Attractions to SKIP and DO in Japan 🇯🇵 Tokyo, Osaka and Kyoto Things to Do in 2024

[@Timtation06]

The key word in enjoying all of these attractions is "GOING EARLY!" My Kyoto Starbucks, bamboo forest, Fushimi shrine, Disney Japan, Universal Studios, and various castles experiences were all "amazing" because I was early enough to beat the crowds. The lines and people in all your photos will be crazy if you wait till 1pm to do your attractions!

[@Pirirun]

I'm going to Japan soon. How early would you suggest I get to said attractions?

[@kb4123]

But how do you get to all these attractions early? 🥲

[@TheOriginalMusicGen]

@@kb4123 when I was in Japan in April of 2024, I was consistently waking up at 5am every single day I was there so I used that as an opportunity to visit various attractions and restaurants super early. I beat a lot of crowds that way.

[@SchnitzelPommes-t9y]

I always say 💅eally👍 catch the wulm🍻

[@Ojekay10]

Everyone is going early so it may be better to go closer to closing time

[@fuscia13]

I think we had the most fun just walking around and not trying to do anything with a scheduled time. Coming upon stuff rather than going someplace specific and exploring the train stations was more fun and less stressful. Walking down side streets and seeing school kids walking to school. Coming across a gatchapan store or a place that looks good to eat at feels more like exploring and less like being a tourist. We found Kyoto to be so crowded it was off putting. We like the small unknown shrines butter than the famous ones. Honestly, Japan is so fascinating if you are a foreigner you can’t go wrong just winging it.

[@nateshf9303]

That's exactly what my wife and I do. Just wander and eat and eat in JR Stations. We were just in Kyoto and we ventured out to small neighborhoods beyond the Sanjo and Gion areas, away from the crowd.

[@tomatostellar]

yes! this is what I actually want to do! Immerse in their culture and how they live their daily lives.

[@Emma-be6mo]

I'm going and not prepared. Definitely gonna wing it.

[@jlindsey1991]

Me too

[@stallion63m35]

You're absolutely right! Just wing it!

[@rochelleskipworth2725]

Fushimi Inari in Kyoto is absolutely beautiful and you can do the whole hike or just go partway. This would be a favourite place for me in Kyoto.

[@lllenjolll]

I would not skip meiji jingu, It has interesting history in it. There's a reason why it's popular. Many go there because of the emperor who built it is very compatible to his wife, thus it became a place for people to wish for happy marriage and love fulfillment. Though thanks for telling people to skip some of these so it will be less crowded. lol.

[@TheTravellingLuis]

😂😂 OMG that makes sense! We saw a couple getting married at Meiji Jingu! 😄

[@FreyaFromAsgard]

I agree. Meiji Jingu is must see in Tokyo.

[@cesartolentino2817]

I highly recommend the Sagano Romantic Train, Tenryu-ji Temple in Arashiyama and the Shigetsu Soba restaurant that the monks operate, the Saga-Toriimoto Town-scape preserved street near the Arashiyama Bamboo Grove, and just strolling around Arashiyama to visit spots like the Arashiyama Electric Train station, the Kimono Forest, and the Observation Decks around Arashiyama Park.

[@xXNekou]

The highlight of my last Japan trip was Nara - ancient forest, old-style Japan, friendly deer (that you can feed!!), beautiful architecture, chill quiet atmosphere ❤❤

[@kristanmendiola2001]

Pretty laidback place plus Osaka and Kyoto is just an hour away from it. Lovely place.

[@TheScooterHoon]

Same! Nara is a real highlight!

[@mariatolentino4516]

I love Nara with the deer, but I did not want to go to Todaiji because of the crowd.😡

[@atsaichu]

Osaka Castle is a good photo op from the outside in the park if you don't have time. Instead definitely visit Himeji Castle or one of the 12 pre-modern tenshus that still stand today if you want to see the inside. If you really want to sit down at the Starbucks at Ninenzaka in Kyoto, try visit really early or later in the evening. It's easier to find seats before tourists arrive or after most leave the area in late afternoon. As a side note, I don't think it's just about time and money/budget. People have different interests and places they want to visit first. "Attractions to skip if you visit Japan for the first time..." could have been a better title, and hopefully viewers will have already picked up on what you like and dislike and then decide if they should skip too.

[@dc2728]

I decided to pass through Yokohama on my last evening in Japan. Major regrets, wished I stayed a couple of days at least. I'm a solo traveller who enjoys walking cities and Yokohama was extremely enjoyable. More spacious and architecturally diverse.

[@gladystiamsing1723]

you should drop by ramen museum nearn shin-yokohama station and try different kinds of ramen at the lower ground. ramen kiosk serve really good noodles.

[@alanhanamura8671]

Thank you!

[@chrisknowles2578]

Great video. There are many places that are key tourists spots but end up being a bit disappointing. I would add to your list a capsule hotel, not much fun.... I am considering going to Ginzan Onsen on my next trip but I feel that maybe overcrowded also...

[@Morenoto666]

I disagree and agree with Meiji shrine and the bamboo forest, but you can avoid the bad experiences. Meiji shrine was the first shine that i was able to see in my first time in japan, so i really recommend it if you are in Tokyo for the first time and don't go to Kyoto in the first days. The bamboo forest it's not crowded in the morning , so you need to go before 10 or 9am and it will be perfect. Also, the monkey park it's a must do if you are in the area.

[@peterobrien6906]

I don't know about some of the rest, but this girl is dead wrong about Arashiyama Bamboo Forest. Maybe she doesn't like nature or walking? I don't know, and I don't care. This was a highlight of our last trip to Kyoto. It is beautiful, and the crowds are not that bad at all if it is not the weekend. If you go on the weekend, try to go a little earlier if possible. But DO NOT MISS IT -it is stunning!

