5 Minute Tourist

Day 1 Landing in Tokyo: First Impressions, Fancy Toilets, and a Shake Shack Safety Net

After months of planning and obsessively tweaking our itinerary, we finally touched down in Tokyo from Orlando running mostly on nerves and airplane pretzels. Within minutes of arriving, one thing became crystal clear: America’s toilets are embarrassingly behind.

Seriously, the bathroom at the airport was nicer than most hotel rooms we’ve stayed in. Heated seats, sound effects, built-in bidets, Japan is not playing around when it comes to bathroom tech. It was both humbling and life-changing.

Once we finished marveling at the bathrooms, we made it through customs (see tips section for customs info).

We opted for convenience and booked a cab straight to our hotel. If it’s your first time in Japan, we highly recommend staying near Tokyo Station. It gives you easy access to the Shinkansen (bullet trains) and helps ground you in a central location.

We stayed at Mitsui Garden Hotel Kyobashi, just a short walk from the station. It struck a great balance of comfort, cleanliness, and location all at a reasonable price for Tokyo. The rooms were compact (as expected), but modern and efficient, and the service was exactly what you’d hope for after a long international flight: warm and welcoming.

Food was my primary concern on this trip, since I don’t eat beef, pork, or fish and didn’t want to dive into unfamiliar ingredients right away. So for night one? We played it safe and went to Shake Shack. Was it adventurous? No. Did it feel comforting and easy? Absolutely. There’s zero shame in easing into a new country with something familiar, especially when you’re jet-lagged and just trying to stay upright.

One of the best choices we made was staying awake the entire 13 hour flight and arriving in the evening. It helped us adjust to the time zone faster, and we were able to crash almost immediately after checking in.

Day 2: Tokyo City Tour

After a solid night’s sleep and no idea what time our bodies thought it was, we kicked off Day 2 with a full-day private Tokyo tour we booked through Viator, highly recommend if you want to pack in a lot without the stress of navigating the city solo on day one.

We started the day at City Bakery, a cozy little spot with strong coffee and buttery pastries. It was the perfect mix of Japanese precision and New York-style comfort. Not a traditional Japanese breakfast, but we weren’t quite ready for grilled fish at 8am.

Our first stop was Senso-ji, Tokyo’s oldest temple and one of its most iconic. The atmosphere was a blend of sacred and electric, incense smoke and a sea of visitors snapping selfies with the giant red lantern.

Just outside the temple is Nakamise-Dori, a bustling street lined with snack stalls and souvenir shops. We tried our first (of many) melon pan from Asakusa Kagetsudo, and it was every bit as fluffy, sweet, and addictive as people say. We sampled a few different types and this was by far the best!

Next up was the Tokyo Skytree, which absolutely dominates the skyline. We went all the way up and were rewarded with stunning panoramic views of the city. On a clear day, you might even spot Mount Fuji in the distance.

We wandered through the Tsukiji Outer Market, which is a food lover’s dream (if you’re a little more adventurous than us). Tons of fresh seafood, grilled skewers, mochi, and street eats. We browsed more than we ate, but it was fun to take in the sights and smells.

Then it was off to Odaiba, a futuristic entertainment district built on a manmade island in Tokyo Bay. It feels like a theme park version of Tokyo with giant shopping malls, robot attractions, and even a replica of the Statue of Liberty.

We made a quick stop at the Imperial Palace grounds. While you can’t go inside without a reserved tour (which only happens twice a day on select days), it’s still worth seeing. The stone walls, moats, and bridges are beautiful, and you’ll definitely get your steps in.

Travel Tip: If you’re going to try and visit the Tokyo Imperial Palace, book ahead online or get there early to try for one of the few walk-up slots. Tours are limited and fill up fast.

Meiji Jingu was surrounded by a massive forest that makes you forget you’re in the middle of Tokyo. It’s a great reset if you’re feeling overstimulated by the city.

By the time we reached Shibuya Crossing, we were running on fumes, but watching hundreds of people cross the world’s busiest intersection in total harmony was still a sight to see. We didn’t do much more than snap a photo, dodge traffic, and people-watch, but that alone was worth it.

We closed out our second day with Hard Rock Cafe. Still not getting wild with food, but we knew exactly what we were getting, and that was the comfort we needed after a 12-hour tour.

