"Discovering the Magic of Japanese Hot Springs"

Introduction:

In Japan, there's something truly special that people of all ages love – onsens. These natural hot springs are like peaceful pools scattered around the country, giving everyone a chance to relax and enjoy the beauty of nature.

Soaking Up the Relaxation:

Imagine taking a dip in warm, soothing water surrounded by mountains or forests. That's what onsens offer. Before getting in, there's a simple ritual of washing off, showing respect for the tradition and creating a calm atmosphere.

Culture and Respect:

Japanese onsens are not just about the water; they're about culture too. People are encouraged to be quiet and respectful, making it a unique and peaceful experience. Many traditional inns, called ryokans, have their own onsens, letting visitors dive into Japan's way of life.

My personal experience at a Hot Spring on YouTube

Different Kinds of Onsens:

Japan's diverse landscapes mean there are all kinds of onsens to explore. Picture enjoying an outdoor bath with cherry blossoms in spring or snowflakes in winter. Each onsen has its charm, and the minerals in the water are said to be good for your health.

Seasonal Delights:

What makes onsens even more special is how they change with the seasons. Whether it's spring, summer, fall, or winter, there's always a unique and beautiful experience waiting for you.

Hidden Treasures:

While famous places like Hakone and Beppu are well-known, there are many hidden onsens off the beaten path. These secret spots offer a more personal and authentic experience away from the usual tourist spots.

Modern Fun:

Lately, there's a mix of old and new in the onsen world. There are cool places that combine the traditional charm of hot springs with modern comforts, making it fun for everyone.

Conclusion:

Japanese onsens are like magic spots that connect nature, culture, and relaxation. They are the perfect place to unwind and soak up Japanese custom.  I highly recommend trying them!

Privacy Policy

 

Privacy Policy

Last updated: December 31, 2023

This Privacy Policy describes Our policies and procedures on the collection, use and disclosure of Your information when You use the Service and tells You about Your privacy rights and how the law protects You.

We use Your Personal data to provide and improve the Service. By using the Service, You agree to the collection and use of information in accordance with this Privacy Policy. This Privacy Policy has been created with the help of the Privacy Policy Generator.

Interpretation and Definitions

Interpretation

The words of which the initial letter is capitalized have meanings defined under the following conditions. The following definitions shall have the same meaning regardless of whether they appear in singular or in plural.

Definitions

For the purposes of this Privacy Policy:

Account means a unique account created for You to access our Service or parts of our Service.

Affiliate means an entity that controls, is controlled by or is under common control with a party, where "control" means ownership of 50% or more of the shares, equity interest or other securities entitled to vote for election of directors or other managing authority.

Company (referred to as either "the Company", "We", "Us" or "Our" in this Agreement) refers to Wow That's Japan2.

Cookies are small files that are placed on Your computer, mobile device or any other device by a website, containing the details of Your browsing history on that website among its many uses.

Country refers to: Japan

Device means any device that can access the Service such as a computer, a cellphone or a digital tablet.

Personal Data is any information that relates to an identified or identifiable individual.

Service refers to the Website.

Service Provider means any natural or legal person who processes the data on behalf of the Company. It refers to third-party companies or individuals employed by the Company to facilitate the Service, to provide the Service on behalf of the Company, to perform services related to the Service or to assist the Company in analyzing how the Service is used.

Usage Data refers to data collected automatically, either generated by the use of the Service or from the Service infrastructure itself (for example, the duration of a page visit).

Website refers to Wow That's Japan2, accessible from wowthatsjapan2.blogspot.com

You means the individual accessing or using the Service, or the company, or other legal entity on behalf of which such individual is accessing or using the Service, as applicable.

Collecting and Using Your Personal Data

Types of Data Collected

Personal Data

While using Our Service, We may ask You to provide Us with certain personally identifiable information that can be used to contact or identify You. Personally identifiable information may include, but is not limited to:

·         Usage Data

Usage Data

Usage Data is collected automatically when using the Service.

