Hi Guys,
my friends and I plan to backpack to Kansai & Tokyo for 11 days.

a) Guide or no guide
Just wondering though, especially for Kansai area (Kyoto & Osaka),
for a first time visitor - is it advisable to tour the place on our own or should we hire a guide? We wanted to appreciate the cultural and history values of these places, will bringing a travel book bout Japan do the trick?

b) Budget
How much did you spend at Japan (on food, accomodation, train, goodies)?

What about at Tsukiji Market? The sushis and transportation fees?


Sorry, am a noob here ~_~; Had googled around, but I think local input would be best.

Alright! Will make my book as a guide then.
My trip will be in April and I'll be backpacking.

So far, we already have the accommodations and flight tickets covered.
Won't be needing JR pass, will be buying tickets at the machine instead

We have few places in mind (but exploring osaka in 1 day, i wonder if that's doable) and kyoto the next 2 days.
We have Tokyo to ourselves (as if!) for the next 6-7 days too!!

It's Feb and I can really feel the tension already... hahaha...

Ok, thanks again!