Don't take taxis. This was my very first note that I made
for myself after I made the huge mistake of hopping into a cab
to take me from Narita Airport into Tokyo. I was so used to affordable
$30 and $40 rides from the airport in New York
that I was absolutely stunned when the meter for my first ride in Tokyo
came to over $100. Having now traveled to Japan
numerous times over the years, I've learned firsthand that there are a lot of unspoken rules
that first time visitors just don't know. I'm sharing the essential travel tips
that I wish someone had told me before I visited Japan for the very first time. And stick around ‘til the end. I have lots of money-saving
tips that you don't want to miss. First up, the best ways to get around the city. Getting from the airport to Tokyo doesn't
have to damper the start of your trip. Coming in from Haneda Airport? The Keikyu airport line is a train
that runs frequently from Haneda Airport Station to downtown Tokyo
and just about 11 minutes. It only costs ¥510 to Shinagawa station,
where you can transfer to the Yamanote line to access popular neighborhoods
like Shibuya, Shinjuku and Tokyo Station. The Tokyo Monorail also runs from Haneda Airport
to downtown Tokyo in about 32 minutes. It costs ¥490, and from Hamamatsu station
you can transfer to the JR Yamanote Line, if you have a Japan Rail Pass.
The Friendly Airport Limousine takes you directly to major hotels
and train stations in Tokyo. The ride takes between 30 to 75 minutes, depending on the traffic,
And the price starts from around ¥1,000. Oh, and this may all sound foreign to you
right now, But that's normal. Don't worry. I'll clear it up in a second. Starting your trip from Narita? The JR Narita Express train offers direct service
two major stations in downtown Tokyo like Tokyo Station. It takes about an hour to reach Tokyo Station
and it costs about ¥3020 or S20 USD. The Narita Express ticket is fully covered
by the Japan Rail Pass. The Keisei Limited Express is a more budget friendly option,
and it connects to Nippori and Ueno stations in downtown
Tokyo in 36 to 40 minutes. And it costs about ¥2,470 or about $17 USD. And a quick note if you have a super early arrival or a super late departure
time. Tokyo's trains and subways shut down every night from
around midnight to 5AM for maintenance. To avoid being stuck with a taxi
as your only mode of transportation, consider staying at a capsule hotel
or the hotel within the airport. Then the next morning you'll be able to catch your flight out
or continue on to the city with ease. And I'll show you a master tip later
that very few people know for figuring out the last trains that are running to
whatever destination you choose. So keep an eye out for that. Now let's talk about the best
transportation options once you're in Tokyo. Be thoughtful when you're considering any train passes
because they aren't one size fits all. Let me give you a quick breakdown between
the two most popular cards for visitors. IC cards and the JR Pass. IC Cards like Passmo
and Suica are prepaid charge cards that can be used
on all local public transit like trains, subways, buses and monorails
within major metropolitan areas. And they allow easy tap and go payment. You simply touch the card
on the ticket sensors when you're entering
and exiting the train stations. You can also use IC cards in convenience
stores, shops and buses, vending machines and more in Tokyo. In contrast, rail passes like the Japan Rail Pass cover most long distance trains that are run by J.R. nationwide, including the Shinkansen
bullet trains between cities. They provide huge savings
compared to individual tickets, if you plan to travel widely
within the country. If your trip is concentrated
in just one city like Tokyo, pay per ride with an IC Card
can end up being a more affordable option than a nationwide rail pass
like the JR Pass. But if your itinerary covers
multiple destinations across Japan, a rail pass is likely
to be the better deal. Quick note
that beginning October 1st, 2023, the price of the JR Pass is set to increase significantly. So plan your travel accordingly. Also, take note that you cannot use the JR Pass on the Tokyo Metropolitan subway. Your best bet for that would be an IC Card, a Tokyo Metro Pass,
or one of the Toei subway passes. My favorite train trip to take while in
Japan is the Golden Route. Now you may see different itineraries,
depending on if you make a reservation with a touring company. But whenever I plan it on my own,
I take the Shinkansen From Tokyo to cities like Hakone, Kyoto, Nara, and Osaka. and then I'll add on cities
like Hiroshima and Hokkaido. And I do all this
within a 14 day or 21 day pass. It's truly
one of the most remarkable trips. And one of the best ways to get your money's
worth out of one of the unlimited JR passes. But whenever I'm staying just in Tokyo
or just in Kyoto, I'll just buy an IC card, a Tokyo
metro pass or a Toei subway pass. And if you're planning on riding
the Shinkansen yourself, try this money saving tip. Purchase your Shinkansen train ticket
in advance on the JR website and then link it to your IC Card
or your Passmo. By buying it early and online you could potentially save
around ¥10,000 per ticket. All right.
