Tokyo & Kyoto

Dylan & I went to Japan for 10 days in March, splitting our time between Tokyo & Kyoto. The next time we visit, we'll definitely stay longer. Here are some of the highlights from our trip, including the amazing places we stayed at (on a budget), our favorite meals, coffee shops, bars, & of course, shopping. There is so much to see & do in both of these incredible cities, but hopefully these tips are a good starting point for anyone interested in visiting!

*Note: if you would like a more detailed itinerary from me, please feel free to reach out & I'd be more than happy to send it to you!

Bunka Hostel Tokyo - We absolutely LOVED our stay at Bunka Hostel. It was my first time staying in one, and I have to say Japan does an amazing job at providing modern, creative, and clean accommodations. / 1 Chome-13-5 Asakusa, Taito, Tokyo

Lower East 9 Hostel Kyoto (LE9) - LE9 was an awesome spot in Kyoto. We could walk to Kyoto station and nearby transportation to easily get around the city. They have an adorable coffee shop that has great Matcha Lattes & breakfast options. It also provided a great space to get some work done with reliable wifi. / 32 Higashikujo Minamikarasumacho, Minami Ward, Kyoto

Hotel Kanra Kyoto - This hotel was GORGEOUS. Our friends Rebecca & Bryson that we traveled with were staying there while in Kyoto & we got to hangout there for a bit. The rooms were beautiful traditional Japanese style rooms - I'd definitely recommend it to anyone looking for an upscale place to stay that's not too over the top. / 〒600-8176 Kyoto Prefecture, Kyoto

Torigin Honten - Yakatori

Harajuku Gyoza-ro - The BEST Gyoza you will ever eat. We went there twice & even waited in line in the rain because we had to have it again. 

Kisoji Shinjuku - Shabu Shabu

Kyoto Station Ramen - Get the Mini Ramen tastings!

Ayoyama Tea House - super cute & yummy tea house / flower shop

Kyubey Sushi - Incredible Omakase, worth the price

Ichiran - Delicious Ramen & awesome experience

Arashiyama Yoshimura - Soba & Tempura, one of my favorite meals on the trip.

Sushi Making Class - We took a class with a Japanese woman named Yuri & made delicious sushi - it was more than enough food for lunch & such a fun experience. 

About Life Coffee Roasters

Koffee Mameya (formerly Omotesando Coffee)

Lower East 9 Coffee Shop

% Arabica Arashiyama

February Cafe - really yummy toast & coffee!

Lion Beer Hall

Bar High Five

Albatross Bar - Our favorite spot in the Golden Gai.

Spring Valley Brewery

Gen Yamamoto - Reserve a tasting 30 Days ahead for a set of 6-8 craft cocktails with Mixologist Gen Yamamoto.

Milan’s Bar Kyoto

Senso-ji Temple

Tokyo Tower

Tsukji Fish Market

Harajuku

Shibuya Crossing

Daikanyama & Ebisu

Bullet Train

Kiyomizudera Temple

Golden Temple Kinkaku-ji

Fushimi-Inari

Arashiyama

Shimokitazawa - An up & coming neighborhood with the best vintage stores & boutiques.

Shibuya - Visit Tokyo Hands for Japanese souvenirs - they literally have everything, from sushi knives to beauty products. 

Harajuku - Take a walk down Cat Street, visit Opening Ceremony for a peek at the coolest high fashion, and Journal Standard for amazing mens clothing. If you're feeling adventurous like we were, stop by & see Bunta at Holie Glory Tattoo Parlor.

Arashiyama - This quaint neighborhood in Kyoto is lined with amazing Kimono Shops.

Chicago - A great vintage shop in Kyoto with the most incredible collection of vintage kimonos upstairs.