Visiting Japan in 2025? Start Here.
There’s no doubt that Japan has been a popular travel destination post pandemic. In 2024 Japan received nearly 37 million visitors - smashing the prior record set in 2019 and an over 45% increase from 2023. Are you interested in visiting in 2025? I spent nearly 3 months in Japan in 2024, and I’d love to help you prepare for a potential visit too. Full disclosure, I’m not sponsored by any of the services that may be mentioned below, but if I provide a referral link, I’ll typically receive some sort of small benefit.
In this blog post, I’ll cover:
Pre-Departure Items to Do or Think About
Starting to Think about Day Trips
Getting Off the Beaten Path - Slower Experiences in Japan
Feel free to use the bolded quick links above to jump around the post. If you’re interested specifically in photographing Japan, I’ll be covering that in future posts & guides, so stay tuned.
Pre-Departure Items
Accessing Cash (Yen)
Although many places throughout Japan take credit card or even digital wallets (e.g. Apple Pay), you’ll encounter restaurants, markets, public transit operators, shops, or stalls that are cash-only. While you can definitely bring your home currency and exchange it at currency desks in Japan, you typically won’t get the best exchange rate, and it requires you to potentially bring more local currency than you’re comfortable traveling with. For US based travelers, my number one recommendation here is to get a no-ATM-fee debit card from either Charles Schwab or Fidelity. Both of these banks refund the ATM fees charged on a monthly basis, so when actually withdrawing in Japan, always accept the fee. Using one of these cards will allow you to withdraw Yen on an as-needed basis. I’ve used the Charles Schwab card for the last six years with zero issues at ATMs inside of 7-Eleven, FamilyMart, and Lawson convenience stores. Note that for Charles Schwab specifically, it can take a few days for deposits to clear and be available for withdrawal - so plan accordingly. As a final note, it’s worth bringing a small coin pouch or planning to buy one there. You’re going to acquire some coins, whether you like it or not.
Cellular Data is Your Best Friend
Visiting a foreign country is just easier with a smartphone and a high-speed data plan. Looking up places on Google Maps, staying in touch with family and friends, using social media, the list goes on and on. In Japan, public WiFi is available in most cities, but as you’ll be moving around quite a bit, a steady connection can be spotty. Some may also have security concerns about public WiFi. Most phone carriers, especially in the US, offer egregious daily plans for customers to get their normal data coverage and speeds abroad - I’ve seen as bad as $20 USD per day. Luckily, in the last few years, there’s been major progress on eSIM technology, which allows newer cellphones to purchase, install, and manage digital foreign SIM cards. Note that this requires your phone to be carrier unlocked, which can depend on what kind of phone plan you have and how your phone was purchased or financed. For the past three years I’ve been using Airalo for high-speed data. I’ve successfully purchased eSIMs for Japan, Korea, Intra-Europe, India, and Intra-Southeast Asia. Generally their rates are very fair, and you purchase packages with a fixed number of gigabytes of data (e.g. 1GB, 3GB, 5GB, 20GB, etc.), typically valid for a maximum of 30 days. Since you can easily toggle the data on and off, you can really manage your consumption and stretch that data package. If you’re interesting in learning more about Airalo and want $3 USD off of your first package, you can use my referral link: https://ref.airalo.com/rVJM or use code ROHAN3032 at checkout. I’ll get $3 USD as well for your referral.
Translation Apps
Pretty self explanatory, but having a translation app or two on your phone can be very helpful in situations like asking for directions, asking for assistance in stores, translating menus, etc. I’ve enjoyed using Google Translate, both the live-camera translation feature and the photo-translation feature. Highly recommend keeping an app or two like this on your phone.
Maps and Navigation
The short story here is that Google Maps works very well in Japan for navigation - for both walking and driving. It does consume a healthy amount of data - so I’d recommend downloading some map areas as available offline to reduce data consumption. Google Maps also includes information on the bulk of metro and subway lines, local trains, and express or Shinkansen (bullet train) lines. This is incredibly helpful for not only planning purposes but also when you’re actually in Japan and trying to get to your next destination. One caveat is the Kyoto Municipal Subway - for some reason, these lines aren’t available on Google Maps. For Kyoto Metro specifically, use the JapanTravel app to navigate. You can use it for other places in Japan as well, but I tend to use Google Maps outside of the Kyoto Metro.
