✈️ What you need to know for Going to Japan in 2024 ✈️

[@cakeswithfaces]

⚠ An update to Visit Japan Web ⚠ (why do procedures always change literally days after you make a video about them...!?) 🙈😅 They're updating their QR codes on 25th Jan, so if you got yours before then, you need to do that section again to get the updated version. Sounds like there'll be just one QR code for customs and immigration, instead of two separate QR codes. Here's the official announcement: vjw-lp.digital.go.jp/en/notice240112/ And yes - I just did mine this week, so I'll be doing mine again too...! 🙈

[@jan-ovepedersen5764]

I've not done mine yet for our travel to Tokyo in March, great to know about this beforehand. Now I will wait until after January 25th before entering my trip into the Visit Japan Web site. Thanks Amy 🙂

[@katiewilco8624]

Thank you for the update! I literally did mine 2 weeks ago 🤦‍♀️ glad i saw this

[@swampmouse]

Good the two QR codes is confusing

[@Twinkle_Cutlass]

it means i need to register again on the 25th or on the 26th? my flight is on the 26th and i've got 2 qr codes

[@cakeswithfaces]

@@Twinkle_Cutlass The system updates on the 25th at 3am Japan time. So you'll need to do that section of Visit Japan Web again after 3am Japan time. QR codes from before 25th Jan won't be valid any more; you'll need to get the new, single QR code. Have a wonderful trip!

[@israelgollin8089]

So excited! Going to Japan with my boyfriend for 2 months !!

[@cakeswithfaces]

Ah that's going to be amazing! You'll be able to do so much on such a long trip! Will you be going all around Japan?

[@israelgollin8089]

@@cakeswithfaces We will mainly be doing the Golden Route with a lot of day trips. Instead of only a few days in cities, we want to really take our time and spend at least a week in each to gain a deeper sense of it. In December, we are already going to Hokkaido and eastern Japan so we aren’t gonna go there during the summer.

[@cakeswithfaces]

@@israelgollin8089 That sounds fantastic! And I'm glad you'll be spending time in each place to explore everywhere. There are so many good day trips around the Kansai region!

[@grantdole]

I'm probably not going back to Japan for years but I'm still addicted to watching Japan travel videos. 😂 I miss it.

[@cakeswithfaces]

Nothing wrong with a bit of vicarious travel through videos! :-)

[@may3877]

Same, I’m not even finished with college yet but I always watch these Japan guide videos so I can plan my dream trip in the future 😂 never wrong to dream and plan!

[@cakeswithfaces]

@@may3877 Nothing wrong with that! And you'll be ready when the time comes!

[@michaelhunt364]

Went back with a neighbor last year. He loved it. For me it were 13 years since. Averaged about $70. CAD per night in hotels. Saw friends had fun. Showed him around Tokyo, Kyoto, Kobe, Himeji, Hiroshima, Nagasaki and Fukuoka. We had a great time.

[@makotonarukami7468]

I'm almost 32, and could have traveled to Japan since i was 18, but wasted so much time and money on Ordering Pizza, buying video games, eating at restaurants....hopefully 2024 will be the year once I find a Job again. My goal is to get a Job by April so that in October I can have between $3000-$4000 to finally go.

[@jumpskirt]

Really liking these videos! I will be visiting Tokyo next month, and want to prepare. I've just ordered your guide book, as well. I am looking forward to looking through that, and learning more :)

[@cakeswithfaces]

Thanks so much! It'll be on the way to you in the post today - have a wonderful time in Tokyo! 🎶

[@corgolyin]

I was so happy to finally go in Oct/Nov last year for the very first time. Between you and other Japan themed travel Tubers it made my trip a breeze. I was scared of the trains and buses, even using Navitime, but after taking them the first time it no longer scared me. I'm planning to make Japan a yearly trip now.

[@cakeswithfaces]

Ah that's so great to hear! What were the highlights of your trip?

[@corgolyin]

I went to Odate, Akita for Hachi-ko's 100th birthday festival (I fell so hard in love with this small town I shall be visiting each trip), saw Fuji-san on a fully cloudless morning with fall colors and lastly while in Aomori I saw some of the first snow of the season falling. I also saw the new Godzilla movie in a Japanese theater on my last day. I also went all the way south to Ibusuki to find the Eeveelution lids and took the Queen Beetle over to Busan for an overnight.@@cakeswithfaces

[@killininstinct343]

same. I went in May 2023 and will be going again this October/November. Any tips or knowledge of what it's like in October in terms of weather and such?

[@corgolyin]

@@killininstinct343 I'm going back again Oct/Nov. The weather, depending on where you are, isn't bad. It was a little unseasonable warm when I went though but normally temps are in the 60s-70s (F) for highs and 30s-40s for lows. If you're going up north I saw snow on Nov 11th in Aomori so it gets colder there. That being said the whole time I was there I only wore basic pants and sometimes a hoodie in the morning, only few days did I wear it the whole day, then tied it around my waist once I was too warm but otherwise I was in short sleeves.

[@cakeswithfaces]

@@killininstinct343 If it helps, all the videos in this playlist were filmed during the first two weeks of October: kzbin.info/aero/PL-YXkErUfa4lHnPn_vIoMA2tOGs3WnSiN It was still warm at the start of October, but it cools off as the month goes on - so t-shirts, hoodies and a light jacket should be god! Although the temperature does vary throughout Japan, so if you're going to Tohoku or Hokkaido it will be much colder.

