Day 1 – Arrival at Narita International Airport

Narita International Airport is approximately an hour to an hour and a half away by train from central Tokyo, and offers the following public transportation options for tourists:

• JR Narita Express – This is the most convenient way to get from the airport to Tokyo Station. A one-way ride takes about an hour and costs 3,000 yen.
• JR Sobu Line – A one-way ticket on the JR Sobu Line from Narita Airport to Tokyo costs 1,320 yen, and takes approximately an hour and half.
• Keisei Limited Express – The one-way journey from the airport to Nippori Station is approximately one hour and fifteen minutes long, and costs 1,030 yen.
• Keisei Skyliner – This line is a faster but more expensive version of the Keisei Limited Express. The one-way trip takes only 55 minutes, and a ticket costs more, at 2,200 yen.
• Buses – There are several bus services that link the airport to Tokyo, and a one-way journey costs from 1,000 yen to 3,100 yen, and takes about an hour and a half.

Once in Tokyo, head to Shinjuku and drop by the Tokyo Metropolitan Government Building to get panoramic views of the city via the observatories on the twin towers 45^th floors, free of charge.

Afterwards, check out Shinjuku’s amazing nightlife by visiting the many restaurants, clubs, bars, pachinko parlours, karaoke bars, and various other entertainment establishments in Kabukicho, Golden Gai, and Omoide Yokocho.

Day 2 – Experience ancient and historical Japan in Ueno and Asakusa

Just a few minutes’ walk from Ueno Station, Ueno Park is home to a number of temples and shrines, such as the Kaneiji Temple and the Toshogu Shrine; museums, like the Tokyo National Museum, the Tokyo Metropolitan Art Museum, and the Shitamachi Museum; and the Ueno Zoo.

Also in the vicinity is the Ameyoko shopping street, which offers numerous shops and stores that sell a wide selection of Japanese sweets, candies, snacks, and condiments, as well as clothes, cosmetics, bags, and electronics.

One subway stop from Ueno Station is Asakusa Station, where the 7^th century Sensoji Temple is just a short walk away via the Nakamise shopping street, which is a haven of traditional Japanese snacks and souvenirs.

End the day with stunning views of Tokyo at night atop Tokyo Skytree’s 350-to-450-metre-high observation decks. From Sensoji Temple, Japan’s tallest structure is a pleasant 20-minute stroll across Sumida River.

Day 3 – Explore Shibuya and its surroundings

Shibuya is one of the most active and vibrant districts of Tokyo. It is known for its many malls and department stores, and the Shibuya pedestrian crossing and the Hachiko statue, both of which are found right outside Shibuya train station.

Harajuku, which is about 20 minutes away on foot, has the iconic Meiji Shrine, a popular venue for hatsumode every New Year. It also boasts of several shopping attractions, particularly Takeshita Street, which offers shops and boutiques that cater to the younger crowd; and Omotesando, which is often described as the Japanese Champs-Elysees and has numerous high-end fashion stores.

Yoyogi Park, which is among Tokyo’s most popular cherry blossom and autumn foliage spots, is only five minutes on foot and offers a large and tranquil green space for some relaxation to end a hectic sightseeing day.

Day 4 – Day trip to Lake Kawaguchiko

For gorgeous views of Mount Fuji and the Fuji Five Lakes, a day trip to Lake Kawaguchiko is highly recommended. From Tokyo, the following are a couple of transportation options to conveniently access it:

• Bus – There are buses that leave from Shinjuku Station, Shibuya Station, and Tokyo Station to Lake Kawaguchiko. A one-way trip is about two hours long, and costs less than 2,000 yen. Timetables, fares, tickets, and other information are available on these websites: Fujikyuko Bus and Japan Bus Online.
• JR Chuo Line – Get on the JR Chuo Line going to Otsuki Station, and then transfer to the Fujikyu Railway Line going to Kawaguchiko Station. A one-way trip takes about two hours and costs around 2,500 yen. More information on how to access the area is available here: Fujikyu Railway Access Guide.

To get around Kawaguchiko, you may rent a car or a bike, or use the retro buses, regular buses, and the Fujikko Bus Line. More information on the bus services available in the Lake Kawaguchiko region is found here: Retro Bus and Fujikko-go Bus.

