3 Normal Items That Are Illegal In Japan

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  • čas přidán 18. 03. 2019
  • Today were going over 3 items that, while they are ok and normal in many places around the world, might get you in trouble in Japan. And with online shopping giving us access to items around the world, the risk of accidentally bringing something Illegal into Japan is higher than ever. Nothing can ruin your travels like getting arrested, or even kicked out of Japan...
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Komentáře • 1,2K

  • @TokyoLens
    @TokyoLens  Před 5 lety +216

    Hey Everyone!! [Extended Podcast Episode on this topic coming out TOMORROW on the Tokyo Lens Podcast!]
    If you have any extras that I didn't cover in here, feel free to leave them in the comments below!
    Hope you guys enjoyed this one! NOTE: Giveaway coming SOON - Make sure those Notifications are ON!

    • @Codelinkz_
      @Codelinkz_ Před 5 lety +2

      I love your podcasts, they are so relaxing and interesting. I could listen to it every second of the day :D

    • @genna1941
      @genna1941 Před 5 lety +3

      Oh man! I am SO glad you made this video! Because my husband was just talking about rollerblading in Japan two days ago. Whew! Glad you gave us that heads up. 😶 Thank you!

    • @genna1941
      @genna1941 Před 5 lety +2

      I actually have a super important question for you! Are there chiropractors in Japan? I have what they call a Sergeant's neck in Chiropractic terms. That means my spine is completely straight in my neck. I have been seeing a chiropractor and doing at home therapy to put the curve back into my neck. It has started to work but I still have a ways to go. It's not something that I can neglect. A straight neck means that your heart and lung nerves are being pinched because that is where those nerves reside. That can cause some serious health problems if left untreated.
      If there are chiropractors in Japan I highly recommend you see one! You would be amazed what a properly aligned spine can do for your body. I had a friend tell me that his allergies went away after seeing a chiropractor. My chiropractor confirmed that this is in fact true and when I started my treatments I noticed that the next spring I did not have my usual allergic reactions. I was stunned! So if you feel some hay fever coming on then see a chiropractor. Assuming they have them there. I seriously hope they do.

    • @Lestatsuxme1013
      @Lestatsuxme1013 Před 5 lety +1

      I knew you had to carry your passport or residency card around but I’ve heard of people just carrying a photocopy of their passport or card. 🤔 would that fly with the police?

    • @melaniejaneprocter5529
      @melaniejaneprocter5529 Před 5 lety

      Hi Norm
      I take a lot of medication like tramadol, gapatatin, and more but can spell them they are for high cholesterol and depression.
      I couldn't function without them all.
      I will have to check through them all.
      Thanks for the heads up.
      😀😍💙👍👍👍👍👍👍👍

  • @daniel1233
    @daniel1233 Před 3 lety +582

    When I went to tokyo in 2017, I was held back for several minutes by the customs guy past the luggage collection because of the Russian visa on my passport(went there on vacation the year prior). He sternly questioned me my purpose in Japan and reason for going to Russia which really surprised me.
    I later googled that Japan and Russia are technically still at war as they have no peace treaty, i learned from this that the authorities in Japan are actually pretty rigid

    • @TheGarryq
      @TheGarryq Před 2 lety +38

      state of war between the Soviet Union and Japan technically existed until 1956, when it was ended by the Soviet-Japanese Joint Declaration of 1956.

    • @capitalb5889
      @capitalb5889 Před 2 lety +15

      Yet people fly from Japan to Russia all the time

    • @tulenik71
      @tulenik71 Před 2 lety +6

      in Japan, all things are de facto totally rigid

    • @capitalb5889
      @capitalb5889 Před 2 lety +2

      @@tulenik71 I don't see how that is relevant

    • @InfernosReaper
      @InfernosReaper Před 2 lety +2

      @@TheGarryq There still is some debate over who owns certain territory, but ultimately the end of the Soviet Union should've been a de facto peace with Russia.

  • @Venerable_Banana
    @Venerable_Banana Před 5 lety +977

    So instead of a walkie talkie I have to go old school, 2 cups 1 string?

    • @TokyoLens
      @TokyoLens  Před 5 lety +92

      Lol that’s how I do it!

    • @relv7858
      @relv7858 Před 5 lety +22

      this is cute XD

    • @kinzieclausen1350
      @kinzieclausen1350 Před 5 lety +16

      Cellphone

    • @kawaiidere1023
      @kawaiidere1023 Před 5 lety +6

      @Kinzie Clausen yeah, use walky talkies when you need to communicate over talking distance

    • @travisbeagle5691
      @travisbeagle5691 Před 5 lety +31

      It's perfectly legal to have and use them there. What is not legal is the frequencies most use here so your best option is to buy them there.

  • @BurgerSliderMan
    @BurgerSliderMan Před 3 lety +183

    I swear pidgeons are so chill in Tokyo.
    But weird fact. Crows in Tokyo are pretty vicious but crows in Chiba are actually pretty chill too.

