My first night in Tokyo, I found myself in a tiny izakaya (it's an informal Japanese bar that you'll find plenty of when you visit), sitting in a tight space between salary men and hipsters, trying to figure out a menu written entirely in kanji. Fast forward to my fifth trip to Japan. I'm standing in the middle of Shirakawa-go, a village that looks like it's been plucked straight out of a fairytale. There are thatched-roof houses, some centuries old, and they're set against the backdrop of mist-covered mountains. They don't even look real. It's a far cry from the neon-lit streets of Tokyo, but just as mind-blowing.
That's the thing about Japan. There's something new to see, no matter how many times you visit. One day you're weaving through the chaos of Shibuya Crossing, trying to see what the big fuss is about, and the next you're soaking in a remote onsen, watching snow monkeys bathe in steaming pools nearby.
But where should a first-time visitor begin? How do you even start to unpack this endlessly fascinating country? Well, let's take a journey through Japan's regions, and I'll show you why your trip shouldn't end with Tokyo and Kyoto – it should only begin there.
The Kanto region is home to Tokyo and it's the main heart of Japan. It's by far the most populated region in the country, with over 43 million people crammed into an area roughly the size of New Jersey. That's about a third of Japan's entire population in just 10% of its land area. Talk about crowded!
But it wasn't always this way. Kanto's rise to prominence began in 1603 when Tokugawa Ieyasu, a warlord with a penchant for urban planning, decided to set up shop in a little fishing village called Edo. Fast forward 400 years, and Edo has become Tokyo, the world's largest urban economy.
While Tokyo's neon-lit streets and skyscrapers steal the show, Kanto has plenty of attractions beyond the big city. From the organized chaos of Shibuya Crossing to the impeccable gardens of the Imperial Palace, Tokyo is a city of wild contrasts. You could a week in Tokyo alone — easily!
Just an hour south of Tokyo, you'll find Kamakura, which is considered Japan's medieval capital. It's home to the Great Buddha, a 13-meter-high bronze statue that's been sitting in silent meditation since 1252. The Great Buddha has survived everything from tsunamis to earthquakes to a 15th-century assassination attempt. (The would-be killers tried to saw off its head. They failed.)
If you're looking for a more active adventure, I would definitely recommend a day trip to Kamakura. I went for my first time on my second trip to Tokyo, and it's about an hour ride on the JR Yokosuka line. The Daibutsu hiking course connects the Great Buddha to the Zeniarai Benten Shrine, and it's a peaceful walk through bamboo groves and past hidden statues. There's a legend that says that money washed in the shrine's cave springs will double in value.
What makes Kamakura truly special, and the reason I love it so much, is because of how it seamlessly blends the old and new. You can start your day with a meditation session at a 800-year-old Zen temple, spend the afternoon surfing, and then end it with a craft beer at a modern izakaya. And the beach is so cool to see. There's a pretty famous IG picture that a lot of tourists take, of the local cable car-like train that runs down the side of the beach. It's a unique mix of ancient history, natural beauty, and contemporary Japanese life, and a must-visit spot on your Japan itinerary.
For a glimpse of Japan's natural beauty, head to Nikko. Remember Tokugawa Ieyasu who I mentioned earlier? Well Nikko is a mountain town that's home to the Toshogu Shrine, which is his final resting place. I didn't mention it earlier, but in addition to creating what we know as Tokyo today, he's also the individual who reunified Japan at the beginning of the 17th century after a long period of civil war. It's also where you'll find the original carving of the "see no evil, hear no evil, speak no evil" monkeys. Who knew such a famous image came from a random stable door in the Japanese mountains?
If you're looking for a sample itinerary, here's a taste of what Kanto has to offer:
Pro tip: The best time to visit Kanto is during spring (March to May) for cherry blossoms, or fall (September to November) for colorful foliage. But honestly, Tokyo is a year-round destination - just pack accordingly! Want to know the best spots to visit for cherry blossom viewing in Tokyo and beyond? My article, The 10 Best Places to See Cherry Blossoms in Japan for Tourists has all the information you'll need!
A few more Kanto insider tips for you:
1. Don't miss the Tsukiji Outer Market. While the main fish market moved to Toyosu, the surrounding area is still a food lover's paradise. Go early, eat everything.
2. For a glimpse of old Tokyo, explore the winding alleys of Yanaka. It's one of the few neighborhoods that survived the bombings of WWII, and it feels like stepping back in time. I love this place so much. It just feels old school nostalgic.
