Hey Nathan, long time lurker first time commenter, just wanted to say thanks for all the tips over the years! Finally headed back to Japan for a couple of weeks at the end of this month after 4 long years, and it’s convenient that this video came out at just the right time. A little tip I’d like to share of my own is for reservations at Shibuya Sky - you can reserve 1 month in advance and they currently release the time slots at midnight JST, which is crucial if you’re aiming for a sunset time slot because these can fill up within the first 15 minutes-first hour (from my experience)
Wow! Thanks for lurking and for the comment! .. Awesome tip for the crucial sunset time slot! I'll have to remember that! It seems the timing of this video is indeed convenient! :)
@@NinjaMonkeyguy I plan to visit for 2 months. Can the suica app be used as a complete replacement for the 10 year card? (With allowing me to refund my remaining balance after the trip is over)
Good Info. i ended up getting Pokemon Cafe Tickets for April 1st about 40 minutes after they went up. was stressful as they kept adding new spots every 10 minutes once the timer ended for the reservation. so yeah if you want a reservation check back every 10 minutes on the dot afterwards.
Hi Nathan I'm excited for my trip and kinda nervous to start booking everything, currently waiting for flights to lower their prices for the dates I want (almost close to 2k) but your videos have help me so much keep up with lates update in Japan and things I have to keep in mind.
I'm glad I can be of help.. Set up a Flight price tracker using Expedia or skyscanner for example.. Unfortunately flights are expensive but having a tracker will give you an idea of whats happening
been to japan countless times, i only speak english and mandarin but i’ve only been using english throughout my trips to japan without much issue . never had to use any translation apps
Hi! Thanks for the great informative video! When you mentioned about forwarding your luggage, can it be taken to somewhere a bit more remote? Is this service expensive ? and if I don’t have a reserved seat or can’t fit my case on the racks, what are my options? How do you reserve a seat? Thanks for your time!
Yes, luggage forwarding services in Japan, can be used even to more remote areas, including rural locations but you need to factor in time to get there. The cost depends on the size of the luggage and distance, but it’s generally around ¥2,000-3,000. If you can’t fit your luggage on the overhead racks or don’t have a reserved seat on the train, you can either store it in the designated luggage areas (available on some trains) or use the luggage forwarding service to send it to your destination ahead of time. To reserve a seat, you can do so online when booking ticket if you do so online kr or at ticket machines and JR ticket counters at train stations. For trains like the Shinkansen, reserving a seat is highly recommended if you have large luggage. Hope this helps!
@@NinjaMonkeyguy thanks so much for your reply! I really appreciate it. I’m planning on going to Japan for the first time solo at the end of this October. Thanks for your content, keep up the great work! ✨
I like Sakura pocket wifi too and have used it on 3 trips now. Better than the sim as your whole group can share it. They can send before you land in Japan to the first hotel you are staying if you dont want to pick up at the airport.
I only advertise products or services I've used or use myself and YES this is amongst one of the best :) .. I usually get it sent to my hotel too because who wants to line up after a 15 hour flight :)
@@NinjaMonkeyguy Here's the detail I left out - My wife's service got cut because her iPhone still has a physical SIM but my did not because I have e-SIM.
thanks for this helpful video! just a minor remark on the IC Cards: Okica used for Okinawa cannot be used outside of Okinawa Prefecture, but is nevertheless useful to have for Okinawa buses. (You can use the other Japanese IC Cards on the Naha Monorail though)
Went January 2023 and covid measures were still in place and with the visit Japan web stuff already done I got out of narita in like 30-45 minutes including getting the WiFi and our bags shipped to hotel. I plan on much faster exit from haneda next week
the best thing to do is get yourself a physical card unless your android phone was purchased in Japan. There are some apps that allows you to at least check the balance of your card. When it comes to using a currency card like Revolut or Wise, these can be great for taking cash out and spending but not for transportation
I have a question. Could you please talk about Osaka Airport? I am planning to arrive at osaka Airport and departure from tokyo. i have been trying to find videos about it, and i need information about osaka Airport, like can we get suica from it? Thank you, your fan from Saudi Arabia
KIX has extensive facilities including shops, restaurants, currency exchange offices, and transport services. Regarding your question about the Suica card, it's worth noting that Suica is typically used in Tokyo and surrounding areas, while the ICOCA card is the equivalent used in the Kansai region (Osaka, Kyoto, Kobe, etc.). You can purchase an ICOCA card at KIX from ticket machines and use it for public transport across japan
So am i right in thinking that as a UK citizen, there is no longer a visa requirement, can arrive as a tourist for a period of up to 90 days (single entry) - and as a result the visit japan web thing is no longer NEEDED, but would make things faster at the airport? And that filling the forms upon arrival is FREE but the VJW comes at a cost? Also, assuming in our position, transiting to Vietnam requires nothing for japan as wont actually enter the country - so any visa will need to apply to then arriving from Vietnam to enter the country? Thanks
Visa is given according to your passport not previous entry. British Citizens have 90 day entry (*this has always been the case apart from during Covid, so nothing has changed) Visit Japan web is FREE.. and is the fastest and easiest way to enter. always double check with the official info from your country though.
Thank you for the informations! We are gonna arrive at the Kansai airport in april but as I see i can just simply buy an ICOCA here right? There are no shortage about ICOCA.