[@berniekidwell9863]

Agreed! It was Amazing!! Plus there are multiple things to do in Arashiyama. The bamboo forest, monkey park, Arashiyama River and bridge, shops and restaurants, kimono forest, and rickshaw rides. A ton of things to do in one area if you are short on time.

[@DannyLim-kz9zg]

I too loved the bamboo forest and the colours during autumn was amazing!

[@felixmariotto4639]

When I went in August it was too crowded with tourist to enjoy. Also it is much smaller than what pictures might suggest, it's not a forest it's just a small park inside the city. When I took the train between Kanazawa and Kyoto I saw that there are a lot of natural bamboo forest everywhere, so when I came to visit this amusement park in Kyoto it was underwhelming and I felt dumb not to have taken a ride to outside the city to walk in an actual forest.

[@elisedecosta1390]

Agreed. I like nature and greenery so Arashiyama bamboo forest was lovely!

[@will3377]

Agreed. We went on the weekday and a little busy but it was a great spot to see.

[@alphaxneo]

I lived a year in Kyoto so I might be a bit biased, but Arashiyama with good weather is defs worth it as are some temples nearby. Something to definitely not miss if you're in a healthy condition is Fushimi Inari, such a gorgeous shrine

[@areasevenpro]

You can't completely skip Yokohama. Aside from the soon-to-be closed Gundam Factory Yokohama, there's Chinatown, Red Brick Warehouse, and the Shin-Yokohama Ramen Museum.

[@TheTravellingLuis]

I’ve heard about the red brick warehouse. What can you see or do there?

[@areasevenpro]

@@TheTravellingLuis They've got some really good restaurants there. Also, they occasionally have live music and events.

[@TheTravellingLuis]

Well adding that to my list for my next trip to Japan 😊

[@futurecanadian]

plan to go there (from Tokyo) next month for the art museum there #artnerd. Lots of great art museums in Japan.

[@binhnham2512]

Yes! The ramen museum is awesome!

[@ilai7893]

Loved TeamLab in Tokyo! Agreed that Arashiyama bamboo forest can be skipped if it's busy, you can hardly take photos and it's pretty pretentious when folks are taking the cab up just for an Insta pic Yasaka Shrine in Gion at night is pretty, as a free 24 hour place to check out

[@emphinix8582]

which boat ride did you go on for the Kawaguchi Lake and was the line waiting for the sunset boat ride crazy? Thank you!

[@TheTravellingLuis]

It wasn't a sunset boat, but you can find more info here - www.fujigokokisen.jp/contents/en/

[@aprilfarawayflies]

sorry could you please write the name of the app for booking the shinkansen tickets? thank you! very helpful video ♥️

[@TheTravellingLuis]

Yup! It’s called “smartEx App” on the App store for iPhone. and I’m glad this video helps 😊

[@MintJellymp]

@@TheTravellingLuis hi, i cannot find using my iphone, it shows me an app with the same name but could be a spanish app or something. Help

[@TheTravellingLuis]

If you type in "smartex app' in the App Store, it should be the first result. The official name is "Shinkansen smartEX App" - the logo has a white background with a shinkansen outline in blue and the word "EX" on the top of it. The developer is Central Japan Railway Company. Hope this helps!

[@lilchu7336]

I’ve been inside the Osaka Caslte. It didnt keep any of the actual interior. Just a Museum. But the top was pretty nice. There is a stamp you can get if you’re collecting stamps. I’d recommend just looking from the outside

[@Tuthmosis1111]

We are traveling to Japan in May, and your vlog is helpful - Thanks

[@TheTravellingLuis]

I'm so glad to hear that and thanks for watching! Have fun in Japan 💖

[@jfdewoluwe]

Gion performance is indeed a must in Kyoto. Sad we cannot take picture or video but highly recommend. You obviously must do Fushimi Inari and Kiyomizu Dera but before 9am

[@TheTravellingLuis]

I agree!! It was a great showcase of Japanese arts and culture. And I love how it was pretty traveler friendly since the programs are in different languages 💖

[@HaNguyen-dy6xq]

Going to Japan for this first time for two weeks, do you recommend booking a tour or just be on our own? Thank you your help.

[@TheTravellingLuis]

Tbh it’s pretty easy to do things on your own in Japan. I didn’t book any tour ☺️

[@HaNguyen-dy6xq]

@@TheTravellingLuis thank you

[@Hhammer]

3:16 Yokohama has the two ramen museums and a huge Chinatown. For that I think worth the day trip.

[@ankurpahariya77]

I am planning to visit Japan this year in the month of November with my wife and 20 months old baby. We have two options : Nov 8-18 or Nov 15-25. Which one do you think would be better considering the fall season, the cold weather, crowds etc? Thanks in advance.

[@TheTravellingLuis]

I think your dates are pretty close together so I don’t believe it will be drastically different. I think the fall leaves would show up better later in November though 😁

[@swissfoodie3542]

About Tokyo: - I agree with the Art Aquarium. It is beautiful with the colors, but the living conditions for the fish are horrible. Very little space, many fishes in a small aquarium and only plastic "vegetation". I wouldnt go back there for that reason - myself, I feel that Meiji Jingu should not be skipped and it can easily be combined with Harajuk and Takeshita Dori for the "Kaaui" culture (which is a "must see" for me in Tokyo - if you want to include Mount Fuji, I would not do a day trip, but stay there for 1 or 2 nights, so that your chances of seeing Fujisan are better. We stayed for two nights, on one day it was perfect, on the other day, you didnt see the mountain at all. I agree about the ropeway, I also prefered the boat ride (and walking along the shores of the lake) For other "must sees", it depends on your interests. Personally, I feel that Shinjuku (ideally you stay there) should be included, for the crazy neon lights, Omode Yokocho, Golden Gai, Kabuchiko. Also, I would include Akihabara, even if like me, you are not an anime or manga fan. Even though its very busy, if you like food, I would also go to the Tsukiji outer market. I would also visit one observation tower, on a clear day, to get great views over the city. The Tokyo Government Metropolitan Building in Shinjuku is free to visit. Otherwise, consider Shibuya Sky right next to Shibuya Crossing. TeamLab Planets and soon to reopen TeamLab Borderless are great fun and interactive, and another "must see" in my opinion. There are many other options, depending on what you are looking for. Myself, I really enjoy walking around Yanaka near Ueno park, for glimpses of old and traditional Tokyo.