Day 5 – Day trip to Kamakura

For some more nature adventures, head to Kamakura, an old, coastal town located in Kanagawa Prefecture, about an hour from downtown Tokyo.

(The Great Buddha in Kamakura – Source: https://pixabay.com/en/kamakura-kotoku-big-buddha-956449/)

It has several important historical landmarks, including the Great Buddha, a giant 13^th century bronze statue; the Hase-dera, a Buddhist temple built in the early 8^th century; and the Hachimangu Shrine, the town’s most important shrine founded in the beginning of 11^th century. It also offers scenic hiking trails and fine sand beaches.

To get to Kamakura from Tokyo, you may take any of the following options:

• JR Shonan Shinjuku Line – A direct trip from Shinjuku Station to Kamakura Station costs 920 yen and takes around an hour.
• JR Yokosuka Line – A one-way journey between Tokyo Station and Kamakura Station costs 920 yen, and takes less than an hour.

For convenient access to and getting around Kamakura, look into getting either a Kamakura Enoshima Pass or an Enoshima Kamakura Free Pass.

Day 6 – Shopping in Akihabara, Ginza, and Odaiba

Spend your last full day in Tokyo shopping for gifts and souvenirs.

For fans of anime and manga, Akihabara is the best place to visit, as it is the ultimate otaku paradise, with an abundance of manga, anime, games, and electronics shops. Ginza, meanwhile, is perfect for those looking for luxury and upscale brands.

Odaiba is best experienced at night, with several shopping, dining, and entertainment options. It is also where you can find the life-size giant Gundam statue, and the hot spring theme park called Oedo Onsen Monogatari.

Day 7 – Early morning trip to Tsukiji Fish Market before flying out of Japan

If your flight does not leave until late in the afternoon, consider waking up early in the morning to attend the tuna auction at Tsukiji Fish Market, which is located a short walk from Tsukiji Shijo Station along the Oedo Subway Line.

Every day, the auction opens its doors to only 120 visitors. The first group of 60 visitors get to witness the event at 5:25 am, and then the next group at 5:50 am. How to reserve slots and other information are available here: Tsukiji Market Tuna Auction Visitors’ Rules.

The market also has shops and restaurants that offer fresh sushi and other seafood.

To not miss your flight, make sure to catch a train or bus headed to Narita International Airport four to five hours before your flight departure time.

The post First Time in Japan? Here’s a 7 Day Sample Itinerary! appeared first on Japaniverse Travel Guide.

1. Hotel Granvia Osaka

Address: 〒530-0001, Osaka, Osaka City, Kita Ward, Umeda 3-1-1
Website: http://www.hotelgranviaosaka.jp/

Located right above JR Osaka Station, Hotel Granvia Osaka offers an unrivalled view of commercial district Umeda. Their rooms are simple and elegant, fitted with a fridge, a fully-furnished bathroom, cable TV, and a mini-bar. There is also free Wi-fi in every room.

Admire the view while dining in French/Italian restaurant “Fleuve” or stylish bar “Sandbank”. There are also Japanese and Chinese restaurants to choose from. If nothing catches your fancy, head down to Daimaru Shopping Mall for a whole host of other options.

Hotel Granvia Osaka is conveniently located 5 minutes by train from the bullet train station Shin-Osaka. Universal Studios Japan (USJ) is also 10 minutes away, and you can buy tickets at the hotel reception desk. Numerous shopping malls, such as the Hankyu Department Store, are within walking distance.

2. Hotel Osaka Baytower

Address: 〒552-0007, Osaka, Osaka City, Minato Ward, Benten 1-2-1
Website: http://www.osaka-baytower.com/english/

Hotel Osaka Baytower claims to offer the best night view of Osaka to its guests. Each room is furnished with a flat-screen TV, sitting room, fridge, room wear, and complimentary green tea. Laptops are also available for rent.

Conveniently located near both the JR train and subway stations, the hotel itself houses many facilities, including 5 eateries, a souvenir store, and a hair salon. There is also a cake shop selling limited pastries. Head up to the 51st floor for dinner at the “Airship” restaurant and an unparalleled view of the city below.

