12 TIPS FOR TRAVEL IN JAPAN

[@teraphIl1000]

Any tips for when a black cat with a moon on its head tells you you're some kind of mystical warrior princess? Asking for a friend.

[@rubsymoon839]

Stand on it

[@silverphantomme99]

Just run away and scream.

[@MrKevin486]

No worries this is a common occurrence in Japan. Just say Neko o kudasai. You'll be fine then.

[@yuzu7409]

たくさんの外国人観光客のみなさんにこの動画みてほしい！！ I hope many foreign people coming to japan would watch this video!! It's so worth it!! Thank you for sharing as always!!

[@roddy222]

+Yuki Murayama I had nearly four weeks in October last year and I am on my way back in May this year. Its an amazing culture with excellent food and people. First thing after landing, get my Okonomiyaki . Cheers.

[@dunnp12]

Hi all, Quick tip: Before you leave from Japan and if you are planning to used ether your bank (ATM) card or credit card you should call and notified your institution of your travel plans. If you don't your card might not work and if you out of the United States you wouldn't be able to set your card until you come back.

[@Truecrimeresearcher224]

oh I know the card will be like wtf this is not my home decline

[@Spruce-Bug]

+dunnp12 That sounds prett-ttty fuckin important. Hahahah. Needs more likes.

[@LCx829]

Great tip because your card will be declined so quickly in another country. I hate to be stuck with no money.

[@whimsicalambientisaac5683]

CURRENTLY NOT GOING TO JAPAN BUT IM WATCHING THIS ANYWAYS

[@dementos7806]

Same but it's always interesting to know.

[@katsmisadventures]

stopfollowingme Me too, but i want to go to Japan in the future. Sorry for my bad english! Have a nice day~ ❤

[@nataliaabdelfattah1988]

stopfollowingme Same!

[@silverphantomme99]

Same here, dude.

[@jem57098]

ALWAYS CARRY ID. (Passport for tourists) If the police ask you for ID and you cannot give it then you might get into trouble. Always have your passport on you. Jonny - Tokyo

[@wangabo123]

Other tips I found useful during my time in Japan: - Get a wifi hotspot. With access to wifi anytime, your travels around Japan will be easier. - Google maps is great for planning routes. A great option for Sharla and Rachel's Tip #2. - Always carry a refillable bottle with you and be careful of the vending machines. Although the drinks are relatively cheap, a lot of money can be used up in vending machines.

[@RachelandJun]

Awkward focusing on my face when Sharla's showing her phone lol

[@heyitssharla]

Hahahaha I hate my camera

[@661hackzz]

+Rachel & Jun lol noticed that too

[@MiliakBR]

+Rachel & Jun I would like to see a vídeo of you telling the "bad" part of Japan(loneliness, Always being a Foreigner, Always having a wall about people telling you what they really think...stuff like that....).

[@ninjamaikeru]

+Sharla in Japan I knew most of them except the one with washrooms and Google translate camera mode. I know what I'm going to do for kanjixD The washrooms one is weird, I'm so use of having one alwaysxD

[@OR3-O]

Is it safe it tokyo...?

[@elizabethbarnett568]

Sharla you should do a convenient store video. I have always wondered what they look like :)

[@MushyRoom77]

Agreed!

[@koshowulf]

Like most warehouse or dollar stores, but everything is cuter :3

[@elizabethbarnett568]

+wheeler1 thanks I wasn't sure if I spelled that right.

[@roddy222]

+Elizabeth Barnett Yes that would be great and also the "Loppi" machine for concert ticket and the like.

[@kristienicolezuniga8787]

Yes good idea I've always wondered what the they look like and what they carry.

[@hikkipedia]

I'm leaving for Japan in a few days! Eeeeek! My tip is if you have an unlocked phone or tablet, you can buy a Japanese SIM card online for $25-30 and they usually have unlimited data, so you can use LINE and Google Maps and all that on your own device while traveling and it's super cheap.

[@JDHay]

Just wondering where you bought your SIM card from? So far I have found just places that rent them and you're looking at approximately $10+ per day. Thanks in advance!

[@hikkipedia]

J.D. Hay Arun S I rented mine on CDJapan. Sorry, I should have said it's a rental and not purchased! Th SIM cards are delivered to the airport you specify where you pick them up at the post office. Just Google Japan SIM card and the link should be on the first page :)

[@Arundidoo]

+hikkipedia oh, yeah i already found out bout those but thanks anyway :)

[@JDHay]

+hikkipedia Ah - thanks!

[@agneseseri]

I made the italian subtitles! :3

[@heyitssharla]

+Agnese Seri Thank you!!!

[@YesIAmDavid]

thx. it helped me a lot

[@agneseseri]

EXENOX my pleasure :3

[@JAYCEEDOUBLE]

Grazie!!!

[@HaMashyach]

+Sharla in Japan I got a question if I bring 15k USD. to Japan how long can I survive off that? n how fast can I get a job there

[@NandemoGuy]

I had no idea about the Google Kanji translator. Very cool tip!

