Do this before you arrive in Japan | Updated FIRST HOURS IN JAPAN 2024

[@NinjaMonkeyguy]

Thumbs up the Video!! Help the channel! :)

[@mitchellk1269]

I don’t think there’s anything in Tokyo I’m interested in. My interests are in culture, art, history & food. Places like Uji, Kyoto, Hiroshima, Okunoin Cemetery, Mount Fuji & Osaka interest me a million times more than Disney, Manga & Pokemon. Pretty much most of what is west of Tokyo. I don’t drink or enjoy touristy nightlife or shopping. Guess I’m not your typical tourist.

[@towada1066]

@@mitchellk1269 For culture in Tokyo, I think the museums in Ueno are extremely good. If you like Nihonga style of painting, the Yamatane Museum of Art in Shibuya City is great and not typically visited by foreign tourists. Then, if you speak Japanese, the National Noh Theatre puts on some very good performances. If you like cemeteries, there is Yanaka Reien. It has the graves of the last Tokugawa shogun and Shibusawa Eiichi. Aside from Minamiza and Nishihonganji, I don't particularly care for Kyoto and Kyoto people. They are so snobbish, they look down on the rest of Japan and some even discriminate against other Kyoto people.

[@LetsExplore307]

As someone who is visiting Japan in just 5 months (can't believe it) this is so helpful actually all your videos are.

[@NinjaMonkeyguy]

Im glad you can make use of the videos for your upcoming trip!

[@defaultchan2115]

Ive been to japan many a times. but i always love listening to everyone's guide to have the best time in japan. Great video

[@NinjaMonkeyguy]

Glad you enjoyed it!

[@ellenkorang6670]

Thank you for the air tag idea, I’ll be travelling to japan in September for the first time on my own 😅so I’m very grateful for the advice 😊

[@NinjaMonkeyguy]

Glad to help

[@toshgreenfunko]

Going back to Japan This Fall Season. Cant wait.

[@NinjaMonkeyguy]

fall is a great time... anytime is a great time hehe

[@Stephanie-v7t]

Me too!

[@aa240sx]

So - why does noone every mention Hokuriku Arch Pass. Every YT video mentions JR pass is no longer a value, but noone ever offers the alternative. So if you're going to Kyoto or Osaka, get the 7 day Hokuriku Arch Pass. Just got back from a 14 day visit to Japan and this was pass is worth it. The route is relatively new now that the Kagayaki goes all the way to Tsuruga but you now save a little more time too! The only issue you may encounter is the lack of ekiben options if you do a round trip back to Tokyo as the Tsuruga station has only a 7-11.

[@NinjaMonkeyguy]

I've mentioned the Hokuriku Arch Pass many times on this channel in many other videos and guides, and in this video I do mention checking out Regional Passess as a good alternative to the JR pass. The Hokuriku Arch pass since its price increase earlier this year, although still more affordable is no longer the clear cut winner that it used to be. A lot of people would rather pay the little difference to travel directly to to Kyoto / Osaka from Tokyo (A big mistake in my opinion)

[@Casmar27]

I was looking into that pass myself to save money but I found cheaper shinkansen tix for around $73 that it ended up saving me $100 for 2 people.

[@rooster12ification]

@@aa240sx YT video?

[@momckids]

Can you do a short video of using the “japantravel” app to navigate the train platforms… seems self explanatory but in practice, it might be confusing for first timers! I’m practicing “riding the routes” in theory but I’m NOT confident at all!! Coming there in 2 weeks 😂😂 TY

[@NinjaMonkeyguy]

I have a very comprehensive video on navigation around Tokyo / Japan Conquer The world's Craziest Train system: TOKYO kzbin.info/www/bejne/pZewc5abi8t6oq8

[@SA-1976]

Book a flight which departs your country in the evening if you are from europe or the americas so you can sleep while travelling

[@NinjaMonkeyguy]

That’s what I always try to do!

[@Lei-ib1ok]

Thanks!

[@NinjaMonkeyguy]

Thanks for support it means a lot!

[@nobodynothing00000]

going back to Japan for 2 weeks next april to catch the start of nippon baseball league. I haven't decided if I'm going to take a 3 or 4 day side trip to South Korea during that time. Anyway I plan to stay in Hiroshima most of the time, go Carp!

