3 Regrets From My First Trip To Japan (Part 3)

[@kpxgirl25]

Yes finally!!!!! A realistic person talking about Japan!!!! None of that influencers crap about every single person going to the same restaurants in Tokyo/kyoto/osaka

[@mofo02]

Amen!

[@ms.jiho.kr1]

💯

[@starlyghtdrifter66]

Influencer…..I can’t get over how ridiculous this word is

[@mofo02]

@@starlyghtdrifter66 tell me about it 😂

[@michaelsmith6938]

Stupid Japan, all other countries are already cashless

[@notatallheng]

Been to Japan 4 times and this advice is all 100% true.

[@Xepa777]

Her advice is to vacation longer lmao. Of course everyone who could afford to vacation longer would. What kind of dumb advice is this?

[@rouenyu]

@@Xepa777 you're the dumb one too for expressing your opinion.

[@alenapavlackova222]

@@Xepa777 none of the 3 tips were "stay longer" ...

[@ColdplayTour-hb5gs]

Most places accept card

[@EREMIKA7866]

@@Xepa777in what way did she say to stay longer?

[@Freundinnen100]

Tip one I recommend for every trip. Plans are important, yes, but the days without plan, just waling around are so wonderful. And so less stressful!

[@brownmasterv]

On my spontaneous days I just get on a random train and set a time limit, probably like 40-60 mins and just get off and explore. It's found me some really cool hidden gems

[@itsgracechin]

That's GOALS! I struggle doing that as an over planner but you've inspired me to do that for my next trip in a few weeks time x

[@KanjiMadeEasy]

Thus actually imo is great advice. It was one of my favorite parts when I lived in Japan for five years...

[@CloudvLuna]

Is it easy to navigate back to your accommodations? I’m worried about getting lost and not being able to get back home 😭

[@Mooncrest0]

@@CloudvLunaget a pocket WiFi and have offline maps downloaded on your phone. Also carry a portable battery pack with you in case your phone dies. Can’t get lost that way!

[@CloudvLuna]

@@Mooncrest0 ahhh okay thank you!

[@ginster458]

we originally only booked two days in kyoto and then three in osaka, but ended up extending Osaka to 6 days and just taking day trips to Nara, Kobe, Wakayama and another day(trip) to Kyoto. Having a "base" for almost a week felt really good, we enjoyed Osaka and doing everything as daytrips was way more relaxing than having to hurl around luggage and doing checkous/ins everyday. After that, two days in a Ryokan in Arima Onsen to relax before heading for Tokyo again to finish out the trip there. I'd do it like this again cause we saw so much and really had time to just wander around and immerse ourselves instead of hustling from spot to spot.

[@rudyhernandez7128]

For your day trips, did you take the train? If so, how much was it?

[@ginster458]

@@rudyhernandez7128 yes we took the train! The region Kyoto Osaka Nara Kobe etc is called Kansai and has its own pass that is called Kandai pass that covers all public transport. I don’t remember how much it was but it wasn’t expensive! Other than that we had the JR Pass for longer travel up north and I think in the end we paid for the trip to wakayama and arima onsen since the pass ran out (you can get it for 4 days) and even those weren’t that expensive just took longer

[@rudyhernandez7128]

@@ginster458 Okay, I was thinking about going to Tokyo and just do those day trips to Osaka, Kyoto, Kobe etc. But now I'm thinking about just staying in Osaka and do day trips from there instead. I'm planning to go in Mid-May 2025 (after my semester of college) and stay for about 3 weeks. I tried talking my friends into going with me, but I give up... I'm usually a Lonewolf anyways so it's no problem. The PHX to Japan plane ticket and hotel prices are lower than I thought so I mind as well go while I can. Thanks for letting me know.

[@ginster458]

@@rudyhernandez7128 definitely use Osaka as a base then, for maybe 5 days to a week, depending on what you want to see. From Osaka any trip to those mentiones cities takes about 1 hour to 1 1/2 hours max, but going from Tokyo to Kyoto alone (closest destination) takes several hours so daytrips from Tokyo cost you way too much time. Especially for Kyoto where you want to be at the historical sites as early as possible (tourists and heat). That's easily doable from Osaka though where the Shinkansen to Kyoto takes about 30 minutes or so, and Osaka was a lot cheaper than Kyoto ( 6 nights cost as much as 2 in Kyoto) And Osaka and Kyoto alone are worth at least 2 days each. We went to Nara twice cause we loved it there. But of course it's all personal tastes. 3 weeks is plenty of time regardless, and my recommendation would be to leave a couple of days open in between so you have the freedom to stay longer/leave eariler depending on how you like it where you are. In the end it cost us a little more because we had to book last minute for those days, but we didn't regret it one bit! Giving ourselves the freedom to do what we liked over following a strict itinerary was worth it, since it's not a trip we can do regularly.