[@CanuckJim]

The SUICA train card can also be used in some vending machines - useful if you want a drink and don't have any small bills.

[@LettersfromJapan]

Really great advice!! If anyone is visiting the Osaka/Kyoto area, ICOCA is probably the best train card to get.

[@pabulumm]

These are such great tips... For anyone traveling beyond Tokyo, especially if you plan on taking the bullet train anywhere (which you totally should because it's amazing), look into the Japan Rail Pass. Similar concept as the train cards - skip the ticket lines, just show the attendants your pass and they wave you through - but it has the additional perk of being pre-paid for based on the duration of your stay, so it'll be good for the entire trip (i.e. you never have to reload it). I used it when I went and it was a lifesaver. Sooo worth the hassle it saves you. Also, the app I ended up using the most to figure out which trains to ride was actually Google Maps! It never lead me wrong and it even worked in small towns!

[@lizzymorris5803]

yes. I love you and Rachel in videos. Thank you for editing

[@jessicasummers8531]

I would suggest a currency converting app! Just to help you better keep track of how much you are spending.

[@Iceechibi]

Jessica Lynn Rule of thumb is $1.00 USD ~ 100円 (really its more closer to 110円 or 107円). But for large purchases, I'd say yes XE.com is great for that.

[@lusitangled1775]

Very helpful video guys! I'd also like to strongly recommen getting the Japan National Rail Pass if you're planning on travelling outside of Tokyo! I used it when I went to Japan and was able to travel worry free from Tokyo to Hiroshima, Osaka and Kyoto, and it even included the ferry to Miyajima Island! Very very useful.

[@bJosi00]

+Ricky Patton It does cover Shinkansen but only certain types. Nozomi is excluded for use, and one other (the top two fastest ones are excluded) unless you pay the excess

[@willyhasbi2454]

Oh, wow..where can i get that national rail pass? Is it available at the subway ticket machine too?

[@willyhasbi2454]

+Ricky Patton 😄 i see..thank you for your information..

[@LettersfromJapan]

There are enough trains that the Nozomi etc. exclusion is not a problem. I had some friends here recently who used it from Tohoku to Hiroshima without any issues. Also, the unofficial word is that they will put you on a Nozomi train if you go up to the counter and ask (and if it's not high season).

[@Sykdude]

+Lusitangled Suica card is the way to go. I've been all over Japan and have never had it fail.

[@Serros13]

Hi Sharla, I submited Greek subs for this very helpful video. You did a nice job as always. Keep it up!

[@heyitssharla]

+Athanasios S. Thank you so much!!!

[@Serros13]

+Sharla in Japan You're welcome.

[@dejavum2685]

I'm so dumb I thought you said geek translation •-•

[@SiCKOO]

I put up some Norwegian subtitles for you! :)

[@heyitssharla]

Thank you so much!! :)

[@Mdriver1981]

+Sharla in Japan, 外国語青年招致事業 ？ 優れた

[@ManiacMVK]

+Sharla in Japan 0:40 fuck this! This NWO plastic card schid is everywhere!

[@finnlinnsone]

+SiCKO æææææ takkk

[@SiCKOO]

Linn Borchgrevink bare hyggelig :D

[@Humptydumpipay]

When we were in Japan, we had an awesome time in the cab because the driver was friendly and we had fun conversations with him and we tipped him and he didn't get mad or confused at all.

[@pervykiwi]

One tip you didn't mention is to hire a portable wi fi device. I used one on my last trip and it was so handy. Useful for looking up maps on my iPad and for the train apps I had.

[@sunnydahye]

[@user-fi2zs6de6f]

いつもお美しいお二人の日本情報発信に感謝！

[@ixxpker]

Leaving in 4 days to Japan for a 3 week trip, thank you so much for these tips!! Will keep them in mind when I am enjoying Japan!

[@jdcollects_6163]

I want to go to Japan so badly, maybe in the future

[@errxr6129]

your profile pic fits ur comment perfectly

[@RaiszinBumm]

LOOOOL looking far into the future 😂

[@starlightdust2469]

+Felony the-pony SO TRUE HAHAHA

[@gwantt]

i absolutely love it when you and rachel do videos together! you two are easily the best 'abroad in japan' youtubers; and i think you guys make such a good pair, like you just compliment each other so well imo

[@note4katie]

I just back yesterday from a 2 week trip to Japan and I wish I would have watched this video sooner. I HIGHLY recommend the Hyperdia app from train travel, it was a lifesaver. I also totally agree that convenience stores in Japan are awesome! The only issue we ran into on our trip was we failed to bring cash with us to Tokyo Disney and NONE of the ATMs in the park accepted foreign bank cards! There is only ONE ATM at the resort that will accept foreign cards and its outside the parks in the Ikspiari mall tucked in a back corner on a bottom level.

