Ultimate Places to Stay in Tokyo

[@sojournchris]

I was happy to see messages from a lot of first time travelers to Tokyo in my previous video. I had already started working on this guide a couple weeks ago but I added a little more detail as a result so while a bit of an audiobook, I hope the info will come in handy :)! Thanks all!

[@craiggibbons8228]

When I went to Tokyo last year, it was a dream holiday. Loved it so much I would love to go back ❤

[@djglass69]

I am planning my FIRST TRIP to Tokyo and this is the BEST INFO VIDEO I have seen so far....Thanks

[@Bakapooru]

Tokyo Station is the terminal station for all Shinkansen in the Tokyo area. Shinagawa is a station for all trains heading west and all trains stop at Ueno Station to go north. The Ueno/Asakusa area is great for families (especially with small children). I think for children, browsing through food models on Kappabashi-dori is entertaining. Also, the Hanayashiki amusement park is small but it’s blended into the neighborhood.

[@krazyshady902]

I'm from Canada and just beginning the process of planning a trip to Tokyo in October. This was the most informative video I've watched so far. I'm adding it to my favorites and subscribing! Thanks

[@sojournchris]

Fall is my favorite time to go. It is absolutely stunning. I would highly recommend checking out Nikko which is my favorite day trip from Tokyo. Have fun!

[@ysomar]

I'm planning my 2nd trip to Japan this October as well. I do recommend Hakone and the hot springs- don't miss out on it.

[@shpeen8835]

You're gonna love it. But just as Toronto is not really Canada, Tokyo is not Japan, its Tokyo. But since most who go to Japan once feel an overwhelming desire to return, you'll have another opportunity

[@lillygirl7238]

Awesome video. Thank you so much. The aerial shots were so helpful.

[@sojournchris]

Glad it was helpful!

[@bonwatcher]

Planning to go back to Japan in 2024, so this is good information, thanks! I've been there three times and stayed next to Tokyo Disneyland and Tokyo Dome (family friendly) and a Hyatt in Roppongi Hills (upscale, more adult) each trip. Very different vibe from each area, so this is a good video to select which is best depending on age, purpose, etc.

[@pierrecaron8731]

When I was in Tokyo I stayed in a business hotel in Asakusa-north near Minami-Senju station, it was very nice and very affordable.

[@natalieseren2060]

Do you remember the name

[@pierrecaron8731]

@@natalieseren2060 Hotel Maruchu classico.

[@natalieseren2060]

@@pierrecaron8731 thank you so much

[@Wheres_My_Sports_At]

Great video, thanks

[@Bodneyblue]

I have just returned from a 3 week trip to Japan (25th)...My first ever trip alone..and since losing my partner to cancer....Japan had been calling me since losing my partner...But due to my emotional state since..The possiblity of me going anywhere alone was never gonna happen...But during this period of darkness in my life I found a light. An all female Japanese rock band who gave me a point of focus on which I had lost...So much so I so wanted to see them LIVE...And because of COVID etc, it felt like it would never happen...But I did enter a ticket lottery which was to get my hands on a ticket to see the ladies LIVE but in Tokyo...Not expecting to win...It was just for something to do..But I did win...So now i had the excuse I really needed to go to Japan. A chance to see them LIVE in their home country..AND!..it being the first concert of their 10th year together...Which was being filmed and streamed LIVE. So with alot of stress trouble and costing alot of money..I somehow managed to get sorted a trip to Japan. I have no travel skills..never booked a holiday..barely booked a taxi!...I decided because of the cost of the flights (I am in UK) I should make it as long a trip as I dare considering my lack of general life skills and it being alone.( I was still trying to book accommodation just hours before I flew!)...Anyway..I got there...I stayed the first week in Tokyo at 3 different hotels...so as to take in the concert date..Then headed south to Kagoshima making my way back to Tokyo via Kumamoto, Hiroshima and Kyoto. To then spend the last few days in Tokyo before heading home. In that first week in Tokyo I stayed in Shibuya, Ariake and Ueno..Shibuya as I wanted to be close to the famous Scramble Crossing. And within range of other sites I wanted to visit...Ariake to be close to the concert venue (Tokyo Garden Theater).Then Ueno to be close to other sites I wanted to visit and being reasonably close to Toyko Station for my Shinkansen connection to Kagoshima...On my return to Tokyo I stayed in Kanda..I felt it would be idea for access to places I wanted to visit once more before heading home...I pretty much walked EVERYWHERE..I rarely used the subway..only using it in the last few days so make sure I could fit in those second visit sites because of the then time restraints...But again..only when it was nessesary...Like getting out west to Kichijoji. When in Shibuya I walked to and through to Shinjuku..And also walking to Soshido and down to Gotokuji temples and back to Shibuya..On transfer day..I walked from Shibuya to Hie Shrine (with my all my luggage) on to Tokyo Tower, then the Shin Gozilla statue via a cake shop in Shinbashi.Then on to a hidden shrine in Tsukuda...By then I was pretty pooped!..So caught a bus to my hotel in Ariake.

