Japan Travelling Guide/Tips

Posted on August 23, 2023  •  30 minutes  • 6297 words

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1. 0 Preflight

This section is dedicating to things to know before you trip and things that you should organise before your trip or just know in general.

1.1 Finances

In Japan there are few ways to pay for things the main two methods i encounted during my trip was cash and card.

1.1.1 Cash

Japan has always been a cash based society. I remember when i went to Japn back in 2017 i almost exclusively used cash but every since covid japan has been more accepting of alternative payments such as credit cards/debit cards and mobile payments (PayPay, Line Pay).

Some of the places that may only accept cash only:

• Small/ old restaurant establishments
• Small department stores
• IC card refill terminals
• Tourist attraction

Recommendation:

• Have a dedicated coin pouch as you’ll be carry lots of them around
• As well as have around 30000 yen on hand for places that don’t accept card payments.

1.1.2 Cards

During my trip i had 2 cards that I regularly used:

1. Citibank Plus Everyday Debit Card / Up Debit Card
2. Wise

Citibank Plus Everyday:

For me this card only had one purpose it was to withdraw money from ATM:

Pros:

• Zero fee to withdraw money from 7-bank ATM (i didn’t test other atm but 7-bank atm shouldn’t be an issue i was always able to fine a 7-bank atm 1km from where i was)
• Zero account fees and Citibank cards works across many atm across different countries
• No need to advise on travel dates

Cons:

• Not really good for general purchases as there will be currency conversion rates may be slightly higher plus POS terminals may charge an extra fee(i can’t really verify this but this is what i think more research would be required)
• Outdated mobile app but manageable for this purpose
• Paying in AUD

I just did some research on this and apparently you can no longer open an account after they were acquired by NAB and its only available to existing customers :

So for new travellers and reside in australia i recommend getting this card i used this card a couple of times and it worked fine:

Up Transactional account:

This card works great for ATM withdraws as well as online bookings via klook:

Pros:

• Zero fee withdrawal from ATM. You may get an ATM operation fee of 120 yen but i haven’t used it enough to remember
• Easy to open your account
• Amazing mobile app that automatically tracks spending best app across all bank in Australia IMO. 100% recommend
• Zero account keeping fees

Cons:

• Might not be great for general pos terminal purchases in japan (again i’ve never tried please free to let me know if you had no issues)
• Need to notify bank on travelling dates as you don’t want your card blocked and the only way to unblock is verify your identity via sms code or phone call

Fees: https://up.com.au/pricing/

Wise:

For me this cards was my primary form of card payments. I had no issues using this debit card for any location that accepted card payments:

• Convient stores
• Restaurant Chains/modern dining establishments

Pros:

• Quick and easy to setup
• Multi currently debit card
• Always paying local currency
• No need to notify that your travelling

Cons:

• Cost $10 AUD for the debit card
• Fee’s associated with currency conversion usually 1%
• Can only withdraw 350 AUD per month

Fees: https://wise.com/au/pricing/

Pro tip: When travelling please advise your bank that you’ll be travelling to avoid your card from getting blocked

1.2 Immigration

The immigration process in Japan has been streamlined ever since COVID as the immigration documentation can all be done online and that will fast track you through immigration. Overall the immigration process only took me 1 hr and most of it was just waiting in a line since the process was quick. I did have to fill in one forms and get my fingerprint scanned.

1.2.1 Japan Web

Follow the process via here to register your details: https://vjw-lp.digital.go.jp/en/

Quarantine Procedure (Fast Track) (FYI: No longer required)

Details required:

• Passport
• Details you’ll be staying
• Flight you’ll be taking to and from Japan
• International Covid Vaccine certificate (Can get this via mygov)

Once filled out you’ll be given a QR code either screenshot this QR code or have the website up when you arrive to Japan to show the custom officers.