Before heading back, we got a nighttime view of Tokyo Tower. We didn’t go up, seeing it lit up against the night sky was enough, it’s essentially just a red Eiffel Tower.

Day 3: Fuji Fail & Chopstick Struggle

We had big dreams for Day 3. Our plan? Escape the city for a scenic day trip to Hakone and Mt. Fuji, full of postcard views, hot springs, and fresh mountain air. What we got instead… was rain, disappointment, and one seriously awkward car ride.

We booked a tour through Milkyway Tours, who informed us on the day of that due to weather, we’d be skipping Hakone entirely and just heading toward Mt. Fuji—which we then… couldn’t even see.

Rather than cancel or reschedule (which they definitely should’ve done), they filled the day with random filler stops in the area to pass the time. And just when we were tired, wet, and silently counting down the minutes until we could get out of the car they asked us to give them a positive review and prove that we did. While we were still on the tour. In the car. We politely declined, cue the longest hour ever.

What we did see:

Oshino Hakkai, a pretty garden area with clear spring ponds and a charming village vibe. On a good day, there’s a stunning view of Mt. Fuji in the background. On our day, there was a stunning view of clouds.

Narusawa Ice Cave, you climb down into a lava-formed ice cave that’s dark, slippery, and cold enough to see your breath. It’s short, but unique—and a fun stop if you’re in the area anyway.

Saiko Iyashi no Sato Nenba, a traditional thatched-roof village that’s been turned into an open-air museum. It was scenic and peaceful, but again, not what we signed up for. Felt like a filler stop, because it was.

The best part of the day was the short stop at the beautiful Kitaguchi Hongu Fuji shrine.

Once we finally got back to Tokyo, we needed a win so we hit a few fun stops:

Tower Records, they still exist in Japan, and yes, it’s a vibe.

Mega Don Quijote, Japanese Walmart meets carnival chaos with every KitKat ever made. You could spend hours here just wandering the aisles.

Nintendo Tokyo, for fans of Mario, Zelda, and all things Nintendo, packed but worth it.

Trying to rebound from the day, we went a little adventurous and had our first fully Japanese-style dinner at Torikatsu Chicken. It was small, local, and felt like we were eating in someone’s kitchen.

We also attempted chopsticks for the first time. It was a humbling experience.

We survived the meal. We wouldn’t recommend this place unless you’re already confident with the local dining style. It was definitely more authentic than we were ready for.

Not every travel day is perfect. Japan is amazing, but weather happens, tours flop, and sometimes the meal you think is going to be life-changing ends up just being a life lesson.

Day 4: Tokyo Mornings & Osaka Nights

We woke up in Tokyo for the last time (for now!) and made the most of our morning before heading west. If you’re ever torn between sleeping in or squeezing in one last stroll, always go for the stroll.

Since we’d already visited Senso-ji Temple earlier in the trip during peak tourist hours, we decided to go back early in the morning. It was completely different. Nakamise-dori, the shopping street leading up to the temple, was mostly closed but felt more like a charming movie set without the swarm of people. Highly recommend doing this if you want a more serene experience (and better photos).

Off to Osaka! After soaking up our last few Tokyo moments, we hopped on the Shinkansen (bullet train) to Osaka. Smooth, fast, and honestly one of the most comfortable train rides you’ll ever take. (See the tips section for Mt Fuji viewing times and seats)

We checked into Aloft Osaka Dojima, and we highly recommend it. It’s stylish, clean, and in a great location walkable from Osaka Station (not to be confused with Shin-Osaka, where the bullet train arrives). We just dropped our bags, freshened up, and headed right back out.

We made a quick trip to CityWalk by Universal Studios, not for the rides, but to continue a tradition: collecting Hard Rock Café shot glasses from every city we visit. (Everyone’s got their thing.) While there, we tried Strawberry Fetish, basically sugar syrup-dipped strawberries on a skewer that are way more delicious than they have any right to be. 10/10 would indulge again.

Later, we took a Tombori River Cruise through the heart of Dotonbori. It’s a short ride (about 20 minutes) but gives you a really fun and different perspective of the city, especially at night when all the neon signs reflect off the water.

We did the Ferris wheel on the side of Don Quijote. Yes, it’s as weird and wonderful as it sounds. It gives you a surprisingly good view of the city, and it’s just quirky enough to make it worth it.