3. If you're in Tokyo on a weekend, head to Yoyogi Park. You might catch rockabilly dancers, cosplayers, or traditional wedding processions all in one afternoon.
4. In Kamakura, take the charming Enoden train line. This retro streetcar snakes through the town, offering views of the ocean and glimpses into local life.
5. For a uniquely Tokyo experience, spend a night in a capsule hotel. These space-age sleeping pods are a testament to Japanese ingenuity in the face of limited space. It's not luxurious, but it's an experience you won't forget.
6. Tokyo boasts more Michelin-starred restaurants than any other city in the world. But some of the best meals you'll have might be from a standing sushi bar or a hole-in-the-wall ramen shop. Don't underestimate the "worn down" looking shops in Japan. Those are sometimes the best ones.
Remember, in Kanto, the journey is often as interesting as the destination. Don't be afraid to hop on a train to somewhere you can't pronounce - you might just stumble upon your favorite memory of the trip.
The Kansai region is where you'll find Japan's cultural soul, its culinary heart, and arguably its friendliest locals. This area is home to Kyoto, Osaka, Nara, and Kobe - each city a powerhouse in its own right.
Kyoto, the crown jewel of the Kansai region, is where you go to see Japan's soul. For over a thousand years, it served as the imperial capital, and it shows. With 17 UNESCO World Heritage sites, over 1,600 Buddhist temples, and 400 Shinto shrines, Kyoto is less a city and more a living, breathing museum.
But don't mistake Kyoto for a dusty relic. This city of 1.5 million somehow manages to be both ancient and cutting edge. You might spot a geisha hurrying to an appointment in Gion, then turn the corner to find a robot serving coffee in a tech-savvy café. Speaking of, the Starbucks shop in Kyoto is super cool and worth a visit for sure! Take a look at some of the pictures here in this article from CNN and be sure to put it on your list to stop by while you're there. It's called the Starbucks Coffee Kyoto Ninenzaka Yasaka Chaya.
Kyoto's history as the imperial capital began in 794 and lasted until 1868 when the emperor moved to Tokyo. That's over a millennium of cultural refinement, artistic development, and really good tea. Speaking of which, don't leave without experiencing a traditional tea ceremony. It's like meditation, but with caffeine.
And be sure to check out my video on the Voyages Japan YouTube channel all about Kyoto. I've even included a link to an illustrated 3-day itinerary that you can use on your trip. Here's the link to the video and here's the link to the free Kyoto 3-day itinerary.
Just 15 minutes from Kyoto by bullet train, Osaka is Kansai's economic powerhouse and Japan's third-largest city. Known for its food obsession, outgoing locals, and neon-lit Dotonbori district, Osaka is the yin to Kyoto's yang. Osaka's history as a merchant city has shaped its character. Here, you're going to notice that business and pleasure mix freely. The city's unofficial slogan, "kuidaore" (roughly translated as "eat until you drop"), tells you all you need to know about local priorities.
Don't miss:
Japan's first permanent capital, Nara is just a short train ride from Kyoto or Osaka. Founded in 710, Nara is home to some of Japan's oldest and largest temples.
The city's main attraction is Nara Park, where over 1,200 semi-wild deer roam freely. Considered messengers of the gods in the Shinto religion, these deer have protected status. They're also not shy about demanding treats from tourists!
Don't miss:
If you're looking for a sample itinerary, here's a taste of what Kansai has to offer:
Pro Tips for Kansai:
1. Get a Kansai Thru Pass for unlimited travel on non-JR trains and buses in the region.
2. In Osaka, try standing bars called "tachinomi" for cheap drinks and great local interaction.
3.Visit Nara in the evening or early morning to avoid the crowds and see the deer at their calmest.
4. Don't try to do everything. Kansai rewards slow travel, so leave time for wandering and unexpected discoveries.
Remember, Kansai is where many of Japan's art forms - from tea ceremony to kabuki - were born and perfected. Take the time to immerse yourself in the culture, whether that's through a meditation session at a Kyoto temple, a cooking class in Osaka, or a calligraphy lesson in Nara. In Kansai, every experience is a brush stroke in your own masterpiece of memories.
The Chubu region sits right in the middle of Japan's main island, Honshu. It's a place where you can see old Japan and some of the country's most beautiful natural sights all in one trip. Chubu stretches all the way from one side of Japan to the other, from the Japan Sea to the Pacific Ocean. You'll find everything here from huge mountains to tiny villages that look like they haven't changed in hundreds of years. It's like someone took all the best parts of Japan and crammed them into one region.
