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Japan Adventure: Tokyo, Fuji, Disneyland, Kyoto, Osaka & Nara - A 11-Day Itinerary
Hello everyone! I'm finally getting around to sharing my epic 11-day adventure through Japan back in April. It was an amazing trip, and I'm writing this down so I don't forget all the wonderful memories. I did a lot of research on different platforms to plan my itinerary, so I hope this helps you too!
Essential Pre-Trip Planning
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Visa:
I applied for my visa through a service and got the results within 8 days. The documentation process was quite straightforward. -
Flights:
I booked my flights last minute and during cherry blossom season, so the prices were a bit high. If you can, booking flights in advance or considering transit flights can save you a lot of money. We flew into Narita and out of Kansai (Osaka). The flight is about 4-5 hours, and we opted for a night flight so we could arrive, check into the hotel, and start exploring right away. -
SIM Card:
I bought a 2GB per day SIM card from Shopee, which was just okay for my usage. If you're a heavy data user, I'd recommend getting a 3GB per day plan for more comfort. Wi-Fi isn't readily available in many restaurants and cafes in Japan, and public Wi-Fi spots are also quite scarce. -
Currency Exchange:
I exchanged a good amount of cash because most eateries in Japan prefer cash payments. For other expenses, I used my credit card. I exchanged my money at Ha Trung, where the exchange rate was pretty good, and they even offer delivery. They have a WhatsApp number to update daily rates, so feel free to message me if you need it. -
Arrival Immigration:
It's super convenient to fill out your information on VISIT JAPAN WEB before you arrive. You'll get a QR code, and all you need to do is scan it at immigration. No more paper forms to fill out! -
Transportation:
We primarily used trains, which were efficient, fast, and punctual. Be prepared to do a lot of walking! Google Maps works well in Japan, making navigation easy. We only got lost once because we were in a rush and got on the wrong train. Just make sure to check the exact route and line you need to take. -
Food:
While I was mentally prepared, the queuing culture in Japan is truly something else! Everywhere you go, there are lines. Sometimes we were so hungry we couldn't wait, so we'd just find a place to eat quickly. Remember to check opening hours and factor in potential queue times when planning your meals. For me, the food was generally on the saltier side. -
Payment:
I purchased a WELCOME SUICA card, which is a physical card for tourists valid for 30 days. You can withdraw any remaining balance at the airport counter when you leave. You can load money onto it and use it everywhere, even in convenience stores. Alternatively, you can download the SUICA app on your phone and top up via ApplePay (minimum top-up is 1000Y, and you can't withdraw the balance). -
Accommodation:
In Tokyo and Osaka, we booked Airbnbs with Vietnamese hosts. Since we booked last minute, hotels near the stations were either fully booked or very expensive. Our hosts were incredibly helpful, and we even got to check in early! Our place in Tokyo was near Shinjuku station, which was super convenient for getting around. In Osaka, we rented a whole 3-story house with free bicycles to cycle to the station. In Kyoto, we stayed at a spacious hotel very close to Kyoto Station, just a short walk away.
Important Travel Tips
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Voltage:
Japan uses 110V and has flat two-pin sockets. Don't forget to bring a voltage converter and plug adapter! -
Luggage:
Most train stations have elevators, so try to find them rather than struggling with your luggage up the stairs.
Our 11-Day Japan Itinerary
Day 1: Shibuya Immersion
- Shibuya Sky: Book your tickets in advance on Klook. They are released 15 days ahead, so try to snag your preferred time slot (4 PM - 6 PM for sunset views) right after 10 PM Vietnam time, as popular slots sell out quickly.
- We had dinner and explored the Shibuya area on our first day, keeping it relaxed after the flight.
- Experiencing the Shibuya Crossing, the world's busiest intersection, was exhilarating!
- The Hachiko statue is right there too, perfect for a quick photo, though it can get quite crowded.
Day 2: Majestic Mount Fuji
- We dedicated a full day to chasing the iconic Mount Fuji. We booked a car with a Vietnamese driver who was incredibly enthusiastic and helpful, taking us to our planned spots and suggesting suitable routes. We were lucky to find two other travelers on the same day through a Facebook group, allowing us to share the cost and have a more flexible experience.
- Mount Fuji was undoubtedly the highlight of my trip!
- Pro Tip: Check the weather and Mount Fuji visibility in advance on websites like SeeMtFuji, Weathernewsjp, and Fujigokotv. We were blessed with a sunny day despite a week of rain, and we got to see the summit clearly!
- While you can travel to Fuji by train, local buses are infrequent, and taxis are expensive. Consider joining organized tours or, for ultimate flexibility, book a private tour like we did.
Day 3: Tokyo's Cultural & Iconic Sights
- Japanese temples and shrines are incredibly beautiful, offering stunning photo opportunities. On our last day in Tokyo, we visited Sensoji Temple and explored the Asakusa area. We also tried Sushiro, a popular conveyor belt sushi restaurant nearby.
- In the afternoon, we headed to Tokyo Tower for some photos.
- We also visited the Onitsuka Tiger Ginza store, the only one offering custom name embroidery on shoes. The store itself is beautiful, functioning as a cafe as well. The first floor is for display, and you head downstairs to try and purchase. Unfortunately, the embroidery takes a day, and we couldn't pick them up the next day.
Day 4: Disneyland Magic!