[@usroadtripper]

Based on your plans, a weekly Japanrail pass may be a more cost effective option than paying for every train ride you take. If you plan on any extended travel outside of Tokyo, you will almost certainly get your money's worth. These MUST be purchased before you arrive in Japan, so advanced planning is a must. I have also discovered that you will get the best exchange rate by changing money before you go instead of using ATMs once in Japan. For my bank, I was charged a fee for using another bank's ATM, then that ATM's bank charged me a fee for using the ATM, then I had a fee for withdrawing money in something other than American dollars, plus I got a terrible exchange rate. If you change all your money up front, you will just pay a relatively small one-time exchange fee. But once you have all that cash, make sure you carry it in your money belt AT ALL TIMES! Only put small amounts into your purse or wallet at any given time. You can always stop in a restroom to pull more money out of the money belt as needed.

[@esmenaomi]

Flying to Japan tomorrow, so was very happy to see this video in my subbox! \0/

[@idontcaregoodbye]

Ahh have fun! ^ ^

[@esmenaomi]

+idontcaregoodbye thank you :D

[@stephanieselby8353]

This is super helpful! thank you so much for taking the time to make this. The anxiety I had for my future summer trip to Japan has drastically lowered! You're too sweet! Thank you!

[@vangrails]

+stephanie selby The Japanese people are welcoming and polite and there is very little crime and there are very little scams in Japan so there is really no reason for anxiety. Have a nice trip!

[@777neo2]

電車のICカードは現在はICカードを利用できる場所だったらほぼ全国どこでも同じカードが使えますよー！

[@jenninstitches]

+Sharla in Japan With the google translate there is also a video function where it will automatically pick up the language you select and translate it. It's a great function for quick translations for signs, maps, menus.

[@Fancynancytv]

the train cards are very similar to the ones in Korea

[@AdanBuenosAyres24]

Ladies, you both are amazing people, thanks a lot for this video! I really love it. Huge hug from Buenos Aires, Argentina.

[@linhtoe]

Still screaming, SHARLA IS ENGAGED AHHHH CONGRATZ STILLLL

[@AnimeProdigyLife]

+Sandiie CHIIIIIIIIILLLL ME TOO!

[@thehoneybeequeen]

+Sandiie Chenh Wait, she is, Ohlala to who? (btw i love your profile pic) :3

[@linhtoe]

+Christina 90 THANKS ! And too you! Oh Sharla didn't mention because of privacy and personal reason so I'm not too sure myself !

[@linhtoe]

+Donald Drumpf LMAO TO YOU NOPE, EVERYTHING IS BETTER IN CAPITALS!

[@linhtoe]

+Donald Drumpf mood 😂

[@Skrapeg0at]

I was hungry for travel tips before watching this and now I'm full. Thanks for feeding me the delicious information, Sharla and Rachel!

[@kichara]

I'm surprised that when you mentioned getting train cards, you didn't say anything about the JR Passes! They're especially good for travelers who are planning on using the train to travel to different cities in Japan, and are only available for purchase if you're not a Japanese citizen.

[@redfish337]

It's surprising not to see it mentioned, but honesty it is usually a minor discount at best for a typical tourist itinerary. It always saves me a lot of money though... but... I'm long past having a typical tourist itinerary.

[@kichara]

Yeah I'm going for a 3 week period in December, and am traveling from Tokyo to Hiroshima, Kansai region, then back to Tokyo, to Sapporo, then Tendo, and back to Tokyo to fly home. I suppose most tourists just go to Tokyo, and MAYBE the Kansai region, but not further. I know I'm definitely getting my money's worth, by getting the JR pass. I suppose it all just depends on what kind of tourist you are, and how much of Japan you'd like to see while you're there.

[@redfish337]

Amanda Leo Ehh... you're really going to Sapporo by train? Dang.... that's a loooong trip. The lack of shinkansen lines to Sapporo has kept me from getting up there. Even from Sendai it's another 6-7 hours...Hiroshima to Sendai takes 6-7 hours... and Sendai to Sapporo takes 6-7 hours. One day I may bother to fly.

[@kichara]

Haha I plan on bringing cross stitching to work on and tunes to listen to for the trip (I may actually have stayed a Playlist just for listening to on the train, because I REALLY LIKE TRAINS).

[@redfish337]

Amanda Leo Well, as long as you know what you're getting into. I definitely prefer the ease of a shinkansen so I use it a whole bunch, but Sapporo is such an outlier that just for the sake of time I recommend people fly. But hey, if you like trains, go for it! =) BTW, what is there in Tendo?

[@Xxharukapanda]

That white bag thing for your makeup is genius. I wish i had those for daily life.