[@thomasrosastvgr]

Thanks. We are in Busan now going to Tokyo for the first time on Saturday. From Norway first time in the Easter Asia.

[@NinjaMonkeyguy]

Busan is lovely too! Enjoy

[@just7shosho]

Thank you so much. Could you please do a video about Kansai International Airport? I will arrive there and I can't find information about it

[@NinjaMonkeyguy]

Ive only flown into Kansai international Airport a few but as there really is only one airport and very straight forward as taking the JR Haruka Airport Express to travel between Osaka, Kyoto and Kansai International Airport take around 75-80 minutes and is direct

[@yelystanich5834]

Well done! Thanks for all the great tips and with a SMILE.

[@NinjaMonkeyguy]

glad it can help

[@BreezyYung]

Does using the suica card count as "cash only" to board the train into tokyo?

[@NinjaMonkeyguy]

Cash only? if something is Cash only then an IC card like a suica will not work.. but you can still use it to purchase the physical ticket.. If you are travelling into Tokyo from Airports most will accept IC card unless it is a transport option that specifically needs a reserved seat

[@jimross7648]

I tried to watch on early release but it was four in the morning and needed some sleep 😴. As always, all the info one needs to know. Well done. 👍

[@rommelflores2618]

Been there done that. I have a very enjoyable trip to Tokyo Japan last April with family. The only thing is language barrier when going to the JR stations that we enjoyed some hassles along the way missing the station or going to the wrong way haha. The Japan effect still lingers as I'm hooked collecting anime figures as my joy just need to manage the budget!

[@NinjaMonkeyguy]

The Japan effect got you! welcome to the club

[@rommelflores2618]

@@NinjaMonkeyguy oh no 😬

[@dwalker6868]

Thank you so much again for the information duly noted

[@Lei-ib1ok]

Great tips for people visiting Japan. The family is visiting mid to end of November this year, what’s your recommendation which transit card I should buy? We’re visiting 4 days Tokyo then fly to Osaka 4 days and do a one day trip to Kyoto. Thanks!

[@NinjaMonkeyguy]

Since you are flying to Osaka then you dont need to worry about the shinkansen or the JR pass.. Any IC card you get your hands on will mostly be interchangeable. if you are doing many trips around TOkyo you might want to check out the Tokyo wide pass

[@Lei-ib1ok]

I appreciate so much for your response! 😊

[@ediaz100]

Excellent video, Nathan! I’m heading back to Japan in a few months along with 3 first timers. I just shared this video with them as I’ve done with some of your others! Arigato!🇯🇵⛩️🤙🏻

[@NinjaMonkeyguy]

Thanks for sharing!

[@viviprince7284]

Oh hey that's exactly my situation too! I hope ya'll have a good time!💯

[@TotallyAtopiaYT]

Great video! I will be in japan first time with my family December 16th I was wondering would you mind making a video about halal food places to eat?

[@NinjaMonkeyguy]

As I don’t eat halal I’m not too sure but I’m trying to reach out to other content creators who might want to collaborate to help me make one

[@JillBudgie]

i will be arriving japan this october, but will be going to hong kong also for a weekend and coming back to japan, will i need to fill out the japan web twice?

[@NinjaMonkeyguy]

Yes

[@mishainwonderland8970]

I can't go to Japan until next year 😢. Please do live sometimes when you are in Japan so i can feel in Japan too

[@NinjaMonkeyguy]

I will be live most days from happy gaijin channel and will try to continue doing a stream on Sundays on ninja monkey!

[@psprog]

Good refresher - I head over again next week! You can get normal Suica cards at the airport - my friends who flew out for the first time in April and who I met with said there was a stand at Narita where they got the full fat Suica. Nice - I was expecting them to brandish the Visitor ones... Interesting about the passport - I never ever carry it out and about (unless tax free shopping). I'll take a chance and leave it in the hotel as usual next week ;)

[@NinjaMonkeyguy]

interestingly I was only there a few weeks ago and investigated and didnt see this but its good to know!

[@etherdog]

Very good video, Nathan! You covered the basics well.

