Japan Travel Planning Made Easy: 10-Day Itinerary for First-Timers

Planning a trip 👨🏼‍💻overseas ✈️ can be EXHAUSTING and also confusing 🤔 ! This 10-day itinerary will make your japan 🇯🇵 travel planning go smoothly. In this video we give you ideas to plan your trip to japan including cities visited, hotels 🏨 to stay at, best food 🍲 in each city 🌆 ,and activities in each city. We chose to visit Tokyo, Lake Kawaguchiko (Mt. Fuji), Kyoto, and Osaka!
If you found this video useful, please like and subscribe - as it helps our channel grow 😃. We will see you in the Next Video ✈️🙌
Chapters:
0:00 Intro
0:39 Day 0: Travel to Tokyo
0:59 Day 1: Arrive in Tokyo
2:05 Day 2: Asakusa
2:49 Day 3: Shibuya & Akihabara
4:52 Day 4: Team Lab Planets & Tsukiji Outer Market
5:51 Day 5: Road Trip to Mt. Fuji
7:22 Day 6: Travel Day to Kyoto
8:41 Day 7: Kyoto Pt. 1
10:24 Day 8: Kyoto Pt. 2 & Travel to Osaka
12:17 Day 9: Universal Studios Japan
12:52 Day 10: Travel to Seoul
📍OUR COMPLETE SAVED GOOGLE MAPS BY CITY
Tokyo: maps.app.goo.g...
Kyoto: maps.app.goo.g...
Osaka: maps.app.goo.g...
Bullet Train (Shinkansen) 🚄 Tokyo to Kyoto: smart-ex.jp/en...
Keihan Line (Kyoto to Osaka 🚆): www.keihan.co....
Disclaimer: Some of the links in this video description are affiliate links, which means that if you click on one of the product links and make a purchase, I may receive a small commission. This helps support the channel and allows me to continue making videos like this. Thank you for your support!
The Ramen 🍜 cooking Class we booked: viator.tp.st/8...
Where we get our 🎶 music:
share.epidemic...
Our Current Camera 🎥 Gear:
Camera (Sony ZV-1): amzn.to/423AUEc
Rode Shotgun Microphone: amzn.to/3HIYNsB
Rode Wireless Microphones: amzn.to/428oWcq
Camera Tripod: amzn.to/41biu34
Our Current Favorite Travel ✈️ Product: • MUST HAVE Travel Produ...
About Us:
We are Garret and Lauren, two newly weds living in Texas. After getting married in early 2021, we decided to spend the first three years of marriage traveling to 30 new locations before we turn 30 in the summer of 2024! We plan to share our new adventures as well as reflect on some of our past travels through this vlog channel, and hope that you will follow along with us.

[@explorinwithlaurin]

We would love to assist you with your travel ✈planning 📝- let us know what questions❓you have 👇 below! 🇯🇵

[@annabarnas7651]

Could you tell me, which exactly time you travelled to Japan? (Late March/Early April/Mid April)?

[@explorinwithlaurin]

@@annabarnas7651 Hi Anna 👋🏼 - we traveled from April 5-15th! We missed peak cherry blossoms in Tokyo but we still got to see many at Mount Fuji! Last week of March and first week of April is peak tourist season to see the 🌸 so it is generally *a bit* more expensive and crowded but Japan is always full of tourist so don’t let that stop you!

[@annabarnas7651]

@@explorinwithlaurin I already booked a flights to Japan 15-29.04 next year, hopefully I will see at least one blooming sakura or another cherry variety (another type of cherry blooming littlr later). 2nd plan is to go to the Botanical Garden in Kyoto or Tokyo.

[@TxNeb]

@explorinwithlaurin Thanks for the video! I'm planning a spring trip for April 2024 and found this super helpful! My husband and I also live in Texas and are newlyweds; ). I'd love to know more about which airline you took and if you flew business or first class. :) Not a lot of people share about how they got to Japan, especially from Texas.

[@explorinwithlaurin]

@@TxNeb Hello fellow Texans! American Airlines and Japan Airlines (also a one world airline) both offer non-stop flights from Dallas (DFW) to Tokyo (NRT and HND). It’s a long story but I flew DFW -> HND on American in economy and my wife flew DFW -> NRT on Japan Airlines in business class. What airport hub are you guys closest to?

[@_flowerdaisuki]

welcome to japan 🇯🇵また来てください🍵

[@explorinwithlaurin]

🙏 thank you

[@hiroht72]

We love seeing everyone from around the world back in Japan. We have missed you here! Please enjoy your stay, and Yokoso!!😊

[@explorinwithlaurin]

Thank you! We had a wonderful time in your country 🇯🇵

[@joshmartin1938]

I am in the planning stage. Japan looks so beautiful.....

