Hello fellow travelers,
I’m embarking on my very first trip to Japan in just a couple of days! It’s been a dream of mine for ages, and I can hardly contain my excitement to dive into this adventure.
A bit about me:
* I’m 28 and thrilled to indulge in Japanese cuisine, especially when it comes to trying new and unique dishes!
* I have a soft spot for technology, Pokemon, Doraemon, Shin Chan, and all things Disney.
* My travel goals are a mix of relaxation, exploration, and maybe even stepping out of my comfort zone for some new experiences.
Here’s a rundown of my itinerary so far:
**Osaka (May 8th-10th):**
* Touching down in Namba on the 8th.
* Planning visits to Osaka Castle and Dotombori on the 9th, with room for more suggestions on must-see spots!
* On the 10th, I’ll be sending my luggage ahead to Kyoto and taking a detour to Nara.
**Kyoto (May 11th-14th):**
* Settling near Gion and aiming to explore Fushimi Inari Shrine, Kiyomizu-dera Temple, Kinkaku-ji Temple, Nijo Castle, and the Imperial Palace. Any tips on optimizing my time and must-visit places are highly appreciated!
* Departing for Tokyo on the 14th, either by Shinkansen or from KIX airport.
**Tokyo (May 14th-23rd):**
* Nestled in Ginza near the station.
* My interests span from Street Mario Kart, TeamLabs Borderless, and Pokemon Centers & Cafes to DisneySea or Land, a potential Mt. Fuji day trip, dives into Akihabara, Shibuya, Shinjuku, the Nintendo Store, Doraemon escapades, the Harry Potter Studio, Tokyo Tower, and Skytree. Any additional recommendations are warmly welcomed!
**Onsen Adventure:**
* Contemplating a side trip to Hakone for a serene soak in a traditional Japanese onsen. Wondering if a day visit suffices or if an overnight stay is advisable.
**Getting Around:**
* Seeking budget-friendly and efficient transportation options, including taxi apps and other useful apps.
**Feeling a Little Overwhelmed:**
* My itinerary feels jam-packed, and I fear I might miss out on some relaxation and enjoyment. Any insights on prioritizing activities and ensuring a well-rounded experience are gold!
**Nightlife in Tokyo:**
* As a first-time solo traveler, I’d love pointers on diving into Tokyo’s nightlife scene and connecting with fellow adventurers.
**General Advice:**
* Any pearls of wisdom for a newbie in Japan to unwind, have a blast, and squeeze every drop of joy out of this trip?
**Bonus Points:**
* If you know any hidden gem vegetarian restaurants or must-try Japanese vegetarian dishes, I’m all ears!
Thanks a million in advance for your invaluable advice and recommendations!
by wildwildcoaster