This video is very helpful. Would just add 3 things you forgot to mention. 1. Only if you are TRAVELING in Japan, you can get away with not paying the 8-10% sales tax. The reason they ask for your passport at check-out is because they will look for your travellers visa. So foreigners living in Japan are not exempt from this since we don’t cary travellers visas. 2. A lot of camera products, including the a7iii, are locked. Meaning they are only available to use in the Japanese language unless you download software (free) online in order to unlock the camera. They do this to limit markets. 3.There are actually cheaper places in Akihabara where you can get the camera AND the general lens kit at a much cheaper price. They’re just tiny stores you have to look for within smaller side streets. I recommend going there instead of Shibuya/Shinjuku or Ginza where they tend to sell you only the body at a cheaper price.
Map Camera is the best. I like how they set up their store with different brand of camera & lenses for each floor. Really makes it easier for me as I was looking only for Canon gears.
Dear or dear, I have $ 900 I need a camera to photograph the bodies and I want you as well as the name of the lens that suits the isolation so beautiful
[UPDATE] A lot more helpful information was unveiled to me in the comments so I'm adding new info here in the comment and description box! Please look at this first!! FAQ 1. Would there be a chance of buying a fake camera/lens? Not very likely. 2. Is buying in Japan cheaper? See 02:51 3. Where can I get the best deal? See 03:59 4. Are Used Gear/2nd Hand Items Trustworthy? See 04:16 5. Do I Need My Passport? See 02:51 but YES 6. Don't Know Japanese? I don't either but haven't had any issues dealing with the store reps. They will not take advantage of you or rip you off if that's what you're worried about. 7. Are Japanese Lenses compatible with my Camera? This isn't a Playstation, there aren't any "Region Locks" with camera gear lol 8. Thinking about buying a Sony Camera in Japan? Make sure the one you're purchasing is an Overseas Model. The typical ones found in stores only contain the Menu Settings in Japanese and it cannot be changed. Unfortunately, Overseas Models tend to be a weebit more expensive so only buy if you absolutely have to! 9. If you pay with a VISA card, you can save an additional 5% off your purchase!! 10. A few native Japanese viewers have informed me that it is possible to bargain the prices at Yodobashi. I'm not sure how much but it sure doesn't hurt to ask!
This video was perfect timing! I'm going for the first time next week for 10 days (5 in Hamamatsu, 5 in Tokyo) filming for work. Super pumped to explore the camera stores!
Panasonic and Sony Camera are only in Japanese. Canon and Nikon in English too. Olympus and Fuji are always the international models. The Overseas Sony models aren't not interesting, too expensive. Be careful about the Warranty : only one year. In France, it's 2 years for example. With my Yodobashi card, I have 8% (paid by card), 10 (paid by cash) or 13% (accessory...) off into points that you can use for the next purchase , you can not use simultaneously Tax-Free.
been there. the yadobashi is good but it's more like a tourist trap/consumer grade electronic store. Not a good place for professional or enthusiast. It's like a very big bestbuy. We used to have something like this in NYC called J&R. everything is overpriced or "regular" priced. you won't find too many good deals here. Like Jason said for A7 III. only a measly $60 dollars difference. It sounds nice to once you've bought the camera out of Japan your warranty is out of the window. You would be better off with a gray market in the US. IMO NOT worth $60. You are risking at least 1 year factory warranty and not to mention some of the Japanese camera ONLY have Japanese menu.
This is just what I needed! After hearing about a friend who bought camera gear in Japan, I wondered how to proceed with it myself. Lo and behold, Jason comes out with a walk-though right here! The power of visualisation, ha!
Ok man. I totally spit my drink all over living room floor after I heard you say ‘Jason Vong is never wrong’ lol. Nice. You speak the truth. Wasn’t expecting it though.
What people need to know and be aware of is the warranty. They don't offer international warranty which means if something happens to your camera and you're no longer in Japan, you'll have to spend for repairs and probably double! From where I am currently staying (Philippines), units that are not purchased in this country would cost double for repairs vs a unit that was purchased locally. So getting a unit locally which costs a little more gives you a little assurance and you don't have to worry. Hope this helps!
Yes, its called the Grey Market I made that mistake with my first camera bought it overseas could not get local warranty repair could not even pay for repair they just simply said you bought it there you get it repaired there. So if you intend to stay overseas no problem and yes even Sony has the same grey market policy just check its really easy to do.
Another note to consider when buying 2nd hand camera gear (bodies/lenses) is that if you buy a Japanese model vs Export model (usually this is known by the first 1-2 numbers of the SN) that you may not be able to get them serviced (even at the brand official service centers) outside their region.
re: 7 - you answered in 8... There are Japanese models that do not do English language. So yep need O/S model. BEST suggestion for these is just go to Sony Centre in Ginza, go to overseas model purchase (up with the gallery) and they have them for a great price. Like amazing good. (last I was there anyway)
You are funny and the most interesting vlogger I clicked and subscribed to without second thought. Thank you so much for giving useful information in a funny way. Thank you. I love your video
Had a good experience at MAP Camera Shinjuku, their staff can speak English and really helpful. Japanese people really take good care of their lenses, bought a secondhand like new conditions Sony Zeiss 50mm 1.4 for just USD 1.100 after tax deduction. All secondhand lenses and cameras are graded and tested, you can check the conditions via web as described in the video.
