❤️Get my FREE BEGINNER'S GUIDE TO JAPAN HERE buildyourmoxie.com 📍UPDATES: Sad news. JR PASS prices are increasing by a significant amount (50-60%) in October 2023. If you do decide to buy the pass, the instructions on how to use it stays the same. See description for links. :) 📍For Visit Japan Web, Requirements are constantly updating regarding Covid etc so just be sure to read the supporting text on the website. For us going in March/April, we needed to upload our vaccination information or take a test but the rules will change again (hopefully in our benefit!). 📍📍📍UPDATE: As of April 29, you are no longer needing a vaccine or test certificate or to fill out Quarantine Fast Track yay!) vjw-lp.digital.go.jp/en/ 🤓Timestamps: 0:00 - Intro 0:46 - Paperwork 2:24 - Luggage & Airport Limousine 5:03 - WiFi 6:28 - Japan Rail Pass 10:15 - Bullet Train 11:55 - How To Use Japan Rail Pass 13:11 - SUICA Card 14:58 - Money 16:55 - Storage 17:27 - Clothing 17:57 - Convenience Stores 18:29 - Manners 20:03 - Trash 20:53 - Tax Refund & Passport 21:15 - Tattoos 21:25 - Body Odor 21:36 - Banned Medications 21:45 - Translation 21:55 - More Travel Tips 🤗FREE TRAVEL BUDGET & PLANNER! Download here: www.buildyourmoxie.com/ My gift to you for happy travels! This is one of my favorite tools I created for planning and budgeting for my trips, and I wanted to share it with you. Enjoy!
@@filthyrichsoon eeek that is a good question!!! I think people are still in the unknown for if the price adjustment is for using the pass the actual dates after October or if it’s “purchase dates” after October! The JR people should likely update everyone with their strict rules as the next few months go by! But I have been hearing that question a lot!! 😣 hopefully you can buy in September to use for December 🙏
I just returned from Japan 2 weeks ago and I can attest that this video is one of the best. I knew some of the things mentioned after looking at 100 videos before I left, and still learned a few more things while there. As to the purse hook, great idea, but in most restaurants, every time my wife put her purse on the floor next to her seat, an attendant rushed to the table with a special container in which to place the purse. They feel that the floor is dirty (their floors are clean)and your purse should not be on the floor. Also as to the restrooms, no paper towels all over the floor, why? In most public restrooms there are no paper towels. The locals carry a handkerchief to dry hands, the tourists wiped their hands on their clothes. Also, if you can, do your sightseeing research before arriving in Japan. This will help you to see as many places as you can with maximum efficiency, and when you return home you won't be saying to yourself, "oh, I wish I had known about this!" As mentioned in the video, embrace their culture. Leave your bad habits at home. The Japanese are super polite, and you should be as well. I, too used a plastic bag to carry trash back to the hotel for disposal. The only trash I saw in 10 days was dropped by a tourist...I picked it up anyway. Could not stand seeing it on the ground. Thank you, Moxie, for a very helpful video, especially new visitors to Japan.
Japanese people think that walking in shoes is dirty, so they have a habit of putting their belongings in luggage racks and storage. Also, you should think that there is nothing to wipe your hands after washing your hands in the toilet. Please prepare a handkerchief. It is also sold at Japanese convenience stores, so if you forget it, you can buy it.
I travel to Japan very frequently: One tip I'd like to give if you have to use the train. I know its a pain in the rear , when you get on the train go to one of the ends of the train and usually the areas there are a bit bigger and its easier to house yourself plus your luggage. Stay as close to the one solid wall if possible. The locals who live there will obviously see you and your luggage and will give you room (when possible).
I’m just now traveling home from Japan, and I used pretty much your videos exclusively as a guide. And every time I saw coin lockers, in my head I would say “Coin locker! Coin locker! Coin locker!” 😂 got stuck in my head hahaha. Thanks again for all your tips and tricks!
Just a quick tip for those who might be hesitant about luggage delivery due to the next day delivery problem, at major airports, there are multiple delivery companies, and there are companies who might deliver for you same day for a few extra dollars 💸 I had this problem also when I was in Japan last December, but it got solved pretty easily when I ask if there's any other providers who can do same day delivery 😊
tks good tips post, here are some comments 1 drink toast cheers equivalent is kanpai/kampai 2 end of meal gochisousama means thank you for the meal 3 I've found a workout soon after arrival helps reset to local time 4 learn how to use the washlet toilet, it is not rocket science 5 explore the quiet side streets for gems
that was single handedly the most professional and effective self plug ive ever seen. subscribed immediately. this is my second trip to japan since I was 15 and I had to do all the research myself, thank you so much!! cant wait to see what other gems your channel has!
I've watched a ton of videos, but this one had the most concise information and some new things. Thank you! The medication part is really important. I found out myself from Japan's government website, but was surprised that none of the tip videos include that information. For example, Adderall is completely banned. Other medications need permission BEFORE you get to Japan. Even medical devices have some requirements BEFORE you leave. This is very important to know for people with medications and medical devices! Ministry of Health, Labor and Welfare is the site.
Adderall isn't completely banned it's just restricted...ADHD people are welcome to come you can only have a months supply is all. Saying completely banned is misinformed & will scare people.
@@samaraisnt My husband has ADHD and we're having trouble trying to get his medication approved. It's looking like he'll have to go without when we go to Japan unfortunately.
I've been to Japan a bunch of times and bringing friends for their first time next month. This is hands down the best video I've seen for first timers and I sent them this because I am clearly not good at explaining things lol. Thank you!
Wow that is high praise from an experienced traveler! ☺️ thank you so much for the compliment. I actually wasn’t going to make a video originally. I was just going to send my friends a couple texts with what I learned but then the texts got too long so I said I can make a video and might as well put it up on my page for fun 😝 Some parts will soon be outdated like the price of the JR pass and the Japan web depending on when you and your friends are going, but everything else should be still relevant for them ☺️
@@buildyourmoxie Basically same as me, you covered everything I've been texting them for months haha but I like that you also touched on proper manners. Just good to know ahead of time to not catch people off guard. And thankfully we are going before the JR Pass price hike.
Great info! I'll throw in a few things too, if you'll let me: Japan is rule-based. If you accidentally board an express train, even if it'll make you miss your stop, you'll still be expected to pay the express ticket. Being a tourist doesn't always get you off the hook. Speaking of trains, each platform usually has a map on a pillar showing where the elevator/escalator, bathrooms, etc. are in relation to the train cars for various stops. Use it to plan which car you want to be on so you can go straight to an elevator if you're traveling with a stroller or wheelchair. Re: tipping, yes, it's not expected and can even be seen as rude. Before we leave for Japan, we usually buy a sampler pack of chocolates _(Hawaiian Host_ brand since we're from Hawaii, they appreciate "local" goodies). If someone was _exceptionally_ helpful, we'll give them one. Gifts can put pressure on Japanese for expectations, so use them sparingly. Train lockers are great if you travel with your luggage by rail. I store our rolling ones at Hamamamatsucho Station the night before we leave as it's the last stop before hopping in the Tokyo Monorail to Haneda Airport. Makes it much easier than being that guy who's bringing rolling suitcases on rush hour trains! The JR Rail Pass prices are going up this year, not surprising as it was so cheap for so long. If taking large luggage, you may need reserved seating so you can stow them in the appropriate spot. You can also utilize the long term storage at the station (Tokyo has one) where a daily rate is charged to hold them while you hit Osaka/Kyoto/etc. Being quiet on the train doesnt apply in Osaka 😊 In fact, that's the one place I've had the most strangers come up to talk to us!
@@buildyourmoxie Nah, just have family there and we make a few trips here & there. Being in Hawaii, everyone wants to come here-- especially in the winter!
@@buildyourmoxie One last thing to add, the maps you find around town and outside train stations are not always oriented with north at the top. Determine orientation first before just assuming "oh, I'll head up and right, UniQlo will be right there!" I made that mistake a couple times when rushing.
@@AmbuBadger lol! You are so right!!! I feel like I was great at spinning in circles. We can all become ballerinas 🤦🏻♀️ Also if the city is at a diagonal angle like shinjuku, everything when you first get there is like ☠️. Done for lol
i’m traveling to japan at the end of march and have been looking through so many prep videos. like many others have said, this is probably the best i’ve seen. amazing video.. subscribed. thank you SO much. :’)
Hi just wanted to know if in your opinion what else you might have needed or wish to know? I will be flying out to haneda on Sunday and have Been watching non stop for awhile lol
I'm Japanese and have an important information update. You cannot buy Suica Card anymore in Japan due to the shortage of Chip (semiconductor). You can just say " Arigato " as thank you in English and it's a correct Japanese. If you want to save money to not ride Shinkansen, there is an option to ride Night Bus to Kyoto/Osaka from Tokyo, which is way cheaper than Shinkansen.