You're ready to move around the big city. But let's figure out
what you're going to do with your luggage. If you want to start exploring
right when you touch down, consider renting a coin locker at the airport. But I swear by the Takuhaibin service. It's a parcel transport company that can deliver your luggage directly
to your hotel or your next destination. Sometimes the same day. Service counters
can be found at the airport and places throughout the city. For peace of mind, whenever I use any delivery service
or transit where I'll be separated from my personal bags, I use Apple AirTags.
You just tuck the tiny trackers inside your bags and luggage and you can
relax knowing that you can locate anything missing and you will always know
where your luggage is located. Here are some quick etiquette tips
and extra things you should know about riding public transportation in Japan. Take off backpacks and crowded trains. Put them in front of you, in
between your feet or onto luggage racks. Avoid bringing large pieces of luggage onto trains,
especially during the rush hours. And if you have big luggage, just use
the Takuhaibin delivery service. While Japan is extremely safe overall, groping, unfortunately can be an issue on packed rush hour trains.
To help prevent this, many lines offer
women-only cars as a safe space during busy commuter times,
which is usually between 8 and 9AM in the morning
and then shortly after 5PM. In the evening, look for the pink
signage to find these cars and avoid boarding by mistake. Alerting authorities
and reporting incidents right away is super important.
When getting in or out of a taxi, allow the driver to open the door
automatically for you. The cars are equipped for it and it's the only way for the driver to know when you are safely inside
or outside of the car. Rideshare like Uber and Lyft aren't really a thing in Japan. Apps exist for it,
but they usually just call a taxi for you. But there are no big savings
by using the service. If you plan on renting a car,
sure to factor in your tolls. Parking and gas tolls
can get extremely pricey in Japan, making the cost of running a car
far more expensive than train travel. You'll also need a special driver's
license order to be able to drive in Japan. So be sure to check that out as well. If you're still feeling
a little overwhelmed by all the transportation options,
just use Google Maps. Google Maps gives you
multiple path options and transit options between your starting point
and your destination. It's just like as
if you use it in your home country. One awesome feature
is that you can use the price estimate to determine
how much money you'll need for your trip and whether you should consider
another mode of transportation. If you're looking for more efficient
travels, Google Maps will also show you the best train cars to use for the fastest
transfer point in the station. And it's based on the approximate
day of the train to the stairs. Just match the train car
that's shown on Google Maps to the train car tape in the station to make sure that you're in the right
place. Here's another quick tip. If you're using Google Maps for cycling,
don't use the cycling map feature. It sometimes takes you off
on a wild and steep adventures that you don't necessarily
need to go through. Instead, use the driving map feature
and then filter out the highways and tolls within the settings. This will put you on a much more bearable
and sometimes more efficient riding path. Oh, and if you want to make sure you'll never be stranded anywhere in Tokyo
after the trains stop, try this feature. All you need to do is put your destination
in Google Maps and select the last train available option. Google Maps will then provide you
with a list of the absolute last train options that you have going
to the destination that you've input. But if you're fairly new
to transportation in Japan, you might want to give yourself a little
bit of leeway and not take the last train. So now that you have your Japan transit plan out,
where do you most want to go first? Is it the futuristic neon cityscape of Akihabara,
or the historical sites in Kamakura? Or is it the winding back
streets in Asakusa? Let me know your must-visit destinations in the comments. Whichever destination
has the most amount of votes, I'll be sure to cover it
in one of my next videos to show you the best things do
and explore in that area. Alright. You've got the Tokyo transport mastered. So now let's switch gears to everyone's
favorite topic. Money. Currency exchange rates, ATM
fees, credit cards, traveler's checks, and what's this about carrying
wads of cash around while you're in Japan? It can all be so overwhelming. Let me explain. First, exchange rates. These fluctuate daily, based on economic
forces that I won't get too far into. If you Google “currency converter,” you're going to see,
what's called mid-market rates. It's what a currency is worth on that day. But banks and airport exchanges
don't use the exact mid-market rate. They add fees and percentages
to turn a profit and of course, run their business. So you can expect to get 5 to 10% less
per dollar swapped to Yen when you're using an airport
exchange counter. But here's my tip. If you just have to use an airport
exchange or even an ATM at the airport, only swap a small amount there
just to cover you for your first few days or even
just for your first few hours in Tokyo. Even better, order some Yen from your bank
a few weeks before your trip. The rate
will be slightly better than the airport and it gives you a nice little yen cushion
in case there are travel delays. Okay, so now you have some yen pocket change, but you'll likely need more cash
throughout your trip. And this is where the 7-Eleven ATMs
become your new best friend. The exchange rate at 7-Eleven
ATMs is really close to the mid-market rate,
and it's way better than airport counters. There is a small fee,
but overall, it's cheaper. Oh, and don't worry about walking around
town with wads of cash in Japan. Japan is a safe country, but that doesn't
mean that you shouldn't be careful. Here are some etiquette tips
that will make you more Zen When it comes to your yen. Avoid looking
like an obvious tourist with your yen. Keep it neatly tucked away. Use the exact change at shops
and absolutely no tipping. It's not customary in Japan and it's
usually seen as a sign of disrespect when paying cash, place money
on a small tray instead of directly into the attendant’s hands. And then just add a polite
“arigato gozaimasu” with a slight bow. Then you'll blend right in. If you ever get
too much change back from the attendant, you're duty-bound to return it. If you notice it and you don't return it, that can be treated as fraud in Japan.