[@sojournchris]

I am so sorry to hear about your partner. I am glad you had an amazing experience. Japan is truly something else as tourism is concerned. I also like to walk everywhere:) ... just more fun and you get to see some really interesting stuff you'd otherwise miss.

[@CarolCruzsailormendi]

On my husband's 3rd anniversary of his passing. Somehow, I knew it would be a way ti overcome grief. I wish you fortitude, peace and many beautiful travels !!

[@Bodneyblue]

@@CarolCruzsailormendi Thank You Carol.....I really didn't do the trip justice..as some days my depression took over and put pay to enjoying what I should have....Not being a very confident person just getting to Japan was a miracle in itself...Now it seems like it was just a dream and the reality of being alone again has kicked back in and I have been struggling..I wish so much to return to Japan as I have not felt as alive as I did as I when there since losing my partner....Even if I did no much more than just walk about..It was such a breath of fresh air. ..being somewhere I had only seen on tv or YT...I watch alot of LIVE cams of places in Japan and find it surreal to think I have actually been to these places and stood in front of those very cameras! (waving like an idiot to no-one but myself)..Anyway..I'm waffling..Thank you for your kind words..And I hope you to find solace in your life..All the best.

[@talon310calif]

Japan is a wonderful place to visit. I'm glad you found joy in traveling alone. I travel alone often and I enjoy it very much. Japan is a safe place for solo travelers.

[@Fruzzle34]

Really nicely produced and helpful thank you

[@pinoi78]

My first time in Japan last year I had hotels in Ueno and Shiodome. LOVED IT. I’m going back in a few weeks and planning to stay in Ikebukuro and (hopefully) the Tokyo Station Hotel. I can’t wait.

[@sojournchris]

Sounds amazing! Let me know how the Tokyo station hotel is like :). Have an amazing time!

[@ririeranggasari]

I visit japan twice a year before the pandemic and I agree with these. Asakusa is my #1 tho because mostly I come in thru NRT. The Toei Asakusa line gets me to/from the airport & shinagawa if I need to use the Tokaido shinkansen, and the Metro Ginza line takes me wherever I need ^^. Cant wait to be back this fall

[@nancydinucci6834]

I love your enthusiasm about Tokyo. It would be so fun if I went there and you happen to be there and I could meet you. I’m probably gonna go in the beginning of May of this year 2024 Last Minute but that’s what I like sometimes it’ll be my first trip there Thanks so much for sharing the info and your enthusiasm.

[@CarolCruzsailormendi]

Hello ! Thank You, thank You, thank You ! I'm a first timer in Japan, traveling from Kyoto, currently staying in Izu Península. I was really scared about Tokyo, and very confused on where to stay, but thanks to your advice I'm totally going for Shinagawa! As soon as I saw tour video I was able to book a very good priced hotel for my 2 final nights in Japan :) Thank You again !! You helped a very scared mexican traveler

[@sojournchris]

Glad to help :) ill be following my own advice and staying in shinagawa also in a few weeks lol. Enjoy your travel!!

[@touristtea6076]

Wonderful detail! Planning my first trip to Japan! Thanks

[@sojournchris]

I am jealous ;x first trip is always the best! Have an amazing time!

[@touristtea6076]

@@sojournchris Looking forward to it! Thanks!

[@EkibenExpress]

Great video, I never looked at staying in the shinagawa area before

[@saluchia8934]

Thank you so much for all the videos and info! I’m planning my first trip to Japan in September so your videos have been super helpful.

