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Hinotori Front View We discovered the gem of Hinotori while looking for a way to travel from Osaka to Nagoya to visit a friend. It was our first experience with a premium cabin in an express train and our first trip to Nagoya. It was definitely a memorable journey, and I'd like to share some useful details below if you wish to enjoy this experience too. General Info Hinotori is a limited express train operated by Kintetsu Railway, running between Osaka Namba Station and Kintetsu Nagoya Station in Japan. This luxury train provides both standard and premium seating options, emphasizing comfort and spaciousness. Google Maps Directions from Osaka to Nagoya Station Travel Time Average travel time is about 2hr and 10mins from Osaka to Nagoya. Cost Basic fares are 2,860 yen. (Purchased Separately Online) Standard car: Add 2,130 yen for a grand total of 4,990 yen . Premium car: Add 2,830 yen for a total of 5,690 yen . Children from 6 to 11 years old: Half off the adult fare. Vending Machines On Board Features in the Hinotori Backshell Seats Lockers for Large Luggage Free Wi-Fi Multilingual Displays and Announcements Vending Machines for Coffee and Souvenirs Bench Area Multipurpose Restroom Outlets Inside View of Premium Cabin Premium Seats Leather Seats Electric Reclining Function Leg Rest High Deck Large Glass Windows Hinotori Coffee & Ekiben Fun Tip: Pick up a Hinotori "ekiben", a themed on the go lunch box, to enjoy on your journey. Inside the Hinotori Ekiben Booking Steps We purchased our tickets online, on the Kintetsu Railways website for a ticketless service. Here a breakdown below. *****How to Book Online**** Click Kintetsu Railway Reservation for Limited Express Read and Click on Click Here to buy a Limited Express Ticket Click on Start Purchase Choose Date, Time, Departure and Arrival Station Choose Osaka-Namba & Kintetsu-Nagoya Station Choose the Right Hours - Schedule found on website Choose Ltd. Exp. HINOTORI arrow and click select Select Number of Passengers Seat Type: Standard or Premium Seat Location: None Specified or Select from Seat Map Limited Express Ticket Information will be displayed Please note Total Amount is only for Limited Express Charge and Extra fee for the Premium Car Base Fare is NOT Included - I will explain below Fill in Passenger Information Fill in Credit Card Information Agree to Terms & Click Next Read Attention Click Checked the above "ATTENTION" Purchased is NOT Completed yet Check Information Entered & Click Confirm to Purchase Purchase is Complete and Email Confirmation will be sent Email will have a reservation and ticket number Board Date, Time, and Seat Number will be stated Total Amount Paid is included Email Confirmation Your email will state that you need the following things to board: The Credit Card you used for payment Your E-Ticket on your smartphone or printed A Basic Fare Ticket - This ticket must be purchase at a station and is not included in your fare purchased online. You may also purchase tickets at a Limited Express ticket counter with a Limited Express ticket at most major stations. Just be aware that Premium Seats are reserved fairly quickly and availability is not guaranteed. View Outside Window of our Premium Seat Thoughts/Conclusion The Hinotori Limited Express Train was a treat and a truly pleasing ride that I would definitely do again. And the 900 yen upgrade to the Premium cabin was absolutely worth it for the views and comfort!

JR Overnight Highway Bus from Nagoya to Tokyo Japan provides various overnight transportation options as an alternative to conventional hotel accommodations, such as overnight trains, buses, and ferries. These options merge travel and lodging into one, offering spaces where passengers can rest during long journeys! Things to Know: These options often combine transport and accommodation, saving money and time. Overnight options tend to fill up quickly, especially during peak seasons like Golden Week or cherry blossom season, so book ahead! Keep in mind, space is limited. You should double check the bag limit and pack according. Consider luggage delivery services if you want to travel more carefree. You can bring essentials like water, snacks, toiletries, and a neck pillow. Stopping at a konbini or picking up food at the station is recommended since food options may be limited on board. Expect a lot of movement or noise. If you're sensitive to this, consider bringing earplugs, an eye mask, and possibly a sleep aid. Wi-Fi is not guaranteed so download offline maps, media, and tickets beforehand. 🚢 Overnight Ferries Sunflower Ferry from Beppu to Osaka Popular Routes: Tokyo–Hokkaido, Osaka–Shikoku, Fukuoka–Osaka Cabins can range from shared sleeping areas to private cabins with beds and bathrooms. Onboard amenities might include public baths or showers, dining options such as restaurants or vending machines, as well as lounges and observation decks. Arrive 1–2 hours before departure for check-in and boarding. Consider motion sickness medication if prone to seasickness. 🚆 Overnight Trains (limited availability) Options are more limited due to many classic overnight trains being discontinued or running as luxury experiences. Tickets can be purchased directly online or in person. If you have the JR Pass consider that it only covers base fare but not cabin surcharges. Space is very limited and advanced purchase is highly recommended. Facilities can include bathrooms, showers (usually coin-operated), and vending machines. 🚌 Overnight Buses Widespread Routes: Major cities like Tokyo, Osaka, Kyoto, Hiroshima, and Sapporo. Standard seats are 3 or 4 across, limited recline. Premium seats usually can recline or have a pod-style seats with curtains for privacy. Certain buses may be designated for ladies only or have specific sections separated for them. Some bus companies offer blanket, slippers, and USB charging ports. You should arrive at least 15–30 minutes early from your boarding time because departure times are punctual. Popular companies include Willer Express, JR Bus, and VIP Liner. Some buses have onboard toilets; others stop periodically at rest areas. Pros: Cons: Cost-Effective Limited Availability Efficient Use of Time Sleep Quality Varies Unique Experience Inconvenient Schedules Flexible Options Luggage Restrictions To see our overnight stay on the Sunflower Ferry , take a look at this article.

