Wanted to come back and say thanks to this video, we knew about and went to the Takashi Murakami exhibit in Kyoto KYOCERA Museum and it was absolutely fantastic. Amy, so appreciate you letting us know about this, Takashi-san wrote up many "explainers" and thoughts and even apologies that were posted on the walls next to the art and it was so cool to see his interpretation of merging the traditional with the flat. We absolutely loved it and would go back if we could. Maybe we will....haha!
The metal sakura trees look pretty cool but I’m glad they planted real trees around the complex as well. No matter what time of year, the sakura aesthetic will reign! 🎉
It's a while since I made it but I think that's covered in this video! ruclips.net/video/gvUDDeBFNOg/видео.html In winter it depends where you're going - Tokyo's not as cold as up north and Hokkaido, but it's always a good idea to wear layers, because you'll be going inside and outside. When I went to Hokkaido in winter I stocked up on Uniqlo's Heat Tech range to keep warm!
Samurai museum added to my list thanks! Takashi Murakami is the second best art exhibit I've seen, about 15 years ago in America. I won't be in Japan until late September so I guess I'll miss this one.
Thank you Amy! I'm visiting in April and excited to check out the new Toyosu outer fish market! I'm glad I got a chance to visit Tsukiji before the market moved, the city is ever changing!
Fab video, and very informative as ever. Arigato! My husband and I are going back to Japan in March after we first visited in 2006, this time with our 16 and 12 year old. Your videos and books are our Bible, we’re bringing them with us!
Thanks so much! It'll be interesting to see how it's changed since 2006, and wonderful to experience it with your family! You'll have to send me a pic with my book in Japan! 🎶
Thanks so much for your helpful comments to my questions, really appreciated! I have finally found a plane ticket and will try to buy it tomorrow. I bought your book which has been more useful than the other books I bought, I really liked the way it was designed so you can take notes in it. If there was a suggestion I could make for future editions, I would say to put a page of tear-off bookmarks to use in the book. I keep losing pages that you mentioned things on, and it doesn’t look very good with McDonalds receipts, which is what I’m using as bookmarks at the moment! Anyway, your videos and book have been a real help, so thank you!
Thanks so much, that means a lot! Sounds like you're using it exactly as intended. I can highly recommend the little post it notes they look like cat paws to use as page markers! 🐾
Excellent! Some good info there. I was in Japan as a student more than 30 years ago, but this March/April, I'm heading back with my 16 and 13-year-old sons for a week in an apartment in Tokyo and a week in a campervan. We live in the Scottish highlands, so it is going to be an eye-opener for them!
Thanks Amy, great news edition as usual. I found out about Shibuya Sakura Stage a few days ago, and we will go there to have a look as we're going to Shibuya anyway 🙂
woah, cool. samurai and ninja museum!? sounds neat... I'm looking forward to more videos about your trips. I wouldn't know which to try on the pizza ramen, but it does sound interesting. so does the immersive fort. hee hee, hamster cars. boy would that be something to see myself on top of one. :D
So many new things! I'm excited for your new review of teamlabs borderless. Wow, the new theme park Junglia sounds fun.. and I wish that Samurai museum was open last year. Great video.
@@manierlinge7392 I use a pocket wifi. It's a device about the size of your phone that you connect to, just like your home wifi, so you can use the internet when you're out and about. You can't make calls - only if you use an internet calling service - it's just for data and internet. Lots of people use an e-sim, but I prefer a pocket wifi because you can connect multiple devices to it, so you only need one for your group.
Thanks for this great video Amy ! So many new things to enjoy in Japan. I like that there will be an "outer market" like at Tsukiji at Toyosu and the spa there looks really great as well. I look forward to see the new Teamlab Borderless, but I can also recommend to go to TeamLab Planets as well, as its great and it was one of my favorite places in Tokyo on my last trip to Japan. Kanazawa is one of my favorite places in Japan, for the amazing fish market there, the beautiful japanese garden, the samurai quarter and other things. It would be nice to go there now, with fewer tourists as usual, and also to support the local economy. The artificial cherry blossom trees look so "japanese". I was in Tokyo last year during the early cherry blossom season, and we enjoyed Nakameguro and Ueno park, where so many locals were there for a hanami picnic. What a great atmosphere. P.S. I love your Catsu Curry T-Shirt, where did you get that ?
Yes! The general feeling seems to be that the new Toyosu market is too sterile and lacks the character of Tsukiji, so hopefully the new complex will help with that. That sounds like a lovely time in Tokyo during cherry blossom season! 🌸🎶 The Catsy Curry t-shirt's my design! 😸 You can get it here: cakeswithfaces.co.uk/product/catsu-curry-t-shirt/
I’m going during sakura season this year and I was refreshing the forecast page like mad so I saw it refresh live by the exact hour! We literally have booked the EXACT timing to arrive at bloom and be there for peak bloom too, which is so lucky because we booked 7 months ago!
Thank you Amy for the video. It is good to know that best days of cherry blossoms are also varied by altitudes. So if you think you just miss the best by several days and your destination is in highlands, you may still have a good chance to come across cherry blossoms in full bloom even if the peak is over in their lowlands. By the way, my grandma graduated from the university founded by the woman on the new 5,000 yen bank note, and the woman was there when my grandma was there! I love the famous ukiyoe on the back of the new 1,000 yen. The more I glance at this particular picture, the more curious it makes me with many questions. I am looking forward to visiting Japan in May/June time.
