Hello, I'm a Japanese. If you did it miss in Japan, we don't angry. Because you are guest and have interested about Japan, visit there. We don't think any foreign tourist follow all rules of Japan. "Learn by mistake". Take it easy and welcome to Japan.
Nice question. :-) Actually I'm learning Chinese mandarin, so I made my own name by simple Chinese. I like Taiwan, I can input also traditional Chinese.
I saw another video within the last few months and the host said you can smoke in restaurants, but not in the street. Uhh... *what!?* Here in the US, people have a $h*t fit when you light up in a public building.
As a Japanese, I do agree with this video, have see some foreigners do stuff they are not suppose to be doing, but I so help them correct their mistake. (Sorry for bad english)
@Cernunnos Karn It's both singular and plural, meaning it can be either. Thus, the movie can be taken as calling either the group, or simply Tom Cruise's character 'the last samurai'.
sethsassy you understood him, and so did a lot of other people, including me. so, what’s wrong with his English? stop being a fuckface. Happy New Years.
I would add two things - don’t forget that cash is king. Credit cards are not widely accepted and don’t be freaked out by all the sick masks. They are very commonplace and can even be fashionable in different districts.
Really? I had no problems using my cards but I had to let my bank know I was in Japan, and I have a chip card. I didn’t do a lot of rural travel though. Great list Mark!
Cards are fine in most big cities, especially tourism sites, but ALWAYS have cash on you. Many places you'll be surprised that they only take cash. Many Mcdonalds and fast food places only use cash. If you are talking department stores, big museums and attractions, or even convenience stores, you'll be fine using your card. But always always have cash on you in some capacity. It was hard to make the transitions somewhat as I almost exclusively used my debit and credit cards in my home in the US, but here? Yes, use cash.
Neville6000 That can depend on your job and how you got your apartment in the first place. I am an English teacher and they gave me an apartment when I got here. Because of the way my job is set up, the rent is subsidized and they take out the rent from my paycheck before I even get it. (I get direct deposit.) So, I do have automatic payment of my rent. But that isn't everyone.
The odd part is that the suicide forest is at the center of the green line of 5 Lake Fuji, a big tourist spot. The maps they give you have pathways for the suicide forest with one hitting center of the forest, and it's surounded with big tourist attractions. I being to the forest, and once you get passed the fact that people suicide, it is a beautiful forest. PS. Wouldn't recommend going after 3pm, and going off the path from its neighbor forest (they also suicide there)
One suggestion for a future video is "Top Things to Never Bring to Another Country". Many foreigners have been arrested for being in possession of something that was legal in their home country, but illegal in their destination. For example, it is illegal to bring a drone into Egypt, even a small one just to record your adventures. More personal (and related to this video) to us is that the husband of a family friend was actually arrested in Japan for possession of THC infused coffee beans. Long story short, he was in Japanese jail for 5 weeks before being given a suspended sentence on the grounds that he leave Japan immediately. Even possession of a USA legal prescription medication such as Adderall can get someone arrested in another country for importing an "illegal narcotic". I enjoy traveling, and I thoroughly familiarize myself with the local laws of other countries. Love your videos, keep up the good work.
Definitely very important advice. I spent a year abroad studying in Japan, and familiarized myself with all prescription laws before traveling, how much medicine I could take with me, etc. Another guy who was supposed to go through the same program decided to travel around Europe before going, was stupid enough to buy weed in Amsterdam and fly to Japan with it. He was arrested at the airport, staying incarcerated for a month, and was then deported, losing his right to the exchange program spot (which was an all-paid scholarship).
My nephew lives near Kyoto and is married to a Japanese girl. He absolutely loves Japan and does not even like to visit the USA anymore. He said you really need to know some Japanese, especially if you travel outside the major cities like Kyoto, Osaka and Tokyo. As for the noise, it is far less acceptable in Japan as compared to the USA. People tend to be much more stoic and quiet. He told me that he can generally pick out Americans with out even looking by the noise level they create.
@@maegalroammis6020 it seems like that everywhere nowadays although it looks like they developed it first and they pay a price for that they die alone. Look up kodkuashi.
I'd say "Don't film a dead body and upload the video to the internet" and "Don't be a loud, obnoxious git in public" and "Don't take things that don't belong to you without permission" would be the general "Don'ts" of life.
I think this was a record for the number of 'don'ts'. However you missed a few. The onsen hot spring has a lot of rules. Rules that are taken so seriously that they are willing to kick you out. 1. No soap in the bath. You have to bathe with soap before or after dipping in the hot bath. The hot bath is only for relaxing not cleaning. Be sure you don't dirty the water with your dirt or soap. 2. Most onsens will not let you in if you have a tattoo. Tattoos are a huge no no here because of their conation to the mafia (Yakuza). You might have to cover your tattoo with a bandage or even tape. Some sentos (artificial onsen) and onsens might let you in, but they may be harder to find and much less touristy. 3. You have to go naked. No swimsuits or any clothing is allowed in an onsen. It will feel a bit odd walking around naked, but people are very respectful. They might even be more respectful in the bath than on the street. As for the escalators, Kobe and Osaka are reverse of Kyoto and Tokyo. Excellent video Wolters World!
Sadly, I don't think so. They are stupid serious about the subject. The mayor of Osaka even fired all of the city employees who had tattoos a few years ago. This was completely idiotic because some police had to get tattoos in order to work undercover in the yakuza. If you don't mind duct tape on those areas it might be ok.
Depends on which train and subway you are talking about and what city you're in. Some places, especially the Shikansen, it's perfectly fine. JR lines, you can eat but be courteous and discreet. You can drink anything you want. Subway? Well, my city doesn't have a subway, only a monorail. For that, you don't really eat. It's too short a distance.
I should have been more specific, i meant while walking through the station. I did it (quite discreetly mind you) and everyone suddenly as one turned to glare at me. It was like something out of Invasion of the Body Snatchers.
Hmm, it might be the region. Some regions are a little more traditional and push the social rules. Others are very lax in that area. While not a lot people eat while at the station where I live, if you do it discreetly, nobody will care. When I went to Okinawa, that was the most lax of all the areas I've been in Japan. It really depends.
It has a monorail and that's pretty much it. In my area we kind of colloquially call all of these "trains", so it's a little hard for me to distinguish when talking plainly. :p
Basically. The biggest don't for anything in the world ever is "don't be like Logan Paul." That guy is quite literally the most disrespectful guy I've ever seen anywhere.
I said "dumb bitch, I could use a tube of Crest! Or the milk in your breasts or a fucking piece of crayon I'm Los, I shake earth like a Hiroshima A-bomb I does it all day long
One think I like about your videos.....u always care about local culture and customs regardless of the country. This makes you stand out from other travel vloggers.
wow mark, most comprehensive video on japan. i don't think i've heard of like 95% of those tips - you make me want to go now! ("don't be rambunctious.." love it - lol!)
I'm sorry I missed you guys! I live in Osaka. I could have shown you around. By the way, you missed a few more don'ts on the onsen. I just posted a comment talking about that.....nonetheless this video seems to have a record on the don'ts. You had a lot to talk about. Thank you for your videos!!!