My biggest fear of traveling to another country is the language barrier and getting lost. I have done much research on Japan, but mostly Tokyo. I just wonder if it would be easier to hire a guide for my whole trip and have them meet me at the airport when I arrive and walk me through everything.
Its always easier to have a guide but I think that although there is a language barrier when travelling in Japan, if you are well prepared with a good internet connection, translation on the phone and addresses written down plus some gestures you'll be surprised how far you can get in Japan.. A middle ground would be to get a guide for the first few days so that you can get the hang of things but I really think part of the adventure is actually getting lost!
I see thanks for the update here. I only gave various options that had been reported to me (As Im not from the USA) It's also VERY IMPORTANT to note that Digital Suica is down for maintenance every day between 1am-5am Japan time meaning that trying ANY card to top up or set up Apple Pay will fail (which is what happens a lot of the time due to the time difference people try it and it doesnt work.. then they try another card at a different time and it does! :)
I ran into that issue with my US issued Visa on a trip there last year. The same card worked OK in 2022 - there was a change to Japan based card processing protocols. I found that my AMEX card worked just fine.
Hi. I have a lay over at japan this week. And im thinking about going out to tokyo for a few hours. My problem is with visit japan website, they need an address where im going to stay there but im not staying there over night. Do you have any advice on what i should do? Thanks
@@NinjaMonkeyguy ok im gonna do that, but i guess i wont be able to do the visit japan web yet and would have to do that manually when i get there at the airport. Thank you
Thank you for this video! I am having issues with my Visa and Discover credit card buying Shinkansen tickets through their official website. Do you have any tip ? TIA ❤
The only annoying about Apple Wallet Suica is that my country does not support Apple Pay. The only way I can top up my Apple Wallet Suica is through terminals which has IC card reader in big stations. Likewise I have to change my phone region to Japan if not, all payment will fail despite Apple Wallet Suica having enough funds.
interesting about having to change region (not a bad thing since it will also unlock the earthquake early warning on your phone) .. as for annoying to go to a terminal.. you'd need to do that with a physical suica too right?
Hey Nathan. Some great tips all the time! I’m visiting first time 19 March for 3 weeks, Tokyo, Hakone, Kanazawa, Kyoto, Osaka (and 1 night back in Tokyo). I believe the JR pass would not be worth it for these journeys. In Hakone I will be getting be 2 day free pass, and haven’t reserved anything yet. What is the maximum size suitcase that will not need reservations for Shinkansen?
As per JR website info: The total dimensions must be 160 cm to 250 cm When bringing baggage that is larger than a certain size onto the Tokaido, Sanyo and Kyushu Shinkansen (routes: Tokyo - Nagoya - Kyoto - Shin-Osaka - Hiroshima - Hakata - Kagoshima-Chuo) or onto the Nishi Kyushu Shinkansen line (Takeo-Onsen - Nagasaki), passengers are required to make an advance reservation for both their seat and baggage area. As a general rule if its too heavy or wont fit on the overhead shelf its oversize
One might just might say that Ninja Monkey is a Just In Time video creator. Now, I wouldn't say that, but I'd for sure think that. How apropos, that this video appears right when many of your viewers might need to find this knowledge, all in one spot, before they travel to Japan.運命 (shukumei).
@@towada1066 Taxes are destiny everywhere, unfortunately. Japan just adds a few extras to remind you that sometimes there will a few pains to remind you you're alive.
Hi! Thanks for all the info. I'm gonna fly from Fukuoka to Seoul and from Seoul to Osaka before heading home again. Should I register two seperate journeys on the Visit Japan App?
Can you print the visit Japan QR codes vs having to connect to the website? I have an eSim I will be enabling as soon as I arrive, but my sister plans on buying hers after arrival. Airport wifi is, to me, a security hazard 😅
Wait so pasmo can't use in the osaka/kansai area? The last time I used JR Pass when in Osaka/kyoto so I think, I only topping up the Pasmo when the JR pass expire in tokyo.
I mention some workarounds you can try in this live stream: th-cam.com/users/live_ci0IPVeeos?si=N7f-K62xMEDBmjTs&t=1715 (its at 28:35 ish) basically try Apple Cash or set up a currency app like wise or revolut and pay that way. In Nagoya you should be able to pick up a pysical MANACA card quite easily but if you can set up digital on iPhone it's much better!
Hi Nathan, unfortunately with LINE, it is no longer supported to sign up with a phone number outside of Japan, Korea, Taiwan and Thailand. So I can't register my USA phone number to chat. Is it still worth it to have?
im not too sure, some people reported they could, others said they couldnt.. just remember that between 1am-5am Japan time the system is down and it wont work!
I don't understand this shortage of IC card. Welcome suica has a chipset too. So normal or welcome suica use one chipset. And for people which stay more than 28 days, they will use 2 or 3 cards, so 2 or 3 more chipsets than one normal suica. (sorry for my bad english)
I was in Osaka during the earthquake, pretty scary. My building was swaying, as were the powerpoles. Does the app predict the quakes somehow? I did get a text from the Japanese authorities afterwards. That was nice.