Did you know that Tokyo alone has more than 4,200 hotels and ryokan available for visitors to choose from? In Japan, you can find accommodations that cater to every type of traveler. The amount of options can be overwhelming especially for those planning their first trip! This article will give you some helpful information and I will share my essential accommodations tips for first-time travelers to Japan. With so many unique regions and types of accommodations, it can be challenging to decide where to stay and what fits your travel style. Let's break down your options (click on the type of accommodation to see details): HOTELS/BUSINESS HOTELS A classic staple we all know! This includes a private bedroom with a private bathroom. In Japan, especially Tokyo, hotel rooms tend to be smaller. Business hotels, similar to Western-style hotels, are known for being slightly smaller yet efficient. HOSTELS/CAPSULE HOTELS A capsule hotel provides a compact private space with a bed and shared amenities to minimize expenses. Similarly, hostels may offer shared rooms containing multiple beds. RYOKAN A ryokan is a traditional Japanese accommodation similar to an inn, typically featuring rooms with tatami mats, communal baths, and a shared public area. VACATION RENTALS Vacation rentals are usually a short-term rental property listed on a platform, like Airbnb, where individuals can rent out a room or entire home to travelers. OVERNIGHT TRANSPORTATION Japan provides various overnight transportation options as an alternative to conventional hotel accommodations, such as overnight trains, buses, and ferries. These options merge travel and lodging into one, offering spaces where passengers can rest during long journeys. ⭐ General Tips to Save ⭐ Book in Advance - 3-6 months ahead Booking accommodations early is essential for a successful trip. It ensures a place to stay, often at better rates and with more options. With many online booking platforms available, travelers can easily find what they need. Location - Central, Near Station A central hotel location is essential for convenience and accessibility, enhancing the travel experience. Staying near train stations or bus terminals simplifies commuting, provides quick access to various city areas, and can potentially save you money. Compare Hotel Rates - Stay Longer for Better Rate One strategy that many savvy travelers employ is to consider extending their stay at a hotel. Often, hotels offer discounted rates for longer stays, which can lead to substantial savings. Additionally, it is important to keep an eye out for special promotions or packages that hotels might offer. Compare hotel rates across different platforms, you can uncover exclusive deals that may not be advertised directly on the hotel’s website. Hotel Reward Points Think about using hotel points you've collected from stays or credit card points to lower expenses. Select the Season or Travel Time Carefully Consider the timing of your travel. Rates can fluctuate significantly based on the season, local events, and even the day of the week. By planning your stay strategically and being flexible with your travel dates, you can maximize your savings and take advantage of lower rates. I hope this information assists you in finding the perfect accommodation at the right price and to your preferences. Please share any tips or accommodations you are interested in the comments below.