[@rudyhernandez7128]

@@ginster458 just looked up how long a trip from Tokyo to Osaka and the price. It takes about 3 1/2 hours and it's 100 usd. I don't have a problem with how long it takes (because I'll wake up early as hell) but I don't like the cost... it'll be 200 usd for a round trip and more if I wanted to go to Kyoto, Kobe and other places. I'm just going split my stay in Osaka and Tokyo. I'll stay in osaka for 14 days (and also take day trips to near by places like Kobe, and Kyoto) and I'll stay in Tokyo for 8 days (and explore places nearby as well).

[@ebiifuraaido]

If you're going to Osaka/Kyoto/Nara/Kobe, I recommend just staying at Osaka then take day trips to Kyoto/Nara/Kobe. Lugging your luggage from Osaka then to Kyoto is such a hassle for me. Also, these places are easily accessible from Osaka by regular trains (yes, no need for the bullet train)

[@yvetteblack9370]

I just got back from 3 weeks in Japan - 1st week in Tokyo, 2nd week in Osaka with many day trips to Kyoto, Nara, Kobe ... the “Hello Kitty” Bullet Train was awesome as well as Sumo Wrestling, the Bamboo Forest, The deer 🦌 in Nara & many Temples and Shrines, the Thousand Arches - last week back to Tokyo for shopping 🛍 fantastic Art/light/movement show, an Aquarium that is 8 floors/levels - I’m so fit now - so much walking before, during and after getting to our destinations. Can’t wait to go back again 🥰love from Australia 🇦🇺

[@eirenespage]

Visiting Japan twice and what I learned is the true way to appreciate Japan is if you kinda spent your day like an ordinary japanese people do.

[@hannahhojraj4211]

Yessss

[@burntc]

...working? Jk

[@azielili]

​@@burntc*not joking 😭

[@stupedcraig]

Spent a day in Aeon/Costco in Chiba. Wasn't another tourist around. Got to watch the Doraemon movie in there too.

[@jakieboiZ94]

So go to work all day?

[@callmekunase]

The first tip was so true. I did not enjoy much of my trip coz our itinerary was loaded with a lot of destinations. Our 2nd visit, we lessen the attractions and provided days where we can fully explore the city and had spontaneous experience. We are now preparing for our 3rd trip and this time, in Sapporo. ❤

[@ms.jiho.kr1]

The advice is too real! I needed to hear that, I packed my trip like a can of sardines and it felt more like work than a vacation 😢

[@hyteclowlife]

People also try to move around too much when they're in Japan. I've had way more fun staying in one city and really exploring it instead of only going for 3 or 4 days then having to move hotels again. You're not going to get any real sense of what a city is like in that amount of time, it's simply too short.

[@MagichourManila]

I hope tourists continue to explore the popular destinations like Tokyo, Kyoto, Osaka, and so on. This way, when I visit rural Japan again, it won't be overcrowded with visitors. Haha!

[@soclose2her]

This. I’ve never been but when I go I want to see the countryside

[@altoclef6688]

I want to visit Japan, but I have mostly rural areas in mind. KZbin pointed me to some rural train lines through absolutely magical landscapes...

[@Burn143]

When I visit Japan I want to see it all. I want to see the bustling city life, popular destinations like Tokyo, Kyoto, Osaka, I want to see the touristy spots, I want to see the rural areas, I want to see the countryside, all of it. 😂

[@AncientMonarch]

​@@altoclef6688I've had rural areas in minds, but they are just so hard to get to, expect for the common ones. I think Japans rural areas are a must if you're visiting Japan 😅.

[@WizardOfOss]

I love that way of thinking. Hopefully I won't see any of you guys in Shimane and Tottori prefectures in November ;-)

[@SpartanQwop]

Honestly the best way to explore Japan is actually to talk/ hang out with the locals and stay out of the tourist trap destinations. (I have had the most experiences/ enjoyment this way)

[@ngenes1]

Sometimes getting lost and discovering new places becomes the adventure 😊 Relax take it all in, just know Japan is safe for traveling ❤

[@Surfer669]

I loved being cash only in Japan. The card fee & international charge fee really adds up if you're not looking. Also, with a card, your money is an imaginary amount of you don't think about it. With cash, it's physical & you can run out; which means spending less/ keeping to the budget.

[@itsgracechin]

Yess! One of the many advantages of carrying cash in Japan 💴🙌

[@ms.jiho.kr1]

I can relate to this 100%! Cash is 👑

[@mistyz0ne]

wealthsimple has no fx fees and cashback!

[@Juulylie]

I think you're at an era where we're losing more money with cash than cards as there are now many banks that have a no fee exchange rate, while changing cash is still super expensive!

[@vanpeer4232]

My two friends and I had been dreaming of going to Japan since we were kids and this last summer we spent the month of July for my 23rd birthday in Japan. Starting up in Sapporo and making our way down through different many different towns and cities till eventually ending in Kyoto and Osaka. The only thing we had planned was the onsen and hostels for each stop. This was the most incredible Journey I have ever been on, exploring the local culture, food, and natural wonders of each region. Hokkaido itself was my absolute favorite, everything there felt like being in Hayao Miyazaki film. While in Japan it is very important to respect the people and their culture so everyone can have a great experience. I want to go back to Japan someday to hike across the country and to Snowboard the ski resorts in Hokkaido in the dead of winter.

