Discover Tokyo & Kyoto, Japan
Tokyo & Kyoto Top attractions and activities in Japan as the Yen’s value drops, making 2025 the perfect time to visit. Full list of recommendations If you haven’t heard yet, NOW is the best time to visit Japan. The Yen has been losing its value compared to the US Dollar, meaning my money goes a lot further. This gives travelers a unique opportunity to not only explore Japan but also support its local businesses, stimulating the economy in the process. I visited Japan just before cherry blossom season, and it was truly one of the best experiences I’ve ever had. Japan’s unique blend of old and new, tradition and technology, captivated me from the start. In this blog, I’m sharing some of my highlights, the unexpected adventures, and, of course, all the reasons why Japan should be at the top of your travel list. My journey began with an exhilarating flight from LA to Tokyo. From the moment I stepped off the plane, the vibrant energy of this bustling metropolis was palpable. Tokyo is a city of contrasts—modern skyscrapers nestled alongside temples, neon signs flashing next to quiet, traditional tea houses. I based myself in Shinjuku, right in the heart of the action, making it the perfect spot to launch all my Tokyo adventures. Full list of recommendations Unexpected Adventures in Tokyo One of the surprises of my trip came early on. I found myself at Taylor Swift’s Eras Tour at the Tokyo Dome! It wasn’t something I had planned on, but when the chance to go popped up, I couldn’t resist. The energy in the Tokyo Dome was electric. It felt surreal to be in such a massive crowd, singing along with thousands of other fans. Swift’s performance was everything I had hoped for, and it ended up being one of the best, unexpected highlights of my entire trip. Full list of recommendations Exploring Tokyo’s Highlights Tokyo offered me a blend of experiences that I’ll never forget. One of my first stops was the Meiji Jingu Shrine, tucked away in the heart of the city. This Shinto shrine is surrounded by a lush forest that creates a peaceful atmosphere—an oasis amidst the urban chaos. As I walked under the towering torii gates, the sound of the city seemed to fade away, and I was enveloped by the calm serenity of the place. Next, I wandered over to Yoyogi Park, just a short walk away. The cherry blossoms were in full bloom, their pink petals creating a stunning contrast against the blue sky. I spent hours strolling through the park, soaking in the beauty and enjoying the stillness. It was the perfect escape from the frenetic pace of the city. But Tokyo isn’t just about its temples and parks—it’s also about its art and innovation. I had the opportunity to visit teamLab Planets, an immersive digital art museum that felt like stepping into another world. The exhibitions were unlike anything I had ever experienced, with interactive light displays and mesmerizing projections that seemed to transport me into fantastical realms. It was a visual feast for the senses, and I was completely enthralled by it. The Imperial Palace was another must-see. Surrounded by pristine gardens and a moat, this iconic site is a window into Japan’s royal history. As I wandered through the grounds, I marveled at the graceful architecture and lush landscaping. It was fascinating to imagine life within the palace walls, centuries ago, and learn about the history of Japan’s imperial family. And, of course, no trip to Tokyo is complete without taking in the panoramic views from the Tokyo Tower. Standing at the top, I could see the entire city spread out beneath me, a sprawling metropolis that seemed to stretch on forever. From there, I made my way to the Tokyo Skytree, the tallest structure in Japan, for even more breathtaking views. Kyoto: A Step Back in Time After a few days in Tokyo, I boarded the famous Shinkansen, or bullet train, for a quick yet unforgettable trip to Kyoto. As I settled into my seat, I couldn’t help but be excited. It was my first time riding the Shinkansen, and the experience was every bit as incredible as I had imagined. The train glided effortlessly through the countryside at incredible speeds, and the sleek, futuristic design of the train added to the thrill. I was able to relax, enjoy the views, and take in the landscape as I sped towards my next destination. The ride itself was a journey—both literally and figuratively. I caught glimpses of Mount Fuji rising in the distance, its snow-capped peak a majestic sight against the clear blue sky. It was one of those moments that felt almost unreal, like I had stepped into a dream. The entire experience of being on the bullet train, speeding through Japan’s beautiful countryside with such comfort and ease, made the journey to Kyoto as much a part of the adventure as the city itself. Once I arrived in Kyoto, I was immediately struck by its timeless beauty. Unlike Tokyo, Kyoto is known for its historical landmarks, traditional architecture, and connection to Japan’s past. My first stop was Fushimi Inari Taisha, where I walked beneath thousands of vermillion torii gates that lead up the mountainside. The path, lined with moss-covered stone, was enchanting and peaceful, and as I made my way up, the sounds of the city were replaced by the quiet rustling of leaves in the wind. The spiritual ambiance of the place left me in awe, and I could easily have spent hours there, exploring its winding paths and hidden corners. I then visited Kinkaku-ji, the Golden Pavilion, one of Kyoto’s most iconic landmarks. As I walked around the tranquil pond, I couldn’t help but marvel at the temple’s shimmering golden exterior. The reflection of the pavilion on the still water was almost too beautiful to believe. This UNESCO World Heritage site exuded an air of tranquility and majesty, and I was so