Whoa! Sweet deal! When I was buying the 16-70mm, they were honest about a speck of dust in the lens even though it didn't show up in any of the photos. That speck of dust brought the price down by a good chunk too!
And you can test the cameras and lenses for a long time (well I spent 1.5 hour), especially useful when you want to compare lenses and pick up the sharper one. Amazing service, well like almost anywhere in Japan.
I live in a small rural town in Australia. Got back from Japan earlier this month, literally visited this store in Shinjuku, it absolutely blew me away, everything I've only ever seen online was all out on display, I was in love.
MAP CAMERA and Kitamura Camera DO sell brand new products and are usually cheaper than BIC and YPDOBASHI. Price of BIC CAMERA and YODOBASHI are expensive sometimes due to their “rebate” system to members. As a foreigner, usually you can get 8% tax free and 7% off coupon(just search with Google, there are a lot) in BIC, however it’s still expensive than MAP and KITAMURA. Exp. Sony 85mm F1.8 is USD 430.77 in MAP CAMERA and is 455.05 in BIC after 8%+7% coupon. 24-70 GM is 2040.02 in MAP and KITAMURA, the same product is 2108.02 in BIC after 8% + 7%. A simple way to compare is use kakaku.com. Just type the product name then you will find the price ranking of it. The only thing is you may have to know how to read Katakana to define which store you are looking for.:)
I was at Yodobashi Akihabara last year. It was so overwhelming seeing not just cameras but so many electronics too! Tax free for foreigners is pretty nice. Did visit the Shinjuku location as well and I was overwhelmed for a different reason. So many people!
@@JasonVong They're probably off at Kabukicho not too far from there lol. Off topic but thanks for the a6400 videos! I did go with a6400 and now trying to find my way as a hybrid shooter! *bows* Thanks again!
I seriously recommend Kitamura Camera when buying used as I recently bought a very good condition Canon 80D body for about 58000 Japanese yen(520 USD). Also bought a Canon 50mm F1.8 for about 80USD(Brand new) and a Canon 55-250mm lens f4-f5.6 for about 40$
I live in japan and you missed many points (just saw that you posted a message containing infos I already posted, I leave it as it): 1/ some cameras have only Japanese menus (indeed some stores sell English menu more expensive) 2/ buying with a credit card VISA increases the % from 8 to 13% discount ! 3/ be careful of the tax at your home country, in France for example they taxe 20% at the clearance (airport) 4/ some stores are more famous for old and rare lens which are pretty good to buy there as second hands but tricky to find those stores easily ;-) 5/ some shops sell coupon (cheaper than normal price) with those coupons you can pay in yodobashi and then making MORE discount 6/ Sony until end of May offers special payback: you need to fill out a paper and send it to an address, for example: 30000¥ less on one camera of the A7 III family and around 10000¥ on some lens! The only problem is to stay longer in japan then few days (to receive the payback) This is the points which came back to my mind so far
Jason Vong yes so sorry I read that after I post my answer :( Anyway your video is great for people having no clues on how to do ;) I live in Kyoto and If you had time i would like to show you some « forbidden places » where it is tricky to enter normally Maybe we will have another opportunity ;-)
Thanks for this! I know that the care taken of used gear in Japan is great - so more used gear tips, especially lenses, would be awesome. I appreciate the specificity!
I just came back from Japan, I purchased Sigma 16mm 1.4 lens for Sony E-mount at Top Camera (Nagoya) for 37,800 yen which is about $80 US cheaper than I could get in Australia. I feel lucky that the lens that I was after was cheap, but looking at most of the lens available I noticed that were generally more expensive.
Map camera is pretty good i bought a sigma 18-35 1.8 for my canon 80D pretty much in brand new condition even tho it was used for 570 and sold it for 600, thumbs up to map camera for amazing used equipment
Btw, something else I’ve noticed with my a7 iii (bought in Japan - Japanese version)-> there is NTSC but not the other one. LAN? PAN? so no 25fps options. Instead you’ll have to change your shutter-speed.
Just bought EVERYTHING I was looking for at Yodobashi in Yokohoma. Geeze that place is amazing and slays even the Shibuya Bic stores. I found my obscure shoe extension, Video Mic Pro+ Deadcat and even the dual plate for my Ronin S. I'll be honest after searching 8 different camera stores in Tokyo I had my doubts but Yodobashi is legit the best!
For used equipment I recommend Fujiya Camera in Nakano (take the Chuo Line to Nakano Station and it's right there). I bought a very nice Sony E 24 1.8 lens for about $500 there (retails for $1100 or so). Their grading is conservative- an AB rank item looked new to me. The staff let me test it as well.