Yes, if you're flexible, you can travel around to catch the cherry blossoms if you're too early or late! Japan's such a long country so the climate varies a lot. The design's lovely on the new bank notes - that's a great connection you have with the 5,000 yen!
@@cakeswithfaces What happened when I was in Akita is... cherry blossoms were over in the famous town nearby, but in the mountain about 900m above, not far from the town, they were in full bloom coincidentally! This is what I meant by altitude.
@@cakeswithfaces For now we just have Tokyo booked for 10 days. Groove hotel. It looked like a good option, but still looking at hotels to see if we should switch. We're still planning out which places to visit outside of Tokyo. It's a dream come true to me :) I travelled all around the world, but Japan never happened for one reason or another.
@@lukastemberger So glad you'll finally be going to Japan! Grove is a great option - it's quite a new hotel, in a perfect location, and there's a chance of a good view from your window as it's high up. 🤞
@@cakeswithfaces Yeah, I got a room that says high floor and city views. It's a bit expensive considering I don't plan to spend much time in the room, but hopefully it's worth it :)
Love every minute of this new news Amy thanks so much again for all you reported on here I’ll be making a list I think of what you mention in case I want to check everything out 🦾🦾🦾
The Sakura 🌸 place looks amazing 😍. I like the idea of it lighting up at night. For Team Lab, I'd book to go to both places. When are you going to Japan? 🫶👘❤️
Hello Amy, I just got your book “Your Guide to Japan” and I love it. My friend and I will be arriving in Osaka on 04/03 and we hope to see the cherries in full bloom 🤞. I am traveling from USA, do you recommend us to buy yen here?
Thanks so much, so happy you like it! Personally I prefer to get yen before travelling. You get a slightly better rate if you withdraw it from an ATM when you're in Japan, using a card that's commission-free abroad, but I prefer to get it sorted before I go, just in case my card doesn't work and so I don't have to worry about it when I'm there. There has been a time when my card didn't work even though I told my bank I'd be travelling. Hope you catch the cherry blossoms! I think you will with those dates. :-)
So much happening this year in Japan. It would have been good to see the giant Gundam before the factory closes, but fingers crossed that they move it somewhere else. As for the pizzas, I'd definitely try the ramen one as I like both ramen and pizza. Japanese Stuff Channel did a video on the cheese volcano pizza, and it didn't look appetizing.
Thank you ! Im gonna go in September 😃 can you please tell me where you buy all the ticket for attractions like teamlabs and shibuya sky ? Thanks in advance !
You can buy them on their official websites (in english). :-) If you go through the booking process, it also tells you availability for each time slot and how many tickets are left.
Look out for when the Mint's open in Osaka for cherry blossom viewing. It's amazing! SO many cherry blossom trees, hundreds of food stalls and an amazing atmosphere. It's only open one week per year, mid April. You can get there really easily on the train from Kyoto. Here's my video about it: ruclips.net/video/YwCnBLx-y9Q/видео.html There's also Yasurai Matsuri in Kyoto on 14th April, Heian Jingu Reisai Festival in Kyoto on the 15th (2 days), and Fire-walking at Daishoin Temple, Miyajima (do-able as a day trip from Kyoto).
Thanks for the great updates, we will be in Japan in March and now looking forward to riding the Disney Shinkansen. Also on a side note, Katana is Japanese sword and you said katakana which is Japanese written language for foreign words like Ramen ( ラメン) or beer (ビール). Thank you
No worries. We all are human and we make a lot. But for the viewers they should learn the right terminology. For example gokon means like group dating but gokan means rape. So tomato vs to ma to is ok in English but not Japanese. But thanks for all the great tips. Aloha
Ramen pizza?!?!?!?! I feel like booking a last minute flight just to experience this beauty! I’m so sad it’s going to be finish when I arrive in April! 🍕+🍜=❤️❤️❤️
hmmm,... Tokyo Suntory Museum of Art is finally reopened after renovation. For me, 1万円 bill with Shibusawa Eiichi is the best. His grave is in the giant cemetery next to Yanaka Ginza. Limiting foreigners climbing Mt. Fuji is really good I think ... For Izu, I would go to Dogashima ... Shimoda is also nice, it's where the American Black Fleet anchored.
Recently, the number of foreign tourists has increased rapidly due to the production of the Japanese government, and there is no end to over tourism and troubles. I am not saying that they should not come to Japan, but I would like them to follow the rules and manners. I also got into trouble the other day when I warned a foreigner in Kyoto. Finally, as a Japanese, I would like to thank you for coming to Japan.
I think it would help if foreigners knew about more places to go in Japan. There are so many interesting places, but outside Japan, you mainly hear about Tokyo, Osaka and Kyoto, so everyone wants to go to those few places. If they knew about more places, they'd want to go, and it wouldn't be so overcrowded in a few spots.
Dutch person here!👋 The food at the Miffy themed restaurant isn't very authentic (I've never heard of a ham and berry sandwich in my life 😂), but looks adorable nonetheless! I love how Japan is so obsessed with "our" Miffy 😊
This is soooo helpful. I'm planning a trip to Japan between february and april. Thank you so much for taking the time to give these wonderful pieces of news. Do you happen to know exactly where the new Toyosu Senkyaku Banrai will be ? ( I can't seem to find it on google yet).
