My Unforgettable 11-Day Journey Through Japan: Tokyo, Fuji, and Kyoto Delights
I'm finally sitting down to share some highlights from my incredible trip to Japan back in April. I tend to forget details quickly, so this is my little way of capturing those memories for future me to relive the joy! I did a lot of research and pulled information from various platforms to create my itinerary, so I hope some of these insights will be helpful for you too.
Essential Pre-Trip Planning
Visa
Securing my visa was surprisingly straightforward. I used a service, and the results came back in just 8 days. The required documentation was also quite simple to gather.
Flights
Since I booked my flights rather last-minute and during the cherry blossom season, the prices were a bit steep. If you can, planning and booking your flights well in advance, or considering transit flights, can save you a significant amount. My journey started at Narita and concluded at Kansai (Osaka). The flight duration was around 4-5 hours. Opting for a red-eye flight was a great decision, allowing me to sleep and arrive ready to check into the hotel and start exploring.
SIM Card
I purchased a 2GB per day SIM card from Shopee, which was adequate for my needs. If you're a heavy data user, I'd recommend getting a 3GB per day plan for peace of mind. Public Wi-Fi and Wi-Fi in restaurants and cafes in Japan are quite scarce, so having your own connection is essential.
Currency Exchange
I exchanged a good amount of cash because many establishments in Japan still prefer cash payments. For other expenses, I used my credit card. I found a great exchange rate at Ha Trung street, and they even offer delivery. They have a Zalo contact to update daily exchange rates, so let me know if you'd like their number.
Immigration
Completing the information on VISIT JAPAN WEB beforehand was a game-changer. You receive a QR code, which you simply scan upon arrival, eliminating the need for paper forms.
Transportation
Getting around was primarily done by train, which proved to be incredibly convenient, punctual, and efficient. Be prepared for a lot of walking! Google Maps works well in Japan, making navigation easier. Thankfully, I received a brief explanation on how to use the trains, so we only got lost once due to rushing. If you follow the specific routes and lines indicated, it's remarkably easy to navigate.
Dining
Even with prior preparation, the Japanese queuing culture is truly astonishing! You'll find lines everywhere, and sometimes hunger wins out, leading to spontaneous stops at convenient stores. It's wise to check opening hours and factor in potential waiting times when planning your meals. Personally, I found many dishes to be quite salty.
Payments
I opted for the WELCOME SUICA card, a physical card designed for tourists with a 30-day validity. Any remaining balance can be withdrawn at the airport upon departure. You can tap this card for payments everywhere, including convenience stores. Alternatively, you can download the SUICA app on your phone and top it up via ApplePay. However, the minimum top-up is 1000Y, and you cannot withdraw the leftover balance.
Accommodation
In Tokyo and Osaka, I booked Airbnb accommodations through a Vietnamese host. Since my booking was last-minute, hotels near major stations were either fully booked or excessively expensive. The hosts were incredibly helpful, and I was even able to check in early, which was a huge plus. My Tokyo stay was conveniently located right at Shinjuku station. In Osaka, I rented a whole three-story house, complete with free bicycles to cycle to the station. In Kyoto, I stayed at a spacious hotel very close to Kyoto Station, just a short walk away.
Important Notes
Japan operates on 110V electricity, and the power outlets have flat pins. Remember to bring a voltage converter and plug adapter.
Most train stations have elevators, so do try to locate them to avoid the struggle of carrying luggage up stairs.
My Detailed 11-Day Japan Itinerary
Day 1: Shibuya Exploration
- Shibuya Sky: I pre-booked tickets on Klook. Tickets go on sale 15 days in advance, and it's best to aim for the popular 4 PM to 6 PM slots to witness the sunset. Tickets often sell out, especially for these prime times.
- I was quite tired on the first day, so we kept our dining and activities around the Shibuya area.
- Experiencing the iconic Shibuya Crossing, the world's busiest intersection, was quite exhilarating.
- The Hachiko statue is also located nearby, making it a convenient spot for a quick photo, though it's usually very crowded.
