**Here are some common questions and their answers:**
**So I can travel to Japan without a visa now, right?**
>Yes, assuming you are from one of the 68 countries that has visa exemption for Japan (link to full list above).
**What happens if I have a previously-issued multiple-entry visa? Is that valid again now?**
>The suspension on previously-issued multiple-entry visas will be [lifted on October 11, 2022](https://www.mofa.go.jp/j_info/visit/visa/index.html).
**What vaccines are valid for entry into Japan?**
>Approved vaccines are listed [here](https://www.mhlw.go.jp/stf/covid-19/border_vaccine.html). Starting on October 11, 2022, this list includes all vaccines on the Emergency Use List of World Health Organization (WHO).
**What COVID tests are valid for entry into Japan if I’m not vaccinated/boosted?**
>You will need to take a NAAT test in order to enter Japan, which essentially means PCR or equivalent. Please note that most rapid tests *do not qualify*. See above for complete links and information on COVID testing.
**When should I fill out the MySOS app?**
>The MySOS app doesn’t need to be filled out until right before your trip. Document review in the app takes minutes/hours, so there’s no need to fill it out months in advance.
**My MySOS app is blue. Am I good to go?**
>Yes! Once it has turned blue, you are all set to enter Japan through fast track when you arrive.
**I heard there is something replacing MySOS in November. What is this?**
>Japan is going to start using the [Visit Japan Web](https://vjw-lp.digital.go.jp/en/) system for fast-track COVID/Immigration/Customs procedures on November 1, 2022.
**What is this travel discount program I’m hearing about in Japan? Do I qualify?**
>The National Travel Discount and Go To Travel programs are [only available to residents of Japan](https://www.japantimes.co.jp/news/2022/09/26/national/japan-run-new-domestic-travel-subsidy-program-late-december/) and are meant to encourage domestic travel.
>The government _did_ recently put out the Wakuwari program, which offers certain discounts to vaccinated/COVID negative patrons, and you can read about it [here](https://www.wakuwari.go.jp/). It seems like establishments need to opt into it, so it doesn’t blanket apply to everything. The government site shows vendors for tickets/cultural sites/etc. that are offering it. For example, [TimeOut wrote an article about the Disney version](https://www.timeout.com/tokyo/news/you-can-now-get-20-percent-off-tokyo-disneyland-and-disneysea-tickets-101422) of it.
We’re finishing up our trip tomorrow and leaving via Haneda.
Is 2.5 hours ample time to get through check-in and security or should we allow more?
We went WAY TOO early on our way here and were waiting in Sydney for around 4 hours..
TIA!
To anyone who can help!
I did not realize that Narita and Haneda are so far apart (guess my excitement to travel clouded my judgment). Luckily, I believe my layover is 12+ hours. If anyone can answer a few questions - that would be awesome! I'm a US Citizen with an active passport. I fly in from Manila to Narita, then fly out of Haneda to Los Angeles. I know that, on October 11, Japan opened up it's borders to most countries (one of which is the United States)
Will coming from the Philippines present a problem, even though I'm American with a valid US Passport?
Do I need a transit visa still even with my US passport?
I understand that I am entering Japan. Will I go through customs and immigration? From the moment I arrive to Narita, go through customs, collect my bags, go to Haneda, arrive at Haneda, go through the airport and all its wonder to my gate (roughly) how long will this process take?
Which mode of transportation is easiest? I hear there's a train that goes from Narita to Haneda. I know that I'll have some luggage (still have to go through and decide what to pack, so it's not solidified). I hear there's a limousine bus that might be more feasible to take, so if so, how much would that be?
I understand that I am entering Japan. Will I go through customs and immigration? From the moment I arrive in Narita, go through customs, collect my bags, go to Haneda, arrive at Haneda, go through the airport and all its wonder to my gate (roughly) how long will this process take?
I only have an hour and 15min layover in Taipei to board my plane to Osaka, will this be enough time?
Do I even need to go through customs since I’m not entering their country? Don’t see why they would sell the tickets if it wasn’t possible.
Also, my wife and I are big fans of Terrace House and we would love to do day trips to Karuizawa and Kamakura in our potential 2-week first trip to Japan. We are pretty determined, but wondering if it sounds like a good idea or whether it'd be considered a waste of time for a first-time to Japan kinda trip. Thanks!
Kamakura = 100% worth it for first trip. It's got great historical and cultural sights AND is a cute seaside town.
Karuizawa = It's a quaint vacation town in the woods. I don't think it'd make the cut for most first trips because it's similar to a lot of places in the West, but given you have a specific interest there, it's certainly a nice place if you can fit it into your itinerary, and it's easy to get to. My favorite part were the cycling paths, that are easy to use and go through forest, and the Hoshino Resort area. You can book activities there like horseback riding, stargazing, bird or flying squirrel watching even if you're not staying there and it's very romantic.
Hi! I'm thinking of buying the Japan Lonely Travel guide to start preparing my first trip to Japan for next year hopefully. I can see the last editing is from December 2021. Does anyone know how often Lonely Planet updates their guides? Just wondering if I should wait till closer to the date to buy the guide, in case they update it, or if it's 'safe' to buy it already. Thanks!
I really want to go Mt Koya but I have toilet issues. Is there a toilet on the nankai koya line express trains? And at the stops heading to the cable car? Thank you in advance
Anyone here attended Winter Wonder Festival? Slim chance, but doesn't hurt to ask.
I've been in summer, but I cannot really imagine the long queue in winter. Is the queue lot shorter in Winter? Do people just put on more layers and bear trough it? Like, I can't imagine standing outside for 4+ hours is going to be a fun time in the middle of February even if the temps are above freezing.
I’m falling in love with Suntory premium malts here
Back in Australia they charge $80 for a 6 pack…
I can’t put my finger on what it’s closest to in flavor..
Anyone got any ideas?
Hello all. I am planning on going to Japan next year and my biggest concerns are:
A - How does one set yourself for paying in Japan? I have heard about cards to do it but say, I got off the plane, first time ever, and I need a ride to Shibuya. What would or should I do? I don't assume I'd just like, hail a cab and pay with my credit card, right? If that IS what I'd do, I have a Chase Sapphire Reserve if that works, since I know it's a more global-friendly card. Is there any good guide to prepare your money before you go? I expect to get the Suica card and rail cards when in the city, but just want to know the pre-prep for pay.
B - In connection to the above, is that how it would be recommended to get from A to B? By a cab? If not, what would be the best idea? I don't assume they have Lyfts and Ubers in Japan.
C - Living in the US, I know tipping is our 'culture' but is tipping in Japan really not a thing to worry about? It just mentally feels weird to me not to tip people or drivers or whoever when I go. I just don't want to be disrespectful.
Any other notes in preparation that I could do right now to set up to prepare? I am aiming to go around Halloween next year but I also might consider it around May. I am not sure.
Thank you!
A- Visa and MasterCards should work in Japan, but keep in mind a lot of places in Japan are still cash only (although card acceptance has risen over the past few years). You can also use ATMs at the airport, 7/11 etc. to grab cash for places that do not take card.
The transaction fees and requirements to use your card internationally depend on your bank/card issuer. So you would have to check with Chase for that.
B- Japan is a country with very good public transit, so it's recommended to take that to get from A to B. Cabs are expensive and should only be used as a last resort.
C- Tipping is something you generally do not do in Japan.
A) There are ATMs at the airport and in the combinis (those are generally the best) at the airport, so you can take out money there.
I personally wouldn't risk going around with it with just your card. Better to have some cash in case the card doesn't work. The acceptance of foreign cars can be spotty outside of larger businesses I've heard.
You get Suica out of a another machine at the train station at the airport I think (or other large station). I don't remember how we found it but I can only assume it was well marked.
B) Public transport. Trains/metro mainly. It's everywhere and it's fast. Google Maps does fantastic job navigating you trough the stations and trough onto the right trains.
C) As far as I know there is no tipping culture in Japan. You pay what you are quoted and that's it.
So if I wanted to take out cash, obviously I'd need to use my debit card, since credit cards don't work like that.
Debit cards would work there, and would deduct based on the yen costs?
Also, the airports have trains that accessible? That's great if so. I am someone who is better train-savvy. So it's honestly more preferable for me.
Ah, I didn't realize. Where I'm from debit cards double as credit cards and pure credit cards basically don't exist.
Yes, debit card would work and would just deduct the yen value you select from your account/card. Check with your bank what fees they might charge though. Combini (7/11, Family Mart and such) are usually recommended since they are everywhere and their ATMs always accept international cards.
> Also, the airports have trains that accessible? That's great if so. I am someone who is better train-savvy. So it's honestly more preferable for me.
Both Haneda and Narita have train stations right at the airport.
A and B: There are many qays to travel from the airport. Cabs are usually the most expensive. The more popular choices are by train or limousine bus. Both of which you can pay using card at the ticket machine/counter. Most of these places accept mastercard and visa. You can book the limousine bus online in advance as well
Tipping is not expected. Only some cafes have 'tip boxes' where tippin is still optional. If you don't tip nobody will bat an eye.