About getting in and out of a train/bus - I didn't know that stepping out and waiting for ppl to get out is not the case in Germany. Here in Poland (c. 60 miles from German border) it's rather obvious and common to do it in a ''Japanese way''.
@@BadWolfSilence or maybe they barely have any free days from their jobs. Sadly not everyone gets to have vacations. Some people only save Saturday and Sunday to stay off work.
Japan is a totally AWESOME place to visit! My husband, Mark, has been 35 times now, and we thought this video was very good. There is one thing you forgot, and that’s don’t forget to carry toilet paper and a hand towel with you. Many public parks and temples won’t have either, so it’s especially important for women. Also, as far as people speaking English, we have never found a lack of English speakers in any of the big cities like Tokyo, Osaka or Kyoto. My tip is, look for the young people when you need help. They all take English in school now, so while many of the older people don’t speak it, the younger folks will, and they are more than willing to help you out.
When I went to Japan a couple of years ago (2015), I noticed a lot of Japanese people spoke English or another language other than Japanese. I only knew basic Japanese phrases but was able to get around because I encountered people that spoke English and Spanish. That being said learning the language before a trip is always a great option!
Almost all of them know how to speak basic English. It is taught in the schools. They just prefer not to and sometimes pretend to not understand. They are often embarrassed bc it’s not perfect English but who cares.
Interesting... Pausing the video at the start to see if I can guess any... Don't tip Don't expect anyone to speak English Don't be surprised at how nice Japanese people are Don't be surprised about how clean everywhere is. Let's see how I do!.....
Spot on, but a lot of these foreigner can get away with, we know you dont know all rule, basically just be respectful, we will understand and apriciate your effert. 😊🇯🇵❤
I have been waiting for this so long as a Japanese citizen!! I hope you and your family are having a good time in Japan :) I see many comments such as "a visit to Japan was a big cultural shock" and it makes me think how different and unique Japan is compared to other countries. I really would like to feel that!!
Hey... I actually saw you in Kyoto near the bridge east of downtown Kyoto. I wanted to say hi, but was too busy chasing my wife and my cousin who were way ahead of me. But anyway, Kyoto was chilly and beautiful during Thanksgiving week. And to the visitors: you must carry cash, especially if you're going to eat/drink from street vendors, food court, or convenient stores.
The “don’t be loud on transport and in public “is my favorite, honestly, I hate trying to eat and having Joe Shmoe over there being loud enough to be heard across the room. I also make sure to always carry headphones with me on public transport. I don’t use my phone to make calls while riding either. I’m not Japanese, but I don’t like it when people make a ton of noise. Maybe I’m just a private person. So, I just really agree with them on that one.
heh, i understand disliking noisy people in public places. but your example of trying to eat in peace - when he says slurping isn't rude - that's because it's really common to hear loud slurping noises. i personally can't stand it but if i travel to an Asian country - it's just the norm
Yeah the U.S should adopt that custom I hate all the lame ass rude people at the stores or restaurants who yell for nothing or have music playing loud when you just want to enjoy a nice meal and most of the time it's not even good music. I especially hate the type of people that ride the bus, I hate public transportation, good thing I don't have to take the stupid bus to work anymore it made me want to go postal lol
@@MajinBuuButtercup You can thank the liberals for that. We used to have uniform social niceties, then the '60s happened, and the liberals made sure those were the first things to go.
Captain Obvious they’re even taking it to a whole new level now, where you can’t help your friends or family, because it’s not fair to those who have neither. EVERYONE has to fend for themselves, only the government is allowed to help anyone. They think if you’re helping someone, you have to help literally anyone and everyone, or you’re being greedy or discriminatory, and/or you have too much for yourself, so everything must be taken from you. Also having kids you can’t afford automatically means you deserve what other people without kids, (who were raised to not have children they’re not financially prepared for, or are just unable to have kids for whatever reasons) have or will have in the future. It’s completely asinine.
Awesome tips Mark! I'm in Osaka right now. You explained some things I was wondering about. I feel a little more prepared to explore this amazing country. Happy trails.
Thanks Gabriel. Appreciate the kind words from a rock star traveler like you. Love your videos. Have a great time in Japan. Looking forward to your videos!
Cool. Hopefully one day we will bump into each other on the road. Would love to do a couple videos with you. I appreciate your realistic honest approach to travel and culture.
Weirdly, despite the two countries common ancestry, they are very different from each other. Practically opposites. Japan is the cleanest and safest of all the East Asian lands I've been too. (South Korea, Hong Kong, and Singapore being the other ones). They are also the most reserved and orderly. I had become so used to the order of Japan that it was actually a jolt when going to the other nations.
Exactly. Easily summarized this way. Would you buy a Japanese-made car? Oh hell yes! Would you buy a Chinese-made car? Uh... I think I'll pass on that. I prefer not to get stranded and I prefer my car to not collapse in on me if hit...
Many ways China and Japan are similar due to heavy cultural influence from Chinese mainland to Japan and the other way around. Language (letters), philosophy, religion, ethnic (even though we have been separated tens of thousands of years, so we are in different sub group). Paintings, poems, calligraphies, ancient buildings, go on and on. :)
Also a lot of Chinese traditional crafts are unbelievably well made and precise and breathtaking. :) Most expensive Chinese teas are hand picked and processed manually and cost a fortune, but incredibly tasty that you would remember the rest of your life. :) I can’t afford those traditional crafts because they are super expensive...
Japan was a very big culture shock as my first overseas destination. I am very glad I spent 8 weeks learning the language as even basic phrases went along way when conversing with locals. As far as cash/money goes I found the best place to get money out was at the ATMs inside 7/11 as they stay open later. I also had more luck with my Aussie travel card being accepted compared to the local banks ATMs. Food there was really good even something as simple as the Sushi over there was far better than in any Western country.
This applies in every country! Haven’t been to Japan yet, but I went to France not too long ago and spent a month learning French beforehand. The way many of the locals treated me vs how they treated my dad (who didn’t learn any French beforehand) was quite significant. And I only knew a bit of basic French. Later on, my dad picked a up a few phrases and people were kinder to him. It just goes to show how knowing a bit of the language in any country can work miracles.
I've loved anime for almost 16 years now and i've had a slight interest in japan and visting, this video was also very informative and makes me want to visit more.
If you are looking for garbage/recycle bins, you'll always find them outside of convenience stores. Many places also have dedicated cigarette butt bins (usually in smoking areas) so don't just dump them in the regular trash either. Being quiet on public transportation shows respect for others (who wants to listen to your conversation? No one!). I live in Kyoto and you can definitely hear the tourists long before you ever see them. (Oh, and great videos Mark!)
I wish England was more like this. I would love to visit Japan one day. I admire the culture and the people. They are so respectful so I wish to do nothing but respect them back.
I learned quite a few of these tips when I was over in Japan in 2014 as opposed to before going there. I learned pretty quickly that eating while walking was frowned upon, by taking the precautionary measure of watching what everyone else was doing (or not doing) and 9 times out of 10, that was the right way. These are things that I now know for when I return there one day. Definitely loved Tokyo, but loved Kyoto and so many other places I visited! Also, being from Australia, the thing that blew my mind was that you could not only buy alcohol on the platform at the train station, but also drink alcohol on the Shinkansen (bullet train). In Australia where I’m from, you can get a fine if you drink on any public transport and in a lot of public places (excluding parks).
