Planning a trip to Japan but not sure where to start? Whether you’re visiting for the first time or returning to explore somewhere new, you’re in the right place. Living in Japan has given me the opportunity to explore destinations across the country, from iconic cities and historic landmarks to quieter towns and tropical islands. Drawing from these firsthand experiences, I’ve created this collection of detailed itineraries, destination guides, and practical travel tips to help you plan your trip with confidence.
Below, you can explore my most popular travel guides for Japan – or browse all of my posts by destination.
POPULAR GUIDES | TOKYO | MT FUJI | KYOTO & OSAKA | HIROSHIMA | KYUSHU | OKINAWA | JAPAN TRAVEL TIPS | LIVING IN JAPAN
POPULAR TRAVEL GUIDES
3 Days in Kyoto: The Perfect Itinerary for First Timers
Explore Kyoto in 3 days with this itinerary for first time visitors – iconic temples, lantern-lit streets, and hidden gems included!
Tokyo 4 Day Itinerary: An Epic Guide for First-Time Visitors
First trip to Japan? This Tokyo 4 day itinerary covers it all – top sights, cultural highlights, and foodie spots you won’t want to miss.
10 Day Japan Itinerary For First Timers: Tokyo, Kyoto & Osaka
Planning your first trip to Japan? This 10 day Japan itinerary is just what you need – destinations, attractions, and transportation included!
Christmas Markets In Japan: A Review Of The Most Festive Spots in 2026
Visiting Japan for the holidays? Here are my firsthand reviews of the most popular Christmas markets in Japan, plus tips on which to choose!
The 7 Hells of Beppu: Which Ones Are Worth It & How to Visit
Planning to visit the 7 Hells of Beppu? This complete guide covers all the logistics plus insight on which hells are actually worth visiting.
9 Incredible Places to Visit in Japan for First Timers
Traveling to Japan for the first time? Then be sure to add these incredible destinations to your itinerary!
TOKYO & KANTO TRAVEL GUIDES
Is Shibuya Sky Worth It? What to Expect & Honest Review
Wondering if Shibuya Sky is worth visiting? Discover what to expect and get practical advice to help you decide if it’s right for you.
Asakusa Sumo Club Review: Inside Tokyo’s Famous Sumo Dinner Show
Is the Asakusa Sumo Club worth it? Read my review to find out if this sumo dinner show in Tokyo is right for you!
Tokyo 4 Day Itinerary: An Epic Guide for First-Time Visitors
First trip to Japan? This Tokyo 4 day itinerary covers it all – top sights, cultural highlights, and foodie spots you won’t want to miss.
Yokohama Itinerary: An Easy 1-Day Trip from Tokyo
This 1 day Yokohama itinerary has it all! From attractions and food to transportation, here’s how to plan the perfect day trip from Tokyo!
How to Get to Japan’s Snow Monkey Park from Tokyo: A Complete Guide
Wondering how to get to the Snow Monkey Park from Tokyo? This complete guide outlines everything you need to know and more!
The Harry Potter Studio Tour in Tokyo: What to Expect (My Honest Review + Tips)
Is the Harry Potter Studio Tour in Tokyo worth it? Read my honest review with tips, highlights, and what to expect from your visit!
MOUNT FUJI TRAVEL GUIDES
Where to Stay in Kawaguchiko: Best Areas and Hotels Near Mt. Fuji
Not sure where to stay in Kawaguchiko? Discover the best areas near Mt. Fuji, plus my top hotel & ryokan recommendations for every travel style.
Fuji Five Lakes Itinerary: A Relaxed 3-Day Mount Fuji Road Trip
Hoping to see Mt. Fuji? This 3-day Fuji Five Lakes itinerary is packed with stunning views, scenic lakes, charming towns, and hidden gems.
Mt. Fuji Tours from Tokyo: Are They Worth It? (+ My Experience)
Wondering if a tour from Tokyo to Mt Fuji is worth it? Read about my firsthand experience and get tips for choosing the right one.