Advanced Ticketing - Popular Attractions
Some of the most popular (read: Instagram famous) experiences in Japan ticket weeks, if not months, in advance. The majority of shrines, temples, gardens, and other open-air sites ticket onsite, unless there is a special event or illumination. My recommendation would be to try and ticket as much in advance as feasible based on your travel plans, especially if you’re keen on seeing a sunset from one of the viewpoints.
Shibuya Sky - Opens 4 weeks in advance
Tokyo Skytree - Opens 4 weeks in advance
Tokyo Tower - Opens 8 weeks in advance
teamLab Interactive Museums - Rolling schedule, each additional month is released T-60 (e.g. May 2025 released at the end of February 2025 or early March 2025)
Ghibli Museum Mitaka - Subsequent month goes on sale the 10th of each month, 10AM Japan time (e.g. March 2025 on sale starting February 10 at 10AM Japan time)
IC Cards - Make Your Life Easier
If you have an iPhone, transit cards are very easy to generate and use in Japan (called IC Cards). If you don’t have an iPhone, or prefer to get a physical IC card, you can purchase them at most major train stations, including upon arrival at the airport train stations. There have been shortages of the physical cards in the past, so just do a quick search online to see if there is currently a shortage. In addition to paying for many metro lines and buses in major cities, you can also use them at some vending machines and convenience stores. For iPhone users: you can, even before arriving in Japan, add a SUICA or PASMO IC card in Apple Wallet. I’d note that if you want to take advantage of online Shinkansen (bullet train) ticketing through the “Smart EX” service, I’d choose SUICA. More on that in the Shinkansen Ticket selection below. To make the experience even more seamless, turn on “Express Transit Mode” just for the IC card, and turn off any other transit cards or credit cards you may have already in this mode. This will allow you to quickly tap and go through ticket gates, which both you and the locals will appreciate.
The Japan Rail Pass - Not Really in 2025
When I started traveling to Japan in 2018, the Japan Rail (JR) Pass was an incredible value. Even as recently as March 2023, I was using the pass to explore the country while saving tons on both JR metro and Shinkansen tickets. Starting in October 2023, JR increased the prices so much that even the 7-Day Rail Pass doesn’t make sense for most people on a one-week trip from Tokyo-Kyoto-Osaka and back. What started as a convenience and cost saving option has turned very much into a luxury for travelers who want ultimate flexibility. Given the pricing, I do not recommend purchasing a Japan Rail Pass in 2025. However, there are still a few bright spots in the rail pass and regional pass programs. Some passes, like the Hokkaido Pass, Kansai Pass, and some of the region-specific passes could be worth it depending on your route and the duration of your trip. Before purchasing a pass, you should use the JR Pass Online Calculator to see what your potential cost savings would be. If you do purchase a pass, note that you’ll be mailed an “exchange voucher” to your home (not in Japan), which needs to be brought to a JR ticket office (airports have JR offices too) to be activated and exchanged for the actual pass you’ll use to travel within the country.
Shinkansen Tickets Online - Smart EX
Smart EX is an online reservation service for Shinkansen tickets, covering the Tokaido, Sanyo, and Kyushu Shinkansen - basically the major lines from Tokyo-Nagoya-Kyoto-Osaka-Hiroshima-Fukuoka-Kagoshima (and everything in between on the eastern side). Using this service has a few benefits, namely the convenience of buying tickets online or on your phone, selecting seats, modest discounts, and linking your tickets to your SUICA Apple Wallet transit card. While buying Shinkansen tickets in Japan isn’t difficult at ticket machines or ticket offices, I’ve come to really appreciate the flexibility of just buying the tickets on my phone right before I need to travel, or being able to look at different train services or cars to ensure I get a window seat (which you’ll want between Tokyo and Kyoto, if you’re keen on getting a view of Mt. Fuji). Setting up Smart EX requires first registering on the website, adding a payment card (so far, only AMEX has worked for me), and then adding your SUICA card number. Your full SUICA card number from an Apple Wallet generated card can be found by downloading the SUICA App on your iPhone. Once it is all set up - the user experience is pretty incredible. You use the Smart EX website or App to buy tickets online and tag them to your SUICA card. Then, when it’s time to pass through the Shinkansen gates, you’ll tap your phone, and the gate will give you a print-out of your car number and seat number.