Most of Osaka’s attractions, such as Universal Studios Japan (USJ), Umeda, Dotonbori, and Namba are located a mere 15 minutes away by train. There is also a direct line to Kansai International Airport from JR Bentencho Station.

3. RIHGA Royal Hotel Osaka

Address: 〒530-0005, Osaka, Osaka City, Kita Ward, Nakanoshima 5-3-68
Website: http://www.rihga.com/osaka

If you’re looking for simple, modern accommodations, RIHGA Royal Hotel Osaka may be the best pick for you. Furnished with air conditioning, a desk, fridge, electric kettle, and cable TV, there is nothing lacking in this hotel’s rooms.

Inside the premises, you can utilize the fitness center, rooftop pool (with jacuzzi), massage services, and karaoke facilities. For meals, there are Chinese and Japanese restaurants, as well as bars and cafes if you just want to chill.

RIHGA Royal Hotel offers its guests free shuttle bus rides to and from JR Osaka Station. The shuttle bus also runs between the hotel and Herbis Osaka, where you can catch a limousine bus to Kansai International Airport. Popular tourist spots such as Namba and Shinsaibashi are 10 minutes away by train.

4. Hearton Hotel Nishi Umeda

Address: 〒530-0001, Osaka, Osaka City, Kita Ward, Umeda 3-3-55
Website: http://heartonhotel.com/nis.aspx

For a simple, fuss-free stay, opt for the Hearton Hotel located in Nishi Umeda. Its rooms are furnished with an LCD TV, fridge, electric kettle, room wear, slippers, and free Wi-fi.

Restaurant “Garden Café” offers a buffet breakfast and lunch, as well as a-la-carte dinner. For those who are staying for a longer time, a launderette can be found in the hotel’s basement floor.

Hearton Hotel Nishi Umeda is located near numerous subway train stations. Universal Studios Japan (USJ), Namba, and Shinsaibashi are 15 minutes away by train, and Osaka Castle 30 minutes.

5. Hotel New Otani Osaka

Address: 〒540-8578, Osaka, Osaka City, Chuo Ward, Shiromi 1-4-1
Website: http://www.hotelnewotaniosaka.jp/

Hotel New Otani Osaka has the advantage of being situated right in front of Osaka Castle. Known for their large guest rooms, each suite comes with a large window that offers a beautiful view of the city, as well as an LCD TV, mini-bar, and free Wi-Fi.

If you don’t feel like venturing out for the day, the hotel has you covered. Opt for spa services such as a soak in the jacuzzi or sauna, or a relaxing massage session, or check out the various shops and restaurants within the premises. We recommend a meal in “Keyaki” restaurant, which offers great views through its windows, then a cocktail at the Sky Lounge to wash it down.

JO-TERRACE OSAKA, a bustling shopping district, is just a 5-minute walk away from the hotel. If you would like to visit Osaka Castle, tickets can be bought at the hotel reception desk. Those who wish to venture further out can make use of the express shuttle buses that run between the hotel and Kyoto.

6. The Westin Osaka

Address: 〒531-0076, Osaka, Osaka City, Kita Ward, Oyodonaka 1-1-20
Website: http://www.westin-osaka.co.jp.e.iu.hp.transer.com/

Look no further than The Westin Osaka for a quiet refuge right in the heart of the city. With its soft lighting and soundproof walls, it’s hard to spend a sweaty day out sightseeing when you can kick back and watch the world go by through your room’s giant panorama window and take a long soak in your very own granite bathtub.

The hotel is also equipped with a fitness center that offers a sauna, jacuzzi, treadmills, a fitness room, and an indoor pool, for a reasonable charge. After your workout, reward yourself with a meal at Japanese restaurant “Hanano”, which offers a range of traditional dishes from sushi and teppanyaki to tempura.

Located next to the Umeda Sky Building, The Westin Osaka is right in the middle of town, with Osaka Castle and Dotonbori easily accessible by train or taxi. There is also a free shuttle bus service from the hotel to Osaka Station.

7. Hotel Monterey Grasmere Osaka

Address: 〒556-0017, Osaka, Osaka City, Naniwa Ward, Minatomachi 1-2-3
Website: https://www.hotelmonterey.co.jp/en/grasmere_osaka/

Shopaholics, this hotel is for you! Located next to Namba Station, Hotel Monterey Grasmere Osaka is a 5-minute walk away from Shinsaibashi and Dotonbori, Osaka’s busiest shopping districts.