[@NinjaMonkeyguy]

I appreciate that!

[@Tonyis138]

Thanks for the new upload bro!

[@NinjaMonkeyguy]

you are welcome!

[@alex8426]

Thank you for the updates. Do you have any recommendation for a small group tour guide? I think you'll be a perfect candidate :) I'm planning to go to Japan next spring.

[@NinjaMonkeyguy]

I can recommend a friend for Osaka/ Nara

[@axios101]

I will arrive without Yen, but with the Revolut account "quite" full and a few credit cards of different circuits... and a Suica...😁

[@NinjaMonkeyguy]

I recommend you have some yen even if it’s a little bit in your wallet

[@atloos]

Visiting in 4 days, comes in handy

[@NinjaMonkeyguy]

great!!

[@Lei-ib1ok]

For the pocket wifi, we’re only staying about 6 days in Tokyo then flying to Osaka for 5 days, do I have to return the device in Tokyo? Then rent again when we go to Osaka?

[@NinjaMonkeyguy]

Nope! You can use it all around Japan and when finished simply post it back before you leave

[@Lei-ib1ok]

@ what do you mean by post it back? Also, is this something I can just get in the airport once I reserved it?

[@NinjaMonkeyguy]

@ you can put it in the letter box to post it back, select either to collect at airport or receive at your hotel ( I always prefer hotel) you can use my affiliate link found on www.ninjasaru.com if you want

[@Lei-ib1ok]

@@NinjaMonkeyguyYes, once we decided esim or pocket wifi, we’ll use your link. Thanks much always for prompt response!

[@henriquefelix]

Awesome videos as usual. Thanks for the tips.

[@NinjaMonkeyguy]

Thank you

[@FollowTheSunAustralia]

I'm here through the magic porthole

[@NinjaMonkeyguy]

That’s pretty awesome haha

[@TheRedValue]

Kamakura Buddha right at the start. I like 😁

[@NinjaMonkeyguy]

that Buddha is popular!

[@yuisatoru1597]

Hi, this is my 1dt ever.... Just making sure... Do I complete the immigration documents after getting my visa and after booking flight and hotels right

[@NinjaMonkeyguy]

depends where you are from, some countries require visas to be arranged before arrival whilst other countries have agreements with Japan for visa free tourist travel . If your country needs a Visa then you'll need to get this sorted before.

[@axios101]

A question about filling (online or physically) the custom/immigration forms: the "how many days" information is to be considered in "full days" or just by a portion of day? I mean: I will land in Japan around 10:20 (local time) the second day of the month in the morning and I will depart the 29th of the same month, around 13:20 (local time) so I will be there for... 28 days, correct (even if I will not spend the full last day in the Country)?

[@NinjaMonkeyguy]

if you are there for part of the day consider it a day

[@axios101]

@@NinjaMonkeyguy Thanks so much!

[@dfvsmaster]

@9:30 if I have a creditcard with no fees on exchanging or withdrawing money in japan. Where would be the benefit in the "wise" card?

[@NinjaMonkeyguy]

the benefit is that you can lock exchange the rate you want and keep it in your balance at that rate.. thats also the disadvantage as the rate can improve!

[@dfvsmaster]

@NinjaMonkeyguy in read online that it isn't trustworthy and that a lot of people didn't get their money, so I'm really unsure about that. And now I am wondering if it really is worth the risk or if I just should get a normal credit card. Is there any other benefit to it? Like where you can use it or is it the same as with every other visa credit card?

[@NinjaMonkeyguy]

@@dfvsmaster ive been using Revolut for years and years with no issues, but always go with your feeling

[@mirtadha]

im first time travel to japan qustion whean book hotel and whean i arrive to hotel did ineed pye one more becuse i already pey in travel egancy?

[@NinjaMonkeyguy]

If you already payed the full amount t you shouldn’t need to pay again it depends on what you paid .. you will need to present your passport

[@manuvital9071]

Once I disembark plane (from USA), and give officer hand filled form, does the immigration officer ask me questions? I don't speak Japanese. Questions like: show me proof of my return flight out of Japan? Or, addresses of all the different cities I plan to vacation through? . I'm worried Iwon't understand officer. Do they Xray bags in customs to look for medicines?I need to travel with them. Thanks in Advance. Wonderful video!

