Japan

Japan feels like nowhere else on earth. Everything works perfectly, people are incredibly polite, and you can eat amazing food from a vending machine at two in the morning. It’s expensive but not as bad as people say if you’re smart about it.

Tokyo is overwhelming in the best way. Shibuya crossing, tiny ramen shops, neon everywhere. Give it four or five days minimum because each neighborhood feels like a different city. Shinjuku for chaos, Harajuku for weird fashion, Asakusa for temples. The train system looks scary but it’s actually super easy once you figure out the basics.

Kyoto is where you go for traditional Japan. Temples, gardens, geishas in Gion if you’re lucky. Rent a bike and just cruise around. Fushimi Inari shrine with thousands of red gates is touristy but worth it early morning before the crowds. Arashiyama bamboo grove is the same deal.

Osaka is all about food. Takoyaki, okonomiyaki, kushikatsu. Dotonbori at night is wild and fun. It’s cheaper than Tokyo and way more laid back. Use it as a base for day trips to Nara to see the deer and Himeji for the best castle in Japan.

The JR Pass saves you money if you’re moving between cities. Shinkansen trains are fast and crazy comfortable. Book the pass before you arrive because you can’t get it in Japan. Local trains and subways don’t need reservations, just tap your IC card.

Money is still pretty cash-heavy outside big cities. Seven-Eleven ATMs work with foreign cards. Convenience stores are everywhere and the food is actually good. Onigiri and fried chicken at three AM hits different.

Best time is spring for cherry blossoms or fall for leaves. Summer is hot and humid. Winter is cold but great for skiing up north.