16 ESSENTIAL Japan Tips for First-Time Travelers

[@InakaAdventure]

Traveling to Japan? Get JR Rail Pass & Pocket Wifi Here: click.jrpass.com/SH5O

[@Yamato-tp2kf]

06:20 - You're lucky to film the Yellow doctor entering the station... Nice!

[@KhiemNguyen-pu3ow]

1qes

[@IamWhoiam-dh8rl]

😊😊aa

[@mbjs6453]

I’m Japanese. Please carry cash with you. In particular, most shrines and temples only accept cash. And always carry 1,000 yen bill with you. There is a currency exchange machine on the bus, but 5,000 yen and 10,000 yen bill can’t be used.

[@InakaAdventure]

Every time I tell people to carry cash in my videos people comment "actually you just need a card in tokyo!" But so many places still need cash haha

[@1903Zippy]

I visited Japan about 3 years ago - because of a flight issue at Dubai I arrived in Japan about 2am. I was advised the trains wouldn't be running at that time so when waiting for my flight in Dubai to take me to Tokyo, I went online and searched for a taxi service to collect me from Haneda to my hotel in Tokyo. I was amazed at the companies in Tokyo that offered to collect me from Haneda - I booked and paid for the taxi whist waiting in Dubai. I was very sceptical about there being no Taxi there to pick me up when I arrived in Tokyo. I needn't have worried, because waiting at one of the airports exits was a taxi driver holding up a sign with my name on it. A fantastic service. Yes the taxi was expensive (cost me about £110) but because the flight delay in Dubai wasn't my fault, my insurance company refunded me most of that cost. £110 is expensive but for the peace of mind and no hassle, I'd do it again. Oh and Japan was wonderful. I am going back soon. If you're thinking of going - do it, you won't regret it & you'll meet some of the most polite, helpful people you could wish to meet. 👍

[@InakaAdventure]

That's a really good tip! I never take taxi's (unless I'm in Korea) but kinda envious that I havn't experienced a driver waiting with a sign for me. Maybe ill give it a try if i get a random flight next time!

[@izanagisora]

Will I am planning to go to Japan ( in order to live and work there)after I complete my colleague years ( I am a first year student and about to begin the second after 2 months or so) I am learning the language from this moment ( I have begin about few days With words and sentence of n5 Ans Planning to learning hiragana and katana as will in the due time)

[@NYBORN2012]

There is very little to worry about with anything you need or do in Japan. We travel to Japan each year for a few months and a driver is there waiting for us around 4:30 AM. We are exhausted, but he is energized and ready to take us away. We love Japan and the respect that people have for each other for us.

[@KS-zd4ew]

Thanks for the insurance tip

[@BeX32210]

Nice tips and great presentation! My points that i missed in your video: Plan enough time for your trip. It takes time to accommodate. So rather than the usual one or two weeks, add two or three days, otherwise it will feel rushed. It also allows you to take cheaper flights during the week. And: You don't need to use the JR Pass for your whole stay or beyond that; You can spend one or two weeks riding the shinkansen every day but you don't have to. If you don't know what food is good, look at the waiting lines. In Japan you normally don't have reservations, so you instantly know what places are popular, even if they don't show up on Google Maps. Don't trust Tripadvisor; If some place has a nice rating and you don't see anyone waiting, you know that something is off or this place is just a tourist trap. Some of these tourist traps ask their visitors explicitly for a nice comment.

[@InakaAdventure]

Naturally everyone travels in their own way. So your advice is great to take things as you like and enjoy your time in Japan, personally I don't like going to food places with lines in Japan because I dont think they are much better than surrounding stores, just trendy in that moment from instagram posts or something of that nature. Japanese people love to go where other people are going so the long lines form for an otherwise normal restaurant. Honestly most restaurants are very good in Japan I just walk around till I find one thats open, has room and looks good and trust my instinct.

[@BeX32210]

​@@InakaAdventure That's a very good argument indeed, I totally agree with your observation! How were your experiences from recommendations that hotel/hostel staff gave you?

[@KiltedMcHaggis]

Thanks for the info! I'll be flying there in 4 weeks and this helped alleviate some of my anxiety

[@InakaAdventure]

Awesome glad this is already helping people, which part of Japan would you like to see in a future video?

[@elucinadoboy4967]

same. this channel has been a golden find

[@InakaAdventure]

Cheers!

[@tehknerd]

How did your trip go?

[@shirleyliggett776]

Going to Japan is on my bucket list ❤❤❤

[@funtimeswithtom4108]

Vending machines are your friend and they are everywhere. I always use Limo bus from the airport to my hotel. They are comfortable, convenient and have free wifi. Everyday when we were exploring cities 7/i (7eleven) is fantastic and cheap for lunch and most have seating inside. Same for Lawson and Family Mart but I found these 2 usually dont have seating inside and your pulling up pavement to eat. If your hotel has a microwave and a fridge find a grocery store and have a feast in your room. We just got back from mt Fuji / Fujikyu Highlands trip and there is a grocery store at the back entrance of Fujikyu highlands. We didnt want a heavy meal so we got stuff from the grocery store and were satisfied and on the cheap. Don Xijote and Daiso for souveniers on the cheap. Pocari Sweat and Aquarius are orange flavored water. That's was surprising my first time drinking them.

