The key word in enjoying all of these attractions is "GOING EARLY!" My Kyoto Starbucks, bamboo forest, Fushimi shrine, Disney Japan, Universal Studios, and various castles experiences were all "amazing" because I was early enough to beat the crowds. The lines and people in all your photos will be crazy if you wait till 1pm to do your attractions!
@@kb4123 when I was in Japan in April of 2024, I was consistently waking up at 5am every single day I was there so I used that as an opportunity to visit various attractions and restaurants super early. I beat a lot of crowds that way.
I'd rather avoid the region when it's that packed. Beginning to think checking what popular tourist destinations are and then avoiding those is the best approach. (Or go during typhoon season)
I think we had the most fun just walking around and not trying to do anything with a scheduled time. Coming upon stuff rather than going someplace specific and exploring the train stations was more fun and less stressful. Walking down side streets and seeing school kids walking to school. Coming across a gatchapan store or a place that looks good to eat at feels more like exploring and less like being a tourist. We found Kyoto to be so crowded it was off putting. We like the small unknown shrines butter than the famous ones. Honestly, Japan is so fascinating if you are a foreigner you can’t go wrong just winging it.
That's exactly what my wife and I do. Just wander and eat and eat in JR Stations. We were just in Kyoto and we ventured out to small neighborhoods beyond the Sanjo and Gion areas, away from the crowd.
I don't know about some of the rest, but this girl is dead wrong about Arashiyama Bamboo Forest. Maybe she doesn't like nature or walking? I don't know, and I don't care. This was a highlight of our last trip to Kyoto. It is beautiful, and the crowds are not that bad at all if it is not the weekend. If you go on the weekend, try to go a little earlier if possible. But DO NOT MISS IT -it is stunning!
Agreed! It was Amazing!! Plus there are multiple things to do in Arashiyama. The bamboo forest, monkey park, Arashiyama River and bridge, shops and restaurants, kimono forest, and rickshaw rides. A ton of things to do in one area if you are short on time.
When I went in August it was too crowded with tourist to enjoy. Also it is much smaller than what pictures might suggest, it's not a forest it's just a small park inside the city. When I took the train between Kanazawa and Kyoto I saw that there are a lot of natural bamboo forest everywhere, so when I came to visit this amusement park in Kyoto it was underwhelming and I felt dumb not to have taken a ride to outside the city to walk in an actual forest.
The current Osaka Castle is a concrete reconstruction based on the Edo Period design of the main tower. It has actually been destroyed and rebuilt several times over the centuries. The inside is now a museum, complete with elevators and air conditioning. I honestly still think it's worthwhile to visit, though. They did a beautiful job with the reconstruction and it's very educational. The castle grounds are gorgeous, especially during cherry blossom season.
Osaka Castle is a good photo op from the outside in the park if you don't have time. Instead definitely visit Himeji Castle or one of the 12 pre-modern tenshus that still stand today if you want to see the inside. If you really want to sit down at the Starbucks at Ninenzaka in Kyoto, try visit really early or later in the evening. It's easier to find seats before tourists arrive or after most leave the area in late afternoon. As a side note, I don't think it's just about time and money/budget. People have different interests and places they want to visit first. "Attractions to skip if you visit Japan for the first time..." could have been a better title, and hopefully viewers will have already picked up on what you like and dislike and then decide if they should skip too.
I decided to pass through Yokohama on my last evening in Japan. Major regrets, wished I stayed a couple of days at least. I'm a solo traveller who enjoys walking cities and Yokohama was extremely enjoyable. More spacious and architecturally diverse.
you should drop by ramen museum nearn shin-yokohama station and try different kinds of ramen at the lower ground. ramen kiosk serve really good noodles.
About Tokyo: - I agree with the Art Aquarium. It is beautiful with the colors, but the living conditions for the fish are horrible. Very little space, many fishes in a small aquarium and only plastic "vegetation". I wouldnt go back there for that reason - myself, I feel that Meiji Jingu should not be skipped and it can easily be combined with Harajuk and Takeshita Dori for the "Kaaui" culture (which is a "must see" for me in Tokyo - if you want to include Mount Fuji, I would not do a day trip, but stay there for 1 or 2 nights, so that your chances of seeing Fujisan are better. We stayed for two nights, on one day it was perfect, on the other day, you didnt see the mountain at all. I agree about the ropeway, I also prefered the boat ride (and walking along the shores of the lake) For other "must sees", it depends on your interests. Personally, I feel that Shinjuku (ideally you stay there) should be included, for the crazy neon lights, Omode Yokocho, Golden Gai, Kabuchiko. Also, I would include Akihabara, even if like me, you are not an anime or manga fan. Even though its very busy, if you like food, I would also go to the Tsukiji outer market. I would also visit one observation tower, on a clear day, to get great views over the city. The Tokyo Government Metropolitan Building in Shinjuku is free to visit. Otherwise, consider Shibuya Sky right next to Shibuya Crossing. TeamLab Planets and soon to reopen TeamLab Borderless are great fun and interactive, and another "must see" in my opinion. There are many other options, depending on what you are looking for. Myself, I really enjoy walking around Yanaka near Ueno park, for glimpses of old and traditional Tokyo.
Loved TeamLab in Tokyo! Agreed that Arashiyama bamboo forest can be skipped if it's busy, you can hardly take photos and it's pretty pretentious when folks are taking the cab up just for an Insta pic Yasaka Shrine in Gion at night is pretty, as a free 24 hour place to check out
I like the video but give me a break about the fish asking you for help. See, this a problem many people have in putting human feelings and consciousness in into animals who have a 10 second attention span. I can say with certainty THEY DO NOT CARE! LoL 🤣😎
I would not skip meiji jingu, It has interesting history in it. There's a reason why it's popular. Many go there because of the emperor who built it is very compatible to his wife, thus it became a place for people to wish for happy marriage and love fulfillment. Though thanks for telling people to skip some of these so it will be less crowded. lol.
I disagree and agree with Meiji shrine and the bamboo forest, but you can avoid the bad experiences. Meiji shrine was the first shine that i was able to see in my first time in japan, so i really recommend it if you are in Tokyo for the first time and don't go to Kyoto in the first days. The bamboo forest it's not crowded in the morning , so you need to go before 10 or 9am and it will be perfect. Also, the monkey park it's a must do if you are in the area.
I lived a year in Kyoto so I might be a bit biased, but Arashiyama with good weather is defs worth it as are some temples nearby. Something to definitely not miss if you're in a healthy condition is Fushimi Inari, such a gorgeous shrine
I’ve been inside the Osaka Caslte. It didnt keep any of the actual interior. Just a Museum. But the top was pretty nice. There is a stamp you can get if you’re collecting stamps. I’d recommend just looking from the outside
Just a short side-note; The Osaka castle as you see today is not the original but rather a rebuilt in concrete. The only original part that is left of Osaka castle is the wall lining around the castle and the castle moat.
To me, Meiji Jingu and Sensoji in Asakusa are an absolute must. Something I felt could have been skipped was the Imperial Garden. It really wasn't too impressive. The most impressive thing about it was the moat around it.
Omg I was kinda bummed I didn’t get to the imperial palace in Tokyo - I assume that’s what you mean by the imperial garden. I went to the imperial palace in Kyoto though.
@@TheTravellingLuis Sorry, I should have clarified it. Yes, I meant the Imperial Palace Garden in Tokyo. It really wasn't anything special. The huge walls and some wooden buildings were nice but the actual garden part really wasn't living up to the name or the hype. Walking down the short distance from Tokyo Station and seeing it from the outside really would've been enough.
You can't completely skip Yokohama. Aside from the soon-to-be closed Gundam Factory Yokohama, there's Chinatown, Red Brick Warehouse, and the Shin-Yokohama Ramen Museum.
I highly recommend the Sagano Romantic Train, Tenryu-ji Temple in Arashiyama and the Shigetsu Soba restaurant that the monks operate, the Saga-Toriimoto Town-scape preserved street near the Arashiyama Bamboo Grove, and just strolling around Arashiyama to visit spots like the Arashiyama Electric Train station, the Kimono Forest, and the Observation Decks around Arashiyama Park.
I agree with skipping most animal based "attractions". While Japan does have laws for animals' safety, the country's animal welfare views are low compared to the United States, where I'm from. I went to a rabbit cafe because I own and love rabbits, and while it wasnt a sad or depressing place, as someone who works in a zoological setting and has high standards for animal care, I felt the cafe was lacking. It didnt ruin the experience, but I didnt leave feeling all warm and fuzzy inside. So if I were to go to Japan again I'd skip the animal cafes. For Osaka, my friend actually told me NOT to bother going inside Osaka Castle. It's been modernized and is just a simple museum like interior, so none of the cool old architecture can be enjoyed. It was very bland for him, so I didnt bother doing it myself. Found the outside grounds to be lovely though! And speaking of Kobe! Oh Kobe!
Thanks for expressing your feelings/ opinions regarding treatments/ lacking protections of animals in Japan !! I am Japanese who's been living in the States for 35 years plus & not proud of that about my country myself !! 👍👍💜🥁🐉🎤🎶💞
I recommend Amanohashidate and taking smaller trains that tourists don't take. The only catch is that you have to be able to communicate somehow in Japanese, since these are the trains frequented by high school students (and there is no English support, just like the buses that leave Matsuyama Airport). I took one from Fukuchiyama to Miyazu, then from Miyazu to Amanohashidate. On my upcoming trip with my son, we are going to the Toei Studio Park in Kyoto. I believe my son will want to go inside the EVA. We will, however, go to Osaka's tower, since my son wants to experience the slide. The bamboo forest looks appealing. I can call my son "baka deshi" while walking with him. 😄😄😄
Bamboo forest, cloudy, dark, gloomy... this is now on my list 😂 Thanks for the suggestions, I'm planning a trip and I'll take your advice on everything except that.
