To all newcomers on this thread, PLEASE PLEASE PLEASE do some research first. There are tons of info about traveling in Japan all at the tips of your fingers, just a google click away (and plenty of info listed on this post).
There are many resident forumers here on this thread that are super friendly and helpful so please do not annoy them with questions like "What to see in Tokyo?", "Recommend me sightseeing places in Kyoto" "What is the weather in Tokyo now" or similar questions. Narrow down your questions and list down your expectations/requirements so that we can provide you with more accurate advices.
In addition, do not ask for itineraries. Come up with your own itinerary and enlist forumers' help with checking, giving advices and recommendations. We understand travelling in Japan is not easy especially if you are a first-timer but note that we discourage spoon feeding.
Version 1:
https://forum.lowyat.net/topic/545818Version 2:
https://forum.lowyat.net/topic/2419732Version 3:
https://forum.lowyat.net/topic/2849282Version 4:
https://forum.lowyat.net/topic/3092421Version 5:
https://forum.lowyat.net/topic/3280981Version 6:
https://forum.lowyat.net/topic/3475412Version 7:
https://forum.lowyat.net/topic/3607047Version 8:
https://forum.lowyat.net/topic/3792838Version 9:
https://forum.lowyat.net/topic/4042871Version 9.5:
https://forum.lowyat.net/topic/4064197Version 10:
https://forum.lowyat.net/topic/4331381Japan Travel Info - Updated by moderators:
Emergency Number to call in Japan:110 - Emergency call to police
Call 110 to report an accident or crime to the police call center.118 - Emergency call to coast guard
Call 118 to report an accident or crime at sea to the Japan Coast Guard.119 - Fire, ambulance, emergency rescue
Call 119 to report a fire or to ask for an ambulance or rescue service or to contact an emergency call center (a fire station).More details related to earthquake below #12.
Info from:
https://www.tokyo-icc.jp/guide_eng/kinkyu/01.htmlMalaysia Embassy in Japan:Details of Embassy for Malaysians in case of a natural disaster, loss of passport/ identification documents or encounter problems with authorities in Japan.
Address: 20-16 Nanpeidai-cho, Shibuya-ku, 150-0036 Tokyo.
Telephone: +81-3-3476-3840
Email: mwtokyo@kln.gov.my
Work days: Monday - Friday 9.00 a.m - 12.30 p.m / 1:30 p.m - 5.00 p.m
Public Holidays: Saturday, Sunday & Public Holiday
Japan: Season & WeatherSpring / 春 (March to May)
The plum blossoms (“ume” / “梅”) bloom in late February, signaling that a welcome spring is around the corner. The mild spring season brings out Japan’s beautiful cherry blossoms (“sakura” / “桜”), which are enjoyed from late March through April throughout the country. By May, temperatures are comfortable and vegetation has grown lush.
Summer / 夏 (June to August)
Summer kicks off with the dreary rainy season (“tsuyu” / “梅雨”) from June to July, during which hydrangea (“ajisai” / “アジサイ”) blossoms can be seen shrouded in mist. This is followed by screaming cicadas (“semi” / “セミ”) and intense heat and humidity that peaks in August—watch out for mould. Spectacular, large-scale fireworks displays are held in the summer months throughout Japan.
Autumn / 秋 (September to November)
The transition into autumn is marked by typhoons and heavy rain, beginning in August and lasting until September. Weather cools pleasantly in October, and November weather is relatively dry and mild. Gorgeous red and golden leaves (kouyou 紅葉) such as Japanese maple and ginkgo can be enjoyed through early December.
Winter / 冬 (December to February)
December is the start of ski season, and Japan’s snow country regions are famous for deep and consistent powder snow conditions. In Tokyo, winter is cold, sunny, and dry, and the city experiences only a few days major of snowfall in January or February. Winter illuminations, marvelous spectacles of light displayed in cities, compensate for a lack of vegetation and short daylight hours.Information quoted from: http://expatsguide.jp/basic-information/se...imate-of-japan/1. Transportations- Useful Link for Train Schedules & Plannings:
http://www.hyperdia.com/- Japan Rail Network, maps & fare:
http://www.japan-guide.com/e/e2019.html- Cheap 5 days unlimited ride via "Seishun Juhaici kippu" ticket (But no Express/Bullet train)
http://www.japan-guide.com/e/e2362.html- JR Passes:
http://www.japanrailpass.net/en/- Haneda Limousine Bus (Keihin Kyuko) for those reaching late night @Haneda -
http://hnd-bus.com/route/nightmorningbus.html - How to get to Tokyo after midnight:
https://jprail.com/trains/sort-by-type/priv...-at-haneda.html (Others pls google)
- You can purchase JR Passes from JTB Malaysia:
https://jtbmalaysia.com/japan-rail-pass/2. How is the Usage of Credit Card in Japan? Is it widely accepted?While Japan is a cash based country, Credit Card is commonly used in many places - from department stores, drugstores, taxis to convenient stores (yes, 7-11,Family Mart etc), you don't have to worry about cash as you shop. So when do you need cash? In neighborhood restaurants, small shops, markets, and at (rural) ryokans, just to name a few. You will also need cash to pay for your train and bus ticket/ pass.
QUOTE
You’ll find that large shops, supermarkets and hotels accept credit and debit cards, as will most taxis. But smaller souvenir shops, neighborhood restaurants, local market stalls and traditional Japanese ryokan limit their transactions to cash. This is also the case for most guesthouses operated by private owners.
If you buy a low-cost item and pay with a large bill — such as a 10,000 yen note — you’ll typically have no problem receiving change. Whether you’re limiting your visit to a big city or plan to travel to rural areas, make sure you carry enough cash for your daily needs.
Read more on using credit card in Japan:
https://www.finder.com/using-a-credit-card-in-japanFlight, accommodation and shopping aside, you can use the below as Guideline.