    • @mikeundercofler8108
      @mikeundercofler8108 Před 3 lety +28

      In Shinjuku, I looked a crow in the eyes and felt my lifespan decrease by a few years.

    • @BobSaget4sometimes
      @BobSaget4sometimes Před 3 lety +8

      I live in itabashi and I swear the crows follow me to the station everyday... I think they're gonna get me one day

    • @sethkeown5965
      @sethkeown5965 Před 3 lety +5

      Check the ravens up on the north end of hokkaido. Super shiny feathers. Something about the fish oils in their diet.

    • @gardensofgrief
      @gardensofgrief Před 2 lety +2

      @@BobSaget4sometimes oh they will. Crows are incredibly smart and will hold grudges and even pass it down generations.

    • @androconium3393
      @androconium3393 Před 2 lety

      Even weirder, pigeon doesn't have a 'd' in it,

  • @MageThief
    @MageThief Před 5 lety +772

    In Japan, riding a bicycle and having headphones/earbuds and listen on music and stuff like that is illegal and you can end up having to pay a hefty fine.

    • @krymasuru
      @krymasuru Před 5 lety +57

      oshit I've been doing this for a while..
      guess it's time 2 stop

    • @PongoXBongo
      @PongoXBongo Před 5 lety +199

      I don't know how anyone can do that anyway. Whenever I try to ride with headphones I get super paranoid about traffic, pedestrians, etc. and feel compelled to take them out almost immediately. At least with the car radio, I can still hear the world around me.

    • @crisanister5131
      @crisanister5131 Před 4 lety +21

      But legal to drive a car and watch videos. Think i've seen it on another channel.

    • @SwissTanuki
      @SwissTanuki Před 4 lety +4

      Same in Switzerland

    • @Afrocanuk
      @Afrocanuk Před 4 lety +1

      Cris Anister, actually I saw many Japanese drivers doing just that when i was in Japan in 2003.

  • @Durbikins
    @Durbikins Před 5 lety +432

    Jet Set Radio makes a lot more sense now.

  • @hsjncuwkrveyxnwmzhwm
    @hsjncuwkrveyxnwmzhwm Před 3 lety +53

    There are radio available that doesn’t require license to operate in Japan. The thing is, you have to buy it in Japan, with the frequency and power approved by Japanese authority. You cannot bring your own radio from overseas. Actually same rule apply almost everywhere.

  • @truthpopup
    @truthpopup Před 3 lety +106

    The thing about walkie talkies is that the frequency bands and channels used vary from country to country. So a radio approved for use in one country may be illegal to use in another country. Using a Japanese radio in the USA could get you in trouble with the FCC if you are transmitting on an unauthorized channel.

  • @Yotanido
    @Yotanido Před 5 lety +576

    Walkie talkies bought in one country are often illegal to use in another country. The frequency band they operate on is chosen in accordance with the local laws, but while the band may be free for public use in one country, does not mean it isn't designated for something else in another.
    I actually bought a lock picking kit last week. Before I did, I made sure they are actually legal here. Turns out, they are legal to possess without any permit or anything as long as you don't intend to use them for illegal things. (Owning lock picks with the intention to use them for nefarious purposes is itself illegal. Kinda funny)
    It's an item that I can easily see being outlawed, so really, no surprises there.
    Motorised skateboards and scooters and whatnot are also illegal here, if they go faster than 6 km/h. Bicycles have a bit of an exemption: If you have to pedal to activate the motor, it may go up to 25 km/h.
    In any case, going faster than the 6 or 25 km/h is a felony. Not a misdemeanor - a felony.
    I suspect it's similar in Japan? Don't know the legality of e-bikes there.
    Also: pocket knives. Pocket knives past a certain length are illegal to carry in Japan. Another thing to watch out for.

    • @canaanwinthrop2463
      @canaanwinthrop2463 Před 5 lety +3

      Yndostrui my fleet of motorized cruzin coolers go 25+. I rode one downtown Portland in USA. The police officers loved it. Where do you live?

    • @chkpnt-fq5rv
      @chkpnt-fq5rv Před 5 lety +7

      Yeah, it would be the same as bringing a Japanese or European device meant for those areas into the US. They would overlap reserved frequency ranges here which could cause issues. They use different frequencies for their wifi routers than the US does as well. I wouldn’t use a wifi router meant for the US there as well. For that matter don’t use a US microwave oven either.

    • @renookami4651
      @renookami4651 Před 5 lety +8

      Yeah, best is to not bring talkies in other countries, and just buy one there.

    • @MadScienceWorkshoppe
      @MadScienceWorkshoppe Před 5 lety +5

      6kph is slower than I walk! Probably average walking speed for a New Yorker!

    • @ScribeSapient
      @ScribeSapient Před 5 lety +6

      Most people do not understand how radio in general works and thus interacts. Being an "Amateur Operator" with permit to broadcast on specific frequencies and bands only i get it and would never think to bring any form of RF Transmitter past my cellphone and my computer. As for the skateboard and bike issue, Japan has EXCELLENT Public Transportation so you really will not even walk much unless you are in a rural area. Then i still suggest highly one walks as the place is beautiful. Knives, really? Why even bring that up when you can get in hot water for in some cases nail clippers...