It’s preference at the end of the day. No right or wrong. Personally not fond of cruising type of sightseeing. I enjoy the 4-5 miles walk in Japan and soak in all the amazing cultures, architectures, views, and experiences. Went to all these crowded areas but would still go again 🥲🥺🥺
That's so true!! There's no right or wrong way to enjoy Japan. And people have different interest when it comes to things they enjoy doing while traveling ☺️
Meiji Jingu is religious shrine is not a tourist attraction, treating it like any other attraction seems wrong. Tourist can go there but it's not meant for tourist. But you can skip Harajuku, Takeshita dori, and the Tokyo Imperial Palace area.
Meiji jingu is a state shinto shrine I think. Its a shrine managed by the government and imperial family since it is a shrine dedicated to emperor meiji
Omg, I cannot wait for my trip! I'm going this April with 3 other friends and we're all so very excited. Our itinerary is after landing, check in our Airbnb, then the following day, head to Ghibli Park. Then head to Kyoto and stay for 3 days, with a day trip in Osaka. Then take a train back to Tokyo and spend 5 days in Tokyo. I'm bringing an extra empty suitcase on this trip lol
Extra luggage is a great idea! I brought an extra backpack to put my clothes in going back home, and filled my luggage to the brim with stuff I bought 😅
For the day trip to Osaka, you can make that a full day thing since the Shinkansen is a 20 minute ride and can last pretty much to late at night. Japan is a really choose your own adventure type of country since there’s so much to do even if you only visit Tokyo, Osaka and Kyoto! You might have just missed the cherry blossoms in Tokyo since they bloom in about 2 weeks but you may still catch them in Kyoto if you arrive at the beginning of April!
For Osaka, my 3 favorite places in random order are: - the castle: get there early and/or prebook your ticket, so that you can also visit from the inside, for me it was worth it - Dotonburi, as mentionned by Sarah. There, I would also visit Don Quijote, which is like a crazy discount chain selling pretty much everything (it cant be described, you have to go there yourself), as its located right on the canal and has a big ferry wheel - the Kaiyukan Aquarium, which is one of the best aquariums I have visited wordwide Personally, I am not a huge fan of Osaka. I find that it is a bit a "cheap copy of Tokyo". So if your time in Japan is limited, instead of adding Osaka to Tokyo and Kyoto, I would rather go for Hiroshima and nearby Miyajima Island, for more diversity. But of course, thats only my opinion.
@@TheTravellingLuis Yes, I went inside and I thought that it was worth it. But only if you dont have to wait for ages in line (something I have no patience for ;-)). You can even dress up as a "samurai" inside, which was good fun.
I recommend Fuji goko ,five lakes around the mt.Fuji ,if you love lakes/ mountains or if you're a nature lover ! And Hokkaido ( North ) ! No aquarium !! No animals should live in cages or tanks !! Thanks ! I am originally from Tokyo, been living in the States for 35 years + ! I recommend Omote Sando / Meiji Jingue Mae/Aoyama / Ginza ,if you love hi fashion & European style cafes & great foods !! Skytree in Asakusa ! Kyoto is a MUST !! Yamaguchi & Okayama are very nice as well ,if you love samurai ,they've got ancient authentic samurai villages there !! I recommend October to visit Japan !! Avoid our notorious summer & rainy season !! 💛💜🥁🐉🎤🎶💞
I also reccomend one of the most beautiful little gardens in kyoto: Tenjuan, south of the Nanzenji Sammon Gate. You can take a look on google maps photos, that were taken there.
I feel the same about the fishes in Ginza Aquarium! I cannot be sure that the conditions for animals are fine, so it’s an easy pass for my incoming trip. The theater you recommend in Kyoto seems amazing!
Agree on the bamboo grove - it’s really quite short/small and runs parallel to the main road. It doesn’t really go anywhere, you go in on one end and pop out on the other on the same street. The Higashiyama Starbucks was just a normal Starbucks, as someone who stayed near kiyomizu-dera and passed through a lot. Super crowded too! Rest of the area is beautiful though. Personally, I was not a fan of Osaka castle. It’s all rebuilt and new-ish, and the inside is pretty empty. The building next to it was like a shopping mall. It felt like it was a modern tourist attraction with a false historic shell. (And this is coming from a Japanese person who loves history - I was disappointed) Great video though! Super helpful
@@TheTravellingLuis Himeji for sure as a must see castle, and Matsuyama castle in Shikoku. Those are real castles, where you can see how they actually lived in Japan. Osaka castle is not even 100 years old, becaus it was build in 1931.
I also like castles and have seen quite a few of them in Japan. My favorite one is in Kumamoto, on the southern island of Kyushu. There was a heavy earthquake in 2016, and the castle was extremely damaged, but has been since renovated, and its really great to visit. Also, from the top floor, you have great views over the city. If you go on the weekend, there is a fun/food market infront of the castle, which is good fun. Other castles to consider are in Kanazawa (which is a great city with plenty of interesting things to enjoy and visit), Okayama and of course the probably most famous castle of Japan in Himeji.
From my experience in Tokyo, I agree that Sunshine City is a must visit. I didn't go to the Pokemon center but the two big Gashapon stores were a bigger draw for me. Also the Planetarium there put on a good show and the "haunted" section of Namjatown was cool. I wish I had more time to explore Namjatown as it had some other areas that looked fun and possibly some good places to eat. I disagree on skipping the Art Aquarium. Although it can be tricky to find I thought it was a beautiful experience. Go on a weekday though so it is less crowded. Small Worlds Tokyo may not be for everyone but I think people should do some research on it to see if it is for them. I ended up spending a lot longer there than I expected looking at all the little details in the miniatures exhibits. Also agree that a daytrip to Yokohama can be skipped unless you can see the moving Gundam or you are a huge fan of Cup Noodles. A better day trip is either Kamakura or Enoshima. If you go to Kamakura be sure to visit the Sasuke Inari Shrine. It's off the "beaten path" but worth the visit. Once you go up the torii gate framed stairs to the shrine and look back, the thick growth around the shrine completely blocks out the city as if you have walked into a "mystical" land... absolutely beautiful.
We went to Arashiyama bamboo grove in October and missed the big crowds. It was still busy, but really loved it…… maybe the weather was on our side then :)
You can skip a Sumida River tour. The boats look cool and futuristic, but it was just another boat ride. We did this last July when we were in Tokyo. Take the time you would go on the boat and really visit the side streets around Senso-Ji Temple.
I think another place you can partially skip is the Fushimi Inari Shrine in Kyoto. I said "partially" because you don't really have to climb the entire route on the hill and trying to walk the entire Torii route will take more or less an hour of your time, depending on how fast you can walk or the pace of the crowd. The hundreds of Torii shrines gets old quickly and there are still too many tourist even if you walk up the hill. You need to go very early or almost night to avoid the crowds. Fushimi inari is another site where tourist seem to forget that it's a religious shrine.
伏見稲荷は無料なので、時間の余裕があるならぜひ行くべきです。頂上まで行くのは個人的な体力にまかせるしかありませんが、他のお参りするだけの寺社仏閣とは異なりハイキング気分で気軽に楽しめると思います。始めて行く欧米の観光客にとって、それはかなりエキサイティングかつ、エキゾチックな体験になると思います。ただし、あなたの言うように日昼はかなり混雑するので早朝を選択する方が良いと思います。夜間は景色が限定的になるのと、冬場の寒さであまりお勧めできませんが春以降なら楽しめると思います。しかし、京都はどこへ行っても混雑から避けられません Fushimi Inari is free, so if you have time, you should definitely go. Getting to the top is up to your own physical strength, but unlike other temples and shrines that you just visit, I think you can easily enjoy it as if you were hiking. I think it will be a very exciting and exotic experience for Western tourists visiting for the first time. However, as you said, it gets quite crowded during the daytime, so I think it's better to go early in the morning. I don't really recommend it because the scenery is limited at night and it's cold in winter, but I think you can enjoy it after spring. But no matter where you go in Kyoto, you can't avoid crowds.
@@spark_6710 I understand that there are a lot of animal rights activists in the U.S. But just wondering if you all ate sashimi or any seafood when you visited Japan.
Ichiran is the bomb, bro. I went to one in Yokahama. opened 24 hours for a local event. Starbucks seating was extremely limited, for sure. Just do a NYC cabbie and sit where your like.
Well , i dont think should skip Meiji jinggu at all.. again explore your own Japan itinery. It is not any scam .. it just you have to make your own japan Trip personally base what your interest 😊
I would not recommend Osaka Castle. Instead, take the train to Himeji and see a real castle, not a 19th century reproduction. My mistake was doing Himeji before Osaka, it made Osaka Castle like, 'that's it? So disappointing'. I agree with you on the bamboo grove. It was really disappointing, I was expecting a forest, not a small layer of bamboo hardly obscuring the buildings in the background. Agree with Starbucks too, terrible coffee.
