I live in Japan and I’ll also mention that on crowded local trains, people turn their backpacks around so the load is in the front and not bothering people behind. I rarely see tourists notice this and their backpacks are very disruptive.

@cakeswithfaces

8 ай бұрын

Good tip, thank you!

@EVL-xj5vc

8 ай бұрын

Some bag packs are bigger than the humans carrying them so yeah very disruptive indeed.

@tacosarelife2106

8 ай бұрын

I actually did this but then I felt even facing forward my backpack was a bother during rush hour and just took it off while on the train 😅

@TheMarnya

8 ай бұрын

@@tacosarelife2106 yeah sometimes that’s necessary too.

@lileenleen

4 ай бұрын

I travel with my backpack in front of me often too, just cause I hate having sweaty back compared to front lol, yeah I also feel it adds to security and also is less obtrusive.

We used luggage forwarding several times with our last trip, and I would highly recommend the service. Our hotel was usually able to arrange it for us as long as we had the address of the next hotel, and matched the name with the name on the reservation so they could easily connect the two. For our itinerary, we would leap frog certain cities (like going from Tokyo to Hiroshima, we brought just a smaller carry on and forwarded bigger bags to our next hotel in Kyoto). We also were able to forward on our large bag directly to the airport once we had it filled with souvenirs and goodies :) It does require making sure you pack what you need for that portion of the trip (for us, usually only a few days), but definitely worth it (especially since we had our then 3 year old in tow). The price was about $15-30 per bag, depending on the distance, size, and weight. We did not need the faster/same day service so I'm not sure if there's an upcharge for that. We had no problems overall with the bags not arriving in time (most times the bags were actually already in our room when we checked in!). One last note, at least at the hotels, it was cash only for payment. Not sure if you can pay by card at a convenience store or the Yamato stores.

@cakeswithfaces

8 ай бұрын

Thanks for sharing your experience - that sounds great! Glad it went so smoothly. I haven't heard anything bad about it. Leapfrogging destinations is a good idea to make up for the time it takes to arrive. I can see it'd make it a lot easier when you're travelling as a family

As an American who travels in Japan fairly often, I was pokey about deciding to use luggage forwarding--we just don't have much of anything like this in the US.. But now I wouldn't think of traveling around with big bags when I'm in Japan. These services are super easy, highly reliable, and reasonably priced. Makes the journey so much easier.

@cakeswithfaces

8 ай бұрын

It's what locals do! I've always carried my luggage with me (as it's the free option!) but I'll be trying it for the first time on my next trip.

As a disabled solo traveller afraid of travelling with big luggage this video is more helpful than you can imagine, thank you!

@cakeswithfaces

8 ай бұрын

That's really great to hear, thank you! Good luck on your travels!

@jeremybrahm3326

8 ай бұрын

Right now Shibuya is a nightmare with construction with the JR portion of the station. It may be easier to use a handicap taxi for the luggage. It may cost more, but it is much easier to move arrange with luggage. The elevators are not huge and may only move one floor, plus entry on one side and exit on the other.

@happycook6737

6 ай бұрын

I strongly suggest getting a hotel on the airport limo bus route if you can climb a short flight if steps into the bus. You load your luggage at street level so no lifting. Another option is use luggage forwarding service but it can take a day to arrive so pack your small carryon accordingly. Very few public seats without buying food at a restaurant so I took a folding cane stool. Most smaller public transit stations are NOT fully accessible but public busses in Tokyo can sometimes kneel down which shortens that first step up.

Previous to my last trip to japan, I’ve always taken my luggage with me…but this time round we used a luggage forwarding service and I don’t know why i didnt do it before! Going through tokyo, osaka and Kyoto stations without a suitcase was absolute bliss. Highly highly recommend it. Our hotels arranged it for us and they were there either same day of the next day.

@cakeswithfaces

8 ай бұрын

Glad it went well! I'll be trying it for the first time on my next trip as there's a stopover travel day where it'll be much easier to not have the cases with us.

Been to Japan numerous times-my tip is to travel with the smallest suitcases you can there are always an elevator at Shinkansen tracks but many metro stations do not have elevator and you may have to use stairs. The reservation system has changed for bringing larger suitcases on Shinkansen. You need to make a reservation on an end of row seat so you can store the suitcase in the space behind your seat. You used to be able to place your suitcase there if it was available but now you need a reservation to use the space. I once saw a tourist get on the Shinkansen and park his very large like 28 inch suitcase next to the aisle seat which blocked part of the aisle. Couldn’t believe how ignorant he was. Smaller one’s can go up on the overhead along with backpacks etc. I highly recommend using the black cat transport delivery system if you are going a longer distance it’s worth the $20- or so to have it delivered to your next hotel destination instead of hauling your bags through the train stations.

@cakeswithfaces

8 ай бұрын

I'll be trying out the luggage delivery on my next trip. I often see people with suitcases getting in the way so it's important to be mindful of other people and be considerate.

I'm in Japan right now and come here at least twice a year. I never take the public transport in this country with my suitcase(s), as I always ship the luggage point-to-point via Yamato aka Kuroneko Yamato ("Black Cat Yamato" per their logo). To book pickups, I use their app which is unfortunately in Japanese only at this time (I hope they will change that soon). Virtually any hotel would be happy to help set up the luggage pickup, and the cost is very reasonable. And Yamato's forwarding service is exceptionally reliable.

@cakeswithfaces

8 ай бұрын

Glad it's gone smoothly - I haven't heard a bad word about it!

I went to japan for the first time in September this year and I used the luggage forwarding service between hotels once and also taking them back on the shinkansen and its very easy and i forked out for taxis as i couldnt face the train with 4 big suitcases. I get quite emotional watching videos of japan and its quite sad im still not there and my holiday went by quick. I hope one day i can go back! Xx

@cakeswithfaces

8 ай бұрын

Glad it went well! At times it's worth it to take advantage of these services if you're feeling like you want to make life easier! I know what you mean about missing Japan - the sounds from the station always get me! 💖

With family in Tokyo, I visit as frequently as I can. This video is full of helpful details. I especially like your tips about being polite and paying attention to Japanese etiquette. I have seen so many foreigners that appear to be oblivious to where they are and how to act. Good job providing advice!