I think about Japan a lot, a lot of countries could learn from them. There's a village somewhere in the mountains of Japan called the Koi village, everyone grows their own kind of Koi carp with its own unique patterns and colours, I love their enthusiasm.
Thanks for the informative vid .Japan is next on my list of places to visit.My dad served here in the military during the 50's and I loved seeing the photos he took while stationed there.
Wow. Lots of wonderful new footage; shrines & temples, foliage, neon lights, slippers, food! @4:32 Japanese sweets. 👍 Looking forward to the tasting video. Caleb's reaction biting the octopus @8:45 😂 Yup. The two hand business card exchange is the very first thing you learn when colleagues from Japan visit the states. Liam @12:47 is hilarious. Fantastic video, Mark.
Absolutely fantastic video. My wife and I are planning to visit Japan from the US. We’re nervous about the language barriers but very excited to learn their customs and experience the country. Very informative video
Chelsea Dau there are A LOT of smokers there and they have public vending machines selling cigarettes. It's just very dense in a lot of areas, so the second hand smoke when walking irritated enough people that they decided to pass a law against that, but most cafes, bars, and restaurants allow for smoking indoors, making it very hard to avoid in those places. I think it'd actually be better if they reversed it as at least the smoke outdoors is easier to avoid and dissipates faster.
Yeah, got to agree there is a good amount of indoor smoking allowed in Japan compared to the States. I'd say a lot of places have pretty good ventilation though. One very small restaurant I ate at someone was smoking but once they were done the smell/smoke almost instantly dissipated. Though I did go into a small retro arcade that was part of a video game store and that was just basically a smokey haze. I'd say most places are really well marked letting you know where people can smoke (and thus avoid as a non-smoker).
Those signs are marked to not to smoke in the area, there are whole neighborhoods and streets that are not allowed to smoke in (In Osaka center, Hiroshima next to schools). But you can find special smoking area almost everywhere, so walking and smoking in forbidden area is a crime. Other than that no one will stop you.
Amazing that you know so much about so many places! I live in the Netherlands and was amazed that you could tell the visitor things about this country. That's pretty clever if you ask me. Thank you.
i live in Okinawa, Japan bc my husband is a service member, this video is pretty on point but Kon’nichiwa actually means “good afternoon” in japanese, they have different phrases to the time of day. “goodmorning” is Ohayōgozaimasu and “good evening” is Konbanwa! anyways, i love you channel, i’m originally from Lousiana and your videos dedicated to the south are spot on!
I've been to Japan. I loved it.. I just wish you would post this BEFORE my trip.. I learned a lot 'What not to do the hard way...still lots of fun...and would love to go back...greetings from Canada
About the rail pass: until 31 march 2018 it should be possible to actually buy the pass in Japan, as part of an experiment. It is however about 10% more expensive then when you order it beforehand. Also about the escalators: in Osaka it is the other way around: stand on the right, walk on the left. I noticed that in other places in Kansai, it's kind of a mix. Everywhere else in Japan: indeed stand on the left. Also, I don't think Japan is actually that expensive to visit. It's not as cheap as many other Asian countries, but compared to western Europe or the US I'd say Japan is quite a bit cheaper in most aspects. Hotels are a lot cheaper, food is quite cheap, entry prices are usually pretty decent. The main exception is travelling longer distances, especially with the shinkansen it's pretty pricey. But that's where the JRP helps out. Highway/overnight buses and also lowcost airlines can sometimes be a good (cheap) alternative. I can imagine it being different when travelling with a family or friends, but especially for solo travellers Japan isn't too bad at all.
+WizardOfOss thanks wizard. Helpful stuff. I tried to mention that it's not stand on the left everywhere because you are so right it changes place by place. Which I'm still trying to figure it out
In Osaka they just try to do everything the exact opposite way from Tokyo ;-) Just curious: was this your first time in Japan? And what other cities besides Tokyo en Kyoto have you been? I'm looking forward to more videos!
You're right. Especially from Europe, the flight times and costs are pretty similar to going to the US. Cost of hotels and food was actually a bit cheaper than in Europe. And this was for a couple on their honeymoon, so not the cheapest hotels. Our policy when it came to left/right on the stairs/escalators etc was simply to follow the crowd. If there wasn't a crowd, walk on the left and avoid any cyclists, they tend to go everywhere...
With the escalators, it's easy to work out which side to stand on, just watch what everyone else does. We were based in Osaka, (my wife is Japanese) and when we went to Kyoto and other places it was different, but it takes less than a second to get it.
I'd definitely also advise picking up either a Suica or Passmo card if you're staying in Tokyo for a decent length of time - basically top up cards for the underground system.
I wanna learn Japanese so I can go there and buy action figures to my stop motion lol! Seriously tho I always love Japanese culture and this has been an informative video!
I miss Japan so much! It's such a beautiful country with amazing food and very friendly people. I would also add to be aware of seats for seniors. I was in Yokohama on a public bus, sitting and talking to my friend and an older person came to me and told me that these seats were for seniors. We immediately stood up. All people in the bus were looking at us and it was so akward. After that we only used taxi service or metro lol.
I lived in one of those traditional homes with paper-thin walls. And the guests next room came back late from a wedding and were really noisy. We had to go tell the owners to ask them to be quiet. After that, they whispered everything, which we could still hear every word of....so keep that in mind when staying at traditional homes.
That was quite informative! the thing about the chop sticks and using two hands to give and receive was something I've never heard anybody else mention in travel videos!!
Once you integrate in the culture, It’s not like some perpetual inconvenience to follow the customs. It will take time to get used to of course but you’ll probably surprise yourself by how quickly you adapt
God bless you and your family! I'm visiting Japan in 3 weeks as i travel the world riding rollercoasters! I'm also snowboarding Mt. Fuji - can you BELIEVE that's a thing?! great advice and May our paths cross someday!
This is definitely a country on my bucket list and thanks for the knowledge of what to not because I hate going to foreign countries and looking like a fool
How about, when you go into a respectable sushi restaurant, don't expect to be served California/Dynamite/Caterpillar/Spicy Whatever Rolls like all the Chinese-owned places in North America. Trying to order those could get you ejected by the chef who had to apprentice 10+ years to learn proper sushi technique....
Not necessarily, it depends on what kind of sushi place you are going to. If you go to a cheaper place, like the conveyor belt ones, you will run into things like California rolls.
Non-Japanese has no chance to eat at a proper sushi restaurant without a Japanese guide with proper sushi knowledge (a lot of Japanese has never been to a proper sushi restaurant). Unless you have a right person with you, I wouldn’t recommend to try them in Japan. You can go to casual ones in Japan where all tourists go. You have better chance to have a great sushi experience in NYC if you don’t speak Japanese.
well duh if the chef cant understand you then youll probably be asked to leave, but they dont eject people based on anything but that. if you can order and pay, you can eat
Thank you. I been wanting to visit Japan for years. I hope to go soon. My father was Japanese and I feel the desire to see his root culture. I love your video. Your heart is in the right place to let us know the small things, because is the little things that turn out to do or create the big feelings good effects. 👍🏼👍🏼
1
Don’t be Logan Paul
I wish Logan Paul would follow this advice in general.
