I was born in a fishing town in Japan and am no sailor. I can tell you that fishing towns in Japan are operated with pride and a matter of factly. In my hometown, no single debris left unpicked in the port vicinity, you only breathe in fresh fish and seaweed scent. Viva Japanese fishermen and women!
Japan shocks many people because they've never witnessed a high trust society, they're respect for each other and the mother country is beyond most people's comprehension. Can you imagine a shop open 24/7 and it's not staffed by a single person in whichever country you are from? Thats the level of trust this society has for each other, it truly is a remarkable culture on so many levels.
How dare you utter this racist nonsense. You must have been living under a rock for the last decade or two. Everyone in western civilization has had it beaten into their heads 24/7 that there’s absolutely zero difference between any culture,race,religion or sex. Everyone is exactly the same everywhere. You will find no difference between visiting Japan,Europe,Africa or the Middle East. So quit spreading your racist propaganda.
Yes, because it is a racially and culturally homogenous country, hence the high trust, we used to have similar societies in Europe as well. Of course, no one ever wants to recognize that. That said, the trust was never (to my knowledge anyway) so high that shops would be open and NOT be staffed.
I think you would be shocked to learn it's deeply ingrained in Japanese culture not to trust not just foreigners but also other Japanese from other areas. "Group Think" is the core of Japanese culture thinking. Anyone that is not one of them is a potential danger. If you want to truly understand Japanese culture then you need to learn and understand this. It's actually a common theme in other mediaeval/middle ages based/influenced cultures.
I will visit Japan someday and looking forward to it. I’ve been to Thailand, Vietnam, Singapore, South Korea, and the Philippines. I’ve been saving Japan for my older years. Thanks for verifying the things I have been told about Japan, and for sharing this video.
In 1980 I was in the US Navy. We rescued 30 some people in the South China Sea from Vietnam. No power, no food or water. We took them aboard and gave them medical attention, then took them to the Philipines. For a WEEK we anchored in Subic Bay, while the diplomats argued. They didn't want them. Finally, right before we were ready to throw them overboard, they relented. All the crew members got a Humanitarian Service Ribbon for our uniforms. There were dead people aboard their vessel, they were buried at sea. We sunk the vessel with 5" naval gunfire, as a "navigational hazard". I think the Captain was greatful for something to shoot at. I always wondered what happened to them. At 18 years old, I did not realize at the time why they would risk and lose - their lives trying to escape Vietnam. I know now.
It`s a good point. I have made many overnight passages passing up remote coasts in Japan and at times it like paying dodgems as their can be a wave of boats coming out of tiny parts. Thank goodness their is AIS but not all boat have it so must be very vigilant watching for navigation lights on the move
Commercial ships move about in the dark and are very well lit. Pleasure vessels, in general, do not. There are nets everywhere and frankly you want to be enjoying a beer and delicious food past sunset rather than dodging boats! Japan is very different than what we are used to. That's why it's magical but it's sometimes confusing. In my experience the best thing to do is adapt to the local way of doing things rather than trying to expect them to adapt to you. That has served us well.
LA Vagabonde sailing channel needs to hear this video. They are in Japan and recently had a fishing boat crash into there sixty foot trimaran at anchor.
La Vagabond were anchored legally as they were outside the port and they had their lights on. It was not their fault. The fisherman took full responsiblity as did the fishing COOP through which the insurance is organized. The challenge with boths over 40 feet is that spaces to dock in Ports will be more limited. I have a 40 foot boat and so far have moored in 70 ports around Japan. Larger boats like La Vagabonde and Tengah, will have more limited choices and particuarly La Vagabond with its beam presents even a larger challenge.
This whole problem is a huge black eye for Japan. The ONLY fact that matters is the Convention on the International Regulations for Preventing Collisions at Sea, 1972 (COLREGs). These regulations, established by the International Maritime Organization (IMO), set forth navigation rules to prevent collisions at sea. Japan, as a signatory, has incorporated these rules into its domestic law. Under COLREGs, Rule 18 outlines the responsibilities between vessels, specifying which vessel should give way in various situations. Additionally, Rule 5 mandates that all vessels maintain a proper lookout by sight and hearing to assess the risk of collision. These rules apply universally, regardless of local customs or practices. Your local culture does not supersede international agreements, especially when it comes to the safety of human lives. All these comments that the culture should set the policy have no understanding of the chaos that would ensure globally should every nation be as irresponsible as Japan is here.
Yep that’s the law. There are very few collisions at sea in Japan particularly between small pleasure craft and small fishing vessels. When they do happen it is an unfortunate accident and the law is applied.
thanks for the video, admittedly I'm an armchair cruiser, following several cruising channels, and I have been wondering for a year or two why no one heads up to Japan or China...good to know some people do. I have subscribed so I can see your progress this coming spring with the cherry blossoms...cheers
@@timdunn2257 thanks , I didn't think about that till just now, I remember the historical failed invasion of Japan by the Chinese Emperor due to bad weather, and faulty ships
@@timdunn2257I have been cruising Japan full time for four years now and 70 ports so far…. During that time I have sat through a handful of typhoons and sheaths found a typhoon hole to take refuge in
Japan is our favorite country and it can be summarized in two words: law and order. Same applies to their sailing customs so it would be best to follow what others are doing (locals in particular) when you are sailing in Japanese waters. What many sailors do ordinarily in other countries does not apply in Japan because I found that they are very orderly people and they practice the concept of 'omoiyari' - a custom of consideration for others and empathy that involves acting in a way that doesn't disturb or upset others. It's a core value in Japanese society that's reflected in many actions - i.e. they line up when entering trains, they stand on one side of the escalator, they park their cars perfectly, etc. Therefore, they are not accustomed to anchoring because it disrupts order. Imagine if a dozen boats randomly anchor in a bay, one here, one there - to a Japanese fisherman that is probably mayhem 😆 Though it is legal to anchor outside of harbors, it is an uncommon thing for them - similar to talking loudly inside trains. You can talk but Japanese are not accustomed to hearing loud people and they wish you are talking in a much quieter voice😁. So when sailing in Japan, as what Scott recommended, always try to moor or dock because at the end of the day, people there expect you do things as they do and mooring/docking fees are very low or non-existent. However, in case you really cant dock (long or very wide boat), then make sure you light it up like a Christmas tree so it can be seen from miles away or have someone in anchor watch
You're right, omoiyari is the most important thing to the Japanese - be considerate of others. Japan is having a problem (on land) of overtourism and when I ask the Japanese what bothers them the most, it comes down to foreigners coming and not adapting to the Japanese unique way of doing things. Stopping on the sidewalk and being in others' way or littering are oft cited examples. Anchoring and making life difficult for locals who are not used to boats all over the place is one of those things. It's normal for me, but not for them. I am a visitor so I don't impose my views on them. That's why I avoided anchoring, which is much easier. But at the end, I found that benefits were worth the trouble and is far more respectful.
I just found your channel and loved this interview. I did a bicycle tour through the southern islands several years ago and I echo your comments about the honesty, friendliness, cleanliness, and quality of the Japanese cuisine everywhere. I, too, followed the cherry blossoms. I look forward to seeing your other episodes. Additionally, I’m sorry to hear of your tragic challenges you faced as a result of the Vietnamese civil war following years of French Colonialism and the United States continuation of that horrible conflict.
Thanks for watching … yep Scott and Mia make great points .. I have now bid them farewell and prepping my boat for Chasing the Cherry Blossom 2… this time my boat! When did you do it by bicycle? Would love to read about it if you chronicled your Journey anywhere
@@PacificSolo In 2016 I cycled with a small (9) group led by Ruth Kanage starting in Kyoto to Nara then south on the Shimanami Kaido over 7 islands with magnificent bridges. The tour included time in Hiroshima at the Peace Park. A trip of a lifetime. I hope to return with my wife to hike an ancient trail from Kyoto north and would love to sail there. As you know the culture is incredible.
