the trip still turns out amazing as it has always been my dream to visit since I was a kid and only now am I financially able to do so.
@@CSFreya I hope you enjoy your trip! You sound a lot like me, in terms I've wanted to visit Japan since I was a kid and was only financially able to in 2019 and honestly I think being that eager to visit helps! Late July/Early August is about when I visited and yeah the humidity is bad but I think you'll still enjoy yourself! And if you end up heading north it will be a fair bit cooler!
You two are such a treasure trove of travel info for Japan. A trip is still a couple years off for me, but I'll be revisiting this video for the tips again!
Months a go I wrote that you two are match made in heaven!! OMG was I right! You are such cute perfect couple and both such lovely humans! Have fun, enjoy life and enjoy eachother 💋 you both deserve to be sooooo happy ! ❤️
You two are wonderful! I am an old guy and probably won't get to Japan :( but I love exploring it vicariously (sp?) with you and all the friends at Tokyo Creative, Trash Taste, Pete and Ian, Natsuki, Royotaro. Have been watching since 2014. Keep on amazing us and entertaining us! We love you.
If you don't mind a suggestion, a channel called Rambalac just walks around all kinds of places in Japan and is good for having on in the background while doing something else :)
Been following from Chris’s channel for years and I’ve gotta say he looks 10 years younger! Chris, you should be proud of the hard work you’ve put in and keep going strong! Great video and you two look terrific together. Much love from Sweden!
Thank you for answering my question! Definitely looking forward to seeing some of those places for sure! 😍 Also LOVE LOVE LOVE the stamp book!! 😍😍😍😍🥰🥰🥰❤️❤️❤️ my new favorite collectible around Japan!
You guys are adorable together. I'm glad you 2 found each other. It's nice watching you 2 have fun and enjoy being around each other. You 2 have great chemistry, and it resonates well through the camera. Plus you Both are pretty good looking, so as to make a handsome couple .
Oh wow! What a lovely surprise! 🤗 Thank you Sharla + Chris for answering my question and taking the time to share your Eki Stamp collection! 🙏🏻Your Stamp book is so Kawaii too. Well done! 👏🏻👏🏻 Also if you both ever travel to Blue Mountains, NSW, Australia there is a good fried chicken place here as well as amazing landscape views. 👍🏻
I love watching the way you two are around each other in “ boyfriend/girlfriend mode”. So chill and in harmony with each other. I still hope to get to Japan one day, it just looks so beautiful.
You two are such genuinely lovely people! You come across so authentic and kind, and your content is interesting and entertaining to boot. Love seeing great role models do well on RUclips :)
Coming back to your channel after a couple of years as the Japan bug is itching me again, and I could not be more happy to see you two together! You and Chris were always my favorite channels to keep me motivated in finding my own way to move to Japan. I remember thinking how you cute you guys would be when he had you as a guest on his biking through Japan series. I am just so freaking happy for you guys haha AND you are killing it with the businesses too! Hope I get the chance to stay at Neko Neko Inn one day~
Sharla, you can probably find a book binder to bind all of your loose leaf travel stamps into a bound travel journal if you want to keep them together better.
We rented a car in Japan once and didn't experience it as very stressful even though we're from mainland Europe and not used to driving on the left. But I wasn't the one driving so I just redid some research: googling 'driving in Japan ' yields some helpful results, including two videos by Chris and one by Life Where I'm From (which I remember as being very thorough!)
I would love to have the knowledge and innate ability to confidently understand just anything about Japan. Seeing your videos and listening to you guys talk about each experience and touch upon memories made me realize that those things took time and you guys put in the time and effort to be in the moment while living in Japan. It's very eye-opening. I'm a recent college grad with no idea what to do in life, but Japan has always been in my sights.
I went to Shirakawago around 3-4 years ago during the winter, definitely worth the visit. The place looks so magical when covered in snow, one of the best places in Japan I've visited.
My friends and I made the daring journey to Mt. Haguro on our trip in early spring of 2017. It definetly was a long journey but it was worth it to see the pagoda there!
I visited Japan in June 2019. It was absolutely beautiful. Very very humid but I loved every second. We did okay without a car, the trains were fine! Fushimi Inari for sure was insanely busy but I found the higher up we got, there were fewer and fewer people and we were able to get some lovely photos and stuff. It was baking hot that day though, I really picked a hell of day for it 😂
Hiroshima is great but Osaka has my heart probably just because it's where I lived when I moved to Japan and have so many fond memories of it and the people both local and immigrants just felt so much more open and welcoming than Tokyo or Kyoto which both have their own charm.
