Journey Through Japan: Tips, Eats, and Must-Do Adventures!
Konnichiwa, fellow adventurers! If you’re dreaming of cherry blossoms, bustling streets, and mouthwatering sushi, this blog is for you! I recently wrapped up an unforgettable two-week journey through Japan, and I’m excited to share my experiences, best tips, and must-visit spots to help you craft your own adventure. From the neon-lit streets of Tokyo to the serene temples of Kyoto, every moment was a gem. So, grab your bags, and let's dive into this vibrant journey!
Week 1: Tokyo – The City That Never Sleeps
Day 1 – Arrival in Tokyo
I touched down at Narita Airport, my heart racing with excitement. Picking up my Japan Rail Pass was a must for seamless travel! After settling into Via Inn Prime Akasaka, which is centrally located and offers incredible hospitality, I was ready to explore.
Tip: Book your stay in advance, especially during peak seasons. This area is bustling, and you don’t want to miss out on great places to stay!
Day 2 – Tokyo Explorations
The morning started with a visit to Asakusa, home to the iconic Senso-ji Temple. The atmosphere is electric, filled with street vendors. I couldn’t resist trying the famous melon bread—a sweet treat made to order!
Next, I confidently ventured to Akihabara for some serious shopping, exploring themed cafes, including maid and cat cafes.
Lunch Spot: Don’t miss Gindaco for crispy takoyaki!
Caution: Keep an eye on your belongings in crowded areas; pickpocketing can happen, especially in touristy spots.
Day 3 – Day Trip to Nikko
One of the fantastic day trips from Tokyo is Nikko, a UNESCO World Heritage site. The Tobu Limited Express train (included in my JR Pass) was an amazing way to soak in stunning views of the countryside. The Toshogu Shrine took my breath away with its intricate architecture.
Dinner Recommendation: Upon returning, I enjoyed a cozy meal at Ichiran Ramen in Shibuya. Their solo dining booths were perfect for someone traveling alone!
Day 4 – Tokyo Culture
I dedicated today to culture with a visit to the Mori Art Museum and a stroll through the Meiji Shrine, where the peaceful atmosphere was a welcome contrast to the busy streets.
Insider Tip: Don’t miss the Shibuya Crossing! It’s exhilarating to be part of the pedestrian rush.
Day 5 – More Tokyo Adventures
Exploring Harajuku and specifically Takeshita Street was a highlight! It’s the ultimate fashion hub—I indulged in a delicious strawberry crepe from one of the many stands.
By evening, I visited the Tokyo Tower for spectacular sunset views. It’s a great photo spot!
Caution: Etiquette is key in Japan, so always bow politely when greeting and wait patiently for your turn. It’s a valued trait here.
Kyoto – The Heart of Tradition
Day 6 – Journey to Kyoto
With my heart full of Tokyo memories, I hopped on the Shinkansen (bullet train) to Kyoto. Checking into The Ritz Carlton Kyoto was a dream—luxury meets traditional hospitality here.
Tip: Reserve rooms well in advance to secure the best deals and views of the Kamo River.
Day 7 – Exploring Gion
I started my day with a stroll through Gion, the historic geisha district, where I enjoyed a traditional tea ceremony amidst beautiful wooden machiya houses.
For lunch, I dined at Ippudo—their tonkotsu ramen is legendary!
Caution: Be respectful; geisha prefer not to be photographed as they go about their appointments.
Day 8 – Temple Hopping
Kyoto is home to stunning temples. I visited Kinkaku-ji (The Golden Pavilion) in the morning and reveled in its beauty. Then I made my way to Ryoan-ji, renowned for its rock garden’s unmatched serenity.
For dinner, I recommend Kyoto Gogyo—the burnt miso ramen is exceptional!
Day 9 – Arashiyama Adventures
A day trip to Arashiyama was on my itinerary today. I wandered through the enchanting Bamboo Grove and visited the Iwatayama Monkey Park, where observing monkeys was both fun and entertaining.
Lunch Spot: Enjoy a delightful tofu meal at Yudofu Sagano while soaking up the scenery.
Caution: Keep your belongings secure at the monkey park; they’re curious creatures!
Day 10 – Nara Day Trip
I couldn’t resist a quick trip to Nara, just a short train ride from Kyoto. Feeding the friendly deer in Nara Park was unforgettable, and the Todai-ji Temple housing the Great Buddha statue was awe-inspiring.
Dinner Back in Kyoto: To celebrate my time in Kyoto, I treated myself to a kaiseki meal at Kikunoi—it’s pricey but worth every yen for a full culinary experience.
Hiroshima & Miyajima - A Journey of Reflection
Day 11 – Hiroshima Exploration
My heartwarming visit to Hiroshima and nearby Miyajima began with insights into the city’s resilience. The Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park is a must-see, and I opted for a Hiroden (streetcar) pass to navigate easily.
Where to Eat: Don’t leave without trying Hiroshima-style okonomiyaki at Okonomimura! The street food stalls around the Peace Park are excellent for casual bites too.
Caution: Be mindful of local wildlife on Miyajima; deer are everywhere and may nibble on your belongings!
Day 12 – The Peace Memorial Museum
The Peace Memorial Museum left a profound impact—it’s a historical must-visit. I then hopped over to Miyajima Island to see the iconic floating torii gate at Itsukushima Shrine, especially stunning at high tide!
Day 13 – Osaka Adventure
A quick train ride took me to Osaka, known for its vibrant nightlife and street food. I checked into a chic hotel in Namba, bustling with energy.
Day 14 – Dotonbori Food Tour
Diving straight into the street food scene at Dotonbori, I tried everything from takoyaki to okonomiyaki. A local favorite is Mizuno for okonomiyaki!
Caution: Remember that Japan is strict about littering; dispose of trash properly.
Last Stops for Reflection
On my last day, I returned to Kyoto to soak in more sights. I visited Fushimi Inari Taisha, famous for its thousands of vermilion torii gates. The hike to the top took time but was superb for the views.
Farewell Dinner: A delightful farewell dinner at Miyamasou celebrated my trip with seasonal dishes and good memories.
Traveling Tips and Reminders
1. Etiquette Matters: Bowing is a common greeting, and respecting personal space is crucial. Always say “Arigato!” when someone helps you.
2. Get a JR Pass: If you’re traveling between cities, invest in the Japan Rail Pass to save on travel costs.
3. Cash is King: Many places accept cards, but it’s wise to carry cash for smaller businesses.
4. Public Transportation: The train and subway systems are super-efficient! A transport app can save you time figuring out routes.
5. Onsen in Japan: Experiencing an onsen is essential! Remember to wash before entering, and be aware that tattoos may not be welcome at some locations.
6. Stay Connected: Rent a pocket WiFi device for constant internet access, which makes navigation and communication easier.
As I wrapped up my two weeks in Japan, I couldn’t have been more grateful for each moment spent in this beautiful country. From the vibrant streets of Tokyo to Kyoto's serene landscapes and all the experiences in between, this trip has been nothing short of magical. If you’re planning your own adventure, be sure to visit the Visit Japan website for additional tips, itineraries, and inspiration.
Happy travels, everyone! Japan awaits you with open arms!
