What it's like Arriving in Japan in 2023 - Flying to Tokyo with British Airways, Premium Economy

The first of my new series of Japan travel vlogs! See what it's like flying to Japan and arriving at Haneda Airport in Tokyo.
Join us on flight BA5 with British Airways from London Heathrow to Tokyo Haneda Airport (LHR-HND) and see if it's worth flying Premium Economy. Including what the vegetarian meal's like in premium. Plus a stunning view of Mount Fuji from the plane! Everything went really smoothly with Visit Japan Web when we arrived - we showed our QR codes and the whole process took around 50 minutes. Then we picked up our pocket wifi from the JAL ABC counter, exchanged our JR Pass at the JR East Travel Service Centre and took the Tokyo Monorail into the city. The video also covers other ways to get into Tokyo by the Keikyu Line train and the bus. At the end there's a preview of what's coming up, in my new series of Japan vlogs from Tokyo, Nagoya, Osaka, Kobe, Kinosaki Onsen and Kyoto.
00:00 Pods at London Heathrow T5
01:31 Flying to Japan
06:38 Tokyo Haneda Airport
10:01 Tokyo Monorail
11:13 What's coming up!
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[@rilkeanheart]

plane fun fact: you were on a 787. not only does it have cool dimming windows, the all-composite fuselage means the maximum allowed humidity on the plane is much higher than in typical planes that have aluminum fuselages, and is therefore more comfortable, making long flights more pleasant!

[@cakeswithfaces]

Good to know! It's great how plane technology's improving and making flights more comfortable!

[@jan-ovepedersen5764]

Boeing states that the 787 also have slightly higher cabin pressure, creating a cabin altitude of 6000ft, other airplanes have cabing altitudes around 6500-7000ft.

[@ianm408]

I flew on that flight 3 days ago and no mask required on the flight. Great view of Mt Fuji. Arrival with visit japan web app was easy. Screen shot of blue front page plus 2 square bar codes. No queue at all for immigration and even though I was in business class, paid with avios, and got off first our bags still beat us to the carousel. Epic performance by Haneda staff.

[@cakeswithfaces]

Excellent, that sounds fantastic! Glad you got a view of Fuji too! I've started saving my Avios now - I've had reward flights from Virgin before and it's so good!!

[@sorehammer]

Oh wow I've waited for these for so long yay

[@cakeswithfaces]

Me too, haha!! 😅😂

[@martinabaojr.6308]

Wow! Will be of great help to me next year! Thanks!

[@cakeswithfaces]

Enjoy planning your trip! It's possible to requirements with Visit Japan Web might change by then so keep an eye out!

[@daisyboswell4356]

Super informative through every step! Thanks for making this video. It really helps others know what it's like, can't wait for more of your videos.

[@cakeswithfaces]

Thanks! I just remember how much I wanted to know about, before I first went to Japan!

[@194DAG]

Great video and nice to see you back in Japan. Looking forward to see the rest of the series 😊

[@cakeswithfaces]

Can't wait to edit all the vids!

[@stepanska23]

So excited for this video, and also to see that you took the exact flight and transport into Tokyo that we are planning to do in September! Your videos are so informative, I've been binge watching so many and making notes, as well as reading your book, thank you for all the useful advice 😊

[@cakeswithfaces]

Ah that's great to hear, thank you! So glad they've been helpful! Enjoy planning your trip for September!

[@hollythea7819]

Wow, can't wait to see all your adventures in Japan!!

[@cakeswithfaces]

Looking forward to editing all the videos and going through all the memories!

[@colinrenfrew48]

Welcome back! Looking forward to seeing your latest videos.

[@cakeswithfaces]

Can't wait to edit them all!

[@ToriaCollects]

I am SO EXCITED to see your new series... Watching you guys arrive has gotten me so excited for our upcoming trip! I can't wait to see more videos!

[@cakeswithfaces]

Aww thank you! Can't wait to go through all my footage and edit all the videos!

[@SwerlingZero]

So excited to see your return to Japan!

[@cakeswithfaces]

Can't wait to share all the things we did!!

[@amandahayward]

I'm so excited for you both. Have a great time

[@cakeswithfaces]

Thank you!!

[@SavyBreci]

So glad the Japan vlogs are back !!!

[@cakeswithfaces]

Really looking forward to editing them all!

[@rickpaige6705]

congrats on your return, we cant wait to go back in a months time!! x

[@cakeswithfaces]

It'll be here before you know it! Springtime's my fav time to go to Japan!

[@KoumoriNoHimeCosplay]

So excited for this series!

[@cakeswithfaces]

Hope you enjoy the videos, I can't wait to post them all!

[@sallyharden8706]

Thank you for this. It added to my excitement for my first visit from T5 Heathrow, leaving in less than 2 days!!! Can't wait for the rest of the videos!

[@cakeswithfaces]

Ooh exciting! I'd never been there before either. It's such a big terminal - I was surprised when it first came into view!

[@cocoaswann2095]

Watching your video has me So excited about the prospect of visiting Japan! Thanks Amy!

[@cakeswithfaces]

I'm sure you'll love it there!! You won't be disappointed! :-)

[@seaotter42]

So excited that you've gotten to go back to Japan! Your book and videos were a huge help when we went in December/January. I practically giggled seeing some of the places we visited in the "preview" part of the video (Teamlab Planets and Shibuya Sky in particular). Looks like a lot of great content coming! Thanks for having some of the best Japan travel content on the internet!

