Your Ultimate Travel Guide
Japan
Japan is an island nation in East Asia, with Tokyo as its capital and a population of approximately 125 million people. The country consists of four main islands—Honshu, Hokkaido, Kyushu, and Shikoku—and is known for its rich culture that merges tradition with modernity, featuring ancient temples, samurai history, and advanced technology.
Japanese cuisine is famous for dishes like, ramen, and tempura, while the natural beauty includes cherry blossoms, Mount Fuji, and hot springs. The best time to visit is during spring (March to May), especially for the cherry blossom season. The weather is perfect for exploring, not too hot and not too cold!
Japan Facts
Transport
The best option for travel in Japan is by train. Discover the Japan Rail Pass (JR Pass) – the ultimate travel ticket for tourists exploring Japan.
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Unlimited Travel - This pass offers unlimited travel on most JR trains, including the iconic Shinkansen, for a set period of 7, 14, or 21 consecutive days.
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JR Conditions - Available only to temporary visitors on a tourist visa, it must be purchased before arriving in Japan or at authorized outlets for a higher price
Make sure you bring your JR ticket confirmation to the JR office on arrival to exchange for the official correct ticket!.
Cultural Facts
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Cleanliness - Japan is incredibly clean. There are few public trash bins, so carry a small bag for your garbage.
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Litter - Avoid littering and separate recyclables when disposing of trash.
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Toilets - There are public toilets everywhere, they are super clean and very high tech, including music and heated seats.
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Politeness - Japan's culture is deeply rooted in politeness, exemplified by the custom of bowing, with deeper bows signifying greater respect.
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Cultural Customs - When visiting homes or traditional venues, removing shoes is essential, and indoor slippers are usually provided.
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Dining Etiquette includes saying “Itakimasu” before meals and “Gochisousama deshita” afterward, while using chopsticks properly is important—never stick them upright in rice.
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Tipping is not customary, and maintaining a quiet demeanor in public spaces, especially on trains, is highly valued.
Japanese Cuisine
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Sushi - Vinegared rice topped with fresh raw fish or seafood. Try nigiri, sashimi, maki rolls, or even high-end omakase experiences.
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Ramen - Noodle soup with rich broth—varieties include tonkotsu (pork bone), miso, shoyu (soy sauce), and shio (salt). Topped with pork slices, egg, and green onions.
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Tempura - Lightly battered and deep-fried seafood or vegetables. Often served with tentsuyu dipping sauce and grated daikon.
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Okonomiyaki - A savory pancake made with cabbage, batter, and a variety of toppings (pork, seafood, cheese), grilled on a teppan and drizzled with sauce and mayo.
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Takoyaki - Crispy-on-the-outside, gooey-on-the-inside octopus balls. A popular street food topped with bonito flakes, mayo, and takoyaki sauce.
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Tonkatsu - Breaded and deep-fried pork cutlet, typically served with shredded cabbage and tonkatsu sauce. Hearty and satisfying.
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Udon - Thick, chewy wheat noodles served hot in broth or cold with dipping sauce. Variants include kitsune udon (with sweet fried tofu) and curry udon.
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Soba - Buckwheat noodles served chilled with dipping sauce (zaru soba) or hot in a clear broth. Healthy, earthy, and delicious.
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Kaiseki - A traditional multi-course Japanese dinner featuring seasonal ingredients, delicate presentation, and refined techniques—Japanese haute cuisine.
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Unagi - Grilled freshwater eel glazed with a sweet soy-based sauce, typically served over rice as unadon. Rich, smoky, and unique.
Places to see Mount Fuji
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Arakurayama Sengen Park
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Oishi Park
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Oshino Hakkai
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Mt. Fuji 5th Station
Mount Fuji
Facts about Mount Fuji
Mount Fuji is Japan's tallest mountain, standing at 3,776 meters.
