Japan General

>>1060764

Who the hell would go to Japan if they can't speak Japanese? ;)

>>1060753
uhhh, drink coffee/eat a snack? It is a cafe, dude.

I'm currently going through the sticky but i figured im just gonna drop the question anyway.

So a few buddies and I are planning on going to Japan.
Now, we are still orientating but the idea is to visit Tokyo and Kyoto for 7 - 10 days.
Imo 7 days is too short and we should 10 days. I'm getting a lot of different opinions about life in Japan and how expensive it is. (Hotels/food/nightlife)
I'm kinda looking for someone who knows more about the subject and can suggest a game plan for lets say a 10 day trip. It doesnt have to be super specific, some general guide lines would do.

Hope you can help me /trv/

>>1060778
Meh 7 is plenty just spens more time in Kyoto desu.

>>1060772
i got drunk as fuck in a maid cafe. just ask nomihodai?

>>1060767
Im arriving in Tokyo Jan 4th. will they new years rush be over by then?

Does anybody have specific experiences with the resorts/hot springs in Hakone? I wanted to get a /trv/ recommendation before I sorted through them. Planning to do 2 or 3 nights in one.

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Is this the best thing for using your phone in Japan?
http://rental.cdjapan.co.jp/index_en_jpy_10.html

any recommendations for cheap but authentic sukiyaki in tokyo?

Best part about Japan?
Worse part about Japan?
Strangest part about Japan?

>>1060751
I have 4 weeks.
Spending 4 night tokyo, 4 nights skiing, 2 nights hiroshima and 3 nights kyoto with my family.

From then on I'm free for 2 weeks. I have to be back in Tokyo at the end for the flight home. This is my plan so far. Anything I should change? Budget is really no question.

12th January Osaka
13th January Osaka
14th January Nara
15th January Nara
16th January Nagoya
17th January Nagoya
18th January Kanazawa
19th January Shirakawa
20th January Takayama
21st January Nikko
22nd January Hakone
23rd January Hakone
24th January Tokyo
25th January Tokyo
26th January Travelling

>>1059335
Oasis 21 looks fucking beautiful imo. I'd say it's worth checking out.

>>1060934
The people
Too many people
The huge number of temples and shrines despite the country being kind of athiest.

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what part of the year is the most beautiful in Nippon?

>>1060934
>Best part about Japan?
Overall culture and history.

>Worst part about Japan?
The culture of bad perversion and lecherousness. I like that Japan is sexually open and I like some part of the perverted culture like shibari and Happening Bars. But the culture of pedophilia is pretty gross. Japan is obsessed with little girls/schoolgirls and pedophilia is tolerated to a disturbing degree. Enjo kosai turns my stomach, as does the fact that child pornography was only recently made illegal to posses and even now the punishments are minimal. Also phones in Japan come with a built-in shutter sound that cannot be muted because of all the upskirt perverts and things like that. Women also have their own special cars during peak hours because of the problem of gropers on trains.

>>1060970
Fall definitely. Very warm and the leaves are pretty.

>>1060986
Forgot
>Strangest thing about Japan
Just the degree and depravity of sexual appetites and weird porn. Vacuum sealing girls, bug fetish, tentacles, etc.

how American can i act in japan before im armed escorted out ?

>>1060992
Bring a gun

>>1060992

So by American you mean "generally friendly and well-intentioned but inevitably a bit too casual and loud?" You can pretty much act like that to your heart's content in Japan. The only thing you have to watch is your noise level. Americans speak loudly and Japan is generally quiet.

Japanese everyday society is more polite and formal than that in America, but as an American you will be forgiven for not observing or understanding all the cultural/social rules.

Just keep your voice down and you'll be fine. Especially on trains.

My other piece of advice would be limit your direct eye contact with strangers. While direct eye contact is essential in America, it is considered awkward/invasive/rude with someone you don't know well in Japan.

Yeah. Be quiet. You can be loud at an izakaya though.

t. Burger resident of Japan

>>1060986
Enjo kosai just sounds like escorts

Does anyone have any experience with that escort thing posted in the last thread? Seems too good to be true.

>>1060926
It's nice and cheap, but you'll be throttled to 200kbps once you exceed 110mb each day

>>1061012
It is escorts with minors. On paper, guys just pay junior high school and high school girls for bullshit like chit chat or fortunate telling but it's just a front for prostitution. There are "walking dates" too, that are on paper just paying for a stroll and chatting, but these strolls always go directly to a hotel.

>>1061014
The Big tits girl thing? It's not too good to be true. Escorting and brothels and everything in between are omnipresent in Japan.

It's very expensive. You will generally pay several Man yen for that kind of thing.

>>1061014
There are additional fees other than just the service fees listed. I've never gone through with it myself, but from I've read/heard the going rate seems to be about $3-450USD a throw for a decent girl. A little less for the older gals, along with the Chinese, Filipino and Thai hookers masquerading themselves as Japanese to foreigners.

Also a lot of these places do not accept foreigners. Even if you pass their screen test can speak/understand passable Japanese they may still reject you or do a bait and switch.

>>1060986
You sounds kinda tumblr-y. I don't disagree with you points in any way (as long as we're talking about real girls), but you expressed them in a tumblr-y way.

>>1060970
I personally love summer because of the hanabi and the matsuri everywhere. I am also a big fan of heat though, so if 30+ degrees every day sounds bad to you, I wouldn't recommend it

>>1061014
Very bad.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0NcIGBKXMOE

>mfw Akihabara really was full of girls at the same places shown in the video every time I went there, including yesterday

Honestly it's pretty annoying how everyone always wants to give you flyers and shit. Next time I'll have to keep my eyes open if I'll be able to see those shady handlers around.

>>1061048
are you Asian? Because other than the maids, people won't really try to hand you flyers, especially girls from those JK establishments

>>1061069
Handing flyers was just one example. "and shit" includes the rest - calling out to people walking by etc.

This probably makes me sound like an autismo, but being bothered in any way when I walk somewhere is one of my pet peeves.

>>1061072
Walk quickly and aggressively, it keeps most of them from wanting to talk to you.
Downside is that it makes you look like a dick. But hey, at least you won't have people bothering you.

>>1061073
That's what I do. Or I make a half-circle around them.

>>1061048
i wonder what the western equivalent of JK girls would be, like would it be seedy british pedo rings? or those creepy all ages club events

>>1061069
In Akba they know foreigners are still potential customers. All flyers have the maid's name written on the bottom and you usually bring it with you for a discount and so they can see which girls are best at getting people to come in. Gaijin are usually tourists and probably are curous about maid cafes and potential customers. It doesn't help them to be picky unless you're an absolutely disgusting gaijin.

>>1061020
that's brutal. It's hard to find a no-bullshit SIM

any recommendations? I can pay more than cdjapan because I'll definitely rely on the maps and info when out and about. I'm going for two weeks and would want unlimited with a modest speed for maps or checking the 4chan app for a few minutes

>>1061111
I'm looking through them now and 100 or 200mb a day or low caps such as 2 or 3 GB in total seems to be the norm. Another option would be pocket wifi, but while their service seems decent they would come with the inconvenience of having to carry something else around and managing battery life.
I found this if you want to do some reading. http://prepaid-data-sim-card.wikia.com/wiki/Japan

I was going to pick up a new phone today anyway and one of the carriers here seems to have pretty decent international roaming so I think I might just sign up with them.

Anyone had experience with those kind of girls that just lie around and whisper to you, caress you and perhaps clean your ears? Looks fucking super comfy.

This video goes into detail about it: https://youtu.be/qpZbu7J7UL4?t=346

>>1061132
yeah they're called girlfriends, you should get one

>>1061125
Thanks. I had seen the pocket wifis but I can't be sure they're good, because I was thinking of getting the japancd sim without knowing about the throttling at all. The pretty webpage and stats had me convinced.

it would be nice to just have a table showing rates and prices for the most popular sims, I thought there would be one well known to threads like this by now

>Japan Travel SIM (by Iijmio) 30 days and including 1 GB data sold at Bic Camera for ¥2,656

will probably be fine but I just really don't wanna mess up and lose the safety net of data. I'm going for two weeks by myself

My own carrier charges £5, or 1000 yen per MB. pretty awful

>>1061111
Almost impossible by the looks of it. I just bought a prepaid sim from yodobashi akiba for convenience, but the best option is probably renting one of those portable WiFi hotspots if you don't mind carrying around something else.

>>1061137

Too much of a bother, Id rather pay qt japanese girls to do it

>>1061138
Ya I feel you, mine charges by the MB for roaming too. It was a huge pain trying to get shit done without google, esp seeing as my command of the Japanese language is rudimentary at best. So getting data was a big priority for me when I got in.

Which is why I just went with the easy-ish option of a prepaid sim. Apparently setting up iPhones with their prepaid sim cards is easier than for androids, took me about twenty minutes to get my android working.

I'm not planning on using huge amounts of data, just staying away from streaming video and I'll be fine, data wise. Can top up with a credit card online anyway, so no drama.