[@TheTravellingLuis]

I definitely plan to stay overnight next time around the Mt. Fuji area. But I got lucky! I was there only for the day and it was a very clear day ☀️

[@Schilddruse]

To me, Meiji Jingu and Sensoji in Asakusa are an absolute must. Something I felt could have been skipped was the Imperial Garden. It really wasn't too impressive. The most impressive thing about it was the moat around it.

[@TheTravellingLuis]

Omg I was kinda bummed I didn’t get to the imperial palace in Tokyo - I assume that’s what you mean by the imperial garden. I went to the imperial palace in Kyoto though.

[@Schilddruse]

@@TheTravellingLuis Sorry, I should have clarified it. Yes, I meant the Imperial Palace Garden in Tokyo. It really wasn't anything special. The huge walls and some wooden buildings were nice but the actual garden part really wasn't living up to the name or the hype. Walking down the short distance from Tokyo Station and seeing it from the outside really would've been enough.

[@georgebenta3435]

Meiji Jingu is religious shrine is not a tourist attraction, treating it like any other attraction seems wrong. Tourist can go there but it's not meant for tourist. But you can skip Harajuku, Takeshita dori, and the Tokyo Imperial Palace area.

[@TheTravellingLuis]

That makes sense! I think people, like me too, put Meiji Jingu on our list because of the internet LOL. But I also saw a tour group when i was there..

[@au1k]

Yoyogi park is very nice though

[@pokemaniac9393]

Meiji jingu is a state shinto shrine I think. Its a shrine managed by the government and imperial family since it is a shrine dedicated to emperor meiji

[@betaraybob]

From my experience in Tokyo, I agree that Sunshine City is a must visit. I didn't go to the Pokemon center but the two big Gashapon stores were a bigger draw for me. Also the Planetarium there put on a good show and the "haunted" section of Namjatown was cool. I wish I had more time to explore Namjatown as it had some other areas that looked fun and possibly some good places to eat. I disagree on skipping the Art Aquarium. Although it can be tricky to find I thought it was a beautiful experience. Go on a weekday though so it is less crowded. Small Worlds Tokyo may not be for everyone but I think people should do some research on it to see if it is for them. I ended up spending a lot longer there than I expected looking at all the little details in the miniatures exhibits. Also agree that a daytrip to Yokohama can be skipped unless you can see the moving Gundam or you are a huge fan of Cup Noodles. A better day trip is either Kamakura or Enoshima. If you go to Kamakura be sure to visit the Sasuke Inari Shrine. It's off the "beaten path" but worth the visit. Once you go up the torii gate framed stairs to the shrine and look back, the thick growth around the shrine completely blocks out the city as if you have walked into a "mystical" land... absolutely beautiful.

[@TheTravellingLuis]

Thanks for the Kamakura recs! I'm going to add it to my wish list for my next trip to Japan :)

[@jerichorazon5363]

Agree, I went to Ichiran once and won’t do it again (no regrets though)- there’s lots of other amazing ramen options

[@genevieveweston671]

I found the Golden Pavilion in Kyoto to be very beautiful and I am so glad i saw it

[@vc2616]

I am coming to Japan in January😊 Your info was so helpful I have subscribed 👍

[@TheTravellingLuis]

so excited for you! have a great trip! 😁

[@dragontalontsiawd]

I have to ask if you do your guides? Lord willing, I'm going with a small group of friends. We already have lodging situated and a lot of things we would like to do. Some of it is touristy, some of it is local. Let me know, I would enjoy that. Subbed just because of this

[@TheTravellingLuis]

Hi 👋🏻 Thanks for watching and subscribing! Unfortunately - no, I don't do tours. I'm not based in Japan and my Japan videos were based on my very first trip in 2023. Tbh, getting around Japan is pretty easy. Google Maps navigation is pretty accurate. I had a pretty strict itinerary but a lot of people like to just walk around and get lost - then they discover something unusual. Have a great trip!

[@dragontalontsiawd]

@TheTravellingLuis ohhhhhh ok ok I assumed. Not saying all Asians look alike but I get it. Yeah I had a few people tell me what is what going there. I figured I'd ask someone with experience.

[@Porl1024]

We went to Arashiyama bamboo grove in October and missed the big crowds. It was still busy, but really loved it…… maybe the weather was on our side then :)

[@TheTravellingLuis]

The few days I was in Kyoto, the weather was pretty grey and cloudy ☹️ What time did you go to the bamboo grove?

[@Sourcreammm-q6s]

😢 I was Soo sad I found ur vid after I went to Japan. And some of the tips were Soo trueee. Like the Starbucks (there were literally no seats. I wore kimono that day so I could take pics in the prefecture but we spent like 1hr plus queueing for a drink and cake...i mean some other tourist took pictures of me just standing at the side with like 3 luggages 😂 so that's something) and kyoto shrines (they are sooo prettyyy). But well, I am going again in 2 years sooo

[@mozanchannel718]

Asakusa - Odaiba River Cruise. i recommend you to go there. take the 4pm boat ride.. you’ll never disappointed if you love the sunset..