-->
TransportCommon mode of transport: train, subway, bus
QUOTE
Narita to Tokyo: ~￥2,500
Tokyo to Narita: ~￥2,500
Per day Travel within Tokyo: ￥1,000
Each *Side Trip (eg. Odaiba, Mitaka, Yokohama, Toyosu etc): Add on ￥1,000 (for return trip)
For example: 7 days = estimated ￥7,000 (travel within Tokyo) + ￥2,000 (2 side trips) + ￥5,000 (airport transfer)
Total: ￥14,000
*Assumption from Shinjuku station to side trip locations.
*Side trip not inclusive of Hakone/ Fuji 5 Lakes, Kamakura, Nikko etc as those has packages to cater for it.
-->
FoodThere is the budget way and the luxury way; everyone have different spending pattern/ habit. We’ll look at something average (comfortable):-
QUOTE
Breakfast in Café + Drink: ￥600 (eg. in Doutor)
Lunch: ￥1,200 (drinks are given complimentary in restaurants)
Dinner: ￥2,000 (drinks are given complimentary in restaurants)
Additional - Snacks you buy from shopping streets etc : ￥500
Coffee/ tea time: ￥1,000
Estimated per day: ￥5,300
Estimated for 7 days: ￥37,100
Budget way: Lunch & Dinner – look for restaurants that serve food at below ￥1,000 per bowl/set or convenience stores bento/ food. Shopping - own budget. A box of Shiroi Koibito costs between ￥800 - ￥3,000+. Simple keychain, luggage tag cost around ￥500 each. Will recommend souvenir shopping at Daiso (￥100 per item) and/or Don Quijote (short for Donki). 4. Learn Simple Japanesehttp://japanese-phrases.sakura.ne.jp/Some simple and common phrases to learn/ know:» Click to show Spoiler - click again to hide... «
» Click to show Spoiler - click again to hide... «
5. General Sightseeing & AttractionsMajority of the information can be found on Japan-Guide.com
http://www.japan-guide.com/e/e623a.htmlHowever, please search thru the thread to find other forumers write-ups about their personal experiences.
NEW! Experience Festivals, Fireworks and Cultural Events in Japan!
Check out the 2018 calendar here: https://www.japanistry.com/calendar/6. Hotel Booking Websites (Please compare 1st)- The usual Agoda.com, Booking.com, Asiarooms.com, Hotels.com, Expedia.com.
- Also check out Airbnb listings. Plenty of them around Japan.
- Some recommendations that I've personally stayed in before are Toyoko Inn & APA Hotel which are usually located in convenient locations near train stations all around Japan.
https://www.toyoko-inn.com/eng/index.htmlhttp://www.apahotel.com/en/7.1 VISA ApplicationNO VISA REQUIRED FOR MALAYSIANS if your passport is compliance with ICAO standards.
http://www.my.emb-japan.go.jp/itpr_en/visit.html7.2 ARRIVAL Card/ Disembarkation CardDuring your flight to Japan, it's common for Air Stewardess to distribute the Arrival Card for you to fill. This is a compulsory card for all foreigners going in to any country. There may be cases whereby you were asleep while they distribute the card and thus may have missed it. You can request from the Air Stewardess or fill the form at the desk/ counter right before the queue for Immigration. However, you're advised to fill it in the plane when you have the time. Queue at immigration may be long so if you stopped by to fill your details and then queue, that may delay your time in leaving the airport.
Sample image of Arrival Card
How to fill it correctly? Please take note that there have been people who were denied entry due to wrong information filled.
http://japaninfoswap.com/embarkation-and-d...ports-in-japan/https://www.vagabondjourney.com/4-easy-tips...orms-correctly/8. Budget Food Options- My favourite choices are Sukiya & Yoshinoya, always cheap and satisfying. There's also Matsuya, similar type of Gyudon (beef rice bowl) restaurants.
- Convenient Stores (Family Mart, Lawsons, 7 Elevens, Circle K, etc.) are found almost everywhere and food is plenty and affordable.
- Supermarkets usually sell cheap cheap prepared meals after a certain time.
-
http://www.japan-guide.com/e/e2028_food.html9. Easy to find halal or pork free food in Japan?-
http://www.japan-guide.com/e/e2302.html-
http://www.jnto.org.sg/for_muslim_visitors.html-
http://www.halalmedia.jp/10. Popular Travelling Dates- Japan Golden Week (28th April - 9th May 2018) --> avoid if possible as a lot of Japanese are travelling around Japan, big crowd everywhere.
- Bon Odori (13th August - 15th August 2018)
- China National Day Holiday (1st October - 8th October)
11. Traveling with Internet!- Travel Sim Option 1
https://t.iijmio.jp/en/index.html *can be purchased from JTB Malaysia before your trip*
Travel sim Option 2 (3G/4G only, no calls) Hello1010:
https://hello1010.my/country/asia/japan.htmlTheir SIM comes in 3 sizes: Standard, Nano and Micro SIM. You get all 3 and just use whichever applicable for your phone.
- Pocket WIFI from various companies. Google search around or check the threads for good deals.