And be sure to notify your bank of your travel dates
and destinations before you depart. This prevents any potential account
freezes due to suspicious activity when withdrawals start showing up abroad. And consider
an anti-theft bag with an RFID protection wallet and multiple secret compartments
to keep your most important documents and money safe. Oh, and let's not forget credit
cards. That's an option as well. Luckily, Tokyo is modern. Most big stores and restaurants
accept major credit cards. But cash still rules at traditional shops
and in rural areas. My suggestion: Use cards for big purchases
when possible, but always carry bills for taxis, trains
and the occasional ramen emergency. When in doubt, go cash. With International money
Transfer Services like Chime and Resolute, you can open a multi-currency
account online that's linked to your bank account
and then hold balances in U.S. dollars, yen, euros, etc. You can easily exchange currency between balances
any time through their app or the website. Fees do apply for the exchanges.
I'll put the links below so you can research
if they're the right tool for you, And please let me know
if you have any other money questions, and share your own currency tips below to help other fellow travelers unlock
the secrets of Yen success in Japan. All right, We've got our yen sorted. Now let's talk
prepping ahead for accommodations. Let me tell you, I learned this lesson
in the most embarrassing way. So I flew my parents out to Japan
for their first visit. And we did Tokyo and Kyoto together. But I waited until the absolute last
minute to book one of our nights in Kyoto. But I had to keep it together
and make my parents believe that I had already made
a reservation for our stay. So I got on my phone,
started tapping away. And it turns out I had accidentally
booked us all into a Japanese Love Hotel. Let's just say that the mirrored ceilings
and neon lights should have been giant red flags
in the pictures. Again, lesson learned. So now I plan my accommodations 4
to 6 months in advance to score deals at better locations. Let me share my insider tricks
to help you secure the perfect lodging without the headaches
or the embarrassment. Here's a pro tip I use. Booking from outside of Japan using a VPN service reveals lower
local rates than booking internationally, saving 10 to 15% on bookings
in some cases. VPN services like Nord vpn work
for any travel booking sites. You sign up for the VPN
service, download the app and then connect to a Japanese
server before you book. Now there are a lot of options
for where you can stay in Japan. So even if you're booking last minute,
don't fret. Do you love sleek modernity? Go for a high rise
hotel in the heart of Tokyo or Osaka. If you're seeking cultural immersion, reserve a traditional ryokan inn
with tatami floors and futon beds. Capsule hotels have efficient solo pods,
which are perfect for backpackers. And business hotels
provide simple and affordable rooms. Or you can indulge in a resort
with an onsen hot spring. And be sure to research the neighborhood
vibes in each city. You want to pick ideal locales
based on your interests. So history buffs, head to Kamakura.
Nightlife lovers, go for Roppongi.
And for pop culture enthusiasts, Stay in Akihabara. And use Google Maps Street View to scout
locations and proximity to top attractions that you might want to visit
while you're there. Now a few things to know
about traditional Japanese accommodations. Ryokans and minshukus
often used comfy futon beds on tatami mat floors
instead of western mattresses. It's part of the cultural experience,
so just be aware in case you have any issues
with sleeping on or close to the ground. While hotels have private bathrooms,
some smaller inns offer shared facilities. Confirm amenities
when you're booking to avoid surprises. And if you prefer a private bathroom,
request ensuite to avoid the no-frills guesthouses. And if smoking is an issue for you, it's probably best
to avoid the lower budget accommodations. Oftentimes, non-smoking rooms are designated
as smoking rooms on vacant nights. So the lingering smell
will be a pretty unpleasant surprise. When paying for your accommodations
in person, bigger chains accept credit cards.
But smaller ryokans only take cash. So always have some
yen bills on hand as a backup. All right, Super Travelers. It’s pop quiz time. Let's test your knowledge about this
section and the one from before. This one's advanced. But here it goes. Okay, so you've landed in Tokyo and you're
staying in the city to tour for the day. But for tomorrow, you're planning to travel to Kyoto
to experience staying an authentic ryokan. How do you get around
and what pass or passes would you buy? The Japan Rail pass? The IC card? Regular tickets? Explain your choice in the comments. Now that you know exactly where
you'd like to stay when you visit Japan, where in the calendar
should you slot your upcoming adventure? With the incredible scenery and events
that change each month, choosing your ideal travel window
takes some thought. Let's explore
what Japan has to offer during each season so you can map out a trip that’s timed
perfectly for you. Here's a mind blower for you. Did you know that each year
over 100 million people search for information
about the best time to travel to Japan? This means that there are over 300,000 people
searching for this information every day. It seems everyone wants a piece
of the land of the rising sun, and they want it just at the right moment.