Nice video Jason! I've been living vicariously through your Instagram stories and videos! You forgot to mention that additional 5% off for foreigners when paying with a Visa card. I was in Japan a week ago and got to play with all of the Sigma primes and Batis lenses. You're right, the OLED is dope AFFFFFFFF. I ended up buying an FE 85 1.8. from Yodobashi. Saved so much monies! Also, if you can find another reputable reseller, Yodobashi is willing to price match!
I would love to peruse the used camera gear market in Japan... I had a buddy who found a used Tokina 28-70mm f/2.8 ATX lens in Canon mount for me in Japan. He knew that I was very fond of Angenieux lenses and this lens was made from the plans of the Angenieux 28-70mm f/2.6 lens. Angenieux found that this lens was too expensive to profitably produce and sold the plans to Tokina. Tokina produced the lens which was designated 28-70mm f/2.6-2.8 ATX in the USA and just 28-70mm f/2.8 ATX for the Japanese market. I don't know where he got the lens (except that it was in Tokyo) or how much he paid for the lens because he gave it to me as a gift. I absolutely love it. A follow on to this story is that Tokina also found the lens too expensive to produce and watered it down into a lens designated as the Tokina 28-70mm f/2.8 SP which stood for special value (it wasn't). The SP version is inferior to the original and is the one that is most often found in the USA. BTW: I just love this lens for shooting people on my full frame Canon DSLR camera... rpcrowe.smugmug.com/Other/Point-and-shoot/n-nDMWv/i-kXmVhWX
In Japan it’s very Common to negotiate the final price in Yodobashi & BIC Camera - You can end up with 600$ off the A7III if you negotiate a bit - You should’ve mentioned that with a bit of research
Jason, is it worth bringing a tripod to Japan if you are travelling with the wife and normally can only do run and gun style shooting? I do love landscape photography and want to do some low light photography. But in the past more and more places forbid tripod?
FazeX My Meike for A6500 works for the A6400. It is not perfectly matched, but it works. The battery drain while idle seems to be a little worse than on a6500.
Thanks for this , I bought from both Yodobashi and Bic camera the last time I was there, I will try Map camera for some used lenses. People need to be cautious of their duty free limit as if it exceeded they may have to pay import duties to bring the items back into their home countries.
The new camera gear is usually not cheaper than it is in China main-land, but the second hand ones would be much cheaper, especially for old ones like some kind of film cameras. However shipping them to other countries may require tax.
Hi Jason. Japanese version of Sony A7 III cannot select English in language setting menu. People who wants to buy Sony A7 III, they should ask English speaking sales rep and see if it is the international version of Sony A7 III.
Right now at mapcamera, with tax free, a new a9 = 2947 usd (and it was the price 2 months ago too), and a new a7iii = 1770 usd. 1 year warranty. Yes, the menus are in Japanese, but once you configure them, you know which button does what, and you can check menus online in English too, and also use google translate (video mode) to translate them in real time. To me, it was worth it, and my Japanese got better too, free lesson!
Good morning I say your channel with interest I bought a sony a6400 and have moire aliasing I can return the camera because it is in warranty and will it be that if I receive new camera will come with the same problem or happens in all Sony 6400 in I come from Canon and never had moire aliasing ... waiting Reply thank you and I like the reviews
MAP camera is the BEST, I echange my kit lens for other lens and they give me good price for the kit and for the other one. And they are really professional
No tax for gear? Time to book a trip to Japan. Also I own that controversial canon camera 😎This was a great video guys. Very informative. Can’t wait to see what other cool videos you guys got coming out.
I literally spent the whole day in Yodabashi in Akiba. You don't even have to leave to eat! So jealous you can work/live in Japan. I hope one day my channel will be big enough to let me do this.
Honestly one of my goals is to have enough income to work remotely, like doing UA-cam, so I can live in Japan, Vietnam, Thailand, Mexico, and who knows where else!
How about the sony mirrorless cameras that japanese language menu settings only you didn't mention in this video, if you want sony cameras in english menu it's hard to get and expensive
I think $1.400 for high quality glass are very... very... best price South East Asia or Middle East countries would paid around 100-200% from the price tag before tax !! Shinjuki and Akihabara are the paradise for me so far...
In order to get the sales tax refund, you must pay the full price plus tax up front. They will wrap your new gear into a special bag that CANNOT be opened until you leave the country. Then once you're at the airport on the day of your departure, you bring your receipt and your (still fully wrapped) product to a refund counter, and they will refund the sales tax portion to you in Japanese yen, which you will then need to convert back to your home currency. In my opinion, for camera gear, it's not worth the hassle. You will want to use that news lens right away, and testing your equipment is mandatory.
Heads up! Just bought the FX30 in Japan. It only has the menus in Japanese and the warranty only works in Japan. Don't know about other brands, but Sony appparently does this with all cameras. Not impressed, Sony.