[@discover86]

This is the best channel to preparare a trip to Japan in 2024 that I have found in the World Wide Web! Thank you for sharing it 😊

[@cakeswithfaces]

Thanks so much, that means a lot! 🥰

[@gayathrinarayanan4263]

I loved this video, but the moment you said 'because I'm a vegetarian' I loved it even more because I'm a vegetarian too and I want to visit Japan next year and have been doing a lot of research to try and find vegetarian-friendly places! Surprisingly there are A LOT more than I had expected!! Definitely subscribed :)

[@cakeswithfaces]

Thanks so much! You might find my list helpful - it's restaurants with veggie options (because I travel with meat-eaters), focussing on Japanese styles of food: cakeswithfaces.co.uk/japan/vegetarian-restaurants-in-japan/

[@gayathrinarayanan4263]

omg I love this!! Thank you so much! @@cakeswithfaces

[@itsmelexie1]

I just bought my flights to go to Japan for 2 weeks at the end of May/early June and your videos have been a lifesaver. Thanks for the amazing content! :)

[@cakeswithfaces]

Excellent, thank you! It's a great time to go - it'll be lovely and warm! ☀️

[@kevin19358]

Thanks for the heads up. Tomorrow, I am flying to Tokyo for the 1st time and I am looking forward to my flight.

[@cakeswithfaces]

How exciting!! Have an amazing time - and have a Fanta Grape for me!

[@kevin19358]

Thanks.

[@bunniaster]

im finally going to japan for the first time in two months and im so excited! im using your videos to prepare!!

[@cakeswithfaces]

Ooh exciting!! You'll have to let me know how it goes! I'm sure you'll love it.

[@manny5848]

I recommend the love hotels

[@cakeswithfaces]

@@manny5848 Well some have free karaoke...

[@heike_p]

Thanks for the heads up about the Ghibli museum! Just in time for my trip in August!

[@cakeswithfaces]

Hope you manage to get tickets! 🤞🤞

[@wisserke]

I'm currently in Japan with the 3 week JR pass. Even though it's quite an investment it just makes life so much easier if you're travelling by train. When taking a local train for example you don't need to worry about buying tickets, you just go through the ticket gates with the pass and that's it. I also must say that Japanese face masks are a lot more comfortable to wear than the ones we are used to in the West 😅. I also discovered Japanese second hand stores like Book Off and Hobby Off. They seem to be everywhere and the Japanese seem to take really good care of their belongings. Really recommended if you're looking for Japanese books, retro games, souvenirs,... Great video, thank you very much for your hard work.

[@markylon]

Why would you want to wear mask. Time to ditch them

[@cakeswithfaces]

Oh I love Book Off! We've spent many hours there searching for treasures! You're right - everything secondhand is in excellent condition. Enjoy the rest of your trip!

[@83drika]

maybe she got sick? what do you know? everyone wear masks in japan...its not a big deal like the west wanted to make

[@KacKLaPPeN23]

I very much agree on just jumping into random restaurants. The best meal of my last trip was at a random Tsukemen shop after the first two options we had turned us down since it was full/too late. Sadly the place has closed since then, I would've loved to go there again on my next trip.

[@cakeswithfaces]

The best places are these surprise finds! Bet you're glad you didn't give up and go to a fast food place!

[@johnwendland7908]

I'm going to Japan in March. I've been to Japan many times but the last time was decades ago. I speak Japanese so it should be fine, but I appreciate all the advice since I've been out of the loop for awhile.

[@cakeswithfaces]

There's always something that changes! ☺️

[@alexandremcesar]

Thanks for giving all of these tips. It's a livesaver!!!

[@cakeswithfaces]

Hope it helps! Enjoy planning your trip!

[@ITSYABOYCHILDEE]

I'm going to be studying abroad in Japan as a minor, thankyou for these!!

[@cakeswithfaces]

That'll be an amazing experience!

[@margaretgerhardus6247]

I made my first trip to Japan in Oct/Nov 2023 but I travelled a lot so am going back this year but staying 1 week in Japan and a week in South Korea looking to see flight now. Your book was a lifesaver Amy and it will be coming back with me

[@cakeswithfaces]

Thanks so much! I'd love to go to South Korea too.

[@margaretgerhardus6247]

@@cakeswithfaces I'm following closely your #japanuary and loving it makes me want to go back even more

[@cakeswithfaces]

@@margaretgerhardus6247 It's so good seeing all the places and experiences that other people have enjoyed!

[@sho8567]

I love this video because it helps me understand how to travel around my country.

[@cakeswithfaces]

Thanks, glad you like it! Do you live in Japan?

[@ttf99]

Thanks for this great video. I had my dream trip booked for Japan March-April 2020 and was crushed to have to cancel it then. I am finally going to Japan for the first time for a couple weeks this March - April. This video was super helpful to see what has changed. I have really enjoyed your other videos too.

[@cakeswithfaces]

So glad it's finally happening! It'll definitely be worth the wait. It'll be so good to finally experience all the plans you made!

[@sempreame]

OMG, Thank you so much for these updates about Japan. I´m going to Tokyo by the end of january for a one week work trip, and then, leave for a week in Seoul as well. I´m whatching every single new video on YT with fresh information since things are changing real fast. Greetings from Rio.

[@cakeswithfaces]

That sounds fantastic ( if you get any free time off from work). Enjoy all the delicious food! I'd love to go to South Korea one day too.

[@duckretainer1085]

I love how detailed your videos are. My brother is going in April and I shared your video with him. I think it'll help

[@cakeswithfaces]

Hope they help! April's a great time to go!

[@Andy_001_]

After having not visited Japan for a few years now, I'm longing to go back, but it looks like things have changed a lot, so this video is extremely helpful- thanks Amy!....

[@cakeswithfaces]

Hope you can make it back there sometime! 🤞

[@SkyVixie]

Thanks for making this video! I’ll be going to Japan for the first time ever in March for the whole month. I’m so so SO excited.

[@cakeswithfaces]

How exciting! You'll be able to do so much in a whole month! Where are you planning on going?

