Japan - Elbowing through Millions of Tourists

It was a short flight from South Korea to Tokyo. My plan was to travel in Japan for 10 days, mainly visiting Tokyo, Kyoto, and Osaka. I couldn't really imagine what it would be like to travel in Japan, as I had the expectation that Japan is quite special in that matter.

The people are said to be friendly and helpful, yet very strict in many aspects. They have their own systems and unique perspectives on many things. For this reason, I wanted to keep my first trip to Japan uncomplicated and stuck to the main tourist route, focusing on Tokyo, Kyoto, and Osaka.

One of the most challenging aspects of visiting Japan as a tourist is the sheer number of possibilities. Everywhere you look, there’s something new and different to explore. The wonder never ceases because everything is so distinct compared to other countries.

And also all their rules are phenomenal but especially one behavior I appreciated among others.

The most important etiquette in Japan?

The art of not disturbing others, the "Quiet Please". My favorite rule in Japan. On trains and in restaurants, there’s a remarkable stillness. Everyone enjoys their ride, their meal, or whatever they are engaged in, quietly and respectfully. Conversations are hushed, ensuring no one is disturbed.

The friendliness of the locals is striking - you might even think they’re from another world. The manners here seem to be from a different planet. From greetings to service, from queuing to farewells, everything is done with the utmost respect. This incredible cultural distinction makes one wish other European countries could learn from it.

However, the problem is that the only people who do not adjust are mostly tourists.

Day 1 - Arrival in Tokyo

Arriving from South Korea, I took the Skyliner train directly from Narita (NRT) airport to Tokyo city.

The rush of tourists at the airport for SIM cards and train tickets was immense. It’s rare to see such a crowd at an airport, but it’s no surprise - Japan is extremely popular right now.

The train ride took an hour. Leaving the station, I was impressed at how clean and well-lit everything was. Japan is known for its cleanliness, with a strong emphasis on waste separation and recycling. Public trash cans are rare, as people are expected to carry their trash with them and dispose of it at home.

Day 2 - Tokyo Real First Impression

The Asakusa Shrine. Getting there with the subway and a bit of walking is easy.

This place is huge, ancient, and one of Tokyo’s most important cultural landmarks. The architecture is stunning, and the area is surprisingly peaceful, despite the constant flow of huge amount of tourists.

But if you’re not a fan of crowds, be prepared for a bit of chaos - especially during peak tourist seasons. It’s like trying to enjoy a quiet moment at a rock concert. Still, it’s worth it for the history and the atmosphere.

Kitchenware and other stuff Streets

I wandered down Kappabashi-dori, the famous kitchenware street. This place is serious about cooking. Knives, pots, pans, or even plastic food models that look better than the real thing.

The variety is incredible, but here’s the catch: it’s a little overwhelming. Every shop’s practically has so many extraordinary advertisements and beg to in. But due to time constraints, I had to set priorities.

Ueno Park: Nature in the Concrete Jungle

Then, a change of pace – I visited Ueno Park, a spacious oasis of greenery in the heart of the city. It’s a perfect place to forget being in a city of 14 million people.

Complete Silence in Coffee Shops

Just an average Japanese café, but still so incredibly quiet. Everyone was sipping their coffee in perfect peace, even though there were people everywhere. It’s a whole different scene compared to back home, where coffee shops normally are noisy. In Japan, people just seem to know when to be quiet.

Its perfect to rest and continue the city walk.

Akihabara: Neon Wonderland

I took a stroll through Akihabara. This place is a tech and gaming paradise, a neon-lit with anything futuristic. I was impressed by the variety of stores, everything from the latest tech to rare collectibles. If you can’t find something here, you probably don’t need it.

But Akihabara is also a bit of a sensory overload. The crowds can be intense, especially on weekends. But that’s Tokyo – it’s where the traditional meets the cutting edge, and you’re always just a few steps away from something unexpected.

So many gambling stores, and even with many people around there are empty seats all over.

Day 3: Mt. Fuji – The Mountain, the Madness, and the Supermarket Selfies

Today, I made the trip to Mt. Fuji, Japan’s highest peak and an active volcano – just a little thing that’s been around for a couple million years.

For just 45 USD, I got a full 10-hour tour, and I have to say, this might be the best value for money I’ve ever spent. The bus ride itself was surprisingly pleasant. It was pure bliss. There was this unspoken rule on the bus: silence. No talking, no loud music, just the gentle hum of the engine. Honestly, it's refreshing when you get a group of people, even on a crowded bus, and everyone just adapts to the peaceful vibe. A true pleasure.

The ride to Mt. Fuji took about two hours, and once we got there, it was a series of stops designed to give us the best views of the mountain and the areas in the area.

