My Journey Through Japan: A First-Timer's Perspective
The Basics - Getting Situated
I spent one beautiful week in Japan, splitting my time between Tokyo and Kyoto, with one day trip to Osaka. For a one-week itinerary for first timers, this is ideal! I wouldn’t have done it differently because I got a great taste of traditional Kyoto and modern Tokyo. If you want to change it up, you could consider checking out Kobe or Nara from Kyoto, or getting off the beaten path to visit one of Japan’s many retreats and spas.
I took the bullet train round trip between Kyoto and Tokyo using the Japan Rail Pass, which currently costs just under $500 for a 7 day pass. It was a very unique experience, taking about 3 hours each way. If Tokyo to Kyoto is your only long journey, a flight is likely the better option at around $70 round trip. If you want both convenience and the novelty of taking the bullet train, you could take the train one way and fly for the return trip.
In Japan, the convenience stores are a lifesaver! Stop in Lawson or 7/11 for local snacks or even a meal on the go. I didn’t have it, but my friend recommends the 7/11 brand of beer. If you like coffee, I found this was the easiest and most consistent place to get it. You can get a fresh cup or buy a bottle of iced coffee to take with you for later.
Water is not commonly served at the table; so request “mizu” if you prefer it to tea.
On that note, English is rarely spoken in Japan, which came as a surprise to me! However, I learned that almost everyone can read English because it is compulsory in school. Make sure you have a translator app with Japanese downloaded so you can type in whatever you need to communicate on your phone.
Generally, most people try their best to be respectful of others in Japan. Things that cause disturbances, like playing music on your phone on public transportation, are frowned upon.
It is also considered disrespectful to hand over money; instead, place it in the tray on the counter whenever you buy something.
KYOTO: the Early Bird Gets the Tranquil Worm
Since I was in transit a lot, I chose to stay near the main train station. I found an incredible last minute deal for ~$45 a night at M's Hotel Kyoto Station Taruya. While not fancy, the rooms were comfortable and clean; it was great for my needs at that price.
For food, the stand out for me was Arajin Ramen. It was recommended by a friend who discovered it, and is a bit out of the way from tourist attractions, but so worth going. I took the bus there, but if you are in a group it may be worth it to get a direct taxi there. Do note that they have very limited seating, so I would get there right when they open or a little before.
My favorite activities:
Fushimi Inari Taisha - my favorite thing I did in Japan, it’s a must do. Wear comfy shoes, bring a book, and prepare for a serene walk up with lots of stops. I recommend going as early as possible: I’d aim for 5:30 or 6am if I were to go again, since it gets uncomfortably crowded with tour groups by 8am or so.
Bamboo Forest - another must, also best early in the morning to beat the crowds. After you’ve seen the main section, build in some time to enjoy the river views and surrounding neighborhood, which has lots of shops and restaurants. I would stop at eX cafe Kyoto Arashiyama or somewhere similar for tea or dessert.
Gion - this is the old town in Kyoto. It is so so so cool, and I would have loved to have spent more time there. This is the area with the famous “world’s prettiest” Starbucks, as well as more local shops, all in traditional Sikuya architecture. When I went, it was absolutely packed, so I would also try going earlier right when the shops open.
Marayuma Park - great place to hang out and enjoy the beauty of a Japanese garden.
TOKYO: Tackling the Megacity
Tokyo is the biggest city in the world, with so much to see and do. It can be a far trip between neighborhoods, which are the size of cities themselves. If you don’t have a lot of time, I recommend you pick a few must-do activities and fill in the rest of your time with things nearby. I checked with a friend who lives near Tokyo on where to spend your time while you’re there, and we agreed on these neighborhoods:
Shibuya:
See the iconic pedestrian crossing, one of the busiest in the world.
Pay homage to the loyal dog at the famous statue near Shibuya Station.
Explore the busy streets with shops, boutiques, and nightlife.
Asakusa:
Visit Tokyo's oldest temple and its Thunder Gate.
Wander through the shopping street lined with traditional shops.
Explore the aquarium for a unique experience.
Shinjuku:
Relax in Shinjuku Gyoen National Garden with a blend of Japanese, English, and French styles.
Head to the observation decks for panoramic city views.
Experience the nightlife in narrow alleys and tiny bars.
Harajuku:
Stroll down streets known for quirky boutiques and vibrant street culture.
Explore Meiji Jingu, a serene Shinto shrine surrounded by lush forest.
Akihabara:
Get immersed in gamer and anime culture in Electric Town.
Take your pick of themed cafés for a unique experience.
Ginza:
Take window shopping to the next level with the incredible multi-story facades of the upscale boutiques on Chuo-dori Street.
Taste fresh seafood and sushi at the outer market.
Catch a traditional performance at the historic Kabuki-za theater.
If you’re doing anything near Ginza or Tokyo Station, I had a great meal with my Japanese coworkers at Katsukichi Shin-Marunouchi Building.
As with anywhere I go, I would definitely recommend doing one or several free walking tours here to get a better understanding of the city and culture! I did a few through this company: https://www.tokyolocalized.com/
If you choose another tour group, I highly recommend you still look for free/tip-based tours. Through lots of experience, I’ve found that tour guides who have already been paid sometimes coast through the tour, but guide are much more engaged when they want the payment equivalent through your tip. That being said, if your tour guide lives up to your expectations, express your gratitude with a generous tip!
