I went to Japan last winter and believe it or no; It didn't have my itinerary with me. Not even a single hotel reservation, except that one I booked for my visa application, which still doesn'tcount since I cancelled it after I got the booking reservation forms. Yes, I'm lazy, but it served its purpose as I always want my adventure to be ...well adventurous. So I will be sharing my wonderful experience in Japan, about the things I should have brought with me or done before and during my stay. A special thing to note; this is a solo traveller, winter guide in Japan so if you want to see Sakura-Chan in full bloom, then you have to wait for my ultimate guide! I need to go back! Some are optional but highly recommended.
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first things first
first things first
- Internet Connection - preferably Pocket WiFi, do not buy a tourist sim, as it's locked to a telco service provider, while PW will keep you connected anywhere in Japan.
- Powerbank - to keep your stuff alive.
- Electric socket converter - their hole is different, so be warned :P
- Japan Rail Pass - highly recommended especially for first timers, this is unli - ride.
- Japanese Yen - most restaurants only accept cash.
- Lip balm and moisturizer - if you're a tropical Asian, then bring these beach.
- Clothing - You're going to an open wide freezer, so bring your winter costume.
Needless to say, I assume you have electronic devices and thus the first 3. It is important to keep yourself connected to maps and translation apps because Japan at first is very confusing. Before your actual flight, get the Essential 5 and more importantly Essential 4, as you can only purchase that outside the country - needless to say again, nowhere in Japan you can get this pass. You can customize and choose the appropriate package for you, depending on your city choice of destination (mine I got the country-wide pass). You'll get a confirmation email and instructions to your local airport desk who will then give you pamphlets. Then by the time you arrived at Japan airport, head directly to the information desk and ask for the place where you can get the Pass Card. Then rent pocket wifi, still at the airport, which I got it for 8500 JPY for 14 days. Now you're ready to board the train!
Download the app Japan Direct , it will guide you to what train to board, the terminal number and the estimated time of departure. Another important thing to note: for Shinkansen or also known as bullet train and express train rides, you need to secure a ticket for your seat. For ordinary trains, you can just show your Pass to the station master at the entrance beside the gantries. Also, your JR pass is good for JR train rides including Shinkansen but not for all, like metro trains.
It's overwhelming, I know but it gets easier after few tries. Do not hesitate to approach any train station personnel - they understand and speak English so feel free to ask, specially if you're planning to have a pay per ride ticket. In fact, they are proactively helping tourists. Depending on your first city of choice (mine is Tokyo!) you can look for a place to stay the night while boarding the train. What I appreciate the most with Japanese people is that they are the most respectful and honest people I've ever met, like EVER! So, you don't need to worry about your hotel bookings, because they don't cheat even at a price advantage.
The price never changes even if you book the room on the spot, the same day. The only thing that you should keep in mind is the room availability but still, don't worry, just download a hotel booking app (mine is Agoda) and you will find tons and tons of options. I even stayed at a hotel which is cheaper than a bowl of Ramen (1200 JP Yen). Tip: it's better to book a place near train stations for easy navigation. Now you're ready to explore JAPAN, but we should find you a good food to eat.
R-A-M-E-N
R-A-M-E-N
This, by the way, is one of my favorite Japanese food. I'm not a food critic, nor pretending to be someone with a good palate, but once you tasted the ramen of Japan (which obviously where it's from), all your fancy experience in your local Japanese restaurants is a lie. like bazingga LIE. Rich, and Tasty and..... will take me some time to describe it but I will let you taste it for yourself.
There's a lot of good restaurants to dine in Shinjuku It's a few train stations ride from Tokyo. Depending on your preference may it be Western, French, Italian -- just open google map and type the keyword + restaurant, then look for the one which has the highest rating.
But you're not in Japan to enjoy your comfort food, so explore and try to go to the not-so-popular ones, and taste it for yourself and add your review. Some restaurants are very under-rated like the one I found in Nara. They serve the best RAMEN ever in my entire search. The name is Genkishin Nara, you can follow them at Instagram genkishin_nara.
Odaiba, Tokyo
Odaiba, Tokyo
For Gundam fans, this is a dream come true for you, and if you're also a Disney Fan (which I'm not) who are planning to visit Disney Tokyo Resort, it's a good drop by here.
Shibuya Crossing
Shibuya Crossing
Ain't your typical road intersection. This place has a crazy load of people crossing, and it's so much fun to watch.By the way, besides that green cab is where the statue of Hachikō.
Shinjuku, Tokyo
Shinjuku, Tokyo
This city shines best at night. If you're fond of doing night photography, then this is the best spot. You also have good visibility of Tokyo Tower from here. Just head over to Tokyo Metropolitan Government building, the admission is FREE.
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