[@nonamefound4631]

This is good for going almost anywhere! Don’t overplan, make sure you carry cash because in most places there are still places who don’t take card, and leave the big tourist city to explore!

[@Rosanna_Tisa]

Please don’t miss Nagoya either. It’s such a beautiful place if you love the small town vibe with beautiful neighbourhoods and it also has a studio Ghibli themed park.

[@itsgracechin]

Will be visiting Nagoya soon! So excited 🤩 thanks for the recommendations!

[@CarbonatedTurtle]

I was just there in December and it was awesome. We drank Chita and ate amazing hatcha miso chicken wings for our Christmas dinner. Great nightlife too, which I'm normally not into, but it sucks you in. I just wish we'd spent an extra day there so we could've spent two days at Ghibli Park. One just wasn't enough to see everything.

[@classics39]

Absolutely loved Nagoya! From the moment I stepped out of the train station (arriving from the airport).... It's very unique. People are very special too, very open, friendly anyway. I must return to explore more.... do you have any recommendations?

[@Bekka_Noyb]

me & GF spent 10 glorious days in Japan back in June. We stayed in Kyoto & Tokyo for 5 days each with day trips to Osaka & Himeji. Definitely agree bout taking some time to just explore. That's always a good idea wherever you visit

[@bontakunmaster]

If you all want to explore country sides of Japan, here are tips that I learn from the hard way. 1.Shuttle bus! Unless your hotel is close to the local station, Always ask the hotel service if they offer shuttles! Don't rely on local buses, if you are in hot spot, the local bus always get full by overflow tourists! Yup I waited like 2 hours in the snow day because 2 buses I missed were full. 2. Book train tickets or any transportation early! Again, the numbers of tourist in Japan increase every year. Don't even try to take local train without booking it unless you don't have luggage with you. You can also book the ticket ahead in the first day of your tip in the station if you have time. 3. If you don't care too much popular food/restaurant, you can ignore this. But, same as transportation, some fancy restaurants require reservation or going there early as possible. Manage your meal time like 7am, 11am, 5pm. I wasted lots of time on waiting in line. Some restaurants offer waitlist text, you can sign it up first then shop nearby.

[@jacealbine]

I'm not one to make itineraries in advance. I fly by the seat of my pants. I got off a bus in Kyoto in the middle of nowhere and walked 8 hours back to the large tower and using it as my only guide. It was awesome. Saw geisha, temples and a whole bunch of other cool random stuff I happened by. Never know where the adventure will take you.

[@itsgracechin]

That is goals! I struggle doing that as an over planner but you’ve inspired me to try adding in a free day for my trips 🫶

[@DubsBrown]

Super accurate. Second time I went to Japan my sister and her friend came and it was their first time and they had a crazy itinerary. I warned them that it was insane but they naively dismissed my concerns and thought I was dumb for not agreeing to do certain things like Universal Osaka or the deers in Nara. Fast forward to the trip and they were completely exhausted, eating at McDonald’s while I was exploring Okinomiyaki shops, admiring Yakushi-ji Toto and its cherry blossoms, and soaking in parts of the country I didn’t see last time. Eventually they caught on to my wisdom and started to follow my lead just walking in a random direction of town and seeing what we would find. If it’s your first time just go to Asakusa in Tokyo first to get it out of your system, then try to get to Kyoto/Osaka asap. Tokyo is literally 10 full sized cities in one area so you’ll always be able to chip away at it the more you visit but the West of the country has more approachable urban areas that you can devour without being overwhelmed.

[@hannooca]

Thanks for sharing it! Do you have any recommendations for a 13 ish days itinerary? - first time going to Japan.

[@antovarguez]

that’s why i’ll go for 6 months no plans at all, just vibes and chill in the best country

[@itsgracechin]

That sounds so relaxing! Love it 😊

[@OHOHOHCOME]

I am going to Japan this November and this is the first time I am spending vast majority of the trip in Tokyo. I have a very specific goal though, and that is to treat Tokyo as one massive resort to chillax at. I don't burden myself with visiting tourist attractions because at the end of the day most of them will be nothing more than mere checkboxes on an itinerary. Ironically, this time around is looking to be my best Japan trip after having toured Japan 3 times in the last 9 years.

[@billsill9833]

I’ve pretty much figured out the trips where we just wing it and plan pretty much nothing have been the most fun. Just getting up and figuring what you guys wanna do today is great.

[@dena81]

Agree on enjoying it for multiple days, especially Kyoto! I didn't really spend a lot of time there and really regret it. It's such a beautiful area with a lot of history.