A very honorable, noble, intelligent, and logical people. Something most of the rest of the World is somewhat lacking it appears. Hopefully we can all evolve to near that level before too many more centuries pass us by...
Has more to do with devolving. Japan has been this way for centuries as well as some others. Many more countries used to be this way. It’s one of the many benefits of having a homogeneous society. Having a tight knit and high trust community. These are the very first things of many to be utterly destroyed by diversity and multiculturalism. Which is exactly why Japan keeps its nation almost 100% Japanese. As well as why every other non western nation keeps its native demographic in the majority. It’s only nations of European descent that have been convinced through propaganda that diversity makes them stronger. And it’s only nations of European decent who are racist if they don’t diversify. It’s simply facts. Let huge waves of illegal immigrants from Africa flood into Japan and Japanese culture will have disappeared in less than a generation or less. Not that the Japanese would ever allow it or that anyone would push for them to do so. That’s an extinction plan that’s only reserved for European culture and the nations that were founded by it.
I lived and had a sailboat in Japan, and one thing I can say is it's just rare for people to have pleasure boats. My Yamaha 21 was docked on Tokyo Bay near Yokohama, and there were a couple of yacht marinas a little farther out the bay, but in two years sailing there, I can barely remember seeing other sailboats out on the bay, and certainly never saw a foreign cruising boat. Just to say that the officials just figure out what they need to do and do it, because it's so rare.
Thanks for watching and commenting. When were you in Japan? My home port is Tokyo and was at Yumenoshima Marina, before I left four years ago to cruise Japan full time. Yes, compared to other parts of the world, there seems to be fewer pleasure boats in Japan
thanks for watching and for your comment. Yep, i get you on that cuz I feel the same way about videos I click on. However, as a content creator, I i am concerned with those who are following my vlog loyally and who are interested to have an update on what is happening and progress I am making. So what is noise to you is of interest to those who have been following my vlog for a while. I am not a journalist , but simple wanting to pass on information to those coming to Japan and are interested in my own story. Those of who are based in Japan are concerned with accurate information about Japan and to attract more cruisers to come. Scott and Mia make excellent points.
Thanks for visiting the comment section anyways. the two reasons are stated in the description and they also offer other valuable insights into cruising in Japan. My summary of their two tips are 1. it`s dangerous anchoring is not common in at all in japan and therefore fishermen are not used to watching out for pleasure boats at anchor and 2. the `magic` of Japan happens dockside . . encounters with people and experiencing the japanese style of generous hospitality is quite amazing
@@PacificSolo We are preparing to sail Japan and found the video to be very informative. The potential risk when anchoring and the benefits of the alternative docking provided in the video were CRYSTAL CLEAR.
"Honey, this boat is aging. We should seriously think about getting a new one." "I agree sweetie, but the market is terrible right now. Where's a typhoon when ya need one???" "I've got a better idea....JAPAN!!!"
Or if anchoring in a country with alot of small commercial vessels anchor in a bay and maintain an anchor watch at night - act as a prudent seaman - drive defensively not according to rules
Hey, at the beginning, we posted for fun and to inform friends/family of our adventures. But it's a lot of work and since we don't do it for money, we often choose to go kitesurfing/sightseeing/diving/etc vs. making a video. We do update our instagram, though. Big kudos to those who consistently publish, like Pacific Solo!
So are Japanese fishing boats driving around in the dark sea everywhere (for example in natural harbors) crashing into anchored sailboats, or is it actually anchoring in front of/near fishing harbors?
Scott’s point is that fisherman are not accustomed to small vessels anchoring. It is legal to anchor in Japan outside if harbors but it is not common. Best to tie up in fishing ports and it is there that you will enjoy the warm hospitality of locals
@ Yes, I understand point. People often have a tendency, especially in larger groups, to get a little hysterical about something. The British, for example, sometimes tell horror stories about sailing in the Finnish archipelago, and the Finns about the tides. I was just wondering if Japanese fishing boats consistently sink yachts at anchor. The Japanese I know are such conscientious and punctual workers that it is really hard to imagine them driving around at sea without a close watch.
You are right about the Japanese being conscientious and no jp fishing points do not regular sink boats at anchor. The sailing community is small in jp compared other regions and jp sailors as practice do not anchor! And while the number of foreign yachts are increasing each year it is still low double digit
@@PacificSolo Agree. In my opinion, anchoring exposes you to a lot of risks and prevents you from experience the true beauty of cruising Japan. As someone who has anchored over 95% of our time aboard, this was an adjustment. Most of our best experiences started with a random Japanese person approaching our boat in a fishing port.
Great Sailing tips - thank you. If you haven't already visited Pulau Tengah yet Scott - there is a beautiful resort called Batu Batu - the island is also a turtle sanctuary.
You're welcome! I visited Batu Batu with family in 2016 and one of the aims of this trip is to return to Pulau Tengah by boat, as my family did many decades ago. SV Tengah, I suspect, is nicer and much less crowded than the refugee boat my family took, though. :)
Lol Tengah is also the name of a place that recently started being developed in my country. We had refugees too. Met one while I was on holiday in Japan funnily enough. She said she once snuck out of the camp to see the country.
Wow, "We never splashed when we were told" and "We had to learn to trust people, because they do what they say". What?? In The Netherlands this is common. We splash on the hour that we agreed upon, and if we say we'll do something, then we'll do it. As agreed. And you guys tell me this is not common? Sorry to hear that.
I've got a vastly different experience in the Netherlands. Us Dutch like to say we deliver good work and are punctual but we don't seem to practice what we preach.
Hi, Scott here. If you're Dutch and live in Holland and cruise locally, our situations are slightly different. Our haulouts are once every 2 years, so generally 10 to 15 thousand miles (equal to 3-5 Atlantic crossings). We visit a foreign country, don't know anyone, don't speak the language and they know we have a limited term visa and will leave and not come back. Weather and surprises come up and the difference between Japan and every other country that we have visited in the last 42 thousand miles is that the Japanese contractors worked weekends to make up for weather/surprises that were not their fault. Simply to ensure we splashed on time. Mie is from Northern Europe and I lived there for a number of years. This would not happen there or anywhere else we have visited. If you know a place in Holland that would do that for me, please let me know. We will be back in Europe 5 years or so and would love to have that level of service as a visitor. :)
@@dragonv7863 I am not sure they would want to disclose the what they paid for it but you could search for Amel 54 and check out what they go for. Yes they have sailed from Europe to Japan over a few years.
I sailed from Palau to Tacloban in the PI, in perhaps1980, The official I tried to clear with just waved me away. I never cleared into or out of the PI on my way from Palau to Hong Kong. I sailed in Batwing, a 34 foot long junk schooner with a yacht hull, rig design by Hasler, hull design by Ed Monk Sr. I wanted to sail to Japan, but couldn't because my grandfather died and I had responsibilities.
I agree. If you can overcome your suspicions and relax, it is so freeing to live with that community of trust that exists. Even counting your change could get a cashier fired; trust is so ingrained in the culture.
haha. Not clickbait at all. If viewers only get one message from this video and it is from the Thumbnail and title than that is good as anchroing, while legal in japan outside of harbors, is not common and that makes it dangerous. Btw if I wanted to use click bait I would included Scott`s cursory reference to a `japanese sex toy` lol
Not on a boat so not commenting on the issues of going there on a private boat but Japan is easy to get around even without speaking Japanese. We go every other year more or less and I’ve never had an issue at restaurants, stores, hotels, getting train tickets, etc.
I think it really depends on where you go. If you stick to the main tourist sites, I think English is more prevalent. But Japan is a land of contrasts. We were in places where the locals said they had never seen a foreign tourist and restaurants where other customers literally stood up and bowed because they were impressed we found it. Unsurprisingly they didn't speak English.
@svtengah. Sure. But you were able to communicate and get the meal. It’s not that everyone speaks English, but that communication is nevertheless possible and people try hard. I’ve been all over Japan with my kids, without the wife (who is the Japanese speaker) on day trips or overnight trips and never once ran into problems of not being able to accomplish what we needed or get what we needed.
