START HERE! How to Plan a Trip to Japan 2025, Ultimate Travel Guide

[@KenshoQuest]

Watch our entire playlist for planning an amazing trip to Japan: kzbin.info/aero/PLaTfVBw5xI8ImyC6qxIDDbXuR_7C_pFqq

[@miguelreyes1833]

We are traveling to Japan in 9 days to celebrate our 30th wedding anniversary. Your videos were great help to make this dream come true

[@KenshoQuest]

Congratulations! Have a wonderful time in Japan.

[@nateshf9303]

Congratulations. My wife and I are going back in April for our silver. We had our first in Japan and have been there 15+ times.

[@nicoleh1680]

Congratulations on 30 years! I hope you have a wonderful trip!

[@paulazimmerman1687]

Can anyone tell me if Pasmo and / or Suica cards are plentiful again? So many videos say they are unavailable to tourist because of the chip shortage. Thank you.

[@nateshf9303]

@ If you have an iPhone then download their mobile ic card apps. Forget the physical card.

[@たちなか-x5o]

We Japanese welcome tourists who respect our culture, do not cause trouble in public, and observe good manners.

[@Quackamoley8]

I've been to Japan numerous times and am asked many times about how to plan for a trip to Japan. This video was so well planned and recorded that I'm just going to forward it to people who ask me! Thank you!

[@KenshoQuest]

Thank you! 💕

[@TheScarletteWhisper]

Awesome video 🌷🩷 General tip! Be cautious connecting to public wifi no matter which country you are in. As a safe step, use a VPN whenever connecting to public wifi. Or, just avoid them altogether and use data or pocket wifi if able. Public wifi is not guaranteed privacy and the information you input into a website for example - can be stolen. Source - cyber security student.

[@KenshoQuest]

Thanks for the tip!

[@washedmid]

You guys are a lifesaver and have been such a big help with minimizing my stress with planning my trip for next month!!!

[@KenshoQuest]

So glad to hear. Have a wonderful time in Japan!

[@loanntran7591]

Thank you very much! I’m planning for my trip in November now.

[@KenshoQuest]

Exciting! That’s such a pretty time of year.

[@sari0728]

Thank you for all you do. Our first family trip to Japan will be on May 2025 but I am now very confident that we will be okay because of all your very helpful and informative videos. Love you guys! ❤

[@KenshoQuest]

We hope you have a wonderful family trip to Japan!

[@crazycatlady6396]

Your videos are the absolute best for Japan Travel! They have helped me immensely!

[@KenshoQuest]

Yay! Are you headed to Japan soon?

[@justafase]

Thanks guys! This is basically a great compressed version of your whole channel lol

[@KenshoQuest]

That’s what I was trying for!

[@christy9850]

Thank you for providing a few cities that would be good to visit outside of Tokyo, Osaka, and Kyoto. We will be coming for a month and wanted to find more local places to visit as well.

[@KenshoQuest]

You'e welcome. You might enjoy exploring Kanazawa and other cities along the Hokuriku Arch. Here's our video on that: kzbin.info/www/bejne/kJClnYl8Ys2Srs0

[@samm7177]

Thanks so much! I will be in Tokyo in November and this video served as affirmation that I have everything covered. Now the hard part… Waiting until November!

[@KenshoQuest]

Awesome! Have a wonderful time in Japan in November. Which places will you visit?

[@samm7177]

I’m going primarily for food and retro arcade games but first day I’ll likely freestyle it in Toshima City (near my hotel minutes from the Yamanote line) then make my way each day and evening to somewhere new like Ikebukuro, Akihabara, Shinjuku, Shibuya, Nakano then probably wind down my trip in Ueno and hopefully see/take pictures of some fall colours in Ueno Park. I’ve been planning my itinerary in Wanderlog for the past month which mostly consists of my bookings, coffee places, arcades and foods I may want to try that day. Next trip, definitely Osaka! I need some 80s nostalgia, laid back vibes and delicious food!

[@solomani-42]

I’ll be there in October/november as well. Have a good trip.