Luggage - Sizing, Storage, Transportation
It’s always easier to travel with less luggage, and the same can be said for getting around Japan. Most Shinkansen overhead compartments will only accommodate rollers up to 22-24 inches, and there is limited oversized luggage storage that requires reservations. Some metro stations don’t have escalators or elevators for each platform. Domestic Japanese airline carry-on sizes are typically smaller than US or mainline European carriers. All signs point to less is more! But, one of the best things about traveling around Japan is that coin laundry is available nearly everywhere - and it’s usually quite clean and affordable. Most Japanese-brand business hotels will have machines too. Accessible laundry means you don’t have to bring as much clothing as you think you need (plus, you probably want to leave some room for shopping). Storing your luggage is also straightforward in Japan - you can leave your luggage with your hotel front desk after checkout, or you can place them in coin lockers or IC card lockers at various larger train stations. Most large size coin lockers won’t fit larger than a 24-26 inch suitcase. Prices range from 300-1000 yen per locker per 24 hours. Note that at busy stations, the large size lockers tend to fill up more quickly in the morning - so plan accordingly. Finally, the easiest way to move your luggage around is to not move it at all! Japan has wonderful luggage transfer services, with the most popular being Yamato Transport. You can have your luggage shipped from the airport to your hotel, or even between hotels, for a reasonable cost. There are counters at the airport or ask your hotel front desk for assistance when filling out the forms. During busier seasons or holidays, transfer times between hotels can take longer, so often it’s helpful to send your larger luggage a day prior.
Airports & Arrival Information
When planning a trip to Japan from countries that are quite far away, most direct flights will land in Tokyo (Haneda-HND or Narita-NRT) or Osaka (Kansai International-KIX). For Tokyo, Haneda is much closer to the city but fares can be more “premium” because of the convenience and limited gate slots available to airlines. Narita, although farther away, is still a fine option to arrive into Japan. After flying to Japan consistently for the last few years, I’ve come to vastly prefer Haneda. Specifically, Haneda has a great, cost-effective, and comfortable option to get into the city: The Airport Limo Bus. The last thing you want to do after a long flight is get onto another long train or metro into Tokyo, especially if you’re arriving with substantial amounts of luggage. From Narita, the most common option to get to Tokyo City is the Narita Express train service. For Osaka, Kansai Airport is relatively easy to navigate, similar to Haneda. The most common way to get into Osaka City or Kyoto City is via the JR Haruka Train - which requires both a basic fare and express fare ticket. There are typically long lines for Haruka tickets during busy arrival periods, but there are usually a few people walking around with a QR code online purchase option which is much faster. I’ve done this twice and it has saved me tons of time - and just another example where having international data is helpful. Finally, don’t forget to complete the Visit Japan Web pre-arrival forms via their app. You’ll get QR codes for customs and immigration, making your entry into Japan far more smooth than fumbling with pen-and-paper forms upon arrival. The Visit Japan Web app also has tax-free shopping information and functionality.
Renting a Car
Renting a car is very straightforward in Japan, less adjusting to the right-side drive if you come a left-side drive country like the US. I can’t tell you the number of times, while exiting the rental car lot, that I’ve used the windshield wiper instead of the turn signal. But, a few minutes on the road and it’s all good, so don’t be discouraged if you have no experience with right-side drive, just be cautious. Getting a rental can open up some pretty amazing destinations within Japan: the Fuji Five Lakes Region, Hokkaido, and Wakayama Prefecture being a few favorites. Most large rental car companies like Budget JP, Toyota-Rent-A-Car, Orix, etc. take reservations online through their websites or through online travel sites like Booking (which has been my go-to for over seven years). Other than a reservation, you’ll need three very important documents to rent a car in Japan: your home country driver’s license, your passport, and an international driving permit (IDP). In the US, an IDP can be obtained at most AAA travel offices for a flat fee of $20. If you don’t have the ability to make passport photos at home, there will be a charge from AAA for those as well. Members of AAA can typically save a few bucks on the passport photos.