@maryannmuray1983 you can buy them in the airport. There's a country after you clear immigration and you can use the machines they have there. I went to the pasmo counter and the ladies were very helpful
This is such a great video! I wish this was available when I went on my first ever solo trip which was to Japan last December. It took a lot of prep and research, and your tips are spot on. I would like to add that the public restrooms don’t provide paper towels or hard dryers, so it’s best to take a small facecloth or towel for you to use to dry your hands. I loved visiting so much that I’m planning to go next spring to see the cherry blossoms! 🌸
Aw thank you so much!!! 😃 and you are right! I saw a lot of the locals carry their own little hand towel! 😃 You are going to LOVE the cherry blossoms!! If you can make a little time for the Meguro River, it’s near Shinjuku and Shibuya, it was an incredible experience!!!! So gorgeous!! 😍
I also want to add that you should bring your own soap… some restrooms don’t have any. At least we’re no longer in those horrible times where they didn’t have toilet paper either and you had to buy them from a vending machine! It wasn’t even that long ago either lol.
I sent this video to my family because we are going to Japan at the end of June! My daughter Bella says that you go to her church ⛪️! What a small world 🌎!
I love this country how it looks and how it feels I will be travelling to Japan in August this year I will be celebrating my 27th birthday in Japan I can’t wait to explore 🔥
LOL omg I just got back from 2 weeks in japan for my first visit and I had the same thought that the videos I watched needed some more nuance about particulars. There's a lot to keep track of and you're basically just trying to avoid being stranded, let alone efficient or frugal. I look forward to watching your vid to see what else I can equip myself with for next time
SUCH A HELPFUL VIDEO!!! We’ve been to Tokyo in the past and plan to go this year again. I do wanna add however! We almost lost our kids last time and we only had the pocket WiFi to share. I would definitely get SIM cards for each individual phone this time!! In case we need to communicate!! Almost lost my kids within 7 million people that don’t speak much English 😭
I agree!! It’s hard if your group gets big!! Luckily it was just my hubs and I and if we split we would leave one with no communication lol. I think if I had kids, I would need to air tag them and also switch everyone over to a good phone carrier where everyone’s phones work if I couldn’t do SIM card!!
Overall, a very good travel video; lots of useful information. The only area that needs to be corrected is the SUICA section. This should be referred to as the "IC Card" section, with SUICA being one of the IC cards available (since there are also other cards, like PASMO). The video gives the impression that SUICA is the only card that can be purchased and used for transportation.
Welcome Suica is the IC card recommended for many foreign tourists. This Suica card has an expiration date and does not accept refunds, but it does not require a deposit and can be charged with a credit card when purchasing. However, it should be noted that you can only purchase it at Haneda Airport, Narita Airport, and tourist information centers in Tokyo. It cannot be purchased if you plan to visit only Kyoto or Osaka.
Very good detailed information and straight to the point. Most travel RUclipsrs are just sharing fluff and not really helpful. You should be getting more subscribers.
really the best detail tips video so far for first time travelers because you really did hit most if not all of the most important details here! flying out tomorrow to Japan and may look into the bus so we dont have to squish and disrupt people during rush hour. Thank you!!!!!
Wow thank you so much for the feedback and compliment! 🥰 We had the BEST time on the bus!!! Seatbelts, bathroom, luggage included, USB plug, reclining seats! It was so comfortable and clean
You are such a great person I ever known. As the comments, I watched countless videos and none of them was helpful as much as you especially custom and immigration part. Thank you so much
I cannot tell you how amazingly informative this video is! I had no idea about the medication import law and I’m on several medications by prescription, you possibly saved me from some jail time!!! Everything in this video is wonderfully helpful thank you!
Omg! I was also watching tons of vids but all of them were so generic & general on how things worked especially getting from NRT to the hotel. I finally figured out that we're also going to take the bus and your video confirmed that I came to the right decision. Thank you! You have a great way of presenting and addressing needs that others fell short at doing!
😮woah thank you for the compliment! I tried tried to fill in some of the gaps! 🤭 You are too kind! I’m glad you are taking the airport limousine!! They have a clean bathroom in the bus, seatbelt, usb charging, and you can RECLINE!! Say what?! 😆
I am going to Japan twice this year and have watched every video known to man- you have laid this out so well and it is incredibly helpful and handy to have more up to date information. Thank you thank you thank you 🙏🏼
Iyssaneigh, I totally agree with you. Super helpful advice and to the point. Is there anything you know that she didn’t mention? I’m going in a few days (last minute) with toddler and I feel stressed.
@@davinapangelinan9289 hi Davina!! There have been a lot of good tips throughout the comment section of this video that might be helpful! ☺️ a lot of replying going on too that can offer more advice and clarity on other topics! ❤️ some from Japan travel experts hehe
I used the Pasmo card that I was able to personalize with my name. Not sure if suica card has that option, but I now have a cool souvenir. Both cards can be used at certain convenience stores and on most if not all subway and bus lines. Thanks for all of the useful information.😊
PASMO supremacy! Lol I ended up with both just to say I got both. I just got back home from 2 weeks in Japan and already booked my next trip in October for my bday!
I suggest the JR Narita Express is the faster and better option than the bus. Travellers should get the Pasmo IC card. That’s my personal preference. Don’t like the pocket wi fi. Just get an esim so you just use your own phone without the additional device. The JR pass cannot be used on all Shinkansen services so be warned that you need to know which service you can use the pass on.
Hello! Here is the update video :) *JAPAN UPDATES - FALL 2023* | Answering your most frequently asked questions ruclips.net/video/XnqSCYbSKn8/видео.html
This was a great all-in-one and MUST-VIEW video - thank you!! Despite doing earlier research, I learned a lot more tips here too! The how-to videos are great - esp. seeing how to use the train stations, etc.! Arigato gozaimasu! I will forward this video to my travel mates.
This was super helpful. I’m only doing a 36 hr layover, and I’m going to be using guided tours listed on Viator for maximum use of the time I have there, but your vid was incredibly informative.
Oh my goodness, I just had my first visit to Japan a few weeks ago and you’re spot on on everything here you’ve covered. Outstanding video, excellent tips. Congratulations
Love the details and helpful tips. Definitely a lot of must-know information that makes this video a great starting point for planning any Japan trip. Thank you for this incredible video! 🤩
Great presentation overall!! I've been to Tokyo a few times, but I still learned a few things on this video. Thank you for the detailed information on the train passes. I'm planning to use it for my upcoming trip where I'll be traveling out of Tokyo for the first time.
Thank you for this comprehensive and detailed video! My husband, I, and our will-be 7 year old will be going to Japan in March 2024. Although by then some of these may be dated (covid restrictions, JR rail pricing) 95% of this is so useful. I appreciate the cultural manners explanation, because we say “huh!” Alot too. But being Canadian, we are no foreigners to saying “EH!” 😂
Your time as a Canadian has come!!!! 🤩🙌 Most likely COVID stuff will be null which is great!! And then I can still imagine them using the Visit Japan website (or maybe something even better) as it’s such a great system. They are so efficient! ❤️2024 will come sooon!!
I remember landing in Japan after a 18 hour flight. I’d been sleep deprived and sick the whole time but when I arrived I was completely shocked awake from how Japanese everything was!
Wow!! How awesome!!! THANKS FOR SHARING!!! I'm traveling to Tokyo for the very first time next month, and these tips have been such a great help! I just subscribed to your channel! Thanks again. 😁😃🤗
When you put your luggage in one of the many lockers take a photo of locker . And the area that is in so you don't forget were the locker is. 7-11 is the best place to exchange your money in Japan and what you said about deodorant , there is a spray bottle you can get at any conbini that is a deodoriser for your clothing example at night when your hanging your clothes just give your clothes a spray and it will smell nioce when you were it the next day. If stay at a hotel in Japan they usually have the spray bottle hanging where the coat hangers are.
