Incredible Japan: My itinerary and top tips
Day 1: Osaka - A Foodie Paradise. Kick-start your Japanese adventure in Osaka, known for its mouthwatering cuisine and lively nightlife. We explored the bustling streets of the Shinsaibashi area, which really reminded me of London foodie markets. Don't miss a visit to Osaka Castle, a historic landmark that offers panoramic views of the city.
Day 2: Koyasan – Get off the beaten track and experience the holiest Buddhist site in Japan. Take a scenic train and a funicular ride to the top of Mount Koya. Spend the night in a monastery and witness the monks' morning prayers at dawn. We stayed at the Sekishoin temple right next to the Oku-no-in cemetery which was gorgeous to walk through in the snow. Experience a moment of tranquillity amidst the serene surroundings of Koyasan.
Days 3-4: Hiroshima - Pay homage to the victims of the atomic bomb at the Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park and Museum. Explore the charming city of Hiroshima and take a short boat ride to Miyajima Island, home to the iconic Itsukushima Shrine and free-roaming deer. Don't forget to try the local speciality, okonomiyaki, a hidden gem of Hiroshima cuisine. This was absolutely my favourite meal of the whole trip! Some of the best sushi we’ve ever had was also in Hiroshima.
Days 5-6: Kyoto - Immerse yourself in the rich history and culture of Kyoto, the cultural capital of Japan. Wander through the narrow streets of Gion, the geisha district, and admire the beauty of the bamboo forest. Watch a maiko (geisha apprentice) performance to learn more about this fascinating career and lifestyle. Visit the iconic Fushimi Inari Taisha shrine and walk through hundreds of torii gates.
Day 7: Hakone - Escape the hustle and bustle of the city and unwind in the tranquil hot springs of Hakone. Take a cable car ride across the Hakone Volcano and soak in the natural beauty of the surrounding landscape. Treat yourself to a traditional Japanese ryokan experience and rejuvenate your body and soul in the soothing waters of an onsen, a natural steaming hot spring.
Days 8-9: Tokyo - End your journey in Tokyo, the bustling metropolis that never sleeps. Explore the vibrant neighbourhoods of Shinjuku, Shibuya, and Akihabara, and immerse yourself in the city's vibrant culture. Don't miss the chance to visit iconic landmarks such as the Tokyo Skytree, Senso-ji Temple, and the Meiji Shrine. Purchase a 72-hour tourist metro ticket for ease of transport on the metro. Just bring your passport along to the tourist office underground at Tokyo Main Station.
Now for some quick DOs and DON'Ts:
DO: -Take public transport everywhere, especially from the airport you land at into the city centre. The trains are fast, efficient and well-priced. Buy your JR pass in advance! -Use the luggage-forwarding services provided by hotels. No hassle of having to cart around heavy bags between cities. It will be there waiting for you in your next city! -Consider visiting outside of peak season (March-April) during the cherry blossom, or, Sakura. We went in February and witnessed plum blossom which was also beautiful.
DON'T: -Forget to have a translating app downloaded at the ready. The first time you'll need it? To understand the toilet flush symbols upon landing! -Bring a lot of luggage. The bullet trains (Shinkansen) are very comfortable because they're not overcrowded with heavy luggage. -Tip! Tipping is not part of the culture in Japan. You will receive very strange looks if you try to tip!
Japan is a country that inspires. From its historic temples to its modern skyscrapers, there's something for everyone to discover in this fascinating land. Send me an email or a DM to start planning your own Japanese adventure today and experience the magic of Japan for yourself. Arigato, Japan. I will be back!