Day 2: Majestic Mount Fuji
- Given my admiration for Mount Fuji, I dedicated an entire day to exploring its surroundings. We hired a Vietnamese driver who was incredibly enthusiastic and knowledgeable. He expertly guided us to our planned spots and provided excellent advice on the most efficient routes.
- Coincidentally, I posted about this on a group, and we ended up joining two other travelers for the day. This significantly reduced the cost and added to the flexibility, allowing us to stop wherever we pleased and truly soak in the beauty.
- Mount Fuji was undoubtedly the highlight of my trip; I was completely mesmerized.
- A useful tip is to check the weather and visibility for Mount Fuji beforehand on websites like SeeMtFuji, weathernewsjp, and fujigokotv. This helps in planning your day effectively. Despite a week of rain, the day we visited Mount Fuji was blessed with clear skies, and I even saw the peak – it was pure magic!
- You can travel to Fuji by train, but local bus services are infrequent, and taxis are expensive. Considering pre-arranged tours with set itineraries is also an option.
- For ultimate freedom and personalization, I highly recommend booking a private tour.
Day 3: Tokyo's Cultural Icons
- I must say, the temples and shrines in Japan are absolutely breathtaking. Every photo I took felt like it belonged in a cinematic masterpiece. With only one day left in Tokyo, we visited Sensoji Temple and explored the vibrant Asakusa area, including the popular conveyor belt sushi restaurant, SUSHIRO.
- In the afternoon, we made our way to see the Tokyo Tower.
- We also stopped by the Onitsuka Tiger Ginza store, the only one offering name embroidery on shoes. Be prepared for queues here as well! The store itself is beautifully designed and even houses a cafe. The first floor is for display, and you descend to the basement for fitting and purchasing. Note that custom embroidery takes until the next day for collection, something I regret not being able to do as I left Tokyo the following morning.
Day 4: Magical Disneyland Tokyo
- I booked my tickets through Klook. I strongly advise visiting on a weekday, as weekends can be overwhelmingly crowded. You don't need to arrive extremely early, as some TikTok reviews suggest. It's better to conserve your energy for the evening parades and fireworks. We found that leaving Shinjuku around 9:30 AM was ideal.
- For popular rides like Beauty and the Beast and Splash Mountain, consider purchasing an Express Pass if the lines are too long. This will allow you to experience more attractions.
- Disneyland offers plenty of food options, so hunger is not a concern.
- On this day, we managed to enjoy rides like Star Tours, Stitch Encounter (which was a bit underwhelming), it's a small world, Haunted Mansion, and Beauty and the Beast.
- My biggest tip: Take photos as soon as you arrive, then head for rides. The late afternoon light is absolutely stunning for photography, and be sure to check the parade schedule – we caught the evening parade!
- It truly felt like stepping back into childhood, reliving the magic of my favorite cartoons and movies. It's an experience well worth having!
Day 5: Journey to Kyoto
- We traveled to Kyoto via the Shinkansen. Booking tickets on Klook was seamless, and the train was impeccably punctual, arriving exactly two hours later. There are numerous departures throughout the day, but the Nozomi service is reportedly the fastest. We took the 12:30 PM train, which allowed us to arrive and check into our hotel without rush.
- If you want to catch a glimpse of Mount Fuji, opt for seats D and E. The majestic mountain appears around the 40-minute mark of the journey, so be sure to stay awake!
- Watching the changing landscapes and vegetation outside the window was incredibly beautiful and captivating. I made sure not to sleep, fearing I'd miss any of those picturesque "window views."
- Popular eateries like Gyukatsu and Ichiran Ramen, which are often packed in Tokyo, are much less crowded in Kyoto and Osaka, meaning shorter waiting times.
- We also explored Nishiki Market.
Day 6: Kyoto's Enchanting Districts
- We rented a kimono from a Vietnamese shop located just a short walk from the historic Gion district. The rental cost around 5000Y and included hairstyling. With so many beautiful options, I found myself overwhelmed at first, but I soon realized that choosing a color you love is key – everything looks gorgeous when worn! Brighter colors really stand out. While I initially found some patterns a bit outside my usual style, the final look was incredibly charming.
- To capture photos with fewer crowds, waking up early and exploring Gion before 8 AM is highly recommended. By 9 AM, the streets become very busy. Every angle in Gion offers a beautiful photograph.