I wish I can visit Japan 🇯🇵 some day. It’s an amazing place for almost any type of photography. Looking froward to your night shots from streets of japan 😊👍
Great video ! Btw, have you ever tested the a7rii/a7iii with Atomos Ninja V ? As my current problem is when you call Memory by change dial to 1/2, if record with Ninja V, the auto focus ( wide/ zone) not working at all with all record setting , included full HD 24p or 60p ? The auto focus is totally fine with Ninja V if change dial to Video mode.
do you think as my first full frame/sony camera the a7ii is a good choice? I am looking to get into photography and videography. I want to create travel videos
Absolutely especially because its your first camera and you are not invested in canon/nikon glass. You cannot get a better camera for the price, lenses are a bit pricier but thankfully there are more and more third party lenses from sigma and tamron which fit perfectly on the sony e mount
This videos comes in the perfect timing since I’m travelling to Japan in 15 days. What about film cameras? I’d love to get a Nikon fm2 or fm3. Any advice?
If I really wanted to save money I’d stop watching you. But ima 🐝 honest I have a problem. Lol. I know you talked about the tax discount but I’ve heard they also have another discount if you pay with a credit card is that correct or no?
@@JasonVong So that kind of makes it pointless all in all you get about 13% off (Not including the sale you hit for the Hollidays as you can't count on it when you just visit as a tourist) and if you have any issue you're done. Funny how so many youtubers make it sound like you can get it way cheaper in Japan.
This video is very helpful. Would just add 3 things you forgot to mention. 1. Only if you are TRAVELING in Japan, you can get away with not paying the 8-10% sales tax. The reason they ask for your passport at check-out is because they will look for your travellers visa. So foreigners living in Japan are not exempt from this since we don’t cary travellers visas. 2. A lot of camera products, including the a7iii, are locked. Meaning they are only available to use in the Japanese language unless you download software (free) online in order to unlock the camera. They do this to limit markets. 3.There are actually cheaper places in Akihabara where you can get the camera AND the general lens kit at a much cheaper price. They’re just tiny stores you have to look for within smaller side streets. I recommend going there instead of Shibuya/Shinjuku or Ginza where they tend to sell you only the body at a cheaper price.
Map Camera is the best. I like how they set up their store with different brand of camera & lenses for each floor. Really makes it easier for me as I was looking only for Canon gears.
Dear or dear, I have $ 900 I need a camera to photograph the bodies and I want you as well as the name of the lens that suits the isolation so beautiful
Sony cameras apparently only have Japanese menus and cannot be converted to English menus
[UPDATE] A lot more helpful information was unveiled to me in the comments so I'm adding new info here in the comment and description box! Please look at this first!!
FAQ
1. Would there be a chance of buying a fake camera/lens? Not very likely.
2. Is buying in Japan cheaper? See 02:51
3. Where can I get the best deal? See 03:59
4. Are Used Gear/2nd Hand Items Trustworthy? See 04:16
5. Do I Need My Passport? See 02:51 but YES
6. Don't Know Japanese? I don't either but haven't had any issues dealing with the store reps. They will not take advantage of you or rip you off if that's what you're worried about.
7. Are Japanese Lenses compatible with my Camera? This isn't a Playstation, there aren't any "Region Locks" with camera gear lol
8. Thinking about buying a Sony Camera in Japan?
Make sure the one you're purchasing is an Overseas Model. The typical ones found in stores only contain the Menu Settings in Japanese and it cannot be changed. Unfortunately, Overseas Models tend to be a weebit more expensive so only buy if you absolutely have to!
9. If you pay with a VISA card, you can save an additional 5% off your purchase!!
10. A few native Japanese viewers have informed me that it is possible to bargain the prices at Yodobashi. I'm not sure how much but it sure doesn't hurt to ask!
a6400
This video was perfect timing! I'm going for the first time next week for 10 days (5 in Hamamatsu, 5 in Tokyo) filming for work. Super pumped to explore the camera stores!
Just came back 2 weeks ago!!!!
Panasonic and Sony Camera are only in Japanese. Canon and Nikon in English too. Olympus and Fuji are always the international models.
The Overseas Sony models aren't not interesting, too expensive.
Be careful about the Warranty : only one year. In France, it's 2 years for example. With my Yodobashi card, I have 8% (paid by card), 10 (paid by cash) or 13% (accessory...) off into points that you can use for the next purchase , you can not use simultaneously Tax-Free.
been there. the yadobashi is good but it's more like a tourist trap/consumer grade electronic store. Not a good place for professional or enthusiast. It's like a very big bestbuy. We used to have something like this in NYC called J&R. everything is overpriced or "regular" priced. you won't find too many good deals here. Like Jason said for A7 III. only a measly $60 dollars difference. It sounds nice to once you've bought the camera out of Japan your warranty is out of the window. You would be better off with a gray market in the US. IMO NOT worth $60. You are risking at least 1 year factory warranty and not to mention some of the Japanese camera ONLY have Japanese menu.
"Jason Vong is never wrong". That alone gets my thumbs up for this video. Lol
I need to say it more then!