Tokyo is a sprawling metropolis - so I’d think about it like half a dozen cities sewn together. If you only have 3 or 4 days in Tokyo, my recommendation is to break up your visit into quadrants. Approaching your visit like this will minimize the amount of time you’ll need to spend on trains and buses trying to traverse the many mini-cities of Tokyo. In this blog post, I’ll be focusing on listing the areas and sights in each quadrant that may be of interest, just to kick-start your own research. Let’s get started.
North/East Tokyo
Asakusa: Home to Senso-ji, Tokyo’s oldest and most famous Buddhist temple, Asakusa retains an old Edo atmosphere. The lively Nakamise Street is lined with traditional shops selling souvenirs and street food, while a short walk leads to the Sumida River and Tokyo Skytree views.
Ueno Park: One of Tokyo’s largest parks, Ueno Park is known for its cherry blossoms, museums, and cultural institutions like the Tokyo National Museum, Ueno Zoo, and Shinobazu Pond. It's a favorite spot for hanami (flower viewing) in spring.
Tokyo Skytree: The tallest structure in Japan (634m tall!), Tokyo Skytree offers breathtaking city views from its observation decks. The surrounding Tokyo Solamachi complex features shopping, dining, and an aquarium.
Ryogoku: The heart of sumo wrestling, Ryogoku is home to Ryogoku Kokugikan (Sumo Hall), the Sumo Museum, and Edo-Tokyo Museum. Many local restaurants serve “chanko nabe”, the protein-rich hot pot enjoyed by sumo wrestlers.
Tokyo Dome: A major entertainment complex featuring Tokyo Dome Stadium, home of the Yomiuri Giants baseball team, as well as Tokyo Dome City, which includes an amusement park, shopping, and spa facilities.
Yanaka Ginza: A charming, nostalgic shopping street in Yanaka, one of Tokyo’s best-preserved old neighborhoods. It’s known for traditional shops, cozy cafés, and a glimpse of Tokyo’s past.
Bunkyo Civic Center 25F View: This free observation deck offers stunning panoramic views of Tokyo, including Mount Fuji on clear days. It’s a hidden gem for skyline photography without the crowds.
Akihabara: Tokyo’s electronics and otaku culture hub, Akihabara is famous for anime, gaming, and tech stores. It’s home to maid cafés, retro gaming shops, and Akihabara Radio Kaikan, a hotspot for rare collectibles.
Hijiribashi: A picturesque bridge with a view of the Kanda River and historic architecture, including Holy Resurrection Cathedral (Nikolai-do) and the retro-style buildings of Ochanomizu. It’s a famous photo spot as multiple train lines converge from different tracks and bridges.
University of Tokyo Campus: Japan’s most prestigious university, known for its beautiful Akamon (Red Gate), Yasuda Auditorium, and the scenic Sanshiro Pond. The most famous view, however, is that of the Gingko Tree Avenue in autumn with yellow trees and leaves.
Nezu Shrine: A hidden gem with a tunnel of vermillion torii gates, Nezu Shrine is one of Tokyo’s oldest Shinto shrines, famous for its Azalea Festival in spring and peaceful garden setting.
South/East Tokyo
Toyosu: A modern waterfront district, home to the Toyosu Fish Market, which replaced the famous Tsukiji inner market. It also features teamLab Planets, an interactive digital art museum, and urban shopping areas.
Tsukiji Outer Market: While the wholesale market moved to Toyosu, Tsukiji Outer Market remains a vibrant area for fresh seafood, sushi, and street food stalls selling tamagoyaki (Japanese omelet) and grilled seafood skewers.
Odaiba: A futuristic man-made island with a Statue of Liberty replica, FujiTV Building, beaches, and beautiful Tokyo Bay & Rainbow Bridge views. Great for shopping, entertainment, and photographing nightscapes.
Imperial Palace: The residence of Japan’s Imperial family, the Imperial Palace Gardens are open to the public, featuring historic ruins, moats, and seasonal foliage. The Nijubashi Bridge is a popular photo spot.
Ginza: Tokyo’s luxury shopping district, home to flagship stores, department stores like Mitsukoshi and Ginza Six, Michelin-starred restaurants, and iconic architecture.
Tokyo Station Building: A beautifully restored red-brick landmark, Tokyo Station blends history with modernity. The area includes a boutique hotel, underground shopping streets, and the elegant Marunouchi district. Photos of the building can be taken from above at the nearby KITTE Garden.