- We enjoyed Matcha House and % Arabica, both located within the Gion district. You can also experience Starbucks in a traditional 300-year-old house in this area.
- Around midday, we changed back into our regular clothes for more comfortable movement.
- Our next destination was Fushimi Inari Taisha, famous for its thousands of vibrant torii gates. For fewer people in your photos, venture further along the loop trail. The gates offer a consistent visual, and the crowds thin out considerably. If time permits, consider visiting the Arashiyama Bamboo Grove, Tenryuji Temple, and the Hozu River, as these locations are relatively close to each other.
- Totaro, a matcha and mochi shop recommended by many, was a delight. Although the shop is small, the matcha was exceptionally smooth and delicious. I'm so glad I didn't miss out on this experience.
- Afterwards, we strolled through the neighborhood near the cafe. Every house was picturesque, adorned with blooming flowers and bathed in the soft afternoon sunlight. It felt incredibly cinematic, and I wished I could stay longer.
Day 7: Kyoto's Riverside Charm and Move to Osaka
- On our last day in Kyoto, we made sure to visit a few more cafes.
- The banks of the Kamo River offer a truly relaxing atmosphere, just like in the movies. The scenery is stunning, and the area is dotted with many charming cafes. Kyoto is a beautiful and peaceful city, and I'm already planning to dedicate more days to exploring it on my next visit.
- The journey to Osaka takes only about 30-40 minutes.
Day 8: Osaka's Bustling Hubs
- Kuromon Market is often called the "Kitchen of Japan," but it was fascinating to see so many Vietnamese vendors. It truly highlights the talent of our community! Ordering in Vietnamese in Osaka made me feel right at home, not like I was in Japan at all.
- We made sure to get our iconic photo with the Glico Running Man sign.
- We also explored the vibrant Dotonbori district.
- And, of course, visited the lively Kuromon Market.
Day 9: Nara's Gentle Giants
- My initial plan was to spend the entire day in Nara, but I experienced a slight case of "fear of missing out" that turned into a bit of disappointment upon arrival. While the deer are there, they can be quite assertive when they're hungry! We ended up returning to Osaka after about an hour due to the heat and the overwhelming encounters.
- The train journey from Osaka to Nara takes approximately an hour (on the Kintetsu Nara Line).
- We did get to try Nakatanidou Mochi, famous for its dramatic mochi pounding demonstrations.
- At Nara Park, you can buy crackers to feed the deer, and surprisingly, they bow in return. It's a unique experience, but I wouldn't necessarily rush back just for this.
- If you do visit Nara, consider seeing the Great Buddha at Todai-ji Temple and the thousands of lanterns at Kasuga Taisha Shrine.
Day 10: Osaka's Parks and Shopping
- We were taken to the Expo '70 Commemorative Park, a vast expanse filled with tulips and cherry blossoms. Seeing them for the first time was incredibly breathtaking. There's also an outlet mall nearby, making it a perfect spot to spend a full day if you have the time.
- The Ghibli store in the Shinsaibashi shopping area is a treasure trove. Everything is so beautifully designed, and I wanted to buy it all – it's pure Ghibli magic.
- Shopping around the Namba area was also a fantastic experience. Remember to bring your passport for tax refunds. Most product information is in Japanese, so using Google Translate or saving photos of items you want to purchase beforehand will be very helpful when interacting with staff.
Day 11: Departure from Kansai
- Kansai International Airport is quite large, so it's advisable to arrive a little earlier. After checking in, head to the Duty-Free shops to pick up souvenirs like nama chocolate, banana cake, and Letao cakes. You can carry these items on board with you.
Final Thoughts
Overall, this trip was filled with new experiences, delicious food, and a deep dive into a different culture. I also walked a lot – some days clocking up to 20,000 steps, so comfortable shoes are an absolute must!
This was my first time traveling purely as a tourist. My next adventure will involve exploring different prefectures, spending more time at a slower pace to truly absorb the essence of Japan. I've written down what I remember, but there might be some details missing. If you need any further clarification or have questions, feel free to reach out!