But don't worry. I'll give you a breakdown
on the best seasons so you can plan your adventure during
the perfect moments that speak to you. Spring means one thing in Japan. Cherry blossom season. Come late March, prepare for an explosion
of cotton candy pink everywhere. This is the perfect time to fake nap
under the sakura trees for Insta-worthy Hanami pics.
But you want to book way ahead though.
Or do weekday trips before the crowds hit. Fair warning. You'll be competing
with thousands of others in places
like Ueno Park or Hirosaki Castle. Summer is hot, but it's also super lively
with beach vibes and nonstop festivals. Make a splash at waterparks
or escape the humidity in more northern locations
like Hokkaido. From June onward, always pack umbrellas. Rainy season means weeks of wet weather,
but the payoff is gorgeous, lush scenery. You’ll just have to try sampling street food
and a little bit of a drizzle. In my opinion,
fall is the jackpot for natural beauty. Cooler temperatures
with vivid red maple leafs... Yes, please! You can do leaf peeping right in spots
like Nikko, Kamikōchi, and Daisetsuzan. But skip the crazy weekend crowds. Weekdays are your new best friend. And then you can soak your trail-
weary bones in an open air Onsen hot spring. Just pure heaven. Come December, snow
bunnies and Christmas lovers rejoice. Will you choose powder perfection
in Niseko, or illuminations in Osaka? Take your pick,
but just don't visit during New Year's, when families
shut down everything for celebration. Beyond climate, whatever you plan to do while you're in
Japan also determines the ideal timing. History buffs, spring or fall allow for temple hopping
without the risk of a heat stroke. Anime fans target October for Comic Con
and cool geeky pilgrimages. Foodies get autumn seafood harvests, but spring has sakura sweets. And speaking of, be sure to check out this
fun Short on Momiji Manju. It's the perfect prep to get you ready for tasting
one of Japan's most famous treats. And here's another money
saving tip for you. Search for airfares directly on Asian
airline websites like ANA and JAL. While sites like Expedia
or your local airline can be convenient, you may find cheaper fares
by going directly to the Japanese airline websites.
Even if the site is in Japanese, use Google Translate
or the English version of the site. You can sometimes save up to $300
or more per ticket. Asian airlines
also have sales and discounts that don't always show up on the American
and European sites.. So no matter your travel style, sync your dates with suitable seasons
and events for a tailored trip. But do your best to avoid the spikes
in traffic during Golden Week and Obon. Wondering what to pack when you go? Focus on versatile essentials
that will mix and match into outfits. It's actually possible to travel Japan
with just a carry on suitcase. And speaking of, if you're in the process
of researching new carry on suitcases, check out this video where I reviewed six luggage companies in their top six
carry ons that are on the market today. Plan your wardrobe around Japan's
distinctive seasons. Spring and fall are mild. So light layers work perfectly. Summers are hot and humid,
so I'd recommend breathable fabrics that dry quickly. And winters rarely snow
except for up north. So I'd pack warm sweaters
and a medium coat. For rainy season, you're not going to be wearing too much
other than a raincoat and rain boots. And don't forget durable, comfortable
walking shoes. You'll likely clocked ten- plus miles per day, exploring huge cities
like Tokyo and Osaka. And here's a quirky
but essential Japan item. Bring a few foldable bags. They come in so handy for toting wet umbrellas,
Dirty shoes and omiyage purchases. And hand sanitizers and hand
wipes are essentials. In Japan, it's more common
to use hand dryers or heated air dryers instead of paper towels
to dry your hands after washing them. So now that you have more insight on what Japan has to offer
during the different times of the year, what's your ideal time to visit Japan? Let me know in the comments when you'd
like to go and why. Now I’ll never forget the time when my friend
had a terrifying allergic reaction at a Tokyo restaurant
on my second trip to Japan. Neither of us spoke Japanese, so we couldn't properly communicate
her medical needs. It was truly eye opening how unprepared we were. From that day on, I made it my mission
to learn every trick to streamline traveling in Japan
with dietary and allergy restrictions. Let's start with allergy prep. I now always carry translated
cards listing my medications and allergies to flash at restaurants.