Located about 100 kilometers southwest of Tokyo. This iconic active stratovolcano features a-perfect symmetrical cone, making it a prominent natural landmark. The name "Fuji" is thought to mean "immortal" or "everlasting," and the mountain holds significant cultural importance in Shinto and Buddhism, with many shrines dedicated to its worship. In 2013, it was designated a UNESCO World Heritage Cultural Site for its cultural, artistic, and significance.
Travel from Tokyo
Train
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Shinkansen + Local Train/Bus:
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Take the Tokaido Shinkansen (bullet train) from Tokyo Station to Mishima Station (45-60 minutes).
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From Mishima, take a bus to the Mount Fuji area (about 1 hour).
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Limited Express Train (Direct Option):
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Take the Fuji Excursion train from Shinjuku Station to Kawaguchiko Station (about 2 hours). This train is convenient and goes directly to the Mount Fuji area.
Bus
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Direct highway buses run from major Tokyo locations (like Shinjuku or Tokyo Station) to Kawaguchiko Station or Mount Fuji's 5th Station.
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Duration: Around 2-2.5 hours.
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Cost: Approximately ¥2,000-¥3,000 one way.
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Recommended if you want an affordable and convenient option.
Tour
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Join a guided day tour from Tokyo that includes transportation, Mount Fuji's 5th Station, and nearby attractions like Hakone or the Fuji Five Lakes.
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Tours often include perks like English-speaking guides and meals.
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Get Your Guide has a lot of tours to choose from. Click here for the tour I took.
Tokyo
Facts about Tokyo
Tokyo, the bustling capital of Japan, is a vibrant metropolis known for its unique blend of traditional culture and cutting-edge technology. It is home to over 14 million residents, making it one of the most populous cities in the world. Famous for its iconic landmarks such as the Tokyo Tower and the historic Senso-ji Temple, the city offers a rich tapestry of experiences. Additionally, Tokyo boasts an extensive public transportation system, making it easy to explore its diverse neighborhoods and culinary delights.
Places to Visit
Shibuya Crossing
One of the busiest pedestrian crossings in the world, Shibuya Crossing is an iconic Tokyo landmark where hundreds of people cross from all directions at once. It’s a great place to experience the energy of the city, especially at night with the neon lights.
Senso-ji Temple
Tokyo’s oldest and most famous Buddhist temple, Senso-ji is located in Asakusa and features a stunning red pagoda, the iconic Kaminarimon (Thunder Gate), and Nakamise Street, lined with traditional shops and street food stalls.
Tokyo Tower
Inspired by the Eiffel Tower, this red-and-white structure stands at 333 meters tall and offers stunning panoramic views of the city. At night, it’s beautifully illuminated, making it a romantic and picturesque spot.
Tokyo Skytree
The tallest structure in Japan at 634 meters, Tokyo Skytree provides breathtaking views from its observation decks. It also houses shopping, dining, and an aquarium in the Solamachi complex at its base.
Takeshita Street
Located in Harajuku, this vibrant, youth-oriented street is famous for its quirky fashion, trendy shops, colorful crepes, and fun atmosphere. It’s a hotspot for unique shopping and a glimpse into Tokyo’s Kawaii culture.
Osaka
Facts about Osaka
Osaka, Japan's vibrant second-largest city, is known for its dynamic culture and delicious cuisine. famous for iconic dishes like takoyaki and okonomiyaki. The city boasts historical landmarks such as Osaka Castle and modern attractions like Universal Studios Japan. Osaka is also renowned for its friendly locals and bustling street, making it a must-visit destination for travelers.
Places to Visit
Den Den Town (Anime District)
Osaka’s answer to Akihabara, this area in Nipponbashi is a paradise for anime, manga, and gaming fans, packed with specialty stores, arcades, and electronics shops.
Osaka Castle
One of Japan’s most famous castles, Osaka Castle is a stunning historical landmark surrounded by beautiful parkland, especially breathtaking during cherry blossom season.