[@InakaAdventure]

These are some great tips!

[@TScalibrate]

I love the Matrix sound effect used for Tip 2. Small detail but amusing haha

[@InakaAdventure]

Some times its the little details :)

[@cyphlee]

im only 15 at the moment but i want to move to japan as soon as possible and visit tokyo ive spent 3 years studying japanese culture and language

[@InakaAdventure]

See if your highschool or later university has an exchange program. Depending on what country you're from you might be able to do a 2 year working holiday before you turn 30, otherwise if you're not a student you need a 4 year degree to work in Japan.

[@brandonlobo8827]

Super informative video also love the two week itinerary both have great video great video composition and informative details like price. I will be heading to Japan in April thanks for making the preparation towards the trip better

[@InakaAdventure]

Hope you have a great Trip Brandon! Might catch some Sakura depending on where you go

[@MidnightVibez27]

Most underrated video 💯 recommended for traveller going to Japan

[@InakaAdventure]

Cheers! What topics about Japan would you like to see covered in the future?

[@MidnightVibez27]

@@InakaAdventure Hi there! Really enjoyed your video about Tokyo and the insights you shared. I'm currently planning to stay in the Shinbashi minato- ku area. Could you let me know your opinion on this choice? Also, I'm curious to know if it's conveniently located near train stations and popular lookout spots. Thanks!

[@Khadeezy]

Amazing video , I’m going next week and I would have been screwed without you

[@InakaAdventure]

Happy to Help Khadeezy, any topics you'd like to see more of in Japan?

[@Edgarunreal-FinanzasPersonales]

Thank you for your tips, they are very helpful. I am going to Japan on April for a whole month. In my case, I wont get the JR pass even I will visit Tokyo, Kyoto, Osaka, Hiroshima etc. I will be traveling to the nearest cities and villages and moving on to the southwest, (Not long distances) I checked the JR calculator and expected to be even fares, also I want to have more option for transportation, more flexible and less stress.

[@InakaAdventure]

Since you're not using the JR Pass you might find some regional passes more useful, or even the Seishin 18 Ticket that you can use until April 11 for 2,400 yen all trains all day. Check out my train passes video for more info: kzbin.info/www/bejne/r3bRf6SPa9hsec0

[@Edgarunreal-FinanzasPersonales]

@@InakaAdventure Oh thank you, I will take a look 👀

[@PatriciaSouto-y9r]

Hahah loved the tips!! Thanks a lottttt

[@WCS-xp9lu]

Just got back from Japan. FYI viewers, Taxi is NOT that expensive after the exchange rate and they are EVERYWHERE! If you have a family of 4, it's easy, quick and not expensive to go wherever you want to get to and you save a TON of time, no reservations necessary not even from the airport. 2ND if you have ATT, activate the international roaming, it cost us $25 per day for all 4 of use to use 4 phones just as we would at home. 3RD, around Tokyo, EVERYONE takes credit card. Lastly, use Travelocity to grab your hotel and IMO stay around major Tokyo cities, not in them. Such as Akasaka. My "biggest" recommendation is to print out where you want to go and your hotel's address on paper in both Japanese and English, despite whatever you read, no, 99% of the Japanese we encountered in Tokyo did not understand English in any form or fashion and this was a life saver.

[@InakaAdventure]

Dividing a taxi over 4 people makes a lot more financial sense, and they are fine for short trips. It really racks up for long ones though

[@mogtrader8]

What app or how do you call a taxi? We don't speak Japanese either, so how did you communicate? Thanks

[@twostate7822]

Taxis are very expensive for long distance trips, like from Narita into the city, and just expensive from Haneda. Buses and trains can save a lot of money. $25/day from ATT is an expensive super luxury for more than a couple of days trip. Most T-Mobile plans have free international data, or just buy a Japanese sim/e-sim card when you arrive in Japan, or buy an international one before you leave home. Besides the hotel address, also have the hotel's phone number. The taxis can use the number to locate the hotel or worst case, call the hotel directly. The hotels should have business cards available with their address and phone numbers which you can get on check-in. And no, not every business takes credit cards. Many are cash only. And some restaurants have machines that print out food tickets instead of cashiers, and some of the older machines are cash only.

[@Yamato-tp2kf]

By the way... My top 5 favorite cities in Japan: 1st - Kyoto 2nd - Hiroshima 3rd - Tokyo 4th - Mastomoto 5th - Osaka

[@InakaAdventure]

Think my favorite 5 are 1st - Gifu, 2nd - Kyoto, 3rd - Osaka, 4th - Kagoshima, 5th - Tokyo

[@PatriciaSouto-y9r]

Why Gifu? May I ask?​@@InakaAdventure

[@sunnyoutdoors]

very nice, I'll share with 3000 people on my cruise

[@InakaAdventure]

awesome!