---
http://www.globaladvancedcomm.com/pocketwifi.html (contributed by estcin)
12. Prepaid IC Card (for local train/ subway/ buses) There are many passes available for Japan, so do check it out before purchasing. Integrated Circuit (IC) Card works like Touch N Go in Malaysia:
*Image from www.japan-rail-pass.comNote: Prepaid IC card can be purchased from the station. ¥500 is charged as deposit for the card. You can return the IC card at a refund counter @ airport to get back your deposit.----> Tokyo: PASMO (issued by Tokyo Metro)
https://www.tokyometro.jp/en/ticket/types/pasmo/index.html----> Tokyo & some other areas covered by JR: SUICA (issued by JR)
http://www.jreast.co.jp/e/pass/suica.html?src=gnaviNote: either one will be good; PASMO can be used on JR line and vice versa. What is the difference? Check it out here:
https://www.japan-rail-pass.com/common-ques...nce-Pasmo-Suica----> Kyoto/ Osaka: ICOCA (issued by JR) :
https://www.westjr.co.jp/global/en/howto/ticket_03.htmlDiscount PassesTokyo:
- Tokyo Metro Pass by Metro Line:
https://www.tokyometro.jp/en/ticket/value/travel/- Tokyo 1-Day Ticket by JR Line:
https://www.jreast.co.jp/e/pass/tokyo_free.html?src=gnaviOthers:
https://www.jreast.co.jp/e/index.html13. Tax Free Shopping-
http://tax-freeshop.jnto.go.jp/eng/index.php-
http://www.japan-guide.com/e/e2450_how.html14. Emergency/ DisasterIt is not uncommon for Japan to be strike with earthquake and tsunami. However, as foreigners without proper training to manage the situation, it is easy for us to panic. Please go through some of the sites below to understand what you should do when disaster strikes while you are on a trip.
QUOTE
"All smartphones in Japan have an earthquake/ tsunami alert system installed, hence, about 5 to 10 seconds before a disaster strikes the warning system should give people a precious few extra seconds to escape to a safer place or duck under the table. When the alert goes off a buzzing noise is heard, and a voice keeps saying “Jishin desu! Jishin desu” (meaning “There is an earthquake”) until the earthquake stops.
Since an earthquake that happens in a coastal area is more likely to generate a tsunami, a warning system improvement contributes to minimizing the loss of lives and property by giving an alert 5-10 minutes before the tsunami comes. Also, the Japan Meteorological Agency has installed more than 200 seismic forecast stations across the country, and on a larger scale the Ministry of Disaster Prevention has set up 800 stations for the creation of the warning system. With all the information gathered from the seismic stations, the government staff can immediately analyze the data, identify the scope of the disaster, as well as predict the time of occurrence time in each location and accordingly launch a warning to the people so citizens can be prepared." -
http://jpninfo.com/50905» Click to show Spoiler - click again to hide... «
Shinjuku: Shinjuku Gyoen National GardenAddress: Tokyo Shinjuku-ku Naitomachi 11If you're east of Shinjuku station, the nearest refuge spot is Shinjuku Gyoen National Garden. It is located 10 minutes from Shinjuku station's South Exit on foot. It is usually a garden which requires an entrance fee, but is opened to the public in the time of a disaster.
Shibuya: Hachiyama Junior High SchoolAddress: Tokyo Shibuya-ku Uguisudanicho 9-1A refuge spot close to the center of Shibuya. The gates are usually closed for security purposes, but are opened to the public in the event of a disaster.
Shibuya: Shoto Junior High SchoolAddress: Tokyo Shibuya-ku Shoto 1-20-4This is also a refuge spot near the center of Shibuya. You should head to the one that is closer to you in case of emergency.
Asakusa: Asakusa Elementary SchoolAddress: Tokyo Taito-ku Hanakawado 1-14-15The nearest refuge spot from Sensoji temple.
Asakusa: Tawara Elementary SchoolAddress: Tokyo Taito-ku Kaminarimon 1-5-15A refuge spot by Tawaramachi station. If you are staying at a hotel nearby, you should head here.
Ginza: Taimei Elementary SchoolAddress: Tokyo Chuo-ku Ginza 5-1-13This refuge spot is the closest from the center of Ginza.
Ginza: Kyobashi PlazaAddress: Tokyo Chuo-ku Ginza 1711-1If you're near Ginza-itchome or Shintomicho station, this is the nearest refuge spot.
Info from:
https://matcha-jp.com/en/2671 Disaster Preparedness TokyoA disaster prevention book that is available for free from the Tokyo Metropolitan government. Information about what to do in the case of an earthquake, things to be aware of, and emergency contact numbers are listed. The book is currently available for download in English, Chinese, and Korean.
English ChineseInfo from:
https://matcha-jp.com/en/2671App by Japan National Tourism OrganizationQUOTE
“Safety tips” is a push-enabled app for Earthquake Early Warning and Tsunami Warning within Japan. It is provided in English. The app offers various functions useful for both foreign tourists and residents in Japan. Evacuation flowchart shows actions to be taken in the state of emergency; Communication Card helps you to communicate with people around; Website Links shares helpful information in the state of disaster.
https://www.jnto.go.jp/eng/basic-info/emerg...arning-app.html--------------------------------------------------------
Sample trip itineraries to get you started.
---->NOTE: TSUKIJI OUTER MARKET HAD MOVED TO TOYOSU IN OCTOBER 2018Quoted from Japan-Guide:
QUOTE
Moving Schedule
Tsukiji's inner market is scheduled to close on October 6, 2018, followed by the move of businesses from October 7 to 10, and the opening of Toyosu Market on October 11. Afterwards, Tsukiji's inner market will be torn down, and a new market is proposed to be built in its place sometime after the 2020 Olympics. Tsukiji's popular outer market with its many restaurants and numerous retail shops will remain in business beyond October 2018.
Location
The new Toyosu Market surrounds Shijo-mae Station on the Yurikamome. The Yurikamome is an elevated train that connects Shimbashi Station on the JR Yamanote Line via Odaiba with Toyosu Station along the Yurakucho Subway Line.