Kek, I just checked my usage, tinder has used 30mb, but everything else has only used 90mb today and I've been on my phone all day

>>1061141
>>1061149
It's a hard choice. I'm tempted by a wifi but I'll have enough to carry and keep charged as it is

I'll probably just get a sim in tokyo and try to set it up in the hostel. It's really only for emergencies or impulse trips during the day, normally I use hostel wifi to plan out travel and screenshot a fuckload of google maps images

>>1060758
>>1060886
I genuinely like Abroadin Japan's videos. They range from informative to entertaining and he's got a good sense of humour. They showcase his travels as well as his experiences and friends, all wrapped up in some good comedy.
I especially like the one where he teaches his friends and colleagues about the different uses of the word 'fuck', or the one where he feeds fucking Marmite to Japanese people.

>>1061043
>tumblr-y
The fuck does that even mean? You agree with me. How should I have expressed it? Re-write it to your satisfaction Anon-sama.

>>1061106
He's talking about the enjo kosai girls. This is basically underrage prostitution and these girls will absolutely not give their flyers to foreigners.

What is there to do in Nara that's close to a train station? I won't have access to wifi and am afraid of possibly getting lost.

Is it depressing to live in Japan for an extended (a few years or more) period of time?

>>1061168
>Jvloggers
I like these channels:
>Unrested
>WarmothStrat
>HikoSaemon
>Ryan Boundless (Somewhat annoying and very negative, but it's good to have a different point of view)
>Gimmeaflakeman (Can be very annoying as a person but he has lots of content)

>>1060969
Its not so much that Japan is Atheist, rather they have just blended religon and culture in such a way that a a person, while not activly practicing religon, is in fact embodying aspects of Japanese religon.

>>1061179
Todaiji and the Deer Park. Basically the two biggest attractions in Nara. They're right down the street.

>>1061180
Obviously depends on who you are, what your situation is, etc. Too many variables here to make a set answer.

>>1061187
>Ryan Boundless (Somewhat annoying and very negative, but it's good to have a different point of view)

Different points of view are always good but that said, you do have to consider the source, and in my eyes the whining of a pathetic, jaded middle aged ESL lifer/borderline sociopath is not a valid source of perspective on Japan.

>>1061253
I think Japan is pretty irreligious. They just respect tradition. So everyone will do a first shrine visit and things like that, but really just because it's traditional. I think the number of people who truly profess to believe in like Shinto animism and things like that would be very very low.

>>1061179
I will add that you cannot be afraid of getting lost without wifi. That is insanity and you are limiting yourself incredibly and wasting opportunities while in you're in another country for the sake of trying to play it safe.

Wifi and GPS barely existed for individuals 10 years ago. People managed just fine.

Don't be a dipshit.

>>1061254
>jaded middle aged ESL lifer/borderline sociopath
I agree with your assessment of him, but he's actually leaving Japan soon, so I wonder how much of his personality is really him or just because he is depressed due to living in Japan.

I don't care enough to follow his life in another country, but it's something to think about.

>>1061020
https://www.easygojapan.com/rental/en/rental_datasim2.php

300/day for 210 yen isn't too bad. I doubt I could use it all if I tried.
My only concern is the ability to set up a hotspot. Does that require more data? Or s it possible with these sims? My phone is a piece of shit so I prefer using tablets for browsing. I'm a leek. Will this work?

>>1061258
If he's depressed due to living in Japan then he shouldn't have stayed 15 years or whatever the fuck it's been. It tells you what kind of person he is. The onus is not on Japan here.

I am interested in learning Japanese.

Going to live with a girl in Tokyo this January, which means I get free accommodation and sex, but I need something to do when she goes to her job.

What is a realistic goal for one month of studying, at an average of 5-6 hours a day? Will memorize Hiragana and Katakana before I get there. What should I aim for? Finding a Japanese person to talk to won't be a problem. Should I bother learning the Kanji at all?

I need guidance

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If a nip girl smiles at me can I do the sex with her?

>>1061267
If she makes a serious effort to talk back you probably can

>>1061269
shit she complimented my hair too, might have just been cause she was trying to sell me something but I'm not so sure since I doubt she gets paid extra for getting people to actually enter the maid cafe, just gets paid to stand there and look cute. I don't know shit about talking to girls though I'm not ugly just fairly autistic.

>>1061262
You probably wouldn't be using 300mb each day for incidental stuff, google and the like. If you wanted to stream lots of video you'd be in trouble. For comparison, you can get a 5gb sim that lasts for up to two months for about ¥3000-5000 at electronics stores in tokyo

>>1061266
Wait, what? I don't even... what of situation is this? Do you even have a visa? How long are you going to be here in Japan? Some girl actually invited you, a person she's never met in person to live at her place and not pay any rent? (Also, dude, unnecessary to drop that you'll will be shoving your penis in her, we know. It's unnecessary and gross to bring up--no one cares).

Sure sounds like a fucking yandere psycho waiting to happen at any rate. Japanese girls who like Western guys can easily make that happen for themselves with decent dudes already in Japan, and they can do so without inviting some NEET into their house to live and mooch for free. So I just picture her a desperate 30-40 something fatty or ugg mug.

ANYWAY.

Get the books Genki I, Genki II and Japanese the Manga Way off of Amazon. Just go through these books.

Yes, learn Kanji. https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ky%C5%8Diku_kanji

Start with this list, First grade, and learn 5 - 10 a day. Learn at least 1 corresponding vocabulary word, particularly one that uses the on yomi reading. (Most Kanji have one useful onyomi reading).

>>1061275
Oh, and with Genki, don't bother doing the activities and exercises in the book. They're dry and work better in a classroom setting anyway. Just use the vocabulary lists and grammar explanations and enter the words and example sentences into Anki. With JTMW, just read the brief lesson over a couple times and load the example passage into Anki.

>>1061266
>>>/DJT/

>>1061273
Okay, don't bother. If she is after your money normal rules don't apply. Try leaving Akihabara or wherever the fuck you are and go talk to girls in normal place. Night clubs are great if that's your sort of thing. I'm afraid there is only one way to learn talking to girls, but that's something you've probably been told before. Just pretend that you are enjoying yourself in Japan, even if you feel anxious as fuck. Approaching a random girl on the street and asking if she's from Tokyo, which she definitely will be, can open up a conversation. Ask for her line ID even if you think there's no way she'll give it. The longer your conversation lasts before you do this the better. You will be surprised. Repeat until you have at least a couple of contacts and take it from there.

Of course you can always go back to 'harvesting' numbers if nothing works out. Remember that you are white and exotic. A smile and some fake confidence will get you a long way.

wondering if you can do TEFL in japan if
A. you are Australian
and
B. you don't have a degree

I really like the idea but I've heard a lot of bad things about it, like that you are underpayed, moved around without consultation, expected to hawk on the street etc

>>1061275
>>1061276
Thanks for the advice. Will look into the books and probably order them. Dreading the Kanji though...

And FYI I have met and stayed with her before. I like her and she likes me, so there is your setting.

>>1061279
>you don't have a degree
doubt it

>>1061281
seems like a lot of TEFL courses specifically say you don't need one, but I'm suspicious they just want your money

I have strong english skills, but I'm worried my resume will go straight into the trash

fug the purin stuff in Kitetsu-nara station is so tasty. The Japanese are very good with custardy sweets. Any other sweets you guys would recommend while I'm in the Kansai region?

>>1061282
If you're the kind of twat that worries about his resume you probably shouldn't consider English teaching

>>1061284
haha are you one of those anti-authoritarian types who thinks you can just bumb your way through wherever

if you have a shit resume, you get a shit posting or none at alll

>>1061283
No matter where you are, taiyaki.
Taiyaki is love.
Taiyaki is life.

I had it near monkey mountain and wasn't all that impressed, but had another one in Akihabara and that was one really good, made me want more.

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8 year Tokyo resident here....

>>1061278
>Remember that you are white and exotic

>mfw

Do you actually know what you're talking about, or do you just vaguely read the Roosh V forums watch Julian Blanc videos and spew generalized, incantatory PUA bullshit?

First of all. No one in Tokyo thinks your white ass is "exotic" get over yourself. MOST Japanese girls do not give a shit about white guys or particularly want to date them. This is the truth. There are many Japanese girls who do though of course. Still. There are some things you should know when trying to hook up with them.

Please limit your lame pick up attempts to clubs, streets of a party area during bar/club/party hours and potentially Yoyogi park. If it is summer, the beach like Enoshima might be okay too. No, do not approach her in a "normal place" like her just minding her own business walking down the street, combini, etc. Seriously, just... don't. That will be immediately invasive and creepy. Japan is not a chit chat with strangers kind of society. If you approach her has a young man--her first, inescapable thought will be "nampa" and she would be right.

As I said, clubs, yoyogi park, the beach can all be acceptable and fruitful places to meet girls, but understand that most girls in these places *will be with friends*. Friends generally diffuse pick-up attempts immediately. If you approach one girl, you'll probably be met with a chorus of "YABAI! NAMPA! YADDAAAA!" Your attempt will be DOA.

Ideal situation for pulling in Japan. At a club (or surrounding area) during party hours with a wingman. At the end of the day, not so revelatory right? Common sense.

>>1061282
For Japan you need a bachelor's degree. Full stop.