[@NinjaMonkeyguy]

They might ask you questions depending on your Passport not your point of origin, It is rare but it can happen. If they did need to ask you any serious questions then like in any airport there would be some English involved. If you are worried about medication then best clear it up with them BEFORE you leave for Japan to save you stress and time

[@lyrafeeney893]

So I can attach a travel card to my apple wallet and use that to refill my digital suica card? I’ve herd that you can’t refill a digital Suica with a Visa credit card :( and I’d rather not have a physical card since I have an iPhone

[@NinjaMonkeyguy]

I use Revolut and Wise travel cards to create a virtual apple pay card to top up my suica yup! .. just remember the system is down every day between midnight and around 4AM Japan time so it wouldnt work to set up or top up between those times

[@lyrafeeney893]

@@NinjaMonkeyguy Thanks!

[@JSN723]

Are Shinkansens busy in the morning? My friends are arriving in Japan the night before I arrive the next morning. We are meeting in Shinagawa to take the Shinkansen to Osaka to start our trip. Do you think reserve seats are necessary? This would be on a Tuesday. We would probably be taking the Shinkansen around 10 am.

[@NinjaMonkeyguy]

if they are travelling solo its not too much of an issue, but yes they can get busy in the morning

[@JSN723]

@@NinjaMonkeyguy it would be me plus two friends so three people trying to sit by each other. I’ve been to Japan solo twice but they’ve never been so im the guide this time and never had to travel with others until this Nov. Anyway, thanks!

[@mimistak]

What was your luggage tracker ?? Does it work ??

[@NinjaMonkeyguy]

iphone: Airtag

[@edga4586]

Is there a minimum age to visit the yokocho? I have 17 year old twins, should I visit those without them?

[@NinjaMonkeyguy]

Although these are geared towards 20+ year olds as thats the drinking age, as a tourist you'll probably be fine. All depending also on how your twins portray themselves. It's like any thing, some places might be fine others might not.. so simply read the room or go on your own to start with and feel it out and see how it goes, whats the worse that can happen? if the atmosphere or feeling isnt right just leave :)

[@edga4586]

@@NinjaMonkeyguy thanks!

[@OnlyOneNights]

Good stuff, dude!

[@NinjaMonkeyguy]

Hey, thanks!

[@85timng]

Question, if I purchase a welcome suica card, can I choose how much credit to add to the card and can I pay by card? Also, if I need to top my suica card, can I top up with card or is it cash only? Thanks!

[@NinjaMonkeyguy]

Once you purchase the welcome suica card you need to top it up and this can only be done with cash. These cards usually come preloaded with either 1000 or 2000 yen. If you have an iphone I highly suggest you setup and use a digital suica instead

[@GrR-c4s]

My passport expires in october. If i replace it in october it wont have a problem traveling novemberm

[@NinjaMonkeyguy]

as long as its valid when you travel, either way always confirm with the embassy of the country you are traveling to

[@axios101]

And... forgive my "fixation" 😅, BUT... If will go to the specific JR EAST office (not just the simple Ticket Office or "Midori no Madoguchi") to buy a physical SUICA, would I be able to ask for a "MY SUICA" (the one with the name printed on it) version???

[@mr.jellyfish5544]

Nope, but you might be able get your name on it by inserting in the machines once you get the card, and have it registered through there.

[@NinjaMonkeyguy]

No the MY suica is not available right now

[@axios101]

@@mr.jellyfish5544 Thanks, I will try doing this or asking (it seems it should be enough to ask to a "Midori no Madoguchi" desk staff)

[@axios101]

I will try "converting" it using machines...😁

[@revanshy498]

Is revolut your number 1 recommendation for travel card?

[@NinjaMonkeyguy]

Its a travel card that has worked for me with minor issues

[@revanshy498]

@@NinjaMonkeyguy what are some of the issues?

[@NinjaMonkeyguy]

@@revanshy498 no different to other cards

[@generalgopnik1026]

Does the customs ask for cash money or I just can show my Yen in wise and withdraw later when exit the customs?

[@NinjaMonkeyguy]

its only the cash you are importing physically

[@mirtadha]

is it ok take with me only back bag?