Usually I use the calculator on Martins Moneysaving Tips to check where has the best rate, and pick somewhere that's FSC regulated as its safer. I just got some from the Currency Club, but the best one depends on how much you're getting, and the rates change all the time!
That's too early for the cherry blossoms, but there's a chance you might see some early-blooming varieties: www.timeout.com/tokyo/things-to-do/where-to-see-winter-cherry-blossoms-in-tokyo There'll also be a few plum blossoms scattered around (I saw some when I was there at that time last year!).
Thank you for the updates! I have been watching so much of your content because I am planning a trip in November. I LOVE kawaii fashion but I hear that Japan/Harajuku are not plus size friendly (size 22 girlie here!
Two shops that immediately come to mind are ACDC Rag and Punyus. They both have plus sizes - while many shops in Harajuku only have one size (called "free size") that can be quite small, they have plus size clothing for sure! There are other shops on Takeshita Street that have oversized style sweaters that might be worth a look too! There are always cute accessories of course, but I hope you find some clothes to your liking as well! 💖
You run a very good and informative channel, and I am happy to be a new subscriber. With my family, we will visit Japan for the first time this year, in May. Do you have a video about the best one day Mt Fuji/Hakone tours from Tokyo? If not, which ones do you recommend?
So glad you're enjoying my videos, thank you! Mount Fuji is tricky because there are several areas you can go to, and not one definitive route. I went on my first ever trip to Japan, on a coach trip from Viator that went on the shinkansen on the way back. We went to Lake Ashi, on a ropeway and up Fuji to the 5th station. Tbh I'm not a huge fan of coach trips, because you're in a big group of people all the time, and you're on someone else's schedule, but I did enjoy seeing Fuji, and it was a stress-free way to go when I wasn't feeling that confident about taking the train independently on our first trip. If I went now, I'd use one of the Fuji are train passes and go independently. Japan Guide has useful info about them: www.japan-guide.com/e/e6905.html#:~:text=Passes%20and%20Tickets,pass%27%20coverage%20area%3A It's also mentioned briefly in my video about day trips from Tokyo: ruclips.net/video/fLosjmrPFAI/видео.html
Hi Amy, Thanks for the great video update. Flights booked for October and so looking forward to visiting Japan. I want to go to the Samurai museums in Tokyo and /or Kyoto. Will I need to book tickets for these in advance or is it ok to try to get in on the day?
As it's a new attraction, I don't know how popular it is. However it's not a major attraction, so I'd imagine at that time of year you'd probably be ok to get in on the day. Although it might be worth checking other people's experience with availability of the workshops and experiences.
can't wait for our trip to akihabara in march as well as Animejapan 2024... will make-up for the flops last year, taking notes, so yeah. hope i am ready P.S. it sucks that our trip collided with our holiday here, except the unexpected
You'll be able to see the early blooming cherry blossoms in Kawazu (that's the one I mentioned in the video!): www.japan-guide.com/e/e6314.html There'll also be plum blossoms towards the end of your trip.
Exciting!! Personally, I get cash before I go, because I prefer to get it sorted beforehand and not have to worry about it while I'm there. However, you get a slightly better rate if you withdraw it from an ATM in Japan (using a card that's commission-free for foreign ATMs). But there have been times when I've been travelling and my card didn't work, even when I told my bank I'd be away.
Not sure if you ever mentioned it but kids 12 and under travel for half price on trains. It will save your subscribers hundreds in a week. Keep up videos. 😁🤙🏽
Here's the hotel, it's part of the spa section: tokyo-toyosu.manyo.co.jp/languages/en/#pc_stay:~:text=Private%20baths,has%20to%20offer. Here's the booking page in Japanese - that's all I can find at the moment! It's owned by a company called Manyo Club: go-manyo.reservation.jp/ja/hotels/manyo-toyosu
@@FernandoRocha-i3w I'm not sure then - I couldn't see it on the Manyo Club general website either. You'd expect they'd be taking bookings as it's opening soon. Maybe something will appear as it gets closer to opening day.
looks like $146 CADis going to become part of my collection now. going to save 1 bill of 10k, 5k, 1k for that purpose. the tom and jerry cafe looks interesting, not sure if i will visit in the shorter times im in Tokyo.
i dont usually make souvenirs but if it means keeping some of the older coins and notes then its a worthy collection. i just need to leave it at home and keep the rest to spend.@@cakeswithfaces
would you say its better to be in Japan (specifically Tokyo) earlier than the predicted cherry blossoms or later? I want to go to Tokyo Disneysea during their spring easter theme in April but I heard that the Sakura theme Starbucks launches in February
My wife and I have been going to Japan for cherry blossom for many years and we always remain flexible with our lodging/itinerary. We change our plan on the fly depending on where the blooms are.
