Japan has been on my list for so long it was almost overwhelming to actually go! I loved every minute of our trip here, this is everything you need to know to plan your trip to Japan.
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DAYS 1-4: Tokyo
You can see a lot in 4 days! We used one day for a day trip and there are lots of places to choose from. Check out our Tokyo blog for details of the 5 days we spent there. We also have a Tokyo You Tube Vlog! There is so much to do in Tokyo as well as awesome day trips you can do using Tokyo as a base! We loved visiting Mt Fuji, Hakone, Kawagoe and Kamakura!
DAY 5-6: Matsumoto
Matsumoto gets you a little out into the countryside of Japan while still being in a big city. There is enough to see here that you can enjoy it for a couple of days. All our information for Matusmoto is in our “Is Matsumoto worth Visiting?” blog and check out the castle in our You Tube Vlog it is gorgeous! We highly recommend going on a day trip to Narai-Juku which is an idyllic post town and not to be missed. Check out our dedicated Narai Juku Blog and You Tube Vlog to plan your day trip.
DAYS 7-9: Takayama
Takayama is stunning, the beautiful old town is so worth seeing as well as the walk that takes you around to the temples. Make sure to check out the Hida Folk village as well as a day trip to Shirakawa-go! Takayama is a foodie town and you’ve got to try the Hida beef. Check out our Takayama Travel blog and You Tube Takayama Vlog!
DAYS 9-12: Kyoto
Kyoto is a must of course at least once when in Japan. We loved it and made sure to head out early to avoid as much of the crowds as possible. There are so many places to visit in Kyoto that you would need a long time or multiple visits to see it all. This Kyoto blog shows you what we were able to fit in, check out our Kyoto travel video to see what you think!
DAYS 12-14: Osaka
Osaka is a vibrant city and we filled a few days here really easily, check out out Osaka vlog and Osaka blog to see what we loved. It also makes a great base to experience the cute Nara deer as well!
That’s it! I hope this helps plan your first trip to Japan, it was such a wonderful adventure through the different landscapes and culture.
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1. Book Your Flights
We will always check and book through Trip.com they have great deals!
2. Book Your Accommodations
We always check Booking.com, Expedia, Klook and Trip.com. They all have great deals and sometimes are better in different continents, for example we almost used Trip and Klook exclusively in Asia and Booking.com always in Europe!
3. Buy your E-sim!
E-sims have changed the game in communication while travelling. They are cheap and easy to use, we never go without them. Our current favourite is Yesim!
4. Book Your Tours & Experiences
I usually use and recommend Get Your Guide, Klook and Viator to book tours and activities. THey also have shuttle options to and from airports which is great. I love the real reviews you can check and we have never had a problem with them!
5. Book Your Rental Car
Self-driving is my favourite way to explore most destinations, we use Rental Cars.
6. Don’t Forget Travel Insurance
Travel insurance is a must, Mike travelled for years without it but now we see that was a little crazy! We feel so much better knowing we have a backstop for cancelled flights, delayed luggage, sickness on the road and wouldn’t be without it! Safety Wing is great, especially for frequent travellers.
7. Airport Lounge Access is a must!
Use Priority Pass to access to 1,400+ VIP lounges and airport experiences worldwide.
Where Next?
Nara Deer: The Ultimate Guide to Japan’s Famous Fawn-Filled Park
What to do in Mt Fuji in one day
Kawagoe Day Trip: A Complete Guide to Exploring Japan’s Little Edo
What to Do in Hida Takayama: Top Activities for First-Time Visitors
Things to do in Hakone Day Trip
Indonesia, Sumatra: Gunung Leuser National Park – 9 Day Jungle Trek!
Bukit Lawang, Medan – the town on the edge of the jungle!
Indonesia, Sumatra: Palau Weh Island – An undiscovered gem!
24 hours in Penang Georgetown, Malaysia
How to spend two days in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
Visiting Batu Caves, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
What to do in Langkawi, Malaysia for 3 days.