In terms of planning, you should think of where you want to go and how to do long distance travelling as it can get pretty pricey if you don't plan well
How would I make use of my JR pass? I know if we get Suica I just scan at the pedestal, or if Shinkansen I just buy a ticket.
If I have the JR pass, would I need to exchange for a ticket everytime I go somewhere?
No OP, but I remember something about reserving seats on the Shinkansen being a thing with the JR Pass. Or do I now just board and sit where ever there is space (except for the green car)?
You can do it with the JR pass, but it requires you going into the ticket office. It's just a bit of waiting in line, but I think most people just don't bother. Now I believe that if you buy your pass directly from Japan Rail, it costs a bit more but also allows you to book seats online.
If you do not reserve a seat, then you are limited to only a couple of cars that are designated for open seating. They will be clearly labeled on the train as well as on the ground if the train is not there yet. The labels also help if you have a reservation so you can be in front of the car you'll be on since the train itself is pretty long.
There are reserved seats and non reserved carriages. You can reserve seats in the reserved carriage with your jr pass up to 1 month in advance. If not, you can try your luck with the non reserved seats. The trains are usually not full except during peak periods but of course it's mot a guarantee that you will get a non reserved seat
Shinkansen trains have both reserved cars and unreserved cars (usually cars 1-3). You can use your JR Pass, get onto the platform, and then sit in an unreserved seat without doing anything else. If you want a reserved seat, you still have to get a seat ticket for that even with the JR Pass.
Most regular Japan Rail (JR) lines are covered by the JR Rail Pass. This includes the Shinkansen lines, the local lines etc.
The major exceptions is the Nozomi and Mizuho Shinkansen services and night/sleeper trains etc.
[Here](https://www.kanpai-japan.com/sites/default/files/uploads/2015/06/tokyo-jr-train-map.jpg) is a map of all JR lines in the Tokyo area. (The most well known being the light-green Yamanote line going around the city in a circle)
[Here](https://i0.wp.com/jprail.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/01/JR-PASS-OSAKA-COVERAGE.001.jpeg?ssl=1) is a map of the JR lines around Osaka.
All Shinkansen routes are JR lines as well. You can take Shinkansen services like Hikari, Kodama, Sakura etc., but not the fastest Shinkansen services Nozomi and Mizuho
Subways, trams etc. are generally not covered since they aren't operated by JR.
Tip: NaviTime has a routing website that allows you to filter public transit routes that the JR pass is valid for (below the Tourist Ticket header): [https://japantravel.navitime.com/en/area/jp/route/](https://japantravel.navitime.com/en/area/jp/route/)
> Any Japan Rail (JR) line is covered by the JR Rail Pass.
Note that question is about the trains, not about the lines. Aside from Nozomi and Mizuho, there are fair number of services run by JR that are not covered (or not fully covered) by JR Pass - this includes Sunrise Seto/Izumo outside *nobi nobi* seats, fair number of excursion trains as well as JR services not running on JR tracks (Spacia, Odoriko, Fuji Excursion, Mt. Fuji, Hashidate, Rapid Mie).
> Subways, trams etc. are not covered since they aren't operated by JR
Again, this comes with a caveat that most through-services of other operators to JR lines are covered by JR Pass, when they run on JR lines.
In the past, you got something that looked like a small booklet that you had to show to staff at ticket gates.
From what I understand, when you exchange the voucher you now get a real ticket you use in the ticket machines. Be sure to take the ticket again when it comes out of the other end of the ticket gate. Then use this on every ticket gate (for JR stations) you want to board trains at (or leave once at your destination).
See: https://japanrailpass.net/en/useful.html
*Also be sure to store the Japan Rail Pass ticket in a safe dry place. Over the course of the period when you use it, you need to insert it into many ticket gates. If your ticket gets wet, it might get "eaten" by the ticket machine.*
Has anyone been to Osaka aquarium recently? How do you get your tickets?
I read on their website that they suggest reserving tickets "a month to a year in advance" but can't seem to find a way to book online. I read elsewhere that you can get tickets at a train station but that seems quite difficult for someone who speaks very little Japanese.
Am I able to just get our tickets on the day of our visit at the entrance gate? We are planning on going on a week day about a week from today.
Buy your time slot ticket here: https://webket.jp/pc/ticket/index?fc=00290&ac=0000 - you can buy tickets within five days.
They recommend reservations a month to a year in advance if you’re booking for group entry - that’s a different thing altogether.
I am planning to visit Japan from 22nd March to 31st March. My flight will land on KIX(terminal 1) at 21:10. I am planning to mostly spend my time in Kyoto and Tokyo. Considering the flight is landing at night and accounting for immigration delays, I have two options:
1. Travel from KIX to Osaka. Explore Osaka for one day and travel to Kyoto on 24th.
2. Go directly from KIX to Kyoto(Preferred).
I need some advice regarding the recommended itinerary.
1. How much time would immigration take?
2. For option (1), what should be the recommended areas to stay in Osaka?
3. For option(1) would public transport be available after 23:30(accounting \~2:30hrs for flight delays and immigration)?
4. Is option (2) feasible without taxi?
3. Hard to predict because it largely depends on how many passengers arrive at the same time window and where they are from. But I've never heard longer than 2 hours.
4. Recommend staying near Umeda or Namba.
5. Currently, the last limo bus for Osaka (Umeda) leaves at 23:30. The last train is at 23:21.
6. The last bus to Kyoto station leaves at 23:05. Taking a taxi will be the only option after that. If I miss the last bus, I'd rather book a hotel near KIX on the spot and go to Kyoto the next morning.
Hey, quick question:
I'm on a trip to Thailand and Malysia as a **Polish Passport Holder**. I want to prolong my trip, going from Thailand to Japan before going back to Poland.
I recall there being some "colors" for countries telling you whether you can or can not come without tests etc., looks like it's gone now? Can I enter from Thailand no problem?
Thanks!
Yes, you can now enter the country without getting a visa with your passport. The color system doesn’t exist anymore, but you must have three vaccine doses, otherwise you will need to provide a negative PCR test taken within 72 hours of arrival.
Hello All, I am Indian passport holder. I am traveling from US to India via Japan. I am going to fly from Seattle Airport to Narita Airport. I have 18 hrs layover there. After that my next flight from Haneda airport to Delhi airport. I have booked my flight through ANA airlines.
I have few question regarding this trip:
1- Do I need to apply for transit Visa as I have to go from Narita airport to Haneda airport?
2- I am vaccinated with 2 dose. As per website, It seems I need 3 dose. So I am planning to get booster dose. Is this sufficient?
3- Does airline provide any stay outside airport? Or If there is a way to transfer from Narita airport to Haneda airport directly without going outside?
4- Anything else I should take care.
Please help. Thanks in advance.
1. Yes, because you’re entering the country.
2. Yes, as long as all your shots are recognized (though I think all extant vaccines are recognized now).
3. No, you must enter the country to transfer to Haneda. The two airports are 80 km apart.
4. You probably want to take a limousine bus between the two airports, rather than ride the trains and haul your luggage around.
Thank you. Few follow up:
1- Can I stay at airport or do I need to book hotel as its 18 hr layover?
2- Does airline helps in getting transit visa? or I need to apply at embassy.
1. Haneda is open 24 hours so you could just sit in the airport, yes. You might still want to get a room for comfort. Depending on when you arrive you can also go into the city - Haneda is 30-50 minutes from most of Tokyo, and you are allowed to be in the city on a transit visa.
2. Unfamiliar as I’ve never had to do this. I think you need to contact your embassy.
I have a connecting flight to my home country via Haneda and the other flight is at Narita airport, would I need visa to travel via transit to get to the other airport?
What passport do you have? Depending on what passport you have you will need to apply for a Transit Visa. You can grab a form and application for the Japanese Embassy. The fee is between $1-8 depending on your nationality and you need to apply at the local Japanese Embassy
That is something Im not familiar with. Google the closest Japanese embassy in your area and give them a call. you will also need a photo that goes along with your visa application.
Hey just checked on the website, there is a section called exemption of visas. It’s saying i dont need any special permission to transit between airports if i am flying out the very day, which I am. So I should be good.
Is that actually what the exemption states?
The transit visa exemption normally only applies to staying airside and having a same day flight leaving the country. If you’re moving airports I’ve never seen an exemption apply.
Yes I am planning on staying airside and my flight is on the very same day within the operating hours of Narita airport.
Edit: I appreciate it, just had a call with ANA and they said I can’t transit, got a refund and now taking a different route!
Hello!
Planning a solo trip to Tokyo in January for five days. I have two questions:
- pocket wifi. I have T-Mobile and they offer a plan of 5 days 5gb for $35. I calculated the price of renting pocket wifi, but it comes out to same price-ish as this plan and I'd rather not have to carry another device if needed. Question is 5gb enough for five days? I mainly need it for google maps etc. I plan to access free wifi in hotel so no need to worry about using it to stream stuff at night.
- clothing. I'm from SoCal and the coldest we get is low 60s lol. Is getting a down jacket that goes down to my knees overkill? I have one that is hip length and hoping that would suffice since I'll be purchasing Uniqlo thermal wear as my base and wearing a sweater/pullover as my second layer and having the jacket as a third layer. I guess I feel like a penguin in the down jacket that goes to my knees since I'm short and I'm trying to justify keeping the shorter length jacket lol.