[@gowheregotherenow]

Japan is really awesome because there's beautiful nature, vibrant city life, great food and relaxing onsens and spas. It's a wonderful place to visit. ❤🎉😊

[@explorinwithlaurin]

So true! We loved it 🙂

[@justjoy8355]

I’ve watched TONS of Japanese travel related videos. I’m a mom taking my son to Japan for his 18th birthday. A dream trip he’s wanted forever. 🤣. We have 7 days total (excluding arrival day). We arrive at 4pm so that’s why I’m counting it as half. ANYWHO.. my plan is Tokyo, Osaka, Kyoto and Mt. Fuji. So imagine my surprise when I found your video. Of course I am going to copy and paste all of this hahaha….minus the driving. You are brave to drive there (on the left) omg. 😮 Trains and taxis for me all the way. THANK YOU sooo much for this..restaurant recommendations etc. And I will check out your full Mt. Fuji video and Kyoto. The best. Im just a mom super hyped for my son but also super nervous. I even considered a guide but at $300 for just 6 hours, 🙄..uhm, no thank you! We will be fine. Thanks to awesome videos like this. Happy travels!! 🫠💙

[@SKCGLEN]

This is such an amazing thing to do for your son, I hope you both have a lovely time!

[@highball307]

Enjoy your trip to Japan. Tokyo, Osaka, Nintendo Shop, Pokemon Center, Disneyland, Universal Studios Japan are the best. If you don't have enough days, come back to Japan!

[@浩美渡部-x5z]

困ったことがあったら、安心して私達に声を掛けてください! 素敵な旅になりますように👋

[@explorinwithlaurin]

This comment absolutely made our day!! We are so happy you found this guide useful. You will win mom if the year we are sure of it 😄 sounds like you have a great time planed and we hope it’s a trip of a lifetime for you both ✈️🇯🇵

[@aarizmushtaq4301]

Lucky son

[@Bekka_Noyb]

ME & GF spent 10 glorious days in Japan back in June. We stayed in Kyoto & Tokyo for 5 days each with day trip to Osaka & Himeji

[@explorinwithlaurin]

Amazing! 🤩

[@Ask_lu]

Super impressed by your videos! I am going during the rainy season in June and can’t wait. I’ve first stumbled upon your Peru video and now this, subscribed! Edit: HOW IN THE WORLD DO YOU ONLY HAVE 3k SUBSCRIBERS?! Keep going, with this quality, you will be the next Kara & Nate.

[@explorinwithlaurin]

Thank you so much!! Appreciate the kind words-they make our day 🤗

[@HF-dw6nx]

6:36 I feel you, I tried left side driving in Indonesia and it's trippy

[@explorinwithlaurin]

It takes some time getting used to - that is for sure!

[@LittleSumo510]

In Tokyo stay near Ueno, there's tons of cheap hotels around there. Also for the train ride get any sandwich with egg from Lawson or 7-11, I think they cost about $1 and the Japanese make the best egg sandwiches on the planet

[@explorinwithlaurin]

These are such great tips! Thanks for sharing! We are returning to Japan in the spring and will definitely check this out 😃

[@ireneycsia8194]

Thanks Garret and Lauren for this video. It's truly a great help for me who never been to Japan and finding difficulty to plan for the first time. God bless you both all the very best in the new year.

[@explorinwithlaurin]

Thanks for watching! We’re so glad you found it helpful!

[@overthinkingisgoodforhea-pl1mx]

easily one of the best japan travel videos i had seen. its simple and vert useful along with your google map links.

[@explorinwithlaurin]

Thank you so much! We are glad to hear it was helpful for you!

[@itsjeffandmel]

This video was so well made! Nice steady shots, and informative narration. 👏 As someone that lives in Japan, I still really liked watching this through the eyes of a visitor.

[@explorinwithlaurin]

👋 Jeff and Mel! Thanks so much for these words of encouragement, we really appreciate the positive feedback!

[@monicazambrano3972]

This was extremely helpful!! Thank you so much!!

[@explorinwithlaurin]

glad it was helpful! Thank you for watching!

[@niapop]

That orange dress is bringing the summer we need back! It looks fantastic on you. Great vlog as always.

[@explorinwithlaurin]

Thanks for watching 😀

[@toanhoang23_12]

It's been great living in Japan for 7 years now and I'm doing youtube in Japan😊

[@explorinwithlaurin]

That’s awesome 😎

[@deeak2395]

This video was very informative thank you!

[@explorinwithlaurin]

We are glad it was helpful! Thank you for watching!!

