Uploaded March 2025 | Updated September 2026, 3 weeks ago
Japan is changing in 2025! 🚀 From tax-free shopping changes (no more instant discounts!) and train fare hikes (JR Pass may not be worth it anymore) to the new Welcome Suica app (no more cash for transport!) and Universal Studios Japan’s Donkey Kong expansion, there are some major updates you need to know. Plus, Kyoto & Mt. Fuji are implementing over-tourism measures, and Japan is introducing faster airport immigration with facial recognition. 🚆🛂🏔️ Make sure to stay updated so you can travel smarter and avoid surprises!
🍣 Join our Local Food Tour in Asakusa
✨ Early access & 20% OFF:
viator.com/tours/Tokyo/Tokyo-Asakusa-Food-and-Culture-Tour-with-Lunch/d334-460223P3
🍶 Tokyo Local Bar Hopping Tour in Shimbashi
✨ Early access & 20% OFF:
viator.com/tours/Tokyo/Tokyo-Local-Bar-Hopping-Tour-in-Shimbashi/d334-460223P5
🌟 Want to experience it for yourself?
Book a private tour with us here:
👉 howzit-jp.com/private-tour-inquiry
📸 See more behind-the-scenes on Instagram:
👉 instagram.com/howzit_japan/?hl=en
⏱ TIMESTAMPS:
00:00 Intro
00:44 Tax-Free Shopping Changes
02:32 Train Fare Hikes
04:03 Welcome Suica App
05:56 Faster Airport Immigration
06:49 Over-Tourism in Kyoto & Mt. Fuji
09:04 USJ’s Donkey Kong Expansion
10:37 Osaka Expo 2025
11:40 One Piece & Disney Bullet Trains
12:51 Shibuya’s New Drinking Ban & Crowd Control Rules
14:15 Local Businesses Are Disappearing
For work inquiries, contact us at inquiry@howzit-jp.com.
About Howzit Japan
We’re Howzit Japan, your local friend in Tokyo and beyond. Our mission is to share the real Japan with you—beyond the typical tourist spots, we’ll help you experience the hidden gems and authentic culture of this incredible country.
The name “Howzit” was inspired by our founder’s journey to South Africa, where the phrase is a friendly way to greet someone. Just like that greeting, we aim to create a warm and welcoming connection for every traveler.
With us, your trip to Japan will be more fun, meaningful, and unforgettable.
#JapanTravel2025
#JapanUpdates
#JapanTourism
#TaxFreeJapan
#JapanRailPass
#HowzitJapan
Japan is changing in 2025! 🚀 From tax-free shopping changes (no more instant discounts!) and train fare hikes (JR Pass may not be worth it anymore) to the new Welcome Suica app (no more cash for transport!) and Universal Studios Japan’s Donkey Kong expansion, there are some major updates you need to know. Plus, Kyoto & Mt. Fuji are implementing over-tourism measures, and Japan is introducing faster airport immigration with facial recognition. 🚆🛂🏔️ Make sure to stay updated so you can travel smarter and avoid surprises!
🍣 Join our Local Food Tour in Asakusa
✨ Early access & 20% OFF:
viator.com/tours/Tokyo/Tokyo-Asakusa-Food-and-Culture-Tour-with-Lunch/d334-460223P3
🍶 Tokyo Local Bar Hopping Tour in Shimbashi
✨ Early access & 20% OFF:
viator.com/tours/Tokyo/Tokyo-Local-Bar-Hopping-Tour-in-Shimbashi/d334-460223P5
🌟 Want to experience it for yourself?
Book a private tour with us here:
👉 howzit-jp.com/private-tour-inquiry
📸 See more behind-the-scenes on Instagram:
👉 instagram.com/howzit_japan/?hl=en
⏱ TIMESTAMPS:
00:00 Intro
00:44 Tax-Free Shopping Changes
02:32 Train Fare Hikes
04:03 Welcome Suica App
05:56 Faster Airport Immigration
06:49 Over-Tourism in Kyoto & Mt. Fuji
09:04 USJ’s Donkey Kong Expansion
10:37 Osaka Expo 2025
11:40 One Piece & Disney Bullet Trains
12:51 Shibuya’s New Drinking Ban & Crowd Control Rules
14:15 Local Businesses Are Disappearing
For work inquiries, contact us at inquiry@howzit-jp.com.
About Howzit Japan
We’re Howzit Japan, your local friend in Tokyo and beyond. Our mission is to share the real Japan with you—beyond the typical tourist spots, we’ll help you experience the hidden gems and authentic culture of this incredible country.
The name “Howzit” was inspired by our founder’s journey to South Africa, where the phrase is a friendly way to greet someone. Just like that greeting, we aim to create a warm and welcoming connection for every traveler.
With us, your trip to Japan will be more fun, meaningful, and unforgettable.
#JapanTravel2025
#JapanUpdates
#JapanTourism
#TaxFreeJapan
#JapanRailPass
#HowzitJapan