Amerikamura (American Village)
A trendy shopping and entertainment district known for its street fashion, vintage stores, unique cafes, and vibrant youth culture, often compared to Tokyo’s Harajuku.
Botanical Garden - TeamLab
A mesmerizing digital art exhibition set in Nagai Botanical Garden, where interactive light displays transform nature into an immersive, futuristic experience.
Mandarake/Animate
Must-visit stores for anime, manga, and otaku culture lovers. Mandarake specializes in rare collectibles, while Animate is great for new releases, merchandise, and fan goods.
Umeda Sky Building
A striking, futuristic skyscraper with a floating garden observatory that offers breathtaking panoramic views of Osaka, especially stunning at sunset.
Dotonbori District
The heart of Osaka’s nightlife and street food scene, known for its neon lights, massive billboards (including the Glico Running Man), and famous local delicacies like takoyaki and okonomiyaki.
Shinsekai (New World) & Arcades
A retro neighborhood filled with nostalgic charm, street food stalls, and classic arcades where you can enjoy games, pachinko, and old-school entertainment.
Universal Studios
Places in Osaka
Hiroshima
Facts about Hiroshima
Hiroshima, a city in Japan, is known for its rich history and resilience. It was the first city to be targeted by an atomic bomb during World War II on August 6, 1945, leading to significant destruction and loss of life. Today, Hiroshima is recognized for its Peace Memorial Park, which commemorates the victims and promotes a message of peace and nuclear disarmament. The city has also become famous for its delicious local cuisine, including Hiroshima-style okonomiyaki.
Places to Visit
Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park & Museum
A deeply moving site dedicated to promoting peace, this park features monuments, exhibits, and stories of those affected by the atomic bombing.
Atomic Bomb Dome (Genbaku Dome)
One of the few structures left standing after the bombing in 1945, now preserved as a UNESCO World Heritage Site symbolizing the hope for world peace.
Children’s Peace Monument
A heartfelt tribute to the children who lost their lives due to the atomic bomb, inspired by Sadako Sasaki and the thousands of paper cranes folded in her memory.
Reconstructed Hiroshima Castle
Originally built in the 16th century but destroyed in 1945, this beautifully reconstructed castle now serves as a museum showcasing Hiroshima’s samurai history.
Hiroshima Orizuru Tower
A modern observation tower near the Peace Park, offering panoramic views of Hiroshima and a unique paper crane-folding experience.
Mitaki Temple
A peaceful Buddhist temple nestled in the forested hills, known for its serene atmosphere, moss-covered statues, and stunning autumn foliage.
Hondori Street (Shopping)
A lively covered shopping arcade filled with boutiques, souvenir shops, and restaurants, perfect for picking up local goods and enjoying Hiroshima’s street food.
Mazda Museum
A must-visit for car enthusiasts, this museum offers a guided tour of Mazda’s history, technology, and even a behind-the-scenes look at their production line.
Try Okonomiyaki
Hiroshima’s famous version of this savory pancake layers noodles, cabbage, egg, and various toppings, often cooked right in front of you on a hotplate.
Day Trip from Hiroshima
Miyajima Island/Shrine Island. Click here for Miyajima!
Kyoto
Facts about Kyoto
Kyoto, once the capital of Japan, is known for its rich history and cultural heritage. The city is home to over 1,600 Buddhist temples, 400 Shinto shrines, and beautiful traditional wooden houses. Kyoto is famous for its exquisite gardens, seasonal festivals, and the iconic cherry blossoms in spring. Don't miss the stunning Kinkaku-ji (Golden Pavilion) and the historic Gion district, where you can experience traditional tea ceremonies and possibly spot a geisha
Places to Visit
Samurai & Ninja Museum
A hands-on museum where you can learn about samurai history, see real armor, and even try on costumes or experience a sword-fighting lesson.
Kyoto Tower
The tallest structure in Kyoto, offering panoramic views of the city from its observation deck—especially stunning at sunset or night.