Mt. Fuji, part of the Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park and a UNESCO World Heritage site, is basically always in view once you’re in the area. The weather, however, is pure luck.

Lucky for us, it cooperated today. Apparently, there's only about a 30% chance of seeing the whole mountain on any given day. But we got lucky, and Fuji was completely visible.

Spot 1: The Stairs

400 steps. This spot is known for its panoramic views of Mt. Fuji where all tourists take the exact same picture. The climb was OK, but the crowds? A bit much. Imagine climbing 400 steps, surrounded by hundreds of tourists all jockeying for position to snap the same photo of Fuji. But the view from the top was stunning.

Spot 2: The "Street"

Next stop: The "Street". This one’s another bit of a tourist hotspot. The street itself is lined with local shops selling traditional snacks and souvenirs, but what really makes it stand out is the perfect view of Mt. Fuji.

So perfect, in fact, that people practically throw themselves into traffic to get that one shot of the mountain. It’s chaos. People are gathering at the crosswalk, ready to click their cameras the second the light turns green for 10 seconds. Still, it’s a sight to behold.

Spot 3: Oshino Hakkai

After the photo frenzy, we headed to Oshino Hakkai, a small village with some fish ponds fed by Mt. Fuji’s melted snow. It sounds peaceful, right? Well, kind of. There were thousands of tourists squished into narrow lanes, making it hard to enjoy the charm of the place.

The ponds were nice, but it was tough to find a moment of serenity when you were constantly sidestepping people with selfie sticks. It's a great place for those who want a taste of traditional Japan – just be ready for the crowds.

Spot 4: Lake Kawaguchiko

Next, we visited Lake Kawaguchiko, one of the most scenic spots around the mountain. The lake offers some of the best views of Mt. Fuji, especially during cherry blossom season.

The views were nice. The lake? Absolutely serene. The crowds? Not so much. It was packed with tourists, and finding a quiet spot to just sit and take it all in was nearly impossible. But hey, who am I to complain? I was still getting a front-row seat to one of Japan's most iconic landscapes.

Spot 5: The "Supermarket"

And then, there was the supermarket. Yes, right – a Lawson supermarket. Apparently, this has become something of a cult attraction.

The supermarket sits at the base of Mt. Fuji, with the mountain looming directly above it. It's a strange thing, somehow, it’s become a must-see. Doesn't make sense but that didn’t stop a huge crowd from lining up to get their own photos of Mt. Fuji.

After all these stops, we finally headed back to Tokyo.

The return trip took about 2.5 hours due to the typical Tokyo traffic, but the ride was pleasant enough. As we drove back through the mountains, we got more views of Mt. Fuji in the distance. This day was a great experience and I'm glad that I didn't expect any peace and quiet along the way.

Day 4 - Shibuya and Shinjuku, welcome to the Jungle

Started the day in Shibuya, and it was as crazy as I expected. The first stop before the chaos was the Meiji Shrine. This place is beautiful - a peaceful, historic site surrounded by forest.

It’s hard to believe that a few blocks away, the streets are packed with people and neon signs. But here, it’s a different world. I took a little hike through the park to get to the shrine.

Around the temple were so many visitors but it was plenty of space. Even a celebration, I guess a marriage took place and it was interesting that Japanese locals celebrate the ancient way.

Takeshita Street

I wandered over to Takeshita Street - and wow, this is the spot. It’s shops, cafes, and street food. The street itself is packed with people. It’s chaotic but in a good way.

Omotesando Street: Tokyo’s Attempt at Classy

Then, I went to Omotesando Street - it’s like Tokyo’s answer to the Champs-Élysées. The shops scream high-end prices.

It’s not the stores that make it "interesting" - it’s the lines. These Japanese people are really committed. Some of these stores, have hundreds of people lined up, standing there with tickets in hand to enter a stupid shop. But it’s all very orderly and no one speaks or complains. There’s security everywhere, making sure nobody cuts the line or tries to steal someone's "ticket". It’s fascinating.

Shibuya Scramble Crossing: The Ultimate Intersection Experience

From there, I headed over to Shibuya Scramble Crossing, and yes, it’s as iconic as people say.

Picture this: thousands of people, moving in all directions, trying to cross the street at the same time. It wasn’t as crazy as it would be during peak hours, but it was still impressive.

Then there are all these tiny shops and restaurants surrounding the crossing, with crowds spilling out into the streets. It’s an organized chaos but different.

Shinjuku

It’s like Shibuya’s bigger sibling. Same chaos, but with even more businesses.

No famous crossing here, but Shinjuku has its own, more commercial side with more entertainment. It’s got the shops, the skyscrapers.