- We booked our Disneyland tickets on Klook. I highly recommend visiting on a weekday to avoid the massive crowds. You don't need to arrive super early either; aim to conserve your energy for the parade and fireworks later in the day. We took a train from Shinjuku around 9:30 AM, which was perfect.
- For popular rides like Beauty and the Beast and Splash Mountain, consider purchasing an Express Pass to save time.
- Disneyland has plenty of food options, so you won't go hungry.
- We managed to enjoy rides like Star Tours, Stitch Encounter (a bit disappointing), It's a Small World, Haunted Mansion, and Beauty and the Beast.
- Must-Do: Take photos as soon as you arrive, especially during the golden hour in the afternoon. Don't miss the parades – we caught the evening parade! It truly felt like stepping back into childhood and reliving those beloved animated movies.
Day 5: Journey to Kyoto
- We traveled to Kyoto via Shinkansen (bullet train). We booked our tickets on Klook, and they are incredibly punctual. The journey took exactly 2 hours. While there are many departures, the NOZOMI is said to be the fastest. We took the 12:30 PM train, which got us to Kyoto just in time to check into our hotel.
- Pro Tip: Consider booking seats D and E for a chance to see Mount Fuji. The views start about 40 minutes into the journey, so don't fall asleep! The changing landscapes outside the window were breathtaking, and I didn't want to miss a single moment.
- We found that popular eateries like Gyukatsu and Ichiran Ramen, which were packed in Tokyo, were much less crowded in Kyoto and Osaka, meaning shorter queues.
- We also explored Nishiki Market.
Day 6: Kyoto's Charm and Gates
- We rented kimonos from a Vietnamese shop and walked to the historic district. For about 5000Y, you get the kimono rental and hairstyling. Don't stress about choosing too many patterns; just pick your favorite color, and you'll look beautiful! The brighter, the better.
- To get the best photos in Gion, wake up early and take pictures before 8 AM. By 9 AM, it gets incredibly crowded. Every corner is picture-perfect.
- We enjoyed matcha at Maccha House and % Arabica in the area. You can also try the Starbucks housed in a 300-year-old traditional house.
- We changed back into our regular clothes around lunchtime for easier movement.
- Next, we visited Fushimi Inari Taisha, famous for its thousands of torii gates. To find less crowded spots for photos, walk further along the loop. The views are similar, and you'll find fewer people. If you have time, consider visiting the Arashiyama Bamboo Grove, Tenryuji Temple, and the Hozu River, as these are close together.
- Totaro, a recommended matcha and mochi place, was a delight. Despite the small space, the matcha was divine, and I'm so glad we didn't miss it.
- Strolling around the neighborhood afterward, every house adorned with flowers and bathed in the afternoon sun felt like a scene from a movie – truly magical.
Day 7: Kyoto's Riverside and Move to Osaka
- On our last day in Kyoto, we made time for more cafe hopping. The Kamo Riverbanks are incredibly relaxing and picturesque, just like in the movies. The area is dotted with charming cafes. Kyoto is beautiful and peaceful; we'll definitely spend more time here on our next visit.
- The journey to Osaka took only about 30-40 minutes.
Day 8: Osaka Exploration
- We explored Namba, Osaka Castle, Dotonbori, and Kuromon Market. It was interesting to find many Vietnamese cooks in Osaka's "Kitchen of Japan," highlighting the talent of our people! We could even order in Vietnamese, making it feel almost like home.
- We checked out the iconic Glico Man sign and wandered through Dotonbori and Kuromon Market.
Day 9: Nara's Deer Park
- Our initial plan was to spend the whole day in Nara, but we were a little underwhelmed. The main attraction is the deer, and they can get quite aggressive when they're hungry! We only stayed for about an hour before heading back to Osaka due to the heat and crowds. The train journey from Osaka to Nara takes about an hour.
- We did try Nakatanidou Mochi, famous for its mochi pounding performance.
- You can buy crackers to feed the deer, and they will bow back. It's worth trying once, but I don't think I'd return just for this.
- If you go to Nara, consider visiting Todaiji Temple to see the Great Buddha and Kasuga Taisha Shrine with its thousands of lanterns.
Day 10: Parks and Shopping in Osaka
- We visited the Expo'70 Commemorative Park, which was filled with vibrant tulips and cherry blossoms. It was a breathtaking sight! There's also an outlet mall nearby, so it's worth spending the whole day there if you have time.
- We browsed the Ghibli store in Shinsaibashi Shopping Arcade. Everything was so charming and nostalgic, embodying the magic of Ghibli.
- We did some shopping around Namba. Remember to bring your passport for tax refunds. Products are mostly in Japanese, so use Google Translate or save pictures of what you want to buy to make it easier when asking for assistance from the staff.
Day 11: Departure
- Kansai Airport is quite large, so give yourself plenty of time. After checking in, we headed to the duty-free shops to buy treats like Nama chocolate, banana cake, and LeTao cheese cake to bring back home.
Overall, this trip was filled with new experiences, delicious food, and cultural insights. We did a lot of walking, with some days reaching up to 20,000 steps, so comfortable shoes are a must! This was our first time traveling like this, and next time, we'll explore other prefectures at a more relaxed pace to truly soak in the essence of Japan. I've written down what I remember, so if anything is missing or you have questions, feel free to ask!
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