[@sojournchris]

My pleasure :). First trip is always super exciting!

[@manojfernando1028]

Best place to visit JAPAN

[@MrPawn100]

Very helpful, thank you very much!

[@LanLe-uf5mi]

Thank you! So helpful. We are going July flying into Haneda. We will stay in Shinjuku for a few days then heading to Osaka and Kyoto and heading back. Will take your recommendations on our end stay for Tokyo!

[@sojournchris]

Awesome:)!! Have an amazing trip!

[@2901gagandeep]

Great information.

[@malousamson8039]

Amazing job Chris !!! This is a very informative video 👍🏻 Thank you for all the details - Wow 👏🏻 I will definitely keep all these tips in mind the next time I go to Tokyo 😊😊😊

[@sojournchris]

Thank you Malou :) !! Me too, I look forward to returning!

[@andrewgraham4372]

I’m planning a trip to Tokyo for later on in the year. Your video is informative and very useful, congratulations on the great work. I never thought about staying in Shinagawa so I’ll definitely check out the accommodation choices.

[@sojournchris]

Thank you sir, more content is on the way :)

[@blade1535]

I prefer around Ginza, Shimbashi and Tokyo area. Yes Ginza can be a bit dearer but there’s plenty of cheaper hotels. I have a stayed at Asakusa, Shinagawa, Shinjuku, Shiodome, Meguro, Ginza, Shiba Park. I’m generally a single or couple traveller.

[@IXIBankaiIXI]

Just bought myself and some friends our tickets a little over a week ago! Going to be out there for two weeks in August. So excited! I've been loving all the research I've had to do to prepare for this trip. I truly cannot put into words what it's like finally being able to realize my dream of going to Japan, and with friends! Your information is extremely useful. Thank you!

[@sojournchris]

Have an incredible time! If you remember, I'd love to hear about it when you return :)

[@stevetuckey]

Great video!

[@VK_Moudgalya]

Exceptional articulations, less BS and more content. Loved it and THANKS for the info, very helpful indeed. Cheers- VK👍😊✈

[@box-X-G]

Amazing place... ~~ Tokyo.

[@gene9537]

I liked your video, and how you pointed places out on the maps. I have a couple questions though. First I have heard from other videos that there are some affordable hotels around the Tokyo sky tree, and am wondering how true that is. Secondly I was wondering if you have any videos of Hakodate? I really want to visit Hokkaido, especially Hakodate.

[@sojournchris]

Nothing on Hokkaido yet but I take requests ;). I would happily go and check it out if you'd like some up to date info on Hakodate.

[@japantravel001]

Tokyo is complicated, so it's hard until you get used to it😄💦 It helped me a lot 😄

[@sojournchris]

Very true.. don't be intimidated and just do it :) it will all make sense once you get hands on lol!!

[@noodlefankennedy6334]

Recently subscribed to your channel. Awesome content and hopefully you can answer some of my questions: 1. My family of 7 will be arriving in Japan Haneda Airport on December 22, 2023 and we are planning to stay in Japan until December 29, 2023 and then fly to South Korea until Jan 5, 2024, please advise on how we should dress during this time period. 2. We are planning on staying in APA Hotel Asakusabashi Ekimae(1-chōme-27-9 Asakusabashi, Taito City, Tokyo 111-0053) for a total of $2180, and would like to know if this place is a good place to stay centrally to visit Shinjuku, Shibuya, Sumida, Sensoji Temple and other point of interest. Is this a good place to stay? I was also looking at Shinigawa but wasn't sure on an affordable hotel for a group of 7

[@sojournchris]

1. Dress warm. It can be surprisingly cold late December in Tokyo, especially at night. I remember the first time I went in December and it was reading 10 degrees Celsius on the big clock at Shinjuku Station but it felt like -5 Celsius in Canada. Humidity makes both warm and cold weather more miserable lol. Layers are key so you can feel comfortable during the day and have something extra to stay cozy at night. 2. Your hotel is very convenient to explore Sensoji Temple because you are near the Toei Asakusa line which you can take to Asakusa Station and its a few minutes walk from there. For Shinjuku and Shibuya its not that convenient to be honest. You can take the Toei Asakusa line until you connect with the Ginza line at Nihombashi Station (3 stops from your station) and then take the Ginza line all the way to Shibuya. You can also connect to the Yamanote Line at Shimbashi Station (6 stops from your station) at which point you are on the main loop I am talking about in the video so you can reach all the hotspots in Tokyo. You are looking at around 35-40min one way of travel time. That being said, you already mentioned cost for 7 people is an important factor. All things considered staying in Asakusa is probably as good a deal as any in Tokyo.

