Q&A
Questions about life in Japan answered by those who live it
Hot Topic
6 Answers
What sakura apps / websites are you using in 2024?
What websites or Apps are you using to keep track of the bloom stages of cherry blossoms in 2024? I usually use a mix of Tenki.jp, Yahoo and Jorudan and another one that I have forgotten! (I delete them at the end of each season to free up space on my phone). I occasionally use the app from JMA, but I don't like its set up. Are there any other Apps or websites you recommend? TIA
on Mar 14
On Going
11 Answers
Best cafe outside the chains stores?
I know that cafes like Starbuck's, Tully's, and Doutor's supply a consistent cup of coffee, but I'm looking for that cafe that is mom & pop or a place that has one location that you stumbled upon and love. What's your go-to drink or what would you recommend?
on Feb 21
Questions [transportation]
3 Answers
Kanto area easily accessible Hina Matsuri 2024
Many places in the Kanto area are starting to display dolls for Hina Matsuri. Which ones do you recommend that are worth seeing and easy to access by train? I'm considering a long trip to Makabe in Sakuragawa City, Ibaraki Prefecture. I'd have to take a bus or rent a bicycle from the nearest major hub because I'm not a driver.
on Feb 11
4 Answers
My FIRST Log! Would You Like to Hear it?
In my last post I asked what you would like to hear from me now I have left. I was digging through some stuff the other day and I found my very FIRST book log that I kept when I toured Japan originally. I was thinking about typing it up and reminding myself of what my younger self thought of Japan. Would you like to hear about what I got up to? I'm not sure if I can even remember! HA!!
on Dec 2
6 Answers
Would you like me to continue?
You'll never believe this... it's now 2023 and I left Japan nearly 6 years ago. I didn't post on this site for an extremely long time. In fact, I almost forgot I had this account. Whilst I don't have a Japanese phone number anymore (which means I can't convert my points) I was wondering if anyone who sees this post would like me to continue talking about Japan? If so, what would you like me to talk about?
on Nov 25
9 Answers
What train finder service do you use?
I had been using Hyperdia for years to search for train routes, times and fares in Japan but for whatever reason Hyperdia as of this month no longer offers information about train departure / arrival times which makes it pretty useless for me. This is the notification from Hyperdia about them ending this service (in Japanese): https://www.hyperdia.com/report/reporttimetableend.html I've since had a look at this "Japan Transit Planner" instead, which seems to do a decent job: https://world.jorudan.co.jp/mln/en/ Has anyone got any other train finder recommendations? Website or app.
on Apr 7
25 Answers
Passing time wisely
I’m thinking with all this time on my hands, i think I should probably be learning something new. The only thing I can think about is buying a bike and riding off into the sunset. What are you doing to pass the time wisely? The Rosetta Stone I downloaded recently still hasn’t been opened. Oh, and they’re now offering 3 months free I think.
on Mar 31
8 Answers
Gaijin size bike
With the quarantine going on the cities, I’m thinking to heading to hills. I’m looking to buy (online) a cycle or mountain bike but they all look short in stature. What the average size we use in the west? I’m now thinking they probably have weight limits too. These are things that we never had to worried about. Any help would be appreciated.
on Mar 31
12 Answers
Your favorite summer getaway spots?
Any favorite places you all have to get away to during the stinking hot summer months? I would love a long weekend away somewhere (ideally cooler!) We did Hakodate/Aomori one summer and really enjoyed it. Would love to hear your suggestions.
on Jun 12
1 Answer
Narita Airport To Shizuoka City
Are there any direct bus rides from Narita Airport to Shizuoka City, Shizuoka?
on Feb 3
1 Answer
Narita Airport To Shizuoka City
Are there any direct bus rides from Narita Airport to Shizuoka City, Shizuoka?
on Feb 3
1 Answer
Narita Airport To Shizuoka City
Hi. I will be travelling to Japan this coming April 11. I would like to know the cheapest, economical ride direct going to Shizuoka City, Shizuoka from Narita Airport Terminal 2. This will be my first time in Japan. :)
on Feb 3
1 Answer
Narita Airport To Shizuoka City
Hi. I will be travelling to Japan this coming April 11. I would like to know the cheapest, economical ride direct going to Shizuoka City, Shizuoka from Narita Airport Terminal 2. This will be my first time in Japan. :)
on Feb 3
6 Answers
A couple of days at Okinawa
Hello, everyone. I have been dreaming of going to Okinawa some day. I want to stay at a hotel for one or two nights, see and swim in a beautiful transparent sea with sand long beach. But unfortunately my dream never came true. I am told that Okinawa is super expensive and people usually book hotels, airline tickets and so on several months beforehand. I am not a rich person that's why I would like to travel econom level. Could anyone please give me some advice on going to Okinawa including some information about transport, hotels, beaches, food, souvenirs?
on May 9