14 Days in Japan: Tokyo, Kyoto, Osaka & Beyond – My First Big Travel Adventure

Written By Robi Balazs

Introduction

Hello, everybody! I’m Robi, and welcome to Wander Frame. This post is all about my first ever two-week trip to Japan, covering Tokyo, Kyoto, Osaka, Yamanouchi, and more. Spoiler: it was awesome, exhausting, and I already want to go back.

Tokyo City Skyline from the Tokyo Metropolitan Government Building

Getting There: The Long Haul

We left Romania for the airport a day early—living six hours away, I didn’t want to risk missing the flight. After an Airbnb stopover, we flew from Bucharest to Doha. Hamad International Airport is worth exploring if you ever have a layover there—check out the Orchard and all the shops.

Ten hours later, we landed in Tokyo, picked up a portable Wi-Fi router (highly recommend for groups—way better than everyone buying their own SIM), and navigated the train system to our hotel. By the time we arrived, it was around 8 or 9 PM. Zero energy left, so it was straight to 7-Eleven for dinner and then bed.


TOKYO

Tokyo: First Impressions & Culture Shock

Our first real day in Tokyo started with our guide, Sabina, who was a lifesaver. She helped us figure out the train system and got us set up with all the tickets we’d need for the trip. We explored Shibuya, Shinjuku, Meiji Jingu, saw the 3D cat and Godzilla, and learned some fun facts about Japanese culture.

Asakusa & Senso-ji Temple

On our second day, we headed to Asakusa to visit Senso-ji Temple. It was crowded—like, really crowded—even though it was just after Golden Week. If you want fewer people in your photos, avoid peak tourist times (or be ready to embrace the chaos).

Center path towards Senso-Ji in Asakusa

Food & First Ramen Experience

I can’t say I tried a ton of food yet, but what I did try was great. The ramen in Shinjuku was a standout. Pro tip: don’t skip the egg sandwiches at 7-Eleven. Seriously, they’re life-changing.

Sumida River Cruise & Odaiba

We took a Sumida River cruise to Odaiba, checked out the mini Statue of Liberty, and went up the Fuji TV building for epic views. We lucked out and had the whole place to ourselves right before closing. The Gundam statue in Odaiba is massive—even if you’re not a fan, it’s worth seeing in person.

YAMANOUCHI

Yamanouchi: Monkeys, Ryokan, and Onsen

On our way to Kyoto, we made a one-night stop in Yamanouchi for a traditional onsen experience. We had a layover in Nagano, so we checked out Zenko-ji Temple and the peaceful city vibes. We missed our bus to the snow monkeys and had to take a pricey taxi (about €100 split four ways—ouch), but at least we made it.

The entrance towards Zenko-Ji

Jigokudani Snow Monkey Park

The mountain trail to the snow monkeys was beautiful. The monkeys were everywhere, but since it wasn’t cold enough, they weren’t bathing in the hot springs. If you want those classic monkey-in-onsen shots, go in winter!

Jigokudani Yaen-Koen - Snow Monkey Park

Ryokan Experience

Our ryokan had tatami floors, futon beds, and green tea waiting for us. Dinner was mostly seafood, so if you’re not a fan, be prepared. The onsen was open 24/7—a perfect way to relax after a long day.

KYOTO

Kyoto: Temples, Trails, and Sake

We headed to Kyoto next. Despite following our plan, we missed Kinkaku-ji by 10 minutes (it closes at 5 PM—don’t be like us). But we made up for it later!

The next day, our guide Andrei was a whirlwind of energy and knowledge about temples, culture, and history. I’ll be honest, I forgot most of the facts, but it was fascinating in the moment.

We visited shrines, temples, the Ghibli shop, Kiyomizu-dera, and shopping streets. Gion got postponed due to rain, but we didn’t skip it.

Sake Tip

Before parting ways, Andrei recommended Dai Ginjo sake from 7-Eleven (300-400 yen for 300ml) and CHOYA for those who like sweeter drinks. Both were better than most restaurant sakes we tried.

Insert image of sake bottles or 7-Eleven shelf here


Hiroshima

We visited Hiroshima’s Atomic Bomb Dome, the monuments, and the memorial park. It’s a peaceful place, but knowing the history adds a heavy, emotional layer.

Miyajima

Afterward, we hopped over to Miyajima Island to see the floating torii gate. Pro tip: Check the tide schedule! We went during low tide and missed the floating effect, but it was still a beautiful, relaxing place to explore.

Fushimi Inari

We woke up early to visit Fushimi Inari’s thousand torii gates. If you want good photos, go early or late for the best light and fewer crowds. We picked a time with harsh light and too many people—lesson learned! Still, hiking up the trail gives you a better chance at empty spots.

OSAKA

Osaka & Nara: Theme Parks, Deer, and Neon Lights

Nara

Before Osaka, we stopped in Nara to meet the famous deer and relax in the city. The deer are hilarious and a bit cheeky—hold onto your snacks!

Universal Studios Japan

Universal Studios was a highlight—Super Mario World, Harry Potter, Jurassic Park, Minions, and more. The rides are worth the wait, and the souvenirs are dangerously tempting.


Exploring Osaka

We visited Osaka Castle (impressive, even if you’re not a history buff), Den Den Town (Osaka’s answer to Akihabara), and Umeda Sky Building for night views.

Osaka Monument - near Osaka City Museum of Fine Arts

Osaka World Expo 2025

We spent a day at the Osaka World Expo 2025, but honestly, I can’t recommend it. Long lines, expensive tickets, and not much to see unless you’re really into expos. Spend your time elsewhere!


TOKYO

Back to Tokyo: Last-Minute Adventures

We returned to Tokyo for one last night. More shopping in Akihabara (figurines galore!) and a visit to TeamLab Borderless and TeamLab Planets. Both are immersive digital art experiences—if you have to pick one, I’d go with TeamLab Planets for the extra activities.


Final Thoughts & Tips

Japan blew me away. The culture, the food, the history, the scenery—it’s all incredible. Two weeks isn’t enough, and I already want to go back. If you’re planning a trip, here are a few quick tips:

  • Get a portable Wi-Fi router for your group

  • Use luggage forwarding services when you can

  • Bring comfortable walking shoes (trust me)

  • Try the egg sandwiches at 7-Eleven

  • Plan your photography around light and crowds

  • Don’t be afraid to use guides—they’re worth it for the info and convenience

Gear I Used

More Content & Where to Find Me

For the video experience of this trip, check out my youtube channel: Wander Frame

See more photos and quick snippets on Instagram: @wfs_wanderframe

If you enjoyed this, stay tuned for upcoming posts about Japan travel costs, my new travel bag setup, and some local hikes in Romania!


Thanks for reading — you know the jazz: subscribe, comment, like, and see you in the next adventure!

Robi Balazs
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