[@cakeswithfaces]

Ah that's very kind of you, thank you! 🥰 Hope they bring back lots of happy memories! I loved Teamlab Planets & Shibuya Sky!!

[@dawgbrooks5706]

Safe travels, stay healthy, eat lots and most of all HAVE FUN!!! Thanks for all your informative videos! Looking forward to what you did in Japan!

[@cakeswithfaces]

Thanks so much, I can't wait to edit all the other videos and show you guys everything we did!!

[@TwoTicketsToAdventure]

Not boring at all! We love travel day videos and in just 12 minutes you have been able to answer a lot of the questions we have been hunting for! So informative! And not a lot of people are extremely detailed like this. Loved the teaser clips in the end. Looking forward to the rest of the videos. And yesss the little transpiration cubes you took in beginning are adorable. -Ven

[@cakeswithfaces]

That's great to hear, thank you!! I'm really looking forward to editing all my other videos!

[@angelicamason1650]

Thank you. Hoping to go to Japan some time next year. Great to be able to visualise the arrival process.

[@cakeswithfaces]

Hope it helps! Always seems like a lot to deal with after a long haul flight, especially when you have to remember to pick things up at the airport, but it's not too bad really! :-)

[@JoJo-vj4zr]

This is absolutely a dream come true, finally so thrilled to see you back in Japan. Absolutely satisfying seeing your trips and experiences there. 🥰

[@cakeswithfaces]

Aww thank you! Looking forward to editing the rest of the videos!

[@yukitamura9228]

Great video, great intro to arriving Japan for the 1st time in 5 years for me in 2 weeks. , can't wait.

[@cakeswithfaces]

Ah that's so exciting!! It'll be so good to be back - I enjoy it more and more each time.

[@wannaknit]

perfect timing as I will be doing the exact same flight in two weeks! Great to get feedback on the arrival process and timings, thank you.

[@cakeswithfaces]

Enjoy!!! Everything went very smoothly - you'll also be surprised by the number of staff waiting at the airport to tell you to get your QR codes ready!! :-)

[@gokaijourney2105]

So loving that there are new videos from you. Yes, totally agree about the sounds of Japan -- I enjoyed the sounds of the train stations and on the streets -- all the tones, beeps, and fake bird chirping. I did like the fact that the new JR Pass can be used put into the ticket machines and that you no longer have to show the pass at the manned gates. We did have a problem when a station's machines were not working and we showed the pass to exit that station. We got stopped (so embarrassing when the gates closed, red lights and buzzer goes off!!!!) at the next station when we tried to enter because we were technically still in the previous station. With help from the manned gate staff, we were back on our way.

[@cakeswithfaces]

I've been stopped at the ticket gates before when I went in the wrong entrance of a station, then tried to leave without travelling anywhere! The staff are always really helpful with sorting it out. :-)

[@sisterblissuk9253]

Wow mount Fuji greeting you to Japan, what a blessing! I'm flying into Haneda with my sister in november! Thank you for your vlog ❤

[@cakeswithfaces]

Fantastic, hope you catch the beautiful autumn leaves in November!

[@marthac5130]

I'm flying from Heathrow to Haneda with BA in a couple of days so this video was great timing, very helpful!

[@cakeswithfaces]

Excellent - have a great flight! And an even better time in Japan!!

[@CK-nf4ui]

Thank you for the great video! My partner and I are flying out a week from now so this has come at the perfect time! I appreciate your information about wait times at the airport, passport stamps, QR codes, and the reminder to be extra aware of exactly where I store the new tiny JR pass! 😅😬

[@cakeswithfaces]

That tiny JR Pass is very precious!! Have a wonderful trip - I'm sure it'll be amazing! And have a Fanta Grape for me!

[@GemmaLoxx]

Hearing the jingles at the train stations takes me right back to Tokyo. I miss it so much!

[@cakeswithfaces]

They're just so nostalgic, like nothing else! 💔😭✨

[@Scooterx2]

I smiled at your mention of hearing the various railroad and subway bells and chimes. There’s a type of railroad fans (trainspotters, if you will) who go about so they can hear the chimes of every station in Japan. (Each one is a unique short melody.) I’m told JR even sells a CD of all the stations’ chimes. Once you learn a few of them, such as the station near your hotel, or for Tokyo Station, etc, you’ll occasionally be able to recognize them in movies and anime. (Woe to the soundtrack person who uses the wrong one and has the character arriving at Ueno while playing the chime for Shibuya. Angry letters and e-mails will flood in.)

[@cakeswithfaces]

Haha I can imagine the complaints!! I saw a video once with an interview with the person who composes them - what a job!

[@Cookieboymonster1962]

My favourite was at Takadanobaba station where the theme music from Astro Boy is played prior to each train departure from the Yamanote Line platform, a homage to the series being set in the Takadanobaba area. That little fact (which I copied from wikepedia) drove me nuts until I was able to place the tune.

[@cakeswithfaces]

@@Cookieboymonster1962 Great fact!! I love how these local details are celebrated in Japan.

[@rogerdavis2307]

Thanks - I’ll be going to Narita but notification of some of the changes (e.g. the new JR Pass & the automatic gates) are still really helpful!

[@cakeswithfaces]

On the train from Narita you get a great view of the SkyTree as you approach Tokyo, and look out for the hanging trains at Chiba!