Logan Paul should be barred from ever leaving the United States. The less people like him go abroad, the less we look like childish assholes.
It’s all about the r e s p e c t
Tommy boy Fuck that, send him to North Korea or to the moon.
nickiboi nickman 2. don't be a butthurt liberal
Hello, I'm a Japanese.
If you did it miss in Japan, we don't angry. Because you are guest and have interested about Japan, visit there.
We don't think any foreign tourist follow all rules of Japan. "Learn by mistake".
Take it easy and welcome to Japan.
吃狗的赵国是世界的包袱 Beautiful country and traditions! Preserve them well!
Nice question. :-)
Actually I'm learning Chinese mandarin, so I made my own name by simple Chinese.
I like Taiwan, I can input also traditional Chinese.
Arigatou Gozaimasu! X3
The japanese people i know are the kindest People i have ever met. I don't think that tourists with wrong behaviour woul'd make em angry
I took a trip to Japan and they didn’t speak in subtitles, they lied to me
Sasuke Uchiha lol the best word to learn in japan is sumimasen, I just say that shot on repeat while walking thru a crowd.
Domo Arigatto Mr Roboto
😂😂😂😂
I love naruto
All anime
I feel like Japan would be the perfect place to enable my social anxiety
DesertSmeagle big facts
True
Yeah try working there, they treat employees like that and you got no choice but to face it
Was just thinking the same thing😏
if i were you i would go to the country areas of japan where theres no one and its very nice
I would end up disrespecting someone without even knowing
that chin of yours is crimsonly offensive
I'd probably accidentally offend someone and get impaled with a samurai sword.
I have found Japanese to be very forgiving to mistakes
no worries foreigners always do that no matter where they go.
you should see the Germans in the summer here..
@@catnium what do they do ?
Japan: "Don't be loud, don't smoke in public, don't be late"
My italian ass thrown in prison after 5 minutes in Japan: "excuse me wtf"
Most Italian comment I have seen on UA-cam
I saw another video within the last few months and the host said you can smoke in restaurants, but not in the street. Uhh... *what!?* Here in the US, people have a $h*t fit when you light up in a public building.
Lmao
😂
Being late is kind of a family tradition with me
In Japan, the toilet pees on you.
or IN you XD
I live in japan and this is so true
The heated seats tho are sooo Good in the winter
Soviet Russia, eat your heart out.
True! I want to go there but I’m a bit scared and also my parents don’t want me there
As a Japanese, I do agree with this video, have see some foreigners do stuff they are not suppose to be doing, but I so help them correct their mistake. (Sorry for bad english)
Zwizard247 actually really good english!
Thank you for your understanding of tourists! Your English is pretty great so no worries!
And I'm sure they love it and are really appreciative when you point it out to them, NOT!
現在アメリカに住んでいて、英語を話すときに少しアクセントを失ったロシア人として、私は外国人が自分の文化や習慣を知っているときに、アゼイン諸国（日本、中国、カンボジアなど）彼らの言語の少なくとも少し。特にスリランカの人々は、私がアジアへの最後の旅行に行きました。
Zwizard247 *s o r r y f o r b a d e n g l i s h*
Don’t tell the locals that Tom Cruise was the last samurai
Oh. I'm telling.
This comment brings me nostalgia.
ビデオの男は連続殺人犯です
@Cernunnos Karn It's both singular and plural, meaning it can be either. Thus, the movie can be taken as calling either the group, or simply Tom Cruise's character 'the last samurai'.
Imma just translate "I'm sorry, I'm an American" to Japanese and put that on a shirt
You should probably learn to speak and spell English correctly before you do that.
@@sethsassy mmmmmmmm..........nah
U got my like😂 that’s actually a great idea👍 happy New Years
sethsassy
you understood him, and so did a lot of other people, including me. so, what’s wrong with his English? stop being a fuckface. Happy New Years.
sethsassy They spelt everything correctly, though.
This guy knows how to live
+Codeman785 :)
If you had his money you would likely be the same way too.
@@Neville60001 Which video?
Reminds me of Mario Batalli. Love the guy, seems nice.
I would add two things - don’t forget that cash is king. Credit cards are not widely accepted and don’t be freaked out by all the sick masks. They are very commonplace and can even be fashionable in different districts.
Donald Lewis I filmed a don’t forget cash part but couldn’t find it in all my b roll :) it is so true. Cash cash cash :)
Really? I had no problems using my cards but I had to let my bank know I was in Japan, and I have a chip card. I didn’t do a lot of rural travel though. Great list Mark!
Let me give you an example how cash is king in japan: I receive my monthly salary in cash and I go pay my rent in cash... no joke...
Cards are fine in most big cities, especially tourism sites, but ALWAYS have cash on you. Many places you'll be surprised that they only take cash. Many Mcdonalds and fast food places only use cash. If you are talking department stores, big museums and attractions, or even convenience stores, you'll be fine using your card. But always always have cash on you in some capacity. It was hard to make the transitions somewhat as I almost exclusively used my debit and credit cards in my home in the US, but here? Yes, use cash.
Neville6000 That can depend on your job and how you got your apartment in the first place. I am an English teacher and they gave me an apartment when I got here. Because of the way my job is set up, the rent is subsidized and they take out the rent from my paycheck before I even get it. (I get direct deposit.) So, I do have automatic payment of my rent. But that isn't everyone.
You forgot one : Don't go into the suicide forest and film a hanging corpse then proceed to laugh about it
that's real? O_O
Chao Flaka You didn't hear what happened a month ago?
i found out soon after posting that comment..... -_-
jks. ..
The odd part is that the suicide forest is at the center of the green line of 5 Lake Fuji, a big tourist spot. The maps they give you have pathways for the suicide forest with one hitting center of the forest, and it's surounded with big tourist attractions.
I being to the forest, and once you get passed the fact that people suicide, it is a beautiful forest.
PS. Wouldn't recommend going after 3pm, and going off the path from its neighbor forest (they also suicide there)
One suggestion for a future video is "Top Things to Never Bring to Another Country". Many foreigners have been arrested for being in possession of something that was legal in their home country, but illegal in their destination. For example, it is illegal to bring a drone into Egypt, even a small one just to record your adventures. More personal (and related to this video) to us is that the husband of a family friend was actually arrested in Japan for possession of THC infused coffee beans. Long story short, he was in Japanese jail for 5 weeks before being given a suspended sentence on the grounds that he leave Japan immediately. Even possession of a USA legal prescription medication such as Adderall can get someone arrested in another country for importing an "illegal narcotic". I enjoy traveling, and I thoroughly familiarize myself with the local laws of other countries. Love your videos, keep up the good work.