[@humanbeansprout]

もうひとつ気になったので補足します。 神社でクレジットカードが使えない件についてですが、社務所でお守りを授かるときのおカネは代金ではないのです。あくまでお守りを受けたことに対するお礼です。ですので、「初穂料」と書いてあります。よく「お守りを買った」と表現する人がありますが、あれは大きな間違いです。お守りは買うものではなく、授かるものなのです。確かにお店でクレジットが使えないのは不便だと云うご意見は理解できますが、神社に収めるお礼をクレジットにするのは趣旨に合いません。 欧米ではクレジットカードを使って協会に寄付する習慣があるのか分かりませんが、少なくとも日本人の感覚ではあり得ないことです。 神社の社務所ではお礼として金銭を渡しているのであって、物品を買った対価ではないことだけは知っていただきたいと思います。そして、外国から観光でお越しの方にお知らせいただければ幸いかと。お守りに定価がついていて、お礼を要求するカタチになってしまっている不思議や矛盾はありますが、原則的な考えは、そんな感じです。 外国人観光客に一番人気となっている京都の某神社は私も関係がありますが、初穂料を値切ろうとする人間に何度、「出直して来い」と言いたくなったか分からないそうです。神社ですから、決してそのようなことは言いませんけどね。 以上、補足と云うより、蛇足でした。

[@zbeebs]

A couple updates in the year since this was posted: Apple has added transit information for their native Maps app in iOS (and MacOS), so you can look up train information directly in that app. Google Translate has added offline translation for Japanese. You have to download the data pack for it, or course, so it does take up some extra space on your phone. But the really neat thing it adds is the ability to point your camera at written Japanese and have it instantly translate it into English directly on your phone, without having to take a picture first.

[@enlathestrange]

My train card let me spend money in 7/11 in Tokyo and also some vending machines so if you have money you're not going to use that's really helpful.

[@joshpetrikat7001]

Trains are so cool in Japan. Even the subways are always on time! They arrive and leave exactly when they are supposed to.

[@user-on7on9go6l]

タクシーはチップ受け取りますよ。 多めに支払って「おつりは結構です」とか言えば、受け取る人がほとんどですね。 もちろん払わなくてもいいんですけど。 やっぱり「ありがとう」は言った方がお互い気持ちいいですよね。

[@user-on7on9go6l]

+ymtd567 タクシーもチップを期待してるわけではないからいくらでもいいと思います。 ありがとうの一言くらいタダなんだし、それでお互い気分良くなるんだから言った方がいいですよねw

[@dindon1969]

言われてみるとタクシーくらいですか、 チップ文化のようなものがあると言えそうなのは。 他には旅館の仲居さんへの「心付け」があるけど、 あれは額が大きいから一般的ではない。 他の場所では「釣りは要らねーぜ！」と言っても、 まず「変わった人」としか思われませんね。 ていうかよく考えたらタクシー以外は、 「サービスを提供した人」と「支払いを受ける人」が違う事が多いのか。

[@ToshiYamioka]

More good tips: 1) Be prepared for squat toilets. Doesn't matter what gender, sometimes they're the only thing available. 2) If you want cheap food at night, go to a supermarket store after 8 PM. They usually discount freshly made food from that day in amounts of 30% to 50%. 3) Wear good shoes for walking. There are stairs everywhere in Japan, especially in the train system and while fashion is important, your feet will thank you.

[@kiarusakura]

I love it how the 3 "problems" you can find with bathrooms, like, they are so completly normal to me ._.

[@MissKIRARA]

For the tips its also because ( my airbnb host explained) that japanese are modest and are expected to do their best to satisfactory. Tips seems like an “ intrinsic “ motivation ( as for noticing being from america) .

[@tightlineagain2]

I think we need a Sharla & Rachel channel. You two play off each other so well and it makes it a real viewing pleasure. I would sub in a heart beat if you decided to do it. I sub to both of your channels and enjoy and enjoy them a lot but it truly piques my interest when you two are together.

[@vampvivid]

Thank you for the useful tip! I shared it on my wall, it was very good video :) Clear and loud and OMG THE INTRO IS SUPER CUTE HOW WHAT WHERE! PLUS YOU AND RACHEL LOOKED SO PRETTY IN THIS VIDEO

[@iamcherryyybomb]

i'll go to Tokyo in autumn, so I'd love some autumn tips, maybe about food thats only available in autumn, where to look at momiji, and other stuff like that. :)

[@dr.fantasticsemporiumofthe3460]

Hey guys just a few things that I think would be helpful for tourists visiting Japan that weren't mentioned in the video: 1. Japan Rail Pass-It is a pass that is only avaliable to foriegners and must be purchased BEFORE entering Japan. You can either buy regional pass or a national pass. If you buy a regional pass it gives unlimited travel on the JR Lines for that region as well as some coperating lines. If you buy the national pass it gives you unlimited travel on MOST JR lines through out the country with the exception of the Nozomi trains as well as a specific ferry line. THe reginal passses range from 156-195USD and the national pass is about 265USD. You can order them online from various travel agencies such as JTB USA or the JR web site. 2. Check the visa and passport requirments for Japan. For US citizens you only need your passport and you passport must be valid for the duration of your stay in Japan as well as you must have one blank page in your passport. 3. During your flight to Japan the crew will hand out a customs form for you to fill out before you land. For this reason I keep a couple of pens in my carry on bags. Make sure you fill out BOTH sides.

