VasilisKarantousis

📍 Japan

🌍 On my wishlist

Japan · East Asia

The land of the rising sun: historic temples, neon skylines, bullet trains, and world-class culinary mastery.

🗓️ Best time to go

Spring (late March–April) for cherry blossoms, or Autumn (October–November) for brilliant maple foliage.

🚆 Getting around

The Shinkansen bullet train network is legendary for speed and precision. Metro networks cover cities perfectly.

About

Japan seamlessly contrasts historic heritage with high-tech futurism. A trip here spans historic shinto shrines, mountain onsen villages, and the buzzing energy of Tokyo.

Interesting places to visit

  • Fushimi Inari-taisha, Kyoto

    Hike up the sacred mountain path lined with thousands of bright orange torii gates.

  • Mount Fuji & Hakone

    View the iconic snow-capped volcano and soak in natural hot springs (onsen) at Hakone.

  • Shibuya Crossing, Tokyo

    The world's busiest pedestrian intersection, surrounded by bright neon billboards.

What to eat

  • Sushi & Sashimi

    Fresh, raw fish prepared by master chefs, best enjoyed at local markets.

  • Ramen

    Hot noodle soup in rich pork bone (Tonkotsu), soy, or miso broth.

  • Tempura

    Lightly battered and deep-fried seafood and seasonal vegetables.

Practical tips

  • Get an IC Card

    Load money onto a digital Suica or Pasmo card on your phone for seamless transit boarding and vending purchases.

💶 Rough budget

€80–€165 / day

Eating out can be very cheap; accommodation is the largest expense.