Planning a trip to Japan? This guide’s got you covered. From Tokyo’s neon buzz to Kyoto’s peaceful shrines, Osaka’s foodie streets to Nara’s friendly deer — it’s all here. I’ve rounded up my favorite places to see, things to do, and bites you have to...
Sections
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Tokyo — Bright lights, big eats
Kyoto — Slower pace, deeper beauty
Osaka — Flavor bomb central
Quick side trips worth your time
Tokyo — Bright lights, big eats
Get up high and soak in the city from above. It’s unreal at sunset.
チケット購入 | SHIBUYA SKY
Wild fashion, fun shops, and crepes piled high with fruit and whipped cream.
Takeshita- Street 竹下通り
Classic Tokyo. Wander the temple grounds, snack on street food, and maybe grab a cute lucky charm.
Sensoji (Asakusa Kannon Temple) - Tokyo Travel
A sensory dream — glowing rooms, mirrored floors, water paths. It’s an art experience like no other.
[Official] teamLab Planets TOKYO, Toyosu
Kyoto — Slower pace, deeper beauty
Stroll through thousands of red torii gates — feels like walking through history.
Fushimi Inari Shrine
Go early, and it’s like stepping into a fairytale.
Arashiyama Bamboo Grove
Chill walk along the canal, perfect for slowing down and just being.
Philosopher's Path - Kyoto Travel
Maybe you’ll spot a geisha, maybe you’ll just find the perfect cup of matcha. Either way, it’s magic.
Gion - Kyoto Travel
Osaka — Flavor bomb central
Neon signs, canal views, and some of the best street food around.
Dotonbori 道頓堀
Old-school charm and deep-fried everything (hello, kushikatsu).
Shinsekai and Tsutenkaku Tower - Osaka Travel
Hello Mario Kart and Hogwarts!
Universal Studios Japan
Quick side trips worth your time
Feed the bowing deer and visit Todai-ji Temple. They’re cute and a little cheeky.
Nara Travel Guide - What to do in Nara City
Visit the white castle — it’s straight out of a samurai film.
What to do in Himeji
A powerful stop for reflection, followed by floating torii gate views and maple-leaf snacks on the island.