Yokohama Bay View If you're thinking of heading to Tokyo and want to do some day trips, Yokohama is a great option! It's the second biggest city in Japan and only a quick thirty-minute train ride south of Tokyo. Wondering what activities this port city has to offer? Discover Yokohama with my 12 Must-See Attractions list below. Seating & View at the SKY Garden 1) YOKOHAMA LANDMARK TOWER - $6 -15 Located within Yokohama Royal Park Hotel is the SKY Garden Observation Deck on the 69th floor. This impressive building offers a 360-degree observation area. You can purchase tickets for approximately $6 online , and it's worth exploring package options that might come with a drink and a small souvenir. Make sure to drop by the Souvenir Shop and also enjoy original cocktails, beer, and floats at SKY Café as you admire the panoramic view. 2) YOKOHAMA AIR CABIN - $7-12 A modern circular cable car links JR Sakuragichō Station and Unga Park, providing a scenic view of the city. A single journey costs approximately $7, and a return trip is priced at $12. It's a fantastic way to explore the city both day and night. Don't forget to check out combo tickets that include the following attraction below. Cosmo Clock 21 in Daylight 3) YOKOHAMA COSMO WORLD - $6-16 Family-friendly amusement park featuring a large Ferris wheel, high-speed roller coaster, and other rides. You can experience the Cosmo Clock 21, the world's largest Ferris wheel with a clock function. Rides to this ferris wheel are around $6 for a 15-minute experience, which is especially beautiful at night. You also have the option for combo tickets with the Yokohama Air Cabin at $11 for one way or $16 for a round trip. Exhibit in Cup Noodles Museum 4) CUP NOODLES MUSEUM YOKOHAMA - $3-15 Discover the innovative world of Momofuku Ando at this interactive museum dedicated to instant ramen. Design your own cup noodles at the MyCup Noodles Factory, indulge in a global noodle experience at the NOODLES BAZAAR, and handcraft ramen at the Chicken Ramen Factory (seperate fee and reservation required). Kids can also enjoy the CupNoodles park for an additional fee. Yokohama Red Brick Warehouse 5) SHOPPING!! Yokohama has plenty of malls and shoppping centers to keep you entertained. Explore Yokohama World Porters, Yokohama Hammerhead, and Yokohama Red Brick Warehouse, a converted warehouse that now serves as a shopping and cultural hub. If you are looking for suggestions on where to stay in Yokohama or Tokyo, be sure to read this blog post. View from Osanbashi Yokohama Intl. Passenger Terminal 6) OSANBASHI YOKOHAMA INTL. PASSENGER TERMINAL - Free Once a historic site for the Port of Yokohama, now is a work of art with a unique architectural design. Enjoy a 360-degree panorama of Yokohama's tourist attractions at this terminal. The rooftop is open 24/7, offering spectacular views of Yokohama and the sea. Yamashita Park Fountain 7) YAMASHITA PARK - Free Located along Yokohama's waterfront, this public park boasts beautiful landscaping and is perfect to visit while strolling between tourist attractions. Yokohama Chinatown Street View 8) YOKAHAMA CHINATOWN - Free Visit Japan's largest Chinatown! Featuring colorful streets and numerous stores, restaurants, and street vendors. Concept Car in Nissan Global Headquaters Gallery 9) NISSAN GLOBAL HEADQUATERS GALLERY - Free This car exhibition is conveniently located close to Yokohama Station, where you can view, interact with, and learn about a variety of Nissan vehicles and technologies. Explore the NISSAN BOUTIQUE for a selection of Nissan merchandise and accessories. Treat yourself to a Starbucks coffee or take part in the Car Stimulator, daily test drives offered upon reservation. Feel free to check out our YouTube video below showcasing the top 9 attractions in this article. 10) JR YOKOHAMA TOWER - Free JR Yokohama Tower is a facility connected to the west exit of JR Yokohama Station West Entrance. The complex features a four-story atrium and a rooftop plaza named "Sea-Sky Deck" on the 12th floor, providing stunning views of Yokohama Bay and Yokohama Bay Bridge. It is an ideal spot to unwind and pause for a while. Kirin Beer 11) KIRIN BREWERY YOKOHAMA FACTORY - $3 Explore the production techniques and uncover the secret behind the exquisite flavor of this Japanese beer at a spacious brewery. Experience firsthand the ingredients essential for brewing as you engage your senses through tasting, touching, and smelling. Finalize the tour by sampling the finished products (aged 20 years or older). It is advisable to make reservations in advance and be prepared for the tour to be in Japanese with an english booklet available. 12) SHIN-YOKOHAMA RAMEN MUSUEM - $1-3 In 1994, the Ramen Museum was born, becoming the first-ever Ramen-themed amusement park in the world. It's basically a one-stop shop where you can try out all kinds of delicious ramen from top-notch spots in Japan without having to hop around the country. Inside, you'll find a cool setup that looks like a street scene straight out of 1958 Japan, complete with seven ramen joints to choose from. And if you're curious, there's also an exhibition area where you can learn all about the fascinating history and cultural importance of ramen. Sunrise in Yokohama Bay CONCLUSION Yokohama, located just outside Tokyo, is a real treasure. I wish you the chance to explore this city and check off some items on this list.