For more details, check the link:
https://www.japan-guide.com/news/0042.html--> 7 Days Tokyo Trip Itinerary (sweet_pez)» Click to show Spoiler - click again to hide... «
Day 1Shinjuku:- Tokyo Metropolitan Government Building (Free observation deck on 42nd Floor; tourism office on 1st floor (info counter)/ Nearest station: Tochomae/都庁前 (Oedo Subway Line)
- Shinjuku Gyoen
- Taiyaki Wakaba Shinjuku たいやき わかば (Wakaba started in 1948 as a sweets shop. They use their own original taiyaki iron and even their plates have carefully-written words on them)
Akihabara:
- Kanda Myojin Shrine
- Akihabara
- Pablo Mini (small shop at the corner; only sells mini tart)
- Dinner: *Marugo Tonkatsu (It's a Michelin-approved breaded pork place)
Day 2Ginza: - Usagiya Nihonbashi Chuo-dori ten (Dorayaki - many years of history)
- Itoya (Stationeries) : Beautiful 3 storey stationery shop, can send postcard from the store; various design, selection and special items.
- Ginza Mitsukoshi : Shopping or skip
- Uniqlo : Go up to the 2nd highest floor - that's where most of the t-shirts and popular selections are located.
- Manneken: Popular Belgian Waffle shop.
Odaiba- Fuji TV: FOC (depends on preference in visiting this place)
- Chibi Maruko Chan Café
- Odaiba - DECKS (afternoon): Enjoy afternoon view.
- DiverCity Tokyo Plaza : Shopping, souvenirs, specialty shops etc; check out the Food Court which has various selection of meals. Gundam statue is right outside the food court.
- Odaiba - DECKS (night): Enjoy night view; take photo of Rainbow Bridge and Statue of Liberty.
Day 3Hakone (Day trip)- Trip to Hakone. Information:
http://www.odakyu.jp/english/destination/hakone/ -
http://www.japan-guide.com/e/e5200.html- Timetable:
http://www.odakyu.jp/english/romancecar/timetable/a01.html -
http://www.japan-guide.com/e/e2358_008.html- Visit Owakudani, ride the Cruise across Lake Ashi and visit Hakone Shrine. Where there’s time, visit the Moto Hakone (a small village near Hakone Shrine). Ride the bus near Moto Hakone port’s bus stop back to Shinjuku.
Shinjuku
- Kabukicho : Dinner. Check out eateries, Robot Restaurant and Ni-chome.
Day 4Shibuya- Meiji Shrine: Enjoy the walk to Meiji Shrine and its surrounding nature/ garden
pez: A lot of wedding ceremonies are held in this shrine. If you're lucky (likely on a weekend), you'll get to witness bride + groom walking out.
- Yoyogi Park: Picnic, late lunch & relaxation. 5min walk from Meiji Shrine. Nice park for picnic. Suggest spending some time here with snacks/ lunch. You can bring bento and drinks from convenience store and eat there. More enjoyable and crowded over the weekend.
- Food: 原宿餃子樓 (Harajuku Gyozaro): Popular and delicious gyoza place.
- Tea: Aoyama Flower Market TEA HOUSE: if you use Metro Subway just go to the Omotesando Station (Metro) exit A4 and you’ll find it right across exit A4
- Meguro River/ Shukuyamabashi Bridge:
Tips quoted from Internet: "Along the Meguro River does not offer a very natural surrounding for blossom viewers, however the pathway is suitable for short walk, as well as viewing cherry blossoms at night. Due to the pathway is quite narrow with lots of visitors so we suggested you come here in the morning or afternoon."
Get off at Nakameguro Station on Tokyo Metro Hibiya Line • Tokyu Toyoko Line.
- Takeshita Dori: Harajuku Shopping Street. Must try: Harajuku Crepe.
- Hachiko
- Shibuya Crossing (night).
Day 5- Tokyo Tower: Observatory or just visit tower and take photo.
- Sengakuji Temple : Look up on the history. The movie 47 Ronin is based on this history.
- Nakano Broadway: For anime fans, there’s a Mandarake here. There’s also a shopping street with various restaurants in the area.
Ueno- Ueno Park: Enjoy sakura.
- Ameya-Yokocho: Shopping street.
- Food: Menya Musashi Bukotsu (Tsukemen – non halal)
Day 6- Ride Water Taxi from Asakusa. Get down at Hamarikyu Gardens.
- Walk to Tsukiji. Enjoy Tsukiji.
- Walk to Emperial Palace.
- Walk to Tokyo Station.
Day 7- Nakamise Street + Sensoji.
- Food: Daikokuya大黒屋 (soft batter tempura)
Pez: There are 2 different Daikokuya, the recommended one’s signboard is white and black, a corner shop (like a house).- Food (optionally): Asakusa Okonomiyaki Sometaro
- Tokyo Skytree: Observation and/or visit Solamachi Mall (attached to Tokyo Skytree).
- Food: Go up to 6F in Tokyo Skytree to try Kaitensushi Toriton.
Tips, recommendations and information for Tokyo Side Trips by pezYokohama, Enoshima-Kamakura, Shibazakura, Lake Yamanakako-Lake Kawaguchiko:https://forum.lowyat.net/index.php?showtopi...post&p=89083518Tokyo (2 days), Kinugawa, Nikko:https://forum.lowyat.net/index.php?showtopi...post&p=89083573--> 14 days Kansai Trip Itinerary (Credit: RegentCid)» Click to show Spoiler - click again to hide... «
Day 1:
• Arrived Kansai International Airport
• Taking Nankai Airport Express Train to Nankai Namba Station
• From Nankai Namba Station walk to APA Hotel Namba Shinsaibashi (Check In)
• Night walk around Dotonbori + Tazaemon-bashi Bridge
• Dinner at Dontobori
- Budget: Okonomiyaki [お好み焼美津の]
- Normal: Pork Yakitori Restraurant [たゆたゆ 難波千日前店] Or No.1 Charsiu Ramen [千日前本店 作ノ作]
- Splurge: Famous Crab Restaurant [かに道楽 道頓堀 本店]
• Shopping around Namba + Eating Osaka first ever creator of Takoyaki [会津屋 ナンバ店]
Day 2:
• From Hotel walk to Shinsaibashi Station taking Midosuji Subway Line to Tennoji Station
• From Tennoji Station walk to Tennojiekimae Station then taking Tram Uemachi Line to Sumiyoshi Station (Osaka)
• Visit Osaka famous Sumiyoshi Taisha住吉大社
• From Sumiyoshi Station (Osaka) taking Tram Uemachi Line to Abeno Station. At Abeno Station change to Tanimachi Subway Line to Tanimachikyuchome Station. Walk to Kuromon Market.
