Tour Yourself Through Japan: Smart Travel Packages for City and Countryside

Visiting Japan for the first time can feel overwhelming with so many destinations and experiences to choose from. This DIY guide and smart travel packages make touring Japan seamless.

Introduction: Explore Japan’s Balance of Tradition and Innovation

Japan is a country where opposites coexist beautifully . Shinto shrines hide behind skyscrapers in Tokyo’s business districts. Ancient temples rest quietly among Kyoto’s maple forests. In one day, you might ride a silent bullet train at 200 mph and later wander through lantern-lit alleyways that haven’t changed for centuries.

With Smartours’ Japan smart travel package , exploring the country becomes intuitive. The goal isn’t just to see more, but to travel smarter — guided itineraries built with AI tools, flexible bookings, and suggestions that adapt to your pace and interests. Whether you’re chasing cherry blossoms, snow festivals, or ramen shops open past midnight, Smartours helps you plan efficiently while keeping space for discovery.

Before diving into your route, here’s a snapshot of what you need to know.

Japan at a Glance

Pre-Travel Essentials: Smart Planning Before Your Japan Adventure

Planning a trip to Japan is easier than it looks — but a few smart moves before you land can make everything smoother, cheaper, and more efficient. From entry rules to apps and payments, here’s what to sort out first.

Entry & Travel Requirements

U.S. citizens can visit Japan visa-free for up to 90 days. Bring a passport with at least six months’ validity. While entry is usually quick and efficient, register on Visit Japan Web before your flight — it streamlines immigration, customs, and tax-free processes.

Connectivity: eSIM vs. Pocket Wi-Fi

Japan runs on reliable, fast data — but public Wi-Fi can be spotty.

• eSIMs:Best for solo travelers; activate before departure and get instant connection upon landing.
• Pocket Wi-Fi:Ideal for groups or travelers who use multiple devices. You can rent one at major airports or pre-book online for pickup.

Must-have apps:

• Google Maps– accurate transit routes and platform info.
• Navitime Japan Travel– train times and transfers in English.
• Google Translate– download Japanese offline pack.
• Tabelog– restaurant rankings (Japan’s Yelp, but more accurate).

Money & Payments

Japan remains largely cash-friendly, though digital payments are growing fast.

• Cash:Carry about ¥10,000–¥20,000 ($70–$140)for small shops, food stalls, and temples.
• ATMs:Withdraw cash at 7-Eleven (7-Bank)or Japan Post ATMsusing your U.S. debit or credit card.
• Cards & Mobile Pay:Major hotels and stores accept Visa/Mastercard. Many QR systems now work via Alipay+, PayPay, or Apple Payfor tourists.

Packing Smart

Japan’s weather changes fast — pack light layers and check forecasts a week ahead.

• Spring/Fall:Light jackets and comfortable shoes for walking.
• Summer:Breathable clothing, small towel, and portable fan.
• Winter:Down jacket, gloves, and heat packs.

Add an umbrella(it rains unexpectedly) and a coin pouch, since coins are common in daily transactions.

Tech Tip

Save your hotel name, address, and key phrases like “nearest station” in Japanese on your phone. Even with translation apps, having these handy offline can save you from awkward moments in transit or taxi rides.

Japan Smart Travel Package Itinerary: The Perfect 7–10 Day Route

Japan’s magic lies in how quickly you can shift from neon skylines to centuries-old temples to steaming mountain onsens.

This 7–10 day route is designed for first-time visitors — a balance of city excitement, cultural immersion, and nature escapes — all optimized for efficient travel via the bullet train.

Tokyo — The Pulse of Modern Japan (Days 1–3)

Start your journey in Tokyo , Japan’s sprawling, electric capital. It’s chaotic in the best way — where tradition hides behind the glow of digital billboards.

Must-Sees in Tokyo:

• Shibuya Crossing:Tokyo’s iconic intersection. Watch from Starbucks’ 2nd floor or Shibuya Sky for an aerial view.
• Meiji Shrine:A tranquil forested shrine near Harajuku, perfect for resetting after a flight.
• Asakusa & Senso-ji Temple:Tokyo’s oldest temple; explore Nakamise Street for snacks and souvenirs.
• teamLab Planets (Toyosu):Immersive art experience blending light, sound, and reflection — advance booking required.
• Tokyo Skytree:634 meters high; go near sunset for panoramic views of the city.