Usage Data may include information such as Your Device's Internet Protocol address (e.g. IP address), browser type, browser version, the pages of our Service that You visit, the time and date of Your visit, the time spent on those pages, unique device identifiers and other diagnostic data.

When You access the Service by or through a mobile device, We may collect certain information automatically, including, but not limited to, the type of mobile device You use, Your mobile device unique ID, the IP address of Your mobile device, Your mobile operating system, the type of mobile Internet browser You use, unique device identifiers and other diagnostic data.

We may also collect information that Your browser sends whenever You visit our Service or when You access the Service by or through a mobile device.

Tracking Technologies and Cookies

We use Cookies and similar tracking technologies to track the activity on Our Service and store certain information. Tracking technologies used are beacons, tags, and scripts to collect and track information and to improve and analyze Our Service. The technologies We use may include:

·         Cookies or Browser Cookies. A cookie is a small file placed on Your Device. You can instruct Your browser to refuse all Cookies or to indicate when a Cookie is being sent. However, if You do not accept Cookies, You may not be able to use some parts of our Service. Unless you have adjusted Your browser setting so that it will refuse Cookies, our Service may use Cookies.

·         Web Beacons. Certain sections of our Service and our emails may contain small electronic files known as web beacons (also referred to as clear gifs, pixel tags, and single-pixel gifs) that permit the Company, for example, to count users who have visited those pages or opened an email and for other related website statistics (for example, recording the popularity of a certain section and verifying system and server integrity).

Cookies can be "Persistent" or "Session" Cookies. Persistent Cookies remain on Your personal computer or mobile device when You go offline, while Session Cookies are deleted as soon as You close Your web browser. You can learn more about cookies on TermsFeed website article.

We use both Session and Persistent Cookies for the purposes set out below:

Necessary / Essential Cookies

Type: Session Cookies

Administered by: Us

Purpose: These Cookies are essential to provide You with services available through the Website and to enable You to use some of its features. They help to authenticate users and prevent fraudulent use of user accounts. Without these Cookies, the services that You have asked for cannot be provided, and We only use these Cookies to provide You with those services.

Cookies Policy / Notice Acceptance Cookies

Type: Persistent Cookies

Administered by: Us

Purpose: These Cookies identify if users have accepted the use of cookies on the Website.

Functionality Cookies

Type: Persistent Cookies

Administered by: Us

Purpose: These Cookies allow us to remember choices You make when You use the Website, such as remembering your login details or language preference. The purpose of these Cookies is to provide You with a more personal experience and to avoid You having to re-enter your preferences every time You use the Website.

For more information about the cookies we use and your choices regarding cookies, please visit our Cookies Policy or the Cookies section of our Privacy Policy.

Use of Your Personal Data

The Company may use Personal Data for the following purposes:

To provide and maintain our Service, including to monitor the usage of our Service.

To manage Your Account: to manage Your registration as a user of the Service. The Personal Data You provide can give You access to different functionalities of the Service that are available to You as a registered user.

For the performance of a contract: the development, compliance and undertaking of the purchase contract for the products, items or services You have purchased or of any other contract with Us through the Service.

To contact You: To contact You by email, telephone calls, SMS, or other equivalent forms of electronic communication, such as a mobile application's push notifications regarding updates or informative communications related to the functionalities, products or contracted services, including the security updates, when necessary or reasonable for their implementation.

To provide You with news, special offers and general information about other goods, services and events which we offer that are similar to those that you have already purchased or enquired about unless You have opted not to receive such information.

To manage Your requests: To attend and manage Your requests to Us.

For business transfers: We may use Your information to evaluate or conduct a merger, divestiture, restructuring, reorganization, dissolution, or other sale or transfer of some or all of Our assets, whether as a going concern or as part of bankruptcy, liquidation, or similar proceeding, in which Personal Data held by Us about our Service users is among the assets transferred.