>>1061293
thank you anon, I needed to be sure
saves a lot of time

>>1061292
this. After spending a month in Tokyo and then going to other parts of the country, I have almost forgotten the feeling of people staring at you because you're not Japanese since it happened so rarely in Tokyo

>>1061293
>Full stop.
3rd worlder detected

>>1061286
No, I am 22 with a cum laude degree from a high ranking university

>>1061292
Okay, maybe the white and exotic thing doesnt hold for all Japanese girls. Still, I was just telling a guy what he needed to do to get laid. In that sense there isn't much of a difference between 'actually knowing what you're talking about' and spewing generalized PUA BS.

I'm not the biggest fan either but I will use it when I have to, and share it too, because I believe that a world in which more guys get some is a world with less frustrated dicks like yourself.

Yes there are many reasons too believe that women or their friends will reject and dismiss you. Don't let it stop you from trying

>>1061339
>frustrated dicks like yourself.

Huh? Why do you assume I'm a frustrated dick? Frustrated about what?

>>1061345
It was just an assumption, you know best..

So, not very much of a traveller usually, but I'm considering going there. I speak the language somewhat, know a few people, might be a gainful experience.
I have some money saved, no income, no credit card.
I thought about going in January when their New Years ruckus is over, preferably for ~2 weeks.

So my current issues are:
I have never booked a flight, is this even easily done without credit cards?
Money system seems complicated. But I can import up to 1 million Yens' worth of my own cash, so I figure I technically could withdraw my money here (, wear my wallet on my heart,) take it with me and change it there. Good enough?
I don't want to bring my laptop and don't have a smartphone. I know some people just get an extra phone in Japan. Or is it perfectly legit to get around there (both geographically and in getting in touch with natives under 40) without phones and internet at all?

>>1061398
>I have never booked a flight, is this even easily done without credit cards?
If you book a flight with a credit card you can get a pretty decent amount of rewards points. You should get a credit card if it's possible.

>>1061398
>payment methods
Why don't you look into each airline that flies from your area to Japan? I know Jetstar (Australia) accepts PayPal.

>money changing
You will probably get worse value changing physically as opposed to withdrawing from an ATM or using a prepaid multi-currency card. Rates and fees are all Googleable though. I don't recommend taking your home currency with you. What network(s) are you debit card associated with?

>phone
Don't count on being able to get a prepaid phone service in Japan like you would in most Western countries. Your choices are:
- rent a SIM at the airport (expensive)
- get a prepaid data SIM (less expensive but still not cheap - you'll have to use Skype or similar for calls and texting)
- get a pocket wifi (similar deal)

A proper phone service of any kind (or data service with non-extortionate rates) in Japan requires a credit card and a residence card.

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So I am currently in Tokyo with family who are about to fly back, but I have the means to personally stay for another month or two if I can get a good price on a vacation rental.

The issue is that I don't want to stay in Tokyo and would like to visit more countryside areas. Ideally somewhere in or near Shirakawa-go but outside of expensive ryokan which doesnt permit single travelers I can't find anything available on a monthly basis.

I would settle for Kanazawa and just make a few trips but even so, slim resources on places to stay. I checked AirBnb and found just one place that might work out.

Basically asking if anyone has any leads or resources. Looking for either a monthly apartment or private room for 500-1000 USD per month in that general area.

>>1061403
I had better ask my bank guys anyway then.
>>1061406
Well, my bank card has Maestro.
So I had better do things old-fashioned or hit up internet cafes if I really need it huh.

>>1061443
It's not that hard to get a reasonable prepaid sim in Japan, just don't buy at the airport, go into town to an electronics store. Still way more expensive than contract rates, but I got 5gb, which lasts up to two months (or until the data runs out, whichever is first) for ¥5000.

It's pretty handy for getting around, and for translating things that need to be translated, etc... And I have more than enough data to google things, [spoiler]and shitpost on /int/[/spoiler]

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>>1061254
Need sauce but the visiting a shrine the first day of the year thing started in the mid 20th century by the train companies. It's not actually that traditional even though the temples are involved. Though most people are married at Shinto temples that is starting to fade as western style church weddings are becoming more popular. Though most everyone still has Buddhist funerals. It is pretty fascinating that both religions coexist in Japan without conflict but I'm pretty sure that's helped by the fact neither is trying to be a ruling/governing body.

>>1061398
Keep in mind that New Years is more of a Christmas-like holiday in Japan where many attractions are closed and stores are open and insane because of fukbukuro sales.

>>1060767
how do we join the yakuzas?

>>1061440
Gaijinpot.com Haven't used it myself but some friends have with success. Looks like there's some places in Gifu for a great price but you'll need to furnish them which is true of many japanese apartments.

>>1061453
Would love an answer to this question as well. Not necessarily because joining the yakuza is something I want, but I see this question posted in literally every Japan General thread and it never seems to get any mention.

Is it in any way possible for a foreigner to join the yakuza or is this just some meme-tier weaboo question?

>>1061461
What the fuck do you think you idiot? Do you think you could join a crime syndicate in any country as a random foreigner? It's not like they hold official try outs

>>1061467
>>1061461
I heard it's possible to get Yakuza jobs on Gaijinpot.com

>>1061453
>>1061461
it's a joke that was there since the first Japan general m8s. Earlier it also included >how to find Japanese gfs, but the discussion got too focused on that often so I removed it and replaced it with the prostitution thing

I think I'll update the general at the beginning of next year, with stuff that gets often asked like JR pass, mobile sim etc. so open to any suggestions there!

>>1061453
Don't even think about joining the yakuza unless you're at least N3. It used to be strictly N1 but times have changed and even the yakuza need English speakers.

>>1061472
Mobile phones, and public transport for sure.

Maybe also a primer on how not to be a dickhead while in Japan too

Some language tools would probably be good too

>>1061553
After that debacle with the autist in the combini mad that the girl and her friend didn't want to talk to him I'd agree. Although in fairness I think he just virgin raged to us, not her.

>>1061556
I'm just really aware of when I fail to follow custom is all, trying to do better

Going to Japan next saturday.

Money, flight, hostel, passport, luggage ready. Can I get a /trv/ blessing? I'm still a bit nervous, but what I'm scared the most is not enjoying it.

>>1061579
If you're not enjoying it, you're not doing the right things.

>>1061579
You will literally be in the land that weird comes from, surely you'll find something to enjoy

>>1061582
>the land where weird comes from
Do people who've been to Japan longer than a week actually spout this facile nonsense?

>>1061579
Is this your first time traveling? Where are you from? What are you going over to do?

>>1061583
Calling Japan "The Land where Weird Comes from" is pretty cringey, but Japan is pretty weird desu.

What kind of street food is there in Tokyo? Anything or any places you could recommend?

WHERE DO I BUY THE COOL ANIME NERD / TOKU NERD STUFF.

>>1061632
There is almost no street food culture in Japan, stemming most likely from Japanese cleanliness. However, food stalls can be found at festivals and events, generally it's yakiniku skewers, takoyaki and yakisoba.

>>1061644
Yes and no. Standing in place and eating/drinking is fine near the place you bought it, like outside a conbini. Moving and eating is another matter though, unless you give no shits. The occasional sip of drink on a train is also OK.

>>1061643
Nakano Broadway.

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>>1061644
Osaka's Dotonbori is well known for street food and pretty much every big city has it somewhere. Also large temples have several stands off to the side there were a ton at Fushimi Inari and Asakusa and they usually have a place to sit and eat. If you see a food stand at a temple get something it will probably be the best of that particular food you've ever had.

>>1061643
Akihabara duh

>>1061650
I rarely saw people perched and eating outside of conbini. From what I've seen, unless there is a table, people generally do not eat in public. The only times I've seen people eat in conbini were when there were tables/benches, and even then only if there was a free spot. I've also never seen someone eat or drink on any train except the shinkansen, not even sipping water from a bottle. I spent the first week of my trip eating 1 meal a day because I'm so used to eating on the go while traveling; I watched people constantly and the only time I saw a person eating in public (outside of matsuri and food stands by popular tourist sites) was at a bus stop at lunch time. It was an elderly lady and she was sitting on a bench hidden behind the bus stop enclave and a lot of shrubbery.

>>1061714
>>1061650
You're both right. I've seen people eat outside of conbini's, though only at certain times (early in the morning before work, during lunch break and late at night). Though I think the rules varies slightly between regions, like in Tokyo it was very rare, but in Osaka it was a bit more lax. I think eating outside is deemed acceptable to a certain degree provided you were discreet and didn't inconvenience others or litter.

>>1061662
Nakano Broadway features more of a selection of vintage and western toys than Akihabara but I would say unless you're specifically looking for that more, there's not real reason to go to Nakano Broadway. Just go to Akihabara for the weeb stuff.

What's /trv/ doing on New Years? I'm planning on going to Meiji Shrine. Do people get shitfaced before or after the shrine visit?

Are there arcade chains that generally have cheaper UFO catchers than in Tokyo? Last visit I only went to arcades in Akiba and Ikebukuro and I'm told that they tend to have higher prices for pulls.

>>1061802
>>1061643
Ikebukuro has some for cheap as well. Prices like Nakano, culture like a more chill Akihabara.