That line cracked me up hahah
This is just what I needed! After hearing about a friend who bought camera gear in Japan, I wondered how to proceed with it myself. Lo and behold, Jason comes out with a walk-though right here! The power of visualisation, ha!
coming in with that savings!! ;)
Ok man. I totally spit my drink all over living room floor after I heard you say ‘Jason Vong is never wrong’ lol. Nice. You speak the truth. Wasn’t expecting it though.
Between this and all the food, idk if I would ever leave!!
There's a reason I extended my trip lollll well reasonSSSSS
Your videos are smooth as butter! Love the way you vlog and teach as you go! A+ all around!
Thank you Bryan! 🙏🙏🙏
What people need to know and be aware of is the warranty. They don't offer international warranty which means if something happens to your camera and you're no longer in Japan, you'll have to spend for repairs and probably double!
From where I am currently staying (Philippines), units that are not purchased in this country would cost double for repairs vs a unit that was purchased locally.
So getting a unit locally which costs a little more gives you a little assurance and you don't have to worry.
Hope this helps!
Sony has international warranty, no?
You can come back to Japan within a year.
Yes, its called the Grey Market I made that mistake with my first camera bought it overseas could not get local warranty repair could not even pay for repair they just simply said you bought it there you get it repaired there.
So if you intend to stay overseas no problem and yes even Sony has the same grey market policy just check its really easy to do.
Another note to consider when buying 2nd hand camera gear (bodies/lenses) is that if you buy a Japanese model vs Export model (usually this is known by the first 1-2 numbers of the SN) that you may not be able to get them serviced (even at the brand official service centers) outside their region.
Man the best intros in the game 😂😂😂
re: 7 - you answered in 8... There are Japanese models that do not do English language. So yep need O/S model. BEST suggestion for these is just go to Sony Centre in Ginza, go to overseas model purchase (up with the gallery) and they have them for a great price. Like amazing good. (last I was there anyway)
You are funny and the most interesting vlogger I clicked and subscribed to without second thought. Thank you so much for giving useful information in a funny way. Thank you. I love your video
Had a good experience at MAP Camera Shinjuku, their staff can speak English and really helpful.
Japanese people really take good care of their lenses, bought a secondhand like new conditions Sony Zeiss 50mm 1.4 for just USD 1.100 after tax deduction.
All secondhand lenses and cameras are graded and tested, you can check the conditions via web as described in the video.
Whoa! Sweet deal! When I was buying the 16-70mm, they were honest about a speck of dust in the lens even though it didn't show up in any of the photos. That speck of dust brought the price down by a good chunk too!
And you can test the cameras and lenses for a long time (well I spent 1.5 hour), especially useful when you want to compare lenses and pick up the sharper one. Amazing service, well like almost anywhere in Japan.
Hopefully next time Japan, I will get to check out Map Camera or Kitamura. Awesome video Jason
I live in a small rural town in Australia. Got back from Japan earlier this month, literally visited this store in Shinjuku, it absolutely blew me away, everything I've only ever seen online was all out on display, I was in love.
Also found a neat little camera shop in Hiroshima called 日進堂カメラ many great deals on second-hand and "retro" cameras
Imma have to check that one out if I ever go back to Hiroshima!
MAP CAMERA and Kitamura Camera DO sell brand new products and are usually cheaper than BIC and YPDOBASHI. Price of BIC CAMERA and YODOBASHI are expensive sometimes due to their “rebate” system to members. As a foreigner, usually you can get 8% tax free and 7% off coupon(just search with Google, there are a lot) in BIC, however it’s still expensive than MAP and KITAMURA.
Exp. Sony 85mm F1.8 is USD 430.77 in MAP CAMERA and is 455.05 in BIC after 8%+7% coupon. 24-70 GM is 2040.02 in MAP and KITAMURA, the same product is 2108.02 in BIC after 8% + 7%.
A simple way to compare is use kakaku.com. Just type the product name then you will find the price ranking of it. The only thing is you may have to know how to read Katakana to define which store you are looking for.:)
The US Price tags are before tax, its still cheaper in japan
I was at Yodobashi Akihabara last year. It was so overwhelming seeing not just cameras but so many electronics too! Tax free for foreigners is pretty nice. Did visit the Shinjuku location as well and I was overwhelmed for a different reason. So many people!
I had the reversed experience. Akiba was crowded as hell. Shinjuku, at least inside the camera stores, were quite empty during the times i visited
@@JasonVong They're probably off at Kabukicho not too far from there lol. Off topic but thanks for the a6400 videos! I did go with a6400 and now trying to find my way as a hybrid shooter! *bows* Thanks again!
You're welcome!
What does it mean on the boxes "For Japan only" ?
I seriously recommend Kitamura Camera when buying used as I recently bought a very good condition Canon 80D body for about 58000 Japanese yen(520 USD). Also bought a Canon 50mm F1.8 for about 80USD(Brand new) and a Canon 55-250mm lens f4-f5.6 for about 40$
Thats crazy deal! is the menu in english?
This video was a visual feast.