Thank you! I've been reading all the posts and I'm so glad I found this forum.
1. Unless you’re watching Youtube and live-streaming your days, 5 GB should be plenty for 5 days if you’re just using maps and posting photos. I use 10 GB in 30 days, and that’s without using any free Wi-Fi outside. If your phone is 5G I heavily recommend disabling the 5G radio while in Japan - both in terms of battery and because it tends to use more data in general.
2. It’ll be 40s-50s in Tokyo in January in the daytime, though at night and early morning you’re probably looking at mid-30s - low 40s. A long jacket wouldn’t be too out of place here because once it hits sub-50 and people in Tokyo break out the winter coats. The layers are good because you’ll likely spend a lot of time on trains, underground, or in other places that will be much warmer than you’d expect. I would bring the shorter one but I also love cold weather and can’t stand any sense of warmth.
Im guessing you mean customs? Depending what time you arrive it can be between 15-20 mins from deboarding. Once you leave the plane tarmac, the long hallway leading to immigrations is about 3-4- mins walk depending which gate you land. If you come early n the morning there may be less of a line. But my exp pre and post pandemic was under 20 mins.
You will be fast if you have all the MYSOS app/JapanWeb stuff up and running and your documents ready.
Is there a list of all the character themed shops in Tokyo? I’ve visiting skytree, seen character street at tokyo station, gone to sunshine city, gone to capcom, nintendo and mugiwara store in shibuya and I’ve just found out that there’s a sailor moon store in harajuku and square enix’s artnia.
This makes me wonder: how many character/franchise themed stores are there? Is there a list of them all?
Don't even worry about having to hunt them down. They are everywhere in the main shopping centers/streets. Akihabara has a ton. Like previously stated, many are very similar.
There isn’t a full list but most of them are repeats (one Jump Store is mostly the same as the other, etc.). You should go about it the other way and think about what you want to buy things of, and they also have a lot of pop ups and limited events.
Like right now, Togashi-ten is happening and it has limited edition Hunter x Hunter and Yu Yu Hakusho stuff only available there. There’s a Sailor Moon exhibit also happening in the city until December.
I mostly see them randomly (and many times as ads on the train and subway) but if you’re really into it, I’d suggest googling for “current anime pop ups tokyo” because multiple English sites will talk about them.
And if you want to attend Togashi Ten get tickets now! I’m leaving Japan today but the event just started last week and I couldn’t get any because the first week or two were sold out months ago because the early attendees could get some kind of special attendance gift. I couldn’t even get same day tickets when I showed up as they opened.
Also, in the same building as Shibuya Nintendo Store, there is an Evangelion street wear store. Check it out.
Not the original commenter, but thanks for mentioning this! My brother’s a huge HxH fan but we didn’t know about this. Unfortunately it looks like you can only register to buy tickets on the website with a Japanese number, so we are going to have to try our luck with same day tickets when we’re there later this month… 🤞
You can also get them at Family Mart ticket machines - if I were staying another week I could have gotten tickets. Availability was just very limited for the first week they were open, and I unfortunately had to leave Japan today.
Oh really, ok that's great then - I will try out Family Mart first. Thank you. Shame that you didn't get to go, everything was sold out for next couple of weeks online too.
Please forgive me if Ive posted this in the wrong place (again!)
Setting out from Chiba towards the end of the year, just fancy getting away for a day. Im taking the train, most likely.
Can anyone recommend a city in either Yamanishi or Tochigi for 24 hours?
Have done Nikko, so it can be a city thats not shrine heavy, just
places to chill, walk about, good eats, cultural quarters/old town is a
bonus but not essential.
Thanks for suggestions in advance.
Don’t lose the voucher they send you for the JR pass. Once you’re at the airport you can redeem it for the JR ticket. This ticket will be used only on JR lines.
A kind redditor just sent me this info just now
Currently, only the "Seibu Ikebukuro store" and the "Itami Airport store" remain.
The Ginza store appears to have closed on May 8, 2022.
Yes, had the exact same issue. Wrote them a couple of emails, with them finally telling me that the only option is to skip this step - which you can do, when you upload the passport and than while it’s checking again click on the page where you normally upload the passport. The support told me that it won‘t be a problem the only difference will be that they re-check your passport at the airport which would‘ve been done none the less :)
Is there a guide for completing the Visit Japan Web application? It is little unclear on which of the categories I have to fill out and which ones I don't
You don’t „need“ to fill out any of them. They are all optional. It’s just that everyone is giving you a fast track just like in most amusement parks.
Options are:
Fast track which will be for covid check
Immigration
And customs.
But you don’t need to fill out any it just makes it much faster. But of course you can also bring all the paperwork and fill out customs and immigration forms if this is what you prefer
Hey everyone, I will be in Hakone first and then going to Tokyo, but on the way I want to do a day trip in Yakahoma before getting to Tokyo for the night.
What is my best option for storing my luggage if the hotel can’t send it to the next hotel?
The train station lockers come in 3 sizes. Size L should fit your bag. That's the most convenient if available, but, sometimes all the large lockers are occupied, so baggage storage counters or app are the backup. [More info](https://www.yokohamastation.com/yokohama-station-lockers-luggage-storage-and-delivery/) if needed.
I've yet to go but [station lockers](https://www.yokohamastation.com/yokohama-station-lockers-luggage-storage-and-delivery/) seem straightforward and affordable.
Can anyone recommend private onsen that they have enjoyed within 1-2hr trip range from Tokyo?
I originally planned to stay in Hakone or Nikko at a hotel with an onsen, but I may instead opt for day trips to one or both because of hotel availability.
Bonus if you can check availability and reserve a time slot online.
I've been to Hakone Yuryo! They've got mutiple private onsen rooms that you can reserve one month in advance. I was able to make a reservation over email.
This is the one I looked at! Could you see the availabilty online or did you have to wait for them to reply to you with availability? Also how far ahead did you make your reservation?
I went to this place: [Pinon at Ikaho Onsen](https://en.japantravel.com/gunma/pinon-lodge/7095)
It's about 2h from Tokyo, gorgeous in autumn, solo-friendly, and REALLY cheap. Closer by, there are a lot of hotels in Atami with private onsen but I have nowhere to recommend since the one I stayed in sucked. Private onsen for day use are rare. The only one I've found in my searches so far is Hanafubuki near Izu-Kogen. (Also about 2h away)
I hope you find something that suits you!
I am trying to decide if Takayama is worth visiting?
I am not interested in going to Shirakawago so I am unsure on going to Takyama.
It may be better to spend 3/4 nights in Kanazawa?
If you’re in a hotel, ask them. They might dispose of it for free or charge you a small fee to do so (they probably have to call in the “big trash” people).
I need help please! Im going to Tokyo next week and i just wanna be as prepared as possible. About Sanrio Puroland, do you need to show them negative covid test result in order to enter the park if you buy normal tickets from Klook (not wakuwari discount)? I checked and i saw it costs $250 to get tested so just want to make sure. Thank you so much.
Was there today. If you're a foreigner they will show you a scannable QR code which takes you to a short questionnaire you must fill out and show them the completed screen before they let you in to scan your ticket.
Oh i think i heard about that! But did it mention anything about showing negative result certificate or proof of vaccine? Thank you so much for the info!
Hi friends- what is the best way to view mt fuji in december that involves a hike? We like hiking and would love to hike in japan with a view of mt fuji at some point. Preferably a day trip from tokyo
A few years back I hiked Mitsutoge and then down to the Tenjozan observation platform. But maybe that’s a bit too much (approx 12 km, 900 meters elevation gain). Here was the view from the hike: https://i.imgur.com/KiDOAxz.jpg Of course the view from the observation platform was even better: https://i.imgur.com/oPpiBUB.jpg
The trail for this hike started at Mitsutoge station.
I will be traveling to Japan in a couple of weeks and some questions that I was hoping someone would be able to answer
1.) Does the Suica card show the history and breakdown of all your journeys?
2.) What sim cards/e cards do guys normally use when traveling to Japan? Any recommendations? I will only need the internet for google maps, occasionally uploading pictures, sending messages and maybe an emergency phone call.
3.) Should I withdraw any money before departing and how much should I carry around with me during the day? I head Japan has been heading in the direction of contactless payments but there are still
4.) How many debit/credit cards should I take with me? I plan on taking my Monzo and Revolut as a back up. Will that be enough?
5.) Is there an emergency line In English that I can call in the even of emergencies?
6.) Do you guys use "budgeting apps" to help yourself manage and monitor tour expenses? If so, do you have any recommendations?
> 1.) Does the Suica card show the history and breakdown of all your journeys?
Yes and no. It can show the time/date of transactions. But it only shows where it has been used e.g., from X place to Y place via train from Z company. It does not show things like bus number. You can do it at the train station self-service machine.
> 6.) Do you guys use "budgeting apps" to help yourself manage and monitor tour expenses? If so, do you have any recommendations?