[@noodlefankennedy6334]

Thank you very much for your quick response. My Family really appreciates it. Keep up the great content!!!@@sojournchris

[@noodlefankennedy6334]

Another question with regards to traveling to Shinjuku from our hotel. When i used google map it says to use the Chūō-Sōbu Line from the Asakusabashi Station and it will be only one train. We are not planning on getting the JR Pass but just purchase the Welcome Suica Card or use the digital Suica which we can purchase via iPhone. Can you tell me the difference between the direction you provided and what is google map is indicating. I value the locals opinion more since you know the best route. Thank you again.@@sojournchris

[@sojournchris]

My apologies I should have asked about the JR Pass. That is the main benefit of using the JR lines because the cost is included under the JR Pass. They have stopped selling Suica Cards due to a chip shortage so if your phone supports digital Suica you are fine. You can always buy the actual tickets too and they are currently upgrading the machines to allow for CC tap in some places. You are absolutely right, I didn't see the Chuo-Sobu Line stops at Asakusabashi :). There is no difference and that is definitely more convenient in terms of not having to transfer trains but the distance is still going to take around 35 min.

[@CC-st7ob]

I am planning my Tokyo trip for Feb 2024 as early as now and where to stay in Tokyo will always be a (fun) challenge. Your video has been very helpful. Do I have to choose a hotel that is near the stations in that circle Yamanote line? I am planning to do day trips from Tokyo, so which area would you recommend? Also, finding a triple room is so hard. More power to your channel. Cheers!

[@sojournchris]

You don't have to pick a hotel close to a station. Tokyo is an incredibly walkable city. If you are willing to walk 10-15 from a station or subway it will open up an insane amount of options for you and also some cost savings due to convenience. For days trips around shinagawa or Tokyo station are best if you need access to the bullet train. If you want to do more local day trips find out where they are. A lot of the near Tokyo options are on the Chuo line which means you can stay closer to Shinjuku. As far as triple rooms are concerned space always comes at a premium in Japan. Airbnb might offer some better options as far as renting a full apartment or condo so just shop around and compare and contrast. Cheers and have fun!!!

[@edmundvelasquez5027]

Thank you very much Chris for a very helpful and informative video. Now, would you recommend staying in Grand Prince Shin?

[@sojournchris]

Absolutely! Grand Prince Shin Takanawa is an excellent hotel. You would be hard pressed to find a 4* hotel in Tokyo that wouldn't have 5* service, cleanliness and awesome amenities. If im not mistaken that hotel also has shuttle bus service that will make life easier with luggage. But don't shoot the messenger on that one lol ... my memory might not be exact. Will have to return to Tokyo swiftly to find out ;×!

[@mizzcachon]

Thank you so much for the informative video! I am going to tokyo soon and have so much trouble of where i should stay but i found my answer! However can you list a few airbnb or hostels around the station? I can’t seem to find any that less than 15mins walk 😢

[@sojournchris]

15 min sounds about right as they are a few blocks past the station.

[@gmcclement]

Very nice and useful videos Christian. I lived in Yokohama in 2018/19 and am looking to return to Japan shortly. Your videos have given me some nice reminders of things to see and ways to get around. Are you based out of Calgary?

[@sojournchris]

Thank you and yes, I am in YYC.

[@erikpadilla9518]

@christianirl do you recommend spending New years in Tokyo, Osaka or Kyoto ?

[@sojournchris]

You ask an incredibly compelling question. I am going to admit my answer is very bias for this one. It has to be Tokyo for me. Tokyo has everything you may want as far as new years is concerned. Every district has a unique vibe and energy which is especially accentuated during such a celebration. It really depends what you are after. I would probably blend Kyoto and Osaka together due to how close they are to one another and you could potentially do both given the 15 min Shinkansen ride. I would imagine new years will be pretty rowdy in Osaka and a bit more quiet in Kyoto with both offering a potentially more organic experience then Tokyo. But even so Tokyo is my answer. It's the ultimate hybrid experience, jack of all trades but master of more than just one ;).