Smart Tip:
Save time using Suica or Pasmo digital cardson your phone for all trains and buses.

If you’re jet-lagged, start late — Tokyo doesn’t truly wake up until midmorning, and it shines brightest at night.

Hakone — Hot Springs and Mt. Fuji Views (Day 4)

A perfect one-day or overnight escape from Tokyo. Hakone combines nature, culture, and relaxation — and it’s your best chance for a clear view of Mount Fuji .

Top Experiences:

• Lake Ashi Cruise:Board a themed ship for views of Mt. Fuji framed by cedar forests.
• Owakudani Valley:Visit volcanic vents and try kuro tamago— black eggs boiled in sulfur springs.
• Hakone Open-Air Museum:Outdoor art installations set against mountain backdrops.
• Onsen Stay:Stay overnight at a ryokan with an outdoor bath (rotenburo) for the full hot spring experience.

Smart Tip:
Use the Hakone Free Pass— it covers transport, ropeways, and even the pirate ship. Send your luggage ahead via courier so you can travel light.

Kyoto — Tradition in Motion (Days 5–6)

Once Japan’s imperial capital, Kyoto remains its cultural soul — filled with shrines, tea houses, and narrow streets that still whisper history.

Must-Sees in Kyoto:

• Fushimi Inari Taisha:Walk through thousands of vermilion torii gates up Mount Inari. Best visited at sunrise.
• Kiyomizu-dera Temple:Known for its wooden stage and panoramic views of Kyoto.
• Gion District:Wooden teahouses, narrow lanes, and possible geisha sightings at dusk.
• Arashiyama Bamboo Grove:Serene early in the morning before tour crowds arrive.
• Nishiki Market:Kyoto’s kitchen — taste pickles, sweets, and street snacks.

Smart Tip:
Download Google Maps’ offline mode— Kyoto’s bus network can be confusing. Walking and short taxi rides often save more time than navigating bus routes.

Osaka — Eat, Explore, Repeat (Day 7–8)

If Tokyo is about energy and Kyoto is about grace, Osaka is about appetite. Known as Japan’s “Kitchen of the Nation,”this city is casual, loud, and endlessly delicious.

Must-Try Eats:

• Takoyaki:Fried octopus balls sold on nearly every corner.
• Okonomiyaki:Savory Japanese pancake loaded with toppings.
• Kushikatsu:Deep-fried skewers, best enjoyed in Shinsekai.

Must-Sees:

• Dotonbori:Osaka’s buzzing nightlife hub, lined with takoyaki stalls, neon billboards, and the famous Glico sign.
• Osaka Castle:Restored landmark surrounded by cherry blossoms in spring; climb to the top for skyline views.
• Umeda Sky Building:Floating observatory with open-air decks overlooking the city.
• Shinsekai:Retro streets and kushikatsu (fried skewers) joints.

Smart Tip:
Osaka pairs perfectly with day trips — consider adding Nara (for its bowing deer and Todaiji Temple) before heading back to Tokyo.

Optional Extensions (Days 9–10)

• Hiroshima&Miyajima:Visit the Peace Memorial Park and the floating torii gate of Itsukushima Shrine.
• Hokkaido:Summer flower fields or world-class skiing in winter.
• Okinawa:For beaches, snorkeling, and subtropical scenery.

Smart Travel Insight:
Japan’s rail system is your best ally — every leg of this trip connects seamlessly by shinkansen (bullet train). Use Smartours’ AI itinerary tools to plot your route timings and find optimal transfer windows between cities.

Transportation Highlights: Navigating Japan the Smart Way

Getting around Japan is as much a part of the experience as the destinations themselves. The country’s public transit system is fast, reliable, and—once you understand it—remarkably easy to navigate. Whether you’re riding the Shinkansen or tapping through subway gates with your phone, here’s how to move like a local.

Japan Rail Pass vs. Regional Passes

The Japan Rail Pass (JR Pass)once defined how travelers explored the country, but it’s not the best fit for everyone anymore.

• Who should get it:Travelers covering multiple long-distance routes (like Tokyo–Kyoto–Osaka–Hiroshima).
• Who shouldn’t:Those focusing on one region (Kansai, Kanto, or Hokkaido). Regional passes often cost less and offer more flexibility.