Tucked just off the busy Dotonbori streets, Hozenji Yokocho is a narrow, lantern-lit alley with old-world charm. It feels like stepping into a different century, quiet, atmospheric, and full of character. A nice contrast to the chaos just around the corner.

For dinner, we tried Creo-ru, a popular Dotonbori spot known for takoyaki (grilled octopus balls). And it was wonderful (we can’t vouch for the octopus though).

Day 5: Whiskey, Ramen, Tea, Egg Salad

We started the day with a visit to the Suntory Yamazaki Distillery, home of one of Japan’s most famous whiskies. If this is on your bucket list, book early, spots fill up fast, and they don’t allow walk-ins.

Even if you’re not a big whiskey drinker, the tour is fascinating. It blends craftsmanship, science, and a deep respect for tradition. And yes, the tasting at the end is absolutely worth it (tasting is not free).

After the distillery, we made our way to Ayam-ya Karasuma, a halal ramen shop in Kyoto, it ended up being one of our favorite meals of the trip. We had the chicken ramen and it was amazing! Rich broth, perfectly cooked noodles, and tender meat. It’s comforting without being heavy, flavorful without being salty, and the portions were just right.

Next, we took a peaceful stroll through the Kyoto Botanical Garden, which felt like a much-needed breath of fresh air. The grounds are sprawling and well-maintained, with seasonal flowers, serene pathways, and quiet corners perfect for just existing without a plan. It’s a great place to decompress after navigating crowds or busy streets.

 Late afternoon, we experienced a traditional Japanese tea ceremony. Slow, calming, and incredibly precise. Every movement, from folding the cloth to whisking the matcha, was deliberate and meaningful. It gave us a whole new appreciation for how much care goes into something as simple as making tea. If you’re visiting Kyoto, this is a must-do. It really connects you to the cultural heart of Japan.

After a refined tea experience, we swung in the complete opposite direction and decided it was time to try two of Japan’s convenience store legends: Fami Chicken (FamilyMart’s fried chicken and Egg Salad Sandwich (which has a cult following)

Verdict?

Egg salad: shockingly good. Creamy, soft, perfectly seasoned. We get the hype.

Fami Chicken: not for us. It was a little too greasy.

Day 6: Hiroshima & Miyajima

We started the day with a bullet train to Hiroshima, zipping across Japan with the ease and comfort we’d come to love on the Shinkansen.

From there, we took a short boat ride to Miyajima Island, home to the iconic Itsukushima Jinja (Shrine). The floating torii gate you’ve seen in every Japan travel brochure. It was stunning in person, even with the usual crowd. The island itself is peaceful, with charming streets, deer roaming freely, and a calm spiritual energy. Don’t miss out on the Momiji Manju cookies!

But the real highlight? Our incredible guide, Mimi, with Japan Guide Agency.

She made the entire day unforgettable, blending cultural insight, historical depth, and humor. Her storytelling brought every site to life, especially as we transitioned from scenic beauty to solemn history.

Back in Hiroshima city, we visited the Peace Memorial Park, the haunting and powerful Atomic Bomb Dome, and reflected on one of the most moving parts of our trip. It’s impossible not to feel the weight of what happened here, but the city’s message of peace and resilience was deeply inspiring.

Day 7: Kyoto in One Day (20 Miles on Foot)

This was our “see it all” day, and we almost did!

We kicked things off early at the Arashiyama Bamboo Grove. If you want to feel like you’ve stepped into a Studio Ghibli film, this is the place. Walking through the towering bamboo stalks is serene and surreal, especially in the quiet morning hours.

Just nearby is the Togetsukyo Bridge, a picturesque wooden bridge spanning the Katsura River with mountain views in the background. The scenery here is straight out of a postcard.

Then came the climb. To reach Monkey Park Iwatayama, you hike up a pretty steep hill—but the reward is a mountaintop filled with free-roaming monkeys and panoramic views of Kyoto. You’re in their space, so be respectful (and don’t bring snacks unless you want to be mugged by a monkey).

Next, we made our way to the Kyoto Imperial Palace. The buildings and gardens were grand yet peaceful, and the layout offers a glimpse into Japan’s royal past. While you don’t need a tour guide to appreciate it, some context helps it’s worth doing a little reading beforehand or grabbing a guide if you’re curious about the history.