[@L-Man-Gaming]

What would you say is the ideal time for someone to spend in Japan for their first trip? It honestly seems like a month is needed to see the best parts and soak in everything.

[@InakaAdventure]

That's hard to say since everyone's different, I usually recommend two weeks because you can check out a lot of the country before fatigue from living out of a suitcase sets in. For most people 2-3 weeks is ideal, if you're the kind of person that doesn't feel culture shock or home sickness then a Multi month trip could be amazing.

[@L-Man-Gaming]

@@InakaAdventure Thanks. I've seen your other videos before, your voice is recognizable.

[@InakaAdventure]

Yeah I have a few channels kicking around, some more hidden than others ;)

[@askedwardtmi9118]

Would love to see you do a video on manga Cafe and love hotels how and where to stay cheaper when traveling I love your vids keep up the great work.

[@InakaAdventure]

Manga cafe is a great idea, love hotels is in the plans but I need to lose my virginity first. 😔

[@susanma4899]

I used to go to love hotels pretty often when I lived in Japan. If you miss the last train, could you go to a love hotel? If there are two people, definitely. But I wonder if a single person can go in. Also, could two guys go in? Could two girls go in? One important difference re love hotels: once you're in, you're in. You can't leave your stuff in the room or key at the desk and return to the same room later. If you do check in, you'll need to bring your drinks and snacks and be prepared to stay in that room until you check out. Lots of love hotels use a vending machine for guests to rent the room. There are staff watching you enter and exit, but you'll never see them. And there are no restaurants or workout rooms or other amenities either. Checking in is quite surreal tbh. You often feel like you're the only guests there.

[@askedwardtmi9118]

@Inaka Adventure in that case do a video about soap land then the love hotels😁

[@InakaAdventure]

Haha, maybe if i started an after dark channel

[@askedwardtmi9118]

@@InakaAdventure All jokes aside if you did it tastefully and creatively it might be interesting not a bad idea. Tokyo after dark.

[@elgenpatterson-caesar4367]

So I just got back from Japan a few days ago and simply booked reserved seats. There were plenty of people who brought large bags on the train with no issues from any of the staff. I brought a smaller suitcase to avoid this issue 😅

[@InakaAdventure]

Typically you can get away with a lot in Japan, so people shouldnt really stress toooo much about bringing large bags. But its always good to know the rules ;) Glad you had a good trip!

[@tiagozilliosoares7988]

Hey Inaka, thanks for another great guide of this majestic country. What do you think about including Japan guides exclusively dedicated to a season? As we know, every season in Japan is amazing in its own and for someone planning a trip to Japan it would be nice to better compare the pros and cons of each season. Maybe it would be nice to dedicate a video per season and give detailed perspectives for them as you do with all your videos.

[@InakaAdventure]

I'm thinking of putting together some shorter itineraries, about week in time for each seasonal travel in Japan starting with spring. I might release them as the seasons come up though so i can film more stuff about them

[@GwenBarnes-l7u]

Led me to think

[@BuiDungTri-z7g]

The way you explain complex topics is so clear and easy to understand. You make learning enjoyable. Subscribed!

[@InakaAdventure]

Happy to have you here

[@vishakadv5481]

Nice tips and very good information we are going tomorrow. For two weeks 😊

[@InakaAdventure]

Hope you have a great trip! I have other videos with guides to specific cities and 1 & 2 week itineraries if you havnt seen them yet check it out

[@Leon-lz6tg]

Great video!

[@InakaAdventure]

Thanks Leon! Any part of Japan youd like to see in the next one?

[@nursefernrips]

Thanks for the hotel tip

[@InakaAdventure]

No problem! Glad this could help you out, any topics youd like to see covered in future videos?

[@bachevaz72]

Great valuable infos done in professional way, thanks a lot

[@InakaAdventure]

Glad you enjoyed it, any topics youd like to see more of about Japan?

[@marianalopez9136]

Is that Capitan Jack Sparrow on 0:21? Gotta love Japan!

[@StriveforGainz]

Great video! Keep up the good work!

[@InakaAdventure]

Cheers!

[@bynjoe2000]

Oh good info. Planning to travel in Tokyo

[@InakaAdventure]

I have a video on 5 days in Tokyo here: kzbin.info/www/bejne/Zn60fH-LoKaInJo

[@mariojsworld]

Nice Japan travel tips.

[@InakaAdventure]

Thanks! 😃

[@fiveminutetravel]

Thanks for the amazing tips 🤩

[@InakaAdventure]

Glad you enjoyed it, any topics youd like to see covered in the future?

[@Nela-c4h]

such great tips! thank you!