If you are doing tourism but staying at your bf accommodation then tourism, if you are only going to visit your bf then put reason as visiting him but bear in mind that things like Jr pass require visitor entry stamp
@@NinjaMonkeyguy THANKS! He will be driving me around to each location I want to go to - I was just worried about immigration officers in terms of purpose of my trip. But yeah, I'll choose tourism because I do want to do sightseeing but just use his place as my accommodation... Do you think the immigration will be suspicious of me or something? :( hopefully not
Hi, i filled the online form, got the square QR code with my name below. when i scan the QR code, it's not a link, just a jumble of letters. is that how the japan qr code is formatted? usually when i point the camera at a QR code, it shows a link and it takes me to a website. This one does not do that... how will they verify when it's just a jumble of letters? could you please check how your QR codes were? thanks
Mate, can we use WISE VISA debit card to pay for hotel accommodation? I have read online that people can use it to purchase things like using a credit card but they never mentioned about paying for hotel. Thanks.
Hi! I'm trying to enter the details for the qr code, but I'm stuck at "point of embarkation": I travel from Rome to Narita via Seoul incheon, what is considered my point of embarkation then, Rome or Seoul? I can only enter one flight number so I'm confused.
I'll be leaving Rio to Tokyo on jan 25th and arrive in tokyo on 27th. In this case, is it worth to fill online papers during the flight to get changes advantages after 25th?
TO be honest im not too sure! .. My guess is that the only thing that will happen is you'll refresh to get a new Qr Code... if that fails there will be paper entry so not to worry :)
I'm going Feb 8-23 but I don't know if i need the 7 day JR pass or the 14 day pass. its a big price difference but if you're traveling every other day, then it won't be 7 straight calendar days I would use JR. Landing Haneda, I want to go (in no order) Tokyo, Hiroshima, Fukuoka, Osaka/Kyoto/Nara (and I was told to devote 4-6 days just for that)
Use a JR pass calculator to figure out individual tickets compared to the JR pass.. if you are spreading it out accross 7 days it might not be worth it?
Depending on the age of the children: Children under the age of 5 travel for free on public trains and don't require an IC card. Those between 6 and 12 years old are eligible for a child fare, which is half the adult fare. Once they exceed 12 years of age, they are classified as adults and must pay the full adult fare. Some families like putting some credit into IC cards and giving it to their children so that they can purchase things from vending machines for example but this is not needed
A question if I may: it seems that there are two smartwatches which are compatible with digital SUICA, but only the version sold in Japan: if I wanted to "get my hands" on a "Galaxy Watch6" (Osaifu-Keitai compatible) where should I go?
it will save you some time as there is less checking happening at the control point, also it means not having to fill in the form on the flight or even worse at the airport, saving you time. And most importantly more likely you don't make mistakes on the form after a long flight that will lead to your form being inspected for longer. The reality is that physical forms are inspected for longer than the Qr Code regardless of line.
Hey Nathan. Thanks for the informative video. I've been to Japan many times but I was mostly interested in the info around IC Cards as I'm heading to Japan in June this year with my school students and I've heard about the chip shortage. I understand about the Pasmo Passport and Welcome Suica, but all the other videos and websites I've viewed are saying the actual SUICA card is no longer available. So I'm confused. But you're saying it is at specific JR Offices?? It's the first time to hear this. I'm not sure now whether to get Pasmo Passports at Narita or get actual Suica cards at Ueno Station. Any advice? And I take from what you said, I can still use my Suica Card as it's not 10 years old yet. We are only in Japan for 9 days. We fly in at 6:00pm so I'm assuming an office would be still open after we clear immigration to get the Pasmo Passports. Thanks.
My country (New Zealand) comes up in most questions on the Visit Japan Web, but no locations in New Zealand for the "Point of Embrakation" questions comes up. Should I just fill out the paper forms on arrival?
Entry is based on passport unless there is a specific issue with a country.. simply enter normally However, it’s important to ensure you have a valid passport, a return or onward flight ticket
For the visitjapan qr code i need to register after the 25th right? I already registered and my flight is in the 26th will the unified qr code still available?
@@NinjaMonkeyguy it's a starter "Visa" A secured credit card is a type of credit card that requires a security deposit to open the account. The cardholder typically makes a one-time, refundable deposit that acts as collateral for the credit card issuer. A secured credit card can be a great option if you're trying to build, rebuild or establish credit. But not a normal Visa.
@@HacksignKT hmmm ... there is JCB secured card but I will never use these types of services because I don't need it ... EPOS also has this thing but why will foreigners pay high fees ? ... if you're a foreign tourist I think just use your own credit card ...
You need to leave the country and return .. or some countries like the UK have special agreements that slows you to extend by another 3 months if you apply
What happen if my trip to Japan I'm going to arrive 25th at 17h, do I'm still going to be okay to use the 2 QR codes or going to change already at this date?
@@NinjaMonkeyguy Hello I'm back from my trip to Japan and what happen the 2 QR codes merged together so everything was okay, we didn't have any problem or need to redo it. Have a nice day.
It's not an App, an app wouldn't work even if they made one... Android phones made outside of Japan dont have the hardware used in Japan for IC payments
I'm going from London to Tokyo with a 2hr layover in Abu Dhabi (same airline). Do I give the visit japan web service my second flight number or the first? I'm confused as to which flight number to input at the 'point of embarkation' section since I have two. Thanks Nathan
hmmm,... it would be easier if foreigners just did not visit Japan (^_^) ... though guest workers seem ok (except to my relatives) ... I think having currency is actually good advice ... in the backward countryside, sometimes some train stations cannot accept SUICA so it is only paper ticket.