[@Rabbit20246]

@mozanchannel718 how much does it cost?

[@swissfoodie3542]

For Osaka, my 3 favorite places in random order are: - the castle: get there early and/or prebook your ticket, so that you can also visit from the inside, for me it was worth it - Dotonburi, as mentionned by Sarah. There, I would also visit Don Quijote, which is like a crazy discount chain selling pretty much everything (it cant be described, you have to go there yourself), as its located right on the canal and has a big ferry wheel - the Kaiyukan Aquarium, which is one of the best aquariums I have visited wordwide Personally, I am not a huge fan of Osaka. I find that it is a bit a "cheap copy of Tokyo". So if your time in Japan is limited, instead of adding Osaka to Tokyo and Kyoto, I would rather go for Hiroshima and nearby Miyajima Island, for more diversity. But of course, thats only my opinion.

[@TheTravellingLuis]

It sounded like you went inside the Osaka castle. Is it worth it? I just went around the park.

[@swissfoodie3542]

@@TheTravellingLuis Yes, I went inside and I thought that it was worth it. But only if you dont have to wait for ages in line (something I have no patience for ;-)). You can even dress up as a "samurai" inside, which was good fun.

[@TheTravellingLuis]

Oooh maybe next time I’ll see if I can reserve tickets for Osaka Castle 😁

[@Mancydea]

I feel the same about the fishes in Ginza Aquarium! I cannot be sure that the conditions for animals are fine, so it’s an easy pass for my incoming trip. The theater you recommend in Kyoto seems amazing!

[@spark_6710]

Thank you !! I feel really sad for 'em !! 💔💜🥁🐉🎤🎶💞

[@roninxix4428]

Sold, im going to see the fish. Yes, it's just you.

[@TheTravellingLuis]

Take pictures 📸📸

[@Victor_YNWA]

What if my itinerary doesn't include osaka/Kyoto and i would love to visit Shrine in tokyo. Any other shrine to recommend? How about sensoji

[@TheTravellingLuis]

That’s completely fine! 😊 I went to Sensoji for a little bit in Tokyo. I went maybe around 6pm-ish and it was empty. But all of the stores were closed already.

[@NikoYG.]

I went to Meiji Jingu at around 7am and it was so peaceful. It was a gloomy day and the walk to the shrine was misty, there were barely any people and you get to see the shrine maidens prepare for the day.

[@jachinoy1565]

This is helpful. My family with kids will go this November autumn so I'll check out ur videos

[@TheTravellingLuis]

Thanks for watching 💖 and have a great time in Japan! I think you’ll love the fall colors and the cozy weather!

[@kalycaashianaredja7025]

I wanna try Hozugawa river boat in Kyoto with beautiful view in Autumn 😊

[@PairyKurta]

absolutely agree with you on the fish. its not just you.

[@imhelensakura]

U saved me time tks!

[@alaindagenais7214]

Nice I appreciate all the info 👍

[@Memore18]

I would like to go to Japan but skip the temples and shrines since I don’t believe in anything abt it. I would like to know if is worth it going for the food, culture, historic buildings like the palaces and all the cool museums, as well as the cool neighborhoods and shops. I noticed most of the videos in KZbin talk about the temples and shrines, so it gets me thinking of it’s worth it? Im planning to to for 12-14days. I would also love to visit cool small villages/towns

[@GoddessOfTheWinds]

For the Bamboo Forest, the whole Arayashima area is beautiful. You just have to leave the bamboo forest and you can walk to shrines, temples, gardens and the protected area with traditional houses. I definitely recommend it WITHOUT a guide. The reason it is crowded is because all the tours only go to the same 2 spots, so just explore the rest of the area. The bamboo forest was disappointing though, but the area is worth exploring!

[@TheTravellingLuis]

What’s the name of the protected area with traditional houses? That piqued my interest 😸

[@GoddessOfTheWinds]

@@TheTravellingLuis Saga Toriimoto Preserved Street (and surroundings). I spent a whole afternoon in the area, exploring shrines and stopping at any interesting spots for some photos. I went during the sakura, so it was very beautiful and pretty quiet as there was not that many tourists in that area.

[@josefwitt9772]

Bamboo forest, cloudy, dark, gloomy... this is now on my list 😂 Thanks for the suggestions, I'm planning a trip and I'll take your advice on everything except that.

[@TheTravellingLuis]

Cloudy, dark, gloomy could be a vibe 😉 have an awesome trip!

[@staceysklar5568]

Go to the Meiji Shrine, as well, when you're in Tokyo.

[@Nelsea7190]

if i find something i will add Yokohama to list again. saw the Gundam there, walked through Motomachi area nearby, beautiful indeed. didnt know of Gundam man hole covers but that one thing isnt enough to visit there (didnt know it was there), even the ferris wheel area isnt wnough to suffice the visit. i did like the Arashima bammboo grove as a small side visit, not the biggest forest but interesting to see. Gion-Shijo area of Kyoto in sakura season is a very suggested place to view the blossoms.

[@sandralee5304]

Can you recommend hotel in that three city? Thanks!

[@TheTravellingLuis]

Yes! I’m gonna make a video on the hotels I stayed at. But here’s the list of hotels I stayed at: Hilton Tokyo, Onyado Nono Namba and Hotel Resol Kawaramuchi Sanjo.

[@sandralee5304]

Thank you!@@TheTravellingLuis

[@Zelgadiss1984]

Shinkansen I think is a one and done thing if you're traveling in japan. If you're traveling from Tokyo-Osaka just take a flight. You shave off over an hour from your commute at almost half the price

[@sherwinclarencego1933]

Agree about Yokohama. An easy skip. Some Ichiran are 24 hrs tried eating one at breakfast. I know, I know ramen for breakfast? But if you don’t want to line up then its your best bet. Dinner would always be crowded as always in Japan. So I tend to eat on popular restos for lunch and maybe go to simple ones for dinner.

