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Japan Unfolded: My Guide to Tokyo, Kyoto, Osaka & Miyazaki in 2 Weeks 🇯🇵
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items A curated travel guide through some of Japan’s most unforgettable destinations — from the vibrant streets of Tokyo and the timeless charm of Kyoto to the dynamic energy of Osaka and the serene beauty of Miyazaki in 2 weeks. 📷 🍜 ✨
Map
Sections
5
Tokyo
Kyoto
Osaka
Miyazaki
What to Pack
Tokyo
Things to do in Tokyo
I’m a big Disney fan, so naturally this was my first stop on my trip last year. Tokyo Disneyland was amazing. The Beauty and the Beast ride was my favorite. I loved all the themed food, parades and how much people dressed up.
Tokyo Disneyland
The best park in Tokyo Disney — and huge! There are so many rides. The theming is gorgeous. The new Fantasy Springs section was my favorite. It’s so beautiful and the rides were amazing.
Tokyo DisneySea
Enjoyed this immersive exhibition with many different rooms to experience and interact. It’s best in the morning where it’s less crowded.
teamLab Borderless: MORI Building DIGITAL ART MUSEUM
The classic Tokyo tower is a lookout spot inside this historic landmark.
Tokyo Tower
It’s certainly a busy cross. I wouldn’t try to take a picture. But this area is a perfect spot to head towards many great shops and restaurants.
Shibuya Crossing 渋谷スクランブル交差点
Harajuku is a great spot to visit full of unique shops and cafes. Animals cafes are very popular. If that’s not your speed, it’s filled with trendy clothing shops, vintage shopping and delicious food.
21 of the BEST things to do in Harajuku
Near Harajuku station is the Meiji Jingu Shrine. It’s visited by locals where you can witness live ceremonies taking place. It’s beautiful among lush foliage; and impressive displays of sake barrels.
Meiji Jingu
Popular market where you can get delicious street food.
Tsukiji Outer Market
The Gōtokuji Temple has famously become known for their large collection of lucky cat statues.
Daikeizan Gotokuji temple [Official website]
Pokémon fans will love this store filled with amazing merchandise for so many kinds of Pokémon. I was impressed.
Pokemon Center Shibuya
Another great store worth visiting for Nintendo fans young and old.
Nintendo Tokyo
An area in Shinjuku filled with many bars and izakayas.
Golden Gai: Dinner & Drinks in Shinjuku, Tokyo
Head to Shinjuku to see the famous Godzilla head statue. Experience this attraction from the street or up at the lookout.
Godzilla Head
Great area for high-end shopping and quality restaurants. Home to many high-end vintage stores for luxury bags.
Ginza - Tokyo Travel
This buzzing spot is known for attracting anime and manga fans; as well as gamers looking for new or vintage items.
Akihabara Electric Town 秋葉原電気街
A beautiful park in Tokyo that gets very popular around cherry blossom season. There are walking paths, rental boats, a zoo and several museums.
Ueno Park
In Shibuya you’ll find the statue of Hachiko the dog, a loyal companion who waited for his owner’s return after his passing. He is celebrated in Tokyo. This attraction draws a crowd and a line forms to take a photo.
Visit the Hachiko Statue: a brief history and where to find it
Beautiful temple in Asakusa. Near a market with many great souvenirs and food.
Sensō-ji (Asakusa Kannon Temple) - Tokyo Travel
I had a great experience at this museum. Had the pleasure of seeing Louise Bourgeoise’s exhibit and was completely moved. I love how the museum is laid out with a few exhibits, stores and cafes. It’s worth spending time.
Mori Art Museum
These mega stores are not to be missed! They have an incredible amount of products. Take your time shopping. Maybe buy an extra suitcase while you’re at it. I did.
Don Quijote
Kyoto
Things to do in Kyoto
My favorite soba noodles came from this local spot recommend by our hotel. This spot was incredibly authentic. My husband’s udon was also delicious. I highly recommend. It’s a 5-min minute from Hotel Kanra Kyoto.
Handmade Udon Shofukutei - Kyoto Restaurants
An immersive botanical garden experience incorporating light and sound with luscious foliage. Enjoyed a lovely fall evening with my husband followed by some matcha hot chocolate which was available outside.
Light Cycles I Moment Factory
This temple is a must-see when visiting Kyoto. It’s incredible with so much rich history and scenic views. Prepare to shop. The best markets are in the area with incredible matcha, tea rooms and so much more.
KIYOMIZU-DERA TEMPLE
Another must-see landmark when visiting Kyoto. Known for its path with hundreds of traditional gates. Be prepared to walk up many steps. I can humbly say that I didn’t make it all the way to the top, but I got pretty far.
Fushimi Inari Taisha
Iconic market where you can shop and eat. Many hidden gems located here such as custom watches, quality denim and even a Carhartt store to our surprise.
Nishiki Market
Also known as the Golden Pavilion, this Buddhist temple is famous for its luscious garden and mirroring lake. Save some room for some matcha ice cream and wasabi nuts to go.
Kinkaku-ji
Another must-see in Kyoto. This forest is truly spectacular. Prepare to walk and protect yourself from mosquitoes.
Arashiyama Bamboo Forest
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Popular scenic path that’s do tranquil and beautiful. Kyoto is truly a magical place.
Philosopher's Path - Kyoto Travel
Osaka
Things to do in Osaka
Had a great time at USJ. The park looked great with so many different themes. They went all out with the food and merchandise. I was very impressed with their Nintendoland.
Universal Studios Japan
Historical castle is now a museum for tours. This is a ticketed exhibition. Prepare for lines.
Osaka Castle
Buddhist temple known for its garden and thousands of red Daruma dolls.
Katsuo-ji Temple
Popular tourist attraction filled with restaurants and entertainment. It’s even better at night with all the lights and billboards.
Dotonbori
Miyazaki
Things to do in Miyazaki
This incredible shrine is positioned right underneath a cliff by the ocean. It’s surrounded with bunnies meant to promote fertility for honeymooners as this beach town is a popular wedding location.
Udo Jingu Shrine
Had the most delicious unagi and accompaniments. It was a memorable experience.
Manraku Unagi · Miyazaki, Miyazaki
If you have more time to explore, here’s a list with more things to do.
What to do in Miyazaki City
I had a lovely view of the beach from our hotel room. This beach especially attracts surfers from around the world.
Aoshima Beach Park
What to Pack
Many hotels had US wall plugs. However, if you’re staying in an air bnb, it’s better to be safe and pack these adapters.
VINTAR US to Japan Travel Adapter 2 Pack