[@PuzzleMessage]

It's funny how north americans really seem to love their tipping culture... When I was visiting Canada and the US I simply hated it, because I was not used to it. First, it is just awkward to give a random amount of money to a stranger based on how nice he or she was to you ( people should always be nice to each other anyway) , second it's called "gratuity", but at the restaurant the servers always "gently" remind you that you have to pay it, no excuses, because "there's no way their service could have sucked", and in some restaurants the amount of the tip is fixed at 20%, so you don't even get to chose how much they can rip you off. Honestly I don't care if you have a shitty job where the owner doesn't pay you an hourly wage so you have to rely on the customer, this system is just insane, that's why it doesn't work anywhere else. Americans always defend this system saying that in this way they get a great quality service, but that's simply not true, servers are very friendly here in Europe and in Japan too and they don't get any tip from customers.

[@Sweetchik2007]

+PuzzleMessage I enjoy getting tips of course (in my waitress job), but I like to be able to choose whether or not I give one. I greatly dislike mandatory tips. There's no reason a tip should be demanded. especially when it's usually a minimum of 15%! It should always be whatever the person feels like giving if they have the money to do so. Tips really shouldn't be an expected thing, if a random stranger wants to give you a gift though then great for you! They aren't allowed at many businesses and I've seen people get upset we aren't allowed to accept a dollar from them (at my cashier job).

[@sorapokeball]

+PuzzleMessage "but at the restaurant the servers always "gently" remind you that you have to pay it, no excuses, because "there's no way their service could have sucked"" I have never had this happen to me, that seems super weird, even for the States. And usually when there's a fixed tip it's because of group size. Like a reservation of 20 people will usually have a set tip amount.

[@PuzzleMessage]

sorapokeball We were in NY and in the first restaurant we went to, at the end of the dinner the waitess told us that "since we were 'a party of 4', the tip was set at 17%", but this rule wasn't written anywhere. The second day we went to another restaurant where, again, at the end of the dinner the waitress told us that "for a party of 4"(?) the tip amounted to 20% of the total. It looked like they were making it up. In Canada the percentage depends on the province, if I remember correctly ( it was fixed at 20% in Quebec and, in more than 2 occasions, the servers clearly stated that "the service is not included", tapping on the bill with their index fingers lol). Maybe they were all just taking advantage of us because we were tourists, I dunno. If you guys are fine with this system, who am I to tell that is wrong? At the end of the day it is probably just a cultural thing, so when in Rome do as the Romans do :)

[@sorapokeball]

Ah, I'm from California/Oregon and it's expected but no one's going to bat an eye if you don't.

[@bebehappy9237]

I'm from NY and I've never had a situation with a required tip or a fixed amount you have to tip unless it's in a higher end restaurant. it's considered polite to tip at least 15% but it's not usually required at all. unfortunately a lot of waitress jobs pay wayyyy under the minimum wage here and tipping is how some people survive, it's not about how good their service is. it's hard enough as it is to live off minimum wage and many places have to divide up hours between lots of people so you're not even guaranteed 40 hour work weeks.

[@Warchgundamnow]

The train card is nice. The systems had been separated in eastern and western part of Japan until a couple of years before. It really got better. I can use it in Osaka, Tokyo or everywhere in Japan...

[@illegallllll]

+Sharla In Japan you should do a tokoyo/your city tour that would be an amazing and interesting video to watch in my opinion. hopefully other people would like this idea too. if you like this idea LIKE this comment so Sharla would see :3 *thanks!!!*

[@xxneverland]

This is such perfect timing, because I'm leaving for Japan in a week! I've done a lot of research, so I knew some of this before watching, but it was still a really informative video. I think figuring out the transportation system and the different train/metro cards options has been the most confusing for me thus far.

[@Minzo2002]

Whoa that intro >_>

[@brokfan4eva]

Thanks for the travel tips, we leave for Japan in like 12 days, so knowing things that our travel agency didn't is super helpful. Thanks for the google translate app, I totally didn't realize it existed!!

[@irisraven4816]

Do you have a video on most helpful words for travlers??

[@AiApoptoxin4869]

You two are just awesome together in videos!! I love your talking balance (??), it comes off so naturally and real 😊

[@丸山孝志-w5p]

日本人にも役立つ情報だったね。

[@父母-c9j]

だな

[@4444-d5g]

残念だが、君がどうしょうもないやつなのは、間違いないな・・・ 今のままでは・・・・ 何か不満があるのなら、問題を明確にして、何をクリアしなければならないか、考えてくれ。

[@dindon1969]

Citibankの店舗やATMってどこにあるんだろ？ 普段馴染みがないから調べないと全く分からない。

[@philipmcdonald2560]

Thanks for the tips. I went last year and am going back again I found everything very useful keep up the awesome work. Makes me want to do a v log but everyone who has done one has pretty much covered everything. Cheers

[@Whatsth3b1g1d3a]

UPDATE ON #12: I just moved to Tokyo this week so I am getting quite familiar with the struggle to find an ATM. I have a Bank of America debit card so I figured I'd be able to find a place easily, but 7/11 didn't work with my card. Citibanks branches are closed now in Tokyo for non-business accounts.... all of their atms have been rebranded as Sumitomo Mitsui, so I'm not sure if they'll work or not. JP is the only place I've found takes my card. It's awesome. I have a feeling that the Sumitomo branches I've seen around will work because the sign outside of the JP Office has their logo, and I'm pretty sure their ATM's are operated by Sumitomo Mitsui.