@@NinjaMonkeyguy hmmm,... as annoying to me as it is ... I think the Edo Era was anything but boring ... and Meiji Era seemed to create the first generation of European weeaboo ...
Hey Nathan, long time lurker first time commenter, just wanted to say thanks for all the tips over the years! Finally headed back to Japan for a couple of weeks at the end of this month after 4 long years, and it’s convenient that this video came out at just the right time. A little tip I’d like to share of my own is for reservations at Shibuya Sky - you can reserve 1 month in advance and they currently release the time slots at midnight JST, which is crucial if you’re aiming for a sunset time slot because these can fill up within the first 15 minutes-first hour (from my experience)
Wow! Thanks for lurking and for the comment! .. Awesome tip for the crucial sunset time slot! I'll have to remember that! It seems the timing of this video is indeed convenient! :)
i will also be in japan shortly, is it too late to book for some of these attractions?
@@Serveck depends you’d need to check
clear, helpful, and straight to the point always. love your stuff.
glad its useful
So glad I've seen this video because I wasn't aware of the customs process and want to make sure everything is okay for when I go in June
great to hear!
good stuff- I like this format, 10 minutes, links, etc.
Thank you for this information! Our trip is coming up in March, and your videos were a big help😊
Glad it was helpful!
@@NinjaMonkeyguy I plan to visit for 2 months. Can the suica app be used as a complete replacement for the 10 year card? (With allowing me to refund my remaining balance after the trip is over)
@@g4rrett73 it should be, but the remaining balance will be nearly impossible to get back (so keep an eye at the end and spend it)
Good Info. i ended up getting Pokemon Cafe Tickets for April 1st about 40 minutes after they went up. was stressful as they kept adding new spots every 10 minutes once the timer ended for the reservation. so yeah if you want a reservation check back every 10 minutes on the dot afterwards.
great tip thanks!!
Thanks Nathan, this is good information! I head to Tokyo in January 2025. However, I am preparing for my trip now.
It's good to have a solid plan before you go! so the earlier the better :)
Thanks! Super practical and concise info 😊
Thanks for the donation
Really good info
Hi Nathan I'm excited for my trip and kinda nervous to start booking everything, currently waiting for flights to lower their prices for the dates I want (almost close to 2k) but your videos have help me so much keep up with lates update in Japan and things I have to keep in mind.
I'm glad I can be of help.. Set up a Flight price tracker using Expedia or skyscanner for example.. Unfortunately flights are expensive but having a tracker will give you an idea of whats happening
Thank you so much for the information. I downloaded a few apps and will continue on with the list you gave.
thanks
Can't wait to visit I March not long now. Enjoy your video's 😊
Thank you! 😃 that’s not long! Soon soon!!
been to japan countless times, i only speak english and mandarin but i’ve only been using english throughout my trips to japan without much issue . never had to use any translation apps
Maybe because you can read some of the kanji you don’t need one?!
Awesome video!!!!
I have a trip coming up and I really enjoyed this video. Appreciate these videos. Especially the one on the "secret suica card"!
Im glad this video is useful! and I appreciate the comment :)
Thanks for the info. Really could have used those apps during the 2019 Hurricane, but I will be ready now.
Hello there! Really appreciate all the info, just a quick question regarding the Philippines is there a day limit too?
Hi! Thanks for the great informative video! When you mentioned about forwarding your luggage, can it be taken to somewhere a bit more remote? Is this service expensive ? and if I don’t have a reserved seat or can’t fit my case on the racks, what are my options? How do you reserve a seat? Thanks for your time!
Yes, luggage forwarding services in Japan, can be used even to more remote areas, including rural locations but you need to factor in time to get there. The cost depends on the size of the luggage and distance, but it’s generally around ¥2,000-3,000.
If you can’t fit your luggage on the overhead racks or don’t have a reserved seat on the train, you can either store it in the designated luggage areas (available on some trains) or use the luggage forwarding service to send it to your destination ahead of time.
To reserve a seat, you can do so online when booking ticket if you do so online kr or at ticket machines and JR ticket counters at train stations. For trains like the Shinkansen, reserving a seat is highly recommended if you have large luggage. Hope this helps!
@@NinjaMonkeyguy thanks so much for your reply! I really appreciate it. I’m planning on going to Japan for the first time solo at the end of this October. Thanks for your content, keep up the great work! ✨
who created that soulful music in your video? Looked for it in your c redits but no joy.
Everything is courtesy of epidemic sound
Another great helpful summary !!
Glad it was helpful!
I like Sakura pocket wifi too and have used it on 3 trips now. Better than the sim as your whole group can share it. They can send before you land in Japan to the first hotel you are staying if you dont want to pick up at the airport.
I only advertise products or services I've used or use myself and YES this is amongst one of the best :) .. I usually get it sent to my hotel too because who wants to line up after a 15 hour flight :)
I just got Airalo. No need to switch your sim or to carry a separate device. It costs only $9 on sale for 10GB at the moment.