[@erikpadilla9518]

@@sojournchris thank you for the insight. I will stick to the plan! Let go Tokyo !

[@stephenGDL]

Hi Chris just came across your video, so very concise and right up my alley! May I ask, I plan to stay only in Toky for 2-3 nights before flying out again. Hoping for a area with decent accomodation private room and bathroom under $40, good to decent food, nice friendly people since I dont speak and somethings to do for the short stay. Easy to and from Narita, which city/area would you suggest? Place where I wont feel super lonely being solo, seeing and eating with large groups as a solo traveler is sometimes difficult for me to handle. Thanks!

[@sojournchris]

If you want a nice friendly organic experience for around $40 USD a night it will have to be Ueno/Asakusa area. You will have to poke around all the sites for some deals booking/expedia/airbnb etc. I also recommend this part because its easy to get to from Narita. Ueno is a major train station and the Skyliner express train and the local trains will stop there. As far as the feeling lonely thing, I gotta be honest with you my friend. Even if the Japanese people are very warm and kind, they are also very shy. If you speak a little Japanese it will be a lot easier to break the ice and chat with the locals. If not, you can try to join some group activities that focus on learning some English and then its kind of a given that they will want to chat in English with you :). Have an INSANE time and don't stress, Tokyo is the coolest city!

[@stephenGDL]

@@sojournchris This is such a treat you gave me such a warm welcoming reply with additional details to get this going for me! Thank you! May I ask one more, I found a few $45-50'ish small airbnb's private entire place to myself and watched a youtube (thanks to you telling me about NEX), how to get from Narita to Shinjuku. You would still suggest Ueno/Askusa over Shinjuku? Just some good eats and things to keep myself occupied for that short stay. Also want to minimize traveling or thinking too much, just a one stop to see how I enjoy Japan this trip. I'm excited! Thank you again!

[@sojournchris]

Shinjuku would be my personal choice over Asakusa. Asakusa is a more traditional and organic setting with Sensoji temple nearby. Shinjuku is modern, big energy and a hotspot for nightlife. Depends what you enjoy more I guess.

[@harrylee2696]

I checked the google map about shinagawa to shinjuku take 40 -50 minute train. Is it right? Thanks!

[@sojournchris]

If you take the yamanote line from shinagawa station to Shinjuku station it's about 18min

[@mikeymikes6869]

I'm coming to Tokyo in May. Still can't decide between Ginza, Shibuya and Akasaka (mitsuke). What are your thoughts about Akasaka

[@sojournchris]

Akasaka is a nice high end place to stay but you will need to use the metro to get around. I would go with Ginza if you want the high end neighborhood feel as its within walking distance of Tokyo station which will give you lots of transportation options. If you are staying primarily in Tokyo though and don't need to get out too often for day trips with the bullet train, Shibuya is also a better option than Akasaka. You are right in the action there and you can basically walk to Harajuku and even Shinjuku.

[@mikeymikes6869]

@@sojournchris I meant Shinjuku (not Shibuya). Is it true night life in Ginza is not as lively as compared to Shinjuku and Roponggi? I consider Akasaka since it has a bit of night life and at the same not as busy. I'm so confused. T_T

[@sojournchris]

Shinjuku and Roppongi are definitely hot spots for nightlife and if that's what you are interested in I would recommend Shinjuku. This is just my personal preference. Roppongi also has a ton of bars and nightlife and is close to Akasaka but I find Roppongi a bit sketch. I like the touristy vibes of Shinjuku. Plus with Shinjuku you can get to Shibuya quickly where you can find, from what I'm told, some pretty cool clubs and bars as well.

[@mikeymikes6869]

@@sojournchris thanks for the input. You’re awesome!

[@chrisp5736]

Excellent video Christian. :) I completely agree with your 1st choice. I have been to Tokyo many times, funnily enough my first stay was at the Shinagawa Prince. Since then I usually stay either in Hamamatsucho or Tamachi - I much prefer the simplicity of the smaller JR stations and their corresponding subway stations. As you touch on, its a quieter Prefecture, and an hours walk in Tokyo to get back to your hotel is no big deal. As you no doubt know, you can find many wonderful things in the side streets - shrines, Izakaya etc. I'm due back this July, its been too long.