Tokyo International Forum: An architectural masterpiece with a futuristic glass atrium, Tokyo International Forum hosts exhibitions, concerts, and business events. Fantastic place for architectural and portrait photography.
North/West Tokyo
Shinjuku: A bustling nightlife and shopping district, Shinjuku is home to Kabukicho (Tokyo’s entertainment district), Golden Gai (tiny bar alleys), Omoide Yokocho (retro food stalls), and the stunning Tokyo Metropolitan Government Building observation deck.
Yoyogi Park: A spacious, laid-back park perfect for picnics, jogging, and hanami (cherry blossom viewing). It’s next to Meiji Shrine, one of Tokyo’s most important Shinto shrines.
Meiji Jingu (Shrine): One of Tokyo’s most significant Shinto shrines, Meiji Jingu is dedicated to Emperor Meiji and Empress Shoken. Nestled within a tranquil forest in Shibuya, it offers a peaceful retreat from the city’s hustle. Visitors pass through massive torii gates, stroll along serene walking paths, and can witness traditional Shinto wedding ceremonies. The nearby Meiji Jingu Inner Garden is particularly beautiful, especially during the iris bloom in June.
Harajuku: Known for Takeshita Street, a hub of youth fashion, kawaii culture, and unique street food like rainbow cotton candy, candied strawberries, and crepes. Nearby, bordering Omotesando, are two incredible shopping plazas, Tokyu Plaza Harajuku Harakado and Tokyu Plaza Omotesando Omokado.
Omotesando: A stylish avenue known as Tokyo’s “Champs-Élysées”, Omotesando features luxury boutiques, high-end cafes, and architectural gems like the Omotesando Hills shopping complex and the two plazas mentioned above.
South/West Tokyo
Shibuya: A dynamic district famous for Shibuya Crossing, Shibuya Scramble Square, and the Hachiko Statue. It’s a major center for shopping, nightlife, and pop culture, with must-visit spots like Shibuya Sky (rooftop observatory).
Roppongi / Roppongi Hills: Known for upscale nightlife. The Roppongi Hills Mori Tower offers “Tokyo City View”, a nice observation deck. The area is also home to art museums like Mori Art Museum and 21_21 DESIGN SIGHT.
Azabudai Hills Mori JP Tower: Tokyo’s newest skyscraper, Azabudai Hills Mori JP Tower is a sleek complex with luxury dining, high-end offices, and skyline views from its observation decks. There is a paid view deck on the 33F with admission cost and beverage purchase, around $10 USD. It’s worth it to get arguably the best view of Tokyo Tower. The building also houses the new teamLab Borderless museum.
National Art Center, Tokyo: A unique art museum with no permanent collection, featuring rotating exhibitions in an impressive glass-curved building designed by Kisho Kurokawa.
Tokyo Tower: A classic Tokyo landmark, Tokyo Tower offers two observation decks with city views. At night, it’s illuminated in seasonal colors.
Nakameguro: A trendy, relaxed neighborhood known for the Meguro River, which is stunning during cherry blossom season. It’s also home to stylish cafés, bookstores, and boutiques.
Shimokitazawa: A bohemian-style neighborhood famous for vintage fashion, record stores, indie theaters, and cozy cafés. It has a laid-back, artistic vibe, making it one of Tokyo’s coolest local spots that is increasingly becoming popular with tourists.
Similar to Tokyo, we’ll split Kyoto into quadrants to maximize your time enjoying the city. In some ways, traversing Kyoto is more cumbersome than Tokyo because of the limited public transit options and how spread out some of the main attractions are. Particularly, the Kyoto Municipal Subway mostly runs North-South and East-West outward from Kyoto Station, with some JR local lines covering the distance to Arashiyama, Fushimi Inari, Uji, and Nara. Otherwise, public transit is heavily dependent on buses - which, if you’ve seen some of the news from last year, get incredibly crowded. When buses get crowded, I usually end up walking to a metro station or just call a taxi via the Uber app.
East Kyoto
Gion District: Kyoto’s historic geisha district, Gion is famous for its traditional machiya (wooden townhouses), exclusive tea houses, and cobblestone streets. At night, you may spot a maiko (apprentice geisha) on her way to an appointment. Hanamikoji Street and the Shirakawa River area are particularly scenic. Note that there are restrictions in place to protect the local Geisha from unwanted harassment from tourists and photographers - you don’t want to end up on social media for the wrong reasons.