Our room has that too!! We were also so lucky to have coin laundry in our place! 🙌😝. I love 711 so much over there! We saw a lot of the 711 atms!! Thank you for the tip!!! And yes!! Omg I think in some of the places I wouldn’t be able to find the coin locker again!! 🤣🤣 Apple AirTags are amazing and taking pictures of the location! 👀 ❤️
I feel the same pull to Japan. It’s wild I’m also a film student at the moment I saw this video and also shoot an Oly. I don’t think that’s a coincidence. ❤much love Ben-San. Hope to meet you in the future
Very informative and helpful video. We are travelling to Japan 24/10/23 until 9/11/23. We have already put in place a lot of your suggestions already. A bit concerned about the JR Pass increasing in cost so steeply though. Thanks for replying so quickly.
I’m sad the prices for JR pass are going up! 😓 a couple of my friends are going and they might just SUICA card the whole thing and and travel in one direction buying single Shinkansen passes as needed!
@@buildyourmoxie I am seriously looking at Bus for transportation now and even renting a car. We are Travelling from Tokyo, Kawaguchiko, Osaka, Kyoto, Hiroshima & then back to Tokyo in that order , then home to Australia.
Oh wow! You are traveling a lot! That’s going to be a great trip!! Renting a car sounds good too! Be careful in Tokyo if you are driving. Our Japanese friend said that it’s almost always the drivers fault (not the pedestrians) if something went down 😅. So maybe SUICA or bus for Tokyo!
@@buildyourmoxie They drive on the same side of the road as us here in Australia, so should feel normal to me, and I love a challenge. Great way to see the country. Definitely a Suica card for Tokyo. May only use Bullet train to get from Hiroshima to Tokyo on the way home .
I'm going to Japan in 2 months (extremely excited as a first time traveler) and i just want to say how much i appreciate this video! thank you so much. i just spent 10 minutes freaking out about the JR pass when I'm going to Tokyo (only in the city) from Haneda Airport and i thought it was so expensive. i definitely wont use a JR pass then!
I always book a taxi in advance, it's really expensive but to have someone waiting for me outside baggage claim, helping me with bags and delivering me right to my hotel, is just so worth it for me. I don't want to think at all after a 14 hour flight. 😅
When our family expands, we are for sure doing taxi and will stick it in the vacation budget! It’s worth it for peace of mind and less brain work after traveling! 🙌
@@josielori1049 depending on which website you booked your hotel from, there is usually an option to organize a taxi for you prior to your trip! Like booking.com etc. :)
Yes....this comment. After 15 hrs I'd rather just have someone pick me up tip that person to drive me even for an hr. I'm coming with more than enough dough
Wow, if you are landing in Narita and staying in Tokyo, then "really expensive" is an understatement. Everyone just takes the train, which is not difficult at all, but you will notice you don't see most Japanese people lugging huge bags around in the train, because they can just drop them off for delivery at the airport, and they will be delivered to their home the next day in most cases. I would have to agree with the video creator here in that you don't want to take a taxi. In most cases it will not only be more expensive, and less ecological, but also more time consuming than a bus. In the worst case you can take a bus from the airport to the closest major station to where you are staying, and then take a taxi from there.
I’ve watched countless travelling to Japan tips videos, and this one is definitely the most helpful and accurate. Thanks so much for sharing the wisdom. Much appreciated! 💜
We arrive at Haneda and we’re staying in Shinjuku , should I use the JR Rail pass or airport bus as suggested in the video ? We’re bringing hiking backpacks
@@IMONGE27 wow! Light packer!! I think it will depend on what time you arrive at the airport and what day you want to activate your pass! If you get there super late and can’t activate your pass, then you would have to pay for a ticket regardless whether it’s the bus or rail :) If you are super comfortable traveling subways and rails and your pass is activated, then go for it and take the rail systems!😍😍 your backpacks will keep you mobile so you aren’t just like spinning around everywhere lol 😝
gonna disagree on the queue-up section. i just returned from Osaka/Kyoto and there were a handful of restaurants that had another system. u have to go up to the store-front and check if there were notices. i've encountered 2 restaurants that needed you to write your name on a waiting list that is inside/outside their entrance ^^ cheers
I just went to Japan for the first time. I learned that Japan airlines doesn’t let you use air tags. Also, pointing is rude and one should use an open palm instead of a finger to point to something. Who-da thunk!
🫢ayyy. They didn’t catch us! 😟 And I heard for sure no pointing at people!! Use open palm to gently gesture. But I saw a lot of locals point with their finger on papers if they were trying to be real exact on small paper😛
@@buildyourmoxie Oh, sorry, I wasn’t referring to your pointing on the paper. I was just adding an extra but I thought might be helpful. I didn’t know about not saying “huh” or “what”. I usually eat “excuse me” or “pardon?” Good to know. “Hi” works. Your tips were really thorough. I was on a cruise with excursions, so I didn’t have as authentic an experience as others would have. Transportation and luggage took no thought. But there are definitely trade-offs. Wish I had been on my own more. Your video will give others the confidence to do so!
Add on tip: I agree as you said that carry your passport all the time in Japan. I was stop by a police a few times for an identification/document, one of those instances was in the train station. Luckily i have my passport with me at that time otherwise it would have been a major inconvenience for me.
Yes! I’ve heard of the police just randomly stopping tourists too! 🪦 I would be so embarrassed if I didn’t have my passport on me since I likely wouldn’t understand them and then accidentally would say “huh”😓 😅☠️
I got 1 question for you. I am from EU and we only got IDS. Do people need to bring passports if they don't have ID or you need ID and passport? I know some countries don't have ID and only passport while traveling.
@@doki-_-7002 hi! I don’t know specifics about travel from EU. But what i do know is thousands of people are coming from Europe and all over so I figure whatever you use to clear customs and immigration when you fly should be good enough :)
@@doki-_-7002 also just a passport is fine. I would say most Americans bring their drivers license with them in their wallets so they already have that on hand in addition to their passports. But for Japan you can just carry your passport or whatever you used to clear immigration and customs from the airport :)
@@buildyourmoxie We here have ID and I got driver license as well. I know my friend needed passport to travel to UK so I am guessing I will need one for Japan as well. Thanks for additional info
🇯🇵Get my Tokyo 10+ Day Itinerary Guide & Tips here🇯🇵 buildyourmoxie.com/shop 📍📍PART 2 VIDEO HERE (Uploaded September 2023) ruclips.net/video/XnqSCYbSKn8/видео.htmlsi=ZEBjyOjfFOfpEcRR 📍UPDATE for Japan Web: As of April 29, you are no longer needing a vaccine or test certificate or to fill out Quarantine Fast Track yay! vjw-lp.digital.go.jp/en/ 📍UPDATES: Sad news. JR PASS prices are increasing by a significant amount (50-60%) in the fall (October). If you do decide to buy the pass, the instructions on how to use it stays the same. See description for links. :) 🤓Timestamps: 0:00 - Intro 0:46 - Paperwork 2:24 - Luggage & Airport Limousine 5:03 - WiFi 6:28 - Japan Rail Pass 10:15 - Bullet Train 11:55 - How To Use Japan Rail Pass 13:11 - SUICA Card 14:58 - Money 16:55 - Storage 17:27 - Clothing 17:57 - Convenience Stores 18:29 - Manners 20:03 - Trash 20:53 - Tax Refund & Passport 21:15 - Tattoos 21:25 - Body Odor 21:36 - Banned Medications 21:45 - Translation 21:55 - More Travel Tips 🤗FREE TRAVEL BUDGET & PLANNER! Download here: www.buildyourmoxie.com/ My gift to you for happy travels! This is one of my favorite tools I created for planning and budgeting for my trips, and I wanted to share it with you. Enjoy!
@@eliecernavarro6422 Yes. Each person needs their own JR pass. this is because it opens the gate to get in and opens to the gate to get out (one per person). Same thing with a Suica card! one per person :)
Glad to hear!! We love Airport limousine! The seats were comfortable and reclined! Plus usb chargers, bathroom, seatbelt, and they had some English at each stop after Japanese ended!
it's actually the law, that you have your passport on your person at all times as a tourist in Japan. Foreign residents have a Residence Card, formerly known as a "gaijin card".-or officially an "Alien Registration Card". Being an "Alien" led to so many jokes about having three eyes/antenna or whatever, that they changed the name in English. Myself; I like to Alien all the time. Of course; the cops are not going to get legalistic about this at the beach-or whatever. If you are in obvious tourist destinations like Tokyo or Kyoto, do not assume that station lockers are available. They get filled up fast. In Tokyo Station, the oversize lockers in the season, get used up quickly by snowboarders and skiers. In Kyoto-well; you are in Disneyland or Las Vegas, in terms of other tourists wanting a locker to avoid carrying their backpack. Go early is what I suggest.
