Japan Travel Made Easy: One-Stop Guide for First-Timers

Locations: Tokyo / Kyoto / Osaka / Hakone

Introduction

This guide will include the basics such as:

1. Pre-Flight checklist

2. Important Rules of Japan

3. First time tourist destinations (Highly recommended)

4. First time food to eat

5. Japan Day Trip Guides

6. Tour & Events information

7. Kyushu and other guides

Pre-Flight

1. Booking your flights

2. Book your Hotels

3. Book your Internet/Pocket Wifi  

4. Pre-book any events/restaurants 

5. JR Pass 

Booking your flights

Airlines, if you have a choice I recommend flying ANA or JAL (5 star airlines)- You get amazing food on both flights, Hagan das ice cream - Japanese customer experience / food / entertainment / Japanese beer

Pre-fill your information on Visit Japan Web:- This will speed up the processes of getting pass customs and everything (There are express lines when you get to the airport for this)[May not be needed anymore]

Mobile Passport Control:- If you are flying into the states or out of the states, fill out your MPC (Mobile Passport Control) to bypass long-line ups at the airport 

Visit Japan Web | Digital Agency Web

vjw-lp.digital.go.jp

Mobile Passport Control

www.cbp.gov

Airports:

Narita International Airport

@BmanLi

The main airport, with more duty free and you get a nice Nintendo welcome when you land in the airport. costs more to get into the city Cost: ~¥3,000 Commute time roughly: 1hr 20mins Options of local transit or Narita Express

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Haneda Airport

@BmanLi

The Airport that is closer, and requires less money to get into the city Cost: ~¥1,600 Commute time roughly 40 mins

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Recommended Hotels

Koko Hotel Tsukiji Ginza

@BmanLi

5/5 Must Stay| Great Location! I would stay at this hotel again in a heart beat. I would pick to stay at this hotel over most Airbnbs now and, here are 6 of my reasons: 1. Location - Walking distance to Tsukiji fish market & Ginza. Walking distance to Tsumugi (See premium guide) 10 Min walk from 2 subway lines! 2. Food Convenience - Super market &a few conbini 2 min walk close 3. - Restaurants - Amazing French restaurant across the street. (Masa's Bistro) 4. Cleanliness - Staff was nice, it was clean, I can grab as much stuff as I needed (Toothbrush/toothpaste/mouthwash/tea etc) 5. Shower - The shower pressure was perfect, not too soft and not too hard. 6. New - The hotel is new and modern, I stayed here during my 2023 trip.

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谷町君Hotel 恵美須町72

@BmanLi

This is spacious hotel is a great option for your next stay.. It has everything I want, good location, clean and spacious bathroom, lots of space for suitcase and sleeping. a kettle to boil water and ultimately a great location.

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The Royal Park Hotel Tokyo Haneda

@BmanLi

N/A - I haven't stayed here before | If you need a place to stay and need to be close to the airport, this is a great option to have

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Hakone Ashinoko Hanaori (Onsen)

@BmanLi

5/5 Must Go | I visited Ashinoko Hanaori Onsen in Hakone, Japan and was thoroughly impressed with its modern and clean facilities. The tranquil and serene atmosphere, beautiful views of Lake Ashi, and high-quality onsen experience provided the perfect setting for relaxation and rejuvenation. I particularly appreciated the resort's commitment to cleanliness, which added to my overall comfort and enjoyment of the experience.

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Renka-no-Yu On-Yado NONO Kyoto Shichijo

@BmanLi

An onsen that will give you stickers to cover your tatoo

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Yoshikawa

@BmanLi

In the heart of Kyoto and with a building that survived WW2. Dining is kaiseki typically with a variety of crunchy Tempura, and a nice view

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Fuji Kawaguchiko Onsen Hotel Konansou

@BmanLi

5 /5 Must Go | Rooms are spacious, and you either get Mt. Fuji view or lake Kawaguchiko view. Food and the employees are super nice.