It's personal preference really. Before the cherry blossoms is more off-peak season, so places will be slightly less crowded, but it's cooler weather. You can also see the plum blossoms and early-blooming sakura, like in Kawazu. After the cherry blossoms, it's warmer weather and there's a chance of seeing late-blooming blossoms, or you can go north or into the mountains to catch them. To me, it sounds like the easter theme at Disney's more exciting than Starbucks. :-)
@@cakeswithfaces Exactly, we went to Yumura Onsen, a beautiful little, riverside hidden gem/Onsen town with hundreds of cherry trees last year, away from the crowd.
@@cakeswithfacesyeah the warmer weather sounds better to me, i might try and make my plans for flexible to go up north to look. Thank you so much for the suggestion 😊
Look up where you can see late blooming varieties. I saw them mid April in Osaka at the Mint (only open one week per year). Or you could go north or into the mountains - where it's cooler they bloom slightly later.
No, I haven't travelled solo myself, but I hear from a lot of people who do and have a wonderful time! If you have any particular questions I'll always do my best to help out. ☺️
Wanted to come back and say thanks to this video, we knew about and went to the Takashi Murakami exhibit in Kyoto KYOCERA Museum and it was absolutely fantastic. Amy, so appreciate you letting us know about this, Takashi-san wrote up many "explainers" and thoughts and even apologies that were posted on the walls next to the art and it was so cool to see his interpretation of merging the traditional with the flat. We absolutely loved it and would go back if we could. Maybe we will....haha!
Ah I'm so glad you went! I'd loved to have gone; that sounds really interesting. Hope I can catch one of his exhibitions sometime!
The metal sakura trees look pretty cool but I’m glad they planted real trees around the complex as well. No matter what time of year, the sakura aesthetic will reign! 🎉
Always good to have some greenery (or pink blossoms!) in the city. If it's not sakura time I'll be more than happy to make do with the metal ones! 🌸🌸🌸
This is awesome! Thank you so much! I'm planning on going to Japan this spring for the first time, so excited to try and catch these new things! 🙏 ❤
How exciting - enjoy!! :-)
Would love to see a video about what clothing to wear around Japan, particularly in winter, but any season suggestions would be great
It's a while since I made it but I think that's covered in this video! ruclips.net/video/gvUDDeBFNOg/видео.html
In winter it depends where you're going - Tokyo's not as cold as up north and Hokkaido, but it's always a good idea to wear layers, because you'll be going inside and outside. When I went to Hokkaido in winter I stocked up on Uniqlo's Heat Tech range to keep warm!
@@cakeswithfaces We did the Hokkaido snow festivals in 2019, but seemed overdressed compared to the locals. And at times were way too hot!
Samurai museum added to my list thanks! Takashi Murakami is the second best art exhibit I've seen, about 15 years ago in America. I won't be in Japan until late September so I guess I'll miss this one.
Enjoy the samurai museum! Takashi Murakami has an exhibition in San Francisco too at the moment! I'd love to go to one of his.
Thank you Amy! I'm visiting in April and excited to check out the new Toyosu outer fish market! I'm glad I got a chance to visit Tsukiji before the market moved, the city is ever changing!
Yes, things will always change! I'm particularly looking forward to the rooftop footbath at the new market (it's free!).
Fab video, and very informative as ever. Arigato! My husband and I are going back to Japan in March after we first visited in 2006, this time with our 16 and 12 year old. Your videos and books are our Bible, we’re bringing them with us!
Thanks so much! It'll be interesting to see how it's changed since 2006, and wonderful to experience it with your family! You'll have to send me a pic with my book in Japan! 🎶
Definitely!
Thanks so much for your helpful comments to my questions, really appreciated! I have finally found a plane ticket and will try to buy it tomorrow. I bought your book which has been more useful than the other books I bought, I really liked the way it was designed so you can take notes in it. If there was a suggestion I could make for future editions, I would say to put a page of tear-off bookmarks to use in the book. I keep losing pages that you mentioned things on, and it doesn’t look very good with McDonalds receipts, which is what I’m using as bookmarks at the moment! Anyway, your videos and book have been a real help, so thank you!
Thanks so much, that means a lot! Sounds like you're using it exactly as intended. I can highly recommend the little post it notes they look like cat paws to use as page markers! 🐾
This vid came at a perfect time because I'll be visiting Japan for the first time from Feb 15 to March 16 🙏
Excellent! Have a wonderful time - and enjoy all the new things!!
Thanks for that, headding off in a few weeks for a whole month. first trip since 2020, good to keep up to date with your videos!
Have a fantastic time! You'll be able to do so much in a whole month!
Excellent! Some good info there. I was in Japan as a student more than 30 years ago, but this March/April, I'm heading back with my 16 and 13-year-old sons for a week in an apartment in Tokyo and a week in a campervan. We live in the Scottish highlands, so it is going to be an eye-opener for them!
It'll be so good showing them around, and showing them all your old haunts! Have fun!!
I want to say how good your update video is. It is very comprehensive and super helpful.
Thanks so much, that means a lot!
Thanks Amy, great news edition as usual. I found out about Shibuya Sakura Stage a few days ago, and we will go there to have a look as we're going to Shibuya anyway 🙂
Those futuristic metal sakura trees look fun!
woah, cool. samurai and ninja museum!? sounds neat... I'm looking forward to more videos about your trips. I wouldn't know which to try on the pizza ramen, but it does sound interesting. so does the immersive fort. hee hee, hamster cars. boy would that be something to see myself on top of one. :D
Thanks! There are always so many new and exciting things in Japan!