[@greendayrock10]

I hope you have the best time! ☺️ We are heading back to Japan in July. Thank you for uploading this video, really informative! We are a bit nervous about going through immigration etc this time round with COVID documentation and this was a big help!

[@cakeswithfaces]

It'll be amazing! There really is nothing to worry about with the new procedures. Plus, they just announced that after 8th May, you don't need proof of vaccination or a negative test any more. Although you'll still need Visit Japan Web, for your customs & immigration details.

[@lenne1224]

Ahh I’m leaving tomorrow morning. This video came in the perfect time! 😊 Thanks!

[@cakeswithfaces]

Exciting!! Have a good flight! You'll be there sooooon!!

[@clebby_claire]

Loved the vid! I'm flying with BA in a few weeks LHR to HND. Also need to pick up Jr pass and pocket wifi, so found this very informative! Love the train sounds, ahh I can't wait 😀

[@cakeswithfaces]

Have a good flight!! I always write myself a mini to-do list for when I get off the flight - I don't trust myself to remember where to pick everything up after a long flight!

[@lisanaga9369]

This video was plenty exciting , Amy....not just because we are going back to Japan soon, but purely because YOU sounded so excited to be back😊

[@cakeswithfaces]

Hehe, it had been a long time! Looking forward to editing the rest of the series!

[@veganinbrighton9300]

Ridiculously I may have cried when I watched this because I can't believe I'm finally going back to Japan after 5 year this October! I can't wait to watch the rest of the videos from your trip.

[@cakeswithfaces]

Yay, so happy you're going back! 🎉 It'll definitely be worth the wait!

[@helenFX]

Congratulations ! I've been so anticipating the new post-covid travel videos... waiting to see how much your japanese has managed to improve in the years of being grounded :P

[@cakeswithfaces]

Haha, I've really been slacking off on my Japanese since I started learning trombone just before the pandemic! Seems I only have capacity (or time!) to study one thing at a time!! But I can still remember enough to get by - my best moment was when we were at karaoke and I had to go downstairs and tell the staff at the reception desk that someone else was in our room!

[@user-mu3bk4yb9c]

just saw your preview of the hotel with the church, my family and i stayed there a few years ago and it blew my mind when we got out of the lift as i didnt know it was there , one of the best hotels ive stayed in on my travels , looking forward to the rest of your trip

[@cakeswithfaces]

I didn't know it was there either!! I'd seen it on Google Images when I was choosing a hotel but I didn't realise it was the one I booked! 😂 I loved it there too, we had a great view!

[@timothysoeder1544]

This video weirdly made me somewhat sad to watch. Glad to see you finally return to Japan after all of this time, yet it only reminded me how I haven't been able to so yet myself. I had been planning my trip for the 2020 Olympics since 2013, even getting as far as having everything booked just before the pandemic. Hoping that I'll finally be able to return next spring. One big upside is that I'll be able to show my wife all of the cherry blossoms instead of the oppressive heat of the summer.

[@cakeswithfaces]

Sorry about your cancelled trip - I had a cancelled 2020 trip too. Hope you can reschedule for next year! And yes, I'd definitely recommend spring over the summertime, I think the humidity would be difficult to cope with. It'll be worth the wait when you get there! And think of all the new things that'll be open by then!

[@ari_young]

We just got back a few days ago...your book was super helpful. Learned a great deal, as well as things to do and not do do for our next trip, which hopefully will be very soon.

[@cakeswithfaces]

Ah that's great to hear, thanks so much! What was the best part of your trip?

[@ari_young]

@@cakeswithfaces Oh my there were so many things...I'm a big history and culture buff so we visited several shrines in Tokyo and Kyoto. But honestly I really loved the trains and how incredibly efficient everything was (especially coming from the United States, where most trains are subpar). Everyone was incredibly friendly. I've been to nearly 40 countries and this was by far the best foreign trip. I was very nervous about going because I knew so little about the country but your videos and book certainly eased that anxiety.

[@cakeswithfaces]

@@ari_young Ah that's great to hear, and it sounds amazing! Totally agree with you on those points - the way everything just works and it's such a pleasant place to be is what draws me back to Japan again and again.

[@madisonp4487]

We're in japan now, and all the people seem so lovely. Even when you're stepping off the plane, they are smiling and waving 😊 The train/metro system can be a little bit confusing, but there are many people to ask. I laughed at how much luggage you took, me and my boyfriend, and I have packed extremely light, only taking one small cabin bag each with a rucksack so it's easily wheelable round the stations and outside. Can't wait to see more videos Amy! 😊

[@cakeswithfaces]

Hope you're having a fantastic time! It must make things a lot easier travelling light, I'm jealous of how you can manage it!! Enjoy the rest of your trip!

[@notprobe]

My 2 week trip is at the end of September, so excited

[@cakeswithfaces]

I'm sure you'll love it! It'll be really warm still in September 😊

[@soitsmelaura]

I’m so excited to go … it was great to see the process of carrying big luggage. We are planning on going to Osaka and Tokyo and that’s a lot for us in a matter of a week or so

[@cakeswithfaces]

I actually filmed another video all about how we manage to change trains with big luggage! :-) Just take your time, and if it's busy when you get off a train, just wait to the side for a moment until the crowds have dispersed and it's a lot easier. Have an amazing time - that sounds like a great plan!

[@Cherry_Scary]

I'm leaving for Japan here in a week, so this video is super timely! We're also flying into Haneda, so it's very nice to know what all to expect - will definitely be sure to use the site for customs!