My husband and son happened to encounter a local tour guide to see the Osaka castle grounds. The tour was free and excellent. My son, husband, and I visited Himeji Castle on the same trip. There were people dressed in period clothes, including a falconer. We toured inside the castle. It was fascinating to see the old structures and climb a ladder-like staircase to reach the top.
If you have gone up observation decks or towers in others countries, I say skip Tokyo Skytree, Shibuya Sky or Tokyo Tower. Remember, these are no longer the tallest manmade towers in the world. Depends on what you're looking for, being several stories high up and seeing tiny buildings and streets all the way down starts to feel the same in other countries 😅
Skip Tokyo Tower. You will probably end up going to Skytree anyway. Fuji-Q Highland is a must! Some of the best coasters you will ever ride. Be ready to stand in line forever though.
Great video. Thank you for all your helpful tips. We will be going there in October this year, same itinerary as yours. Going to check out your other videos on Japan now.
One good reason to eat at Ichiran in Japan is that the menu asks you to choose how salty and rich you want your broth. This is best for groups with differing palates, esp with kids. At “better” tasting ramen shops, most tonkotsu (pork boned) based broths are strong flavored. What is worth visiting also depends on where you come from and where you’ve been. If you’ve mainly been in inland areas where there are no Chinatowns, Yokohama is well laid out by the seaside and their Chinatown has a fun clean vibe. While Gundam is super cool, seeing it move wasn’t epic, because it can only move very very slowly. If you’ve not seen many bamboo trees, then Arashiyama is beautiful, just smaller than first thought and full of tourists. With kids and heat, walking through the Ginza Art Aquarium is actually not so bad. Are there happy goldfish sanctuaries anywhere? haha. It’s certainly no worse than going to all the aquariums where sea mammals have no space, which we’ve tried hard to refrain from..
Thanks for bringing up that at Ichiran, you can choose your broth preference. I never really thought about it because I just like noodle in general and not super picky about it 😅
I am planning to visit Japan this year in the month of November with my wife and 20 months old baby. We have two options : Nov 8-18 or Nov 15-25. Which one do you think would be better considering the fall season, the cold weather, crowds etc? Thanks in advance.
I think your dates are pretty close together so I don’t believe it will be drastically different. I think the fall leaves would show up better later in November though 😁
If you type in "smartex app' in the App Store, it should be the first result. The official name is "Shinkansen smartEX App" - the logo has a white background with a shinkansen outline in blue and the word "EX" on the top of it. The developer is Central Japan Railway Company. Hope this helps!
One of the best places I’ve been I Japan is Kinkakuji. I went in february and got the most beautiful pictures. Yokohama is one worth it of Gundam is open indeed. Very good video!
In Tokyo I would skip the top level of Tokyo Tower. It's way too expensive for almost the exactly same view from the regular ticket. Also, getting inside the Osaka's Castle was a bit of a turn off, since it has been transformed into a shopping-mall-like museum, instead of keeping the original looks (like Matsumoto's one). The exterior, on the other hand, is 10/10, the gardens and everything else is fantastic. So I would recommend going to the Castle, just don't bother to go inside.
Been to Japan 8 times, 3 more trips booked for 2024 and never once given up time going to any shrine or temple, but Castles yes. It bewildering to me why tourists so automatically have shrine and temple visits planned on their 'will do list' when it's virtually a 'would not do' in their own countries. Understandable visiting if you're of Shinto or Buddhist faith, but otherwise ??? Yes there can be nice gardens in shrine grounds but the best gardens are independent locations. I remember on one trip being asked by a transfer driver what we were visiting, and not visiting, during our stay and when we mentioned we don't bother visiting any shrines he said "that's great there's so many other places you should visit instead". Every hour you're at 'another' temple or shrine is a valuable hour wasted to experience so much more of what Japan offers.
This is such a weird comment. I visit religious buildings everywhere, naturally including my home country. And yes, I mean visit, as in getting there and walking and having a look around. Why wouldn't I? I admire the architecture and the art. I enjoy soaking in the spiritual atmosphere. Shrines and temples are no different. Skipping this experience entirely is definitely missing out on a part of Japanese culture. It's, of course, a personal decision. However, I find it odd to point fingers specifically at people who visit shrines and temples during their trip in Japan as if that's an oddity - like religious buildings all over the world don't offer and profit from tourist visitations. 🤷🏻♀️ I remember my friend and I were in Japan during New Year's once. It was such a great experience. We had sake at midnight at a local shrine. I don't even know the name of it. It was pretty small compared to what else you can find around Tokyo, but quite a lot of people had gathered there and they were super welcoming and invited us to come celebrate with them. And the next day we watched workers at a shrine in Kamakura making fresh mochi from scratch. It was awesome! There were also basically no other tourists around, mainly locals doing their New Year's visits. One of my best experiences visiting Japan ever. That being said, next to shrine and temple visits, I always make sure to mix things up, as there is so much to see and do. Shopping malls, theme Cafés, castle grounds, parks, tiny ramen stores that seat no more than four people at a time, all of these are absolutely brilliant. It's the overall experience, really. Again, it's you do you for everyone, but never once taking off your shoes and putting them in a little bag to carry them around with you during a temple visit... definitely missing out on an experience - especially in January. Can absolutely recommend. 😁
Went to the Tsutenkaku Tower in early May, and the line wasn't that long, and I really enjoyed the view. It was a different experience from the Kuchu Teien Observatory, but worth it nonetheless, IMO... Saw the Osaka Castle at least three times, always happy to go... Arashiyama is worth it not just for the forest, but also the surrounding areas, like the Togetsukyo Bridge and Monkey Park... The secret is going out of the regular tourist season, and go in the week if possible, so there are less people...
Crazy cause I went to Japan literally around the same time (November 9-21) and remember that same ramen cookoff cause I was in Osaka from like the 14th-18th! Here would be my must in terms of attractions and I agree with others that all of these (other than Mt. Fuji) I didn't really plan a schedule around, we just went when we felt like it. Doing this also helped us be around some cool things like watching an Awa Odori in Roppongi Hills business center or walking past Tony Hawk in Ginza or going to Shiba Ryutaro's house and museum on our way back to Osaka from Nara: Tokyo: - Shibuya Sky (best observation deck and isn't overly pricey. Just have to pay for it online) - Meiji Jingu - Senso-ji (surprised this wasn't on here, it's just kinda a must) - Toyosu and Tsukiji Markets (Toyosu to see the fish auction and indoor food courts, Tsukiji for the outer market) Around Mt. Fuji: - Lake Kawaguchiko (I didn't go but would've if I had time) - Fujiyoshida and Chureito Pagoda (the main thing I wanted to do on the trip and it didn't disappoint!) Osaka: - Osaka Castle & Garden (hotel was right near it and it was a must! Literally the most important and iconic castle in Japan's history) - Dotonbori - Osaka Tenmangu Kyoto: - Nijo Castle (The main HQ for the Tokugawa Shogunate. Walking inside the Honmaru Goren Palace is amazing and still upkept from even for it having been built in 1603) - Arashiyama (overcrowded but still amazing) - Fushimi Inari
You were in Japan on my birthday ! Lol. Hope you had a blast there !! I am originally from Tokyo, but I've moved to the States & I've been living here for 35 plus years ! 👍💜🥁🐉🎤🎶💞
@@spark_6710 That’s awesome and Happy belated birthday 😊 I had such a great time in Japan! It’s the country I’ve wanted to visit the most since I turned 18 (I’m now 28). My younger sister is in school in Niigata so it was good seeing her. But I love the culture, I’m a huge history nerd and I learned Japanese in college but hopefully next time my speaking skills improve cause I was very rusty 😅
I found Tokyo to be mostly enjoyable, if you can avoid the salaryman on their way to work and the rush hour in the evenings. I found Osaka to be highly overrated, beyond the castle and shines and gardens (it's actually a very densely populated city, not nearly the size of Tokyo) and my favorite places were Hiroshima, Kyoto and Nara - all laid back, all had excellent eating and shopping and plenty of things to see and do.
It's common to take pictures first before you go up the tower cause they need time to photoshop and print your photos out but it's your own choice to pay for it or not
I went to Meiji Jingu nearly by accident. My point here is that i agree that it's skippable, especialy if , like me, you went here on the week-end. Too much people and most importantly they are a lot of wine barrel from burgundy. I couldn't stand it! (my french area, franche-comté, can't stand against burgundy,another french area. that all : ) Interesting enough, you say that we can skip the tsutentaku and that what i did on my first trip. BUT i will return in Japan this monday and i think i will go around but not inside the tower. The park nearby was also not the best i saw in japan, but it was nice, very calmy. I think i may have some other things to recommand in on month, after i return home from japan, even if i will totally skip Tokyo this time.
@@jadecom6I was in Osaka and surrounding areas only.. I guess we preferred having arbitrary destinations but be going through interesting areas and shopping streets for the 20km we walked a day, instead of temples spaced far apart. Might have been the part of Kyoto we chose, and the fact that I'm not into seeing temples or Geishas. Some of the streets were cute I guess - not sure if that can be seen elsewhere.