[@mrs.karnesandme]

Great video! We would love to travel to Japan someday! Thanks for the inspiration! ❤

[@explorinwithlaurin]

You should! You guys would have a blast we are sure of it!

[@adventureswithmarkandsonoko]

Great video on Japan! We go there twice a year and can't wait until we go again. It’s an awesome place to film videos! You guys have an awesome channel!

[@RosieTheMouse_TTV]

Awesome video! I wasn't sure where to start when it came to planning my first trip to Japan, and this video was extremely helpful! I will be sure to check out your other videos. Thank you!😺

[@explorinwithlaurin]

Thanks for watching! Hope you have a great trip to Japan!

[@ammoniawilder4451]

I’m white but dang, y’all are on another level 😂

[@brettshares]

Love the vids! Keep it up!

[@explorinwithlaurin]

Appreciate it! Thanks for watching 😊

[@emkosarchie]

noted with thanks, will flying out to Tokyo for Coldplay's concert.

[@explorinwithlaurin]

That’s awesome!! Sounds like a great time. Safe travels ✈️

[@shizutoki]

Let's go to Japan soon.

[@explorinwithlaurin]

We would love to go back soon!

[@LinoandLine]

this is the ultimate travel guide for a 10-day itinerary to Japan. we will definitely rewatch this when we decide to go to Japan in the future. then we'll be watching your Mt. Fuji and Kyoto videos. Thank you Garrett and Laurin for al your efforts, and time in making this video to help others like us. Did you guys use Sony ZV 1 for this Vlog and B roll?

[@explorinwithlaurin]

Glad the video was helpful 🙌🤠 Yes we did use the Zony ZV-1 - as well as an iphone 13 for the footage in this video!

[@LinoandLine]

thank very much@@explorinwithlaurin

[@bertabray5163]

Very informative video. Thank you!

[@explorinwithlaurin]

Glad it was helpful!

[@markreevestravels758]

Great video - perfect amount of information 👌👌

[@explorinwithlaurin]

Thank you! We are glad you enjoyed it!!

[@TravelandBeyond23]

Thanks for the insight. Really helpful

[@explorinwithlaurin]

Glad it was helpful!!

[@caickP]

Would be good to have like the time of the day alongside

[@explorinwithlaurin]

Thanks for the feedback! Will consider this for future videos

[@marcomcguire1883]

i am heading to 12 day japan trip so 4 nights in tokyo , 3 nights kyoto , 3 nights osaka then back tokyo

[@explorinwithlaurin]

Enjoy!

[@AparoDedaro]

Just got back home. We copied a lot of this guide for our honeymoon. Thank you guys!

[@explorinwithlaurin]

We hope you guys enjoyed your honeymoon ❤️🙂

[@queen_bey]

This was super helpful, thanks!

[@explorinwithlaurin]

Glad it was useful for you 😃

[@MasayaTina]

NEW SUB!! you guys explained this the best and im going with my mom and sister so we will be following this with lil touches of others. THANK YOU

[@explorinwithlaurin]

Glad this video was helpful in your trip planning ❤️ - We hope you have a great trip!🇯🇵🙂

[@nicolelazotravel]

Great video guys!

[@explorinwithlaurin]

Thank you 🙏 😀

[@fatima.turgunbaeva]

It's so beautiful, can u pls say what date and month it was when u were in Fuji Mt the weather is so wonderful and I see blossom tress?

[@explorinwithlaurin]

Thank you!! We were there in late March/the first few days of April for spring 🌸

[@kevinweise6327]

So how much would you say this whole trip cost? What should I expect to spend for a 10 day trip for 2 adults?

[@Bo-MaryHartman]

I love this !! I wish you put the estimate price of each hotel you stayed or restaurant you went

[@roderickburns5151]

Thank you beautiful couple for this video. Blessings to you and your family!!!!

[@explorinwithlaurin]

Thank YOU for watching! We hope it was helpful

[@ebariori4751]

Would love to know what the total cost was!

[@minnieandmickey55555]

Thanks for the video! For a one day itinerary for Kyoto and Nara from Osaka which place would you recommend to do first and what time to start? Thanks again

[@explorinwithlaurin]

@minnieandmickey55555 we second what @iamkotaro mentioned :)

[@MaxploreJapan]

It’s really helpful video for the tourist

[@explorinwithlaurin]

Thanks for the kind words 😁

[@KeithTKO]

Actually iced coffee started in Japan. I moved to US from Japan 50 yrs ago and they had them already. They thought I was crazy drinking iced coffee when I came to US.

[@explorinwithlaurin]

That is awesome! Trend setter 😎

[@explorinwithlaurin]

Thanks for sharing!!

