Are YOU Ready for Olympic Bitcoin? Prepare Yourself! Bitcoin is accepted currency in Japan. Its use is gaining momentum at an exceedingly fast rate of speed. By the time the 2020 Olympic Games in Japan start, Bitcoin will be the easiest way to spend your money. With all the extra promotion of the Tokyo 2020 JAPAN HOUSE in the 2018 PeonyOng Olympics, 2020 could see record attendance. So INVEST IN BITCOIN NOW and sit back while it gains value leading up to the 2020 Olympics. Then experience the 2020 Olympics in Japan with plenty of Bitcoin and spend it like a ROCKSTAR!
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The Bitcoin – What is it?
Bitcoin is the world’s first form of decentralized money. Basically, Bitcoin is a new form of money. A cryptocurrency because it is all virtual currency.
- It is a store of value that is censorship-resistant, and
- Is immutable against manipulation by central entities, authorities and governments. With no one entity, person or control point with unequal “authority”. Consensus verified, and without anyone controlling it.
Because of the decentralized structure and peer-to-peer protocol of Bitcoin; the Bitcoin network is able to operate as its own economy, without intermediaries or third party service providers.
Understanding Bitcoin a “Bit” More and Its Exchange
Believe me, I read about Bitcoin for the first time and was confused. The advantage of Bitcoin is you don’t have to go through a bank to use it. This means your money can’t get tied up with bank fees or service charges. Or all those other ways banks like to extract your money from you. I understand the money is not represented traditionally in paper or coin but rather it is virtual money. You will never put your hands physically on this money. With all the benefits Bitcoin offers, it makes common sense Bitcoin would be ideal for international transactions and traveling purposes.
Bitcoin Exchange
Bitcoin holds an exchange rate of value. We look at its value against the American dollar (USD) using a Currency Converter . Today, one Bitcoin (BTC) holds value equal to 10,912.00 American dollars (USD). The breakdown of the Bitcoin is divided into 100,000,000 units. Each division of eight decimal places or shown numerically as 0.00000001 is a unit. These units are referred to as SATOSHI. Important to mention here is the Satoshi also happens to be the smallest recorded part of a blockchain. (Another new concept for our future technology and the future of our money and so much more). (SEE this linked page for more information on BLOCKCHAIN).
Prepare Yourself with Olympic Bitcoin
Where does that leave the average person who wishes to invest in Bitcoin? Can a person buy less than one Bitcoin? Sure. It’s already happening. You can buy a few Satoshi right here! See, the Bitcoin is just one unit of measurement. Just like if we had one dollar. One Bitcoin equals 100,000,000 units and one dollar equals one penny or ten dimes. A penny, nickel, dime, or quarter are examples of accepted units of measurement for the USD. By the way, if you come across someone using the word Bit or BTC, the person is referring to one whole Bitcoin. At this time, the only other common unit of measurement you will hear associated with Bitcoin is probably the Satoshi (the individual units).
Buy Bitcoin
To buy Bitcoin, you can follow this BITCOIN link here. It is recommended on some websites you invest in approximately $250.00 (USD). Technically, Bitcoin can exchange for just a few dollars. You will have to locate a Bitcoin Exchange for that. However, to START YOUR INVESTMENT so it will begin to gain value right away, I suggest you start with $100.00.
Earn FREE Olympic Bitcoin by registering here. It doesn’t cost you a dime. You are not required to do any work. Sign up and let your computer do the work for you. Meanwhile, as your savings budget allows, invest additional money of your own for Olympic Bitcoin. Put your investment on a “hold”. Then watch as the value grows. The “hold” prevents you from spending your Bitcoin for a predetermined amount of time. During that time, it works much like earning interest on a savings account.
While you are investing in your Olympic Bitcoin periodically as your savings budget allows, you can earn FREE Olympic Bitcoin.
