Museum of Yebisu Beer

Are you into beer? Want to try out some famous Japanese beer? The Museum of Yebisu Beer (ヱビスビール記念館) is the place for you! The museum features a good number of displays on the history of Yebisu Beer, as well as Japanese beer in general. The Tasting Salon is the highlight here, and the shops featuresContinue reading “Museum of Yebisu Beer”

Meguro Parasitological Museum

The Meguro Parasitological Museum (目黒寄生虫館) is a truly ‘only in Japan’ experience! This free museum is dedicated to bugs, parasites and other creepy crawlies. It claims to be the only such museum in the world, and the experience is definitely not a standard tourist one. Be prepared to be both shocked and amazed! Especially at theContinue reading “Meguro Parasitological Museum”

Lake Toya (Toyako)

Lake Toya (洞爺湖) is one of the best hot spring towns in Japan for budget travelers. The combination of many free hot spring facilities, cheap bus routes and some super cheap accommodation makes the place stand out from the others. It’s also a hotspot for modern art. Budget travel tips Make sure you get toContinue reading “Lake Toya (Toyako)”

Nagoya

Most people will just transfer trains here or continue past to Osaka and Kyoto, but there are a few things to do here if you have some free time. From Nagoya you can go north to Takayama in the Japanese Alps, or south to Ise (one of the top shrines areas). Things to do NagoyaContinue reading “Nagoya”

Osaka Castle

Osaka Castle is a recently rebuilt castle in central Osaka.  There is a large park surrounding the complex, plus a historical museum. Because of it was built recently, the innards contain features such as elevator access, so it’s not the most stunning castle in Japan, but still worth a visit if you have time. BudgetContinue reading “Osaka Castle”

Obuse

Obuse is a lovely little town near Nagano.  The old-fashioned streets and countless interesting temples provide a great one day trip.  Obuse is a good place to visit on the way to Yudanaka  and the Monkey Park. Budget travel tips See our map below for a recommended walking route (red line).  This is the best way toContinue reading “Obuse”

Tokyo City Walk: East Tokyo Historical Walk

A nice route through the quiet, but traditional side of Tokyo.  This route takes you from Kiyosumi Garden and Fukugawa Edo Museum, via traditional neighborhoods, to Sumida river and the Edo-Tokyo museum. Can be used as a cycling route as well. Walking time: 3-4 hours Go to Monzen-nakacho Station on the Oedo Line (purple Metro line)Continue reading “Tokyo City Walk: East Tokyo Historical Walk”

Imperial Palace East Garden

The East Garden, right in the center of Tokyo, is a free park within the Imperial Palace complex.  Highlights include Ninomaru Garden, a traditional Japanese garden, and the remains of the former castle tower. Budget travel tips A walk around the whole Imperial Palace is highly recommended, allowing you to see the different buildings, defensive walls,Continue reading “Imperial Palace East Garden”

Edo-Tokyo Museum

Edo-Tokyo Museum is a massive museum about the history of Tokyo.  Features replicas and originals from the Edo era (between 1603 and 1868) up to now, a detailed timeline of the city and art from different periods.  Excellent English descriptions available. Budget travel tips Sumo Arena is right next to Edo-Tokyo Museum, so it’s worth havingContinue reading “Edo-Tokyo Museum”

Yokohama

Yokohama (よこはま/横浜) is the second largest city in Japan and only 30 minutes from Tokyo. The city has a rich history of foreign culture and trade, and is really worth a day trip from Tokyo. Top tips It’s possible to spend most of your time just walking around, as it’s such an interesting city.  GetContinue reading “Yokohama”