DISCOVER JAPAN

Japan is a country where tradition and modernity exist in perfect harmony—and springtime might just be the most magical time to visit. I arrived at the start of cherry blossom season (sakura), and the entire country felt like it was celebrating. Locals and tourists alike gathered for hanami picnics beneath blooming trees, sipping sake and soaking in the fleeting beauty.

I based myself in Kyoto, where historic temples and shrines are tucked into quiet alleyways and hillsides. I biked through scenic backstreets, spotted an authentic Geisha, sipped matcha everything, and even sang my heart out at a secret karaoke bar. From a surreal walk through thousands of torii gates at Fushimi Inari, to wandering aimlessly in Osaka and feeding bowing deer in Nara, every day felt like a new adventure.

Ride bikes, hike peaceful mountain paths, get lost in the glow of lantern-lit streets, and embrace the charm of this unforgettable country.

THINGS TO DO

I lived in Kyoto but visited Osaka, Nara, and Fushimi Inari.

Visit Fushimi Inari Shrine and walk through the iconic orange torii gates (go early to avoid crowds)
Have a picnic by the canal in Kyoto during sakura (cherry blossom) season if you’re lucky
Get lost in Gion, Kyoto’s historic district—especially at night when lanterns glow and Geisha pass silently
Experience a traditional Matcha Tea Ceremony—a peaceful, mindful ritual you won’t forget
Sing your heart out at Barcode Karaoke Bar (a hidden gem few tourists ever find!)
Take a day trip to Nara, where the sacred deer will bow for snacks—seriously
Wander through Osaka with no plan (I found Korea Town, vintage shops, and incredible okonomiyaki just doing this)
Witness a light festival or temple illumination if you’re visiting in the right season
Try a relaxing Onsen (Japanese hot spring)—make sure to read etiquette ahead of time
Hike local trails like Kurama to Kibune or trails near Arashiyama and the Bamboo Grove
Bike through Kyoto or Nara—both are super bike-friendly and full of scenic detours
Watch a Geisha or Maiko in real life—it’s more than just the appearance; it's art, grace, and tradition in motion

THINGS TO KNOW

Cherry Blossom Season (Sakura) typically peaks between late March to early April, and the hype is real—for good reason! People host picnics, wear yukatas, and flock to famous bloom spots. Kyoto’s Maruyama Park and Philosopher’s Path are especially dreamy. Book accommodations early—it’s a very popular time to visit!
Cash is king – Many small eateries and shrines don’t take cards, so keep yen on hand.
Trains are fast and incredibly punctual – Use the JR Pass for long-distance travel and grab an IC card (like Suica or ICOCA) for local rides.
Tipping isn’t customary – Just say “arigatou gozaimasu” and bow slightly.
Onsen etiquette is strict – No swimsuits, no soap in the bath, and tattoos may need to be covered (or seek tattoo-friendly onsens).
Public spaces are quiet – Keep conversations low on trains and in temples.
Shoes off indoors – Be prepared to remove your shoes at homes, traditional restaurants, temples, and some shops.
Vending machines & convenience stores are everywhere—and amazing! Grab matcha lattes, onigiri, or even hot meals on the go.
Google Translate + Maps = Lifesavers – For reading menus, finding obscure bars, and navigating temples with ease.
Matcha, Plum Wine, and Highballs are staple drinks—don’t leave without trying them all.

FOOD & DRINKS

Ramen, sushi, and gyoza were my go-to meals, but Japan’s food scene runs deep. Try shabu-shabu (a hotpot experience where you cook your own meat and veggies tableside), or treat yourself to kaiseki, a multi-course haute cuisine meal rooted in seasonality. Conveyor belt sushi is fun and surprisingly affordable. Kyoto is known for yuba (tofu skin) and elegant kaiseki ryori. In Osaka, don’t miss okonomiyaki (savory pancake) or takoyaki (octopus balls).

If you’re into cocktails like me, you’ll be wowed by Japan’s cocktail culture—bartenders here treat drinks like fine art. Seek out intimate, speakeasy-style bars or rooftop lounges in Osaka. Don’t forget to try a highball, or indulge in some plum wine (umeshu) over ice. And of course, sip on matcha lattes and sample matcha desserts like ice cream, cakes, and even croissants.

🍜 Local Favorites to Eat & Visit

Kyoto

Nishiki Market – A must! Try matcha mochi, yuba skewers, soy donuts, and more from the stalls.
Menbaka Fire Ramen – Famous for their flame-torched green onion ramen experience.
Omen – Near Ginkakuji Temple, known for handmade udon and seasonal veggie sides.
% Arabica Coffee – Stylish and popular café with views along the canal or near Arashiyama.
Kyoto Gion Tempura Yasaka Endo – A refined tempura experience in a historic setting.

Osaka

Dotonbori District – Foodie central! Walk, eat, repeat. Try takoyaki, okonomiyaki, and kushikatsu here.
Mizuno Okonomiyaki – A top-rated local spot with lines out the door. Worth the wait.
Kura Sushi – Conveyor belt sushi with fun gimmicks and high-quality fish.
Kuromon Ichiba Market – Osaka’s answer to Nishiki. Slurp up uni, grilled scallops, and wagyu skewers.
Torame Yokocho – A hidden alley food court-style spot with local sake, fried skewers, and yakitori stalls.