>>1061802
That friend mentioned he wants "COOL ANIME NERD / TOKU NERD STUFF", so I presumed he wants something more Nakano Broadway-y, yeah.

>>1061894
Where in Ikebukuro can you find Anime stuff? I didn't look for it while I was there, but I didn't come across any either.

>>1061825
Clearly you're going to want to get shitfaced after going to Meiji shrine. Kind of disrespectful to walk around a shrine "shitfaced." Textbook "baka gaijin" shit m8.

>>1061870
Not really. They're pretty uniform, at least in the major cities I've been to. Interestingly though, I found the UFO Catchers in Dotonbori, Osaka, to be brutally difficult compared to Tokyo's offerings. Anyone feel this?

What some places will do is crank up the prices when school lets out.

>>1061908
Akihabara doesn't have that? Nakano Broadway is just Akihabara Lite with a big emphasis on figures. Basically anything you can get in Nakano Broadway you can get in Akihabara, except for vintage American toys like Star Wars and stuff. Akihabara has one vintage shop that I can think of off the bat, and it's basically just old school Godzilla and stuff. Only Japanese.

>>1061919
There's a big Animate store there at least. I know that Ikebukuro kind of has a reputation as like a mini Girl's Akihabara. I think the Animate is bishounen oriented. Last month I saw some like otaku girls festival going on in that little park there. Not really sure, I do live by Ikebukuro though.

how much usd should i allocate for two weeks in japan? (excluding flights)

>>1061825
>What's /trv/ doing on New Years? I'm planning on going to Meiji Shrine. Do people get shitfaced before or after the shrine visit?

Ok, news flash: japanese people don't get shitfaced on New Years. Especially not people going to a fucking temple, you idiot.

New Year in Japan is a time for quiet time with the family. Not for partying. Japanese people go to temples at midnight to actually *pray*.
If you want to party go to a club in Roppongi.

>>1061940
>I found the UFO Catchers in Dotonbori, Osaka, to be brutally difficult compared to Tokyo's offerings. Anyone feel this?


I had the opposite experience, I felt they got harder the closer I got to Tokyo

>>1061940
>I think the Animate is bishounen oriented.

Very much. On Saturday I went to check it out and there was some event going on. Full of girls.

>>1061986
Yeah Ikebukuro's anime stores are refereed to as "Maiden Lane" so expect lots of Free, UtaPri, Haikyuu and Kuroko no Basuke. Their Mandarake branch is all yaoi doujin and male idol goods.

Anyone in Osaka keen to meet up? And does anyone have any reccomendations on bars or clubs? I hit up OWL tonight which was decent.

Any skiers/snowboarders here? Whens the best time to head to Hokkaido and the northern areas? Also which resorts do I want to go to and which to avoid?

>>1062162
Avoid being there over the Christmas / New Years period since it will be full of Australians getting their drink on. Snow wise I would say mid to late January. You can look up snowfall history for the last 10 years and compare it, so you can decide exactly when you want to go. Japan is crazy good with snow so pretty much anytime you go you'll have a good time.

Resort wise I can't tell you specifics, it was about 5 years since I was last there

>>1060970
Winter if your going to mount fuji because of the monkeys in the hot springs

More info on these jk clubs lads

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why are you fucks obsessed with japan

>>1062180
>since it will be full of Australians getting their drink on.
as an Australian who is flying out tomorrow and intending to spend the next month between snow and booze, i concur.

>>1062162
I'm not exactly experienced, but ill be in Hakuba during the first week of January teaching myself how to snowboard.

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going to kyoto and tokyo next january with my not-quite-2-year-old son. any definite must see's with a kid that age, and (as long as he's not a goddamn nightmare) will he be tolerated in more solemn settings?

>>1062180
>avoiding Australians getting their drink on
It's like you hate fun

>>1062239
I'm Australian myself mate. We do get rowdy and have a good time, but some people aren't looking for that when they go overseas. By all means head to Hokkaido at Christmas / New Years if you want to party with some loose units

>>1062238
Of course he'll be tolerated. Japanese are tourists in their own country and bring their little kids to famous sites and stuff too. It will not be out of the ordinary.

>>1062162
>Whens the best time to head to Hokkaido and the northern areas?

January through mid-March should be fine. Later than that you might get unlucky if the weather warms up as snow quality will suffer.

>which resorts do I want to go to and which to avoid?

I think it depends on what you're looking for. If it's more of a traditional European or American experience (i.e., a resort that has something to do at night) pretty much your choices are limited to Niseko and Rusutsu. Personally, I'd pick Niseko (more to do, less isolated), but as other anons have pointed out it will be filled with Australians for the duration of the season (not only January). It will also be filled with Chinese (Rusutsu, too). Offhand, I'd guess the ratio of foreigners to Japanese in Niseko is around 4-to-1.

If you want a more Japanese experience, check out Kiroro and Moiwa. Kiroro is relatively close to Otaru and Sapporo so you can probably do day tours if you get tired of skiing. For Moiwa (also close to Sapporo) you can stay in the onsen town of Jozankei. If you pick Moiwa, double-check if they allow snowboarders (if this is your thing) -- either Moiwa or Teine (sorry, can't remember which) is supposedly skiing only.

Sup JapGen,
Me and the GF both got some time off over new years, we're on a budget but where would be a good couple/interesting getaway near Yokohama/Machida?

I was thinking Nagano, but I'm not sure if we'd just get bored out there after a day or so

Anyone got a map of akihabara?

>>1062316
>Anyone got a map of akihabara?

Almost 5 million sites on the internet do, according to Google.

What are some nice places to see in Hiroshima other than the obvious island temple and peace park?

>>1062238
Ghibli Museum!

>>1062316
You don't really need a map. The places you want to go are located on a strip of a few blocks down the main avenue.

>>1062316
Where do you want to go? Pleb side or "creepy anime porn" side?

Trick question, it's all next to each other.

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>>1062316
There are paper maps right in the train station. I used the one in pic to find cosplay and gatchapon shops; it was actually very valuable since some of them are located outside that dense shopping area and I would never have roamed there otherwise.

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>>1062322
>Ghibli Museum
that looks frickin' amazing. thanks!

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First time vistor here. I'm a big fan of opentable here in the states to get restaurant reservations, and I'm wondering if there's anything similar other than the opentable.jp website.

On the same subject, any must-visit restaurants that I should know about? Are the michelin star establishments worth it? Money isn't really an issue but I don't really want to spend more than $40-50/person before drinks unless it's truly a fabulous meal.

We fly out on the 25th, staying until the 2nd so it's somewhat last minute, but still some time to reserve things I suppose.

>>1062505
Forgot to mention, we (me and one other) are staying in Minato Ward, Tokyo right near the water. We don't have a car rented but don't mind taking taxis to get to things.

>>1060767
>Joining the Yakuza
Is that something people actually come to these threads to talk about?

>>1062217
>Asking this on a Tibetan puppetshow imageboard

>>1062505
$40-50 is the minimum you're looking at for anything above average in Tokyo. That said the above average is much better than the average in most major cities in the world.

The michellin star restaurants are worth every penny if you can afford them. Best meal, but also most expensive meal, of my life was at Narisawa. It was 40000+ yen a person for a 2 star restaurant.

>>1062513
Don't want to be that guy but did you even read the thread?

Also going to Japan in April 2016 for a month. My birthday is 10. april. Whats best way to celebrate birthday in tokyo?

>>1062505
>On the same subject, any must-visit restaurants that I should know about? Are the michelin star establishments worth it? Money isn't really an issue but I don't really want to spend more than $40-50/person before drinks unless it's truly a fabulous meal.

If money is truly not an issue yes Michelin star restaurants are worth it. That said, you will generally spend more than 40-50 a person for Michelin star joints. With dinner forget about it.

I live in Tokyo. I recently went to a place for lunch. It was 60 per person. Small portions and didn't get me full (I wasn't expecting a feedbag mind you), but was easily top 5 meals I've ever had. It's called Aoyama Esaki if you're interested. They only serve lunch on Saturdays though. Gf and I made a reservation a month and a half in advance. But with dinner you probably wouldn't need to wait as long as dinner is every day.

>>1062532
>Best meal, but also most expensive meal, of my life was at Narisawa. It was 40000+ yen a person for a 2 star restaurant

Hahaha how do they even justify that?? The dinner set at Esaki is 15,000. Quintessence, a three star French place in Tokyo is 20,000 for a dinner course. How does a 2 star possibly justify 40,000.

I understand that the line between a 1 and 2 and 3 star is very fine and often arbitrary. And I'm sure there are many restaurants with no stars that are basically as good as a three star. But that is madness. Seems bad for business to price yourself about the going rate for 3 stars. Shit, even three-star Jiro charges 30,000 for their sushi course and they've got a documentary that made them a cult classic among snooty white people. He could probably charge 50,000 and morons would show up.

>>1062506
You can take a train to pretty much anywhere you need to go in Tokyo. Taxis are ridiculously expensive in Japan, save the money for the food.

>>1062565
Whoops typo. Meant to say, so you know, Aoyama Esaki is a three-star restaurant.