• Lunch at Kuromon Market [黑門市場]
- Cheapest Kobe Beef in Japan [丸善食肉店]
- Best grill Scallop [魚福]
- Best Sushi Meal [マルショー水産] & [三平水産（株）]
- Best fruit shop [千成屋]
- Best Oden [石橋食品]
• Tea time snack at Sushi Shop called [大阪 ウラなんば ときすし本店 寿司]
- Order 12 piece sushi set. Delicious and cost only 1050Yen
• Dinner at Dontobori [Choose one from Budget to Splurge range]
• Relaxing night walking at Dotonbori + Coffee shop
Day 3:
• From Hotel walk to Shinsaibashi Station taking Nagahori Tsurumi-ryokuchi Subway Line to Morinomiya Station
• Visit Osaka Castle
• Heading to Osaka Station for Lunch.
- Budget: Japanese Curry [野菜を食べるカレー camp] inside Osaka Station food court called Eki Marche.
- Splurge: Tuna fish specialist restaurant called [梅田芝田一丁目まぐろや]
• Shopping at Yodobashi Camera Multimedia Umeda (Otaku mode On)
• Dinner at famous sushi shop called [小好寿し] Or dinner at famous Ramen Shop called [九州らーめん亀王梅田本店]
- Chef recommendation sushi Set. Cost around 6000 Yen per Pax
• Umeda Station taking Midosuji Line to Tennoji Station
• Shopping + Observation View entire Osaka City at Abeno Harukas
• At Tennoji Station take Tanimachi Subway Line to Tanimachikyuchome Station then change to Sen-Nichimae Subway Line to Namba Station
• From Namba Station walk back to Hotel
Day 4:
• From Hotel walk to Shinsaibashi Station taking Midosuji Subway Line to Nakatsu Station
• Lunch at Udon noodle shop called [Jonetsu udon Sanshu 情熱うどん 讃州]
• Leisure walk around Nakazakinishi (Old part of Osaka City)
• Umeda Sky Buiding
• Snack break at [きじ 梅田スカイビル店] which is one of top famous Okonomiyaki around Osaka located at basement of Umeda Sky Building
• Umeda Station take Midosuji Subway Line to Shinsaibashi Station
• Shopping + Leisure walk at American Mura (American Village)
• Dinner at Japanese cafeteria style // Canteen Style restaurant called [心斎橋食堂Maido Ookini Eatery Shinsaibashishokudo] As foreigners must try, This is how Japanese company employers way to eat their lunch.
• After dinner, leisure walk + shopping from Shinsaibashi to Soemoncho 宗右衛門町 (400 Years old street)
• Find any Izakaya Style restaurant for yakitori + beer // sake at Soemoncho 宗右衛門町
Day 5:
• From Hotel walk to Shinsaibashi Station taking Midosuji Subway Line to Umeda Station
• From Umeda Midosuji Subway Line Station walk over to Umeda Station 阪急 梅田駅 by taking Hankyu Takarazuka Main Line to Ikeda Station
• From Ikeda Station walk to Instant ramen Museum [インスタントラーメン発明記念館]
• Lunch at Hakata Ippudo Ramen [一風堂 池田店]
- Must try Ikeda branch limited edition which is Momofuku Classic
• Back to Umeda Station and taking Midosuji Subway Line to Tennoji Station // JR Osaka Station taking JR Osaka Loop Line to Tennoji Station
• Walk to [四天王寺]
• Walk to Tsutenkaku
• Tea time break at [元祖串かつ だるま 通天閣店]
• Walk to Den Den Town [日本橋電器街] (Shopping mode + Otaku mode ON)
• Walk all the way back to Hotel
Day 6:
• From Hotel walk to Shinsaibashi Station taking Midosuji Subway Line to Umeda Station and walk over to Hanshin-Umeda Station for Hanshin Main Line to Kobe-Sannomiya Station
• Walk to Kitano area which is European embassy area. All 1800 ages Europe style building at Japan.