[@InakaAdventure]

Happy to help, let me know if there is a video about Japan you'd like to see in the future

[@rejiifield]

Can you do Okinawa if you haven't?

[@InakaAdventure]

Absolutely! Im planning a trip to Okinawa, specifically Iriomote to search for the wild cats there

[@Bakapooru]

There are many new videos about visiting Japan recently. Many are bad and are just click bait. This video is pretty accurate. Others are taking advantage of Japan's popularity and hunting for clicks. I watched one where the creator (apparently) edited videos and photos from multiple free sources and called it his own. Plus, the narration read from a pre-2018 guide book.

[@Bakapooru]

A few notes: Luggage delivery services usually deliver the next day for major cities. There is same day from the airports, but there is a cut off time. JR Pass is advantageous only if you expect to make multiple inter-city trips. My rule of thumb is, to make the pass worthwhile, one long round-trip per week with reserved seats. Money exchange is best done in Japan. Banks and ATMs generally charge 3% commission. (There could be ATM usage fee by the home bank.) Same with banks at the airport. One exception: Travelex booths at the airports should be banned because they charge 15% commission plus fees. Travelex preys on unsuspecting travelers and business-people on expense accounts. Keisei SkyAccess service from Narita is cheaper than the N'Ex, but it only goes to Ueno and Nippori.

[@InakaAdventure]

Cheers mate, I've noticed that myself and also a lot of ai voice shovelware vids that people are using to try and take advantage of the country reopening, looks like your a seasoned traveller to Japan so what is your best travel tip?

[@InakaAdventure]

Great tips! I'll be sure to include those if I do an update video, I've found with my home country it's cheaper to exchange first but maybe not the case for everyone

[@Bakapooru]

@@InakaAdventure Here are three tips. Use a neck pillow correctly to sleep on the airplane. Subway or bus passes aren't worth it because you'll waste a lot of time trying to figure out if they're worth it or not. Plus, unless you have a lot of self-control, you'll get stuck at one place and not finish the itinerary for the day to make the pass worth it. If you're a group of three or four, take a taxi.

[@themediterraneanguy]

Thanks for sharing the 16 rules, I enjoyed it , just subscribed

[@InakaAdventure]

Good to hear!

[@jyotinair5167]

@@InakaAdventure, hi, can I get to Kyoto from Tokyo if I reach Narita around 7pm

[@InakaAdventure]

From Narita you'd need to depart before 7:59, reaching Kyoto at 11:22. Its possible but if your flights landing at 7 you should probably spend a night in Tokyo because who knows if the flight is delayed & get through immigration

[@jyotinair5167]

@@InakaAdventure thank you for your advice. Appreciate your response

[@traveltraveller]

Nice video....good information👌👌

[@InakaAdventure]

Cheers glad you enjoyed it!

[@ashrauf24]

Planning a solo trip to Japan next year. Thanks for this informative video! Anyone got any tips and suggestions can comment below, thanks in advance!

[@azoz273]

Is it recommended to use the luggage delivery even if you are traveling alone with one large suitcase, and you want to use the train?

[@InakaAdventure]

Depends how large your suitcase is and how strong you are to carry it around really, there is a lot of walking in Japan but it should be okay since you just need to get it to the hotel right. Check out my new video (around the end) I talk about the luggage size rules for trains and how to reserve oversized luggage here: kzbin.info/www/bejne/mGm6gZZ4oNiJd7M

[@ganoog]

Thanks 🙏

[@InakaAdventure]

You’re welcome 😊

[@immunemarmot6896]

yeah, dont worry about messing up. itll still be memorable! ;)

[@InakaAdventure]

Everyone makes mistakes, but as long as you try your best people will understand

[@kyeh4551]

Thanks for the great video. However, I used your tip to use a VPN service to book accommodation from within the country. I didn't find it cheaper. Sometimes the mobile app is cheaper.

[@InakaAdventure]

One thing is that Japan is currently receiving record numbers of travelers, even higher than before lockdowns. So it might be affecting the prices as well, kinda crazy how many people are visiting

[@jayyagami]

for me. Not so much of a city but more of an entire prefecture. Nagano

[@concha0711]

Hi .Awesome video, very informative! I'm going to Japan this november and saving this video for future reference! I'm currently considering if the railway pass is worth it for my plan - can you please share the website you used for that simulation (around min 2:37)? Arigato!

[@InakaAdventure]

I have a new rail pass guide for the updated JR Pass & it also has some of the alternative regional passes here: kzbin.info/www/bejne/mGm6gZZ4oNiJd7M for the calculator im using in the video its from Japan Guide

[@celinewong2648]

Hi, my family and I will be going to Hokkaido in November for the first time to Japan.. Can you pls tell me what’s the weather like in Nov ? Thank you

[@InakaAdventure]

It will probably be between 10c and 0c, the first snows start to fall in either November or early December, usually a lot of clear skies.