[@SkyVixie]

Its really exciting! My bf has some relatives living in Nagoya, so we'll be going there first, and then meeting up with some of his friends and travelling pretty much all over the country! Of course the most popular places but some more rural areas too! :D@@cakeswithfaces

[@pascalejacquelinepetit5131]

Great and diverse information. Well-articulated and at the correct pace to absorb the information. Thank you very much Amy, for taking the time and effort to produce these great videos. It is much appreciated.

[@cakeswithfaces]

Thanks so much! I always try and include everything I'd want to know. Hope it helps! ☺️

[@AgentBlackX]

Thanks! I'm getting ready for a work trip in a month and your videos always make what feels like an overwhelming situation feel more manageable!

[@cakeswithfaces]

Hope you get some free time to explore! Try as much Japanese food as you can!

[@missleah6204]

I took my daughter to Japan, Tokyo/Kyoto /Osaka/ Nara/ for 9 days, I'm going this coming March 😊 with my husband, that's how much I love Japan!❤

[@cakeswithfaces]

You'll be able to show him round all the best places! Have a great trip!

[@jdeckard1243]

Thanks for the tips, Kitakyushu in February !

[@cakeswithfaces]

Ooh exciting! What are you most looking forward to there?

[@jdeckard1243]

@@cakeswithfaces Seeing my eldest daughter and just being in Japan to experience it.

[@cakeswithfaces]

@@jdeckard1243 That sounds lovely! 💖 I'll be going back to Kyushu this year too!

[@dwarfagp]

Great to hear my 2019 suika pass will still be valid!

[@cakeswithfaces]

Yes it'll be fine! I'm still using one first purchased in 2010 and it's still going strong!

[@dwarfagp]

@@cakeswithfaces it hasn't been used since 2019. Hoping it will still work. Seems you have used yours more frequently.

[@cakeswithfaces]

@@dwarfagp It'll be fine - they last for 10 years since they were last used.

[@dwarfagp]

@@cakeswithfaces OK, for some reason I was thinking it was 3 years - thanks :)

[@brandnewbadidea1]

Really appreciate this, super helpful thank you :)

[@cakeswithfaces]

Thanks so much! Enjoy planning your trip!

[@scooterxx6094]

Thanks for the additional info on visit Japan web (especially the photo tips).

[@cakeswithfaces]

It took quite a few goes to take a photo! 😅 But got there in the end!

[@sarahbooth4020]

Thanks for the updates 😊If there isn't any oversized luggage Shinkansen seats left to reserve, just go to carriages 1-5 as these are unreserved seating. We did this the whole time and never reserved a seat and got the all important Mount Fuji view both ways ❤

[@deaddrunkgamer7399]

last time i was there it was only cart 1-3 so it's been limited it seems, though it wasnt an issue when i was there in october/november 2023

[@cakeswithfaces]

I think the carriage numbers depend on the train - but it'll always say at the station which ones they are, and in the announcements too. :-)

[@cakeswithfaces]

Good tip! Glad you saw Fuji - I was unlucky last time as it wasn't clear enough but it's a lovely view when you get it!

[@carcotoncampos9870]

9:55 Toica 10:38 Restaurants 14:25 what to do earthquake!

[@cakeswithfaces]

🙌🙌

[@worstoftheworst12]

Such a helpful video! Glad you put this up before my trip in April, definitely going to check out the new TeamLab!

[@cakeswithfaces]

Tickets have just gone on sale (got mine already!).

[@XNick291X]

Woohoo, looking forward to my first trip later in the year!

[@cakeswithfaces]

Exciting!! Where are you planning to go in Japan?

[@XNick291X]

@@cakeswithfaces Osaka, Kyoto, Nagoya and working my way back to Tokyo!

[@cakeswithfaces]

@@XNick291X Have an amazing time!!

[@XNick291X]

@@cakeswithfaces I'll try

[@nealhamamura4263]

Two weeks to my trip to Hokkaido and snow festivals! Can’t wait!

[@cakeswithfaces]

Woop woop! Hokkaido in winter's an unforgettable experience. Have an amazing time!

[@ShardSpyder]

Already planning for my return trip this year.

[@cakeswithfaces]

Never too early to start Japlanning!

[@EricELT18]

Thanks!

[@cakeswithfaces]

Thanks so much, that's much appreciated! 🙏 So glad you enjoyed the video! ✨

[@astrokier]

Would you consider talking about suitcase delivery from airports to your hotel, and best way to post parcels back to the UK please 🙏 thank you 😊

[@cakeswithfaces]

I'll be trying out luggage delivery (and filming a video!) soon on my next trip! It's mentioned briefly towards the end of this video (about 12:30): kzbin.info/www/bejne/gpy4oo18bdqfbdk I've always carried everything back with me in my suitcases (pack light on the way out!) as that's the cheapest option. But the easiest way to send parcels home is at the Post Office. You can also buy boxes there. My friends have used them when they bought a lot of figures! Yamato Delivery (who do the luggage delivery) is another option (they'll also have boxes at their stores).

[@jan-ovepedersen5764]

I visited in Tokyo in July 2023, when there was a shortage on the regular Suica cards. Fortunately this did not affect the availability of Welcome Suica cards, the red ones, which I bought as usual at Haneda airport. The Welcome Suica's has a limited working period of 28 days, you have to get a new one every time you visit, also anything left on the card will be lost when the card expires. I solved this by emtying the card at the vending machines at Haneda airport before leaving Japan 🙂

[@cakeswithfaces]

Glad that worked out well! It's easy to spend the leftover credit when you can use it at vending machines and some shops!

[@Omni0404]

1:55 Seeing that IC terminal unlocked an embarrassing memory of my first time trying to use it at a store. I kept trying to swipe the card across instead of holding it still and the machine kept turning bright red and making angry beeps. The poor cashier had to show me how it was done 😭

[@cakeswithfaces]

Machines can get very angry and bleepy sometimes!

