Attention all travel lovers heading to Japan! Here’s my firsthand experience to help you explore Japan with ease!
**Accommodation & Transportation**
**Destinations**: Popular areas include Kansai, Kanto, Hokkaido, and Kyushu. For first-timers visiting Tokyo and Osaka, opt for the “Fly into Tokyo, depart from Osaka” itinerary.
**Accommodation**: Akasaka in Tokyo offers great value—close to Ginza, safe, and well-equipped.
**Transportation**: Use Google Maps to navigate Tokyo—it’s perfect for shopping and dining.
**Must-Visit Tokyo Spots**
**Tokyo Skytree**: Stunning night views from above.
**Shibuya**: Trendy hotspot for cutting-edge street culture.
**Shinjuku**: A mix of izakayas and fashion streets—don’t miss Shinjuku Gyoen.
**Ginza**: Luxury shopping paradise.
**Kamakura High School**: Filming location of *Slam Dunk*, full of nostalgic vibes.
**Shonan Beach**: The scenic route “Rukawa took to school,” with a refreshing sea breeze.
**Kansai City Highlights**
**Osaka**: Great for shopping, Universal Studios, and delicious food.
**Kyoto**: Ancient capital with shrines and kimono culture.
**Nara**: Adorable deer at Nara Park.
**Kobe**: Indulge in Kobe beef and hot springs.
**Uji**: A paradise for matcha lovers.
**Shirahama**: Historic hot springs and seafood feasts.
**Recommended Itinerary**
**7-8 Days**: Choose an in-depth Kanto or Kansai trip, leaving some free time.
**Day 1**: Arrive in Osaka.
**Day 2**: Osaka → Kyoto → Nara → Osaka (try on a kimono, visit Kiyomizu-dera, Fushimi Inari Shrine, Nara Park, Shinsaibashi, Dotonbori).
**Day 3**: Free day in Osaka (optional: Universal Studios).
**Day 4**: Osaka → Tokyo via Shinkansen.
**Day 5**: Instagrammable spots at Mt. Fuji—explore Lake Yamanaka, Oshino Hakkai, etc.
**Day 6**: Free day in Tokyo (optional: Disneyland).
**Day 7**: Return home from Tokyo.