[@ari_young]

Haneda is definitely a better airport to arrive in than Narita, especially for first timers. I first arrived in Narita and it was very intimidating but we left from Haneda and it was a much smoother process.

[@cakeswithfaces]

Haneda's great, it's so close to the city. Hope you have a good flight, and have a wonderful time in Japan!!

[@3DJapan]

9:41 I like the old booklet. It was really recognizable so if you're looking for it in your bag you'll see it right away. I think the ticket style one would be more easy to lose. My friend actually left his on a train table while using the restroom and the conductor threw it away, thinning it was trash. We didn't realize until we got off. They had to contact the train, have them go through the trash to find it, and leave it at the next station for him to pick up.

[@cakeswithfaces]

That's amazing he got it back! What great service, they even went through the trash for him. That must have been such a relief.

[@raiu]

I'm so used to flying to Tokyo on a 777, but it's great to see the 787 setup I'll be on this summer. Great video!

[@cakeswithfaces]

Hope you enjoy it! The fading windows are fun!

[@keithmpire]

This is very exciting!

[@cakeswithfaces]

Enjoy the new videos!

[@lohanette]

When I went Tokyo in January I was amazed how fast I got from getting off plane to arrivals lounge. Expected it to take over an hour. Love the sound of the trains tunes. I didn't get a rail pass as I only travelled around Tokyo for 8 days.

[@cakeswithfaces]

Such a smooth arrivals process! And then from Haneda it's so quick to get into the city. Every time I hear the train tunes it makes me so nostalgic! :'-)

[@lohanette]

@@cakeswithfaces Tokyo was empty of tourists when I was there compared to now.

[@cakeswithfaces]

@@lohanette You're lucky to have been there at that time! I'm sure everywhere's full now that cherry blossom season's started (I made sure to leave just before that!).

[@heatherfisher8357]

I have a trip for October and this will be my first time going. This video is super helpful and exciting to me since I am going to experience it finally. We’re staying in Ikebukuro in a hotel you suggested.

[@cakeswithfaces]

Excellent, hope you enjoy it! You'll see lots of cute Halloween treats & snacks in October!

[@SazzyNoodles]

My husband and I went with BA premium economy in '19, we will be doing the same next year, was my first ever time on a plane and it was a wonderful journey with such lovely staff.

[@cakeswithfaces]

What a great first flight! Glad you'll be going again!

[@francesashmore773]

We've just returned,we took the same flight with BA too. I'll be looking forward to seeing all your videos,I loved Japan and can see why my daughter in Kyushu does too. The people are so kind and the transport system is marvellous. We also visited Shikoku with her and did some of the pilgrimage. Thank you for all your posts 😊

[@cakeswithfaces]

That sounds amazing! So glad you enjoyed it. What did you do in Shikoku?

[@francesashmore773]

@@cakeswithfaces We hired a car in Osaka (extremely stressful getting out of Osaka in the dark!!) then drove to An. We visited some of the temples and Liz is collecting stamps in a beautiful scroll that's hand painted every time she visits a different one. Then after four days we returned the car and went by overnight ferry to Beppu where we stayed and Liz went back to her university accomodation in Oita. We left her after a few days and flew from Oita back to Haneda where we had a couple of nights. Surprisingly nice area Haneda despite being so near the airport. We braved the trains and did Scramble Crossing one night,then the last day we walked locally then went to Tokyo station and found the Imperial Palace,we walked all the way round ☺️ Not bad for two pensioners 😂

[@cakeswithfaces]

@@francesashmore773 Sounds fantastic! You're very brave driving through Osaka! Walking's the best way to see everything, you can often come across lots of surprises that you wouldn't see otherwise. But it does make your feet hurt after a long trip!! :-)

[@aldente2011]

Wow, you were really lucky to have had such a closer look at Mt Fuji on the recent diverted European flight path!!, even with the clear backdrop of snow-capped Tateyama Mountains (The normal shortest path is via Siberia, so you would not fly right past it when approaching Tokyo...) I'm very much looking forward to the forthcoming series.

[@cakeswithfaces]

I couldn't believe how clear it was! It made me want to jump straight up the SkyTree when we arrived to enjoy the clear views. There was a great view of Fuji the next day too, from the Yurikamome line in Odaiba at sunset (never seen it from there before).

[@AirWhiteRose]

So excited for this series! Was so well timed for our trip planning, we are going in August

[@cakeswithfaces]

Excellent, where are you planning on visiting in Japan?

[@AirWhiteRose]

@@cakeswithfaces Since it's our first time in Japan we'll do the major tourist attractions Tokyo, Kyoto, Osaka & Nara + Hakone day trips and also Kinosaki

[@cakeswithfaces]

@@AirWhiteRose It's gotta be done! Glad to hear you're going to Kinosaki - I really loved it there! Such a beautiful town, everywhere you look it's like a photograph 😍

[@AirWhiteRose]

@@cakeswithfaces Yes, I think it will be the highlight of our trip so we are spending two nights there. It looks magical! Can’t wait to see your video of it ❤️

[@robertsadler1275]

I am so excited about my very first trip to japan i cant wait!

[@cakeswithfaces]

Exciting!! Where are you planning on visiting in Japan?