The rooms are designed in a Western-style, with air-conditioning, a fridge, humidifier, flat-screen TV, and free Wi-Fi. DVD players and laptops are available for rent at the front desk, too. Do check out their in-house French restaurant ESCALE, decorated with priceless antiques and windows which offer an amazing night view of Osaka.

The hotel is situated next to the OCAT building, where you can easily catch shuttle buses to both Kansai International and Itami Airports. Universal Studios Japan (USJ) is also a 25-minute train ride away.

8. City Plaza Osaka

Address: 〒540-0029, Osaka, Osaka City, Chuo Ward, Hommachi-bashi 2-31
Website: http://www.cityplaza.or.jp/syukuhaku/english.html

City Plaza Osaka is best known for its rooftop spa, which includes an open-air bath and massage chairs that are free to use for hotel guests. Other rental facilities include an indoor heated pool, a stress-relieving sauna, and a fitness room. The comfortable rooms come with a flat-screen TV, electric kettle, room wear, and free Internet.

For meals, check out “Ooe” for Japanese cuisine, or if you’re hungry, visit “Rivage” for a delicious buffet spread. There’s also a tavern called “TATSUMIYA” on the 14th floor for those who enjoy their wine.

The hotel is located 6 minutes away from subway Sakaisuji-Hommachi Station. From there, it is a 10-minute ride to Dotonbori shopping district, and 15 minutes to Osaka Castle.

9. Swissotel Nankai Osaka

Address: 〒542-0076, Osaka, Osaka City, Chuo Ward, Namba 5-1-60
Website: http://www.swissotel.com/hotels/nankai-osaka/

Swissotel Nankai Osaka is a 5-star luxury hotel located right in the heart of Osaka City’s shopping and entertainment district. Featuring an indoor pool, spa, free Wi-Fi in all rooms and 7 restaurants, there is nothing more you can ask for.

Rooms come equipped with air-conditioning, an LCD TV, fridge, and an extra-long bed for maximum comfort. Some suite even come with a Nespresso coffee machine. Restaurant “TAVOLA36” is a must-visit for its panoramic view of the city from the windows, while Chinese restaurant “EMPRESS ROOM” serves up absolutely delicious dimsum and Chinese wine.

Famous shopping malls such as Namba Parks and Takashimaya, as well as Dotonbori and Shinsaibashi shopping districts, are all within walking distance from the hotel. The nearest station is Nankai-Namba Station, with express trains straight to Kansai Internation Airport and bullet train station Shin-Osaka Station.

10. Hotel Universal Port Osaka

Address: 〒554-0031, Osaka, Osaka City, Konohana Ward, Sakurajima 1-1-111
Website: http://www.hoteluniversalport.jp/en/

Located just 4 minutes away from Universal Studios Japan (USJ), this family-friendly hotel is the best bet for those with little ones who just can’t wait to visit the theme park. Each room comes with air-conditioning, a fridge, electric kettle, cable TV, as well as free Wi-Fi.

The hotel’s restaurant, “port dining rico rico”, offers a buffet-style breakfast to get you ready for a day of fun at USJ. Laundry and dry-cleaning services are also available for long-staying guests.

Hotel Universal Hotel Osaka is a 20-minute train ride away from Shin-Osaka and Umeda Stations. Downtown Namba is a short 25-minute ride away as well.

The post Top 10 Hotels in Osaka appeared first on Japaniverse Travel Guide.

Universal Studios Japan, more affectionately known to the locals as USJ, is a must-visit for any visitor. Located right in the heart of Osaka’s main city, it’s a huge theme park featuring 9 different areas, each based on a famous Hollywood movie. From Jurassic Park roller coasters and The Wizarding World of Harry Potter to the newly-opened Minion Park, there’s something for everyone, child or adult. If you’re in the area during the holidays, you can even join special events hosted during Halloween or Christmas.