[@nicoleh1680]

We went to Japan from Dec '23 to Jan this year, people do still like to wear masks on public transport depending on their comfort level. I found multiple restaurants are now using QR codes at your table to take orders. We did order USJ tickets online before our trip, and the 3rd party site that handle the online tickets will not accept Visa cards due to using Apple Pay, only Master Card. The USJ app was useful for finding the park map info as well as attraction wait times. Also the mini games for the Super Nintendo World area were fun, but it was Packed, and we felt that it was more for small children, so we didn't stay long.

[@cakeswithfaces]

Thanks for the updates! I'll be going to USJ for the first time this year! (It's never been top of my list before, but it fits into my plans this time so I thought I'd give it a go!).

[@combustible7267]

wonderful video! very informative without being overwhelming 😅 and i have to say that yiur hair is amazing 🤩

[@cakeswithfaces]

Thanks so much!! 🥰

[@Duckyadventuress]

Hopefully will go back in 2025 so will be looking out for your video!

[@cakeswithfaces]

Exciting! Where are you thinking of going in Japan?

[@Duckyadventuress]

@@cakeswithfaces Hokkaido and Sapporo for one but we would like to explore the main island as well in general, stay for like 4 months or 5 :)

[@cakeswithfaces]

@@Duckyadventuress Sounds fantastic! You'll be able to do so much on such a long trip.

[@Duckyadventuress]

@@cakeswithfaces Looking forward to it and for your content about new things there!

[@neallasaca1798]

Right in time since I'll be going back next month. 🤗

[@cakeswithfaces]

Exciting!! Not long to go! Have an amazing time.

[@lauracasey4011]

Thanks for the updates been there in December last year. It's going to be super crowded guys.😅😂 Have fun 😊

[@cakeswithfaces]

They say tourist numbers already reached 2019 levels towards the end of last year!

[@atakanwolwox9352]

You have different kind of energy dont lose it , greetings from Turkey.

[@cakeswithfaces]

🙌🙌

[@aussiefirestorm]

You helped lot with our trip to Japan last year thank you. I still watch your uploads because they are great and informative.

[@cakeswithfaces]

Thanks so much! Hope they bring back happy memories. 🥰

[@rachelak7940]

My trip is in May, so thank you for all this new info! ❤

[@cakeswithfaces]

Have a wonderful time!!

[@timtillack]

Great info and succinctly delivered. We arrive in a few weeks for 23 days and will be going to Akita, Aomori, Hakodate, Sapporo (ice festival), Takayama, Kanazawa, Matsumoto, Nagoya with a week to finish in Tokyo. We were lucky to get tickets to all parts of Ghibli Park on the last day before it closes for a bit and we're standing by for tix for Borderlands. Your previous video on luggage was amazing and has helped us with our planning.

[@cakeswithfaces]

That sounds fantastic - they're great places to go! The snow festival and Hakodate are really an experience. Congratulations on managing to get Ghibli tickets!

[@jackbear5564]

Thanks, very informative. My wife and myself are returning to Japan in March with a 5 night stay in Tokyo where we hope to immerse ourselves in the local culture. The iPhone suica pass looks like a good option for us. The 3 day jr Tokyo wide pass. Probably do an organised day to Mount Fuji this time too.

[@cakeswithfaces]

Sounds good! Make the most of your Tokyo Wide Pass with some great day trips!

[@Panda_Roll]

Thank you for the vids. I'm preparing for my first Japan trip in March and they've been so helpful. Thanks for the quality content.

[@cakeswithfaces]

Thanks so much! Are you hoping to catch the cherry blossoms?

[@Panda_Roll]

@@cakeswithfaces Nah I figured it'll be crowded, expensive and in the middle of Ramadan. I'll be there the first two weeks of March so hoping to catch the tail end of the Plum blossom festival in Setagaya (Hanegi park) and maybe the early blooms in Matsuda.

[@cakeswithfaces]

@@Panda_Roll Good call! I tend to avoid peak cherry blossom season too - unless you really want to see them, the rest of your trip will be that much more enjoyable! Many of my recent Japan vlogs were filmed at the start of March - I think it may have been unseasonably warm, but it was a lot warmer than I expected (coming from the UK at least!).

[@Panda_Roll]

@@cakeswithfaces I really hope that's the case. I heard march's weather is a bit temperamental so praying for sunshine. Will you be updating the pop up list for 2024? I don't think there are any interesting ones in March but would love to visit if any during my stay in Tokyo.

[@cakeswithfaces]

@@Panda_Roll I update the pop-up cafes list every week or so. They don't usually announce them very far in advance, so there should be a few more coming up for March if you check back nearer the time! cakeswithfaces.co.uk/japan/pop-up-theme-cafes-japan-2023/

[@racxie6191]

Do you happen to have any videos or tips on eating out in Japan? I went last year and as a fellow vegetarian I struggled somewhat and ended up relying a lot on 711, pizza, and the rare vegan café. I think there's even a high chance I likely ate ramen with fish in the broth as I didn't realise that's incredibly common...

[@cakeswithfaces]

It can be tricky, but it's do-able if you're prepared! Here's my list of restaurants with vegetarian options. I travel with meat-eaters so it focussed on places that serve meat and have a veggie option, and Japanese styles of food (because if you've travelled all the way around the world to Japan, you want to try authentic local food!) cakeswithfaces.co.uk/japan/vegetarian-restaurants-in-japan/

[@whyunderstand]

Good video thank you!

[@cakeswithfaces]

Hope it helps! Enjoy planning your trip 🎶

[@briannotbryan3888]

Great summary of essential information and useful tips.🚅 I hope I have the chance to use them soon. ✈Thanks😀

[@cakeswithfaces]

Thanks - hope it helps!