I miss Japan. I have actually been there 3 times: 2016 (Spring Culture Trip), 2017 (Visiting Friends), and 2020-2022 (Attending Japanese Language School and Teaching English). I had to return to my home country due to a family emergency (well, 2 emergencies). I'm hoping to return as soon as things are better in my family (and I have more money). I remember when I had to leave earlier this year my flight got delayed and I ended up staying in a Capsule Hotel for a couple nights, it was actually quite fun. The hotel was at the airport, so I enjoyed exploring it. Japanese Summer, I always kept multiple water bottles on me throughout the day and an extra towel for sweat (I always carried a backpack when I went out). Unfortunately, because I was in Japan during the pandemic, I didn't get to enjoy any Summer Festivals which was sad. Hopefully next time I'm in Japan during the summer I will get to experience the festivals. During the Summer last year (2021), I walked 1 hour in the summer heat and humidity from the train to Sakura Furusato Square in Sakura, Chiba. Although I needed a third bottle of water by the time I got there, it was really fascinating to take a good look at the surrounding areas. I remember seeing a Crane in a rice paddy and I was so enamored by it that, by the time I thought about taking a picture, the crane had flown off. But even though I don't have a picture of it physically, It's still very clear in my head and it's a fond memory of mine. I did end up taking a bus back to the station when I left and was exhausted for the next 24 hours (I was off from work, so it was fine). That wasn't the first time I walked an Hour to get somewhere, the first time I did it was during my 2017 trip when I decided to visit Egawa Beach in Kisarazu. It was during the Autumn, so It wasn't as Hot and Humid. But it was worth it to see the area, very pretty. I don't drive for personal reasons, but I do enjoy Hiking, even if it's not always the traditional Forest or Mountain Hiking (which I have also done in Japan). I enjoy going to Japanese parks, forests and mountains. Nature makes me happy and relaxed.
We were in Japan for 3 weeks starting in mid-July. What saved us from the heat was Gatsby wipes!!! Can't emphasize enough what a difference they make on a hot day :) Would go again in the summer!
This makes me feel a little better. My trip is also going to be around that time and I’ve been pretty bummed out that the weather might limit some activities like going to a ryokan since it’s going to be super hot I don’t think it would make sense to book? May I ask why you would still book again in the summer?
Truly, Chris looks more healthy and looks more relaxed, love to see them together, there like "two devils in a pod" 🤭 or to put it more spiritual way, like yin and yang
Best question is at 18:42. I watched a lot Abroad in Japan videos and some others like Shara's. It's the first time I hear about this 'Golden Week'. Extra tricky since this holiday period is not at the same time every year. Thanks for sharing and thanks to Lorena Ryden for asking.
Ooh, the stamp book is pretty cool. I'll probably get a couple of those for the kids for our next trip. Totally agree that if you've been before or feel a little adventurous rent a car. A whole new part of Japan opens up. Car rental is cheap but be warned highway tolls can be horrendously expensive if you do a lot of driving. And definitely stay in a ryokan with an outdoor onsen.♨♨♨😁
Always a pleasure seeing both Sharla & Chris (Sharchris)! Korea is miserable in the summer due to the humidity. Love you both and may God bless your wonderful relationship together.
Watching you two feels like perfect couple. Next time I like to see reaction from everyone after you kiss for 30 seconds and I predict it will go over 5 million views, LOL. Keep up the great work. love from San Francisco
Chris and Sharla, you guys keeping saying going to the country side, I would suggest you guys (specially for Chris, since he travels a lot around Japan) video of places that are "country side" that are a round day trip from big cities like Tokyo and Kyoto
Having visited Japan for 10 years for both holiday and work-related reasons (even during the pandemic, though all of it was in quarantine hotels), I'm so excited to be finally able to freely visit Tohoku next week. Thank you so much to both you and Chris for all your travel videos during the pandemic, can't wait to put all of your travel tips to use! :D
I travelled Japan in the peak of summer, it was super hot and sweaty but I found it so much better in that everything touristy is very accessible as theres basically no lines, etc. e.g. being able to walk straight into himeji castle when in other times of the year there can be long waits. Made do getting out very early, resting in the hottest part of the day in the hotel/somewhere with air con, then exploring later in the evening worked wonderfully
I've been shipping Sharla and Chris FOR YEARS. I was so happy when they finally became a real couple and I'm gonna watch and like every single video they appear together and that's it!!