Wow learned something new with the foreign residence! And I know the cops can just ask for your passport if you are just minding your own business and everything so that makes sense! As for the lockers, I bet!! We saw so many people using them!! Thank you for the extra tips!! 🙏🙌 We can’t wait to go back ☺️
Love this video! Thanks to the author of the channel for this fascinating video! It is interesting to see how people live in other countries! It is very important to know foreign languages on such trips. I would like to recommend to all travelers a practical guide to learning foreign languages by Yuriy Ivantsiv "Polyglot Notes. Practical tips for learning foreign languages". This book contains a lot of useful tips on how to learn a foreign language for tourists, students, entrepreneurs and anyone who needs a foreign language in life. There are a lot of good tips on how to solve problems with the language from beginner to advanced level of language learning. It turns out that the traveler only needs to know a few dialogues and you can easily travel around the world! You don't have to spend a lot of time to fully learn a foreign language, you just need to learn what you can use when you travel. I wish everyone exciting travels!
You have the best japan videos! My husband and I will be will be going next March and staying in Akihabara for our honeymoon 😍. Thanks for the information! 💓👏🙏
Your video is the most entertaining and well informative I have seen in youtube. You answered the questions I have and even more after watching this video. Thank you for putting the time to create this. Thank you and have a great day!
Budget videos are up and coming!! ❤️🤗❤️my favorite topic hehe. Im trying to make a google sheets for everyone to download so that’s why it’s not up yet! 💗
❤️Get my FREE BEGINNER'S GUIDE TO JAPAN HERE buildyourmoxie.com
📍UPDATES: Sad news. JR PASS prices are increasing by a significant amount (50-60%) in October 2023. If you do decide to buy the pass, the instructions on how to use it stays the same. See description for links. :)
📍For Visit Japan Web, Requirements are constantly updating regarding Covid etc so just be sure to read the supporting text on the website. For us going in March/April, we needed to upload our vaccination information or take a test but the rules will change again (hopefully in our benefit!). 📍📍📍UPDATE: As of April 29, you are no longer needing a vaccine or test certificate or to fill out Quarantine Fast Track yay!) vjw-lp.digital.go.jp/en/
🤓Timestamps:
0:00 - Intro
0:46 - Paperwork
2:24 - Luggage & Airport Limousine
5:03 - WiFi
6:28 - Japan Rail Pass
10:15 - Bullet Train
11:55 - How To Use Japan Rail Pass
13:11 - SUICA Card
14:58 - Money
16:55 - Storage
17:27 - Clothing
17:57 - Convenience Stores
18:29 - Manners
20:03 - Trash
20:53 - Tax Refund & Passport
21:15 - Tattoos
21:25 - Body Odor
21:36 - Banned Medications
21:45 - Translation
21:55 - More Travel Tips
🤗FREE TRAVEL BUDGET & PLANNER! Download here: www.buildyourmoxie.com/
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JR Pass can be bought directly at the airport, no need to buy vouchers in advance.
I'm travelling end of Dec and since JR pass going up in October how long in advance can I book/ purchase the pass online? Thanks 😊
@@filthyrichsoon eeek that is a good question!!! I think people are still in the unknown for if the price adjustment is for using the pass the actual dates after October or if it’s “purchase dates” after October! The JR people should likely update everyone with their strict rules as the next few months go by! But I have been hearing that question a lot!! 😣 hopefully you can buy in September to use for December 🙏
@@buildyourmoxie Thanks. I guess we'll just have to keep asking and checking their website for updates.
@@filthyrichsoon hopefully they give answers soon! 😃
FYI if you're flying out on or after May 8th you won't need a PCR test or Vaccine Certificates anymore
That is amazing news!!!! 🥳🙌
We’re going to japan in june, yeyyy!! 👍🏻👍🏻👍🏻
@@untamedheart6820 omg you will have so much fun!!! 🥳🙌 if I never went anywhere else but Japan, I would be okay with that 😂
I'm heading to Osaka and Tokyo on
May 8th itself hence why I was stressing so much to get a PCR Test as I'm only double vaccinated!
@@sipscha WOW talk about timing! 😱
I just returned from Japan 2 weeks ago and I can attest that this video is one of the best. I knew some of the things mentioned after looking at 100 videos before I left, and still learned a few more things while there. As to the purse hook, great idea, but in most restaurants, every time my wife put her purse on the floor next to her seat, an attendant rushed to the table with a special container in which to place the purse. They feel that the floor is dirty (their floors are clean)and your purse should not be on the floor. Also as to the restrooms, no paper towels all over the floor, why? In most public restrooms there are no paper towels. The locals carry a handkerchief to dry hands, the tourists wiped their hands on their clothes. Also, if you can, do your sightseeing research before arriving in Japan. This will help you to see as many places as you can with maximum efficiency, and when you return home you won't be saying to yourself, "oh, I wish I had known about this!"
As mentioned in the video, embrace their culture. Leave your bad habits at home. The Japanese are super polite, and you should be as well. I, too used a plastic bag to carry trash back to the hotel for disposal. The only trash I saw in 10 days was dropped by a tourist...I picked it up anyway. Could not stand seeing it on the ground. Thank you, Moxie, for a very helpful video, especially new visitors to Japan.
Wow thank you so much!! 😱 that is high praise! Also I love your comment. So well said. 🙌🙌
When I got back from Japan I was so sad.
@@MUSHIN_888 Japan withdrawals are no joke! 😭 we were sad too ☹️.
Japanese people think that walking in shoes is dirty, so they have a habit of putting their belongings in luggage racks and storage. Also, you should think that there is nothing to wipe your hands after washing your hands in the toilet. Please prepare a handkerchief. It is also sold at Japanese convenience stores, so if you forget it, you can buy it.
We print out everything at home and make a small binder. That way we have everything handy even without WiFi. Thanks for your great video!!
Haha I print out everything too!!!! Flight, hotel, excursions etc🤭. You are smart! 😏❤️
I travel to Japan very frequently: One tip I'd like to give if you have to use the train. I know its a pain in the rear , when you get on the train go to one of the ends of the train and usually the areas there are a bit bigger and its easier to house yourself plus your luggage. Stay as close to the one solid wall if possible. The locals who live there will obviously see you and your luggage and will give you room (when possible).
🥰thank you so much for sharing!!☺️
I’m just now traveling home from Japan, and I used pretty much your videos exclusively as a guide. And every time I saw coin lockers, in my head I would say “Coin locker! Coin locker! Coin locker!” 😂 got stuck in my head hahaha. Thanks again for all your tips and tricks!
Hahaha!! Coin locker! 👉Coin locker!👆Coin locker!👈🤣🤣🤣
You’re too funny! Thanks for sharing with me! 🤩 I hope you had a great time in Japan!!
Just a quick tip for those who might be hesitant about luggage delivery due to the next day delivery problem, at major airports, there are multiple delivery companies, and there are companies who might deliver for you same day for a few extra dollars 💸 I had this problem also when I was in Japan last December, but it got solved pretty easily when I ask if there's any other providers who can do same day delivery 😊
🙌thank you so much!!!
The other solution is just bring less stuff. The most useful thing I bring to Japan is a nearly empty suitcase!
Hi, do you know if this would work if we stay at an airbnb? Can we ship them to a nearby drop off locations of some sorts? Thank you!
What is the name of delivery services?
i love that the comments are also full of advice and tips
Haha I know right!!! People ask such great questions and everyone just jumps in to help out! 🥰
tks good tips post, here are some comments
1 drink toast cheers equivalent is kanpai/kampai
2 end of meal gochisousama means thank you for the meal
3 I've found a workout soon after arrival helps reset to local time
4 learn how to use the washlet toilet, it is not rocket science
5 explore the quiet side streets for gems
🙌🙌amazing!
All the information you gave is essential. no bullsht travel tips for Japan travelers. Thank you! This deserves a million views.
Wow, thank you! 🤭🫶
that was single handedly the most professional and effective self plug ive ever seen. subscribed immediately. this is my second trip to japan since I was 15 and I had to do all the research myself, thank you so much!! cant wait to see what other gems your channel has!
