Hello, fellow travellers and lifestyle enthusiasts! Kirk B. here, back to share the incredible details of my recent trip to Japan in May 2024. This journey was a mix of culture, history, and, of course, amazing food. With a detailed itinerary in hand, I was ready to explore the vibrant cities of Tokyo, Kyoto, and Osaka. Here’s how it all unfolded.
Day 1: Arrival in Tokyo and Exploring Asakusa
My adventure kicked off in Tokyo, where I stayed at the Via Inn Iidabashi Korakuen. After grabbing train tickets to the hotel, I couldn’t wait to dive into the city. My first stop was Nakamise Shopping Street, a bustling market that leads to the Sensoji Temple. This is where I grabbed a quick breakfast and indulged in kibi dango—a traditional Japanese sweet that set the tone for the day.
The Sensoji Temple was nothing short of awe-inspiring, with its ancient architecture and serene atmosphere. I took some time to explore the Denboin Garden, a hidden gem that offers a peaceful escape from the crowds.
Next, I headed to Ueno Park, where I had a fantastic lunch at Gyukatsu Motomura. The crispy gyukatsu (breaded beef cutlet) was a highlight of the day. After refuelling, I strolled through Ameyoko Shopping Street, sampling seafood don and soaking in the vibrant energy of the market.
The day wrapped up with a visit to Akihabara, the mecca for electronics and anime enthusiasts, followed by a comforting bowl of Himokawa udon at Hanayama Udon. My final stop was Tsujiki Yaki Uo Ishikawa, where I enjoyed a late-night bite before heading back to my hotel.
Day 2: Tsukiji Fish Market and Shibuya Adventures
On day two, I started early at the Tsukiji Fish Market. The market’s bustling atmosphere and fresh seafood made it a must-visit. After exploring, I made my way to Shibuya, where I experienced the famous Shibuya Crossing and visited the Hachiko Statue—a touching tribute to the loyal dog.
Lunch was at Menya Nukaji, a local favourite known for its rich ramen. Post-lunch, I took a leisurely walk through Yoyogi Park, leading me to the Meiji Jingu Shrine, a beautiful and tranquil spot in the heart of the city.
The highlight of the afternoon was a visit to TeamLab Tokyo, an immersive art experience that blew me away. I highly recommend booking your tickets in advance, as this is an experience you don’t want to miss.
Afterwards, I headed to Harajuku’s Takeshita Street, where I indulged in some shopping and tried the famous soufflé pancakes at Flippers. With a full belly and bags of goodies, I returned to the Via Inn Iidabashi Korakuen to rest up for the next day.
Day 3: Shinjuku’s Sights and Sounds
Day three was all about exploring Shinjuku, starting with a peaceful morning at Shinjuku Gyoen National Garden. This was followed by a hearty lunch at Menya Musashi, a ramen spot that lived up to its reputation.
The afternoon was spent at the Tokyo Metropolitan Government Building, where I took in panoramic views of the city. As evening approached, I wandered through the lively Omoide Yokocho, a narrow alley filled with tiny bars and eateries, before exploring the neon-lit Kabukicho Street and Golden Gai, where I ended the day with a delicious sushi dinner at Tasturo Sushi.
Day 4: A Day Trip to Mount Fuji
No trip to Japan would be complete without a visit to Mount Fuji. I took a day trip from Tokyo, where I was greeted by breathtaking views of the iconic mountain. The sight of Mount Fuji was a serene contrast to the hustle and bustle of Tokyo. After a day of exploring the area, I returned to my hotel, content with the day’s adventures.
Day 5: Kyoto’s Historical Charm
The next leg of my journey took me to Kyoto, where I checked into the Comfort Inn Kyoto Shijokarasuma. My first day in Kyoto was packed with history, starting with a visit to Nijo Castle and its beautiful gardens. Lunch was an unforgettable experience at Menbakaichida, where I tried their famous Fire Ramen—a dish that’s as much about the spectacle as it is about the flavour.
I spent the afternoon visiting some of Kyoto’s most famous temples, including Kinkakuji (the Golden Pavilion) and Ryoanji, known for its Zen rock garden. The day ended at Kiyomizu-dera, a stunning temple with a panoramic view of Kyoto.
Day 6: Exploring Kyoto’s Cultural Treasures
Day six was dedicated to exploring more of Kyoto’s cultural treasures. I started at Fushimi Inari Shrine, famous for its thousands of torii gates. After a peaceful morning walk, I indulged in a delicious lunch at Kanoko, followed by a fun kimono rental experience—an absolute must when in Kyoto.
The afternoon was spent walking along the Philosopher’s Path and exploring the Ginkakuji Temple. I also visited the beautiful Hanami Lane and the historic Miyagawacho Geisha neighbourhood, where I glimpsed Kyoto’s traditional side.
Day 7: A Quick Stop in Osaka
On day seven, I took a quick trip to Osaka. My first stop was the lively Dotonbori area, where I enjoyed street food and the vibrant atmosphere. After a day of exploring, I checked into the Hotel Cordia Osaka, where I rested up for the final leg of my journey.
Day 8: Final Day in Tokyo
Returning to Tokyo for my final day, I made the most of my remaining time by exploring the upscale Ginza district. I had an incredible omakase lunch at Kyubey Ginza—an experience that was as much about the artistry as it was about the food.
After lunch, I stopped by Glitch Coffee for a caffeine boost before heading to Roppongi Hills for some last-minute shopping. My final meal in Japan was a satisfying bowl of ramen at Ichiran, a fitting end to a culinary journey that I’ll never forget.
Conclusion: Reflections on an Unforgettable Trip
As I boarded my flight back home, I couldn’t help but reflect on the incredible experiences of the past eight days. Japan is a country that effortlessly blends the modern with the traditional, offering something for every traveller. From the bustling streets of Tokyo to the serene temples of Kyoto and the vibrant energy of Osaka, this trip was everything I had hoped for and more.
If you’re planning a trip to Japan, I hope this itinerary inspires you to explore and savour every moment. Until next time, happy travels!
With love,
Kirk B.