>>1062565
Jiro is a 30 minute mea topsl. Narisawa was 2 hours with a different dish every 15. The line between 2 and 3 is consistency. The line between none and 1 and between 1 and 2 is pretty huge.

Michelin star restaurants are not for everyday dining. Its basically impossible to do so in a major city anyway without planning nearly a year in advance. My Narisawa reservation was 2 months in advance because lunch and dinner was fully booked. There is a quality and unique experience with restaurants rated that highly, even in a city with so many amazing restaurants as Tokyo

>>1062569
>this fucking guy

What are you, a food critic?

>>1062576
Are you poor? Have you never paid more than 5000 yen for a meal? You don't need to be a food critic to have eaten good food.

>>1062579
I'm not talking about you splurging on food or the price. I'm referring to you professing to know the nuances and ins and outs of the Michelin star system and shit. Come on dude, give me a break. Like you really fucking know.

Btw, I'm a different guy, not the guy in Japan you initially responded to.

400 bucks for dinner is bat shit insane though imho, rich or not. 200 is okay.

>>1062505
I just came back from Japan and a lot of restaurants are fully booked through December/January. So I'm not sure if you'll be able to get a last minute reservation, especially at a Michelin starred establishment?

>>1062532
>>1062565
I don't think just having Michelin stars themselves justifies high price tags. Whether it be 2 or 3 stars. You also have to consider what type of menu and ingredients their using. For example, a full course tasting menu featuring foie gras, black and white truffles, blue fin tuna, etc could justify a high price tag.

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are there any skyscrapers with good observation decks in tokyo or kyoto?

>>1062657
tripadvisor.com/Attraction_Review-g1066457-d320640-Reviews-Tokyo_Metropolitan_Government_Office-Shinjuku_Tokyo_Tokyo_Prefecture_Kanto.html

>>1062660
awesome! thanks anon.

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>>1062597
Basically it was that plus a lot more. Opted for Kobe steak instead of the duck though since I'd only had normal wagyu.

>>1060936
>pro tip for Osaka
Hit up namba. Shits fucking lit m8

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britbong here, what's the cheapest way to get from japan from here? any particular times of the year?

>>1062868
On foot. May take over a year though and you'd need to be a good swimmer.

What do you consider cheap? My return flight with Air France cost £660 and other airlines (from my nearest airport) are aroud about that mark as well.

You can get cheapear flights through comparison websites like skyscanner with the cheapest coming out around £370-450 when I looked but you need to book through a 3rd party which I didn't really trust so went with the peace of mind of directly booking through the Airline I was flying with.

For certain circumstances I'm going to be carrying about 2k usd when arriving at Narita. Will I be able to exchange all of it at the airport? Will I have any problems while doing it?

>>1062954
No problems but youll have the shittiest exchange rate ever.

I want to take a trip to Japan once I graduate from college. I would have never been abroad before, but I would have least finished several Japanese classes then, so I'll have some grasp of the language. (Hopefully, I'd know enough Kanji to get around based on signs and have enough knowledge to ask direction and hold basic conversation)

Currently, I have a steady job with a big software company in my college town (part time during school at 15 an hour, full time during the summer at 30 an hour) which pays well enough so I can save accordingly. However -- I don't know what kind of costs I should expect for a trip to Japan. This would be no longer than 90 days, but I would hope at least two or three weeks. Air fare alone, I know, can vary (and will be pretty expensive) and I doubt it'll be feasible to stay in a hotel for more than a week.

This isn't about what I should do, what I should see, I'll decide that later. I currently have a year, to two years to plan accordingly. What amount should I be looking to spend? What should I save up for to have a good trip? Assume I'll be going solo. I am looking for honest answers, and respectable ranges depending on the kind of trip I am looking for.

>>1062978
Narita Airport has the fairest exchange rate I've ever seen. It won't be as good as your own bank but they don't rip you off

>>1062985
Well, what kind of trip are you looking for? You could attend a language school to actually solidify your Japanese. You'll have less time to relax and do sightseeing, but you'll be much more involved with life and people there.
I think you could take 70-80$/day for food, accomodation and transportation(excluding flights) as a low-end ballpark figure.

>>1062994
>Narita Airport has the fairest exchange rate I've ever seen.

Exactly how much experience do you have changing money? Airports are notorious for being among the worst places for forex. I've been to Narita plenty of times and never saw any reason to change more than US$50 there.

>>1062994
Id rather cop the bank fee by withdrawing money overseas than exchange my money at the airport.

>>1062868
I booked with Turkish Airlines around April for March 2016 and paid £400 for a return ticket.

>>1063057
This I got by just fine withdrawing from 7-11s my whole trip.

>>1063102

I would do that but I have this money in cash and I'm unable to deposit it in my account, so I don't mind just getting slightly screwed by the airport.

>>1063004
I would hope for a trip that sees parts of the country. Tokyo, Kyoto, maybe Osaka, maybe some parts outside of the city? How long should I give that for a meaningful trip?

And I have to ask, what kind of accommodation is that? Is that a hostel or couch surfing?

>>1063127
As I said, low end, so yes, hostel, couchsurfing, airbnb, etc.
If you want to travel around the country you will obviously need a lot more cash for transportation, but length-wise it's hard to say. I don't think a meaningful trip depends on the length and the quantity of stuff you've seen, but I'd say 2 weeks is the bare minimum. Since you've never been abroad, you should also keep in mind that you might need a couple of days to adjust after you've arrived.

>>1063138
That's good to know then, thanks for the advice. Do you have any other advice that a first-timer should know when planning a trip to Japan (or any trip abroad, really)?

>>1063143
Can't give you comprehensive advice but in general keep your cool, chances are you will get into some embarrassing situations, which will also depend on how good your Japanese is. Observing people and generally being considerate helps reduce that too. Get a Suica or Pasmo. Maybe try not to plan too strictly. Give yourself room for spontaneity and mistakes. You could try and arrange some meetups with locals through couchsurfing to combat possible loneliness or cluelessness.

>>1060767
wtf is wrong with u guys and fuccin japan? i accept that you find that country interesting for some reason, but why do i always find a "japan general" thread here? do you guys actually go there or just talk about it? i mean at some point you must have all the information u need... sick

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>>1060767
Im heading to Japan in March to do some backpacking. I was hoping someone could let me know a good route to take through japan to get the most out of it. I was thinking fly into Narita and then head south and leave from somewhere down there? Also any hostels you recommend/dont recommend would be great too

>>1063224
4chan is a website based on a japanese image board, and features multiple boards about Japanese media and culture. I wouldn't be surprised to find Japan generals on any board.

Boarding my plane to japan in 2 hours. Thanks for all the help /trv/, you've been amazing.

>>1063224
You're right, every single person that wants to go to Japan in the entire world has gone to Japan at this point. I expect this to be the last Japan general since Japan is finished being a place, Japan will no longer have anything new, and everyone has gone.

>>1063026
Has it changed significantly in the past year? When compared to xe the rate was fairly close in both directions and not better than any of the banks that would allow you to exchange in Japan as someone without an account.

In most other airports theres usually a one way rate that is fair and one that is significantly higher, but in either case theres a fee associated with it.

Guys quick

Do I try to force a shit before boarding or just hold it in

>>1063250
>>1063260
ok i got you. i have been to japan and i didnt like it at all, but thats a matter of taste. actually japan could stop beeing a place if there happens any more nuclear shit (hiroshima, fukushima...) which is another reason not to go.. but now i shut up, have fun in japan and take enough money with you because everything is really expensive!

A month vacation in Japan for my work-burdened mates and myself. Is it possible on a fairly tight budget? Oakhouse seem good? Best area in Tokyo to live?-- Fuzoku being a main focus.

>>1062217
that image is based as fuck, what live-action anime is that?

>>1063282
i dont know why you replied to my post, as it had nothing to do with what your talking about

How much money would I need for about a week of simply urban exploring in tokyo? Not going to going on a shopping spree though money is no object.

>>1063384

>>1063004

Is the city of Narita worth spending a day in?

I'm deciding between spending an extra night in tokyo or not fussing with a train on the day of my departure.

>>1062322 has definitely been added to the itinerary. any other suggestion for must-do's with a (barely) 2 year old in tokyo or kyoto?

Where's the best spot to book a hostel if I'm looking for nightlife, arcades etc? I was thinking either Ikebukuro or Shinjuku but I'm fine just so long as it's a place which attracts nicer types.

Studying to be a doctor here, thinking of spending a few years in Japan, will i be judged for taking a job from native Japanese or discriminated against? or is the whole racism just a meme?

Anyone interested in a meetup??

>>1063616
If you're really good at what you do and have decent Japanese, nobody will care in the medical profession. Japanese doctors are pretty shitty overall anyway (Japanese people live long lives because of their diet and genes, DEFINITELY NOT because of the healthcare system) so it shouldn't be that hard to get a job if you improve your language skills

>>1063606
Ikebukuro is nothing but Sunshine city, the station, and hostess/girls/oppai bars. Nightlife is better in other areas unless you want to do those activities

Anyone have any experience with AirBnB and the shared houses? There is one that has good reviews and you can eat and chill with your house mates (mixed male and females), some know decent english and they play vidya.