Hahaha thank you so much!!! I’m a finance channel! 🤣🤣 with some travel mixed in there now I guess 😂
I've watched a ton of videos, but this one had the most concise information and some new things. Thank you! The medication part is really important. I found out myself from Japan's government website, but was surprised that none of the tip videos include that information. For example, Adderall is completely banned. Other medications need permission BEFORE you get to Japan. Even medical devices have some requirements BEFORE you leave. This is very important to know for people with medications and medical devices! Ministry of Health, Labor and Welfare is the site.
Thank you! 😃 and yes! Everyone needs to check check check those meds 😵🪦
Adderall isn't completely banned it's just restricted...ADHD people are welcome to come you can only have a months supply is all. Saying completely banned is misinformed & will scare people.
@@samaraisnt My husband has ADHD and we're having trouble trying to get his medication approved. It's looking like he'll have to go without when we go to Japan unfortunately.
I've been to Japan a bunch of times and bringing friends for their first time next month. This is hands down the best video I've seen for first timers and I sent them this because I am clearly not good at explaining things lol. Thank you!
Wow that is high praise from an experienced traveler! ☺️ thank you so much for the compliment. I actually wasn’t going to make a video originally. I was just going to send my friends a couple texts with what I learned but then the texts got too long so I said I can make a video and might as well put it up on my page for fun 😝
Some parts will soon be outdated like the price of the JR pass and the Japan web depending on when you and your friends are going, but everything else should be still relevant for them ☺️
@@buildyourmoxie Basically same as me, you covered everything I've been texting them for months haha but I like that you also touched on proper manners. Just good to know ahead of time to not catch people off guard. And thankfully we are going before the JR Pass price hike.
@@dustinlong4489 haha your friends are lucky to have you!!! Have a fantastic time!! Also so glad you are going before the price increase 🔥💯
You are absolutely the best! I've seen 100s of channels on Japan, none has given so much clear, traveller-friendly info like you have. Thank you!
🤩wow thanks so much for the awesome compliment!’ 🥰 and thanks for watching!!
Best "just the facts" Japan travel tips video I've watched thus far. Thank you!
Glad it was helpful! So great to hear! 😀
Great info! I'll throw in a few things too, if you'll let me:
Japan is rule-based. If you accidentally board an express train, even if it'll make you miss your stop, you'll still be expected to pay the express ticket. Being a tourist doesn't always get you off the hook.
Speaking of trains, each platform usually has a map on a pillar showing where the elevator/escalator, bathrooms, etc. are in relation to the train cars for various stops. Use it to plan which car you want to be on so you can go straight to an elevator if you're traveling with a stroller or wheelchair.
Re: tipping, yes, it's not expected and can even be seen as rude. Before we leave for Japan, we usually buy a sampler pack of chocolates _(Hawaiian Host_ brand since we're from Hawaii, they appreciate "local" goodies). If someone was _exceptionally_ helpful, we'll give them one. Gifts can put pressure on Japanese for expectations, so use them sparingly.
Train lockers are great if you travel with your luggage by rail. I store our rolling ones at Hamamamatsucho Station the night before we leave as it's the last stop before hopping in the Tokyo Monorail to Haneda Airport. Makes it much easier than being that guy who's bringing rolling suitcases on rush hour trains!
The JR Rail Pass prices are going up this year, not surprising as it was so cheap for so long. If taking large luggage, you may need reserved seating so you can stow them in the appropriate spot. You can also utilize the long term storage at the station (Tokyo has one) where a daily rate is charged to hold them while you hit Osaka/Kyoto/etc.
Being quiet on the train doesnt apply in Osaka 😊 In fact, that's the one place I've had the most strangers come up to talk to us!
🤩🤩thank you so much!! You are so wonderful!!! An expert! 😎
@@buildyourmoxie Nah, just have family there and we make a few trips here & there. Being in Hawaii, everyone wants to come here-- especially in the winter!
@@AmbuBadger wow! that’s so cool! 😎🔥and you live in Hawaii 🙌
@@buildyourmoxie One last thing to add, the maps you find around town and outside train stations are not always oriented with north at the top. Determine orientation first before just assuming "oh, I'll head up and right, UniQlo will be right there!" I made that mistake a couple times when rushing.
@@AmbuBadger lol! You are so right!!! I feel like I was great at spinning in circles. We can all become ballerinas 🤦🏻♀️
Also if the city is at a diagonal angle like shinjuku, everything when you first get there is like ☠️. Done for lol
i’m traveling to japan at the end of march and have been looking through so many prep videos. like many others have said, this is probably the best i’ve seen. amazing video.. subscribed. thank you SO much. :’)
Hi just wanted to know if in your opinion what else you might have needed or wish to know? I will be flying out to haneda on Sunday and have Been watching non stop for awhile lol
Heading to Japan in the summer and I have been watching many, many videos to prepare. Watching this single video will save you hours. Amazing 👏🏾
🤩wow that is so cool to hear! Thank you so much for taking the time to watch! 😝☺️
I'm Japanese and have an important information update.
You cannot buy Suica Card anymore in Japan due to the shortage of Chip (semiconductor).
You can just say " Arigato " as thank you in English and it's a correct Japanese.
If you want to save money to not ride Shinkansen, there is an option to ride Night Bus to Kyoto/Osaka from Tokyo, which is way cheaper than Shinkansen.
thanks so much! 😚
Where do you buy a suica card now?
@@staceyb.5878 The Suica Card can be purchased in major JR EAST stations at Multifunction Ticket Vending Machines.
I am traveling to Japan for the first time in September, where should I buy the Suica card?
@maryannmuray1983 you can buy them in the airport. There's a country after you clear immigration and you can use the machines they have there. I went to the pasmo counter and the ladies were very helpful
This is such a great video! I wish this was available when I went on my first ever solo trip which was to Japan last December. It took a lot of prep and research, and your tips are spot on. I would like to add that the public restrooms don’t provide paper towels or hard dryers, so it’s best to take a small facecloth or towel for you to use to dry your hands. I loved visiting so much that I’m planning to go next spring to see the cherry blossoms! 🌸
Aw thank you so much!!! 😃 and you are right! I saw a lot of the locals carry their own little hand towel! 😃
You are going to LOVE the cherry blossoms!! If you can make a little time for the Meguro River, it’s near Shinjuku and Shibuya, it was an incredible experience!!!! So gorgeous!! 😍
I also want to add that you should bring your own soap… some restrooms don’t have any. At least we’re no longer in those horrible times where they didn’t have toilet paper either and you had to buy them from a vending machine! It wasn’t even that long ago either lol.
Ôi mê ly! 🤩💯
I sent this video to my family because we are going to Japan at the end of June! My daughter Bella says that you go to her church ⛪️! What a small world 🌎!
Omg that is so funny!!!! 😂😍I know Bella!! We all love your daughter!!
I love this country how it looks and how it feels I will be travelling to Japan in August this year I will be celebrating my 27th birthday in Japan I can’t wait to explore 🔥
🤩wow what an awesome way to celebrate your 27th!!! Happy early birthday! A birthday you will never forget! 🔥😍🫶
In August, the maximum temperature reaches over 35°C and it is very hot, so be sure to drink plenty of water and enjoy Japan.
Thank you! No-nonsense everyday stuff that can make or break a trip. Great job!
Thank you so much!! 🤭 and thank you for watching!!
LOL omg I just got back from 2 weeks in japan for my first visit and I had the same thought that the videos I watched needed some more nuance about particulars. There's a lot to keep track of and you're basically just trying to avoid being stranded, let alone efficient or frugal. I look forward to watching your vid to see what else I can equip myself with for next time
Omg you nailed it!! Lol!
Being stranded with no money was what I feared! 🤣
For some reason you give the same vibe as my writing tutor from years ago. It makes me feel like I need to take notes during the video.
Haha! I can see that!! 🤣 so much to learn about Japan 😁
SUCH A HELPFUL VIDEO!!! We’ve been to Tokyo in the past and plan to go this year again. I do wanna add however! We almost lost our kids last time and we only had the pocket WiFi to share. I would definitely get SIM cards for each individual phone this time!! In case we need to communicate!! Almost lost my kids within 7 million people that don’t speak much English 😭
I agree!! It’s hard if your group gets big!! Luckily it was just my hubs and I and if we split we would leave one with no communication lol. I think if I had kids, I would need to air tag them and also switch everyone over to a good phone carrier where everyone’s phones work if I couldn’t do SIM card!!
Thanks!
Awww thank you so much!! 🥰❤️ you are so sweet! Very much appreciated 🥰
Overall, a very good travel video; lots of useful information. The only area that needs to be corrected is the SUICA section. This should be referred to as the "IC Card" section, with SUICA being one of the IC cards available (since there are also other cards, like PASMO). The video gives the impression that SUICA is the only card that can be purchased and used for transportation.