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Sim Card vs Pocket Wifi

This is really based off preference, but here is a brief guideline on what to pick:

Sim Card :

Solo traveler

- Need more data 

- Can use E-Sim

Pocket WIFI:

- Group travelling

- You don't need much data

- You are okay with getting throttled if you use too much data

- Save money (split cost with others)

Pre-booking Events

If you are planning to go to any hot tourist attractions, make sure you go on the website and book ticket's ahead of time. Places such as; Team Lab Planets, Ghibli Museum, Shibuya Sky 

JR Pass

Should you get the JR PASS? It depends, on where you are going and how you are planning to travel. With the recent JR Pass price hike, it might not be worth it for a lot of folks unless you plan on using the shinkansen a lot. I recommend using the JR Calculator in the link below, and read the info on the JR Pass website to understand how it works. 

JAPAN RAIL PASS

japanrailpass.net

Japan Rail Pass Calculator

www.japan-guide.com

Drastic price increase announced for the Japan Rail Pass

www.japan-guide.com

Rules of Japan

1. Don't eat on the go

Once you purchased your drink/food, eat the drink/food near the restaurant that you got the food from. Don't eat and walk at the same time

2. Don't eat on public transport

Similarly, don't eat on the subway lines or busses. There are a couple of exceptions and the Shinkansen is one of them. If you are ever in doubt, ask one of the officers/drivers if you can eat. 

3. Don't Tip

Japan doesn't have a tipping culture, they just provide extraordinary customer service everywhere. Don't tip, it can be seen as rude!

4. Don't smoke in public

In Tokyo especially, there are designated smoking areas. So don't walk around and smoke on the sidewalk! Go to your designated smoking areas. 

5. Obey rules and signage

There are a lot of signs, on the floor, walls and ceilings. Obey them. There are arrows on walking directions (up vs down stairs), where to line up for the train. 

6. Priority Seating

If you are on public transportation or elevator. You see an person on crutches/wheelchair, have health issues, pregnant, has an infant, or an elderly person. Give them priority seating or even the elevator. 

7. Train Reserved Carts

If you have not reserved a seat for the shinkansen or any train, it is okay to sit in the spots that are red. As they are vacant, but at every stop be sure to check if it turns yellow/green. Please move ahead of time, so that it allows the person who paid for the seat to sit there.

8. Volume on public transportation

General rule of thumb on subways/trains/public transportation. Don't use the phone where everyone else is. Also from that, it is please don't be too loud on public transportation, as some people maybe sleeping.

9. Escalators/Stairs

In general (dependent on region) for escalators, stand on the left side of the escalator and the right side is for walking. Do Not block the escalator (Unless Escalator has signage that specifies). There are some escalators that are Do not Walk, to only allow people to stand on escalators.

10. Garbage Disposal (skip if you are only staying at hotels)

In Japan, garbage is separated by "Burnable, Non-burnable, and recyclable" It is different than the typical North American garbage/recycling system. Here is a picture that can categorize what to do for each item. 

Not a rule but there are no Ubers in Japan, it just calls over a taxi. There are Taxi companies such as Didi or GO that you will end up calling. Taxi is going to be more expensive generally, and to sign up for these apps you need to register your phone number.

‎GO / Request taxi app

apps.apple.com

‎DiDi-Rider

apps.apple.com

General rule of thumb just be a polite tourist, try not to disturb the people around you, don't be obnoxious and follow the rules & Signage. If you don't know the rules, then ask!

Hot Tourist Destinations (first time)

These recommendations are generally going to very tourist friendly, great time whether you know any Japanese or none at all. No matter what kind of traveler you are, looking for food/experience/scenery/photography. 

How to prioritize:

5/5 = Must go, if you don't go you are truly missing out, extremely unique experience, or it is a limited time event

4/5 = Good to go, Provides a very fun and unique experience for 90% of people. 

3/5 = Optional to go, I'd prioritize other things unless you specifically really like this or are a big fan of this place.

I won't be adding anything less than 3/5 in here.

Tokyo

teamLab Planets TOKYO

@BmanLi

5/5 Must Go | TeamLab Planets Tokyo is a digital art museum where visitors can walk through water and interact with mesmerizing digital art installations that respond to their movements and touch. With no maps or instructions, visitors are free to explore and interact with the art in their own unique way. It's a one-of-a-kind destination that offers an immersive and unforgettable experience.