[@sojournchris]

I haven't tried staying in Hamamtsu yet, hmm will have to give that a shot next time. Any places you recommend? Fully agree on the walking, I prefer walking everywhere, you see so much cool stuff. Cheers, have fun on your return!

[@chrisp5736]

Well, I generally travel alone, so I'm not fussy and tend towards the business style hotels. Smallish but clean rooms, somewhere to sleep. I generally use the APA Hotels or Sotetsu Fresa Inns, depending upon availability. Shibaura Island is good too - there are plenty of restaurants and a few nice gardens to relax in. Theres a nice lake garden east of Hamamatsucho Station, though its name eludes me for now.

[@suliaw6174]

​@@chrisp573615:12

[@TwoMiceOnMyBookshelf]

Question: If we have an event to go to at Minato City, is it a good idea to stay in Shibuya? We are mature travellers who have never been to Tokyo or Japan. Our focus is more grastronomy, history, art, nature, and shopping I suppose.... Thanks for an informative video!

[@sojournchris]

That would depend on how many days the event is. If it is just one day I would go ahead and stay in Shibuya. Otherwise, you would have to consider how worth it is to commute 40 min one way every day to get to the event. That being said, I understand your dilemma because Harajuku is my favorite place on earth and is part of Shibuya City :). Your interests are in line with everything Shibuya has to offer so if you don't mind the inconvenience of getting to your event I would stay there.

[@mrsong9496]

Hi what is the best Ic card to use suica/pasmo? destinations are: Tokyo, Shibuya, Akihabara, Yokohama?

[@sojournchris]

They are basically the same thing. Suica is managed by Japan Rail and Pasmo by other companies who elude me right now. Functionality wise they do the same thing. I believe suica has a higher initial minimum charge which is 1500 yen but you will definitely load more than $10 on that card so not an issue for me personally. When/if you return the card suica will deduct 220 yen from your remaining balance but not charge you anything if you have less than that on the card. I believe Pasmo doesn't have this fee. Personally I always get suica even though I don't like green that much... LoL.

[@ankushnischal2498]

How is the location of APA Hotel Roponggi six ?

[@sojournchris]

That will work. You are pretty close to a couple metro stations which should give you access to the rest of the hotspots around Tokyo.

[@ankushnischal2498]

We have 4 days in Tokyo. We wish to cover Shibuya sky, team lab, disney sea, senso ji temple, yoyogi park, symphony sunset cruise. If you can share these place in sequence

[@sojournchris]

Make sure to book some of this stuff in advance. It's really hard to get tickets on the fly for something like Shibuya Sky for example. I guess it depends when you get tickets across your 4 days. Cruise and team lab are in the same part of town, Shibuya Sky and yoyogi are in the same part of town. Disney sea will probably take a full day just cuz the lines there can get crazy. Sensor ji is also a place that will probably at least take half a day. The rest can be as long or as short as you want them. For example Shibuya sky can be a quick 30 min up take your photos and then head back down across the famous crossing and into the nightlife district. Yoyogi, you can spend a few hours there or you can walk through the full park in an hour and go do something else. Really depends. I think 4 days is reasonable to see it all without rushing too much.

[@joelyisdoingherbest]

Thoughts about Minato-ku? Traveling to Tokyo with my two young adult children and my son made the reservation at Shiba Park. Flying into Narita. Are we going to be easily accessible to everything from there? TIA!

[@sojournchris]

Your son made an excellent choice. Minato-ku is a great place to stay. It looks like that hotel is very close to Hamamatsucho station which means you can get quick access to the Yamanote line and you have your pick of Shinagawa or Tokyo Station if you want to get out of Tokyo for some day trips with the bullet trains. Tokyo tower is nearby and I remember that part of town having a lot of cool organic restaurant options. It is especially gorgeous at night. Don't forget to check out the International Trade building observatory which is immediately beside the train station. Very nice views from there and usually not nearly as crowded as other observatories. If you are using the JR Passes, the Narita Express is covered by the pass. So if you are able to activate the passes in accordance with your itinerary when you arrive at the airport you can travel in style for free (well not free but you know what I mean :D). At Tokyo station jump on the Yamanote Line (also covered by the JR Pass) and a couple stops over is Hamamatsucho. Have fun, its going to be a blast!