Price Snapshot (as of 2025):

• 7-Day Nationwide JR Pass: ~¥50,000 (~$330)
• Tokyo–Kyoto Shinkansen (one-way): ~¥14,000 (~$95)If your itinerary includes at least two long-distance bullet train rides, the JR Pass pays off. Otherwise, book single tickets online or at machines using credit cards.

The Shinkansen: Japan’s Bullet Train

The Shinkansen is Japan’s high-speed artery—quiet, comfortable, and on time to the second.

• Green Car vs. Ordinary Car:Green Car = first class, wider seats, fewer crowds. Ordinary = perfectly fine for most travelers.
• Seat Reservations:Highly recommended during holidays and weekends; use ticket machines or the JR East/West apps.
• Smart Tip:Always keep your ticket until you fully exit the station—Japan’s gates check them both in and out.

Popular Routes:

• Tokyo → Kyoto: ~2 hr 15 min
• Kyoto → Osaka: ~15 min
• Osaka → Hiroshima: ~1 hr 30 min

IC Cards & Contactless Travel

Physical IC cards (like Suica, Pasmo, and ICOCA) were once essential, but digital versions have taken over.

• Best Option:Add a Suica card to your Apple Wallet or Google Pay. It works for trains, subways, buses, and even vending machines.
• Temporary Cards for Tourists:Available at airports and select train stations if your phone doesn’t support digital cards.
• Recharge:Directly through your phone or at 7-Eleven/FamilyMart kiosks.

Pro Tip:IC cards also double as a quick-pay system at convenience stores and restaurants—no fumbling for coins needed.

Airports & Transfers

Tokyo:

• Narita Airport:Take the Narita Express (N’EX)to Shinjuku or Tokyo Station (~1 hour).
• Haneda Airport:Use the Keikyu Lineor Tokyo Monorail(~30 minutes).

Kansai (Osaka/Kyoto):

• Kansai International Airport (KIX):The Haruka Expressgoes straight to Kyoto in 1 hour 15 minutes, or to Osaka in under an hour.

Smart Tip:If you land late, book a hotel near your arrival station—trains generally stop around midnight.

Navigating Cities

Japan’s metro systems can feel intimidating at first, but they’re incredibly logical once you get used to the signage.

• Google Maps:Highly reliable for door-to-door directions, including platform numbers.
• Navitime:Offers real-time route changes and English notifications for delays.
• Apple Maps:Displays train car recommendations for easiest transfers.

Pro Tip:Always check station exit numbers—Tokyo alone can have 20+ exits, and the wrong one could mean a 15-minute detour.

Luggage Solutions

Travel light between cities by using Japan’s takuhaibin (luggage delivery)service.

• Send your suitcase from hotel to hotel or airport for around ¥2,000 ($13–15)per bag.
• Bags usually arrive the next day, so pack an overnight tote if needed.

Coin lockers are another lifesaver, especially in major stations. They cost ¥300–¥700 ($2–$5)and are perfect for stashing day-trip gear.

Smart Travel Tip

Think of Japan’s transport as a living system—it’s predictable, efficient, and built for precision. Download your passes, sync your maps, and plan transfers through Smartours’ route tools so every train ride fits neatly into your travel flow.

Food Highlights: Where and What to Eat Across Japan

Japanese cuisine is more than just meals — it’s a reflection of precision, seasonality, and regional pride. Every city has its flavor identity, and each dining style tells a different story. Whether you’re eating from a street cart or a Michelin-star counter, Japan never compromises on quality.

Below is a breakdown of what (and where) to eat, organized by region and dining experience.

TOKYO — Fine Dining Meets Everyday Flavor

Tokyo is home to more Michelin-starred restaurants than anywhere in the world, but you’ll eat just as well in a tiny ramen bar.

Street & Casual Eats

• Ramen alleysin Shinjuku and Tokyo Station (Ramen Street) feature everything from creamy tonkotsu to soy-based shoyu bowls.
• Gyudon (beef bowl)chains like Sukiya and Matsuya offer a full meal for under ¥600 ($4).
• Convenience stores(7-Eleven, FamilyMart, Lawson) stock surprisingly good bento, salads, and coffee.

