This one has been a long time coming…and with so many friends adventuring to one of my now favourite countries in the world, it gave me the kick up the ass I needed to finally divulge on my amazing two-and-a-half-week trip to Japan.
Like most Japan virgins getting the map out ready to plan my route became overwhelming JAPAN IS HUGE and there is sooooo much to see. So, my first advice to you is to accept you won’t see it all (unless you’re there for 6 months you lucky thing) and think about what provoked you to go in the first place and make sure those experiences are covered. For me it was the nature and the red leaves of the season, the wacky cities of neon lights, art, food, unique music and epic street style, ancient and iconic tradition and architecture but also as an ocean-addict I was intrigued by what the beaches of Japan and the culture there was like.
Alas this took me and my travel buddy on a journey that began in Tokyo up to the peaceful, serene Japanese Alps down to magical Kyoto (with a hilarious all-nighter in Osaka too) and then off to the islands of Okinawa. I could speak about this trip for days; some have already had to listen to it but to keep this from being a 250-page novel I’ll break it down into some must-do’s. First up…Tokyo!
TOKYO
If you spent a month in Tokyo you would still find yourself entertained by its fascinating and kind people, amazing restaurants, vibrant bars and nightclubs, incredible shopping, impressive temples, gardens, arcades, art galleries. Everyone is likely to have a different experience of Tokyo depending on the season and what you as a traveller is craving.
Where to stay?
A friend of mine let me in on the secret that is Shimokitazawa and I am so happy we stayed there. Trendy coffee shops, boutique stores, tiny restaurants serving up okonomiyaki, yakitori and fragrant noodle broths as well as kooky jazz and funk bars to spend an evening grooving in. Not to mention the uber-cool locals wandering around in their perfectly styled looks. It’s an easy train into the exciting hub that is Shibuya but it so much less touristy. We stayed in a hostel for the first part of our trip but chose a homestay on the way home which I would definitely recommend doing. We stayed with the cutest Japanese guy who gave us lots of advice and even offered to teach us how to make soba noodles before our flight which was in the morning. It’s safe to say we opted for sleep as opposed to a 4am noodle class.
What to do?
As with every travel journey, this one is up to you and where your interest lies. I’m a bit of a wanderer so for me being in a city usually entails walking for hours and just seeing what I find. However there are a few things that you simply shouldn’t miss.
Witness Shibuya Crossing
You’ve no doubt seen the pics of this impressive display of road crossing in a crazy busy part of town. Sneak up to Starbucks at rush-hour for a bird’s eye view of the seemingly choreographed mayhem.
Big City Lights and Arcades
Hop on a train and head to Shinjuku for lit up streets and buildings filled with floors and floors of entertainment for gamers. My favourite was the dance mat section where you’ll find Japanese teenagers busting some serious moves on the ‘Dance Dance Revolution’ games. Addictive to watch. This is also where you’ll find those face distorting photo booths where you can dress up in cos play. The pictures made for a hilarious souvenir.
Be curious in Golden Gai
This area is famous for its rows of secret bars where you’ll be treated to some wasabi snacks and an intimate sake session with the bar tender. Most bars fit around 10 people in max, embrace your curiosity and open a door/ climb a ladder to see what you find.
Harajuku girls you’ve got the wicked style
Like all things pink, fluffy, kooky and kawaii? Harajuku is a pastel-tone Instagram heaven of wacky style and girls and boys dressed up like anime characters. There’s also a whole lot of cool cafes, trendy street-wear and vintage shops so prepare to want to drop some serious yen. Grab a window spot in a coffee shop and sip on matcha lattes while you admire the many excitingly dressed individuals walk on by.
Go out of this world with TeamLab Borderless
This was like an adult playground of light, emotive music and art combined into one. From feeling submerged in waves to wandering in an enchanted woodland forest, we were in here for 4 hours simply mesmerised by the lights and exploring the different worlds the creative crew at TeamLab had curated for us. Be sure to book tickets online a couple of days in advance!
Get down with the locals
Into your music? Take a look at Resident Advisor before arriving and check out what dj’s are playing when you’re there. If you’ve never heard of them, even better take a risk and you could end up finding a new artist you love. Like a lot of things in Japan, it is all about quality and the sound systems in the Tokyo clubs are unbelievable! I spent my birthday grooving away in Contact (in Shibuya where most clubs are) to what can only be described as Techno music scientists, I mean there were 7 people mixing at once.
Hold a note
I didn’t realise how much I loved karaoke until Japan. There are a few chains like Karaoke Kan that are reliably good with English songs to belt out and cocktails and snacks brought to you in your private booth. Pay for half an hour and I guarantee you’ll stay for two! The one in Shibuya has an epic view of the city so you can serenade the passers by on the streets below.
Where to eat?
As I’m sure you know Japan is big on the seafood so if that’s your thing you will be in heaven! This is mainly for my vegan homies but some of the places listed (eg. Gon Pai sushi) also serve up non vegan delish food. Check out my Tokyo food blog here>.
On to the alps >>>>