[@NinjaMonkeyguy]

If it suits your style of travel then yes.

[@fertonani]

Thanks 😊

[@KingTheFifa]

Very informative video, very nice. However, I do have a question about Welcome Suica/Passmo Passport. Are they not discontinuing them? The passmo site even says that as of 6,25 2024 passmo passports will no longer be available. As someone who is visiting japan at the end of the month, I would highly appreciate some kind of info regarding this issue, or tipps what to purchase instead :D. Thank you very much.

[@NinjaMonkeyguy]

Welcome suica / normal suica continues pasmo and suica are operated by two different companies

[@KingTheFifa]

@@NinjaMonkeyguy First of all, thank you for the quick response. Second, I know they are run by different by companies but as far as I know, you can only get welcome suica in Haneda airport and passmo passport only in narita, right? Due to chip shortages the normal suica card or the normal passmo card are not available anymore. Therefore when they discontinue the ic cards specially made for tourists, you can not really get any IC cards in tokyo, or am I mistaken?

[@NinjaMonkeyguy]

@@KingTheFifa the only one discontinued is Pasmo paport.. Welcome suica and normal suica continue which you can get

[@series25a]

How does Visit Japan Web if you have a job overseas and moving there for work? The site is saying to give how long you’re gonna be there but its for a job so i dont know how long i will be there. I am curious because i go there in a few months for work but there is no timeframe of end work.

[@NinjaMonkeyguy]

My channel mainly focuses on tourism entry but if you enter for work then your work should provide a contract with the necessary information to fill in or entry procedures. You will also need a first address when entering Japan

[@goober_]

perfect!

[@towada1066]

hmmm,... sometimes I wonder how many farmers lost their land to create Narita Airport ... even one shrine had to be moved to enlarge Haneda. These things make me sad when I have to go back to Japan. Anyway, I think SUICA is best ... um ... for Voltage, all Japan is 100 V but frequency is different between East and West ...

[@NinjaMonkeyguy]

Suica ❤️

[@towada1066]

@@NinjaMonkeyguy though,... SUICA does not work when I need to go to Taga (Shiga Prefecture) ... station attendants checking the paper ticket seem like old days ! (^_^) ... I feel like I should be wearing tonbi cloak and straw hat !

[@evelynosakwe4671]

@@towada1066 are there taxis from Miyazu to Itami airport that leaves at 5:00AM?

[@towada1066]

@@evelynosakwe4671 I am sorry, I have one relative that lives in Osaka but we only use bus or train. Unfortunately I have to return this Summer but only to Tokyo area.

[@MrMagigreen]

pasmo passport has been discontinued

[@NinjaMonkeyguy]

this is why I say either a pasmo passport or welcome suica, these things are always changing

[@saikagyaru]

This is so helpful to make sure we don't forget something. You're very thoughtful. ARIGATO GOZAIMASU!!!🙏🏽🎉👏🏽🔥🔥🔥

[@NinjaMonkeyguy]

you are welcome

[@HacksignKT]

howdy

[@NinjaMonkeyguy]

Howdy!

[@nickganiron2730]

🇯🇵

[@rank1839]

🤓

[@gamer4ever838]

i will be arriveing 5 pm. its rush hour. i am 1 person and i have 1 big suitcase with me. i will travel from haneda to asakusa area. will there be too many people? should i take taxi instead? i have never taken train during rush hour in tokyo before

[@NinjaMonkeyguy]

I wouldnt worry too much, afternoon rush hour is nothing compared to the morning and also as most of your leg is from the airport you'll likely be able to get a seat or space .. Use the Keikyu line to get there!

[@OfFiCiAllCiNnAmOn]

you'll be fine...there's basically a direct train from haneda to asakusa without changes - keikyuu airport line...and as haneda is the first stop just get on and find a corner with your bag...if it gets busy later you'll be insulated....maybe consider losing the massive case though ;)

[@mr.jellyfish5544]

To OP: Up until Shinagawa, you are traveling in reverse peak direction and the train will likely be empty. From Shinagawa to Asakusa you will encounter some crowding, as now you are going in the peak direction from Shinagawa, but still nothing compared to AM rush hour.