As a minimalist traveler, I rarely buy things when I go abroad. But when my husband and I first visited Tokyo and Kyoto, we stuffed two bags full of the best souvenirs from Japan. In a land known for quality products, rich culture, and ultra-cute characters, you’ll want to fill every nook and cranny of your suitcase with Japanese souvenirs.
Tokyo is the world’s second largest city and one of the most popular tourist destinations. Travelers who fall in love with this city find themselves drawn back again and again. But even repeat visitors can miss out on experiencing Tokyo like a local, and often end up doing the same touristy activities time and time again.
Writing this Kyoto 2 day itinerary was an interesting challenge. Trying to condense my favorite city into 48 hours of sightseeing was no simple feat! But if you can only afford to spend two days in Kyoto, this itinerary will guide you through the ancient city’s highlights as efficiently as possible.
Vibrant streets, awe-inspiring temples, delicious street food… This Osaka-Kyoto-Nara itinerary has it all. If you only have one week in Japan and want to experience as much of the country’s culture and history as possible, head to the Kansai region!
Read MoreOsaka-Kyoto-Nara Itinerary: Highlights and Hidden Gems
Japan is the only country where it’s nearly impossible to have a bad meal. Even the food on my ANA flight was delicious and artfully presented, and I was seated in coach! If you want to sample the country’s best dishes, this guide to the must eat food in Japan has got you covered.
Read MoreMust Eat Food in Japan: Where to Find the Best Dishes
If you had asked me 5 years ago how to spend 10 days in Japan, I would have given the same boring answer everyone else does. A few days each in Tokyo, Kyoto, and Osaka, with maybe a day trip thrown in. Luckily, I’ve explored a lot more of the country since then, and I’m here to share a more unique 10 day Japan itinerary.
Read MoreAlternative 10 Day Japan Itinerary: Highlights and Hidden Gems
Thanks to the expanding shinkansen network, exploring Japan has never been easier. And if you’re a foreign visitor, you can zip around the country without spending a fortune on tickets! These day trips from Tokyo by bullet train take full advantage of the Japan Rail Pass.
There are two kinds of people who visit Japan: those who speed along the Golden Route, and those who know where to slow down.
Read MoreSavor the Journey: 7 Places to Visit Between Tokyo and Kyoto
Kyoto is a wonderfully verdant city. Travelers flock here for bamboo groves, flower-lined paths, and tranquil shrine gardens. But if you have some time to spare, there are plenty of easy day trips from Kyoto that will particularly delight nature lovers.
If you’re traveling to Japan for the first time, you’re probably feeling a mix of excitement and anxiety. Planning a trip to Japan can be overwhelming, especially if you haven’t done much international travel! Luckily, I’m here to share my personal Japan travel checklist to help you prepare for the trip of a lifetime.
Read MoreComprehensive Japan Travel Checklist for First Time Visitors