  • @thehamsani9813
    @thehamsani9813 Před 5 lety +45

    These are good to know! Not something that you would expect when travelling to another country, but its a good reminder to double check before travelling there.

  • @RabbitVasque
    @RabbitVasque Před 5 lety +623

    SUP PIGEON.
    quality content.

    • @zam023
      @zam023 Před 5 lety +7

      Pigeons in Japan are not afraid of people. Found that out the other day in Kyoto. I was at a festival and eating at a table and I saw this pigeons just walking about under tables looking for food. Back home, this would been cats instead of pigeons.

    • @fruzsinanemeth
      @fruzsinanemeth Před 5 lety +2

      @@zam023 In London they fly like crazy drivers! On my holiday there one almost hit me midflight! XD I should have just reach out to it and catch it! :D

    • @ketolin5624
      @ketolin5624 Před 3 lety

      Lol was thinking the same!

  • @Mtaalas
    @Mtaalas Před 4 lety +266

    So basically Card Captor Sakura broke law every day when she roller skated to school? :D

    • @omnipossum92
      @omnipossum92 Před 4 lety +21

      I think Tomoeda might be a less busy area and she likely doesn't go on main roads.

    • @jacek107ify
      @jacek107ify Před 4 lety +50

      laws might have changed as Card captor sakura is from 90s
      also things might be different for children

    • @huntress44
      @huntress44 Před 3 lety +5

      My exact thoughts when I got to that part 😆

    • @evraalexandrite3770
      @evraalexandrite3770 Před 3 lety +4

      And Conan kun? He broke the law too?

    • @tsherwoodrzero
      @tsherwoodrzero Před 2 lety +5

      @@evraalexandrite3770 Funny, the Japanese government used Conan-kun a lot in recent years for traffic safety content aimed for children.

  • @Viiyachanvids
    @Viiyachanvids Před 3 lety +295

    I toured in Japan with a performing arts cast and one of the biggest things that screwed a lot of the cast members over last minute was finding out about their prescription Adderal being illegal. These young adults have gone years function under the assistance of their adhd medication and had to suddenly go three months without it. Thats not japans fault necessarily, more the fault of them and our tour managers for not properly researching until the very last second.

    • @itspowers9107
      @itspowers9107 Před 3 lety +23

      I believe this is still also true for South Korea and its seen as just as bad as cocaine or heroine or any hard drugs.

    • @K2ThaPhukkinC
      @K2ThaPhukkinC Před 3 lety +20

      Yup. I spent a hours in a room being questioned because I brought my prescription Adzenys. Lol.

    • @Wazzen563
      @Wazzen563 Před 3 lety +20

      @@itspowers9107 I hope that's not true, because that's absolutely bat-shit, bugfuck insane.

    • @Elmithian
      @Elmithian Před 3 lety +60

      I would still argue that those laws are insanely arbitrary since these are actual prescription medicine.
      That and they don't have any proper fair use laws either since lot of companies have been trying to push such stuff away for decades there...
      Sigh, Japan has plenty of positive stuff but it also has lot of horrible stuff, just like any other country.
      Like the lie about 99% confession and succession rate of the police... well, technically true on paper, but when you check it a bit better the methods the police uses to achieve the silly number things turn to be a lot more grim.

    • @jukatan100
      @jukatan100 Před 3 lety +13

      What? Japan has a problem with legal meth?

  • @time.5942
    @time.5942 Před 5 lety +19

    When you have semester break and totally forget what day it is, just to get reminded it's tuesday by a new video by your favorite CZcamsr!

    • @lm-pw9ul
      @lm-pw9ul Před 5 lety +1

      Ah I missed school days. I don't get much holiday anymore

  • @TheDreamWaIker
    @TheDreamWaIker Před 5 lety +8

    Gotta squeeze this in before work haha! Always a good Tuesday when you upload, Norm! 👍

  • @acm_1985
    @acm_1985 Před 5 lety +1

    Home from work, something nice for dinner and a new Tokyo Lens vlog is up. Perfect start for the evening!

  • @thejapaneseways2103
    @thejapaneseways2103 Před 5 lety +9

    Great Tips, Thanks
    I just moved to Japan and there are so many things to know about:
    what you can and what you can't do!!

  • @p1nkfreud
    @p1nkfreud Před 3 lety +136

    One of the weirdest things banned in JP is Lamotrigine...a pretty common mood stabilizer/anti-seizure medicine with no potential for abuse and is completely non-addictive...It is not even classed as a controlled substance in any country...I have taken it for years and it's really, really good - but if I wanted to go to Japan I'd have to change meds. So weird.

    • @kleineoOoStern
      @kleineoOoStern Před 3 lety +12

      My tramadol prescription is too heavy for Japan. I take 500mg per 24h for neurological problems but in a lot of country I would be arrested because some dumb people drug themselves with tramadol and it's a dangerous medecine.