@@lukastemberger I love Airalo. I've since used it in Tanzania and Mauritius and have had no problems.
My wife and I were in Sapporo on Jan 1. Our T-Mobile international service/network got cut off right after the earthquake.
Wow, I wonder if having a data sim / eSIM would have been any different? Was it felt all the way up in Sapporo?
@@NinjaMonkeyguy Here's the detail I left out - My wife's service got cut because her iPhone still has a physical SIM but my did not because I have e-SIM.
thanks for this helpful video! just a minor remark on the IC Cards: Okica used for Okinawa cannot be used outside of Okinawa Prefecture, but is nevertheless useful to have for Okinawa buses. (You can use the other Japanese IC Cards on the Naha Monorail though)
Good point
Went January 2023 and covid measures were still in place and with the visit Japan web stuff already done I got out of narita in like 30-45 minutes including getting the WiFi and our bags shipped to hotel. I plan on much faster exit from haneda next week
My tip tip is to try to “rub” ahead of everyone on the plane that doesn’t know what they are doing to the front of the passport queue :)
Another great video Nathan. Full of helpful information ❤
Glad you think so!
great info
Glad it will be useful
Just found your channel. Brilliant, thanks. Any tips for Android users, especially currency/card use would be much appreciated. Salud, Miguel
the best thing to do is get yourself a physical card unless your android phone was purchased in Japan. There are some apps that allows you to at least check the balance of your card. When it comes to using a currency card like Revolut or Wise, these can be great for taking cash out and spending but not for transportation
thanks for all the tips!
You are welcome :)
A great guide and very useful indeed Ninja 🐒
I had noticed that my las “enter Japan” guide was in 2022 and a few things had changed! Wow time flies right?
I have a question. Could you please talk about Osaka Airport? I am planning to arrive at osaka Airport and departure from tokyo. i have been trying to find videos about it, and i need information about osaka Airport, like can we get suica from it? Thank you, your fan from Saudi Arabia
KIX has extensive facilities including shops, restaurants, currency exchange offices, and transport services. Regarding your question about the Suica card, it's worth noting that Suica is typically used in Tokyo and surrounding areas, while the ICOCA card is the equivalent used in the Kansai region (Osaka, Kyoto, Kobe, etc.). You can purchase an ICOCA card at KIX from ticket machines and use it for public transport across japan
Nathan, can you spell out the earthquake app because I could not find it
Thank you so much, your videos are always helpful
Yurekuru call
So am i right in thinking that as a UK citizen, there is no longer a visa requirement, can arrive as a tourist for a period of up to 90 days (single entry) - and as a result the visit japan web thing is no longer NEEDED, but would make things faster at the airport? And that filling the forms upon arrival is FREE but the VJW comes at a cost? Also, assuming in our position, transiting to Vietnam requires nothing for japan as wont actually enter the country - so any visa will need to apply to then arriving from Vietnam to enter the country? Thanks
Visa is given according to your passport not previous entry. British Citizens have 90 day entry (*this has always been the case apart from during Covid, so nothing has changed) Visit Japan web is FREE.. and is the fastest and easiest way to enter. always double check with the official info from your country though.
If we’re coming from the UK, do we need to have had any jabs to enter Japan do you know? Thanks!
you shouldnt need
@@NinjaMonkeyguy thanks!
Thank you for the informations! We are gonna arrive at the Kansai airport in april but as I see i can just simply buy an ICOCA here right? There are no shortage about ICOCA.
ICOCA seems to be fine:) if you have an iphone this is still my recommendation
Tgank you for the answer!@@NinjaMonkeyguy
My biggest fear of traveling to another country is the language barrier and getting lost. I have done much research on Japan, but mostly Tokyo. I just wonder if it would be easier to hire a guide for my whole trip and have them meet me at the airport when I arrive and walk me through everything.
Its always easier to have a guide but I think that although there is a language barrier when travelling in Japan, if you are well prepared with a good internet connection, translation on the phone and addresses written down plus some gestures you'll be surprised how far you can get in Japan.. A middle ground would be to get a guide for the first few days so that you can get the hang of things but I really think part of the adventure is actually getting lost!
Apple CASH card DOES NOT work to top up digital Suica (or PASMO or ICOCA) from the US.
Apple CARD might work as it is Mastercard backed.
I see thanks for the update here. I only gave various options that had been reported to me (As Im not from the USA) It's also VERY IMPORTANT to note that Digital Suica is down for maintenance every day between 1am-5am Japan time meaning that trying ANY card to top up or set up Apple Pay will fail (which is what happens a lot of the time due to the time difference people try it and it doesnt work.. then they try another card at a different time and it does! :)
I ran into that issue with my US issued Visa on a trip there last year. The same card worked OK in 2022 - there was a change to Japan based card processing protocols. I found that my AMEX card worked just fine.
Hi. I have a lay over at japan this week. And im thinking about going out to tokyo for a few hours. My problem is with visit japan website, they need an address where im going to stay there but im not staying there over night. Do you have any advice on what i should do? Thanks
I think your best bet is to put the address of the airport, or simply clear it with customs showing your next flight
@@NinjaMonkeyguy ok im gonna do that, but i guess i wont be able to do the visit japan web yet and would have to do that manually when i get there at the airport. Thank you
Btw you can always contact them directly they answer within a few days
Hi! Do you have to buy a suica card, it just seems like so much hassle 😅 can you just use a normal credit card? Or pay cash?