So many new things! I'm excited for your new review of teamlabs borderless. Wow, the new theme park Junglia sounds fun.. and I wish that Samurai museum was open last year. Great video.
Even if TeamLab Borderless is exactly the same, I'll still be happy going round it again - but the new rooms are a bonus!
im very glad i found your channel, i just bookeda trip to japan in march so it very nice seeing your videos about what to do around japan.
Exciting!! Enjoy planning your trip, hope my videos help!
@cakeswithfaces thank you so much, I have one question tho, do you have any tips for how to get your phone running there like internet and such ?
@@manierlinge7392 I use a pocket wifi. It's a device about the size of your phone that you connect to, just like your home wifi, so you can use the internet when you're out and about. You can't make calls - only if you use an internet calling service - it's just for data and internet. Lots of people use an e-sim, but I prefer a pocket wifi because you can connect multiple devices to it, so you only need one for your group.
@@cakeswithfaces awesome thanks alot.
Thanks for this great video Amy ! So many new things to enjoy in Japan. I like that there will be an "outer market" like at Tsukiji at Toyosu and the spa there looks really great as well. I look forward to see the new Teamlab Borderless, but I can also recommend to go to TeamLab Planets as well, as its great and it was one of my favorite places in Tokyo on my last trip to Japan.
Kanazawa is one of my favorite places in Japan, for the amazing fish market there, the beautiful japanese garden, the samurai quarter and other things. It would be nice to go there now, with fewer tourists as usual, and also to support the local economy.
The artificial cherry blossom trees look so "japanese". I was in Tokyo last year during the early cherry blossom season, and we enjoyed Nakameguro and Ueno park, where so many locals were there for a hanami picnic. What a great atmosphere.
P.S. I love your Catsu Curry T-Shirt, where did you get that ?
Yes! The general feeling seems to be that the new Toyosu market is too sterile and lacks the character of Tsukiji, so hopefully the new complex will help with that.
That sounds like a lovely time in Tokyo during cherry blossom season! 🌸🎶
The Catsy Curry t-shirt's my design! 😸 You can get it here: cakeswithfaces.co.uk/product/catsu-curry-t-shirt/
I always learn something from your videos! Looking up the Miffy Cafe. 🌸Heidi
It looks so cute! All the Miffy-shaped food. 💖 I loved the Miffy books when I was little.
Last year I missed the Sakura by two weeks. Next trip I really hope to see them 🥹
They don't last long. Fingers crossed for you! 🤞🌸✨
I’m going during sakura season this year and I was refreshing the forecast page like mad so I saw it refresh live by the exact hour! We literally have booked the EXACT timing to arrive at bloom and be there for peak bloom too, which is so lucky because we booked 7 months ago!
That's very lucky! Enjoy the sakura - have a hanami party under the blossoms!
Thank you for another Japan update!
I can never believe how much new stuff there is, every time!
Thank you Amy for the video. It is good to know that best days of cherry blossoms are also varied by altitudes. So if you think you just miss the best by several days and your destination is in highlands, you may still have a good chance to come across cherry blossoms in full bloom even if the peak is over in their lowlands. By the way, my grandma graduated from the university founded by the woman on the new 5,000 yen bank note, and the woman was there when my grandma was there! I love the famous ukiyoe on the back of the new 1,000 yen. The more I glance at this particular picture, the more curious it makes me with many questions. I am looking forward to visiting Japan in May/June time.
Yes, if you're flexible, you can travel around to catch the cherry blossoms if you're too early or late! Japan's such a long country so the climate varies a lot.
The design's lovely on the new bank notes - that's a great connection you have with the 5,000 yen!
@@cakeswithfaces
What happened when I was in Akita is... cherry blossoms were over in the famous town nearby, but in the mountain about 900m above, not far from the town, they were in full bloom coincidentally! This is what I meant by altitude.
@@aldente2011 That's lucky! Glad you caught them!
Many thanks for these informative videos. Much appreciated!
It's always interesting seeing what's new in Japan!
Awesome video!! Thank you for the info and updates :)
It's always interesting seeing what's new in Japan! :-)
Thank you, this helps a lot! I'm going to Japan for the first time in 3 weeks. So excited!
Ooh exciting! Where are you going in Japan?
@@cakeswithfaces For now we just have Tokyo booked for 10 days. Groove hotel. It looked like a good option, but still looking at hotels to see if we should switch.
We're still planning out which places to visit outside of Tokyo.
It's a dream come true to me :) I travelled all around the world, but Japan never happened for one reason or another.
@@lukastemberger So glad you'll finally be going to Japan! Grove is a great option - it's quite a new hotel, in a perfect location, and there's a chance of a good view from your window as it's high up. 🤞
@@cakeswithfaces Yeah, I got a room that says high floor and city views. It's a bit expensive considering I don't plan to spend much time in the room, but hopefully it's worth it :)
@@lukastemberger I'd love to stay there! I've stayed at the Hotel Gracery (the Godzilla hotel, very close to the Groove) and the location's perfect.
Love every minute of this new news Amy thanks so much again for all you reported on here I’ll be making a list I think of what you mention in case I want to check everything out 🦾🦾🦾
There are always so many new things!