[@joshuafletcher991]

+Squilliam Fancyson Which card service (Visa, Mastercard, Maestro, etc) does the card label itself as? I've heard ongoing struggles with ATMs in Japan and with Maestro, but I thought that most of the others would work just fine at 7-11.

[@Whatsth3b1g1d3a]

Joshua The Bank of America ATM card is a Visa, which are known to typically work in Japan.... Unfortunately I did get a card error at 7/11 with it even though the ATM there is badged as Visa friendly. The machine even recognized that the card was a visa but said something along the lines of "This card is invalid, please talk to your card issuer". My friend has a Mastercard and he went through the same thing. They both appear to work at JP and nowhere else.

[@joshuafletcher991]

+Squilliam Fancyson well that sounds pretty frustrating, I'm moving to Japan at the end of May and I'm hoping that my MasterCard and bank will work fine with the ATM there, otherwise I'll have to figure something else out...

[@kathleenkoh]

I have also read that Citibank Japan got bought over but Sumitomo Mitsui online, would like to know if transactions/ withdrawals can be performed via Citibank ATM card on Sumitomo Mitsui's ATMs.

[@Whatsth3b1g1d3a]

I can't tell you for sure, but I assume so.... A lot of that stuff is just rebranding, I'm sure they aren't taking apart the whole infrastructure there with a change in brand. Can't say for sure though...

[@slowbird]

These were amazing!! Especially the photo feature for google translate! Thank you so much! I'm visiting Japan soon and this is going to be a life saver.

[@hiro-channel555]

都会だけではなく、田舎にも旅行してほしいですね！ちなみに電車のICカードは田舎では使えませんので注意してくださいね。

[@jmer9126]

I like to sleep in Narita when I get off the plane. There is a lovely temple with a Peace Pagoda in the sweet little town.

[@user-byakko-kaidan]

チップの文化って面倒くさくないの？

[@sharlainjapan]

面倒くさいです‼︎

[@joshuafletcher991]

+Tube 白狐怪談 アメリカでは２０％ぐらいチップしないと悪い目で見られるからすごく面倒くさい！

[@user-byakko-kaidan]

チップ結構高いな

[@太郎晴信]

+Tube 白狐怪談 ここの「　Tips　」は、正規料金に付加する従業員へのサービス料金でなく、 日本を旅行する上での「　ちょっとしたコツやテクニック、ヒント、秘訣、助言　」だろ・・ これを承知した上で、日本はチップはないからいいが、欧米は・・という話か・・

[@user-byakko-kaidan]

Prgr ClassBware 動画の中でチップについて触れてるから、それについて質問したんだけど？

[@legitlyspelunking]

Yes! Family Mart is life! They were literally EVERYWHERE when I went to Japan: One in the hotel I stayed at, one across the street from the hotel, and another one on the opposite street a little ways away.

[@kiskebear]

I once got myself into an awkard situation in Nagano with a taxi driver... He asked for 1800円 for the taxi fair - and I gave him 2000. Expecting 200円 change he turned around and was like "ah!...is this a tip?!?" and i was too ashamed to say "no! give me my change *angryface*" so i meekly replied "un..." but then he didnt even look happy about it. I DONT EVEN. xD Water under the bridge, but a wierd story none the less.

[@Suzyxgame]

hahahaha

[@kiskebear]

Yeah, I learned that afterwards from my friend in Osaka. Im from Australia - so we don't tip normally anyway, which is why I was so startled. Oh well :P

[@carameldrops08]

+KiskE so weird that he even asked, it's pretty obvious you would get change with 2 1000 bills. maybe he knew about foreigners giving tips and it was his strategy to get extra money

[@Xelann]

+carameldrops08 Japanese are not likely to strategize ways to get extra money especially from confused foreigners. It's tempting, but we have more respect than that.

[@carameldrops08]

Xel An I agree, I've never encountered a Japanese person like that, which is why I think it's weird

[@さくら-z6h1l]

Thanks so much for this video it's exactly what I needed since I'm going to Japan in April this was really helpful 😀

[@legitlyspelunking]

Surprised you didn't mention squat toilets.

[@Maxid1]

Yes, you should bring one.

[@joshuafletcher991]

+Legitly Spelunking I fear squat toilets.

[@RachelandJunAdventures]

+Maxid1 HAHA

[@Noneeko]

Thanks, guys! I'm going to be in Tokyo next week until mid April and I didn't know about the train apps! That will be really helpful. I'm really excited! Have a wonderful day!

[@NyamNyamNyam]

do you have any recommendations for local sim cards to use in japan?

[@JodyGfruitdance]

Thank you for these! I'm off to Tokyo in September and knew NOTHING about the place until I started watching yours & some some youtubers videos the past couple of weeks. I feel so full of knowledge now haha xx

[@KumaSweetDream]

Shine doesn't approve of Google translate

[@Jamesandvideos]

+KumaSweetDream Shine has said he likes Google translate but people use it wrong and that's what he dislikes about it. It's good for single words but not phrases or sentences.

