Classes

Drones are systematically classified into various classes according to their technical characteristics. The classification comprises a total of seven categories (C0 to C6). Each class defines specific technical requirements such as weight, speed, maximum flight altitude, and safety functions. Manufacturers are required to clearly mark their drones with a CE mark and the corresponding class label so that pilots and authorities can clearly identify the drone.

Categories

In addition to classification, flight maneuvers are divided into three main categories according to their risk potential:

• Open Category is suitable for low-risk flights
• Specific Category is intended for more complex or higher-risk operations. An individual risk assessment is required here. Permitted for C5 and C6 drones.
• Certified Category for high-risk operations such as transporting people

The Open Category is divided into three subcategories:

• Open Category A1 (over people)
  • Overflight of uninvolved persons allowed
  • Overflight of assemblies of people prohibited
  • Permitted classes: C0, C1
• Open Category A2 (close to people)
  • Overflight of persons prohibited
  • Minimum distance to persons 30m (5m in low-speed mode)
  • Permitted classes: C2
• Open Category A3 (far from people)
  • Overflight of persons prohibited
  • Flight only in areas where no people are expected
  • Permitted classes: C0 – C4

Qualification (License)

Small Drone License (A1/A3)

For drone classes C1 – C4, the small drone license (EU Proof of Competence A1/A3) is required. For this, you simply need to complete an online training course with a final multiple-choice test at the Federal Aviation Office (LBA). Cost approx. €25. I recommend taking the test even if you only want to fly a C0 drone. It makes perfect sense to know all the rules before you start flying.

Big Drone License (A2)

The big drone license (EU Remote Pilot Certificate A2) is required for pilots of C2 drones who wish to fly up to 30 m (in low-speed mode 5 m) close to uninvolved persons. Without this certificate, you must maintain a distance of 150 m with a C2 drone (as in A3). It builds on the A1/A3 certificate and also includes practical self-training and a theory exam at a certified examination center. Cost approx. €70–300.

Registration & Insurance

To register your drone, you absolutely need liability insurance – no matter how small it is or whether you only fly for fun. New liability insurance policies often automatically include drone damages. If your current insurance does not cover aircraft, you should switch to a modern tariff or take out inexpensive supplementary insurance.

Your drone registration takes place via the official website of the Federal Aviation Office. For registration, you need a copy of your ID card (front & back) or passport and the policy number of your liability insurance. Cost approx. €20. After registration, you will receive your personal e-ID.

Here’s a list of some EU offices

Austria, Belgium, Denmark, France, Ireland, Italy, Netherlands, Poland, Portugal, Spain, Sweden, Switzerland, UK

What do I do with the e-ID?

This is what your e-ID looks like: DEU 1234567890 xyz - abc Never share the full e-ID with third parties!

It must be attached to the outside of the drone. A simple, easily readable sticker is sufficient. Previously, it was mandatory to attach a fireproof badge. Use the shortened version for your sticker (without the part after the hyphen), i.e., DEU 1234567890 xyz

Additionally, enter the full e-ID in your flight app. See also Remote ID

Remote ID

Remote ID (Direct Remote Identification) is a system for the digital remote identification of drones. You can think of it as a “digital license plate”. The goal is for authorities (and theoretically anyone with a smartphone app) to be able to identify a drone in flight without having to physically capture it.

Which drones must be equipped with Remote ID in the EU?

All certified drones of classes C1, C2, C3, C5, and C6.
Drones of class C0 (under 250 g) and C4 (model aircraft) do not need to support Remote ID. Here it is sufficient to attach a sticker with the e-ID.
Attention! Outside the EU, other rules apply here. In Japan, for example, C0 drones must also support Remote ID. You can find more about this here: Flying a drone in Japan

What data is sent via Remote ID?

The drone permanently transmits the following data via Wi-Fi or Bluetooth:

• e-ID of the pilot (UAS operator number)
• Serial number of the drone
• Current position of the drone (GPS coordinates + altitude)
• Course and speed of the drone
• Location of the pilot (or the starting point of the drone)

Does my drone have Remote ID?

It is best to check the manufacturer’s website to see if your drone has Remote ID built-in.

• Certified drones from 2022 onwards generally have Remote ID installed ex-works.
• Older drones (legacy drones) do not require Remote ID for flights in the Open Category A1 and A3. They may continue to fly as before (under the rules for legacy drones). For flights in the Specific Category or in special “Geographical Areas” (Geo-Zones), an external Remote ID module must be retrofitted.