@@MrChadbag Definitely agree that the helpfulness of the locals makes it easier. You can get simple things done because of that. But I feel I would seriously be missing out if I didn't use machine translation and AI. Getting complex boat work completed, making advanced berthing at marinas via email and having one of our best evenings in Japan with a local family would have been impossible without it, imo. Rather than simply being served a meal, we discussed our circumnavigation, my family history and theirs, despite them speaking virtually no English.
@svtengah. No argument from me. Machine translation (and now with AI) is one of the tools we have and one that many Japanese people are familiar with I think. I’ve used it when presented with the opportunity in shops. I guess my point was that people should not be intimidated and not go and experience Japan in whatever way they can. By air, boat, etc. there are ways: English, written or spoken, simple Japanese phrases you may learn, gesturing, pointing, pictures, plastic food, machine translation & AI. All are helpful and can be used. You won’t be turned away but most likely will be helped. Don’t limit yourself out of fear of communicating with folks who speak a much different language and live in a very different culture. Just was emphasizing that. Sailing and visiting on your own boat would be a very cool experience.
Thanks for watching. Regarding docking fees, I have moored in over 70 ports so far in Japan an in most cases it was free or virtuallly free, with with a small amount of yen per ton per day. Marina Fees are more expensive but the most I have ever spent is 40 USD for my 40 foot boat and where I am now in Yonabaru Okinawa I am less than 10 usd a day at a full service Marina. There are also other options including Sea Stations ( Umi No Eki) and Fisherina`s which are like a coop Yacht Harbor. these prices can range from virtually free to marina level fees. If you are interested here is a link to a video I did a couple of years ago that focuse on Sea Stationsth-cam.com/video/4s3CeECzn1U/w-d-xo.htmlsi=1AuxuOznWtdK0RSy
@@richardsandvig4609incoming cruisers ( foreign flagged vessels) have to jump through some bureaucratic hoops but once cleared largely no problems. That being said anything over a 40 foot boat will be more limited where they can moored. In La vagabond’s case there is also the issue of how wide it is.
Depends on where you go, but far cheaper than you can imagine. Most are free. In one port, we paid 1.1 yen per ton. So for us, around 14 US cents a night. One or two marinas can be near EU prices, but that's rare. The official who collected the docking fee recommended a lot of good restaurants and hand translated the tourist guides for us. Worth the 14 cents, I would say. ;)
i stayed in japan for a couple of weeks while on deployment. place was very cool. people are fun and mostly will try to help. if you are in yakuska there was a japanese rock/metal bar called F*** Yeah. amazing place. you can get habu sake there (snake venom sake usually from vietnam). apparently they didnt want to give americans that anymore because one of the sailors took it and died (he was allergic to snake venom). remember literally running down the streets with some cool drunken Japanese we meet there while kinda hallucinating on that. epic epic times. different culture yes but super cool people there. also if you are looking at this check out Hong Kong Havent been there in over a decade but if it is ur first time in asia and you want to dip ur toes in it that is where I would start.
La Vagabond were anchored legally and I have alot of respect for them and how much the covered. As one of a cruising community here in Japan, we are eager to welcome cruisers and share relevant information.
I am European and want to cruise to Japan. This is reassuring. I have zero interest in sailing to Greece and I am not surprised you had issues. I have spent time in the Mediterranean area (not sailing) and it put me off ever wanting to sail to most countries.
Vagabond how about more lights other than just what the rules says . I am at anchor overnight and i have extra lights on the boat . Have even used solar powered lights and you can see there is a boat there from hundreds of feet away
I think the regulation anchor light on top of the mast is fine at a distance but closer in the sky is not where you’re looking. There needs to be a light at deck level as well.
It’s sad what happened to them. They were legally anchored outside of harbor and had the required lights on. The challenge they have is not just the length of their boat but also its beam makes mooring dockside not always possible. Scott and Mia, the couple in this video have a 54 foot and they also had to anchor a couple of times. My boat is 40 feet and I have moored in 70 ports so far around Japan and it’s have always managed to slip along a wall or pontoon in fishing ports
Yes it’s sad what happened to them. They were legally anchored and the fisherman and his insurance company accept responsibility. The challenge for any sail Boat over 40 feet , finding places to tie up can be challenging. LA Vagabond also have a challenge with their width . I have a 40 foot and have moored in 70 ports so far in Japan and always managed to find a place in fishing ports
I thank you and am grateful for your description of Japan, but Fukushima would not have happened if there was no corruption. I also know the workers sacrificed there lives and property to prevent Fukushima, it was the bureaucrats who caused it.
Thanks for watching and taking time to comment. The triple disaster of 2011 revealed flaws in the sytems and vested interests for sure, It also put on the display the resilience, work ethic, and community spirit of people at a local level
Wow, another cruising TH-cam channel was just hit in the middle of night at anchor in Japan. Brand new trimaran with 2 young children on board. They are all safe but the damages to the boat are still unknown.
Yes that happened about a month ago. They were legally anchored and the fishing boat and it insurance have accepted blame. It illustrative of Scott’s point that because Japanese fishermen do not expect to see small vessels at anchor in Japan , are not watchful as they leave port at night …. Lessons all around here
Hey guys, such great advice and short stories you gave. I have always thought that Japanese are honest, trustworthy with no corruption. Unfortunately I think there’s government corruption of some kind in every country, but my thoughts are Japan would be the one country I could trust. It’s all about their culture.
Didn't the Japanese government recently break formal ties with the Yakuza? I'm not a smart man but that screams of corruption. I'd love to visit Japan along with every other nation. Global travels sounds amazing. Sabbatical always gets my wonderlust flowing.
Well, who. know what goes on with the poltical class and various aspects of any society and country. But at a local level, and the point Scott and Mia are making is that people are honest and truly want to help. They play by the rules. One rule in Japan is `no tipping`. for example if you try to tip a taxi driver they will refuse. On the other hand if you are one yen short there is a problem. As the customer is also expected to be honorable and have the means to pay the precise amount. Nothing more and nothing less
@PacificSolo i understand their point, yet the Japanese culture is one based on racial discrimination and fear mongering to the point that the entire population is afraid of government punishment. Based on the history of Japan, that's why they are the way they are. Fear turned into the status quo = respect after enough generations have been held down by their God emperors. Not even 100yr ago, they worshiped their leaders as gods. They have come a long way, but it is a very dark society that still uses self-sacrifice when failures are to grand, that's why they have a suicide mountain. I'm no historical scholar, but I can read historical books written by scholars. There is no need to hide the truth of such prideful, kind, and peaceful people because they became that way thru the fires of war.
The interview was worthwhile….although as some have suggested … may have benefited from some editing I’ve seen the vagabond videos ( how many?) on their accident- I’m not likely to ever be a subscriber to their channel ( not going to disparage them further)
Thanks for watching and point taken. As I mentioned in another reply, my channel is a vlog about my own journey and challenges and experiences. So for my regular viewers I try to always give an update. I know my channel is everyone`s `cup of tea` but grateful for those who follow me and for those who stop by only once.
I spent a lovely week with La Vagabonde and think highly of them. They did a segment on me in one if their videos. They also have a great agent who is very experienced. It is important to know that La vagabond were anchored legally and with lights on. It was not their fault and the fisherman and his insurance has taken full responsibility. The challenge for La vagabond is not only its length but its beam so mooring options are limited .. I live aboard a 40 foot boat and it’s about the maximum length to get into most ports. Even Scott and Mia in their 54foot monohull anchored at times because harbor options were limited in this particular locations So incoming cruisers with large boats need to be aware
thanks for watching. Anchoring in Japan is a big concern for incoming cruisers. While it is legal, ( as long as you are outside harbors and not near designated aqua farming operations) it is not at all common. Yet despite incoming cruisers being given this advice, such is the disposition to anchor and be free, that many disregard it. Just yesterday I was talking to the skippers of two boats recently arrived. They have been curising for twenty years each and after asking me about anchoring, they thanked me but indicated they will still primarlity anchor as they cruise japan the next few months. It`s a shame. Thankfully Scott and Mia heeded the advice and they had a richer time because of it.