[@chris881989]

Very helpful video. Thank you

[@explorinwithlaurin]

Glad it was helpful! Thanks for watching and leaving a comment 🙂

[@julieritchie3373]

Mainly a where-to-eat guide

[@explorinwithlaurin]

Touché 😂

[@takeru2702]

素晴らしいですね😊日本🇯🇵から

[@explorinwithlaurin]

🇯🇵❤️😁

[@vincentchase1234]

Awesome video. I am thinking about doing a very similar trip in March 2025 but 6 days Tokyo (1 day will be for Mt Fuji) 3 days Osaka and 3 days Kyoto. I also have a ton of Marriott Points so I am considering your hotel options as well. 1. How were the taxi prices and how easy was it to get one? 2. Did the Marriot properties offer laundry? I don’t want to pack a lot of clothes. 3. How easy was the car rental process and was the price fair?

[@Stories_of_Japan]

Great! Thanks

[@explorinwithlaurin]

Thanks for watching 😁

[@Irotasidna08]

Can you share what months you guys went? Or dates

[@explorinwithlaurin]

We went the last week of March into the first week of April!

[@robnelsen]

What was your budget for this trip?

[@jayuppercase3398]

Flying business class to japan...aint no budget

[@Mayochup191]

@@jayuppercase3398could be credit card points! I got enough saved up after years for a one way ticket with my Amex plat

[@hadmany]

Judging by what others say taking taxis are not cheap , actually super expensive , so they where not on a bugged 😂

[@Buggiy]

21 days with family of 3 Budget here: flight 800*3=2400. Hotels 1530€. Everything else except souveniers ca 2000€. Total 5930€. Tokyo, osaka, kyoto, sapporo. Kusatsu. Ways to safe money (without kids): overnight bus (cheap transfer and safes a nightstay). Cheaper hotels or hostels. Staying in fewer different towns. Or try to gather some friends. Staying in osaka with 4 people costs like 800€ for 10nights while renting a house. 20€/person/day. It does not get cheaper than this. To be fair its crazy to only stay 10days in japan, but i think they made a good trip for the time.

[@alyssaclynick2441]

I’m planning to visit Japan for my big 50th birthday in July. I have always wanted to go because of the beauty and culture of the place. However I’ve had mixed reactions from people that, it’s not the best time to go due to the hot/ humid weather. But I think I would still enjoy it nonetheless. It seems very overwhelming and intimidating in planning the trip. However, I am so glad I have found this video, it provided me with great amazing ideas. Coming from Canada, where do I begin… would you recommend booking flight only or with hotels? Would you be to give a rough estimate on how much the cost you? Thank you so much for the wonderful video, getting me super excited😊

[@explorinwithlaurin]

Happy early birthday! That is so exciting! I would recommend starting with flights then picking how many days you want in each city, the work on hotels and transportation! It’s really hard for us to give a cost estimate because we used points on our flights and hotels.

[@alyssaclynick2441]

⁠@@explorinwithlaurin thank you so much for your reply and time. I will definitely follow all your recommendations. It will be an amazing experience- one for the books❤

[@explorinwithlaurin]

@@alyssaclynick2441 safe travels ✈️

[@renk5000]

Hey guys. Thanks for the video as it’s giving me insights. Few questions Tipping, is it similar to what we pay stateside? Most restaurants take visa/mc/amex or should we prepare by bringing Japanese currency? Shopping for toys to bring back home, how hard would it be to ship back? Or do you recommend we purchase another suitcase?

[@explorinwithlaurin]

@@renk5000 Tipping is not expected in Japan! No need to worry about it when you sit down to eat. Most restaurants take credit card but a few spots are cash only. If you like to eat at the less touristy spots it’s a good idea to have some cash (maybe like $100 usd to start). There are a lot of ATMs if you need more. I have no experience with shipping but I would say the suitcase option is probably going to be cheaper!

[@explorinwithlaurin]

@@renk5000 hope you have a great trip!!

[@tamarstokes7183]

Going to take my son to Japan for his 21st birthday. We plan to go to Tokyo, Osak and Kyoto. Is it better to stay in one city or all 3? I thought it would be efficient to stay in Tokyo for a few days and then stay in Osaka and travel back and forth from osaka to Kyoto the last days.

[@tamarstokes7183]

We're going the end of May until the 1st week of June

[@explorinwithlaurin]

@@tamarstokes7183 out of the three cities Kyoto seems to be everyone’s favorite! I think you would be glad you opted to stay there for a couple nights to have time to explore in the mornings and evenings!