We recharged at Nishiki Market, Kyoto’s famed food street. It’s packed with local vendors offering everything from matcha mochi and yakitori to fresh seafood and pickled everything. We mostly browsed but the atmosphere alone is worth the trip. Bring cash, and maybe some patience and try the strawberries. They were the freshest most delicious we’ve ever had.

As the day shifted to late afternoon, we wandered through Gion, Kyoto’s historic geisha district. The narrow alleyways, wooden machiya townhouses, and glowing lanterns gave us a glimpse into traditional Japan, at least on the surface.

Gion was definitely overrun with tourists in rented kimonos, we didn’t see any locals dressed traditionally. It took away a bit of the authenticity and made the area feel more like a staged backdrop than a living piece of culture. Still, it was worth a visit for the architecture and atmosphere, especially if you can sneak off the main streets and find quieter corners.

We continued on to Kiyomizu-dera, one of Kyoto’s most famous temples. It sits on a hillside and offers breathtaking views over the city—especially if you time it around sunset.

From there, we visited Sanjusangendo, a lesser-known but absolutely incredible temple. Inside are 1,001 life-size statues of Kannon, the goddess of mercy, lined up in perfect rows. It’s visually overwhelming in the best way, quiet, powerful, and deeply moving.

We ended our marathon day at Fushimi Inari Taisha, home of the famous thousands of vermillion torii gates that wind up the mountain. While we didn’t hike to the top (our legs had staged a protest by this point), walking even part of the path at dusk was magical. It’s a peaceful, glowing tunnel of orange, surrounded by nature and tradition. The perfect way to close out the day. See more of Fushimi on my instagram

For dinner, we returned to the Ayam-ya family, this time trying one of their partner halal rice bowl restaurants in Kyoto. Just like their ramen spot, the food was fresh, flavorful, and exactly what we needed after walking 20+ miles.

Day 8: Nara Day Trip, Osaka Eats, and a Cheesecake Farewell

Our first stop was the iconic Tōdai-ji Temple, home to the Great Buddha (Daibutsu), one of the largest bronze Buddha statues in the world. The sheer scale of the temple and statue is jaw-dropping, pictures really don’t do it justice. It was also the largest wooden building in the world until 1998.

After that, we wandered through Nara Park, where hundreds of free-roaming deer wander among tourists hoping for rice crackers. Here’s the truth: it’s adorable until it’s not.

Pro tip: Find a solo deer off the beaten path if you want a cute, peaceful encounter.

Avoid the males—especially during mating season or if you’re holding snacks. They will get pushy. See my deer video on instagram

We also visited Kasuga Taisha, a beautiful Shinto shrine known for its thousands of bronze and stone lanterns. It’s tucked into a quiet, forested path that feels peaceful and less tourist-heavy than the park.

Our final Nara stop was Kōfuku-ji, another important historic temple with striking pagodas and open spaces perfect for a slower stroll before heading back to Osaka.

Back in Osaka, we treated ourselves to lunch at A Happy Pancake, known for their ultra-fluffy Japanese-style pancakes. These aren’t your standard diner flapjacks—they’re thick, souffle-like, and melt-in-your-mouth soft. Worth the wait and the hype.

Next up: our Osaka shopping marathon.

Onitsuka Tiger: The store was insanely busy, but the sneaker selection was top-notch if you’re willing to brave the crowds.

Brandoff: A luxury resale shop that’s fun to browse even if you’re not buying. Tons of designer bags, wallets, and watches—some in like-new condition.

Bic Camera: This place is an electronics mecca. Multiple floors of gadgets, beauty tech, watches, luggage, and random items you didn’t know you needed. Bring your passport for tax-free shopping!

Of course, we couldn’t leave without trying Rikuro Ojisan’s Cheesecake—the original jiggly Japanese cheesecake. Light, fluffy, and not too sweet, it was the perfect mid-afternoon pick-me-up. The little raisins on the bottom were surprisingly good, too.

We wrapped up our last night with dinner at Craft Burger Co. Osaka, and it was one of the best meals of the trip. It was the best chicken sandwich I’ve ever had and those who had burgers agreed they were also amazing!