I have been following both of you for years and you’ve been my top two Japan vloggers foreveerrr. I’m dying over how cute and happy you guys are together 🎉🎉🎉❤❤❤😭😭😭😭😭😭 soooo cute
For me, it was amazing seeing the videos from both Chris and you during COVID as I couldn't travel. It still made me discover new places and dream about eventually being able to go :)
Regarding where to go during weekends in Japan (avoiding touristy places, etc.) I recommend making those days for shopping! Those are the days I go check out different supermarkets, shopping malls, small restaurants, etc. although those places are more crowded obviously on weekends than weekdays, they are not that bad and the perfect time to buy souvenirs and take it easy
My goodness - you two look fantastic! I was just listening while doing something else and I had to do a double take when I looked at the screen. You two have been turning into my current cozy comfort youtubers.
You two are so fun to watch. Yes, it is beautiful to know you are building your relationship, but Chris' general gentleman caring respect he shows you on your channel is nice. I love watching him be a bad boy on Abroad with his boy pals but when he is with you I like seeing his mature caring side. I like seeing you both in a happy, restful place-together :)
For anyone with a day or two, with a decent bit of basic Japanese, and looking at a place outside of Tokyo, Kyoto, or Osaka, I suggest looking at Honmachi, Takehara, Hiroshima in the port town (the one that goes to Rabbit island) and the surrounding area around it. Hiking paths, arts and craft stores (a couple even let you learn how to make your own bamboo crafts), old Edo era building designs, some good seafood places, and so forth. It was even kinda nice in the winter for me, I say as a Canadian and quite used to far more snow than what they get.
This was such a useful video, thank you! Loved seeing you present together too. Adorable😊 I love the stamp book, Sharla! When you said you collect Eki stamps, my first thought was that it would be so helpful if you could make a video explaining how to find them and where you get the paper / is their official paper etc.. I was a bit anxious about trying to figure out how to actually do the collecting. However, then you revealed the stamp book😂
Loved this video! I feel so bad for that viewer who said they’re traveling during golden week 😭 but I hope they take that opportunity to see the countryside! I have family visiting soon from the states so I am also excited for traveling getting back to normal!
I love all the travelling tips that you & Chris can offer. I just might eventually make it to that part of the world...so, it's nice to know you have all your travels that I can look back on...& visit all the places that appeal to me...& plan a trip to the places that I would like. Thank you for sharing this video with us. 👍🇨🇦😊
I accidentally booked Japan during Golden Week three years in a row, but I found things to be alright. Didn't notice any negative effects in Tokyo nor Hokkaido.
Ooohh I wish I’d watched this before I went back to Japan last month, I had stamps on bits of paper and eventually bought a random note book to put them in, your book is much nicer!
What a great and informative video. Until you mentioned it, it never occurred to me how much combined travel experience you and Chris both have when it comes to Japan.
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Hi Everyone I'm New RUclipsr From Pakistan Village so need help
Flying into Tokyo 8th of November, staying mainly in Machida a doing day trips to Tokyo etc going to Osaka on the bullet train. This will be 3rd time in Japan and after a 3 year forced absence will be there once a year hopefully.
Regarding the shrine or temple debate: I don't want to advertise other people's content, but I recently watched Shogo's video about differences between shrines and temples and it was very informative, it also immediately helped me to identify Mt. Haguro's place as a shrine due to the red torii.
To break it down, shrines belong to shintoism and worship nature and their gods while temples belong to buddhism and are the home of monks. The entrance of a shrine has a red torii as gateway while temples have a less colorful but even more impressive in size sanmon to go through. In shrines, you bow twice, clap twice and bow once while in temples you just quietly press your hands together.
There are some exceptions where a shine is also a temple or vice-versa, but that's the main differences between them. I really recommend the video, it's easy to understand and I learned a lot =)
@@LaNoir. cool I didn’t know that! ☺️
Sharla has always been an independent and positive person but seeing her in a relationship with someone that understand her work and supports her , well that’s all a long time viewer like me could ask for 😊
Agreed, it's a treat!
I'm so happy for her 😍
Agreed! Been big fans of them both I hope it works out. Such an interesting couple!
This is all we could hope for! I really hope it lasts!
Are they together? If so, That’s so nice! 😊
Chris is looking healthy AF. All that sport clearly pays out.
he looks younger lmao
@@saintchurchill6437 Yeah, you're right! Must be the haircut as well lol.
AF short for affable
Yes he is looking even more affable these days.
@@saintchurchill6437 facial hair makes men look older. He shaved and looks like he's 24 or something.
Chris looks 10 years younger than before the first Journey Across Japan series, must be the natural healing powers of the Dr Jelly pants
It's the camera/filter Sharla uses for her videos
@@idkidc8485 It was a joke.
@idk idc
They been eating healthier
I’m loving that you guys are making videos together where you can both contribute all of your Japan knowledge to us!!! : D it’s great to see you both so happy and healthy, and hearing about all of the things we could do in Japan!!