I never ever tie up to docks or marina's. that is how you get infested with Cockroaches and vermin! Knowing your boats particulars and setting anchor in out of way places is a must but even a few feet of water is an effective blockade of roaches and other vermin like mice, rats snakes hunting the vermin etc... I've even dealt with harbor seals wanting to board my boat. Staying out of reach of all of these animals is important to me for a number of reasons not the least of which is keeping my food stores safe. I have seen boats that had ants they couldn't get rid of, I've seen boats with roaches and mice and snakes, I've even seen a boat destroyed by multiple racoons, and the owner swore he left the boat tied to the transient dock for only 2 hours while he went to get dinner at a local restaurant. Nope I have no plans of going to Japan any time soon, however if I did, I definitely would be anchoring !
Anchoring is certainly legal if outside harbors and not near fishing grounds and aqua farms. and if you abide by guidelines including arrive during the day so that the community is aware if you and staying well clear of harbor entrances you should be ok. For me I have been a full time liveaboard. For five years and have tied up in 70 harbors so far … the only problem I have has is one cat aboard and the occasional bug which I now have a deterrent for. And several birds …
With all due respect, this attitude of "This is how I do it at home so I will come to your country and ignore your customs and do it my way" is a primary reason why the Japanese are reacting negatively to what they consider overtourism. So far, this negative reaction is only towards land tourists, thankfully. I sincerely hope you will reconsider imposing your views on locals when you sail to other countries. And I hope other sailors considering Japan do try to respect how the Japanese do things. Otherwise you leave a dirty wake for other sailors who may follow you.
I think most cruisers coming to Japan hear before hand that anchoring is not customary here. I know I get asked it all the time by cruisiers coming to Japan. Scott and Mia raise two reallly good points . . one is negative in that it is dangerous because it is not common so fishing boats head out of the harbors in the niddle of the night on the same route and these one or two person fishing boats are often on auto pilot as they head to the aqua farm or fishing grounds near by. But the equally important reason to not anchor is the Scott is right .. the magic of visiting Japan happens on land with the people you meet
What a great video. It took me past the image of formality and frowns that is portrayed in Western entertainment as well as reporting. The Japanese tourism department could use your video.
Hi! I have a dream - to sail around the world with my dog and experience life on the open sea. But there's one thing I’m missing - a sailboat. I can’t afford one, but I truly believe that with the right boat, my dog and I could create unforgettable memories, exploring new places together. If you have a yacht you no longer use or need, I’d be forever grateful if you could consider giving it to us. We promise to care for it as our own, and it would mean the world to us. Thank you for reading!
Japan is a lovely place, so much trust but the reason is simple, Japan is not overwhelmed by Immigrants, Japanese society is cohesive, everybody trusts each other.
well , that is another issue of course that is worthy of attention. I don`t get though why you would take this opportunity to smear an entire people and culture because of a particular `commercial activity`. Every society has its dark corners and even businesses that many would take extreme exception too right?
Not anchoring because fishermen aren't used toi small vessels at anchor ??? So what ? Don't you think that if you don't anchor but go to a marina you are helping out the community by paying for a berth. That is most probably the true reason. Cheers.
Nope. There are few marinas in Japan and mooring in fishing ports is virtually free. I have moored in 70 Japanese harbors so far and very few of them marinas
As Lowell said, most are free or cost so little it won't even pay for the paper the receipt is written on. Japanese are generally honest and fair. One of the beauties of that is that you don't need to assume everyone has some ulterior motive.
I was born in a fishing town in Japan and am no sailor. I can tell you that fishing towns in Japan are operated with pride and a matter of factly. In my hometown, no single debris left unpicked in the port vicinity, you only breathe in fresh fish and seaweed scent. Viva Japanese fishermen and women!
Thanks for watching and the great comment
Japan shocks many people because they've never witnessed a high trust society, they're respect for each other and the mother country is beyond most people's comprehension. Can you imagine a shop open 24/7 and it's not staffed by a single person in whichever country you are from? Thats the level of trust this society has for each other, it truly is a remarkable culture on so many levels.
How dare you utter this racist nonsense. You must have been living under a rock for the last decade or two. Everyone in western civilization has had it beaten into their heads 24/7 that there’s absolutely zero difference between any culture,race,religion or sex. Everyone is exactly the same everywhere. You will find no difference between visiting Japan,Europe,Africa or the Middle East. So quit spreading your racist propaganda.
Spot on. It really is
Yes, because it is a racially and culturally homogenous country, hence the high trust, we used to have similar societies in Europe as well. Of course, no one ever wants to recognize that. That said, the trust was never (to my knowledge anyway) so high that shops would be open and NOT be staffed.
I think you would be shocked to learn it's deeply ingrained in Japanese culture not to trust not just foreigners but also other Japanese from other areas. "Group Think" is the core of Japanese culture thinking. Anyone that is not one of them is a potential danger. If you want to truly understand Japanese culture then you need to learn and understand this. It's actually a common theme in other mediaeval/middle ages based/influenced cultures.
Strict immigration policy is the reason.
never seen much about cruising Japan! Excellent, Thank you.
Thanks for watching
I loved this video. So much information beyond the title. They were easy to listen to and generous in the experience. thank you and them.
You are welcome and thanks for watching!
Most of the kudos should go to Lowell. He came up with the idea and we just answered his questions. :)
@@SVTengahhey … thanks fir saying but in fact the content is yours and your tips valuable and insightful Glad we could grab the few minutes …
Excellent summary of cruising in Japan and helpful tips for sure! Thanks for sharing. 😊. SV Zia
Thanks for watching!
I will visit Japan someday and looking forward to it. I’ve been to Thailand, Vietnam, Singapore, South Korea, and the Philippines. I’ve been saving Japan for my older years.
Thanks for verifying the things I have been told about Japan, and for sharing this video.
Thanks for watching and all the best for your plans to visit Japan
Really enjoyed this, thank you!
Thanks for watching!
Wonderful. Thanks for sharing!
Thanks for watching
A really interesting interview
Thanks for watching
In 1980 I was in the US Navy. We rescued 30 some people in the South China Sea from Vietnam. No power, no food or water. We took them aboard and gave them medical attention, then took them to the Philipines. For a WEEK we anchored in Subic Bay, while the diplomats argued. They didn't want them. Finally, right before we were ready to throw them overboard, they relented. All the crew members got a Humanitarian Service Ribbon for our uniforms.
There were dead people aboard their vessel, they were buried at sea. We sunk the vessel with 5" naval gunfire, as a "navigational hazard". I think the Captain was greatful for something to shoot at. I always wondered what happened to them. At 18 years old, I did not realize at the time why they would risk and lose - their lives trying to escape Vietnam.
I know now.
Thank you for sharing the story. I’m not a Vietnamese on that boat but I’m one of the millions boat people in the 1980.
I spent six years in Japan and visited all four main islands plus Okinawa. The BEST time of my life. Love Fukuoka!
Anchored or not ,do Japanese fishermen not expect any other vessels to move about in the dark ?
It`s a good point. I have made many overnight passages passing up remote coasts in Japan and at times it like paying dodgems as their can be a wave of boats coming out of tiny parts. Thank goodness their is AIS but not all boat have it so must be very vigilant watching for navigation lights on the move
Commercial ships move about in the dark and are very well lit. Pleasure vessels, in general, do not. There are nets everywhere and frankly you want to be enjoying a beer and delicious food past sunset rather than dodging boats!
Japan is very different than what we are used to. That's why it's magical but it's sometimes confusing. In my experience the best thing to do is adapt to the local way of doing things rather than trying to expect them to adapt to you. That has served us well.
Good interview.
Thanks Andrew
Great video , good information.
Glad you found it helpful.