[@itsgracechin]

Same her! will be going back to Kyoto next month and will be staying there for 5 days! So excited to share my experience with you all 🫶

[@sybylo]

These are ACTUALLY good tips. Thank you

[@itsgracechin]

Happy to hear that you’re enjoying the video! Let me know if you have any questions, happy to help out x

[@Elkabron91]

Just come back from japan.. from my experience you dont need to browse / find most recommended restaurant / most reviewed resto from youtuber / tiktok.. just go to restaurant that you feel like going to.. they never fail me tho

[@salsadip7453]

I hope so! Sometimes this works out (found a tasty one in one of Londons metro stations) but in my own city I probably wouldn’t do that as I know it’s full of tourist traps or just crappy chain restaurants that don’t taste good

[@DDHDTV]

this works so well in Japan, cause the generel quality and level of food is soo high

[@yukisuperstylish]

I traveled to Japan with girls who don’t know how to have fun and it was my biggest regret really. Travel with people who want to have fun. I hate when people complain and try to control our decision in travel

[@irrose1185]

True! I'm the kind that doesnt mind walking alot and I love window shopping and am open to trying any food and travel to new places! Even daring enough to see a local haunted spot just for fun! My mom always taught me to always carry cash, just in case, especially when I travel

[@sketchrad1016]

Could you give some examples of 'not knowing how to have fun'? I'm not doubting you, I just want to know so I don't pull the same things

[@yukisuperstylish]

@@sketchrad1016 complain about everything, disagreement in every decision we need to make: choosing restaurants or activities or anything involving that. Also fight over stupid things, never have small talk nor enjoy the time, killing our joy by making fun of anything you said or you have an opinion about. Just toxic people in general

[@bored0886]

​@@yukisuperstylishsounds like you're the same in their point of view toxic hate toxic I guess

[@yukisuperstylish]

@@bored0886 I never complained and I never did anything negative to them. I was trying my best to enjoy our time there. It is very easy for people like you to judge others and I think you are just a hatful person to be around 😂 you took it very personally although I wasn’t talking to you nor talking about you

[@goatqi]

I stay in Yokohama and day trip from there. I also make a list of stuff that I would like to do and then decide if/when/where when I am there. I also jump on random trains and get off at a random stops to explore. Not being tied to an itinerary is soooo much better.

[@susanma4899]

I ate at an incredible restaurant in Yokohama Chinatown--a little hole in the wall with no line in front!! I was looking for a specific dish--most of the other restaurants all had the exact same menu--not what I wanted.

[@herrfantastisch7489]

That’s what I planned on doing honestly. I’m coming along on my Japanese practice because I’d love to be able to communicate with the locals past basic phrases or just stuttering in English. But my ultimate plan was to get off in Tokyo, and do whatever. If I wanted, or happened in Kyoto, that’d be cool. Or even Kobe or Yokohama. I don’t really have a plan like “I will be here for three days, go there for two, and then here,” etc. I wouldn’t mind going to tourist attractions and all that, but for me, I just want to be there, and feel the culture. I’ve already read up and learnt so much on the culture. Japan’s ups and downs. Things they do better, and things they do not. I have a good idea of what I’d be getting into. The only thing now is just actually going there lol.

[@Burn143]

That’s awesome. I bet it’s also the uncertainty that makes it much more exciting.

[@stevenharris1460]

12 days in Osaka and use it as base (cheaper than the surrounding cities). Do day trips to Kyoto, Kobe, Nara, etc. you can do multiple day trips to cities you like. Use the regular train. It will be only 5-10 minutes longer than the bullet train but one fifth the price.

[@itsgracechin]

Good tip!!

[@jpmtlhead39]

I love the Japan "approach" where Cash is( still) King.👍👍👏👏

[@muhr9504]

For Osaka I recommend 3 days max. After 1 day you have seen everything. For the second day visit Universal Studio. Also don't waste your time on the inside of the Osaka castle. Outside was pretty, inside was boring. I would recommend for the third day to visit Minoh Park, ramen museum and maybe some shops if you still need souvenirs

[@oyunboldboldbaatar5519]

If anyone is interested in old Japanese architecture, I 100% recommend going into the castle. We rarely ever see the layouts of Japanese castles in media.

[@porsche9302]

Don't forget the aquarium too.

[@Cloxeus]

@@oyunboldboldbaatar5519 but Osakas castle is a concrete building and not old at all. I also don't recommend going in there

[@Herr.Mitternacht]

Bad advice. There's no way you could explore Osaka in three days. Specially do not waste your time at Universal Studios ffs.

[@MagicallenS]

3days is not enough for Osaka

[@TsukasaYugi-uwu]

When I was with my dad in Japan I was hungry after hours of walking so we went tp a restaurant in akihabara. It was empty but I ate there the best beef I could have. THE FOOD WAS DELICIOUS

[@itsgracechin]

It’s quite difficult to find bad food in Japan! 😝

[@kelseymatarese]

Currently planning my 1st trip to Japan. Your channel is very useful!! Thanks!

[@itsgracechin]

Glad you found the videos helpful! Hope you have the most amazing trip and feel free to reach out if you have some questions 🫶

[@BernardFowler-ds5ki]

This *yutulu* tote is beautifully colored, very sturdy and the perfect size. Not too small, not too big. I look forward to joining my rotation hand-pink-waving

[@koadl77]

Did all of the recommendations on my first trip without seeing this short before and can fully agree to them 👍🏼👍🏼👍🏼

[@panoptos4163]

One video told me “plan everything in advance. Now this video tells me don’t plan too much, and btw ‘you can even find amazing restaurants by not planning” at all. Traveling is tricky like that. Do you plan everything in advance, or plan nothing? We can say this for sure: If you plan on going to Miyazaki museum or Disney, you def need to plan ahead. If you are going to Kichijoji to eat lunch and shop at Loft, no planning is necessary and make sure give yourself time to wonder about and explore. Thanks for your help.