😀that is so true! thank you for pointing that out! 👌
@@buildyourmoxie and also each prefectures has their own IC cards. I bought ICOCA (for Kansai area) and keep it as souvenir 😁
Welcome Suica is the IC card recommended for many foreign tourists. This Suica card has an expiration date and does not accept refunds, but it does not require a deposit and can be charged with a credit card when purchasing. However, it should be noted that you can only purchase it at Haneda Airport, Narita Airport, and tourist information centers in Tokyo. It cannot be purchased if you plan to visit only Kyoto or Osaka.
I heard transport is no longer using Suica.
@@occasionaloutdoorswomanany update
Thanks!
😍wow thank you so much!! You are too kind ☺️. Thank you for watching!!
Awesome video! I just returned from Japan a month ago - this video is spot on - great tips!
Aw thanks Suzette!! That’s good to hear hehe. I hope your trip was fabulous! :)
Very good detailed information and straight to the point. Most travel RUclipsrs are just sharing fluff and not really helpful. You should be getting more subscribers.
really the best detail tips video so far for first time travelers because you really did hit most if not all of the most important details here! flying out tomorrow to Japan and may look into the bus so we dont have to squish and disrupt people during rush hour. Thank you!!!!!
Wow thank you so much for the feedback and compliment! 🥰
We had the BEST time on the bus!!! Seatbelts, bathroom, luggage included, USB plug, reclining seats! It was so comfortable and clean
Thanks!
super helpful and appreciated!
Wow! Thank you so much!! 🥰🥰🥰
Thank you for this, literally just purchased plane tickets for mid August Tokyo and have no idea what the heck I am doing. Off to look for hotels!
🤩yay! Going to be a blast!!!
You are such a great person I ever known. As the comments, I watched countless videos and none of them was helpful as much as you especially custom and immigration part. Thank you so much
Aw thank you so much for your kind words!☺️😃 and thank you for watching! 😊
This will be my 2nd trip to Japan and I still learned a lot from this video
🤗 I’m so glad!! HAVE A GREAT TIME!!!
I cannot tell you how amazingly informative this video is! I had no idea about the medication import law and I’m on several medications by prescription, you possibly saved me from some jail time!!! Everything in this video is wonderfully helpful thank you!
GREAT info on the JR pass and travel pass options. You may have just saved me several hundred dollars!
Yay! I’m so glad to hear that!! 🤗
Omg! I was also watching tons of vids but all of them were so generic & general on how things worked especially getting from NRT to the hotel. I finally figured out that we're also going to take the bus and your video confirmed that I came to the right decision. Thank you! You have a great way of presenting and addressing needs that others fell short at doing!
😮woah thank you for the compliment! I tried tried to fill in some of the gaps! 🤭 You are too kind!
I’m glad you are taking the airport limousine!! They have a clean bathroom in the bus, seatbelt, usb charging, and you can RECLINE!! Say what?! 😆
The fact that the first language on the pocket wifi screen was Basque "Ongi etorri", as a Basque citizen, really gave me goose bumps
I am going to Japan twice this year and have watched every video known to man- you have laid this out so well and it is incredibly helpful and handy to have more up to date information. Thank you thank you thank you 🙏🏼
Wow thank you so much!! That is such high praise 🤯☺️
And I’m so jealous!! Have a great time!! Twice!!!
Iyssaneigh, I totally agree with you. Super helpful advice and to the point. Is there anything you know that she didn’t mention? I’m going in a few days (last minute) with toddler and I feel stressed.
@@davinapangelinan9289 hi Davina!! There have been a lot of good tips throughout the comment section of this video that might be helpful! ☺️ a lot of replying going on too that can offer more advice and clarity on other topics! ❤️ some from Japan travel experts hehe
I subscribed in the first few minutes, just from great presentation and information alone. Great to know you are also a finance channel.
aw thanks so much for your kind words and for your support!! 🥰
Awesome video! I’m going to Japan in November it’s been my dream to go as a kid so I’m doing the most I can to prepare and this helped so much!
Yay!!! It’s going to be an incredible trip!!!! Our minds were blown so many times! 🤩 I’m glad this video was helpful! 🤗
Holidaying there in a few weeks and have watched this video numerous times.
Thanks for the tips & I adore your facial expressions 🤣
Haha thanks so much! 😁
I used the Pasmo card that I was able to personalize with my name. Not sure if suica card has that option, but I now have a cool souvenir. Both cards can be used at certain convenience stores and on most if not all subway and bus lines. Thanks for all of the useful information.😊
Yes!! Love it!! Our SUICA let us put our name on it! It’s my favorite card in the world now! 🤩
PASMO supremacy! Lol I ended up with both just to say I got both. I just got back home from 2 weeks in Japan and already booked my next trip in October for my bday!
@@LilLeo363 hahah!! Omg that is great!!! Starting a collection of IC cards sounds so fun! 😎🙌
@@buildyourmoxie I put them in my digital wallet so now they are literally souvenir ic cards on my computer desk lol
@@LilLeo363 haha genius!
Wow! Great and cool tips at the end of the video! 😎
😃yay!! Thank you for watching!! Hehe thanks for the compliment too!
You don't need to slurp... but definitely be excited 😊
Thank you so much. Lots of practical information in a short video. Very respectful too. Overall very impressive.
I suggest the JR Narita Express is the faster and better option than the bus. Travellers should get the Pasmo IC card. That’s my personal preference. Don’t like the pocket wi fi. Just get an esim so you just use your own phone without the additional device. The JR pass cannot be used on all Shinkansen services so be warned that you need to know which service you can use the pass on.
Omg this video is gold. You just saved me hours of research. It's a full package 👏 thank you!
Awww I’m so glad! 🤗 tomorrow I’m launching another update video that will also be helpful if you are traveling to Japan soon! ❤️
Hello! Here is the update video :)
*JAPAN UPDATES - FALL 2023* | Answering your most frequently asked questions
ruclips.net/video/XnqSCYbSKn8/видео.html
This was a great all-in-one and MUST-VIEW video - thank you!! Despite doing earlier research, I learned a lot more tips here too! The how-to videos are great - esp. seeing how to use the train stations, etc.! Arigato gozaimasu! I will forward this video to my travel mates.
Wow thanks so much for the feedback Liz! 🤩 you are too kind ❤️🥰
Thank you for sharing, really good review even for travelers who have been to Japan before!
Aw thanks so much! 🥰and thank you for watching!!
This was super helpful. I’m only doing a 36 hr layover, and I’m going to be using guided tours listed on Viator for maximum use of the time I have there, but your vid was incredibly informative.
Ooo I’m so happy to hear that! Have a great time!! tomorrow I’m launching another update video that might also be helpful❤️
I’m traveling to Japan in 11/23 .. This is definitely the most usefull information..
aw thanks so much for watching!! :)
This is one of the best videos I’ve seen for travel tips in Japan! Thank you for all the great tips and super detailed information! 👏🏼🙌🏼
Omg thank you so much! Wow what a compliment 😝😱
I can watch this all day. Very clear and fun explanation especially for first timer to Japan. Domo Arigato...
Aw thanks so much!!! I have another video uploading tonight with more updates! 🤗🔥6:30pm PST Los Angeles time
But thank you so much. You are too kind! ☺️
This is the best and most efficient and accurate video about travelling to Japan I've seen so far! Really helpful! Thanks!
Aw thanks so much for the high praise!! 🙈🤗
Hi, Is the visit Japan paperwork still needed?
Oh my goodness, I just had my first visit to Japan a few weeks ago and you’re spot on on everything here you’ve covered. Outstanding video, excellent tips. Congratulations
😍thank you so much! I hope you had an amazing trip!!
Love the details and helpful tips. Definitely a lot of must-know information that makes this video a great starting point for planning any Japan trip. Thank you for this incredible video! 🤩
Thank you!! 😁
Hahhahahaha ;))))
@@audofit Hehehehe 🤭🤭
Thank you for posting this, I want to travel to Japan but am very weary on what needs to be done so that I have a enjoyable experience,
Ooo you got this!!! 😃 I have a Japan playlist that has some other videos that might be helpful too! It’s linked in the description!
@@buildyourmoxie Thank you will check them out(have already purchased the white noise machine you recommended).