Japan is a special place.
it is indeed. Thanks for watching
LA Vagabonde sailing channel needs to hear this video. They are in Japan and recently had a fishing boat crash into there sixty foot trimaran at anchor.
Too late now. I'm pretty sure they know not to.anchor now. Lol.
La Vagabond were anchored legally as they were outside the port and they had their lights on. It was not their fault. The fisherman took full responsiblity as did the fishing COOP through which the insurance is organized. The challenge with boths over 40 feet is that spaces to dock in Ports will be more limited. I have a 40 foot boat and so far have moored in 70 ports around Japan. Larger boats like La Vagabonde and Tengah, will have more limited choices and particuarly La Vagabond with its beam presents even a larger challenge.
@@PacificSolo Maybe Elayna should have lit her Xmas trees earlier ...
Rules in Japan are not suggestions. They are also not optional. If your neighbors isn't doing it then you shouldn't do it.
Yep that’s a good ‘rule of thumb’.
Anchoring is legal but not a common practice
This whole problem is a huge black eye for Japan. The ONLY fact that matters is the Convention on the International Regulations for Preventing Collisions at Sea, 1972 (COLREGs). These regulations, established by the International Maritime Organization (IMO), set forth navigation rules to prevent collisions at sea. Japan, as a signatory, has incorporated these rules into its domestic law.
Under COLREGs, Rule 18 outlines the responsibilities between vessels, specifying which vessel should give way in various situations. Additionally, Rule 5 mandates that all vessels maintain a proper lookout by sight and hearing to assess the risk of collision. These rules apply universally, regardless of local customs or practices.
Your local culture does not supersede international agreements, especially when it comes to the safety of human lives. All these comments that the culture should set the policy have no understanding of the chaos that would ensure globally should every nation be as irresponsible as Japan is here.
Yep that’s the law. There are very few collisions at sea in Japan particularly between small pleasure craft and small fishing vessels. When they do happen it is an unfortunate accident and the law is applied.
Love the outro music, so fun!
thanks for watching and glad you liked the outro music and even more that you watched to the end!
thanks for the video, admittedly I'm an armchair cruiser, following several cruising channels, and I have been wondering for a year or two why no one heads up to Japan or China...good to know some people do. I have subscribed so I can see your progress this coming spring with the cherry blossoms...cheers
Thanks for watching and following along . I’m really looking forward to next year.
Summer typhoons and winter storms make it very hard to sail to Japan.
@@timdunn2257 thanks , I didn't think about that till just now, I remember the historical failed invasion of Japan by the Chinese Emperor due to bad weather, and faulty ships
@@timdunn2257I have been cruising Japan full time for four years now and 70 ports so far…. During that time I have sat through a handful of typhoons and sheaths found a typhoon hole to take refuge in
Japan is our favorite country and it can be summarized in two words: law and order. Same applies to their sailing customs so it would be best to follow what others are doing (locals in particular) when you are sailing in Japanese waters. What many sailors do ordinarily in other countries does not apply in Japan because I found that they are very orderly people and they practice the concept of 'omoiyari' - a custom of consideration for others and empathy that involves acting in a way that doesn't disturb or upset others. It's a core value in Japanese society that's reflected in many actions - i.e. they line up when entering trains, they stand on one side of the escalator, they park their cars perfectly, etc. Therefore, they are not accustomed to anchoring because it disrupts order. Imagine if a dozen boats randomly anchor in a bay, one here, one there - to a Japanese fisherman that is probably mayhem 😆 Though it is legal to anchor outside of harbors, it is an uncommon thing for them - similar to talking loudly inside trains. You can talk but Japanese are not accustomed to hearing loud people and they wish you are talking in a much quieter voice😁. So when sailing in Japan, as what Scott recommended, always try to moor or dock because at the end of the day, people there expect you do things as they do and mooring/docking fees are very low or non-existent. However, in case you really cant dock (long or very wide boat), then make sure you light it up like a Christmas tree so it can be seen from miles away or have someone in anchor watch
You're right, omoiyari is the most important thing to the Japanese - be considerate of others. Japan is having a problem (on land) of overtourism and when I ask the Japanese what bothers them the most, it comes down to foreigners coming and not adapting to the Japanese unique way of doing things. Stopping on the sidewalk and being in others' way or littering are oft cited examples.
Anchoring and making life difficult for locals who are not used to boats all over the place is one of those things. It's normal for me, but not for them. I am a visitor so I don't impose my views on them. That's why I avoided anchoring, which is much easier. But at the end, I found that benefits were worth the trouble and is far more respectful.
Well said
日本語で失礼します。登録させて頂きました。
70歳間近、日本語でアラ還暦でヨットを始められ40フィート級ヨットをシングルハンドで太平洋横断するという夢を持たれた事に敬意と同年代の私たちに自信を与えて頂いたことに感謝します。同じフランス製の37フィートを買う事にしました。
I just found your channel and loved this interview. I did a bicycle tour through the southern islands several years ago and I echo your comments about the honesty, friendliness, cleanliness, and quality of the Japanese cuisine everywhere. I, too, followed the cherry blossoms. I look forward to seeing your other episodes. Additionally, I’m sorry to hear of your tragic challenges you faced as a result of the Vietnamese civil war following years of French Colonialism and the United States continuation of that horrible conflict.
Thanks for watching … yep Scott and Mia make great points .. I have now bid them farewell and prepping my boat for Chasing the Cherry Blossom 2… this time my boat! When did you do it by bicycle? Would love to read about it if you chronicled your Journey anywhere
Get a grip on reality. Long live south Vietnam.
@@PacificSolo In 2016 I cycled with a small (9) group led by Ruth Kanage starting in Kyoto to Nara then south on the Shimanami Kaido over 7 islands with magnificent bridges. The tour included time in Hiroshima at the Peace Park. A trip of a lifetime. I hope to return with my wife to hike an ancient trail from Kyoto north and would love to sail there. As you know the culture is incredible.
@@RobertThompson-j1fthat’s a great bike ride! I have done it too.
@@RobertThompson-j1fthat’s a great cycling route
A very honorable, noble, intelligent, and logical people. Something most of the rest of the World is somewhat lacking it appears. Hopefully we can all evolve to near that level before too many more centuries pass us by...
Has more to do with devolving. Japan has been this way for centuries as well as some others. Many more countries used to be this way. It’s one of the many benefits of having a homogeneous society. Having a tight knit and high trust community. These are the very first things of many to be utterly destroyed by diversity and multiculturalism. Which is exactly why Japan keeps its nation almost 100% Japanese. As well as why every other non western nation keeps its native demographic in the majority. It’s only nations of European descent that have been convinced through propaganda that diversity makes them stronger. And it’s only nations of European decent who are racist if they don’t diversify. It’s simply facts. Let huge waves of illegal immigrants from Africa flood into Japan and Japanese culture will have disappeared in less than a generation or less. Not that the Japanese would ever allow it or that anyone would push for them to do so. That’s an extinction plan that’s only reserved for European culture and the nations that were founded by it.
Thanks for watching and taking time to comment
I lived and had a sailboat in Japan, and one thing I can say is it's just rare for people to have pleasure boats. My Yamaha 21 was docked on Tokyo Bay near Yokohama, and there were a couple of yacht marinas a little farther out the bay, but in two years sailing there, I can barely remember seeing other sailboats out on the bay, and certainly never saw a foreign cruising boat.
Just to say that the officials just figure out what they need to do and do it, because it's so rare.
Thanks for watching and commenting. When were you in Japan? My home port is Tokyo and was at Yumenoshima Marina, before I left four years ago to cruise Japan full time. Yes, compared to other parts of the world, there seems to be fewer pleasure boats in Japan
Love that couple
Yep, me too. Alot of respect and I enjoyed hanging out with them. We also sailed to the Kerama Islands together when they first arrived
Pity they no longer release videos. I used to watch their channel back in the day.
