Why Can’t I Call Kawakami? A Persona 5 Troubleshooting Guide

So, you’re trying to get in touch with everyone’s favorite (slightly shady) maid teacher, Sadayo Kawakami, in Persona 5 or Persona 5 Royal, but the phone just isn’t ringing? Don’t worry, you’re not alone! There are several reasons why you might be experiencing this frustrating problem. The most common reasons include not meeting the initial requirements, calling on the wrong days, not having enough money, or not having progressed far enough in her Confidant rank. Let’s break down the troubleshooting steps to get you back on track.

Troubleshooting the Kawakami Call: A Step-by-Step Guide

Here’s a detailed checklist to help you pinpoint why you can’t call Kawakami:

1. Did You Unlock the Confidant? This is the most crucial first step. You can’t just pick up the phone and expect Kawakami to be on the other end. You need to trigger the “Operation Maidwatch” event. This involves:

   • Clearing Madarame’s Palace.
   • Talking to Yuuki Mishima about the maid poster in Shibuya’s Central Street at night. This can happen as early as May 24th.
   • Completing the Mishima side quest related to the Maidwatch.

2. Are You Calling on the Right Days? Kawakami has a schedule, and she sticks to it. Initially, she’s primarily available on Friday and Saturday nights. Once her Confidant rank increases, she becomes more flexible. Rainy days can also change her availability, making her available during the day as well. Always double-check the in-game calendar and any information she gives you about her schedule.

3. Do You Have Enough Yen? This is an important factor. Calling Kawakami initially costs 5,000 yen per call. Make sure you have sufficient funds before attempting to contact her. This charge is waived once you reach Rank 9 of her Confidant.

4. Confidant Rank Requirements: Some actions, like asking her to give you a massage after a Metaverse visit, are locked behind specific Confidant ranks. You need to have progressed far enough in her Confidant story to unlock those perks.

5. Have You Just Returned from the Metaverse? If you’re trying to call Kawakami for a massage after exploring a Palace or Mementos, ensure you’re interacting with the yellow public phone in Leblanc.

6. Plot-Related Restrictions: Certain story events or plot points can temporarily restrict Kawakami’s availability. Pay attention to in-game dialogue and progress the main story if you suspect this is the issue.

7. Kindness Stat: To advance beyond Rank 4 in Kawakami’s Confidant, you need a Kindness stat of 3 or higher. If you haven’t been working on improving your Kindness, you’ll hit a roadblock. Engage in activities that boost Kindness, such as working at the flower shop or taking care of your plant.

8. Check your In-Game Time. Time passes as you move from place to place. Ensure it is night time and is on Wednesday, Friday, or Saturday.

Understanding Kawakami’s Confidant Perks

Ranking up Kawakami’s Confidant unlocks valuable perks that make your life as a Phantom Thief much easier. Here’s a quick rundown:

• Rank 1: Slack Off – Allows you to perform various activities in Kawakami’s class.
• Rank 3: Housekeeping – Allows you to request Kawakami to make coffee or do laundry.
• Post-Palace Massage: After reaching a certain rank, Kawakami can give you a massage after delving into the Metaverse, allowing you to go out at night.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About Kawakami’s Confidant

Here are some frequently asked questions about Kawakami’s Confidant to help you navigate her storyline:

1. When can I start Kawakami’s Confidant?

You can initiate Kawakami’s Confidant after clearing Madarame’s Palace. Participate in Operation Maidwatch by talking to Yuuki Mishima about the maid poster in Shibuya’s Central Street at night. This can be done on May 24th at the earliest.

2. What days can you call Kawakami?

Initially, Kawakami is available on Friday and Saturday nights. In December, she can also be available on Mondays. Rainy days might also make her available during the day and evening.

3. Where do I call Kawakami from?

You must use the yellow public phone in Leblanc at night.

4. How much does it cost to call Kawakami?

Calling Kawakami initially costs 5,000 yen per call until you reach Rank 9 of her Confidant. After that, it’s free.

5. What Kindness level do I need for Kawakami?

You need a Kindness stat of 3 or higher to advance past Rank 4 in Kawakami’s Confidant.

6. Can I romance Kawakami?

Yes, Kawakami is a romance option. However, you need to make specific dialogue choices during her Confidant events to progress in that direction.

7. Does calling Kawakami take up in-game time?

No, calling Kawakami does not take up any in-game time.

8. Can I get Kawakami to Rank 10 without romancing her?

Yes, you can reach Rank 10 with Kawakami without entering a romantic relationship. Choose the appropriate dialogue options at Rank 9 to solidify your friendship.

9. What are the benefits of ranking up Kawakami’s Confidant?

Ranking up Kawakami’s Confidant unlocks perks like Slack Off (allowing you to do things in class), Housekeeping (getting her to do chores), and the ability to go out at night after exploring Palaces or Mementos.

10. How do I ask Kawakami to do laundry?

Visit the laundromat across the street from Leblanc in the evening and add the Sooty Armor you wish to wash to the laundry machine. You will then be given the option to call Kawakami and have her do it for you.

11. What happens if I romance all the girls in Persona 5?

If you romance multiple girls, there’s a special scene on Valentine’s Day where they confront you about your infidelity. Prepare for the wrath of your scorned lovers!

12. Can weather affect Kawakami’s availability?

Unlike some other Confidants, Kawakami’s events don’t typically take place outside. However, she will be available the whole day if it is raining.

13. What is Kawakami’s full name?

Her full name is Sadayo Kawakami.

14. Is Kawakami older than Joker?

Yes, Kawakami is significantly older than Joker. She is 23-24 years old, while Joker is 16-17 during the events of Persona 5.

15. Can you break up with Confidants in Persona 5 Royal?

No, you cannot break up with Confidants in Persona 5 Royal. Once you enter a romantic relationship, you’re committed for the rest of the game.

Hopefully, this guide has helped you figure out why you were unable to call Kawakami and got you back on track to building your relationship with this complex character. Remember to be patient, follow the steps, and enjoy the journey!

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