Hey, tot of just sharing since i just got back from Kyoto / Osaka early this month. I did the whole total costs calculation (estimation thru hyperdia.com) and true enough, ICOCA is cheaper by 5,000 yen.

On the first day arrived in KIX, we took this Yokoso pass where it gave us free subway rides throughout kyoto/osaka for one day, so we save quite a lot for that day. Also took into consideration where would you be staying and whether you would be more on JR or subway as both lines have diff passes if you wish to go for passes.

Since our 3 airbnbs (we moved places) mostly are nearer to subways, ICOCA seems a better fit for us

P.S: If you're a coffee lover, look for % Arabica Coffee at Arashiyama. It's not cheap but the single origin blend is good !

I will PM you later

For Yokoso, you will get:

1. One way express train ticket from KIX to Namba (with reserved seat)
2. One day (12am to 12am) subway unlimited rides on either the day you bought the ticket or the next day.

When you buy the ticket better reconfirm again as sometimes the offer might change.

*P/S: The umlimited subway rides from 12am to 12am validity. Not 24hours from the time you first swipe your subway card

I will share the airbnb place. The place is just ok- not really recommended unless you don't mind a 5-7mins walk from the nearest subway. I travel backpack sikit.

Harajuku + Omotesando street alang alang you're there. very near. that stretch of Harajuku got one halal kebab food at one of those buildings. While traveling you can opt for Family Mart's tuna or salmon onigiri as it has no alcohol in it. you can also check Halal Japan FB for some snacks and chocs that is halal certified.

Oh for a bowl of halal ramen (at asakusa, can't remember the name but you can google there is only one halal shop), costs around 800-1000 yen. Worth to tapau the fried chicken for some snacks

This post has been edited by evee_luca: Mar 1 2017, 01:39 PM

Sorry are you referring to airbnbs being ban in japan ? I booked airbnb for my japan trip earlier last month. Not a problem at all.

This post has been edited by evee_luca: Mar 2 2017, 01:18 PM

There's nishiki market (food market for food souvenirs) and teramachi street in kyoto where you could get some souvenirs. But I wouldn't say cheap la.
Also along kiyomizu-dera temple: sannen zaka and ninen zaka

I did visited "tenjimbashisuji shopping street" supposedly japan's longest shopping street but couldn't find any nice souvenirs.

Keep us updated ! I am interested to know your journey 😄. I often traveled solo hence would be good to know your strategy

At kyoto: Mount Rokko for sunset and maybe visit the Kiyomizu Dera temple area? Ninenzaka and Sannenzaka walk area for a little stroll..