@@TheEstampeI think they focus on instagram now
SO many videos mix in the "points" of the title with a lot of personal "noise". Make the two reasons why to not anchor FIRST, and explain clearly !
Yeah, I still don't know what the reasons are and I no longer care. Just came to the comments section with hope someone had listed them...
thanks for watching and for your comment. Yep, i get you on that cuz I feel the same way about videos I click on. However, as a content creator, I i am concerned with those who are following my vlog loyally and who are interested to have an update on what is happening and progress I am making. So what is noise to you is of interest to those who have been following my vlog for a while. I am not a journalist , but simple wanting to pass on information to those coming to Japan and are interested in my own story. Those of who are based in Japan are concerned with accurate information about Japan and to attract more cruisers to come. Scott and Mia make excellent points.
Thanks for visiting the comment section anyways. the two reasons are stated in the description and they also offer other valuable insights into cruising in Japan. My summary of their two tips are 1. it`s dangerous anchoring is not common in at all in japan and therefore fishermen are not used to watching out for pleasure boats at anchor and 2. the `magic` of Japan happens dockside . . encounters with people and experiencing the japanese style of generous hospitality is quite amazing
Be interesting to know the approximate cost of marinas.
@@PacificSolo We are preparing to sail Japan and found the video to be very informative. The potential risk when anchoring and the benefits of the alternative docking provided in the video were CRYSTAL CLEAR.
What a beautiful boat
yes it is. Thanks for watching
Vagabond anchored in Japan and were hit by a fishing boat in the night . Ton of damage , more than they think I will bet .
"Honey, this boat is aging. We should seriously think about getting a new one."
"I agree sweetie, but the market is terrible right now. Where's a typhoon when ya need one???"
"I've got a better idea....JAPAN!!!"
Or if anchoring in a country with alot of small commercial vessels anchor in a bay and maintain an anchor watch at night - act as a prudent seaman - drive defensively not according to rules
@@simonpickering2665yep
@@Siluetae their boat is only 6 months old!!!!
I was going to mention them as well..I think they were struck in 2 separate incidents..
Why doesn’t Tengah video anymore? Thanks for the interview.
They use instagram to keep friends and followers up to date! Some good stuff and excellent commentary
Hey, at the beginning, we posted for fun and to inform friends/family of our adventures. But it's a lot of work and since we don't do it for money, we often choose to go kitesurfing/sightseeing/diving/etc vs. making a video. We do update our instagram, though.
Big kudos to those who consistently publish, like Pacific Solo!
@ great seeing you guys again!
So are Japanese fishing boats driving around in the dark sea everywhere (for example in natural harbors) crashing into anchored sailboats, or is it actually anchoring in front of/near fishing harbors?
Scott’s point is that fisherman are not accustomed to small vessels anchoring. It is legal to anchor in Japan outside if harbors but it is not common. Best to tie up in fishing ports and it is there that you will enjoy the warm hospitality of locals
@ Yes, I understand point. People often have a tendency, especially in larger groups, to get a little hysterical about something. The British, for example, sometimes tell horror stories about sailing in the Finnish archipelago, and the Finns about the tides. I was just wondering if Japanese fishing boats consistently sink yachts at anchor. The Japanese I know are such conscientious and punctual workers that it is really hard to imagine them driving around at sea without a close watch.
You are right about the Japanese being conscientious and no jp fishing points do not regular sink boats at anchor. The sailing community is small in jp compared other regions and jp sailors as practice do not anchor! And while the number of foreign yachts are increasing each year it is still low double digit
@@PacificSolo Agree. In my opinion, anchoring exposes you to a lot of risks and prevents you from experience the true beauty of cruising Japan. As someone who has anchored over 95% of our time aboard, this was an adjustment.
Most of our best experiences started with a random Japanese person approaching our boat in a fishing port.
Ha, we been living on a 44 ft steel hulled, at a tiny fishing port, its awsome
In Japan? If so where?
@PacificSolo uraga
@@s.porter8646nice
@PacificSolo been here two years
Great Sailing tips - thank you. If you haven't already visited Pulau Tengah yet Scott - there is a beautiful resort called Batu Batu - the island is also a turtle sanctuary.
You're welcome! I visited Batu Batu with family in 2016 and one of the aims of this trip is to return to Pulau Tengah by boat, as my family did many decades ago.
SV Tengah, I suspect, is nicer and much less crowded than the refugee boat my family took, though. :)
@@SVTengah That is such an interesting family story / cyclical journey / an interesting history of the island too !
Lol Tengah is also the name of a place that recently started being developed in my country.
We had refugees too. Met one while I was on holiday in Japan funnily enough. She said she once snuck out of the camp to see the country.
thanks for watching and the interesting comment
Japan is a beautiful country..
I know the Japanese language and reading .I'm a sailor from Hawaii.. Thank you for the video.
Mahalo for the kind words. Glad you enjoyed the video!
Wow, "We never splashed when we were told" and "We had to learn to trust people, because they do what they say". What??
In The Netherlands this is common. We splash on the hour that we agreed upon, and if we say we'll do something, then we'll do it. As agreed. And you guys tell me this is not common? Sorry to hear that.
Yay, Netherlands! thanks for waching and pointing that out,
Yo Netherlands! I splashed 9 days after my scheduled day. Puerto Peñasco Mexico. They had me tucked deeeep behind a sea of catamaran s🤷♂️
I've got a vastly different experience in the Netherlands. Us Dutch like to say we deliver good work and are punctual but we don't seem to practice what we preach.
Hi, Scott here. If you're Dutch and live in Holland and cruise locally, our situations are slightly different.
Our haulouts are once every 2 years, so generally 10 to 15 thousand miles (equal to 3-5 Atlantic crossings).
We visit a foreign country, don't know anyone, don't speak the language and they know we have a limited term visa and will leave and not come back.
Weather and surprises come up and the difference between Japan and every other country that we have visited in the last 42 thousand miles is that the Japanese contractors worked weekends to make up for weather/surprises that were not their fault. Simply to ensure we splashed on time.
Mie is from Northern Europe and I lived there for a number of years. This would not happen there or anywhere else we have visited. If you know a place in Holland that would do that for me, please let me know. We will be back in Europe 5 years or so and would love to have that level of service as a visitor. :)
Very interesting !
Glad you found it interesting.
how much is for something like this size?
Sorry I don’t understand the question. Do you mean mooring costs for a 54 foot monohaul?
@@PacificSolo yes, how much of the sail boat cost? do you guys cross the ocean directly? or do you sail closer to shoreline
@@dragonv7863 I am not sure they would want to disclose the what they paid for it but you could search for Amel 54 and check out what they go for. Yes they have sailed from Europe to Japan over a few years.
I sailed from Palau to Tacloban in the PI, in perhaps1980, The official I tried to clear with just waved me away. I never cleared into or out of the PI on my way from Palau to Hong Kong. I sailed in Batwing, a 34 foot long junk schooner with a yacht hull, rig design by Hasler, hull design by Ed Monk Sr. I wanted to sail to Japan, but couldn't because my grandfather died and I had responsibilities.
Sailing was very different back then … good on ya! Respect!
@@PacificSolo We would have loved to have had GPS. We often feared, not knowing our position. This uncertainty could have killed us on many occasion.
I agree. If you can overcome your suspicions and relax, it is so freeing to live with that community of trust that exists. Even counting your change could get a cashier fired; trust is so ingrained in the culture.
Well said . Thanks for watching
So much CLICK BAIT!!! So little time.
haha. Not clickbait at all. If viewers only get one message from this video and it is from the Thumbnail and title than that is good as anchroing, while legal in japan outside of harbors, is not common and that makes it dangerous. Btw if I wanted to use click bait I would included Scott`s cursory reference to a `japanese sex toy` lol
Click bait how? They're explaining the message in the video heading. Looks good to me.
I'm dreaming of sailing to Japan one day with SeaCamel. Hokkaido at winter 🏂
Wow. That’s quite the project. I will subscribe and follow along
Not on a boat so not commenting on the issues of going there on a private boat but Japan is easy to get around even without speaking Japanese. We go every other year more or less and I’ve never had an issue at restaurants, stores, hotels, getting train tickets, etc.