[@craftjoy24]

Thank you for your videos. The information you shared was invaluable, insightful, clear and easy to follow. It made planning and executing our travel adventures in Japan so much easier. Planning was daunting before your videos. We are most appreciative!

[@KenshoQuest]

You're very welcome! We're glad to have helped.

[@taxatty1956]

Thanks--a terrific summary.

[@KenshoQuest]

You're welcome!

[@Jjrmtv]

this is such great information! thank you so much

[@KenshoQuest]

You're welcome! Will you visit Japan soon?

[@KenCurtis41]

Thanks!

[@KenshoQuest]

You’re welcome! And thank you! Which step are you at in planning a trip to Japan?

[@josephrodriguezmarino8818]

Lovely Video and educational keep going you are doing great Hi from NJ,Newark

[@Patriot2111fan]

A wonderlog tutorial video would be fantastic as there arnt many of those that are done in your format.

[@KenshoQuest]

Thanks for the suggestion!

[@washedmid]

Very helpful. Thanks for putting this together!

[@KenshoQuest]

You're welcome! Which step are you at in planning your trip?

[@makua8894]

This was a great video!!!

[@saranjotnannuan2862]

I also used wanderlog to plan my japan trip ...its really convenient

[@KenshoQuest]

We're liking it so far! I need to start adding more to our itinerary.

[@sanmartin9673]

Great video!

[@KenshoQuest]

Thanks! Are you starting to plan a trip to Japan?

[@LucasLima-lh9yy]

Thank you very much! this video is ammazing😁

[@KenshoQuest]

You're welcome! Are you starting to plan a trip to Japan?

[@LucasLima-lh9yy]

@@KenshoQuest Yes, and I'm marathoning all your videos, they're incredible. Thank you very much for explaining it so well

[@KenshoQuest]

@@LucasLima-lh9yy You’re very welcome. Have fun planning!

[@JeremyGloaming]

Amazing information. Thank you

[@KenshoQuest]

You're welcome! Which step are you at in planning your Japan trip?

[@MathildaMM]

Hey, you said that you could get the international drivers licence from chippotle? That is a food restaurant and does not sound right...🧐 23:01

[@KenshoQuest]

Is that what you heard!? It's AAA ( Triple A ) in the U.S.

[@Optimus19]

Thanks for the tip. Going in Dec and will buy the Japan rail pass as other than tokyo osaka , we will be going to Ginzan onsen and then back to tokyo to fly back. Will buy 7 days from klook and hope we can activate after 4 days in tokyo since for those 4 days we will be in rokyo only

[@KenshoQuest]

Yes, when you swap your Exchange Order for your actual JR Pass you can tell them which day you want your JR Pass to activate.

[@Optimus19]

@@KenshoQuest Thank you so much. Have a great week

[@bethserran]

BTW, Heidi and George, myself and spouse lived in SF CA for 28 years,, and now at 68 yrs. old BART train offers Seniors a discounted fare tickets to all transportation within the city everytime we visit families. Does Japan offer discounted fares to Seniors? Thank you

[@KenshoQuest]

Hi. I'm not aware of senior citizen discounts on train fare for tourists visiting Japan. 🌸 Heidi

[@firefistace5980]

I be trying take trip during middle July for about 10 days only available have go Japan this my first trip out my state and country using your videos as guide thank you for that question was trying stay in Kyoto only cause haven’t done a lot of traveling so just stay in one city as my base any recommendations other city’s visit during my stay

[@KenshoQuest]

Hi, you can certainly spend an entire 10 days in Kyoto alone! Making it your base is a wise decision. I recommend also venturing to Osaka: Dotonbori, Osaka Castle, Universal Studios Japan, Kaiyukan Aquarium and more. And also take a day trip to Nara to see Todai-ji, Nara park and other sites. Plenty to do!

[@firefistace5980]

Thank you actually be doing Osaka as my base but take advice vist those places you recommended it thank you for input and guides as well for videos they really helpful

[@solomani-42]

30:03 very important tip for “visit Japan Web”. The app isn’t clear. You need to do an entry per person. It’s not per family.

[@nateshf9303]

Yes and no. I did my wife and mine on my phone only and gave her the QR code screen shots.