And I practice basic Japanese phrases for communicating
about ingredients in emergencies. When you have dietary restrictions
in Japan, finding truly authentic meals
takes some savvy. Here's a pro-tip, though. Rather than just googling words like sushi or ramen, use the Japanese
kanji characters. Reviews in Japanese
are more likely by locals who know the great spots, beyond
tourist traps. And use Google Translate to find vegan, gluten free
or other specific dishes in Japanese. Here's a quick tip. When you're using Google Translate,
you can actually use the camera function to take pictures of menus
that are in Japanese and decipher what allergy information
or ingredients might be listed. And also I haven't
fully researched this anecdote yet. But I've been told that in tourist traps,
sometimes the prices on the Japanese menu are lower than the ones that are
in English or another language. I don't know if that's true,
but it's worth checking out. And for my vegan and vegetarian friends,
you'll be pleased to know that the Happy Cow
app is alive and well in Japan. To bridge communication gaps, order international allergy cards
before your trip. Sites like foodallergy.org create
bilingual cards for food allergies, intolerances
and other dietary needs. These can be life savers. I’ll link to the site below. Okay, let's pause there. Based on what we've covered so far,
do you feel fully equipped to effectively communicate your dietary needs in Japan
and respond to food emergencies? Share your thoughts or ask any questions
in the comments below. Beyond cards, it's important to know what to do
solo in an emergency. For potentially life- threatening allergies, carry emergency medication
like epinephrine auto injectors. And print a bilingual list of allergy
symptoms and clear instructions on when to administer your meds. You can also get this vital sheet
through the link below. Review the steps with your doctor
before you leave and have multiple copies to share. Being prepared with a plan
can save critical minutes. Speaking of epinephrine, just know that the EpiPen is the only auto
injector that sold in Japan. So if you use something else at home,
be sure to get the right prescription. When flying, airport security
will want to see all the labels and prescription details
that match your medication. You can make it easy
by getting a physician's letter outlining the required meds
for your food allergy, as part of a travel health plan.
This will prevent a lot of hassles. All right. So we've covered allergy and diet
planning from A to Z. And now that you're equipped to dine
with confidence. Let's make sure that you're fully prepped
for any other health or safety situations that may come up. In 2018,
a British woman was arrested entering Japan
with .39 grams of marijuana. She was sentenced to two years in prison. This case shows the severity
of Japan's drug and medication laws. But follow the rules closely
and you'll be fine. First, triple check
that all the medicines and medications that you're planning on bringing in
are fully legal in Japan. Rules differ from home. So even common drugs like Adderall
or cough sirup with codeine are prohibited without special approval.
And don't assume. Carefully review Japan's guidelines. Penalties for undeclared restricted
medications are severe. Do not risk it
and declare all medicines when arriving. Better safe than sorry. And just a quick pro-tip. Keep digital copies of your prescriptions,
medical history, etc. in a secure online vault that you can
easily access from your phone. Outside of your personal medication needs, it's important to come to Japan, prepare
for any unexpected situations may arise. You can start by saving key
emergency numbers in your phone, like 110 for police and 119 for ambulance. Japan Helpline
also offers 24/7 English guidance. And take a photo of your hotel
and your hotel's address. In Japanese and in English. So that you can show your taxi or ambulance drivers
how to get back to your hotel at any time. And I know this is a lot of information
to remember. So check the link below. I've created a free editable, emergency
travel guide that includes a checklist for all the travel, documentation, medication
and allergy information that we've covered. If you want to take an extra step
in protecting yourself o your trip, Travel Insurance provides invaluable
peace of mind if the unexpected pops up like it did with my friend. When buying insurance, verify the policy covers
what matters most. Medical cancellations, valuables, and risky activities
that you may plan to do. Purchase it
within 15 days of your first booking. Travel Insurance can come in
handy in the most unexpected situations. For example, say you break your leg skiing
and you require surgery and hospitalization for two days. Your policy
could cover the $5,000 medical fees and evacuate you home safely,
instead of leaving you with a huge bill. And speaking of, for medical emergencies,
knowing how to explain symptoms and allergies
in Japanese could save critical time. Have your emergency translations on hand. Also bring a basic health travel kit. Pain relievers upset stomach AIDS, motion sickness, meds, bandages, extra contacts, etc. Whatever you normally need, bring it along.
But be sure you declare it at customs. All right. We've got health and safety
prep covered. Now let's switch gears to an equally
critical documentation preparation. Having your passport,
visa and customs details sorted smooths the way to an incredible trip. Your passport is your ticket to Japan. Be sure it has at least two
totally blank pages for stamps and at least six months of validity
remaining after your trip end date. Airlines can deny your boarding
if these requirements aren’t met. And if the airlines happen to overlook it
and it's discovered in Japan, they will send you right back
home on a return flight. For US citizens, you won't need a tourist
visa for stays under 90 days. But for other nationalities, Japan's
visa rules vary widely. So do your homework well in advance as the application involves
paperwork, interviews and processing time. And here's a super important pro-
tip. Double check visa requirements for any other Asian countries
that you may plan to visit. In addition to Japan,
the rules can differ country to country and your onward travel plans
will be checked at the border in Japan. So you want to make sure that you have
your next destination sorted out before arriving in Japan. And register
your trip details with your home country’s
Consulate in Japan before departure. Oh, and leave a copy of your passport
photo page with a trusted contact back at home. You never know when having a backup
digital copy might come in handy. Now quick public service announcement..