Olympic Games Move On from 2018 to 2020
Goodbye 2018 Winter Olympics
The 2018 PyeongChang Winter Olympic Games have officially closed. New records were made, first time Olympians won medals and Olympic veterans won medals. The weather seemed to mess with the skiing events and the while the American ladies struggled in figure skating, the American Women’s hockey team battled with Canada for the win. There was so much excitement in the air. Some bittersweet moments as well. Many Olympians left South Korea with tears in their eyes. Memories of joy, triumph, sadness and almost got it to a sigh of relief after training for years. For some, a farewell to their winter sport career.
A Glimpse of What’s Ahead from South Korea to Japan
At Ganeung Olympic Park at the 2018 Olympic Games in PyeongChang South Korea, a structure was made to introduce visitors to what lies ahead in Tokyo Japan. Tokyo is the official pick of the IOC (International Olympic Committee) as a host for the upcoming 2020 Summer Olympics. The structure was appropriately named “Tokyo 2020 JAPAN HOUSE”. Over the two weeks of the 2018 winter games, this house saw more than 120,000 visitors. It will re-open for the 2018 Winter Paralympics too, surely increasing the visitor count. All curious to see what they might find in Tokyo.
The Tokyo 2020 JAPAN HOUSE
The Tokyo 2020 JAPAN HOUSE put their most awe-inspiring technologies on display. Seven exhibits show the best and most exciting attractions in Tokyo, including areas where summer games will be held. The most popular exhibit is an advanced 3D scanning system called The Tokyo Travelers. Imagine yourself standing next to one of the main attractions in Tokyo capturing a selfie to commemorate the moment. This exhibit does that for you…from South Korea! Yes! The visitor to this exhibit stands before a computer and a life-sized avatar is created and placed against computer generated images of the attractions. It sounds like a fun time to me!
Origami
Visitors have the opportunity to learn the Japanese art of origami. Origami was first created in Japan in the sixth century after Buddhist monks introduced paper to the Japanese. Chinese ancestors were the first to develop paper. Paper in Japan was a luxury of luxuries so was used sparingly. Those who practiced origami typically used it for purposes of religious ceremony or other high priority ceremonies. The folds were kept pure and simple in design. By the 17th century much had changed and origami had become more complex with multiple folds, sometimes cuts and had evolved into a recreational art form. The visitors of The Tokyo 2020 JAPAN HOUSE were treated to this fine art!
Hospitality
Above all, Japan has created a wonderful way to promote the 2020 Olympic Summer Games by providing their traditional high level of hospitality into this wonderful Tokyo 2020 JAPAN HOUSE. The intent is to learn from those who experienced the exhibits and utilize this in their preparations in the actual city of Tokyo. They also gave the visitors previews of new sports being added to the world competitions. One question, how can anyone not get excited about what’s coming to the 2020 Summer Olympics in Japan?
A Preview of the 2020 Summer Games
What was once…
Tokyo has been honored with hosting the Olympic games before and in fact first hosted the games in 1964. Two venues used for those games are still standing today, the Yoyogi National Gymnasium and the Nippon Budokan indoor arena. These eminent venues are in what is being called the Heritage Zone and will be utilized for some of the more traditional summer games. Japan is exemplary in their celebration of traditions. No doubt the events here will have monumental impact of the game visitors just as much as the athletes competing at these venues or other venues in this Heritage Zone.
Tokyo is not all high rises and bustling traffic with pedestrian filled streets and markets
What is now and lies ahead…
The Bay Zone will be where several new Olympic games will be introduced. The Bay Zone includes the Dream Island Park venue and the Shiokaze Park. This newer zone was developed with visions of futuristic urban development to handle the high population of Tokyo. The Shiokaze Park being the answer for people to get outside and enjoy picnics on green grass areas. The fountains in spray and the children, everyone, plays in the water having a great time. The park includes a big pirate ship for kids to explore and use the best of their wildest imaginations.