The Sakura 🌸 place looks amazing 😍. I like the idea of it lighting up at night. For Team Lab, I'd book to go to both places. When are you going to Japan? 🫶👘❤️
I love how they've made the digital-looking metal sakura trees - such a unique design! 🌸 🌸 🌸
I'll be flying up next weekend. gonna check out the new teamlab in azubudai
You'll be there so soon! Enjoy TeamLab - can't wait to go!
So happy i went to japan in December and managed to visit the Gundam in Yokohama
You're lucky to have seen it before it goes!
Thanks Amy 😊
No problem 😊
Hello Amy, I just got your book “Your Guide to Japan” and I love it. My friend and I will be arriving in Osaka on 04/03 and we hope to see the cherries in full bloom 🤞. I am traveling from USA, do you recommend us to buy yen here?
Thanks so much, so happy you like it! Personally I prefer to get yen before travelling. You get a slightly better rate if you withdraw it from an ATM when you're in Japan, using a card that's commission-free abroad, but I prefer to get it sorted before I go, just in case my card doesn't work and so I don't have to worry about it when I'm there. There has been a time when my card didn't work even though I told my bank I'd be travelling. Hope you catch the cherry blossoms! I think you will with those dates. :-)
So much happening this year in Japan. It would have been good to see the giant Gundam before the factory closes, but fingers crossed that they move it somewhere else. As for the pizzas, I'd definitely try the ramen one as I like both ramen and pizza. Japanese Stuff Channel did a video on the cheese volcano pizza, and it didn't look appetizing.
It'd definitely be interesting to try the ramen/pizza combination! Crispy noodles could be nice!
It’s a shame they’re getting rid of the gundam factory. I thoroughly enjoyed it while I was there
Aaah the theme cafes - I would love to go to Pickles the Frog and My Hero Academia cafes!
The frog cafe's made for you! 🐸
Very good introduction
Thanks!
Thank you ! Im gonna go in September 😃 can you please tell me where you buy all the ticket for attractions like teamlabs and shibuya sky ? Thanks in advance !
You can buy them on their official websites (in english). :-) If you go through the booking process, it also tells you availability for each time slot and how many tickets are left.
@@cakeswithfaces thanks allot ! 😃
Are there any exciting things that happen around mid April in Japan? Specifically in Kyoto and Tokyo?
Look out for when the Mint's open in Osaka for cherry blossom viewing. It's amazing! SO many cherry blossom trees, hundreds of food stalls and an amazing atmosphere. It's only open one week per year, mid April. You can get there really easily on the train from Kyoto. Here's my video about it: ruclips.net/video/YwCnBLx-y9Q/видео.html
There's also Yasurai Matsuri in Kyoto on 14th April, Heian Jingu Reisai Festival in Kyoto on the 15th (2 days), and Fire-walking at Daishoin Temple, Miyajima (do-able as a day trip from Kyoto).
@@cakeswithfaces thank you so much for the information.
Thanks for the great updates, we will be in Japan in March and now looking forward to riding the Disney Shinkansen. Also on a side note, Katana is Japanese sword and you said katakana which is Japanese written language for foreign words like Ramen ( ラメン) or beer
(ビール). Thank you
Agh my mistake!! 🙈🙈🙈 I say katakana a lot more than katana so it comes more naturally!
No worries. We all are human and we make a lot. But for the viewers they should learn the right terminology. For example gokon means like group dating but gokan means rape. So tomato vs to ma to is ok in English but not Japanese. But thanks for all the great tips. Aloha
Ramen pizza?!?!?!?! I feel like booking a last minute flight just to experience this beauty! I’m so sad it’s going to be finish when I arrive in April! 🍕+🍜=❤️❤️❤️
I guess you could try making your own at home! Might come out "interesting"....! I'm sure there'll be another special edition pizza when you're there.
Omg, I never thought to Google a recipe, there’s a recipe for a ramen crust pizza!! I’m doing it… I’m going to make one!
@@DansQuestNest You'll have to let me know how it goes!! 😂
theme park in okinawa sound lit
Can't wait to see what it's like as they build it.
Great video! Can't wait to check out the icicles :) btw your shirt is adorable! where did you get it?
The icicles look magical! ✨ The shirt's my design! You can get it here: cakeswithfaces.co.uk/product/catsu-curry-t-shirt/
Awesome, thanks!!@@cakeswithfaces
hmmm,... Tokyo Suntory Museum of Art is finally reopened after renovation. For me, 1万円 bill with Shibusawa Eiichi is the best. His grave is in the giant cemetery next to Yanaka Ginza. Limiting foreigners climbing Mt. Fuji is really good I think ... For Izu, I would go to Dogashima ... Shimoda is also nice, it's where the American Black Fleet anchored.
Recently, the number of foreign tourists has increased rapidly due to the production of the Japanese government, and there is no end to over tourism and troubles.
I am not saying that they should not come to Japan, but I would like them to follow the rules and manners. I also got into trouble the other day when I warned a foreigner in Kyoto.
Finally, as a Japanese, I would like to thank you for coming to Japan.
I think it would help if foreigners knew about more places to go in Japan. There are so many interesting places, but outside Japan, you mainly hear about Tokyo, Osaka and Kyoto, so everyone wants to go to those few places. If they knew about more places, they'd want to go, and it wouldn't be so overcrowded in a few spots.
