The Ultimate Japan Trip: 14 Days of Culture & Magic
Join me on a two-week Japan adventure! From Tokyo’s anime scene to Kyoto’s beauty & Osaka’s energy—plus a magical DisneySea proposal. Tips & hidden gems await!
In November 2024, my partner and I embarked on a two-week adventure from Australia to Japan—a trip I had meticulously planned from start to finish. It was my first time being fully in charge of an international itinerary, and while the pressure was high, my long-standing love for Japanese language and culture made it the perfect challenge.
From the electric energy of Tokyo to the historic charm of Kyoto, the food, the nature, and even a life-changing proposal—every moment of this trip was unforgettable. Whether you’re planning your own Japan adventure or just love a good travel story, join me as I take you through the highlights, surprises, and lessons learned along the way.
Why Japan? My Connection to the Country
Like many fans of Japanese pop culture, my journey began with classics like Pokémon, Sailor Moon, and My Neighbor Totoro. However, it wasn’t until a friend introduced me to Naruto that I truly realized the difference between Western cartoons and Japanese anime—thus beginning my deep fascination with Japan.
During high school, I had the chance to visit Japan through an exchange program, immersing myself in the culture firsthand. Later, I pursued a Bachelor of Arts in Japanese and Asian Studies, where I explored Japan through history, linguistics, and social issues.
Now, after years of study and admiration, I finally returned to Japan—not as a student, but as a traveler ready to experience it in a whole new way.
Tokyo: Big City Energy & Pop Culture Dreams
We kicked off our adventure in Tokyo, the perfect mix of modern city chaos and tourist-friendly attractions. While I had carefully planned our itinerary based on “must-visit” recommendations, some places exceeded our expectations—while others left us a bit underwhelmed.
Akihabara vs. Nakano Broadway: Where’s the Best Anime Shopping?
Both Akihabara and Nakano Broadway are famous for anime and gaming merchandise, and I was eager to hunt for collectibles.
Akihabara: A paradise for anime fans, but prices varied. We learned the hard way that if you see something at a good price, buy it immediately! A Luffy figure we spotted for 2,000 yen was 3,000 yen when we went back later. Lesson learned!
Nakano Broadway: A hidden gem with rare collectibles and a more relaxed atmosphere. If you love retro finds, this is the place to go!
Shibuya & Shinjuku: Are They Worth the Hype?
Shibuya Pokémon Center & Jump Shop: The atmosphere was exciting, but the crowd levels made shopping exhausting. I wouldn’t go out of my way next time.
Shinjuku Nightlife & Food: While we didn’t explore the nightlife scene, we had an amazing yuzu ramen at Afuri Shinjuku Lumine—highly recommend!
The Best Hidden Gem in Tokyo: Shimokitazawa
If you love vintage shopping, chill cafes, and a laid-back vibe, Shimokitazawa is a must-visit. The streets are lined with second-hand stores full of unique fashion pieces, and it’s a great escape from the chaos of central Tokyo.
Tokyo Beyond the City: Nature & Unique Experiences
Is Mt. Takao the Best Day Hike Near Tokyo?
Absolutely! Mt. Takao was one of the best parts of our Tokyo experience. The beginner-friendly hike led to breathtaking summit views, and the descent offered a more challenging but rewarding route. If you need a break from city crowds, this is the perfect escape.
Asakusa at Night: The Best Time to Visit Sensoji Temple
Most people visit Asakusa during the day, but we decided to go at night—and it was magical. With the shops closed and crowds gone, we had a peaceful, almost spiritual experience at Sensoji Temple, a sharp contrast to the daytime chaos.
Tokyo DisneySea: A Magical Highlight & A Life-Changing Moment
My partner and I met while working at Walt Disney World Florida, so visiting Tokyo DisneySea felt like a full-circle moment. With stunning Christmas decorations, the Sinbad and Genie shows, and a jaw-dropping nighttime water spectacle, Believe, Sea of Dreams!, it was truly unforgettable.
And to top it all off—my partner proposed! Safe to say, it was the perfect fairytale ending to our Tokyo adventure.
Kyoto: Beauty, Culture, & Overcrowding
Taking the shinkansen from Tokyo to Kyoto was an experience in itself, but once we arrived, we quickly realized that Kyoto’s reputation for being packed with tourists was absolutely true.
How to Avoid the Kyoto Tourist Crowds
Kiyomizu-Dera: We arrived at closing time, and the streets leading up to the temple were shoulder to shoulder. Instead of fighting the crowds, we found a quiet side street on the way back—proving that the best Kyoto experiences are often just off the main paths.
Fushimi Inari Shrine: Given how packed Kiyomizu-Dera was, we skipped Fushimi Inari entirely. Instead, we focused on less tourist-heavy spots like Philosopher’s Path.
The Best Hidden Gems in Kyoto
Toei Kyoto Studio Park: If you’re a fan of Kamen Rider or Super Sentai, this Edo-era movie set is a must-visit. The ninja and samurai performances were a fun touch!
Sagano Scenic Railway: An open-air train ride with stunning views of the Hozu River—a peaceful escape from Kyoto’s busy streets.
Philosopher’s Path: A peaceful stroll along a stream lined with artisan shops and cozy cafes. We had a wonderful experience chatting with a local ceramic artist who served us tea and explained his craft. I left with a beautiful handmade bowl and a great memory.
Osaka: Worth It for the Day Trips
Osaka’s lively atmosphere and nightlife scene weren’t quite for us, but the day trips made it worth it.
Street Food & an Underground Shopping Maze
Dotomburi: Definitely a sight to see—it’s big city vibes all over again, with fun 3D food shaped signs all over. Osaka is known for it’s street food 🍡 so there are loads options. Takoyaki is one of my favorites—it’s a must try!
Namba Walk: We stumbled upon the underground shopping street connecting several train stations and found that it had so much to offer in terms of shopping and even more food options.
Nara: A Nostalgic Return & Adorable Deer Encounters
Returning to Nara after 12 years was both nostalgic and bittersweet—tourism had skyrocketed. Still, walking through Todaiji Temple and feeding the famous deer was a highlight.
Minoh Falls: The Best Spontaneous Hike
This last-minute addition to our itinerary turned out to be one of the most memorable. The hike to Minoh Falls was beautiful, and trying the region’s specialty—fried maple leaves—was a fun experience!
Final Thoughts: What I’d Do Differently & Future Travel Plans
Overall, this Japan trip was an unforgettable success. I’m proud of how I balanced research with flexibility, allowing us to experience both famous spots and hidden gems.
For next time, I’d love to:
✅ Visit more off-the-beaten-path locations
✅ Stay in a traditional ryokan
✅ Explore Hokkaido or Kyushu
I also have a ton to share about trip planning, budgeting, and navigating Japan as a tourist—so stay tuned for that!
Have you been to Japan? Drop a comment with your favorite experiences!
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