[@explorinwithlaurin]

@@tamarstokes7183 & this sounds like an incredible birthday!! Hope you have the best time 🥳

[@fufu5068]

Nice itinerary for first timers. Japan been my yearly trip but I still find this video helpful especially on the driving part, haven't try it. Maybe I should try it next year. This autumn gonna explore Kansai region.

[@explorinwithlaurin]

Thank you so much! We learned a lot on our trip and are glad to be able share the knowledge! The idea of driving in Japan is scarier than actually doing it! Navigating Tokyo was challenging but highway crushing was a breeze 🚗😎

[@Bouncyyyyy-c1n]

Hi Laurin. Do you know anything about Nanking Massacre? And Unit 731? How many people know about this history?

[@budalom]

Great videos! We are going to Kyoto and Osaka in July and your videos were very helpful! Question: what cell phone service did you have in Japan? We have AT&T here in the US and aren't sure what the best option is to still use our phones while there. Any insight would be appreciated! Thank you!

[@explorinwithlaurin]

Sorry we missed this comment 😔 . We had At&T and Verizon - both worked great (although it can be pretty expensive). There are also great esim companies to use when traveling abroad - that can be a bit cheaper. Hope this helps and that you are enjoying your trip!!

[@budalom]

@@explorinwithlaurin Thank you! We leave next week and are really excited!! 🙂

[@nurr.__]

Awesome Vlog😊❤ just want to ask , for your opinion only~ for first timer to visit Japan better go to Tokyo or Osaka first😅🙏🏻

[@explorinwithlaurin]

We would say Tokyo! Osaka is a foodie paradise but there is much more to do and see in tokyo!

[@RoyPaul-v7k]

Hi, I liked your video. Please share the $$ you spend on the 10day tour excluding Air ticket to Japan.

[@ccw39]

Great video! And so helpful as we plan a trip to Japan. What time of year did you take this trip?

[@explorinwithlaurin]

Glad the video was helpful! We went during April. We hope you enjoy your trip to Japan 🇯🇵 🙌

[@ccw39]

@@explorinwithlaurin Thank you!!

[@ProblematicElephant]

Thank you, sir! I’m 17. I’m planning to have some surprise off trip in Japan, for my mother’s birthday , where can we head to?

[@MrSTravelQuest]

Excellent video, planning our trip to Japan and this was a great video to get us started. What would be the total cost of a 10 day trip? Thanks for sharing your experiences 🙂

[@mc4056]

Do you have the website for the rental car? Also do you have to reserve way ahead of time? We are thinking about renting a car. Can you take it on one way trips? Are Taxis expensive for example the one to the bamboo forest.

[@explorinwithlaurin]

Here is the website for the rental car company we used: rent.toyota.co.jp/eng/ We reserved our rental car roughly 3 weeks ahead of our trip. But of course - the earlier the better. I believe toyota rent a car allows one way trips (they usually are more expensive). I recommend you verify the availability of one way routes with your rental car company. Yes - Taxis are pretty expensive and will add up quickly. We took public transportation as much as possible to try and reduce the cost. But ended up taking taxis to a few locations (such as the bamboo forest). Hope this helps - and that you enjoy your trip!!

[@anabeave4713]

My son & his family asked me to go to Japan with them. It's all new to us. Would you help with some questions?

[@explorinwithlaurin]

How exciting! Sure! What questions do you have?

[@ellabergerr]

Thank you so much for all the information you put in your videos!!

[@explorinwithlaurin]

Thank YOU for watching!

[@omarrosales0717]

Hi great vlog gave me lots things to help me plan but how was the language barrier. Im going with my children and wanted to know how difficult it was to understand the language. Thanks

[@explorinwithlaurin]

Thank you! Most of the people we interacted with spoke a little bit of english. However, hand gestures and google translate always are very helpful if you don't know the local language. Hope you enjoy your trip ✈️🇯🇵😁

[@おぽぽ-y3o]

こんにちは♪日本人に話す時は文章ではなく単語で話すといいと思います。 日本人は英語が話せる人は少ないですが、英語の単語は知っている人は多いです。買い物や道に迷った時は短い言葉で話すと理解してもらえると思います。 多くのレストランは英語のメニューがあるし、店頭には料理のサンプルや写真付きのメニューもあります。 😊

[@kristalclear1807]

Nice video! Do you still remember how much does taxi cost from kyoto station to Fushimi Inari? Thank you 😊

[@johnnacke4134]

Hi guys, great video…. My wife and I are planning a guided tour vacation to Japan ( like Trafalgar, Globus, Cosmos, etc)… But it has to be during the rainy season ( June 24- July5, 2024) We don’t mind rain, but we are hoping that it is not constant over our 12 days… it would be nice to see the sun once-in-a-while😊Also, are there public bathrooms or easy access to bathrooms when walking around? I will look for more of your videos. Ciao, John

[@explorinwithlaurin]

Hi John, that sounds awesome! We will keep our fingers crossed for you on the rain. There is a great Japanese brand called Uniqlo which has good everyday rain coats if you find yourself needing them-you can find the stores all over Japan! Usually I would have paid more attention to public bathrooms but we are having a hard time recalling! We typically used the restrooms of shops, cafes or restaurants that we were visiting but there were free bathrooms at train stations and some crowded public areas. Safe travels!