@cakeswithfaces

8 ай бұрын

Thanks so much! It's easy to forget when you're concentrating on hauling your luggage around, but it's especially important in Japan to be considerate of other people!

Planning my second trip to Japan next year. I plan to use the luggage forwarding service when travelling between cities. We didn't last time, and i always felt we were getting in everyone's way, no matter how much we tried not to! It's an experience, travelling during rush hour, that's for sure! 😂

@cakeswithfaces

8 ай бұрын

I'll be trying it out too on my next trip! I've heard that it's more common for people who live in Japan to use luggage forwarding than carry it with them.

@Puhpuhpaya

8 ай бұрын

Luggage forwarding is amazing. Most hotels will offer the service. We used it any time we had a longer trip between locations. No hassle with heavy luggage or being in other people's way. We had two large rucksacks and it was about 4500 yen total. Highly recommend!

Really useful advice. We used the luggage forwarding service and though it was fantastic, Due to the new rules about luggage size, you cannot always get a seat resevation, and so it saves a lot of worry.

@cakeswithfaces

8 ай бұрын

Glad it went smoothly! I've only heard good things about it!

Best tip Amey gave me was to get a jotel very central and travel out to other places. Saved a ton of time checking in and out thank you Amey ❤

@cakeswithfaces

8 ай бұрын

Day trips are the way forward! Glad it helped, thank you! 🎶

your videos are SO unbelieveably helpful!! i've been struggling to find vdeos that are this informative i love how you film it so i have a clear visual step-by-step guide but it's also great that you don't overexplain anything, it's very straightforward and simple. thank you!!

@cakeswithfaces

4 ай бұрын

Aww thank you so much, that means a lot! I just remember how many questions I had when I first went to Japan!

I went to Japan for the ninth time in October 2023 and finally used the takyubin. It was a transformative experience because it made the whole experience of travelling to the next destination so much less stressful so I would HIGHLY recommend it to those who buy many items along the way. Very informative video

@cakeswithfaces

8 ай бұрын

Ah wow, that's good to hear! I'll be trying it out for the first time next year after always carrying my own bags too - looking forward to it now!

@cidiracing7481

8 ай бұрын

You can select the date you want things to arrive at your next stop right? I'm heading to several more rural areas accessible via more standard trains or bus and don't want to drag my larger luggage around there. Altough I have been 7 times I never used a forwarding service so far. So just making sure I can forward to a hotel in a city, then head off for a couple of days to rural areas before going to the hotel in the city where the luggage should be sent to?

@salva_75

8 ай бұрын

@@cidiracing7481 good question, we did consider doing something similar but in the end didn't do that, you are able to set the arrival date so I'm pretty sure your scenario would be possible.

@salva_75

8 ай бұрын

@@cakeswithfaces My brain melted when I realised I wasn't lugging a big suitcase around from destination to destination, well until the final journey to the airport which was only slightly traumatic lol

@cidiracing7481

8 ай бұрын

@@salva_75 Cool. Because I'm packing a smaller suitcase like a Matryoshka doll into the big suitcase, that way I can just run around with the small one and use a lot of the big suitcase space for stuff to take back home. :D

Very useful video Amy, so helpful. Another good tip is to use the coin lockers, I had 2 suitcases to come home with, so I stored my big one overnight at the station so it was an easier walk early in the morning. Limousine buses are great too, very convenient and cheap. I always use them on the way back. Got back from my month long trip yesterday, 26 hours door to door...still recovering...and feeling sad it's all over😢😢

@cakeswithfaces

8 ай бұрын

I was actually going to post a video about coin lockers this week, but the main part of the footage didn't come out (the part where I showed how to use the locker!). I was so annoyed that I made this one instead. 😅 What were the highlights of your trip? You must have done a lot in a month!

@Gazereths1234

8 ай бұрын

@@cakeswithfaces The Tori no ichi festival in Shinjuku was great (I missed the last train and stayed until 5am lol) The Skytree Xmas lights and market was really good too. The AI light show on Odaiba beach was amazing. Bar hopping in Shinsaibashi and Dotonbori. Hunting figures and games in Akiba. The 47 Ronin gravesite and museum....but it's the little things I'll miss the most, Conbini food and drinks, ramen shops open until the early morning, being able to go out anytime of day or night and get really great food.

@cakeswithfaces

8 ай бұрын

@@Gazereths1234 I know what you mean, I always miss those things too! Sounds like a fantastic trip - and extra special that you got to enjoy the winter illuminations and light shows!

Had to come back to this video 🥹 I miss the trains so much 🚅

@cakeswithfaces

8 ай бұрын

The sounds at the station and all the train jingles are so nostalgic, aren't they! 💖

I just wanted to say your videos are so informative thank you for making them 🎉

@cakeswithfaces

4 ай бұрын

Thanks so much, so glad they're useful!

Thanks for this. Very insightful on the luggage experience and how to navigate the train system. I’m heading to Japan in two days!

@cakeswithfaces

5 ай бұрын

Have an amazing time!!

Very useful. Thank you. I always love logistic videos.

@cakeswithfaces

7 ай бұрын

Thanks, glad it's helpful! :-)

We used the luggage forwarding on a recent trip and found it worked very well.

@cakeswithfaces

2 ай бұрын

Yes, I tried it for the first time this year and it went very smoothly.

Thank you for this video! lol with all due respect.. I needed this video yesterday 😅 I was literally just wondering how I haven’t come across a video that teaches you these things! So thank you 🙏🏾

@cakeswithfaces

8 ай бұрын

Sorry it's a day late!! 😅 Hope you managed the trip ok with your suitcases!

@Vin_Dre

8 ай бұрын

@@cakeswithfaces no worries thank you 🙏🏾

Thank you so much for your tips!

@cakeswithfaces

6 ай бұрын

Hope they help! Happy travels in Japan!

Thank you Amy for a very informative & well presented video. Especially on getting around the stations.

@cakeswithfaces

8 ай бұрын

Thanks so much! I remember how intimidating it seemed before I first went to Japan!