For Kyoto, I totally agree with you, I would definitely skip the Arayashima bamboo forest, because for me, its way to crowded and the pleasure of being in a beautiful bamboo grove is not there for me, if there are so many other people. Overall, Kyoto is beautiful and offers a lot, but its also extremely touristy. I am glad that I was there twice and I enjoyed it a lot, but I would now not return, because there are so many other places in Japan that are also great and a bit less crowded. In Kyoto, visiting some of the beautiful temples, shrines and gardens is my "must see" - there are so many of them, and personally I would not only choose the most famous ones, but also some less famous ones, because they are so much more peaceful. Walking around Gion in the early evening and having a drink or dinner in one of the old buildings is also a good experience. The philosophers path is a nice walk along a small stream, through nice neighbourhoods and past peaceful temples. Nishiki market is extremely crowded, but its good for streetfood and for buying "food related" souvenirs like knifes, bowls etc.
if i find something i will add Yokohama to list again. saw the Gundam there, walked through Motomachi area nearby, beautiful indeed. didnt know of Gundam man hole covers but that one thing isnt enough to visit there (didnt know it was there), even the ferris wheel area isnt wnough to suffice the visit. i did like the Arashima bammboo grove as a small side visit, not the biggest forest but interesting to see. Gion-Shijo area of Kyoto in sakura season is a very suggested place to view the blossoms.
That’s completely fine! 😊 I went to Sensoji for a little bit in Tokyo. I went maybe around 6pm-ish and it was empty. But all of the stores were closed already.
Arashiyama Bamboo Park is a must see, it's pretty and we got so many beautiful pictures. Maybe you didn't walk deep enough? On the other hand, I never really enjoyed the river boat rides, specially the sumida river ride - those are a waste of time. As for the Mt Fuji ropeway, the views at the top is beautiful! (even after hiking Chureito pagoda). However, I agree if you don't have time and better just view Mt Fuji from the lake Kawaguchi.
Maybe I didn't walk deep enough. But it was also very cloudy so it wasn't as pretty as videos/pics I saw :) Maybe I'll give it another try in the future if I have more time in Kyoto.
I was wondering if you have any advice on what to do for food for severe allergies? I have a severe egg allergy and I'm not entirely sure how to go about buying food, I've been learning what I can but is there anything I can do to help?
Lived in japan for a long time, some of the places are just tourist trap and overrated. There’s a lot of places I Japan that the locals only know; so better you ask a local for advice when touring Japan.
Just seeing the pictures and videos online for the art aquarium made me just skip. Imagine being a fish and you’re always exposed to bright lights with no reprieve
Thank you for your video, i will go to japan this year. my main worry is, when i have a JR pass, how can i reserve a seat using the JR pass. So if you make a video., i will watch it for sure
I believe there are plenty of blog posts and youtube videos talking about how to reserve seats if you have the JR rail pass. I did a little research about it but since I didn't get the JR pass I didn't research any further. But I'll look into it and I"ll include those info in a future video :)
I recommend October. Avoid summer & rainy season !! Not sure when or how soon you'll go there ,though ! I am Japanese who's been living in the States for 35 +years ! Hope you'll have a blast in Japan !! 👍💜🥁🐉🎤🎶💞
Oh yeah, 120 yen is for regular train fare. But I was talking about the Maple Tree tunnel train ride - it was 940 yen round trip per person. So about 470 yen one way pp and definitely more than the regular 120 yen fare.. 😳
Hmm you're probably right 😅 I had an office fish before and it was a pain trying to get the pH in the water to be just the right on so the fish lives longer...
Yes! I’m gonna make a video on the hotels I stayed at. But here’s the list of hotels I stayed at: Hilton Tokyo, Onyado Nono Namba and Hotel Resol Kawaramuchi Sanjo.
We are going to Japan in April and we are skipping team labs. Is it super cool looking and breathtaking? Sure. Is it worth dedicating a few hours of the little time we have in Japan? I honestly don’t think so.
My thoughts exactly! My trip from last Nov was my first time and I didn’t wanna waste time waiting in too many lines. So I’ll be saving team labs for my next trip 😊 have a fun time in April!
It was cool as a young person traveling with friends who like to take photos, but as a solo traveler or with family, I would not do it. We didn’t have lines at all since we reserved tickets in advance, so that was another benefit that made our visit smooth. Also - as someone who gets motion sickness, I had to skip one of the rooms.
I’ve been to all the teamlabs in japan as an “old person” and with my nearly 80 MIL and we loved it. We could spend hours there. These things are very subjective so it’s important to use travel tips as guides not absolutes.
A sushi boat is an eatery with a string of little boats or a conveyor belt that snakes around carrying small plates of sushi. You sit down and take the plates you want as they come around. You pay when done based on the number and color of the plates. I've eaten at one of these in Kyoto and one in Paddington Station, London. Always amusing.
Thank you so much highlighting the Goldfish Issue.. I haven't been there but from the first time I saw this in videos I was put off by how these animals ar kept
Art aquarium has water tanks similar to Megaman Battle Network 6. So, if Sea Life Aquarium doesn't have the same, Art Aquarium would be good for me. After watching the videos about bamboo forest and Fuji, I decided, that these are not for me. Not even the view from the lake.
I know this is a late comment, but may I politely suggest that in the future you just do some extra takes? There's a cut in the audio every 5-10 seconds. They stand out a lot and it's really jarring when it's happening that frequently.
The key word in enjoying all of these attractions is "GOING EARLY!" My Kyoto Starbucks, bamboo forest, Fushimi shrine, Disney Japan, Universal Studios, and various castles experiences were all "amazing" because I was early enough to beat the crowds. The lines and people in all your photos will be crazy if you wait till 1pm to do your attractions!
I'm going to Japan soon. How early would you suggest I get to said attractions?
But how do you get to all these attractions early? 🥲
@@kb4123 when I was in Japan in April of 2024, I was consistently waking up at 5am every single day I was there so I used that as an opportunity to visit various attractions and restaurants super early. I beat a lot of crowds that way.
I always say
💅eally👍
catch the wulm🍻
I'd rather avoid the region when it's that packed. Beginning to think checking what popular tourist destinations are and then avoiding those is the best approach. (Or go during typhoon season)
I think we had the most fun just walking around and not trying to do anything with a scheduled time. Coming upon stuff rather than going someplace specific and exploring the train stations was more fun and less stressful. Walking down side streets and seeing school kids walking to school. Coming across a gatchapan store or a place that looks good to eat at feels more like exploring and less like being a tourist. We found Kyoto to be so crowded it was off putting. We like the small unknown shrines butter than the famous ones. Honestly, Japan is so fascinating if you are a foreigner you can’t go wrong just winging it.
That's exactly what my wife and I do. Just wander and eat and eat in JR Stations. We were just in Kyoto and we ventured out to small neighborhoods beyond the Sanjo and Gion areas, away from the crowd.
yes! this is what I actually want to do! Immerse in their culture and how they live their daily lives.
I'm going and not prepared. Definitely gonna wing it.
Me too
I don't know about some of the rest, but this girl is dead wrong about Arashiyama Bamboo Forest. Maybe she doesn't like nature or walking? I don't know, and I don't care. This was a highlight of our last trip to Kyoto. It is beautiful, and the crowds are not that bad at all if it is not the weekend. If you go on the weekend, try to go a little earlier if possible. But DO NOT MISS IT -it is stunning!
Agreed! It was Amazing!! Plus there are multiple things to do in Arashiyama. The bamboo forest, monkey park, Arashiyama River and bridge, shops and restaurants, kimono forest, and rickshaw rides. A ton of things to do in one area if you are short on time.
I too loved the bamboo forest and the colours during autumn was amazing!
When I went in August it was too crowded with tourist to enjoy. Also it is much smaller than what pictures might suggest, it's not a forest it's just a small park inside the city. When I took the train between Kanazawa and Kyoto I saw that there are a lot of natural bamboo forest everywhere, so when I came to visit this amusement park in Kyoto it was underwhelming and I felt dumb not to have taken a ride to outside the city to walk in an actual forest.
The current Osaka Castle is a concrete reconstruction based on the Edo Period design of the main tower. It has actually been destroyed and rebuilt several times over the centuries. The inside is now a museum, complete with elevators and air conditioning. I honestly still think it's worthwhile to visit, though. They did a beautiful job with the reconstruction and it's very educational. The castle grounds are gorgeous, especially during cherry blossom season.
Osaka Castle is a good photo op from the outside in the park if you don't have time. Instead definitely visit Himeji Castle or one of the 12 pre-modern tenshus that still stand today if you want to see the inside.
If you really want to sit down at the Starbucks at Ninenzaka in Kyoto, try visit really early or later in the evening. It's easier to find seats before tourists arrive or after most leave the area in late afternoon.
As a side note, I don't think it's just about time and money/budget. People have different interests and places they want to visit first. "Attractions to skip if you visit Japan for the first time..." could have been a better title, and hopefully viewers will have already picked up on what you like and dislike and then decide if they should skip too.
I decided to pass through Yokohama on my last evening in Japan. Major regrets, wished I stayed a couple of days at least. I'm a solo traveller who enjoys walking cities and Yokohama was extremely enjoyable. More spacious and architecturally diverse.
you should drop by ramen museum nearn shin-yokohama station and try different kinds of ramen at the lower ground. ramen kiosk serve really good noodles.