I live in japan and you missed many points (just saw that you posted a message containing infos I already posted, I leave it as it):
1/ some cameras have only Japanese menus (indeed some stores sell English menu more expensive)
2/ buying with a credit card VISA increases the % from 8 to 13% discount !
3/ be careful of the tax at your home country, in France for example they taxe 20% at the clearance (airport)
4/ some stores are more famous for old and rare lens which are pretty good to buy there as second hands but tricky to find those stores easily ;-)
5/ some shops sell coupon (cheaper than normal price) with those coupons you can pay in yodobashi and then making MORE discount
6/ Sony until end of May offers special payback: you need to fill out a paper and send it to an address, for example: 30000¥ less on one camera of the A7 III family and around 10000¥ on some lens! The only problem is to stay longer in japan then few days (to receive the payback)
This is the points which came back to my mind so far
I should've partnered up with you on this video! But I did mention about the Japanese menu!
Jason Vong yes so sorry I read that after I post my answer :(
Anyway your video is great for people having no clues on how to do ;)
I live in Kyoto and If you had time i would like to show you some « forbidden places » where it is tricky to enter normally
Maybe we will have another opportunity
;-)
I will be back again! Was in Kyoto earlier this month!
Jason Vong please let me know it will be great to do something in common (I have a foundation linked to preserve and promote Japanese heritages) ;-)
iRepGuam yes it can decrease drastically quickly
And much more when you track the BEST PRICE first
Thanks for this! I know that the care taken of used gear in Japan is great - so more used gear tips, especially lenses, would be awesome. I appreciate the specificity!
maybe even buying used vintage lenses in Japan?
I think a few blogs covered this topic on vintage lens and I believe they said there are some definite sweet deals on those!
@@JasonVong they cover this topic of buying vintage lenses in Japan?
Don't have the money to buy a camera but "Content is here" plus BTS on the video...never wrong watching this clip
OMG!!!..I'm dreaming "❤"
I just came back from Japan, I purchased Sigma 16mm 1.4 lens for Sony E-mount at Top Camera (Nagoya) for 37,800 yen which is about $80 US cheaper than I could get in Australia. I feel lucky that the lens that I was after was cheap, but looking at most of the lens available I noticed that were generally more expensive.
Map camera is pretty good i bought a sigma 18-35 1.8 for my canon 80D pretty much in brand new condition even tho it was used for 570 and sold it for 600, thumbs up to map camera for amazing used equipment
Can't go wrong with the Vong!
😎
Btw, something else I’ve noticed with my a7 iii (bought in Japan - Japanese version)-> there is NTSC but not the other one. LAN? PAN? so no 25fps options. Instead you’ll have to change your shutter-speed.
The overall look of this video is amazing
Just bought EVERYTHING I was looking for at Yodobashi in Yokohoma. Geeze that place is amazing and slays even the Shibuya Bic stores.
I found my obscure shoe extension, Video Mic Pro+ Deadcat and even the dual plate for my Ronin S. I'll be honest after searching 8 different camera stores in Tokyo I had my doubts but Yodobashi is legit the best!
For used equipment I recommend Fujiya Camera in Nakano (take the Chuo Line to Nakano Station and it's right there). I bought a very nice Sony E 24 1.8 lens for about $500 there (retails for $1100 or so). Their grading is conservative- an AB rank item looked new to me. The staff let me test it as well.
Does map camera send worldwide? Or is there any japanese camera store that ships to Europe?
Hi did you fond the answer to this?
BAHAHA! Best intro ever!
Nice video Jason! I've been living vicariously through your Instagram stories and videos! You forgot to mention that additional 5% off for foreigners when paying with a Visa card. I was in Japan a week ago and got to play with all of the Sigma primes and Batis lenses. You're right, the OLED is dope AFFFFFFFF. I ended up buying an FE 85 1.8. from Yodobashi. Saved so much monies! Also, if you can find another reputable reseller, Yodobashi is willing to price match!
The best "camera shopping in Japan" video ever!!! Was this video recorded in HLG Jason?
Thanks! And I think No PP. Just wanted to have fun when I shot this video :)
Sony mirrorless in Japan does NOT have English settings! Make sure you notice this!
That’s an easy fix.
i just bought 6100 japanese version is there any chance i can get english settings 😔😔
I would love to peruse the used camera gear market in Japan...
I had a buddy who found a used Tokina 28-70mm f/2.8 ATX lens in Canon mount for me in Japan. He knew that I was very fond of Angenieux lenses and this lens was made from the plans of the Angenieux 28-70mm f/2.6 lens. Angenieux found that this lens was too expensive to profitably produce and sold the plans to Tokina. Tokina produced the lens which was designated 28-70mm f/2.6-2.8 ATX in the USA and just 28-70mm f/2.8 ATX for the Japanese market.
I don't know where he got the lens (except that it was in Tokyo) or how much he paid for the lens because he gave it to me as a gift. I absolutely love it.
A follow on to this story is that Tokina also found the lens too expensive to produce and watered it down into a lens designated as the Tokina 28-70mm f/2.8 SP which stood for special value (it wasn't). The SP version is inferior to the original and is the one that is most often found in the USA.