@johnking9852

8 ай бұрын

There's three of us travelling, one of whom is disabled, so we'll let you know how we get on. Plus we've ordered 3 four wheeled cases after seeing how well you both trundled around the station with yours. The cases will be below the 160cm threshold, even if expanded. Hopefully the shinkansen criteria won't change before we go next spring. @@cakeswithfaces

@cakeswithfaces

8 ай бұрын

@@johnking9852 I don't know if you've seen it already, but this website's really helpful for accessibility too: www.accessible-japan.com/ Good luck on your travels - have a great trip!

@johnking9852

8 ай бұрын

@@cakeswithfaces thank you & will take a look.

So much useful info here thank you.

@cakeswithfaces

8 ай бұрын

Thanks so much! I always try & answer all the questions I had when I first went to Japan.

Thank you! it sounds much clearer to me now! :)

@cakeswithfaces

4 сағат бұрын

Excellent, glad it helped! ☺️✨

Great and very helpful video. Heading to Japan in a few days, this is our third trip and totally know how it feels to try to get around with large bags. Couple of tips here that I will use this time. It is stressful and as you mentioned, leave for the station early as you always end up taking a wrong turn.

@cakeswithfaces

6 ай бұрын

Have an amazing time - I love Japan more and more each time I go back!

Great video! I love your channel!

@cakeswithfaces

8 ай бұрын

Thanks so much, that means a lot! 🎶

This video is so helpful, thank you. I'll be travelling along Japan with big luggage via the Shinkansen with a JR Pass, staying in a few different cities for a few days to a week, doing little trips out from there, and have been wondering what it will be like travelling with the big suitcases.

@cakeswithfaces

5 ай бұрын

It's do-able, just take your time and keep following the signs!

Fantastic and informative video! Loved the sounds of the stations!! Another quick tip for using the trains -- watch out for the women's car during rush hours. My dad and I accidently got on the women's train (the lettering was on the doors and we didn't see it ). It was funny and embarrassing, the ladies in the car found it amusing, too. My dad is in his 70's and didn't worry any of the women in the car LOL

@cakeswithfaces

8 ай бұрын

Oh no, oops!!! Glad the ladies in there found it funny!

Will be trying out luggage forwarding this time for some of the travel. Altough I have been plenty of times to Japan I always just dragged my luggage around so far. But I feel like I want a bit more chill travel this time, plus heading to some small towns as well. Can't wait just 5 more days. 🥳

@elkeyes

8 ай бұрын

I hope you find it very convenient, especially in smaller towns where you might have to take a bus or walk a lot more (or on uneven sidewalks) to get to your accommodations!

@cakeswithfaces

8 ай бұрын

Ooh exciting, not long to go! Glad you'll be exploring some small towns - have a wonderful time! ✨

@cidiracing7481

8 ай бұрын

@elkeyes Thanks, hope so too. :) If I would just go by shinkansen like my previous visits I wouldn't be too bothered with dragging the luggage around. For those travels I will still take the luggage as usual with me.

@cidiracing7481

8 ай бұрын

@cakeswithfaces Yes after a long almost 4 year absence. :D Can't wait for Kinosaki, Narai-Juku, Azumino and Takayama. And of course to plonk a Raaar-Men hooded me into Small Worlds. 😅

Love the attention to detail on this video I really enjoy how JR conti ue to make thier services easir to use every year like the coloured lines and amount of signage during construction times.

@cakeswithfaces

8 ай бұрын

Thanks so much! I'm looking forward to seeing what Shibuya Station's like when the construction's finished!

I got two of your books! Very useful 🎉

@cakeswithfaces

7 ай бұрын

Yay, thanks so much! 🥰 Enjoy Japlanning!

As soon as I'm able, I'm purchasing your book!

@cakeswithfaces

8 ай бұрын

Thank you so much! That's much appreciated! 🥰

as someone who just come back from 10 days in japan crossing from tokyo-kyoto-osaka and hiroshima on the shinkansen, carrying your luggage and navigating your way across the country is very easy. Not gonna lie i bricked it at first but got confident after one day.

@PlasticSquare

8 ай бұрын

did you carry just one large bag?

@cakeswithfaces

8 ай бұрын

We had one large suitcase each, one backpack each and the mini suitcase (basically what's shown at the start of the video!).

@cakeswithfaces

8 ай бұрын

It can be intimidating when you don't know what to expect! :-)

@watzh1205

8 ай бұрын

@@PlasticSquare I had one medium size luggage bag

Have just been to Japan for 2 weeks travelling on the Shinkansen with a JR Pass, suitcase and a small rucksack. About finding your way in or out of your station. People seem to advocate for Google maps. That's fine, but set it up before you really need it and remember that in a a high-rise environment it will take maybe five minutes to get its head round location and direction. Take notice of the station exit that it suggests. This makes a world of a difference. A medium Tokyo metro station can have have more than 10 exits, a major JR station up to 30. Also, when you look at a station in Google maps bear in mind that it that it will have basement levels with shopping and services. So if your target is absent when you get there, it may be one level down. Had this problem several times. In some cases there are underground (B1F or B2F) streets stretching for 500m (eg Tokyo station). Also some cities have (especially) metro stations with similar names using an often omitted pre/suffix. This caused 15 minutes of fractious wandering around Osaka in order to find the right Namba station!

@cakeswithfaces

8 ай бұрын

Getting lost a few times is all part of the experience! 😅 Even more reason to leave yourself plenty of time when you have a specific train to catch.

Thanks, I last took the Shinkansen >10 years ago and apparently the rules have changed quite a bit so this video was really helpful. This year we tried taking the coach from Kansai International to Namba in Osaka. It's very affordable at 1900 yen for a round-trip; they manage your luggage for you. One caveat: if the coach is crowded and you decide not to wait half an hour for the next one, you may be asked to use one of the fold-out aisle seats which are not as comfortable as the "proper" seats.