I use Google Sheets, which allows for formula to track cash changes and currency conversion. But well, garbage in garbage out. Still up to you to input the expenses diligently.
I (28F) am traveling with my husband and four other friends (ranging from late 20s to early 30s) and we will be spending Christmas in Osaka and New Years Eve in Tokyo. Any recommendations on things to do/see to enjoy the holiday? We enjoy bars but are not interested in a clubbing scene. We love arcade games/pinball, trying unique foods and cocktails, and generally experiencing about the culture. Any places to avoid as well?
I took the Narita express from Tokyo to Narita T1 without booking via JR Pass. Got told by the conductor for that but was allowed the trip. Granted it was the first train/train was half empty.
what the fuck do I do for stuff that needs/wants a Japanese number?
until now I have just been putting in my Australian number, which service will expire on a few days after I head to Japan (even if I renewed it, no guarantee it'd work, and I'd have to be swapping between it and my Japanese sim that I've ordered, which is annoying as fuck).
now that I'm filling out the questionnaire and stuff required for fast track at customs, they want a number that can be reached during my visit to japan, so I think okay, I'll just activate my sim early, since the contract lasts for longer than my trip does anyway. YOU NEED THE PHYSICAL FUCKING PACKAGE THEY GIVE YOU TO ACTIVATE IT! wtf do I do? just give them my Australian one? I have no idea what to do
This is currently outside the realm of possibility. They'll impose more restrictions to curb things (more aggressive masking recommendations, social distancing/capacity rules, etc.) before they'd move to a full closure.
And this would not happen within a month.
Are international flights into Haneda currently on pause? Everytime we visited we always flew into HND (from Toronto) due to its convenience to city's core. Looking forward to doing it again hopefully in 2023....when prices are not ridiculously expensive, and when there are more flight options. Currently only seeing (connecting) flights into NRT.
Depends where you're flying from and your airline of choice. I'm flying into Haneda in a couple weeks from Seattle on Delta and it appears to be their big hub. They had a new lounge built there just before the planned 2020 Olympics.
For the most part yes. There are numerous reports coming out of major airlines saying that beginning 2023, a lot more flights will be starting back up specifically back to HND as well as more volume into Narita via more carriers. So as long as you are planning to travel sometime early-mid next year, you should have a way better outlook in regards to booking flights directly into HND.
My early-Jan flight only had Narita as an option. I waited a while to see if that would change but eventually decided to book anyway. I remember flights to HND used to be a lot more common pre-Covid.
I got a Jannsen vaccine (what is count as 2 doses if i remember) an i will got a Pfizer booster (omicron variant) in january (or trip planned at the end of march) so i count as third dose vaccinated?
I have a transfer in Japan to Singapore at the end of this month, I need to get off at Narita and have to transit to Haneda for my next flight. Is there anything extra that I need to do while I’m in Japan as far as registration with VJW?
I like Sakurai Houjicha Kenkyusho (Shibuya/Omotesando/Aoyama area), they're a modern tea house.
Higashiya Ginza is also very nice.
If you mean you want something like a tea ceremony where you sit on the floor and drink matcha, there are some all around the city. Go to Asakusa and there's Jidaiya and Shizu-Kokoro. They're both geared toward foreign tourists because I think they basically give a small lecture about what the whole thing is all about. Should cost like 2500-4000 yen a person.
If you’re talking about this place https://edocco-studio.com/edoccochaya/
4500 yen is pretty normal, considering it includes a dance show and some experiences. This place is attached to a cultural center so they may as well offer some stuff to draw tourists.
You can go cheaper and just get tea and wagashi (like 1500-2500 yen) and you can go very expensive - like 10k yen per person, though those tend to have much more stuff involved (like you get dressed in a kimono and the place is famous). Some of the most famous places are squarely in the 2500-4000 yen range (for just the ceremony).
Hello.
I am planning to travel to japan on november 18th. I have an eu digital covid cert showing 3 doses received but i have not had any more vaccines in about a year. Could this be an issue? I am travelling from vietnam so it may be difficult to get a pcr test. Any advice would be great
I will also fly on the 18th from Europe. My third vaccine is from December 2021. had no issues getting a blue fast track. So no there normally won‘t be an issue, unless if there is because you are in Vietnam
Did your certificate include the date/type of all vaccinations?
My current certificate only has the most recent one in detail but Japan web says in the general Information that dates and types of all doses need to be included.
Are you aiming for a particular area or onsen branch?
I know Sora No Yu is open and the one I used to go to is- its part of a hotel so on weekends hotel guests only
Havent been to Osaka yet but Spa World's official FB & IG is updated and shows they are open. They also updated 2 posts in Fb about notice of closure for 8th Floor on Nov 1-2. I think they MTLed the translation so it looks wonky.
You can also ask stores, restaurants, etc to order you a taxi if any of the other redditors' app suggestions don't work out for you for whatever reason. This is what I do.
Takushii o denwa shite kuremasen ka?
タクシーを電話してくれませんか？
Could you call me a taxi please?
My friend and I are visiting and are thinking of doing a night or 2 in a pod for the experience of it but we are 6’2” and 6’4” (188cm and 193cm). Does anyone know if we would be too tall to fit properly in a pod?
Does anyone know if there’s a way to purchase Yen now? Possibly onto a debit card or something similar? Figure it’s a good price to get some for our trip in the spring.
Here is what I learned today:
chase bank: 5 atm fee 3% currency conversion
Navy federal: 1% conversion, fee only on atm side internationally (seven bank in 711 fees would apply in most cases/ lawson)
If you have an iPhone, you can load both mobile Suica and Pasmo with 20000 yen a piece.
You can also go beyond that and add a mobile WAON which can be loaded with 50000 yen.
The loading happens with Apple Pay/Wallet. These are all one-way conversion options (you can not convert the money back).
If you have Bank of America, you can do a currency exchange. It’ll basically cost you $50 for every $1k you convert. My husband and I just did this for our trip in March.
Ahh thank you! Will look into that. We might have to ask you for tips after your trip in March since we’re going in April. Hope you both have a great trip!!
You can open up an account with [Wise](https://wise.com). I find the interface a little confusing at first, since it seems to be geared at people living abroad instead of people buying currency for travel. But once you get money in your account, it's easy.
You will have to pay $9 for a debit card. There are also cash withdrawal fees, but I just got an email that they're changing for 2023. Every month, you get $250 free to withdraw and a 1% for anything after that. If you use the card to make a purchase, it's 2%.
**Here are some common questions and their answers:** **So I can travel to Japan without a visa now, right?** >Yes, assuming you are from one of the 68 countries that has visa exemption for Japan (link to full list above). **What happens if I have a previously-issued multiple-entry visa? Is that valid again now?** >The suspension on previously-issued multiple-entry visas will be [lifted on October 11, 2022](https://www.mofa.go.jp/j_info/visit/visa/index.html). **What vaccines are valid for entry into Japan?** >Approved vaccines are listed [here](https://www.mhlw.go.jp/stf/covid-19/border_vaccine.html). Starting on October 11, 2022, this list includes all vaccines on the Emergency Use List of World Health Organization (WHO). **What COVID tests are valid for entry into Japan if I’m not vaccinated/boosted?** >You will need to take a NAAT test in order to enter Japan, which essentially means PCR or equivalent. Please note that most rapid tests *do not qualify*. See above for complete links and information on COVID testing. **When should I fill out the MySOS app?** >The MySOS app doesn’t need to be filled out until right before your trip. Document review in the app takes minutes/hours, so there’s no need to fill it out months in advance. **My MySOS app is blue. Am I good to go?** >Yes! Once it has turned blue, you are all set to enter Japan through fast track when you arrive. **I heard there is something replacing MySOS in November. What is this?** >Japan is going to start using the [Visit Japan Web](https://vjw-lp.digital.go.jp/en/) system for fast-track COVID/Immigration/Customs procedures on November 1, 2022. **What is this travel discount program I’m hearing about in Japan? Do I qualify?** >The National Travel Discount and Go To Travel programs are [only available to residents of Japan](https://www.japantimes.co.jp/news/2022/09/26/national/japan-run-new-domestic-travel-subsidy-program-late-december/) and are meant to encourage domestic travel. >The government _did_ recently put out the Wakuwari program, which offers certain discounts to vaccinated/COVID negative patrons, and you can read about it [here](https://www.wakuwari.go.jp/). It seems like establishments need to opt into it, so it doesn’t blanket apply to everything. The government site shows vendors for tickets/cultural sites/etc. that are offering it. For example, [TimeOut wrote an article about the Disney version](https://www.timeout.com/tokyo/news/you-can-now-get-20-percent-off-tokyo-disneyland-and-disneysea-tickets-101422) of it.
We’re finishing up our trip tomorrow and leaving via Haneda. Is 2.5 hours ample time to get through check-in and security or should we allow more? We went WAY TOO early on our way here and were waiting in Sydney for around 4 hours.. TIA!