How do I activate Remote ID?

First, you have to “set up” Remote ID for your drones. To do this, you simply have to store your e-ID in your flight app. In the DJI Fly App, you can find this item under Settings and “Safety” or “Remote ID”.

You do not need to activate Remote ID; this usually happens automatically. Tip: Download a Drone Scanner App to your mobile phone. If you see your drone on the app’s radar, it works.

Tokyo 2025 – The Japanese metropolis is reinventing itself, and with it emerges a district that could hardly be more futuristic: Takanawa Gateway City. Located right next to the station of the same name, this new architectural masterpiece awaits you. It’s like a sci-fi version of Shibuya – only with more trees, robots, and rooftop lounges.

The Formation of Takanawa Gateway City

Since 2020, the JR East Group has been working on creating an entirely new urban district around the newly opened Takanawa Gateway Station. What was once a traditional railway site is now being transformed into a smart mini-metropolis, scheduled for completion by 2026.

The first phases of construction were completed in 2022 and 2023. Public access officially began in March 25 with the opening of the main building and park. By 2026, additional office towers, apartments, and the new MoN (Museum of Narratives) will follow. The buildings combine cutting-edge technology with environmental awareness – featuring solar panels, green facades and CO₂-reduced infrastructure.

Getting There – How to reach it

Simply hop off at JR Takanawa Gateway Station. The station is located on the JR Yamanote and Keihin-Tōhoku Lines, right next to Shinagawa – one of Tokyo’s major transportation hubs. From Shinjuku, Tokyo Station or Haneda Airport, you can get there in just 15–30 minutes. The station is already testing facial recognition systems that will let you check in and out completely contact-free in the near future.

More about Subway travel in Tokyo

Technology you can touch: A smart city you can try out

Takanawa Gateway City isn’t a museum of future visions – it’s a place where you can truly experience high-tech. And it’s fun even for tech skeptics! Here’s what you can discover on your Tokyo 2025 trip:

1. Autonomous Mini-Shuttles
Forget walking or hopping on a bus – just step into one of the futuristic electric shuttles… no driver needed! These compact vehicles glide automatically through the park area, stop when needed, and are completely emission-free. Perfect for tired feet after a long day of sightseeing.

2. Robots as helpers
You’ll see more robots here than in some sci-fi series. Cleaning, deliveries, information – all taken care of by charming machines on wheels. Some even speak English! Pro tip: ask one for directions to the rooftop terrace – your robotic friend might escort you there personally.

3. The Smart App as your City Guide
The free Takanawa Gateway City app is like having your own personal guide. Get push notifications for events, reserve restaurant seats, or follow augmented reality routes around the city. You can even order food or souvenirs cash-free and language-free.

4. Interactive Exhibits & AR Experiences
Scattered throughout the district are digital experience zones: scan a code and suddenly you’re in a time-travel journey through Tokyo’s past – or projected into a Smart City of the year 2125. It’s digital storytelling meets design indulgence.

5. A sustainable future – Live and in Color
Not as flashy, but just as cool: the entire area is designed as a “green high-tech zone”. Sensors regulate lighting and temperature, buildings adapt to visitor flows, and even trash separation is managed by smart systems. Just being here makes you part of a smarter urban model – no effort required.

Where culture meets technology in Tokyo: MoN – The Museum of Narratives

Designed by Kengo Kuma, the star architect behind the Tokyo 2020 Olympic Stadium, the MoN (Museum of Narratives) is set to open in spring 2026 – and it’s no ordinary museum. Here, culture becomes interactive, digital, and multisensory.

The MoN promises an innovative fusion of art, science, technology, entertainment, and Japanese tradition. Expect rotating “Seasonal Themes”, brought to life through exhibitions, live performances, and hands-on experiences.

So go ahead and mark spring 2026 in your calendar – this is where the story of tomorrow begins.

Relaxation on the rooftop: Zen at 40 meters high

One of the highlights is the rooftop gardens nestled among the impressive towers of the LINKPILLAR buildings. Here, you’ll find several publicly accessible rooftop gardens. Whether it’s a meditation platform, lounge chairs with USB charging ports, or a café with a view of Tokyo Tower – this is where high-tech meets Zen. Especially in the evening, these rooftops transform into glowing oases with light installations, soft music, and spectacular views.