• Tea break at Vienna Austria House for Austria coffee + Sachertorte [ウィーン・オーストリアの家]
• Walk to Kobe Sauna & Spa Hotel [神戸サウナ＆スパ] which outside of this Hotel has free foot onsen for anyone. Best spot specially after long walk from Kitano Area
• Kobe Chinatown [神戸中華街-南京町]
• Snack Break at most famous bun shop[老祥記]
• Walking to Kobe Harbourland area [Mosaic] for shopping + Sunset view
• Kobe Port Tower [神戸ポートタワー]
• Minatomotomachi Station take Kaigan Subway Line to Sannomiya-Hanadokeimae Station
• Dinner at A5 Kobe beef Restaurant [ビフテキのカワムラ 三宮本店]
• Back to Hotel (Reverse way from starting)
Day 7:
• Check Out and heading over to Kyoto
• From Hotel walk to Shinsaibashi Station taking Midosuji Subway Line to Umeda Station then walk over to JR Osaka Station for taking JR Kyoto Line ‘’Rapid’’ train to JR Kyoto Station
• Check In // Drop luggage at [アパホテル〈京都駅堀川通〉 Apa Hotel]
• From Hotel walk to Shichijo Station using Keihan Main Line to Gion-Shijo Station
• Lunch at ultimate Soba restaurant called [祇園権兵衛]
• [Maruyama Park][ 八坂神社][ 知恩院][青蓮院門跡]
• Relaxing at [四条大橋] walking along river
• Dinner at King Size Sushi restaurant called [魚心 河原町店] Or Splurge Sukiyaki Dinner at [すき焼き キムラ]
• Shopping at [新京極]
• Walk to Shijo Station and taking Kyoto Subway Karasuma Line to JR Kyoto Station
Day 8:
• JR Kyoto Station and taking Kyoto City Bus No 5 to Ginkakuji-Michi Bus Stop [35.028085, 135.790559]
• 4 Minute Walk [白沙村荘・橋本関雪記念館]
• 4 Minute Walk [銀閣]
• 8 Minute Walk [法然院]
• 16 Minute Walk [真如堂]
• 4 Minute Walk [金戒光明寺]
• Lunch & foot resting pitstop at Onigiri shop called [まんぷくおにぎり米都 北白川本店]
• 15 Minute Walk [哲学の道]
• 4 Minute Walk [大豊神社]
• 10 Minute Walk [永觀堂]
• 7 Minute Walk [南禅寺]
• 5 Minute Walk [天授庵]
• 10 Minute Walk to Keage Station and taking Taxi to [将軍塚青龍殿] [将軍塚青龍殿 大舞台]][将軍塚]
• Taxi back to Keage Station and taking Tozai Subway Line to Sanjo Station
• Entire Trip will used up total 5 – 7 Hours (Walking + Visiting + Lunch)
• Sanjo Station walk to Pontocho Area for Dinner at [餃々 三条木屋町店] + [鳥せい 三条店]
• Walk to Shijo Station and taking Kyoto Subway Karasuma Line to JR Kyoto Station
Day 9:
• JR Kyoto Station taking JR Sagano Line to JR Saga-Arashiyama Station
• [トロッコ嵯峨駅] taking Sagano Scenic Railway to [トロッコ亀岡駅] then taking Bus to [保津川下り]
• Hozukawa River Cruise to Togetsukyo Bridge [渡月橋]
• Lunch at [嵐山よしむら]
• Walk to [天龍寺] [曹源池庭園] > [天龍寺北門] > [嵐山竹林]
• Walk to this Location [35.015282, 135.677326] Arashiyama Tenruji-mae Bus Stop and take Bus No. 11 to Yamagoe Nakacho Bus Stop. Then Change to Bus No.59 to Kinkakuji-Mae Bus Stop [35.039398, 135.733427] for visit [金閣寺]
• Kinkakuji-Mae Bus Stop [35.039398, 135.733427] take Bus No. 205 back to JR Kyoto Station
• Dinner at super cheap & delicious Sukiya Karasuma Shichijo & Opposite was Lawson [ローソン 烏丸七条店] for restock snack
• Shopping at Kyoto Station
Day 10:
• JR Kyoto Station and taking Kyoto City Bus No.100 to Kiyomizu-Michi Bus Stop [34.997930, 135.777050]
• [法観寺 八坂の塔]
• [清水寺]
• Kiyomizu-Michi Bus Stop [34.997930, 135.777050] Bus No.100 back to JR Kyoto Station
• Lunch at JR Kyoto Station Isetan Suvaco [スバコ・ジェイアール京都伊勢丹] buy Ekiben
• JR Kyoto Station taking JR Tokaido Main Line to Yamazaki Station and walk to [サントリー山崎蒸溜所]
• Reverse way back to JR Kyoto Station
• Kyoto Tower [京都タワー]
• JR Kyoto Station taking Kyoto Subway Karasuma Line to Shijo Station and walk to [錦市場]
• Dinner + Shopping at [錦市場]
Day 11:
• JR Kyoto Station taking JR Nara Line to JR Inari Station
• Visit [伏見稲荷大社] as early as possible
• Continue JR Nara Line to JR Uji Station
• Visit [平等院観音堂] [平等院] [十三重石塔]
• Uji famous high quality green tea shop [寺島屋彌兵衛商店]
• Continue JR Nara Line to JR Nara Station
• Lunch at famous Unagi Restaurant called [うなぎの川はら三条家]
• Visit [興福寺] [東大寺] [奈良公園] [春日大社]
• Back to Hotel
• Take a Taxi from JR Kyoto Station to Michelin 3 Star Kaiseki Dinner at [菊乃井 本店]
Day 12:
• Check Out and heading over to Himeji by Tokaido Shinkansen
• Visit Himeji Castle
• JR Himeji Station take Tokaido Shinkansen to JR Shin-Osaka Station
• Check in Hotel [東横INN新大阪中央口本館]
• [西中島南方駅] take Midosuji Subway Line to Nakatsu Station and walk to [Tenjinbashi-Suji Shopping Street] World longest shopping street with total 2.7km length
How long was 2.7km? It was equal to 9 Midvalley megamall
• Dinner at famous sushi restaurant called [Harukoma sushi 春駒]
• Early Rest for Tomorrow USJ
Day 13:
• [西中島南方駅] taking Midosuji Subway Line to Umeda Station and walk to JR Osaka Station taking JR Osaka Loop Line to Nishikujo Station
• At Nishikujo Station change to JR Sakurajima Line to Universal City Station
• Universal Studio Japan (Full Day)
• Reverse way back to Hotel
• Dinner at Yoshinoya [吉野家 西中島南方駅前店]
Day 14:
• [西中島南方駅] taking Midosuji Subway Line to Umeda Station and walk to JR Osaka Station taking JR Osaka Loop Line to [JR Noda Station 野田駅]
• Osaka Fish Market [大阪市中央卸売市場 本場] and breakfast at famous delicious sushi restraurant called [中央市場 ゑんどう]
• Check out hotel
• [西中島南方駅] taking Midosuji Subway Line to Hommachi Station and change to Chuo subway line to Osakako Station
• [天保山大観覧車] [海遊館]
• Reverse way back to JR Shin-Osaka Station and take JR ‘’Haruka’’ Limited Express to Kansai International Airport
Basic ethics and some useful words when visiting Japan:» Click to show Spoiler - click again to hide... «
-Japanese people are usually quite polite and will greet you be it at a shopping mall or at a train station. It's always polite to greet them back when they greet you.
