Japan by a LocalA native Japanese guide to Japan travel

Japan Itineraries

Curated day-by-day routes through Japan — from Tokyo weekends to multi-city adventures.

Climbing Mt. Fuji in 2026: New Rules, Fees & How to Reserve
Itineraries

Climbing Mt. Fuji in 2026: New Rules, Fees & How to Reserve

Mt. Fuji's 2026 rules explained by a local: the ¥4,000 fee, the new reservation system, season dates, the best trail, and how to book step by step.

2026-06-20

Is the JR Pass Worth It in 2026?
Itineraries

Is the JR Pass Worth It in 2026?

A Japanese local breaks down whether the JR Pass is actually worth buying in 2026, with real math, honest advice, and trip-type recommendations.

2026-06-18

Japan in 7 Days: The Ultimate First-Timer Itinerary
Itineraries

Japan in 7 Days: The Ultimate First-Timer Itinerary

A realistic 7-day Japan itinerary from a local: Tokyo, Kyoto, and beyond. Honest advice on what to skip, where to stay, and how to move around efficiently.

2026-06-17

Best Day Trips from Tokyo: Hakone, Nikko & Kamakura
Itineraries

Best Day Trips from Tokyo: Hakone, Nikko & Kamakura

Three of the best day trips from Tokyo, each under two hours away — hot springs and Mount Fuji views in Hakone, ornate shrines in Nikko, and the Great Buddha in Kamakura.

2026-06-17

The Perfect 2 Days in Kyoto: A Local's Itinerary
Itineraries

The Perfect 2 Days in Kyoto: A Local's Itinerary

Kyoto has over 1,600 temples — here's how to see the best of it in two days without burning out, organized by area so you're not crossing the city back and forth.

2026-06-16

How to Get Around Japan: Trains, IC Cards & the JR Pass
Itineraries

How to Get Around Japan: Trains, IC Cards & the JR Pass

Japan's trains are the best in the world once you understand them. Here's how IC cards, the shinkansen, and the JR Pass actually work — and when each one is worth it.

2026-06-14

The Perfect 3 Days in Tokyo: A Local's Itinerary
Itineraries

The Perfect 3 Days in Tokyo: A Local's Itinerary

A realistic three-day Tokyo itinerary built around how locals actually use the city — neighborhoods, food, and timing that guidebooks miss.

2026-06-10