[@joelyisdoingherbest]

@@sojournchris Thank you so much for your response!! This amazing!! I appreciate all this information! By the way, the 3D map you used was extremely helpful!! I’ll be checking out your other videos 😊

[@davidphu7403]

Planning trip to Tokyo this October. Feeling very overwhelming planning this. Our target is Tokyo , Osaka and Kyoto, is 12 days enough? Family of 4,should we airbnb or hotel? Just subbed and add to like to watch again later.

[@sojournchris]

That is a loaded question. My apologies for the incoming essay. If this is your first trip don't even worry about trying to squeeze in as much as possible into your itinerary because there is a point where you are trading value for stress and its just not worth it. In my opinion Japan is one of those places you will always return to whether its the very next year or further down the road. If 12 days is the amount of time you can take off for vacation then absolutely its enough to get some of the must see highlights in the areas you listed. If I had 12 days to work with, I would break the itinerary down like this: Tokyo (3-4) days. Make a list of the top 3 districts in Tokyo you absolutely must visit. Within each of those places select 2-3 things you want to do during the daytime. Keep in mind the sun sets relatively early in Japan (compared to where I live anyway) at around 5:30pm in October. Also pick a couple things to do in the evening. I would spend 3 days hitting up all the major destinations like Shibuya/ Harajuku, Shinjuku and Asakusa. I personally feel Akihabara is extremely underwhelming and almost everything you can do there is available everywhere else in Tokyo. Keep your 4th day as a flex day that you can move around and hopefully, if lucky, match up with some clear weather to view MT. Fuji. I would personally choose Lake Kawaguchiko for this purpose as Hakone can be insanely busy with crowded buses and things that will stress out the family... hell it stressed me out and I always travel solo. If MT. Fuji doesn't pan out you have an extra day to catch up on things you wanted to do or have a plan B for a spare. If some of your family members are small kids, you can break up some of the high energy crowd surfing in the busy/popular areas with a nice park. Yoyogi across from Harajuku Station, Shinjuku Gyoen National Gardens etc. Osaka and Kyoto (6-7) days. I would spend at most 3 days in Kyoto. Some people say you need a minimum of 5 days there but in my opinion once you see the Golden Pavilion, Kiyomizu-dera, Fushimi Inari and Arashiyama its a lot of the same. The other 4 days is going to be the hard part. If you are using a JR pass you have so many daytrip options in the area that are interesting. You can do half a day in Himeji and stop for an evening meal in Kobe on your return. Nara is also a fan favorite for the deer park, some of the nature hikes and mochi! Osaka itself is massive as you probably already know. Endless food opportunities around Dotombori, Osaka Castle, the Osaka Aquarium etc. You can spend 2 days in Osaka or the remaining 4 depending on what you value more between the daytrips and what Osaka has to offer. Spare (1) day. Always keep 1 day open. Unforeseen things can extend your commute times or you might find something so incredibly amazing you just have to check it out. As far as accommodations are concerned. In the past I would have definitely recommended airbnb. If you find an amazing option with airbnb by all means go with that. However, because travel to Japan is nowhere near what it was pre-covid, the hotels are offering some unreal prices these days to attract tourists back. You can sometimes get 4-5* hotels for unbelievable deals and of course the added amenities they have to offer including a front desk that almost certainly will have English speaking staff. For that reason, currently I am leaning more towards the hotel option for 2023. Also keep in mind Kyoto is only 15 min by train from Osaka so if you find way better prices in Osaka its not unreasonable to take the bullet train to Kyoto for your 3 days there. I have certainly done this in the past. Anyway hope this is a good starting point : )! Enjoy your trip and don't stress too much!

[@davidphu7403]

@@sojournchris OMG. Thank you SO MUCH for your time . Appreciate your effort and will note every point . Thanks again .

[@mementomori29231]

@@sojournchristhank you

[@hollish5915]

You mentioned that the Narita Express goes at all three areas. Does it go to Ueno?

[@sojournchris]

The Narita Express does not stop at Ueno that was a mistake. There is an express train that does called the Keisei Skyliner. Good catch :) !

[@uwishiwasu]

It’s a small city believe me, someone who’s lived here 25 years

[@emaij]

What do you think of roppongi?