[@Somnus.]

Thank you for such an informative video! I’m taking my first trip to Japan this July. Do you have any tips for surviving Japanese summers?

[@cakeswithfaces]

I've always avoided the summer 😅 The main problem is the humidity, not just the heat, so plan to take your time and not rush around too much. Vending machines are everywhere so you can stay hydrated with cold drinks. Many people use umbrellas/parasols when it's sunny. The benefit is there are lots of festivals and fireworks to enjoy in summer! And kakigori never tasted better than when it's hot. 🍧

[@elpresso1983]

Going in late March. Super excited!

[@cakeswithfaces]

Not long to go...!

[@194DAG]

Thanks for lots of useful information as always. Can't wait for my 4th Japan trip in May 😊

[@cakeswithfaces]

It'll be here before you know it!

[@smyth339]

Sorry for all the request but can you do a video on tickets on universal studios? I find the website so confusing and dont understand what i need to buy to get into nintendo world...apparently you need to get something separate that gives you a timed entry! X

[@cakeswithfaces]

I'll actually have a video coming up about Universal as I went there recently! :-) For Super Nintendo World you either need to get a pass when you get there (free option, but you have to get there early), or buy an express pass that includes timed entry. I'll be sure to cover it in the video! Express passes are quite pricey, but the park's very busy with very long queues, so it made it a lot easier for us to get round everything in one day.

[@dragonzord6615]

I'm really happy they upped the JR pass cost, coz now I've got an excuse to go on a road trip around japan with friends instead of goign on the train :D

[@cakeswithfaces]

As much as I do love Japanese trains, there are some places in the countryside that are easier to access by car. Have a fun trip! Just watch out for toll roads - there are lots of them in Japan. I've never driven there myself (because the trains are so good!) but there are passes you can get that make it easier to deal with the numerous tolls.

[@dragonzord6615]

@@cakeswithfaces Yeah, I was doing a bit of research. Tokyo > kyoto with 4 people on the bullet train is $576AUD. By car toll road, it's about $70AUD. When I saw that I was instantly like 'yeah, we driving' aha

[@cakeswithfaces]

@@dragonzord6615 For a group, it pays off. It takes longer but you might see some interesting things along the way. Enjoy the michi no eki!

[@Nelsea7190]

Tokyo, Shibukawa, Tokorozawa, Fukuoka and Saga planned for april. looking forward to it. plane for fukuoka/saga leg... love your hair color choice also!

[@cakeswithfaces]

Fantastic - will you be going to Shibu Onsen? It looks lovely! Where are you going in Saga? (Just getting ideas as I have a Kyushu trip planned too!).

[@Nelsea7190]

im not sure about the onsen right now but will consider it. the wlak up the 400 something steps to the onsen? do look lovelyand scenic. not sure about actually entering the onsen for a dip for personal reasons. shibukawa areas will be a bit Initial D themed and cultural. as for saga, they have a famous temple much like Kyoto does. Saga castle ruins, , Yotoku Inari shrine, kouno park, yoshinogari historical park, hasuike park are some places im considering. might try to see if any anime sites from the series "zombieland saga project" i can visit. any other places of opportunity in saga are candidates. @@cakeswithfaces

[@cakeswithfaces]

@@Nelsea7190 Sounds fantastic! Yutoku Inari Shrine looks amazing - I'm not sure if I'll have time to visit but I'd love to go there!

[@joannagarcia2001]

12:01 how do you make reservations? Do you have to call the restaurant? Worried because my Japanese is not that strong

[@cakeswithfaces]

It depends on the restaurant. Some can be booked online on their website, which is a lot easier. Otherwise, you could ask the front desk of your hotel to help with reservations if it has to be done by phone.

[@WinterIsTilted]

Thank you for all the information! I am going in October and I cant wait!

[@cakeswithfaces]

Enjoy planning your trip! October's a great time to go!

[@areasevenpro]

Saving this for my trip next month.

[@cakeswithfaces]

Have an amazing time!! ✨✨

[@UnknownUser-eb1lk]

Super helpful, thank you!

[@cakeswithfaces]

Thanks so much! Enjoy planning your trip!

[@singaporedan7701]

Thanks for your videos

[@cakeswithfaces]

Thanks, hope they help!

[@DanGonzalesDenver]

another great video, you're one of my favorite sources for Japan travel info

[@cakeswithfaces]

Thanks so much, so happy to hear that!

[@MihaiMarinescuJr]

Trick with the photo! I had the same problems with uploading the passport page. Just take a photo of your passport page, move it to the screen of a PC then use the phone to upload it. So you do not upload your passport page directly. Try it! It worked for me! (Obvious English is not my first language. If you understand the process can you "translate" in English. Maybe it will be useful!) 🙄

[@cakeswithfaces]

Good tip! To get around the shininess :-) And your English is perfectly understandable! :-)

[@MihaiMarinescuJr]

​@@cakeswithfaces You helped me so much with my upcoming trip to Japan! Thank you! You are great! 🤗

[@cakeswithfaces]

@@MihaiMarinescuJr Thanks so much, so happy to hear that!

[@jennifermorton3675]

Great info thank you.

[@cakeswithfaces]

Hope it helps! :-)

[@Toogoodxoxo]

The rate for the Yen will get better btw for those wondering.

[@cakeswithfaces]

Why's that?