About Tokyo:
- I agree with the Art Aquarium. It is beautiful with the colors, but the living conditions for the fish are horrible. Very little space, many fishes in a small aquarium and only plastic "vegetation". I wouldnt go back there for that reason
- myself, I feel that Meiji Jingu should not be skipped and it can easily be combined with Harajuk and Takeshita Dori for the "Kaaui" culture (which is a "must see" for me in Tokyo
- if you want to include Mount Fuji, I would not do a day trip, but stay there for 1 or 2 nights, so that your chances of seeing Fujisan are better. We stayed for two nights, on one day it was perfect, on the other day, you didnt see the mountain at all. I agree about the ropeway, I also prefered the boat ride (and walking along the shores of the lake)
For other "must sees", it depends on your interests. Personally, I feel that Shinjuku (ideally you stay there) should be included, for the crazy neon lights, Omode Yokocho, Golden Gai, Kabuchiko. Also, I would include Akihabara, even if like me, you are not an anime or manga fan. Even though its very busy, if you like food, I would also go to the Tsukiji outer market. I would also visit one observation tower, on a clear day, to get great views over the city. The Tokyo Government Metropolitan Building in Shinjuku is free to visit. Otherwise, consider Shibuya Sky right next to Shibuya Crossing. TeamLab Planets and soon to reopen TeamLab Borderless are great fun and interactive, and another "must see" in my opinion. There are many other options, depending on what you are looking for. Myself, I really enjoy walking around Yanaka near Ueno park, for glimpses of old and traditional Tokyo.
I definitely plan to stay overnight next time around the Mt. Fuji area. But I got lucky! I was there only for the day and it was a very clear day ☀️
Loved TeamLab in Tokyo!
Agreed that Arashiyama bamboo forest can be skipped if it's busy, you can hardly take photos and it's pretty pretentious when folks are taking the cab up just for an Insta pic
Yasaka Shrine in Gion at night is pretty, as a free 24 hour place to check out
I like the video but give me a break about the fish asking you for help.
See, this a problem many people have in putting human feelings and consciousness in into animals who have a 10 second attention span.
I can say with certainty THEY DO NOT CARE!
LoL 🤣😎
I would not skip meiji jingu, It has interesting history in it. There's a reason why it's popular. Many go there because of the emperor who built it is very compatible to his wife, thus it became a place for people to wish for happy marriage and love fulfillment. Though thanks for telling people to skip some of these so it will be less crowded. lol.
😂😂 OMG that makes sense! We saw a couple getting married at Meiji Jingu! 😄
I disagree and agree with Meiji shrine and the bamboo forest, but you can avoid the bad experiences. Meiji shrine was the first shine that i was able to see in my first time in japan, so i really recommend it if you are in Tokyo for the first time and don't go to Kyoto in the first days. The bamboo forest it's not crowded in the morning , so you need to go before 10 or 9am and it will be perfect. Also, the monkey park it's a must do if you are in the area.
I lived a year in Kyoto so I might be a bit biased, but Arashiyama with good weather is defs worth it as are some temples nearby. Something to definitely not miss if you're in a healthy condition is Fushimi Inari, such a gorgeous shrine
I’ve been inside the Osaka Caslte. It didnt keep any of the actual interior. Just a Museum. But the top was pretty nice. There is a stamp you can get if you’re collecting stamps. I’d recommend just looking from the outside
Just a short side-note; The Osaka castle as you see today is not the original but rather a rebuilt in concrete. The only original part that is left of Osaka castle is the wall lining around the castle and the castle moat.
To me, Meiji Jingu and Sensoji in Asakusa are an absolute must. Something I felt could have been skipped was the Imperial Garden. It really wasn't too impressive. The most impressive thing about it was the moat around it.
Omg I was kinda bummed I didn’t get to the imperial palace in Tokyo - I assume that’s what you mean by the imperial garden. I went to the imperial palace in Kyoto though.
@@TheTravellingLuis Sorry, I should have clarified it. Yes, I meant the Imperial Palace Garden in Tokyo. It really wasn't anything special. The huge walls and some wooden buildings were nice but the actual garden part really wasn't living up to the name or the hype. Walking down the short distance from Tokyo Station and seeing it from the outside really would've been enough.
You can't completely skip Yokohama. Aside from the soon-to-be closed Gundam Factory Yokohama, there's Chinatown, Red Brick Warehouse, and the Shin-Yokohama Ramen Museum.
I’ve heard about the red brick warehouse. What can you see or do there?
@@TheTravellingLuis They've got some really good restaurants there. Also, they occasionally have live music and events.
Well adding that to my list for my next trip to Japan 😊
plan to go there (from Tokyo) next month for the art museum there #artnerd. Lots of great art museums in Japan.
Yes! The ramen museum is awesome!
absolutely agree with you on the fish. its not just you.
I highly recommend the Sagano Romantic Train, Tenryu-ji Temple in Arashiyama and the Shigetsu Soba restaurant that the monks operate, the Saga-Toriimoto Town-scape preserved street near the Arashiyama Bamboo Grove, and just strolling around Arashiyama to visit spots like the Arashiyama Electric Train station, the Kimono Forest, and the Observation Decks around Arashiyama Park.
I feel like the rope way is cool! You don’t have to go down the same way you go up! And great view of Fuji at the top
I agree with skipping most animal based "attractions". While Japan does have laws for animals' safety, the country's animal welfare views are low compared to the United States, where I'm from. I went to a rabbit cafe because I own and love rabbits, and while it wasnt a sad or depressing place, as someone who works in a zoological setting and has high standards for animal care, I felt the cafe was lacking. It didnt ruin the experience, but I didnt leave feeling all warm and fuzzy inside. So if I were to go to Japan again I'd skip the animal cafes.
For Osaka, my friend actually told me NOT to bother going inside Osaka Castle. It's been modernized and is just a simple museum like interior, so none of the cool old architecture can be enjoyed. It was very bland for him, so I didnt bother doing it myself. Found the outside grounds to be lovely though!
And speaking of Kobe! Oh Kobe!
Thanks for expressing your feelings/ opinions regarding treatments/ lacking protections of animals in Japan !! I am Japanese who's been living in the States for 35 years plus & not proud of that about my country myself !! 👍👍💜🥁🐉🎤🎶💞
Hey how did you get to Kobe ?? can we do a day trip to Kobe? what are the things to see there?
I recommend Amanohashidate and taking smaller trains that tourists don't take. The only catch is that you have to be able to communicate somehow in Japanese, since these are the trains frequented by high school students (and there is no English support, just like the buses that leave Matsuyama Airport). I took one from Fukuchiyama to Miyazu, then from Miyazu to Amanohashidate. On my upcoming trip with my son, we are going to the Toei Studio Park in Kyoto. I believe my son will want to go inside the EVA. We will, however, go to Osaka's tower, since my son wants to experience the slide. The bamboo forest looks appealing. I can call my son "baka deshi" while walking with him. 😄😄😄
Bamboo forest, cloudy, dark, gloomy... this is now on my list 😂 Thanks for the suggestions, I'm planning a trip and I'll take your advice on everything except that.
It’s preference at the end of the day. No right or wrong. Personally not fond of cruising type of sightseeing. I enjoy the 4-5 miles walk in Japan and soak in all the amazing cultures, architectures, views, and experiences. Went to all these crowded areas but would still go again 🥲🥺🥺
That's so true!! There's no right or wrong way to enjoy Japan. And people have different interest when it comes to things they enjoy doing while traveling ☺️
I actually liked Meiji Jingu a lot. The forest is beautiful 🙂 also good place to buy souvenirs.
Meiji Jingu is religious shrine is not a tourist attraction, treating it like any other attraction seems wrong. Tourist can go there but it's not meant for tourist. But you can skip Harajuku, Takeshita dori, and the Tokyo Imperial Palace area.
That makes sense! I think people, like me too, put Meiji Jingu on our list because of the internet LOL. But I also saw a tour group when i was there..
Yoyogi park is very nice though
Meiji jingu is a state shinto shrine I think. Its a shrine managed by the government and imperial family since it is a shrine dedicated to emperor meiji
Omg, I cannot wait for my trip! I'm going this April with 3 other friends and we're all so very excited. Our itinerary is after landing, check in our Airbnb, then the following day, head to Ghibli Park. Then head to Kyoto and stay for 3 days, with a day trip in Osaka. Then take a train back to Tokyo and spend 5 days in Tokyo. I'm bringing an extra empty suitcase on this trip lol
Extra luggage is a great idea! I brought an extra backpack to put my clothes in going back home, and filled my luggage to the brim with stuff I bought 😅
For the day trip to Osaka, you can make that a full day thing since the Shinkansen is a 20 minute ride and can last pretty much to late at night. Japan is a really choose your own adventure type of country since there’s so much to do even if you only visit Tokyo, Osaka and Kyoto! You might have just missed the cherry blossoms in Tokyo since they bloom in about 2 weeks but you may still catch them in Kyoto if you arrive at the beginning of April!
For Osaka, my 3 favorite places in random order are:
- the castle: get there early and/or prebook your ticket, so that you can also visit from the inside, for me it was worth it
- Dotonburi, as mentionned by Sarah. There, I would also visit Don Quijote, which is like a crazy discount chain selling pretty much everything (it cant be described, you have to go there yourself), as its located right on the canal and has a big ferry wheel
- the Kaiyukan Aquarium, which is one of the best aquariums I have visited wordwide
Personally, I am not a huge fan of Osaka. I find that it is a bit a "cheap copy of Tokyo". So if your time in Japan is limited, instead of adding Osaka to Tokyo and Kyoto, I would rather go for Hiroshima and nearby Miyajima Island, for more diversity. But of course, thats only my opinion.
It sounded like you went inside the Osaka castle. Is it worth it? I just went around the park.
