How to Start Planning Japan: Experiencing the Magic of Japan During the Winter Months

The Bright Lights of Tokyo (5-7 days)

No trip to Japan is complete without immersing yourself in the controlled chaos of Tokyo. With never enough time to see it all, simply wander the diverse districts and soak in the energy.

Shibuya, Harajuku, Omotesando and Daikanyama

This famous neighborhood offers a true taste of Tokyo's vibrant contrasts. Catch the frenzy at Shibuya Crossing before escaping to the stylish cafés and boutiques of Omotesando. Don't miss the peaceful Meiji Shrine and people-watching in Yoyogi Park. Grab an izakaya dinner at the hard-to-find but worthwhile Shirube. Then explore Shibuya's tiny bar scene at spots like Nonbei Yokocho, Hub, and Scramble. For late night revelry, hit up mega clubs like Vision and Womb.

Shinjuku

While extremely crowded, Shinjuku deserves a wander. See the famous Robot Restaurant (skip the food), dive into Golden Gai's tiny bars, visit the TOTO showroom for a free toilet museum, and embrace Tokyo's LGBTQ+ nightlife in Ni-Chome.

Roppongi

This expat hotspot is where you'll find the best bars and clubs. Start your night at spots like Havana Cafe, Public Six and R2 before dancing till dawn at 1 OAK. Don't forget late night ramen! The Roppongi Hills Sky Deck offers stunning panoramic city views.

Ginza

Ginza dazzles as Tokyo's ritzy shopping mecca. Window shop the designer flagships before experiencing the lively izakaya scene in nearby Shimbashi and Yurakucho.

Other Must-Visits: Shimokitazawa's hip boutiques, Asakusa's Sensoji Temple, the soaring Tokyo Skytree and an animal café in Akihabara's "geek" district.

Where to Stay

For supreme convenience, luxury, and service, base yourself at the ANA Intercontinental in Akasaka. Or explore residential neighborhoods like Shibuya, Roppongi and Azabujuban via Airbnb.

Kyoto's Temples & Shrines (2-3 days)

No Japan journey is complete without experiencing the ancient spiritual heart of Kyoto. Spend a few days temple-hopping between iconic sites like Kinkaku-ji, Ginkaku-ji, Fushimi Inari and Kiyomizudera. If you have energy left, explore Kyoto's atmospheric side streets and markets.

Fukuoka & Hakata (2-3 days)

Venture south to the laid-back city of Fukuoka to experience some of Japan's best ramen and unique culture. Wander the atmospheric streets of Hakata and soak in an authentic onsen hot spring town nearby.

Ski Sapporo or Yuzawa (3-4 days)

For skiers and snowboarders, a Japanese powder adventure awaits. Splurge on an epic trip to Sapporo and its renowned resorts. Or keep it simple with an easy day trip from Tokyo to Yuzawa's GALA ski area.

Hakone (2 days)

No Japan trip is complete without experiencing, these famous hot springs. Japanese people take hot spring vacations together - whether as a couple or with buddies. It has been recommended to stay at a place called Hokkawa Onsen Hotel in Izu.

Eating Your Way Through Tokyo

• Pizza at Savoy and Pizza Studio Tamaki

• High-end sushi omakase to casual conveyor belt joints

• Yakiniku (grilled beef) at Kintan

• Ramen at Akanoren, Ippudo, Afuri and Tokyo Ramen Street

• Yakitori chicken skewers from cheap chains to upscale Torishige

• Teppanyaki Kobe beef experiences

• French cuisine at Joel Robuchon

• Soba, udon, tonkatsu and Japanese burgers at Burger Mania

• Whiskey: If you are a whiskey drinker, I’d recommend buying a bottle of Yamazaki at the nearest Don Quijote store. They go for about 80 USD, and are notoriously hard to buy outside Japan. Don’t let the Japanese fool you, they are just as good at making whiskey as the Scots. In fact, Yamazaki has beaten the Scots out in the past for best whiskey in the world.

• Check Tabelog for local favorites and Michelin-starred gems. Splurge on at least one ultra high-end meal.