[@johnnacke4134]

@@explorinwithlaurin Lauren, We have 3 trip options… One trip has Hakone and all of the other main sites, but no Osaka. The other two have Osaka ( though not for long) and all of the other major sites, but no Hakone… Any suggestions? ciao, John

[@おぽぽ-y3o]

日本の公衆トイレ🚽は無料です。コンビニにもトイレはあり、ガムやジュースなど安い物を一つ購入すると利用できる。コンビニは沢山ある。すごーい田舎に行かないのならば、コンビニは沢山あるよ

[@AllisonCharles-cf2yy]

What time of the year did you make this trip?

[@explorinwithlaurin]

We went in April!

[@shalon4jc2]

How are the restaraunt food prices there?

[@explorinwithlaurin]

Depending on what you are looking to eat - very reasonable. You can get extremely cost effective fast food or convenience store food (less than 1000 yen per person). You can also get very high quality food from more luxury restaurants. (but expensive) Here is a good thread that gives more info: www.reddit.com/r/JapanTravelTips/comments/1bhr7xu/general_estimate_for_cost_of_food/ Hope this helps!

[@TheToradora97]

Hey! What's the name of the background music? 👀

[@Anon-fp4qh]

Going for 10 days in April! Is it possible to buy individual train and bus tickets or do I need a JR pass?

[@explorinwithlaurin]

Yes you can do individual tickets! Depending on how many times you plan to ride and the lines you may take, the JR pass may not be worth it! We have heard from a lot of our fellow travelers that they were “ripped off” by the JR pass and realized later they couldn’t use it on the routes/trains they thought they could!

[@explorinwithlaurin]

& April is a great time to visit! We hope you have a great trip 🌸🇯🇵🍜

[@Anon-fp4qh]

@@explorinwithlaurin Thank you for taking the time to reply! I find all the different trains, stations, and passes to be overwhelming and it may be cheaper to just buy individual ones. We’re gonna be walking for most of our trip anyway. Your video was very helpful! 😊

[@explorinwithlaurin]

@@Anon-fp4qh We love walking around because we feel like we get to see more that way! I do think it’s easier to manage one train at a time. Glad you found this video helpful!

[@adamkirk7222]

What kind of ticket to buy for Super Nintendo World, I understand you need to get the timed entry pass but not sure exactly how to get that. Is it just down to luck and getting there early?

[@explorinwithlaurin]

Oh boy this was something we struggled with! We did by an additional package (it’s separate from the ticket itself) that had pre-reserved time entry to Super Nintendo world and Harry Potter world. It also gave us fast passes for 4 rides (including the bowser one which is usually a crazy wait). Overall it was worth it for the fast pass ride times but we did end up getting there early and getting a different pass (available to anyone) to get into Super Nintendo land early bc that’s what we were most excited about!

[@explorinwithlaurin]

I wish it was easier but that’s the king of it 😅

[@velafresh]

Is it best to get one of those mobile wifi hotspots incase my phone doesn't work? if so what do you recommend

[@explorinwithlaurin]

Hi 👋🏼 it depends on your current phone plan. Since we travel so much we have an international data plan from our carrier here in the US that we can use for no extra charge. For one off trips most people opt for a day pass with their home carrier or a SIM card which can be purchased on arrival at the airport!

[@nikhilpulluri976]

I am planning to visit japan from April 18th to 28th. Can you help me create a perfect itinerary 10 day itinerary so that I get to watch cherry bloossoms while I stay there. please help me

[@ackphilchi6880]

great video! Appreciate all the restaurant recommendations. Would you recommend taking taxi, Uber or bus to the tourist attractions? Are Uber and taxi fares pretty reasonable and I guess they only take cash?

[@explorinwithlaurin]

We are so glad you found this helpful! The subway/metro is recommended to getting to a certain area (google maps will be helpful for figuring out which lines to take). Uber works well and takes care of payment so you don’t have to worry about getting overcharged and it goes off the card on profile, but it is pricy and will add up quick if you do it everywhere!