Also Kabukicho. It’s definitely a place to experience. For the grand finale in Tokyo: Wagyu beef. This wasn’t just any Wagyu - this was Miyazaki A5 Wagyu, the kind of beef that’s basically a work of art.

Day 5 - Kyoto – Temples, Crowds, and the Magic of Japan

Took the Shinkansen to Kyoto. A nice ride on the fast track to the tourist crowds. Sitting in this sleek, futuristic train at top speed.

Kyoto: The Peaceful City Every Tourist Knows About

Arriving in Kyoto, you’re immediately struck by the peaceful vibe, which is, honestly, a nice change from Tokyo.

But here’s the thing: Kyoto is famous for its temples, and when I say “famous,” I mean everybody knows.

I walked over to Kiyomizu-dera and wandered through Ninenzaka and Sannenzaka - lots of steps, lots of temples, and let’s be honest, lots of people. It was like stepping into a theme park.

Seriously, it felt like the entire world had descended on Kyoto. It’s nice, but the crowds? Unbelievable.

You think you’re going to find peace and quiet, but no. Everyone’s there - everyone. And when I say “everyone,” I mean everyone. It’s not exactly “Zen,” but it’s definitely something.

Kiyomizu-dera: The View That Makes It All Worthwhile

But, and this is important, the view from the Kiyomizu-dera temple? Nice. It’s got this wooden stage that juts out from the main hall, 13 meters above the hillside. Standing there, looking out, and suddenly, the crowds don’t seem so bad. It’s worth it for that view.

Hanamikoji: A Glimpse of Old Kyoto

Walked through Hanamikoji, which has these beautiful old houses and narrow streets. The scene here is totally different from the rest of Kyoto - quieter. It’s almost peaceful, which is shocking after the crowds earlier. Kyoto does history really well, and this area is a perfect example of that.

The modern part of Kyoto

By the time I was in I Kawaramachi-dori street. Good place for walking over, but again with lots of foreigners.

Day 6 - Fushimi Inari: Thousands of Torii Gates and Tourists

A visit to Fushimi Inari - famous for its thousands of torii gates. But the excitement faded soon, there were so many people.

The gates are there, OK to look at, the whole mountain is magical, but at the start? It’s a nightmare of tourists. You’re basically elbowing your way through a sea of people to get any decent views.

And sure, it’s picturesque, but when you’re trying to get a moment of peace and everyone is busy setting up their perfect Instagram shot, well, it’s a bit much.

The Higher You Go, the Fewer People There Are

That said, once I got higher up the mountain, the crowds thinned out.

It was almost like I’d discovered a hidden part of the place - no people, just me, the torii gates, some serenity, and some other tourists. It’s a beautiful hike, and once pushed through the crowds at the bottom, it’s totally worth it.

Ancient District Again: Because Why Not?

Later, I walked through the Gojo district again because there are so many cool streets, and it’s one of those places to wander and discover something new around every corner.

Eventually, I made my way to Hokan-ji Temple, home to Kyoto’s iconic five-story pagoda. The street around the temple is a scene straight out of a history book - traditional architecture everywhere.

Day 7 - Nijo Castle – History and Samurai Vibes

I decided to check out Nijo Castle. I walked past these beautiful old houses and temples. At one point, I passed a temple completely empty of tourists. It was like a moment of Zen in the middle of my busy day - total peace. Just me, the quiet, and no one around for a moment.

The Impressive Nijo Castle: A Movie Set Come to Life

Walking there was easy as Kyoto streets are aligned with a clear layout. Along the way lots of things to see.

Eventually, Nijo Castle popped into view. The castle’s watchtower was the first thing I spotted, and it’s this impressive structure.

The whole place is spectacular, built in 1603 as the residence of the first shogun of the Edo period, Tokugawa Ieyasu. This is the kind of history that makes me stand there thinking, “This place is like something out of a movie.”

Inside the Castle: Samurai Strategy and Stunning Gardens

Inside, the castle is just as impressive. The gardens are meticulously maintained, and the buildings are full of fascinating details. One of the best parts? Seeing the rooms where the samurai would hang out and discuss strategy. They’d philosophize, plan, and make military decisions.

The artwork on the walls and the little details in every room.

The walk, a stroll through history.

The garden walk around the moat was also something to remember - beautiful pathways with views from the watchtowers.

Day 8 - Towards Osaka

Finally, I took the train to Osaka, known for its modern architecture and street food. It’s a whole new scene from Kyoto. The train ride was smooth, and just like that, the Kyoto adventure ended and the Osaka chapter began.

Osaka has traditional spots, but also ultra-modern districts with big-city flair.