[@Toogoodxoxo]

@@cakeswithfaces Japan didn't increase interest rates like most other countries did during covid, which is a big part of the reason of why their currency got weaker. With other countries interest rates now stopping rising, people think Japan's currency will strengthen back. However, the issue of it's struggling economy due to the aging population is outweighing the above. Not to mention they have th highest national debt in the world of any country, these along with a number of other reasons (one of which being foreign investment in Japan losing traction due to businesses not trusting Japan's currency and economy) are driving investment out of Japan. Essentially, if there are small gains back to the Yen, I personally expect them to be short-lived. Plus, we're much rather going to see them slightly weaken, then sustain, then weaken again as time goes on. Although the strong drive into tourism is going great for the country, this will only slow the weakening of the currency. In essence, your risk of getting a good rate now isn't worth exchanging, as the likelihood is the Yen will get weaker is far higher than it getting stronger, in my opinion. It'll probably only be slight and gradual so if you're planning a trip for the end of the year (like I am, I'm moving there for a year in September from the U.K), i'd advise buying your currency later down the line. I expect when I arrive in Japan the exchange rate will have gone from £1 = ¥187.61 to £1 hitting ¥200 at least. Just edited this post as of 4th April 2024 and it's at ¥192.50 to £1.

[@cakeswithfaces]

@@Toogoodxoxo The best rate I've had so far is 192. We'll see I guess!! It's good for tourists but not so great for people living in Japan.

[@MissiBoo]

Thank you for this video Amy 👏 🫶

[@cakeswithfaces]

Thank you!! 🙌

[@kevin19358]

15:38, And you forgot Zipair. How about Zipair?

[@cakeswithfaces]

I've not tried them!

[@kevin19358]

Oh okay. Last Monday, for 1st time, I flew Zipair flight number 1 from Honolulu to Tokyo, flight is 85 to 90% full and the flight is good and okay, almost 8 hours, I pay between less than $300 to $400 and it's really cheap.

[@Mimpfen]

This video was so helpful! I thought a return ticket to Tokyo-Osaka with the Shinkansen would be more than the JR pass, but I guess not! That Japan guide was so helpful! I'm planning a 16-day trip to Japan in November, hopefully, I get to see some autumn foliage when I go! Had to cancel my March trip back in 2020 two weeks before I was going, so I hope to make it this year!

[@cakeswithfaces]

Ah that's bad luck with March 2020 - glad you could reschedule! It'll be worth the wait. A return trip from Tokyo to Osaka and/or Kyoto was always the gauge of whether a JR Pass is worth it, because they were a similar price (I think the individual ticket's slightly less), but that rule's gone out the window now!

[@betaraybob]

Thank you for the updates and looking forward to the new Spring videos that will be coming. In November of 2023, Delta Airlines were not requiring mask to be worn on the flight.

[@cakeswithfaces]

Thanks - I think most dropped the requirement just after I flew in spring last year. It was mostly asian airlines that required masks, but as my BA flight was a codeshare with JAL they had the rule too.

[@k241172k]

excellent!

[@cakeswithfaces]

Thanks! 🙌

[@tanpham1975]

Hi, since most eSIM are for "data" only, how would you do text messages or make phone calls? Would you recommend FB Messenger app., Or something else?

[@cakeswithfaces]

If you need to contact someone you're with, use a data-based service like Whatsapp or call via FB messenger. There's also your hotel room landline if you're not able to call them via an internet-based phone call.

[@archazazel1855]

I do have a suica card do they still work and used tough in tokyo? And can i still charge it?

[@cakeswithfaces]

Yes, you can still use it! They last for 10 years after their last use.

[@Nature_with_Peter_Kane]

This was a great informative video!!! Very well done! Cheers from Canada

[@cakeswithfaces]

Thanks! Enjoy planning your trip!

[@Nature_with_Peter_Kane]

@@cakeswithfaces Thank you!!

[@staceysmile123]

So helpful, great video :)

[@cakeswithfaces]

Thanks, enjoy planning your trip!

[@sadnormie4172]

My girlfriend bought me your travel guide (2023) for my birthday, since I’m going to Japan in May, and I have to say that your book was a life saver! If it wasn’t for you, I would never have thought of getting a Suica card for my iphone or know how to get around! I also have a question though. I’m going to Japan for 14 days from Tokyo -> Hakone -> Kyoto -> Hiroshima -> Fukuokua Airport, and since I have a JR-Pass and will get a Suica Card for my iphone, I won’t have to use cash on that. I was wondering though, how much cash (yen) would you recommend I bring with me in that circumstance, since I can buy yen from my bank without paying any extra fee?

[@cakeswithfaces]

Excellent, thank you, so glad to hear that! :-) While most places do take cards (or Suica), you never know when you'll come across a "Cash only" sign at a restaurant or a ticket booth. You'll need cash for arcades (some machines take Suica but not all), vending machines for drinks (again, some take Suica but not all), some smaller restaurants/bars (smaller, more independent ones), restaurants that take orders on a vending machine (some ramen restaurants use them), some snack kiosks and some smaller tourist attractions and temples/shrines. So it depends on your plans, but it's useful to take a good amount of cash with you, even if you end up using card most of the time. The exchange rate's excellent at the moment; I don't know what will happen by May, but right now it's pretty close to the best rate I've ever seen. If you're staying in a ryokan in Hakone, check if they accept cards; I've stayed in ryokan where you had to pay by cash at check-out. They can be a bit old-fashioned!

[@sadnormie4172]

@@cakeswithfaces Thank you for your answer! :D I will do that then. Since you say the exchange rate is excellent right now I might consider buying some yen soon. In relation to the prices I’ve seen and the exchange rates, that shouldn’t be a problem since I come from a country (Denmark) where almost everything is expensive, so it can only be cheaper for me to shop in Japan😆 Like 1,000 - 1,800 yen is only enough to buy a coffee and a croissant at the average café in Copenhagen

[@cakeswithfaces]

@@sadnormie4172 I couldn't resist buying some more yen recently too, to take advantage of the excellent rate! I don't know how the UK compares to Denmark, but for me everything's cheaper in Japan too, so I think you'll be pleasantly surprised. Especially eating out - restaurants are so expensive in the UK, especially these days!