Seriously! They’re so knowledgeable!!!
Chris is much calmer and not so sarcastic in your videos.
I like that🌺
True. I used to watch his videos and really liked him but the persona he played got old after a while. Really nice to see a more down-to-earth and genuine version of him.
@@cerg10 It was really just a play. In the Asian Boss interview his true personality comes through. This is the true Chris.
the _affableness_ is increased tenfold!
@@cerg10 to each his own. I love his style because it feels like you’re hanging out with your best mate everywhere he goes. More entertaining with the brit humour as a Canadian. Not for everyone obviously I guess.
Chiming in with weekend Tokyo suggestions:
Honestly, as a tourist, just picking a neighborhood to wonder around aimlessly and 'get lost' down the side streets is such a pleasant way to pass the time and you'll come across all sorts of interesting places you wouldn't have found otherwise.
How docile and affable Chris is around Sharla it is amazing!
Docile hahahaha
He is so sweet to her, I love them together.
You make it sound like he is naturally a wild animal
I’m so happy to see you truly happy Sharla. I’m sure you are tired of people saying that but it’s true! I started watching you way back when you reviewed Japanese bread when you were still in university 😂 and I’ve never seen you so happy. I truly am so beyond thrilled and excited for your future. ❤
Thank you so much David❤️🥲
Pro Tip, if you're wanting to see Asakusa early morning is great. My brother and I stayed in Asakusa and we were jet lagged so we woke up at like 6AM one day in the first couple so we just got up, grabbed some early breakfast at McDonalds I think across the street and then we hit up the shrine and there was just no one there so it was lovely.
As someone who hiked Fushimi Inari alone near midnight, it is one of the most amazing experiences I have in Japan. Highly recommended but definitely not for the faint hearted.
Totally something I hadn't even considered but I am glad this video and this comment are suggesting it. I am gonna give this a try when I go now :). Not particularly worried about any boars or wild animals as hiking where I live in Canada is always dangerous aka bears, moose, cougars...
The two of you together gives the feel of Sweet and Sour. The Sour being Chris with his sarcasm. Love the feel that both of you give. Looking forward to more videos!
So cute, they are each others special guests. You are right about their collab vibe. ❤
More like Sweet and Affable!
Chris showing a genuine curiosity in your stamp book was so cute haha
Your travel videos have helped keep me sane during lockdowns, quarentines and travel bans. Even just seeing nature and changing scenery on screen was better than nothing at all.
So thank you, Sharla and Chris for your lovely travel videos.
In this crazy world it's so nice to see 2 people so genuinely happy.
When it comes to collecting, as a Japanese, I highly recommend Goshuin stamps (御朱印) which is like a stamp rally you can get at shrine and temple. The design is so cool that has recently become quite popular among the Japanese people, but so far it seems a few foreign tourists are doing it.
I learned about this 2 weeks before my trip when I told a Japanese friend that I was planning to visit Omi-jingu in Otsu. I never noticed the places to get them before, but yeah, it seems every shrine or temple that isn't very small has them. And a lot of Japanese people are getting them, but while getting over 20 of them in the past week (I have been in and around Kyoto for that time, so I ended up visiting a LOT of temples...) I only saw a single other foreigner getting one.
The affable duo
I went to Tokyo in 2009, well before the Olympics, and had no problems getting around, using the trains with absolutely no Japanese. I rode back and forth all day and made it back to my hotel near the Shinagawa train station. Another day I was dropped off at Tokyo Disneyland, and had no problems finding my way back to my hotel. NOTE: One thing that helped a lot was having a compass, using it to make sure I was on the correct platform to go the direction on the train that I needed. Otherwise, only once did we get a little lost trying to find a specific park. We relied on advice we had received before we went. If you approach a Japanese person and ask a question in English, and their response is they don’t understand, try writing it down in English, and quite often you can get an answer. That’s how we found the park.
and when did you wake up?
I found renting pocket WiFi really helpful, so I could get around with Google Maps. That's really made things easier compared to 2009!
Tokyo has really great signage on their transit system. Was there in 2015 without no knowledge of Japanese, and had no problems getting around. They do a great job with their metro/train system English-language signage.
@@Nynke_K And the rental wifi hotspots are really cheap and excellent. I got one the first time I went to Japan and I will never not get one when I go there.
@@mrecury average jealous virgin
As an English speaker, who has no Japanese language, I've been to Tokyo and Kyoto. It's so easy to get round. People are so kind you can almost not go wrong (as long as your respectful). We've had people take us to the stop and then head off where they were going. You will never be truly lost.