-Good morning - ohayou gozaimasu
-Hello/Good afternoon - Konnichiwa
-Good evening - konbanwa
-Escalator rules - In Japan, if you are not in a hurry and want to take your time standing and going up or down an escalator, do stand on the left side to avoid causing "jam" to other peoples. Right side of the escalator is considered as fast lane where people will walk fast instead of standing there.
-Don't eat and walk, unlike Malaysia where we can easily find trash can almost everywhere or just "make" our own trash can anywhere, it's not easy to find trash can in Japan. Also it's considered rude to eat and walk in Japan. So whenever you purchase some street foods, stand nearby to eat it and pass back the trash to the store owner if he din't prepare a trash can in front of his/her store.
-Don't stand in front of a cashier if you are not preparing to pay or if it isn't your turn to pay yet. Often in Japan, there will be an arrow on the ground not so close to the counter where everyone will queue behind it.
-Having troubles in Japan and don't know how to approach someone? Just remember this one simple word. Approach someone and say "Sumimasen" (excuse me), and then just use google translate apps to translate what you want to say and show it to them.
-Stuck in a crowded train and can't get out but not sure how to ask Japanese to make way for you? This is the phase you need, "Sumimasen, toorimasu!" (excuse me, coming through). There's also a hand gesture which is widely use, it is as simple as holding up your hand in front of your face and move it slowly with minimum movement as if you were slicing a cucumber super slowly.
Recommendation of Restaurants (credit: Chinti)» Click to show Spoiler - click again to hide... «
im putting a list of restaurant in tokyo here, they are all awesome according to my taste so if it doesnt suite ur taste please don't bash me. if u wan photo of them, u have to wait till im back from tokyo next month. i won't be recommending any michelin places as you can easily google those.
Yakitori - i recommend a place call Toriyoshi 鳥よし in Naka-Meguro, the price is pretty standard and what i like about here is it doesn't get you all smelly and of cause the yakitori is one of the best.
Soba - Kanda Yabusoba in Akihabara, this is one of the top 3 soba places in tokyo for locals. Nice place and they have english menu as well if you cant read japanese.
Ramen - Hayashi in Shibuya, this is one of the best i tried in tokyo and is better than the michelin star ramen in Sugamo. It's a place where tourists will not go, only have like 9 seats. This shop only open from 11.30am to 3.30pm. They only have one selection and different sizes, easy right?
Tempura - Tentake in Asakusa, well not much to say bout tempura other than its one of the best one in Asakusa.
Bara chirashi don - Sushi Sho in Yotsuya, they served bara chirashi don every monday, wednesday, and friday. The shop open at 11.30am and they only served 20 bowls per day, its the best you can find in Tokyo. You can make reservation one month in advance or you can just go there earlier and hope they have a slot for you.
Taiyaki - Taiyaki Wakaba in Yotsuya, this is the place i always go after having bara chirashi don at Sushi Sho as they are located within the same area. One of the best taiyaki for locals with a lot of red beans paste inside unlike some taiyaki place with only a bit of red bean paste.
Abura soba (oily soba) - Abura Soba in Akihabara, honestly i dunno what is the name of this shop called despite eating here one year until i collected enough stamp for their t-shirt >< You can see a big sign "油" and its near an alley 5 min walk from Akiba station. They served the best abura(oily) soba i have ever tasted. There a many abura soba shop with the sign like that so don't go to the wrong 1.
Maid cafe - I know many people sure want to experience maid cafe when they go Akiba, but there are tons of it so which one is the best and have many kawaii maid? My personal favourite is @At Home cafe, there are many floors so you can go each floor to have a look at their maids first see which floor you like. thumbup.gif
Sushi - If you wan cheap and nice, you can go conveyor belt sushi in Shibuya, there is one inside Seibu on the top floor called Midori Sushi if im not mistaken. If you have more budget, go to 梅丘寿司の美登利 (Umegaoka Sushi no Midori) inside Shibuya Tokyo Mark City 4th floor, usual wait time about an hour to two hours but definitely worth it. (take note that tsukiji market sushi is overpriced and standard only if u ever thinking of heading there for sushi)
also for those that have a lot of money to spare, do make a reservation for Kyubey sushi in ginza, it is 2nd best sushi i ever had after Jiro sushi (im sure everyone noe bout this 1) and its way easier to get a reservation. Took me 4 months just to get a reservation for Jiro sushi ><
Kyubey sushi is as fresh as Jiro sushi, price also almost the same at 40k yen per course. the different is the way they make it but both places sushi will also melt in ur mouth so definitely worth it if u got some money to spare.
Unagi - Obana in Minami-Senju, this one seriously one of the best i had and the price is also not expensive compared to other unagi restaurant. The unagi will melt in your mouth when u put it in (if u know wat i mean). No reservation needed but its recommended as its always full house.
Mini two days Kyoto itinerary (credit: Chinti)» Click to show Spoiler - click again to hide... «
here's a mini two days itinerary/guide for Kyoto that i planned for my baby sis for her current trip, she's now in kyoto and will be meeting me in tokyo on thursday.
this itinerary only tell u where to go as well as how to reach there (the train stop and bus stop). the time will not be shown as different people have different timing. all the places are planned according to how near they are to each other, this will make your travel easier so you don't ended up going to the other end of Kyoto and come back to the other end again.
this two days itinerary also cover most of the Kyoto attractions already, if you want to enjoy each attraction longer, you can always split them up into maybe 3 days or 4 days. my personal suggestion is 3 days is enough for Kyoto as its pretty boring at night.
