Japan for independent travel

Japan, a country where ancient traditions blend seamlessly with modern innovations, has long been a dream destination for travelers. With its reopening to independent travel, it’s the perfect time to plan an unforgettable journey. Whether you’re drawn to its bustling cities, serene temples, or culinary delights, Japan offers something for every traveler. This guide will help you navigate the top cities, attractions, accommodations, dining options, and more for an independent trip to Japan.

Cities to Visit

• Tokyo: Tokyo, Japan’s capital, is a sprawling metropolis known for its skyscrapers, shopping districts, and rich cultural heritage.
• Kyoto: Kyoto, once the capital of Japan, is famous for its classical Buddhist temples, as well as gardens, imperial palaces, Shinto shrines, and traditional wooden houses.
• Osaka: Osaka is known for its modern architecture, nightlife, and hearty street food.
• Hiroshima: Hiroshima offers a poignant history, beautiful gardens, and the stunning Itsukushima Shrine.
• Fukuoka: Fukuoka is a gateway to Kyushu Island, known for its ancient temples, beaches, and modern shopping malls.

Top Attractions

Museums

• Tokyo National Museum: Located in Ueno Park, it showcases traditional Japanese art.
• Kyoto National Museum: Focuses on pre-modern Japanese and Asian art.
• Hiroshima Peace Memorial Museum: A poignant reminder of the atomic bomb’s impact.

Parks and Nature

• Ueno Park (Tokyo): A spacious public park with museums, a zoo, and beautiful cherry blossoms in spring.
• Arashiyama Bamboo Grove (Kyoto): A scenic forest of towering bamboo.
• Nara Park: Home to over 1,000 freely roaming deer and the famous Todai-ji Temple.

Cultural Sites

• Senso-ji Temple (Tokyo): Tokyo’s oldest temple.
• Fushimi Inari Shrine (Kyoto): Famous for its thousands of vermilion torii gates.
• Osaka Castle: A historic castle with a beautiful surrounding park.
• Itsukushima Shrine (Miyajima): Known for its “floating” torii gate.

Weather and Best Time to Visit

• Spring (March to May): Spring is the most popular time to visit Japan, thanks to the beautiful cherry blossoms (sakura). The weather is mild, making it perfect for sightseeing and outdoor activities.
• Autumn (September to November): Autumn features cooler temperatures and stunning fall foliage, especially in Kyoto and Nikko.
• Summer (June to August): Summer can be hot and humid, but it’s also festival season. Expect vibrant festivals like Gion Matsuri in Kyoto.
• Winter (December to February): Winter is less crowded and offers unique experiences like skiing in Hokkaido and soaking in onsen (hot springs).

Where to Stay

Tokyo

• Park Hyatt Tokyo: Luxury hotel with stunning city views.
• Shibuya Excel Hotel Tokyu: Conveniently located in the heart of Shibuya.

Kyoto

• Hotel Granvia Kyoto: Located at Kyoto Station, offering great convenience and comfort.
• Gion Hatanaka: A traditional ryokan (inn) experience in the historic Gion district.

Osaka

• The Ritz-Carlton Osaka: Luxury accommodation with exceptional service.
• Hotel Monterey Grasmere Osaka: Located near major attractions and shopping areas.

Places to Eat

Tokyo

• Sukiyabashi Jiro: Famous for its sushi, featured in “Jiro Dreams of Sushi.”
• Ichiran Ramen: A must-visit for ramen lovers.

Kyoto

• Kikunoi: A Michelin-starred kaiseki restaurant.
• Ippudo Ramen: A popular spot for ramen enthusiasts.

Osaka

• Dotonbori: Known for street food like takoyaki (octopus balls) and okonomiyaki (savory pancakes).

Getting Around

• Public Transportation: Japan boasts one of the most efficient public transportation systems in the world. The Japan Rail Pass (JR Pass) is highly recommended for foreign travelers, allowing unlimited travel on JR trains, including the shinkansen (bullet trains).
• Buses and Subways: Cities like Tokyo and Kyoto have extensive bus and subway networks. Using a prepaid card like Suica or Pasmo makes travel easier.
• Taxis and Ridesharing: Taxis are widely available but can be expensive. Ridesharing services like Uber are also an option in some cities.

8-Day Itinerary

Day 1: Tokyo

• Morning: Visit Senso-ji Temple and Asakusa.
• Afternoon: Explore the shopping district of Shibuya and the famous Shibuya Crossing.
• Evening: Dinner at a sushi restaurant in Ginza.

Day 2: Tokyo

• Morning: Visit the Tokyo National Museum in Ueno Park.
• Afternoon: Stroll through Akihabara, known for its electronics and anime culture.
• Evening: Enjoy the nightlife in Roppongi.

Day 3: Kyoto

• Morning: Take the shinkansen to Kyoto.
• Afternoon: Visit Fushimi Inari Shrine.
• Evening: Explore Gion and enjoy a traditional kaiseki dinner.

Day 4: Kyoto

• Morning: Visit the Arashiyama Bamboo Grove.
• Afternoon: Explore Kinkaku-ji (Golden Pavilion).
• Evening: Relax at a traditional ryokan.

Day 5: Osaka

• Morning: Travel to Osaka and visit Osaka Castle.
• Afternoon: Explore the Osaka Aquarium.
• Evening: Dinner and shopping in Dotonbori.

Day 6: Hiroshima

• Morning: Take the shinkansen to Hiroshima.
• Afternoon: Visit the Hiroshima Peace Memorial Museum and Park.
• Evening: Try okonomiyaki at a local restaurant.

Day 7: Miyajima

• Morning: Ferry to Miyajima and visit Itsukushima Shrine.
• Afternoon: Hike or take the ropeway to Mount Misen.
• Evening: Return to Hiroshima for dinner.

Day 8: Fukuoka

• Morning: Travel to Fukuoka.
• Afternoon: Visit Fukuoka’s temples and beaches.
• Evening: Enjoy yatai (street food stalls) for dinner.

Tips for Independent Travelers

• Learn Basic Japanese Phrases: Knowing basic phrases like “hello” (konnichiwa), “thank you” (arigatou), and “excuse me” (sumimasen) can be very helpful.
• Use Public Transportation: Japan’s public transport is efficient and reliable. Use the JR Pass for long-distance travel and prepaid cards for city transit.
• Make Reservations: Many popular restaurants and attractions require advance reservations, especially in Tokyo and Kyoto.
• Carry Cash: While credit cards are widely accepted, some smaller shops and restaurants may only take cash. ATMs are available at convenience stores like 7-Eleven.
• Respect Local Customs: Japan has unique customs and etiquette. Be mindful of practices like removing shoes before entering a home or certain restaurants, and always be polite and respectful.
• Stay Connected: Consider renting a portable Wi-Fi device or buying a local SIM card to stay connected, as free public Wi-Fi is not always available.
• Download Useful Apps: Apps like Google Maps, Google Translate, and Hyperdia (for train schedules) can be invaluable.