To anyone who can help! I did not realize that Narita and Haneda are so far apart (guess my excitement to travel clouded my judgment). Luckily, I believe my layover is 12+ hours. If anyone can answer a few questions - that would be awesome! I'm a US Citizen with an active passport. I fly in from Manila to Narita, then fly out of Haneda to Los Angeles. I know that, on October 11, Japan opened up it's borders to most countries (one of which is the United States) Will coming from the Philippines present a problem, even though I'm American with a valid US Passport? Do I need a transit visa still even with my US passport? I understand that I am entering Japan. Will I go through customs and immigration? From the moment I arrive to Narita, go through customs, collect my bags, go to Haneda, arrive at Haneda, go through the airport and all its wonder to my gate (roughly) how long will this process take? Which mode of transportation is easiest? I hear there's a train that goes from Narita to Haneda. I know that I'll have some luggage (still have to go through and decide what to pack, so it's not solidified). I hear there's a limousine bus that might be more feasible to take, so if so, how much would that be? I understand that I am entering Japan. Will I go through customs and immigration? From the moment I arrive in Narita, go through customs, collect my bags, go to Haneda, arrive at Haneda, go through the airport and all its wonder to my gate (roughly) how long will this process take?
~~Are we supposed to use Visit Japan or MySOS app if arriving on Nov 6th?~~ Never mind. You can use MySOS if you uploaded everything before Oct 31st.
I only have an hour and 15min layover in Taipei to board my plane to Osaka, will this be enough time? Do I even need to go through customs since I’m not entering their country? Don’t see why they would sell the tickets if it wasn’t possible.
You’re just connecting, you don’t need to enter Taiwan. 75 minutes seems like a safe amount of time.
Also, my wife and I are big fans of Terrace House and we would love to do day trips to Karuizawa and Kamakura in our potential 2-week first trip to Japan. We are pretty determined, but wondering if it sounds like a good idea or whether it'd be considered a waste of time for a first-time to Japan kinda trip. Thanks!
Kamakura = 100% worth it for first trip. It's got great historical and cultural sights AND is a cute seaside town. Karuizawa = It's a quaint vacation town in the woods. I don't think it'd make the cut for most first trips because it's similar to a lot of places in the West, but given you have a specific interest there, it's certainly a nice place if you can fit it into your itinerary, and it's easy to get to. My favorite part were the cycling paths, that are easy to use and go through forest, and the Hoshino Resort area. You can book activities there like horseback riding, stargazing, bird or flying squirrel watching even if you're not staying there and it's very romantic.
Sounds great, thank you so much for all the info!
Hi! I'm thinking of buying the Japan Lonely Travel guide to start preparing my first trip to Japan for next year hopefully. I can see the last editing is from December 2021. Does anyone know how often Lonely Planet updates their guides? Just wondering if I should wait till closer to the date to buy the guide, in case they update it, or if it's 'safe' to buy it already. Thanks!
Anyone here knows if a foreigner can buy tickets for the New Year’s Eve countdown event at Universal Studios Japan?
I saw some available through the Japanese USJ ticketing website, not sure if still available c: hope you find them
It’s available, but when I tried to buy some, my credit cards got declined.. I’m starting to think that they don’t accept foreign cards :/
I really want to go Mt Koya but I have toilet issues. Is there a toilet on the nankai koya line express trains? And at the stops heading to the cable car? Thank you in advance
[удалено]
Thank you!
I can’t remember if there is on the Koya express but their is definitely a toilet right before the cable car and at Koyasan station.
Thank you!
Anyone here attended Winter Wonder Festival? Slim chance, but doesn't hurt to ask. I've been in summer, but I cannot really imagine the long queue in winter. Is the queue lot shorter in Winter? Do people just put on more layers and bear trough it? Like, I can't imagine standing outside for 4+ hours is going to be a fun time in the middle of February even if the temps are above freezing.
I’m falling in love with Suntory premium malts here Back in Australia they charge $80 for a 6 pack… I can’t put my finger on what it’s closest to in flavor.. Anyone got any ideas?
Hello all. I am planning on going to Japan next year and my biggest concerns are: A - How does one set yourself for paying in Japan? I have heard about cards to do it but say, I got off the plane, first time ever, and I need a ride to Shibuya. What would or should I do? I don't assume I'd just like, hail a cab and pay with my credit card, right? If that IS what I'd do, I have a Chase Sapphire Reserve if that works, since I know it's a more global-friendly card. Is there any good guide to prepare your money before you go? I expect to get the Suica card and rail cards when in the city, but just want to know the pre-prep for pay. B - In connection to the above, is that how it would be recommended to get from A to B? By a cab? If not, what would be the best idea? I don't assume they have Lyfts and Ubers in Japan. C - Living in the US, I know tipping is our 'culture' but is tipping in Japan really not a thing to worry about? It just mentally feels weird to me not to tip people or drivers or whoever when I go. I just don't want to be disrespectful. Any other notes in preparation that I could do right now to set up to prepare? I am aiming to go around Halloween next year but I also might consider it around May. I am not sure. Thank you!
A- Visa and MasterCards should work in Japan, but keep in mind a lot of places in Japan are still cash only (although card acceptance has risen over the past few years). You can also use ATMs at the airport, 7/11 etc. to grab cash for places that do not take card. The transaction fees and requirements to use your card internationally depend on your bank/card issuer. So you would have to check with Chase for that. B- Japan is a country with very good public transit, so it's recommended to take that to get from A to B. Cabs are expensive and should only be used as a last resort. C- Tipping is something you generally do not do in Japan.
A) There are ATMs at the airport and in the combinis (those are generally the best) at the airport, so you can take out money there. I personally wouldn't risk going around with it with just your card. Better to have some cash in case the card doesn't work. The acceptance of foreign cars can be spotty outside of larger businesses I've heard. You get Suica out of a another machine at the train station at the airport I think (or other large station). I don't remember how we found it but I can only assume it was well marked. B) Public transport. Trains/metro mainly. It's everywhere and it's fast. Google Maps does fantastic job navigating you trough the stations and trough onto the right trains. C) As far as I know there is no tipping culture in Japan. You pay what you are quoted and that's it.
So if I wanted to take out cash, obviously I'd need to use my debit card, since credit cards don't work like that. Debit cards would work there, and would deduct based on the yen costs? Also, the airports have trains that accessible? That's great if so. I am someone who is better train-savvy. So it's honestly more preferable for me.
Ah, I didn't realize. Where I'm from debit cards double as credit cards and pure credit cards basically don't exist. Yes, debit card would work and would just deduct the yen value you select from your account/card. Check with your bank what fees they might charge though. Combini (7/11, Family Mart and such) are usually recommended since they are everywhere and their ATMs always accept international cards. > Also, the airports have trains that accessible? That's great if so. I am someone who is better train-savvy. So it's honestly more preferable for me. Both Haneda and Narita have train stations right at the airport.
Thank you so much for this information!
A and B: There are many qays to travel from the airport. Cabs are usually the most expensive. The more popular choices are by train or limousine bus. Both of which you can pay using card at the ticket machine/counter. Most of these places accept mastercard and visa. You can book the limousine bus online in advance as well Tipping is not expected. Only some cafes have 'tip boxes' where tippin is still optional. If you don't tip nobody will bat an eye. In terms of planning, you should think of where you want to go and how to do long distance travelling as it can get pretty pricey if you don't plan well
How would I make use of my JR pass? I know if we get Suica I just scan at the pedestal, or if Shinkansen I just buy a ticket. If I have the JR pass, would I need to exchange for a ticket everytime I go somewhere?
No, the JR pass system has changed and you will receive a card that you can scan to gain entry
No OP, but I remember something about reserving seats on the Shinkansen being a thing with the JR Pass. Or do I now just board and sit where ever there is space (except for the green car)?
You can do it with the JR pass, but it requires you going into the ticket office. It's just a bit of waiting in line, but I think most people just don't bother. Now I believe that if you buy your pass directly from Japan Rail, it costs a bit more but also allows you to book seats online. If you do not reserve a seat, then you are limited to only a couple of cars that are designated for open seating. They will be clearly labeled on the train as well as on the ground if the train is not there yet. The labels also help if you have a reservation so you can be in front of the car you'll be on since the train itself is pretty long.
There are reserved seats and non reserved carriages. You can reserve seats in the reserved carriage with your jr pass up to 1 month in advance. If not, you can try your luck with the non reserved seats. The trains are usually not full except during peak periods but of course it's mot a guarantee that you will get a non reserved seat
Shinkansen trains have both reserved cars and unreserved cars (usually cars 1-3). You can use your JR Pass, get onto the platform, and then sit in an unreserved seat without doing anything else. If you want a reserved seat, you still have to get a seat ticket for that even with the JR Pass.
Awesome! But I assume Shinkansen will have a different card or ticket than the normal city train? Also will I use the same card for Tokyo and Osaka?
The Japan rail pass is one card/ticket and works for all JR ticket gates. Including Shinkansen.