[@TheScarletteWhisper]

**there is no phone app for the official Visit Japan Web website as recently announced on their website (late 2024).** Delete any app you have on your phone and use the official website address only.

[@tessursua536]

Thank you for your videos. I would like to take the train from Kyoto to Tokyo. Is Shinkansen the only choice? Thanks!

[@KenshoQuest]

Hi, The Shinkansen is the fastest and most comfortable option between Kyoto and Tokyo since you don't have to go to an airport. There is an overnight bus and a few day buses as well. Here is a link: www.kosokubus.com/en/

[@tessursua536]

@ thank you so much for your reply ! This is a great help.

[@MiaTheDreamer]

Perfect.. ❤

[@moefaal4684]

Is there a way to change the language settings for Pasmo to English instead of Japanese ? Love the videos very informative

[@KenshoQuest]

Make sure the language settings on your phone are set to Language "English" and Region "United States". Also, the PASMO Finance app installed through the app store is different from the digital PASMO card, installed through Apple Wallet. 🌸 Heidi

[@Hindustaniaussie]

Hi There, may i know if last week of september and first week of october is good to visit japan....

[@KenshoQuest]

Yes, that’s a pleasant time of year to visit. 🍁

[@juliekelly8592]

Thank you for your wonderfully informative videos! I was wondering if it’s possible to do a day trip to Osaka/Kyoto from Shibuya on the Shinkansen?

[@KenshoQuest]

Hi. You can take the Yamanote Line from Shibuya to Shinagawa Station. Then the Shinkansen from Shinagawa Station to Kyoto takes about 2 hours. So it's doable in one day if you get an early start. You might want to choose either Osaka or Kyoto. 🌸 Heidi

[@juliekelly8592]

@@KenshoQuest thank you so much Heidi ♥️

[@nateshf9303]

Yes you can but I'd consider doing a closer day trip instead. (My wife and I usually spend a few nights in each city.)

[@juliekelly8592]

@@nateshf9303 thanks for the tip. What are your top recommendations for a day trip?

[@nateshf9303]

@@juliekelly8592 Check out Enoshima and the sky train “Shonan,” a thrilling train ride through the city and Chureito Pagoda, the iconic view of Mt Fuji (on a clear day). Even Yokohama is an easy day trip. Have fun planning!

[@apekshasamyal]

Hi , from haenda airport I am planning to go to Kyoto . How should I go. Bullet train yes , but how ?

[@KenshoQuest]

Hi, yes, you want to take the Tokaido Shinkansen. Board at Shinagawa Station to Kyoto Station. We recommend the Nozomi, since it is the fastest and the price isn't much more than taking the Hikari ( second fastest ). Don't ride the Kodama as it takes more an an hour longer. These videos will be helpful: kzbin.info/www/bejne/eXzCq4KkaraKbsU kzbin.info/www/bejne/mJzGi4mjn7-laq8

[@meenakshimahajan752]

Hi, we are travelling japan next year. I have couple of questions hope you can help me out. Does JR West pass cover Tokyo to Osaka trip including Matsumoto, takayama, kamikochi shinhotaka?

[@meenakshimahajan752]

And also is it feasible to go to mount Fiji, Matsumoto, takayama from Tokyo. I hope I have asked sensible questions.

[@KenshoQuest]

Hi, Yes, it is feasible to visit all the areas you listed from Tokyo. However, there is only one pass that will go near your route BUT not fully cover where you want to go. That is the Hokuriku Arch Pass. I recommend you watch these videos for more details and understanding of the area: kzbin.info/www/bejne/f162ioaafb94gJI kzbin.info/www/bejne/qHyxqax9oLRlbMk kzbin.info/www/bejne/kJClnYl8Ys2Srs0

[@kvandenberg775]

Do you need a reserve for car rent. i dont know what time i arrive so i am not sure to reserve becouse i dont want to get late. Thank you for this video !

[@KenshoQuest]

Hi. We have never rented a car directly from the airport. It's easy to get from the airport to the city by train, bus, or taxi. We usually only rent a car in remote areas where there are not as many trains.

