#18 In this episode, I misspoke about the Lapras Pokémon Park. I was referring to the second Lapras park opening in 2026. The first Lapras park was built in Miyagi Prefecture that’s my mistake.

Japan is heading into a big year in 2026, and if you’re planning a trip, there are some important changes (and exciting openings) you’ll want to know about.

In this episode, I break down what’s coming for Japan travel in 2026, including money, taxes, arrival updates, transportation tips, new attractions, and how to think about crowds without letting social media scare you off.

Whether it’s your first trip or a return visit, this episode is about planning smarter and enjoying Japan for what it is.

Money & Taxes

• The yen exchange rate and why it’s still favorable
• Kyoto’s accommodation tax increase (who it applies to)
• Tokyo’s proposed accommodation tax (2027)
• Visa fee changes
• Japan’s departure tax increase

Arrival & Shopping Updates

• How Visit Japan Web works and why to use it
• Why you shouldn’t wait until the last minute
• Tax-free shopping changes starting Nov 1, 2026

Getting Around Japan

• Why the JR Rail Pass no longer makes sense for many trips
• Regional rail passes as an alternative
• Suica cards: physical vs digital
• Why 2026 may be your last chance to get the Suica penguin card

New & Returning Attractions

• Edo-Tokyo Museum reopening
• Pokémon Children’s Parks (including the second Lapras park)
• PokéPark Kanto at Yomiuriland
• Shuri Castle reopening
• Sailor Moon’s permanent Tokyo show
• Yoyogi Park renovations

Crowds, Rural Travel & Safety

• Overtourism reality vs social media exaggeration
• Tips for enjoying the Golden Route
• Why adding one off-route destination helps
• Hiking safety and earthquakes in Japan

2026 is shaping up to be an incredible year to visit Japan, and with the right mindset, it can be one of your most rewarding trips yet.

📩 rewardingroutespodcast@gmail.com

📸 @RewardingRoutes

🔗 Helpful Links

• Kyoto Accommodation Tax Explained
  https://thepointsguy.com/news/kyoto-accommodation-tax-change/
  
  
• Visit Japan Web (Official Site)
  www.vjw.digital.go.jp
  
  
• Visit Japan Web Walkthrough
  https://youtu.be/RP2K9OQQKQs?si=UzXojPvokWVS1O5t
  
  by Kensho Quest
• Suica Penguin Retirement News
  https://tokyocheapo.com/editorial/suica-penguin-to-retire-from-tokyo-transport-role/
  
  
• Theme Park Crowds Explained
  https://youtu.be/hrA2qsYGy7A?si=9QbxiJTGSwX5g2cj
  
  by TDR Explorer
• Official Pokémon Children’s Parks Announcement
  https://corporate.pokemon.co.jp/en/topics/detail/144.html

Rewarding Routes Stan Store
→ https://stan.store/rewardingroutes

Instagram
→ https://www.instagram.com/rewardingroutes/

Email
→ RewardingRoutesPodcast@gmail.com

#17 We tackle one of the most common and confusing decisions when planning a points and miles trip to Japan:

Should you book your flights first, or your hotels?

The honest answer? It depends.
And in this episode, I break down how to decide based on what you personally value most.

What we cover in this episode:

• Why I usually book flights first and when that mindset is starting to shift
• The role flexibility plays in getting great value with points and miles
• When it makes sense to prioritize business class flights
• When specific hotels (like the Park Hyatt Kyoto) should come first
• How peak seasons like cherry blossom season can change your strategy
• Why booking one way flights instead of round trips gives you more control
• How positioning flights (flying through nearby countries) can unlock better redemptions
• Real examples of economy vs. business class tradeoffs especially when traveling with a child

I also walk through the award search tools I personally use (and wish I found sooner) to make planning less overwhelming and way more visual whether you’re searching for flights, hotels, or both.

This episode isn’t about chasing perfection or luxury for the sake of it. It’s about building a strategy that fits your travel style whether that means better flights, better hotels, or simply more trips to Japan over time.

If you stay flexible and plan ahead, points and miles give you options and that’s where the real value lives.