Nishiki Market: Known as “Kyoto’s Kitchen,” Nishiki Market is a vibrant, narrow shopping street with over 100 stalls selling fresh seafood, pickles, sweets, and Kyoto specialties. It's a must-visit for food lovers wanting to sample local delicacies.
Sannenzaka and Ninenzaka Slopes: These charming, historic streets lead up to Kiyomizu-dera Temple, lined with traditional shops selling Kyoto sweets, matcha, tea, crafts, and souvenirs. The preserved architecture and stone-paved paths make for a picturesque stroll.
Kiyomizu-dera Temple: A UNESCO-listed Buddhist temple, Kiyomizu-dera is famous for its massive wooden stage offering panoramic views of Kyoto, especially stunning during cherry blossom and autumn foliage seasons. The temple's name means "Pure Water Temple," named after the Otowa Waterfall within its grounds. The temple can get extremely crowded, but I’d recommend visiting early in the morning (less crowds) or for sunset (more crowds) depending on your comfort and preference.
Hokan-ji Temple (Yasaka Pagoda): This five-story pagoda is one of Kyoto’s most iconic photo spots, standing elegantly between the traditional streets of Higashiyama. It’s especially photogenic in the early morning or evening when (comparatively) fewer visitors are around.
Yasaka Shrine: Located at the entrance to Gion, Yasaka Shrine is famous for its lantern-lit main hall and lively seasonal festivals. It’s particularly popular during Gion Matsuri in July and for its night market stalls in spring and summer.
Heian Shrine: This grand Shinto shrine features a striking vermilion torii gate and a spacious inner courtyard. Located near Okazaki Park, it's a quieter, less touristy spot with beautiful gardens and nearby cultural attractions like museums and a cherry blossom promenade with boat tours.
Kamo Riverfront: The stretch between Gion and Gojo is a popular picnic and sunset spot, especially during cherry blossom season. Locals and visitors gather along the riverbanks to relax, while seasonal lanterns and fireflies add to the charm in summer. Bug spray is recommended during warmer months.
Higashiyama: A historic district filled with temples, shrines, and scenic streets, Higashiyama is home to the Philosopher’s Path, Ginkaku-ji (Silver Pavilion), Kiyomizu-dera, and more. Walking through the area feels like stepping into Kyoto’s past.
Philosopher’s Path: A peaceful stone-paved walkway following a cherry tree-lined canal, this path is named after philosopher Nishida Kitaro, who used it for meditation. It connects Ginkaku-ji with Nanzen-ji Temple and is stunning during cherry blossom season.
Ginkaku-ji, the Silver Pavilion: A Zen temple known for its elegant simplicity and meticulously maintained sand gardens, Ginkaku-ji was originally a shogun’s retreat. Despite its name, it was never covered in silver, but its understated beauty makes it a serene place to visit.
West Kyoto
Arashiyama District: A scenic district in western Kyoto, Arashiyama is home to the Bamboo Forest, Monkey Park, and Katsura Riverfront. It’s especially famous for its boat tours and breathtaking autumn foliage. The Togetsukyo Bridge offers postcard-perfect views of the area.
Adashino Nenbutsu-ji Temple: A hidden gem near Arashiyama, this peaceful temple features thousands of weathered stone statues honoring the spirits of the deceased. The temple also contains an impressive bamboo grove. Less crowded than nearby attractions, it offers a quiet, reflective atmosphere.
North/Central Kyoto
Kyoto Botanical Gardens: Established in 1924, Kyoto Botanical Gardens is Japan’s oldest public botanical garden, featuring over 12,000 plant species across seasonal flower beds, a cherry blossom grove, and a vast greenhouse. It’s a tranquil retreat, perfect for nature lovers and photographers.
Imperial Palace: Once the residence of Japan’s emperors, Kyoto Imperial Palace is a grand architectural site set within the expansive Kyoto Gyoen National Garden. Visitors can admire its traditional wooden halls, elegant gardens, and historic gates, reflecting the refined beauty of Japan’s imperial past.
Nijo Castle: A UNESCO World Heritage Site, Nijo Castle was built in 1603 as a residence for Tokugawa Ieyasu. It’s famous for its stunning nightingale floors, which chirp when walked on to detect intruders, and its intricate gold-leafed murals inside the Ninomaru Palace.