BTW: I just love this lens for shooting people on my full frame Canon DSLR camera...
rpcrowe.smugmug.com/Other/Point-and-shoot/n-nDMWv/i-kXmVhWX
I also use this lens on my crop Canon 7Dii which gives me an effective 45mm to 112mm focal range which is great for people shooting...
In Japan it’s very Common to negotiate the final price in Yodobashi & BIC Camera - You can end up with 600$ off the A7III if you negotiate a bit - You should’ve mentioned that with a bit of research
I had no idea you can negotiate prices on new products! That's awesome!
Definitely digging such videos and guides! I hope to pick up the 85mm gm len this coming Oct when i return to glorious Japan!
I definitely saw some 85GM at map camera!
Jason, is it worth bringing a tripod to Japan if you are travelling with the wife and normally can only do run and gun style shooting? I do love landscape photography and want to do some low light photography. But in the past more and more places forbid tripod?
Hey Jason, Can you use the gear bought in Japan while there or you should keep them unopened to get the tax-free benefit?
But how do you read the Japanese menu on the a7iii bought from Japan? Is there a way to change it to English?
There is also the option to buy an international version of some cameras, 1 year ago I bought my a7 iii for 1700€
I assume that was a good deal?
it currently sells for around 2000€ so yeah, pretty sweet
Very nice!!
@@g3z where you bought them from?
Sony Cameras there all the menus are in Japanese.
Hairee Huzainee you can unlock them with free software. you can find it online
do you have any idea about a6400 vertical battery grip and can you suggest some good 3rd party ones?
Not sure but maybe the meike a6300 version might work.
FazeX My Meike for A6500 works for the A6400. It is not perfectly matched, but it works. The battery drain while idle seems to be a little worse than on a6500.
Thanks for this , I bought from both Yodobashi and Bic camera the last time I was there, I will try Map camera for some used lenses. People need to be cautious of their duty free limit as if it exceeded they may have to pay import duties to bring the items back into their home countries.
The new camera gear is usually not cheaper than it is in China main-land, but the second hand ones would be much cheaper, especially for old ones like some kind of film cameras. However shipping them to other countries may require tax.
Also MAP Camera is totally awesome, probably my favorite camera store on the planet!
So great, you guys did so good!
Does anyone know if there are any compatibility issues if I buy a Sony lens in Japan to use with my Sony a7r iv that I bought in USA?
Can you bargain at Map Camera on used gear, like I normally would, say at my local Samys Camera?
love my some second hand equipment, these camera stores really take care of the gear
and the previous owners too!
Ive been there a year ago. i went in the afternoon. came out at nightime closing already. you can get lost window shopping lol
sounds like time well spent!
Hi Jason. Japanese version of Sony A7 III cannot select English in language setting menu. People who wants to buy Sony A7 III, they should ask English speaking sales rep and see if it is the international version of Sony A7 III.
This is what I did, but the warranty is limited to 1 year.
Right now at mapcamera, with tax free, a new a9 = 2947 usd (and it was the price 2 months ago too), and a new a7iii = 1770 usd. 1 year warranty. Yes, the menus are in Japanese, but once you configure them, you know which button does what, and you can check menus online in English too, and also use google translate (video mode) to translate them in real time. To me, it was worth it, and my Japanese got better too, free lesson!
Brought back some great memories of our trips to Japan and the adventure that is Yodabashi ;-)
Bahahaha! I'm going back today
Awesome job on this video!
Good morning I say your channel with interest I bought a sony a6400 and have moire aliasing I can return the camera because it is in warranty and will it be that if I receive new camera will come with the same problem or happens in all Sony 6400 in I come from Canon and never had moire aliasing ... waiting Reply thank you and I like the reviews
Hey hello I wanna ask.... pricing wise here better or akihabara better?
Yodobashi Shinjuku - Translated from Japanese to Hebrew, then translated into Engrish is B&H.
I believe it!
FUN!!!!!!!!!
MAP camera is the BEST, I echange my kit lens for other lens and they give me good price for the kit and for the other one. And they are really professional
No tax for gear? Time to book a trip to Japan. Also I own that controversial canon camera 😎This was a great video guys. Very informative. Can’t wait to see what other cool videos you guys got coming out.
Can definitely find a lot of cheap Canon gear here!
I literally spent the whole day in Yodabashi in Akiba. You don't even have to leave to eat! So jealous you can work/live in Japan. I hope one day my channel will be big enough to let me do this.
Haha I wish I lived here!
Honestly one of my goals is to have enough income to work remotely, like doing UA-cam, so I can live in Japan, Vietnam, Thailand, Mexico, and who knows where else!
Shooting on the a6400 here? What lense are you using in your intro? I notice you throwing up your hands.. tripod or is your better half recording?
Book off also has toys and video games. Hard off will have camera stuff. I got a Ricoh GR at the More's in Kawasaki for US$220.