Gion & Higashiyama
Kyoto’s famous geisha district, filled with traditional wooden teahouses, charming streets, and historic temples. It’s the best place to experience Kyoto’s old-world charm.
Kiyomizu-dera
One of Kyoto’s most famous temples, known for its massive wooden stage that offers breathtaking views of the city, especially during cherry blossom and autumn foliage seasons.
Golden Pavilion (Kinkaku-ji)
A stunning Zen temple covered in gold leaf, surrounded by a beautiful reflecting pond and meticulously landscaped gardens. It’s one of Kyoto’s most photographed landmarks.
Arashiyama Bamboo Forest
A magical and serene bamboo grove where towering green stalks create an otherworldly atmosphere. Nearby, you can also explore the Iwatayama Monkey Park and scenic Togetsukyo Bridge.
Sakurao
Facts about Sakurao Distellery
The Sakurao Distillery is located in the town of Sakurao in Hatsukaichi, Hiroshima. Situated along the shores of the Seto Inland Sea, it offers views of the World Heritage Site, Miyajima Island.
The Distillery was established in 1918, and has a long history of brewing and distilling spirits. They produce renowned single malt whisky, grain whisky, and pure Japanese gin using local ingredients and traditional methods.
Visitors can tour the distillery to observe the production processes and learn about the craftsmanship involved in creating their spirits. You also get to taste a range of their products at the end too! Click here for more information.
Getting There from Hiroshima
By Train
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Hiroshima Station: Take the JR Sanyō Line to Miyajimaguchi Station (approximately 30 minutes).
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Trains run frequently and are covered by the JR Pass if you have one.
By car
The distillery is approximately 25 km (15 miles) from Hiroshima City, making it a convenient and enjoyable day trip.
Nara
Facts about Nara
Nara is located in the Kansai region of Japan, near Kyoto and Osaka. It was Japan's first permanent capital. Nara served as the capital of Japan from 710 to 794 during the Nara Period.
It is considered the birthplace of Japanese culture, art, and architecture as it played a major role in introducing Buddhism to Japan.
Nara Park is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, famous for its free-roaming deer, that bow their heads! The deer are considered sacred messengers of the gods in Shinto. Visitors can feed the deer special crackers called shika senbei, which you can buy from local vendors. The park is also home to many historic sites, including Todai-ji Temple and Kasuga Taisha Shrine.
Getting there from Osaka
From Osaka Namba Station (Kintetsu Line):
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Take the Kintetsu Nara Line to Kintetsu Nara Station (about 40 minutes).
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From Kintetsu Nara Station, it’s a 10-minute walk to Nara Park.
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Pro Tip: This station is closer to Nara Park than JR Nara Station.
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From Osaka Station (JR Line):
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Take the JR Yamatoji Line to JR Nara Station (about 50 minutes).
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From JR Nara Station, walk (~20 minutes) or take a short bus ride to Nara Park.
Miyajima
Facts about Miyajima
Miyajima, also known as Itsukushima, is one of Japan’s most famous scenic spots and holds significant cultural and historical importance.
Miyajima is an island located in Hatsukaichi City, Hiroshima Prefecture, Japan. It’s situated in the Seto Inland Sea, about 20 km from Hiroshima City. The island is accessible by ferry from Miyajimaguchi on the mainland.
Places to Visit
Itsukushima Shrine & Floating Torii Gate
One of Japan’s most iconic sites, this Shinto shrine appears to float on the water during high tide, creating a breathtaking scene. The gate is especially stunning at sunset or when illuminated at night.
Mount Misen
The highest point on the island (535m), Mount Misen offers spectacular panoramic views of the Seto Inland Sea. You can hike up or take a ropeway, and along the way, you’ll find ancient temples and mysterious fire that has been burning for over 1,200 years!
Free-Roaming Deer
Miyajima’s friendly deer freely wander the island, adding to its charm. While they’re cute and used to people, they can be quite mischievous—so keep an eye on your snacks and maps!