Luftbaum Rooftop Garden

Spanning 8,000 square meters at 100 meters above ground, the Luftbaum Rooftop Garden is set to open in fall 2025. The name “Luftbaum” (Air Tree) symbolizes the connection between nature and urban life high above the city – a flagship example of Tokyo’s innovative urban development.

Conclusion: Takanawa Gateway City – A Must-Stop on your Tokyo 2025 trip

Whether you’re a tech geek, architecture buff, or just a curious traveler, Takanawa Gateway City is the ultimate symbol of “Tokyo of tomorrow”. Wanna know what urban life looks like in 20 years? This is where you come. Grab a robot-made coffee. Ride an autonomous shuttle. Whether you’re into cutting-edge mobility, jaw-dropping architecture, or just craving some chill time in a green oasis – this district has got something for everyone.

You’re out exploring all day, constantly taking photos, checking Google Maps, looking for restaurants or tourist spots – and then, right in the best moment: your phone battery dies. That’s exactly what Portable power bank ChargeSPOT is here to fix – a really clever solution!

Overview

1. What is ChargeSPOT?
2. How does the portable power bank work?
3. Where is ChargeSPOT available?
4. Conclusion – A Real Lifesaver

What is ChargeSPOT?

ChargeSPOT is basically a power bank rental system that you can find in countless locations. You just choose the nearest station on the map, rent a power bank, and start charging your phone right away.

The best part: You don’t have to return the power bank to the same place where you rented it. You can drop it off at any other ChargeSPOT station – and there are plenty of those in cities like Tokyo!

How does the portable power bank work?

1. You download the ChargeSPOT App and sign up.
2. The map in the app shows you where to find the nearest charging station. And they’re really everywhere – in train stations, convenience stores (Lawson, Family Mart, etc.), shopping centers, restaurants, subway stations, and even at popular tourist spots.
3. You simply scan the QR code there, choose your payment method, and you can take the power bank with you. It has three connectors (USB-C, Lightning, and Micro-USB), so no matter what smartphone you have – it’ll fit.
4. Once your phone is charged, just look for the nearest station and return the power bank to the dock. That’s it! The rental fee will be charged automatically.

The prices are super fair: For about 100 yen, you can charge for an hour, and for 300 yen, you can keep the power bank for the whole day.

Where is ChargeSPOT available?

ChargeSPOT originated in Japan, but the service is now also available in other countries. Besides Japan, you can find the service in several other Asian countries. Here’s an overview of the main regions where ChargeSPOT is active:

• Japan – The country of origin and the largest market, with a very dense coverage in cities like Tokyo, Osaka, Kyoto, and Fukuoka.
• Taiwan – ChargeSPOT has established itself in Taiwan in recent years, especially in major cities like Taipei.
• Thailand – You’ll also find the service in Thailand, particularly in Bangkok, where it’s available at many tourist spots, shopping malls, and train stations.
• Hong Kong – In Hong Kong, you can also access this convenient rental system, especially at transportation hubs and in popular shopping districts.
• China – ChargeSPOT is expanding into various parts of China, mainly in larger cities where there is high demand for mobile charging options.

Expansion into other countries and regions, such as France and Vietnam, is underway, as the system is especially convenient for tourists and the busy urban population. In the future, ChargeSPOT could establish itself in even more countries.

Conclusion – A Real Lifesaver

Overall the Portable power bank ChargeSPOT is a true game changer, especially if you’re always on the go, love taking photos, and have your phone in use all day long. The system is super flexible, affordable, and incredibly easy to use – perfect for anyone who wants to explore cities without stress and battery anxiety!

In Japan, ChargeSPOT has already established itself as a super convenient and reliable service in larger cities. With the growing demand for mobile power, the service is likely to expand even further in the coming years and become a staple in many other cities.

Washing clothes in Japan – Don’t worry, you don’t have to pack your entire wardrobe for the trip! In this article, you’ll learn about the available laundry options, what to look out for, and the unique aspects of doing laundry in Japan.

Overview

1. A 60-Minute Adventure from 500 Yen
2. The Japanese Washing Machine
3. Costs
4. Detergent – Yes or No?
5. What to do if the machine breaks down

A 60-Minute Adventure from 500 Yen

On the following point, everyone probably agrees: It’s best to travel light. But how do you manage on a three-week trip with just that?