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Tokyo Joypolis

@BmanLi

4/5 Good for most people | Tokyo Joypolis is a futuristic indoor theme park that offers a wide range of thrilling rides and attractions. With cutting-edge virtual reality technology and interactive games, visitors can experience a variety of unique and exciting adventures. From a haunted house to a roller coaster that travels through a futuristic city, Tokyo Joypolis is a must-visit destination for anyone seeking a fun and immersive experience.

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Unicorn Gundam Statue

@BmanLi

3/5 Optional to go | The Unicorn Gundam Statue at Odaiba is a stunning and impressive piece of art that captures the imagination of visitors with its size and futuristic design. Standing at a towering 19.7 meters tall, the statue lights up at night, adding to the already impressive visual spectacle and making it a must-see attraction for anime and science fiction fans visiting Tokyo.

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Shibuya Sky

@BmanLi

4/5 Good to visit for most travelers | Shibuya Sky is a breathtaking observation deck located on the top floors of the Shibuya Scramble Square building. From 229 meters above the ground, visitors can enjoy panoramic views of Tokyo's skyline and experience the thrill of walking by a glass wall. Note: Truly a unique experience being that high up, Biggest con, wait times, and there isn't much to do other than the view + shopping. You need to buy tickets at least 2 weeks ahead of time.

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Meiji Shrine Sanshuden

@BmanLi

5/5 Must Go | Meiji Shrine is a peaceful and serene oasis in the heart of Tokyo that offers a unique and immersive experience of Japanese culture and history. The tranquil surroundings, traditional architecture, and beautiful gardens make it a must-visit destination for anyone seeking a deeper understanding of Japan's rich heritage.

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Tsukiji Outer Market

@BmanLi

5/5 Must go | Tsukiji Outermarket is a food lover's paradise, offering a wide range of culinary delights. Visitors can indulge in fresh sushi, sashimi, and other seafood dishes, as well as local specialties such as tamagoyaki (Japanese omelette), grilled seafood skewers, mochi (rice cake) desserts, seasonal fruits, and even Wagyu + Uni Skewers. With so many delicious options to choose from, it's the perfect place to sample Tokyo's vibrant food scene.

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Toyosu Market

@BmanLi

3/5 Optional to go | Toyosu Market is a bustling and world-renowned seafood market in Tokyo that is famous for its tuna auction and fresh seafood restaurants. Visitors can witness the exciting tuna auction and enjoy some of the freshest and most delicious seafood in the city at the market's many restaurants. If you are not into tuna auction (Which you have to wake up early). Then this place might not be for you.

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Tokyo Skytree

@BmanLi

5/5 Must Go | Tokyo Skytree is a must-visit attraction in Tokyo, offering breathtaking views of the city skyline from its observation decks located at 350 and 450 meters above ground. With its impressive height and modern architecture, it's a great spot for sightseeing, taking stunning photos, and enjoying a panoramic view of Tokyo.

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Sumida Aquarium

@BmanLi

5/5 Must Go | Sumida Aquarium is a small but charming aquarium located in Tokyo that boasts a stunning collection of marine life from around the world, including jellyfish, penguins, and sea otters. With its informative exhibits, interactive displays, and breathtaking views of the Tokyo Skytree, it's a hidden gem for anyone interested in aquatic life.

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RED° TOKYO TOWER

@BmanLi

5/5 Must Go | Red Tokyo Tower, located within Tokyo Tower, offers visitors a unique and immersive virtual reality experience. With a wide range of high-end VR games and attractions, it's the perfect place to escape into a virtual world and explore the latest in gaming technology while enjoying stunning views of Tokyo.

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Tokyo Tower

@BmanLi

3/5 Optional to go | Tokyo Tower is a symbol of the city and a popular tourist attraction in Tokyo. With its impressive height of 333 meters, visitors can enjoy breathtaking views of the city from the observation deck. Note: Tokyo Skytree, Tokyo Tower, Shibuya Sky, Tokyo Metropolitan Government building will all give you an amazing view, some will be preferred over others.