Kinkaku-ji, the Golden Pavilion: One of Kyoto’s most iconic landmarks, Kinkaku-ji is a Zen temple covered in radiant gold leaf, reflecting beautifully in its surrounding pond. Originally a shogun’s villa, it symbolizes harmony between architecture and nature, especially breathtaking in autumn and winter.
Kyoto Station Building: A modern contrast to Kyoto’s historic charm, Kyoto Station is a futuristic architectural marvel featuring bold steel-and-glass design. It houses shopping malls, restaurants, and panoramic observation decks, making it both a transit hub and an attraction in itself.
Toji Temple: Home to Japan’s tallest five-story pagoda, Toji Temple is a significant Buddhist site dating back to the Heian period. It hosts vibrant seasonal events, including Kyoto’s famous flea markets and breathtaking cherry blossom illuminations.
Kyoto Tower: Standing 131 meters tall, Kyoto Tower is the city’s highest structure, offering sweeping views of Kyoto’s skyline and surrounding mountains. Its observation deck provides a unique vantage point, especially stunning at sunset.
Kyoto Railway Museum and Aquarium: These two attractions offer a mix of history and family-friendly experiences. The Kyoto Railway Museum showcases Japan’s railway heritage with steam locomotives and interactive exhibits. Nearby, the Kyoto Aquarium features marine life, including giant salamanders, dolphins, and penguins, blending education with entertainment.
South Kyoto
Fushimi Inari Taisha: One of Kyoto’s most famous and photogenic landmarks, Fushimi Inari Taisha is a Shinto shrine dedicated to Inari, the deity of rice, prosperity, and fox spirits. Its mesmerizing Senbon Torii (thousands of vermillion torii gates) create a breathtaking path leading up Mount Inari, offering stunning views of Kyoto along the way.
Uji, the home of Matcha: Located just south of Kyoto, Uji is world-renowned for its high-quality matcha (green tea). The town offers authentic tea houses, scenic riverside walks, and cultural landmarks like Byodo-in Temple, a UNESCO World Heritage Site featured on the 10-yen coin. A visit to Uji is a must for tea lovers and history enthusiasts alike.
Nara (Half or Day Trip): A short train ride from Kyoto, Nara was Japan’s first capital and is home to some of the country’s most significant cultural treasures. Todai-ji Temple, housing the world’s largest bronze Buddha, and Nara Park, where friendly, free-roaming deer bow for treats. A half-day is enough to see the main sights, but a full day allows for deeper exploration of temples, gardens, and old streets.
You know the deal by now - we’ll divide Osaka into quadrants. Beyond its famous castle, riverwalk, and food scene, I’ve found the people in Osaka to be some of the friendliest in Japan. Due to the crowds, commotion, and proximity to ever-popular Kyoto, some travelers have started skipping Osaka altogether. In my opinion, they’d be missing out.
North Osaka
Expo Commemorative Park: A vast park built on the site of the 1970 World Expo, featuring lush gardens, walking trails, museums, and the iconic Tower of the Sun. A great place for seasonal cherry blossoms and autumn leaves.
Katsuo-ji Temple: A hidden gem in the northern hills of Osaka, this temple is famous for its thousands of daruma dolls, symbolizing perseverance and good luck. It’s especially scenic in autumn.
Cup Noodles Museum (Ikeda): A fun and interactive museum where you can create your own custom Cup Noodles and learn about the history of instant ramen, invented in Osaka by Momofuku Ando.
Umeda Sky Building: One of Osaka’s most striking skyscrapers, featuring the Kuchu Teien Observatory, a 360-degree open-air rooftop deckwith breathtaking city views.
Osaka Station Building: A massive transportation and shopping hub, featuring the futuristic Grand Front Osaka, rooftop gardens, and a variety of dining and retail options.
Tenjinbashi Shopping Street: Japan’s longest shopping arcade, stretching 2.6 km with an endless variety of local shops, restaurants, and street food. A great place to experience local Osaka culture.
Nakanoshima Park: A scenic urban oasis between the Dojima and Tosabori Rivers, known for its rose garden, cultural institutions, and stunning night views of Osaka’s skyline.