Entry rules for Japan have changed dramatically
since reopening their borders. Make 100% sure that the current visa guidance
that you see online applies to your trip dates
and then triple check that any forms are updated versions.
And even greater news! As of May 2023, Japan has lifted all COVID
related entry restrictions. No more needing to show proof of vaccines
negative test results. It’s now just two quick stops; Immigration and Customs.
And you're on your way to enjoying Japan. Even better, you can complete those in
advanced online through Visit Japan Web. I'll be going over how to breeze
through customs using this magical app. And there's one trick for saving money
when you shop in Japan that you won't want to miss. Now, a quick but critical note
about carrying your passport. You must carry your passport on you
at all times in Japan. And the reason is simple. It's the only definitive proof
that you're legally in Japan and that you're not a Japanese citizen. Your entry stamp is vital. Carrying just a photocopy
or a photo on your phone is not sufficient documentation. if you fail to produce
your actual passport when it's requested by authorities, the police can escort
you back to your hotel to retrieve it. And at worst, you could face a hefty
fine up to ¥100,000. That's not an ideal hit to your vacation
budget. Beyond police checks,
you'll also need your passport itself when you're exchanging rail passes,
checking in hotels, making tax free purchases
and more during your stay in Japan. Get your documents in order and the rest
of your planning will fall in place. Let me know if you need any clarification
the visa rules or paperwork specifics. Now that your documents are prepped,
let's talk about sailing through Immigration and Customs
seamlessly. While it's not mandatory,
I highly recommend using the Visit Japan Web app to skip the hassle of paper
forms and lines. But if you prefer old school methods, Immigration cards are available
before checkpoints or on your flight. Oh, and here's the amazing money
saving pro-tip. Use the app to get a tax free
shopping QR code. Just scan the QR code
at participating stores and they'll deduct the tax
from your purchases. But be aware, tax
free shopping comes with important rules. Here are some of them.
You must personally export the items unopened and unused. Consuming
or gifting them in Japan forfeits the tax exemption.
Keep receipts as proof of purchase, and to reclaim tax if needed at customs.
Tax evasion by not possessing exempt items on departure
can incur fines up to ¥500,000. Just to break that down
a little bit for you, it basically means if you buy
something in Japan that's tax exempt, but you try to leave the country
without that item unused, that's considered tax evasion. As long as you adhere to the guidelines, tax free shopping
can save you big on souvenirs and gifts. The Visit Japan Web app is pretty magical
and it makes the process incredibly smooth. Let me know in the comments below
if you have any other questions on using this time saving app
or on the tax free shopping rules. I'm happy to make a video walking through how to use the app
if it might be helpful for the community. Before we continue, if you're finding this
Japan Travel guide helpful so far, please take a moment to subscribe. I'll be releasing many more videos
to help you plan an incredible trip not only in Tokyo
but throughout the rest of Japan. So hit the bell
to be notified of nnew Japan content. Your support really keeps me
creating useful resources. Arigato, friends. Now that you're document ready, let's switch gears to etiquette. Mastering Japanese customs reveals a passageway
to unraveling this captivating culture. From precision bowing to removing shoes, let's explore the code of conduct
that makes Japan so wonderfully unique. It begins with a bow. Not just any bow, but a precise motion, engrained since childhood. A slight head nod or lean for casual interactions. But bend full at the waist
for formal greetings. Holding for a few seconds
to convey deep respect. The depth and duration relay the appropriate level of deference. And now you've had your first lesson
on the proper way to shake hands in Japan. Fascinating, right? The more you take the time to immerse yourself, the more you will enjoy
the beauty of personal expansion that international travel has to offer.
Beyond the basics, be aware of these cultural customs. Never stick
chopsticks brazenly upright in rice. It eerily mimics funeral
incense. Pass dishes and pour drinks with your arm fully extended, avoiding reaching over others. Slurp your noodles
to exclaim your satisfaction and leave your chopsticks resting
politely horizontal to signal contentment. In most Japanese restaurants,
you'll be given a small wet cloth to clean your fingers. Use it. Fold it neatly.
And lay it on the side of your plate. Never use it to wash your face or clean up
spilled food and drink. It's not a napkin. It's officially called an oshibori. So be prepared. In transit, voices remain muted and activities
restricted on trains. Chatter softly and stand to the left
on escalators, allowing passengers to breeze by on the right. And if your neighbor happens to fall
asleep and their head hit your shoulder, it’s common courtesy
in Japan to just let them keep sleeping. Oh, and don't use your mobile phone
in trains unless it's clearly allowed to do so. Using emails or SMS is fine though.