Tools & Resources Mentioned in This Episode

These are the exact tools discussed in the episode to help you find award availability and plan smarter:

• PointsYeah – Flight award search tool
  https://www.pointsyeah.com/
  
  
• MaxMyPoint – Hotel award availability & calendars
  https://maxmypoint.com/
  
  
• Rooms.aero – Hotel award alerts (great for high-demand stays)
  https://rooms.aero/
  
  
• Seats.aero – Advanced award flight search (especially business class)
  https://seats.aero/
  
  
• Thrifty Traveler – Award & deal alerts from major airports
  https://thriftytraveler.com/
  
  
• Google Flights – Route discovery & price comparison
  https://www.google.com/travel/flights?gl=US&hl=en-US
  
  
• FlightConnections – Visual route maps for positioning flights
  https://www.flightconnections.com/
  
  

Rewarding Routes Stan Store
→ https://stan.store/rewardingroutes

Instagram
→ https://www.instagram.com/rewardingroutes/

Email
→ RewardingRoutesPodcast@gmail.com

#16 In this episode of Rewarding Routes, I break down how Hyatt hotels in Tokyo and a few around Japan can turn your Chase Ultimate Rewards® and Bilt points into real nights on the ground. Recorded in December 2025, I walk through how Hyatt’s fixed award chart works today, why it often delivers better value than dynamic hotel programs, and what kind of cents-per-point you can expect at both affordable and luxury properties.

We go station by station through Tokyo, covering options like Caption by Hyatt Kabutocho, Hyatt Centric Ginza, Andaz Tokyo, Hotel Toranomon Hills, Grand Hyatt Tokyo, Hyatt House Shibuya, Park Hyatt Tokyo, Hyatt Regency Tokyo, Hyatt Regency Tokyo Bay, and Hyatt Regency Yokohama— lus real examples from our own stays. I also share how a single 60k signup bonus can translate into multiple free nights, and a few standout Hyatts across Japan that are worth keeping on your radar for future trips.

If you want to make Japan travel more affordable, more frequent, and more flexible, this episode gives you a simple breakdown of how Hyatt points can help you build your own rewarding route one trip at a time.

Links Mentioned

Hyatt Award Chart
https://world.hyatt.com/content/gp/en/rewards/free-nights-upgrades.html

Tokyo’s BRAND NEW Hyatt Hotel | Caption by Hyatt Kabutocho – Let’s Get to the Points
https://youtu.be/j7MenRvNgzU?si=Ecm6DC93HWfcKWWB

Hyatt Centric Ginza – Max Miles Points
https://youtu.be/IM-leBd_YEg?si=fDSIiyWpEMb1Kd9n

Kill Bill–Inspired Restaurant (Gonpachi Nishi-Azabu)
https://gonpachi.jp/nishi-azabu/

Park Hyatt Tokyo Official Reopening – The Points Guy
https://thepointsguy.com/news/park-hyatt-tokyo-officially-reopened/

NEW Hyatt House Tokyo Shibuya – Sebby Fung
https://youtu.be/tc-rFYwLW1Q?si=pwOgS8KX-nbphQTK

Hyatt Regency Tokyo Bay (clip at 9:25) – Rai Voyages
https://youtu.be/LtiF0N3RP_U?si=urPQ617JYyzQc807

Hotel Toranomon Hills | Unbound Collection by Hyatt – Sebby Fung
https://youtu.be/T92tj8HL5Z8?si=_LigyVO_TSwiI0An

Park Hyatt Niseko Hanazono Review – Max Miles Points
https://youtu.be/pHb9pG7i9zo?si=pGZ7SwPwA3g66DKh

Park Hyatt Kyoto Review – Max Miles Points
https://youtu.be/VOsFFm7YWmQ?si=IKRvTFRQfZgf6SGi

Rewarding Routes Stan Store
→ https://stan.store/rewardingroutes

Instagram
→ https://www.instagram.com/rewardingroutes/

Email
→ RewardingRoutesPodcast@gmail.com

#15 Tokyo is the world’s largest city, and choosing where to stay can feel overwhelming. In this episode, I break down a curated set of key neighborhoods to help you pick the best area based on your travel style, budget, and vibe.

