No new games, going to Japan

[skyknight]

OK, it is gaming related, but not sure if this is the right place.

Well, my bro is planning a vacation to Japan again (he last visited there in 2009) which is around this late April to early May. Well, I don't want pass a chance to visit Japan, and I know it ain't cheap. The thing is that I work in the retail sector, while he works in the tech sector - he makes almost 3x what I take in per year. And boy even thou I am not a hardcore gamer, my PS2 and PS3 game collection almost outnumber his about 2:1

So, to save money, I have decided to stop shopping for new games from now (not counting pre-orders that I did from last year) and will continue that until July - will need to make up my savings after the trip (my savings is more than enough for tickets and hotel, but need it for future emergency!). Which is fine with me, cuz I was not going to the get the 3DS or PSP2/NGP at launch. So, how many here had to stop buying games for any reasons.

Also, for those whom had lived and visited Japan, what are some places to visit in Tokyo, Kyoto, and Osaka?

[hashiriya1]

It depends, what do you like? I lived in Tokyo for a while before moving north. For a tourist, there are tons of really nice places to see. So, what do you like other than games? I can tell you where to go and how to get there. Of course you're going to get a million people telling you to go to Akihabara. It is a great place to go to if you're going to Japan for the first time.

Kyoto, I'm sure you've heard, is where to go if you want to see all the historical places of Japan. Since Kyoto was spared from being bombed, a lot of the structures are original. I'm not really into shrines and temples and all that, but Kinkakuji in Kyoto is really nice. Especially if you when all the cherry blossoms are in bloom. Other than that, I have been to Nijo Castle and a couple of other places.

I am not too familiar with Osaka since I don't like Kansai too much, but Dotonbori is a great place to just pig out if you like greasy Japanese food. Osaka Castle is nice as well. There is an equivalent of Akihabara in Osaka, but it's not nearly as good.

Maybe you already know this, but you'd save A LOT of money if you buy a JR Rail Pass if you plan to go to places far from Tokyo like Kyoto and Osaka.

Just a word of warning, you chose to go to Japan when the yen is at its most expensive. It's a shame, really, a few years ago yen was dirt cheap and people could enjoy more. For people on a budget, right now is not a good time to go to Japan. Also, late April/Early May is an expensive time to go. It's peak travel time in Japan (golden week) which means flights going to and away from Japan are also at their most expensive. Mid January-March then September-November are cheaper times to go.

[D.D.D.]

If you wanna go to a lot of retro stores, Osaka is great. A lot more than Akihabara but unless you're gonna do the whole - see Kyoto, Nara, Kobe, Osaka, etc style trip down there, I'd just stick to the Tokyo area.

[Croooow!]

If you go to Osaka I recommend going to Namba. It has a lot of good shops and arcades and has great atmosphere for a good time. Its especially interesting if you've been to Tokyo before you see it as you can appreciate some of the large differences between the two cities. I hung out there a couple nights with friends and had a blast, I suggest you try the takoyaki (octopus dumplings) there if you're going to try them at all, very delicious.

[skyknight]

OK, time to revisit this thread.

Will be going to Japan in mid-March, my bro has planned stops in Tokyo, Yokohama, Kyoto, and Osaka (depending on our timing). We will be getting the JRL Pass.

Still trying to figure out the fine details, trying to balance game hobbies and cultural learning, and do this while being AFFORDABLE!!! Any website that I should visit, or any personal suggestions?

[hashiriya1]

Check your PM box.