It's retardedly cheap too, $35 a night for a shared room with the locals.

>>1063628
>it shouldn't be that hard to get a job if you improve your language skills

Sure, sure, there's no such things as licenses or certifications in Japan for a physician. Anyone with an online degree and mediocre Japanese speaking skills can walk into any hospital and get hired.

>>1063616
You need to be N1 level to be a doctor in Japan

>>1063629

Where do you think is better?

van. maldonado

>>1063776
>You need to be N1 level to be a doctor in Japan
You need a hell of a lot more than just that.

Question:

What are the laws on bringing back porn from another country to US?

Like what if I bought some adult magazines with JAV actresses in them. Is there a law against bring inning foreign porn?

>>1063817
Basically yes, customs can seize it if they find it. That being said you're not likely to be scrutinized and searched.

http://motherboard.vice.com/read/us-customs-is-required-to-seize-your-dick-pics-when-you-cross-the-border

>>1063801
Psst. The scale is revered from what you'd expect. N1 is the hardest to achieve and is scholarly fluency.

>>1063827
Psst. Working as a physician in a developed country requires a lot more than just a passing score on a language fluency exam.

>>1063821

Really? It says even if porn is legal in the country you still can't bring it? That's weird.

So I guess I can't go to a 7-11 and get a nudy mag to bring back from Japan?

Are there any themed love hotels left in Tokyo or Osaka?

>>1063844
Yeah, laws and rights don't have to be the same at the border, and no politician is going to risk his career on a push to legalize importing pornography.

Again, though, most people just walk through customs with a wave.

>>1063618
Yeah, why not. I'm in tokyo with my brother until january 8th.

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>>1063844
I brought back a few onaholes with lewd/loli box covers. My friend bought a few doujinshi. We just stuffed it in our check bags and had 0 questions asked or any trouble.

>>1063857

Dang I really wanted to get some JAV posters and merch while I was there.

Actually can anyone confirm if they sell Jav merch in Japan? Kinda like how we have a playboy calendar or nudity posters of famous porn stars in the US.

>>1063869
Yep, they have them there. The weirdest thing I saw was a pair of used panties, advertised as being previously worn by a JAV star.

>>1063863
>>1063618
Me too, arriving in tokyo on the 5th with a friend.
Shoot me an email if youre keen. We can probably go do some mediocre shit like a gun cafe or something.

Tokyomeetup2@gmail . com

>>1063867
Be happy you didn't end up like this.

https://ask.fm/The_Doddler/answers/131656071921

>>1063801
Eh, my Chinese doctor friend passed N1 but her Japanese really isn't even that good and shes a doctor just fine.

>>1063817
I brought a shit ton of loli doujinshi and it was fine. They don't really search people coming from Japan

>>1063847
I've been to love hotels in Shinjuku, Shibuya and Ikebukuro and I haven't seen any themed ones.

>>1063827
>N1
>"scholarly fluency"
Lol. The bar for passage on the JLPT is pathetically low. You basically need a high 'F' on the sections and then overall score. It does not test speaking. If you think think the average N1 holder is at a scholarly level of fluency you are delusional. JLPT is a fucking joke.

>>1063921
Are there any Japanese tests that test speaking? Like a Japanese version of TOEFL or IETLS. I've found studying for the JLPT has really helped focused my studying and given me noticeable improvements in my language, a lot more so than just studying random things and living in Japan ever did.

>>1063914
>Canadian branch of the Comic Book Legal Defense Name didn't chip in
Poor bastard, they're usually pretty good about defending cases like this (probably because it was a toy rather than manga?). And his name's been slandered by the media in the outrage culture era too.

>>1063917
The point sailed about a kilometre over your head, didn't it?

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My friends and I are going in early April.

We hope to have our tickets booked next month but one of us hasnt applied for his passport yet but is going this week to get it done.

Do you need your passport at the time of booking an international flight?

Or do you only need it when leaving?

I cant find any solid info on this.

>>1064041
I got my passport about 3 months after I booked the flight, there were no problems with that.

Is there a hc punk scene in tokyo? I wanna go to a japcore show.

>>1063933
None that I know of. Yes, it's a good way to direct your studies to be sure, I'm not saying it isn't. And don't get me wrong, I would say most people who pass N2 and N1 are pretty good at Japanese, I'm just saying N1 in no way reflects "scholarly fluency" in the language. That is absurd.

>>1064064
there is underground scenes for everything in tokyo you just have to be in the know which is hard as fuck. i used to be good friends with these guys that were in a heavy metal band and their shows were always in the smallest little nooks and crannies. There band was called Bowze Not sure if they are still performing.

Why the everloving fuck are the cheapest flights I can find $1200

Will the nips laugh at me if I can't into chopsticks?

>>1061292
Yea I used to think like you but within 8 days of being here I have had 5 dates with 3 different girls already. Maybe for average looking white guys this is the case but if you are blond and good looking women want to talk to you. One is a waitress that I chatted up serving me and the other two I met in a Starbucks. Just smile and if they can speak English you have a chance.

>>1061714
I eat while walking all the time. Who cares? At worst some old retard might think you are just a dumb gaijin.

>>1064166

I got mine for $1070 and could have saved $50 if I had booked a day earlier.

It depends on the time of year and how far in advance you're purchasing

>>1064201
When did you book? What is generally the cheapest time to fly?

>>1064192
You basically just said its easier for hot guys to get girls, thats not really surprising...

>>1064202

I got my tickets about 2 or 3 weeks ago for a flight in late March.

From my understanding, Feb/March and Oct/Nov are the best times to fly.

When you search flights, see if the site you're using has a "flexible dates" option (I think travelocity does? not sure) and it'll give you +/- 3 days of the dates you search. It makes figuring out the cheapest times a lot faster.

>>1064187
just learn it christ

>>1064192
it really depends on yoyr standards bud.

a six foot tall blonde attractive man can do well anywhere with any effort

but is a waitress a catch? really dude?

depending on your priorities japan can be brutal. wanna marry the daighter of a good family? good luck. want a girl with herpes simplex type 2? have at it bro.

fireigners also tend to drastically overestimate the quality of their catches

I can't be fucked to read through all of these posts.

I'm an exchange student in Japan and what worked best for us thus far was the 050 sim-card. It's like 2000 yen or whatever for 5 Gig a month, no need to buy a phone.

Only problem that you may have:
1.They might need to order the sim card
2.Sign up page is only in japanese and you need to cancel it again.

>>1064187
You have to be a special kind of dumbass to not be able to use chopsticks. That said most Japanese people assume you're exactly that dumb and will give you "compliments" on your ability to feed yourself. Usually when they say "You're so good at chopsticks" I just give them a "You are too" and then they realize how condescending they sound.

>>1064120
Thank you for the answer. >>1064120
So as a first time visitor of tokyo with no contact to anyone, I'm fucked. Thank you for the answer anyway.

I went to Roppongi today and unless I was in the wrong area I have no idea what people here complain about when they say it's complete shit. It's better than my neighborhood back home. Didn't even spot a Nigerian guy.

Also where can I meet people that aren't clubs?

Where to go on new year in tokyo for fireworks and Drinks, also how the fuck do I get home, how long does the Metro Operateur?

>>1064275
Double check this but Im pretty sure on new years trains run throughout the night.
>source: the new years episode of NHK ni youkoso

>>1064208
>want a girl with herpes simplex type 2? have at it bro.
things assblasted betas say

>>1061292

The guys on Roosh spew the same shit you do about Japan actually.. Btw, are you that faggot dreambig? What a fucking loser you are if so.

You left Japan for Thailand because you can't fuck J girls anymore. you're a huge fucking loser, lol. Don't spew your bullshit to people just because you suck - it doesn't apply to them, only you.

>>1064309
He's right for the most part, especially if you don't speak Japanese. In a city like Tokyo, not being Japanese in no way makes you special by itself. Girls in the places he mentioned will give you more benefit of the doubt than a Japanese guy, but you still have to have game and have to pick them up. I've never seen a girl scream
>やだ!やばい
however. That seems kind of extreme. Most girls will be very polite about it.
You can meet regular girls in other settings but thats when you do things like joining a hobby club and putting in the time to get to know a girl.

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Is japan worth it in the early year or should I wait until the weather gets nicer?

>>1061321
the fuck? LOL

Question about the Suicide Forest..

I went and saw the wind cave up near Kawaguchiko and Saiko then a few days ago I looked up the suicide forest and now I can't figure out if I've been there. Is the suicide forest the forest that the wind cave is in? Or do you have to go a bit farther than that?

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>>1064192
>good looking guy
>women want to talk to you
Your point is a non-point. Women wanting to talk to good looking guys is universal.


>>1064309
>Btw, are you that faggot dreambig? What a fucking loser you are if so.

I have no idea who that is. Why would you assume that hard that I'm some guy.

And what exactly did I "spew"?

>Most Japanese girls aren't interested in white guys, but plenty of Japanese girls are--more than enough to go around.
True.
>White is not exotic in Tokyo
True.
>Being white alone in absence of anything else will not make pretty Japanese girls swarm to you
True.
>The best place to pull in Japan is at a club (as it basically is anywhere)
True.