For other purposes: We may use Your information for other purposes, such as data analysis, identifying usage trends, determining the effectiveness of our promotional campaigns and to evaluate and improve our Service, products, services, marketing and your experience.

We may share Your personal information in the following situations:

·         With Service Providers: We may share Your personal information with Service Providers to monitor and analyze the use of our Service, to contact You.

·         For business transfers: We may share or transfer Your personal information in connection with, or during negotiations of, any merger, sale of Company assets, financing, or acquisition of all or a portion of Our business to another company.

·         With Affiliates: We may share Your information with Our affiliates, in which case we will require those affiliates to honor this Privacy Policy. Affiliates include Our parent company and any other subsidiaries, joint venture partners or other companies that We control or that are under common control with Us.

·         With business partners: We may share Your information with Our business partners to offer You certain products, services or promotions.

·         With other users: when You share personal information or otherwise interact in the public areas with other users, such information may be viewed by all users and may be publicly distributed outside.

·         With Your consent: We may disclose Your personal information for any other purpose with Your consent.

Retention of Your Personal Data

The Company will retain Your Personal Data only for as long as is necessary for the purposes set out in this Privacy Policy. We will retain and use Your Personal Data to the extent necessary to comply with our legal obligations (for example, if we are required to retain your data to comply with applicable laws), resolve disputes, and enforce our legal agreements and policies.

The Company will also retain Usage Data for internal analysis purposes. Usage Data is generally retained for a shorter period of time, except when this data is used to strengthen the security or to improve the functionality of Our Service, or We are legally obligated to retain this data for longer time periods.

Transfer of Your Personal Data

Your information, including Personal Data, is processed at the Company's operating offices and in any other places where the parties involved in the processing are located. It means that this information may be transferred to — and maintained on — computers located outside of Your state, province, country or other governmental jurisdiction where the data protection laws may differ than those from Your jurisdiction.

Your consent to this Privacy Policy followed by Your submission of such information represents Your agreement to that transfer.

The Company will take all steps reasonably necessary to ensure that Your data is treated securely and in accordance with this Privacy Policy and no transfer of Your Personal Data will take place to an organization or a country unless there are adequate controls in place including the security of Your data and other personal information.

Delete Your Personal Data

You have the right to delete or request that We assist in deleting the Personal Data that We have collected about You.

Our Service may give You the ability to delete certain information about You from within the Service.

You may update, amend, or delete Your information at any time by signing in to Your Account, if you have one, and visiting the account settings section that allows you to manage Your personal information. You may also contact Us to request access to, correct, or delete any personal information that You have provided to Us.

Please note, however, that We may need to retain certain information when we have a legal obligation or lawful basis to do so.

Disclosure of Your Personal Data

Business Transactions

If the Company is involved in a merger, acquisition or asset sale, Your Personal Data may be transferred. We will provide notice before Your Personal Data is transferred and becomes subject to a different Privacy Policy.

Law enforcement

Under certain circumstances, the Company may be required to disclose Your Personal Data if required to do so by law or in response to valid requests by public authorities (e.g. a court or a government agency).

Other legal requirements

The Company may disclose Your Personal Data in the good faith belief that such action is necessary to:

·         Comply with a legal obligation

·         Protect and defend the rights or property of the Company

·         Prevent or investigate possible wrongdoing in connection with the Service

·         Protect the personal safety of Users of the Service or the public

·         Protect against legal liability

Security of Your Personal Data

The security of Your Personal Data is important to Us, but remember that no method of transmission over the Internet, or method of electronic storage is 100% secure. While We strive to use commercially acceptable means to protect Your Personal Data, We cannot guarantee its absolute security.

Children's Privacy

Our Service does not address anyone under the age of 13. We do not knowingly collect personally identifiable information from anyone under the age of 13. If You are a parent or guardian and You are aware that Your child has provided Us with Personal Data, please contact Us. If We become aware that We have collected Personal Data from anyone under the age of 13 without verification of parental consent, We take steps to remove that information from Our servers.