@cakeswithfaces

8 ай бұрын

Thanks for the review! :-) If I ever fly into Kansai International Airport though, I'd have to take the Nankai Limited Express Rapi:t train because it looks so cool! The coach is a more convenient option though! :-)

@user-wb3wg3we8w

8 ай бұрын

​@@cakeswithfaces I love Rapi:t, too. 🥰

@happycook6737

6 ай бұрын

The fold out aisle seats are an issue for me because it takes a lot of strength to avoid being thrown out of that seat when bus accelerated, sharp turned etc. If you are Western size chunky the seatbelt might not reach around. Best to wait for a "real" seat.

What useful information for tourists with a lot of luggage. 😚👍 Shibuya Station is under construction, so it was hard to walk. 😓 However, when the construction is completed in 2027, it will be easier to understand and walk. 🤗

@cakeswithfaces

8 ай бұрын

I'm looking forward to seeing how Shibuya Station looks when the construction's finished!

@user-wb3wg3we8w

8 ай бұрын

​​@@cakeswithfaces Thank you for reply. I'm looking forward to it, too. 🎶💓 There will be more elevators and escalators. 👍

Awesome job s y thumb up .

@cakeswithfaces

8 ай бұрын

Thank you!

The lines on the floor of the train platform is such a good and useful (also safe) idea compared to the UK where people just stand at the edge of platforms as trains are approaching and then crowd around the doors like flies before even letting people off

@cakeswithfaces

6 ай бұрын

Japan is so organised! And people are more considerate of each other, so it's different to being in other busy cities. (On the whole!) 😅

I've had a trekking backpack for the last 6 trips to Japan and must have had around 80 different accommodations. I have never shipped my luggage. But with the big rucksack it was never really necessary. And I have a second small hard suitcase (like your blue one) in my backpack as a second piece of checked baggage for the flight home.

@cakeswithfaces

8 ай бұрын

That must have been a large backpack! It would have cost a lot to ship your luggage with so many hotel changes - individual trips are quite cheap but it'd add up over a multi-location stay.

@flyffpsy

8 ай бұрын

​@@cakeswithfaces I know from one trip that the weight at the airport was 12 kg for a 5-week trip. But the electronics were in the hand luggage. But at the end of the trip with all the souviners, it weighs more and more😅

To avoid the stigma of taking wheeled luggage on local trains, put a jacket and wig on your suitcase and pretend it's your child.

@cakeswithfaces

8 ай бұрын

A beloved, rectangular child

@MissiBoo

8 ай бұрын

😂

Thank you for the tips Amy. Wow, you do need to do a lot of walking 😂 🫶

@cakeswithfaces

8 ай бұрын

It's unbelievable how far you can walk in larger stations, and in underground tunnels and walkways - it's like there's a whole other city underground!

@user-wb3wg3we8w

8 ай бұрын

​@@cakeswithfaces In Japan, there is a story that people in the city have stronger legs than people in the countryside. 🤔 Because people in the country use cars a lot on a daily basis. On the other hand, people in the city have to walk a lot to use the trains often. 😂

@MissiBoo

8 ай бұрын

@@cakeswithfaces I better pack some good walking shoes 👟 😂🫶

@cakeswithfaces

8 ай бұрын

@@user-wb3wg3we8w That makes sense!! 😅

I miss hearing those chimes at the Japanese train stations.

@cakeswithfaces

8 ай бұрын

Ah me too! They always make me so nostalgic for Japan! 💖

@areasevenpro

8 ай бұрын

@@cakeswithfaces Fortunately, I'll be returning to Japan in February. Will be touring Hokkaido and Fuji before doing some shopping in Tokyo.

@cakeswithfaces

8 ай бұрын

@@areasevenpro Enjoy the snow festivals! ❄

thanks for another great video; question - how do you deal with baggage on buses? by chance, I just ordered a few things from your site today :)

@cakeswithfaces

8 ай бұрын

They put the baggage in the boot, before you get on the coach (a large luggage compartment under the bus). Thanks so much for your order, that's much appreciated! Packed it up yesterday so it'll be on the way to you soon!

I just got back from Japan. I had three bags. A carry on, a medium bag and a large bag, all hard cases. I took them because I expected to bring Aton of gifts and stuff back. I shipped my luggage to my hotel each time and it was a godsend and would recommend doing that every time. Then I just took a taxi from my hotel to haneda as I didn’t want to even try and negotiate the path from the hotel with my bags. Yes it cost a bit more than trying to use the train but I had no hassles.

@cakeswithfaces

8 ай бұрын

Glad it went smoothly! Hope you had a good trip!

Great advise Amy! Thanks Much! I'm planning stop over in late march. I wanna hit the Ashikaga Flower Park. Also, planning on wondering around the town of Narita. I have heard really nice things about it. Could you recommend any place off the beaten path for day or evening times. Thanks again!

@cakeswithfaces

8 ай бұрын

That sounds like a great plan! There are some ideas for the Narita area here - even if you don't do the tours, there are ideas for things to do: www.narita-transit-program.jp/ Sawara is very pretty! 😍

I went caught the bus into town over 3 miles away and i was glad to be back home sitting at leisure and i just had a sausage egg and bread and yogurt now a nice cup of tea and biscuits my poor old carcass bloody aches ,thats because i have been smitten old age angel.

Hi this is a lovely video and most helpful. I was curious to understand whether the Shinkansen Tickets are to be booked before one's travel or can it be done at the airport or at the Tokyo station? Secondly is the Yamato Transport available at the airport? In case one is planning to travel to another destination like say Kyoto on landing ? Please help with these queries. Thank you.

@cakeswithfaces

6 ай бұрын

Thank you! You can book shinkansen tickets at the ticket office of a JR (Japan Railways) station, either at the counter or at a ticket machine. This video's about making seat reservations, but the process for buying tickets at the machine is very similar (you just have to pay at the end!): kzread.info/dash/bejne/Z4SIpM-rpL2efto.html If you prefer to buy them before you go to Japan, you can buy them online from Smartex (official website for JR Central), or JR East or JR West's website. Yes, Yamato Transport have offices at airports, so you can send your luggage if you don't want to carry it with you. Some airport locations have same day delivery, but it may arrive the next day depending what time you drop it off, and how far you're sending it, so you might want to carry overnight stuff with you.