You can't talk about Chubu without mentioning its crown jewel: Mount Fuji. It's the star of the show here. This big, perfectly shaped volcano has been a big deal for Japanese people for a really long time. It's the tallest mountain in Japan and pretty much everyone knows what it looks like. Whether you want to climb it or just take pictures, Fuji is something you won't forget.
If you want to see Fuji, head to the Five Lakes area. Lake Kawaguchiko is a great spot, especially when the cherry blossoms are out or when the leaves change color in fall. If you're up for it, you can climb to the top, but it's not easy. Just remember, you can only climb from early July to mid-September.
Hidden away in the mountains are these old villages called Shirakawa-go and Gokayama. They're so special that UNESCO says they're important to the whole world. The houses here have these really steep, thatched roofs that look like hands pressed together in prayer. They built them this way to deal with all the snow they get. Some of these houses are older than the United States.
Walking around these villages feels like you've gone back in time. In winter, when everything's covered in snow and they light up the houses at night, it's really cool to see. You can even stay in some of these old houses. It's a great way to see what life used to be like in the Japanese countryside.
People sometimes call Kanazawa "Little Kyoto" because it has a lot of old buildings and stuff from the time when samurai were around. The city's pride and joy is Kenroku-en, a garden that's supposed to be one of the three prettiest in all of Japan. It's got carefully trimmed trees, quiet ponds, and little streams all over the place.
But there's more to Kanazawa than just the garden. You can walk around old samurai and geisha neighborhoods that look like they're straight out of an old movie. There's also this really modern art museum that looks kind of funny next to all the old buildings.
Make sure you check out the gold leaf stuff - Kanazawa makes almost all of Japan's gold leaf. And if you like food, go to Omicho Market. People call it "Kanazawa's Kitchen" because you can find all sorts of fresh seafood and local food there.
Fuji, Shirakawa-go, and Kanazawa are the big names, but Chubu's got a lot more going on:
Here's a 3-day itinerary for Hokkaido that captures the essence of the region:
Chubu is great if you like to explore. You can sit in a hot spring and look at Mt. Fuji, walk around old samurai neighborhoods, and sleep in a house that's older than your great-great-grandparents. Every time you turn a corner in Chubu, you might see something that shows you what old Japan was like.
Hokkaido, Japan's northernmost main island, is where the Japanese go to escape the chaos of city life. It's a land of wide-open spaces, untamed wilderness, and some of the best food you'll ever taste. Imagine a place where bears outnumber vending machines, and you're getting close.
Sapporo, Hokkaido's capital, is a city that knows how to winter. It's famous for three things: beer, ramen, and snow. The annual Sapporo Snow Festival in February transforms the city into a winter wonderland, with enormous ice sculptures that would make Elsa jealous.
Don't miss:
Come July, the countryside around Furano explodes into a sea of purple as lavender fields bloom in full glory. It's a scene reminiscent of Provence, but with better sushi. The fragrant purple rows stretch as far as the eye can see, creating a stunning backdrop for photographers and nature lovers alike.
For those seeking more rugged terrain, Daisetsuzan National Park beckons. As Japan's largest national park, it offers a vast playground for outdoor enthusiasts. In summer, its alpine trails provide challenging hikes with rewarding vistas, while winter transforms the landscape into a backcountry skier's paradise. The park's diverse ecosystems host a variety of wildlife, making it a prime spot for nature watching.
No tour of Hokkaido's natural splendors would be complete without a visit to Lake Toya. This caldera lake, formed by a massive volcanic eruption, never freezes, even in the depths of Hokkaido's harsh winters. Surrounded by hot springs and volcanic peaks, Lake Toya offers a serene setting for relaxation and contemplation. The lake's shores are dotted with onsen resorts, where you can soak in mineral-rich waters while gazing out at the placid lake and the surrounding mountains.
Hokkaido's powder snow is the stuff of legend. Resorts like Niseko offer world-class skiing and snowboarding, with some runs that seem to go on forever. After a day on the slopes, soak those tired muscles in an outdoor onsen, watching the snow fall around you. It's pure magic.
Hokkaido's clean air, pure water, and wide-open spaces produce some of Japan's best ingredients. Don't leave without trying:
Here's a 3-day itinerary for Hokkaido that captures the essence of the region:
Pro Tips for Hokkaido:
1. Rent a car if you can. Public transport is limited outside of Sapporo, and some of the best spots are off the beaten path.
