Housing in Japan: what actually matters to know

From real experience

• Inquire about websites or platforms for purchasing train tickets from Matsumoto to Osaka, as Trip.com does not seem to offer this route directly.
• Traveling to Japan during 'Silver Week' (a series of holidays in September) results in significant crowds and high demand for accommodation and transportation. It is essential to book hotels, Shinkansen tickets, and popular attractions well in advance, potentially months ahead, to secure availability and avoid inflated prices. Consider adjusting travel dates to avoid this peak period.
• Choosing between Hiroshima and Onomichi for a 3-night stay during a cycling trip (including Miyajima and Hiroshima): Onomichi offers more scenic cycling potential but has less convenient Shinkansen access. Hiroshima provides better logistical connections. Verify if Onomichi is covered by the chosen Kansai Pass.
• In self-service laundromats in Japan, it is customary and respectful to avoid removing other people's laundry, even if it has been there for an extended period. Wait for your turn or find an alternative facility to maintain a courteous environment and respect local customs.
• Japan Travel Tips: Shinkansen tickets between major cities cost around 7,000 JPY. Local transport (metro, buses) averages 1,000 JPY/day. Capsule hotels are the cheapest accommodation (1,500-2,000 JPY). Book transport and accommodation in advance. eSIMs can be purchased via Trip.com with clear activation instructions. Souvenir katanas can be transported in checked luggage with proper documentation and handling by airport customs.
• To determine if a transfer hotel is provided during a long layover in China when flying with airlines like China Eastern, check the booking details in the airline's loyalty program app. The availability of a hotel may depend on the specific ticket and layover duration. Some users suggest that if a layover is significant (e.g., 24 hours with Hainan Airlines), a hotel might be included. It's advisable to check the itinerary and airline policies for specifics.
• To make reservations requiring a credit card in Japan (e.g., for capybara cafes) when you lack a suitable card, consider using virtual foreign Visa card services. These services can provide a temporary virtual card with a pre-loaded balance for reservations, circumventing the need for a physical international credit card.
• Budget business hotel chains like APA, Toyoko Inn, and Sotetsu Fresa are popular for short stays. Rooms are typically very small, and views are often obstructed. Facilities like in-house sento (public baths) add significant value. Guests looking for more space should filter for 'apartments' or use Airbnb (requires a VPN for Russian IP addresses).
• Japan's business hotel chains (APA, Toyoko Inn, Sotetsu Fresa Inn) offer consistent cleanliness but compact rooms. APA hotels are noted for on-site onsens. For extended stays, apartment hotel chains like Monday or Section L are recommended, as they typically feature laundry facilities and kitchenettes.
• When choosing between Roppongi and Chuo City in Tokyo: Roppongi offers better walkability, proximity to attractions like Roppongi Hills (with the spider sculpture), and easier access to Ueno museums and teamLab Borderless. Chuo City is closer to the river, but Roppongi provides a more central base for general sightseeing and day trips.
• Inquire about the typical cost of hotel laundry services in Japan, including washing and drying. Note variations in pricing per item or per load.
• Hotel tax in Japan varies by city. Kyoto has a progressive city tax system based on room price, where higher-priced rooms incur a higher tax amount.
• Many modern Japanese hotel chains (e.g., Sotetsu Fresa Inn) are transitioning to cashless self-service kiosks. Travelers should be aware that these machines often do not accept cash or transport cards (Suica/Pasmo). It is advisable to verify payment methods for local city taxes in advance or be prepared to use international credit cards.
• Investigate the possibility for tourists to rent apartments in the suburbs of Tokyo for a two-week stay. Determine if platforms like Airbnb are viable options, or if only hotel bookings are typically available for short-term tourist rentals in these areas.
• Budget accommodation in Japan: Osaka offers hotels around 3,000 JPY. Tokyo hotels are more expensive (around 10,000 JPY). Capsule hotels are a cheaper alternative (1,500-2,000 JPY). Advance booking, especially for popular chains like Toyoko Inn, is recommended due to high demand. Travel costs can vary significantly based on movement.
• When booking hotels in Japan, 'additional charges' mentioned by platforms like Booking.com often refer to mandatory local tourist taxes or facility fees levied by the hotel. These are separate from the room rate and should be clarified with the hotel upon booking or check-in.
• To witness the iconic view of Mount Fuji, an overnight stay near Kawaguchiko is recommended. The best time to see Fuji is typically early morning, from around 4 AM to 7 AM. By 8 AM, clouds often obscure the view. Consider staying at a hotel like Fuji-View Hotel for optimal morning viewing opportunities. Day trips from Tokyo are often not feasible for catching these specific views.
• Short-term apartment rentals in Japan, particularly in popular areas like Tokyo and Osaka, are facing increased regulatory scrutiny. Stricter rules may lead to the closure of some rental properties, causing inconvenience for travelers. This trend is partly driven by concerns about noise and disruption to local residents. Travelers are advised to book accommodations with reputable providers and be aware of potential changes in rental availability.
• Recommend hotels in Tokyo that offer excellent city views, with a budget of approximately 20,000-25,000 JPY per night. Include details about specific rooms or floors known for their views, and consider both modern and potentially older, well-regarded establishments like the Shinagawa Prince Hotel.
• Kyoto has implemented a progressive city tax system for hotels. The tax amount varies based on the room rate, with higher room prices incurring a greater tax. For example, rates can be 200, 400, or 1000 JPY depending on the room's cost.
• Travelers renting apartments in Japan may encounter risks such as last-minute cancellations due to property closures. This is partly attributed to stricter regulations being implemented for short-term rentals, particularly in major cities like Tokyo and Osaka. While such incidents can be unsettling, booking with reputable platforms and understanding cancellation policies is advised.
• Description of a rental space: 100m2 terrace with canopy, dining area, poufs, suitable for movie screenings, photoshoots, retreats, quiet gatherings (not noisy parties). Accommodates 15-20 people. Includes large grill, kazan for plov, 19th-century samovar, hammock, music. Access to house and antiques for photos. Tour of house and grounds. Optional extras: projector screen, speaker, bath tub/sauna. Details on cost and booking are mentioned but not provided.
• When using luggage forwarding services in Japan to hotels, inquire directly with the hotel about their policy on luggage storage duration if you plan to arrive a few days after your luggage. While hotels often hold luggage, confirm specific timeframes to avoid issues.
• When booking hotels in Japan, especially through official sites like Disneyland's, foreign credit cards are often required. If you are using a Russian-issued card, be aware that payment processing may be an issue. Explore alternative booking platforms or contact hotels directly to inquire about payment options.

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