[@KenshoQuest]

Hi, it's not required but strongly recommended as cars commonly run out in advance. And prices may go up and be more expensive if you just walked in. Toyota and Orix are very reputable companies and strategically located throughout Japan. Usually right next to stations and airports.

[@jefuryo]

Should I bring money to exchange at the airport or somewhere else?

[@KenshoQuest]

You could bring cash to exchange at a currency exchange counter at the airport or train station. We don't exchange cash, since we get a better rate by withdrawing from an ATM. Here's our video about using an ATM machine in Japan: kzbin.info/www/bejne/oXzGlHeVespnn9k

[@jefuryo]

@@KenshoQuest thank you so much. Just wasn’t sure if there’s an atm at the airport by the time we land. Love your videos!!! I’ll be asking some more questions 😅

[@KenshoQuest]

@@jefuryo Yes, there are ATMs at the airport. We use one every time we arrive. I usually bring USD $200 in emergency cash, but I’ve never needed to exchange it in Japan.

[@Optimus19]

Best to change in your own country or in the city money changer. Airport rates are the worst

[@makua8894]

Aloha. Do you know know if there are fees charged by credit cards for adding money to the digital Suica Card? Is it considered a foreign transaction? Is it like using an ATM so atm fees could apply?

[@KenshoQuest]

Hi. With my Apple Card Mastercard there are no fees applied when I charge my digital IC card. However, some credit cards might charge a cash advance fee. It’s best to call your credit card company and ask how it would be treated.

[@makua8894]

@@KenshoQuest Mahalo. Love your videos. They are a lot of help in planning my first trip to Japan. Aloha

[@solomani-42]

It’s considered an international transaction. So will depend if your bank charges a fee for those or not.

[@nateshf9303]

My wife and I loaded up all three mobile IC cards (suica, icoca, passmo) on our iPhones and topped them off at 20,000 each when the yen was really low back in June and linked them to our Apple cards to earn points.

[@PaquitoKon]

Hello, I really appreciate Your videos. I’m traveling to Japan in a month finally achieving my lifetime dream and your videos are so useful. I would like to ask a question, I’m arriving at Osaka but I plan to take a Shinkansen to Tokyo as soon as I get there, because I want to start the travel in Tokyo, my question is. Do Shinkansen tickets sold out fast? I’m not sure about buying it in advance just in case the flights gets delayed or something. Thank you so much again for your videos. Ps: I’m Spanish so sorry if my English is not so good!

[@nicoleh1680]

Yes if you want a reserved seat you might want plan in advance for your shinkansen. You might like to give yourself a day in Osaka before going to Tokyo. You can also take a domestic flight, since you'll already be in the Osaka Airport with your luggage.

[@nateshf9303]

@@PaquitoKon Curious to know if you’re skipping Osaka/Kyoto area completely and why you’re going straight to Tokyo.

[@PaquitoKon]

@@nicoleh1680 i took a look at the flights and they are more economic but I would get to the airport later, and apparently going from Narita to tokyo might be difficult if you get there late at night. So I thought that even being more expensive, the Shinkansen is easier, specially being the first day in Japan.

[@PaquitoKon]

@@nateshf9303 Hi! Not at all, I will be 4 days in Kyoto and 3 in Osaka, will also visit Mt.Fuji Area and Hiroshima. It is just the way I wanted to plan the trip, starting on Tokyo. I will end in Osaka, where I depart back to home

[@nateshf9303]

@@PaquitoKon That totally makes sense. If your schedule allows, you could consider going back to Osaka or Kyoto via Kanazawa, a much prettier route I think. And the Shinkansen is better too. That’s what my wife and I do. We never back track. Have fun planning!!

[@jenniferkim77]

Do you have any hotel recommendations in Tokyo? What are some favorite go to hotels you guys like to stay in Tokyo?

[@KenshoQuest]

Hi. Here's our video on choosing a hotel in Tokyo: kzbin.info/www/bejne/e2HPfJaLpLF2edE We organized our recommendations into our Expedia Shop (we earn a commission if you book through this link): expedia.com/shop/kenshoquest/share