[@robertsadler1275]

@@cakeswithfaces Doing the main touristy thing touring from Narita to via Tokyo Osaka Kyoto catching a flight to Naha Okinawa of course Mount fuji and being also a aviation geek plenty of aviation photograph and aviation museums hopefully.finally being a very Big Disney fan will have to do USJ and Tokyo Disney also a very big fan of sailor moon will have to do the live location tour all this on a months trip and i feel i still will not be able to fit it all in so already planning a second trip possibly later in the year.

[@cakeswithfaces]

@@robertsadler1275 Wow that sounds amazing! All the classics, plus a few more unusual places - it'll be fantastic! Hope you manage to spot some of the Japanese planes with unusual paint jobs at the airport - I've seen a few of the Star Wars ones, and a Hello Kitty plane!

[@BenjaminDamien]

Oh great! I'm travelling in two months, and it will be so great to prepare, get new ideas and sustain my enthusiasm! ;-) I hope you enjoyed your trip!

[@cakeswithfaces]

Hope it gives you lots of ideas for your Japan to-do list!!

[@awesomeadamfrom2099]

Awesome job Amy

[@cakeswithfaces]

Thank you!!

[@awesomeadamfrom2099]

No problem

[@shadow111d]

finally you got to go back!!!! yayyyyyy

[@cakeswithfaces]

At last!! 🎉🎉🎉

[@raulpinto2436]

The part where you show Mount Fuji from the plane was the WOW moment

[@cakeswithfaces]

I couldn't believe we got such a clear view!

[@kamonart]

I’m planning my trip in October and this is such a life saver and helpful series, cannot wait for the rest

[@12morganna]

I'm going in October too 😊

[@cakeswithfaces]

Thanks so much, that's great to hear! October's a great time to go - warm weather and ALL the Halloween stuff!

[@margaretgerhardus6247]

Fingers crossed I'm going for 3 weeks over Halloween and into November might see you there 😅

[@xKillingxTimex]

October - November here too 😂

[@TwoTicketsToAdventure]

Oct here as well! 😂🙌🏻

[@satellite1882]

I'm so excited for you! I have 44 days before my trip!

[@cakeswithfaces]

Not long to go!!

[@user-wb3wg3we8w]

Welcome back to Japan ! You were lucky to see Doctor Yellow ! Also you are lucky that the cherry blossoms bloom early this year. Please enjoy plenty of cherry blossoms.

[@cakeswithfaces]

I was so excited to see Dr Yellow, I never thought I would!

[@user-wb3wg3we8w]

​@@cakeswithfaces Thank you for reply. It must be a fun trip to meet Doctor Yellow.

[@axios101]

Nice work!

[@cakeswithfaces]

Thanks! Enjoy the new series!

[@dukgurl]

Great video! Looking forward to more videos from your trip. Pui pui 11:25 🐹

[@cakeswithfaces]

I was on the look-out for Pui Pui everywhere! There was a mini pop-up shop in Tower Records in Shibuya. 😍 So glad the second season's finally on Netflix!

[@alpha4072]

Nice looking forward to the food you will post!, hope you had some good A5 Kagoshima wagyu while you were there!

[@cakeswithfaces]

Phil had a quest to find wagyu beef! After 3 attempts he managed to find the good stuff in Kyoto (it's tricky for us because I don't eat meat and hardly anywhere that serves it has any veggie options - definitely a gap in the market!).

[@jetlag737]

Nice, an around the world trip on BA! Greetings from Osaka at the moment. (From Seattle WA)

[@cakeswithfaces]

Ooh exciting! Have fun in Osaka - enjoy a great night out on Dotonbori!

[@marjaanak.5614]

I'm so excited for this series! Even though we already made our tirp this is going to be interesting to watch (maybe plan for another trip someday :D) It was fun to spot familiar thing from Haneda like "Oooo! Those are the ticket machines we bought our Suica from!" x)

[@cakeswithfaces]

Hope it brings back happy memories!! 🎶

[@rhiedwards8350]

Eee so happy these videos are back!!! 171days and counting for myself 😂😂

[@cakeswithfaces]

The countdown is on!!

[@kigukaraoke6670]

I’m going to have to tune in since I am going to Japan (and landing in Haneda as well) in May :) I’m with a tour group from all over so should be interesting (and my first time travelling myself)

[@cakeswithfaces]

I'm sure you'll meet a lot of interesting people! Have a fantastic time!!

[@atelier482]

I missed the vlogs! Planning to fly this autumn or next spring for the first time to Japan, I hope everything goes well.

[@cakeswithfaces]

It'll be amazing, I hope you can make it! Can't wait to edit all my other videos!!

[@swissmarco8735]

Thanks for the practical experience report about the entry. Will see for myself in a week what it will be like in Osaka International (KIX) 🥳

[@cakeswithfaces]

Have a good flight! If you're arriving at Kix you could go on the Nankai Rapit train (possibly the coolest looking train there is!).

[@swissmarco8735]

@@cakeswithfaces Since I always have my AirBnB in the Namba area, I am a regular customer of the Nankai Rapi:t 😎 Yes, the design is really unusual and has a touch of Gundam.

[@Gotta_Keep_Moving_On]

I plan to return next year and I'm also saving up Avios/Airlines for British Airways for 2025. Great video for me, thanks :)

[@cakeswithfaces]

Reward seats are the best! I've started saving Avios now. I've been saving Virgin miles but they stopped flying to Japan a few years ago!!