The good news is: You don’t have to pack your suitcase to the brim to have clean clothes throughout your entire journey. Japanese hotels almost always offer you the opportunity to wash your clothes in machines provided for that purpose. Hooray, more space for souvenirs!

Nevertheless, the initial washing results in Japan left much to be desired.

The laundry often wasn’t properly cleaned and didn’t smell fresh afterwards. Despite some noticeable results: Public washing machines in Japan can deliver usable washing results if certain guidelines are followed. Learn how to do it here.

The Japanese Washing Machine

For operating the machine, it is recommended to use Google Translate with image translation. With this, you can understand the control panel and adjust the washing machine as desired. Don’t be surprised, Japanese washing machines don’t have a temperature control, as they all wash in cold water.

The machines offered in hotels are often a 2-in-1 washer-dryer combination. This means that the laundry is first washed in the same machine. Then, the device switches to the drying mode. Both programs together take about an hour. Or longer. Depending on how many coins you’ve inserted beforehand. There it is again, our beloved cash!

Washing machines in Japan sometimes have a pre-cleaning function. According to the description, the drum is rinsed with silver ion water before you put your laundry in. Whether there’s anything to it and whether you want to use this function is up to you. Unfortunately, it hasn’t changed the washing results.

Costs

A wash cycle with drying costs, depending on the selected program, starting from 500 yen upwards. If you use the dryer function, it is better to insert at least an extra 300 yen, as the laundry is not really dry after the standard program.

You can only use the machines with 100 yen coins. If you don’t have enough coins, you will usually find a change machine in the hotel or the laundromat where you can feed bills. Alternatively, just ask at the reception.

Detergent – Yes or No?

You’ll find a note on the machines stating that additional detergent is not necessary as the machine provides the detergent during the washing process. Convenient, isn’t it?

Being naturally curious, I watched the machine while it was washing. What can I say: There was no foam formation, which made me doubt the attached note. I got confirmation after removing the laundry from the drum. It wasn’t clean, and it didn’t smell fresh either. And the smell from the washing drum…

My recommendation: Definitely get laundry pods at the nearest Konbini. With those, the laundry is guaranteed to be clean and smell much better.

What to do if the machine breaks down

Even a machine can have a bad day. In my case, the spin cycle couldn’t be initiated because apparently one of the sensors was defective. In this case, contact the hotel reception and be a little patient. This small incident was enough to bring a little chaos into the organized day of the Japanese staff. But in the end, everything was fine again.

And now, happy washing clothes in Japan!

Is the Japan Rail Pass worth it?

The most important question first: Is the pass really worth it? I would say, “It depends.” Especially after the significant price increase of 70% in October 2023, I wouldn’t unequivocally recommend the pass anymore.

If you spend a lot of time in Tokyo, it’s not recommended. With the Rail Pass, you can only use JR lines in Tokyo, and you would need to pay separately for all Tokyo Metro lines. See also Subway travel in Tokyo

If you plan to travel long distances on the Shinkansen and use JR lines extensively, then I can recommend it. Long Shinkansen journeys can add up in cost. For instance, a one-way trip from Tokyo to Hiroshima averages around 20,000 yen. See also Traveling through Japan with the Shinkansen

Purchasing & Costs

Duration

The Rail Pass is available for 7, 14, or 21 days. When ordering, keep in mind that the days must be used consecutively. Upon collection, the Rail Pass is activated and becomes valid from that point onward.

Regions

There isn’t just one Japan Rail Pass. In addition to the standard Rail Pass, which covers all of Japan, there are also regional passes that are more cost-effective. For comparison, the standard Rail Pass costs around 50,000 yen for 7 days. The Rail East Pass costs approximately 30,000 yen, but is only valid for 5 days and only in the Tohoku region. The Rail West Pass for the Kansai region costs 7,000 yen for 4 days.

Not everything is covered

Only trains and buses operated by Japan Rail companies are covered. For all other companies, a separate ticket is required. While most modes of transportation work with the Japan Rail Pass, there may be further restrictions in larger cities like Tokyo, Kyoto, and Osaka. Additionally, the “NOZOMI” or “MIZUHO” express trains on the Tokaido-Sanyo Shinkansen line cannot be used with the pass.

