I've visited Japan twice; once as a kid and once as an adult. First, when Japan had barely been discovered, and again after becoming a tourist hotspot. Here are the best things to do, places to eat and drink, where to stay, and sites to visit in Japa...
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Things to do
Where to eat/drink
Where to stay
Where to go
Things to do
The best experiences I had in Tokyo and Kyoto.
My hair has never felt so clean nor my muscles so relaxed. This head spa experience is affordable and offered in various parts of Tokyo.
The Head Spa Tokyo
A must-do for anyone visiting Tokyo. There are also other teamLab locations but each offer different experiences. Hot tip: you're required to take off your shoes and socks as this location has water areas, so I recommend not wearing pants, long skirt...
teamLab Planets TOKYO DMM
Offers the best city panoramas. If you're lucky, you can see Mount Fuji in the distance on a clear day. When I visited in late November, there were cute Christmas markets set up at the bottom.
Tokyo Skytree
A must-see landmark. Often busy, but nighttime and early morning are much quieter. Buy talismans here or wander to the markets for some snacks or souvenirs (watch out for overpriced items!)
Sensō-ji - Tokyo
Beautiful, peaceful park for a stroll. Holds vintage bargain markets with an eclectic and authentic collection of souvenirs.
Ueno Park - Tokyo
Pokemon fans can't visit Japan without a trip to one of the many Pokemon Centers! The one in Shibuya is particularly popular for its giant Mewtwo installation.
Pokemon Center Shibuya
If you're looking to get a permanent souvenir of your trip, this tattoo studio is an easy walk from Ueno Station and is run by an individual artist, Horien, who is kind, accommodating, and talented.
Swallow Art Tattoo Tokyo
This multi-level stationery store is a haven for lovers of arts and crafts.
Ginza Itoya - Tokyo
If you're visiting the culturally rich and historic area of Kyoto, this is one of the best things to do for an authentic glimpse into the life of geisha and maiko.
Gion Guided Walking Tour: Discover the World of Geisha
I've never felt so pretty. When visiting Kyoto, this is well worth the splurge for a truly memorable experience.
Geisha Makeover Experience in Kyoto
Where to eat/drink
Top spots for delicious food and tasty drinks.
Could not recommend this bar more. Interior design is immaculate, staff are friendly and attentive, drinks are fantastic and great value, outdoor garden area is picturesque, and the food is yum. I highly recommend the berry parfait.
ST LOUIS BAR by KEI - Tokyo
Just outside the teamLab Planets location in Toyosu, so this is a great post-experience food top. Had my first ever ramen here and I didn't think vegan ramen could taste so good.
Vegan Ramen UZU Tokyo
Delicious food at an affordable price, ordered via an iPad at your table and delivered directly to you on a conveyor belt. They have locations all over Japan.
Sushiro - Tokyo
Has a rooftop bar with unbeatable views. Be sure to book way in advance!
Shibuya Sky - Tokyo
Delicious sukiyaki experience close to Sensō-ji.
WAGYU SUKIYAKI - Tokyo
Luxury Japanese-style high tea experience in Shibuya.
Cerulean Tower Tokyu Hotel - Tokyo
Definitely a splurge but the outlook is picturesque and the dining experience is authentic, with seasonal ingredients.
Kyo-Suiran - Kyoto
Calm but vibrant atmosphere with traditional yet modern interiors and good food.
Gohan Ya Isshin Kyoto
Two historic, pedestrian-only alleys near Kiyomizu-dera Temple, lined with machiya, souvenir shops, and street food stalls.
Ninenzaka & Sannenzaka streets - Kyoto
Where to stay
Hotels I've stayed at in Tokyo and Kyoto.
Ideally located for access to Sensō-ji, Tokyo Skytree and Asakusa Station.
OMO3 Asakusa by Hoshino Resorts - Tokyo
Centrally located in Shinjuku. Easy walk to the shopping district and train station. Kind and helpful staff.
HOTEL KABUKI - Tokyo
Small but comfortable rooms and situated in the heart of Tokyo, with easy access to surrounding shops and nearby stations.
the square hotel GINZA - Tokyo
Has an on-site onsen and is nearby to Nanzen-ji. I went in autumn and the leaves here were so vibrant.
The Westin Miyako Kyoto
A more affordable and authentic ryokan in Kyoto. Nearby to the Kamo River for a scenic walk.
Ishicho Shogikuen - Kyoto
Where to go
Recommendations for the best places to explore in Japan.
Visit for Sensō-ji, Tokyo Skytree, and Nakamise Shopping Street.
Asakusa - Tokyo
Visit for Ueno Park, Ueno Zoo, and Ameyoko Shopping Street.
Ueno - Tokyo
Visit for Sunshine City shopping complex, anime and manga stores, and Pokémon Center Mega Tokyo.
Ikebukuro - Tokyo
Visit for Shinjuku Gyoen National Garden, the Giant 3D Cat Billboard, and various shopping options.
Shinjuku - Tokyo
Visit for the bustling Shibuya Crossing, Shibuya Sky, and Meiji Jingu.
Shibuya - Tokyo
Visit for teamLab Planets, Toyosu Market, and Toyosu Senkyaku Banrai.
Toyosu - Tokyo
Visit for Kabuki-za theatre, Itoya, and luxury shopping.
Ginza - Tokyo
Visit for Hanami-koji Street, Yasaka Shrine, and Gion Corner.
Gion - Kyoto
Visit for Kiyomizu-dera Temple, Ninenzaka and Sannenzaka, and Maruyama Park.