[@ravichahal261]

I love Osaka City,

[@InakaAdventure]

Me to, Ive lived in Osaka for the last year and its great!

[@2hcobda2]

Time-indexed table of contents in description

[@bootsie1212]

Brilliant

[@InakaAdventure]

Glad to see you enjoyed it!

[@Wonder.Winnie]

after you buy something and go to the tax free counter, does that mean you can open the bags and use the goods? or do you still need to go to the counter at the airport again to show them the goods?

[@InakaAdventure]

Tax free isn't duty free, it's confusing but I believe they don't seal your bags when you buy it. You just bring your receipt + passport to prove you're not a resident and they refund the consumption tax

[@Wonder.Winnie]

@@InakaAdventure so does this mean after you go to tax free counter than you are done with the process? You can start using / eating the goods? Or is there more steps to do at the airport?

[@InakaAdventure]

Airport stuff is duty free, tax free is normal shopping. You can immediately eat or use the tax free ones. But you need to claim the refund at the shop you bought it at immediately after purchase, you cannot refund at the airport etc.

[@Wonder.Winnie]

@@InakaAdventure ohh ok thanks!

[@InakaAdventure]

No worries! Hope you have a great trip, what places in Japan would you be interested in seeing in the future?

[@soniaayuso8184]

Hello, what website do you use to check the prices for trains ? Minute 2:43, I would like to compare and ensure JRP is necessary for my trip and when to activate. Thanks 😊

[@InakaAdventure]

Thats the Japan guide calculator, but there are several different ones to use

[@ignaciorosagutierrez1243]

This is a great video, thanks for sharing! I' traveling in a couple of weeks with my wife and 2-year old daughter. I'm getting the JR Pass. I'm arriving at Haneda at 4am in the morning I'm thinking of booking a car to transport us to the hotel as I'm hearing not a good time for trains. What would you recommend? Tks

[@benares180]

My one tip is instead of the bullet train, take a plane. It’s cheaper. However. Try not to arrive late at night.

[@InakaAdventure]

Planes are cheaper, but you need to calculate the time in for going to the airport and getting through check ins. the biggest advantage to the shinkansen imo is that you can just walk on any time without having to make a booking or checking luggage

[@perex0]

0:21 ayo is that a jack sparrow

[@InakaAdventure]

Yeah it's Japanese Johnny

[@xeom102]

Thanks for the video, please help to review the LUUP scooter rental service , how to check out and return the scooter , thank you !

[@InakaAdventure]

Ive never used it myself since Japan is so easy to get around, but i heard they removed some of the regulations around them which will make it easier to try them out

[@markakronio8575]

Tauranga @ 10:33 😮

[@InakaAdventure]

A few kiwis noticed that, I used to live in NZ haha

[@chandlerredhead27]

Have you done a video about the new IC card issues???

[@InakaAdventure]

Not yet, but its most likely a temporary issue, it only seems to be a problem in Tokyo for Suica, I live in Kansai and use Icoca so its not a problem atm

[@veronicacosta2589]

Super informative! Thank you so much - Quick question. I'm only in Japan for 4 days and since I've been to Tokyo before, I want to head to Kyoto this time right after arriving in Haneda. I do have to get back to Tokyo and will need to use the subway there, but from what I have seen, the JR pass does not cover that. Still, is getting a JR pass for the round trip from Tokyo to Kyoto and then an IC card for travel within Tokyo the most effective way? Thank you!

[@InakaAdventure]

7 Day JR Pass is 29,650 Yen, going from Tokyo to Kyoto and back Via the Shinkansen is 27,000 Yen. So if you can use the pass enough trains to make up the 2,650 yen difference its worth it. In your situation its probably worth getting a 7 day pass for flexibility, but not a problem if you dont.

[@PairyKurta]

I would like to see Tokyo, Japan! Kawaii!

[@InakaAdventure]

I need to head up to Tokyo after Summer to film some more stuff there so thats in the pipeline

[@Fatdog-Dakind]

Do they still have the, "Modern Day Tokyo Rose Broadcasts" playing 24/7? They were when I was there in 1986. Giving out the, "Carrier Enterprise," information such as how many: Sailors, Marines, Cruise Missiles, Nuclear Bombs, Fighter Planes, Ship Movements and Docking Ports. They would also annouce where the Admiral and his wife would be staying and the room number at the Tokyo Hilton. I thought it was 1942 all over again. Wow They still hate the USA looks like!

[@InakaAdventure]

Not so much, you get the trucks going around with megaphones at election times or occasionally for some sort of protest though

[@Moe_DeGrasse]

i want to see tokyo the most in japan

[@InakaAdventure]

Tokyo has something for everyone, its utterly massive

[@Bomerzz]

Hello Inaka, would you mind sharing the website you use for the transport budgeting in 2:40 ?