@@TheTravellingLuis Yes, I went inside and I thought that it was worth it. But only if you dont have to wait for ages in line (something I have no patience for ;-)). You can even dress up as a "samurai" inside, which was good fun.
Oooh maybe next time I’ll see if I can reserve tickets for Osaka Castle 😁
I recommend Fuji goko ,five lakes around the mt.Fuji ,if you love lakes/ mountains or if you're a nature lover ! And Hokkaido ( North ) ! No aquarium !! No animals should live in cages or tanks !! Thanks !
I am originally from Tokyo, been living in the States for 35 years + ! I recommend Omote Sando / Meiji Jingue Mae/Aoyama / Ginza ,if you love hi fashion & European style cafes & great foods !! Skytree in Asakusa !
Kyoto is a MUST !! Yamaguchi & Okayama are very nice as well ,if you love samurai ,they've got ancient authentic samurai villages there !!
I recommend October to visit Japan !! Avoid our notorious summer & rainy season !! 💛💜🥁🐉🎤🎶💞
I definitely would love to visit Hokkaido, Yamaguchi and Okayama the next time I plan to travel to Japan! Thanks for the recommendations 💖
@TheTravellingLuis YAY !! You're very very welcome !! So cool !! 😀👍👍💜🥁🐉🎤🎶💞
Appreciate it. Very useful don't do tips! And you're right: that aquarium is abusive to the fish.
I also reccomend one of the most beautiful little gardens in kyoto: Tenjuan, south of the Nanzenji Sammon Gate.
You can take a look on google maps photos, that were taken there.
I feel the same about the fishes in Ginza Aquarium! I cannot be sure that the conditions for animals are fine, so it’s an easy pass for my incoming trip. The theater you recommend in Kyoto seems amazing!
Thank you !! I feel really sad for 'em !! 💔💜🥁🐉🎤🎶💞
Agree on the bamboo grove - it’s really quite short/small and runs parallel to the main road. It doesn’t really go anywhere, you go in on one end and pop out on the other on the same street.
The Higashiyama Starbucks was just a normal Starbucks, as someone who stayed near kiyomizu-dera and passed through a lot. Super crowded too! Rest of the area is beautiful though.
Personally, I was not a fan of Osaka castle. It’s all rebuilt and new-ish, and the inside is pretty empty. The building next to it was like a shopping mall. It felt like it was a modern tourist attraction with a false historic shell. (And this is coming from a Japanese person who loves history - I was disappointed)
Great video though! Super helpful
Thanks for the feedback! Do you have any other castle recs in Japan? Tbh I love visiting castles, palaces, old houses.. you name it! 😊
@@TheTravellingLuis Himeji for sure as a must see castle, and Matsuyama castle in Shikoku. Those are real castles, where you can see how they actually lived in Japan. Osaka castle is not even 100 years old, becaus it was build in 1931.
I also like castles and have seen quite a few of them in Japan. My favorite one is in Kumamoto, on the southern island of Kyushu. There was a heavy earthquake in 2016, and the castle was extremely damaged, but has been since renovated, and its really great to visit. Also, from the top floor, you have great views over the city. If you go on the weekend, there is a fun/food market infront of the castle, which is good fun. Other castles to consider are in Kanazawa (which is a great city with plenty of interesting things to enjoy and visit), Okayama and of course the probably most famous castle of Japan in Himeji.
Thanks for the recs! I will add them to my list for my next trip to Japan 😊
I'm always down for street food 😋
We are traveling to Japan in May, and your vlog is helpful - Thanks
I'm so glad to hear that and thanks for watching! Have fun in Japan 💖
Agree, I went to Ichiran once and won’t do it again (no regrets though)- there’s lots of other amazing ramen options
Loved the ocean walkway in Yokohama and China town
From my experience in Tokyo, I agree that Sunshine City is a must visit. I didn't go to the Pokemon center but the two big Gashapon stores were a bigger draw for me. Also the Planetarium there put on a good show and the "haunted" section of Namjatown was cool. I wish I had more time to explore Namjatown as it had some other areas that looked fun and possibly some good places to eat. I disagree on skipping the Art Aquarium. Although it can be tricky to find I thought it was a beautiful experience. Go on a weekday though so it is less crowded. Small Worlds Tokyo may not be for everyone but I think people should do some research on it to see if it is for them. I ended up spending a lot longer there than I expected looking at all the little details in the miniatures exhibits. Also agree that a daytrip to Yokohama can be skipped unless you can see the moving Gundam or you are a huge fan of Cup Noodles. A better day trip is either Kamakura or Enoshima. If you go to Kamakura be sure to visit the Sasuke Inari Shrine. It's off the "beaten path" but worth the visit. Once you go up the torii gate framed stairs to the shrine and look back, the thick growth around the shrine completely blocks out the city as if you have walked into a "mystical" land... absolutely beautiful.
Thanks for the Kamakura recs! I'm going to add it to my wish list for my next trip to Japan :)
We went to Arashiyama bamboo grove in October and missed the big crowds. It was still busy, but really loved it…… maybe the weather was on our side then :)
The few days I was in Kyoto, the weather was pretty grey and cloudy ☹️ What time did you go to the bamboo grove?
I wanna try Hozugawa river boat in Kyoto with beautiful view in Autumn 😊
You can skip a Sumida River tour. The boats look cool and futuristic, but it was just another boat ride. We did this last July when we were in Tokyo. Take the time you would go on the boat and really visit the side streets around Senso-Ji Temple.
Ooh I was going to do that! But we decided on a Yakatabune dinner instead.
We go to Sumida for the annual July big fireworks.
I think another place you can partially skip is the Fushimi Inari Shrine in Kyoto. I said "partially" because you don't really have to climb the entire route on the hill and trying to walk the entire Torii route will take more or less an hour of your time, depending on how fast you can walk or the pace of the crowd. The hundreds of Torii shrines gets old quickly and there are still too many tourist even if you walk up the hill. You need to go very early or almost night to avoid the crowds. Fushimi inari is another site where tourist seem to forget that it's a religious shrine.
伏見稲荷は無料なので、時間の余裕があるならぜひ行くべきです。頂上まで行くのは個人的な体力にまかせるしかありませんが、他のお参りするだけの寺社仏閣とは異なりハイキング気分で気軽に楽しめると思います。始めて行く欧米の観光客にとって、それはかなりエキサイティングかつ、エキゾチックな体験になると思います。ただし、あなたの言うように日昼はかなり混雑するので早朝を選択する方が良いと思います。夜間は景色が限定的になるのと、冬場の寒さであまりお勧めできませんが春以降なら楽しめると思います。しかし、京都はどこへ行っても混雑から避けられません
Fushimi Inari is free, so if you have time, you should definitely go. Getting to the top is up to your own physical strength, but unlike other temples and shrines that you just visit, I think you can easily enjoy it as if you were hiking. I think it will be a very exciting and exotic experience for Western tourists visiting for the first time. However, as you said, it gets quite crowded during the daytime, so I think it's better to go early in the morning. I don't really recommend it because the scenery is limited at night and it's cold in winter, but I think you can enjoy it after spring. But no matter where you go in Kyoto, you can't avoid crowds.
I loved visiting that shrine. As we left the grounds we bought senbei snacks.
Thank you for mentioning the abuse of the fish ❤
Yes ! And thank YOU ,too ! I am Japanese, but not proud of that about my country !! I live in the U.S.,though. 👍👍💜🥁🐉🎤🎶💞
@@spark_6710 I understand that there are a lot of animal rights activists in the U.S. But just wondering if you all ate sashimi or any seafood when you visited Japan.
Ichiran is the bomb, bro. I went to one in Yokahama. opened 24 hours for a local event. Starbucks seating was extremely limited, for sure. Just do a NYC cabbie and sit where your like.
Well , i dont think should skip Meiji jinggu at all.. again explore your own Japan itinery. It is not any scam .. it just you have to make your own japan Trip personally base what your interest 😊
I would not recommend Osaka Castle. Instead, take the train to Himeji and see a real castle, not a 19th century reproduction. My mistake was doing Himeji before Osaka, it made Osaka Castle like, 'that's it? So disappointing'.
I agree with you on the bamboo grove. It was really disappointing, I was expecting a forest, not a small layer of bamboo hardly obscuring the buildings in the background. Agree with Starbucks too, terrible coffee.
My husband and son happened to encounter a local tour guide to see the Osaka castle grounds. The tour was free and excellent. My son, husband, and I visited Himeji Castle on the same trip. There were people dressed in period clothes, including a falconer. We toured inside the castle. It was fascinating to see the old structures and climb a ladder-like staircase to reach the top.
Thanks. I will add Himeji to my itinerary.
If you have gone up observation decks or towers in others countries, I say skip Tokyo Skytree, Shibuya Sky or Tokyo Tower. Remember, these are no longer the tallest manmade towers in the world. Depends on what you're looking for, being several stories high up and seeing tiny buildings and streets all the way down starts to feel the same in other countries 😅
Skip Tokyo Tower. You will probably end up going to Skytree anyway. Fuji-Q Highland is a must! Some of the best coasters you will ever ride. Be ready to stand in line forever though.
I actually went to Fuji-Q because I wanted to check out the Naruto part of the park. We didn't go on any rides though.. Maybe next time!
Great video. Thank you for all your helpful tips. We will be going there in October this year, same itinerary as yours. Going to check out your other videos on Japan now.