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Tokyo Metropolitan Government Building

@BmanLi

4/5 Good to go | The Tokyo Metropolitan Building's observatory deck is a great place to take in panoramic views of Tokyo for free. Located on the 45th floor of the building, visitors can enjoy stunning views of the city, including famous landmarks like Tokyo Tower and Mount Fuji on clear days. Note: It is free to go to the deck

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Ghibli Museum

@BmanLi

4/5 Good to go (non Ghibli fans) 5/5 Must go (Ghibli fans) | The Ghibli Museum is a must-visit destination for any Studio Ghibli fan or animation enthusiast. From the whimsical architecture to the unique exhibits, visitors can immerse themselves in the enchanting world of Studio Ghibli and gain a deeper appreciation for the art of animation. Note: Please be respectful, you aren't allowed to take video/pictures in some parts of the museum. Highly recommend pre-purchasing your tickets.

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Akihabara

@BmanLi

5/5 Must Go | Akihabara is a unique and must-see experience for anyone visiting Tokyo or Japan. With its vibrant and eccentric atmosphere, it offers a one-of-a-kind glimpse into Japanese pop culture and technology. Whether you're a fan of anime, gaming, or simply want to explore a fascinating part of Tokyo, Akihabara is a destination not to be missed.

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Shinjuku Gyoen National Garden

@BmanLi

5/5 Must go (Especially during Sakura season) | Shinjuku Gyoen National Garden is a tranquil oasis in the heart of Tokyo, featuring a stunning landscape of gardens, ponds, and cherry blossom trees. The garden offers a peaceful retreat from the bustling city, making it a must-visit for nature lovers and those seeking a moment of respite.

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Tokyo Disneyland

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4/5 Good to Go | Tokyo Disneyland Japan's exceptional attention to detail, exclusive seasonal events, unmatched hospitality, and location in vibrant Tokyo make it a uniquely magical and unforgettable Disney experience that visitors of all ages will cherish.

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Tokyo DisneySea

@BmanLi

4/5 Good to Go | Tokyo DisneySea Japan is an awe-inspiring and immersive theme park that offers a truly one-of-a-kind experience for visitors. With its incredible theming, top-notch attractions, and delicious food, it's no wonder that it consistently ranks as one of the best theme parks in the world.

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Sensō-ji

@BmanLi

3/5 Optional to go | Sensoji Temple is a magnificent and historic Buddhist temple located in the heart of Tokyo's Asakusa district. With its striking red gates, impressive five-story pagoda, and rich cultural significance, it's an extremely busy temple to visit. If you are okay with being shoulder to shoulder, then this temple is a good place to visit. Note: I highly recommend if you do come, go to the side streets away from the crowd. You will have a much better experience. There is also a beautiful flower garden away from the main crowd.

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Osaka

Osaka Castle

@BmanLi

5/5 Must Go | At Osaka Castle, visitors can explore the castle's historical exhibits, climb to the top of the castle's observation deck for panoramic views of the city, enjoy the castle's surrounding gardens and park, participate in traditional Japanese cultural activities, and attend various seasonal events and festivals held on the castle grounds throughout the year.

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Dotonbori

@BmanLi

5/5 Must Go | Dotonbori for its vibrant and energetic atmosphere, where they can enjoy a wide range of entertainment options, including street performances, shopping, and dining on Osaka's famous street food, such as takoyaki and okonomiyaki, in the midst of neon-lit signs and iconic landmarks.

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Universal Studios Japan

@BmanLi

4/5 Good to Go | Universal Studios Japan is a world-class theme park that offers an incredible array of thrilling rides, immersive attractions, and top-notch entertainment. While the Florida counterpart has a larger footprint, Universal Studios Japan features unique attractions, seasonal events, and cultural experiences that make it a must-visit destination for anyone visiting Japan.

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Super Nintendo World

@BmanLi

4/5 Good to go | Super Nintendo World is a vibrant and colorful theme park within Universal Studios Japan that immerses visitors in the world of Nintendo. From exciting rides to interactive experiences and delicious food, it's a dream come true for fans of Nintendo and video games. Note: Once you enter the theme park, run straight to Super Nintendo world to book a time to enter the park. It gets very busy!

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Kuromon Ichiba Market

@BmanLi

4/5 Good to go | Kuromon Ichiba Market is a must-visit for foodies and seafood lovers in Osaka, offering an abundance of fresh seafood, meats, fruits, and vegetables, as well as a variety of cooked dishes and snacks that can be enjoyed while strolling through the bustling market. The market is also a great place to learn about and experience the local food culture of Osaka. There are a number of vendors that didn't survive through the lockdown, but it is still a great place to go!