[@Lilitha11]

When I went to Japan I planned one day to go to Disney Sea but it was so much fun I decided to spontaneously go back again for another day. The first day was planned but I didn't know where anything was and got overwhelmed and just wandered around and did stuff as I came across it. The second time I had no plan but knew where everything was and was far more efficient in getting a lot more stuff in. Both were fun. I would definitely say you should pick out locations you want to visit and know where they are, and then you can fit them in as you go, leaving some time to explore or change your plans. Depending on when you go it can rain a lot too, so you need to factor that into plans in case you have to cancel some. Of course some places you need to make an appointment for or book ahead of time or what not, definitely do those ahead of time.

[@clairobscur1413]

I’m probably biased because I’ve lived in Kyoto, but to me it’s the best place to visit in Japan, I always tell people to spend as much time as they can there if they go to Japan 😛

[@samch9031]

Definitely plan ahead! Had one of my best trips going to Osaka, and visiting Kyoto, Nara, and Tsujiri in an 8-day trip. What's important is to plan your meals and breaks too!

[@Realience]

Yeah, our plan is literally to plan a couple things we really want to do But mostly it's going to pick what days we want to be in an area and to explore, obviously pick some places to go to, but nothing scheduled

[@itsgracechin]

That’s a good plan! Having a few highlights and taking it easy 😊

[@whm_w8833]

I overpacked my itinerary for Japan. At minimum, I had at least 2 1/2 days in Kyoto and that still wasn’t enough to explore Kyoto. Her tips are the real deal.

[@Tina2tu]

I’m dying to visit Japan. I’m trying to learn some basic Japanese to help get around easier!

[@Nelsea7190]

first 2019 guided trip was like 1stpoint. had to skip one thing nearby just to calm down. 2022 solo trip 3-4 places max a day and still enough leisure time to clear a full 2 days of planned activities earlier than planned. heading for 3rd trip in 3 weeks. nervous and excited.

[@itsgracechin]

Wishing you the most wonderful Japan trip 😊

[@Nelsea7190]

@@itsgracechin thanks, going farther out to less visited places this time.

[@nytenymph24]

I absolutely agree with not overpacking your itenirary. My bf and I went to a 14 day trip to Japan, and while we enjoyed it, everyday felt like we're in a rush and pressure to catch the next train. I would've loved to just leisurely walk the streets enjoying every little things that we see. On our next trip, we definitely will not plan too much abd will have lots if free days.

[@tessaelmore8819]

The first tip is so true because my dad wayyy overplanned for our stay, and it just felt like we were running around everywhere most of the time to make it to every reservation

[@itsgracechin]

Being an over planner myself, definitely take it easy. Have 1-2 highlights per day and just explore slowly the rest of the time :)

[@tessaelmore8819]

@@itsgracechin Exactly, it will be my plan for next time, because there definitely will be a next time ☺️

[@abe7043]

When i went last year i just see the oldest and looks shady restaurant and they where the best food i ever have. No rush also just see in goodle map what place nearby my hotel.

[@EmaMalik]

I feel like that's true in most places too! Any shady looking restaurant is almost always guaranteed to have amazing food!

[@hanananf]

I went to Japan for 3 weeks and it was my best trip ever

[@Burn143]

Good tips. Even though I am usually a heavy planner, I feel when I visit Japan one day, it will be more on the spontaneous side. Just explore and see where that takes me.😂I’d also like to see a range of different locations (the touristy areas, the countryside, temples, big cities, small towns, etc.).😊

[@itsgracechin]

It’s good to have one highlight planned per day and just enjoy, get lost and explore 🤗 coming from an over planner myself haha

[@mimibfly]

BIGGGG on not overloading your itinerary!! first time I went we were so overwhelmed with waking up at 5am everyday to do something we had planned and not getting back will like 8-9pm. Second time I went planned much less things and had more free days and was able to really enjoy it more this time

[@majorcalvary6515]

I just came back from Japan. Credit cards are accepted everywhere except in tourist area where some old souvenir shops and street food vendors. Go small restaurants where a lot of people are standing or sitting outside. It’s good that why they are waiting. Most Japanese server don’t speak English well, but menu mostly have great pictures; and also even small restaurants mostly have English menus. Just smile, point on what you want, and have your google translator ready. Taxi drivers mostly are older; be ready to have the address translated to Japanese ready. Japan is a great country to visit.

