Shibuya246 Answers 16 Questions about Japan

A little while ago I published a post with general questions about Japan. I came up with these as I had plans to go to Japan for a longer trip this summer. Unfortunately I won’t be able to go on that trip, reality strikes back you know. I might however go for a shorter trip (maybe two weeks) in June. Either way, the questions were thoroughly answered by a few of you readers (thank you!) and I want to share everything in a few posts as everyone don’t read the comments section.

Second up is Shibuya246.

1. If you had a budget of 520 000 yen, for how long would you stay in Japan? Keep in mind that I’m partially doing this because I want to work on my Japanese before the next semester starts, so time is valuable. But I also want to do fun stuff!
Even with a budget of 520 000 yen, I would max out my stay and make it for 3 months. 1/3 of your money on accom, 1/3 to eat and 1/3 to play.

2. Let’s say I’m staying for 2 months, would you recommend staying at a guest house, hostel, hotel or somewhere else? I do need my own room and it has to include an internet connection, but I’m willing to share everything else.
Guesthouse you can make some friends and might help to save on cost. havent stayed at one myself to really thinking about cost here rather than comfort.

3. I’ve already gotten a few answers to this question, but I’ll ask it again. 3 meals plus some snacks or a sandwich in the evening is usually what I eat on a normal weekday. If I were to buy these meals in a convenience store to save some money, how much would I have to spend to make my tummy pleased?
Once you hit the convenience stores you are going to find things to buy you dont absolutely need. think 1,000 per visit max and limit your visits.

4. While I do enjoy walking, taking the train is a must every now and then, let’s say 3-4 times a week (or actually 6-8 since I want to get home too), how much (approximately) would that cost me and is there a way to save some money doing it?
Japan Rail Pass definately worthwhile if you want to travel to country areas (longer distance). If you just want to get from Shibuya to Shinjuku then about 150 yen one way. start mixing subway with JR and you will pay more quickly.

5. What does a concert ticket for a popular artist usually cost?
Popular? range of price 5,000 yen – and up

6. About how much does it cost to send a 5kg box half way around the world (to Sweden)? I have a feeling that I won’t be able to take everything I buy with me on the plane back home.
Not sure but there are plenty of services available to do this so with competition comes better prices.

7. I’m on a date, where do we dine?
If you are on a date why are you dining? Skip the meal and have more for time for play. Meals can be cheap or expensive. Depends on the date. If she likes McDonalds you are in, if not 4,000 – 5,000 yen for 2 to eat. You wont stay 3 months at these prices.

8. I want to do something I’ve never done before, where do I go?
Just about anywhere. Get on the train, pick a station, get off, start walking and experience.

9. I love coffee and good lounge music, where is the place with big sofas and pillows where you can chill out like never before? No shoes inside makes the place even more cozy.
Not sure about this but I bet its available if you look

10. I want to bump into famous people and ask them if they know what time it is, where do I have the best chance to do so?
Hollywood

11. I want to be on Japanese TV, where do you often see them recording?
There are various studio broadcasts you can go to, but you may have to book and you might need some Japanese language skills do this. Get a date and have her make the booking. You need to get some return on your 4,000 yen meal.

12. Beautiful scenery of all kinds, where’s that special something I need to see?
Get into the countryside. The train trips are great

13. I have to visit a nice onsen, do you have any recommendations?
There are so many great onsens. Check out a few websites

14. The legal age of drinking in Japan is 20, but are there pubs and clubs that you have to be even older to enter? And how strict are they anyways when it comes to checking people’s age?
Have some form of photo id and you should be ok (drivers license, passport best)

15. I want to make a weird video, where do I buy or rent a monkey costume?
This would definately be possible but I dont know where. Something else for your date to look up for you. Definately a second date question. Dont ask when you first meet.

16. Anything else I have to keep in mind while I’m there?
Enjoy.

Thank you shibuya246 for answering my questions! Don’t forget to visit and subscribe to the blog to get the latest and greatest trend news from Japan! How about a First Class Capsule Hotel for example? Shibuya246