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Namba Parks

@BmanLi

4/5 Good to go - Luxury Shopping mall | Namba Parks in Osaka is a stunning shopping complex with an impressive design that incorporates a green rooftop garden, complete with a waterfall and walking trails. The complex offers a diverse range of shops, restaurants, and entertainment options, making it an ideal destination for a day or evening out in the city. Be sure to visit the basement floor for their a foodie surprise

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Kyoto

Fushimi Inari Taisha

@BmanLi

5/5 Must Go | Fushimi Inari Taisha is a unique and iconic temple in Kyoto, famous for its thousands of torii gates that form a stunning path up the mountain. The temple's mystical atmosphere, picturesque scenery, and rich cultural heritage make it an unforgettable experience for travelers visiting Kyoto.

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Kiyomizu-dera

@BmanLi

4/5 Great to go | Kiyomizu-dera is a magnificent temple in Kyoto that offers breathtaking panoramic views of the city, surrounded by lush forest and traditional Japanese architecture. The temple's rich history, striking design, and serene atmosphere make it a must-visit destination for those seeking a truly immersive cultural experience in Japan. During Autumn, you can visit for the Autumn Illuminations

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gion一穂

@BmanLi

4/5 Good to go | Kyoto's Gion district is a must-visit destination for anyone interested in experiencing traditional Japanese culture. With its preserved historic streets, teahouses, and geisha performances, Gion offers a unique glimpse into the rich cultural heritage of Japan. Note: great sight seeing and shopping area.

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Kinkaku-ji

@BmanLi

3/5 Optional to go | Kinkaku-ji, also known as the Golden Pavilion, is a stunning temple in Kyoto with a majestic golden facade that reflects beautifully on the surrounding pond. I prioritize this lower than the other 2 temples, simply because this is less interactive

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Arashiyama Bamboo Grove

@BmanLi

3/5 Optional to go | Arashiyama Bamboo Forest is a unique and tranquil natural attraction in Kyoto, offering a serene escape from the city's hustle and bustle. To fully enjoy the experience and avoid the crowds of tourists, it's best to visit early in the morning or later in the afternoon, preferably on a weekday. Visiting during the off-season, such as during the winter months, can also help avoid the peak tourist crowds. The forest's towering bamboo groves, soothing atmosphere, and stunning scenery make it a popular destination for nature lovers and photographers alike. I have still never went inside the bamboo forest because of how busy it gets.

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Hakone

Hakone Ropeway Sounzan Station

@BmanLi

3/5 Optional to go | The Hakone Ropeway is a cable car that takes you on a scenic journey over the Owakudani volcanic valley in Hakone, Japan. During the ride, you can enjoy breathtaking panoramic views of the surrounding mountains and Lake Ashi. You'll also see the volcanic valley up close, with steam rising from the ground and the smell of sulfur in the air. On a clear day, you may even be able to see Mount Fuji in the distance.

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Hakone Ashinoko Hanaori (Onsen)

@BmanLi

5/5 Must Go | I visited Ashinoko Hanaori Onsen in Hakone, Japan and was thoroughly impressed with its modern and clean facilities. The tranquil and serene atmosphere, beautiful views of Lake Ashi, and high-quality onsen experience provided the perfect setting for relaxation and rejuvenation. I particularly appreciated the resort's commitment to cleanliness, which added to my overall comfort and enjoyment of the experience.

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Restaurants to visit (First time)

I will not be adding any Omakase restaurants, you can find those in my paid thatch reviews. These restaurants are generally going to be very tourist friendly, a number of them have multiple locations unless noted.

Bills Omotesando

@BmanLi

5/5 Absolutely Must Go | Bills Omotesando is a popular Australian restaurant that serves a variety of breakfast and brunch dishes, including their famous ricotta hotcakes. The food is fresh, flavorful, and served in a modern and inviting atmosphere, making it a great spot to start your day in Tokyo. Note: It is a must eat every time I visit Japan. If you have the option to, highly recommend booking a reservation ahead of time.

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Tsuta

@BmanLi

4/5 Good to go | Tsuta Ramen Tokyo is a Once Michelin-starred ramen restaurant known for its truffle-infused shoyu ramen. The broth is flavorful and the noodles have the perfect texture, making it a must-try for ramen lovers. It lost it's Michelin star, but it is a place where you can eat Michelin quality but not have to line up for it.