For drinking customs, wait for the host to give an enthusiastic
“Kanpai!” before indulging in your beverage. Never hastily pour your own drink. Someone will promptly notice
and politely take over the pouring duties. Remove your shoes gracefully upon entering homes, temples
or traditional restaurants and museums. Separate bathroom
slippers are inside of restrooms in homes,
since exterior footwear is not permitted. Gifting necessitates care and consideration. Say, “Ojama shimasu,” while entering someone's house,
and always offer a small token intricately wrapped present it
with both hands and a slight bow. Never open a gift publicly, though. Wait respectfully until later
and then profusely compliment the gift and the sender.
The way that I found this one out is that I once shamefully tore open
a gift at dinner before my host schooled me in proper proper etiquette. Another lesson learned. Now let's explore
some customs outside of the home. Blowing your nose or applying makeup? Not the best idea to do in public. Discreetly slip away to handle
your private business In private. And you're going to notice pretty quickly
that Japan's streets are immaculately clean from litter and gum. You'll be hard
pressed to find a trash can anywhere. Be prepared to adopt the habit of carrying
waste with you until you return home. I mean, not home-home on your flight,
but back to your hotel room. Those plastic bags you packed
will definitely come in handy. Now, there are some customs
that might seem quirky, but it's important to respect them in Japan. In Japan, the number four is avoided because in Japanese,
the word “four” sounds like death. The number four is extremely unlucky. I have 4 facts around the number four. Number one.
You must always avoid giving anyone something in fours because it can be seen
as a very ominous gift. Number two. Elevator labels
will often be missing a fourth floor. Number three. In extreme
cases, buildings will not have floors 40 to 49. Number 49 is especially unlucky,
as it sounds similar to the phrase that means, “painful
until death.” And number four. The
the practice of avoiding the number four is called Tetraphobia. And it's common in many East
Asian and Southeast Asian regions. Okay. I'm adding a fifth one out of respect
and possibly out of my own superstitions as well. Number five. Seems that very few Japanese
people really care about this superstition nowadays. But just be aware
since it's still pretty widely observed in China and Korea, where
the number four also sounds like death. I'm going to keep going, but skip ahead
if you're all “etiquetted out”. This is for the real culture lovers. There's a ban on mid-walk
snacking or drinking. It's seen as sloppy. But it is okay to eat an ice cream
cone on the street. Strange. And don't skip the line in Japan. If police see you doing it
and it's accompanied by rough behavior, like pushing, they can prosecute it
as an act of violence or intimidation. It's not punishable
by fines or imprisonment, but it's highly frowned upon
by the locals. These puzzling practices,
have profound cultural wisdom behind them. Together, they create “Wa”, a Japanese cultural concept, usually translated as societal harmony,
order and group consciousness. Disrupting Wa is disrespectful. One of the Japanese secrets
to a harmonious life is “Omotenashi”, warm hospitality and care for others. Keep an open mind and heart
as you unravel the mysteries of Japan. What intrigues
you most so far about Japanese customs? Let me know in the comments. I'm eager to hear your reactions and discuss this remarkable culture.
As we wrap up cultural insights, I want to hear from parents
and pet owners specifically. How does traveling to Japan with your kids
or pets impact your approach? Share any concerns below
about bringing your whole family or your furry friends along. And I'll make sure to cover planning
tips tailored for your next trip. When you start
dreaming of your Japan adventures, Some of you might be wondering,
‘Is it feasible to bring the kids along or my pets along?’ ‘And will they even enjoy themselves?’ Well, never fear. I'm here to assure you
that Japan has plenty of family friendly experiences and furry friendly travel
options. With a little bit of planning, you can craft a one of a kind trip
that they won't forget. Japan is truly the home of so many things kids adore. Fast trains and futuristic robots, fierce ninjas, and noble samurai. Quirky anime
cartoons and colorful manga comics. And we can't forget Super Mario games
and Hello Kitty cuteness And beyond all the flashy stuff, Japan offers intellectual curiosities
to stimulate growing minds like few other destinations can.
When it comes to dining, there are plenty of budget-friendly
options. At any standard sushi joint, meals cost a mere 800 to 1500
yen per person, including drinks. And restaurants
traditionally served chilled tea or water free of charge. For something
extra fun, visit themed eateries devoted to cute
characters like Hello Kitty. The Kawaii Monster Cafe is also a huge
favorite when you're on a budget. Hot Ramen bowls and Bento Box meals
from vending machines or convenience stores can fill your little bellies
for 500 to ¥800. And now for the best part. Activities. My top recommended kid pleasers include robot shows, digital art museums,
rainbow candy making, kimono wearing, feeding the deer in Nara, and screaming through the Fuji Q
Highland roller coasters. I'll link to a quick kids list
that I've created for planning out your trip
for the little one. Because I'm just scratching the surface
here. Speaking of scratching, we can't forget our little furry friends.