2. Osaka Castle

It goes without saying that you can’t visit Osaka without seeing Osaka Castle. Built by feudal lord Toyotomi Hideyoshi in the 16th century, the castle still stands tall today, with its surrounding park a favorite gathering spot for the locals. The best time to visit is in the afternoon, where you can spend the time in the museum within the castle and wandering around the park. The castle lights up at night with the help of artfully-placed illuminations, so make sure to snap a shot before you leave.

3. Kaiyukan Aquarium

Lovers of the sea should not miss out on Kaiyukan, one of Japan’s best-kept aquariums featuring marine creatures from all corners of the world. With 14 large tanks, the aquarium is linked via tunnels so it feels like you’re walking through an underwater world. Check out their official website for feeding times, especially for their star attraction, the whale sharks. The aquarium is also actively involved in research and conservation efforts, so do your part to fund these projects by dropping by their gift shop at the end of your visit to purchase some adorable merchandise!

4. Hirakata Park

A theme park located in Hirakata City, this attraction is perfect for travelers who prefer not to join the crowds at USJ. A hidden gem that’s relatively undiscovered by tourists but popular among the locals, the park boasts a mega-speed roller coaster with a track constructed of wood. Other rides include merry-go-rounds, a giant Ferris Wheel, haunted mansions, and a large pool that functions as a pool or skating rink, depending on the season. They also host frequent collaborations with Japanese anime, so you may just meet beloved characters such as Pikachu wandering around the park!

5. Dotonbori

No trip to Osaka is complete without a journey down to Dotonbori, perhaps the best-known tourist attraction in the region. Check out the iconic mechanical crab and octopus decorations that adorn popular restaurants, and get a selfie with the world-famous Glico Man sign. If you’re feeling hungry, there is no shortage of places offering delicious, piping-hot food. Recommended places include Kanidouraku (crab), Kururu takoyaki (look for the giant octopus sign), and Kinryu ramen. If you’re feeling super adventurous, you can even try a 3-course dinner featuring the deadly puffer fish!

6. Shin-sekai

Experience Japan at the height of its economic boom at Shin-sekai, a small town located a couple of train stations from bustling Namba. Known for its unique atmosphere, Shin-sekai is best experienced at night, when the area comes alive with locals who come to make merry in the restaurants after a hard day’s work. Pop into any of the area’s restaurants to try Osaka’s famous dish, kushikatsu or deep-fried skewers, or venture to the top of Tsuutenkaku Tower for a lovely sunset view.

7. Spa World

Located a stone’s throw away from Shin-sekai, Spa World is located inside a nondescript building close to Shin-imamiya Station. The place features different types of bathhouses from all over the world, divided into 2 floors, European and Asian-styles. With 52 bathing areas, you can always find a spot to enjoy the bubbling hot waters all by yourself. Remember to check out the Dr.SPA area, which offers oxygen, hydrogen, and carbonic acid baths to ease aches and pains and improve your health.

8. Umeda Sky Building

8-minute’s walk from Osaka Station, the Umeda Sky Building is a symbol of Osaka’s status as the second-largest metropolis in Japan. With over 40 floors, the building offers attractions like a cinema, restaurants, event halls, and a open-air viewing platform 170m above ground level. It is best visited at night, when you’ll get a breathtaking 360-view of the glimmering lights of business district Umeda and the surrounding areas.

9. Banpaku Park

You may recognize Banpaku Park from its strange and slightly creepy monument, the Tower of the Sun, a reminder of when Osaka hosted the World Expo in 1970. The park also boasts gardens, natural museums, hot springs, and sports facilities for a fun day out. If you’re around the area in spring, Banpaku Park is one of Osaka’s best locations for cherry blossom viewing. At the end of the day, drop by Expo City, a shopping complex nearby, for dinner and a night ride on Japan’s tallest Ferris wheel.

10. Shinsaibashi

You can’t leave Osaka without luggage bags filled to the brim with shopping, and the best place to do that is at Shinsaibashi. Consisting of a series of sheltered shopping arcades, there is seemingly no end to this shopping paradise. Choose from shoebox-size stores along the arcades for affordable clothes, shoes, and souvenirs, or venture into any of the large shopping complexes to shop at branded stores for Japan-limited items. Remember to drop by GU, a Japanese discount casual wear retailer, as well as Uniqlo and Daiso fulfill all your shopping needs.

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