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Ichiran-Ramen Dotonbori

@BmanLi

5/5 Must Go | Ichiran Ramen is a popular chain store with many locations in Japan and around the world, known for its ability to customize your bowl of noodles according to your preference. From the richness of the broth to the spiciness of the sauce and the firmness of the noodles, every aspect of the dish can be tailored to create a unique and satisfying culinary experience. In addition, the restaurant has an app for Japanese people, for loyalty. While the quality of the broth and other ingredients may vary slightly, it's a great option for a quick and delicious meal, especially for ramen lovers. Note: This is not the best ramen in Japan, but it is a great ramen to have especially for first timers.

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Sato Yosuke Ginza Inaniwa Udon

@BmanLi

5/5 Must Go | ! Sato Yosuke Ginza Inaniwa Udon's udon noodles are renowned for their delicate and chewy texture, which is achieved through a traditional hand-stretching technique that has been passed down for generations. The restaurant's elegant and refined atmosphere, complete with attentive service and comfortable seating, adds to the luxurious and enjoyable dining experience. One of my personal favourite Udon places, perfect if you are looking for more of a local experience.

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Gyūkatsu Motomura

@BmanLi

4/5 Good to go | Gyukatsu in Shibuya is a must-visit restaurant for meat lovers, as it specializes in deep-fried beef cutlets that are crispy on the outside and juicy on the inside. The cozy atmosphere and friendly staff make it a great spot for a casual meal with friends or family. Note: The line and wait can be long so, if the line looks long and you are hungry. I recommend going elsewhere. Otherwise a great place to go!

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Oden Stall @ Kuromon Market

@BmanLi

5/5 Must Go | If you wander around Kuromon, you will see a stall that sells Oden and smells wonderful. I highly recommend getting food from that stall

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Kiwamiya

@BmanLi

4/5 Good to Go | Once you walk by this restaurant, you will smell the intoxicating smell of cooked beef. There is always a line up here, and I do recommend going. It is teppanyaki and cook your own meat. A lot of fun, and food tastes good.

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Isomaru Suisan Shibuya udagawacho

@BmanLi

5/5 Must Go | Isomaru Suisan is a popular seafood restaurant in Japan, known for its lively atmosphere and delicious grilled seafood. Their standout dish, the crab fried rice, is made with succulent crab meat, scrambled egg, and diced vegetables, cooked on a sizzling iron plate, and seasoned with soy sauce and butter, making it a must-try for seafood lovers in Shibuya. Note: It is 24 hours

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Jikasei MENSHO

@BmanLi

4/5 - Good to go | Jikasei MENSHO is a fantastic ramen spot in Tokyo, offering a unique and customizable dining experience. With its flavorful broth and variety of toppings, including melt-in-your-mouth wagyu chashu and crispy garlic chips, it's a must-visit for ramen enthusiasts looking for a high-end twist on the classic dish.

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Sosakumenkobo NAKIRYU

@BmanLi

5/5 Must Go | Nakiryu is a must-visit for ramen lovers in Tokyo, boasting a Michelin star for its flavorful and innovative take on the classic dish. With its rich broth, handmade noodles, and unique toppings, such as Szechuan-style spicy minced pork, it's an unforgettable culinary experience.

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Soba House Konjiki-Hototogisu

@BmanLi

5/5 Must go | The original Konjiki restaurant on the Michelin Guide. I haven't gone yet, but it is highly on my to go list.

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Blue Bottle Coffee - Shibuya Cafe

@BmanLi

3/5 Optional to Go | Blue Bottle Cafe is a popular coffee chain in Japan, known for its high-quality beans and meticulous brewing methods. With its sleek and modern interiors, friendly staff, and delicious coffee and pastry offerings, it's a great spot for a quick caffeine fix or a relaxing coffee break.

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Starbucks Coffee - Kyoto Ninenzaka Yasaka Chaya

@BmanLi

3/5 Optional to go | Starbucks Coffee at Ninenzaka Yasaka Chaya in Kyoto is a unique and charming coffee shop, housed in a beautifully restored traditional Japanese teahouse. With its serene atmosphere, stunning views of Yasaka Pagoda, and exclusive menu items, such as matcha latte with white mochi, it's a must-visit for coffee lovers and culture enthusiasts.

