Japan has always been on our bucket list. After two years of planning we finally made it happen: ten days, three cities, countless temples, too much ramen, and memories for a lifetime.
Cost Overview
| Category | Budget | Mid-range | Comfort |
|---|---|---|---|
| Accommodation | $30-50 | $90-150 | $220-450 |
| Food | $20-30 | $40-65 | $90-180 |
| Transport | $15-20 | $20-30 | $35-70 |
Tokyo – Megacity Without Overwhelm
We spent the first four days in Tokyo. With 14 million residents in the city proper, it could feel intimidating – but the public transport system is so precise and logical that you quickly find your bearings.
- Shibuya Crossing: Yes, it is touristy. Yes, it is still fascinating. Go at night when the neon signs are blazing.
- Yanaka District: The real old Tokyo – tiny craft shops, temples, cats on rooftops. Barely a tourist in sight.
- Tsukiji Outer Market: Have breakfast here. Tamago sandwiches at 6am are the best breakfast in the world.
- teamLab Borderless: Mind-bending digital art installation. Book tickets three months ahead.
Kyoto – Where Time Stands Still
Three days in Kyoto is not enough. The city has over 1,600 Buddhist temples and 400 Shinto shrines. Our non-negotiable must-see list:
- Fushimi Inari Shrine – go before 6am, no crowds
- Arashiyama Bamboo Grove – immediately after
- Kinkaku-ji (Golden Pavilion)
- Philosopher’s Path during cherry blossom season
- Nishiki Market – buy kitchen knives, eat mochi
Japan changes you. You come home and wonder why trains elsewhere are never on time and why public toilets are so basic.
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