[@TheTravellingLuis]

I'm discovering from the comments here that Yokohama might worth a day or two on my next trip to Japan :) I will never oppose to ramen for breakfast because I love noodle. The only problem for me is getting up early enough to call my first meal breakfast LOL.

[@mtc1516]

It's common to take pictures first before you go up the tower cause they need time to photoshop and print your photos out but it's your own choice to pay for it or not

[@mr.t5610]

Just a short side-note; The Osaka castle as you see today is not the original but rather a rebuilt in concrete. The only original part that is left of Osaka castle is the wall lining around the castle and the castle moat.

[@Eldiran1]

I went to Meiji Jingu nearly by accident. My point here is that i agree that it's skippable, especialy if , like me, you went here on the week-end. Too much people and most importantly they are a lot of wine barrel from burgundy. I couldn't stand it! (my french area, franche-comté, can't stand against burgundy,another french area. that all : ) Interesting enough, you say that we can skip the tsutentaku and that what i did on my first trip. BUT i will return in Japan this monday and i think i will go around but not inside the tower. The park nearby was also not the best i saw in japan, but it was nice, very calmy. I think i may have some other things to recommand in on month, after i return home from japan, even if i will totally skip Tokyo this time.

[@TheTravellingLuis]

The area around the Tsutentaku tower is pretty interesting - lots of food 😋

[@jackieteo]

How about the tsutenkaku slide?

[@TheTravellingLuis]

If you're asking about the line... When I was there, the line for the slide was short :)

[@seafarer_]

Agree on the bamboo grove - it’s really quite short/small and runs parallel to the main road. It doesn’t really go anywhere, you go in on one end and pop out on the other on the same street. The Higashiyama Starbucks was just a normal Starbucks, as someone who stayed near kiyomizu-dera and passed through a lot. Super crowded too! Rest of the area is beautiful though. Personally, I was not a fan of Osaka castle. It’s all rebuilt and new-ish, and the inside is pretty empty. The building next to it was like a shopping mall. It felt like it was a modern tourist attraction with a false historic shell. (And this is coming from a Japanese person who loves history - I was disappointed) Great video though! Super helpful

[@TheTravellingLuis]

Thanks for the feedback! Do you have any other castle recs in Japan? Tbh I love visiting castles, palaces, old houses.. you name it! 😊

[@anitarokas4128]

@@TheTravellingLuis Himeji for sure as a must see castle, and Matsuyama castle in Shikoku. Those are real castles, where you can see how they actually lived in Japan. Osaka castle is not even 100 years old, becaus it was build in 1931.

[@swissfoodie3542]

I also like castles and have seen quite a few of them in Japan. My favorite one is in Kumamoto, on the southern island of Kyushu. There was a heavy earthquake in 2016, and the castle was extremely damaged, but has been since renovated, and its really great to visit. Also, from the top floor, you have great views over the city. If you go on the weekend, there is a fun/food market infront of the castle, which is good fun. Other castles to consider are in Kanazawa (which is a great city with plenty of interesting things to enjoy and visit), Okayama and of course the probably most famous castle of Japan in Himeji.

[@TheTravellingLuis]

Thanks for the recs! I will add them to my list for my next trip to Japan 😊

[@TheTravellingLuis]

I'm always down for street food 😋

[@loopymade7734]

Well , i dont think should skip Meiji jinggu at all.. again explore your own Japan itinery. It is not any scam .. it just you have to make your own japan Trip personally base what your interest 😊

[@charlottehpreston4908]

I was wondering if you have any advice on what to do for food for severe allergies? I have a severe egg allergy and I'm not entirely sure how to go about buying food, I've been learning what I can but is there anything I can do to help?

[@emiko1474]

I wish you would mention the prices for all the attractions

[@TheTravellingLuis]

That's a great idea! I'll put the prices of all the attractions for a future video :)

[@ViGan-c2e]

All the attractions you recommended to skip I am so going to visit and spend money on! Thanks for the recommendation!

[@TheTravellingLuis]

You do you! 😊

[@eslita1]

Hi Sarah, I am traveling to Tokyo mid March, hopefully I get to see your SmartEx video on how to purchase Shinkansen tkts. Btw, are you Indonesian ?

[@TheTravellingLuis]

I will try to post the Shinkansen video and includes the SmartEx app hopefully this month! And yes, I am :)

[@mikay3427]

This is very helpful thank you so much!

[@TheTravellingLuis]

Glad it was helpful! 💖

[@Phurba666666]

Great video, thank you

[@celestefan8503]

Hi, I thought the mt fuji ropeway closes at 4pm? Will it close early on specific days?

[@TheTravellingLuis]

When I was there in Nov 2023, the ropeway closed at 2pm. and I went on a Wednesday.

[@Quinn-Harrison]

I have a bunch of trains I want to ride and I'm definitely planning my future trip around that! 1 overnight train, the pokemon train, and maybe the hello kitty train! Then there's 2 capsule hotels, one the night we get there and one close to the airport. An onsen is a must too!!! So is the pokemon hotel! And a shrine visit! An udon place!

[@psprog]

I'll have to try Ichiran on my next trip. Was in Fukuoka earlier in the year and there was an enormous queue outside and a traditional type troupe performance whooping and hollering with drums etc on the upper floor playing to the street...

[@georgebenta3435]

I think another place you can partially skip is the Fushimi Inari Shrine in Kyoto. I said "partially" because you don't really have to climb the entire route on the hill and trying to walk the entire Torii route will take more or less an hour of your time, depending on how fast you can walk or the pace of the crowd. The hundreds of Torii shrines gets old quickly and there are still too many tourist even if you walk up the hill. You need to go very early or almost night to avoid the crowds. Fushimi inari is another site where tourist seem to forget that it's a religious shrine.