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Tempura Endo Yasaka (North)

@BmanLi

5/5 must go If you are looking for a tempure restaurant in Kyoto. This is a must go, you will get to enjoy a variety of Tempura dishes in a historic site. Every tempure dish is fried to the golden yellow perfection. Every bite is crunchy yet juicy on the inside.

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Gyoza ChaoChao (Shijo-Kawaramachi Branch)

@BmanLi

4/5 great to go. Gyoza restaurant is kyoto. One of the highest rating restaurants in kyoto for gyoza. It's a must try

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Takashimaya Times Square

@BmanLi

5/5 Must Go | Takashimaya Times Square is a popular shopping destination in the heart of Tokyo, offering a wide selection of high-end fashion, cosmetics, and gourmet food. With its luxurious atmosphere and excellent customer service, it's a great spot for indulging in some retail therapy and discovering the latest trends.

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Kirby Café

@BmanLi

3/5 Optional to Go | The Kirby Cafe in Tokyo is a dream come true for fans of the beloved video game character. With its adorable Kirby-themed menu items and whimsical decor, it's a fun and unique dining experience for gamers and foodies alike.

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Doner Kebab House

@BmanLi

4/5 Good to go | Doner Kebab in Akihabara is a must-visit for anyone craving delicious and affordable Turkish street food in Tokyo. With its generous portions of tender meat, fresh vegetables, and flavorful sauces, it's the perfect spot for a quick and satisfying meal on the go. Note: They are open later than most places there.

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Shiro-Hige’s Cream Puff Factory

@BmanLi

3/5 Optional to go | Shiro-Hige's Cream Puff Factory is a delightful bakery in Tokyo that offers some of the most delicious and adorable cream puffs, with a Totoro twist. From their cute Totoro-shaped cream puffs to the delicate and creamy fillings, it's a must-visit spot for any Studio Ghibli fan or dessert lover.

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Sushi Dai

@BmanLi

4/5 Good to go | Sushi Dai, a legendary sushi restaurant that used to be located in Tokyo's Tsukiji Fish Market, has relocated to Toyosu Market and continues to serve some of the freshest and most delicious sushi in the city. With its reputation for excellence, long lines, and limited seating, it's a must-visit spot for sushi enthusiasts visiting Tokyo. Note: You may have to line up early to get a seat at this restaurant

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Daiwa Sushi

@BmanLi

4/5 Good to go | Daiwa Sushi in Toyosu Market is a highly acclaimed sushi restaurant that serves some of the freshest and most flavorful sushi in Tokyo. With its expertly crafted sushi and bustling atmosphere, it's a must-visit spot for anyone looking for an authentic sushi experience in the city.

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Kura Sushi Asakusa ROX

@BmanLi

3/5 Optional to go | Conveyor belt quality sushi, where you can gatcha your plates for a small prize

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Events & Tour Options

Sumo wrestling with chicken hot pot

https://www.viator.com/tours/Asakusa/Tokyo-Sumo-Practice-Show-with-Chicken-Hot-Pot-and-Photo/d59194-463117P1?medium=social-share-native

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Mt Fuji & Hakone

Kyoto Tour Guide

Koyasan Full Day Private Tour

Hitachi Seaside Park

Conclusion

Tip: If you want to have an even better time, learn basic Japanese phrases to help yourself, and impress locals because they really love the fact that a tourist took the effort to try to learn the language.

In conclusion, I hope this travel guide has provided you with valuable insights and recommendations for your upcoming trip to Japan. Remember to take the time to immerse yourself in the culture, try new foods, and explore the unique attractions that Japan has to offer. If you've found this guide helpful, any donations to support its creation and upkeep would be greatly appreciated.

