Tokyo - The Modern Metropolis
Capital city blending ultramodern and traditional
Tokyo, Japan's bustling capital, mixes the ultramodern with the traditional, from neon-lit skyscrapers and anime shops to historic temples and serene gardens.
Top Attractions
Shibuya Crossing
World's busiest pedestrian crossing with iconic scramble crossing
Free
Senso-ji Temple
Tokyo's oldest temple in historic Asakusa district
Free
Tokyo Skytree
World's tallest tower with panoramic views of Tokyo
From ¥2,100
Meiji Shrine
Peaceful Shinto shrine surrounded by forest in the heart of Tokyo
Free
Getting Around
Tokyo Map
Interactive map showing major attractions
Travel Tips
- Get a Suica or Pasmo card for easy train/bus travel
- Visit Tsukiji Outer Market for fresh seafood (original market moved)
- Book accommodations near Yamanote Line stations for convenience
- Try local specialties: sushi, ramen, tempura, and monjayaki
- Visit Meiji Shrine early morning for a peaceful experience
Yokohama - Port City
Japan's second-largest city with international flair
Yokohama is Japan's second-largest city and a major port, known for its Chinatown, waterfront attractions, and historic Western influences.
Must-See Places
- Yokohama Chinatown - Largest in Japan
- Minato Mirai 21 - Waterfront district
- Cup Noodles Museum
- Sankeien Garden
- Red Brick Warehouse
Getting There
- From Tokyo: 25-40 mins by train
- JR Tokaido Line from Tokyo Station
- JR Keihin-Tohoku Line from Shinagawa
- Tokyu Toyoko Line from Shibuya
Kyoto - Ancient Capital
Japan's cultural heart with 17 UNESCO World Heritage Sites
Kyoto served as Japan's capital for over 1,000 years and is home to numerous Buddhist temples, Shinto shrines, palaces, and traditional wooden houses.
Must-Visit Temples & Shrines
Kinkaku-ji (Golden Pavilion)
Zen temple covered in gold leaf, reflected in a pond
¥400
Fushimi Inari Shrine
Thousands of vermilion torii gates on mountainside trails
Free
Kiyomizu-dera
Historic temple with wooden stage overlooking Kyoto
¥400
Arashiyama Bamboo Grove
Towering bamboo forest creating a magical atmosphere
Free
Traditional Experiences
Cultural Activities in Kyoto
Kimono Rental
Wear traditional kimono while exploring
Tea Ceremony
Experience traditional Japanese tea ceremony
Kaiseki Dining
Multi-course traditional Japanese meal
Geisha District
Visit Gion and Pontocho districts
Getting Around Kyoto
Kyoto has an efficient bus system that reaches most tourist destinations. Consider getting a Kyoto City Bus One-Day Pass (¥600) for unlimited rides.
- City Buses: Cover most tourist attractions
- Subway: Two lines (Karasuma and Tozai)
- Trains: JR lines and private railways
- Bicycle: Great way to explore, many rental shops
- Taxi: Available but expensive
Osaka - Nation's Kitchen
Vibrant city famous for food, nightlife, and modern architecture
Osaka is known for its modern architecture, nightlife, and hearty street food. The city has a more outgoing and vibrant atmosphere compared to Kyoto and Tokyo.
Must-Try Foods
- Takoyaki - Octopus balls
- Okonomiyaki - Savory pancake
- Kushikatsu - Deep-fried skewers
- Osaka-style sushi
- Doteyaki - Beef tendon stew
Top Attractions
- Osaka Castle
- Dotonbori District
- Universal Studios Japan
- Shinsekai District
- Umeda Sky Building
Mount Fuji & Fuji Five Lakes
Japan's iconic mountain and surrounding scenic area
Mount Fuji, Japan's highest peak at 3,776 meters, is an active volcano and one of Japan's most iconic symbols. The Fuji Five Lakes region at its northern foot offers spectacular views.
Fuji Five Lakes (Fujigoko)
Lake Kawaguchiko
Most developed lake with best views of Mount Fuji, hot springs, and museums.