Awesome job Amy thumbup
Thank you! 🙌
No problem Amy
Dutch person here!👋 The food at the Miffy themed restaurant isn't very authentic (I've never heard of a ham and berry sandwich in my life 😂), but looks adorable nonetheless! I love how Japan is so obsessed with "our" Miffy 😊
That's what I suspected...! Unless all Dutch food is Miffy-shaped, which would be amazing! 😂
@@cakeswithfaces oh I wish!😂
This is soooo helpful. I'm planning a trip to Japan between february and april. Thank you so much for taking the time to give these wonderful pieces of news. Do you happen to know exactly where the new Toyosu Senkyaku Banrai will be ? ( I can't seem to find it on google yet).
It's right next to Toyosu Fish Market, so not hard to get to! ☺️
Thank you very much.
I subscribed to your channel.
Amazing content.
@@MrEolneth Thanks so much! Enjoy the videos!
Is the team lab planet closing or it will stay Open parallel with the new one in azabudai hills!?
TeamLab Planets closes at the end of 2027. It's been extended several times.
Hi Amy, great update can't wait till our first trip in March.
Was wondering who you'd recommend getting Yen from in the UK?
Usually I use the calculator on Martins Moneysaving Tips to check where has the best rate, and pick somewhere that's FSC regulated as its safer. I just got some from the Currency Club, but the best one depends on how much you're getting, and the rates change all the time!
Thanks! Currency club is still coming up with the best rate so I'll order from them
I plan to travel up Tokyo first few days of March. Is there a possibility of seeing cherry blossoms in Tokyo then?
That's too early for the cherry blossoms, but there's a chance you might see some early-blooming varieties: www.timeout.com/tokyo/things-to-do/where-to-see-winter-cherry-blossoms-in-tokyo
There'll also be a few plum blossoms scattered around (I saw some when I was there at that time last year!).
Thank you for the updates! I have been watching so much of your content because I am planning a trip in November. I LOVE kawaii fashion but I hear that Japan/Harajuku are not plus size friendly (size 22 girlie here!
Two shops that immediately come to mind are ACDC Rag and Punyus. They both have plus sizes - while many shops in Harajuku only have one size (called "free size") that can be quite small, they have plus size clothing for sure! There are other shops on Takeshita Street that have oversized style sweaters that might be worth a look too! There are always cute accessories of course, but I hope you find some clothes to your liking as well! 💖
I really want to visit Japan
It is do beautiful
You run a very good and informative channel, and I am happy to be a new subscriber.
With my family, we will visit Japan for the first time this year, in May.
Do you have a video about the best one day Mt Fuji/Hakone tours from Tokyo?
If not, which ones do you recommend?
So glad you're enjoying my videos, thank you!
Mount Fuji is tricky because there are several areas you can go to, and not one definitive route. I went on my first ever trip to Japan, on a coach trip from Viator that went on the shinkansen on the way back. We went to Lake Ashi, on a ropeway and up Fuji to the 5th station. Tbh I'm not a huge fan of coach trips, because you're in a big group of people all the time, and you're on someone else's schedule, but I did enjoy seeing Fuji, and it was a stress-free way to go when I wasn't feeling that confident about taking the train independently on our first trip.
If I went now, I'd use one of the Fuji are train passes and go independently. Japan Guide has useful info about them: www.japan-guide.com/e/e6905.html#:~:text=Passes%20and%20Tickets,pass%27%20coverage%20area%3A
It's also mentioned briefly in my video about day trips from Tokyo: ruclips.net/video/fLosjmrPFAI/видео.html
Hi Amy, Thanks for the great video update. Flights booked for October and so looking forward to visiting Japan. I want to go to the Samurai museums in Tokyo and /or Kyoto. Will I need to book tickets for these in advance or is it ok to try to get in on the day?
As it's a new attraction, I don't know how popular it is. However it's not a major attraction, so I'd imagine at that time of year you'd probably be ok to get in on the day. Although it might be worth checking other people's experience with availability of the workshops and experiences.
NOOOOO, why would they close Gundam in Yokohama 😢 This was on my list of places to go when I come in May 🫠 Thank you for infooo
Ah I'm sorry! At least there are still other Gundams you can visit.
Bandai's lease on the land is up after having extended it twice. Perhaps they'll relocate the RX-78F00 Gundam elsewhere.
That makes sense - other things closing in Japan have been because of the lease. Fingers crossed they install it somewhere else! 🤞
can't wait for our trip to akihabara in march as well as Animejapan 2024... will make-up for the flops last year, taking notes, so yeah. hope i am ready
P.S. it sucks that our trip collided with our holiday here, except the unexpected
Have a wonderful time! If you like anime, be sure to go to Nakano Broadway and Ikebukuro as well.
@@cakeswithfaces good advice, got a week after the event so yeah, hope they have good eats too
I'm going Feb 8-23 do I have a chance to catch any blossoms at all anywhere on Honshu?
You'll be able to see the early blooming cherry blossoms in Kawazu (that's the one I mentioned in the video!): www.japan-guide.com/e/e6314.html
There'll also be plum blossoms towards the end of your trip.
Can’t wait next weekend we’ll be in Japan. Should we exchange cash in Japan or ATM?