[@explorinwithlaurin]

Safe travels! We hope you have a great trip!

[@ackphilchi6880]

Sorry Laurin. I worded my question incorrectly. re transportation question I was referring specifically to Kyoto. As a 1st time tourist, taking a taxi or Uber would for sure be more expedient and I don't know how easy it is to take the bus so If taxis are not overly expensive we can use this option. We are staying at the Gion District about 10 mins walk to Yasaka Shrine for 2 nights and then moving to Hotel Granvia for another 2 nights which is inside the Kyoto Station. We are Ok taking the bus but wondering if it would be onerous to find where the bus stop is, and make sure that we don't miss our stop. We will have a Welcome Suica card and will depend on Google Maps for taking the bus if this is our option. on our must do list are Arashiyama Bamboo Grove, Fushima Imari. Nishiki Market, walking around Gion and at least 2 temples. If we only have time for 2 temples, which one do you suggest and is the Imperial Palace I think this is in Kyoto, is it worth while? We are staying for 4 full days not counting travel days.

[@boris7098]

when was this trip to japan?? what month??

[@explorinwithlaurin]

We went in April!

[@hannahcollins4862]

What month did you go? Super awesome video!!

[@explorinwithlaurin]

Hi Hannah! We were there in April-it was great in spring but we have heard awesome things about every season

[@TifaL20]

are there taxis and ubers near Kyoto station?

[@explorinwithlaurin]

Yes there is! Arriving at Kyoto Station - there is a taxi booth just outside. Ubers were also available.

[@michelleschetzel773]

Could you please tell me what location you picked up your car rental in Tokyo? Thanks!

[@explorinwithlaurin]

Hi! We were staying in the Ginza neighborhood of Tokyo so we selected the Toyota rental car Nishishimbashi shop

[@ahmibeppu]

I've flown to Japan many times as I'm Japanese/American. Flying business class, which is what the video show'd is around $10,000 + per person. Not feasible for the standard traveler.

[@FireEagle89]

I keep seeing that hotels are super expenaive but I keep seeing hotels (for three) from 100 to 150 on the cheaper side. Am I missing something?

[@zzr1985]

2:57 please tell me where that coffee shop is. I found it in Jan 2019. Have never been able to find it again.

[@susan825]

Just curious: how much Japanese do either of you speak? My family planning a trip in June (3 mths away). Since we arent planning on going with a tour guide, i am curious how dedicated we need to be to learning some Japanese before the trip

[@explorinwithlaurin]

We just know the basics to be polite! Hello, thank you, etc. - when I’m doubt, charades is a universal language 😂 also a lot of the menus have English translations and pictures! I wouldn’t stress too much about it but you can always duolingo a bit before you go 🙂

[@Jen-qb9cl]

Hi what is the taxi app? Do they have Uber ? Do you need to pay cash in taxi

[@explorinwithlaurin]

Hello! Thanks for watching 😁 - We booked Ubers throughout our time in Japan! Most of the time it was a taxi cab that picked us up. This allowed us to pay with a card through the uber app. Hope this helps! 🇯🇵

[@kariespejo7242]

I'm thinking about traveling to Japan middle of June, is that a good time?

[@explorinwithlaurin]

Yes--I was back in Japan mid-June and it was a great time to visit! No spring flowers but still nice weather!

[@monicazambrano3972]

Traveling to Japan 2025. 2 adults and 2 kids. Wondering if onsens have an age limit. Looks so relaxing, but maybe not with kids. lol

[@explorinwithlaurin]

haha yeah, you are probably right 😂

[@dreadpirate1337]

How much did you spend over the 10 days?

[@explorinwithlaurin]

Way too much 😆

[@omarh714sa]

Where the flight expensive. I have two kids and was looking into business class but those prices are high. Any advice?

[@explorinwithlaurin]

We were able to find some lucky point redemptions but generally flights to Asia are more expensive. If you have your heart set on business I would suggest looking for direct flights from big airports (like LAX and SFO) for cheaper deals then fly from where you are to there on a separate economy ticket! Another thing to consider is that JALs premium economy is pretty nice! We recently flew it from HND to DFW and it was great!

[@lucywall3435]

I posted a question yesterday but I don’t see it here. Do you have advice for a family of 3? Trying to see Tokyo and Osaka and take the bullet train. Been planning for 3 years now, finally think we can travel in March 2024.

[@explorinwithlaurin]

Glad that you’re getting to visit! I think the only advice we didn’t cover in this video is to pack light! It will make it easier to get around the train stations and to/from hotels. Most hotel rooms don’t have much room to spread out luggage so it will come in handy there too! Safe travels-hope you have a wonderful time!