    • @SkyrimInMyPants
      @SkyrimInMyPants Před 3 lety +19

      Actually you can bring it in.... but you have to fill out a special form etc like most other drugs

    • @p1nkfreud
      @p1nkfreud Před 3 lety +8

      SkyrimInMyPants It cannot be prescribed and classified as a scheduled drug with no potential medical advantage - If it is true that you can bring some in, even if you aren't prescribed it (because sometimes that is what authorities assume if they can't get in touch with your doctor) than that is news to me, thanks for that tip.
      Unfortunately, that still means it is impossible for someone prescribed lamotrigine to (safely) stay in Japan for more than 3 months (that's usually the longest Rx you can get in advance). Worse still, 1 of the only two real side effects has, is that it can cause seizures and manic episodes if the medicine isn't taken for a few days in a row. (The other side effect is a nasty, potentially FATAL form of allergic dermatitis called "Steven-Johnson syndrome". This doesn't affect many people at all, and if they get medical treatment in time it is easily controlled, but I still mention it because it is something a prospective patient should still keep in mind).

    • @cbtowers4841
      @cbtowers4841 Před 3 lety +7

      It's approved in Japan. Try asking again. GSK got approval for Lamictal in Japan in 2011.

    • @Tricia_K
      @Tricia_K Před 2 lety +4

      @@kleineoOoStern Tramadol has been a Controlled Drug here in the UK for about 7 years now, due to misuse and its heavily addictive qualities... (400mg/day for my neuro issues, plus gabapentin/MST/others)

  • @Fuzz82
    @Fuzz82 Před 5 lety +57

    People with rollerskates/blades or skateboards are officially considered pedestrians in my country. But in practice the police won't bother them if they ride in the bike lane. Since they also know that is probably the best place for them. But they tend to be less forgiving with skateboards then with rollerskates/blades.

    • @ianmoseley9910
      @ianmoseley9910 Před 5 lety +1

      Gshama In the UK it is technically illegal to ride bicycles on pedestrian footways but not often enforced.

    • @Fuzz82
      @Fuzz82 Před 5 lety

      @@ianmoseley9910 Same in the Netherlands really.

    • @shaunaisaJellyBean
      @shaunaisaJellyBean Před 4 lety

      Ian moseley same in Ireland but if there’s Gardaí on foot they will happily stop you

  • @xXStephanieReginaXx
    @xXStephanieReginaXx Před 5 lety +115

    I like having that little sakura branch in the shot too, and the one to the left

  • @blueyonder1233
    @blueyonder1233 Před 3 lety +12

    I had a very memorable encounter with a police officer at Akita railway station when I was not carrying my passport, I left it in my hotel room. Everything is fine until you have one of these encounters. And yes I stayed calm & respectful, receiving that "well in future you need to ALWAYS carry your passport' message before being allowed to continue on.

  • @A-Negative
    @A-Negative Před 5 lety +45

    Thanks for the info! Going to Tokyo this summer and I actually carry a lock pick kit in my bag -locks are just little puzzles & I never get locked out. I get stopped by airport security a lot but they always clear it. But will leave it at home.

    • @brucealanwilson4121
      @brucealanwilson4121 Před 5 lety +1

      Ladies hairpins?

    • @jacobishii6121
      @jacobishii6121 Před 3 lety

      I'm the same way.....mechanical puzzles get expensive,with picks the world is full of free puzzles

  • @sharlainjapan
    @sharlainjapan Před 5 lety +560

    Ahaha I said “cycler” in my video the other day too😂😅

    • @TokyoLens
      @TokyoLens  Před 5 lety +50

      Lol well aren’t we just a pair of linguistic champions 🤦🏻‍♂️

    • @jacquilyons6375
      @jacquilyons6375 Před 5 lety +8

      Lol saw your comment.. Hi!! Welcome back to Japan, hope your new job is going great and looking forward to more videos from you .. ooo and maybe another one with Norm? 🤔 hint hint 😁💕

    • @KokoroKatsura
      @KokoroKatsura Před 2 lety

      'cyklere' as in danish language

  • @amyhedt7985
    @amyhedt7985 Před 5 lety +1

    You definitely picked the best spot to film! Those Sakura are just stunning. Great video though and I can't wait to listen to the podcast. It's always great to get more info like this before traveling.

  • @dattmay
    @dattmay Před rokem +1

    I like that you barely moved and kept the little branch in the shot; you know what you want and you stick with it! That’s what makes your framing in your videos so damn good all the time. Nice, information, and well-shot video here norm. Thanks again 😊

  • @MoonBlueFlower
    @MoonBlueFlower Před 5 lety +15

    Interesting to learn! I would never have imagined!

  • @Nurfa.iqah.1
    @Nurfa.iqah.1 Před 5 lety +1

    Thanks for another informative video!!! Never thought these things could get you into trouble 😥 Gotta share this to save a life

  • @MyMarkStudio
    @MyMarkStudio Před 5 lety +1

    This was really interesting thank you for sharing them. I really like your background change ups. They really helped make the video more interesting.