Planning a trip to Japan and looking beyond Tokyo, Osaka, and Kyoto? Consider exploring Fukuoka! Situated in the southwest of Kyushu Island, Fukuoka is Japan's largest city on the island and ranks among the top ten most populous cities in Japan. Wondering if Fukuoka is worth visiting compared to Tokyo? We loved it and want to go back! Discover our day and a half itinerary for Fukuoka below. Fukuoka, Japan - City View from Fukuoka Tower Getting to Fukuoka First, we got to Fukuoka via plane. We were in Korea for the weekend and started off our Japan trip in Fukuoka. Another way to travel to Fukuoka is by ferry from Busan, South Korea. If you are in Japan, you can also take the shinkansen from Tokyo to Fukuoka, which takes about 5 to 6 hours and costs around 23,000 yen. Alternatively, domestic discount flights within Japan can cost between 6,000 and 35,000 yen and take approximately 4 hours. HAKATA STATION Inside Hakata Station From Fukuoka airport, we took a free shuttle bus that would take us to the train station nearby. Once at the train station, we made our way to Hakata Station. The station is massive and quite impressive! With numerous stores both inside and outside, we could have easily spent the whole day there if we had wanted to. CANAL CITY Ramen from Original Tomato Ramen Sanmi 333 At the top of our agenda after arriving was...RAMEN! Our favorite comfort food during the cold winter months in Japan! Our destination was the Ramen Stadium in Canal City, a shopping complex featuring a section specifically for different ramen shops. Our goal was to try the renowned Original Tomato Ramen Sanmi 333, the highest-rated ramen spot according to Google reviews in this venue. It was delicious and a fantastic beginning to our journey in Japan. There are plenty of other ramen choices available, so enjoy exploring your options. After that, we ventured into Canal City itself, which is a spacious open-air mall area. We enjoyed the water fountain show, known as Canal City Hakata Sun Plaza Stage. Check out our YouTube video to get a better look at what we did! FUKUOKA GUNDAM We headed to the Gundam Base Fukuoka located within Canal City. The Gundam base was massive, showcasing a wide variety of gunpla kits for display and purchase. It's a awesome destination for Gundam/Gunpla enthusiasts! Life-Size RX-93ff 𝛎 Gundam Statue The following day, we visited Gundam Park at Lalaport Fukuoka. There is a large gunpla store and a small Gundam Side F Store nearby. However, the highlight is the Life-Size RX-93ff 𝛎 Gundam Statue located just outside the mall. It's insanely cool! Random Tip: If you want to find more Gunpla kits, check out BookOff - an organized and better Goodwill of new and used item. BOSS E · ZO FUKUOKA On our full day, we visited Mizuho PayPay Dome FUKUOKA. The dome houses the Fukuoka SoftBank Hawks baseball field. Due to our visit taking place in February, we couldn't go to a game. Within the dome is BOSS E · ZO FUKUOKA, a large entertainment complex offering a variety of attractions and dining options. Here are some of the places we explored there: Exhibit in TeamLab Forest Fukuoka TeamLab Forest Fukuoka TeamLab Forest Fukuoka, is a digital art museum where you can capture, learn about, and release animals using your smartphone. We bought our tickets on the spot without prior reservation at the dome, but it is recommended to book in advance for weekends to secure your preferred time slots. Tickets are about 2,400 yen each. Entrance of MLB Café Fukuoka MLB Café Fukuoka A Major League Baseball-licensed restaurant offering casual American dining and a sports bar experience with a flair for creative culinary entertainment. We stopped by for an early lunch and were impressed by both the delicious food and the stylish decor. Charcoal Latte, Latte, and Pudding at FUK Coffee FUK Coffee Fuk ;) Coffee. Needed some caffeine before going to TeamLab. Seriously delicious coffee and pudding, a must visit for us! ZEKKEI Coaster ZEKKEI Brothers SMBC Nikko Securities Inc. We decided to take a detour to the rooftop of the building after noticing a coaster! It starts from the highest point of E-ZO, approximately 60m above the ground - a single-seater suspended rail coaster. Enjoy an exhilarating ride through a course that spans over 300m! Priced at around 1,800 yen, it's definitely worth it for the breathtaking view and thrill. FUKUOKA TOWER FUKUOKA TOWER Following our visit to TeamLab, we walked for 20 minutes to reach Fukuoka Tower. Fukuoka Tower is a 234-meter tall seaside tower with the highest observation deck at 123 meters, offering a 360° view of the surrounding area, popular at sunset. We loved the views and enjoyed a love lock spot. The entrance fee is around 800 yen, with a discount available when presenting your TeamLab Forest tickets. Sea Side View from FUKUOKA TOWER Tip: Getting to the closest station requires either a lengthy walk or taking a bus, as this attraction is quite a distance away. OTHER DESTINATIONS WE HAD PLANNED TO EXPLORE Ohari Park  Nakasu Yatai Yokocho (Food Stalls Street) Fukuoka Castle Ruins Pokémon Center FUKUOKA Our Stay Ana Crowne Plaza Fukuoka Exterior We stayed at ANA Crowne Plaza Fukuoka, an IHG Hotel  for two nights. About 13 min train Ride from   Fukuoka Airport and a 4 min walk from Hakata Station. The hotel offered amazing guest services. While the rooms have a classic style, they are spacious, clean, and comfortable. Overall, we had a great stay and would return when in the area. Conclusion Kyushu Island boasts stunning historic treasures, modern cities, and natural beauty. Fukuoka left a lasting impression on us, and we definitely intend to revisit with more time. We hope you get the chance to explore this region of Japan as well.