Day 9: Castles

Before leaving the city, we made a morning visit to Osaka Castle, one of Japan’s most famous landmarks. The castle is massive, strikingly beautiful, and surrounded by a huge park that’s perfect for a stroll.

We didn’t go inside the museum (we were short on time), but even just seeing the exterior and walking the grounds gave us a strong sense of Osaka’s history and pride. If you’re checking out of Osaka and have time to kill before your train, this is a great stop.

From there, it was back to Shin-Osaka Station to catch the Shinkansen to Tokyo. The ride was smooth and fast as always, and we grabbed snacks and drinks on board to make it feel like our own little travel reset.

We checked into the Tokyo Disneyland Hotel, and it was pure magic from the moment we walked in, ornate decor, sweeping views, and that perfect blend of luxury and whimsy.

Since we arrived later in the day, we purchased a night passport, which allows entry into Tokyo Disneyland in the evening. It was great to get our bearings before our next full day.

In just a few short hours, we packed in some serious Disney fun:

Haunted Mansion – Classic, spooky, and beautifully detailed with its own Tokyo touches.

It’s a Small World – Bright, cheerful, and surprisingly fresh—it’s been updated and looks amazing.

Beauty and the Beast Ride – Absolutely stunning. The animatronics are next-level, and the storytelling is Disney at its best.

Big Pop Popcorn – We couldn’t leave without popcorn! We grabbed a bucket from Big Pop, where you can pick your flavor (and yes, the bucket is a collectible dream).

Tokyo Disneyland Electrical Parade – This is a must-see. So much light, color, and joy—we were glued to the curb.

Reach for the Stars Show & Fireworks – The final castle show.

Day 10: Fantasy Springs Check-In & A Full Disney Day of Magic

We checked into Fantasy Springs Hotel, part of the brand-new Tokyo DisneySea expansion. While our park entry to Fantasy Springs begins tomorrow, just checking in felt like stepping into a storybook. Everything from the decor to the scent in the lobby is next-level immersive. You instantly know: this is no ordinary Disney hotel.

Thanks to Happy Entry, we got a head start into Disneyland and went straight for thrills:

Big Thunder Mountain – First ride of the day! We beat the crowd and it was the perfect wake-up call.

Pooh’s Hunny Hunt – Still one of the most unique Disney rides in the world. Trackless, adorable, and full of charm.

Jungle Cruise – A Japanese-language cruise, but the energy and cheesy jokes still landed.

Pinocchio’s Daring Journey – A classic Fantasyland dark ride. Short but sweet.

Monsters, Inc. Ride & Go Seek – Flashlight tag + monsters = pure joy.

We did a mobile order for lunch at Huey, Dewey, and Louie Good Times and had the Mickey hand chicken bao, basically chicken in a Mickey glove-shaped steamed bun. Iconic. A Mickey-shaped chocolate macaron, adorable and surprisingly delicious. Pro tip: preorder lunch in the morning with a prescheduled time around lunch it gets really busy at lunch time.

After lunch, we dove back into the magic:

Beauty and the Beast (again)

Harmony in Color Parade – Vibrant floats, catchy music, and tons of character energy. Don’t miss this one.

Mickey Meet & Greet – We got classic Mickey photos—no better souvenir.

Haunted Mansion – A second round? Always worth it.

Monsters, Inc. (again)

Donald’s Quacky Celebration – A special show with all the Donald Duck attitude you’d expect. Fun, energetic, and totally chaotic.

Stitch’s Enchanted Tiki Room – Unexpectedly charming and way more fun than we remembered. Stitch fits perfectly in this format.

The Disneyland Railroad – A classic end-of-day breather and a great way to see the park from a different angle.

We wrapped up the day with a buffet dinner at Crystal Palace. Beautiful ambiance, solid variety of food, and the best part? No rush. It gave us a moment to sit, enjoy, and reflect on a truly packed day.

Day 11: Fantasy Springs Rope Drop – Straight to Neverland

As part of the Fantasy Springs vacation package, we had Happy Entry into this gorgeous new expansion. It’s honestly hard to put into words how immersive and jaw-dropping this part of the park is.

We went straight for the top two:

Peter Pan’s Neverland Adventure, a flying, 3D journey through Neverland. Absolutely stunning visuals and smooth trackless ride tech.