2. Pack layers. Hokkaido's weather can be unpredictable, even in summer.
3. Learn the word "Genghis Khan" - it's a local lamb barbecue dish, not just a Mongolian emperor.
4. If you're visiting in winter, check out the drift ice tours in the Sea of Okhotsk.
5. Keep an eye out for wildlife. Hokkaido is home to brown bears, deer, and red-crowned cranes.
Hokkaido is Japan with the volume turned up - bigger nature, bolder flavors, and wider spaces. It's a place where you can truly get lost (sometimes literally) in the beauty of Japan's natural world. Just remember to pack your sense of adventure... and maybe some bear bells.
Tohoku is the northern part of Japan's main island, Honshu. Most first-time visitors to Japan skip it, but that's a shame. If you make the trip up here, you're in for some cool stuff.
Take Kakunodate, for example. It's like stepping into a samurai movie set. This old district has a bunch of houses where samurai used to live. You can walk around and get a feel for what life was like back when these sword-wielding guys ran the show.
Then there's Zao Onsen in winter. The trees here get so covered in snow and ice that they look like weird, white monsters. People actually call them "Snow Monsters." It's pretty wild to see.
If you're into taking pictures, you've got to check out Oirase Stream in Aomori. In fall, when all the leaves change color, it's knockout gorgeous. You'll be snapping photos left and right.
Tohoku is big on festivals too. The Nebuta Matsuri in Aomori is a real showstopper. They parade these massive, glowing floats through the streets. It's loud, it's colorful, and it's a total blast.
Don't Miss in Tohoku:
The Chugoku Region is in western Japan, and while it's got a lot going on, there's one place that really steals the show: Miyajima Island. I loved it so much that one of the first videos on the Voyages Japan channel that I created was on Miyajima and Hiroshima. This video also gives some great ideas for places to visit on the island:
Miyajima is famous for its "floating" shrine. It's called Itsukushima Shrine, and it's got this massive red gate (called a torii) sitting out in the water. When the tide comes in, it looks like the whole shrine is floating on the sea. It's pretty cool, especially at sunset.
But Miyajima's not just about the shrine. Here's what else you shouldn't miss:
One tip: Most day-trippers leave as it gets dark. If you can, stay overnight on the island. Once the crowds leave, it gets really peaceful. Plus, you can see the shrine lit up at night.
Remember, Miyajima is actually just a nickname. The island's real name is Itsukushima, same as the shrine. But pretty much everyone calls it Miyajima, which means "shrine island."
It's easy to get to Miyajima from Hiroshima city. Just take a train and a quick ferry ride. A lot of people visit both Hiroshima and Miyajima in the same trip.
Shikoku is the smallest of Japan's four main islands, but don't let that fool you. This place is packed with cool stuff that most tourists never see. Let's break it down:
Iya Valley is like something out of an old Japanese legend. It's tucked way back in the mountains of Tokushima Prefecture, and it's about as far from the neon lights of Tokyo as you can get.
The star attractions here are the vine bridges. They're called kazurabashi, and they're exactly what they sound like - bridges made of vines. There are three of them left, and the biggest one stretches 45 meters across the river. Walking on these things is a real thrill. They sway a bit, and you can see the river rushing below through the gaps in the planks. Don't worry though, they're perfectly safe - they replace the vines every three years.
The valley's got some serious history too. Legend has it that the Heike clan hid out here after losing a big war in the 12th century. You can still see some of their old houses, built right into the steep hillsides.
If you're into hiking, Iya's got you covered. There are trails all over the place, including one that takes you to a statue called "Peeing Boy". It's exactly what it sounds like - a statue of a boy peeing off a cliff. The views from up there are incredible, but it's not for those scared of heights!
For a real local experience, check out the outdoor hot springs. There's one called Nana-magari no Yu that's right on the edge of a cliff. Soaking in hot water while looking out over the valley? That's hard to beat.
Getting to Iya Valley isn't easy, which is part of why it's stayed so untouched. You'll probably need to rent a car or take a bus. The roads are winding and can be narrow, but the views along the way are worth it.
If you can, stay overnight in one of the traditional thatched-roof farmhouses. Some of them are over 300 years old. It's basic accommodation, but it's a chance to experience rural Japan in a way most tourists never do. Iya Valley is at its best in spring when everything's green and the flowers are blooming, or in fall when the leaves change color. But honestly, it's beautiful year-round. Just remember to bring sturdy shoes and a sense of adventure. This is the kind of place where you can really feel like you're discovering something special.