It's like what? Are any of these points that controversial? Who would disagree with this? Why do you act like I'm some assblasted beta who can't get laid or something? I didn't even say white guys can't get laid Japan. They absolutely can. What is your point? What exactly was it that I said that you take such issue with specifically. To call me a loser, etc.

>>1064315
I said that the やだ! やばい! shit is sometimes done by a girl's jealous friends, not the girl herself.

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Need amusement park advice. First time I went to Japan I accidentally ended up at FujiQ outside Kawaguchiko and got to ride 3 of their world record breaking roller coasters. I'm going back and plotting a trip from Hiroshima to Tokyo and need to pick in between stops. With my time available I think my choices are

>Go back to FujiQ
Frustrating out of the way trip to get there until the shinkansen through Yamanashi is complete but some of the most insane coasters I've ever been on but with at least 1 hour wait time each

>Nagashima Spaland and Tokyo Dome
Seems to have some great rides and coasters at each but not nearly as insane as FujiQ but in cities that are easy to access along shinkansen routes.

I'm an American traveling to Japan for the first time in January. I was planning on staying for 3 months and then moving on to a currently undecided country after. Will I have trouble getting into the country with just a one way ticket to Japan or should I try to buy the ticket for the next leg of the trip before I leave?

A Bit late but happy New year /jg/

>>1064568
Happy new year, I visited oji shrine

What did you do /jg/

>>1064274
>>1064274
Seconding some info on roppongi. What's the current hot bar?

>>1064469
I consider myself an expert on great roller coasters and where to find them.

I even have an elaborate spreadsheet listing roller coasters in relevant parks around the world. Attached is a snapshot of the results for Japan in areas along the route you've plotted with only "relevant" locations (more than one big roller coaster).

If you are only in to big roller coasters, Nagashima Spa Land and Fuji Q Highland are the best options in the country. Steel Dragon 2000 in NSL is the longest conventional roller coaster in the world, in fact. Notice that Tokyo Dome City is not on the list. That's because it has one and only one roller coaster, Thunder Dolphin (though it does travel over city rooftops, which is kind of neat).

I would also recommend going to the Disneyland Resort parks even though their set of coasters is tame, just because I hear that they are the most amazing parks ever, especially the DisneySEA park. Plus, there is one other not on this list, but I feel is worth mentioning: Tokyo Joypolis. It's a large SEGA arcade with one extremely unusual coaster named Veil of Dark. You play a video game on the actual coaster as it's moving, then at the end it launches, spins, and goes upside down.

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>>1064669
Here's the snapshot:

In tokyo now guys, dont know what to do for the day. January 1 is hell, pls help

>>1064700
get drunk

>>1064702
Isnt there anything else to do? Not too much a fan of getting drunk.

We'll be going to a temple to eat >>1064703
Maido>>1064703
Pick an interesting part of the city and go for a walk, explore a bit.

>>1064704
Sorry clover is messing up my posts.

>>1064704
Thanks

>>1063921
>I've been to love hotels in Shinjuku, Shibuya and Ikebukuro and I haven't seen any themed ones.
Damn, that's disappointing.

Will be available in Tokyo from 8/1 then Osaka on 21/1.

Email tokyomeetup2 @ gmail . com

Or just add me on snapchat, kkkat.
Im currently in Vietnam killing time

So I just found out that Golden week falls slap bang in the middle of my three week trip to Japan. On top of this I did not take out cancellation protection on my flights. Am I going to have to now book accommodation months in advance of my trip for that week or do you think I can get away with booking hostels whilst I'm out there?

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>>1064669
>>1064671
This is incredible thank you

Will be in Tokyo on Tuesday, will everything be back to normal by then?

Hey there, I'm a 20 year old gay man who'll be studying in Tokyo for a semester in Frebruary and I'm interested to know how and where to find more LGBT people in the area, gay clubs, bars or just anywhere that's LGBT friendly. Any recommendations? Thank you!

>>1064823
I think Shinjuku Ni-Chome is where the gay district is.

http://www.japanvisitor.com/gay-japan/nichome

Though it's more girl-directed you might enjoy Ikebukuro's boy love stuff

http://en.rocketnews24.com/2014/08/15/a-fujoshis-heaven-on-earth-exists-in-ikebukuros-boys-love-academy-cafe/

Have an AirBnB booked in Tokyo but might arrive a day earlier and the place is already taken for those days. Anyone have a internet cafe they recommend that the waifu and I can crash in case of early arrival? We know about capsules but would prefer not to get split up.

>>1064828
Or a love hotel for that matter

Got a 7-day JR pass to cover most major travel from Hiroshima to Tokyo but after day 7 I'll be in Tokyo. For all the cheapo trains to get around the city is it worth the trouble of getting a Suica or Pasmo for 5 days?

>>1064830
Nah, just buy the single fare tickets each time. It's simple and fast.

>>1064830
Don't listen to this >>1064837 guy

For five days, why not get a Suica/Passmo? It's like 500 yen for a new card + however much you fill it up with. That's it. Then you just scan it at the gate and go.

When buying single fare tickets you have to often wait in line (especially at busy stations) and look at the big subway map above the machines and determine exactly how much money you need to plug in for your fare. Often these maps will will list stations only in kanji which can add to the confusion. With Suica/passmo you don't have to think about it because the gate just determines your fair automatically.

If buying single fare tickets is simple and fast (and I'm not saying it's difficult or anything but it is a mild pain in the ass) then just getting a Suica/Passmo is that much simpler and faster.

If you could spend a day in Osaka, Kyoto or Kobe what would you pick? My current itinerary includes 3 nights 4 days in Nagoya and that seems like a bit much.

>>1064828
>>1064829
Where are you going to be in the city? It's hard to really recommend a specific love hotel or manga cafe. They're both everywhere, take your pick really.

The price and fanciness of love hotels can vary quite a bit, but generally speaking they're not so cheap if you want to stay overnight. Most of the love hotels in the little love hotel enclave in Shinjuku near Kabukicho for example, will stick you about 12,000-15,000yen for an overnight stay. They are nice, but it's probably a bit pricey for just one unexpected extra night.

On the cheap side I have been to a place in Ikebukuro a couple times that that's like 3,000 for a 3 hour "rest", not sure what they charge for overnight, but I'd imagine maybe not so much. That place is old and a bit dingy, but definitely clean.

For manga cafes, I'd recommend one of the ones associated with Bagus, a company that has pool halls/dart facilities/karaoke all over. They're pretty comfy. http://www.bagus-99.com/shops/gcc_shibuya/

>>1060986
Pretty much. If you go out on a given night you will see 60+ year old grandpas on compensated dates with middle/ high school girls. It's pretty gross and sad.

>>1064894
It depends on what you like, but I'd say probably Kyoto. Kiyomizu and Kinkakuji are both very cool temples. The area around Kiyomizu is neat too/kind of feels Edo-y in some areas.

Osaka is just a city. Dotonbori/Shinsaibashi has its charms but it's crowded and at the end of the day not so much different from any flashy entertainment district in Tokyo. Not sure why everyone is such an Osaka-boo on /trv/ / 4chan.

3 days in Nagoya is entirely too much. There's no real reason to go to Nagoya during a Japan vacation, but if you do, one day is absolutely sufficient.

>>1064894
I would go to Osaka and spend an entire day at USJ desu. Maybe one day in Kyoto visiting shrines and temples and one day in Nara visiting the deer park and shrines.

>>1064899
>60+ year old grandpas on compensated dates with middle/ high school girls

Bullshit.

>>1064669
> Plus, there is one other not on this list, but I feel is worth mentioning: Tokyo Joypolis. It's a large SEGA arcade with one extremely unusual coaster named Veil of Dark. You play a video game on the actual coaster as it's moving, then at the end it launches, spins, and goes upside down.

If you go to Joypolis, going early during the day on weekday when all the kids are in school. Buy an all day pass and you can basically go on all the rides within 2-3hrs. Really fun way to kill the day in Odaiba.

>>1064913
It's not bullshit. Enjo Kosai, or "Compensated dating" is very real in Japan. While I do question that that poster has actually seen it happening, it does happen. The reason is because generally speaking the "dates" are inside, either at a love hotel or an establishment where the girls do fortune telling or chit chat. The don't go to Starbucks or walk down the street holding hands.

It's possible to see a cilent negotiating with a girl on the street though I guess, as these girls do operate in Akihabara passing out flyers and things like that.

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>>1064469
>>1064669
>>1064671
>>1064779

Forgot to mention one other interesting amusement park in the Tokyo area: Hanayashiki. It's this little courtyard-sized park with one little roller coaster going around the perimeter. On the surface, it doesn't look that interesting, until you find out that it's the oldest amusement park in the country (opened 1853) and its roller coaster is the oldest in the country, as well (opened 1953).

>>1064919
It was a thing, it doesn't really happen any more

>>1064837
This is the worst advice in the entire thread. Single fare tickets are the biggest waste of time and money. I honestly don't know why they even still sell them.