  • @redfox4561
    @redfox4561 Před 5 lety +8

    Wow that road you're on is beautiful, the scenery in Japan never fails to amaze me.

  • @patnoe4595
    @patnoe4595 Před 5 lety +3

    The education you provide is so helpful. It is interesting to know the unusual things about Japan too. Love the Cherry Blossom!!! 🌸🌸🌸

  • @jaykay4367
    @jaykay4367 Před 5 lety +1

    Just wanted to say thanks for the info. I will be traveling there in a few weeks and your vlogs have been very helpful.

  • @DissociativeK
    @DissociativeK Před 4 lety +1

    Thanks I stumbled on your video doing research for my future trip in Japan.
    Thanks you very much because I use regularly these three items in a daily basis!
    You won a subscriber.

  • @Ryansacrobat
    @Ryansacrobat Před 5 lety +8

    Wow, all 3 of those things were new to me! Ive lived here 4 years and had no clue, but I guess its a good thing I havent been taking my unicyle down to Daiso! Im actually glad I never got in trouble on my hoverboard, I probably should have, but I sold it thank goodness! Another one, while you are taking about medication is needles for diabetes, etc are big "no go"

  • @MissMugiwara
    @MissMugiwara Před 5 lety +53

    Had to focus on the Sakura the whole time, they are so beautiful 😍
    Interesting how "small" things from home can be so troublesome somewhere else, thanks for the info!
    I often also don't take my ID with me, so I'll definitely will remember that for Japan

    • @TokyoLens
      @TokyoLens  Před 5 lety +4

      its good to keep it on you!!

  • @Josua_Nel
    @Josua_Nel Před 5 lety +1

    thanks again for another great video. lots of good advice that I didnt even think about. thats really helpful thanks Norm.

  • @tandreabradford9419
    @tandreabradford9419 Před 3 lety +1

    I just came across your channel and have watched a few videos. This one is very helpful, I have not really thought about this in my trip planning. I’m still a long way away from actually getting to Japan, but this video game me a lot to thing about. Thank you very much for sharing your information. ^^

  • @indigenouspotliquor3546
    @indigenouspotliquor3546 Před 5 lety +7

    Now they say the best course of action for hay fever outdoor allergies is to get ahold of some local honey. The bees make their honey from that pollen and you're getting like little doses of nature's medicine. How miraculous! The scenery is breathtaking.

  • @3DJapan
    @3DJapan Před 5 lety +18

    Most of these I hadn't thought of. I have heard a lot about medicine and I think I heard about skateboards. Luckily I don't really need any medicine so that was no problem for me in Japan but I did warn my friends that were with me about it.

  • @caramel0610
    @caramel0610 Před 5 lety +1

    Thanks for this! Love all the scenery changes lol. The sakura are so pretty!

  • @maedaminda7720
    @maedaminda7720 Před 5 lety +2

    Thank you for sharing💖its very useful.

  • @baileymason725
    @baileymason725 Před 5 lety +3

    Thanks for this Norm, it was really interesting, I've seen countless videos on Japan but I had no idea you were required to carry a passport/resident card. Lots of love, hope you're doing good

  • @shedbuilderwho
    @shedbuilderwho Před 3 lety +5

    So helpful. I was planning on brining my tiny folding electric bike in my next trip to Japan. Just learned that an electric bike with a throttle is regarded as "gentsuki" and I will need a license, vehicle registration, liability insurance coverage, turn signal capability, headlight, taillight, and all. Way too much to deal with for a little bit of convenience. Violation of traffic laws while visiting can totally ruin my visit. Thank you.

  • @yokaicustoms
    @yokaicustoms Před 5 lety +1

    Great video! Came across your channel tonight and subbed. Keep up the great work dude!

  • @Slammer_1970
    @Slammer_1970 Před 4 lety +1

    Just ran across your channel yesterday and this was the second video that I watched. It was a great video and I'm also going to give your podcast a listen to as well.

  • @rachelcookie321
    @rachelcookie321 Před 3 lety +9

    When I went on student exchange to japan last year our guides told us to leave our passports at home (host family house) so we don’t loose them. I heard those stories of foreigners getting arrested for not having their passport or resident card so I brought mine with me everyday. They can get arrested but i’m not going down with them.

  • @dariusq8894
    @dariusq8894 Před 3 lety +10

    I got stopped by Japanese customs once for prescription medication but was let go quickly and never really thought about it. Good to know.

  • @ilkoallexandroff
    @ilkoallexandroff Před 5 lety +2

    Nice video! For me as a photographer, the wireless triggers for strobes could be tricky because if the frequencies, although it’s really easy to purchased one with banned frequency! Cheers!

