Destination Overview
Best Time
March–May (Cherry Blossoms), October–November (Autumn) Length of Stay
10–14 days Budget Range
Mid-range / LuxuryTop Things to Do
Shibuya Crossing (Tokyo)
The busiest pedestrian intersection in the world.
Free
Evening
Fushimi Inari Shrine (Kyoto)
Walk through thousands of iconic vermillion torii gates.
Free
Early morning (6:00 AM)
Dotonbori (Osaka)
The neon-lit heart of Japan’s street food culture.
Free
Night
Where to Stay
Budget
Nine Hours Capsule Hotel (Multiple locations)
Iconic Japanese experience, clean, and very cheap.
Mid-Range
Mitsui Garden Hotel (Kyoto/Osaka)
Reliable quality, great locations, and modern design.
Luxury
Aman Tokyo or Hoshinoya Kyoto
Unparalleled luxury and traditional Ryokan experiences.
Sample 3-Day Itinerary
1
Tokyo Highlights
- Morning: Tsukiji Outer Market
- Afternoon: Harajuku/Meiji Shrine
- Evening: Shibuya Sky
2
Kyoto Tradition
- Morning: Fushimi Inari
- Afternoon: Kiyomizu-dera
- Evening: Gion District
3
Osaka & Nara
- Morning: Nara Deer Park
- Afternoon: Osaka Castle
- Evening: Street food in Dotonbori
How to Get There
- Nearest AirportNarita (NRT) / Haneda (HND) for Tokyo; Kansai (KIX) for Osaka/Kyoto
- Transportation from AirportNarita Express, Haruka Express, Limousine Bus
- Visa Requirements Visa-free for many; e-Visa available for others (check Visit Japan Web)
Getting Around
- Public TransportShinkansen (Bullet Train), Metro, JR Lines
- Transportation AppsGoogle MapsJapan TransitGrodin (Local info)
- Daily Transport Budget$15–$40
Daily Budget
Accommodation$40–$300
Food$30–$80
Transportation$15–$50
Activities$20–$60
Total Per Day~$105–$490
Where to Eat
Ichiran Ramen
Classic Tonkotsu ramen (Budget)
Kobe Plaisir (Kobe)
High-grade Kobe Beef (Luxury)
Must Try Dish
Sushi or Takoyaki
What to Pack
- Clothing: Comfortable walking shoes, layered clothing
- Documents: Passport, Suica/Pasmo card (digital or physical)
- Gadgets: Pocket Wi-Fi or eSIM, Power bank
Essential Tips
🛡️ Safety: Japan is extremely safe, but always keep your hotel address in Japanese.
💡 Money: Buy food at 'Konbini' (7-Eleven/Lawson) for high-quality, cheap meals.
🤝 Etiquette: Do not eat while walking and keep quiet on trains.
Important ReminderMany places are still cash-only; keep Yen on hand.
Top Photo Spots
- Chureito Pagoda (Fuji view)
- Arashiyama Bamboo Grove (Kyoto)
- Himeji Castle