Fairy Tinker Bell’s Busy Buggies – Whimsical, detailed, and totally charming. Great for all ages.

The theming throughout Fantasy Springs the land is next-level, you truly feel like you’ve stepped into a fantasy novel.

After Fantasy Springs, we hopped around the rest of DisneySea, checking off both classics and new favorites:

Indiana Jones Adventure – Still thrilling, still intense, still awesome.

20,000 Leagues Under the Sea – Weird, mysterious, and unlike anything at any other park.

Toy Story Mania – Fun and competitive as always. We got in two rides!

Tower of Terror – The Japanese version has a totally different storyline (no Twilight Zone here) and it’s phenomenal.

Nemo & Friends SeaRider – Cute and fun motion simulator, good for a laugh.

Aquatopia, think bumper boats with no bumps and on a track.

Caravan Carousel – Two stories tall, beautifully designed. Very “Arabian Nights” and perfect for a moment to relax.

We mobile-ordered lunch from the NY Deli, which was easy and fast. The Duffy Carmel cookie sandwiches were amazing!

After lunch, we stopped by the McDuck’s Department Store to check out the Duffy & Friends merch, it was packed. If you’re a Duffy fan, prepare to queue and grab your items early before they sell out.

One of the newest and most breathtaking additions to the park. Rapunzel’s Forest is peaceful, beautifully lit (especially at night), and her tower is just stunning. If you time it right, you might even catch the lanterns twinkling at dusk, true Disney magic.

We had dinner at Lookout Cookout, casual outdoor dining with cute theming near Fantasy Springs. The food is simple but hits the spot (especially after a long day).

We ended the day with Sea of Dreams. As a Floridian who had a season pass, this show put to shame anything I’ve ever seen at Disney! An emotional, beautifully choreographed water show filled with music, projections, and pure Disney. If you can only watch one nighttime show while in Tokyo Disney Resort, this is the one.

Day 12: DisneySea & Back to Shibuya

We started the morning with a final stroll through the beautifully immersive lands of DisneySea and a little last-minute shopping, because when in Japan, buy the merch.

Toy Story Mania x2, one ride isn’t enough and we had to try to beat each other.

Crème Brûlée Churro – YES. Worth the hype. Crispy, creamy, and somehow not too sweet.

Tower of Terror, a second drop before saying goodbye.

Journey to the Center of the Earth- a unique thrill ride.

Raging Spirits, a short but intense coaster with a loop — a fun one to squeeze in before lunch.

Before saying goodbye to DisneySea, we grabbed lunch at The Snuggly Duckling, Rapunzel’s storybook tavern brought to life. Themed to perfection with lanterns, wooden beams, and character touches everywhere, it was one of the most charming places we ate in the parks.

After lunch, we caught a cab back to Tokyo and checked into Tokyu Stay Shibuya Shin-Minamiguchi. We wouldn’t recommend it, it just didn’t live up to the rest of our stays.

Back in one of Tokyo’s most iconic neighborhoods, we took a chill approach to the evening.

Hachiko Statue, a must-see. It’s touristy, yes, but also kind of emotional once you know the story.

Dinner at Torikizoku Yakitori. No-frills, affordable, and everything was grilled to perfection. We finally felt like we nailed an authentic local food experience.

Day 13: Go Karts, Boats & Borderless Our Tokyo Finale

We kicked off the day with one of the most uniquely Tokyo experiences out there: go-karting through the city streets. You must have an international drivers license to do this.

Dressed in silly costumes, zipping past skyscrapers and under overpasses it was the kind of adrenaline-filled memory you never forget. See the video on my instagram

Next up, we slowed things down with a Tokyo river cruise. A relaxing boat ride that gave us one last look at the city from the water. Great views, cool breeze, and a much-needed chance to rest our feet after 12 days of walking 20,000+ steps a day.

We ended the day (and honestly, our entire trip) on the highest of highs at teamLab Borderless the new “Borderless” reboot of the famous digital art museum, now located in Azabudai Hills.

Let us just say: it’s magic.

From interactive LED forests to glowing waterfalls that react to your movement, it’s sensory overload in the best way. You don’t just view the art — you walk through it, become part of it, and leave completely inspired. See more video on boarderless on my instagram

Day 13: Sayonara, Japan

We made our final stop at the stunning Starbucks Reserve Roastery in Nakameguro.