Lake Yamanakako
Largest of the five lakes, popular for water sports and camping.
Lake Saiko
Surrounded by forest, known for bat cave and lava tree molds.
Climbing Mount Fuji
| Trail | Starting Point | Difficulty | Climbing Time |
|---|---|---|---|
| Yoshida Trail | Yamanashi Prefecture | Moderate | 5-7 hours ascent |
| Subashiri Trail | Shizuoka Prefecture | Moderate | 5-7 hours ascent |
| Gotemba Trail | Shizuoka Prefecture | Difficult (longest) | 7-9 hours ascent |
| Fujinomiya Trail | Shizuoka Prefecture | Moderate (steepest) | 4-6 hours ascent |
Climbing Tips
- Acclimatize to altitude - climb slowly
- Bring proper hiking gear: boots, warm clothing, headlamp
- Stay hydrated and bring high-energy snacks
- Consider staying in a mountain hut to break up the climb
- Start climbing in the afternoon, stay overnight, reach summit for sunrise
- Pack out all trash - "leave no trace" policy
Getting There
From Tokyo to Kawaguchiko Station:
- Direct bus from Shinjuku Station (1 hour 45 minutes, ¥1,800)
- Train: JR Chuo Line to Otsuki, then Fujikyu Railway to Kawaguchiko (2 hours, ¥3,500)
- Fuji Excursion limited express train from Shinjuku (1 hour 55 minutes, ¥4,000)
Hokkaido - Northern Wilderness
Japan's northernmost island with stunning nature and winter sports
Hokkaido is Japan's northernmost island, known for its volcanoes, natural hot springs (onsen), and ski resorts. It offers spectacular natural scenery and outdoor activities year-round.
Major Cities & Areas
Sapporo
Capital city famous for Sapporo Snow Festival, beer, and ramen.
Niseko
World-renowned ski resort with powder snow, popular with international visitors.
Furano
Famous for lavender fields in summer and ski resorts in winter.
Asahikawa
Japan's coldest city with Asahiyama Zoo and winter festival.
Natural Attractions
| Attraction | Location | Highlights | Best Time |
|---|---|---|---|
| Shikotsu-Toya National Park | Southwest Hokkaido | Volcanic lakes, hot springs, hiking | May-October |
| Daisetsuzan National Park | Central Hokkaido | Japan's largest national park, hiking, wildlife | July-September |
| Akan Mashu National Park | Eastern Hokkaido | Volcanic craters, clear lakes, Ainu culture | June-October |
| Shiretoko National Park | Northeast Hokkaido | UNESCO site, brown bears, drift ice | May-October |
Winter Activities
Getting to Hokkaido
From Tokyo to Sapporo:
- Flight: 1.5 hours from Haneda or Narita airports
- Shinkansen: 4 hours from Tokyo to Hakodate, then 3.5 hours to Sapporo by limited express
- Overnight ferry: 18 hours from Sendai or 20 hours from Tokyo
Japan Travel Planning Guide
Recommended Itineraries
Classic 7-Day Trip
Tokyo (3 days) → Hakone/Fuji (1 day) → Kyoto (2 days) → Osaka (1 day)
Cultural 10-Day Trip
Tokyo (3 days) → Kanazawa (2 days) → Kyoto (3 days) → Nara (1 day) → Osaka (1 day)
Nature 14-Day Trip
Tokyo (3 days) → Nagano (2 days) → Kanazawa (2 days) → Kyoto (3 days) → Hiroshima (2 days) → Osaka (2 days)
Japan Rail Pass Guide
The Japan Rail Pass offers unlimited travel on JR trains including Shinkansen (bullet trains). Available for 7, 14, or 21 days.
| Duration | Ordinary Car | Green Car |
|---|---|---|
| 7 Days | ¥29,650 | ¥39,600 |
| 14 Days | ¥47,250 | ¥64,120 |
| 21 Days | ¥60,450 | ¥83,390 |