  • @memyselfandi7529
    @memyselfandi7529 Před 3 lety +2

    I just subscribed to your channel & love the fact that you are very respectful of Japan & its do's & dont's
    Ive watched a few of your videos & thoroughly enjoy them. Thank you for sharing. Keep them going
    Most importantly, stay safe admist this Pandemic

  • @doctorelle8178
    @doctorelle8178 Před 5 lety +16

    I seriously considered bringing walkie talkies! Thank you for the heads up this totally saved me! Keep being awesome! 😊

  • @Codelinkz_
    @Codelinkz_ Před 5 lety +5

    Hey, Thanks for another video :D

  • @Lisa-gq7qh
    @Lisa-gq7qh Před 5 lety +2

    5:21 The Sakura on the top right corner are standing out so much, I love it!🌸✨
    The one with the ID doesn’t surprise me though, I’m always carrying my ID with me anywhere I go, I think that’s important. Anyway, informative video and great framing!☺️

  • @elihinata1
    @elihinata1 Před 3 lety

    I am new to your videos but I just want to say how much I like them. You have a really nice way of explaining things and the visuals are so soothing! Keep the great work and happy 2021! :D

  • @tesstavares3143
    @tesstavares3143 Před 5 lety +4

    Hi Norm! I was surprised about the walk talkies since some friends that travel to ski (usually Europe) always use them to connect when in the slopes.. good to know! Also, I saw a video while back about knives or even pocket ones that are also prohibited in Japan and was wondering how bad that would be (like having something to cut food at your hotel or opening bottles). Great video as always, loved the 🌸

  • @ghostfoxsarah
    @ghostfoxsarah Před 5 lety +38

    I just bought an ebike and plan to go to Japan next month. I was considering taking it with me, so thanks for the heads up! It's technically faster than is legal without a liscense where I live, it'd definitely be a no go in Japan.

    • @TokyoLens
      @TokyoLens  Před 5 lety +5

      Whew!! Glad you caught that!!

  • @fedeace
    @fedeace Před 5 lety +1

    Thank you for taking the time to make a video like this.

  • @TechHeadHD2
    @TechHeadHD2 Před 5 lety +2

    Now this was interesting. Cheers for sharing the info!

  • @TrimeshSZ
    @TrimeshSZ Před 4 lety +10

    Another one to watch for is certain decongestant medications containing pseudoephedrine - these are available over the counter without a prescription in a lot of places, but are completely illegal in Japan. The ones contaning phenylephrine are OK (well, except for that whole "doesn't really work" thing).

  • @din3832
    @din3832 Před 5 lety +6

    Damnn i wanted 2 of the 3 itens you put on this list! thanks for the info

  • @TooManyHobbiesJeremy
    @TooManyHobbiesJeremy Před 5 lety +1

    Great advice. Nice job mixing up the scenery

  • @Linkofhyrule565
    @Linkofhyrule565 Před 5 lety +1

    Thanks for more great info Norm. You always give us great unique content. I see the Sakura are blooming even earlier than forecast. 1 week till I leave for Tokyo. Keep them from full blooming for me till i get there Norm!

  • @DrMuFFinMan
    @DrMuFFinMan Před 5 lety +3

    Glad you went ahead and this video out, also pollen is crazy this time of the year from the cherry trees. Who knew walkie talkies were an issue but I guess it makes sense because they can have there on band either depending on the brand or how advanced it is. Either way thanks for the information and video, love the sakura.

    • @TokyoLens
      @TokyoLens  Před 5 lety

      Mark! Great to see you here! and so quick! lol
      yea, I am glad that I put this one out!! Cheers eh!!

  • @mikaylajweighill
    @mikaylajweighill Před 5 lety +4

    That pretty cool advice....I have all three items. I know what not to bring.
    Lockpicks are usually viewed as thieves tool unless you are licensed to possess them in the jurisdiction that you are currently in. I tell my apprentices to never take them outside of our province (BC).
    Another really great video!!!!

  • @WiscoMel
    @WiscoMel Před rokem +2

    I never would have thought to see if my prescription is legal prior to travel. Thanks for the heads-up!

  • @puffygirl2527
    @puffygirl2527 Před 5 lety +1

    thank you for the info. quite helpful, especially about the meds, since i am on an opiod.

  • @ninaschenk4727
    @ninaschenk4727 Před 5 lety +4

    The blossoming trees are gorgeous! ❤

  • @horriblegoose3295
    @horriblegoose3295 Před 4 lety +2

    This video helped me in one way or another!

  • @Cai_osity
    @Cai_osity Před 5 lety +1

    Such a helpful video thankyou norm
    💜

  • @desireemark2547
    @desireemark2547 Před 4 lety +2

    Thanks so much for this video! Totally stumbled across it by accident and thought it would be interesting, so I watched. Glad I did because I was totally planning on buying a goofy little electric scooter to skip around on before I moved to Tokyo in a few months! Eee thank you so much! Going to research more laws now!

  • @Lestatsuxme1013
    @Lestatsuxme1013 Před 5 lety +10

    😮 Wow! I had no idea about a lot of these!