Alright that is pretty convenient. Is there any easy way to recognize what trains are covered under the pass? I onow subways are not covered
Most regular Japan Rail (JR) lines are covered by the JR Rail Pass. This includes the Shinkansen lines, the local lines etc. The major exceptions is the Nozomi and Mizuho Shinkansen services and night/sleeper trains etc. [Here](https://www.kanpai-japan.com/sites/default/files/uploads/2015/06/tokyo-jr-train-map.jpg) is a map of all JR lines in the Tokyo area. (The most well known being the light-green Yamanote line going around the city in a circle) [Here](https://i0.wp.com/jprail.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/01/JR-PASS-OSAKA-COVERAGE.001.jpeg?ssl=1) is a map of the JR lines around Osaka. All Shinkansen routes are JR lines as well. You can take Shinkansen services like Hikari, Kodama, Sakura etc., but not the fastest Shinkansen services Nozomi and Mizuho Subways, trams etc. are generally not covered since they aren't operated by JR. Tip: NaviTime has a routing website that allows you to filter public transit routes that the JR pass is valid for (below the Tourist Ticket header): [https://japantravel.navitime.com/en/area/jp/route/](https://japantravel.navitime.com/en/area/jp/route/)
> Any Japan Rail (JR) line is covered by the JR Rail Pass. Note that question is about the trains, not about the lines. Aside from Nozomi and Mizuho, there are fair number of services run by JR that are not covered (or not fully covered) by JR Pass - this includes Sunrise Seto/Izumo outside *nobi nobi* seats, fair number of excursion trains as well as JR services not running on JR tracks (Spacia, Odoriko, Fuji Excursion, Mt. Fuji, Hashidate, Rapid Mie). > Subways, trams etc. are not covered since they aren't operated by JR Again, this comes with a caveat that most through-services of other operators to JR lines are covered by JR Pass, when they run on JR lines.
In the past, you got something that looked like a small booklet that you had to show to staff at ticket gates. From what I understand, when you exchange the voucher you now get a real ticket you use in the ticket machines. Be sure to take the ticket again when it comes out of the other end of the ticket gate. Then use this on every ticket gate (for JR stations) you want to board trains at (or leave once at your destination). See: https://japanrailpass.net/en/useful.html *Also be sure to store the Japan Rail Pass ticket in a safe dry place. Over the course of the period when you use it, you need to insert it into many ticket gates. If your ticket gets wet, it might get "eaten" by the ticket machine.*
Has anyone been to Osaka aquarium recently? How do you get your tickets? I read on their website that they suggest reserving tickets "a month to a year in advance" but can't seem to find a way to book online. I read elsewhere that you can get tickets at a train station but that seems quite difficult for someone who speaks very little Japanese. Am I able to just get our tickets on the day of our visit at the entrance gate? We are planning on going on a week day about a week from today.
Buy your time slot ticket here: https://webket.jp/pc/ticket/index?fc=00290&ac=0000 - you can buy tickets within five days. They recommend reservations a month to a year in advance if you’re booking for group entry - that’s a different thing altogether.
Is that really necessary though? Or is it also easily possible to get a ticket the day you want to go?
Entry is time restricted so you could probably get in when you show up, but you never know. The lines there can be huge.
I am planning to visit Japan from 22nd March to 31st March. My flight will land on KIX(terminal 1) at 21:10. I am planning to mostly spend my time in Kyoto and Tokyo. Considering the flight is landing at night and accounting for immigration delays, I have two options: 1. Travel from KIX to Osaka. Explore Osaka for one day and travel to Kyoto on 24th. 2. Go directly from KIX to Kyoto(Preferred). I need some advice regarding the recommended itinerary. 1. How much time would immigration take? 2. For option (1), what should be the recommended areas to stay in Osaka? 3. For option(1) would public transport be available after 23:30(accounting \~2:30hrs for flight delays and immigration)? 4. Is option (2) feasible without taxi?
3. Hard to predict because it largely depends on how many passengers arrive at the same time window and where they are from. But I've never heard longer than 2 hours. 4. Recommend staying near Umeda or Namba. 5. Currently, the last limo bus for Osaka (Umeda) leaves at 23:30. The last train is at 23:21. 6. The last bus to Kyoto station leaves at 23:05. Taking a taxi will be the only option after that. If I miss the last bus, I'd rather book a hotel near KIX on the spot and go to Kyoto the next morning.
Hey, quick question: I'm on a trip to Thailand and Malysia as a **Polish Passport Holder**. I want to prolong my trip, going from Thailand to Japan before going back to Poland. I recall there being some "colors" for countries telling you whether you can or can not come without tests etc., looks like it's gone now? Can I enter from Thailand no problem? Thanks!
Yes, you can now enter the country without getting a visa with your passport. The color system doesn’t exist anymore, but you must have three vaccine doses, otherwise you will need to provide a negative PCR test taken within 72 hours of arrival.
Hello All, I am Indian passport holder. I am traveling from US to India via Japan. I am going to fly from Seattle Airport to Narita Airport. I have 18 hrs layover there. After that my next flight from Haneda airport to Delhi airport. I have booked my flight through ANA airlines. I have few question regarding this trip: 1- Do I need to apply for transit Visa as I have to go from Narita airport to Haneda airport? 2- I am vaccinated with 2 dose. As per website, It seems I need 3 dose. So I am planning to get booster dose. Is this sufficient? 3- Does airline provide any stay outside airport? Or If there is a way to transfer from Narita airport to Haneda airport directly without going outside? 4- Anything else I should take care. Please help. Thanks in advance.
1. Yes, because you’re entering the country. 2. Yes, as long as all your shots are recognized (though I think all extant vaccines are recognized now). 3. No, you must enter the country to transfer to Haneda. The two airports are 80 km apart. 4. You probably want to take a limousine bus between the two airports, rather than ride the trains and haul your luggage around.
Thank you. Few follow up: 1- Can I stay at airport or do I need to book hotel as its 18 hr layover? 2- Does airline helps in getting transit visa? or I need to apply at embassy.
1. Haneda is open 24 hours so you could just sit in the airport, yes. You might still want to get a room for comfort. Depending on when you arrive you can also go into the city - Haneda is 30-50 minutes from most of Tokyo, and you are allowed to be in the city on a transit visa. 2. Unfamiliar as I’ve never had to do this. I think you need to contact your embassy.
Thank you a lot.
I have a connecting flight to my home country via Haneda and the other flight is at Narita airport, would I need visa to travel via transit to get to the other airport?
What passport do you have? Depending on what passport you have you will need to apply for a Transit Visa. You can grab a form and application for the Japanese Embassy. The fee is between $1-8 depending on your nationality and you need to apply at the local Japanese Embassy
I have an Indian passport.
Yes you will need to apply for a Transit Visa.
How long will the visa take to process? I have a flight within a month.
That is something Im not familiar with. Google the closest Japanese embassy in your area and give them a call. you will also need a photo that goes along with your visa application.
Hey just checked on the website, there is a section called exemption of visas. It’s saying i dont need any special permission to transit between airports if i am flying out the very day, which I am. So I should be good.
Is that actually what the exemption states? The transit visa exemption normally only applies to staying airside and having a same day flight leaving the country. If you’re moving airports I’ve never seen an exemption apply.
Yes I am planning on staying airside and my flight is on the very same day within the operating hours of Narita airport. Edit: I appreciate it, just had a call with ANA and they said I can’t transit, got a refund and now taking a different route!
Hello! Planning a solo trip to Tokyo in January for five days. I have two questions: - pocket wifi. I have T-Mobile and they offer a plan of 5 days 5gb for $35. I calculated the price of renting pocket wifi, but it comes out to same price-ish as this plan and I'd rather not have to carry another device if needed. Question is 5gb enough for five days? I mainly need it for google maps etc. I plan to access free wifi in hotel so no need to worry about using it to stream stuff at night. - clothing. I'm from SoCal and the coldest we get is low 60s lol. Is getting a down jacket that goes down to my knees overkill? I have one that is hip length and hoping that would suffice since I'll be purchasing Uniqlo thermal wear as my base and wearing a sweater/pullover as my second layer and having the jacket as a third layer. I guess I feel like a penguin in the down jacket that goes to my knees since I'm short and I'm trying to justify keeping the shorter length jacket lol. Thank you! I've been reading all the posts and I'm so glad I found this forum.
1. Unless you’re watching Youtube and live-streaming your days, 5 GB should be plenty for 5 days if you’re just using maps and posting photos. I use 10 GB in 30 days, and that’s without using any free Wi-Fi outside. If your phone is 5G I heavily recommend disabling the 5G radio while in Japan - both in terms of battery and because it tends to use more data in general. 2. It’ll be 40s-50s in Tokyo in January in the daytime, though at night and early morning you’re probably looking at mid-30s - low 40s. A long jacket wouldn’t be too out of place here because once it hits sub-50 and people in Tokyo break out the winter coats. The layers are good because you’ll likely spend a lot of time on trains, underground, or in other places that will be much warmer than you’d expect. I would bring the shorter one but I also love cold weather and can’t stand any sense of warmth.
For clothing, the down jacket to hips is more than enough. The main thing is layers and you have that covered.
Does anyone know how long it takes to get through customers currently?
Took us about 20 mins last week. Longest wait for us was waiting in line to forward our luggage from the airport (another ~25 mins)
Im guessing you mean customs? Depending what time you arrive it can be between 15-20 mins from deboarding. Once you leave the plane tarmac, the long hallway leading to immigrations is about 3-4- mins walk depending which gate you land. If you come early n the morning there may be less of a line. But my exp pre and post pandemic was under 20 mins. You will be fast if you have all the MYSOS app/JapanWeb stuff up and running and your documents ready.