Day 1
-->Reach Kansai Airport
-->Take Haruka Express to Kyoto
-->Arashiyama (At Kyoto station, take JR Sagano/JR San-in Line To Arashiyama, stop at Saga Arashiyama Station)
-all the attractions in Arashiyama are within walking distance, so just slowly take your time to walk around
-Bamboo Grove
-Monkey Park Iwatayama
-Tenryuji Temple
-Jojakkoji Temple
-Gio Temple
-Adashino Nenbutsuji
-->Fushimi Inari Taisha (From Arashiyama, take JR San-in Line back to Kyoto Station, then switch to JR Nara Line to Fushimi Inari *stop at Inari station*)
-->Dinner at Gion (From Fushimi Inari station, take Keihan Line to Gion-Shijo Station)
-walk around and find any restaurant you like for dinner
-walk around the town until you tired then head back to your hotel/hostel and call it a day
Day 2
-->Kiyomizu-dera (Take whichever bus/train from the place you stay to there)
-suggest going around 8am to avoid crowd
-->Heian Shrine (From Kiyomizu-dera, walk to Shimizumichi Bus Stop. Take 市営１００京都駅前行 bus to Okazaki Koen, and walk to Heian Shrine)
-->Ginkakuji (Walk back to Okazaki Koen, and take the same 市営１００京都駅前行 bus to Ginkakujimae Station)
-->Kamigamo-Jinja (Walk to Ginkakujimichi Bus Stop, take 市営２０３乙錦林車庫前行 bus to Horikawaimadegawa Bus Stop. At the same bus stop, take 市営９西賀茂車庫前行 bus to Kamigamo Misonohashi Bus Stop and walk to Kamigamo-Jinja)
-->Kinkakuji (Walk to Kamigamo Jinjamae Bus Stop, take 加茂線 出町柳駅前行 bus to 北大路堀川, and switch to 市営１２立命館大学前行 bus to Kinkakujimae Bus Stop, then walk to Kinkakuji)
-there are quite a few different ways and buses to reach Kinkakuji from Kamigamo-Jinja, so just use google map to check whichever is faster during that time
-->Geisha Street (Walk to Kinkakujimae Bus Stop, take 市営５９山越中町行 bus to Shijokawaramachi)
-there are quite a few different buses to Geisha Street as well, so just google map whichever is faster
-walk around, have dinner, then head to Kyoto Station and head back to Osaka
KANSAI Good Tip for Unique Open Air Coach contributed by yooyin
QUOTE
Ticket can be purchased online (via Klook) and just pick up ticket at KIX or OSAKA Airport. To experience Unique Open Air Coach "The Rich" (Coach No.5) which is the best, tickets are only available as a same-day ticket in Sagano-line Station booth. You need to specifically inform the staff that you want Coach Number 5, otherwise, they will give you normal coach (window).
Recommendation: Do the Sagano Train in the morning from Kameoka torokko station backwards to Arashiyama torokko station. Take JR line to Umahori Station, then walk to Kameoka torokko Station. Be there 30 minutes or earlier to secure ticket. Ticket counter opens 8.50am at Kameoka torokko station and depending on the crowd in the station, if there are 20+ people already in queue, it's likely they will open up 5-10 minutes earlier to ease up the crowd.
Useful Guide to other places in Japan:---> Zao Fox Village & Zao Onsen (credit: deodorant)
https://forum.lowyat.net/topic/4526998List of useful medicine in Japan (credit: RegentCid)» Click to show Spoiler - click again to hide... «
- Care Leaves Waterproof Hypoallergenic Plaster // ケアリーヴ 防水タイプ Mサイズ //
http://www.careleaves.com/waterproof/- Roihi Tsuboko // ロイヒつぼ膏 // For muscle pain, joist pain, shoulder pain, fracture pain, muscle fatiguehttp://www.roihi.com/howto_use.html
- LuluA Gold DX // 新ルルAゴールドDX // For flu, cough, and sore throat usehttp://www.daiichisankyo-hc.co.jp/products...d_dx/index.html
- Arouge // アルージェ トラブルリペア リキッド// For acne, pimples, skin itchiness, skin rashes, and similar symptoms
http://www.arouge.com/lineup/trouble_repair_liquid.html- Arouge // モイスチャー ミストローションII // Similar to above
http://www.arouge.com/lineup/index005.html- YuskinA // Vitamin cream for skin chapping/crack, chilblains
http://www.yuskin.co.jp/products/a/01.html- 浅田飴 //
http://www.asadaame.co.jp/medicine/- 葛根湯 // For flu, headache, back pain
http://www.kracie.co.jp/products/ph/1201494_2220.html- Chocola BB // チョコラBBプラス //
http://www.chocola.com/product/lineup/bb.php- Chocola BB Vitamin C // チョコラBBルーセントC //
http://www.chocola.com/product/lineup/bblc.php- Transino White C // トランシーノ ホワイトC //
http://www.daiichisankyo-hc.co.jp/site_transino/transino-c/- Daiichisakyo Plus // 第一三共胃腸薬プラス細粒 //
http://www.daiichisankyo-hc.co.jp/products...gran/index.html- Torafuru Direct // トラフル ダイレクト //
http://www.daiichisankyo-hc.co.jp/products...rect/index.html- Sagami Original // サガミオリジナル002 //
https://www.sagami-gomu.co.jp/condom/lineup/original.html- Kracie Cocco Apo Ex // コッコアポEX錠 //
http://www.kracie.co.jp/ph/coccoapo/products/index_ex.html- Avantbise DX Toothpaste // アバンビーズDX //
http://www.wakamoto-pharm.co.jp/products/item/mouth_02.html- Coloskin // コロスキン //
http://www.tokyokoshisha.co.jp/product/coloskin.html- Natureine Aqua Peel // モイスチャーピーリングジェル //
http://natureine.jp/products/moisturepeeling.html- Rozebe Placenta //
http://www.rozebe.jp/fs/rozebe/lotion/201201251
Dec 27 2017, 12:01 PM, updated 7y ago
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