The Perfect Japan Itinerary for US Travelers
October 18, 2023
Japan is a beautiful place to visit, with friendly people, amazing scenery, and a culture steeped in tradition. It is an exceptional destination that offers an American traveler the chance to appreciate a truly unique way of life. It is an exciting travel destination, but with so many unique places to visit, it is not easy to come up with an ideal travel guide.
To help you out, we've created the perfect Japan itinerary for US travelers visiting Japan. It includes popular tourist places and, just for you, a little-known gem that is worth visiting. So, put your seat back in the upright position, and let's fly to the Land of the Rising Sun!
Opened in 2011, Tokyo Skytree now dominates the city's skyline, with Mt. Fuji as a backdrop.
Day 1-2: Tokyo
The capital of Japan is the pulsing heart of the country. The area around the Imperial Palace, Akihabara (Japan's anime and electronic center), Tokyo Tower, Asakusa and Tokyo Skytree are all fantastic tourist attractions worth visiting. If you're hungry after a long flight, get ready to enjoy Tokyo's delightful and hugely varied cuisine, including all kinds of sushi and ramen, and taste the wagyu beef and matcha desserts. If you feel in the mood for some excitement, check out the nightlife in Shibuya, Shinjuku or Roppongi.
Day 3-4: Kyoto
Hop on one of the futuristic bullet trains and prepare to be transported back in time upon reaching Kyoto. Once the imperial capital, the city is now the capital of Japanese traditional culture. It is also a major tourist attraction, and you can expect crowds at the Kyoto Imperial Palace and in the Gion District (Kyoto's main stop for geishas).
We highly recommend visiting the Kinkakuji Golden Temple, Fushimi Inari Shrine, and Arashiyama Bamboo Grove. You can also experience a traditional tea ceremony or attend a geisha performance. Kyoto is a foodie's paradise, with specialties like Kaiseki, a traditional multi-course Japanese meal, and Yudofu, a tofu hot pot.
Day 5-6: Osaka
Osaka Castle is a picture-postcard example of the fortress architecture of 16th-century Japan. The cherry blossom and peach trees of the castle's park make it a photographer's dream. If you are up for a wild ride, Universal Studios Japan has some exciting ones. Meanwhile, this port city's nightlife and cuisine are wonderful experiences that any tourist will enjoy. Treats for your palate include okonomiyaki and takoyaki.
Day 7-8: You Decide
We want to give you two worthwhile options as you finish your brief tour of Japan. Either one is time well spent.
Kanazawa
We promised you something special, and this is the pearl in the oyster. Travelers often overlook Kanazawa, but it's definitely worth a visit. It is known
for its traditional architecture and beautiful gardens, such as the Kenrokuen-en Garden and the Kanazawa Castle. Also, check out the Omicho Market, a
lively seafood market with a variety of fresh seafood and local specialties. You can sample the seafood or have some okonomiyaki at the Okonomiyaki Chibo.
Stroll the narrow streets of Higashi Chaya, a geisha district with traditional teahouses and shops. This is another trip back in time to when Japan was a quieter country, without the hustle and bustle of bullet trains and anime.
Okinawa
Okinawa will appeal to everyone from military veterans who were stationed on the island to beach lovers who enjoy sunbathing. Okinawa has changed over the years, and the
old WWII battleground is now a major tourist attraction. Diving enthusiasts will love the biodiversity under the waves and in the coral reefs of Okinawa's
tropical islands. The northern part of the main island is a Natural World Heritage Site, and the legacies of the Ryukyu Kingdom are Cultural World Heritage
sites.
People in Okinawa live longer than the average life expectancy because of their diet. Try some delicacies such as hana-ika (sliced squid) or minudaru (steamed pork in a black sesame sauce) from a tundabun tray.
The Best Way to Get to Okinawa From Mainland Japan
If you're planning to visit Okinawa, the best way to get there is to fly. You can book a flight from Tokyo or Osaka to Naha, Okinawa's capital city. There are several airlines that provide daily flights, such as Japan Airlines, All Nippon Airways, and Peach Aviation. Depending on your location in Japan, reaching Okinawa may take two to four hours. What you will experience is worth it.
Simple Etiquette
The Japanese are very polite, and what they consider rude behavior is frowned upon. There are a few things you can do to avoid making some social faux pas:
- Do bow when greeting people; it's a sign of respect.
- Do not tip; it's not customary in Japan.
- Do take off your shoes when entering someone's home or a Japanese-style hotel.
- Do not eat or drink while walking; it's considered impolite.
- Do learn some basic Japanese phrases such as "arigatou" (thank you) and "sumimasen" (excuse me).
- Do not talk loudly on public transportation; it's considered rude.
- Do be mindful of other people's personal space.
When in doubt, remember that courtesy is the rule for any traveler in Japan.
A Coming Tourist Attraction
Many people who travel to Asia love to gamble, with Macau and Singapore being popular stops for the pastime. Although Japan has racetrack gambling, it has frowned on casinos for years. However, that is changing. Japan modified its laws to permit casino gambling, and a multi-billion-dollar casino resort is being constructed in Osaka. Scheduled to open in 2029, the complex will be located on Yumeshima island in Osaka Bay. We cannot promise that you will be lucky at the casino's poker tables, but we assure you that our Japan itinerary is a safe bet for fun and adventure that is more than ordinary American entertainment.
Japan is a one-of-a-kind travel destination that will leave you with unforgettable memories. Whether you are captivated by the buzz of Tokyo, the historic cities of Kyoto and Osaka, or the beautiful beaches of Okinawa, there is something for everyone.
We've shown you the perfect itinerary for US travelers to visit popular tourist places and discover a needle in the haystack. Japanese culture is rich in customs and traditions, and understanding some basic etiquette tips can enhance your experience. We told you about the best things this country offers tourists; now go book a flight and experience the magic of Japan for yourself!
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