Unfortunately, you cannot use a normal credit card for tap and go in most of the train system
Thank you for this video!
I am having issues with my Visa and Discover credit card buying Shinkansen tickets through their official website. Do you have any tip ?
TIA ❤
Perhaps it’s the same issue as purchasing digital Suica and maybe using a virtual currency card Suica as wise or revolut (travel apps) will help you
@@NinjaMonkeyguy thank you for your response, I will try it!
The only annoying about Apple Wallet Suica is that my country does not support Apple Pay. The only way I can top up my Apple Wallet Suica is through terminals which has IC card reader in big stations.
Likewise I have to change my phone region to Japan if not, all payment will fail despite Apple Wallet Suica having enough funds.
interesting about having to change region (not a bad thing since it will also unlock the earthquake early warning on your phone) .. as for annoying to go to a terminal.. you'd need to do that with a physical suica too right?
Hey Nathan. Some great tips all the time! I’m visiting first time 19 March for 3 weeks, Tokyo, Hakone, Kanazawa, Kyoto, Osaka (and 1 night back in Tokyo). I believe the JR pass would not be worth it for these journeys. In Hakone I will be getting be 2 day free pass, and haven’t reserved anything yet. What is the maximum size suitcase that will not need reservations for Shinkansen?
As per JR website info: The total dimensions must be 160 cm to 250 cm
When bringing baggage that is larger than a certain size onto the Tokaido, Sanyo and Kyushu Shinkansen (routes: Tokyo - Nagoya - Kyoto - Shin-Osaka - Hiroshima - Hakata - Kagoshima-Chuo) or onto the Nishi Kyushu Shinkansen line (Takeo-Onsen - Nagasaki), passengers are required to make an advance reservation for both their seat and baggage area.
As a general rule if its too heavy or wont fit on the overhead shelf its oversize
One might just might say that Ninja Monkey is a Just In Time video creator. Now, I wouldn't say that, but I'd for sure think that. How apropos, that this video appears right when many of your viewers might need to find this knowledge, all in one spot, before they travel to Japan.運命 (shukumei).
Heheh good timing! Right?
ww! ... 日本の「宿命」は、いつも、税、地震、台風、夏のクソ暑い ! (>_
@@towada1066 Taxes are destiny everywhere, unfortunately. Japan just adds a few extras to remind you that sometimes there will a few pains to remind you you're alive.
@@jimross7648 なんか、「ふるさと納税」が本当にバカバカしい ... I think, 「宿命」is so strange a phrase to use (^_^)
Hi! Thanks for all the info. I'm gonna fly from Fukuoka to Seoul and from Seoul to Osaka before heading home again. Should I register two seperate journeys on the Visit Japan App?
Yes you will need the one to arrive in Japan and then a second one arriving in Japan
Does the suica/pasmo on the apple wallet work the same as the physical card? Will street vendors accept them ?
yep exactly the same
I still couldn't use Wise Canada Visa debit card in either USD or CAD to top up Suica in March, November, and December 2023 so FYI.
Yes it seems Visa can be a problem which is why I recommended some other ways
Yes it seems Visa can be a problem which is why I recommended some other ways
Can you print the visit Japan QR codes vs having to connect to the website? I have an eSim I will be enabling as soon as I arrive, but my sister plans on buying hers after arrival. Airport wifi is, to me, a security hazard 😅
You can take a screen shot! It's what I normally do :)
Wait so pasmo can't use in the osaka/kansai area? The last time I used JR Pass when in Osaka/kyoto so I think, I only topping up the Pasmo when the JR pass expire in tokyo.
Yes you can use pasmo across all of Japan where IC cards are accepted
Landing from a cruise. Will this be a option for the wifi from too?
according to Sakura yes
Hi! Are there any vaccination requirements of entering Japan
nope
we will be in nagoya next week. I am unable to get my usa apple i14 suica to link with my usa visa card? please help
I mention some workarounds you can try in this live stream: th-cam.com/users/live_ci0IPVeeos?si=N7f-K62xMEDBmjTs&t=1715 (its at 28:35 ish) basically try Apple Cash or set up a currency app like wise or revolut and pay that way. In Nagoya you should be able to pick up a pysical MANACA card quite easily but if you can set up digital on iPhone it's much better!
Hi,
How can I get visa in Australia or Japan😊
depends on what type of visa and where you are from
Hi Nathan, unfortunately with LINE, it is no longer supported to sign up with a phone number outside of Japan, Korea, Taiwan and Thailand. So I can't register my USA phone number to chat. Is it still worth it to have?
you can sign up with google or apple for example :)
may i use my apple card to fund my pasmo digital pass on my iphone
im not too sure, some people reported they could, others said they couldnt.. just remember that between 1am-5am Japan time the system is down and it wont work!
Would you recommend wise cards for atms
I've used Revolut from Seven Eleven ATM's no issues
I don't understand this shortage of IC card. Welcome suica has a chipset too. So normal or welcome suica use one chipset. And for people which stay more than 28 days, they will use 2 or 3 cards, so 2 or 3 more chipsets than one normal suica.