Re: what to do on a weekend in Tokyo, the main parks in Tokyo (such as Shinjuku Gyoen National Garden) are a nice option if someone doesn't have time to leave the city. Even if the parks are busy, many of them are very large, so they don't impact the experience negatively.
I cannot deal with seeing you guys in the same frame. It makes me SO HAPPY for you two! 🤩
Oh my god, Chris looks so good!! His skin is so much nicer and he looks a lot more healthy!!!
Chris looks so much more healthy, wow! his skin is so much better
@Sharmeleon you should make your own stamp, then if viewers meet you out on the street they can collect it!
That’s a fun idea 👀👀
@@sharlainjapan ooo and maybe a special Neko Neko Inn stamp for those that stay there? 😊
Neko Neko Inn has one :D
Yay! Can't get enough of you two together 💕
Chris really do remember a lot of places he visited. The two of you together could put together an extensive guide about Japan, from two perspectives that is complimenting each other very well.
Chris is looking good! Like he's suddenly 5 years younger, I'm envious
There is such a wealth of travel knowledge between you and Chris. Love these videos with you two together!
Agreed! I'd love to see them work on a travel book together. I'd buy it!!
Yes! 🧡
@@justfellicitya Great idea, I hope they consider it!
I visited Tokyo in 2018, and I found the English pretty great when navigating around. The ticket machines, signs, all were readable. Also, the workers in the train stations are great, even if the English is a problem, there’s always different ways to communicate
My short list of tips, as someone who has been to Japan a few times:
1. rent a wifi hotspot. Costs $2-$4 a day and you have fast, easy to use (and share) internet access. I would also get yourself a power bank because having your tech run out of power at the wrong time is annoying.
2. If your hotel offers breakfast with room, get it. In most cases, it'll be mediocre, but it also saves you from trying to source breakfast in a country that doesn't really have breakfast restaurants so you'll just end up at the corner store half the time and waste half an hour. Also, it'll usually save you money in the end.
3. Have 2 or 3 back up things to do for every thing you intend to do. Especially in very popular areas and museums, sometimes you will find places too crowded and you are better off cutting it short and doing something else instead. Some of my best adventures in Japan were from when I said "fuck this" and looked at what else was in the area to see and do. I've gotten museums entirely to myself because I walked two blocks away from a crazy, packed tourism site.
4. When booking a trip to Japan, look at the major holidays for China, Japan, Australia, and the USA, then DO NOT GO DURING THOSE HOLIDAYS! If you can do this, the number of tourists as well as the availability of tickets to things will be much better.
5. Remember you are a guest which means you need to be polite and respectful. Keep a ziplock bag in your backpack for your trash. Don't expect that everything is open to you to enter or visit. Flip your backback around to your front when on trains and public transit.
In short, don't be the tourist that people complain about.
Thank you for mentioning hot spot because it's not something we looked into before. I thought all I had to do was add whatever my carrier had and would have access to data. I've never traveled outside the US so I didn't understand how little data you're allowed. In your opinion is hot spot all you'd need or is there another step?
You guys should start a guided tour company in Japan! I'm sure people would pay to hang out with you. I know I would. Love you guys! 🥰
I totally agree 👌👌👌
It's kinda nice to see two of my favorite RUclipsrs in a relationship. Plus, they both are great at showing off Japan.
Chris is looking really good, I like when he is clean shaven. He is looking buffed, wow. Living his best life. Congratulations all round to him, you Sharla and us for being there being supportive :) Great video again Sharla and very informative.
You guys have a different vibe together than you have separately. It’s really interesting to see a different side of both of you. Thanks for the tips :) I’ve been to Japan twice pre-pandemic, would love to go back in the next couple years. This time though we’ll be travelling as a family! 👨👩👧
Chris looks 10 years younger...seriously. Good work, Chris!
存在感と会話が自然でお似合いすぎるカップル😽
Good job with the weight loss journey Chris! You look so much younger now!!! 😄
Lol, love that you guys seem to genuinely like each other, as weird as that sounds. I don’t understand couples who can’t stand spending time together.
I will say, as someone who visited Japan in the summer, it isn't insufferable, it's humid, really humid and that just makes you sticky and gross but I still found my holiday absolutely magical, I don't think it detracts massively! Plus the konbini sell so many different things to keep you cool!
I am unfortunately also one of the few that can only go there for the summer due to conflicting family schedules 😢 and was really bummed once I realized how the weather was going to be and how it was basically the worst time to book since who wants to be traveling and feeling super sweaty. It makes me feel little better hearing that the experience wasn’t too bad despite the weather. I am planning late July to early august and am hoping that the trip still turns out amazing as it has always been my dream to visit since I was a kid and only now am I financially able to do so.
