Trains and Transport in Japan: real experience from chats

2. Many retail stores, including clothing stores like Uniqlo, require customers to remove shoes before entering fitting rooms. 3. Some Japanese stores may provide a protective hood (often called a face cover or bag) for customers to wear while trying on clothes to prevent makeup stains. 4. Popular, well-regarded gifts from Russia/abroad for Japanese locals include honey, herbal teas, and gingerbread/pryaniki.

Recommended troubleshooting steps: 1. Try a different bank card. 2. Use a VPN if located in restricted regions like Belarus/Russia. 3. If Suica fails, switch to PASMO. Transit cards are widely accepted for small retail payments (conbini, vending machines, etc.) in addition to transit.

While many stations have elevators, they might be less conveniently located. Be prepared for crowded conditions and potential difficulties maneuvering through crowds. Ensure your suitcase meets airline carry-on or checked baggage size and weight restrictions if transporting it via metro after flying.

When transferring from a local JR line to a Shinkansen, the terminal scanner automatically processes the old ticket and issues a new one for the high-speed section. Paper tickets are increasingly being supplemented or replaced by QR-code scanners at exits, especially in major tourist hubs like Kyoto.

The Enoden train line offers scenic views. For a fulfilling experience, allocate a full day, especially if visiting Enoshima Island for sunset. Half a day may suffice for a brief overview of temples, while a full day allows for a more relaxed exploration, including beaches, suitable for families.

Luggage is secured in a locked compartment accessible only to the driver. The likelihood of theft inside the bus cabin is extremely low due to surveillance cameras and passenger behavior. Japan's overall safety level is exceptionally high, minimizing concerns about theft during travel.

Digital cards can be topped up at station machines equipped with contactless pads or at convenience stores like 7-Eleven. Apps like 'CardReader' can help check balances if official top-up methods are unavailable.

Route: Shinkansen from Ueno to Shiroishi-Zao (~10,000 JPY, 1h 40m), followed by a bus or taxi (~4,000 JPY, 35m). Safety note: Interaction is strictly regulated; visitors should only pet foxes permitted by staff to avoid bites.

However, it is explicitly not valid for the Shinkansen line between Osaka and Kyoto; regular JR lines or rapid service trains must be used for that segment.

Public buses operate on strict schedules; it's often recommended to reach the final stop and then descend gradually, as advised at stations.

The JR Pass may not be cost-effective for shorter, round-trip journeys within Japan, especially if the total cost of individual tickets is lower.

Consider using Google Maps for route planning. A scenic option includes the suspended monorail from Ofuna to Enoshima, although it may not be the most direct route.

Alternatively, you can take the Shinkansen to Mishima Station and then transfer to a bus bound for Kawaguchiko. Booking bus tickets in advance is recommended.

You do not need to disembark and re-board.

Be aware that it might expire on the 8th calendar day of use, not exactly 168 hours after activation.