[@tttrip]

伏見稲荷は無料なので、時間の余裕があるならぜひ行くべきです。頂上まで行くのは個人的な体力にまかせるしかありませんが、他のお参りするだけの寺社仏閣とは異なりハイキング気分で気軽に楽しめると思います。始めて行く欧米の観光客にとって、それはかなりエキサイティングかつ、エキゾチックな体験になると思います。ただし、あなたの言うように日昼はかなり混雑するので早朝を選択する方が良いと思います。夜間は景色が限定的になるのと、冬場の寒さであまりお勧めできませんが春以降なら楽しめると思います。しかし、京都はどこへ行っても混雑から避けられません Fushimi Inari is free, so if you have time, you should definitely go. Getting to the top is up to your own physical strength, but unlike other temples and shrines that you just visit, I think you can easily enjoy it as if you were hiking. I think it will be a very exciting and exotic experience for Western tourists visiting for the first time. However, as you said, it gets quite crowded during the daytime, so I think it's better to go early in the morning. I don't really recommend it because the scenery is limited at night and it's cold in winter, but I think you can enjoy it after spring. But no matter where you go in Kyoto, you can't avoid crowds.

[@charlottethompson6193]

I loved visiting that shrine. As we left the grounds we bought senbei snacks.

[@chrisknowles2578]

I hiked to the top of Fushimi Inari on my last trip. I went at 6am so it was very quite and peaceful. The mistake I made was forgetting that you really need cash with you. I didn't take enough water and was really struggling by the time I got to the top. My error....

[@alistairt7544]

Omg, I cannot wait for my trip! I'm going this April with 3 other friends and we're all so very excited. Our itinerary is after landing, check in our Airbnb, then the following day, head to Ghibli Park. Then head to Kyoto and stay for 3 days, with a day trip in Osaka. Then take a train back to Tokyo and spend 5 days in Tokyo. I'm bringing an extra empty suitcase on this trip lol

[@TheTravellingLuis]

Extra luggage is a great idea! I brought an extra backpack to put my clothes in going back home, and filled my luggage to the brim with stuff I bought 😅

[@emssasukeisunderrated7946]

For the day trip to Osaka, you can make that a full day thing since the Shinkansen is a 20 minute ride and can last pretty much to late at night. Japan is a really choose your own adventure type of country since there’s so much to do even if you only visit Tokyo, Osaka and Kyoto! You might have just missed the cherry blossoms in Tokyo since they bloom in about 2 weeks but you may still catch them in Kyoto if you arrive at the beginning of April!

[@roberttreborable]

Don't miss AMEYOKO Street Market, situated between Ueno park (which you also should visit) and Okachimachi stations.

[@Dutchmijk]

Thank you for your video, i will go to japan this year. my main worry is, when i have a JR pass, how can i reserve a seat using the JR pass. So if you make a video., i will watch it for sure

[@TheTravellingLuis]

I believe there are plenty of blog posts and youtube videos talking about how to reserve seats if you have the JR rail pass. I did a little research about it but since I didn't get the JR pass I didn't research any further. But I'll look into it and I"ll include those info in a future video :)

[@spark_6710]

I recommend October. Avoid summer & rainy season !! Not sure when or how soon you'll go there ,though ! I am Japanese who's been living in the States for 35 +years ! Hope you'll have a blast in Japan !! 👍💜🥁🐉🎤🎶💞

[@nancywong6974]

Do you buy the ekiben once you’re on the train, or at the train station?

[@TheTravellingLuis]

At the train station before I board the Shinkansen. You should see the store - I bought my first one at the platform in Tokyo station.

[@nateshf9303]

Bento boxes in most JR Stations especially Tokyo are overpriced. Selections and prices at department store basement food courts are way better. Enjoy!

[@heythave]

@@nateshf9303You mean at Daimaru department store?

[@tracemakk9595]

Super subjective

[@ldballoon4]

Ichiran is the bomb, bro. I went to one in Yokahama. opened 24 hours for a local event. Starbucks seating was extremely limited, for sure. Just do a NYC cabbie and sit where your like.

[@ilfyf]

Thank you for mentioning the museum. I think it definitely seems like a very unpleasant experience.

[@TitillatingCosplay]

I agree with skipping most animal based "attractions". While Japan does have laws for animals' safety, the country's animal welfare views are low compared to the United States, where I'm from. I went to a rabbit cafe because I own and love rabbits, and while it wasnt a sad or depressing place, as someone who works in a zoological setting and has high standards for animal care, I felt the cafe was lacking. It didnt ruin the experience, but I didnt leave feeling all warm and fuzzy inside. So if I were to go to Japan again I'd skip the animal cafes. For Osaka, my friend actually told me NOT to bother going inside Osaka Castle. It's been modernized and is just a simple museum like interior, so none of the cool old architecture can be enjoyed. It was very bland for him, so I didnt bother doing it myself. Found the outside grounds to be lovely though! And speaking of Kobe! Oh Kobe!

[@spark_6710]

Thanks for expressing your feelings/ opinions regarding treatments/ lacking protections of animals in Japan !! I am Japanese who's been living in the States for 35 years plus & not proud of that about my country myself !! 👍👍💜🥁🐉🎤🎶💞

[@monalisagloria16]

Hey how did you get to Kobe ?? can we do a day trip to Kobe? what are the things to see there?

[@MJ-fk2ko]

Stumbled upon your video, and I appreciate your genuine compassion for the fish in the small tanks! I share the same sentiment about "animal attractions" …they should be free!