@@CSFreya I hope you enjoy your trip! You sound a lot like me, in terms I've wanted to visit Japan since I was a kid and was only financially able to in 2019 and honestly I think being that eager to visit helps! Late July/Early August is about when I visited and yeah the humidity is bad but I think you'll still enjoy yourself! And if you end up heading north it will be a fair bit cooler!
You two are such a treasure trove of travel info for Japan. A trip is still a couple years off for me, but I'll be revisiting this video for the tips again!
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Months a go I wrote that you two are match made in heaven!! OMG was I right! You are such cute perfect couple and both such lovely humans! Have fun, enjoy life and enjoy eachother 💋 you both deserve to be sooooo happy ! ❤️
You two are wonderful! I am an old guy and probably won't get to Japan :( but I love exploring it vicariously (sp?) with you and all the friends at Tokyo Creative, Trash Taste, Pete and Ian, Natsuki, Royotaro. Have been watching since 2014. Keep on amazing us and entertaining us! We love you.
If you don't mind a suggestion, a channel called Rambalac just walks around all kinds of places in Japan and is good for having on in the background while doing something else :)
Been following from Chris’s channel for years and I’ve gotta say he looks 10 years younger! Chris, you should be proud of the hard work you’ve put in and keep going strong! Great video and you two look terrific together. Much love from Sweden!
Thank you for answering my question! Definitely looking forward to seeing some of those places for sure! 😍
Also LOVE LOVE LOVE the stamp book!! 😍😍😍😍🥰🥰🥰❤️❤️❤️ my new favorite collectible around Japan!
You can do one the castles too.
You guys are adorable together. I'm glad you 2 found each other. It's nice watching you 2 have fun and enjoy being around each other. You 2 have great chemistry, and it resonates well through the camera. Plus you Both are pretty good looking, so as to make a handsome couple .
Oh wow! What a lovely surprise! 🤗 Thank you Sharla + Chris for answering my question and taking the time to share your Eki Stamp collection! 🙏🏻Your Stamp book is so Kawaii too. Well done! 👏🏻👏🏻 Also if you both ever travel to Blue Mountains, NSW, Australia there is a good fried chicken place here as well as amazing landscape views. 👍🏻
I love watching the way you two are around each other in “ boyfriend/girlfriend mode”. So chill and in harmony with each other. I still hope to get to Japan one day, it just looks so beautiful.
You two are such genuinely lovely people! You come across so authentic and kind, and your content is interesting and entertaining to boot. Love seeing great role models do well on RUclips :)
Looking much younger Chris, healthy living will do that to you...and as always, Sharla looking timeless
Chris looks 5 years younger dang! Can't wait to see the six packs reveal lol
Coming back to your channel after a couple of years as the Japan bug is itching me again, and I could not be more happy to see you two together! You and Chris were always my favorite channels to keep me motivated in finding my own way to move to Japan. I remember thinking how you cute you guys would be when he had you as a guest on his biking through Japan series. I am just so freaking happy for you guys haha AND you are killing it with the businesses too! Hope I get the chance to stay at Neko Neko Inn one day~
Sharla, you can probably find a book binder to bind all of your loose leaf travel stamps into a bound travel journal if you want to keep them together better.
Sharla literally don’t age since i subscribed 8years ago!! Her skin looks healthy!!
Can you do a video on differences with driving in Japan? Would signs be similar to the UK? Is it easy to understand direction? Any unusual rules?
We rented a car in Japan once and didn't experience it as very stressful even though we're from mainland Europe and not used to driving on the left. But I wasn't the one driving so I just redid some research: googling 'driving in Japan ' yields some helpful results, including two videos by Chris and one by Life Where I'm From (which I remember as being very thorough!)
I would love to have the knowledge and innate ability to confidently understand just anything about Japan. Seeing your videos and listening to you guys talk about each experience and touch upon memories made me realize that those things took time and you guys put in the time and effort to be in the moment while living in Japan. It's very eye-opening. I'm a recent college grad with no idea what to do in life, but Japan has always been in my sights.
I went to Shirakawago around 3-4 years ago during the winter, definitely worth the visit. The place looks so magical when covered in snow, one of the best places in Japan I've visited.
I went during Fall and it was wonderful !
You two truly are the japan travel power couple. Thanks for the tips!
When Chris said he collects chicken, I laughed so hard 😂😂
Loved this Q&A and all the great tips. Thanks Sharla and Chris 💕
This is so cute. I'm so happy for you two 😭
My friends and I made the daring journey to Mt. Haguro on our trip in early spring of 2017. It definetly was a long journey but it was worth it to see the pagoda there!