(sorry for my bad english)
This is because these cards I believe were created for the Tokyo Olympics that never happened! So there are excess
I was in Osaka during the earthquake, pretty scary. My building was swaying, as were the powerpoles. Does the app predict the quakes somehow?
I did get a text from the Japanese authorities afterwards. That was nice.
It doesn’t predict just gives early warning .. if you are far from the epicentre it will mean you have a few seconds of warning
im a uk citizen who will be staying in Japan at my boyfriends house for 90 days, so do I put my purpose of the trip as 'tourism' or visiting my bf?
If you are doing tourism but staying at your bf accommodation then tourism, if you are only going to visit your bf then put reason as visiting him but bear in mind that things like Jr pass require visitor entry stamp
@@NinjaMonkeyguy THANKS! He will be driving me around to each location I want to go to - I was just worried about immigration officers in terms of purpose of my trip. But yeah, I'll choose tourism because I do want to do sightseeing but just use his place as my accommodation... Do you think the immigration will be suspicious of me or something? :( hopefully not
@@ineisio8313 contact immigration before going .. to make sure 100%
Hi, i filled the online form, got the square QR code with my name below. when i scan the QR code, it's not a link, just a jumble of letters. is that how the japan qr code is formatted? usually when i point the camera at a QR code, it shows a link and it takes me to a website. This one does not do that... how will they verify when it's just a jumble of letters? could you please check how your QR codes were? thanks
That code will be scanned by immigration in Japan
Mate, can we use WISE VISA debit card to pay for hotel accommodation? I have read online that people can use it to purchase things like using a credit card but they never mentioned about paying for hotel. Thanks.
Yes you can . Or at least you should be able to. I use revolution which is similar without problems
Hi! I'm trying to enter the details for the qr code, but I'm stuck at "point of embarkation": I travel from Rome to Narita via Seoul incheon, what is considered my point of embarkation then, Rome or Seoul? I can only enter one flight number so I'm confused.
That would be Seoul as the point you were at before arrival
@@NinjaMonkeyguy ok, the stop-over flight made more sense to me too. Thank you! I will put the flight number for that second flight then.
I'll be leaving Rio to Tokyo on jan 25th and arrive in tokyo on 27th. In this case, is it worth to fill online papers during the flight to get changes advantages after 25th?
TO be honest im not too sure! .. My guess is that the only thing that will happen is you'll refresh to get a new Qr Code... if that fails there will be paper entry so not to worry :)
@@NinjaMonkeyguy Thanks for taking your time to answer. I think I'll fill anyway before leaving and see what happens. Greetings from Rio.
You'll soon find out! @@sempreame
I'm going Feb 8-23 but I don't know if i need the 7 day JR pass or the 14 day pass. its a big price difference but if you're traveling every other day, then it won't be 7 straight calendar days I would use JR. Landing Haneda, I want to go (in no order) Tokyo, Hiroshima, Fukuoka, Osaka/Kyoto/Nara (and I was told to devote 4-6 days just for that)
Use a JR pass calculator to figure out individual tickets compared to the JR pass.. if you are spreading it out accross 7 days it might not be worth it?
If I am traveling with kids, do I buy each an IC card?
Depending on the age of the children: Children under the age of 5 travel for free on public trains and don't require an IC card. Those between 6 and 12 years old are eligible for a child fare, which is half the adult fare. Once they exceed 12 years of age, they are classified as adults and must pay the full adult fare. Some families like putting some credit into IC cards and giving it to their children so that they can purchase things from vending machines for example but this is not needed
A question if I may: it seems that there are two smartwatches which are compatible with digital SUICA, but only the version sold in Japan: if I wanted to "get my hands" on a "Galaxy Watch6" (Osaifu-Keitai compatible) where should I go?
In Japan somewhere like a Samsung store or yodobashi / bic camera
Actually preregister don't buy you any time through Immigration...it,s a long line regardless...
it will save you some time as there is less checking happening at the control point, also it means not having to fill in the form on the flight or even worse at the airport, saving you time. And most importantly more likely you don't make mistakes on the form after a long flight that will lead to your form being inspected for longer. The reality is that physical forms are inspected for longer than the Qr Code regardless of line.
Hey Nathan. Thanks for the informative video. I've been to Japan many times but I was mostly interested in the info around IC Cards as I'm heading to Japan in June this year with my school students and I've heard about the chip shortage. I understand about the Pasmo Passport and Welcome Suica, but all the other videos and websites I've viewed are saying the actual SUICA card is no longer available. So I'm confused. But you're saying it is at specific JR Offices?? It's the first time to hear this. I'm not sure now whether to get Pasmo Passports at Narita or get actual Suica cards at Ueno Station. Any advice? And I take from what you said, I can still use my Suica Card as it's not 10 years old yet. We are only in Japan for 9 days. We fly in at 6:00pm so I'm assuming an office would be still open after we clear immigration to get the Pasmo Passports. Thanks.
I’d get the welcome Suica or pasmo for students if possible
If you use a digital Suica card, what happens if there is a left over balance? Can you get that back?
In theory via the official app with a japanese bank account I believe .. in reality it’s very difficult so I’d say no.. but it’s easy to use up!