Shinkansen Route Network

How to get the Japan Rail Pass?

If you have decided on the Rail Pass or opted for a regional pass, you should order it before your trip to Japan. You will need a credit card and your passport for this process.

Order online

Go to https://japanrailpass.net and purchase your pass there. You can order multiple passes in one account if you are traveling with several people. During the ordering process, you need to provide an approximate date, but the validity only starts when you pick up the Rail Pass in Japan.

Fun fact: Japanese websites sometimes have “business hours,” meaning you can only order online during regular business hours.

Registration

After ordering successfully, you will be prompted to register on the reservation portal. You will need this registration for seat reservations later, see also Traveling through Japan with the Shinkansen

After successful registration, you’ll receive a reservation number.

Pick up the Pass

On the day you want to activate the pass or even earlier, go to one of the JR Service centers listed there. You’ll need your reservation number and your passport.

Afterwards, you will receive your Japan Rail Pass as a physical ticket at the service center. Unfortunately, there is no digital version available, so be sure to keep it safe, as there is no replacement for lost passes.

How to use your Japan Rail Pass

The Rail Pass is a regular ticket and operates as such at the platform gates.

See also Subway travel in Tokyo

Japan is a fascinating travel destination with breathtaking landscapes – perfect for capturing stunning aerial footage with a drone. However, anyone who wants to fly a drone in Japan must comply with strict drone regulations. Since the introduction of the drone registration requirement (for drones weighing 100g or more), clear rules apply to both locals and tourists.

In this guide, you’ll find everything you need to know about Japan’s drone regulations, registration through DIPS2.0, the Remote ID requirement, permitted flight zones, and recommended drone insurance options.

UPDATE: 2025 Registration Fees

Requirements for Flying

License & Insurance

Currently, in Japan, you do not need a pilot’s license. Drone insurance is not a bad idea, but it is not strictly necessary in Japan.

Registration

Since June 20 2022, all drones, regardless of size or whether they are used for commercial or private purposes, must be registered. This can be done directly on the MLIT (Ministry of Land, Infrastructure, Transport and Tourism) website: https://www.mlit.go.jp/koku/drone/en/

The registration takes about 1 week. Registration can be a bit complicated but is manageable. Refer to the following manual for more information.

Marking

The drone must be marked with the ID received after registration. Attach a label with the registration ID to the drone, similar to the practice in Europe.

Additionally, your drone must support RID (Remote ID). This technology allows the drone to be identified remotely during flight, even without direct line of sight. No personal data is transmitted! Generally, almost all drones produced from 2022 onwards support RID.

Costs

The registration cost is approximately 1,500 yen.

Violations are subject to a penalty of up to 500,000 yen and/or imprisonment.

Validity and Renewal

Your drone registration is valid for three years. If you’re planning another trip to Japan, you can easily renew your existing registration. However, you must do this at least one month before your license expires.

Simply log in to the MLIT portal with your account details. There, you can renew your current license. The fee is around 1,500 yen.

Advantages of mobile internet in Japan

• Navigate through the mega city of Tokyo and explore Japan’s mountains using Google Maps / Apple Maps just like a local.
• Easily translate Japanese hiragana, katakana, and kanji characters into your language, especially useful for restaurants.
• Plan your public transportation connections and long-distance travel using the Shinkansen. Also see Traveling through Japan with the Shinkansen
• Hail a taxi in Tokyo using an app on your smartphone.
• Book tickets for attractions or events on the go.
• Communicate with your loved ones and send them pictures of your amazing experiences.

Buy SIM card / eSIM for Japan

SIM card

It’s best to get your SIM card before your trip. This is often cheaper than buying one on-site. You can pick up the SIM card directly at the terminal after you’ve landed and insert it into your phone. Here’s a list of different providers:

• Japan Experience
• Sakura Mobile

eSIM

Look for a provider offering eSIMs. I’ve had good experiences with Holafly. They offer unlimited data in various packages (5 days to 90 days). Here’s a link to the provider: https://esim.holafly.com/esim-japan/

Choose any package you like. After ordering, you’ll receive a QR code. Upon arrival in Japan, connect to the free WiFi at the airport and scan the code with your phone. The phone will handle all the settings. Now, just activate data roaming, and you’re ready to surf using the eSIM.

Here’s a list of other providers:

• airalo
• Sakura Mobile