I visited Japan in June 2019. It was absolutely beautiful. Very very humid but I loved every second. We did okay without a car, the trains were fine! Fushimi Inari for sure was insanely busy but I found the higher up we got, there were fewer and fewer people and we were able to get some lovely photos and stuff. It was baking hot that day though, I really picked a hell of day for it 😂
Hiroshima is great but Osaka has my heart probably just because it's where I lived when I moved to Japan and have so many fond memories of it and the people both local and immigrants just felt so much more open and welcoming than Tokyo or Kyoto which both have their own charm.
I miss Japan. I have actually been there 3 times: 2016 (Spring Culture Trip), 2017 (Visiting Friends), and 2020-2022 (Attending Japanese Language School and Teaching English). I had to return to my home country due to a family emergency (well, 2 emergencies). I'm hoping to return as soon as things are better in my family (and I have more money).
I remember when I had to leave earlier this year my flight got delayed and I ended up staying in a Capsule Hotel for a couple nights, it was actually quite fun. The hotel was at the airport, so I enjoyed exploring it.
Japanese Summer, I always kept multiple water bottles on me throughout the day and an extra towel for sweat (I always carried a backpack when I went out). Unfortunately, because I was in Japan during the pandemic, I didn't get to enjoy any Summer Festivals which was sad. Hopefully next time I'm in Japan during the summer I will get to experience the festivals.
During the Summer last year (2021), I walked 1 hour in the summer heat and humidity from the train to Sakura Furusato Square in Sakura, Chiba. Although I needed a third bottle of water by the time I got there, it was really fascinating to take a good look at the surrounding areas.
I remember seeing a Crane in a rice paddy and I was so enamored by it that, by the time I thought about taking a picture, the crane had flown off. But even though I don't have a picture of it physically, It's still very clear in my head and it's a fond memory of mine.
I did end up taking a bus back to the station when I left and was exhausted for the next 24 hours (I was off from work, so it was fine).
That wasn't the first time I walked an Hour to get somewhere, the first time I did it was during my 2017 trip when I decided to visit Egawa Beach in Kisarazu. It was during the Autumn, so It wasn't as Hot and Humid. But it was worth it to see the area, very pretty.
I don't drive for personal reasons, but I do enjoy Hiking, even if it's not always the traditional Forest or Mountain Hiking (which I have also done in Japan). I enjoy going to Japanese parks, forests and mountains. Nature makes me happy and relaxed.
We were in Japan for 3 weeks starting in mid-July. What saved us from the heat was Gatsby wipes!!! Can't emphasize enough what a difference they make on a hot day :) Would go again in the summer!
This makes me feel a little better. My trip is also going to be around that time and I’ve been pretty bummed out that the weather might limit some activities like going to a ryokan since it’s going to be super hot I don’t think it would make sense to book? May I ask why you would still book again in the summer?
Truly, Chris looks more healthy and looks more relaxed, love to see them together, there like "two devils in a pod" 🤭 or to put it more spiritual way, like yin and yang
Thank you for this! I really want to visit next year so I’ll be using these tips to plan my trip 😊❤
Dude, I see you in at least one youtube video every week. Lol
Sir I Need Last 1K Watchtime Plzz Some Help Me..
There is a nice dynamic between you two. You should consider doing more videos together in the future. It feels like you will get along!
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You both make a great team! I am loving the "collabs" you two are doing together
Best question is at 18:42. I watched a lot Abroad in Japan videos and some others like Shara's. It's the first time I hear about this 'Golden Week'. Extra tricky since this holiday period is not at the same time every year. Thanks for sharing and thanks to Lorena Ryden for asking.
Ooh, the stamp book is pretty cool. I'll probably get a couple of those for the kids for our next trip. Totally agree that if you've been before or feel a little adventurous rent a car. A whole new part of Japan opens up. Car rental is cheap but be warned highway tolls can be horrendously expensive if you do a lot of driving. And definitely stay in a ryokan with an outdoor onsen.♨♨♨😁
You are informative to provide tips on travelling to Japan, Miss Sharla.
Such a helpful video! Would love more videos with you two together in the future! Your relationship dynamic seems so comfortable and wholesome
Honestly...what a great couple. So adorable together, and their viking off each other is awesome
I can't stop getting distracted by how you two are not in the center of the image, thanks Chris!
Always a pleasure seeing both Sharla & Chris (Sharchris)! Korea is miserable in the summer due to the humidity. Love you both and may God bless your wonderful relationship together.
I’m in Japan right now and both your videos have been very helpful. Very happy to see you guys working together. Love this video.