If We need to rely on consent as a legal basis for processing Your information and Your country requires consent from a parent, We may require Your parent's consent before We collect and use that information.

Links to Other Websites

Our Service may contain links to other websites that are not operated by Us. If You click on a third party link, You will be directed to that third party's site. We strongly advise You to review the Privacy Policy of every site You visit.

We have no control over and assume no responsibility for the content, privacy policies or practices of any third party sites or services.

Changes to this Privacy Policy

We may update Our Privacy Policy from time to time. We will notify You of any changes by posting the new Privacy Policy on this page.

We will let You know via email and/or a prominent notice on Our Service, prior to the change becoming effective and update the "Last updated" date at the top of this Privacy Policy.

You are advised to review this Privacy Policy periodically for any changes. Changes to this Privacy Policy are effective when they are posted on this page.

Contact Us

If you have any questions about this Privacy Policy, You can contact us:

·         By visiting this page on our website: wowthatsjapan2.blogspot.com

A Step-by-Step Guide: Opening a Japanese Bank Account in Japan

Opening a Bank Account in Japan: A Guide for Expatriates and Long-Term Residents

Opening a bank account in Japan is an essential step for expatriates and long-term residents. Whether you’re moving to Japan for work, study, or leisure, a local bank account will simplify your financial transactions and enrich your daily life. This guide will walk you through the process of opening a Japanese bank account.

Step 1: Research and Choose a Bank

Before you start opening an account, find out more about Japanese banks. Popular choices include Bank of Mitsubishi UFJ, Sumitomo Mitsui Banking Corporation (SMBC), and Mizuho Bank. Compare services, prices, and accessibility to find the best deal for your needs.

Step 2: Gather Required Documents

Japanese banks have strict documentation requirements. Generally, you’ll need:

• Residence Card: Ensure you have a valid residence card issued by the Japanese government.

• Personal Seal (Inkan): Some banks may require a personal seal, a common form of signature in Japan.

• Passport: A valid passport with your current visa status. (If you have a valid Residence Card, you do not need to bring your passport.)

Step 3: Visit the Bank

Head to the chosen bank branch. It’s advisable to visit a branch in a location convenient for you, as some banks have regional variations in their procedures.

Step 4: Complete the Application Form

口座開設申込書 (Kouza Kaisetsu Shinseisho) Account Opening Application form. The name may vary depending on the bank.

If your Japanese is good enough, say this: 口座開設をしたのですが。 (I’d like to open a bank account.)

A bank representative will usually be near the entrance and will ask you if they can help you with something. Show them this: 口座開設申込書.

Fill out the account opening application form provided by the bank. Ensure that all information is accurate and matches the details on your residence card.

Step 5: Speak with a Bank Representative

After submitting your application with the required documents, you may be required to speak with a bank representative. Be prepared to answer questions about the purpose of your account and your source of income in Japanese.

Bring someone who can translate for you.

Step 6: Choose a Type of Bank Account

The most common types of bank accounts in Japan include:

• Account for general deposits (Futsu yokin): This is the standard account that provides access to online payments, debit cards, and direct deposits.
• General savings (Tsujo chokin): A Japan Post Bank account with a slightly higher interest rate than a general deposit account.
• Time deposit accounts (Teiki yokin): These accounts have higher interest rates but may require advance notice for withdrawals.
• Current accounts (Toza yokin): These accounts usually allow for the use of checks, but are mostly used by businesses.

Step 7: Receive Your Bank Book and Cash Card

Once your application is approved, you’ll receive a bank book (tsuuchou) and a cash card. The bank book is used for keeping track of transactions, while the cash card allows you to withdraw money from ATMs. These days, debit visa cards are offered for added convenience.

Step 8: Set Up Online Banking (Optional)

Many banks offer online banking services. If you’re interested, inquire about the process to set up online access for more convenient account management. Personally, I would opt for online banking because you can do transactions anytime, anywhere.