La Vista Fuji Kawaguchiko Review: Is This the Best Hotel Near Mt. Fuji?
Get a firsthand look at La Vista Fuji Kawaguchiko, from the views of Mt. Fuji to the private open-air baths, guest rooms, amenities, and more.
The Best Views of Mount Fuji: 9 Must-See Spots In Fujigoko
Looking for the best views of Mount Fuji? Explore 9 amazing spots around the Fuji Five Lakes for iconic photos and unforgettable scenery.
KYOTO & OSAKA TRAVEL GUIDES
Uji Day Trip Itinerary (+ Is It Worth Your Time?)
Planning a day trip to Uji? Explore Byodo-in Temple, historic tea houses, and matcha – plus honest advice on whether Uji is right for you.
Where to Stay in Kyoto: Best Neighborhoods, Hotels & Ryokans
Wondering where to stay in Kyoto? Explore the best areas, from historic Gion to scenic Arashiyama, with tips for every type of traveler.
Discover teamLab Biovortex in Kyoto: A Complete Guide & Review
Headed to teamLab Biovortex in Kyoto? Here’s your all-in-one guide to the best exhibits, useful tips, and key details for planning your visit.
3 Days in Kyoto: The Perfect Itinerary for First Timers
Explore Kyoto in 3 days with this itinerary for first time visitors – iconic temples, lantern-lit streets, and hidden gems included!
Himeji Itinerary: How to Spend 1 Day in Himeji, Japan
Plan to visit Himeji on a day trip? This Himeji itinerary outlines everything you need to know – food, attractions & transportation included.
1 Day Osaka Itinerary: What I’d Do If I Only Had One Day
Only have one day in Osaka? This 1 day Osaka itinerary outlines exactly how I’d spend it with tops sights, amazing street food, and an easy-to-follow travel route.
Nara 1 Day Itinerary (With a Half-Day Option!)
Plan the perfect Nara itinerary with this detailed guide. Discover full-day and half-day options, historic temples, serene gardens, & Nara’s famous deer.
Kobe Itinerary: The Perfect Day Trip From Osaka
Can you see Kobe in one day? This Kobe itinerary shows you exactly how to make the most of a day trip from Osaka.
HIROSHIMA & CHUGOKU TRAVEL GUIDES
Discover Okunoshima: The Famous Bunny Island in Japan
Planning to visit Okunoshima Island? Here’s everything you need to know about Japan’s famous Rabbit Island!
Explore Suo-Oshima: Japan’s Spectacular Aloha Island
Interested in exploring Suo-Oshima Island? This guide outlines everything you to know about Japan’s Aloha Island!
10+ Fun Things to Do in Iwakuni, Japan (From a Local!)
Visiting Iwakuni, Japan? Here’s the ultimate list of things to do in Iwakuni – festivals and day trips included!
The Nishi-Seto Expressway: A Tour Of Japan’s Stunning Geiyo Islands
Planning a road trip along the Nishi-Seto Expressway? Here’s everything you need to know about the incredible Geiyo Islands!
2 Days in Hiroshima: An Epic Itinerary (Miyajima Island Included!)
Planning on spending 2 days in Hiroshima? Here’s the ultimate guide on what to do, where to stay, and how to get around!
How to Get to Miyajima Island (& What to Do While You’re There!)
Not sure how to get to Miyajima? This guide explains step-by-step how to travel to Miyajima Island from Tokyo, Kyoto, Osaka, and Hiroshima!
KYUSHU TRAVEL GUIDES
8 Best Day Trips From Fukuoka, Japan (Map Included!)
Looking to explore beyond Fukuoka City? Here’s the ultimate list of the best day trips from Fukuoka, Japan!
Kyushu Itinerary: 7 Days of Adventure for First Timers
Planning your first trip to Kyushu, Japan? This 7 day Kyushu itinerary has it all – destinations, attractions, and transportation included!
7+ Wonderful Things to Do in Yanagawa, Japan
Traveling to Yanagawa? Here’s the ultimate list of things to do while you’re there – seasonal events and celebrations included!
