Hi everyone,

We’re actually in Japan right now (honeymoon with my husband!) and honestly… still figuring things out as we go 😅

We originally planned a 2-week trip around Tokyo, Kyoto, and Osaka, and we’re thinking of squeezing in Nara too. But now that we’re here, I feel like we’re probably missing out on some really good spots that aren’t always on the usual itinerary.

So I wanted to ask…
Any hidden gems you’d recommend? Could be food spots, quiet neighborhoods, day trips, anything really. We’re open to slowing things down a bit instead of just rushing through the main tourist places.

Also random note, but I’ve been using a SimCorner eSIM while we’re here and it’s been super reliable so far. No issues with maps or bookings, which honestly makes things way less stressful when you’re navigating a new place.

Would really appreciate any suggestions, especially from people who’ve been here recently 🙏

Thanks in advance!

See if you can get tickets to Miyako Odori in Kyoto.

MIYAKO ODORI｜祇園甲部歌舞会 公式ウェブサイト

Looks like there is some availability April 27-30.

Kizuna Sushi in Kabukicho. The tuna assortment.

This is super helpful, thank you! Miyako Odori wasn’t even on our radar, but it looks like such a unique experience. We might try for those dates. Also adding Kizuna Sushi to our list, always up for good sushi while we’re here.

When you come out of Kizuna you can see the Krispy Kreme for doughnut dessert. It is to the right of Toho Cinema.

You want to be out on the street in front of Kizuna on the hour between noon and 8PM facing the Toho Cinema and Hotel Gracery.

Osaka-ya restaurant in Kabukicho has v good okonomiyaki, but you can get Osaka-style okonomiyaki in Osaka. It is near Kizuna.

Try umeshu, ume-shu, Japanese plum (ume) wine. Umeshu rokkusu (on the rocks).

My hidden gem is TaYa Cave in Yokohama. It is not a show cave. It was carved out by monks and is at a temple. They give you a small paddle with a candle and you walk through you by yourself. There are stations within the cave with more candles as you will need to 'recharge.'

Of course, there are other reasons, not so hidden, to go to Yokohama.