Guiding Principles
Japan will follow three guiding principles as they prepare, host and entertain the world for the 2020 Olympic Summer Games. Each principle is highly representative of the Japanese culture and how the country interacts within itself and with other countries. It states clearly their approach to the Olympic games and defines exactly how to achieve success. And they have put this forward with their simplistic, honorable, inclusive, hospitable approach. These principles are:
UNITY THROUGH DIVERSITY
CONNECTING TO TOMORROW
Cost Estimations for Travel to Japan for the 2020 Olympics
It is nearly impossible to predict the costs related to travel two years from now. The best we can do is list out what we can expect to spend money on related to traveling and visiting Japan. My assumption is, of course, travel will be involved for most. This means most likely the cost of airline flights. Once you have arrived, there will be costs for transportation between locations. Unless you are a power walker and don’t mind pulling your luggage behind you for miles and miles, its more reasonable to think you will take advantage of Tokyo’s superb public transportation system.
You will need to buy tickets for each different mode of transportation you use whether it is the bus, the subway or the train (JR — Japanese Railway). Other forms of transportation include taxi, boat and private transportation. Here are great tips about “Getting around in Tokyo” that will provide the detailed information you need to easily maneuver around the city. Be sure to use Xcel Trip for your best deals!
Budget for Lodging
Hotel accommodations are always a big expense to include in your travel budget. You can seek out the best deals for all types of different lodging. For someone who plans to spend as much time possible out sight seeing and adventuring, you might choose to find a small place to meet the basics. A place to sleep, shower, change clothes, and leave your luggage.
Luxury
Others prefer to go all out and make their traveling experience a vacation of luxuries. Splurge on the finest of lodgings to pamper yourself as you would never even do anywhere at home. The full on spa treatments, the most innovative technology in your own room, views and service compared to none! And there is a whole lot of middle spectrum still to be untapped. This is where you just need to spend time researching what works best for you.
How to Pick Your Lodging
You want to consider proximity to the airport or vital transportation. How close you are to shopping? Can you get around to each of the events easily enough? If a member of your travel group has medical conditions, consider a location nearby a medical facility. If the beach is your favorite spot, find lodging near the waterfront rather than in the middle of downtown. Japan is home to the “Capsule Hotel” and mini-Micro apartment too. You get the picture! Regardless, your lodging in Japan can be an adventure!
Economy Lodging
Standard Lodging
Upper End Lodging
More Unique High Scale Lodging Options
Per Diem for Meals
Option 1
Meals are more of an expense than you would imagine. Again, there are variables here to weigh when budgeting for meals. Decide on a per diem basis what you will spend. For example, I allot myself $40 per day for meals. I have a big breakfast and spend less on light snacks for the remainder of the day.
Option 2
Skip breakfast and split the per diem between lunch and dinner. Plan to do breakfast one day, lunch and dinner the next or use less than the per diem so the balance carries over to the next day. Then have extra to spend for a fancy meal no matter what time of day!
Option 3
Or Buy groceries for the duration of your stay that you can use to supplement daily meals. Reserve a bigger portion of your meal budget for certain special meals.
However you do it, people tend to eat more when they are traveling. It’s an experience thing. And if you are someone who doesn’t fit this trend, then you get more spending money for shopping! If you do fit this trend, then consider giving yourself a bigger budget than what you spend on daily average during a normal week.
Surmise Cost for Your Tickets – Opening/Closing Ceremonies and Individual Events
We know this will add up depending on how many events you choose to attend and which ones. The more popular events can be expected to cost more than some of those events not drawing bigger crowds. Take for instance the opening and closing ceremonies of the games. These ceremonies are considered the highlight of the entire Olympic Games, no matter the year the season, Winter or Summer, or the hosting country. This is the time for the hosting country to put on display their finest talents, most creative shows, and brightest and best WOW factor EVERYTHING…AND FIREWORKS!
If We Travel Today
If we were traveling today and estimating the costs for the events, I would recommend setting aside $50-$100 for individual events and anywhere from $250-$1,000 or better for the big ceremonies. It could be different for the Olympics, which I have never attended, or may be different in Japanese venues. In the US of A, you have to pay big bucks for the better seats in the house.