Nagasaki Day Trip: The Perfect Itinerary (With Tips + Map)
This Nagasaki day trip itinerary has it all! From attractions to food, transportation, and tours – here’s how to spend one day in Nagasaki!
The 7 Hells of Beppu: Which Ones Are Worth It & How to Visit
Planning to visit the 7 Hells of Beppu? This complete guide covers all the logistics plus insight on which hells are actually worth visiting.
Beppu Itinerary: How to See Beppu & Yufuin in 2 Perfect Days
Looking for the perfect Beppu itinerary? Here’s how to spend 2 days exploring Japan’s onsen capital, including a day trip to nearby Yufuin.
3 Days in Fukuoka: An Epic Itinerary (with Tips + Map)
This 3-day Fukuoka itinerary has it all! From attractions to restaurants, and day trips – here’s how to spend 3 days in Fukuoka.
A Huis Ten Bosch Christmas: Celebrating the Holidays in Japan’s ‘Little Holland’
Visiting Huis Ten Bosch for Christmas? Explore the festive highlights, discover seasonal events, and plan your trip with these practical tips.
OKINAWA TRAVEL GUIDES
ANA InterContinental Ishigaki Resort Review: Is It Worth the Splurge?
Thinking of staying at the ANA InterContinental Ishigaki Resort? Here’s my honest review, including what to expect and who it’s best suited for.
Ishigaki to Taketomi Island: How to Visit Okinawa’s Cultural Gem
White-sand beaches, star-shaped sand, and a traditional Ryukyu village—here’s how to plan the perfect day trip from Ishigaki to Taketomi Island.
Ishigaki Itinerary: A 3-Day Island Escape in Japan
Looking for the perfect 3 day Ishigaki itinerary? Discover the best beaches, snorkeling spots, island excursions, and travel tips.
JAPAN TRAVEL TIPS
IC Cards in Japan: Explained for First-Time Visitors
IC cards in Japan made simple. This beginner-friendly guide explains how they work, where to use them, and mistakes tourists should avoid.
Is the Japan Rail Pass Worth It In 2026? (Full Cost Breakdown + Best Alternatives)
Wondering if the Japan Rail Pass is still worth it? This guide breaks down costs, travel scenarios, and cheaper alternatives.
10 Day Japan Itinerary For First Timers: Tokyo, Kyoto & Osaka
Planning your first trip to Japan? This 10 day Japan itinerary is just what you need – destinations, attractions, and transportation included!
10 Helpful Travel Tips for Cherry Blossom Season in Japan
Hoping to visit Japan for cherry blossom season? Here are 10 helpful tips to keep in mind when planning your trip!
Christmas Markets In Japan: A Review Of The Most Festive Spots in 2026
Visiting Japan for the holidays? Here are my firsthand reviews of the most popular Christmas markets in Japan, plus tips on which to choose!
Do You Need to Know Japanese to Go to Japan? A Language Guide for Travelers
Visiting Japan but worried about the language barrier? Here’s the low-down on how much Japanese you need to know before you go to Japan!
10 Best Apps for Japan Travel (+ 5 Practical Tips)
From transit navigation to currency conversion, travel guides, and real-time translation, here are the best apps for Japan travel.
9 Incredible Places to Visit in Japan for First Timers
Traveling to Japan for the first time? Then be sure to add these incredible destinations to your itinerary!
LIVING IN JAPAN
Moving Abroad with Pets: 11+ Tips From Someone Who’s Actually Done It
Moving abroad with pets? This guide offers 11+ tips and tricks to help you navigate the process.
The 10 Best Places to Live in Japan
From Tokyo to Yokohama, Nagoya, Sapporo, and Okinawa, here’s the ultimate list of the best places to live in Japan as a foreigner!
Is Japan a Good Place to Live? 17 Pros and Cons of Living in Japan as a Foreigner
Wondering if Japan is a good place to live? Let’s dive in and explore the pros and cons of living in Japan!