East Osaka
Tenma Bridge and the Riverwalk: A picturesque spot along the Okawa River, ideal for evening strolls, boat rides, and cherry blossom viewing in spring.
Osaka Castle: One of Japan’s most famous castles, featuring a majestic main tower, historical exhibits, and panoramic city views from the top. Best visited during cherry blossom season.
Nishinomaru Garden: Located within Osaka Castle Park, this tranquil garden offers stunning views of the castle, cherry blossoms, and seasonal flowers.
West Osaka
Kyocera Dome Osaka: A massive multi-purpose stadium for concerts and baseball games, home to the Orix Buffaloes and a key venue for big events in Osaka.
Osaka Aquarium (Kaiyukan): One of the largest and most impressive aquariums in the world, featuring a massive central tank with a whale shark, interactive exhibits, and diverse marine life from the Pacific Rim.
Universal Studios Japan (USJ): A must-visit theme park with world-class attractions, including Super Nintendo World, The Wizarding World of Harry Potter, and thrilling roller coasters.
South Osaka
Namba Yasaka Shrine: A unique shrine famous for its gigantic lion-head stage, which is believed to bring good luck and success.
Namba Neighborhood: Osaka’s entertainment and shopping hub, packed with restaurants, bars, and landmarks like Dotonbori, Namba Parks, and Namba City Mall.
Dotonbori Riverwalk: A vibrant riverside area with neon lights, giant billboards (including Glico Man), and endless street food stalls. A must-visit for Osaka’s nightlife and food scene.
Kuromon Ichiba Market: A food lover’s paradise, this traditional market is famous for fresh seafood, wagyu beef, and Osaka street food like takoyaki and grilled scallops.
Hozenji Yokocho: A narrow, lantern-lit alley with historic atmosphere, small izakayas, and the moss-covered Hozenji Temple, a hidden gem near Dotonbori.
Shinsekai & Tsutenkaku Tower: A retro district inspired by Paris and New York in the early 1900s, famous for its kushikatsu (deep-fried skewers), neon lights, and the Tsutenkaku Tower observation deck.
Shitennoji Temple: Japan’s oldest officially established Buddhist temple, dating back to 593 AD. Features a five-story pagoda, a serene garden, and historic halls.
Harukas 300 View (Abeno Harukas): The tallest skyscraper in Japan (300m), with an observatory offering panoramic views of Osaka, Kobe, and even Mount Ikoma on clear days.
Shinsaibashi Shopping Street: A bustling shopping arcade filled with fashion boutiques, department stores, and international brands, connecting Dotonbori and Namba.
Midosuji: Osaka’s Champs-Élysées, this wide boulevard is lined with luxury brands, high-end boutiques, and stunning seasonal illuminations in winter.
Day-Trips (or Shorter) That Will Enrich Your Visit
Some of my favorite places in Japan aren’t necessarily in the big cities themselves, but right outside or a short trip away. Many of these places deserve their own guides, but I’d be remiss not to mention some of my favorites. Curious about these day trips? Let me know via Email or Instagram DM and I’d be happy to create dedicated guides for them!
Fuji Five Lakes Region (from Tokyo)
Kamakura (from Tokyo)
Nara (from Kyoto)
Uji (from Kyoto)
Miyajima (from Hiroshima)
Iwakuni (from Hiroshima)
Katsuo-ji Temple (from Osaka)
Getting Off the Beaten Path
The further I dive into Japan’s countryside, hidden gems, and slower cities, the more I find myself longing to explore them. I’ve listed just a few of the less-popular cities and regions I’ve visited to date. Curious about these places? Let me know via Email or Instagram DM and I’d be happy to create dedicated guides for them!
Wakayama Prefecture, Nachi Falls
Naoshima + Art Islands
Nagano
Matsumoto
Kamikochi
Kanazawa
Gifu Prefecture, Hida Region, Shirakawa-go, Hida-Takayama
Are there other aspects of Japan trip-planning you want to hear about? Let me know via Email or DM me on Instagram! I have tons of experience with:
Booking Affordable Hotels
Unique Accommodations (Ryokan, Machiya, etc.)
Booking Affordable Flights
Using Points & Miles to Fly Business & First Class to Japan
Formula 1 Japanese Grand Prix
Until next time, be well, and see you in the next post!