[@hellopeopleimacatd7695]

+James Tickner yeah.....

[@bcgrote]

I use the Google translate app a lot, it works pretty well! Tabieats did a video about a meal they got at 7-11. It was neat, they got a good healthy meal, not just a greasy hot dog and nachos. I love seeing you and Rachel together. I can tell that you are great friends, and have the little inside jokes that are fun to have.

[@marfeno]

What's a good temporary cell phone provider for visitors with cheap plans?

[@chelbobalopolus]

If I remember it's really hard to get a plan or contract with a phone if you don't live in Japan I'm sure sharla or maybe someone else mentioned it. You'd be best getting a pocket wifi and using your current phone :).

[@joshuafletcher991]

+marfeno I'm fairly certain that SoftBank, Docomo, and au/KDDI all have rental cell phone plans available. I believe SoftBank even has rental cell phones at the major airports around Japan.

[@sayomimimimi]

I'm planning to go Japan for the first time this year, probably to Osaka and this video is definitely gonna help me out alot! Thanks Sharla & Rachel!

[@u99sxk66]

カナダやアメリカを訪れる日本人へのアドバイスもぜひお願いします！

[@heyitssharla]

+U99sxk オッケー！^0^

[@rubywiszowaty6661]

Just bought tickets for May 4th - May 14th for our delayed honeymoon! SUPER nice to know about the google translate camera ability.

[@meshikiarirus7613]

if you were to bring a certain amount of cash with you on your trip to japan where would you go to exchange currency or is that not needed.

[@heyitssharla]

The airport has currency exchange booths! Foreign currency is generally not accepted at stores.

[@meshikiarirus7613]

thank you

[@derekjtaylor]

+Sharla in Japan I think maybe Citibank can do currency exchange too.

[@jazznik2]

+meshikiari rus (Ichigo117) Re: turning in your Yen for $ when you leave, the last time I was there (Narita) airport personnel exchanged it for me before I boarded. I think the rate they give is better than you would get at a currency exchange place. But they'll only exchange bills, not coins so try to spend most of your coins beforehand. Re: getting Yen to spend in Japan, I dont recommend currency exchange places because of the high fees they charge. If you have a bank card or credit card that is on an ATM network, like "Cirrus", "Plus" or "The Exchange", all you need is to find a Japanese ATM that is on one of these and you can get Yen for about a 3% fee. I did this several times the last time I was in Japan and convenience stores, such as 7-11 and Lawsons, typically have ATMs just like the US. I cant read Japanese but I found the ATMs easy to use. The next time I go to Japan, I dont know that I'll even bother to get Yen in advance, I may just use an ATM at the airport when I arrive. But if it's your 1st time to Japan, you may feel more comfortable getting some in advance. Again, I wouldnt use a currency exchange place, I'd just order some thru my bank, or perhaps even AAA (will take several business days). They will require some minimum amount, like $100 worth or so, but the fee will probably be a lot less than the currency exchange places. You can also exchange American travelers checks for Yen at Japanese banks (I did this also). Basically, I wouldnt worry about it too much, just get some Yen as soon as you get there.

[@Delaney-and-the-Starlight]

The 7-11 ATMs never worked for me. I wonder if they will work now that I have a chip card. Does anyone know if having a chip card makes the 7-11 ATMs work?

[@michaelwatson113]

Excellent tips. Haneda international terminal is manageable. Haneda to dt Tokyo in minutes by monorail, and with great views.

[@diogenesbarrel7350]

I laughed haha who steals toilet paper

[@Xelann]

It was most likely a prank lol

[@diogenesbarrel7350]

Haha

[@jasminev91]

+Ian Aquila Shirosaki You would be surprised! At my work we have had the whole hand soap dispenser stolen off the wall...

[@diogenesbarrel7350]

+soundrolling lmao haha

[@midnightbike]

Another way to tell if you have to take your shoes off at a changing room, is if there is a shoe spoon (the stick that lets you slide on your shoes) hanging by the stall.

[@haraguro9696]

google翻訳のカメラ機能初めて知った すげえな

[@dream23z]

This is like one of the most helpful videos I've watched that's related to travelling to Japan. If 7-11's a lifesaver, you guys as well! I'd definitely take your tips into consideration for a Japan trip this weekend. thanks a lot! ^^

[@Hoppitot]

those subtitle apps are bullshit, it's way funnier to just say: oh this looks like milk let's buy it, OH SHIT THIS AINT MILK ITS WHIPPED CREAM

[@killermemestar8713]

True

[@EllTheBob]

Princess Cookie you shouldn't be mad that you got whipped cream instead. Now if you got MILK instead of whipped cream feel free to flip a table

[@CoconutvsBanana]

how can that be a refrigurator

[@marniluvsstrawberries]

It's a little toy refrigerator.