[@devpac7861]

you can go 2 places max and 2 places to eat in a day...commute takes a chunk of ur day too..the frustration to find a place to sit might drive u crazy...but japan is dope, favorite place to travel

[@symphonicdynasty3117]

I did a 50 day trip to Japan, explored everywhere. Yes, i agree with these 3 tips

[@itsgracechin]

That’s amazing!! Where in Japan did you visit? 🤩

[@symphonicdynasty3117]

@@itsgracechin uji, nara, tokyo, kyoto, oita, beppu, Yokohama, mt fuji kawaguchiko, okayama, matsuyama, nagasaki, saporo, hiroshima, Miyajima, osaka, fukuoka

[@symphonicdynasty3117]

@@itsgracechin it WAS AMAZING, best time of my life for sure

[@animangafan342]

Osaka is so central u can do a day trip to Nara, Hiroshima & Kobe each. Next time, I might stay longer in Osaka. Kyoto is such a fun city with great shopping deals but be ready to take taxis. Busses are so crowded rn. You just need to take an express train to Kyoto from Osaka and u save a ton of money too. Nagoya is also criminally underrated.

[@quikee9195]

Hiroshima from Osaka as a day trip? That's a bit too much.. especially with also Miyajima that's a must visit if you go to Hiroshima. Not even mentioning other less touristy (must go) places in the Setonaikai like Onomichi.

[@animangafan342]

@@quikee9195 I did it from Kyoto 10 years ago. U have to do an early day. It's doable, but u do need to take bullet train. Hiroshima is also a cheaper place to stay, but Osaka has more to do at night. Hiroshima is more of a daytime town. Itsukishima, Miyajima is also a daytime place & it's an hour from Hiroshima via ferry. You can visit it before the bomb museum. Even have enough time to get okonomiyaki before heading back to Osaka. I didn't do Onomichi or Sentonaika, tho. Everything in Japan is _must go_😂 but most people can't catch everything in one trip (not enough time), but u wanna get the most important things. Those happen to be touristy, but there's a reason for it. I think it's worth it to stay in Hiroshima, though, if you're planning to travel further south like to Kyushu. But if you're going back to Tokyo, it's better to hunker down in Osaka.

[@DDHDTV]

doable, but this is thr exact opposite of what this video wants to tell you. instead of packing your stays with bunch of daytrips, stick to one and really get lost in it, expanding on the area each day

[@allrahayu6201]

I and my husband just came back from Japan just now. I stayed in Osaka for 5 days instead. And it was incredible experience. Another 8 days we stay in Tokyo. Probably visit Japan again next year.

[@itsgracechin]

Where would you look to visit on your next Japan trip?

[@Sayaka25]

Oh I watched your video 4 times now, I love it

[@pikel7]

I added stuff to itinerary with "maybe" as a note so i know I'm ok with skipping it if we decide on something different but we have something in case we need guidance.

[@mx2000]

As long as you don't go in the middle of high season, you can definitely get around with minimal planning.

[@RSilva911]

Amazing advice, especially about the Tokyo one.

[@HepauDK]

Totally agree on the first one. I went on a 2 week guided tour (Tokyo, Sendai, Kyoto, Hiroshima, Izumo and Osaka), and only had 1 day in Tokyo and the last day in Osaka before flying home free. 1 day in Osaka was plenty for me though, that city just felt off. But my brother and I are definitely going back, we want more time in Tokyo, and my brother wants to visit Okinawa.

[@Sammiwashere]

Finally a video that actually talks about visiting Japan in a way that’s actually fun! I swear if I hear about Ichiran being the ‘best’ ramen one more time 😒

[@SienAppelsien]

I am going to tokyo this summer and since its 10 days, im going to remain there most of the time. I dont need to go to kyoto or osaka yet because next year i'll stay in kobe for 6 weeks

[@itsgracechin]

If you’re going to go back to Japan again, spending 10 days in Tokyo and going back next time to visit other places is a smart arrangement 😊

[@MagicallenS]

I would say lots of place to explore in Japan. Even if u land in Tokyo, you can explore the northeast or fuji area. One more thing to mention is Japan is very seasonal, same place in different season are very different, that’s why you can visit Japan a lot of time

[@itsgracechin]

Agree on this!

[@itsmediva]

I also bring kids not having so much fun. But we will come back and explore more. Thank u for ur video. So happy..

[@itsgracechin]

Bring them to Disneyland! Your kids will love it 😊 glad you found the video helpful, let me know if you have any questions x

[@mediumeffort3315]

The cash thing is very true for mom and pop ramen restaurants, which are Japan’s best ramen restaurants.

[@dreamreonasizugamori1937]

Japan is really fun 😊

[@Bill_Collins]

I only have 4 regrets when I was in Japan (I’m below 18 btw) 1. Adult toys and books in almost every store(not restaurants) and had to bleach my eyes multiple times 2. The younger people forgot how to say “excuse me” but an older gentleman was able to say it (I know they are anti-social and everything but at least say 2 words) 3. Taxi is legit like US hospital bills (Edit) 4. The short also said that the city is like a maze, and I would agree

[@RN-km8jl]

Nice tips, and would love to check out your other videos!!!

[@itsgracechin]

Thank you! Hope you enjoy the other content too 🫶

[@momijiparfait]

True. Just coming from Japan last week, and I would have preferred to have more time just to explore.