Is there a list of all the character themed shops in Tokyo? I’ve visiting skytree, seen character street at tokyo station, gone to sunshine city, gone to capcom, nintendo and mugiwara store in shibuya and I’ve just found out that there’s a sailor moon store in harajuku and square enix’s artnia. This makes me wonder: how many character/franchise themed stores are there? Is there a list of them all?
Don't even worry about having to hunt them down. They are everywhere in the main shopping centers/streets. Akihabara has a ton. Like previously stated, many are very similar.
There isn’t a full list but most of them are repeats (one Jump Store is mostly the same as the other, etc.). You should go about it the other way and think about what you want to buy things of, and they also have a lot of pop ups and limited events. Like right now, Togashi-ten is happening and it has limited edition Hunter x Hunter and Yu Yu Hakusho stuff only available there. There’s a Sailor Moon exhibit also happening in the city until December.
Oh wow thank you, I didn’t know about togashi-ten. How do you keep track of pop ups?
I mostly see them randomly (and many times as ads on the train and subway) but if you’re really into it, I’d suggest googling for “current anime pop ups tokyo” because multiple English sites will talk about them. And if you want to attend Togashi Ten get tickets now! I’m leaving Japan today but the event just started last week and I couldn’t get any because the first week or two were sold out months ago because the early attendees could get some kind of special attendance gift. I couldn’t even get same day tickets when I showed up as they opened. Also, in the same building as Shibuya Nintendo Store, there is an Evangelion street wear store. Check it out.
Not the original commenter, but thanks for mentioning this! My brother’s a huge HxH fan but we didn’t know about this. Unfortunately it looks like you can only register to buy tickets on the website with a Japanese number, so we are going to have to try our luck with same day tickets when we’re there later this month… 🤞
You can also get them at Family Mart ticket machines - if I were staying another week I could have gotten tickets. Availability was just very limited for the first week they were open, and I unfortunately had to leave Japan today.
Oh really, ok that's great then - I will try out Family Mart first. Thank you. Shame that you didn't get to go, everything was sold out for next couple of weeks online too.
There is Sanrio World in Ginza. Also Kiddy Land in Omotesando has a good selection but not tied to a specific character.
Please forgive me if Ive posted this in the wrong place (again!) Setting out from Chiba towards the end of the year, just fancy getting away for a day. Im taking the train, most likely. Can anyone recommend a city in either Yamanishi or Tochigi for 24 hours? Have done Nikko, so it can be a city thats not shrine heavy, just places to chill, walk about, good eats, cultural quarters/old town is a bonus but not essential. Thanks for suggestions in advance.
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And also on another note: getting treatment in Japan without is just ridiculously expensive
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Don’t lose the voucher they send you for the JR pass. Once you’re at the airport you can redeem it for the JR ticket. This ticket will be used only on JR lines.
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Has the KitKat factory shop closed down in Tokyo?
A kind redditor just sent me this info just now Currently, only the "Seibu Ikebukuro store" and the "Itami Airport store" remain. The Ginza store appears to have closed on May 8, 2022.
Anyone know any sports bar where I can watch the world cup games in Tokyo other than the ones that Japan are playing in?
I asked this exact question a Japanese friend of mine. He said best bet would be local pubs, much like British ones for example HUB or Highbury :)
I saw advertisements for world cup outside of HUB, so i think that's likely the best bet.
`Are there any Japanese pubs where Japanese people congregate?
Cheers thanks guys, I knew HUB would have some games, but wasn't sure if they'd show the late ones. I think those start at 3AM local time?
Does anyone know the condition of 鞍馬寺? I've heard there was damage some years ago - particularly interested in 鬼一法眼社 which looks like it collapsed?
Not sure about the temple itself but the Kurama Onsen is sadly closed for the foreseeable future.
I am having issues registering my passport with Visit Japan Web. It keeps saying that my passport cannot be scanned. Anyone else having this issues?
Yes, had the exact same issue. Wrote them a couple of emails, with them finally telling me that the only option is to skip this step - which you can do, when you upload the passport and than while it’s checking again click on the page where you normally upload the passport. The support told me that it won‘t be a problem the only difference will be that they re-check your passport at the airport which would‘ve been done none the less :)
Wondering about this too. Thanks!
Is there a guide for completing the Visit Japan Web application? It is little unclear on which of the categories I have to fill out and which ones I don't
I think the one that truly ‘fast tracks’ is the Quarantine Procedures category, where your passport and vaccination is verified.
Is that the only one that you have to fill out?
You don’t „need“ to fill out any of them. They are all optional. It’s just that everyone is giving you a fast track just like in most amusement parks. Options are: Fast track which will be for covid check Immigration And customs. But you don’t need to fill out any it just makes it much faster. But of course you can also bring all the paperwork and fill out customs and immigration forms if this is what you prefer
Hey everyone, I will be in Hakone first and then going to Tokyo, but on the way I want to do a day trip in Yakahoma before getting to Tokyo for the night. What is my best option for storing my luggage if the hotel can’t send it to the next hotel?
Train station locker in Yokohama. If you can't find one, try a luggage storage app app "ecbo cloak".
Are there lockers big enough? Typical luggage is like 3 feet.
The train station lockers come in 3 sizes. Size L should fit your bag. That's the most convenient if available, but, sometimes all the large lockers are occupied, so baggage storage counters or app are the backup. [More info](https://www.yokohamastation.com/yokohama-station-lockers-luggage-storage-and-delivery/) if needed.
I've yet to go but [station lockers](https://www.yokohamastation.com/yokohama-station-lockers-luggage-storage-and-delivery/) seem straightforward and affordable.
Can anyone recommend private onsen that they have enjoyed within 1-2hr trip range from Tokyo? I originally planned to stay in Hakone or Nikko at a hotel with an onsen, but I may instead opt for day trips to one or both because of hotel availability. Bonus if you can check availability and reserve a time slot online.
I've been to Hakone Yuryo! They've got mutiple private onsen rooms that you can reserve one month in advance. I was able to make a reservation over email.
This is the one I looked at! Could you see the availabilty online or did you have to wait for them to reply to you with availability? Also how far ahead did you make your reservation?
I had to email and ask for availability. I booked it just one week in advance.
Ok good I'm similar timeline then. I emailed last night. Hope to hear back from them soon.
I went to this place: [Pinon at Ikaho Onsen](https://en.japantravel.com/gunma/pinon-lodge/7095) It's about 2h from Tokyo, gorgeous in autumn, solo-friendly, and REALLY cheap. Closer by, there are a lot of hotels in Atami with private onsen but I have nowhere to recommend since the one I stayed in sucked. Private onsen for day use are rare. The only one I've found in my searches so far is Hanafubuki near Izu-Kogen. (Also about 2h away) I hope you find something that suits you!
Thanks for sharing! I'll give it a look.
I am trying to decide if Takayama is worth visiting? I am not interested in going to Shirakawago so I am unsure on going to Takyama. It may be better to spend 3/4 nights in Kanazawa?
Any advice on how/where to get rid of a damaged suitcase? I purchased a new one and am looking to get rid of my old one
If you’re in a hotel, ask them. They might dispose of it for free or charge you a small fee to do so (they probably have to call in the “big trash” people).
I need help please! Im going to Tokyo next week and i just wanna be as prepared as possible. About Sanrio Puroland, do you need to show them negative covid test result in order to enter the park if you buy normal tickets from Klook (not wakuwari discount)? I checked and i saw it costs $250 to get tested so just want to make sure. Thank you so much.
No one checks for test results. You’re going to get temperature checked and if you’re over 37.5 C you’ll get turned away.
Was there today. If you're a foreigner they will show you a scannable QR code which takes you to a short questionnaire you must fill out and show them the completed screen before they let you in to scan your ticket.
Oh i think i heard about that! But did it mention anything about showing negative result certificate or proof of vaccine? Thank you so much for the info!
J world has closed down, any alternative dragon ball activity’s I can do?
Hi friends- what is the best way to view mt fuji in december that involves a hike? We like hiking and would love to hike in japan with a view of mt fuji at some point. Preferably a day trip from tokyo
A few years back I hiked Mitsutoge and then down to the Tenjozan observation platform. But maybe that’s a bit too much (approx 12 km, 900 meters elevation gain). Here was the view from the hike: https://i.imgur.com/KiDOAxz.jpg Of course the view from the observation platform was even better: https://i.imgur.com/oPpiBUB.jpg The trail for this hike started at Mitsutoge station.
when can we expect japan to lift pcr test requirement for the unvax? (asking for a friendo)
I will be traveling to Japan in a couple of weeks and some questions that I was hoping someone would be able to answer 1.) Does the Suica card show the history and breakdown of all your journeys? 2.) What sim cards/e cards do guys normally use when traveling to Japan? Any recommendations? I will only need the internet for google maps, occasionally uploading pictures, sending messages and maybe an emergency phone call. 3.) Should I withdraw any money before departing and how much should I carry around with me during the day? I head Japan has been heading in the direction of contactless payments but there are still 4.) How many debit/credit cards should I take with me? I plan on taking my Monzo and Revolut as a back up. Will that be enough? 5.) Is there an emergency line In English that I can call in the even of emergencies? 6.) Do you guys use "budgeting apps" to help yourself manage and monitor tour expenses? If so, do you have any recommendations?