[@angiedawson4393]

About the international cards, AEON is another choice! I live in Sendai, and they're pretty much everywhere so thats a good choice too

[@deadlyneko6484]

I've made Polish subtitles, so if you can credit me I would be very grateful

[@heyitssharla]

+deadlyneko64 Thank you so much :D :D

[@deadlyneko6484]

No problem, I will do it more often now :3

[@AngelMercury]

My best tip for people visiting Japan: If you plan to travel around and vist more than one city get a JR Pass. You can only get them if you're coming in on a short term visitor visa and you have to buy the vouchers outside of Japan, but they are worth their price as you can use them to ride almost all JR rail and buses (minus two fastest shinkasen and the highway buses) for usually no cost (couple train lines or upgraded seats cost extra).

[@GhostMerchant.]

Is it rude if you don't finish everything on your plate?

[@liariie]

Josh Montgomery yes, its rude

[@abigaill3115]

@@liariie even if you're a foreigner?

[@brittanyhernandez4778]

But I'm a picky eater... 😓

[@wernstberger]

Thanks for all the tips! I just want to add one more. Before going to Japan, get a Japan Rail Pass. Traveling between cities in Japan is really expensive, so the rail pass is a good deal.

[@maddiesonswann1434]

Thanks for recommending downloading a train app. Do you have any recommendations for an English train app?

[@heyitssharla]

+Maddieson Swann I've heard that people like using one called Hyperdia! :)

[@moonie11355]

If you have access to internet which a lot of train stations have, look up jorudan.co.jp/english. If you do know how to read kanji the japanese app is way better.

[@NinjaMonkeyguy]

+Sharla in Japan hypedia is awesome but is only free for the first month so only download just before your trip if you want to keep it free or you will have to,pay for an extra month! You can check out hypedias website too for train info.

[@ZzelRa]

+Maddieson Swann Honestly i've made very good experiences with Google Maps. Very accurate and mostly shows you the price as well.

[@Arundidoo]

+Ninja Monkey hyperdia's also limited to certain countries on ios, like it's not available in new zealand so i just used the browser ver

[@Shuuuky]

I didn't know for the google translate thing,... now I'm taking picture of everything in my house for fun juste to know how it would be said in another language. That's awesome !

[@laye-kd7cx]

Hello, what is the english train app please? i'll only be there as a tourist and don't read japanese very well

[@YeungWan]

I found it on the app store (Apple) as "Japan Transit Planner". It's pretty pricey, though.

[@CaelanAegana]

I found several on Google Play. There is one called Japan Rail Map with a blue logo that does different apps for different countries and is in English. But the title says Tokyo and Osaka but they appear to have download maps for other regions too. Except Gifu, I found maps for all the places I'm going. I found an app specifically for the Tokyo subway, as well as several more options. I just searched for "Japan train maps"

[@vangrails]

Try hyperdia

[@Cosmosandchisme]

I just noticed that when you guys uploaded this, I was on my way to Japan. I just got back yesterday and now I'm catching on subscriptions. I saw this video and now I'm like 😑😑😑

[@sirflamingice4922]

google translate, Joey would flip out lol XD

[@三毛にゃんジェロ]

About the IC card traffic passes. They are available in big cities and their suburbs. They are not available in countryside, nor available when traveling from a big city to countryside. You may check the service area of the card which you'll get before purchase.

[@counterclockwiseemu8447]

Whhhhhhatttttt?! But Shine told me not me not to use google translate

[@Duriretlan]

+silly_girl If you're translating sentences and want to be understood then yeahhhh definitely not Google Translate ahaha

[@Jamesandvideos]

+silly_girl Shine has said he likes Google translate but people use it wrong and that's what he dislikes about it. It's good for single words but not phrases or sentences.

[@LettersfromJapan]

Basically, it's good if you want to look up kanji you see on a menu, sign, etc.

[@Whatsth3b1g1d3a]

+silly_girl Google Translate is only useful if you need small pieces of information such as the meaning of a specific kanji you saw on a sign or a vocabulary word you're forgetting. The reason why it's bad is because people try and use it for grammatical purposes, which is way to complicated for the software to replicate correctly.

[@tugst547]

+Squilliam Fancyson Too.

[@wolfco47]

The reason my husband and I have flown into Narita rather than Haneda airport is because of the difference in ticket prices. It has been substantial enough price wise that it was cheaper to fly into Narita, and then pay for more expensive train tickets to get into Tokyo faster. I definitely agree that Haneda is more convenient though. We went there just for fun one time with a friend who lives in Japan and is really fascinated with planes and other aircraft.

[@odwu_]

お釣りもらう時にありがとうって あんまり言わないかも。会釈はするけど。 客＞店員って感覚が染みついてる…

[@joshuafletcher991]

+jasmine teaaa That kind of customer>clerk ideology is very common in Japan, it seems like. In a lot of the Western countries like America and Canada, you can often see customers and clerks talking to each other and laughing as though they are life-long friends.

[@jurikuri418]

Thanks for the tips! Going to Japan next month on my own for 2 weeks so it was really helpful! Glad I'm flying into Haneda from Vancouver!