Right on! Thanks for watching and taking time to comment.
I think it really depends on where you go. If you stick to the main tourist sites, I think English is more prevalent.
But Japan is a land of contrasts. We were in places where the locals said they had never seen a foreign tourist and restaurants where other customers literally stood up and bowed because they were impressed we found it. Unsurprisingly they didn't speak English.
@svtengah. Sure. But you were able to communicate and get the meal. It’s not that everyone speaks English, but that communication is nevertheless possible and people try hard. I’ve been all over Japan with my kids, without the wife (who is the Japanese speaker) on day trips or overnight trips and never once ran into problems of not being able to accomplish what we needed or get what we needed.
@@MrChadbag Definitely agree that the helpfulness of the locals makes it easier. You can get simple things done because of that.
But I feel I would seriously be missing out if I didn't use machine translation and AI. Getting complex boat work completed, making advanced berthing at marinas via email and having one of our best evenings in Japan with a local family would have been impossible without it, imo.
Rather than simply being served a meal, we discussed our circumnavigation, my family history and theirs, despite them speaking virtually no English.
@svtengah. No argument from me. Machine translation (and now with AI) is one of the tools we have and one that many Japanese people are familiar with I think. I’ve used it when presented with the opportunity in shops. I guess my point was that people should not be intimidated and not go and experience Japan in whatever way they can. By air, boat, etc. there are ways: English, written or spoken, simple Japanese phrases you may learn, gesturing, pointing, pictures, plastic food, machine translation & AI. All are helpful and can be used. You won’t be turned away but most likely will be helped. Don’t limit yourself out of fear of communicating with folks who speak a much different language and live in a very different culture. Just was emphasizing that.
Sailing and visiting on your own boat would be a very cool experience.
That was all great info but wish they would have touched on docking fees.
Thanks for watching. Regarding docking fees, I have moored in over 70 ports so far in Japan an in most cases it was free or virtuallly free, with with a small amount of yen per ton per day. Marina Fees are more expensive but the most I have ever spent is 40 USD for my 40 foot boat and where I am now in Yonabaru Okinawa I am less than 10 usd a day at a full service Marina. There are also other options including Sea Stations ( Umi No Eki) and Fisherina`s which are like a coop Yacht Harbor. these prices can range from virtually free to marina level fees. If you are interested here is a link to a video I did a couple of years ago that focuse on Sea Stationsth-cam.com/video/4s3CeECzn1U/w-d-xo.htmlsi=1AuxuOznWtdK0RSy
@ Thank you so much for the fast and very informative reply!
@@PacificSolo I think Vagabonde mentioned that mooring was a bureaucratic mess. Is that not the case?
@@richardsandvig4609incoming cruisers ( foreign flagged vessels) have to jump through some bureaucratic hoops but once cleared largely no problems. That being said anything over a 40 foot boat will be more limited where they can moored. In La vagabond’s case there is also the issue of how wide it is.
Depends on where you go, but far cheaper than you can imagine. Most are free. In one port, we paid 1.1 yen per ton. So for us, around 14 US cents a night. One or two marinas can be near EU prices, but that's rare.
The official who collected the docking fee recommended a lot of good restaurants and hand translated the tourist guides for us. Worth the 14 cents, I would say. ;)
i stayed in japan for a couple of weeks while on deployment. place was very cool. people are fun and mostly will try to help. if you are in yakuska there was a japanese rock/metal bar called F*** Yeah. amazing place. you can get habu sake there (snake venom sake usually from vietnam). apparently they didnt want to give americans that anymore because one of the sailors took it and died (he was allergic to snake venom). remember literally running down the streets with some cool drunken Japanese we meet there while kinda hallucinating on that. epic epic times. different culture yes but super cool people there. also if you are looking at this check out Hong Kong Havent been there in over a decade but if it is ur first time in asia and you want to dip ur toes in it that is where I would start.
I am currently moored and have seen US military drinking Habu Sake . . not as bad tasting as you would think.
Just a quick video from the Commander (CFAY) on pronouncing Yokosuka. :)
th-cam.com/video/ht6KSbtp-Og/w-d-xo.html
Japan is the place to visit.
Summer typhoons, winter storms, monsoon - it's hard to get to Japan.
You can't anchor in a waterway. It's like parking in the middle of the road. I always wanted to sail to Hokkaido.
Yep you are right! I’m looking forward to sailing to Hokkaido next spring
Love them
Sounds good.
I guess you should have made this video before La Vagabond came to Japan…
La Vagabond were anchored legally and I have alot of respect for them and how much the covered. As one of a cruising community here in Japan, we are eager to welcome cruisers and share relevant information.
Or they could have done their own research before heading to a new location..
I am European and want to cruise to Japan. This is reassuring. I have zero interest in sailing to Greece and I am not surprised you had issues. I have spent time in the Mediterranean area (not sailing) and it put me off ever wanting to sail to most countries.
Thanks for watching and yes please come to Japan!
Vagabond how about more lights other than just what the rules says . I am at anchor overnight and i have extra lights on the boat .
Have even used solar powered lights and you can see there is a boat there from hundreds of feet away
I think the regulation anchor light on top of the mast is fine at a distance but closer in the sky is not where you’re looking. There needs to be a light at deck level as well.
good point
Agree , and lights at eye level, not only top of mast !
LEDs make that easy and cheap!
I think La Vagabond found out the hard way. A fishing vessel ran into them in the early morning while at anchor.
It’s sad what happened to them. They were legally anchored outside of harbor and had the required lights on. The challenge they have is not just the length of their boat but also its beam makes mooring dockside not always possible. Scott and Mia, the couple in this video have a 54 foot and they also had to anchor a couple of times. My boat is 40 feet and I have moored in 70 ports so far around Japan and it’s have always managed to slip along a wall or pontoon in fishing ports
Yes it’s sad what happened to them. They were legally anchored and the fisherman and his insurance company accept responsibility. The challenge for any sail
Boat over 40 feet , finding places to tie up can be challenging. LA Vagabond also have a challenge with their width . I have a 40 foot and have moored in 70 ports so far in Japan and always managed to find a place in fishing ports
I thank you and am grateful for your description of Japan, but Fukushima would not have happened if there was no corruption. I also know the workers sacrificed there lives and property to prevent Fukushima, it was the bureaucrats who caused it.
Thanks for watching and taking time to comment. The triple disaster of 2011 revealed flaws in the sytems and vested interests for sure, It also put on the display the resilience, work ethic, and community spirit of people at a local level
Wow, another cruising TH-cam channel was just hit in the middle of night at anchor in Japan. Brand new trimaran with 2 young children on board. They are all safe but the damages to the boat are still unknown.
Sailing La Vagabonde
Yes that happened about a month ago. They were legally anchored and the fishing boat and it insurance have accepted blame. It illustrative of Scott’s point that because Japanese fishermen do not expect to see small vessels at anchor in Japan , are not watchful as they leave port at night …. Lessons all around here
Goes to show the difference proper preparation can make.
Yep
54 ft Amel is an amazing blue water cruiser.
It really is.
La Vagabond comes to mind
Hey guys, such great advice and short stories you gave. I have always thought that Japanese are honest, trustworthy with no corruption. Unfortunately I think there’s government corruption of some kind in every country, but my thoughts are Japan would be the one country I could trust. It’s all about their culture.
Didn't the Japanese government recently break formal ties with the Yakuza? I'm not a smart man but that screams of corruption. I'd love to visit Japan along with every other nation. Global travels sounds amazing. Sabbatical always gets my wonderlust flowing.