[@mariatolentino4516]

I recommend Amanohashidate and taking smaller trains that tourists don't take. The only catch is that you have to be able to communicate somehow in Japanese, since these are the trains frequented by high school students (and there is no English support, just like the buses that leave Matsuyama Airport). I took one from Fukuchiyama to Miyazu, then from Miyazu to Amanohashidate. On my upcoming trip with my son, we are going to the Toei Studio Park in Kyoto. I believe my son will want to go inside the EVA. We will, however, go to Osaka's tower, since my son wants to experience the slide. The bamboo forest looks appealing. I can call my son "baka deshi" while walking with him. 😄😄😄

[@spark_6710]

I recommend Fuji goko ,five lakes around the mt.Fuji ,if you love lakes/ mountains or if you're a nature lover ! And Hokkaido ( North ) ! No aquarium !! No animals should live in cages or tanks !! Thanks ! I am originally from Tokyo, been living in the States for 35 years + ! I recommend Omote Sando / Meiji Jingue Mae/Aoyama / Ginza ,if you love hi fashion & European style cafes & great foods !! Skytree in Asakusa ! Kyoto is a MUST !! Yamaguchi & Okayama are very nice as well ,if you love samurai ,they've got ancient authentic samurai villages there !! I recommend October to visit Japan !! Avoid our notorious summer & rainy season !! 💛💜🥁🐉🎤🎶💞

[@TheTravellingLuis]

I definitely would love to visit Hokkaido, Yamaguchi and Okayama the next time I plan to travel to Japan! Thanks for the recommendations 💖

[@spark_6710]

​@TheTravellingLuis YAY !! You're very very welcome !! So cool !! 😀👍👍💜🥁🐉🎤🎶💞

[@tinathetangerine3413]

We are going to Japan in April and we are skipping team labs. Is it super cool looking and breathtaking? Sure. Is it worth dedicating a few hours of the little time we have in Japan? I honestly don’t think so.

[@TheTravellingLuis]

My thoughts exactly! My trip from last Nov was my first time and I didn’t wanna waste time waiting in too many lines. So I’ll be saving team labs for my next trip 😊 have a fun time in April!

[@Ag_1288]

You can book tickets to TeamLabs online for the first morning admission and then you don't have to wait in lines :)

[@seafarer_]

It was cool as a young person traveling with friends who like to take photos, but as a solo traveler or with family, I would not do it. We didn’t have lines at all since we reserved tickets in advance, so that was another benefit that made our visit smooth. Also - as someone who gets motion sickness, I had to skip one of the rooms.

[@DocRock]

I’ve been to all the teamlabs in japan as an “old person” and with my nearly 80 MIL and we loved it. We could spend hours there. These things are very subjective so it’s important to use travel tips as guides not absolutes.

[@mdub1001]

I feel like the rope way is cool! You don’t have to go down the same way you go up! And great view of Fuji at the top

[@summerzhun3021]

I just can’t queue too long if i’m too hungry 😂 for me any restaurants there are delicious, I don’t normally go to those that famous places promoting online (unless there are few people queuing), also just need to beware of scam or stuff 😂

[@TheTravellingLuis]

😂😂 I feel you!! Tbh most restaurants we went to in Japan were pretty good. I don’t think we had any bad food at all..

[@judithsaliba5163]

Very surprised you didnt include the golden pavilion in kyoto. Big cities arent for me, been to tokyo and osaka once which was enough. No trip to japan should miss Hiroshima and Miyajima. We also spend a few days atound Hakone, kyoto, nara, kurashiki. The shinkansen is so good, recommend buying a JR pass and base yoursrlf several nights in a few locations. Youlll save a lot of time not having to find and check in and out of hotels.

[@GreenEyedMan06]

Nah the Bamboo Forest is a MUST DO. Just because you turned up on a cloudy day and not early enough to beat the crowds doesn't mean it's skippable. To everybody, keep in mind these are the experiences of a person that went to these places only once and do not reflect reality. It's always wise to seek a second opinion, perhaps of foreigners that actually live there.

[@TheTravellingLuis]

Dude you should make videos about what to skip and do in Japan from a foreigner’s perspective who actually lives there 👍🏼

[@denakane5651]

Loved the ocean walkway in Yokohama and China town

[@jameswu6156]

Appreciate this video. Liked how you explained why you recommended or not recommended these attraction.

[@TheTravellingLuis]

Thanks for watching, and this means a lot! 💖

[@Borlamach]

Skip Tokyo Tower. You will probably end up going to Skytree anyway. Fuji-Q Highland is a must! Some of the best coasters you will ever ride. Be ready to stand in line forever though.

[@TheTravellingLuis]

I actually went to Fuji-Q because I wanted to check out the Naruto part of the park. We didn't go on any rides though.. Maybe next time!

[@mariojsworld]

Very nice list of Japan attractions.

[@TheTravellingLuis]

Thank you 🙏🏼 and thanks for watching! 💖

[@kjlovestanuki]

Subscribing because of your comments about the goldfish in the small containers 😢. Very informative!

[@daniellefroes9221]

In Tokyo I would skip the top level of Tokyo Tower. It's way too expensive for almost the exactly same view from the regular ticket. Also, getting inside the Osaka's Castle was a bit of a turn off, since it has been transformed into a shopping-mall-like museum, instead of keeping the original looks (like Matsumoto's one). The exterior, on the other hand, is 10/10, the gardens and everything else is fantastic. So I would recommend going to the Castle, just don't bother to go inside.

[@janusu]

The current Osaka Castle is a concrete reconstruction based on the Edo Period design of the main tower. It has actually been destroyed and rebuilt several times over the centuries. The inside is now a museum, complete with elevators and air conditioning. I honestly still think it's worthwhile to visit, though. They did a beautiful job with the reconstruction and it's very educational. The castle grounds are gorgeous, especially during cherry blossom season.