[@InakaAdventure]

Sure, it was the Japan guide rail pass calculator

[@Shinjinkun]

I've seen that many people has been announcing the smart-ex service everywhere. However, not many talked about the dreaded problems to set up the credit card for the service. At least, for what I read in reddit, many people, like myself, have been having problems just setting up the smart-ex account. Anyone here that was able to make it work? If so, where are you from and what cc did you use? Thanks :D

[@InakaAdventure]

It wasnt so bad to set up for me, but its pretty easy to book trains without it as well if you have trouble

[@25milkmen]

I am traveling to Tokyo in March for 4 days then getting on a cruise ship. Would it be more beneficial to get a JR regional pass instead of a regular JR pass. Also since there are two of us do we both need a pass or can we share one. Thank you for your video it was very informative.

[@InakaAdventure]

I just released a JR Pass & Regional Pass update video with the new prices for 2024, so this should answer all your questions kzbin.info/www/bejne/mGm6gZZ4oNiJd7M

[@Vlogsnishayne]

How is the internet signal in japan???

[@InakaAdventure]

Great

[@wtflac]

what does "simple as" mean

[@InakaAdventure]

Just a way of saying "Its easy / Its simple" where I am from

[@lolthe0]

Amazing vid, but if you are travelling from narita to tokyo, isn't Keisei Skyliner the fastest?

[@InakaAdventure]

Didn't include the Skyliner because in practice its only 5 minutes faster but you have to transfer at Nippori which, depending on the transfer makes it longer and also is a point that jetlagged travelers might get lost at, also not covered by the JR pass so not really worth it. If you know what youre doing and dont have the pass though, sure it can be faster

[@Vlogsnishayne]

Can you tell me which city is cheaper to book a flight to

[@InakaAdventure]

No, because thats depends where you live. Its either Tokyo or Osaka, just search for both and check.

[@Vlogsnishayne]

@@InakaAdventure is hokaido expensive

[@InakaAdventure]

About the same as anywhere else in the country, some of the trains are more pricey

[@Yamato-tp2kf]

14:10 - If you lose your last train, walk... Just walk and you will discover what is Tokyo like during the night!

[@InakaAdventure]

This is usually what I do, but my place is about 3 hours away from where I hang out so its either a long long walk or I find a chair in the street and pass out until 5am haha

[@dunngyllite7883]

Essential tip #17: be prepared to meet Jack Sparrow 0:20

[@dwenchan831]

There is an announcement that JR rail pass prices will massively shoot up by October 2023. Is it better value to go by express bus instead for trips between Osaka and Tokyo for example?

[@InakaAdventure]

Yeah its better value to take a bus or fly if you dont have a JR pass, but those options arent as fast as using the train. Its really up to you if you want to save money or save time on it

[@redfish337]

It's basically always been better value to take a bus. The bus just sucks. =P The shinkansen is basically a premium service and the JR pass made using that premium service a bit more reasonable. The reason why the bus is easily best value is because you just take it overnight. It uses more or less no actually useful time. And saves you the cost of one night lodging. It's always been by far the cheapest (normal) option- and by using dead time, most efficient use of useful time... if you can sleep on the bus. But I find sleeping on transport unreliable- even when I can get several hours in it's not a true night's rest, and it's especially difficult on the night bus because I find they are kept too toasty inside. Doing it multiple times might start wearing on your health. Also, the timing is lined up so you probably arrive into the cities way too early in the morning and almost nothing is open and you can't check in anywhere yet so you wish you could just get the other half of your night's sleep in first. Also note, that long distance buses are a much less tourist friendly way to travel. It's a bunch of different directors screaming Japanese into megaphones not calmly read announcements in English. (Not sure if they've improved this at all in recent years, but was my experience before)

[@dwenchan831]

@@redfish337 if you arrive into the cities too early in the morning, I wonder if your allowed to linger in the bus stations i.e rest on the benches or use a sleeping bag of sorts to catch some zzz somewhere until its close to sunrise at least. There's nothing much to do anyway.

[@redfish337]

@@dwenchan831 The long distance buses usually dump you at stations with the presumption that you'd then take a train (or bus) to where you're actually going. These will have some things like a McDs open from pretty early. Kyoto Station's seems to be 530 am. The trains will usually be going. If you take a night bus a shorter distance, such as Tokyo to Nagoya, there might be more waiting. If you're travelling light, or using a luggage forwarding service, you can already just go out exploring. Sunrise is relatively early in Japan. But after a night bus I kinda just want to get 2-3 hours of GOOD sleep before doing anything. If you're super high energy and sickness resistant, you can just do breakfast, go look at some shrines and such (generally, shinto shrines don't have business hours and buddhist temples do) while waiting for more stuff to open proper around 9am.