I’m so glad my videos help! Have a fun time planning and have a fun trip 💖
This is helpful.
My family with kids will go this November autumn so I'll check out ur videos
Thanks for watching 💖 and have a great time in Japan! I think you’ll love the fall colors and the cozy weather!
One good reason to eat at Ichiran in Japan is that the menu asks you to choose how salty and rich you want your broth. This is best for groups with differing palates, esp with kids. At “better” tasting ramen shops, most tonkotsu (pork boned) based broths are strong flavored.
What is worth visiting also depends on where you come from and where you’ve been. If you’ve mainly been in inland areas where there are no Chinatowns, Yokohama is well laid out by the seaside and their Chinatown has a fun clean vibe. While Gundam is super cool, seeing it move wasn’t epic, because it can only move very very slowly. If you’ve not seen many bamboo trees, then Arashiyama is beautiful, just smaller than first thought and full of tourists. With kids and heat, walking through the Ginza Art Aquarium is actually not so bad. Are there happy goldfish sanctuaries anywhere? haha. It’s certainly no worse than going to all the aquariums where sea mammals have no space, which we’ve tried hard to refrain from..
Thanks for bringing up that at Ichiran, you can choose your broth preference. I never really thought about it because I just like noodle in general and not super picky about it 😅
I am planning to visit Japan this year in the month of November with my wife and 20 months old baby. We have two options : Nov 8-18 or Nov 15-25. Which one do you think would be better considering the fall season, the cold weather, crowds etc? Thanks in advance.
I think your dates are pretty close together so I don’t believe it will be drastically different. I think the fall leaves would show up better later in November though 😁
sorry could you please write the name of the app for booking the shinkansen tickets? thank you! very helpful video ♥️
Yup! It’s called “smartEx App” on the App store for iPhone. and I’m glad this video helps 😊
@@TheTravellingLuis hi, i cannot find using my iphone, it shows me an app with the same name but could be a spanish app or something. Help
If you type in "smartex app' in the App Store, it should be the first result. The official name is "Shinkansen smartEX App" - the logo has a white background with a shinkansen outline in blue and the word "EX" on the top of it. The developer is Central Japan Railway Company. Hope this helps!
Very nice list of Japan attractions.
Thank you 🙏🏼 and thanks for watching! 💖
Nice I appreciate all the info 👍
One of the best places I’ve been I Japan is Kinkakuji. I went in february and got the most beautiful pictures.
Yokohama is one worth it of Gundam is open indeed. Very good video!
In Tokyo I would skip the top level of Tokyo Tower. It's way too expensive for almost the exactly same view from the regular ticket.
Also, getting inside the Osaka's Castle was a bit of a turn off, since it has been transformed into a shopping-mall-like museum, instead of keeping the original looks (like Matsumoto's one). The exterior, on the other hand, is 10/10, the gardens and everything else is fantastic. So I would recommend going to the Castle, just don't bother to go inside.
Been to Japan 8 times, 3 more trips booked for 2024 and never once given up time going to any shrine or temple, but Castles yes. It bewildering to me why tourists so automatically have shrine and temple visits planned on their 'will do list' when it's virtually a 'would not do' in their own countries. Understandable visiting if you're of Shinto or Buddhist faith, but otherwise ??? Yes there can be nice gardens in shrine grounds but the best gardens are independent locations. I remember on one trip being asked by a transfer driver what we were visiting, and not visiting, during our stay and when we mentioned we don't bother visiting any shrines he said "that's great there's so many other places you should visit instead". Every hour you're at 'another' temple or shrine is a valuable hour wasted to experience so much more of what Japan offers.
I visit every church in my own country and I'm an atheist 😂
This is such a weird comment. I visit religious buildings everywhere, naturally including my home country. And yes, I mean visit, as in getting there and walking and having a look around. Why wouldn't I? I admire the architecture and the art. I enjoy soaking in the spiritual atmosphere. Shrines and temples are no different. Skipping this experience entirely is definitely missing out on a part of Japanese culture. It's, of course, a personal decision. However, I find it odd to point fingers specifically at people who visit shrines and temples during their trip in Japan as if that's an oddity - like religious buildings all over the world don't offer and profit from tourist visitations. 🤷🏻♀️
I remember my friend and I were in Japan during New Year's once. It was such a great experience. We had sake at midnight at a local shrine. I don't even know the name of it. It was pretty small compared to what else you can find around Tokyo, but quite a lot of people had gathered there and they were super welcoming and invited us to come celebrate with them. And the next day we watched workers at a shrine in Kamakura making fresh mochi from scratch. It was awesome! There were also basically no other tourists around, mainly locals doing their New Year's visits. One of my best experiences visiting Japan ever. That being said, next to shrine and temple visits, I always make sure to mix things up, as there is so much to see and do. Shopping malls, theme Cafés, castle grounds, parks, tiny ramen stores that seat no more than four people at a time, all of these are absolutely brilliant. It's the overall experience, really. Again, it's you do you for everyone, but never once taking off your shoes and putting them in a little bag to carry them around with you during a temple visit... definitely missing out on an experience - especially in January. Can absolutely recommend. 😁
Thank you for the information
I'm glad you find this helpful 💖
for spaghetti, come to Italy! great video, thanks
LOL for sure! 👍🏼 planning to go next year, can’t wait to eat all the pasta 😆😆
THANK YOU.
Great video, thank you
Went to the Tsutenkaku Tower in early May, and the line wasn't that long, and I really enjoyed the view. It was a different experience from the Kuchu Teien Observatory, but worth it nonetheless, IMO... Saw the Osaka Castle at least three times, always happy to go... Arashiyama is worth it not just for the forest, but also the surrounding areas, like the Togetsukyo Bridge and Monkey Park... The secret is going out of the regular tourist season, and go in the week if possible, so there are less people...
Crazy cause I went to Japan literally around the same time (November 9-21) and remember that same ramen cookoff cause I was in Osaka from like the 14th-18th!
Here would be my must in terms of attractions and I agree with others that all of these (other than Mt. Fuji) I didn't really plan a schedule around, we just went when we felt like it. Doing this also helped us be around some cool things like watching an Awa Odori in Roppongi Hills business center or walking past Tony Hawk in Ginza or going to Shiba Ryutaro's house and museum on our way back to Osaka from Nara:
Tokyo:
- Shibuya Sky (best observation deck and isn't overly pricey. Just have to pay for it online)
- Meiji Jingu
- Senso-ji (surprised this wasn't on here, it's just kinda a must)
- Toyosu and Tsukiji Markets (Toyosu to see the fish auction and indoor food courts, Tsukiji for the outer market)
Around Mt. Fuji:
- Lake Kawaguchiko (I didn't go but would've if I had time)
- Fujiyoshida and Chureito Pagoda (the main thing I wanted to do on the trip and it didn't disappoint!)
Osaka:
- Osaka Castle & Garden (hotel was right near it and it was a must! Literally the most important and iconic castle in Japan's history)
- Dotonbori
- Osaka Tenmangu
Kyoto:
- Nijo Castle (The main HQ for the Tokugawa Shogunate. Walking inside the Honmaru Goren Palace is amazing and still upkept from even for it having been built in 1603)
- Arashiyama (overcrowded but still amazing)
- Fushimi Inari
You were in Japan on my birthday ! Lol. Hope you had a blast there !! I am originally from Tokyo, but I've moved to the States & I've been living here for 35 plus years ! 👍💜🥁🐉🎤🎶💞
@@spark_6710 That’s awesome and Happy belated birthday 😊 I had such a great time in Japan! It’s the country I’ve wanted to visit the most since I turned 18 (I’m now 28). My younger sister is in school in Niigata so it was good seeing her. But I love the culture, I’m a huge history nerd and I learned Japanese in college but hopefully next time my speaking skills improve cause I was very rusty 😅
Don’t skip on an opportunity to meet and speak to locals in English. Many locals love meeting and talking to foreigners at meetups.
I found Tokyo to be mostly enjoyable, if you can avoid the salaryman on their way to work and the rush hour in the evenings. I found Osaka to be highly overrated, beyond the castle and shines and gardens (it's actually a very densely populated city, not nearly the size of Tokyo) and my favorite places were Hiroshima, Kyoto and Nara - all laid back, all had excellent eating and shopping and plenty of things to see and do.
Yo have really solid rationale for your opinions and I concur. Great job!
I appreciate that! 💖💖
Going to Japan for this first time for two weeks, do you recommend booking a tour or just be on our own? Thank you your help.
Tbh it’s pretty easy to do things on your own in Japan. I didn’t book any tour ☺️
@@TheTravellingLuis thank you
It's common to take pictures first before you go up the tower cause they need time to photoshop and print your photos out but it's your own choice to pay for it or not
I went to Meiji Jingu nearly by accident. My point here is that i agree that it's skippable, especialy if , like me, you went here on the week-end.
Too much people and most importantly they are a lot of wine barrel from burgundy. I couldn't stand it! (my french area, franche-comté, can't stand against burgundy,another french area. that all : )
Interesting enough, you say that we can skip the tsutentaku and that what i did on my first trip. BUT i will return in Japan this monday and i think i will go around but not inside the tower. The park nearby was also not the best i saw in japan, but it was nice, very calmy.
I think i may have some other things to recommand in on month, after i return home from japan, even if i will totally skip Tokyo this time.
The area around the Tsutentaku tower is pretty interesting - lots of food 😋
Unpopular opinion: skip kyoto or do a day trip only
Why? What do you recommend instead?