Tokyo is home to two incredible museums created by TeamLab: TeamLab Borderless and TeamLab Planets. While there are some similarities between these TeamLab digital art museums, they also have distinct differences that we will explore shortly. Background of TeamLab Established in 2001, Teamlab is an international art collective that operates museums and large-scale permanent exhibitions globally. Their aim is to provide a unique perspective on the world through digital art, offering interactive and sensory experiences that go beyond conventional boundaries. When visiting Tokyo, Japan, both Teamlab Borderless and Teamlab Planets are highly recommended tourist destinations. If you only have time for one during your Tokyo trip, your choice will ultimately depend on personal preference and the location that is most convenient based on your itinerary. TeamLab Borderless Digital Art Musuem Teamlab Borderless Bubble Universe Space TeamLab Borderless Digital Art Musuem began in 2018 at Odaiba before relocating to its permanent location at Azabudai Hills within the Mori Building in Tokyo. After being closed for a year and a half during the transition, it reopened on February 9, 2024. The museum is an art collective that spans across various rooms, offering a continuous experience that allows visitors to explore without the need for a map, creating an immersive and borderless art world with numerous unique photo opportunities. Additionally, there is a tea house located within the museum, which unfortunately we did not have the chance to visit, as well as a sketch factory just outside the museum. Teamlab Borderless Dissolving Lights Space - Photo Opportunity Itinerary Tip: Conveniently situated in central Tokyo, close to Tokyo Tower, you could consider visiting Ginza in the morning, spending about 2 hours at TeamLab Borderless in the early afternoon, and then heading to Tokyo Tower in the late afternoon or evening. If you don't want to get lost and miss your allotted time, check out this short video . TeamLab Planets Teamlab Planets Moss Garden of Resonating Microcosms Next up is Teamlab Planets, which opened in July 2018 as a temporary museum set to conclude in 2027.  This museum offers a heightened level of immersion and interactivity involving physical engagement. Visitors will encounter four expansive art installations and two gardens, moving barefoot through water alongside others. The experience is truly unmatched and unique. Additionally, there is a vegan ramen eatery and a flower boutique located just outside the museum. Itinerary Tip: The museum in Odaiba, Tokyo, is not as centrally located as the Borderless museum. Therefore, unless you have other activities planned in Odaiba, it may seem a bit out of the way. Consider combining a visit to this museum with seeing the Unicorn Gundam at Diver City Tokyo Plaza on the same day, which I highly recommend. What's the Difference? Which One is the Best? Both of these museums focus on digital art and feature a shared infinite crystal universe. While Borderless showcases distinctive rooms with dissolving lights and a Bubble universe, Planets offers a water section, 3D light spheres, as well as an Orchid and moss garden. Teamlab Planets Entrance to Water Area The primary distinctions between the two museums lie in their locations and the kind of immersive experiences they offer. If you find yourself in central Tokyo and prefer digital art exhibitions, Borderless is the ideal choice. However, if you are open to venturing a bit farther for a more hands-on encounter, I would suggest visiting TeamLab Planets. Watch our YouTube video for a more visual explanation! Conclusion Without a doubt, you have the option to do both or even more! Teamlab has museum branches in Osaka, Fukuoka, Okinawa, and various public art installations outside of Tokyo in Japan at present. If you are looking for suggestions on where to stay before you visit these musuems, be sure to read this blog post. Random but Related Tip: We went to Fukuoka's Teamlab Forests and this one was more inactive with your smartphone since you capture, study and release the animals displayed. Super cool concept that really connects you with these animals! Both museums are worth visiting! I hope this will assist you in choosing which digital art museum to explore during your upcoming trip to Tokyo, Japan.

Some travelers to Japan might consider vacation rentals as an appealing alternative to hotels, especially for larger groups or those looking to experience everyday life. Vacation rentals are usually a short-term rental property listed on a platform, like Airbnb, where individuals can rent out a room or entire home to travelers. Things to Know: A wide variety of rentals are available from rooms, apartments, tiny homes, villas, or entire homes. Potentially offering more space and privacy than a typical hotel. Many people believe they experience a more immersive and authentic connection with Japanese culture with this type of stay. Prices can be competitive with hotels and may even be more affordable if booking for long periods or outside of tourist areas. The quality of properties can differ greatly, and many amenities typically available in hotels are often not included. Some rentals have a kitchen and laundry area. The majority of rentals are located in areas populated by locals and nearby neighborhood markets. Guests must present identification before their stay so the owner can register their information as required by law. Vacation rentals are heavy regulated in Japan. Be cautious of vacation rental hosts who may request that you claim you're simply visiting friends, as this could indicate an illegally operated rental. Certain bookings may result in unexpected cancellations or possible problems with landlords. You should be aware of noise regulations and know how to properly dispose of garbage to prevent complaints from neighbors. Many complaints about tourists in vacation rentals stem from their disregard for the above points. Pros: Cons: Unique Local Stay Regulation Issues Privacy & Space Lack of Services found in Hotels Cost Effective Varying Quality of Stay Access to Local Amenities/ Everyday Life Language Barrier To see some reviews of our stays, take a look at this article.

InterContinental Yokohama Grand, IHG Hotel For accommodations in Japan, hotels are certainly a safe and efficient choice. A classic staple we all know! This includes a private bedroom with a private bathroom. In Japan, especially Tokyo, hotel rooms tend to be smaller. Business hotels, similar to Western-style hotels, are known for being slightly smaller yet effective stays. Things to Know: When booking, you will typically notice the room size is indicated. Generally, smaller rooms tend to have better prices. Having larger luggage makes the room more cramped, but it's still manageable. Certain hotels provide the option of either a standing shower or a traditional Japanese soaking tub. Hotels provide a variety of amenities, including sleepwear or robe, toothbrush and toothpaste, comb, hair and bath products, tea kettle with teas, and more. Often, amenities are already available in the room, but sometimes there is a section in the check-in lobby where you can select the necessary or additional amenities. You should confirm whether the hotel has a laundry facility, as not all hotels offer this service. Swimming pools are typically not included, and an extra fee might be required. Some are only open in the summer. Additionally, bathing rules must be followed, such as a swim cap. At most hotels, luggage can be stored and luggage transport services can be arranged at the front desk. InterContinental Yokohama Grand, IHG Hotel Room View Pros: Cons: Concierge services available Not a traditional Japanese experience Luggage storage options May be expensive Many amenities offered Rooms are quite small Tosei Hotel in Ueno To see some reviews of our hotel stays, take a look at this article.

Relaxing Ryokan Stay A ryokan is a traditional Japanese accommodation similar to an inn, typically featuring rooms with tatami mats, communal baths, and a shared public area. Things to Know: Rooms usually include tatami mats & sliding doors. Traditional futon mattresses are placed directly on the tatami floors at night and set aside during the day. Meals like breakfast and dinner are delivered to your room. A table set low to the ground with cushions is arranged in your room for dining. Traditional Japanese meals are served in an elaborate manner, with limited or no substitutes or alternative options available. Many traditional ryokans are situated outside the city, often near hot spring regions. Ryokan are renowned for their traditional style and atmosphere, so it's important to respect the facility's procedures. In older or budget ryokan, you might find that toilets and sinks are shared and located in common areas outside your room. Yukatas are available for use during your stay. You can usually enjoy and choose hot baths in a shared, gender-separated area, reserve a private bath, or choose a room with a small bath included. Pros: Cons: Traditional Stay May Not be Centrally Located Relaxing - Outside the City Lacking Some Privacy and Comforts Support Local Community Food Options May be Limited Hot Baths Can be Expensive Traditional Food and Hospitably Procedures Can be Intimidating To see some reviews of our stays, take a look at this article.

Capsule Hotel Hostels and Capsule hotels are a budget friendly accommodation in Japan. A capsule hotel provides a compact private space with a bed and shared amenities to minimize expenses. Similarly, hostels may offer shared rooms containing multiple beds. Things to Know: Both can be separated by gender or designated as a single-gender facility. You will be sharing a sleeping space with unfamiliar people. Bathrooms and toilets are typically located in a shared area and are often separated by gender. There are communal spaces such as a lounging area and a kitchen. Basic amenities such as slippers, a toothbrush, and toothpaste are provided. Your bed area cannot be locked when you're not there, or sometimes it cannot be locked at all. Private Lockers are available but are limited in space. A designated area is typically provided for large luggage, and certain facilities might restrict the number you can store. Tokyo Guest House Itabashijuku Hostel Beds Pros: Cons: Inexpensive Shared Spaces, Lacking Privacy and Some Comforts Sociable Atmosphere Limited Space for Luggage Great for backpackers or for a short stay Not suitable for most Long Stays To see some reviews of our stays, take a look at this article.

Tokyo Sky View with Mount Fuji First let me start with our origin story. Like many we planned to go to Japan in the future, but the goal seemed distant and more like a dream. Flight prices alone made going to Japan seem unreachable. But suddenly the pandemic hit, then the stimulus checks, and now new savings from not going out as much as before. It occurred to me to check the flight prices and much to my surprise they were affordable! Only $1,119.00 for the BOTH of us leaving from ORD. Therefore, I decided to purchase our flights to Japan as an anniversary gift for us in May of 2021. One problem though, the border was closed … to basically everyone! Nevertheless, I was hopeful and excited. Soo excited that I couldn't wait till our anniversary to tell David, which was late June. With him on board and bursting of joy and negativity of the border situation, we start planning our trip which was for February of 2022. Fast forward, David was right! Japan was capable of having their borders closed for one of the longest if not THE longest time periods. Our flight was canceled! Although sad, we were determined to plan our trip for February of 2023 and hoped we would be good then. So now, how did we plan this daunting first trip? Below I will explain how to plan your first trip to Japan! Figuring out our preferred season or month of travel Blossoming Plum Tree We didn't have much choice in the matter of season. In our case, we work outdoors consistently in the spring, summer, and fall. Winter is our only option and the month of February is preferable for us. Many that have an option, choose the season of spring due to the cherry blossoms blooming in March. Others choose fall for the changing landscape. The point is to figure out when your available to go and what you want to experience. How long would we like to stay? For us, it was clear that we wanted to stay for at least 2 weeks. Considering the distance and uncertainty of returning to a far-off country, we would have extended our stay if our budget allowed. So, let's say you've only got a week off, or maybe 10 days, or even a whole month. You just need to decide how much time you've got. Once you've picked a month or season to go, it'll make planning the next part a lot easier. Flights As per the story above, our first flight was affordable and when we wanted them, but it didn't happen. So we planned for the next year and we stumbled upon something amazing. We learned how to book flights with airline points! Its a bit complicated and you need to commit but man was it worth it. Thanks to that we scored first class tickets for the Both of us on A.N.A., All Nippon Airlines, a Japanese airline. First Class Cabin in A.N.A. Flight I would definitely recommend for you to book your flight a year in advance no matter how you fly. You can wait for last minute deals but you run the risk of increasing your overall travel expenses, especially lodging, if you wait till then. Planning ahead gives you time to compare flights and hotel prices for different weeks of the month and season you choose. Many airlines fly to Japan. If you are aiming for Tokyo, most flights land in Narita Airport which is like an hour away from Tokyo. Some flights land at Haneda Airport which is roughly 30 mins from central Tokyo. On our second trip, we got creative and found great flights to South Korea, spent the weekend there, then flew to Fukuoka, Japan. Just be flexible and take careful consideration what time you will be landing and in what airport as to plan accordingly how to get to your hotel.   Check out this YouTube video inspired by this blog post. Itinerary/Budget This one is hard. Everyone has their idea of Japan and what they want to do there. Some say you must do this or do that. It was honestly hard to figure this out with all the overwhelming information and videos out there. I feel you might edit this several times till right before the trip. We personally based a lot of our planning from our budget and our interests. There was a never ending list of what we wanted to do but reality was we had so much time and so much money. Therefore, we made some tough decisions on our first trip, like to stay mostly in Tokyo and not get the JR Pass, basically saying no to Osaka and the rest of Japan. Some are against that, but we ultimately saved about $1,000 or more making that decision and saw most of Tokyo, which is HUGE by the way! On our second trip, we found ourselves on the other side of Japan and creatively found affordable ways to go across the country. The app Wanderlog was super helpful for all the planning . Word of advice, be flexible, have fun, enjoy the moment, don't let your high expectations of Japan close your mind. Hotel/Lodging It can be overwhelming with all the options and types of hotels available in Japan. But if you have a general itinerary, you can start from there! TIP: Find hotels next to the airport or near a station for the first night if you arrive late. And when I mean near, I mean like you exit the station and you see the hotel immediately. Trust me, carrying your tall luggage bag at 11:00pm in a country/station you never been before is tough, add lack of sleep, and more stairs or alleyways on the streets, yeah... no! An example is below. Map View of Hotel by Train Station When it comes to booking accommodation, don't forget the struggle of lugging your suitcase from place to place! On our first adventure, we decided to stay in Ueno for a whopping 12 nights. Camping out for over a week not only scored us a better deal but also saved us from the dreaded hotel-hopping hassle. On our second escapade, we wanted to explore Japan and we went all out with our hotel points, bouncing around Japan and relying heavily on the hotel luggage service. Ultimately, your lodging choice(s) will be based on how ambitious your itinerary is and your overall budget. For us, choosing the right location in Tokyo was important due to the fact it was our hub for soo long. The right location for us is in central Tokyo, near a station with many different lines available. Factoring in your location based on your itinerary can save you money, and most importantly scared time! If you are looking for suggestions on where to stay in Japan, be sure to read this blog post. Transportation Japan has the best railway system throughout the whole country. Tokyo has endless lines to get you anywhere you want. There is also buses, overnight buses, and ferries. Renting a car is an option, but not really needed or recommend for Tokyo. They even have a discounted Japan Rail Pass for foreigners only, which can be a great deal depending on your itinerary. Based on our first itinerary of Yokohama and Tokyo, getting a Pasmo or Suica card and paying as we go was cheaper than the JR Pass. We really enjoyed these versatile cards that got us around effortlessly and were easy to reload. The JR Pass is definitely recommended for those traveling through Japan. Japan Railways just raised the prices for this pass significantly but it is still a deal for cross country travelers. But if you get really creative and are flexible with time, you can live without this pass and discover some amazing options. Conclusion Planning a trip is like a puzzle, every piece is important and connected. All the factors above helped us to plan our trips. Hope our planning strategy helps yours!

Winter in Tokyo is cold but beautiful. We had the privilege to visit in the month of February. This huge city will keep you entertained even in the "off season" months. Here is what we experience when we went. Ume "Plum" Blossoms Bummed that you missed the chance to see the famous cherry blossoms in March? Don't fret, you can still enjoy the beauty of ume "plum" trees. These lesser-known blossoms are just as stunning and emit a delightful sweet fragrance. The image shown was captured in a charming plum tree garden at Yoyogi Park in Shibuya. We also made a trip to Hanegi Park, which is located less than a 20-minute journey from Shibuya Station, to admire the yearly blooming of its plum grove. The park is home to approximately 650 plum trees of nearly 60 different varieties. The Setagaya Plum Festival takes place each year from early February to early March. As we visited on a weekend, we were greeted by a line of vendors stretching from the station to the park entrance. Inside the park, more vendors awaited, and we were even offered complimentary tea. One awesome discovery we made was umeshu, also known as "plum wine"! This was a new experience for us, and we were pleasantly surprised by how delicious it tasted. Fun fact: Umeshu, also known as "plum wine," is not exactly a traditional wine, but rather an alcoholic beverage with added sugar and whole plums. Ichigo "Strawberry" Season Ichigo, or strawberry, season typically runs from December to May, making February the perfect time to enjoy this delicious fruit! Whether you prefer strawberry picking, indulging in a fancy ichigo-themed buffet, attending a festival, or simply purchasing some at the grocery store, there are plenty of ways to savor this fruit. By chance, we came across the Yokohama Strawberry Festival while on our way to the Cup Noodles Museum. Positioned between the Yokohama Red Brick Warehouse, we noticed a large strawberry and a long line, prompting us to join in out of curiosity. To our surprise, it turned out to be a complete strawberry-themed festival with numerous food stalls, as seen in the photos above. We even tried a Hatsukoi No Kaori, known as the "white strawberry." Starbuck Japan Sakura "Cherry Blossom" Collection Annually from mid February to mid March, Starbucks releases an exclusive line of sakura "cherry blossom" themed merchandise. A unique collection of beautiful mugs, tumblers, bottles, and totes are available in various stores throughout Japan. They also have themed beverages, food, and packaging as the picture that we took at the Shibuya Crossing Starbucks shows below. Honestly we did not know when we first arrived that they had just released this product line. We saw soo many items on the shelves and paid it no mind. We focused more the themed coffee itself. Later by the end of the trip, when a friend said if we can grab her one, did we realized how exclusive and quickly the merchandise sells. So if you are a Starbucks mug collector, be ready! Also random tip, if you want an even more exclusive items and a unique experience visit the Starbucks Reserve Roastery Tokyo near Shibuya. Just an amazing place with three floors, coffee, tea, multiple options of food and cocktails. Yes! Some high class cocktails and mind blowing service as to be expected of Japan. Of course there is soo many things to do in Japan, this is just some things we did when we were there exclusive to the month of February and in or near Tokyo. If you are looking for suggestions on where to stay in Tokyo, be sure to read this blog post.