We talk about energy levels, train access, room sizes, food, nightlife, shopping, and what each area is best known for. Whether you want neon lights, quiet cultural streets, luxury shopping, or family-friendly space, there’s a perfect Tokyo neighborhood for you.

Neighborhoods Covered

• Shinjuku – High energy, nightlife, shopping, busiest station in the world
• Shibuya – Iconic crossing, food, shopping, big modern city feel
• Tokyo Station / Ginza – Super connected, clean, walkable, upscale, bullet train hub
• Asakusa – Traditional Tokyo, temples, street food, relaxing pace
• Tokyo Bay / Odaiba – Bigger rooms, family-friendly, theme parks, museums

What You’ll Learn

• Why staying near a major train line (especially the Yamanote Line) makes everything easier
• How neighborhoods differ in convenience, energy, and room size
• Which areas fit first-timers, couples, families, and culture-focused travelers
• How the right location can totally transform your trip experience
• How this episode connects to the next two episodes on using Chase points and booking Hyatts in these areas

Extra Resources

Preview each neighborhood with these highly recommended videos.

Tokyo Neighborhood Guides
• Where to Stay in Tokyo | Best Places in the City — Only in Japan GO
https://www.youtube.com/live/Ty4t7w9XVgw?si=tuEmzESX-_NxwcXO

• Where to Stay in Tokyo: Top Areas For Your Next Trip — Tokyo Cheapo
https://youtu.be/ht4XlHnRdIc?si=nTDSoOcL3pit12qn

Walking Tours (4K HDR)
• Shinjuku Summer Night Walk — 4K Japan
https://youtu.be/ohlzQNCpT7M?si=OHIBjUGyJkNl4Gfy

• Shibuya Evening Walking Tour — 4K Japan
https://youtu.be/GJYf8CCcu7g?si=hl-a6Kb38Lfa8pg-

• Ginza to Tokyo Station Night Walk — 4K Japan
https://youtu.be/0nl7CidoUeY?si=jMf_urZ4FZtZio3m

• Asakusa Evening Walk — 4K Japan
https://youtu.be/K7liuaTVM7I?si=YC-qzCZjsIAKBkZl

• Tokyo Bay Waterfront Walk — 4K Japan
https://youtu.be/hkcnx1CN6RI?si=fOmfuq5Zqyxl80f1

Rewarding Routes Stan Store
→ https://stan.store/rewardingroutes

Instagram
→ https://www.instagram.com/rewardingroutes/

Email
→ RewardingRoutesPodcast@gmail.com

#14 In this episode, I’m kicking off a 3-part mini-series all about how I use Chase Ultimate Rewards® to turn everyday spending into trips to Japan and beyond. I walk through why Chase is the bank I’ve relied on for most of my hotel stays, how I think about flexible points vs. co-branded cards, and why Hyatt is the star of the show for my style of travel.

You’ll hear how Chase fits into my real life, to using Southwest for positioning flights out of Orlando and how I’m adjusting my strategy with a baby on the way. I also share what’s changed recently with Chase’s rules (including the Sapphire “once per lifetime” bonus and 5/24), plus some of the tools and habits I use to stay organized without getting overwhelmed.

In this episode, we cover:

• What Chase Ultimate Rewards are and why flexible points matter
• Chase’s airline and hotel transfer partners, and why I’m so loyal to Hyatt
• The 5/24 rule, what counts, what doesn’t, and how I track it with the Travel Freely app
• The “Chase Trifecta”: Freedom Flex℠, Freedom Unlimited®, and Sapphire Preferred® / Sapphire Reserve®
• How I’ve used Chase points for high-value hotel stays in Hawaii, Japan, South Korea, and around the U.S.
• Chase Ink business cards, why they’re so powerful, and why you don’t need a huge business to get started
• Using referrals and a “Player 2” strategy to earn even more points together
• Co-branded options with United, Southwest, World of Hyatt, and more and how they fit into my bigger plan
• When I downgrade cards instead of canceling, and how that can actually help your credit profile
• A quick preview of Part 2 (where to stay in Tokyo) and Part 3 (Hyatt hotels in Tokyo & around Japan you can book with Chase points)