Estimating Available Events to See
Japan anticipates there will be 28 traditional summer games and 18 new games for this 2020 Summer Olympic Games. Summer games that come to mind are swimming, archery, and volleyball. Naturally, gymnastics and the equestrian sports are fan favorites. Of course diving, cycling and rowing have been around too. New games will include skateboarding, karate, sports climbing and Taekwondo. Certainly there are plenty events to choose from when you are planning your trip.
Travel Packages for Groups and Individuals
Here is where you might want to let someone else do the work for you. You provide your needs and wants to a travel agent or an agency or online site offering package deals. They come up with the best deal according to your wants and needs and when it is satisfactory, then its done. All you have to do is book the package, pay for it, confirm the booking and then enjoy when its time to go.
LOOKING FOR A CUSTOM PACKAGE?
Most travel agencies will select a local event or attraction for a destination vacation and build a vacation package around it. Such as the Olympics in Japan 2020. This is an excellent marketing tool. Plus, by combining certain aspects into one package makes preparation for the traveler much easier.
Some travelers however have more specific needs and will need a custom package. To build a custom package you have to provide your destination and your arrival date and length of stay. Share with the person helping build your custom travel package if you have ANY flexibility with your arrival date or length of stay.
More Considerations For Building Custom Travel Packages
- Local Events for Destination Location
- Accommodation Packages (breakfast included, shuttle services, dry cleaning, etc.)
- Amenities available– Not all destinations offer modern day amenities
- Unique Packages for Individuals or Groups; Specialty packages
- Options & Upgrades for current packages
- Transportation needs
- Additional City Touring
- Medical facility proximity – especially helpful when traveling with disabled individuals
- Security — Be aware of any conflicts that may be occurring in your destination location
- Extended travel – Visiting several locations possibly departing from somewhere other than the arrival location
- Budget constraints
Let’s Talk About How to Pay for Everything in Japan
The Japanese Yen is the most common form of cash currency in Japan. Like other countries, credit cards are welcome and can be used but pay close attention to the fine print of your credit card policies and guidelines for international use. You will find many card companies charge extraordinary fees for using their card internationally. Others might give you fantastic travel rewards. Either way, know which cards you are wise to bring with you and those you should leave at home.
Virtual Currency
In March 2017, Japan passed what they call the Virtual Currency Act. The Act gave definition to Bitcoin and other cryptocurrencies and recognition as a method of payment. The law went into effect on April 1st, 2017. The law states Bitcoin is a legal tender under the definition of the Virtual Currency Act that had been passed. However, it was in December 2017 when major retailers in Japan embraced the new currency. It has been a slow climb that is now about to take off and hit the roof!
The Rise of Bitcoin
Bitcoin signs are popping up everywhere as saying “Bitcoin accepted here“. Or simply displays of a sign with a Bitcoin emblem. The Blockchain secure recording combined with regulatory guidelines supporting the Virtual Currency Act and Japan is seeing the rise of the Bitcoin. There are Bitcoin ATM’s all over the place. Bitcoin is the trend for currency in Japan. It leads to a natural conclusion. Anyone planning to visit Japan is wise to invest in Bitcoin. For this reason, I dib this as Olympic Bitcoin.
Virtual Reality is Really Real
Can you imagine? Travel to a foreign country and not have to concern yourself with exchanging currency at a bank or airport or exchange booth? Olympic Bitcoin is virtual, your exchange is virtual. Traditionally, to vacation in a foreign country the currency exchange limit per traveler in a single calendar year is $25,000.00. The majority of this is exchanged in the form of Forex cards or Traveler’s Cheques. In cash, a person can only carry up to $3,000.00. Places like Nepal and Bhutan do not allow any currency exchange. But Bitcoin eliminates these restrictions of how much you can carry.
Bitcoin’s Growing Popularity In Japan
Availability of Retail Stores Accepting Bitcoin
With at least 4,500 stores accepting Bitcoin and that number growing, it leads to consumers being able to use the currency more frequently. When the market makes it easy to use, the end user will respond accordingly.
The Bitcoin is a given for online pay and yet it seems to be building acceptance more slowly than the land based stores in Japan. Japan is seeing an influx of restaurants and bars offering Bitcoin as a method of payment option for patrons.