@@chrisburrows9758 ooo I hope you like it!! I now have two of them 😂
Great presentation overall!! I've been to Tokyo a few times, but I still learned a few things on this video. Thank you for the detailed information on the train passes. I'm planning to use it for my upcoming trip where I'll be traveling out of Tokyo for the first time.
Thank you so much! 😃 I’m so glad to hear that! How exciting! I hope you have a great time!! 🔥🔥🙌🙌
My goodness, you are so efficient and organized! 👍
🙈wow thank you! Hehe
Excellent upbeat video!!
Aw thanks so much!! Part two coming out this Wednesday 😝
Thank you for this comprehensive and detailed video! My husband, I, and our will-be 7 year old will be going to Japan in March 2024. Although by then some of these may be dated (covid restrictions, JR rail pricing) 95% of this is so useful. I appreciate the cultural manners explanation, because we say “huh!” Alot too. But being Canadian, we are no foreigners to saying “EH!” 😂
Your time as a Canadian has come!!!! 🤩🙌
Most likely COVID stuff will be null which is great!! And then I can still imagine them using the Visit Japan website (or maybe something even better) as it’s such a great system. They are so efficient!
❤️2024 will come sooon!!
If you are going for cherry blossoms, I recommend paying Meguro River a visit! It’s in Tokyo between Shinjuku and Shibuya!
They will probably come away thinking "wow, Canadians are perpetually surprised" is you keep saying "eh"!
@@AmbuBadger 😂😂
"Eh?" is an expression of confusion, not understanding, didn't catch a phrase, etc.
"Ha?!" is an expression of doubt or shock.
Thank you for all information ❤
Big fan from Morocco ❤
awwwww of course!! thank you for watching!! -Erica from Los Angeles! hehe
I remember landing in Japan after a 18 hour flight. I’d been sleep deprived and sick the whole time but when I arrived I was completely shocked awake from how Japanese everything was!
We couldn’t believe it either! Sometimes it’s hard to tell what time it is at night because there is so much open and so many people that are up!
Why were you shocked that things in Japan are Japanese. 😭
Wow!! How awesome!!! THANKS FOR SHARING!!! I'm traveling to Tokyo for the very first time next month, and these tips have been such a great help! I just subscribed to your channel! Thanks again. 😁😃🤗
Yay! That is going to be SOOOO fun! I love japan so much!! And thanks so much for watching!
When you put your luggage in one of the many lockers take a photo of locker . And the area that is in so you don't forget were the locker is. 7-11 is the best place to exchange your money in Japan and what you said about deodorant , there is a spray bottle you can get at any conbini that is a deodoriser for your clothing example at night when your hanging your clothes just give your clothes a spray and it will smell nioce when you were it the next day. If stay at a hotel in Japan they usually have the spray bottle hanging where the coat hangers are.
Our room has that too!! We were also so lucky to have coin laundry in our place! 🙌😝.
I love 711 so much over there! We saw a lot of the 711 atms!! Thank you for the tip!!!
And yes!! Omg I think in some of the places I wouldn’t be able to find the coin locker again!! 🤣🤣 Apple AirTags are amazing and taking pictures of the location! 👀
❤️
I feel the same pull to Japan. It’s wild I’m also a film student at the moment I saw this video and also shoot an Oly. I don’t think that’s a coincidence. ❤much love Ben-San. Hope to meet you in the future
Oh dang that’s so cool!!! Film student 🔥🔥🔥
Very informative and helpful video. We are travelling to Japan 24/10/23 until 9/11/23. We have already put in place a lot of your suggestions already. A bit concerned about the JR Pass increasing in cost so steeply though.
Thanks for replying so quickly.
I’m sad the prices for JR pass are going up! 😓 a couple of my friends are going and they might just SUICA card the whole thing and and travel in one direction buying single Shinkansen passes as needed!
@@buildyourmoxie I am seriously looking at Bus for transportation now and even renting a car. We are Travelling from Tokyo, Kawaguchiko, Osaka, Kyoto, Hiroshima & then back to Tokyo in that order , then home to Australia.
Oh wow! You are traveling a lot! That’s going to be a great trip!! Renting a car sounds good too! Be careful in Tokyo if you are driving. Our Japanese friend said that it’s almost always the drivers fault (not the pedestrians) if something went down 😅. So maybe SUICA or bus for Tokyo!
@@buildyourmoxie They drive on the same side of the road as us here in Australia, so should feel normal to me, and I love a challenge. Great way to see the country.
Definitely a Suica card for Tokyo.
May only use Bullet train to get from Hiroshima to Tokyo on the way home .
@@rossspokes3646 haha I love it!! Sounds like a great plan!! 🙌
I'm going to Japan in 2 months (extremely excited as a first time traveler) and i just want to say how much i appreciate this video! thank you so much. i just spent 10 minutes freaking out about the JR pass when I'm going to Tokyo (only in the city) from Haneda Airport and i thought it was so expensive. i definitely wont use a JR pass then!
Yay! I’m so happy you found this video then!! 😍 saves you lots of money! 🤗❤️ thank you for watching! Have a great time!!!!!
I always book a taxi in advance, it's really expensive but to have someone waiting for me outside baggage claim, helping me with bags and delivering me right to my hotel, is just so worth it for me. I don't want to think at all after a 14 hour flight. 😅
When our family expands, we are for sure doing taxi and will stick it in the vacation budget! It’s worth it for peace of mind and less brain work after traveling! 🙌
@@josielori1049 depending on which website you booked your hotel from, there is usually an option to organize a taxi for you prior to your trip! Like booking.com etc. :)
Yes....this comment. After 15 hrs I'd rather just have someone pick me up tip that person to drive me even for an hr. I'm coming with more than enough dough
@@o.c.g.m9426 that sounds really nice and relaxing 😝🤗. One of these days we will do the same! When we have more dough 🤣
Wow, if you are landing in Narita and staying in Tokyo, then "really expensive" is an understatement. Everyone just takes the train, which is not difficult at all, but you will notice you don't see most Japanese people lugging huge bags around in the train, because they can just drop them off for delivery at the airport, and they will be delivered to their home the next day in most cases. I would have to agree with the video creator here in that you don't want to take a taxi. In most cases it will not only be more expensive, and less ecological, but also more time consuming than a bus. In the worst case you can take a bus from the airport to the closest major station to where you are staying, and then take a taxi from there.
Such a helpful video! Loved the finding nemo analogy!
😝 just keep swimming! 🎶
thanks for watching!
This has been one of the most helpful Japan videos I've ever seen! We're going for the first time in August, thanks for the tips!
So glad it was helpful!! ☺️ have a great time in august!!!
I’ve watched countless travelling to Japan tips videos, and this one is definitely the most helpful and accurate. Thanks so much for sharing the wisdom. Much appreciated! 💜
Aw that’s so great to hear!!! Thank you for the feedback!! Have a great trip! 🥰
Your style of presenting the information is so clear and concise! Subscribed!
🤩wow thank you for your feedback! And thank you!!
Thank you for all the tips and insight to make Japan travel less stressful. 😃Will be there in 2 weeks can't wait!✈
Aw of course!! You are going to have a blast!! 🔥😍
Great tips! Very helpful. I subscribed to your RUclips channel. I'm going to Japan next month.
YAY!! it's going to be so fun!!
If you get the JR rail pass, it includes express trains from Narita and Haneda airports into the city center. Win!!!
I totally want to try the Narita express!! 😍😍
We arrive at Haneda and we’re staying in Shinjuku , should I use the JR Rail pass or airport bus as suggested in the video ? We’re bringing hiking backpacks
@@IMONGE27 wow! Light packer!! I think it will depend on what time you arrive at the airport and what day you want to activate your pass! If you get there super late and can’t activate your pass, then you would have to pay for a ticket regardless whether it’s the bus or rail :)
If you are super comfortable traveling subways and rails and your pass is activated, then go for it and take the rail systems!😍😍 your backpacks will keep you mobile so you aren’t just like spinning around everywhere lol 😝
@@buildyourmoxie thank you so much 😊 I have your video on repeat 🔁 so informative!
@@IMONGE27 haha awww thank you!! ☺️
very useful and updated information ... Thank you so much...👍👍👍 Awesome!
Thanks Han!! 🤗
gonna disagree on the queue-up section. i just returned from Osaka/Kyoto and there were a handful of restaurants that had another system. u have to go up to the store-front and check if there were notices. i've encountered 2 restaurants that needed you to write your name on a waiting list that is inside/outside their entrance ^^ cheers
Oo yes! Agree! There were some places in Tokyo like tsukiji fish market too that made you write down your name! 😃
I haven't been to Tokyo since 2010, this is really helpful.