[@animetree9379]

how much money should a person save up for a 2 week vacation there, i got the hotel and plane cost the general moving around and cost of food

[@InakaAdventure]

Budget for a 2 week trip is explained in this video kzbin.info/www/bejne/m6OWiGefmrOjjZI and I will also have an updated shorter 1 week trip which explains this as well coming out next week. Its always good to bring a little extra though & travel costs have been slightly higher since Japan opened + the Spring season is in full swing

[@inmarodriguezlopez9541]

3:00 Where is this place? 4 trains at the same time! 😮

[@InakaAdventure]

Just a short walk away from Akihabara, at Ochanomizu station

[@nataliya2422]

5:23 just wondering if you heard anything about esim for the internet connection upon arrival?

[@InakaAdventure]

I havnt used it personally but Ive had both the prepaid sims / pocket wifi and they were fine for me. Realistically most services are going to be reliable in Japan and Im sure you can find something to suit your needs at the airport kiosks

[@LiA-ud4cg]

Hi, can I carry my passport card instead of my passport book? Thanks for the video is amazing

[@InakaAdventure]

Ive never heard of a Passport card, I think its an American only thing. I feel like it would be okay, but you could ring your local Japanese embassy and check

[@nisreensafiyuddin2638]

Maybe can develop it architure food vow cheery blossoms vow haiku vow learnt in school Tr

[@sirmione905]

Tipping is not required in Japan, but it’s common to give small change to taxi drivers as tip when you pay with cash. Also, it was an old tradition to tip to Nakai-san who takes care of your stay in Japanese style inns. It’s not expected and no pressure at all, but “tipping is rude” is not quite right.

[@じろたろ-s4t]

You don't need to give tip to tax driver.

[@MrKarto2287]

How am I going to get past customs at the airport if I didn't prereserve hotel rooms?

[@InakaAdventure]

You should book at hotel for at least the first couple nights

[@vontzontch2598]

Room 1408 and it let you out? Did it constantly play "We've only just begun."? Also, Osaka and Hiroshima/Kure are two of the cities I wanna go to.

[@InakaAdventure]

Haha, I didnt even think about that! I might go down to Hiroshima myself in the next couple of weeks

[@vontzontch2598]

@@InakaAdventure Oh nice, looking forward hearing about that if you do some vids.

[@bigmikegaming1583]

I plan on flying solo to Japan ( probably Tokyo tho unsure right now ) in 2024/25, I am an English speaker who's home country is USA, I will be learning Japanese in the meantime, What are some tips for ones who are flying solo and not with a guided tour? and some do's and don'ts? I wanna be respectful at all times. I plan on staying for about two-three weeks. Might go during Sakura in 2024-25. Also, what are some tips on getting adjusted to Japan's time zone? I think they are 11/12hrs ahead of EST? TIA for whoever helps.

[@InakaAdventure]

I would recommend checking out my 2 weeks in Japan Video: kzbin.info/www/bejne/m6OWiGefmrOjjZI & Rail Pass Guide: kzbin.info/www/bejne/r3bRf6SPa9hsec0 Those should give you a lot of info on traveling alone. I woudnt worry too much about do's and donts, just be respectable as you would in your own country and more or less it will be fine, you might get a little mistake in translation but thats expected and apart of being a tourist & Japanese will understand that too if you try your best to be polite. For time zones I guess you could either wake up early a week before going or try to stay up until 10pm local time or something then have a normal nights sleep, my countries only a few hours different from Japan so its not something I usually deal with. Hope you have a great trip!

[@bigmikegaming1583]

@@InakaAdventure gtk, i'll take a look at the vids. thanks.

[@bigmikegaming1583]

@@InakaAdventure welp, my sleep schedule is gonna be an odd one lol. I work 3rd shift overnight..... 11pm est to 7:30am est..... should be fun lmao. but thanks again for the info.

[@tupirul]

What about traveling by car ? Is it worth it ? It’s seen to complicated the trains situación

[@InakaAdventure]

Yeah renting a car in Japan is a great way to travel (outside of the cities) I recommend it, I'm working on a video about driving in Japan actually

[@tupirul]

@@InakaAdventure that would be great, I haven’t watch any videos about it. I travel with my family we are 5, so 5 JR pass it’s a lot of money. Maybe rent a car its cheaper ?

[@SE45CX]

May I ask a critical question. Are there some things in Japan that you will notice that Japan is geographically isolated from Eurasia? I mean Japan is still an island and land travel to and from Japan is not possible. Does Japan have less cultural influences than other south-east asian countries like China, Korea, Thailand and Vietnam.

[@InakaAdventure]

Yes Japan was closed to the world for a long time before Perry opened up the country so there are many things that uniquely developed due to that isolation

[@dipsetudey6014]

Can I use the luggage delivery service to deliver my luggage to my hotel in Osaka the same day I'm arriving at Narita Airport Terminal 2?