[@emssasukeisunderrated7946]

Crazy cause I went to Japan literally around the same time (November 9-21) and remember that same ramen cookoff cause I was in Osaka from like the 14th-18th! Here would be my must in terms of attractions and I agree with others that all of these (other than Mt. Fuji) I didn't really plan a schedule around, we just went when we felt like it. Doing this also helped us be around some cool things like watching an Awa Odori in Roppongi Hills business center or walking past Tony Hawk in Ginza or going to Shiba Ryutaro's house and museum on our way back to Osaka from Nara: Tokyo: - Shibuya Sky (best observation deck and isn't overly pricey. Just have to pay for it online) - Meiji Jingu - Senso-ji (surprised this wasn't on here, it's just kinda a must) - Toyosu and Tsukiji Markets (Toyosu to see the fish auction and indoor food courts, Tsukiji for the outer market) Around Mt. Fuji: - Lake Kawaguchiko (I didn't go but would've if I had time) - Fujiyoshida and Chureito Pagoda (the main thing I wanted to do on the trip and it didn't disappoint!) Osaka: - Osaka Castle & Garden (hotel was right near it and it was a must! Literally the most important and iconic castle in Japan's history) - Dotonbori - Osaka Tenmangu Kyoto: - Nijo Castle (The main HQ for the Tokugawa Shogunate. Walking inside the Honmaru Goren Palace is amazing and still upkept from even for it having been built in 1603) - Arashiyama (overcrowded but still amazing) - Fushimi Inari

[@spark_6710]

You were in Japan on my birthday ! Lol. Hope you had a blast there !! I am originally from Tokyo, but I've moved to the States & I've been living here for 35 plus years ! 👍💜🥁🐉🎤🎶💞

[@emssasukeisunderrated7946]

@@spark_6710 That’s awesome and Happy belated birthday 😊 I had such a great time in Japan! It’s the country I’ve wanted to visit the most since I turned 18 (I’m now 28). My younger sister is in school in Niigata so it was good seeing her. But I love the culture, I’m a huge history nerd and I learned Japanese in college but hopefully next time my speaking skills improve cause I was very rusty 😅

[@nobodynothing00000]

I found Tokyo to be mostly enjoyable, if you can avoid the salaryman on their way to work and the rush hour in the evenings. I found Osaka to be highly overrated, beyond the castle and shines and gardens (it's actually a very densely populated city, not nearly the size of Tokyo) and my favorite places were Hiroshima, Kyoto and Nara - all laid back, all had excellent eating and shopping and plenty of things to see and do.

[@thomashayes7003]

You can skip a Sumida River tour. The boats look cool and futuristic, but it was just another boat ride. We did this last July when we were in Tokyo. Take the time you would go on the boat and really visit the side streets around Senso-Ji Temple.

[@TheTravellingLuis]

Ooh I was going to do that! But we decided on a Yakatabune dinner instead.

[@nateshf9303]

We go to Sumida for the annual July big fireworks.

[@soniahinson6372]

Great video. Thank you for all your helpful tips. We will be going there in October this year, same itinerary as yours. Going to check out your other videos on Japan now.

[@TheTravellingLuis]

I’m so glad my videos help! Have a fun time planning and have a fun trip 💖

[@KimchiYeo]

I'm happy to hear finally other asian people talking about how our people mistreat animals like objects and i agree 100% it's not a good thing,sure this exhibitlooks beautifle,but all those little fishies are not looking very happy in their tinyprisons.

[@ReggieVillanueva-b1k]

Kiyomizudera Temple in Kyoto is a favorite, especially in the evening. It is worth visiting in my opinion. If you ever visitNagoya, you may consider doing the Nakasendo Trail. Admittedly it may not be everyone's cup of tea, but it is a good experience. Nagoya's Toyota museum is a must-see too, even for non-car enthusiasts.

[@jeremiahcepeda3456]

I think Skytree and Disneysea is just another worldly experience

[@ddampac]

Appreciate it. Very useful don't do tips! And you're right: that aquarium is abusive to the fish.

[@JuilesArts-e5w]

I also reccomend one of the most beautiful little gardens in kyoto: Tenjuan, south of the Nanzenji Sammon Gate. You can take a look on google maps photos, that were taken there.

[@jdenslow790]

Generally agree, except for the take on the Arashiyama Bamboo Forest. I literally stood there in the middle of the forest and had an ethereal moment that I will remember for the rest of my life. I lost the crowds, I lost the noise, I lost all my problems and just marveled at the beauty of small leaves blowing across in a gentle breeze like snow, silently in muted sunlight. It does take time, effort, and a good bit of walking to get there, so if you are pressed for time, you might be better off skipping it. Like a fine whiskey or wine, The Arashiyama Bamboo Forest requires you to sip it to enjoy it, not just down it like a shot.

[@the_clawing_chaos]

I would not recommend Osaka Castle. Instead, take the train to Himeji and see a real castle, not a 19th century reproduction. My mistake was doing Himeji before Osaka, it made Osaka Castle like, 'that's it? So disappointing'. I agree with you on the bamboo grove. It was really disappointing, I was expecting a forest, not a small layer of bamboo hardly obscuring the buildings in the background. Agree with Starbucks too, terrible coffee.

[@charlottethompson6193]

My husband and son happened to encounter a local tour guide to see the Osaka castle grounds. The tour was free and excellent. My son, husband, and I visited Himeji Castle on the same trip. There were people dressed in period clothes, including a falconer. We toured inside the castle. It was fascinating to see the old structures and climb a ladder-like staircase to reach the top.

[@heythave]

Thanks. I will add Himeji to my itinerary.