Japan

5 top Japan itineraries for an unforgettable experience, covering diverse attractions from cities to temples and food. Options include:

1. Golden Route (10 days): Tokyo, Kyoto, Nara, Osaka, Hiroshima, Miyajima.
2. Nagano & Japanese Alps (10 days): Tokyo, Nagano, Matsumoto, Kamikōchi, Takayama, Shirakawa-gō, Kanazawa.
3. Shikoku Road Trip (10 days): Naoshima, Takamatsu, Konpira-san, Iya Valley, Kōchi City, Matsuyama.
4. Kyūshū & Yakushima (10 days): Fukuoka, Nagasaki, Kurokawa Onsen, Kumamoto, Kagoshima, Yakushima.
5. Hokkaidō Adventure (14 days): Hakodate, Shikotsu-Tōya National Park, Sapporo, Furano, Daisetsuzan National Park, Shiretoko National Park, Akan Mashū National Park.

Each itinerary utilizes Japan's efficient transport and highlights unique cultural experiences.

https://www.lonelyplanet.com/articles/best-japan-itineraries

Japan Travel Tips: 16 Key Points

1. Book Accommodation Early: Popular spots fill up fast, especially during peak seasons.
2. Pack Light: Small hotel rooms and public transport favor minimal luggage.
3. Slip-On Shoes: Easy removal is essential for many locations.
4. Data SIM/E-SIM: Get a data plan for navigation; it’s crucial.
5. Weather Prep: Summers are hot and humid; be ready for rain and seasonal changes.
6. Cash is King: Many places don’t accept cards; ATMs are available for cash withdrawals.
7. No Tipping Culture: Service fees may apply, but tipping is uncommon.
8. Avoid Public Eating: Eating while walking is generally frowned upon.
9. Carry Your Trash: Public bins are scarce; take trash with you.
10. Queuing Etiquette: Lines are orderly; wait your turn.
11. Escalator Rules: Stand on specific sides depending on the region.
12. Last Train Awareness: Subways stop by 1 AM; missing it can mean costly taxis.
13. Skip Rush Hour: Mornings can be extremely crowded in Tokyo.
14. Bidet Toilets: Familiarize yourself with Japan's advanced toilet technology.
15. Earthquake Preparedness: Know safety protocols for seismic events.
16. Learn Basic Japanese: Knowing simple phrases aids interaction and shows respect.

https://www.lonelyplanet.com/articles/things-to-know-before-traveling-to-japan

Yuki Tsunoda, F1 driver for Oracle Red Bull Racing, shares his favorite Tokyo spots ahead of the Japanese Grand Prix. He emphasizes Tokyo's exceptional food scene, particularly its high concentration of Michelin-star restaurants. Key highlights in his guide include:
1. Asakusa and Tokyo Skytree for the best scenery and views.
2. Osoba no Kouga for affordable Michelin-star soba noodles.
3. Tsukiji Outer Market for the freshest seafood.
4. Harajuku for trendy shopping.
5. Bar Centifolia for nightlife, known for its theatrical bartenders.
Tsunoda loves the city's vibrant atmosphere, especially during Cherry Blossom season.

https://www.bbc.com/travel/article/20250401-yuki-tsunoda-f1-an-off-the-grid-guide-to-tokyo

Tokyo is a hyper-dense yet calm metropolis with no car dependency. Its design promotes pedestrian convenience but lacks greenery and parks, creating a somewhat dystopian aesthetic. Japanese society values prosocial behavior, resulting in politeness and predictability, although this can feel restrictive to outsiders. The local democracy operates differently, avoiding direct conflict. Tokyo is thriving while the rest of Japan faces demographic decline. Despite economic stagnation, social cohesion prevails, and Japan is gradually accepting immigrants, though this introduces some unpredictability into established norms. Overall, Tokyo’s functioning contrasts sharply with Japan's broader challenges.

https://www.persuasion.community/p/10-observations-about-tokyo

TLDR: Craig Mod and Dan Rubin documented their eight-day pilgrimage on Japan's Kumano Kodo, beginning at Takijiri and ending at Koya-san. They created a limited edition book titled “Koya Bound” funded through Kickstarter, detailing their journey through scenic trails, encounters with locals, and experiences in traditional inns. They recorded walking distances, elevation gains, and shared reflections on the historical and spiritual significance of the paths. Despite challenges like rain and shoe issues, the adventure culminated in a celebratory experience at Koya-san, featuring morning prayers and a return to trains.

https://walkkumano.com/koyabound/