Exciting!! Personally, I get cash before I go, because I prefer to get it sorted beforehand and not have to worry about it while I'm there. However, you get a slightly better rate if you withdraw it from an ATM in Japan (using a card that's commission-free for foreign ATMs). But there have been times when I've been travelling and my card didn't work, even when I told my bank I'd be away.
@@cakeswithfaces Ahh okay well then I’ll go ahead and exchange here. Thank you!
@@bubbythebrow153 Have a wonderful trip!
@@cakeswithfaces Was the best trip of our lives we already booked a second trip for Osaka and Kyoto in October and gonna bring our son this time!
@@bubbythebrow153 Ah that's great to hear! That feeling doesn't go away - I always want to go back, no matter how many times I go!
When are you going back to Japan next?
I'll be back early springtime - can't wait!
Not sure if you ever mentioned it but kids 12 and under travel for half price on trains. It will save your subscribers hundreds in a week. Keep up videos. 😁🤙🏽
It's a great deal for families! Be sure to get a kids Suica card 🐧
Hello, do you know what is the website for the Toyosu Senkyaku Banrai where you can book a hotel room?
Here's the hotel, it's part of the spa section: tokyo-toyosu.manyo.co.jp/languages/en/#pc_stay:~:text=Private%20baths,has%20to%20offer.
Here's the booking page in Japanese - that's all I can find at the moment! It's owned by a company called Manyo Club: go-manyo.reservation.jp/ja/hotels/manyo-toyosu
@@cakeswithfaces Thanks, I have already read that website, but It doesn't have the option to book a room. It just gives info about the amenities.
@@FernandoRocha-i3w I'm not sure then - I couldn't see it on the Manyo Club general website either. You'd expect they'd be taking bookings as it's opening soon. Maybe something will appear as it gets closer to opening day.
looks like $146 CADis going to become part of my collection now. going to save 1 bill of 10k, 5k, 1k for that purpose. the tom and jerry cafe looks interesting, not sure if i will visit in the shorter times im in Tokyo.
Keep your money as souvenirs, if you can manage not to spend it...! :-)
i dont usually make souvenirs but if it means keeping some of the older coins and notes then its a worthy collection. i just need to leave it at home and keep the rest to spend.@@cakeswithfaces
Catsi Curry, so cute.
Thanks, it's my design! cakeswithfaces.co.uk/product/catsu-curry-t-shirt/ 😸
I NEED to see a live Gundam before my lifetime
Hope you manage to see one!
You ever heard of Rainbow Bright?
Yep!
Yes that is true you are indeed amy from cakes with faces,ill watch you now,i put my hot water bottle to bed after 5am its now 7 18pm here
would you say its better to be in Japan (specifically Tokyo) earlier than the predicted cherry blossoms or later? I want to go to Tokyo Disneysea during their spring easter theme in April but I heard that the Sakura theme Starbucks launches in February
My wife and I have been going to Japan for cherry blossom for many years and we always remain flexible with our lodging/itinerary. We change our plan on the fly depending on where the blooms are.
It's personal preference really. Before the cherry blossoms is more off-peak season, so places will be slightly less crowded, but it's cooler weather. You can also see the plum blossoms and early-blooming sakura, like in Kawazu.
After the cherry blossoms, it's warmer weather and there's a chance of seeing late-blooming blossoms, or you can go north or into the mountains to catch them. To me, it sounds like the easter theme at Disney's more exciting than Starbucks. :-)
@@cakeswithfaces Exactly, we went to Yumura Onsen, a beautiful little, riverside hidden gem/Onsen town with hundreds of cherry trees last year, away from the crowd.
@@nateshf9303 That sounds lovely!
@@cakeswithfacesyeah the warmer weather sounds better to me, i might try and make my plans for flexible to go up north to look. Thank you so much for the suggestion 😊
Performances are hard to understand without japanese at the moment sadly in Immersive Tokyo.
Ah I suspected that might be the case. I'd be interesting to see if it looks similar to how Venus Fort used to look.
Well i did buy pizas two small frozen ones wate them with my false teeth ,but since i have non cant eat them amy.
Oh so I am arriving 17th April, will I miss the sakura? 😭
Look up where you can see late blooming varieties. I saw them mid April in Osaka at the Mint (only open one week per year). Or you could go north or into the mountains - where it's cooler they bloom slightly later.
For the past several years, most cities west/south of Sendai have already peaked.
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🙌🙌
i would drop dead if i tried climbing mount fuji not that i will ever visit japan anyway.
i felt sorry for the samurai,foreign legion and knight templars they all got crapped on.
And im scared of heights even though when in the army i abseiled from a cliff and helicopter
7 year olds could be frightened ill be 80 this years and i would be frightened.
RAMEN PIZZA FROM PIZZA HUT (EXPIRING FEB 12, 2024)
Let me know if you try it!
Well amy just got a bit longer for my lap top to be fully charged then im going to crawl off to bed night night angel.
Hi Amy, do you have a videos specific to female solo travel?
No, I haven't travelled solo myself, but I hear from a lot of people who do and have a wonderful time! If you have any particular questions I'll always do my best to help out. ☺️
Thanks, I am planning to join an Intrepid travel group but have a few days on my own. I'm sure your videos will help me with getting around 😊