You have to wait in line to get the tickets. Plus after the tax increase if you use a Pasmo you get the exact fare increase. So for example you would be paying 267 yen to go some place. If you buy a single ticket they rounded them all up to the nearest 10 yen, so 270, since the machines do not take anything less than 10 yen

Trying to pick whether to go to Asakusa on a weekend or a weekday or is it always crowded no matter what?

Is want to try oden but apparently it's a winter only food? Is it pretty much gone by late March?

>>1064919
I'm fairly certain this happens in every country on Earth.

>>1064925
It absolutely still does. You are a delusional.

>>1064942

Of course it happens on a very odd, sad occasion in every country on earth, but absolutely not to the systematically open and semi-tolerated extent it does in Japan. Japan is a country with both a very open (and in most cases) legal culture of prostitution and also one with a culture of pedophilia. Even dating back to the Edo period and earlier, instances of pederasty among the samurai class were widely known and tolerated.

Are InsideJapan tours overpriced trash?

>>1064919
>It's not bullshit.

Yes, it is very much bullshit. Enjo-kōsai of course exists in Japan, as it likely does in every other country on Earth. But to suggest that "60+ year old grandpas on compensated dates with middle/ high school girls" is common in Japan is complete nonsense.

>>1065038
>not to the systematically open and semi-tolerated extent it does in Japan

If you're referring to simple prostitution, you're wrong. If you're referring to your belief that it's common in Japan for 65-year-old men to date middle-school girls, you're full of shit.

>>1065048
As someone who lives in Japan and who does from time to time go out at night it is very much alive, sadly. You may want to say bullshit, but that does not make it untrue

>>1065051
Im sure I go out just as often in Japan as you and its not common. It was a big huge scandal in the late 90s when it was at its peak and it wasn't even that many girls doing it although it was much higher than it is now.

can you enjoy japan when you are depressed/a loser?

i often fantasise about travelling to japan however i always forget that i have anxiety attacks just getting groceries so it would probably be terrible travelling overseas

>>1065057
If you don't challenge your fears, you're gonna have a difficult time overcoming them.

I used to have awful anxiety, I couldn't go anywhere alone without panicking.
Traveling has helped me a lot. I'm not sure if I can recommend going to the other side of the planet at first, so start out with baby steps (for example, start by exploring your town and nearby areas and go from there) and build up some courage.

I still have anxiety and a depression, heading to Japan alone for one month this summer and I'm absolutely horrified and really excited at the same time.
I've had plenty of time to prepare myself mentally and plan things out so I always have something to do or somewhere to go in the case that I have overestimated myself and end up feeling too horrified to go out and explore on my own.

>>1065063
Are you me?

1. is cherry blossom expected to arrive before April this year due to El Nino?

2. how many days is recommended to tour around Japan?

3. where are luggage placed at for capsule hotels?

4. what is the average price of capsule hotels and hostel?

5. is it inconvenient to carry a large luggage around for touring around Japan? can I put my luggage into a locker somewhere? how much will it cost?

6. are fat people discriminated in Japan?

7. what are the must-buys or must-do in Japan?

thanks bros

As a white guy i do ok with women and have hooked up with my share of japs in the usa but i found the chances of hooking up in japan itself to be much lower.

1) there is no exotic factor. Like singapore or hong kong will see whites all around. A pickup quest there feels no different from doing it in the middle of ur own cbd.
2) U aren't going to outdo people with confident western style pickup. There are groups of arrogant guys who get dressed up and literally approach every girl they see getting off a train station all day. U will most likely be a badly dressed beta compared to these guys.

Ive heard that yada yada there are low quality sloots who chase whites in roppongi if that is what u r into. But there isnt even that... i went clubbing there and at most nightclubs i saw 7 guys dancing with a single 4/10 girl...at a lot of the bars u also had to compete with 4 or 5 of the shitty nigerian bar staff who would add even more guys to the ratio and chat up any girls alone...

My conclusion...u r better off picking up a vulnerable travelling jap in usa than going for a confident jap in her comfort zone who is sick of whites and used to fending off nanpa...

>>1065071
1. There are hardly any Japanese people in the USA except in Hawaii, so unless you're in Hawaii, your claim of having "hooked up with my share of Japs" is suspect to begin with. The chances of having hooked up with multiple Japanese women in America is a pretty dubious claim from the start. Japanese are very rare in America. They don't even study abroad either, so it's not like with the Chinese or Korean girls, who do in droves, and with whom you can easily hook up with as a student on a campus somewhere.

2. Why would you casually call Japanese people a word that soldiers fighting them in a war called them. No one fucking casually calls Germans "Krauts" so why would you call Japanese, "Japs." It's a wartime slur. What is wrong with you.

3. Go away

>>1065069
I should charge money for answering these questions..
>1. is cherry blossom expected to arrive before April this year due to El Nino?
no idea, probably not
>2. how many days is recommended to tour around Japan?
depends? Max you could stay is 3 months. If you have a more specific itinerary, I could help answering those
>3. where are luggage placed at for capsule hotels?
you get a locker for valuables, rest in the room
>4. what is the average price of capsule hotels and hostel?
20-30$. But capsule hotels suck so I wouldn't recommend staying in them for more than 1-2 nights
>5. is it inconvenient to carry a large luggage around for touring around Japan? can I put my luggage into a locker somewhere? how much will it cost?
well yeah? It's as inconvenient as it is in other places. You can leave your luggage in your hostel during the day though. Also if you're traveling between cities there's also services where you can send forward your luggage, though I've never used them.
>6. are fat people discriminated in Japan?
yes, just like anywhere else in the world
>7. what are the must-buys or must-do in Japan?
depends entirely on you, might range from top kitchen knives to anime merch. Must do would be taking the mornin/evening train rush, going to a Sento/Onsen, Karaoke, doing some baka Gaijin mistakes, accidentally knocking a girl up and joining the complementary Wednesday morning train Sudoku (last two are optional but highly recommended). Oh and joining the Yakuza of course

Would I enjoy Japan if I'm not really into amine or anything? Is it worth it for the city life or will it be hard to assimilate as an American?

>>1065085
You don't have to be a weeaboo to enjoy Japan, no.

>>1064472
different person but wish someone would answer this one

if i stay in japan longer than 90 days without a visa, what will happen on my way out? will i be banned from re-entry? fined? arrested?
i wanted to stay for a decent amount of time for sake of culture, help learning language through immersion, and volunteer work. doesn't seem conducive with a 90 day stay. And as I am not there on any specifically "designated" activity nor do i have a lot of money to present, visas just don't seem a likely acquisition for me.
how can a "backpacker" maximize their stay? i hesitate to use that word but for all intents and purposes, it is basically what i mean.

>>1065085
No. In a country of one hundred and twenty seven million people there is literally nothing to do that isn't anime.

>Japan in August
>budget trip
>very budget trip

What's the cheapest way of getting a room/apartment for 1/2 days in each city we're visiting? Is Airbnb good or is there a better network for japan?

Is the sticky where there are job resources for Japan?

>>1065190
i read through most of it. is there some websites yall can name off that pertain to jobs in japan

>>1065048
I'm not saying it's really common, but it's too common and more common than in other developed first world countries that's for damn sure.

>>1065169
You should find a company that wants to supply you with a visa and a paycheck for any (or all) of those things you want to do.

You can just leave and re-enter the country before the 90 days are up to get a renewed tourist visa but may be barred from re-entry (unlikely, but not uncommon)

If you overstay it entirely depends on who you know, how much they like you, how the issue arises, and who handles it ie: you can't predict it unless you plan on becoming the chief of police's son's side chick or something. Best case scenario for overstaying a tourist visa is you get kicked out of the country for a year and that's it. Worst case is you get arrested, put in a holding cell until they feel like letting you go, have to pay massive fines then kicked out of the country for a decade.

is it really hard to get laid without knowing the language

>>1065078
I don't think any natural abbreviation of a word should offensive term. It's almost a feature of language. Jews aren't even offended by the term jews anymore. Aboriginals in aus pretend to be offended by the term abos but they are really just looking to pick fights.

>>1065259
Plenty of 6/10 35+ girls around are easy lays, like most anywhere....

>>1065177
I'd say go with AirBnB. Me and my buds are planning a 17 night trip, and the total costs of all the rooms together (in 7 different locations) are lower than that of a 2-week Japan Rail Pass.
Of course, it depends on how many people you are traveling with, since most prices are per room.

>>1064756
It's said that hotels are often fully booked long in advance of Golden Week since it's one of the busiest holidays, so be wise and book while you still can.

I've read a few places that decent data sims can be picked up for cheap in chain electronics stores.
Could anyone shed some light on the names of these stores?

What parts of japan (either cities or general regions) are less saturated with foreigners, maybe a bit more laid back? Nightclubs and shit are the same everywhere, no reason to leave home for that I figure.

Im going to japan for 2 weeks this September. I want to fly into Osaka International and spend a couple days there then maybe a day or 2 in kyoto and then maybe a day or two somewhere else on the way to tokyo and spend min 6 days there and then leave narita. Where are places along the way would you suggest and why? The people Im going with want to take a 8 day cruise that stops at 4 places including Busan SK. Which I think is dumb and should shouldn't waste time on being on a boat.

>>1065955
I can't give you specific advise but I would agree that a cruise is silly. Unless you are old.