Immigration (Fast Track):

Details required:

• Passport
• Details of where you’ll be staying
• Flights you’ll be taking to and from japan

Once filled out you’ll be given a QR Code either screenshot it or have the website up when you arrive to show the custom officers.

Custom Declaration:

This is recommended to be filled out 48 hours before you leave. I can’t remember what they’ll ask you but it will all be in the questionnaire saying did you bring any of these stuff. Details required:

• Remember what’s in your suitcase

You’ll be given a QR Code either screenshot it or have the website up.

Tips:

• Have the details prepared so you’re not constantly have to go through your bag
• Hold on to your passport so you don’t lose it
• Fill out all the forms in Japan Web for fast tracked immigration

1.3 Transportation

So there are currently 3 main transport methods:

1. Trains (main form of transport)
2. Busses
3. Taxi (super expensive would not recommend unless urgent)

1.3.1 Trains

So majority of your travelling with be done via train. This section is about what you’ll need to know to ride the train i talk more about the complex japan transport system and how to ride it in section 2.3.

1.3.1.1 JR Rail Pass

The JR rail pass is a great way to save money as a tourist if you’ll be travelling long distances and across difference prefectures in Japan. However there can only be used for JR Train which is pretty common in the major cities so you’d have no issues just surviving on JR alone. The JR pass comes in two types of classes Regular and Green Car.

Ordinary Car:

• Contains reserved and unreserved sections
• Reserved sections have plenty of leg room for a average person

Green Car:

• Can book both Ordinary and Green car
• More leg room then regular
• Nicer looking chairs
• USB port for charging
• Sometimes has power ports for charging
• Is only reserved

As for my opinion is the green car worth it? I’d say it’s not worth it as most trains either have 1-2 cars that are green car and they still get filled fairly quickly. Especially for longer distances train i’d have to wait sometimes 1-2 hours for the next train to get a booking. Its best to save your money and get regular.

Currently there are two general ways to get the JR rail pass via travel agency and official website they both are identical however there are two additional perk you get with the official one but at the cost of a slightly higher price:

• No need for voucher, if you’re getting from travel agency like klook you’ll have to wait for them to mail you the voucher that can take up to 10 days which will then need to be exchanged for the JR Pass in the JR Exchanges Offices. As for the website once you order it you can just redeem it at the JR Exchange Offices.
• You can make online seat reservations however you still need to pick up the ticket at the train station. So you’ll need to get there like 15-30 minutes early to account for waiting in line to pick it up or pick it up the day before to avoid the rush.

Official Website: https://www.japanrailpass-reservation.net/

Klook: https://www.klook.com/en-AU/activity/1420-7-day-whole-japan-rail-pass-jr-pass/

To evaluate whether the JR rail pass is worth it this is the resource i used: https://www.japan-guide.com/railpass/

JR Pass Info: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7hPkkgr59Q8

Tips:

• If you’re booking a Shinkansen. My advice is to book reserve your seats the night before as booking on the day may result wait 1-2 hours for the next available train to get a booking that happened to me a few times.
• Research closest JR Exchange Offices
• If ordering via a travel agency please order it at least 3 weeks before you leave so you’ll have enough time to recieve the exchange order.
• Use the JR rail pass calculator to see if its worth getting the JR Pass

1.3.1.2 IC Cards

Transport cards are an alternative way to pay for the train they operate identical to a Go Card in Queensland, Australia. In Japan there are 10 difference IC Card offered across different railway companies but you really only need 1 as they’ll work for a majority of trains, busses & subways.

However there are limitations to IC cards even though any of these cards will work for any region. The start and stop destination has to be in the same region for example you can’t travel from osaka to nagoya via IC cards as they’re different regions. So you’ll most likely have to get an train ticket or use the JR pass if you have it.

Here are some resources to read more about them: https://www.japan-guide.com/e/e2359_003.html

FYI as of Aug 2023: Suica and PASMO have currently suspended their cards except for tourist. So you can only get Welcome Suica and Pasmo Passport

1.3.1.3 Train Ticket

Sometimes you’ll have no option buy to buy a train ticket as IC cards aren’t accepted for all travelling location. Especially if you’re taking the Shinkansen across long distances and don’t have a JR pass.