Yodabashi has promo where they’ll give you an extra 3-5% discount by using a specific credit card (Visa, Master card, etc)
Need an update
Jason hi! Question at f4 is there a difference in image quality between the 18-105 and 18-135? And At the same focal length?
maf36 its same
ofsanli thank you!
How about the sony mirrorless cameras that japanese language menu settings only you didn't mention in this video, if you want sony cameras in english menu it's hard to get and expensive
I had a foot note in the video to say look at the description box on this matter. But I guess I should've just mentioned in the video
i know the camera is outdated now but can you make a video original a7 for the best lenses
Mapcamera is simply amazing for selling off yr old gear n buying new ones
Wow that’s an amazing store! Lol testing out is awesome I’ve been to Best Buy’s that don’t have functioning demo cameras
As seen in Interstellar, the time goes differently to the outside there 🚀🌌
I think $1.400 for high quality glass are very... very... best price
South East Asia or Middle East countries would paid around 100-200% from the price tag before tax !!
Shinjuki and Akihabara are the paradise for me so far...
What about the warranty? Aren't these grey market because they don't have US warranties?
Paradise
Literally in Heaven
In order to get the sales tax refund, you must pay the full price plus tax up front. They will wrap your new gear into a special bag that CANNOT be opened until you leave the country. Then once you're at the airport on the day of your departure, you bring your receipt and your (still fully wrapped) product to a refund counter, and they will refund the sales tax portion to you in Japanese yen, which you will then need to convert back to your home currency. In my opinion, for camera gear, it's not worth the hassle. You will want to use that news lens right away, and testing your equipment is mandatory.
True but you can test the gear in the store before they wrap it up.
Heads up! Just bought the FX30 in Japan. It only has the menus in Japanese and the warranty only works in Japan. Don't know about other brands, but Sony appparently does this with all cameras. Not impressed, Sony.
I wish I can visit Japan 🇯🇵 some day. It’s an amazing place for almost any type of photography. Looking froward to your night shots from streets of japan 😊👍
日本からカメラを購入するにはどうすればよいですか？
What lens should I buy sir for my a6400 tnx
Great video ! Btw, have you ever tested the a7rii/a7iii with Atomos Ninja V ? As my current problem is when you call Memory by change dial to 1/2, if record with Ninja V, the auto focus ( wide/ zone) not working at all with all record setting , included full HD 24p or 60p ? The auto focus is totally fine with Ninja V if change dial to Video mode.
bought an a7rii from Jap pretty nice man ! nice vid my guy!
Was the menu in Japanese?
I meant the Camera Menu Settings
@@JasonVong everything was in English bro
Nice!!
Very useful video
A7iii or A7sii ?
i want upgrade from sony a6500
Thanks
do you think as my first full frame/sony camera the a7ii is a good choice? I am looking to get into photography and videography. I want to create travel videos
Absolutely especially because its your first camera and you are not invested in canon/nikon glass. You cannot get a better camera for the price, lenses are a bit pricier but thankfully there are more and more third party lenses from sigma and tamron which fit perfectly on the sony e mount
wow Camera store heaven.. I live in the Philippines the plane tickets from here to Japan is already gonna burn my wallet,just too expensive!
Very useful! Thankyou
Hi Jason! Would you recommend buying the a6400 in Japan over Hongkong? Is it cheaper in Japan? Thanks!
Word has it Mongkok City always got the BEST deals in HK.
Thank you very much for the reply. God bless!
@@SunnyNatividad Hong Kong is heaven for camera gear. Bought my A7 III and two lenses over there. Way cheaper than in Japan / US / Europe.
Do they take credit cards at yodobashi?
Yes! Even an extra discount if you use a Visa I believe!
Better price in Japan but can avoid taxes when shipping to Europe? Not really.
Yeah, you gotta buy it in Japan. Shipping is a whole 'nother ordeal.
This videos comes in the perfect timing since I’m travelling to Japan in 15 days. What about film cameras? I’d love to get a Nikon fm2 or fm3. Any advice?
If I really wanted to save money I’d stop watching you. But ima 🐝 honest I have a problem. Lol. I know you talked about the tax discount but I’ve heard they also have another discount if you pay with a credit card is that correct or no?
a 5% discount!!
@@JasonVong So that kind of makes it pointless all in all you get about 13% off (Not including the sale you hit for the Hollidays as you can't count on it when you just visit as a tourist) and if you have any issue you're done. Funny how so many youtubers make it sound like you can get it way cheaper in Japan.
I really thought it was a lot cheaper in Japan. I was Vong... I mean wrong! Thanks for clearing that up :-)
What kind of camera store has a no camera policy. F that place.
Probably to prevent competitive pricing? Idk I think it's silly too but it's common for second hand stores here to have a no camera policy
Save...Noted for next time to go to japan
Yas!!
Save money and take a flight to Hong Kong - way cheaper dude
There is a good camera store in Shibuya up the left road of Starbucks.
As much as I don't like your voice. I Still find your videos & contents are among the best, very interesting. Congrats on you bro!!!
😭😭😭
@@JasonVong haha please, don't go emotional over what I said. You're doing totally fine. Loving it