I’ve used luggage deliveries and taxis since I’ve landed here. Removes so much of the hassle of trying to awkwardly drag all my luggage onto trains

@cakeswithfaces

8 ай бұрын

Glad it's been working out smoothly! Hope you're having a great time!

ようこそ日本へ！　ありがとうございます💛💛

@cakeswithfaces

4 ай бұрын

ありがとうございます! :-)

Hey! Absolutely love your videos! Would love to see a video on the whole Suica thing are they disapearing? Like being cancelled? I'm someone whos gonna travel next year in July and i'm not seeing much info about the whole Suica card thing is it true or can one still get a IC card? :o Love from Sweden ♥

@cakeswithfaces

8 ай бұрын

Suica cards are temporarily unavailable to buy because of the chip shortage. It's not a big problem though, because there are several alternatives: - Suica card on your phone (if you have an iPhone). The advantage is you can use Apple Pay to top up by card. - Welcome Suica is still available - a temporary version for tourists that lasts for a month. - Other regional IC cards are still available. (Suica is the regional card for Tokyo). They all work just the same and can be used anywhere. You can get Toica cards at Tokyo Station from the JR Central office. - If you have an old Suica card, you can still use that. The situation may change by July so keep an eye out! :-)

@paulmeara

8 ай бұрын

The IC card is so very useful. Got a Sugoca card in Fukuoka and it was universally accepted. Bus and tram in Hiroshima, buses in Kyoto, metro in Tokyo. If only we had a similar system in the UK. Interestingly there were big adverts in stations (Osaka, Kyoto?) for Icoca for Android. I wonder if you can download and set it up without being in the right region? @@cakeswithfaces

Being a bloke, I mostly got aboard with a backpack and very tightly folded clothes

@cakeswithfaces

8 ай бұрын

That's impressive! Well done for managing to pack so light!

Another wednesday God really as Speeded up time.Pat stopped going out in the 1990s ,so i rarely went out then after she died i died to and i rarely go out but im happy indoors anyway i do a lot of sofa travelling with you tubers like yourself around the land of the rising sun.

Thanks Amy. This is really helpful as I would be traveling this year again but with 2 large baggages this time😅. I always hate it when I have to maneuver large bags 🧳 between people and lifting the heavy bag up while getting on and off the train while people waiting behind are staring 👀 at you and breathing at your neck 😂

@cakeswithfaces

8 ай бұрын

You just have to take it one step at a time! Once I heard someone behind me say in Japanese "sugoi nimotsu!" = roughly "wow look at that luggage!".

@PlasticSquare

8 ай бұрын

​@@cakeswithfacesyeah that's a Japanese Sarcasm. Non native people usually don't realise that its a sarcarm 😂. I have even heard some salarymen talking under their breath when they were standing behind a foreigner with a gigantic luggage bag that too during rush hour 😅

Hey another question! What brand of Spinner luggage bag is that big yellow ones you guys are using? Are they good? currently on the hunt for a real good four wheeled luggage bag Love from Sweden again! ♥

@cakeswithfaces

6 ай бұрын

The yellow suitcases are from Tripp. I've only taken them on 2 holidays so far, but no complaints! They come in lots of different colours.

i thought you had been a recluse in not seeing you for ages

Hi ! i am travelling to Japan in April and will need to get on local lines to travel to hotels, my suitcases dimensions are 79cm height, 51 cm width and 28 cm depth ( 158cm altogether ) do i have to purchase a different type of ticket to board or do i stand in area's like you did if they are free?. i know in the shinkansen i will reserve seats with oversized baggage just to be safe!

@cakeswithfaces

5 ай бұрын

Sounds like your suitcase is a similar size to my yellow one in the video! There are no rules about travelling on local trains with suitcases, and you don't need any special ticket. Just be extra aware of trying not to get in anyone's way on the train or block anyone in. I usually try and go to the end of the carriage or somewhere that's not in anyone's way - or the area of pushchairs / wheelchairs like in the video, as long as there's no one there who actually needs it! On the shinkansen, you're right, you don't have to reserve the luggage space but it'll make your life easier if you do as it's a more convenient spot to put your suitcase! Have a great trip!

@daisymrowlands

5 ай бұрын

@@cakeswithfaces thank you so much for such a speedy reply! that's all really really helpful and put my mind at ease.

is the seat reservation for the shinkansen something you do the day of? and is there a place to do it at the train station?

@cakeswithfaces

6 ай бұрын

You can reserve seats in advance, at the seat reservation machine or ticket counter at the station (make sure it's the JR counter, for Japan Railways). Here's my video all about it, with a walk-through of how to reserve seats at the machine: kzread.info/dash/bejne/Z4SIpM-rpL2efto.html

Oh gosh. I didn’t know abt having to book seats at the back for oversize luggage. I have a green car reservation for my family in a few weeks to hakuba and I’m a little worried about this now. Gotta start working out now….

@cakeswithfaces

8 ай бұрын

Just reserve the seats at the end of the carriage and you're all good! The green car's always quieter than the standard car, so it should be no problem to get the seats you want. I have a video all about the green car if that helps - and feel free to ask if you have any questions! ☺️ kzread.info/dash/bejne/ZZOCpa6IlN27j84.html

@semajm85

8 ай бұрын

@@cakeswithfaces thanks for replying! I’ve already selected the seats when I booked. Just went back to see if any other seats are available and there isn’t any availability left

Flying to Japan in October from London with JAL. Undecided whether to buy a 2 piece luggage set (1 large checked, 1 carryon, with a backpack), or just bring one large checked with a backpack and potentially buy a second large case over there if we need more room to bring stuff home. Main concern about bringing a 2 piece set plus a backpack is how much of a faff it might be moving the luggage around. The set you's have looks very nice, would you recommend it?