That’s very interesting. Thank you for the tip. I’m on 2 different medications so I would have to look into them before travelling
Definitely very important advice. I spent a year abroad studying in Japan, and familiarized myself with all prescription laws before traveling, how much medicine I could take with me, etc. Another guy who was supposed to go through the same program decided to travel around Europe before going, was stupid enough to buy weed in Amsterdam and fly to Japan with it. He was arrested at the airport, staying incarcerated for a month, and was then deported, losing his right to the exchange program spot (which was an all-paid scholarship).
Sheesh, what a headache. And here I am worried that I’ll be sent to jail over Benadryl and epipens.
My nephew lives near Kyoto and is married to a Japanese girl.
He absolutely loves Japan and does not even like to visit the USA anymore.
He said you really need to know some Japanese, especially if you
travel outside the major cities like Kyoto, Osaka and Tokyo.
As for the noise, it is far less acceptable in Japan as compared
to the USA. People tend to be much more stoic and quiet.
He told me that he can generally pick out Americans with out
even looking by the noise level they create.
I like quietness I’m just a quiet guy but I do have a Japanese girlfriend that I plan to visit her on summer of 2021
@@Lucrativecris let us know how it goes!
he must be masochist. living among two-faced people and behave like a robot everyday
@@maegalroammis6020 why watch a video about how to act Japanese-ish when in Japan, if you don't like how the Japanese act?
@@maegalroammis6020 it seems like that everywhere nowadays although it looks like they developed it first and they pay a price for that they die alone. Look up kodkuashi.
Logan Paul should have watched this before he took his trip :P
Logan Paul is a dipshit I wish I could apologize to Japan because of his bullshit
It's not like he'd take any of those tips to heart.
He already publicly humiliated himself.
I'd say "Don't film a dead body and upload the video to the internet" and "Don't be a loud, obnoxious git in public" and "Don't take things that don't belong to you without permission" would be the general "Don'ts" of life.
He needs a video on common decency
I think this was a record for the number of 'don'ts'.
However you missed a few. The onsen hot spring has a lot of rules. Rules that are taken so seriously that they are willing to kick you out.
1. No soap in the bath. You have to bathe with soap before or after dipping in the hot bath. The hot bath is only for relaxing not cleaning. Be sure you don't dirty the water with your dirt or soap.
2. Most onsens will not let you in if you have a tattoo. Tattoos are a huge no no here because of their conation to the mafia (Yakuza). You might have to cover your tattoo with a bandage or even tape. Some sentos (artificial onsen) and onsens might let you in, but they may be harder to find and much less touristy.
3. You have to go naked. No swimsuits or any clothing is allowed in an onsen. It will feel a bit odd walking around naked, but people are very respectful. They might even be more respectful in the bath than on the street.
As for the escalators, Kobe and Osaka are reverse of Kyoto and Tokyo.
Excellent video Wolters World!
i have serval large tattoos on my arm shoulder to wrist. do you think i could get in somehow
Sadly, I don't think so. They are stupid serious about the subject. The mayor of Osaka even fired all of the city employees who had tattoos a few years ago. This was completely idiotic because some police had to get tattoos in order to work undercover in the yakuza.
If you don't mind duct tape on those areas it might be ok.
Sensei Tauntaun lol i might look a little funny with duct tape arms but i think i would try
I've seen it done before. This though still depends on the onsen owners decision to let you in.
Wait, so do i need to be clean before going to an onsen? And do they have a spot where i can take my clothes off and set it aside?
Don't eat in the subway. Seriously
Depends on which train and subway you are talking about and what city you're in. Some places, especially the Shikansen, it's perfectly fine. JR lines, you can eat but be courteous and discreet. You can drink anything you want. Subway? Well, my city doesn't have a subway, only a monorail. For that, you don't really eat. It's too short a distance.
I should have been more specific, i meant while walking through the station. I did it (quite discreetly mind you) and everyone suddenly as one turned to glare at me. It was like something out of Invasion of the Body Snatchers.
Hmm, it might be the region. Some regions are a little more traditional and push the social rules. Others are very lax in that area. While not a lot people eat while at the station where I live, if you do it discreetly, nobody will care. When I went to Okinawa, that was the most lax of all the areas I've been in Japan. It really depends.
IreneShardaForever Maybe Okinawa neither has a train nor subway? ;)
It has a monorail and that's pretty much it. In my area we kind of colloquially call all of these "trains", so it's a little hard for me to distinguish when talking plainly. :p
Video: dont do this
Logan Paul: no
What did Logan Paul do?
There is nothing here about not pointing and saying "GODZILLA!!!", so I assume it's cool.
Lmao
😂 😂 😂
And someone from Japan will say "It looks like Godzilla, but due to international copyright law, it's not."
First of all, you pronounced it wrong. Its "Gojira"
@@poglifeactual7936 It would be twice as funny to shout "GODZILLA!!!" and get disapproving looks for the pronunciation rather than the act itself.
Don’t be Logan Paul
its all about the r e s p e c t
Just watch logan pauls japan vlogs and everthing he does: avoid it.
Basically. The biggest don't for anything in the world ever is "don't be like Logan Paul." That guy is quite literally the most disrespectful guy I've ever seen anywhere.
Don’t jump around on car while waving fish in the air? Okay.
Logan is the human version of dead puppies
@@Astralocean Logan Paul should be forced to live on the moon (with no supplies)
@@myfavoritecoloris3533 Oh so Logan Paul is edible?
I was expecting a lot of logan paul comments and Im not dissapointed
Rafael A same🤣🤣
it's getting old
viggo • this is 2 months old.....
Rafael A Fair point. There are still new ones popping up, though.
Thanks for being a bit more polite about it. My bad, sorry
Rafael A who is that
Yea don’t reference any nuke events
Yeah, I really bombed the comedy club with them last night :/
Kyle Schaff
I had a nuclear accident two days ago
THEY TAKE TO THE MUSEUM ye s they do
I said "dumb bitch, I could use a tube of Crest!
Or the milk in your breasts or a fucking piece of crayon
I'm Los, I shake earth like a Hiroshima A-bomb
I does it all day long
That sucks because my birthday is on one of the worst days for japan
One think I like about your videos.....u always care about local culture and customs regardless of the country. This makes you stand out from other travel vloggers.
+Elvis the Pelvis thanks Elvis. And no one could shake their pelvis quite like you :)
some people dislikes him because they're just plain jealous..that's all
We Loved Our Trip to Japan. It Was an Amazing Cultural Experience & We Highly Recommend Visiting.
Wolters World tbh most countries shoes off in house
wow mark, most comprehensive video on japan. i don't think i've heard of like 95% of those tips - you make me want to go now! ("don't be rambunctious.." love it - lol!)
I'll be going to Tokyo and Kyoto in Sept 2018. This video will help a lot, thank you!
I'm sorry I missed you guys! I live in Osaka. I could have shown you around. By the way, you missed a few more don'ts on the onsen. I just posted a comment talking about that.....nonetheless this video seems to have a record on the don'ts. You had a lot to talk about.
Thank you for your videos!!!
About getting in and out of a train/bus - I didn't know that stepping out and waiting for ppl to get out is not the case in Germany. Here in Poland (c. 60 miles from German border) it's rather obvious and common to do it in a ''Japanese way''.