  • @blaineandkatey
    @blaineandkatey Před 5 lety +12

    Hey Pigeon! Walky-Talkies we knew, had no idea about the lock picking tools, don't carry one, but it's good to know! The boards makes some sense, our second trip, a native on a board smashed into Katey's ankle while we were in Osaka.

  • @KirstenReusch
    @KirstenReusch Před 5 lety +1

    The sakura have been lovely this year. Hoping wind (as some catches the mike) or rain doesn't sweep in to ruin it. It is always interesting what will get you into trouble, where. Not gonna lie, I was waiting for the vid to post, knowing it was Tuesday, and your vlogs always bring me peace no matter the subject. My family have been hanging out waiting to know how my Dad fared in double bypass surgery this morning. He's made it through and is semi awake in ICU recovery as I write this. Hopefully, he'll be recovered enough to travel with us at Christmas/New Years 2019, as we've been planning.

  • @livingty
    @livingty Před 5 lety +1

    I love this video ! Thank u for making content

    • @TokyoLens
      @TokyoLens  Před 5 lety

      That’s so kind of you~ I’m really happy that you’re here~ 😊

  • @blackmoon818
    @blackmoon818 Před 5 lety +20

    I was actually in japan in feb, and realised i was taking a restricted medication, so before leaving had to do the paperwork for a gekkan shoumei, i think thats the right word. It actually wasn't too bad applying, they were efficient in a swering any and all questions i had about how to fill out the form and everything, and had approved my application super quick. But i was suprised at how many medications were restricted or out right not allowed.

  • @didip1823
    @didip1823 Před 5 lety +3

    I'm excited for my first trip to Japan this summer!!

  • @ryanmwhetten
    @ryanmwhetten Před rokem +1

    Super informative! Unicycling is one of my hobbies 😂 so I thought that part was really interesting!

  • @Jinty_1966
    @Jinty_1966 Před 5 lety

    Thank you for all the information you gave us.

  • @genna1941
    @genna1941 Před 5 lety +5

    I hope you don't have hay fever either. 😶 I'm sick today. 😧 Your video is already cheering me up. That pigeon made my day. 😂

    • @TokyoLens
      @TokyoLens  Před 5 lety +1

      Lol that pigeon is my new best friend! Lol

  • @Malice_doll
    @Malice_doll Před 3 lety +3

    The rollerblade thing is a bummer. I saw pictures of people in the harajuku fruits magazine with them so i figured it would be fine. as long as it’s just something where they ask you to stop i’m completely ok with it.

  • @CapriKoRn
    @CapriKoRn Před 3 lety

    Definitely helpful and never would have guessed any of those things would be considered illegal.

  • @DorisTheChicken3013
    @DorisTheChicken3013 Před 2 lety +2

    I love learning about different cultures & countries!

  • @MiaogisTeas
    @MiaogisTeas Před 5 lety +236

    I think the key takeaway is be respectful and comply quickly with Japanese authorities. They'll generally be very reasonable as long as you have the right attitude. 🙏

    • @DarthG33k
      @DarthG33k Před 5 lety +28

      This right here. Every police officer I met when I visited Japan was incredibly kind and helpful. The trick is to be polite to them.

    • @johnknapp952
      @johnknapp952 Před 4 lety +14

      Applies to most "Civilized" countries around the world.

    • @SinnerSince1962
      @SinnerSince1962 Před 4 lety +13

      @@johnknapp952 Yeah, and not the USA (well, anymore).

    • @ashakydd1
      @ashakydd1 Před 3 lety +8

      When I have been in Japan, pretty much any official has been incredibly nice and helpful, but I also have a policy of keeping it friendly and polite with anyone in any kind of authority (until I have to do otherwise) which generally gets me very far.

    • @twankies8051
      @twankies8051 Před 3 lety +4

      Bryan Dover I’m pretty sure the United States’ police have actually become more friendly compared to the 90’s.

  • @rosst1
    @rosst1 Před 5 lety +11

    Research......I just rely on your advise. Yet another great video.

  • @Vanbg13
    @Vanbg13 Před 5 lety +1

    Heeey, a new video just in time for me to end up my countdown to my stay in japan I AM LEAVING THE DAY AFTER TOMORROW :D
    (also, this was interesting, and I'm quite happy that I didn't felt concerned about your points, so I should be good lol)

  • @maakudesuyo
    @maakudesuyo Před 5 lety +1

    That little Sakura Branch is such a star! Great cinematography Norm!
    The first two are a big surprise! The third one too, but i was expecting they were allowed on sidewalks. I was hoping to purchase a Boosted Mini board to use for zipping around Japan. I guess I'll stick to bicycles or regular skateboards. Thanks for the info!

  • @lm-pw9ul
    @lm-pw9ul Před 5 lety +6

    I was gonna say beautiful cherry blossom trees as backdrop but then you mentioned hay fever. Yeah I get hay fever every spring too and I don't even live in Japan

    • @atsukorichards1675
      @atsukorichards1675 Před 5 lety +1

      I lived in Japan and never had a hay fever there. And I moved to USA, then one year, I did... I still don't know why. (By the way, the sakura is really beautiful there.)