Well, who. know what goes on with the poltical class and various aspects of any society and country. But at a local level, and the point Scott and Mia are making is that people are honest and truly want to help. They play by the rules. One rule in Japan is `no tipping`. for example if you try to tip a taxi driver they will refuse. On the other hand if you are one yen short there is a problem. As the customer is also expected to be honorable and have the means to pay the precise amount. Nothing more and nothing less
@PacificSolo i understand their point, yet the Japanese culture is one based on racial discrimination and fear mongering to the point that the entire population is afraid of government punishment. Based on the history of Japan, that's why they are the way they are. Fear turned into the status quo = respect after enough generations have been held down by their God emperors. Not even 100yr ago, they worshiped their leaders as gods. They have come a long way, but it is a very dark society that still uses self-sacrifice when failures are to grand, that's why they have a suicide mountain. I'm no historical scholar, but I can read historical books written by scholars. There is no need to hide the truth of such prideful, kind, and peaceful people because they became that way thru the fires of war.
Sailing la vagabonde could have done with that advice.
What was L V supposed to do? Not visit Japan? It's too big to fit in most fishing harbours.
So glad they came to Japan. I had the pleasure of hanging out with them when they were in Okinawa.
Japan is a high trust society.
yep
👍👍
thanks for watching
The interview was worthwhile….although as some have suggested … may have benefited from some editing
I’ve seen the vagabond videos ( how many?) on their accident-
I’m not likely to ever be a subscriber to their channel ( not going to disparage them further)
Thanks for watching and point taken. As I mentioned in another reply, my channel is a vlog about my own journey and challenges and experiences. So for my regular viewers I try to always give an update. I know my channel is everyone`s `cup of tea` but grateful for those who follow me and for those who stop by only once.
Very little to no corruption. I can see why a lot of people are moving there.
I thought it was becuse of rampaging Godzilla.
Seriously, this is pretty interesting!
haha. Thanks for watching
Thats a nice boat.
It is indeed
Tell that to Lavagabonde
Yeah, but they know everything!
Actually they were compliant and not at fault. I tell more in this video. th-cam.com/video/wJySfOtD2l4/w-d-xo.htmlsi=92T1yBOz3Q5rhgJ0
I was literally just going to type that out and your comment was the first I saw!!
@@PacificSolo Yes I have seen that, but being LEGAL and not doing the homework?
@@Magnus-qr7lja challenge they have in tying up to a dock is their size .. not just length but Beam.
Did you guys make an effort to let Sailing la Vagabond know of this information. Are you members of Sea People?
I spent a lovely week with La Vagabonde and think highly of them. They did a segment on me in one if their videos. They also have a great agent who is very experienced. It is important to know that La vagabond were anchored legally and with lights on. It was not their fault and the fisherman and his insurance has taken full responsibility. The challenge for La vagabond is not only its length but its beam so mooring options are limited .. I live aboard a 40 foot boat and it’s about the maximum length to get into most ports. Even Scott and Mia in their 54foot monohull anchored at times because harbor options were limited in this particular locations
So incoming cruisers with large boats need to be aware
SKIP TO 2:50
thanks for watching. Anchoring in Japan is a big concern for incoming cruisers. While it is legal, ( as long as you are outside harbors and not near designated aqua farming operations) it is not at all common. Yet despite incoming cruisers being given this advice, such is the disposition to anchor and be free, that many disregard it. Just yesterday I was talking to the skippers of two boats recently arrived. They have been curising for twenty years each and after asking me about anchoring, they thanked me but indicated they will still primarlity anchor as they cruise japan the next few months. It`s a shame. Thankfully Scott and Mia heeded the advice and they had a richer time because of it.
Vagabond ego is too big
His wife if in need of help not some on line 12 year old giving advice
I never ever tie up to docks or marina's. that is how you get infested with Cockroaches and vermin! Knowing your boats particulars and setting anchor in out of way places is a must but even a few feet of water is an effective blockade of roaches and other vermin like mice, rats snakes hunting the vermin etc... I've even dealt with harbor seals wanting to board my boat. Staying out of reach of all of these animals is important to me for a number of reasons not the least of which is keeping my food stores safe. I have seen boats that had ants they couldn't get rid of, I've seen boats with roaches and mice and snakes, I've even seen a boat destroyed by multiple racoons, and the owner swore he left the boat tied to the transient dock for only 2 hours while he went to get dinner at a local restaurant. Nope I have no plans of going to Japan any time soon, however if I did, I definitely would be anchoring !
Anchoring is certainly legal if outside harbors and not near fishing grounds and aqua farms. and if you abide by guidelines including arrive during the day so that the community is aware if you and staying well clear of harbor entrances you should be ok. For me I have been a full time liveaboard. For five years and have tied up in 70 harbors so far … the only problem I have has is one cat aboard and the occasional bug which I now have a deterrent for. And several birds …
With all due respect, this attitude of "This is how I do it at home so I will come to your country and ignore your customs and do it my way" is a primary reason why the Japanese are reacting negatively to what they consider overtourism. So far, this negative reaction is only towards land tourists, thankfully.
I sincerely hope you will reconsider imposing your views on locals when you sail to other countries. And I hope other sailors considering Japan do try to respect how the Japanese do things. Otherwise you leave a dirty wake for other sailors who may follow you.
Maybe some other “sailors” would be wise to take note.
I think most cruisers coming to Japan hear before hand that anchoring is not customary here. I know I get asked it all the time by cruisiers coming to Japan. Scott and Mia raise two reallly good points . . one is negative in that it is dangerous because it is not common so fishing boats head out of the harbors in the niddle of the night on the same route and these one or two person fishing boats are often on auto pilot as they head to the aqua farm or fishing grounds near by. But the equally important reason to not anchor is the Scott is right .. the magic of visiting Japan happens on land with the people you meet
What a great video. It took me past the image of formality and frowns that is portrayed in Western entertainment as well as reporting. The Japanese tourism department could use your video.
Thanks so much for watching and your kind comment
old girl looks pissed lol damn
Thank you for the nice comment 😀
How about if the girl doesn't talk at all
Hi! I have a dream - to sail around the world with my dog and experience life on the open sea. But there's one thing I’m missing - a sailboat. I can’t afford one, but I truly believe that with the right boat, my dog and I could create unforgettable memories, exploring new places together. If you have a yacht you no longer use or need, I’d be forever grateful if you could consider giving it to us. We promise to care for it as our own, and it would mean the world to us. Thank you for reading!
Thanks for sharing your story. This is a big dream and I hope you can achieve it
Japan is a lovely place, so much trust but the reason is simple, Japan is not overwhelmed by Immigrants, Japanese society is cohesive, everybody trusts each other.
Thanks for watching and your good comment
Anyone can be an expert with hindsight
Yeah....naaaaahhhh
well I go out of my way not to buy stuff that advertise on you tube . even if I want it . thanks you tube for me saving money
good нота
Couldn’t watch the whole video sorry.. hope to know one day why i should avoid Japan
Ahh don’t avoid Japan …. Just avoid anchoring … best tie up in fishing ports. They are free. Thanks for taking the time to comment
Whale slaughterers💀
well , that is another issue of course that is worthy of attention. I don`t get though why you would take this opportunity to smear an entire people and culture because of a particular `commercial activity`. Every society has its dark corners and even businesses that many would take extreme exception too right?
Loose the stupid so called music!
his wife is a babe
she is a basket case
she needs help
Not anchoring because fishermen aren't used toi small vessels at anchor ??? So what ?
Don't you think that if you don't anchor but go to a marina you are helping out the community by paying for a berth.
That is most probably the true reason.
Cheers.
Nope. There are few marinas in Japan and mooring in fishing ports is virtually free. I have moored in 70 Japanese harbors so far and very few of them marinas
As Lowell said, most are free or cost so little it won't even pay for the paper the receipt is written on.
Japanese are generally honest and fair. One of the beauties of that is that you don't need to assume everyone has some ulterior motive.
Hey Solo, stop mentioning The Sakura season.
I am jealous.
Haha … apologies 😂
Nice couple. Do they have a TH-cam or instagram account?
Yes they do. @svtengah they don’t post so much on YT any longer but they do instagram
Shorten your intro.
Yep