Links mentioned in this episode

• How to complete a Chase business credit card application (The Points Guy):
  https://thepointsguy.com/credit-cards/how-to-complete-chase-business-credit-card-application/
  
  
• Chase Freedom Unlimited® or Chase Freedom Flex℠ credit card – I can be rewarded if you apply here and are approved for the card. Learn more:
  https://www.referyourchasecard.com/18s/9CW2RA0SQW
  
  
• Sapphire Reserve® or Sapphire Preferred® – I can be rewarded if you apply here and are approved for either card:
  https://www.referyourchasecard.com/19u/HI7L7GXYA2
  
  
• Sapphire Reserve for Business®, Ink Business Unlimited®, or Ink Business Cash® – I can be rewarded if you apply here and are approved for the card:
  https://www.referyourchasecard.com/21a/TTH7YQHJJE
  
  
• Any Southwest® Rapid Rewards® Credit Card – I can be rewarded if you apply here and are approved for the card:
  https://www.referyourchasecard.com/226c/E7NIVDKYLM
  
  
• YouTube: “Chase 48 Month Rule Gone?” by Ben Hedges
  https://youtu.be/9sBPZUS_ZxU?si=JvsEV_4_8IejjBwo
  
  

Rewarding Routes Stan Store
→ https://stan.store/rewardingroutes

Instagram
→ https://www.instagram.com/rewardingroutes/

Email
→ RewardingRoutesPodcast@gmail.com

#13 Today we’re diving into one of the coolest parts of traveling through Japan: the Shinkansen Japan’s iconic high-speed bullet train. It’s fast, efficient, unbelievably smooth, and honestly one of my favorite ways to move around the country.

In this episode, I break down how the Shinkansen actually works, the major train types you’ll see across different regions, and what first-time travelers should know before hopping on. I’ll cover the most common trains on the Tokaidō Line (Tokyo → Kyoto → Osaka), when it makes sense to take the bullet train vs. a local train, and why the JR Pass is no longer the bargain it used to be after the huge price increase.

We’ll walk through how to buy tickets at the station or online, the pros and cons of reserved vs. non-reserved seats, what to expect during peak travel periods, and what the ride is like onboard from Wi-Fi and power outlets to picking out the perfect ekiben before your trip.

Along the way, I share some personal stories, including how I first fell in love with trains as a kid and what made the Shinkansen one of the highlights of my first Japan trip in 2023.

Helpful Shinkansen Resources

JR Fare Calculator (Navitime)
https://japantravel.navitime.com/en/area/jp/route/calculator/

→ Use this to compare individual Shinkansen ticket prices and check if the JR Pass is worth it for your itinerary.

SmartEX — Reserve Shinkansen Tickets Online
https://smart-ex.jp/en/index.php

→ Book Shinkansen seats in advance, make unlimited changes, and see schedules for major lines like the Tokaidō, Sanyō, and Kyushu Shinkansen.

JR Central Oversized Baggage Rules
https://global.jr-central.co.jp/en/info/oversized-baggage/

→ Everything you need to know about luggage size limits, reserved oversized-seat areas, and what to do if you’re traveling with big suitcases.

Only in Japan GO – Shinkansen Walkthrough Video
http://youtube.com/watch?v=QCpdUMF1Wlw

→ A detailed visual tour showing how to navigate stations, board the train, understand seat options, and manage luggage.

Yamato Transport – Hands-Free Luggage Delivery
https://www.global-yamato.com/en/hands-free-travel/

→ Ship large bags between hotels or airports so you can travel light on trains without carrying heavy luggage through stations.

Another Great Shinkansen Guide Video by Cakes with Faces
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=amggsFF6ZrE

→ A helpful video that breaks down what to expect onboard, how fast the trains go, seating tips, and how to enjoy the ride.

Rewarding Routes Stan Store
→ https://stan.store/rewardingroutes

Instagram
→ https://www.instagram.com/rewardingroutes/

Email
→ RewardingRoutesPodcast@gmail.com

#12 I’m sharing exactly what’s in my wallet as we wrap up 2025 and head into 2026. I break down the cards I actually use every day, why they fit my spending habits, and how they support the future trips I’m planning especially Japan.