🤗aw i'm so glad! I hope you can go back soon! 🥰
I just went to Japan for the first time. I learned that Japan airlines doesn’t let you use air tags. Also, pointing is rude and one should use an open palm instead of a finger to point to something. Who-da thunk!
🫢ayyy. They didn’t catch us! 😟
And I heard for sure no pointing at people!! Use open palm to gently gesture. But I saw a lot of locals point with their finger on papers if they were trying to be real exact on small paper😛
@@buildyourmoxie Oh, sorry, I wasn’t referring to your pointing on the paper. I was just adding an extra but I thought might be helpful. I didn’t know about not saying “huh” or “what”. I usually eat “excuse me” or “pardon?” Good to know. “Hi” works. Your tips were really thorough. I was on a cruise with excursions, so I didn’t have as authentic an experience as others would have. Transportation and luggage took no thought. But there are definitely trade-offs. Wish I had been on my own more. Your video will give others the confidence to do so!
Haha no problem!!
😃and a cruise sounds relaxing!!! 🙌
ahhh I go in 2 months, havnt been since pre covid! love this video ty ❤
Yay!!! Japan is waiting for you!! 😍😍😍😍
Add on tip: I agree as you said that carry your passport all the time in Japan. I was stop by a police a few times for an identification/document, one of those instances was in the train station. Luckily i have my passport with me at that time otherwise it would have been a major inconvenience for me.
Yes! I’ve heard of the police just randomly stopping tourists too! 🪦 I would be so embarrassed if I didn’t have my passport on me since I likely wouldn’t understand them and then accidentally would say “huh”😓
😅☠️
I got 1 question for you. I am from EU and we only got IDS. Do people need to bring passports if they don't have ID or you need ID and passport? I know some countries don't have ID and only passport while traveling.
@@doki-_-7002 hi! I don’t know specifics about travel from EU. But what i do know is thousands of people are coming from Europe and all over so I figure whatever you use to clear customs and immigration when you fly should be good enough :)
@@doki-_-7002 also just a passport is fine. I would say most Americans bring their drivers license with them in their wallets so they already have that on hand in addition to their passports.
But for Japan you can just carry your passport or whatever you used to clear immigration and customs from the airport :)
@@buildyourmoxie We here have ID and I got driver license as well. I know my friend needed passport to travel to UK so I am guessing I will need one for Japan as well. Thanks for additional info
Soooo many helpful tips that I was not aware about. Thank you so much!
Yay! 🥰 thank you so much for watching!!
🇯🇵Get my Tokyo 10+ Day Itinerary Guide & Tips here🇯🇵 buildyourmoxie.com/shop
📍📍PART 2 VIDEO HERE (Uploaded September 2023) ruclips.net/video/XnqSCYbSKn8/видео.htmlsi=ZEBjyOjfFOfpEcRR 📍UPDATE for Japan Web: As of April 29, you are no longer needing a vaccine or test certificate or to fill out Quarantine Fast Track yay! vjw-lp.digital.go.jp/en/
📍UPDATES: Sad news. JR PASS prices are increasing by a significant amount (50-60%) in the fall (October). If you do decide to buy the pass, the instructions on how to use it stays the same. See description for links. :)
🤓Timestamps:
0:00 - Intro
0:46 - Paperwork
2:24 - Luggage & Airport Limousine
5:03 - WiFi
6:28 - Japan Rail Pass
10:15 - Bullet Train
11:55 - How To Use Japan Rail Pass
13:11 - SUICA Card
14:58 - Money
16:55 - Storage
17:27 - Clothing
17:57 - Convenience Stores
18:29 - Manners
20:03 - Trash
20:53 - Tax Refund & Passport
21:15 - Tattoos
21:25 - Body Odor
21:36 - Banned Medications
21:45 - Translation
21:55 - More Travel Tips
🤗FREE TRAVEL BUDGET & PLANNER! Download here: www.buildyourmoxie.com/
My gift to you for happy travels! This is one of my favorite tools I created for planning and budgeting for my trips, and I wanted to share it with you. Enjoy!
Hi! Awesome video thank you for this information. Does this mean we do not need to register on that website at all now for immigration?
We Will be traveling as a family of five. Do I need a JR card for each member of the family ?
Thanks
@@eliecernavarro6422 Yes, but I believe there is a discount for children.
Omg you are the best!!
@@eliecernavarro6422 Yes. Each person needs their own JR pass. this is because it opens the gate to get in and opens to the gate to get out (one per person). Same thing with a Suica card! one per person :)
The bus over taxi tip is such a great underrated one
Did that and saved so much in turkey
Glad to hear!! We love Airport limousine! The seats were comfortable and reclined! Plus usb chargers, bathroom, seatbelt, and they had some English at each stop after Japanese ended!
@@buildyourmoxie loved the video appreciate the tips
thank you so much for the info gets me missing traveling overseas haha🙏🏼
@@alfonsopayan09 Aw of course!!! And I totally get it 😝😝
it's actually the law, that you have your passport on your person at all times as a tourist in Japan. Foreign residents have a Residence Card, formerly known as a "gaijin card".-or officially an "Alien Registration Card". Being an "Alien" led to so many jokes about having three eyes/antenna or whatever, that they changed the name in English. Myself; I like to Alien all the time.
Of course; the cops are not going to get legalistic about this at the beach-or whatever. If you are in obvious tourist destinations like Tokyo or Kyoto, do not assume that station lockers are available. They get filled up fast. In Tokyo Station, the oversize lockers in the season, get used up quickly by snowboarders and skiers. In Kyoto-well; you are in Disneyland or Las Vegas, in terms of other tourists wanting a locker to avoid carrying their backpack. Go early is what I suggest.
Wow learned something new with the foreign residence! And I know the cops can just ask for your passport if you are just minding your own business and everything so that makes sense!
As for the lockers, I bet!! We saw so many people using them!! Thank you for the extra tips!! 🙏🙌
We can’t wait to go back ☺️
ALIEN is the correct term. Every country uses the term Alien to refer to Non-Citizens.
Thanks for the best information ever! The details are so clear! You’re the best!! ❤️
😃 thank you so much!! And thanks for watching!!
Love this video! Thanks to the author of the channel for this fascinating video! It is interesting to see how people live in other countries! It is very important to know foreign languages on such trips. I would like to recommend to all travelers a practical guide to learning foreign languages by Yuriy Ivantsiv "Polyglot Notes. Practical tips for learning foreign languages". This book contains a lot of useful tips on how to learn a foreign language for tourists, students, entrepreneurs and anyone who needs a foreign language in life. There are a lot of good tips on how to solve problems with the language from beginner to advanced level of language learning. It turns out that the traveler only needs to know a few dialogues and you can easily travel around the world! You don't have to spend a lot of time to fully learn a foreign language, you just need to learn what you can use when you travel. I wish everyone exciting travels!
While that is motivational, I dont think im going to travel to Japan.
You have the best japan videos! My husband and I will be will be going next March and staying in Akihabara for our honeymoon 😍. Thanks for the information! 💓👏🙏
Congrats!!! Yay that is going to be such a fun time! Akihabara is great!!
@@buildyourmoxie thank you! 😊 ❤️
Don't get a pocket WiFi, get an eSIM instead. It's 2023, almost 2024 for sake :)
Wifi is great for a family though, way better than 6 e-sims!
Thank you for this wonderful video, now i have a good idea on what to do when I travel
Hurray!! That’s great :) thank you for watching!
Your video is the most entertaining and well informative I have seen in youtube. You answered the questions I have and even more after watching this video. Thank you for putting the time to create this. Thank you and have a great day!
Wow! Thank you so much for the high praise!! 🥹☺️😁🤩😭😱
Ahhh!! Super helpful video!!! Exactly all the tips I was looking for.. thanks a lot!!!
Yay! Thanks for watching!!
I just got back from japan like 3 days ago. Your video is very informative and spot on.
😃yay! Glad to hear that! ☺️thank you!
Can you make a video explaining your budget breakdown for Japan. It would be really helpful :).
Budget videos are up and coming!! ❤️🤗❤️my favorite topic hehe. Im trying to make a google sheets for everyone to download so that’s why it’s not up yet! 💗
Your explaining is Perfect for JR PASS!
Thank you so much!!
This video is so helpful!!!!!!! Thank you so much for the attention to detail.
Of course! Thank you for watching!!!