[@sadnormie4172]

@@cakeswithfaces Thank you. I will do! Will definitely also try some of the attractions you recommended in your book, especially the Pokémon Center since I’m a huge fan of Nintendo!

[@cakeswithfaces]

@@sadnormie4172 You'll love it! I'll be going to USJ and Super Nintendo World for the first time soon!

[@bartango007]

Any advice on using UK electrical items (hair straighteners) in Japan? Is it just easier to buy some when we arrive? Can't wait for your book to arrive. Eek!

[@cakeswithfaces]

Thanks so much! I haven't taken hair straighteners with me so I can't say from experience, but Japan's voltage is lower than the UK. Some people say their hair straighteners worked with a plug adapter and some say they didn't, so I think it depends on the type. I usually take plug converters for charging my phone, cameras, etc, and they work fine. In theory it charges slower on the lower voltage, but I don't find it that noticable. Most hotels provide hair dryers so just use the ones they provide. :-)

[@bartango007]

@@cakeswithfaces thank you👋🏼

[@WildCatMiyuu]

Thank you so much for the exchange rate alert! Because I have a multi-currency travel card, I was able to load a bit of JPY at a great exchange rate, in preparation for my next trip :D (next year or possibly for NYE this year). Also for me, I discovered during my last trip in spring 2023 how convenient, easy and pleasant travelling by car in Japan is. So beyond booking a flight or Shinkansen for super long distance travel, I'll probably be renting a car again. Found it quite cost effective and gave us more control over the schedule, access to rural areas that would be near impossible by train/bus and anytime luggage storage! BTW, iirc Suica cards are valid 10 years from the last use? That would be potentially never expiring if one goes to Japan at least once a decade. I bought mine in July 2013, it was still valid (as expected) in April 2023 but I hope it's still gonna be good in 2025.

[@cakeswithfaces]

Good call with the yen! Glad you enjoyed driving in Japan. For me, I like not having to drive when I'm on a trip (makes it feel like more a holiday/adventure!) - but it's true that there are places, especially in the countryside, that are easier to get to by car, and some places that I've skipped because of long train/bus journeys with multiple changes. Yes - it's true about Suica cards. We still have one that was first bought in 2010 that still works!

[@sickly_b]

We found last year in Tokyo that eating in IKEA was reasonable, with decent vegetarian options - this was in Shibuya and Harajuku. In no way authentic, but quick, cheap and easy, with no booking and pretty tasty too

[@cakeswithfaces]

They have cute themed items for Halloween at Ikea (Japan only - the UK one never does that!).

[@MrMadsci737]

Could you please do a video on mobile WiFi, SIM cards, and eSIM. Which do you use? What companies and what plans do you recommend? I’ll be going for 2 weeks with my wife at the end of March, I think the pocket WiFi is the best option for both of us, but I’m not sure.

[@cakeswithfaces]

There's a section about it in this video (a trip planning checklist for all the things you need to get sorted!) kzbin.info/www/bejne/hZnFm3eabamksLM Personally I like pocket wifi too, because you can share it between you and connect any other devices you have eg an ipad. Previously I've got mine from japan-rail-pass.co.uk and it's always been good. Last year I tried Sakura Mobile and tbh I wasn't impressed - it was slow and not as reliable.

[@raxkiyamatocarlos2102]

I was lucky enough to get my Suica Card in Ueno Station last December.

[@cakeswithfaces]

Glad you got one! Seems they're coming back in some places now.

[@Gunbu]

Excellent info! I’ll be going on a trip in February with family and I’m having them watch this video too so we’re all on the same page. I haven’t been to Japan since 2019 so quite a few things have changed. Teamlabs Borderless tickets go on sale in a few days, gonna try and get some!

[@cakeswithfaces]

I'm hoping to get tickets for TeamLab too! 🤞 Good luck!

[@DJreeser]

Logged in a while ago. It looks like there's no need for re-submission of the details. There's one code for both, immigration clearance and customs declaration. Happy days!

[@cakeswithfaces]

That's good to know! At least we don't have to fill in that section again!

[@WolfyLuna]

I will go to Japan from April up till June this year to Study the Japanese language in Kyoto. Quite some things done and still to do :) The school itself, the stay at a family and the flight. Now have to look up a good internet SIM data card for my phone and the public transport. Also that digital visit japan web website once I know the exact adres I will be staying at :) I will also give your guide book a go. ^_^ Thanks again for the videos and advice given.

[@cakeswithfaces]

That'll be an amazing experience! Staying for a longer time, staying with a family and all the Japanese you'll learn - make the most of it! :-) Good luck with the planning!

[@bravosierra2447]

Airalo is a good eSIM if your phone is compatible with it. 4G connection & was able to hotspot up to 3 devices from it.

[@WolfyLuna]

@@bravosierra2447 thanks I will look into that.

[@georgebenta3435]

Hi Amy, I've been watching your old (before pandemic) Japan videos again and I'm just wondering how much of it is still relevant today? Will you be making some sort of update videos by revisiting the locations? Thank you.

[@cakeswithfaces]

How up to date they are really depends on the place. Some places don't change much, and others do eg lots has closed in Odaiba. Most of the info in my Japlanning series is still relevant - except details about the JR Pass which is now different. I try not to repeat content too much, but there are some places I'll always go back to, and make new videos while I'm there. Feel free to ask in the comments if you're not sure about anything. I always get notification about comments, even on old videos.

[@georgebenta3435]

@@cakeswithfaces We're finally planning for our first trip to Japan since 2019 and researching for places to go seems trickier now in some ways compared to back then. Most of the Japan travel videos in KZbin are from before the pandemic, and because of the constant change, some of the newer videos seem outdated and you really have to cross check everything just to be sure.