I LOVE cultural differences. This is the spice of life! So people who don't travel have no idea what they're missing.
Preach.
People who don’t travel probably don’t have the money to.
@@BadWolfSilence or maybe they barely have any free days from their jobs. Sadly not everyone gets to have vacations. Some people only save Saturday and Sunday to stay off work.
Cultural differences are marvellous so long as people keep their cultural differences IN THEIR OWN COUNTRY.
Totally!!!! I love traveling all over...great comment!
Japan is a totally AWESOME place to visit! My husband, Mark, has been 35 times now, and we thought this video was very good. There is one thing you forgot, and that’s don’t forget to carry toilet paper and a hand towel with you. Many public parks and temples won’t have either, so it’s especially important for women. Also, as far as people speaking English, we have never found a lack of English speakers in any of the big cities like Tokyo, Osaka or Kyoto. My tip is, look for the young people when you need help. They all take English in school now, so while many of the older people don’t speak it, the younger folks will, and they are more than willing to help you out.
Thanks for the ladies!!
I have only gone once but I did not want to come back to the U.S. I was very sad to have to return home. I want to be like your husband one day lol
When I went to Japan a couple of years ago (2015), I noticed a lot of Japanese people spoke English or another language other than Japanese. I only knew basic Japanese phrases but was able to get around because I encountered people that spoke English and Spanish. That being said learning the language before a trip is always a great option!
Almost all of them know how to speak basic English. It is taught in the schools. They just prefer not to and sometimes pretend to not understand. They are often embarrassed bc it’s not perfect English but who cares.
@@jacobh674 thank you for the discouraging
I don't travel much but I still love watching your videos and seeing the different kinds of cultures around the world.
MadDog good ol' Utah
the quiet-thing would be THE main reason for me to move there! westerners are always so loud.
BlackAdder665 it's amazing to be in a crowd of millions and hear nothing...it feels like you have ear plugs in. Kinda crazy but also very cool.
They are the only quiet Easterner
@Joe Blow: hehe, thanks, i don't intend to. i think arab countries are much louder also.
actully, I found Japanese trains as noisy as central europian trains. especially in evening
I also made a mistake being loud at a Hiroshima restaurant. I felt ashamed but lesson learned
Interesting... Pausing the video at the start to see if I can guess any...
Don't tip
Don't expect anyone to speak English
Don't be surprised at how nice Japanese people are
Don't be surprised about how clean everywhere is.
Let's see how I do!.....
Spot on, but a lot of these foreigner can get away with, we know you dont know all rule, basically just be respectful, we will understand and apriciate your effert. 😊🇯🇵❤
I’m not even going to Japan. But this is very interesting.
Here's another tip for the video, Not every Japanese person is an Anime fan!
Dan Baldwick nuuuu!!!!
nani?!
LIES
So just like how not Every American likes westerns?
Wow i never would've guessed. I thought every russian isa communist who only eats raw beef in 0 degree weather too.
I have been waiting for this so long as a Japanese citizen!! I hope you and your family are having a good time in Japan :) I see many comments such as "a visit to Japan was a big cultural shock" and it makes me think how different and unique Japan is compared to other countries. I really would like to feel that!!
It‘s such a beautiful, unique country.. I can‘t wait to visit Japan as soon as possible!
Greetings from Switzerland! 🙋🏻♀️
@Gregory Smith because WW2
Hey... I actually saw you in Kyoto near the bridge east of downtown Kyoto. I wanted to say hi, but was too busy chasing my wife and my cousin who were way ahead of me. But anyway, Kyoto was chilly and beautiful during Thanksgiving week. And to the visitors: you must carry cash, especially if you're going to eat/drink from street vendors, food court, or convenient stores.
Fuck you fat ass
@@didid3ksa The hell did he do to you ? Piece of shit.
World Domination it’s a South Park reference look at his profile pic
@@samaritan3712 his profile picture is cartman from southpark. just cause youre out of the loop doesnt mean hes a piece of shit
The “don’t be loud on transport and in public “is my favorite, honestly, I hate trying to eat and having Joe Shmoe over there being loud enough to be heard across the room.
I also make sure to always carry headphones with me on public transport. I don’t use my phone to make calls while riding either. I’m not Japanese, but I don’t like it when people make a ton of noise.
Maybe I’m just a private person.
So, I just really agree with them on that one.
heh, i understand disliking noisy people in public places. but your example of trying to eat in peace - when he says slurping isn't rude - that's because it's really common to hear loud slurping noises. i personally can't stand it but if i travel to an Asian country - it's just the norm
Yeah the U.S should adopt that custom I hate all the lame ass rude people at the stores or restaurants who yell for nothing or have music playing loud when you just want to enjoy a nice meal and most of the time it's not even good music. I especially hate the type of people that ride the bus, I hate public transportation, good thing I don't have to take the stupid bus to work anymore it made me want to go postal lol
I wish the US had any uniform social niceties. Here, it seems people stake their identities on how far they can stretch social tolerance
@@MajinBuuButtercup You can thank the liberals for that. We used to have uniform social niceties, then the '60s happened, and the liberals made sure those were the first things to go.
Captain Obvious they’re even taking it to a whole new level now, where you can’t help your friends or family, because it’s not fair to those who have neither. EVERYONE has to fend for themselves, only the government is allowed to help anyone. They think if you’re helping someone, you have to help literally anyone and everyone, or you’re being greedy or discriminatory, and/or you have too much for yourself, so everything must be taken from you. Also having kids you can’t afford automatically means you deserve what other people without kids, (who were raised to not have children they’re not financially prepared for, or are just unable to have kids for whatever reasons) have or will have in the future. It’s completely asinine.
I would love to visit Japan someday, I'm glad I found a good etiquette video.
I love your presentation and your jolly attitude. You definitely deserve more subscribers.
+Eugen Afanasjev thanks Eugen! It would be nice if we did but as long as we can help some travelers it's worth it all. Thanks for the support.
Awesome tips Mark! I'm in Osaka right now. You explained some things I was wondering about. I feel a little more prepared to explore this amazing country. Happy trails.
Thanks Gabriel. Appreciate the kind words from a rock star traveler like you. Love your videos. Have a great time in Japan. Looking forward to your videos!
Thanks man, appreciate it! Working on my first video from Osaka right now.
Cool. Hopefully one day we will bump into each other on the road. Would love to do a couple videos with you. I appreciate your realistic honest approach to travel and culture.
Sounds good!
First beers on me ;)
Wow, quiet, orderly and reliable public transport! The stuff of dreams in my country.
@Águila701 His country
really love the fact that you always include your family in your videos...
My friend went to Japan and she absolutely loved it: people are so sooo polite, it’s so clean and so advanced (according to her).
Don't film dead bodies
And do my laugh at it and pretend that you were sorry
in other words its opposite from china.
except the tipping
Weirdly, despite the two countries common ancestry, they are very different from each other. Practically opposites. Japan is the cleanest and safest of all the East Asian lands I've been too. (South Korea, Hong Kong, and Singapore being the other ones). They are also the most reserved and orderly. I had become so used to the order of Japan that it was actually a jolt when going to the other nations.
Exactly. Easily summarized this way. Would you buy a Japanese-made car? Oh hell yes! Would you buy a Chinese-made car? Uh... I think I'll pass on that. I prefer not to get stranded and I prefer my car to not collapse in on me if hit...
Many ways China and Japan are similar due to heavy cultural influence from Chinese mainland to Japan and the other way around. Language (letters), philosophy, religion, ethnic (even though we have been separated tens of thousands of years, so we are in different sub group). Paintings, poems, calligraphies, ancient buildings, go on and on. :)
Also a lot of Chinese traditional crafts are unbelievably well made and precise and breathtaking. :) Most expensive Chinese teas are hand picked and processed manually and cost a fortune, but incredibly tasty that you would remember the rest of your life. :) I can’t afford those traditional crafts because they are super expensive...
Japan was a very big culture shock as my first overseas destination. I am very glad I spent 8 weeks learning the language as even basic phrases went along way when conversing with locals.
As far as cash/money goes I found the best place to get money out was at the ATMs inside 7/11 as they stay open later. I also had more luck with my Aussie travel card being accepted compared to the local banks ATMs.
Food there was really good even something as simple as the Sushi over there was far better than in any Western country.
I had been to Europe and Australia... Going to Japan for the first time was really shocking just how non-English it is.
This applies in every country! Haven’t been to Japan yet, but I went to France not too long ago and spent a month learning French beforehand. The way many of the locals treated me vs how they treated my dad (who didn’t learn any French beforehand) was quite significant. And I only knew a bit of basic French. Later on, my dad picked a up a few phrases and people were kinder to him. It just goes to show how knowing a bit of the language in any country can work miracles.
Pro tip: Capsule hotels! You get a bed, tv, some other stuff and sometimes even a footpath for just around 2000-3000¥ (19-27$)
Halo Theories I haven’t had any expierience with them, but there might be some at extremely cheap dodgy hotels
I've loved anime for almost 16 years now and i've had a slight interest in japan and visting, this video was also very informative and makes me want to visit more.
Japan has been my favorite foreign travel experience. Such humble and kind people, polite and friendly.
@@xavierlauzac5922 Tokyo, Kyoto, Osaka, Hiroshima, Onomichi, Seto Sea
my first time traveling alone in Japan, can't wait!
Going to Japan was the best trip I have ever taken.
If you are looking for garbage/recycle bins, you'll always find them outside of convenience stores. Many places also have dedicated cigarette butt bins (usually in smoking areas) so don't just dump them in the regular trash either. Being quiet on public transportation shows respect for others (who wants to listen to your conversation? No one!). I live in Kyoto and you can definitely hear the tourists long before you ever see them. (Oh, and great videos Mark!)
Wish I could just live in Japan. Sounds like such a peaceful place.
Yea no PC crap and swj like we got now in west
If I can live in a place where I no longer have to hear EITHER ends of that conversation, that would be so great.
After the sun gets dropped on you twice ya tend to settle down a bit
From what I've heard it is a pretty peaceful place but it does have alot of sexual assaults because how compact everyone is on the subway
I wish England was more like this. I would love to visit Japan one day. I admire the culture and the people. They are so respectful so I wish to do nothing but respect them back.
I learned quite a few of these tips when I was over in Japan in 2014 as opposed to before going there. I learned pretty quickly that eating while walking was frowned upon, by taking the precautionary measure of watching what everyone else was doing (or not doing) and 9 times out of 10, that was the right way. These are things that I now know for when I return there one day. Definitely loved Tokyo, but loved Kyoto and so many other places I visited! Also, being from Australia, the thing that blew my mind was that you could not only buy alcohol on the platform at the train station, but also drink alcohol on the Shinkansen (bullet train). In Australia where I’m from, you can get a fine if you drink on any public transport and in a lot of public places (excluding parks).
I love theses videos and this video is really going to help me when I visit Japan in 2019. Thank you!!
Rugby World Cup?
lol rugby!!!
Ayyyy, I'm also visiting Japan in 2019✌️
Did you go?
Slurping is also a sign to the chef that you actually like the food they made. If the ramen/soba/udon is really good, SLURP IT!
I think about Japan a lot, a lot of countries could learn from them. There's a village somewhere in the mountains of Japan called the Koi village, everyone grows their own kind of Koi carp with its own unique patterns and colours, I love their enthusiasm.
Don't be late.....as a Puerto Rican...I'm screwed..
Facts
Thanks for the informative vid .Japan is next on my list of places to visit.My dad served here in the military during the 50's and I loved seeing the photos he took while stationed there.
Wow. Lots of wonderful new footage; shrines & temples, foliage, neon lights, slippers, food! @4:32 Japanese sweets. 👍 Looking forward to the tasting video. Caleb's reaction biting the octopus @8:45 😂 Yup. The two hand business card exchange is the very first thing you learn when colleagues from Japan visit the states. Liam @12:47 is hilarious. Fantastic video, Mark.
+Tosh T thanks Tosh!
The #1 place I want to visit.
+GAM3 OVER it's worth it
Japan sounds like an absolute dream. Visiting there is one of my biggest goals in life. The culture and respect just resonates with me.
U gey
Absolutely fantastic video. My wife and I are planning to visit Japan from the US. We’re nervous about the language barriers but very excited to learn their customs and experience the country. Very informative video
I was already excited to hopefully go to Japan next year but the no walking and smoking made me even more excited lol
+Chelsea Dau it's a cool place. We loved it.
Chelsea Dau there are A LOT of smokers there and they have public vending machines selling cigarettes. It's just very dense in a lot of areas, so the second hand smoke when walking irritated enough people that they decided to pass a law against that, but most cafes, bars, and restaurants allow for smoking indoors, making it very hard to avoid in those places. I think it'd actually be better if they reversed it as at least the smoke outdoors is easier to avoid and dissipates faster.
Yeah, got to agree there is a good amount of indoor smoking allowed in Japan compared to the States. I'd say a lot of places have pretty good ventilation though. One very small restaurant I ate at someone was smoking but once they were done the smell/smoke almost instantly dissipated. Though I did go into a small retro arcade that was part of a video game store and that was just basically a smokey haze. I'd say most places are really well marked letting you know where people can smoke (and thus avoid as a non-smoker).
they walk and smoke like crazy. It is just a rule. As you start living here you ll see how frequent they breake those rules.
Those signs are marked to not to smoke in the area, there are whole neighborhoods and streets that are not allowed to smoke in (In Osaka center, Hiroshima next to schools). But you can find special smoking area almost everywhere, so walking and smoking in forbidden area is a crime. Other than that no one will stop you.
Japan is so fascinating.
Amazing that you know so much about so many places! I live in the Netherlands and was amazed that you could tell the visitor things about this country. That's pretty clever if you ask me. Thank you.
Watched anime for years and some of them lil things I didn't notice before make so much sense now :) Especially the two handed gifting and receiving.
i live in Okinawa, Japan bc my husband is a service member, this video is pretty on point but Kon’nichiwa actually means “good afternoon” in japanese, they have different phrases to the time of day. “goodmorning” is Ohayōgozaimasu and “good evening” is Konbanwa! anyways, i love you channel, i’m originally from Lousiana and your videos dedicated to the south are spot on!
I've been to Japan. I loved it.. I just wish you would post this BEFORE my trip.. I learned a lot 'What not to do the hard way...still lots of fun...and would love to go back...greetings from Canada
+quacka101 I just got back so I tried to get it out as soon as I could. :) im glad you had a fun time.
About the rail pass: until 31 march 2018 it should be possible to
actually buy the pass in Japan, as part of an experiment. It is however
about 10% more expensive then when you order it beforehand.
Also about the escalators: in Osaka it is the other way around: stand on the right, walk on the left. I noticed that in other places in Kansai, it's kind of a mix. Everywhere else in Japan: indeed stand on the left.
Also, I don't think Japan is actually that expensive to visit. It's not as cheap as many other Asian countries, but compared to western Europe or the US I'd say Japan is quite a bit cheaper in most aspects. Hotels are a lot cheaper, food is quite cheap, entry prices are usually pretty decent. The main exception is travelling longer distances, especially with the shinkansen it's pretty pricey. But that's where the JRP helps out. Highway/overnight buses and also lowcost airlines can sometimes be a good (cheap) alternative. I can imagine it being different when travelling with a family or friends, but especially for solo travellers Japan isn't too bad at all.
+WizardOfOss thanks wizard. Helpful stuff. I tried to mention that it's not stand on the left everywhere because you are so right it changes place by place. Which I'm still trying to figure it out
In Osaka they just try to do everything the exact opposite way from Tokyo ;-)
Just curious: was this your first time in Japan? And what other cities besides Tokyo en Kyoto have you been? I'm looking forward to more videos!
You're right. Especially from Europe, the flight times and costs are pretty similar to going to the US. Cost of hotels and food was actually a bit cheaper than in Europe. And this was for a couple on their honeymoon, so not the cheapest hotels.
Our policy when it came to left/right on the stairs/escalators etc was simply to follow the crowd. If there wasn't a crowd, walk on the left and avoid any cyclists, they tend to go everywhere...
With the escalators, it's easy to work out which side to stand on, just watch what everyone else does. We were based in Osaka, (my wife is Japanese) and when we went to Kyoto and other places it was different, but it takes less than a second to get it.
I'd definitely also advise picking up either a Suica or Passmo card if you're staying in Tokyo for a decent length of time - basically top up cards for the underground system.
I wanna learn Japanese so I can go there and buy action figures to my stop motion lol! Seriously tho I always love Japanese culture and this has been an informative video!
I went to Japan and absolutely luveeeeed that country. I can’t wait to go back
Do: upper-decker every toilet that you see.
Don’t: feel any guilt about it.
1000 points
Ruthless Cardigan I fuckin’ love you, maaaan.
Captain Freedom
What does that mean?
Chump Johnson An upper-decker is when you take a crap in a toilet’s water tank.
Captain Freedom
That would be hilarious 😂😂😂
I miss Japan so much! It's such a beautiful country with amazing food and very friendly people. I would also add to be aware of seats for seniors. I was in Yokohama on a public bus, sitting and talking to my friend and an older person came to me and told me that these seats were for seniors. We immediately stood up. All people in the bus were looking at us and it was so akward. After that we only used taxi service or metro lol.
Although Japan has a lot of rules, you can enjoy everywhere!
UA-cam: do you plan to go to Japan?
Me: what? Not really
UA-cam: *TOO BAD*
The "dont be loud" is the best thing ever.
I lived in Japan for almost 3 years. I have too many wonderful memories to share.❤❤❤
I lived in one of those traditional homes with paper-thin walls. And the guests next room came back late from a wedding and were really noisy. We had to go tell the owners to ask them to be quiet. After that, they whispered everything, which we could still hear every word of....so keep that in mind when staying at traditional homes.
That was quite informative! the thing about the chop sticks and using two hands to give and receive was something I've never heard anybody else mention in travel videos!!
Please post more videos about Japan! I am obsessed with the culture right now!
Just came back from a 2 week vacation in Japan. 2 of my favorite weeks ever. It was amazing.
I loved Japan and left my heart there. Will go back someday.
This makes me so glad that I’m American. I would never be able to remember all the customs. People would think I’m a jerk.
Once you integrate in the culture, It’s not like some perpetual inconvenience to follow the customs. It will take time to get used to of course but you’ll probably surprise yourself by how quickly you adapt
God bless you and your family! I'm visiting Japan in 3 weeks as i travel the world riding rollercoasters! I'm also snowboarding Mt. Fuji - can you BELIEVE that's a thing?! great advice and May our paths cross someday!
Ive been living here a year now and I'm shocked how spot on you are. Video is great, glad your family had a good time!
+Dane B thank you Dane! I'm glad a "local" approved :) that means the world to me
+Dane B and I mean that for real
Went to Japan in May, easily one of my top countries, and I HAVE to go back!!!
Simply unique and incredible.
This is definitely a country on my bucket list and thanks for the knowledge of what to not because I hate going to foreign countries and looking like a fool
How about, when you go into a respectable sushi restaurant, don't expect to be served California/Dynamite/Caterpillar/Spicy Whatever Rolls like all the Chinese-owned places in North America. Trying to order those could get you ejected by the chef who had to apprentice 10+ years to learn proper sushi technique....
Not necessarily, it depends on what kind of sushi place you are going to. If you go to a cheaper place, like the conveyor belt ones, you will run into things like California rolls.
Non-Japanese has no chance to eat at a proper sushi restaurant without a Japanese guide with proper sushi knowledge (a lot of Japanese has never been to a proper sushi restaurant). Unless you have a right person with you, I wouldn’t recommend to try them in Japan. You can go to casual ones in Japan where all tourists go. You have better chance to have a great sushi experience in NYC if you don’t speak Japanese.
Take a look: ua-cam.com/video/ZsAPBq1Ful4/v-deo.html
well duh if the chef cant understand you then youll probably be asked to leave, but they dont eject people based on anything but that. if you can order and pay, you can eat
Interesting and helpful video. I would love to visit Japan someday..
I wanna go to japan when I grow up
you Sir, and your beautiful family, continue to be quite simply, exceptional humans. God Bless You All!!! From Ireland!
Thank you. I been wanting to visit Japan for years. I hope to go soon. My father was Japanese and I feel the desire to see his root culture. I love your video. Your heart is in the right place to let us know the small things, because is the little things that turn out to do or create the big feelings good effects. 👍🏼👍🏼
Japan looks so nice to visit, I love how quiet and respectful people are. Loud groups of people get so frustrating
Enjoyed Tokyo, this was a new and refreshing video on something different.
+Debbie Parham thanks d3bbie :)
+Wolters World Debbie
Americans be like
*Standing on the bed with shoes*
honestly
I'm laying in bed reading this right now with shoes on
I'm american and when people do that I cringe
Zachery Hole ...monster o.O (this is a joke, please don’t be offended)
I’m American and we take our shoes off inside
sounds so much more civilized than most other countries, would love to live there
I have enjoyed several annual trips and loved every minute. Wonderful, polite, clean and incredible food!