JAPAN TRAVELS | tips & tricks on how to plan + full itinerary! ?⛩️

Introduction

Japan is a remarkable destination teeming with culture, history, and culinary delights. After visiting Japan myself, I felt compelled to share my itinerary and travel tips to help you plan your adventure. As someone who is very organized—often referred to as "type A"—I utilized a fantastic app called Wand Log (not sponsored) for my trip planning. It greatly simplified my experience compared to traditional spreadsheets!

Planning Your Trip

Flight and Arrival

I had a layover on my inbound journey, flying from a small town to Atlanta and then on to Tokyo Haneda (HND). The 14-hour flight felt shorter because I was so excited about my trip. Customs at the airport was a breeze, and I reached my hotel in about an hour—with minimal hassle despite traveling solo with two pieces of luggage.

Transportation from the Airport

When arriving in Tokyo, you can opt for different transit cards, such as Pasmo or Suica. I ended up taking a taxi because I was tired and had luggage—this cost about $ 50, which I felt was reasonable compared to other major cities like New York.

For internet access, I used an eSIM, which was hassle-free. It allowed me to stay connected without needing an additional device to charge.

Crafting an Itinerary

I followed a traditional route—Tokyo, Kyoto, and Osaka—with a focus on visiting major tourist spots in each area. I stayed in Ginza because it was centrally located. It offered easy access to areas like Shibuya and Shinjuku, along with a quieter environment.

The booking and organization process was made simpler with Wand Log. The app enabled me to manage my plans by areas, thereby optimizing my daily itinerary. Each day was color-coded, making it visually easy to differentiate activities planned for each day.

Daily Planning

A common challenge was adjusting to Japan's later opening hours. Unlike places in the States, restaurants and attractions opened later in the morning. I took advantage of convenience stores like 7-Eleven and Family Mart for breakfast in the early hours.

Navigating the train system in Japan was straightforward, even if you occasionally found yourself lost in massive train stations like Tokyo or Kyoto Station.

Kyoto and Bullet Train

I spent about four and a half days in Tokyo before taking the bullet train to Kyoto. The experience was generally seamless, although I didn’t manage to see Mount Fuji due to cloud cover.

Travel Etiquette

Traveling in Japan comes with cultural norms. Always stand in line when waiting for trains and keep to the right on escalators. This attention to politeness and order can be a bit of a shock initially.

Shopping and Luggage

Many people find shopping in Japan irresistible. I traveled light, using a carry-on for essential clothing and toiletries, while checking in an empty suitcase to fill up with souvenirs on the way back.

Japan also offers a convenient luggage shipping service, making it easier to travel without heavy bags. Remember to pre-plan for shipping to ensure you have everything needed for the day.

Culinary Delights

When it comes to food, I absolutely fell for the culinary scene, indulging in ramen, sushi, and other local dishes. I recommend making restaurant reservations through TableLog instead of Yelp, which isn't commonly used in Japan.

Remember to keep your passport handy for tax refund eligibility at the purchase point for any shopping.

Final Thoughts

In conclusion, Japan offers a unique travel experience that blends adventure with culture. Plan meticulously but allow room for spontaneity! Embrace the excitement that comes with traversing such a beautiful country. Enjoy planning your trip!

Keyword

Japan, itinerary, travel tips, Wand Log, Tokyo, Kyoto, Osaka, flights, transportation, train system, bullet train, cultural etiquette, food recommendations, shopping, eSIM, luggage shipping.

FAQ

Q1: What app should I use for planning my itinerary in Japan?
A1: I recommend using Wand Log. It's user-friendly and more efficient than a traditional spreadsheet.

Q2: How do I get internet access in Japan?
A2: You can use an eSIM or rent pocket Wi-Fi if you prefer a dedicated device.

Q3: What's the best way to navigate Japan's transit system?
A3: Google Maps is reliable, and the train system is well-organized, but it can still be complex due to large station sizes.

Q4: Are there any special considerations for cultural etiquette in Japan?
A4: Yes, follow the line for train boarding, keep to the right on escalators, and be respectful of local customs.

Q5: What should I do about luggage when traveling from one city to another?
A5: Consider using luggage shipping services available in Japan to make your travel experience easier.