@@jadecom6I was in Osaka and surrounding areas only.. I guess we preferred having arbitrary destinations but be going through interesting areas and shopping streets for the 20km we walked a day, instead of temples spaced far apart.
Might have been the part of Kyoto we chose, and the fact that I'm not into seeing temples or Geishas. Some of the streets were cute I guess - not sure if that can be seen elsewhere.
For Kyoto, I totally agree with you, I would definitely skip the Arayashima bamboo forest, because for me, its way to crowded and the pleasure of being in a beautiful bamboo grove is not there for me, if there are so many other people.
Overall, Kyoto is beautiful and offers a lot, but its also extremely touristy. I am glad that I was there twice and I enjoyed it a lot, but I would now not return, because there are so many other places in Japan that are also great and a bit less crowded. In Kyoto, visiting some of the beautiful temples, shrines and gardens is my "must see" - there are so many of them, and personally I would not only choose the most famous ones, but also some less famous ones, because they are so much more peaceful. Walking around Gion in the early evening and having a drink or dinner in one of the old buildings is also a good experience. The philosophers path is a nice walk along a small stream, through nice neighbourhoods and past peaceful temples. Nishiki market is extremely crowded, but its good for streetfood and for buying "food related" souvenirs like knifes, bowls etc.
I so agree with you about the touristy stuff in Kyoto. It was hard to get around too because the bus is always so crowded ☹️
Is there anything that you would want to suggest to tourists visiting kyoto?
if i find something i will add Yokohama to list again. saw the Gundam there, walked through Motomachi area nearby, beautiful indeed. didnt know of Gundam man hole covers but that one thing isnt enough to visit there (didnt know it was there), even the ferris wheel area isnt wnough to suffice the visit.
i did like the Arashima bammboo grove as a small side visit, not the biggest forest but interesting to see.
Gion-Shijo area of Kyoto in sakura season is a very suggested place to view the blossoms.
What if my itinerary doesn't include osaka/Kyoto and i would love to visit Shrine in tokyo. Any other shrine to recommend? How about sensoji
That’s completely fine! 😊 I went to Sensoji for a little bit in Tokyo. I went maybe around 6pm-ish and it was empty. But all of the stores were closed already.
Arashiyama Bamboo Park is a must see, it's pretty and we got so many beautiful pictures. Maybe you didn't walk deep enough? On the other hand, I never really enjoyed the river boat rides, specially the sumida river ride - those are a waste of time.
As for the Mt Fuji ropeway, the views at the top is beautiful! (even after hiking Chureito pagoda). However, I agree if you don't have time and better just view Mt Fuji from the lake Kawaguchi.
Maybe I didn't walk deep enough. But it was also very cloudy so it wasn't as pretty as videos/pics I saw :) Maybe I'll give it another try in the future if I have more time in Kyoto.
Tokyo: I absolutely loved Asakusa
I didn’t get to spend too much time in Asakusa but definitely will when I come back to Japan in the future 😊
I was wondering if you have any advice on what to do for food for severe allergies? I have a severe egg allergy and I'm not entirely sure how to go about buying food, I've been learning what I can but is there anything I can do to help?
Yokohama- Ramen Musuem
I kept the ramen museum on my list for my next trip to Japan 😄
How can they be so cruel and unevolved towards those helpless little creatures? Such an animal abuse is unbearable.
I wish you would mention the prices for all the attractions
That's a great idea! I'll put the prices of all the attractions for a future video :)
Lived in japan for a long time, some of the places are just tourist trap and overrated. There’s a lot of places I Japan that the locals only know; so better you ask a local for advice when touring Japan.
Can you tell us some?
Glad I found your channel! You are living my life. We are going on Princess Discovery in April and then Tokyo, Kyoto, Osaka in May.
Omg I’m so jealous you get to go on a cruise around Japan! Happy planning and hope you’ll have a great trip! 🥰
which city your favorite?@@TheTravellingLuis
Tbh I like Osaka better because it’s way less crowded than Tokyo. But Tokyo has everything 😁
Osaka better than Kobe? You are really living the life..Wish I could travel(ill) but really experiencing through your travels.@@TheTravellingLuis
@giomusah2155 Tbh we only spent one day in Kobe, I wish I could do more though.
Must Do in my opinion: teamlab borderless digital art museum
Just seeing the pictures and videos online for the art aquarium made me just skip. Imagine being a fish and you’re always exposed to bright lights with no reprieve
Definitely going to the goldfish
Hi, I thought the mt fuji ropeway closes at 4pm? Will it close early on specific days?
When I was there in Nov 2023, the ropeway closed at 2pm. and I went on a Wednesday.
Thank you for your video, i will go to japan this year. my main worry is, when i have a JR pass, how can i reserve a seat using the JR pass. So if you make a video., i will watch it for sure
I believe there are plenty of blog posts and youtube videos talking about how to reserve seats if you have the JR rail pass. I did a little research about it but since I didn't get the JR pass I didn't research any further. But I'll look into it and I"ll include those info in a future video :)
I recommend October. Avoid summer & rainy season !! Not sure when or how soon you'll go there ,though ! I am Japanese who's been living in the States for 35 +years ! Hope you'll have a blast in Japan !! 👍💜🥁🐉🎤🎶💞
Totally disagree that Yokohama is not worth a visit
10:05
Do you buy the ekiben once you’re on the train, or at the train station?
At the train station before I board the Shinkansen. You should see the store - I bought my first one at the platform in Tokyo station.
Bento boxes in most JR Stations especially Tokyo are overpriced. Selections and prices at department store basement food courts are way better. Enjoy!
@@nateshf9303You mean at Daimaru department store?
I wouldn't exactly say 120 yen is expensive for train ride. That seems about the right price.
Oh yeah, 120 yen is for regular train fare. But I was talking about the Maple Tree tunnel train ride - it was 940 yen round trip per person. So about 470 yen one way pp and definitely more than the regular 120 yen fare.. 😳
Hi Sarah, I am traveling to Tokyo mid March, hopefully I get to see your SmartEx video on how to purchase Shinkansen tkts. Btw, are you Indonesian ?
I will try to post the Shinkansen video and includes the SmartEx app hopefully this month! And yes, I am :)
I am betting the fish are healthier here than in many home tanks. Just saying.
Hmm you're probably right 😅 I had an office fish before and it was a pain trying to get the pH in the water to be just the right on so the fish lives longer...
Can you recommend hotel in that three city?
Thanks!
Yes! I’m gonna make a video on the hotels I stayed at. But here’s the list of hotels I stayed at: Hilton Tokyo, Onyado Nono Namba and Hotel Resol Kawaramuchi Sanjo.
Thank you!@@TheTravellingLuis
We are going to Japan in April and we are skipping team labs. Is it super cool looking and breathtaking? Sure. Is it worth dedicating a few hours of the little time we have in Japan? I honestly don’t think so.
My thoughts exactly! My trip from last Nov was my first time and I didn’t wanna waste time waiting in too many lines. So I’ll be saving team labs for my next trip 😊 have a fun time in April!
You can book tickets to TeamLabs online for the first morning admission and then you don't have to wait in lines :)
It was cool as a young person traveling with friends who like to take photos, but as a solo traveler or with family, I would not do it. We didn’t have lines at all since we reserved tickets in advance, so that was another benefit that made our visit smooth.
Also - as someone who gets motion sickness, I had to skip one of the rooms.
I’ve been to all the teamlabs in japan as an “old person” and with my nearly 80 MIL and we loved it. We could spend hours there.
These things are very subjective so it’s important to use travel tips as guides not absolutes.
Eat at a sushi boat.
Wander around and go down side streets.
Whoa what is a sushi boat? Elaborate please 😊 and where can you get on one in Japan?
A sushi boat is an eatery with a string of little boats or a conveyor belt that snakes around carrying small plates of sushi. You sit down and take the plates you want as they come around. You pay when done based on the number and color of the plates.
I've eaten at one of these in Kyoto and one in Paddington Station, London. Always amusing.
Ooh gotcha! Like Kura sushi right? I live in the US and we call it revolving sushi bar :)
Thank you so much highlighting the Goldfish Issue.. I haven't been there but from the first time I saw this in videos I was put off by how these animals ar kept
No problem! Tbh I saw videos about the aquarium before too, but I didn't think it would be that bad until I experienced it myself..
If you love historical cities, Athens is one of the ultimates. 3000-year old Acropolis and the Parthenon are worth a visit.
I might go to Athens next year in the spring 🥳 My first time ever in Europe actually.
@@TheTravellingLuis You'll love it! 😍
I cannot wait!!! 💖💖
@@TheTravellingLuis 💗💗💗
Is so sad seeing those fish trapped in the tanks, they grow so big those spaces are very small for them
Art aquarium has water tanks similar to Megaman Battle Network 6. So, if Sea Life Aquarium doesn't have the same, Art Aquarium would be good for me.
After watching the videos about bamboo forest and Fuji, I decided, that these are not for me. Not even the view from the lake.
I know this is a late comment, but may I politely suggest that in the future you just do some extra takes? There's a cut in the audio every 5-10 seconds. They stand out a lot and it's really jarring when it's happening that frequently.
Duly noted! Thanks for the feedback :)
they are fish some fish barely move in nature and fish tanks give them sécurity and a safe place to live
Thank you so much for expressing your feelings reg the aquarium ,that is an animal abuse !! 💔