[@solpluvia]

We went for almost three weeks, stayed a week in Tokyo and took a few trips like to Kamakura from there. Also went to Nikko and Takayama and finally to Osaka each for a few days and at every destination we wished that we'd have more time.. you can make yourself a great time everywhere I guess

[@tokyozombe]

Weird coincidence. My 12 days to japan was 3 days in kyoto, 3 days in osaka and 6 days in tokyo. Every day we planned for 1 thing per person (3 total) and the rest of the time was free which gave us lots of time to explore. And eating where we were at, at the time, worked out phenomenally.

[@jaimeelepano2879]

I think other prefectures outside of the big tourists spots like Tokyo and Osaka are also a great experience. (Ofc for a short term trip, it's not as ideal since you're trying to make the best of the time and less touristy areas won't give you much opportunity) I'm studying in Fukuoka and live in Itoshima. Yes there's not a ton to do, but it's a very interesting experience. And ofc the city area of Fukuoka has its own attractions too.

[@pancyn5914]

Please name a few for first time visitors

[@jaimeelepano2879]

@@pancyn5914 unfortunately I'm only familiar with Fukuoka. I suppose you could visit other places like Hiroshima (I went to Onomichi which is nearby and cycled the Shimonami Kaido to Shikoku) and though I haven't gone I've heard Kagoshima is good too. I also went to Hokkaido and depending where you go it's a bit of both. Sapporo can be kinda touristy but outside of there is not as much, though it's tough to get around without a car. I'd say my biggest recommendation is to try experience prefectures outside of Honshu (The main island where most tourists tend to go). Shikoku is pretty small and I can't say much about it, but the Kyushu and Hokkaido islands certainly have a lot to offer!

[@Alexi0s]

The over scheduling one is so real 😭 I was in Osaka for a school field trip and I honestly didn’t find it all that fun for the majority since our schedule was so full. There was barely any time to explore and we just had to keep moving. There wasn’t any time to rest other than at the hotel either so my feet hurt really bad the entire time :(

[@itsgracechin]

Rest is so important to have an enjoyable trip 🥺

[@kbyrne2011]

Yes! Please confine your visit to Tokyo, Osaka and Kobe. Stay on the paths.

[@WizardOfOss]

As for #3, there's so much more to Japan than just Tokyo, Kyoto and Osaka. During my first (3-week) trip to Japan back in 2008, we even skipped Osaka completely, and I was totally fine with that. Instead we did stay a few days in places like Kurashiki and Sandankyo, which was great. And sure, by now I've been quite a few times in Osaka and I love the city, but do I consider it a must for a first trip to Japan? Not really, actually. So my tip for first timers would be: don;t just focus on the big cities, but include some smaller, lesser known places too! As for #1, I generally make just a way too long list for each destination, prioritize that, and just pick a few (or maybe even just one) for each day. And things just go as they go from there. In a city as huge as Tokyo you do need some "plan", even when that's just going to a neighborhood that seems interesting to stroll around.

[@IDrawToothpicks]

We never got to go to japan when we visited korea due to covid restrictions. The great thing about korea was most places did accept card. And i had an emergency and needed to go to a small pharmacy there and the lady was sonnice regardless if i was a foreigner, and she had the voltaren i was looking for in less than 5 seconds. Amazing! I hope to visit japan someday. Especially where they ba e bowing deer and the island where people never die

[@Xenmas021]

Same. Too much Tokyo, not enough days with little to no planning. My most favorite memories from Japan weren't Sky Tree or Kiyomizudera, it was the spontaneous bar we drank at where we took a shot of tequila with the friendly bartender, or the izakaya we saw a line out the door for where there were only 8 seats.

[@bpcgos]

I spent 5 days in Osaka as home base to explore Kobe,Kyoto and Nara. Then went to Tokyo by night bus after spent 1 full day at USJ through murodo for a day to enjoy snow and continue my journey to Tokyo and stay for 4 days there

[@comsuonkhi]

How long does it takes, from Osaka to Tokyo by train?

[@bpcgos]

@@comsuonkhi around 6 hours using Shinkansen. No regular trains though sadly, so it's quite expensive on itself. While using bus it's around 10 hours. But where is the fun of that? Hence why me and my wife decided to take bus and go to Tokyo through north pass stopping at murodo to enjoy snow, you know fulfilling every tropical country resident dream he..he.., before continue our journey to Tokyo.

[@MonBriella]

Tokyo is still my must, i stay there a whole week and so far i have avoided the Golden Route. I prefer Nagano, Miyagi and Tochigi over Kyoto or Osaka

[@sebastian-ny1sp]

Cards are much more common than this makes it out to be. I lived in a small town in Japan 10 years ago and most stores and restaurants took card. Only the mum and pop stores run by elderly couples were cash only. Those are often the best places to go so I highly recommend having cash but if you don't want to then 90% of places will have a card reader

[@itsgracechin]

All the good ramen places usually only accept cash 🙈

[@AvieDean-l6v]

Tip 3 is sooo true as someone who has been before

[@Kur0y4m4]

I lived there for about 10 years. Lived in the Kyushu and Honshu. Country and city. I don’t remember a place that didn’t take plastic except maybe the bus, or some taxis? Maybe trains (Though I had that JR pass which was essentially a credit card). I heard that “no plastic” rule before I moved there but was surprised at how incorrect it was.