[@Gotta_Keep_Moving_On]

@@cakeswithfaces Checkout Avios for thoughts for some little extras :)

[@marinos15l]

Thank you for coming to Japan❤❤

[@cakeswithfaces]

I love Japan, I hope I can come back soon!

[@marinos15l]

@@cakeswithfaces ❤️❤️❤️

[@cstpa1]

wow those pods are wild

[@cakeswithfaces]

So much more fun than a bus!

[@Gazereths1234]

Thank you for the very useful video, I must admit I'm a little concerned about the new procedures, but your video put my mind at ease. I'm not looking forward to the nearly 15 hour return flight in basic economy though 😂 I'm counting the days until October when I go. I got an absolute steal on a hotel in Shinsaibashi, Osaka (£137 for 6 nights) so I'm having 13 days in Tokyo, 7 days in Osaka, then back to Tokyo for another 12 days. It's been years in the making, I'm so excited 😂 Looking forward to the new videos!

[@cakeswithfaces]

The entry procedures are actually fine when you arrive, and there are plenty of english-speaking staff there to help - someone even scanned my QR codes for me. That's a great deal on a hotel - and a good long trip - you'll have time to do so much!

[@Gazereths1234]

@@cakeswithfaces Yeah hopefully plenty of time! I can't wait! Yet I'm still having trouble fitting in everything I want to do! You have to plan to rest as well though lol! afterall that's what a holiday is supposed to be! Giving yourself a day off really helps you enjoy the rest of the days. That's the adavntage of longer trips, you can spare a day or two to rest.

[@Cptalbertweskerful]

Loved your first video, a great insight into your trip, those pods are so cute too! I was curious, your suitcases look really nice and sturdy, we usually have quite lightweight ones but are considering something a bit more substantial, what make are they?

[@cakeswithfaces]

The suitcases were new this year! They're from Tripp - they have lots of different colours! They're actually not too heavy, and having 4 wheels makes them so much easier to manoeuvre - I'm glad we got them in the end!

[@CincyRaz]

I appreciate the time breakdown of customs, wifi and JR pass. I'm visiting in about a week and I arrive at Haneda around 2pm and need to catch a shinkansen to Hiroshima. I budgeted around 3 hours, so it seems like enough time.

[@cakeswithfaces]

That should be plenty of time - and enough time to grab snacks for the trip!

[@koduck666]

These videos are so useful, love them! We're going in October and trying to decide between esims and pocket WiFi, did you find the pocket WiFi was a good option?

[@cakeswithfaces]

Thanks so much! I prefer pocket WiFi, because you can share one device between you and connect any other devices you have too. Esims can be cheaper but they often have a data cap hidden in the small print. I've always found pocket WiFi works well!

[@koduck666]

@@cakeswithfaces great, thanks!

[@michael88keys66]

We landing haneda airport on monday Thanks for your help

[@cakeswithfaces]

How exciting, have an amazing time!!!

[@michael88keys66]

@@cakeswithfaces thankyou

[@xKillingxTimex]

Super helpful, thank you! We're traveling in October, Heathrow to Haneda, economy though (do they get wee airplane goody bags too? 😂). Definitely going to look into the airport bus if it goes near our hotel. Looking forward to future videos! ❤

[@cakeswithfaces]

Everyone gets a goody bag I think! 🎉 A bus would definitely be easier with luggage if there's one that goes near your hotel.

[@xKillingxTimex]

@@cakeswithfaces Yay, goody bags! Not like I won't be packing the kitchen sink in my carry on for our family of 3 😂 Yes the airport bus stop is 5 minutes from our hotel in Ikebukuro and perhaps easier with having our 9 year old with us. Leave the stress of working out trains until later than day minus suitcases 😂

[@cakeswithfaces]

@@xKillingxTimex As much as I love the trains in Japan, with a 9 year old to keep an eye on, plus their suitcase, a bus would be easier!! Also recommend taking a few snacks for the plane as it's a long time between meals on such a long journey!

[@Jiskle]

We're hoping to do a 3 weeker for our honeymoon! Fly in, fly west to Kumamoto and then work our way back to Tokyo. The Heathrow pods are cool, nothing like that in Newcastle sadly. Glad you had a great time, looking forward to the new videos!

[@cakeswithfaces]

That sounds like a fantastic plan! I was tempted by Kumamoto for this trip - I love Kyushu! I was excited about taking a boat across to Nagasaki and the Unzen Hells. And of course the Kumamon Park! 💜

[@Jiskle]

@@cakeswithfaces those all sound fantastic as well! I saw in your footage you went to nunobiki herb garden? We loved that! I guess we'll wait for the next video. We're hoping to take a ferry to Busan from Fukuoka! So two counties in a single trip :) Glad you managed to get back out there!

[@cakeswithfaces]

@@Jiskle That sounds exciting going to South Korea as well, good idea! I loved the herb garden too! We took a wrong turning looking for the hiking trail down the mountain and ended up missing most of the herb garden, and had to walk up that really steep path! 😅😅

[@Jiskle]

@@cakeswithfaces oh no! It's a lovely place but a bit labyrinthian even though it's all outdoors! My fiancé really liked the shop at the top with all products made with the herbs and flowers grown there. We got one of the special coins from the machine up top to commemorate it.

[@sriyaniwickramasinghe6339]

I am planning to go next week 😊

[@cakeswithfaces]

Ooh exciting!! Have the best time!!