Here a youtube guide on how to get a train ticket: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=IpSMSn0DzgA

1.3.2 Busses:

TO DO

1.3.3 Taxi:

TO DO

Apps:

1.4 Internet

This section is about how do you stay connected to the internet. So there are two primary ways to stay connected to the internet. Getting a travel sim or using a pocket wifi.

1.4.1 Travel Sim

Using a travelling sim is always my preferred option to stay connected to the internet. For these reason:

• Devices are always connected to the internet
• You can split up and still be connected to the internet to meet up with others

1.4.2 Pocket Wifi

Pocket wifi can do everything a travel sim does but it does come with some limitation however its great you need multiple devices connected however there are some limitation:

• Requires you to carry around additional device
• You’ll always have to make sure that the device is charged to stay connected to the internet
• Have to pick up the device in the airport and make sure you return it at the airport before you leave
• Always have to be together just to stay connected to the internet

Tips:

• If you can avoid it don’t buy travel sim at the airport as they’re expensive. I opted to buy the travel sim before i left australia here where i got mine.
  • https://www.travelkon.com.au/product-category/asia-sim-card/japan/

1.5 Packing

1.5.1 Useful things to pack

• Powerbank
• Spare duffle bag (this will be useful when you need to bring stuff home)
• Packable tote (This is what i got: https://www.peakdesign.com/products/packable-tote )
• Light travelling clothes (i really like the Patagonia travelling gear)
• Carabiners (trust me they’ve were so useful for certain scenarios)
• Coin pouch
• electrical travel adapters
• Comfortable working shoes
• Alpaka Hub Keychain (https://rushfaster.com.au/collections/alpaka/products/alpaka-hub-keychain ) this was super versatile for me i used it for keys and passport
• Topo design accessory pouches. I love these for organising stuff (https://rushfaster.com.au/collections/topo-designs/type_accessory-pouches )

1.6 Accomodation

During my travels there were two types of accommodations booked. They were

Appartments: I personally enjoyed appartments for long term stays if i was staying somewhere for more then a week then I’d consider book an apartment.

Pros:

• Local experience
• more independent you get to live the way you want
• usually come with great amenities ( kitchen, washer, fridge etc…)
• usually cheaper then hotels Cons:
• more planning required

Hotels: Personally i think hotels work out better for short term stays and they also sometimes come with some nice free perks. A few of the places i stayed an onsen included for free.

Pros:

• Some hotels have onsen
• Staff can usually understand english and are very helpful
• Some hotels have breakfast buffet
• hotel staff can help you make reservations at the popular restaurants

Cons:

• Usually smaller then appartments
• Lack of amenities (no kitchen) there maybe a laundromatt but its usually paid
• More expensive
• Little to no authentic Japanese experience

Ryokan: Ryokan offer a unique experience that is really only offered in japan. They’re traditional Japanese style inns that offer a traditional Japanese lifestyle and hospitality. They incorporate elements such as tatami rooms, futon beds, Japanese-style baths and local cuisine which is really unlike any other experience. Ryokan are perfect for rest days. Highly recommend you visit one at least once during your trip as its definitely an experience that will outclass any place I’ve stayed during my Japan trip.