@cakeswithfaces

2 ай бұрын

The large yellow suitcases are from Tripp and the small blue cabin-sized suitcase is just from Argos. They're both really good - mainly because having 4 wheels makes them so much easier to manoeuvre than the ones I used to have with 2 wheels. Usually we take a large suitcase each, and one of us takes the small suitcase as hand luggage and the other takes a backpack as hand luggage. That's plenty of space for 2 weeks, although I don't buy that much. We'd both take backpacks for hand luggage but we need space for the cameras and filming stuff. We used to have a large suitcase and a medium suitcase instead of the two large, and that was ok too. If you think you might need extra space for shopping, I used to take a smaller suitcase inside a large suitcase, so I only had to carry one on the way there. Although I never actually needed it. You could also take an empty sports bag or holdall that you could check in on the way home. I don't know if you saw my recent video about flying with JAL, if you want to see what it's like :-) kzread.info/dash/bejne/ZYefm8l-eNipebQ.html

Hi, can anyone tell me if they've tried to ship luggage and to store them for like 3-4. Days in advanced? I was thinking to go from Tokyo to Sapporo for 4 days and ship my luggage to Osaka and fly from Sapporo to Osaka. But I'm not sure if they will keep the luggage for 4 days?

@cakeswithfaces

5 ай бұрын

I'm not sure how long they'll keep it, but when you send luggage you can specify the date/time you want it to arrive. I just sent luggage from Kyushu to Tokyo and it took 2 days to arrive, but Tokyo to Osaka would probably be an overnight service. It might be worth checking with your hotel if it's ok, as they'd be the ones that would have to keep the luggage for a few days until you arrive.

Hey I have a question for you We are traveling to Tokyo with 4 luggage so what would you suggest as we are landing at narita airport and we are flying back from haneda airport

@cakeswithfaces

8 ай бұрын

If you don't want to carry it with you on the train, you can either take a coach, or use Takkyubin luggage delivery.

I booked the seat at the back of the carriage for our luggage and all 4 times we booked it, someone had already put their bags in the luggage area. Very frustrating. The people on the other side of the aisle also had their area taken and yelled down the aisle asking who it belonged to and to move it

@cakeswithfaces

6 ай бұрын

Oh no, that's annoying. Maybe it needs to made clearer that that section is reservation only.

@happycook6737

6 ай бұрын

Show your reservation for that space to the attendant and s/he will vacate the space for you. Japanese are nonconfrontational. I would only yell if I could see foreigner tags on the suitcases.

Just want to clarify...if I bring oversize luggage and choose to just leave it by my feet (in my seat area), is that an option with no extra payment OR do I have to reserve a ticket with oversize luggage? I heard if I don't reserve this option online, I could be charged when I bring an oversize luggage on the day of.

@cakeswithfaces

6 ай бұрын

Here's the official info: global.jr-central.co.jp/en/info/oversized-baggage/ It says if your luggage is oversized, you have to make a reservation for the oversized luggage seat. It doesn't cost any extra to reserve that seat. I think it's because, if your luggage is that large, there might not be enough space to put it by your feet, and it'd be a nuisance if you had to put it in the aisle. However, check the dimensions as most suitcases that are allowed as checked baggage with airlines wouldn't count as oversized.

@beckylim6726

6 ай бұрын

@@cakeswithfaces thank you so much!!!!

Would your larger pcs of luggage have fit on the over head rack even though they were considered less than 160cm total?

@cakeswithfaces

8 ай бұрын

Japan Railways recommends you put them on the overhead rack. To me, it seems like you'd have to be pretty strong to haul your suitcase above your head, so if you can get the luggage space or put them by your knees, that seems like the safer option for your back. 😅 Some trains have a luggage rack between carriages, but that's also assigned to particular seats that you have to reserve.

Hello, how are you , your channel is very nice, I wanted to ask is it so difficult to find tickets to the Ghibli museum once in Tokyo? Do you recommend to get it in advance ? Good continuation 😉 Regards

@cakeswithfaces

7 ай бұрын

Thank you! Both the Ghibli park and museum are very popular and sell out every day, so I'd definitely recommend buying tickets in advance, as soon as they go on sale. Hope you manage to get some! 🤞

@chrismarin9419

7 ай бұрын

@@cakeswithfaces 75 pounds ...😭

@cakeswithfaces

7 ай бұрын

@@chrismarin9419 What for?

@chrismarin9419

7 ай бұрын

@@cakeswithfaces from a travel agency, I know it s kind of difficult to get them when it is last noticed if you are not from Japan. After when you love Ghibli ... 😃

@cakeswithfaces

7 ай бұрын

@@chrismarin9419 Travel agencies will add their fees on (that's how they make money!). You can buy them from the official site - here's the one for the park near Nagoya: ghibli-park.jp/en/ticket/ You need to be ready the moment they go on sale as they sell out very quickly.

Hello! i was wondering, it is fine to just purchase the ticket the day off travel for the Shinkansen if i’m travelling without a luggage? I’m so worried about the timing for travelling in case i miss the departure time and the Shinaknsen is soo expensive 😂

@cakeswithfaces

3 ай бұрын

It's mostly fine, especially as trains on the popular routes (eg Tokyo to Osaka/Kyoto) are so frequent. On less frequent routes (eg in Kyushu) there have been times when I've got my ticket when I arrived at the station and found the train I wanted it booked up so we had to wait an hour for the next one, or we didn't get seats together. So ideally reserving the day before is good if you know when you want to travel. Check this, but I thiiiink if you buy a full price ticket, if you miss your train you can go in the unreserved carriage of another train on the same route that day. That's only for full price tickets, not tickets with any of the "Hayatoku" advance discounts

@marissamazlan9935

2 ай бұрын

@@cakeswithfaces Thank you! I'll dig around about the change in time. Oh, I'll be taking the shinkansen from Hakone to Kyoto 😁

@cakeswithfaces

2 ай бұрын

@@marissamazlan9935 The Tokkaido line's a very popular route so there'll be lots of trains running frequently!

You mentioned 'trying not to film other people too much'. I have noticed faces being hazy in several videos in Japan. Should I be careful while casual filming in Japan? Thanks

@cakeswithfaces

8 ай бұрын

I always try not to film people too much because it's off-putting. People going about their daily lives probably don't want a camera in their face or be posted online without their knowledge or consent! If it's just for your own, personal use, it seems like filming general crowd scenes shouldn't be a problem (ie not filming someone directly in a stalker-ish way!); in Japan there are rules against filming people.