Conclusion:

By following these steps, you can successfully open a Japanese bank account and streamline your financial activities in the Land of the Rising Sun.

Note:

This content provides general guidance and may not address specific circumstances or changes in banking regulations. Always check with the relevant bank for the most up-to-date information.

By James W.

Navigating Japan's JR Train Stations: A Beginner's Guide to Buying Subway Tickets

Navigating Japan’s JR Train Stations: A Beginner’s Guide to Buying Subway Tickets

Japan’s efficient and extensive railway system, operated by Japan Railways (JR), is a crucial aspect of the country’s transportation network. For newcomers, navigating the bustling JR train stations might seem daunting, especially when it comes to purchasing subway tickets. Fear not! This guide will walk you through the simple steps to buy a subway ticket and ensure a smooth journey through Japan’s vibrant cities.

Step 1: Identify Your Destination

Before heading to the ticket counter or vending machine, determine your destination station. Japanese stations often have both English and Japanese signage, making it easier for international travelers to find their way. Note that some local stations only have Japanese.

Step 2: Locate the Ticket Vending Machines

JR train stations are equipped with user-friendly ticket vending machines. Look for the ticketing area, usually situated near the station entrance or platforms. The machines have clear instructions in English, and some even offer other languages like Chinese and Korean.

Step 3: Choose Your Language

Once you’ve located the vending machines, select your preferred language. Most machines provide language options on the initial screen. English is a commonly available choice, ensuring that language barriers won’t hinder your ticket purchase.

Step 4: Select Your Destination Station

Follow the prompts on the screen to choose your destination station. The machine will display a list of stations, organized by line. Be sure to double-check the station name and the fare displayed to ensure accuracy.

Step 5: Choose Ticket Type

Select the type of ticket you need. Common options include:

• One-way tickets
• Round-trip tickets
• Various commuter pass choices

If you’re unsure, opt for a one-way ticket for your first ride.

Step 6: Confirm Fare and Payment

The machine will display the total fare for your selected journey. Check the amount and insert your payment—cash or credit cards are generally accepted. Be mindful that some machines may not accept certain foreign credit cards, so it’s advisable to have cash on hand.

Step 7: Receive Your Ticket and Change

Once your payment is processed, the machine will dispense your subway ticket and any change owed. Make sure to take both before proceeding to the platforms.

Step 8: Navigate the Gates

Head to the ticket gates, which are usually marked by clear signage. Insert your ticket into the gate’s designated slot upon entry and retrieve it on the other side. Hold onto your ticket until you reach your destination, as you’ll need it to exit the station.

Conclusion:

So, whether you’re venturing to bustling Tokyo, historic Kyoto, or the scenic beauty of Hokkaido, mastering the art of buying a subway ticket at a JR train station ensures that your travels are not only seamless but also filled with the anticipation of discovering the wonders that await you. So now that you know how to buy a ticket, your adventure begins.

Effortless Cash Conversion: How to Deposit Coins at Japanese ATMs

Do you have a pile of Japanese coins that you want to turn into bills? Don’t worry, it’s not a problem. As long as you have a Japanese bank account, you can easily deposit your coins at an ATM. In this blog, I will show you how to do it using two of the most popular Japanese banks: SMBC and Mizuho.

SMBC ATM

• Handling time: You can only deposit coins on weekdays from 8:45 am to 6:00 pm at branches. You cannot deposit coins at ATMs outside the bank (unmanned).
• Maximum number of deposits: You can deposit up to 100 coins at a time. For 500 yen coins, the limit is 75 coins. If you try to deposit more than the maximum, the machine will stop accepting coins. In that case, you have to deposit the remaining coins separately. There is no limit to how many times you can deposit coins.
• Commission: There are no fees for depositing coins via ATMs.
• Withdrawal: You cannot withdraw coins at unmanned ATMs outside the bank.