Watching you two feels like perfect couple. Next time I like to see reaction from everyone after you kiss for 30 seconds and I predict it will go over 5 million views, LOL. Keep up the great work. love from San Francisco
Chris and Sharla, you guys keeping saying going to the country side, I would suggest you guys (specially for Chris, since he travels a lot around Japan) video of places that are "country side" that are a round day trip from big cities like Tokyo and Kyoto
Having visited Japan for 10 years for both holiday and work-related reasons (even during the pandemic, though all of it was in quarantine hotels), I'm so excited to be finally able to freely visit Tohoku next week. Thank you so much to both you and Chris for all your travel videos during the pandemic, can't wait to put all of your travel tips to use! :D
I travelled Japan in the peak of summer, it was super hot and sweaty but I found it so much better in that everything touristy is very accessible as theres basically no lines, etc. e.g. being able to walk straight into himeji castle when in other times of the year there can be long waits. Made do getting out very early, resting in the hottest part of the day in the hotel/somewhere with air con, then exploring later in the evening worked wonderfully
I've been shipping Sharla and Chris FOR YEARS. I was so happy when they finally became a real couple and I'm gonna watch and like every single video they appear together and that's it!!
I have been following both of you for years and you’ve been my top two Japan vloggers foreveerrr. I’m dying over how cute and happy you guys are together 🎉🎉🎉❤❤❤😭😭😭😭😭😭 soooo cute
So happy to see you guys together. Chris looks so fit and younger. All that effort is paying off. 🎉
More Sharla and Chris content!
For me, it was amazing seeing the videos from both Chris and you during COVID as I couldn't travel. It still made me discover new places and dream about eventually being able to go :)
That's what I keep thinking whenever Chris says he felt bad about making travel videos: don't underestimate the uplifting powers of armchair travel!
Sharla please go to the studio ghibli theme park and video everything 😄 im going next year but I want to live vicariously through your visit
Wow Chris looks thinner/stronger and happier. insha'Allah I will meet someone that does the same for me.
I had to double check when this came out… Chris looks so young lol
Regarding where to go during weekends in Japan (avoiding touristy places, etc.) I recommend making those days for shopping!
Those are the days I go check out different supermarkets, shopping malls, small restaurants, etc. although those places are more crowded obviously on weekends than weekdays, they are not that bad and the perfect time to buy souvenirs and take it easy
My goodness - you two look fantastic! I was just listening while doing something else and I had to do a double take when I looked at the screen. You two have been turning into my current cozy comfort youtubers.
I would totally go to Japan just for the Nintendo park. The guys on the Safety Third podcast said that it is an absolutely surreal experience.
You two are so fun to watch. Yes, it is beautiful to know you are building your relationship, but Chris' general gentleman caring respect he shows you on your channel is nice. I love watching him be a bad boy on Abroad with his boy pals but when he is with you I like seeing his mature caring side. I like seeing you both in a happy, restful place-together :)
For anyone with a day or two, with a decent bit of basic Japanese, and looking at a place outside of Tokyo, Kyoto, or Osaka, I suggest looking at Honmachi, Takehara, Hiroshima in the port town (the one that goes to Rabbit island) and the surrounding area around it. Hiking paths, arts and craft stores (a couple even let you learn how to make your own bamboo crafts), old Edo era building designs, some good seafood places, and so forth.
It was even kinda nice in the winter for me, I say as a Canadian and quite used to far more snow than what they get.
This was such a useful video, thank you! Loved seeing you present together too. Adorable😊
I love the stamp book, Sharla! When you said you collect Eki stamps, my first thought was that it would be so helpful if you could make a video explaining how to find them and where you get the paper / is their official paper etc..
I was a bit anxious about trying to figure out how to actually do the collecting. However, then you revealed the stamp book😂
Nice to see Sharla having a small RUclipsr on, hope his channel takes off LOL
Loved this video! I feel so bad for that viewer who said they’re traveling during golden week 😭 but I hope they take that opportunity to see the countryside! I have family visiting soon from the states so I am also excited for traveling getting back to normal!
I love all the travelling tips that you & Chris can offer. I just might eventually make it to that part of the world...so, it's nice to know you have all your travels that I can look back on...& visit all the places that appeal to me...& plan a trip to the places that I would like. Thank you for sharing this video with us. 👍🇨🇦😊
I accidentally booked Japan during Golden Week three years in a row, but I found things to be alright. Didn't notice any negative effects in Tokyo nor Hokkaido.
Ooohh I wish I’d watched this before I went back to Japan last month, I had stamps on bits of paper and eventually bought a random note book to put them in, your book is much nicer!
What a great and informative video. Until you mentioned it, it never occurred to me how much combined travel experience you and Chris both have when it comes to Japan.
What a stupid comment
Chris has been to all 47 prefectures after all