[@InakaAdventure]

You would need to ask the services when you arrive to be sure, but if you arrive in Narita and send to Osaka it will most likely be a 2 day delivery unless you paid extra for some sort of express service

[@joanneneemar8694]

Hi do you do guided tours to Japan

[@InakaAdventure]

Not something I typically do, although occasionally Ill show people around Osaka

[@o.c.g.m9426]

General question. Do you know why do many Japanese men do not grow their facial hair out ? Different & genuine question i know but something ive continually noticed as i spent 4.5 months in S.E.A

[@InakaAdventure]

For Japan a lot of jobs require you to shave your beard as a company policy, because thats the professional standard in Japan. So typically everyone shaves unless theyre unemployed or in a creative industry

[@wilks_7503]

is that mount Maunganui at 10:32?

[@InakaAdventure]

Yep, actually the uber map shows wellington too after that. I used to live in NZ

[@lanjacobson4219]

Hello, how much $ do you recommend loading an IC card for a 10 day trip to Tokyo and Osaka?

[@InakaAdventure]

I usually keep about 2,000 yen on my pass at any time. I think the max is 10,000 yen, I think youll probably spend around 1,000 ish yen a day going around places but you can always charge up at every stations so its not a problem if you run out.

[@SulamanAnnisBK]

Thanks for the useful and really important information. I am planning to take my 65 years old mom, what you suggest? getting a rental car for 7 days, we will be 4 people, is it good idea to hire a card on international License from Tokyo Airport?

[@InakaAdventure]

Yeah hiring a car from the Airport is a good idea for a group of people, make sure you get your international license before coming over

[@drewcorry5056]

Absolutely loved the Limo Bus. Would you be able to tell my why Japan can get away with not having trains / buses run 24/7?? [ do people never complain] Absolutely Outstanding

[@InakaAdventure]

I think they used to have 24hr trains in Tokyo, but the trains were getting too dirty with no time to clean them so it was changed. Everyones just used to trains stopping around midnight now and no real call for 24hr trains

[@lamacornkk388]

Will I have to worry abt earthquakes?

[@InakaAdventure]

Not really, sure its always possible but its like being struck by lightening or something, cant go through your life worrying about it

[@somsawat1279]

Hi I will Travel to Japan on 28/4/ to 10/5 it fristtime lm bit worry can you suggest the hotel for me near numbs please

[@InakaAdventure]

Namba? Any hotel on booking will be just fine, Japanese Hotels are very good quality. APA hotel & Shinsaibashi ARTY inn are in a nice location

[@UNSTABLE111]

"Dont be Afraid of Japanese toilets"...nope, never was..I have paruresis..and Japan is incredibly shy bladder friendly..Stalls go all the way down, and they even have sounds inside to drown the outside noise..makes USA restrooms look primitive

[@InakaAdventure]

American toilet stalls look like practical jokes as someone thats never been there haha

[@nisreensafiyuddin2638]

Ikebana also learn here Poetrybtravelli no tpurismten fold pathetc

[@XamaL1]

room 1408 😱

[@InakaAdventure]

Its funny to me that i never noticed that when staying but it pops up in the comment any time i use that footage haha

[@mitchellandrachelm5700]

how long have you lived in japan?? rachel and christina m

[@InakaAdventure]

About 5 years now

[@BarzillaiBlue]

Anyone else see Captain Jack Sparrow on the bottom right at 0:20?

[@InakaAdventure]

Thats Japanese Johnny, great guy

[@elultimotigre3455]

Bien y ✅ listo en PDS japn

[@Hudute]

Carrying around 50k is crazy. Ive been to Japan about half a dozen times now (always solo) and Ive always been fine with around 10-20k on me plus at least 5k on my IC. Oh and NEVER exchange money going anywhere on this planet, just withdraw with your credit card, preferably one with good international travel conditions such as no withdrawl and no conversion fees. Finding an ATM that takes international VISA/Mastercard can be tricky, but 7-11 atms always work.

[@killininstinct343]

You'll need to update the JR stuff since it won't be as worth it starting October 2023

[@InakaAdventure]

Yep its really annoying that

[@cindy1748]

Hey Inaka! Just quick question for ya. My fiancé and I are thinking of traveling to Tokyo April 27 to May 9 this year, which lands in the golden week. What are the pros and cons of doing so? Is it not recommended as a tourist? Does restaurants/ attractions get busy due to the holidays? Thanks for any advice!

[@InakaAdventure]

If you can avoid golden week its usually better, but you can also see some cool things like the Koinobori around May 5th which are really cool. Its going to be busy on trains and hotels, prices will be higher, and its a terrible time to visit any of the theme parks, trains will be especially busy (I had to stand on the Shinkansen once with no seats available). You'll be able to find restaurants with space, though you might want to book your accommodation well in advance

[@jinkim23]

golden week is a terrible time to go because a lot of small businesses, like restaurants, close during this week.

[@a7xgunslinger]

0:14 Where is this place? 😳😍

[@InakaAdventure]

The koinobori can be seen across Japan during golden week, specifically for Childrens day on May 5th. These ones in particular were just outside Osaka at the Akutagawa Sakurazutsumi Park, but they are only up for a week each year

[@孫文-r8e]

watching from japan,why

[@InakaAdventure]

Why not?