[@mariarizou8130]

Thanks so much for this video! I am flying in 4 days and was wondering about the stamp on the Passport. I read that you get it if you travel from 15 to 90 days, but I will travel for less than that so I was wondering whether I will get it. or not. Sad not to buy your guide before it was sold out, but hopefully I will have it on hand for the next time. Waiting for your next videos to watch them while I will be there and get ideas!

[@cakeswithfaces]

Have an amazing time!! I think you'll prob get a stamp in your passport (you might even have it by now if you've already arrived in Japan!!).

[@3DJapan]

My flight from NYC to Tokyo was 17 hours but that included a one hour layover in Beijing. We flew over the north pole both ways. I can't sleep on planes with the engine noise so I was really tired when I arrived.

[@cakeswithfaces]

Ouch, that's a long travel day! Same here - planes are so noisy - noise-cancelling headphones help but it's still so hard to sleep properly.

[@garrytuohy9267]

Those flights that cross into the Arctic unnerve me a little. But I really want to fly to Japan with ANA so the holiday can start early and last as long as possible. I am looking forward to your train museum, white-water and Nagoya adventures.

[@cakeswithfaces]

Usually I'll book whichever has the best fares, but ANA would be my first choice too if they were all the same price. Can't wait to edit all the vlogs!

[@sefievalentyne3310]

This really helps my anxiety

[@cakeswithfaces]

Aww that's great to hear, really glad it helps! :-)

[@helenkalb5728]

We are on our way to Kyoto today after a week’s travel. Then on to Tokyo. Our trip has been absolutely thrilling! Your videos have been so helpful in many ways Amy, thank you! So far I’ve been unable to find a place to buy a Suica or Passmo card 😂 - not sure what went wrong! Any tips if I missed getting it at the airport?

[@cakeswithfaces]

Aww that's great to hear! So happy you're enjoying it! You can get a Suica card at the ticket office of a JR train station (eg Kyoto Station). I think you can also buy them at some ticket machines at JR stations. If you buy one in Kyoto it might be an Icoca card as that's the local one, but it's valid for everything just the same as Suica 😊

[@helenkalb5728]

@@cakeswithfaces thanks so much!

[@johnp6987]

Great start to the upcoming videos. Did you loose or gain a day when flying over the date line on your return

[@cakeswithfaces]

The way back was one long day (always get confused working these things out!). The day we left was the same day we got back - I think!!

[@AceDC2]

Great video, we're leaving in under 2 weeks so to was nice to see some of the process through the airport. Unfortunately we missed the old rates of the JR Rail pass so we'll be paying as we use instead. Was the plane comfortable enough to move about on? We are flying regular economy (But it should be a similar 787-9) and I'm just wondering about stretching the legs every few hours.

[@cakeswithfaces]

Ooh exciting!! I've always flown regular economy before - whenever I get up to go to the bathroom or get a drink I'd usually do some stretches - there's usually a small amount of room next to the galley and emergency exit door where you can stand around for a bit or walk on the spot. It's a long flight now so you'll definitely want to stand up every now and then!

[@Sploder115]

Great video, can't wait for my trip in September which will be the safe flight as yours! Just a quick question - what times was your departure and did you do anything to avoid jet lag? Thanks!

[@cakeswithfaces]

My flight left at 11:45am and arrived in Tokyo at 10:25am - so a daytime flight, which isn't ideal for sleeping as I wasn't tired. I tried to sleep on the plane - it felt like I hardly slept at all but probably grabbed a few hours here and there. When you arrive, I'd really recommend staying up until it's at least the evening after dinner. That's the easiest way to adjust to the time zone. Do something chill and laidback on the first day, go to bed early but make sure you stay up until the evening. I actually didn't find it hard to adjust at all (maybe because I was excited!), but the first few days we went to sleep quite early. It was when I got back home afterwards that I was absolutely exhausted and couldn't keep my eyes open in the evening!!

[@zenrider_9622]

I'll be going to osaka and doing a cross country motorcycle trip in 2 weeks. This was definitely informative.

[@cakeswithfaces]

Wow, that'll be such an interesting trip and a different way to see the country. Osaka's a really exciting place with so much going on. Where does your trip end up?

[@zenrider_9622]

@Cakes with Faces well I'll basically do a big loop starting from osaka and then tokushima, kochi, ehime, ferry over to oita, head back up north and make my way to hokkaido and back down to osaka. I might take the bridge to Hiroshima had go north instead of going to oita.

[@zenrider_9622]

@Cakes with Faces essentially going to be mainly rural areas and mountain riding.

[@cakeswithfaces]

@@zenrider_9622 That sounds like a real adventure! I'm sure you'll have so many amazing experiences - have a wonderful time!

[@ghostclub36]

Your guide book has just plopped through my letterbox as I was watching this video. I’ve only skimmed it so far, but it looks so good! I was wondering, is it also possible to see Fuji when landing in Narita? If so, which side of the plane should I be sitting on?

[@cakeswithfaces]

Excellent, thanks so much, I hope you enjoy my book! Yes, I think it's possible to see Fuji on a flight to Narita too, depending on how clear it is and the flight path. You can check your route by entering your flight number on www.flightradar24.com/ and see which side is best. I've also seen Tokyo Disney occasionally from the plane, when approaching Tokyo from the east side! If you're arriving at Narita, there's a great view of the SkyTree from the train into Tokyo, and keep a look-out for the hanging trains when you go through Chiba Station!

[@ghostclub36]

@@cakeswithfaces Ah amazing tips, thank you!