Naoshima is a small island in the Seto Inland Sea that's become a big deal in the art world. It's like someone decided to turn a whole island into one giant museum, but way cooler. The story goes that a Japanese billionaire teamed up with some famous architects and artists to transform this sleepy little island. Now it's home to some of the most interesting modern art installations you'll ever see.
The yellow pumpkin is probably Naoshima's most famous sight. It's this huge polka-dot pumpkin sculpture by an artist named Yayoi Kusama, sitting right on the beach. It's basically become the mascot of the island. There's a red one too, on a different beach.
But that's just the start. The Chichu Art Museum is built mostly underground to avoid messing up the island's scenery. It's got some mind-bending stuff inside, including a room full of Claude Monet's Water Lilies paintings.
The Benesse House is another must-see. It's part museum, part hotel. If you can afford to stay there, do it. Waking up surrounded by world-class art is pretty cool.
One of the weirdest (in a good way) spots is the Art House Project. They've taken old houses in a village and turned them into art installations. There's one where you take off your shoes, walk through water, and touch a glass pyramid. It sounds strange, but trust me, it's an experience.
You can rent bikes to get around the island, which is a great way to see everything. There are also these cool public baths designed by famous artists. Nothing like soaking in a hot bath while looking at art. Food-wise, there's a bunch of cafes and restaurants scattered around. Try the Naoshima burger - it's got olive sauce, and olives are a big deal on the island.
The best time to visit is probably spring or fall when the weather's nice. But it's open year-round, and there's always something new to see.
Oboke and Koboke are two gorges right next to each other in Tokushima Prefecture. They're part of the Yoshino River, and they're a big hit with nature lovers and adventure seekers.
First off, the scenery here is knockout gorgeous. We're talking crystal-clear blue-green water flowing between huge rock cliffs. The name "Oboke" means "big walking dangerous place," and "Koboke" means "small walking dangerous place." Don't worry though, it's not actually dangerous these days - that's just what the old-timers called it because the path along the river used to be pretty sketchy.
The most popular thing to do here is take a boat ride through the gorges. You hop on these traditional wooden boats, and the boatmen steer you through the rapids. It's not too wild, so it's good for all ages. The boat guys usually crack jokes and tell stories about the area, but it might be in Japanese.
If you're after more of an adrenaline rush, try whitewater rafting. The rapids here can get pretty intense, especially after it rains. There are a few companies that offer rafting trips, and they'll set you up with all the gear you need.
For those who prefer to keep their feet on solid ground, there are hiking trails along the gorges. The views from up high are amazing, and you might spot some wildlife like monkeys or eagles.
There's also a bridge between Oboke and Koboke called the Yoshino River Bridge. It's got a glass-bottom section where you can look straight down to the river below. It's a bit freaky but cool.
The best time to visit is probably from spring to fall. In winter it can get pretty cold, and some activities might not be running. Summer is great for cooling off in the water, but it can get crowded, especially on weekends.
If you're into geology, check out the Lapis Oboke museum. It's got a bunch of cool rocks and minerals from the area. There's even a huge amethyst geode you can sit inside. Food-wise, try the ayu (sweetfish) if you're there in season. They grill it on sticks over charcoal, and it's delicious. Getting there can be a bit tricky if you don't have a car, but there are trains that stop at Oboke Station. Just be sure to check the schedule, as they don't run super often.
Takamatsu is the capital of Kagawa Prefecture and often the first stop for folks visiting Shikoku. It's not a huge city, but it's got a bunch of cool stuff going on.
The star of the show here is definitely Ritsurin Garden. This place is the real deal - one of Japan's best gardens. It's massive, about 75 football fields big, and took over 100 years to build. The garden's like a giant, living painting that changes with every step you take.
In Ritsurin, you've got all the greatest hits of Japanese gardens - ponds, perfectly shaped pine trees, little islands, and old teahouses. Taking a boat ride on the main pond is a must-do. You get pushed along in these old-school wooden boats, perfect for snapping photos.
But Takamatsu's not just about the garden. Here's some other cool stuff to check out:
Getting around Takamatsu is pretty easy. They've got this cool rental bike system called Machi-nori, and the city's pretty flat, so it's a nice way to explore.
Takamatsu's a chill city that's often overlooked by tourists rushing to bigger names like Kyoto or Tokyo. But it's worth spending at least a day or two here, especially if you're into gardens, good food, and getting a taste of a more laid-back side of Japan.