This four-story coffee paradise is unlike any Starbucks you’ve ever seen. Soaring ceilings, copper pipes, fresh-baked pastries, and a menu filled with unique drinks and rare blends. The vibe was warm, modern, and the perfect place to sit, sip, and let it all sink in.

With coffee in hand and bags (mostly) packed, we took one last look at Tokyo and made our way back to the hotel, where a car was waiting to take us to the airport for the long trip home.

Final Thoughts

From Disney thrills and robot toilets to vending machine snacks and maple leaf cookies, our Japan adventure was packed with sights, snacks, and seriously impressive train stations.

We ate our way through Tokyo, walked 20+ miles in Kyoto, met deer with attitude in Nara, and soaked up history in Hiroshima. Japan delivered on every level and while our feet are still recovering we are already planning for our return!

Travel Tips

Don’t plan your visit during golden week, an annual event where everyone is off work.

Buy a Stamp Book (Shuinchō). You can find them on Amazon before your trip. Collect beautiful stamps from temples, train stations, and tourist spots. A perfect, free, souvenir!

Buy a Coin Holder. Japan still runs on cash and coins. A coin case kept our yen organized and made paying for things way easier. Have Yen on hand.

Download the Customs App. Save yourself time at the airport by filling out the Japan customs form in advance. You’ll breeze through the lines while others are stuck at kiosks.

Download movies/shows ahead of time. Don’t count on hotel TVs. They rarely have English channels. You probably won’t have time for TV anyway, but it’s good to be prepared.

Install Google Translate, it’s a lifesaver for signs, menus, and communication in shops or restaurants. Use the camera feature, it works surprisingly well!

Get cash in Japan, rates are usually better than in the U.S. ATMs at the airport, 7-Eleven or Japan post offices work great. You’ll need cash for small shops, temples, and places that don’t accept cards.

Get a pocket WiFi at the airport rental counter. It’s cheaper than using your international plan overseas and it works much better than eSIM. We had both and the eSIM didn’t work for text or cellular, only WiFi.

Arrive early to popular sites to beat the crowds. Getting to places like Senso-ji or Fushimi Inari first thing in the morning makes all the difference.

Bring a small trash bag. Japan is spotless, but public trash cans are few and far between. Keep your trash with you and dispose of it at your hotel.

Don’t eat while walking or in the trains (eating is acceptable on the bullet train)

Stay quiet on trains, no loud conversations or phone calls. It’s cultural, and appreciated.

Ship your large bags. It’s inexpensive, super reliable, and makes train travel 100x easier. If traveling out of the same area, for example, Osaka to Tokyo, you need to ship the morning before your arrival. Your hotel can help coordinate for you.

Shinkansen Mt Fuji Viewing: From Tokyo to Kyoto, sit on the E (or D in Green Car) side for Mount Fuji views, it appears about 45 minutes after departure. From Kyoto to Tokyo, switch to D (or E in Green Car) for a view after 85 minutes.

Book Shinkansen tickets in advance on the official website. Skip the expensive rail pass, it often doesn’t save money unless you’re traveling nonstop. You can easily change times and dates on the site even after booking.

Don’t Sleep on convenience store snacks 7-Eleven, Lawson, and Family Mart have surprisingly delicious food sandwiches, onigiri, egg salad, and Famichiki (though a bit greasy for our taste).

Wear comfortable shoes, you’ll be walking a LOT. Think 20,000+ steps a day. Stylish sneakers for the win.

Respect the culture Japan is conservative and polite. Dress neatly, avoid leggings, flip flops, or anything sloppy. Locals dress sharp, even casually.

Use leftover Yen at the airport. Japan’s airports allow split payments, use your remaining yen and pay the rest with your credit card.

Disney Japan Tips

Plan ahead (Seriously) Tokyo Disney Resort is not like the U.S. parks. You can’t buy tickets at the gate, and hotels book months in advance.

Avoid going Fri-Mon, they are the busiest days.

I highly recommend joining the “Tokyo Disneyland Holiday Planning” Facebook group. It helped understand everything from park strategy to restaurant reservations.

Stay at a Disney Hotel the night before your package starts to unlock perks like Happy Entry, letting you into the park 15 minutes early, a huge head start for rope drop rides!