[@cakeswithfaces]

@@georgebenta3435 Some things have changed, and some things not so much - it really does depend! Of course, as soon as you mention any details in a video, they're bound to change the day after...!

[@iiraingirlii]

Thanks ❤

[@cakeswithfaces]

No problem!

[@amynicolepeters]

Can you recommend something similar to the robot cafe that used to exist in Tokyo?

[@cakeswithfaces]

There isn't really anything quite similar; if you want to see actual robots, there's a robot cafe called Peppers Cafe, but it's more about the robots than the over-the-top show!

[@vma347]

Thank you

[@cakeswithfaces]

👍

[@djshadeemotive5636]

Ordering book

[@cakeswithfaces]

Thanks so much, that's much appreciated! It'll be on the way to you in the post today.

[@naomigill9604]

What is that, that you’re eating 12mins20 into the video? It looks divine! X

[@cakeswithfaces]

Okonomiyaki! One of my favs - I always miss it as they hardly ever have it at Japanese restaurants abroad. A mix of batter, shredded cabbage & very tasty sauce on top. 😋

[@naomigill9604]

@@cakeswithfaces amazing!! Thank you :)

[@osakameetup]

If you go to Japan, join a meetup! Meet and talk to locals who enjoy speaking English and meeting foreigners.

[@cakeswithfaces]

Thanks for the recommendation

[@pam4363]

Did you post a new video about Shibuya Excel Hotel Tokyo?

[@cakeswithfaces]

Here's my video about it! kzbin.info/www/bejne/ppe4eKOPoNF_lbs I just posted a video about the Sequence in Shibuya too.

[@obiwan-]

this video was so helpful😭 thanks!!

[@cakeswithfaces]

Glad it helps! Enjoy planning your trip!

[@bowronvideos]

Is it best to buy Shinkansen tickets on Klook. We are staying in Tokyo from Apr 27th 5 nights, Osaka 6 nights visiting Kyoto and Nara back to Tokyo for 3 nights. We also need to buy Disney World, Disney Sea and Universal tickets is it recommended to buy on Klook or direct with Disney/Universal what are to pro's and cons? Are Suica cards available yet?

[@cakeswithfaces]

My first choice would be to buy shinkansen tickets on Smartex, which is the official site from JR. Some people find their cards aren't accepted (they need the required 3D security settings). You can buy them when you're there - however if your trip's during Golden Week, trains will be very busy so it'd be better to buy them in advance. The issue with Klook is you can't choose your seat, so you can't reserve a seat with extra space for your luggage. With the other tickets, I'd buy them on the official sites, and use Klook if your card isn't accepted. The booking process is easier on Klook, so that's the main pro of using them (Japanese websites aren't always formatted in the way you'd expect).

[@bowronvideos]

Thanks this is really useful information i have looked at the Smart-ex site and will be boking through them as long as card works 🤞😁.

[@chenookapril187]

also. can i buy suica when i arrived to Japan or buy online if its available worldwide?

[@cakeswithfaces]

I first bought mine in Japan. You might find that companies selling it online will charge a little extra (that's how they make their money).

[@chenookapril187]

thanks.. one more thing which is closer to.the city, nishishinjuku - shinjuku ward or asakasa Minato?

[@cakeswithfaces]

@@chenookapril187 Tokyo doesn't have just one city centre but many. Shinjuku is my favourite area to stay, because there's so much going on and so much there. It's bustling, with lots of bright lights. Nishi Shinjuku is a slightly quieter - the main area of Shinjuku is east of the station. It's very well connected (Shinjuku Station's the busiest station in the world). Do you mean Akasaka, Minato? (There are two different areas called Asakasa and Akasaka!). - Akasaka is more business-y and doesn't have as much going on. But it's central, so some of the stations are very well-connected on the metro (some serve many metro lines). - Asakusa is an older area, known for the oldest temple in Tokyo. It's not as shiny as some other areas of the city, but there are some well-priced hotels, and some have views of the river and the SkyTree.

[@chenookapril187]

@@cakeswithfaces just because these are the two places of hotels im.looking at with my budget dont know which is better location

[@cakeswithfaces]

@@chenookapril187 Personally I'd pick Shinjuku, but it depends what sort of place you want to stay in. 🙂

[@Erck712]

(Oops I think this sent twice) Thanks so much for your great recommendations. I would love to visit the daibutsu in Kamakura so I’ve added that and the bamboo forest to my to-do list! Two final recommendations if you please and then I’ll stop being a bother because I know you’re busy. Can you recommend an art museum to visit? I enjoy ukiyo-e prints and japanesee looking stuff of course. And finally my daughter loves anime/demon slayer and I love tokusatsu/godzilla/ultraman if you recommend any must-sees. I believe akihabara or nakano broadway should satisfy these things unless you recommend some more. Thanks again so much in advance. Subscribed and watching!

[@cakeswithfaces]

The bamboo forest in Kamakura's one of my fav places! So peaceful. You will love the Ota Memorial Museum of Art in Harajuku for ukiyo-e. For your daughter, you can't beat Akihabara for the atmosphere and anime excitement, so that's a must-visit. Nakano Broadway will have more Godzilla and Ultraman stuff - it's a treasure trove of all sorts of collectibles and memorabilia. Ikebukuro is an up-and-coming area for anime fans too, with the huge Namco Bandai Cross Store, Anime Tokyo Station and lots of other shops and arcades dotted around. I'm sure you have Godzilla in Shinjuku on your list (they're on the Hotel Gracery), and there's also a Godzilla statue near Tokyo Station: g.co/kgs/xj4tyvH

[@ElijahNetzel]

Impatiently waiting for my November trip to japan 😂

[@cakeswithfaces]

It'll be here before you know it!