@chiragganguly

8 ай бұрын

@@cakeswithfaces noted, thanks

What size is your large luggage? Mine is 30 inch and 162cm in total so I’m quite concern about it because I booked the shinkansen via Klook and it’s non reserved seat 😢

@cakeswithfaces

7 ай бұрын

My large suitcase is: Height: 76cm, Width: 50cm, Depth: 32cm Here are the official rules from Japan Railways: global.jr-central.co.jp/en/info/oversized-baggage/

@Archangelicajul

7 ай бұрын

@@cakeswithfaces thanks for the reply!

This may be a very stupid question, but where do you book the tickets beforehand?

@cakeswithfaces

8 ай бұрын

You can book them either at the ticket machine at the station, or at the counter in the ticket office. This video walks through how to use the ticket machine (including selecting seats with space for luggage). It's about reserving seats with a JR Pass, but the process is very similar if you're buying tickets: kzread.info/dash/bejne/Z4SIpM-rpL2efto.html

@paulmeara

8 ай бұрын

You will become very familiar with the green machines used to buy or reserve tickets. Both the machines and the counters are very busy with 20 minute queues at major stations (talking 'bout you Kyoto) until late into the night. So to make it easy do one of two things:- go late (11pm) at a major station, or cunningly, try a suburban station outside rush hour. Coming back from Miyajima at 10am, the JR station on the mainland (Miyajimaguchi in this case) was the perfect place to reserve seats without having to wait in a queue. Oh yes, if you want the luggage seats, plan ahead. You can get away with 3 days if you're lucky, but 7 days makes it much more likely that you can get what you want@@cakeswithfaces

So, if you got suitcases that fit within the dimensions, but you happen to be towing two of them per person, that's a situation for the Oversized area even if the suitcases individually aren't big enough to qualify?

@cakeswithfaces

5 ай бұрын

No, it's per suitcase, but I'd recommend booking the seat with space for luggage as it'll be more comfortable.

Do they have luggage forwarding service in Tokyo International cruise terminal?

@cakeswithfaces

6 ай бұрын

I haven't been there but it seems like a place where people would need luggage forwarding. If there isn't one in the terminal, there are several convenience stores very close by that offer Yamato Delivery services that you could use: locations.kuronekoyamato.co.jp/p/yamato01/nmap.htm?lat=35.638177778&lon=139.701413889&cond22=1&&his=ar

Im a fairly large guy,(muscles) can i just carry my suitcase up the stairs? Or is thst rude or inappropriate in Japan? Thank your for the amaizing video!

@cakeswithfaces

4 күн бұрын

Yes you absolutely can! That's not a faux pas at all - we were just avoiding the stairs to save our backs 😅

when would be the afternoon/Evening rush hour in Tokyo?

@cakeswithfaces

8 ай бұрын

Around 5pm-7pm in the evening. The morning rush hour's worse than the afternoon rush hour, because it's more concentrated. Lots of people work late or go out with colleagues after work, so not everyone's travelling at the same time. When travelling during the rush hour, I've noticed the train empties out when you get to a particular station, so it's certain sections on commuter routes that are really crowded!

@bierfischferkel

8 ай бұрын

Thank you @@cakeswithfaces

i will go to Japan in 3 days, and now i've found that one of the luggage is around 165 cm total... is there some tolerance about the size?

@cakeswithfaces

5 ай бұрын

Knowing Japan, there isn't usually tolerance on rules! I'd book the seat with space for luggage - it doesn't cost extra and will be less annoying than having such a large suitcase by your knees.

Question i cant take elevators. Are there escalators and stairs to all the platforms.

@cakeswithfaces

4 ай бұрын

There are always stairs, and in many cases escalators too. Escalators are more common than elevators.

Be aware if sending your luggage by Black Cat that not all hotels will accept delivered luggage, or they may only accept it within a limited timeframe prior to check-in. I find this information in the hotel description on their website or on Expedia. Sending luggage at a combini in the countryside is challenging as the form is in Japanese and the staff may not speak much English - I did this but luckily had a Japanese friend to fill the form in for me. The combini staff will weigh the luggage with scales at the counter.

@cakeswithfaces

8 ай бұрын

Thanks for the tip! On the English version of the Yamato website there's a diagram that tells you how to fill the form in - probably worth taking a screenshot!

Do you still need to make reservation for huge luggage for shinkansen? Our is bigger than yours suitcase.I thought saw a youtuber said doesnt necessary nowadays. Could you please adv?thx

@cakeswithfaces

2 ай бұрын

Yes, it's still necessary if the width + length + height of your luggage is over 160cm, and you're travelling on the Tokkaido shinkansen. Here are the official rules: global.jr-central.co.jp/en/info/oversized-baggage/

Hi, May i know what size are your luggages? Are they 24inch luggages?

@cakeswithfaces

8 ай бұрын

The size of the yellow suitcases is: Height: 76cm, Width: 50cm, Depth: 32cm

@ChocolateMorn

8 ай бұрын

@@cakeswithfaces thank you for the information ❤️ it’s a great video and experience you shared there!

When is rush hour in Japan, and is ir the same everywhere (Tokyo, Osaka, Kyoto, Hiroshima, Nagoya, Aomori)?

@cakeswithfaces

4 ай бұрын

It's the same time evreywhere. Morning rush hour is about 8am - 9am, and evening rush hour is 5pm onwards. The morning rush hour's worse because more people are travelling at the same time, whereas after work, some people will be working late, or going out with colleagues so it's more spread out. However there are also people going out in the evening, especially in Tokyo in areas like Shinjuku and Shibuya, so that makes the trains busy in the evenings too, even during the week.