My country (New Zealand) comes up in most questions on the Visit Japan Web, but no locations in New Zealand for the "Point of Embrakation" questions comes up. Should I just fill out the paper forms on arrival?
Point of embarkation should be the airport you are leaving from I believe ? Is it not there?
Is it a direct flight if not then you’d need to put the flight that you get before arriving in Japan (your layover last flught)
Can I still enter Japan ?
I went to the Philippines and after Philippines I want to go to Japan?
What is the requirements in immigration in Japan???
I’m us citizen
Entry is based on passport unless there is a specific issue with a country.. simply enter normally However, it’s important to ensure you have a valid passport, a return or onward flight ticket
For the visitjapan qr code i need to register after the 25th right? I already registered and my flight is in the 26th will the unified qr code still available?
1 more question, can you bring home your suica card in your home country so that when i come back to japan i dont need to get another?
Yes if it’s the normal Suica or IC card then yes.. if it’s pasmo passport or welcome Suica then those expire after 28 days
The info is on the website. You might need to retrgister or at least check on the 25th to see if
@@NinjaMonkeyguy thanks for the info's
Wait, hotels can forward your luggage to the next hotel? Does they do it for free or what ?
Yes they use Yamato service and there is a fee but it’s worth it!
I’m holding spore passport ..the world most powerful passport.. do I still need visa?
Here is the official info: www.mofa.go.jp/j_info/visit/visa/short/novisa.html
OMg!! ¿Hablas español también? Wow!!!
Si! .. Y puedes encontrar mi segudo canal qui: www.youtube.com/@japontips y en instagram @japon_tips :)
@@NinjaMonkeyguy Muchas gracias por tu respuesta. 🙈🤣¡Voy a Japón en abril!
@@lulu_g8445 es un canal muy joven y solo de shorts :)
Hi, my registration and qr code was already done so now do I need to re-start the process again after the recent changes?
its not clear if you simply need to produce a new Qr Code or register again. If your trip is after 25th check with the web portal then.
Are secured credit cards good in Japan?
What do you mean by secured credit cards?
@@NinjaMonkeyguy it's a starter "Visa" A secured credit card is a type of credit card that requires a security deposit to open the account. The cardholder typically makes a one-time, refundable deposit that acts as collateral for the credit card issuer. A secured credit card can be a great option if you're trying to build, rebuild or establish credit. But not a normal Visa.
@@HacksignKT hmmm ... there is JCB secured card but I will never use these types of services because I don't need it ... EPOS also has this thing but why will foreigners pay high fees ? ... if you're a foreign tourist I think just use your own credit card ...
Ah I see.. I dont know the answer to your original question then. Ive never had issues using credit cards @@HacksignKT
If you've done your Japan web before 25th Jan those QR codes are no longer valid, you'll need to do the process again.
Only if your trip is after 25th I believe
@@NinjaMonkeyguy yes, after the 25th.
Sorry, just to confirm, if you arrived on 26th then you cant do Japan web now?
@@jonathanjonathan4182 no, the changes to the website happen on the 25th. You can do it just before you arrive, the QR codes are generated instantly.
yes you can use it.. it's just a different Qr Code system
@@jonathanjonathan4182
After 90 days can i extend my visitor permit?or when allow to go back?
You need to leave the country and return .. or some countries like the UK have special agreements that slows you to extend by another 3 months if you apply
@@NinjaMonkeyguy how long before i can return?
So a negative Covid test or a vaccine card w/booster isn’t required for entry anymore?
Not any more as from last checking
What happen if my trip to Japan I'm going to arrive 25th at 17h, do I'm still going to be okay to use the 2 QR codes or going to change already at this date?
Interesting question lucky that the paper version is available as a back up so no worries :)
I am 100% certain they will honor both the blue and yellow QR code upon arrival and not make you stand there and fill out the online VJW again.
@@NinjaMonkeyguy Hello I'm back from my trip to Japan and what happen the 2 QR codes merged together so everything was okay, we didn't have any problem or need to redo it. Have a nice day.
What about us Android users for Suica?
Not possible as mentioned in the video (unless your android was bought in Japan)
Sucia needs an app for android.
It's not an App, an app wouldn't work even if they made one... Android phones made outside of Japan dont have the hardware used in Japan for IC payments
I'm going from London to Tokyo with a 2hr layover in Abu Dhabi (same airline). Do I give the visit japan web service my second flight number or the first? I'm confused as to which flight number to input at the 'point of embarkation' section since I have two. Thanks Nathan
@@dasmashftw thanks! I actually caught nathan in his livestream and got the same answer!
You need to give the last flight (the one that flies to Japan)
American Mastercard had 0 issues getting the digital suica card but discover 100% didn’t work.
Thanks for the info
hmmm,... it would be easier if foreigners just did not visit Japan (^_^) ... though guest workers seem ok (except to my relatives) ... I think having currency is actually good advice ... in the backward countryside, sometimes some train stations cannot accept SUICA so it is only paper ticket.
But It would be boring without foreigners! ;)
@@NinjaMonkeyguy hmmm,... as annoying to me as it is ... I think the Edo Era was anything but boring ... and Meiji Era seemed to create the first generation of European weeaboo ...
Rubbish. Georgia has a 365 day tourist visa with the option to run a business and pay 1% tax for most people.
its bad huh!
its bad huh