[@pedroribeiro4792]

Took a two week trip to Tokyo and took my sweet time doing everything every single day i would just go wherever and would stay in that place to my heart content only then looking to go somewhere else. Also went to Mount Fuji and one day to Osaka. in few years plan to go back again and that time planning for another week on Tokyo but this time one week for Osaka and Kyoto

[@anniegutierrez7893]

I agree, Kyoto is a must visit!

[@itsgracechin]

Kyoto is so beautiful, wished I spent more time there. But so excited to be going back in few weeks time and will be spending 5 days in Kyoto this time! Can't wait to share my experience x

[@rapthor666]

Even a week in Osaka is too short 😂 It being a great hub to travel to Himeji, Kyoto, Nara, Kobe. No hustle with suitcases and trains are 15€/$ max. Choose one thing like Mizudera or a castle and explore the neighborhood around it. Expect 35k steps!

[@itsgracechin]

Agreed! So many places to go to for day trips from Osaka 🤗

[@newlifein360]

Thanks for sharing your advice

[@Messycandy_17]

she is on point! I was in Japan for 14 days, got the Rail Pass 😉 The only thing I regret…the packed itinerary! But I was there to see architecture and we got it done ✅ next time I would like to be able to hang out with the peeps more, other than architects 😂

[@annikatan378]

😊 Been there once and this advice is true! Spend at least 3 days in a region to make most of the time of exploring and admiring the place!

[@scarletshield009]

Okonomiyaki in Osaka is a must have!

[@itsgracechin]

I must try it for my next trip to Japan! Thanks for the recommendation 😊

[@YuliaLinderoth]

I really want to visit Kobe. My grandparents lived the for a few years in the 60s, my grandfather was an engineer and helped with the construction of some kind of factory. I have some letters my grandmother wrote during their stay, where she wrote about their daily life. An amazing time capsule.

[@miisubunny]

I love the dark blue dress, so cute ♡

[@Thetravelsurvivalist]

#1 is really true. I went to Kyushu and filmed lots in 2023 but I was constantly on the move. I was so tired!

[@KiraYamatoinX10A]

I can not encourage anyone enough on trying places outside of Tokyo, Kyoto, and Osaka. There are some phenomenal places to visit kamakochi mountains are beautiful in the fall. I would recommend looking to other places too.

[@annettemarquez8934]

I love this, I really want to visit Japan. I hope we get to soon.

[@StarLight-lt2tm]

I would disagree, our first trip to Japan with a 4 year old with us and we flew into fukuoka, on a red eye, hopped on the bullet train and went to Hiroshima before ending the day in Osaka, two days in Osaka and a trip to Nara then off to Tokyo for 2 days, then Nozawa Onsen for 3 days then all the way back to fukuoka. This was a 10 day total trip but the bullet trains and the railpass made it all so easy. I am super glad we saw so much in such a short time so our next trip we will focus more on a specific area like Sapporo or stay south in the fukuoka area and do more thorough foodie/culture/local stuff.

[@paultaylor7947]

its great that cash is king still in these places which means i dont have to be potentially ripped off with each transaction i make

[@MrBlueberry33]

How is this great? You still see how much you are being charged, whether its cash only or card. If you are paying cash only, how do you know when you are being ripped off versus paying by card?

[@samuelbwell]

I’m so excited to visit Kobe, I’ve heard amazing stories.

[@rosestrife1498]

I was able to do a day trip to Osaka for Universal studios. Pretty fun tbh. I did a shinkansen

[@dimasfebriyan467]

Went to Hamamatsu for 2 nights. Serene place, and I love the strawberry farms ❤

[@itsgracechin]

That sounds amazing! 😮 Haven’t had the chance to visit Hamamatsu yet. What would you recommend there?

[@dimasfebriyan467]

@@itsgracechin that was a quick business trip, since the schedule was very packed, so I just follow our Japanese friend there to steal the tight schedule and that farm was the first idea came up 😅 And the idea was nowhere near disappointment at all 🙏🏻💕

[@itsgracechin]

@@dimasfebriyan467 so glad to hear you were able to squeeze in a memorable experience ☺️ Thanks for the recommendation, I’ll do some research and I’ll see if I can pop by in a few weeks! 🍓

[@kylebdun3077]

I spent my entire trip in Tokyo and I felt like I could have spent a month in the city. I do plan on going to other cities on future trips.

[@JaredScott]

good advice. i'll add to practice walking 1-2 miles before you go and get really good walking shoes and socks. i wasn't able to see everything due to some really bad foot blisters.

[@MidgarMerc]

3 Days in Osaka is wayyyyy too much time. You can cover everything that you need to in 1 day and anything else is pricey time consuming stuff like Universal Studios or the aquarium (both worth visiting but not at all necessary). Kyoto I'd recommend 2-3 days for sure as there is a LOT to see there. Instead of 3 days in Osaka I'd recommend 1 day in Osaka and 1 day in Nara. All are fairly close to each other and can even be day trips.