Checkout my other Japan Guides:

Brian L

Available for hire

Japan: Going Beyond the Golden Trail

This guide is tailored for seasoned travelers looking to explore Japan beyond the usual tourist hotspots and for those planning a trip to the beautiful and diverse region of Kyushu. Kyushu offers a unique blend of stunning landscapes, rich culture, and unforgettable experiences, but it also raises plenty of questions for travelers. What’s it like driving on the opposite side of the road? Which places are must-visits? What kind of budget should you plan for? Where should you fly into? This guide is designed to answer many of these questions and help you plan a smooth and enjoyable trip. For anything beyond the scope of this guide, feel free to reach out to me directly for personalized advice—I’d be happy to assist. Finally, don’t forget to save this guide for future reference and leave your review once you’ve experienced Kyushu for yourself. Your feedback will help others make the most of their journey as well. Safe travels!

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Google Maps. Step by step on how to get around Kyoto for your Day Trip

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Japan Travel Guide Made Easy (Luxe): Local and Luxurious

This is my One-stop Shop guide for all my recommendations from best luxurious restaurants to restaurants hidden from google and even the budget but delicious restaurants. Also get live forecasts of congestion in Kyoto. This guide will be updated constantly. (Last updated: Aug.12.2024) Welcome to the exclusive guide for advanced travelers seeking extraordinary culinary experiences in Japan. Delve into a curated selection of hidden restaurants that aren't on Google Maps and offer a truly unique dining adventure. From hidden alleyway izakayas to intimate chef's table experiences, these off-the-grid establishments will tantalize your taste buds and leave a lasting impression. Prepare to discover a world of culinary delights paid with the best spots for accommodations that will elevate your Japan travel experience to unparalleled heights. If you want to hire me personally click on the pink text "Available for hire"

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[Day Trip]Tokyo Beyond the Core: A Memorable Day Trip Exploring Hitachi Seaside Park

Detailed day trips in Tokyo, if you want to escape the urban city. This trip will be a low budget trip, and mainly filled with scenic views + food Anything in this guide I have put in here, would not include anything I personally wouldn't do/try. If you have any special requests for consultation, custom guides. Click on the "Available for Hire" Located right under my name

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[Day Trip] Kawagoe's Sweet Secrets: A Timeless Journey through Edo Past and a 'Yam-tastic' Present

Detailed day trips in Tokyo, if you want to escape the urban city. This trip will be a low budget trip, to take you back in time and experience the Edo period at Kawagoe. Anything in this guide I have put in here, would not include anything I personally wouldn't do/try. If you have any special requests for consultation, custom guides. Click on the "Available for Hire" Located right under my name

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Discovering Hokkaido: A Journey through Japan's Northern Wonderland

Welcome to Hokkaido, If you are looking for a Hokkaido guide that will constantly get updates and you want to look for: 1. Food 2. Nature 3. Sports 4. Best Accommodations Then this is the only guide you will need for Hokkaido. A little bit of information on Hokkaido Japan's northernmost island, a pristine haven for nature enthusiasts and adventure seekers. With its vast wilderness, rugged mountains, and untouched landscapes, Hokkaido offers a unique blend of natural beauty and cultural charm. From the snow-covered wonderland of Sapporo in winter to the stunning lavender fields of Furano in summer, Hokkaido promises a year-round escape filled with outdoor adventures, delectable cuisine, and warm hospitality.

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Japan: Unforgettable Accommodations for Your Journey

Searching for accommodations takes a lot of time and work, so let me do that for you. This guide is all about the best Accommodations you can get and not break your wallet (Unless you choose to). From Airbnb, hotels to Onsens you can find it all here. I will be constantly updating this doc so stay tuned, and be sure to book via the "Check Prices" button to help give me credit for the recommendations! Check out my other guides: 1. Japan Travel Made Easy: One-Stop Guide for First-Timers: https://www.thatch.co/guide/3fp1o16zeizte/view 2. Unblocking Your Japan Travel Experience: Tips for Overcoming Travel Constipation https://www.thatch.co/guide/3mp44f24mcojt/view

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Unblocking Your Japan Travel Experience: Tips for Overcoming Travel Constipation

Do you feel like your travel experience in Japan is being hindered by an unexpected guest that you just can't seem to shake off? No, not a travel companion, but rather a lack of bowel movement? Don't worry, you're not alone. Many travelers experience constipation while exploring a new country, and Japan is no exception. But fear not, with this guide, you can unblock your travel experience and make the most out of your time in Japan. So put down that Imodium and let's talk about how to overcome your travel constipation in Japan.

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Japan 2023 - Day 1 & 2

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