Midrange Dining

• Tempura and tonkatsurestaurants around Ginza serve perfectly crisp bites for ¥1,000–¥2,000.
• Try a standing sushi bar(tachigui-zushi) in Tsukiji for high-quality fish without the price tag.

Fine Dining

• Sushi omakaseat Michelin or local counters (like Saito or Kyubey) starts at ¥15,000+.
• Modern kaiseki(multi-course dining) in Aoyama or Roppongi blends traditional craft with avant-garde plating.
• Smart Tip:Use the TableCheckor Pocket Conciergeapps to book top restaurants in English.

KYOTO — Refined Flavors and Tea Culture

Kyoto’s food embodies its heritage — elegant, subtle, and often plant-forward.

Street & Casual Eats

• Sample matcha sweetsand yatsuhashi (cinnamon mochi)near Kiyomizu-dera.
• Grab obanzai(Kyoto-style small dishes) from Nishiki Market’s food stalls.

Midrange Dining

• Try tofu-based mealsin Arashiyama — Kyoto’s tofu is locally crafted and delicate.
• Visit Nishiki Marketfor pickled vegetables, grilled skewers, and fresh sashimi.

Fine Dining

• Kyoto’s kaiseki ryoriis a cultural experience — seasonal ingredients, artful presentation, and impeccable service.
• For tea enthusiasts, a traditional tea ceremonyin Gion offers a glimpse into Japan’s spiritual approach to hospitality.

Smart Tip:Kyoto restaurants often close early (around 9 PM) and may require reservations.

OSAKA — Japan’s Street Food Capital

Osaka is loud, flavorful, and unapologetically indulgent — a city that proudly lives by its motto: kuidaore, “to eat until you drop.”

Street & Casual Eats

• Takoyaki (octopus balls):Dotonbori’s signature snack — crisp outside, molten inside.
• Okonomiyaki (savory pancake):Layered with cabbage, pork, and sauce; try Chibo or Mizuno for local favorites.
• Kushikatsu (fried skewers):Deep-fried heaven; never double-dip in the sauce.

Midrange Dining

• Izakaya (Japanese pubs)near Namba serve small plates and beer in lively settings.
• Yakiniku (grilled meat)restaurants let you cook premium beef at your table.

Fine Dining

• Osaka’s modern chefs reinterpret comfort food with high-end flair — Michelin-rated spots like Hajime or Fujiya 1935 push creative boundaries.

Smart Tip:Expect crowds on weekends; locals eat late, often between 8–10 PM.

HOKKAIDO — Nature’s Pantry

Japan’s northern island is a paradise for seafood lovers and anyone who appreciates farm-to-table freshness.

Street & Casual Eats

• Soup curry(a Sapporo invention) is hearty and spicy — perfect after skiing.
• Seafood donburi (rice bowls)at local markets overflow with crab, salmon roe, and sea urchin.

Midrange Dining

• Dairy-based desserts:Hokkaido’s soft serve and cheesecakes are made with local milk — creamy, rich, and unforgettable.
• Ramen:Sapporo’s miso ramen is famous nationwide.

Fine Dining

• Sapporo’s seafood-focused restaurants serve multi-course meals featuring seasonal fish and shellfish, often paired with local wines.
• Try kaisendonat Nijo Market — fresh, affordable, and visually stunning.

Smart Dining Tips for All Regions

• No tipping— excellent service is already built into the experience.
• Cash or IC card— smaller restaurants rarely take credit cards.
• Noise matters— slurping noodles is polite, phone calls are not.
• Reservations:Book ahead for fine dining; casual spots are usually walk-in.

Accommodation Snapshot: The Smart Way to Stay in Japan

Japan offers some of the most diverse lodging experiences in the world — from futuristic city hotels to centuries-old ryokans where time seems to pause. The best approach? Match your stay type to your travel style and itinerary.

Below are the main categories of accommodation, plus where to find the best examples in each region.

Modern Hotels — For Convenience and Connectivity

Best for:Travelers who value central access, amenities, and easy transit.

What to expect:Compact but efficient rooms, exceptional cleanliness, and reliable Wi-Fi.

Where to find them:

• Tokyo:Shinjuku (nightlife + rail hub), Ginza (luxury + shopping), or Ueno (budget + culture).
• Kyoto:Kyoto Station area (easy connections), or Karasuma (quiet but central).
• Osaka:Namba and Umeda for quick access to dining and attractions.