  • @vxz18
    @vxz18 Před 3 lety +8

    You need to request and obtain authorization from the Japanese government prior to visiting before bringing any medication with you. This includes but not limited to meds (even over the counter ones), medical equipment such as glucometer or cpap machine. They will provide you with a certificate for you to carry with you when you visit. Otherwise they can detain you, and it will ruin your trip. There are some exceptions and thresholds as well but definitely check.

  • @hwy-5877
    @hwy-5877 Před 5 lety +2

    Norm, thank you for the informative video! Btw, if you don't mind, could you tell me which park it was that you shot this video? Very beautiful sakura's! Thanks again for another great content of yours! Keep up the good work!

  • @louisemargarett8815
    @louisemargarett8815 Před 4 lety

    Sooo informative!!!! Thanks!!!

  • @brooksnorthcutt668
    @brooksnorthcutt668 Před 5 lety +7

    That makes sense with the walkie talkies. Gotta keep those airwaves clean! And I want to see the Sakura so bad someday!!!

  • @JanykaFrancesca
    @JanykaFrancesca Před 2 lety +11

    Thanks for mentioning about carrying id or passport everywhere with you. Same applies in the Czech Republic and my husband thought we are the only country that requires this😂😆 If not police could follow you home to clarify your identity and even give you fine. Something in common with Japan💕

  • @turib6526
    @turib6526 Před 5 lety +2

    that's one of the biggest things about japan that kind of makes me uneasy, because i'm an outdoor roller skater and i'm terrified of getting in legal trouble in a foreign country 😅

  • @TashMarksTheSpot
    @TashMarksTheSpot Před 5 lety +2

    I live in Brisbane, Australia wow! Didn't know you were here. Hope you loved it!

  • @dragonofparadise
    @dragonofparadise Před 5 lety +6

    Wow good information, I've been to Japan twice and didn't know about the Walkie talkies and lock picks. I've known for years that Nyquil and other over the counter medications are a big no no. Very good information.

    • @markplott4820
      @markplott4820 Před 5 lety

      no need to Bring OTC meds with you to Japan, they have Really Great pharmicists that can help get RELEAF you are looking for.

  • @Sketchkat
    @Sketchkat Před 5 lety +4

    First time watching one of your videos - am planning to go to Japan in the future and although I personally wouldn’t carry those kinds of things to an airport, let alone to Japan, it’s nonetheless useful to know (like my quad roller skates are kinda heavy, would be counterintuitive to take them)
    Though I’m sure it’s fairly obvious that knives of any kind aren’t permitted in public either (the bf likes to take a mini survival kit with him everywhere, I have to remind him to leave the inch-long blade at home when we go to public places/events/concerts etc.)

  • @scottsakahara4785
    @scottsakahara4785 Před 5 lety +1

    That was very useful information. It's the little obscure things that we take for granted. All countries probably have these same issues that we take for granted. Thanks for the heads up. With the 2020 Olympics coming to Japan that is very useful information. Great video👍

  • @aminazakee602
    @aminazakee602 Před 2 lety

    Thank you so much for the information these were definitely things I did not know but happy to know💯💯💯👍👍👍👍👍

  • @tamitoohey2392
    @tamitoohey2392 Před 5 lety +5

    That's crazy about prescription drugs. That is seriously something I would've never thought of. We have plans on traveling to Paris in 2025. That gives me food for thought, maybe I need to check if our meds are OK to go with us. Amazing video as always. Thank you for switching up the shots. I really love the Sakura, and you gave us some good shots of them!! Until next time!! ❤️💕

    • @TokyoLens
      @TokyoLens  Před 5 lety +1

      Glad I could help!!!

    • @Celdria522
      @Celdria522 Před 5 lety +1

      What i don't get is that how do I take my prescription with me, when in my county I can only buy the medicine if I give the prescription paper to the pharmacist?

    • @haleyp898
      @haleyp898 Před 5 lety

      @@Celdria522 I would assume he means you have to have the pharmacy label on the prescription. The bit with your info, the prescribing doctor, dosage info, pharmacy contact info, dates, etc. that is stuck to the pill bottle or box. I know I have an inhaler that goes everywhere with me, but there's no prescription info on it because the pharmacy label is on the box it came in and that is at home (or sometimes gets thrown away), so if I was going overseas I would need to have that box with me.

  • @milesgemini4029
    @milesgemini4029 Před 5 lety +4

    I just started getting allergies too (I'm 45 they've never really bothered me before), anyways I tried a tincture of nettle and reishi mushroom that worked better than any otc med I've tried

  • @silviag3798
    @silviag3798 Před 5 lety +1

    Wow, there's a couple things on that list I wouldn't have expected at all.

  • @budang0917
    @budang0917 Před 5 lety +2

    Wow gosh thank you for the tip on walkie talkie we were abt to buy and bring them there for our 1st trip in japan 👍