BitCasino
A good example of how bitcoin has changed the spending habits of the Japanese comes with the emergence of sites such as Bit Casino, which accept the cryptocurrency to fund online gambling on a range of casino games.
It Is Fully Legal and Regulated
A huge factor in the rise of bitcoin in Japan is the fact that it is now fully legal and regulated here. Right from the very start of bitcoin usage, it was welcomed more in Japan than in many other places but this official seal of approval has made it an even more popular choice.
Note: Surrounding countries of Japan do NOT accept Bitcoin as legal currency. Be aware of when you are traveling near or in and out of country borders and plan accordingly.
The Investment Potential
Despite it being so widely accepted in so many different establishments and websites, many Japanese still see bitcoin as being an investment vehicle more than as a currency.
Indeed, the rise of bitcoin in 2017 has been spectacular. It started the year at a fairly modest price of $800 but has rocketed up to as high as $17,000 during 2017. Some analysts predict the upper limit is waiting to be reached.
Other posts by Japan Inc:
Overview Japan
- Japanese currency: Yen (JPY)
- Exchange rate: 1 Japanese yen = 0.0092 USD
- Strength of the U.S. dollar: Strong
- Approximate Cost of dinner for two: $38.70
- Bitcoin now accepted
Japan does not have a big tipping culture. In fact, Japanese workers will often politely turn down a tip.
Money of Japan
The Japanese currency is the yen (円, en). One yen corresponds to 100 sen. However, sen are usually not used in everyday life anymore, except in stock market prices. Bills come in 1,000 yen, 2,000 yen (very rare), 5,000 yen and 10,000 yen denominations. Coins come in 1 yen, 5 yen, 10 yen, 50 yen, 100 yen and 500 yen denominations. Counterfeit money is not an issue in Japan. Bitcoin is virtual and divides into Satoshi units.
Plan Ahead
Foreign currencies are generally not accepted outside of major international airports. Rather than being caught in a jam without proper currency, plan ahead. Prepare yourself with currencies of surrounding countries of your destination country. Stranger things have happened. In case of a bizarre emergency evacuation of your location, you are ready to cross the border.
Payment methods in Japan
Japan has a reputation of being a cash-based society, but trends have gradually been changing, and there has been a significant increase in the acceptance of other payment methods.
- Cash (Yen) Cash is still the preferred payment method, especially when it involves small amounts.
- You need to exchange for smaller yen (coin) in 10, 50, 100 and 500 (coin).
- It doesn’t hurt to have a few yen in bills on hand either. 1000, 5000, and 10,000.
- Credit/Debit Cards There is an increased acceptance of credit and debit cards, especially in big cities.
- Most hotels, department stores, mid to high end restaurants, outlet malls and large retail shops accept credit cards now.
- Train stations, convenience stores, supermarkets, chain restaurants and boutiques also accept them.
Unconventional Payment Methods in Japan
- IC Cards (more information) IC cards, such Suica and Icoca, are a stored value cards which are recharged.
- Primarily a tool for convenient payment of train and bus fares.
- IC cards now double as a means of payment at an increasing number of shops and restaurants, especially in and around train stations, at most convenience stores, many chain restaurants, numerous vending machines and some lockers in big cities.
- Bitcoin As explained above on this page, Bitcoin is rapidly taking hold of its place in the Japanese money market. Before long, the Bitcoin will be as equally accepted and regularly as a method of payment as any coin, bill, credit or debit card. Prepare yourself now with Olympic Bitcoin.
How to get your Yen
- Currency ExchangeI
- Handled by banks, post offices, larger hotels and at international airports.
- U.S. currency typically has higher exchange rate in Japan. Therefore, wait to exchange your dollars to yen until you arrive in Japan.
Personally, I say have at least one day’s worth of currency for the destination location prior to your travel. Cover transportation the day of your arrival, one day of lodging, a couple meals and maybe a phone call or two. For Japan, it is recommended to be prepared with 5000 yen. When there is a recommendation, those who are well traveled advise to double that recommendation. Then you for sure covered until you can find another exchange location and you feel less anxiety and can be more comfortable.