Pros:

• Offers a really unique experience
• Most places you’ll get a dedicated staff throughout your whole stay to guide you around and to answer any questions
• Most places have the option of Japanese style rooms with tatami matts or western style rooms
• Dinner & breakfast is usually included they’re either served in your room or in a private room
• Staff are very welcoming and friendly
• Most have an onsen bath included

Cons:

• Most expensive option and pricing is usually calculated per person
• You really don’t get an option to choose what to eat its up to the chef choice so you’ll have to let them know before hand of your dietary requirements.
• You’ll have to follow some rules and special etiquitte when staying in one I’ve linked a video below:

How to stay in a ryokan: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FdYiNdI2kPE

Tips:

• One of the things i regret not doing when looking for accomodations is researching how far it is to the closest train station. Especially when you need to carry luggage my recommendation is to find somewhere that is at least 600m away from a train station that way you’re not regretting you life like i was when i had to carry my luggage 1.2km.
• If you book a hotel and you’ll be travelling to another hotel ask the receptions if they do luggage forwarding services. This is a life saver as it saves you from having to carry your luggages and also relatively cheap
• Research how to get there before hand so you’re not rushing to google how to get there. One of the mistake i made was i didn’t realise one of my accommodations were on top of a mountain so i spent 15 minutes walking up a mountain to realise that it probably would have taken me like 2-3 hours to get there. When there was a shuttle bus i could have taken in town to get there easier …

1.7 Language

You can travel fine with limited Japan knowledge i managed fine with only knowing like 5 basics phrases. Honestly found body language more effective to figure out what they were saying. Pointing at things or nodding is also a decent way. Also google translate will be your best friend: Some phases that i survived with:

• excuse me - sumimasen
• okay - daijoubu
• Thank you - arigatou gozaimasu
• Sorry - gommenasai
• can you speak english? - Eigo ga hanasemasu ka

Here a good website to read and make sure you remember these phrases it should be enough to travel to Japan: https://thenavigatio.com/basic-japanese-phrases-for-tourists/

1.8 Things you shouldn’t do in Japan

• Littering: Japan is very clean its frond upon to litter so always carry a plastic bag to carry around your rubbish
• Tipping: In japan there is no tipping culture and if you do tip they’ll give the money back
• Entering a house with shoes on: In japan when entering a home its customary to always take your shoes at the entrance of the building and wear indoor slippers
• Making phone calls on trains: its generally frowned upon to make a call on train. If you need to make a call some train have a dedicated booth to make phone calls
• Speaking loudly on trains
• Eating while walking
• Entering an Onsen without taking a shower before hand

1.9 Misc tips:

• One of the mistakes i made was overplanning my trip and over planning my days. Eventually it felt like i was just ticking off a checklist and that gets boring after a while. I went from planned my morning, afternoon and night down to planning two activities and just winging it for food and honestly that was more enjoyable for me then planning by the day.
• Don’t overpack your itinerary with too many things to do in a day. You need to find the right balance honestly for me was to aim to two things i wanted to do today that were close to each other and spending the rest of the day just exploring and wanding around. Remember the goal of traveling is to have fun and relax. More often then not the days i enjoyed were when my schedule was less packed and just gave me time to explore
• Include rest days in your plan for me 1 day every 1.5 week was the correct balance for me. Things you can do on you rest day are go to an onsen, spa, relax at a ryokan or chill at a coffee shop writing about your trip like i did.
• Plan other activities that are just not seeing landmarks. To be honest they got pretty boring after a while don’t get me wrong japan has amazing architecture
• Create a list of experiences that you want and see if you can achieve the goal to do for example here was mine:
  • Stay in a capsule hotel
  • Stay in a ryokan
  • Go to an izakaya restaurant
  • Visit a Japanese beach
  • Go for a hike somewhere
  • Stay overnight at a local village
• If you’re travelling solo here are a few places i found were great to meet some other solo travellers:
  • https://www.facebook.com/groups/436169583592725 (subtle asian travel)
  • https://www.reddit.com/r/travelpartners/
• Be open to have a chat with local and tourist they can give you some hidden gems and you can make new friends

2.0 Japan

2.1 Kansai

Here are the activities i enjoyed in Kansai

Wanderlog Link: https://wanderlog.com/view/zhqibcscdy/things-i-enjoyed-in-kansai/shared

Below are my recommendation for activities that i enjoyed in Kansai: During my trip i spent:

• Osaka (3 Days)
• Kyoto (3 Days)
• Nara (1 Day)

So my recommendations will only be for these places.