[@sojournchris]

I am personally not a fan. Found it a bit shady at night but we are talking japan shady not US shady lol. Just didn't like the vibe. I like the scene in Shibuya. Roppongi is a very prominent night life district and there are some very rich neighborhoods around there so it is pretty popular with others though.

[@emaij]

@@sojournchris Thank you! Only asking because I have points at Hyatt and the Grand Hyatt seems to be the only Hyatt offering rooms on points. Otherwise would not be looking there. We are heading to Japan Nov. Myself with my wife, 11 yo, and 15 yo.

[@sojournchris]

Hard to argue with a deal at the Hyatt especially in Japan where service levels are already top tier. Have a wonderful time!

[@edtravelbug]

I still cannot believe I came across this video. One of the best how to find the right city location videos I have ever seen. We are actually going to stay in the Shinjuku area on our initial few days but now that it is clear the different experiences you can have we booked the return hotel in Shinagawa. Your video had my mind saying we want to stay in Shinjuku the first time because we do not want to venture out into any day trips and strictly want to experience downtown/core Tokyo with as much sensory overload as possible. Then we spend 10 days outside Tokyo in other cities before coming back and being able to enjoy the peace and better hotel choices in Shinagawa. Well also I have Hilton Points I can partially use for the Hilton Hotel in Shinjuku with an automatic room upgrade so that also helped make this decision. Once again thanks and WOW on this awesome video.

[@sojournchris]

Thank you, glad it was of use to you :)! Enjoy your trip, it's going to be glorious.

[@uwishiwasu]

THE HAMACHO stay here

[@talon310calif]

I love staying by Tokyo station. Direct bus and train routes from narita airport. Tokyo station for shinkansen, Jr local trains and 5 subway lines nearby. The best way to get from Narita airport to Tokyo station is via tyo cheap bus. 1300 yen and no battles getting your bags onboard like trains. The bus takes the same time as trains. Less than half the price. Wifi on bus. Super easy

[@ahmetyanik]

🎯 Key Takeaways for quick navigation: 10:23 🍣 Ginza is close to the famous Fish Market and Akihabara, Tokyo's hub for anime and electronics. 10:50 🏨 Bueno offers budget-friendly accommodation options and is family-friendly with attractions like Tokyo Skytree and Sensoji Temple. 11:31 🚄 Staying in Bueno also provides easy access to Tokyo Station for day trips and Akihabara for gaming and anime entertainment. 12:55 🌸 Shinjuku offers a wide range of activities, including the stunning Shinjuku Goan National Gardens, especially beautiful in spring. 14:07 🍹 The area is rich in diverse eating and drinking experiences, from mini bars in Golden Gai to the upscale Lost in Translation bar at the Park Hyatt.

[@sojournchris]

One thing to add, if you want to go to the Park Hyatt book in advance online. They have alternating days for what type of things they host and there is a dress code as well.

[@Onyx-Rose150]

While I got some decent info the presentation style made it hard to follow. While you're still finding things on the maps you miss chunks of what he says next.

[@jaymeez]

I watched your Osaka video as well as this one and I think you spend too much time discussing and focusing your preferences around the bullet train. Most people are not going to use that expensive transportation option.

[@sojournchris]

When these videos were made the JR pass was significantly less expensive and the bullet train was by far the most cost efficient way to explore Japan :). But I agree with you, now that the JR pass is 70% more expensive it is probably not ideal for most travelers unless you have an incredibly active itinerary. That being said, I would still recommend being near major transportation hubs to make travel easier despite the bullet train being more expensive now.

[@kingmak2233]

Shinagawa, 品川区 Asukusa, 浅草 Shinjuku, 新宿区

[@pres002]

You're not even there lol pass

[@sojournchris]

That is a very interesting take. Would you care to elaborate why my opinion on a tourist destination is invalid if I am not a Japanese citizen? I have been there 3 times in the last half year alone and an innumerable amount of times over the last decade. I feel my opinion on this city is not only well informed but Tokyo is basically my 2nd home at this point. Thanks for watching.

[@towada1066]

Unless necessary I avoid the city centers and stay in the towns on the Tozai Line: Kameido, Monzen-nakacho.

[@marcelo4495]

👍🏻👍🏻🇧🇷🇧🇷