Here are some tips for smooth travels. Start prepping about 4 to 5 months ahead. That's not a suggestion. It's a requirement.
Vet visits are key to getting your pet in tip top shape. Address
any health issues, get vaccinations up to date and confirm
that they meet the weight and size limits. Rules are really strict in Japan
when it comes to pets, so get checkups, vaccinations, paperwork
like rabies certifications, and import approval forms
all sorted out well in advance. And if you're planning on moving to Japan
with your pet long term, consider Professional Pet Relocators. The process is very extensive
and you don't want to go about it alone. Be sure to research Pet-friendly
lodging extensively ahead of time. Major cities like Tokyo and Osaka
have hotels that accommodate pets; some with private outdoor spaces. But many traditional inns
still prohibit animals. So also look into vacation rentals
as an alternative. Scope out pet friendly attractions
and outdoor spaces in advance, too. While pets are banned from most museums
and restaurants, some parts like midges in Meiji Jingu in Tokyo, or Nara Park,
allow leashed pets. Unfortunately, options are limited,
so you’ll have to maximize your time at pet-approved spots. Remember that
trash cans are sparse throughout the city. While picking up your pet's waste,
You might have to travel quite a while before
finding a receptacle to throw it in. Now I'll say it again. Traveling with the pet in Japan is much
more of a process than you would think. So don't use this
as your final stop for prep. I haven't even touched on
their microchipping and rabies policies. Please do your research
on what you'll need for approval. And you cannot wait
until the last minute on this one. Overall, the key to family travel in Japan is balancing must-see attractions
with plenty of free time to wander the hidden back streets as you discover
this enchanting country together. Slow down and savor
each moment as a family. Okay, parents let me know in the comments. Does a Japan vacation
with your kids or pets sound exciting or overwhelming? Share your biggest hopes and concerns
for family travel in Japan. I'll make sure to cover planning insights
that speak to your needs. Alright. Let's shift gears to a super important
topic. Making sure your tech is prepped. But first, if you're finding this
Japan guide helpful, please take just a second to hit
that like button. It really supports me in creating more useful resources
to encourage international travel. And be sure to check out my website
for free downloadable travel planning kits and itineraries. Okay. Back to the tech tips. While Tokyo is home to the world's
largest public Wi-Fi network with a network of over 100,000 Wi-Fi
hotspots throughout the city, it's still important that you make
arrangements for your own connectivity for privacy and cell phone use
while you travel through Japan. Option 1 is renting a pocket wi-fi device. These portable routers can be picked up
at the airport when you land. Power it on and instantly you've got a Wi-Fi hotspot
to connect all of your devices. Your phone,
your tablet, your laptop, everything. Pocket wi-fi rental plans
typically offer unlimited data at speeds good enough for web browsing, posts, basic
streaming, and watching my YouTube videos. And you can share the connection with your whole family or group.
When your trip ends, you just pop the router into a prepaid return envelope
and drop it into any mailbox. Or you can just return it at the airport
on your way out. It's so easy. If traveling solo, or
if you prefer to not have to carry around a pocket wi-fi, a local SIM card
for your unlocked phone is another choice. At electronic shops you can buy a SIM, pop it in your phone
and have data everywhere instantly. The convenient thing is that SIMs let you pay
for only the data amount that you need. Navigating Tokyo's maze-like railway networks and subway
system can seem really daunting. But apps like Google Maps and Hyperdia,
and Tokyo Subway Nav, simplify everything with comprehensive route
planning schedules and station layouts. And don't forget portable chargers
and power adapters that are suited for Japan's unique
outlets. My preferred charger is Anker. They make a great lightweight pocket
charger that has high capacity. And a travel surge protector
can prevent your gadgets from fried during power spikes.
And here are some important privacy tips. While you're out exploring, only connect
to password protected reputable wi-fi networks. Save your banking and sensitive logins for complete security back at your hotel.
And use a VPN service like NordVPN
for encrypted protection on public wi-fi. Enable two factor authentication
whenever possible. Let me know in the comments
if you need any other advice on smooth tech and internet capabilities in Japan.
I have plenty of other travel accessories and apps that I can absolutely recommend
to make your travel even smoother. Now at this point, you're
probably realizing that while you have a great foundation, there's still so more
that you need to know to transform these preparation
tips into an actual vacation itinerary. Although you now understand the essentials
for getting trip ready, you won't be able to bring this knowledge to life until you know how to put together
the perfect travel route, build activities into your days
and match the sites with your interests. That's why in my next video,
I've designed the ideal Tokyo travel itinerary
that's tailored exactly to new visitors. It’s packed with information
on all the best places to visit, in a magically cinematic way. And also check out this next video. We're we'll dive even further into
the wonders of traveling throughout Japan. I can't wait to help you map out
the journey of a lifetime in Japan. Until next time, Sayonara from Tokyo.