Smart Tip: Platforms like Hotala offer great deals on business and mid-range hotels, many with flexible cancellation — perfect for adjusting your Smartours itinerary on the fly.

Ryokans — For Tradition and Tranquility

Best for:Travelers seeking cultural immersion and relaxation .

What to expect:Tatami mat floors, futon bedding, hot spring baths (onsen), and multi-course kaiseki dinners.

Where to find them:

• Hakone & Fuji Five Lakes:Scenic ryokans with private onsen and Mt. Fuji views.
• Kyoto:Gion or Arashiyama for traditional ryokans steeped in history.
• Kanazawa or Takayama:Less crowded alternatives with authentic atmosphere.

Smart Tip:Always shower before entering an onsen bath, and check for tattoo policies — some traditional ryokans still restrict visible tattoos.

Vacation Rentals — For Space and Flexibility

Best for:Families, groups, or travelers staying longer than a week.

What to expect:Apartments or townhouses with kitchens and laundry, often located in quieter neighborhoods.

Where to find them:

• Tokyo:Sumida (great local vibe near Skytree), Koto (modern and family-friendly), or Nakano (budget option with great transit).
• Kyoto:Higashiyama and Gion for cultural proximity.
• Osaka:Tennoji or Shin-Osaka for budget-friendly larger units.

Smart Tip: Browse Rent By Owner listings for fully equipped stays with weekly or monthly discounts — an ideal fit for slow travelers or digital nomads.

Capsule Hotels — For Solo Travelers or Stopovers

Best for:Budget-conscious travelers, solo adventurers, or those catching early flights.

What to expect:Individual sleeping pods, shared bathrooms, and locker-style storage.
Some modern capsule hotels now include private pods, lounges, and even co-working spaces.

Where to find them:

• Tokyo:Shibuya, Akihabara, and Ikebukuro for futuristic designs.
• Osaka:Namba or Dotonbori for nightlife convenience.
• Kyoto:Near Kyoto Station for quick access to trains.

Smart Tip: Book directly through Smartours or Hotala to ensure English-friendly check-in — some capsule hotels are automated or kiosk-based.

5. Smart & Themed Stays — For Tech and Design Lovers

Best for:Travelers looking for novelty, tech integration, or boutique design.

What to expect:AI-assisted check-ins, robot concierges, or minimalistic design spaces featuring local art.

Where to find them:

• Tokyo:Henn-na Hotel (robot-staffed), Shinjuku or Shibuya for smart capsule concepts.
• Kyoto:Boutique hotels blending Japanese minimalism with modern tech.
• Osaka:Design hotels in Namba and Kitahama that pair creative interiors with smart automation.

Smart Tip:Smartours packages often include recommended “smart hotel” options that sync with itinerary planning tools — great for seamless trip management.

Booking Insight

For flexibility and the best rates:

• Book 2–3 months aheadfor city stays, 4–6 monthsfor ryokans or peak seasons.
• Mix stay types — start with a modern hotel in Tokyo, unwind in a ryokan in Kyoto, and finish in an apartment in Osaka.
• Always verify proximity to a train station (within 1 km)— it’s the difference between convenience and constant walking.

Wrap-Up: Discover Japan Your Way with Smartours

Japan is the rare destination that rewards both careful planning and total spontaneity — and Smartours is designed to help you do both. With our Japan smart travel package , you can move confidently from Tokyo’s neon skyline to Kyoto’s timeless temples, balancing structure with the freedom to explore on your own terms.

Every part of your trip — from transport and accommodations to restaurant picks and daily itineraries — can be optimized through Smartours’ intelligent tools and trusted partners. Whether you prefer a tech-enabled hotel in Shinjuku, a traditional ryokan in Gion, or a flexible rental in Osaka, Smartours makes every choice smarter, faster, and simpler.

Start Planning with Smartours

• Customize your Japan itinerary:Use Smartours’ route tools to tailor city combinations and travel durations.
• Bookmark and share this guide:Keep it handy for your trip prep or pass it to fellow travelers.

Smart Travel. Simplified.

With Smartours , your trip to Japan isn’t just about where you go — it’s about how easilyyou get there.

Plan once, travel intelligently, and discover Japan your way.