[@otaniyoukou7300]

Welcome to Japan! You came to japan by using the air plane while Isabella Lucy Bird who was born in Yorkshire came to japan by using the ship 120 years ago. She saw the real "Meiji" era there. You see the current "Reiwa" era as well. Have much good times and funs! With comparing to the Isabella's travel route, you can easliy go to anywhere. So, I recommand reading her's book which is the subject "Unbeaten tracks in Japan".

[@cakeswithfaces]

That must have been a long boat ride! It must have seemed so far away!

[@yipkellyfamily2856]

It's been so long 😂 I hope you have a great trip. If I'd known that you were going I would have given you a wave from here as you flew over Hong Kong

[@cakeswithfaces]

Hehe, I would have packed my binoculars!

[@pumpkinhill4570]

4:40 That’s good to hear. Years ago I ordered the vegetarian meal on a long Delta flight and was served last. And then when they came around with the snack/light meal there was no vegetarian option, just this little ham and cheese roll. 🙄 I hope they’ve improved.

[@cakeswithfaces]

Oh no! Sometimes plane food choices are so odd. Like I never understand why they include nuts so often when so many people are allergic to them. I always seem to get my meal first on long haul flights!

[@christopherhightower7308]

Nice. :D

[@cakeswithfaces]

Thanks!

[@Ragingspoon]

I just got back. Flew with JAL over and BA back. That journey back was not very enjoyable. 15 hr10 min for some reason and then a 4 hr 50 min coach ride. Just over 27 hour journey from when I left hotel to when I pulled up outside the house. Really uncomfortable plane ride and coach journey as well. Going over was much better with only a 2 hr 30 min bus ride and 14 hr10 min flight with much more comfortable seating and honestly much better service. Never flown with JAL before but price right I would choose them over anyone else. I took the KK line train to my hotel which was in Akihabara but yeah they are a private line so not covered by pass but if you dont have a pass like me it is cheaper than the monorail. Immigration was easy as I filled out the app and although I got used to wearing a mask I would still prefer not to wear one tbh but we had to wear it on the flight or they wouldnt let you on and since almost everyone over there wears them constantly I did the same. Kinda wish I picked up a mobile wifi thing as did not have internet out there outside of hotel and some very selected spots like some beer halls. Just having that would have helped with the few communication problems I had and helped alleviate some navigation issues. Had a map app that was supposed to work offline but it was temperamental at best, definitely not something to rely on. Had a great time there though and went to lots of places in and out of the city. Transportation is so cheap there as well. Think I spent just over 10000 yen on travel costs via passmo card and that was over 20 days and I used them a lot with some going hours out of the city. Almost spent more in the UK just getting to and from Heathrow. I I was going to use Shinkansen however I would have definitely bought a JR pass as they can be pricy.

[@cakeswithfaces]

Excellent, glad you had a great time! Apart from the flight - that sounds painful! My cancelled trip in 2020 was going to be with JAL so I still haven't tried them, but I've heard lots of good things. ANA are my favs so far - excellent service. Internet really helps with a lot of things. The first time I went to Japan I didn't have it, and you have to do so much extra planning. Plus Google Translate's a lot better now and that can be helpful. A JR Pass is definitely worth it if you're travelling long distance, you can easily make the cost back. Maybe next time, one day - a return trip's a great time to explore new places. You have to revisit your favs, but it's always the new places that are the highlight for me!

[@jkayrichardson3366]

travelling from london heathro myself so found this video super useful for me. How long after departure did they start serving food for you? I was planning to stay awake for most of the night before and do most my sleeping on the plane as an attempt to climatize to the timezone change, but would like to avoid being woken up by meal times

[@cakeswithfaces]

The main meal is served early on in the flight, so you'll be able to have that at the start, and still have a good amount of time to sleep. Have a great time in Japan!

[@primokarma9841]

I would probably have to get better seats for a flight that long, because it was hell for me flying to LA. So many cramped pissed off people around me during that flight . This video was super useful

[@cakeswithfaces]

Long flights can be difficult! Always remember when I flew to Vegas, there were lots of stag parties, etc, & they put out an announcement that everyone had drunk the plane dry & there was no alcohol left...! 😂

[@isaactristan6427]

So excited. Going in Aug. Flying ANA. I love ANA’s service. Last time we were in Tokyo was 2019 and I don’t remember which company I used for the pocket wifi. Who would you recommend? Staying in Shinjuku.

[@cakeswithfaces]

That sounds great! ANA's my fav too - such great service and the seats seem more comfy somehow. And Shinjuku's my top choice for a place to stay as well. Previously I've got my pocket wifi from japan-rail-pass.co.uk and it's always been good. This time I tried Sakura WiFi for the first time and tbh honest I wasn't that impressed. Certain services and especially viewing images seemed to be a bit slow, as if the speed was being limited. Haven't come across that before.

[@kapilachandrabharathi7134]

Hello cakes and faces. I've watched quite a few videos of Japan. Tks a lot. Does BA still serve red wine 😊. Remember that when I flew to LHR in 1978😊. Btw with that voice of yours did you give a at singing. Cheers

[@cakeswithfaces]

Thanks, glad you're enjoying my videos! Yes, they still serve red wine on BA! :-) I'm no great singer but I do a few backing vocals in my band: kzbin.info/www/bejne/Zp2qmoKLiaqji9ksi=M1YBI-VG3FErBvhB 😊🎶