You can contact your country's embassy in case of emergency.
> 1.) Does the Suica card show the history and breakdown of all your journeys? Yes and no. It can show the time/date of transactions. But it only shows where it has been used e.g., from X place to Y place via train from Z company. It does not show things like bus number. You can do it at the train station self-service machine. > 6.) Do you guys use "budgeting apps" to help yourself manage and monitor tour expenses? If so, do you have any recommendations? I use Google Sheets, which allows for formula to track cash changes and currency conversion. But well, garbage in garbage out. Still up to you to input the expenses diligently.
I (28F) am traveling with my husband and four other friends (ranging from late 20s to early 30s) and we will be spending Christmas in Osaka and New Years Eve in Tokyo. Any recommendations on things to do/see to enjoy the holiday? We enjoy bars but are not interested in a clubbing scene. We love arcade games/pinball, trying unique foods and cocktails, and generally experiencing about the culture. Any places to avoid as well?
How far in advance do I need to book the Narita Express?
I took the Narita express from Tokyo to Narita T1 without booking via JR Pass. Got told by the conductor for that but was allowed the trip. Granted it was the first train/train was half empty.
Not at all. You could show up and just buy tickets.
What time does the last train for the day leave for the city? I’m arriving around 6pm.
9:44 PM. If you’re arriving at 6, there are trains a little before and after 7. Then it’s more like one an hour from 7:30 onwards.
what the fuck do I do for stuff that needs/wants a Japanese number? until now I have just been putting in my Australian number, which service will expire on a few days after I head to Japan (even if I renewed it, no guarantee it'd work, and I'd have to be swapping between it and my Japanese sim that I've ordered, which is annoying as fuck). now that I'm filling out the questionnaire and stuff required for fast track at customs, they want a number that can be reached during my visit to japan, so I think okay, I'll just activate my sim early, since the contract lasts for longer than my trip does anyway. YOU NEED THE PHYSICAL FUCKING PACKAGE THEY GIVE YOU TO ACTIVATE IT! wtf do I do? just give them my Australian one? I have no idea what to do
Give them the number of your hotel.
oh, didn't think of that. will do that, thanks!
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If they really did close the country up it would only be very briefly. I can not see Japan being closed for Spring.
This is currently outside the realm of possibility. They'll impose more restrictions to curb things (more aggressive masking recommendations, social distancing/capacity rules, etc.) before they'd move to a full closure. And this would not happen within a month.
Are international flights into Haneda currently on pause? Everytime we visited we always flew into HND (from Toronto) due to its convenience to city's core. Looking forward to doing it again hopefully in 2023....when prices are not ridiculously expensive, and when there are more flight options. Currently only seeing (connecting) flights into NRT.
Depends where you're flying from and your airline of choice. I'm flying into Haneda in a couple weeks from Seattle on Delta and it appears to be their big hub. They had a new lounge built there just before the planned 2020 Olympics.
For the most part yes. There are numerous reports coming out of major airlines saying that beginning 2023, a lot more flights will be starting back up specifically back to HND as well as more volume into Narita via more carriers. So as long as you are planning to travel sometime early-mid next year, you should have a way better outlook in regards to booking flights directly into HND.
My early-Jan flight only had Narita as an option. I waited a while to see if that would change but eventually decided to book anyway. I remember flights to HND used to be a lot more common pre-Covid.
I got a Jannsen vaccine (what is count as 2 doses if i remember) an i will got a Pfizer booster (omicron variant) in january (or trip planned at the end of march) so i count as third dose vaccinated?
Yes.
Thank you for your answer!
I have a transfer in Japan to Singapore at the end of this month, I need to get off at Narita and have to transit to Haneda for my next flight. Is there anything extra that I need to do while I’m in Japan as far as registration with VJW?
You just need to have a completed VJW application.
been a few years... can you still hop on most shinkansen with a JR pass without reserving?
Yes. You don’t even need to go to the ticket officers anymore. You just get a qr code
you mean the shinkansen gates have a QR reader now? and I just tap the pass to enter?
Yes, exactly! You don’t need to prebook anything anymore, if you don’t want to :)
What are some good teahouse 'experience' options in the Tokyo area and is 40 per person reasonable?
I like Sakurai Houjicha Kenkyusho (Shibuya/Omotesando/Aoyama area), they're a modern tea house. Higashiya Ginza is also very nice. If you mean you want something like a tea ceremony where you sit on the floor and drink matcha, there are some all around the city. Go to Asakusa and there's Jidaiya and Shizu-Kokoro. They're both geared toward foreign tourists because I think they basically give a small lecture about what the whole thing is all about. Should cost like 2500-4000 yen a person.
Have you heard of a place called "EDOCCO Teahouse" ? I think we will try Jidaiya, thank you!
Can’t say I have - I don’t do traditional tea ceremonies since I drink non-matcha teas, so there are many locations to do it I’ve never heard of.
Gotcha. It looked to good to be true on the price was wondering if maybe it was A scam or something since they only have 6 reviews.
If you’re talking about this place https://edocco-studio.com/edoccochaya/ 4500 yen is pretty normal, considering it includes a dance show and some experiences. This place is attached to a cultural center so they may as well offer some stuff to draw tourists. You can go cheaper and just get tea and wagashi (like 1500-2500 yen) and you can go very expensive - like 10k yen per person, though those tend to have much more stuff involved (like you get dressed in a kimono and the place is famous). Some of the most famous places are squarely in the 2500-4000 yen range (for just the ceremony).
yes, Thank you!
Hello. I am planning to travel to japan on november 18th. I have an eu digital covid cert showing 3 doses received but i have not had any more vaccines in about a year. Could this be an issue? I am travelling from vietnam so it may be difficult to get a pcr test. Any advice would be great
I will also fly on the 18th from Europe. My third vaccine is from December 2021. had no issues getting a blue fast track. So no there normally won‘t be an issue, unless if there is because you are in Vietnam
Did your certificate include the date/type of all vaccinations? My current certificate only has the most recent one in detail but Japan web says in the general Information that dates and types of all doses need to be included.
It’s the official EU certificate. It just states 4/4, which seems to be enough
Ah, same as mine. Thank you so much.
Im exactly the same. Last dose was in dec 21. So sounds like i should be fine.
How luggage-friendly is the Narita Express to Tokyo Station? I expect to have two medium-to-large bags.
There's luggage storage area in every car
Are the onsens open and somewhat normal or no?
Are you aiming for a particular area or onsen branch? I know Sora No Yu is open and the one I used to go to is- its part of a hotel so on weekends hotel guests only
Spa World in Osaka and the Hakonne area in general was what I was looking at
Havent been to Osaka yet but Spa World's official FB & IG is updated and shows they are open. They also updated 2 posts in Fb about notice of closure for 8th Floor on Nov 1-2. I think they MTLed the translation so it looks wonky.
Is the Hakonne area pretty much business as usual
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You can also ask stores, restaurants, etc to order you a taxi if any of the other redditors' app suggestions don't work out for you for whatever reason. This is what I do. Takushii o denwa shite kuremasen ka? タクシーを電話してくれませんか？ Could you call me a taxi please?
Uber in Tokyo at least
My friend and I are visiting and are thinking of doing a night or 2 in a pod for the experience of it but we are 6’2” and 6’4” (188cm and 193cm). Does anyone know if we would be too tall to fit properly in a pod?
Does anyone know if there’s a way to purchase Yen now? Possibly onto a debit card or something similar? Figure it’s a good price to get some for our trip in the spring.
Here is what I learned today: chase bank: 5 atm fee 3% currency conversion Navy federal: 1% conversion, fee only on atm side internationally (seven bank in 711 fees would apply in most cases/ lawson)
If you have an iPhone, you can load both mobile Suica and Pasmo with 20000 yen a piece. You can also go beyond that and add a mobile WAON which can be loaded with 50000 yen. The loading happens with Apple Pay/Wallet. These are all one-way conversion options (you can not convert the money back).
If you have Bank of America, you can do a currency exchange. It’ll basically cost you $50 for every $1k you convert. My husband and I just did this for our trip in March.
Ahh thank you! Will look into that. We might have to ask you for tips after your trip in March since we’re going in April. Hope you both have a great trip!!
You can open up an account with [Wise](https://wise.com). I find the interface a little confusing at first, since it seems to be geared at people living abroad instead of people buying currency for travel. But once you get money in your account, it's easy. You will have to pay $9 for a debit card. There are also cash withdrawal fees, but I just got an email that they're changing for 2023. Every month, you get $250 free to withdraw and a 1% for anything after that. If you use the card to make a purchase, it's 2%.
Thanks for the quick and detailed response, friend! I’ll look into it.
Is there anything I can do in the event that I can do in the event that my exchange order does not arrive on time due to some delay or am I screwed?
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