@FluffyBunny9002

3 ай бұрын

Helpful video. I have been playing musical trains for the last 4 days, but will take my first shinkansen tomorrow, and it's the second time I'll need to take my luggage onboard (suitcase and backpack for now). Question though: I thought you were supposed to insert your JR Pass and ticket reservation at the same time. I've been using an IC Card this whole time so far, so I havent used my pass yet. It activates tomorrow. @cakeswithfaces

@cakeswithfaces

3 ай бұрын

@@FluffyBunny9002 I think you can insert both, but it works fine with just the JR Pass (because you can use the unreserved car, so wouldn't necessarily always have a seat reservation). Given how precious that little piece of cardboard is, I wouldn't risk it getting stuck in the machine with the seat reservation as well! 😅

@FluffyBunny9002

3 ай бұрын

@cakeswithfaces NOW YOU TELL ME! Jk. 😆 I've been doing just the pass and it works fine. Nobody even checks the seat reservation tickets.

Did you have to pay an extra fee for the big luggage bag?

@cakeswithfaces

3 ай бұрын

No, there's no fee to reserve the seat with space for luggage. However there is a fee if your luggage is oversized and you don't reserve that space.

if luggage was left unattended on a train here in england it was get stolen

@cakeswithfaces

7 ай бұрын

That's for sure! 😅

What happens if you miss your train? How difficult is it?

@cakeswithfaces

8 ай бұрын

If you miss a long distance train or shinkansen, if you have a JR Pass you'd need to make another reservation or get on the unreserved carriage. Some trains are more frequent than others. If you have an individual ticket, I'd recommend checking at the ticket office or with station staff to see what to do. Japanese trains run like clockwork, so it's best to plan to get there early and leave plenty of time to get through the station, as it always takes longer with luggage.

@paulmeara

8 ай бұрын

Having just been to Japan for 2 weeks travelling on the Shinkansen with a JR Pass, suitcase and a small rucksack, I would say that if you miss your (hopefully reserved) train then don't worry too much as long as it's not too late in the day. You can go and find a machine and make another reservation. The later it is, or the closer to next train that you need, then then the smaller your chance of reserving the train/seats that you want. You CAN always try unreserved, which, being cheaper, is usually busier. There is room for a medium suitcase in the seat space, but you will restrict the seat in front from reclining, which would be seen as unhelpful by other travellers (did happen to me). Being honest, I was amazed at the size of suitcases lifted onto the overhead rack, some much bigger than mine, so reserving the large luggage seats, whilst helpful (we always did), is not altogether necessary. Just much easier@@cakeswithfaces

I will not putmy luggage on the Yamanote Line. Too many people, to hard to get on and off, and not to mention construction at Shibuya. Taxis at Shinagawa are easy to find when coming from Haneda on the train.

@paulmeara

8 ай бұрын

I agree. Some Tokyo metro (and other) lines are just too busy, and big luggage would be really painful. The Japanese are incredibly tolerant of metro crowding though, which I didn't believe until I went on the Ginza line at about 10am a few weeks ago. Get a hotel near the main station, or get a taxi

yes lets get back to tokyo as im going to boil my hot water for my hotwater bottle then take it to bed and crawl off to bed soon after im tired.

12:34 Or "Tuck you(r) bin" :)

@cakeswithfaces

8 ай бұрын

😂😂

I really don’t get the obsession with luggage services that swamp Japan Facebook groups. We’ve completed 2 successful trips to Japan and about to embark on our third without the use of luggage services. Simply take your suitcases with you, it’s not that difficult?

@cakeswithfaces

8 ай бұрын

It seems that everyone who's tried luggage services has been every happy with them! In Japan it's common for people to use them for domestic travel. I'm the same as you - mainly because it's the free option, I've always carried mine with me. But if you're travelling as a family, or if you can't carry heavy things, I can see they'd be very useful. Or if you just want to pay to have an easier life! :-)

@paulmeara

8 ай бұрын

Have just been to Japan for 2 weeks travelling on the Shinkansen with a JR Pass, suitcase and a small rucksack, Being honest, I was amazed at the size of suitcases lifted onto the overhead rack, some much bigger than mine, so reserving the large luggage seats, whilst helpful (we always did), is not altogether necessary. Just much easier. Our point of view was that luggage was included in the JR ticket price, so we ought to make use of that. Besides the Yamato service would cost the same as a fast food meal, which seemed a better use of the cash! @@cakeswithfaces

Doesn't look like a good idea to carry your huge luggage on trains. Cumbersome.

@cakeswithfaces

5 ай бұрын

I've heard a lot of good things about Takkyubun, the luggage sending service if you prefer not to carry your suitcases. I'll be trying it out for the first time soon (and making a video!).

well ill go boil a kettle now night night

@cakeswithfaces

7 ай бұрын

Goodnight!

@davidwolstenholme4676

7 ай бұрын

@@cakeswithfaces i sent things to others on facebook and they do not send much of what i circulate poor england its becoming more satanic by the day

@davidwolstenholme4676

7 ай бұрын

@@cakeswithfaces Best wishes to you and your husband and family this christmas,im off to bed soon old age ugh.Night night.

well thats it for the day on face book and twitter fighting this government .

Shinksansen is expensive, to save money travel with night bus, even if possible buy ticket earlier. Most cheap is travel very cheap, buy ticket for 1 stop, than change regional trains, than you leave in village in area where you need, or you approach guy tell him you lost ticket, tell him you traveled just 1 statio, pay cheap leave. Japan is expensive country, any savings is extra 😂😂😂

Do you know what. Stop travelling with ridiculous amounts of luggage. All Japanese business hotels have laundry, some of them even FoC. Really this is nonsense.

@paulmeara

8 ай бұрын

Agreed. I took two weeks of clothes recently. I could have got away with 4 days worth

When i went last year, I made the journey from Kyoto to Hiroshima with my lugguage... i had no problems navigating the shinkansen... the issues came when i got to Hiroshima which had shut down due to a typhoon, I was very wet.... I also used lugguage forwarding, which the hotel lobbys were able to organise.. where i stayed in several places for a single night, i would have my cases jump to the hotel a couple of days ahead... was also suprisingly nostalgic seeing those construction areas in Shibuya Station... i got lost there too

@cakeswithfaces

8 ай бұрын

Oh no, hope it wasn't too bad with the typhoon! Sounds like an adventure!

@ianpidgley9720

8 ай бұрын

@@cakeswithfaces nah I hung out in the hotel for a couple of hours and by then it had pretty much stopped raining so was able to head out exploring, nowhere was open though