Mizuho Bank ATM

• Handling time: You can only deposit coins on weekdays from 8:45 am to 6:00 pm (excluding January 1-3) at branches. You cannot deposit coins at ATMs outside the bank (unmanned).
• Maximum number of deposits: You can deposit up to 100 coins at a time.
• Commission: There are no fees for depositing coins via ATMs.
• Precautions: Make sure the coins are clean and not stuck together, as this could cause problems. If you have more than 100 coins, it is better to split them into two batches to ensure the machine counts them correctly.
• Alternative: You can also deposit coins at the bank counter, but be aware that there is a handling fee. Check the specific charges for each bank.

Watch the video

To see how I deposited coins at an ATM, watch this video:

Conclusion

Depositing coins at a Japanese ATM is a very convenient way to exchange your spare change for bills.

This simple process not only saves you the trouble of carrying heavy coins, but also improves your financial management.

Now you know how to get rid of your excess Japanese coins the easy way, give it a try and get cash for it!

"Effortless Travel: Sending Your Baggage Across Japan with TA-Q-BIN"

TA-Q-BIN within Japan

TA-Q-BIN within Japan

Introduction

Traveling in Japan is an exhilarating experience, but navigating crowded train stations and bustling streets with heavy baggage can dampen the excitement.

Enter TA-Q-BIN, a convenient and reliable baggage delivery service that takes the weight off your shoulders, literally.

In this guide, we’ll walk you through the seamless process of sending your baggage across Japan using TA-Q-BIN. TA-Q-BIN is a service offered by YAMATO TRANSPORT (the black cat and kitten logo).

Please note that this blog post only covers sending parcels within Japan.

1. Understanding TA-Q-BIN

TA-Q-BIN (Takkyubin) is a convenient and safe package delivery service that literally takes the burden off your shoulders.

This guide will walk you through the seamless process of shipping a package anywhere in Japan with TA-Q-BIN.

Just go to the Yamato Transport counter at the airport, pay to have your luggage delivered to your accommodation, and you can literally clear customs and be on your way.

Furthermore, access to TA-Q-BIN within Japan is also enhanced. Bring your luggage to a supermarket marked “TA-Q-BIN AT THE AIRPORT”.

Bring your luggage to a supermarket marked with the black cat.

TA-Q-BIN AT THE AIRPORT

2. Booking Your Shipment:

    You can request for a pickup online, by phone or drop off parcels at a Sales office or at a convenience store with the Yamato Transport logo. They have a user friendly website in three languages, Japanese, English and Chinese where you can get more detailed information about their services. kuronekoyamato.co.jp

If you drop off the baggage/parcel, you will need to fill in a waybill. 

3. Packaging Tips:

   Ensure you use a durable cardboard box to prevent damage to the parcel.

4. Choose Your Delivery Options:

   TA-Q-BIN will delivery your baggage/parcel 1-2 days.

5. Drop-off and Collection Points:

Japanese convenience stores make convenient drop-off and collection points, including locations at major airports, hotels, and even convenience stores. Make it clear how accessible these points are for travelers.

6. Tracking Your Shipment:

A peace of mind that comes with being able to track your shipment in real-time. Just enter your tracking number on their website and you will see the status of your baggage/parcel.

7. Cost and Payment:

Prices shown are for one-way shipment of one package and include applicable taxes.

Discounts may apply when shipping multiple packages.

Additionally, cash on delivery options are available for an additional fee.

Each piece of luggage has a  weight limit of 30 kg and a length limit of 200 cm.

If you wish to ship a package that exceeds these parameters, you may need to use an alternative service.

8. Customer Support:

You can contact TA-Q-BIN from online or by toll free in English.

Once again for more detailed information about Yamato Transport's services:  https://www.kuronekoyamato.co.jp/

Conclusion:

Shipping your luggage across Japan via courier is a true revolution for travelers looking for stress-free travel.

 Take advantage of the convenience, reliability, and efficiency of this service to make your exploration of Japan even more enjoyable.

 You no longer need to carry around heavy luggage, and you can start traveling freely with courier service.

 Safe travels!