Shikoku's a bit off the beaten path, which means fewer crowds and a more laid-back vibe. It's a great place to see a different side of Japan, away from the big cities. Just remember, public transport can be a bit sparse in some areas, so plan ahead.
This part of Japan is where things start to get really different. It's like someone turned up the heat, threw in some palm trees, and added a dash of international flavor.
Kyushu is the southernmost of Japan's four main islands, and it's got a bit of everything. Fukuoka, the biggest city, is famous for its yatai (food stalls) and tonkotsu ramen. The Hakata district is great for shopping and eating. Then there's Nagasaki, a city with a heavy history due to the atomic bomb, but also a unique vibe thanks to its long history of international trade. The night view from Mt. Inasa is supposed to be one of Japan's best.
Kumamoto: Home to one of Japan's most impressive castles (even though it's being repaired right now after an earthquake).
Beppu: This place is hot spring central. They've got these "hells" - super hot, colorful hot springs. You can't bathe in them, but they're cool to look at.
Sakurajima: An active volcano right across from Kagoshima city. It's constantly puffing out ash. You can get pretty close, which is both awesome and a bit scary.
Okinawa is a whole other world. It's a chain of islands way down south, closer to Taiwan than Tokyo. We're talking proper tropical beaches here - white sand, clear water, the works. Okinawa used to be its own kingdom (Ryukyu) and the culture is still pretty different from mainland Japan. This extends to the food too. Try goya champuru (bitter melon stir-fry) and Okinawan soba. There are some beautiful old castle ruins, and also some heavy World War II sites. Interestingly, Okinawans are famous for living a long time. Must be something in the water (or the awamori, their local booze).
Some cool stuff to do in this region includes island hopping in Okinawa (each island has its own vibe), checking out the Ghibli Park in Nagasaki (it's new as of 2022), eating your way through Fukuoka's yatai stalls, soaking in a hot spring in Beppu, and watching sumo in Fukuoka if you're there in November.
The weather down here is warmer year-round, which means you can hit the beaches when the rest of Japan is freezing. Just watch out for typhoon season around August-September. This part of Japan feels pretty different from what most tourists see. It's more laid-back, a bit tropical, and has some unique history and culture. If you want to see a different side of Japan, Kyushu and Okinawa are where it's at.
Some cool stuff to do:
The weather down here is warmer year-round, which means you can hit the beaches when the rest of Japan is freezing. Just watch out for typhoon season (around August-September).
This part of Japan feels pretty different from what most tourists see. It's more laid-back, a bit tropical, and has some unique history and culture. If you want to see a different side of Japan, Kyushu and Okinawa are where it's at.
Okinawa is one of my absolute favorite places in Japan, and I could go on for days about all the amazing things to see and do there. From its stunning beaches and unique culture to its mouthwatering cuisine and rich history, Okinawa is a world unto itself. But since I can't possibly cover everything in this overview, I've put together a more detailed guide. For an in-depth look at Okinawa and a can't-miss itinerary, check out my article, "Okinawa: A Week in Japan's Island Wonderland".
We've taken a whirlwind tour through Japan's diverse regions, from the streets of Tokyo to the tropical beaches of Okinawa. By now, your head is probably spinning with possibilities. So, how do you turn all this information into an actual trip? Here are some important articles I've created to help you plan your Japanese adventure:
Remember, you don't need to see everything in one go. Japan rewards slow travel and repeat visits. Pick a few regions that really speak to you and explore them thoroughly. You can always come back for more - trust me, you'll want to.
Mix up your accommodation as you travel. Try a traditional ryokan in Kyoto, a quirky capsule hotel in Tokyo, and a modern city hotel in Osaka. Each offers a unique slice of Japanese life.
Lastly, be mindful of Japan's distinct seasons when planning your itinerary. Each season shows a different face of Japan, and the seasons arrive at different times in each of the regions. So choose the one that aligns with your interests and the regions you want to visit.
Which regions stuck out to you the most? Which places are you adding to your itinerary that weren't on there before? Let me know in the comments below...
Kelly Browning is a design enthusiast and avid traveler who’s fallen head over heels for Japan. With an advanced degree in architecture and over 12 years in the fashion industry, Kelly’s career took her around the world, but it was Japan that truly captured her heart. Now, through a blog, newsletter, and YouTube channel, Kelly aims to inspire others to explore the beauty of Japan.
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