Is It Worth Going To Japan For A Week? Yes, and Here’s Three Reasons Why…
If you ask me whether it's worth going to Japan, my answer will always be yes. But is it worth it if you only have a week? My answer is still yes! Let me break it down with three practical and fun reasons why a week in Japan is absolutely worth it. Plus, I've included a sample itinerary at the end of this blog to make your trip planning easier. From geeking out at Ikebukuro’s anime haven to soaking in the beauty of Kyoto’s torii gates, I've got you covered. Read on to discover all the cool stuff Japan has to offer in just one awesome week!
#1 BUDGET- AND TOURIST-FRIENDLY ACCOMMODATIONS
You might think a trip to Japan would cost you an arm and a leg, but fret not! I can assure you it doesn’t have to. With a bit of prep and some smart budgeting, you can have the best experience without breaking the bank. The fact that you’re here means you’re on the right track!
For me, finding a decent place to crash at night is key. I don’t need fancy hotels but I do like staying in comfort. Luckily, Japan has loads of options that won't break the bank and still keep you comfy. Think traditional ryokan (traditional inn), capsule hotels, and quirky guesthouses.
As a stationery nerd and Youtube lurker, my favorite spot is Neko Neko Inn. This spot is owned by Sharla along with her friend-slash-business partner. It combines their love for stationery and cats hence the name. It’s close to Yoyogi Park. But it’s also in a residential area! You’ll have your peace and quiet for the night and still be a hop, skip, and jump away from the action in Shibuya or the super cute vibes of Harajuku. It’s close to local supermarkets, bakeries, and convenience stores. The nearest station is just 3 minutes on foot from the Inn. The biggest selling point for me is they have some stationery for guests to take home. Neko Neko Inn tends to be pretty popular so they might be all booked up at the moment.
There are plenty of similar spots around the stations like Akasaka, so you'll still find somewhere awesome to crash. One of the things that sets Japan apart as a travel destination is its unmatched hospitality and safety. From the moment you set foot in the country, you'll be greeted with warm smiles and impeccable service. With low crime rates and a strong sense of community, you'll feel safe and secure exploring every corner of Japan, day or night.
#2 GETTING AROUND EASILY
Getting stuck in a traffic jam during a vacation ruins the trip for me. It feels like a waste of time, ya know? Even though Tokyo ranked high on the 2023 TomTom Traffic Index list of metro areas with the slowest travel time, there are a whole lot of other means of getting around without a hassle in Japan.
Japan's rail system is seriously top-notch. It's super efficient and covers a ton of ground, which is awesome if you're watching your spending. Pro tip: snag yourself a JR Pass. It gives you unlimited rides on most JR trains for a set number of days. Just make sure to plan your routes ahead of time to get the most out of it. You can try mixing it up with local trains and buses for a bit of variety. And if you're up for it, walking or biking is a fun way to get around too, especially with all those spacious sidewalks and pedestrian-friendly crossings all over. Pro tip: follow traffic rules at all times.
Now, I know what you're thinking: “How do I get around if I don’t speak Japanese?” Not to worry, my friend. Japan is one of the most tourist-friendly destinations in the world, with English signage, helpful locals, and plenty of resources to help you navigate your way around. Whether you're asking for directions or ordering some ramen, communicating's a breeze.
To amp up your experience, why not learn a few Japanese phrases? You don't have to be a pro; just throwing out a "Konnichiwa" (hello) or "Arigatou" (thank you) can go a long way in making the locals smile. Plus, it shows that you respect their culture and are making an effort to connect. With a few basics down, you'll turn potential awkward moments into awesome exchanges. Who knows? You might stumble upon a hole in the wall or make a new buddy along the way.
#3 DIVERSE ACTIVITIES AND AFFORDABLE SOUVENIRS
With the practical things out of the way, it’s onto the good stuff – activities and souvenirs! Whether you’re a nature lover, a foodie, or an otaku, Japan does not disappoint. Japan's got a whole assortment of awesome stuff to see and do, like exploring ancient temples. geeking out at anime conventions, and testing trendy food spots.
First up, nature. Springtime in Japan is like stepping into a fairy tale, with cherry blossoms in full bloom and perfect weather for outdoor adventures. In one week, you can hike in the mountains and picnic at a park in the city under pink petals. There's no shortage of ways to connect with Japan’s natural beauty. A good number of these outdoor activities are low-cost, too!
Your taste buds will also be in for a treat the whole week. Why? Freshest sushi and hot-off-the-grill yakitori(grilled chicken). And the best part? Not to mention that there’s a plethora of desserts to enjoy everywhere. There are also some budget-friendly options like konbini(convenient store) bento boxes. Trust me, they’re a lifesaver when you're on the go. Onigiri(rice balls) is even more portable.
Japan's culture is rich, diverse, and totally fascinating. In the same week, you can soak up a ton of cultural experiences, such as shrine visits, traditional performances, and historical explorations while you do the other activities. Sounds impossible? Check out our Tokyo Walking Tours to have a sample of what it means to enjoy all these activities in a structured but engaging way!
And for all you anime fans out there, Japan is not only the birthplace of sushi and sake but also the epicenter of anime and manga culture. So why not take your fandom to the next level by immersing yourself in all things anime during your stay? From visiting themed cafes and attending cosplay events to exploring anime-centric neighborhoods like Akihabara and Ikebukuro, there's no shortage of otaku-friendly activities to keep you entertained.
So, is a week in Japan worth it? Absolutely! Even though it sounds short, you'll be amazed at how much you can experience in just seven days. From deep diving into Japanese culture to devouring delicious food and checking out stunning natural spots, Japan has it all, and it won't break the bank or be hard to get around. Check out the sample itinerary below and download our self-guided walking tours to start planning your Japan adventure today!
You can read more anime-filled adventures in our previous blog: March in Tokyo: 5 Anime-filled Adventures
Written by Therene, who is a contributing writer for Walking Tours Tokyo who likes tracking real-life anime locations and limited-edition Japanese stationery. More often than not, she geeks out about anime and Japanese culture. If you ask her whether you should visit Japan, the answer is always yes (no matter the budget!).
