Japan Travel Planning Made Easy: 10-Day Itinerary for First-Timers

Summary

This 10-day Japan itinerary takes you through Tokyo, Mount Fuji, Kyoto, and Osaka, offering a perfect mix of modern city life, scenic nature, and traditional Japan. The journey begins in Tokyo with a variety of cultural and culinary experiences, then heads to Mount Fuji for a relaxing stay at a traditional ryokan. Next, you travel by bullet train to Kyoto to explore shrines, temples, and authentic Japanese cuisine, before concluding the trip with a fun-filled visit to Osaka's Universal Studios and its food scene. A great guide for first-timers looking to experience the best of Japan!

Takeaways

• 😀 Tokyo offers a mix of modern city life, delicious food, and traditional sites for first-time travelers to Japan.
• 😀 Haneda Airport is generally preferred over Narita Airport, but the latter can offer cheaper flights.
• 😀 The best way to travel around Tokyo is by train, though taxis are faster but more expensive.
• 😀 Hotels in Tokyo can be expensive, but using hotel points for stays like at the Aloft Hotel in Ginza is a great option.
• 😀 Japan's ramen culture is strong, and Michelin-listed spots like Ekigari Ramen offer incredible, rich flavors.
• 😀 Shibuya Crossing offers excellent people-watching opportunities, and the sushi conveyor belt restaurant in Tokyo is a must-try.
• 😀 Akiyabara is a paradise for gaming and electronics lovers, with arcade games and capsule toy machines.
• 😀 TeamLab Planets is an interactive art museum in Tokyo, offering immersive experiences like floating flower gardens.
• 😀 Renting a car in Japan to explore Mount Fuji and Lake Kawaguchiko provides scenic views and access to local attractions.
• 😀 Kyoto offers a range of cultural experiences, from Fushimi Inari Shrine's torii gates to traditional meals at Masaichi Restaurant.

Q & A

What is the purpose of this 10-day itinerary?

The 10-day itinerary is designed for first-time visitors to Japan who want to experience a mix of modern city life, scenic nature, traditional Japan, delicious food, and fun activities. It covers Tokyo, Mount Fuji, Kyoto, and Osaka.

What are the two airports you can fly into when arriving in Tokyo?

The two airports you can fly into when arriving in Tokyo are Haneda (HND) and Narita (NRT). Most travelers prefer Haneda, but it’s not always necessary to pay extra if flights to Narita are cheaper.

How do you get from the airports to central Tokyo?

The best and cheapest way to get into the city is by train. Haneda is about 30 minutes from Tokyo Central Station, while Narita is about an hour away. Taxis are faster but can cost around $100.

What is a popular hotel choice for staying in Tokyo?

A popular hotel choice for staying in Tokyo is the Aloft Hotel in Ginza, known for its great location and accessibility to major subway lines.

What is the significance of Fushimi Inari Shrine in Kyoto?

Fushimi Inari Shrine is one of the most important shrines in Japan, dedicated to the God Inari. It features thousands of red torii gates and offers hiking trails that lead up the mountain for a stunning view.

What is 'ekibin' and when is it commonly consumed?

Ekibin is a boxed lunch commonly sold at train stations in Japan. It is typically enjoyed during train rides, providing a variety of delicious local food options for passengers.

What experience did the travelers have at TeamLab Planets in Tokyo?

At TeamLab Planets, the travelers experienced an interactive art museum featuring installations like a floating flower garden and a soft black hole room. It was a highly recommended experience, but tickets need to be booked in advance.

What is unique about the Japanese souffle pancakes at Happy Pancake in Tokyo?

The Japanese souffle pancakes at Happy Pancake are known for being extremely light and fluffy. The restaurant offers a variety of locations in Tokyo, and the pancakes are highly recommended for anyone who loves pancakes.

Why is renting a car recommended for visiting Mount Fuji?

Renting a car to visit Mount Fuji is recommended because it allows flexibility to enjoy the beautiful countryside and make stops along the way. The rental car also provides a comfortable and scenic journey to Lake Kawaguchiko.

How did the travelers navigate from Kyoto to Osaka?

The travelers took the Kihan Main Line, a short one-hour train ride from Sanjo Station in Kyoto to Osaka. They opted for a premium car with reserved seating for comfort and to accommodate their luggage.