More Ways to Get Your Yen
- ATM Withdrawal (more information)
- Not many ATM’s in Japan accept cards issued from other countries.
- Only limited post offices and certain convenience stores accept cards in Japan.
- Many ATM’s in Japan are out of service during the night and some are unavailable on weekends.
- Exchange rates for cards may be competitive but service fees may be exorbitant. Know the international travel ins and outs of your card carrier and the country of your destination.
- Traveler’s CheckTraveler’s Checks (T/C)
- Better exchange rate than yen or debit cards
- Must obtain from home country and might include a fee
- Limited places accept traveler’s checks. Ultimately, you are best to exchange at the international airports and leading banks for local currency.
The chart below shows general cost approximations for common items.
Use this only as a guide.
| Various Price | Description | Yen |
| Transportation | ||
| Train Fare | Tokyo – Kyoto One way by Shinkansen | 13,910 |
| Train Fare | Narita Express Narita – Tokyo One way | 3,020 |
| Train Fare | Keisei Skyliner Narita – Nippori – Tokyo One way | 2,630 |
| Train Fare | Chubu Airport Airport – Nagoya station | 1,230 |
| JR Train Fare | Minimum (Ticket) | 140 |
| JR Train Fare | Minimum (IC ard, Suica,Pasmo ) | 133 |
| Subway Fare | Tokyo Metro Minimum | 170 |
| Bus Fare | Airport Limousine Tokyo one way | 3,100 |
| Taxi | Minimum (Tokyo) | 410 |
| Taxi | Minimum | 730 |
| Taxi | From Narita Airport to Tokyo including highway Advanced reservation required | 19,000 – 26,000 |
| Foods | ||
| Food | Hamburger McDonald | 100 |
| Food | Filet-O-Fish McDonald | 310 |
| Food | Lunch | 600-1,200 |
| Food | Lunch Sushi | 1,000-2,000 |
| Food | Yoshinoya Beef Bawl | 380 |
| Food | Ramen | 600-1000 |
| Food | Denny’s daily special lunch | 780 |
| Food | Price of Bento(lunch box) | 500-1000 |
| Food | Dinner?? | 1000 – 10,000 |
| Food | Dinner Sushi | 3000 – 10.000 |
| Drink | ||
| Cola | Vending machine | 100 – 150 |
| Cola | At convenience store | 130 – 140 |
| Mineral Water | At convenience store | 100 – 140 |
| Coffee | McDonalds | 100 |
| Coffee | Convenience Store(7-Eleven) | 100 – 120 |
| Coffee | Starbucks (short) | 280 |
| Beer | Canned Beer 350ml | 250 – 300 |
| Cigarette | ||
| Tobacco | 1 package 20 units(Sevenstar) | 460 – 500 |
| Accommodation | ||
| Hotel | Imperial Hotel Single Bed / Single person Single Bed / Single person | 24,000 |
| Hotel | Shinagawa Prince Hotel Single room | 10,000 |
| Hotel | APA Hotel | 5,000-10,000 |
| Hotel | Nine Hours Shinjuku(Capsule hotel) | 4,900 – |
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Special thank you to the following References: https://tokyo2020.org/en/news/notice/20180226-02.html, http://www.greatatlanticsports.com/event/2020-summer-games, https://www.frommers.com/destinations/tokyo/getting-around, https://www.olympic.org/news/ioc-approves-five-new-sports-for-olympic-games-tokyo-2020, https://seekingalpha.com/article/4133681-bitcoin-legal-tender-japan, https://www.nytimes.com/2017/10/01/technology/bitcoin-japan-south-korea.html, http://www.japaninc.com/why-is-Bitcoin-now-so-popular-in-Japan, https://www.japan-guide.com/e/e2196.html, https://www.huffingtonpost.com/gobankingrates/ultimate-guide-to-spendin_b_10014504.html, http://www.kanaday.com/money.html#firstday
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