[@studzmuffin]

Same here for family of 3 for 4 days total .. well 2 full days really coming mid Jan 2024 and wondering if to pay private guided tour company (costly) or to plan it ourselves. Hmmmm

[@explorinwithlaurin]

@@studzmuffin it really just depends on your comfort level of getting around! Tours are more convenient but you’ll pay the price! We found it easy enough to get around on our own but you’ll definitely want to have a plan before you set out!

[@おぽぽ-y3o]

@@studzmuffin Where in Japan are you going to travel? If you are going to Tokyo or Osaka Nagoya, there are English notations and guides.

[@nicksardelli890]

when you say "click this video link" at around 7:20 nothing shows up

[@kobiorama]

Thank you for a very nice guide. Do you feel that buying a JR pass and using the rail would n't have been cheaper than the seperate rides + car? Also, how did you manage to drive on the wrong side of the road? :)

[@explorinwithlaurin]

So honestly, we just found the JR pass confusing and it seemed like a lot of the local stuff we needed was excluded. Then when we added up the two one way trips we needed (Tokyo -> Kyoto and Kyoto -> Osaka) it was cheaper than that JR pass by a good amount so we just went with that! As for the car, well, there just wasn’t a great public transportation option to get to where we wanted to go so we decided to try our luck at driving on the other side of the road! It saved us a bunch of hours on a bus too!

[@viciousoz4188]

Compared to the US, hotels in Tokyo can actually be really cheap

[@explorinwithlaurin]

Depending on the city - This is definitely true!! Thanks for watching!

[@towada1066]

errr ... I would choose Hakodate (more excellent seafood than you can get in Tokyo), Kinosaki Onsen for the hot baths, Chiba Nokogiriyama for the history and hiking and Koyasan (if you're Buddhist or at least interested ...)

[@explorinwithlaurin]

Thanks for sharing!

[@towada1066]

@@explorinwithlaurin anyway, unfortunately, I have to go back to Japan this week,... but not to any of these great places ... just Tokyo and Kyoto to visit relatives ...

[@Deathy-zt5je]

Ya'll must be loaded to afford these luxurious trips, like damn

[@22754212]

If you rent a car in Tokyo and go to Mount Fuji, can you return the car at Mount Fuji?😮😮😮🎉

[@explorinwithlaurin]

Hello 👋 - Check with your specific rental car company if that is an option. Some companies allow this - but it may cost a bit more.

[@Oreosaysgo]

I think I’m going to follow most of this but avoid renting a car seems like a lot of work for 1 day.

[@explorinwithlaurin]

Glad the video was useful in planning your trip!

[@19magda88]

You took a lot of taxis which I heard are very expensive. Were they?

[@explorinwithlaurin]

@@19magda88 we really only took a taxi 3 or 4 times over the 10 days when the public transportation was not convenient for where we were headed or when we were short on time. In general we tried to take the public transportation or walk! We used Uber each time to call the taxi rather than trying to negotiate price on the street. I would say pricing was in line with other big cities around the world, but it was significantly more expensive than the $2-3 metro ticket.

[@romychar]

Did you use uber for taxis or something else?

[@explorinwithlaurin]

We primarily booked using the Uber app! The majority of the time a taxi cab showed up - but that let us use the credit card via the Uber app. Hope this helps!

[@2ndprojects]

What month did you guys travel to Japan?

[@explorinwithlaurin]

April!

[@damianmichel7075]

Did you guys do a total price at the end of the ship

[@explorinwithlaurin]

We did not provide the total price spent for this trip

[@skyyyandnechae5959]

What month did you visit

[@explorinwithlaurin]

Early April!

[@skhullar]

nice video. i’m heading out there in a few weeks, interestingly i am booked at both the marriott properties you mentioned in Tokyo and Kyoto as well! What were your thoughts on the Aloft and the Chapter? How was the transit from Haneda to Ginza? Any insight would be greatly appreciated. Thank you.

[@explorinwithlaurin]

Both hotels were great! The Aloft in Tokyo was a good hotel and has great proximity to two of the major lines so it is great if you are exploring all over the city. Getting there from Haneda is relatively easy, don’t worry about planning it out ahead of time just put it in google maps when you clear customs! I would also recommend having some cash as sometimes you need cash in local currency to buy a ticket. The chapter hotel was a BEAUTIFUL hotel - not the best location as it is a decent walk or an Uber away from most of the things you will see but still a great option if you are a bonvoy loyalist looking to earn or burn points. Also, a heads up that all hotels in Japan seem to have a common thing where there is no where to put your bags (you will see what I mean when you get there), so pack light! Hope this helps 😃 Safe travels ✈️