Primary Transport Method: Osaka: Trains - Osaka has a really great train network so basically if you want to go someone super easy to catch a train. Kyoto: Busses - To get around in Kyoto you have to travel using the bus or by walking. The train network isn’t as great compared to Kyoto. From what i remember the bus has a flat fee of 210 円 one way. Nara: Walking - For me all my attractions were basically walking distances away so for me it was super easy to walk. However i assume if your traveling to attractions that are more further out probably would have to take a combination of train & bus.

Activities:

Food:

2.2 Hokaido

Wanderlog Link: https://wanderlog.com/view/fufrlzqzyw/things-i-enjoyed-in-hokkaido/shared

Activities:

Food

Cuisines that you must try in Hokkaido:

• Miso Ramen
• Seafood (Uni, Hokkaido Crab, Scallops)
• Kaisendon & Sushi
• Hokkaido Ice Cream
• Soup Curry
• Jingisukan (“Genghis Khan”)
• Ishikari Nabe

2.3 Tokyo

Below are my recommendation for activities that i enjoyed in Tokyo:

During my trip i spent:

• Shinjuku
• Ginza
• Chuo
• Yokohama

So my recommendations will only be for these places.

Primary Transport Method: Tokyo: Trains - The train network in Tokyo is probably the best train network in Japan. Pretty much everywhere is accessible via train. There are two major train networks JR Rail & Tokyo Metro. JR Rail usually run above ground and the metro runs underground.

Wanderlog Link: https://wanderlog.com/view/mymbnlhsev/tokyo-guide/shared

Activities:

Food:

2.4 Kyushu & Chugoku

Wanderlog Link: https://wanderlog.com/view/tpvsnupkpc/things-i-enjoyed-in-kyushu--chugoku/shared

Activities:

Food:

2.3 Transport

2.3.1 JR Line

2.3.1.1 Local Trains

• Everyday city commuters.
• Stops: Local trains stop at every station along their route.
• Ticket Price: There is no difference in ticket price between local and rapid trains.
• These trains serve shorter distances and are ideal for hopping between nearby stations.

2.3.1.2 Rapid Trains (Kaisoku):

• Stops: Rapid trains skip some stations, making them faster than local trains.
• They are a convenient option for covering slightly longer distances.
• Rapid trains are designed for faster travel compared to local trains.
• They skip some stations, allowing passengers to cover slightly longer distances more efficiently.
• While local trains stop at every station, rapid trains provide a balance between speed and accessibility.

2.3.1.3 Express Trains:

• Express trains are an essential part of Japan’s rail network, providing efficient transportation for both commuters and travelers.
• Express trains typically skip more stations than local trains but fewer than limited express trains.
• They strike a balance between speed and accessibility.
• While local trains stop at every station, express trains offer a faster option for covering moderate distances.
• Ideal for short to medium distances within a region.
• Ticket Price: The ticket price for express trains is generally the same as that for local trains. Pay is based on the distance traveled.

2.3.1.4 Special Rapid:

• The Special Rapid Service is the fastest local train operated by JR West.

2.3.1.5 Limited Express Trains:

• Limited express trains are the second-fastest railway connection in Japan, right after the iconic Shinkansen (bullet trains).
• They serve as an excellent alternative for those who want to explore beyond the major cities and enjoy picturesque views along the way.
• Unlike Shinkansen, which stops only at major hubs, limited express trains cover several smaller stations on their route.

2.3.1.5.1 Types of Limited Express Trains:

• There are two main types of limited express trains:
  • Intercity Limited Express: These trains are well-equipped and meant for long-distance travel. They offer more comfort and amenities.
  • Commuter Limited Express: Ideal for short-distance travel within a city or nearby areas. While they lack luxury, they serve their purpose efficiently.

