Japan
Japan immediately became one of our favourite countries in the world. Even if you don't consider yourself a big Japanophile, it's hard not to fall in love. They say it's a country of contrast, and that's spot on. Hypermodern buildings next to ancient temples. Bustling cities with tranquil gardens. And the food was probably the best we've ever had. We didn't have a bad meal while out there.
Highlights
Shinsekai, Osaka
Fushimi Inari
T Nakameguro steakhouse
TokYO Nightlife
Itinerary
Osaka (4 nights)
2 hours
4 hours 30 minutes
Kurashiki (1 night)
Hiroshima (2 nights)
2 hours
Kyoto (3 nights)
4 hours
Tokyo (8 nights)
Osaka
Osaka is like the fun younger sister of Tokyo, and we absolutely loved it. It has a slight retro feel to it, and it's a lot smaller than Tokyo so you can explore it more easily.
Do
Shinsekai, Osaka castle, Kurumon Market, Round1 Stadium Spocha, Ebisu Tower Ferris Wheel, Hozenji Yokocho, Namba Yasaka Jinja, Jazz boat
Eat
Sakimoto Bakery (honey toast), Kyushu Ramen Kio Dotonbori, Wagyu IDATEN, Gyukatsu Tomita, Takoyaki Wanaka Sennichimae, Namba Okonomiyaki Ajinoya Honten, Rikuro’s Namba Main Branch (jiggly cheesecake)
Stay
Ocean Nipponbashi Higashi
Tips
Download Papago for translation. You need to have an international driving permit to rent a car. It's really easy to get from the post office, but you can't get it once you're out of the country. Bit of nightmare. We looked into a train pass, but I actually think it worked out cheaper to book individually.
If we had more time...
1. Okinawa