With the home-buying process finally behind us and the move complete, my wallet looks different this year. I also share why I slowed down on opening cards, how lenders react to new credit activity, and what I learned going through that experience while trying to secure a mortgage.

Why This Setup Works for Me Right Now

A quick look at how this new chapter new home, new office, baby on the way shaped the cards I’m prioritizing.
• How lifestyle changes affected my strategy
• Why your wallet should match your goals, not someone else’s

Capital One Venture X

My main catch-all card and the one I rely on the most.
• Solid 2x earning on everyday purchases
• Why I avoid booking flights through travel portals
• Real example of using its rental car protection
• How I plan to use Venture miles for ANA through Virgin Atlantic

Southwest Rapid Rewards Plus

The newest card in my wallet and the star of my late-year strategy.
• Signup bonus and my plan to meet the minimum spend
• Why I’m targeting the Companion Pass for 2026
• How this fits into future family travel with a baby on the way
• The story of how my original plan earlier this year fell apart
• How Southwest helps with cheap positioning flights for Japan trips

Bilt Mastercard (Revamp Coming February 2026)

A card that paused for now but will become important again.
• Mortgage payments becoming eligible for points
• Three new versions of the card rolling out
• Why transfer partners like Hyatt and Japan Airlines matter
• How Rent Day works
• New Rakuten partnership for easier point earning

Citi AAdvantage Business (Past Card, Future Use)

Not currently in my wallet, but a meaningful piece of my Japan strategy.
• 70K AA miles ready for a Japan Airlines booking
• Why AA miles work so well for JAL redemptions
• How this business card avoided affecting my 5/24 count
• Possibilities for future Citi cards to boost my AA balance

Looking Ahead to 2026

How I’m rebuilding and preparing for next year’s travel goals.
• Replenishing the Chase points I used on Hyatts in Japan and Korea
• Having my wife go for the Sapphire Preferred
• Keeping an eye on the rumored Hyatt card refresh
• Continuing a Player Two system for better long-term earning

Final Thoughts

This episode isn’t about copying my exact wallet it’s about showing the thought process behind building one that supports your own life and travel goals. Everyone’s path looks different, and that’s the beauty of this hobby. These are just the cards that make sense for me right now as we head into a new year.

If you want to share what’s in your wallet or get help building a setup that fits your goals, feel free to reach out anytime. I’d love to hear what you’re working toward for 2026.

Rewarding Routes Stan Store
→ https://stan.store/rewardingroutes

Instagram
→ https://www.instagram.com/rewardingroutes/

Email
→ RewardingRoutesPodcast@gmail.com

#11 Big life changes are happening behind the scenes and this one’s the most rewarding one yet.

In this episode, I’m sharing a major personal update that’s going to shape the future of Rewarding Routes. From moving into our new home to preparing for our first child, it’s been an exciting (and honestly, emotional) season of change. I wanted to take you behind the mic and talk about what’s been going on, how I’ve been managing everything, and what’s next for the podcast and for me personally.

Becoming a dad is something that fills me with both excitement and nerves, but also a deep sense of purpose. It’s given me new motivation to create, stay consistent, and build something meaningful for the future. I’m also reflecting on how this new chapter will impact how we travel — from long-haul adventures to Japan to future family-friendly trips and road trips closer to home.

I’ll also talk about:

• How fatherhood has changed my perspective on time and priorities
• The mindset shift that helped me stay consistent when life got busy
• Behind-the-scenes updates on what’s next for Rewarding Routes
• A few exciting new episodes and projects coming soon

If you’ve ever tried to balance your passions while life is changing fast, this one’s for you. It’s a reminder that showing up doesn’t have to mean being perfect — it just means staying committed to what matters most.

Thank you for being part of this journey. Your support means the world, and I can’t wait to share more — both in travel and in life — in the months ahead.

Stay connected:
🎙️ Rewarding Routes Stan Store → https://www.rewardingroutespodcast.com/2535902

📩 Email: RewardingRoutesPodcast@gmail.com

📸 Instagram: @RewardingRoutes

Rewarding Routes Stan Store
→ https://stan.store/rewardingroutes

Instagram
→ https://www.instagram.com/rewardingroutes/

Email
→ RewardingRoutesPodcast@gmail.com