2.3.1.5.2 Onboard Ammenities:

• Commuter Trains: These offer a simple relocation from point A to point B. Expect standard commuter train coaches, and during rush hour, it can feel like a local “hunger games” for seats.
• Intercity Trains: Here’s where the experience improves. Intercity limited express trains provide:
  • Comfortable seating: Enjoy a smoother ride.
  • Two travel classes: Choose between standard and green cars (first-class).
  • Reserved seats: You can reserve your spot for long-distance journeys.

2.3.1.6 Airport Express:

• Links major airports (Narita, Haneda, Kansai) to city centers.
• Examples:
  • Narita Express (N’EX): Connects Narita Airport to Tokyo.
  • Keikyu Airport Line: Links Haneda Airport to central Tokyo.
  • Kansai Airport Express: Connects Kansai International Airport to Osaka and Kyoto.

2.3.1.7 How to Use JR Trains:

1. Purchase Tickets:
   • Short distances: Ticket machines at stations or use a prepaid IC card.
   • Long distances: Ticket offices at major stations.
   • JR Pass: Unlimited access to JR trains during its validity period.
2. Boarding:
   • Arrive early.
   • Find your platform.
   • Wait near the designated car number.
   • Store luggage.
   • Enjoy the ride!
3. Booking Long-Distance Trains:
   • With Japan Rail Pass (JAPAN RAIL PASS):
     • Reserve a seat using a reserved seat ticket vending machine, a Reservation Ticket Office (Midori-no-Madoguchi), or a travel center.
   • Without JR Pass:
     • Visit the JR Travel Service Center for necessary tickets.
4. Stay Informed:
   • Check each JR group for real-time updates on operation status, disruptions, and delays.

For detailed route maps, visit Japan Rail Pass Map & Metro Maps | JRailPass or  Japan Rail Pass map - Japan Rail Pass (jrpass.com)

2.3.2 Shinkansen (新幹線)**:

• Description: The iconic “bullet trains” are the fastest in Japan and can reach speeds of up to 320 kilometers per hour. They connect major cities across the country.
• Routes: There are nine shinkansen lines, covering the entire nation:
  • Tokaido Shinkansen: Tokyo to Shin-Osaka, stopping at cities like Nagoya and Kyoto.
  • Sanyo Shinkansen: Shin-Osaka to Hakata (Fukuoka), passing through Hiroshima and Okayama.
  • Tohoku Shinkansen: Tokyo to Shin-Aomori, serving cities like Sendai and Morioka.
  • Kyushu Shinkansen: Hakata to Kagoshima, with stops in Kumamoto and Shin-Tosu.
  • Joetsu Shinkansen: Tokyo to Niigata, connecting Ueno and Takasaki.
  • Hokuriku Shinkansen: Takasaki to Kanazawa, passing through Nagano and Toyama.
  • Hokkaido Shinkansen: Shin-Aomori to Shin-Hakodate-Hokuto, linking Hokkaido’s cities.
  • Akita Shinkansen: Morioka to Akita, stopping at places like Kakunodate.
  • <strong>Yamagata Shinkansen</strong>: Fukushima to Shinjo, serving Yamagata and Yonezawa 1 .

Catching the Shinkansen (Bullet Train) in Japan is an exciting experience! Let me guide you through the process:

1. Choose Your Route:
   • The Shinkansen operates on several routes across Japan. Decide which route you want to take based on your destination. For example:
     • Tokaido-Sanyo Shinkansen: Connects Tokyo and Hakata (Fukuoka), stopping at cities like Kyoto, Osaka, and Kobe.
     • Tohoku Shinkansen: Links Tokyo and Shin-Aomori, serving cities like Sendai and Morioka.
     • Hokuriku Shinkansen: Connects Tokyo with Nagano and Kanazawa.
     • <strong>Kyushu Shinkansen</strong>: Currently links Hakata (Fukuoka Prefecture) and Kagoshima Chuo (Kagoshima Prefecture) 1 .
2. Types of Shinkansen:
   • There are three main types:
   • Nozomi: Stops at fewer stations and is the quickest route to Kansai (Kyoto, Osaka, Kobe, etc.).
   • Hikari: Slightly slower than Nozomi but still efficient.
   • Kodama: Stops at more stations and is ideal for shorter distances.
3. Types of Seats:
   • Choose from three seat types:
     • Non-reserved seats: First-come, first-served.
     • Reserved seats: Book in advance for a specific seat.
     • Green Car seats: Premium class with more space and comfort.
4. Ticket Purchase:
   • You can buy Shinkansen tickets from:
     • Ticket counters: Available at stations.
     • Ticket machines: Convenient and easy to use.
     • <strong>Online</strong>: Websites like JR East, JR West, JR Central, JR Hokkaido, and JR Kyushu 2 .
5. JR Pass:
   • If you’re traveling extensively, consider the Japan Rail Pass (JR Pass). It offers unlimited access to all Shinkansen trains during its validity period.
6. Boarding the Shinkansen:
   • Arrive at the station early.
   • Find your platform (look for signs with the Shinkansen logo).
   • Wait near the designated car number (indicated on your ticket).
   • When the train arrives, board the correct car.
   • Store your luggage in the overhead racks or designated spaces.
   • Enjoy the ride!

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6_1ZuT9MP2g

2.4: Luggage Forwarding Service

When traveling in Japan, especially if you’re hopping between cities or regions, dealing with heavy luggage can be a hassle. Fortunately, Japan offers an efficient and convenient solution: luggage forwarding services.

• Convenience for Travel: Luggage forwarding services, often referred to as “takuhaibin”, are widely used in Japan. They allow you to send your luggage between hotels, airports, and other locations, freeing you from having to carry it yourself on crowded trains, buses, and stairways.

• Companies: Multiple companies provide these services, including Yamato Transport (Kuroneko), Sagawa Express, and Nittsu.

• Availability: You’ll find luggage forwarding counters at airports, major train stations, hotels, ryokans, and even large convenience stores.

How to Use Luggage Forwarding Services

1. Locate a Service Counter: Find a luggage forwarding counter at a hotel, airport, station, or convenience store. Look for a yellow oval with a black cat carrying a kitten, a symbol for takuhaibin service across various companies.

2. Fill Out the Form: You’ll need to complete a form with details like:

   • Your name and contact information
   • Destination address (hotel, airport, etc.)
   • Desired delivery date and time
   • Size and weight of your luggage

3. Payment: Pay the shipping fees, which are generally based on the size and weight of your luggage and the distance traveled. Prices typically range from 1,500 - 3,000 JPY depending on these factors.

4. Receive Receipt: Receive a receipt for your luggage. Make sure to keep this receipt in case there are any issues.

5. Tracking (Optional): Some companies may provide a tracking number that lets you check the status of your luggage delivery online.

Delivery and Pick-Up

• Hotel Pick-Up: If you’re sending luggage from your hotel, leave it at the front desk, and the staff will help you with the process.
• Hotel Delivery: When your luggage arrives at your next hotel, they’ll usually hold it at the front desk for you to pick up.
• Airport Delivery: If having it sent to the airport, be sure to allow enough time for delivery. It’s recommended to send your luggage a day or two before your flight to be safe.

Tips

• Plan Ahead: Same-day delivery is often available in urban areas, but may take longer for destinations elsewhere in Japan.

• Arrival Window: It’s best to specify your desired delivery time with a window of a few hours, especially for hotels.

• Labeling: Double-check that your address labels are correct and that you’ve provided accurate contact information.

Additional Considerations:

• Travel Light: Consider sending a larger suitcase ahead while traveling with a smaller daypack for short trips or side excursions.
• Insurance: Some companies offer insurance for your luggage during the shipping process.

3.0 Things i wish i knew before hand/done

4.0 Useful resources: