JAPAN : こんにちは 🌸
- berfinozelsel
- Apr 15
- 11 min read
Updated: Oct 13
ありがとう ございます
The heart of the Far East, the home of technology, the land of tea ceremonies and respect: Japan!
Japan is a unique country that offers a perfect synthesis of traditional culture and modern life, with its historical riches, technological innovations and natural beauties. From temples carrying the spirit of the samurai to neon-lit cities, there are countless wonderful structures waiting to be discovered.
When you start doing some research, you may think that it is the most difficult country to plan a trip to, and you may even say that if I travel to Japan, I can travel to all the other countries much more easily, unless you know Japanese, of course 😅
The main tourist cities in Japan are Tokyo, Kyoto and Osaka. Tokyo is a city that feels like it is stepping into the future while preserving its deep traditions. From high-tech cityscapes to peaceful temples, from extraordinary street food to Michelin-starred restaurants, there is much to see, while Kyoto has a quieter cultural structure.
We spent 10 days on our trip to Japan, we visited Tokyo and Kyoto, was that enough? Of course not, I know there are a lot of places to visit even if we stay for a month, but in this blog post I will talk about the places that are a must-see during a one-week trip and what you need to know about this culture that is very foreign to us.
TRAVEL GUIDE: JAPAN
General Information
If this is your first time in Japan, be prepared to be amazed, astonished, and "wow!"
But there are some important details you need to know beforehand 👇
Japan is an island country located in the Pacific Ocean, east of the Asian continent. It consists of 4 main islands (Honshu, Hokkaido, Kyushu and Shikoku) and thousands of smaller islets. Its capital, Tokyo , is also the world's most populous metropolis! The national language of Japan is Japanese. English is widely spoken, especially in the tourism sector.
Japan's population is around 124 million . It is the 11th most populous country in the world.
Most of the population lives on the island of Honshu (especially along the Tokyo-Kyoto-Osaka line).
Japan has a low birth rate and a very high proportion of elderly people. Life expectancy: 87 years for women and 81 years for men, one of the highest in the world! The vast majority of the population is of Japanese ethnic origin (approximately 98%).
In Japan, religion is integrated into daily life through tradition and culture. Shintoism (Shinto) and Buddhism are the two most common belief systems. Other religions such as Christianity and Islam are a very small minority.
The capital city, Tokyo , is the largest metropolis in the world, with a population approaching 37 million.
The level of education is high, with a literacy rate of around 99%. Japan is both a digital world superpower and one of the rare countries where traditions are still alive in daily life.
Japan is governed by a parliamentary constitutional monarchy . The symbolic leader of the country is the Emperor (currently Emperor Naruhito ). Japan's currency is the Japanese Yen (JPY/¥) . Tourist trips to Japan are visa-free for Turkish citizens for up to 90 days.
Places to Visit in Japan
Japan is famous for its cities that offer a different experience at every corner. For my blog post where I explain in detail the places to visit in Tokyo ,
🌆 Tokyo
Shibuya & Shinjuku : The liveliest areas of the city, skyscrapers and the famous Shibuya crossing.
Asakusa & Senso-ji Temple : A historical site where you can experience traditional Japanese culture.
Akihabara : Electronics, anime and manga paradise.
Odaiba : Technological wonders and entertainment centers.
Tsukiji Outdoor Market : The famous fish market where you can taste the freshest flavors of Japanese cuisine.
🏔 Osaka
Dotonbori : Colorful signs, street food and entertainment venues.
Osaka Castle : One of the important structures in Japanese history.
Universal Studios Japan : An essential destination for amusement park lovers.
⛰ Hakone & Mount Fuji
Mount Fuji : This volcanic mountain, the symbol of Japan, offers magnificent views.
Onsen Hot Springs : Japan's famous hot water baths.
🌿 Hiroshima
Peace Park and Memorial : An important historical site bearing the traces of World War II.
Miyajima Island & Itsukushima Shrine : Fascinating torii gate floating on water.
🌱 Kyoto
Fushimi Inari Shrine : Famous for its legendary red torii gates.
Kinkaku-ji (Golden Temple) : A magnificent gold-plated temple.
Arashiyama Bamboo Forest : An impressive area offering a unique nature walk.
Gion District : An area where you can observe traditional geisha culture.
If Tokyo is the modern face, Kyoto is definitely the heart and soul of Japan! A thousand years of history, elegant temples, bamboo forests and people in kimonos... This is a city where you will feel like you have traveled back in time the moment you step foot in it. Kyoto was the imperial capital of Japan from 794 to 1868. In other words, it was the cultural and political center of the country for a thousand years . That is why there seems to be a temple on every corner and a samurai story in every narrow street!
What's in Kyoto?
Fushimi Inari Shrine – An iconic shrine walk, famous for its red torii gates!
Kinkaku-ji (Golden Pavilion) – Gilded in gold, like a dream reflected in the lake…
Arashiyama Bamboo Forest – A peaceful bamboo walk with the sound of flying leaves
Gion – Traditional teahouses
Fushimi Inari Taisha – Walk Through Thousands of Torii Gates
You know that tunnel-like road full of red gates… You know, the one you often see on postcards and Instagram? This is it! Fushimi Inari is one of the most iconic shrines in Kyoto , dedicated to the rice god, with its seemingly endless red torii gates.
📍 Go early in the morning to avoid the crowds and enjoy the mystical atmosphere.
Kinkaku-ji (Golden Pavilion Temple)
A shimmering, gold-plated temple on the edge of a lake. This structure, covered in gold leaf, is one of the symbols of Kyoto. Its reflection in the lake offers a mesmerizing view.
Arashiyama Bamboo Forest
This forest is like a door opening to another planet... Walking with the wind filtering through the long, thin bamboos is like therapy. There is also Monkey Park , Togetsukyo Bridge and traditional boat tours in the same area.
Gion District – A Window to Traditional Japan
Narrow streets, wooden houses, and kimono-clad geishas you may encounter while walking in the evening... Gion is an area that truly brings to life the traditional atmosphere of Kyoto. In the evenings, you can watch maiko dance shows or attend a classic tea ceremony.
Kiyomizu-dera Temple – View of Kyoto from the Cliff Edge
This temple, built on a mountainside, is very impressive with the view it offers from its wooden terrace. It takes on a completely different beauty during cherry blossom season (sakura) or autumn leaves.
📍 After the temple, don't forget to shop for souvenirs in "Sannenzaka" and "Ninenzaka" streets!
Nishiki Market
At Nishiki Market, Kyoto's most traditional food market, you can sample everything from seaweed to mochi desserts and enjoy authentic Japanese cuisine.
Nijo Castle
This historical castle, under UNESCO protection, was built by the Tokugawa Shoguns.
🍽 Japanese Cuisine: What Should We Eat?
Japanese cuisine is one of the most delicious and original cuisines in the world. I invite you to the blog post I wrote about this topic at length .
🏨 Where Should I Stay?
Since the most touristic cities in Japan are Tokyo, Kyoto and Osaka, here are some of our hotel recommendations in these cities:
Luxury Hotels : Aman Tokyo, The Ritz-Carlton Kyoto
Mid-Range : Shinjuku Granbell Hotel, Mitsui Garden Hotels
Budget Friendly : Capsule hotels (Nine Hours, First Cabin), hostels or ryokans (traditional Japanese inns).
Since we spent most of our time in Tokyo during our trip, we always stayed there. We stayed at the Mitsui Garden Hotel , it was very comfortable and I can recommend it.
Tokyo is big… really big ! Every corner has a different spirit, every neighborhood has a completely different flavor. So, where should you stay in this huge metropolis ? The answer is actually simple: It depends on what you want to do! Let's take a look at the most suitable areas of Tokyo to stay:
Shinjuku – For those who say “The city never sleeps”!
This is the heart of Tokyo, where skyscrapers dance and lights are on 24 hours a day. It is central in terms of transportation, the nightlife is very lively and the shopping opportunities are endless. Plus: Easy access to everywhere with Shinjuku Station.
Who is it for? Those who like night outs, plenty of restaurant and activity options
Shibuya & Harajuku – The epicenter of youthful energy and style
Street fashion that sets trends? Then Harajuku! Giant screen passages, selfie heaven streets? Plus: Meiji Shrine and Yoyogi Park are within walking distance.
Who is it for? Those looking for a fun, colorful atmosphere
Ginza – For those who want luxury, elegance and plenty of style
Ginza, Tokyo's "5th Avenue", is full of stores of world brands. When you stay here, you can walk to art galleries and have dinner at Michelin-starred restaurants. Plus: Quiet, safe, stylish environment
Who is it for? Travelers who love comfort and luxury
Asakusa – A stay surrounded by tradition
For those who want to feel the spirit of Tokyo, Asakusa is perfect. There is nothing like being next to Sensoji Temple and wandering around traditional shops in narrow streets. Plus: Both nostalgic and affordable
Who is it for? Those who want to experience Japanese culture to the fullest
Akihabara – For those who are fond of technology and games
If you want to find yourself among electronics stores, manga paradises and neon lights as soon as you leave the hotel, Akihabara is for you! Plus: Fun concept hotels and shopping variety
Who is it for? Technology enthusiasts, those interested in otaku culture
If this is your first time in Tokyo and you want to have everything at your fingertips, the Shinjuku , Shibuya/Harajuku and Ginza trio might be the best areas for you. With their ease of transportation, plenty of options and energetic atmosphere, staying in these areas will make exploring Tokyo much more enjoyable.
🚆 Transportation in Japan: Clean, Fast, Efficient!
Transportation in Japan is considered one of the best in the world in terms of punctuality, cleanliness and organization. We talk about all the information about transportation in our blog post Transportation in Tokyo. For detailed information;
Narita and Haneda in Tokyo and Kansai in Osaka are the largest airports in Japan.
Briefly for Urban Transportation;
Metro & Train : Tokyo Metro and JR Lines are the most commonly used means of transportation.
Suica & Pasmo Cards : Practical payment cards for public transportation use.
Bicycle Rental : Quite common in cities like Kyoto.
Shinkansen – Bullet Trains
Shinkansens are Japan's high-speed trains, capable of speeds of up to 320 km/h.
It takes about 2.5 hours to get from Tokyo to Kyoto. Very comfortable, quiet, incredibly punctual, never late.
Metro and Train Lines
In big cities like Tokyo, Osaka, Kyoto, the subway and suburban train systems work perfectly. The Tokyo subway is one of the most complex but most organized systems in the world.
During rush hour (morning and evening rush hours), trains can be seriously crowded, but everyone travels quietly.
Buses
Buses are used a lot, especially in historical cities like Kyoto. Intercity buses are also quite comfortable. Entry on buses is usually from the back door, and payment is made at the front door when exiting. Payment can be made with cash or a transportation card.
Taxis
Very clean, drivers usually wear gloves and the doors open automatically!
But even for short distances it can be expensive.
Cycling and Walking
The Japanese walk a lot in the city and bicycle use is common. You can rent a bicycle, especially in Kyoto and Osaka. There is high respect for pedestrians and cyclists.
Small but important notes:
Silence is very important in transportation. They don't like talking loudly or making phone calls in the subway. You line up in the subway and trains, no one pushes or pushes.
Everything is on time and in order. If a train is even 1 minute late, it is announced and apologized 😅
🌟 When Should You Go to Japan?
Whether you’re looking for a snowy holiday in Hokkaido or want to enjoy the cherry blossoms in Tokyo, the best time to visit depends entirely on what you want to see and do. Japan experiences all four seasons with their own unique beauty, so there’s no wrong time to enjoy a vacation in Japan!
March-May: The highlight of spring is of course the cherry blossoms!
Spring in Japan means that temperatures are starting to rise after a cold winter and the flowers are starting to bloom. Cherry blossoms, also known as sakura in Japan, are only in full bloom for a week or two out of the entire year, so you should plan accordingly.
The Japanese see the blooming flowers as a symbol of human life and nobility and hold flower viewing parties known as "hanami." There are tons of cherry blossom-flavored treats and specialties during this time. Here are some to try.
But don't worry if you miss the festivals or peak weeks. Once in full bloom, the leaves start to fall to the ground and it almost looks like snow falling in shades of pink and white. You can take amazing photos.
June-August
Although summer in Japan means rainy season (especially from early June to mid-July), it is also the season of spectacular fireworks and major festivals.
In July, Kyoto hosts the Gion Matsuri, one of the country’s most popular festivals. It’s known for its spectacular float procession called “Yamaboko Junko.” Over 6,000 fireworks are set off in Yokohama Port to celebrate the start of summer!
September-November
When the summer heat subsides, Japan is covered in colorful autumn colors. These leaves create many beautiful landscapes, just like the cherry blossom season. The best places to see autumn leaves are parks, temples, and mountains.
December - February
There is no general way to describe winter in Japan, as the climate varies greatly by region. Large cities like Tokyo and Osaka experience very little snowfall and sunny days. However, if you head into the mountains, it snows almost every day.
That's why Hokkaido is one of the best places in the world for skiing, snowboarding and other winter sports. They also hold the Sapporo Snow Festival.
And New Year! Japan is jam-packed with activities and celebrations between December 29th and January 10th. This means hotels are fully booked, prices are high, and public transport is overcrowded. However, experiencing New Year in Tokyo is something else, you just have to plan well in advance.
February is the start of the scuba diving season, when sea turtles, sharks, seahorses, and other marine life can be seen in the waters. It is also the best time to see humpback whales.
✨ Things You Shouldn't Return Without Doing
Walking on Shibuya Crossing
Enjoying the view of Mount Fuji
Going on a kimono tour in Kyoto
Watching a show at Robot Restaurant
Stepping into the world of anime at the Ghibli Museum
Watching sumo wrestling
🌟 Recommendations
Tipping is not common in Japan.
Google Maps is very useful for transportation.
Talking on the phone is not welcome on public transport, be on silent mode.
In most restaurants you order from vending machines, so it's handy to have some change.
The sockets in Japan are not compatible with those in Turkey, so be sure to add a socket converter to your suitcase!
You can't smoke everywhere in Japan; you can only smoke in specially designated areas, and it's not possible to light up a cigarette randomly on the street.
Japanese is spoken, but in larger cities, signs and menus also have English. Simple Japanese phrases may be useful. Konnichiwa (Hello), Sumimasen (Excuse me), Arigatou (Thank you)
Greeting in Japan isn't just about saying "hello"; it's also a show of respect. The more you bow, the more respect you show.
Japan is still a country where cash is widely used. Make sure you carry cash with you. Credit cards are accepted in big cities, but you may have a hard time in rural areas.
Japan is one of the safest countries in the world and perfect for female travelers. Some hotels even offer women-only accommodations and many trains have women-only carriages.
Japan is a country worth exploring in every corner. We hope this guide will make your trip more enjoyable and easier. Have a nice trip! ✈️
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