Travelling to Japan was an absolute dream for me. A huge variety of food, different cities, bright colours and sounds. Japan is one of those countries you think you’ve never seen enough of. When you’ve seen it, you want more. Let me take you into the world of Japan and I will tell you about one of the most beautiful travel routes there is. One where you can meet old- and new Japan, discover different kinds of food and the positive vibes of this mesmerizing country.
Take Tokyo as your starting point while travelling to this side of Japan. Just because it’s the most hectic city you’ll ever visit. The different neighbourhoods give you the feeling of stepping into another city over and over again; Shibuya, Shinjuku, Akihabara, Nakano and Toshima and many more. You’ll need at least a week to discover this city and the subway is a perfect way to get from A to B.
After Tokyo, you can easily travel to Fujikawaguchiko by public transport. Mount Fuji is an absolute must when visiting this side of Japan. I remember seeing this beautiful mountain for the first time, I had to pinch myself to know if this was real. Two nights are enough to discover this area and to make lots of pictures!
Nara is a must-see but you don’t have to have a sleepover in this city like I did. The city is very small and you’ll visit this city especially for the deer walking around and believe me, there are lots of deer over here. They even bow for you if you give them a treat.
If you want to meet the old Japan, temples, religions and living simple, you’ll have to go to Koyasan. This sleepy town is really small, has just a few stores and hotels but totally worth it. Two nights are enough to discover this place. Make sure you visit the Okunoin Cemetery and participate with the prayer of the monks in the early morning (6 am) at Oku-no-In temple.
Osaka, personally one of my favourite cities in Japan. It’s hectic but different from “hectic Tokyo” you find anime, comic book stores and Taito stations in abundance. Osaka has a beautiful zoo; Tennoji and there are loads of good and cheap restaurants. You don’t have to go to a fancy restaurant to have a good meal. Make sure you visit the small and local restaurants because most of the time these are the cosiest places to have a bite. Grab a drink in Den Den Town and visit colourful Shinsekai at night.
Himeji is a small town you should visit for one night if you have the time during your travels. There’s not much to see and to do but this stopover gives you the time to gain new energy for your travels. Make sure you go to the movies, Japanese movie theatres are so much bigger and the seats are so comfy!
You can’t leave Japan without visiting Kyoto, this city has so much temples; old and new. The famous Golden Pavilion; Kinkaku-Ji and Arashima bamboo forest. Gion is the most beautiful part of Kyoto if you ask me. It has a beautiful history and the temples and shires are a must to see. Treat yourself to a delicious bowl of ramen and finish with a matcha desert.
Nice to know: travelling through Japan is very easy and safe. The people are so kind, although most of the citizens don’t speak English, they will do their best to help you out. Japan can be an expensive country to visit but the hostels are affordable and most of the time nice and neat. You don’t have to stay in expensive hotels to have a good time. Enjoy every minute while being in Japan because I miss this county so much since I returned from my trip. Have fun!
4.5